Chapter Text
Amidst grand, shiny opulent hallways was an equally striking man strolling with fast and calculated footsteps, head held high to mirror the pride his royal blood possessed and clad in an ivory suit so lavish that it ravaged the most spectacular dress creations.
His shiny blonde hair was skillfully styled to rest beautifully on his head, exposing that powerful forehead with none of the strands straying out of place. An elegant pair of pearly stud earrings adorned his ears, giving that god sculpted face more dimension and adding some softness to the whole look.
The click clack of shiny white leather boots echoed loudly over smooth marble floors, cleaned to perfection. Some guards were situated at adjacent pillars, always accompanying his small journeys around the palace and bowed one by one as he passed by with his chin held in one place, hands folded behind his ram-rod back.
Upon reaching the threshold of two gigantic living room doors, he stood tall, patiently waiting for the guard stationed on the side to ask for permission and pull it open for him to enter. With loud footsteps he announces his presence. Two majestic figures stare right back, faces dripping off regal aura and delight at the arrival of their beloved son.
“Greetings, Your Majesties. You two are glowing this morning.” The prince greets with a ninety degrees bow, keeping one hand behind tightened in a fist to stay balanced while the other goes forward over his heart in a grand gesture.
That unneeded-too-formal action causes both of the royal beings to let out a sophisticated laugh, not having expected to be greeted so outwardly.
“Not a day goes without our prince's flattery.” The mighty king responds, chuckling lightly. He’s seated on the cottony plush resting chairs in the living room, his spouse accompanying right on the side, listening to their mini exchange.
The queen lifts a hand from where it was delicately resting on her knee and waves it elegantly, as if telling the mischievous prince off. “No need to be so formal, little prince. Come here, take a seat.”
The aforementioned follows, shaking his head and muttering a small, “I’m not little.” Before taking a seat in front of his parents.
That earns him a too-hard-to catch giggle, the noble lady trying her best to not be too loud. “You’ll always be little for me, sweetheart. A son is never too grown for his mother.”
Though her spouse doesn’t share the sentiment, not on a greater level. He shifts to intertwine his fingers in front, back straight as forever and an expression too serious for it to be missed. “Taehyung-ah.”
The prince goes alert, mind blaring with the question of what this sudden call entails. Throughout this lovely, sunny morning, he was just roaming around, having a hearty breakfast and planning to attend sword practice in the evening, when out of nowhere he was called by the King and Queen.
“Yes, father.” He answers, attentively, “May I know why I was summoned this urgently? Is something the matter?” A hint of worry in his irises doesn’t go unnoticed, making both of them to tone down some seriousness.
“Do not fret, son. It’s nothing too serious.” The king manages to ease the prince's tensed shoulders, which suddenly rise up to hear any possible bad news or threat looming over them. Being a royal came with an instinct to be always alert and be prepared for any incoming danger. “Since you’ve grown up to be an adult, we think it’s the best time to assign you some important duties.”
He listens and nods, mind churning to whip up anything that he might be assigned to complete. A task to test his capabilities and train for future endeavors. It would be him crowned as the king after his father hands over the responsibilities and retires.
“I’m intrigued to know what that work might be. Do I have to solve a case or…” He trails off, expecting a solid response soon. Previously he’d handled some affairs in the palace, small complaints of their people and managed to converse with advisors while putting in his intelligence to astonish them. But this seemed something new, held more importance.
The prince was a brave one, a pride of their kingdom — Orchade — a marvelous state existing on the heart of earth, surrounded by green luscious mountains and snowy terrain on the other side. Seasons were kinder to the residents, not too harsh in summers, nor too humid; only downside being the sharp cuts of icy winds in peak winters.
It was all manageable though. They were a blessed kingdom, rich in resources and mazed terrains to keep their enemies at bay. And Taehyung — as an heir, a prince and a future king, has always been ready to rule and establish harmony in his reign.
“Not a case.” His father resumes, “But you'll be handed the responsibility of setting up a new trade route and finalizing a deal with our neighboring state.”
Surprise marres his features, brows going up instantly to show it. Discussion and negotiation with their neighboring state — Maplain.
Not too easy, but it isn't impossible either. Orchade and Maplain have been on good terms for years, doesn’t mean that they would be helpful and eager to set a route for something new, nor when they haven’t established an alliance ever. He’ll have to convince them to trade. But what is that his father fixates an eye upon?
“What will I be negotiating for?” The prince asks first before in-line details stacked up to be revealed to him. He’s set to do anything though. A sudden buzz goes through his body at the prospect of doing something so notable, distinguished work he was worthy of.
“Gold and other valuable metals.” He informs, emphasizing on the ‘valuable’ part, indicating it’ll not be only gold but an abundance of other gems. “They’ve found a huge gold cave which lands them a great deal to negotiate. A letter arrived yesterday morning and they’ve proposed this.”
Maplain was a small kingdom, not as large and blessed as theirs. With continuous hardships and extreme cold throughout the year, they were unfortunate to be living on the difficult terrain. Still it was peaceful and filled with good, generous people. Taehyung’s been there before, so he knows.
Them initiating for an alliance makes sense now. Orchade had everything they would require; food, wool, timbre, oils, all in abundance and enough to exchange with other states. And while they had everything, offered jewels is not something a nation would refuse to take.
Absorbing the little information, he nods again, already planning the things they can offer. “That surely works in our favor. Did they demand anything specific for exchange?”
The king hums, straightening his posture more in times of business, while the queen is quiet, silently listening to the royal duo. “Since they’re offering the valuables, a mere wool exchange won’t suffice. We’ll have to match that. They requested for oils and food to be provided throughout the year, especially in border areas. With some clauses, of course.”
He takes out a few pieces of parchment compiled in a hand sewn file and slides to Taehyung’s side, moving his head to point at it. The latter picks it up and locates the Maplain kingdom seal at the bottom, proving it’s from them. All clauses, requests are written in brief, with the addition of a hopeful note of arranging a meeting soon at last. He skims through, making a mental note to read it later.
“And I want you to finalize our demands and negotiate with them. I’m sure what you’ll think will be beneficial to our people, son.” The king finishes and leans back in his plush couch, watching him with intent and a calculating gaze to gauge just how confident his offspring is.
Taehyung takes it with a smile, not letting an inch of doubt surface on his creaseless forehead. If he’s nervous, then showing is not the right step, rather he needs to overcome it on his own, not that the task is impossibly tough. It’s in their hands, they have the upper power.
“I’ll make sure to meet your expectations, father. Consider it done.”
The queen beams at his confidence, smiling wide to let it translate that bliss. “Perfect. Keep in mind that you’ll be leaving the day after tomorrow. Prepare your carriage, take guards and Yoongi.”
A momentary sense of relief dawns over him, mind rejoicing at the possibility of not having to see that specific person’s face for a few days. That annoying, stuck-up man that he loathes with his whole being. Just as he was starting to celebrate, his mother’s voice breaks his party train.
“And don’t forget Jungkook. Take him too.”
And there it is. His doom in human name.
“Him too? Why?” He whines all of a sudden, every strand of posh and chic demeanor thrown out of the window. Just like that.
Too dramatic.
The instant outburst doesn’t surprise the royal couple, instead they pass a tough look between each other, already having expected this same, repeated reaction they’ve been witnessing every time one of them mentions Jungkook.
Ignoring his questionable stare, his mother initiates with hardened gaze, disbelief laced in her words. She has repeated these same words multiple times, but her son loves to live in denial. “What do you mean by ‘why’? It should’ve been obvious. Nothing to be reminded of every time you go out, Taehyung.”
Her light scolding causes his anger to flare up by a bar, which he hides quite skillfully under his – dotted son who is complaining – antics. “Mother, I’m going to fulfill this task and I’m afraid there will be no time for me to take care of your precious Jungkook at all. He isn’t fit to go either nor do I want him to tag along.”
He answers truthfully, too out in the open for them to understand, though a small part nags that they’ll never listen. They haven’t in these years, so why would they let him be free now?
The queen is stubborn, slightly done with this useless conversation. “You shouldn’t say things like that. Jungkook will handle himself, you don’t have to do much, just keep him close. He’s always been with you, so nothing to fret over.”
‘He’s always been with him.’ Taehyung wants to ask why? Why is this commoner always following him at every step?
Why?
But as always, he will get made up, overly cooked answers he’s dead tired of chewing. Those responses never have any concrete substance to convince him enough to stop asking, and superficial excuses make his blood boil.
Still he asks again, just to be shut out once again.
“But why—”
“No ifs and buts. We’ll not discuss that further, son. Prepare for your journey. You shouldn’t worry about anything else.” The king finalizes their confidential meeting, cutting it short for today.
Of course, they wouldn’t discuss this. They never do.
°°°°°
Grumbling high in his throat, Taehyung leaves the gigantic living room and heads straight to his bedroom. A place where he can relax and blow off some steam, yell or scream in a safe bubble with no one to judge or question his barely existing sanity.
He soon enters the majestic bedroom chambers, wanting to lay down and then focus on devising a full-proof, flawless strategy to win over their neighboring state without having to sacrifice much. The king wanted this to be in action and Taehyung was going to do his best.
The opulent room was an art in itself, a perfect imagery of a lavish interior paired with intricate designs to match its ambience. A huge, king sized bed was placed in the middle against a beautifully designed ivory wall, its tall headboard laden with remarkable gold designs, the same style opted for the poster bed frame. Layered with mountains of tastefully arranged pillows and a lush duvet at the end, the bed was a perfect place to rest his aching limbs.
Long, gold lined glass windows took up the entirety of the adjacent wall, a pair of resting sofas, chairs and table placed in front of it. The opposite side of the bed was adorned with a wooden bookshelf on one corner, a large opening just beside it to grant an entryway to the far stretching marble balcony, decorated with some potted plants and creepers to add lush green to the opulent space.
He was completely ready to plop down on that plush mattress, though his dreams shattered when the same figure he absolutely loathed with every fiber of his being was crouched right there, in the open balcony, silently petting a small blue bird that flew in to play and soak in gentle pats of affection.
Taehyung watched the scene with gritted teeth, brows furrowed, hands fisting so tightly that his nails were about to break through his palms. It was none other than—
Jungkook.
A constant reason for his misery and anger.
Being a sucker for ornate styles and fancy, detailed wears, Jungkook’s sense of fashion spoke volumes. He loved a drizzle of colors in full dark outfits, jewels adorning its edges and giving a royal touch to it. Usually everyone preferred to wear light colors to highlight their status and an angelic image, but Jungkook was different.
His wardrobe consisted of midnight shades lining up to brim, piles of jewelry, long-heavy boots and laces everywhere. He dressed more like a sexy, sultry demon rather than a regal with ample money to spare, never compromising on his looks.
Similarly, he was clad in a black top that rested just at his chest, a silver jaded black jacket draped over it with long, free and bell sleeves, a long pencil skirt of the same design to match it. The jacket was the showstopper, its snug mandarin collar was filled with miniscule, breathtaking designs, covering the whole black fabric in its silver sheen. Small white stones were scattered at the center of some designs to add more depth to it.
A jaded belt with a gold flower at the center completed his look, turning the already breathtaking beauty to a more striking one. But Taehyung didn’t like him one bit, and wasn't easily swayed.
Huffing to himself, he strides forward to catch Jungkook off guard and stands just at the balcony opening, hands crossed over his chest in anger. His stance is menacing, ready to pound on severely blissful prey that slowly catches another presence in the prince's room.
His mouth automatically stretches in a beautiful smile at the sight of his prince standing tall, his face pulled into a displeased expression, just as it always is, and he abandons the little bird to stand upright, pushing himself up carefully.
Jungkook ignores his unwelcoming stare and starts to walk forward to the prince, his short length purple hair styled in a half updo, stranded sides collected to the back of his head, velvety strands secured by a sparkly crystal hairclip. Half of his hair stayed free, just reaching the shoulders to provide a perfect look to his beauty.
“Good morning, my prince.” He politely greets with a bright smile, mirroring the sun's dazzling power and a fresh morning’s chirpiness; a complete contrast to the one in front of him.
The aforementioned forgoes all princely mannerisms in exchange of a worse stuck-up and ill-spoken attitude. Every ounce of politeness fades away, replaced by a much meaner demeanor that only reflects in front of one person — Jungkook.
“May I ask, why are you here?” The prince grits out, his brows stretched and jaw ticked to convey what amount of patience he’s equipped with, and how foolish it would be to mess with him right now.
“I saw you weren’t in the chamber, so I was waiting for you.” He easily responds, keeping his hands elegantly locked over his stomach, his posture straight and firm.
Taehyung quirks a brow in question, failing to see what his intentions might be to wait for him this early in the morning. It was a routine for Jungkook to barge in the prince's chambers unannounced and catch him off guard every single time.
He never got used to it, despised this all more on every given occasion; but the latter held a certain air of authority that granted him to circle around Taehyung like a ghost.
“Last time I saw, this was my room.” He puts an emphasis on ‘my’ and offers an intense glare. “And you shouldn’t be here without my permission.”
As if to mock the word ‘permission’, Jungkook’s mouth stretches into a small, barely identifiable smirk that fails to escape the blonde's sharp eyes. “This is still your room. But I’ve always had access to this place if you’re forgetting, your highness. It should be no wonder that I’m here.”
The easy going response pisses Taehyung to no end. He will never get used to this, will never happily accept that Jungkook is right and is ordered to be around him all the time. He takes a deep breath, before gritting his teeth in anger. “And you should realize that I didn’t allow you to enter this place without my approval. Stop doing that.”
Jungkook listens to him and nods, momentarily accepting it. To be fair, he only enters without permission if the prince isn’t there, like this moment; otherwise he announces his presence first which is never granted by the said man, and he has to unwillingly opt for less appropriate options; that is to forcefully see him at times and barge in.
“I’ll ask again. What the hell are you doing here, Sapphire?”
Sapphire – a name given by the prince for shits and giggles. He didn’t want to call him by his real name which was used by everyone in the mansion. Didn’t want to acknowledge his presence so openly. So he came up with this, a title used exclusively by him, something which resembled the color of Jungkook’s velvet hair; and the purple colored sapphire that Taehyung was forced to wear since childhood.
Ironically, both of these were forced upon him – the gemstone and Jungkook. So this name was perfectly fitting.
The only thing that differed was that the gemstone was precious, but Jungkook wasn’t.
“This morning… someone came bearing an order for me and I was informed about your next schedule, my prince.” He informs, looking straight in his eyes and notices that ticked jawed, hard expression on his face.
“What did they say?” Even after being aware of what must’ve been conveyed to him, he still wanted to hear it.
“That I should prepare for a near departure. We are going to leave soon, right?”
“We?” Taehyung says incredulously, showing pure shock even though he’s well informed about that. “Who’s we here? It’s me going and Yoongi, of course.”
Not this again. Jungkook presses his lips in a thin line, already dreading the conversation that is about to go in circles and have Taehyung aggravated. “And you know I’ll be accompanying you. We have direct orders from the king and can’t disobey at any cost. I’m sure you were informed about that.”
The casual approach and smugness in his tone drives him uncontrollably mad. Jungkook has his parents back and that is enough for him to harbor hate for the purple haired.
Though some would argue that Jungkook’s not smug and it’s technically not in his hands to disobey them; but Taehyung believes that he’s just another commoner looking for luxuries in this palace and just happened to manipulate his parents with something unknown to him.
Jungkook was no different from those money hungry ministers in his opinion.
Clouded with rage, he lunges forward and grabs Jungkook’s neck in a vice grip, the force pushing them to collide to an adjacent wall. An ‘oof’ leaves his chest at the sudden impact, figure easily swaying with his movements.
Taehyung is glaring with a hardened stare, faces drawn close with an inch of distance and his hand clutched tightly to his neck in order to choke him.
However, Jungkook remains unfazed regardless of the grip around his wind pipe, which is getting tighter by the second. He remains calm, doesn’t shout, nor protests; giving full liberty for the other to do anything.
He knows he won’t be killed that easily.
“No need to act smug in front of me. One snap of this neck and you’ll leave this world right this instant.” The prince grits close to his face, flexing his fingers to dig harshly on the sides of his neck, sure to leave an indent.
Jungkook nearly scoffs, used to these daily threats that never see the light. He’s already suffering so this doesn’t faze him at all.
Though unfortunately being a living organism, he needs air to live and the current grip is slowly managing to cut the oxygen supply, preventing the air from reaching his lungs. His mouth soon opens to gasp for some air, hands itching to rip off the prince's hand from his neck.
He endures until his lungs start to expand for much needed oxygen, hand flying to circle around his wrist in a silent plea to leave him. It’s enough.
Taehyung presses his mouth in a thin line, relaxing his fingers a bit to let some air flow down his wind pipe and jolts him just as Jungkook stops gasping. “If it was in my hands, I would’ve made sure that you never come in front of my eyes again. You better keep this in mind and do not even dare to think otherwise.”
He knows that quite clearly, there isn’t any doubt in his head. “I-I’m aware of that and I don’t like to live in a-any illusion, so you can be… rest assured.”
The grip around his neck again tightens, jerking him harshly to get that menacing message across. “Why don’t you disappear from my eyes, huh? Don’t you fear for your life?” His hand flexes to jolt him again, “Shouldn’t you be running away now?”
Jungkook doesn’t have answers to that. Or maybe he has but can’t voice it out, not to Taehyung at least. Fearing for his life is a foreign concept to him since god knows how long. “If I wanted to run away, I would’ve done that long ago. You wouldn’t even get to tell me.”
“Right. Why would you run when you’re getting everything here without doing anything? Except— I don’t know… roaming around me every single day.” He bitterly says, spewing the truth known to both.
Jungkook doesn’t say anything to retaliate. He doesn’t have to and it’s not the first time Taehyung has cornered him like that. He can already sense those finger nails leaving a mark in their wake, prince’s sharp eyes boring into his and their minty breaths exchanging rapidly.
He decides to talk about what he wanted to ask in the first place. “I just came to gather some details about our journey.” A wince stays between them when the hand tightens. “T-tell me when are y-you going to leave so I can be ready.”
He hears a growl then Taehyung’s anger spikes with it. “You are not going anyw—”
“Your highness…”
The new voice makes him loosen his hold on Jungkook, face turning to see Yoongi standing at the entrance and looking at them with surprise. His eyes dart from one to another, to his hand almost choking the purple haired boy and the closeness between their bodies, silently accessing the situation before finally disturbing him.
He can’t believe that Taehyung chose to corner him like that and didn’t even bother to close the doors. If anyone else saw them, it wouldn’t land a good impression on a sophisticated prince like him.
Although his simmering hatred was known to everyone, witnessing that wouldn’t be ideal. Verbal insults were one thing but getting hands on him was different.
He strides inside and quickly shuts the door, looking incredulously at them. “Prince, what are you…” Yoongi trails off, keeping his stare pointed towards his hand to wordlessly tell him to leave Jungkook.
Taehyung does.
He removes it at last, not before jolting him once again, his glare menacing enough to show how ready he was to choke him. Jungkook pants, rubbing the slightly irritated skin of his neck and looks down while resting on the wall for support.
“Oh—Yoongi, you are here.” Taehyung acknowledges, acting as if this was the most common thing to witness. He doesn’t want to hear anything from him, more so a lecture on his reputation of all things.
“Yes, I heard you called me to discuss something?” He informs, slowly taking the steps forward to reach them. “May I know what it is?”
“I just had a meeting with his majesty and he gave me a task to complete. So I wanted to talk about it and discuss some strategies.” The prince’s tone is easy now, devoid of the previous heat. As if it simmered down in another’s presence.
Yoongi nods, absorbing the information. “I’m assuming it must be something important if you were summoned this early.”
“It is. And mother said that you’ll be accompanying me.” He shrugs, keeping his back completely to Jungkook.
Till now both were expertly ignoring Jungkook’s presence, but the insinuation that they’ll be going somewhere pulls Yoongi’s attention back to him.
Knowingly he glances at him, noticing how he’s just standing there, watching Taehyung with timid eyes. There are no harsh lines in his features, instead they’re devoid of any hard emotions, making it impossible to decipher the hidden lines lying between them.
“We should discuss everything soon then. I’m sure we don’t have much time.”
Taehyung nods at that, his glare again fixating on the other. “You’re right but I’m not planning anything in his presence. Sapphire, leave.” He sternly commands in a hard voice, making Yoongi wince subtly at the hostility.
Jungkook’s used to that though. So he just nods and spares him a last glance before walking away.
“As you wish, your highness.”
Both watch as Jungkook leaves the room, shutting the door right behind him. Taehyung heaves a sigh of relief, as if finally being freed from the prickly shackles at last and goes to plop on the plush resting chairs kept by the windows.
Yoongi follows, sitting on the opposite side and watches him taking calming breaths to ease the angry nerves that spiked before. The prince and his dramatics around Jungkook never fails to amaze him.
“What was that? My eyes nearly bulged out when I entered the room.” He manages to start, taking Taehyung’s attention quickly.
The latter just shrugs, non chalant as ever. “Why do you sound so surprised? It was nothing. He just pissed me off.”
“When does he not?” Yoongi rightfully scoffs at that. “Even his breathing annoys you so I’m not really baffled. But what did he do this time?”
Taehyung then adjusts on his chair to sit straight, shifting to gain a talking stance. “He entered the room without my permission, when I was literally in a meeting with my father. And then proceeded to ask when I was planning to leave so he could prepare to tag along. How atrocious!”
He exclaims in frustration, hands flying in air to show just how absurd this is to him. Yoongi watches him with pressed lips, stopping himself from sighing. “I agree he shouldn’t have entered like that but… it makes sense why he asked about your plans. We know that he’ll be tagging along.”
“And I don’t want him to.” He passes a rigid look. “I don’t want to tell him. He should get the message and stop asking me everything.”
“I think you went too harsh on him today. Nearly came for his neck— are you kidding me?” His voice still drips with unhidden shock, trying to make him understand that he can’t just get violent on Jungkook.
Taehyung scoffs, glaring at him now. “Do you even realize how smug he looks with the power he has here? How he has to do nothing but still gets to hold some sort of power over me?”
“He doesn’t hold any power over you, Taehyung. It’s just him staying around and making sure you’re okay.” Even though talking about this is futile, Yoongi still makes an attempt to drill some sense into him.
“Yeah, sure.” He tsks meanly, inclining back in his chair. “As if I need a person who’s always sick. He should heal himself first and stop acting like he can actually do something useful.”
There’s no point in this discussion, Yoongi realizes. And Taehyung’s words do make sense, are completely valid and visible to a pair of healthy working eyes. Though he has an inkling that there lies more than what meets the eye.
“His potions do work well, you can’t deny it.” True, he can’t. “And they’ve managed to heal you multiple times for diseases. So I don’t think him being near is a problem.”
Technically, it wouldn’t have been a problem, but it was. Jungkook was frail and got sick easily. Those could hinder their journey and were a seed of issue, even if they ignored the biggest one; Taehyung’s displeasure whenever he was around. It would be hard to act civilly around others and he might mess up in front of them.
Though they can rely on years of training and his princely antics.
“Whatever. I didn’t call you to talk over him again.” At that, Yoongi straightens up, ready to hear the important part. Taehyung needs to finalize a plan now. “We are supposed to make an alliance with Maplain’s King and get them to agree to trade gems with us in a way that would benefit us. And father trusted me to do this.”
“Oh that’s good. He’s giving you bigger matters now.” Yoongi states in delight. He’s kind of excited to travel soon, considering it was rare for them to leave the palace unless any work dwindled over their heads. “Then tell me what you plan to offer for exchange so we can analyze whether it’ll be beneficial or not.”
Taehyung starts and they get tackled into weighing pros and cons.
°°°°°
It was two days later in the evening when everyone gathered in the dining hall to join the night supper. A small family get together, something which wasn’t frequented much even when they all lived together. Though the King liked to call them all twice every month, to talk about upcoming matters and possibly bond over delicious meals.
Joining these were a ritual at this point, a tradition of sorts or just an attempt to talk with everyone once in a while to maintain harmony and forget any bad blood in between.
Every palace’s stories consisted of power hungry individuals roaming around with a sharp skill of acting; and theirs was no different. Every single one of them there was trying to climb the ranks, defeat their opponents or just wipe off the competition.
However, the rulers adored sharing an evening with their offsprings and all the important members were called to join.
Including Jungkook.
Taehyung didn’t have any issue with these evening suppers, but the thought of staying in the purple haired’s presence never failed to sour his mood. Though, ignorance was a bliss and Taehyung had mastered it.
Sitting adjacent to the king who was at the head chair, Taehyung watched each of them fill the room one by one. The queen sat in front of him, just to the left of her spouse and the concubine took her respective seat beside her, followed by the princess. The second prince from concubine took a seat beside him. Yoongi wasn’t usually fond of these but Taehyung insisted that he did join them.
Even King’s most trusted advisor Kim Namjoon was also present, seated after them.
And at last it was Jungkook, who took his designated place beside the princess, his sister — Kim Chaewon.
It was well versed in the palace that the beautiful healer and the princess had an unbreakable bond, a friendship worth cherishing and admiring. They were mostly attached at the hip sharing jovial moments, insider gossip and an indelible time.
Taehyung almost rolled his eyes as saw them giggling and whispering among themselves. His sister was under some sort of hypnotic spell that this man put on her. He was so sure of it.
Soon they were all served with fine delicacies, everyone waiting for the king to take the first bite so they could begin digging in. Food turned to be delicious as always, the metal spoons and knives scraping on the ceramic plates were the only sound fluttering around royal figures when the king decided to break the tranquility.
“Son, have you planned everything?” He addresses the prince who’s busy chewing a large bite.
Politely finishing that, he gives a subtle nod, wiping his mouth with a napkin. “I have discussed all the strategies with Yoongi and we are aiming to depart a day later. Everything’s settled father, you can be rest assured.”
Every ear on the dining table turns to capture their conversation, the room lapping into a hushed quietude except for the ruler and his heir’s soft murmur. They all listen with rapt attention, tapping into the new information not so discreetly.
“That’s what I ought to hear. Take your time there, convince them and I’ll be expecting a positive response from you soon.” He taps Taehyung’s shoulder in encouragement. “Make sure to enjoy the time in Maplain while you’re at it. I’ve sent the king a message that they should be expecting you soon in their kingdom.”
Taehyung smiles at that, accepting that tiny piece of information. His gaze cautiously lands on Jungkook to see if his ears are trained on them or not, only to find he’s engrossed in something Chaewon is happily whispering. Maybe he didn’t hear when he’s aiming to leave and no one’s going to tell him otherwise.
A man could dream.
Amidst his trolling thoughts, a sickeningly sweet voice breaches the barrier of his ears, the voice a close second to the ones he hated the most. The first we all could guess easily.
“Are you planning to leave somewhere, your highness?” The concubine, Lee Yeon asks in the same overly friendly manner that he loathed with everything in him.
As rehearsed, he puts a small practiced smile and regards her, watching as her son also perks up to listen. “For a few days, yes.” He keeps it short and simple.
“I assume there must be something important his majesty had picked for you to do.” Yeon looks interested, almost too sweet for it to be real, appearing as if she cares about him. She glances at the king too, somehow attempting to gain a few browny points as she always tries to.
An easy grin is sent her away, the king never forgetting to give her the desired attention too.
“That’s exactly what it is. Every task is a responsibility that I ought to fulfill.”
He receives a compulsory nod, the concubine sharing a look with her son before she speaks. “Our prince is forever admirable. I hope your journey proves to be fruitful.”
Taehyung expresses his gratitude and watches as everyone focuses on their plates again. Soon enough the king gets up and announces that he’ll retire for the night, his queen right behind in tow.
As they’re left behind without the supervision of the rulers, a hush of murmur starts and all of them fall into a state of chit-chatter. Though as expected, the king’s secondary spouse jumps in again but to address a different person this time.
“Will you be accompanying Prince Taehyung, Jungkook?” Her sweet smile slips off and Taehyung wonders is this how superficial he looks every time he regards the purple haired.
The aforementioned takes his mellow time to swallow that bite, aggravating her further and finally regards her with an air of nonchalant ease. “I don’t think that needs confirmation but yes, I will accompany his highness.”
She almost scoffs at that, but controls before it could convert into real action. Jungkook frustrates a lot of people in the palace and she happens to be one of them. “That’ll surely be a waste since you won’t be contributing much to that journey.”
“We can’t be too sure of that.” He counters pridefully, uncaring of whatever she might think of him. “Everyone is useful at times.”
She snickers, clearly rolling her eyes as everyone watches and waits for them to possibly engage in a cat fight. What a sight it would be.
Though nothing of that sort happens and Yeon turns to speak to the prince who’s eyeing them warily from a distance. “I would like to suggest something that might be beneficial for you, your highness. How about you take Jungsik with you. He might learn a thing or two and will be helpful for advice at times.”
Taking Jungkook wasn’t in his books, but that doesn’t mean he will let anyone tag along.
After him and Chaewon, it was the second prince from the concubine that shared his father’s royal blood. And there was always an air of competition between them. No matter how she must pretend and act, both tried to climb the power ladder and gain more royal titles.
No way he was going to let a literal snake tag along and possibly hinder things for him.
“I appreciate the suggestion but I’m afraid that we might’ve already planned everything and how many people we should take with us. Also the carriages have been prepared.” He replies apologetically, already done with her.
“Since the arrangements have been made, how about you don’t take Jungkook? I’m sure it’s what you want too.” She cunningly suggests, completely aware of the hatred that he harbors for the supposed healer.
Now that was the issue. As much as he would rejoice not taking him, having Jungsik looming on their heads definitely weighed more on the negative side. At least he knew how to measure two negatives.
“You know me well.” He lies straight through his teeth. “But there are direct orders from her majesty that I can’t ignore or disobey. So I’ll have to take him this time.”
For instance, he looks over at the subject of their conversion, only to find him secretly smiling at him.
A smug look, that too because of him.
What a bad day it is.
Jungkook looked partly delighted, and a part was definitely wagging its tail in smugness; since Taehyung’s words were a direct counter from this morning. No matter what, he had to admit and acknowledge his presence in one way or another.
He basically said that he was taking Jungkook.
“I understand, your highness. Orders from the queen shouldn't be ignored.” Her smile shifts to a tad bit flaky and plastic. All fake.
Grabbing the chance, Jungkook clears his throat and gives that same smug look to her, as if he won this invisible sword fight. “Whether you like it or not, my lady. I’m destined to follow the prince everywhere. None can change it.”
“More like it’s forced.” She grumbles and leaves the room with her son, refusing to let the conversation flow further.
And just as Taehyung too gets up to retire, a familiar voice calls for him from the side. All sweet and teasing.
“At what time should I get ready, my prince? I wouldn’t want you to wait too long for me.” He flutters his lashes on purpose, hiding a small laugh that was threatening to burst out.
Jungkook leaving a chance to pull his leg? That would never happen.
Taehyung grumbles and struts to reach his sister, planting a barely there kiss to her head. “Goodnight, Chae.”
“You didn’t answer me, prince.” Jungkook pokes from the side.
“Find that out yourself.” He replies without looking at him to possibly ignore that look and vanishes into thin air, leaving both the figures to giggle in silence.
The princess gives him a high five as she stops laughing. “He’s so fun to tease, Jungkook. Never fails to amaze how well you can annoy him.”
Annoyance is one thing, but hate is a strong emotion. What Taehyung has for him is close to that, nothing fun, all too dark and consuming. Chaewon has always seen them as a bickering duo, someone who can’t stand each other but she insists that Taehyung doesn’t hate him.
Only if he could prove to her that.
So as always, he puts a blinding smile on his face and joins her giggle train.
One’s meant to endure all his life.
°°°°°
Two enormous, pearly opaque carriages were prepared to aid in their tiring but purposeful journey. The palace foyer was occupied by a few trained prince’s personal guards, two servants to assist, his advisor and friend Yoongi, and the prince himself.
The small troop was ready to depart, everything was set in place except one missing puzzle piece. And an important one at that.
Taehyung was strolling around the carriages, his hands clasped behind in an annoyed grip and face itched into a displeased expression.
His long jaded ivory jacket flowed with the slow morning wind, reaching his knees, a moss green or almost muted green vest and pants completing the look. A frosty pale scarf was artfully wrapped around the neck, tied in the middle to offer a more sophisticated image.
They all were waiting for one person — the one who never failed to get on Taehyung’s nerves – Jungkook.
He was fashionably late for some unknown reason, though his stubborn heart wouldn’t admit that he didn’t make an attempt to send a message to him. In his defense, he told him to enquire about that on his own, and maybe he didn’t, so everyone was suffering under the sun.
Frustration and anger were wearing thin as he began shouting in a partially filled void.
“It’s a complete waste of my time. We should leave, Yoongi. We are not obliged to wait for anyone who doesn’t care to follow the schedule.” Taehyung bellows from the side, staring right at his friend who was checking the reins of horses they were taking.
The latter sighs, walking up to him. “He must be coming. It won’t take long, I’m sure.”
His jaw clenches in unconcealed fury, “Doesn’t look like it. We’ve been here for twenty minutes and he is nowhere to be seen. We need to leave now.”
Yoongi is standing at a cliff, can’t leave without Jungkook but he refuses to burn in the prince's fury. “Not entirely his fault since no one gave an exact time to him, your highness.” He decides to spill the fact while ignoring the hard look. “I’ll go and check if you want me to.”
“No need for that. We’ll depart without him—”
“Depart without who?”
A loud, melodious voice joins their clashing conversation, the long-awaited figure emerging from the palace’s main gates. Every eye pins to him as the ever-so-captivating velvet haired man walks down the stairs to reach the foyer, his steps elegant and a bit hasty.
His long gold pale dress waves above the marble stairs, a speck of glitter covering the whole fabric as sunlight hits it on the right place illuminating the beauty in a healthy glow. The sheer full sleeves are flowy, light and reach below his fingers, resembling something a royal would wear.
The front of his dress is heavily embellished with a stunning piece of expensive metalwork weaving into several patterns of flowers, chains on his neck and chest, strong petal designs on his shoulders which ends in a choker like necklace and a beautiful loop of similar ones on his waist to accentuate it.
Taehyung loses his anger for a moment, his mouth slightly opening in surprise. There’s no doubt that Jungkook was gorgeous, but these constant reminders were necessary for the stoic prince. He watches as Jungkook stops in front of them, a smile adorning his face.
“Depart without who?” He reminds again, digging the prince out from his surprised state. “I hope it’s not about me.”
While Yoongi goes to pass a smile, Taehyung scowls, refusing to be bedazzled by him. “It was about you. Learn to be punctual for once and not put others in suffering because of you.”
Jungkook looks behind him and catches that he was actually late. “I apologize.” He passes a regretful smile which is easily accepted by others. “I might’ve confused the time by half an hour. But you could’ve sent someone to call me, your highness.”
A logical thing to do, but Taehyung’s not going to admit it. “You’re mistaken if you think that I will ever send someone to call you. Also, I would’ve been more delighted if you took more time so we could blissfully leave without waiting anymore.”
Jungkook almost goes to roll his eyes, totally familiar with those thoughts. Taehyung is always so predictable. “Sadly you can’t do that, my prince. Unfortunately I’ll tag along and you’ll have to bear it.”
Taehyung sees a hint of smile on his face and glares hard, “Don’t be too smug. The day just started and I would appreciate it if you don’t do anything to ruin it.”
“I’m not doing anything.”
But he doesn’t need to do anything to piss him off.
“Leaving you here is a tempting thought.” He sighs and does his best to ignore the frown marring Jungkook’s features. “Get in the carriage, Sapphire. I’ll not repeat that again.”
The purple haired beauty nods obediently for once, his half tied hair swooshing above his neck. “Won’t we share the same carriage, your highness? We should go together then.”
A hard glare is again directed his way, making his mouth shut for good. “I think you’re capable of counting the number of carriages we’re taking.” He chides as Jungkook looks over his shoulder again. “There are two of them so take a wild guess which one I will be choosing.”
He gets the message, alright.
Jungkook doesn’t answer and strolls over to the one in back, lifting his dress from knees to climb inside. His feet wobble due to the slight heavy weight of his skirt and the not so cemented platform built to step above, no one in sight to help him.
Wishfully, he peers back to see if Taehyung will come to lend a hand to him and gets disappointed right away. What did he even think would happen?
It’s his personal attendant — Yuna, a twenty year old girl that runs forward to help him balance and directs inside to sit peacefully on plush seats. Taehyung watches him settle and turns to climb in the second carriage, only to furrow his brows when he’s stopped by Yoongi.
“Unfortunately you can’t sit here, your highness. This one is occupied.” Yoongi murmurs apologetically, fearing for his reaction since he acted so smug in front of Jungkook for no reason.
“Occupied with what?” He grits, looking at him.
“We need one for personal attendants and I’ll be sharing this carriage with them. So…” He trails off, pointing at himself and the others.
Taehyung groans, “Why didn’t you tell me that before? These things should be discussed before. Now what?” He doesn’t let Yoongi suggest anything and continues, “Tell them to sit with Jungkook. We’ll share this one.”
The latter passes an are-you-serious look, completely baffled by the suggestion. Jungkook might not have an official royal title but he’s treated as one and the possibility of him sharing a carriage with others while the prince will be with him sounds odd; very hostile.
“We can’t do that, your highness.” He sternly replies, unwilling to back down for such a request.
“I’m not sitting alone with him. Maybe prepare another carriage.” Taehyung acts not unlike a child, stubborn and too demanding to settle down without his orders being met.
Yoongi sighs, “The least that can happen is us three sharing the same carriage. Would that be of your liking?”
“Nothing’s of my liking.” He grumbles under his breath but settles, having no other option. “But that’s certainly better.”
Jungkook was smoothening the fabric of his skirt when he felt someone climb inside, his face splitting into surprise and then switching to instant amusement as he watched the prince grumbly taking a seat opposite of him.
To his surprise Yoongi also followed soon, settling beside Taehyung on the seat and passed a smile as always. He never believed in hating him unreasonably.
The lines on prince’s face were stretched, a tad rigid with disrupted edges of embarrassment etched to it. Jungkook was staring with raised brows, quite smug to be missed by the keen royal.
“What?” He snaps catching him off guard, carrying a clear message of do-not-say-anything that Jungkook oh so bravely ignores. He’s up for a scolding it seems.
Finding it humorous, he raises his hands up in surrender, meaning no harm. “Thought I was incapable of counting the carriages and someone was quite stubborn about not sitting in this one. Specifically with me.”
Taehyung fumes, “Too witty, Sapphire. You’re too witty for your own good. Trust me I don’t desire to share this carriage with you.”
“Say whatever you want, my prince. At the end you are here, willingly or not.” Jungkook slowly says, his mouth quirking up in a small smirk. He’d gotten bolder in these past few days, and has started to talk back a bit more bravely, confidently.
“It won’t take me a minute to send you to the other one. You can sit with them or better don’t say a word after this. It’s your call, Sapphire.” He casually offers to choose, successfully shutting him up in an instant.
Jungkook quiets down, subtly glaring at the arrogant man before he catches Yoongi giving a secretive, playful grin, clearly the only one entertained between their neverending bickering.
At least one was not offended by his presence. It makes his mood certainly a bit better, heart resting easier in between the two. They embarked on an important journey and enjoying it was the only way to peacefully spend it. Their momentary quarrels were just supplementary in this.
Loud horse struts filled the silence as the sun rose to south-west, the day eventually falling close to late afternoon, making their stomach grumble and roar for much needed lunch. Throughout the ride Jungkook was looking out of the small window, watching as the lush greens passed by, leaving everything behind and aiming to reach a new place.
Watching the world move while some parts remained still was more than mesmerizing. Jungkook admired how the humans indulged in their tasks, everyone having a different purpose on earth, as nature stayed constant to provide them balance. That posed as the perfect reel for him to experience it live.
Jungkook was almost lost in the picturesque view, while the two men in front of him were engaged in some serious, business-like discussion in which he wasn’t included; obviously. Nor did he even try to listen to anything carefully.
Being an eavesdropper wasn’t his job, nor did he try to be one even when it wouldn’t exactly be eavesdropping.
“Stop at the tavern to rest.”
Suddenly, Jungkook heard Yoongi shout to the soldiers and noticed that they were at an eating place, a huge sign indicating it was an expensive one. Were they stopping to eat? He really craved something delicious since he’d mostly eaten at the palace, always high quality food made by remarkable cooks.
And it was hard to get anything from the streets inside the royal place.
Yoongi was the first one to climb down, followed by Taehyung, which again left him alone to struggle for such a small thing.
He sighs and stands at the carriage’s gate, looking for Yuna to come and lend a hand again. But to his utter disappointment, all of the attendants were busy getting some things out, arranging some stuff for the remaining journey and no one was close enough to notice his turmoil.
Except Taehyung.
He was meant to be scolded today it seemed. No way he would help Jungkook, right? Though it wouldn’t hurt to try once.
Gathering some courage, he calls the blonde haired who was looking around to access the place first before entering. “Your highness.”
Taehyung’s jaw fixes immediately and he turns around with a hard look. “What?”
At least Jungkook has some audacity to look sheepish before asking anything. “Can you help me? I am unable to get down on my own… this dress is a bit heavy.”
“Who even told you to wear that and show off?”
By now he was close to cursing his own choice of clothing. Though it wasn’t entirely his fault. Since the beginning he was chastised to wear something that would render him worthy of standing beside the prince, it was expected of him to be prim and proper, forever laced in grace.
Jungkook just took complete advantage of it and filled his closet with the most stunning pieces. He deserved as much.
“If I were to accompany you in something less spectacular, I would’ve been pinned as someone trying to tarnish your image. And you wouldn’t have let me leave like that.” He speaks the truth, maintaining that intense eye contact. “It has happened before.”
Jungkook reminds and leaves Taehyung mute for a moment. His mouth seals in front of a fact which he can’t really deny. He honestly hated when Jungkook didn’t dress up even after having access to everything, or if he gave others a chance to talk badly about them. If he was meant to be glued by his side, looking apt was the least he expected, and the latter never disappointed in that aspect.
Image was reputation.
Without arguing for once that day, he walks forward and stands in front of him, crossing his arms on chest. “You can jump easily, I believe. It shouldn’t be so difficult.”
Is he serious?
“I’ll fall. That’s not possible.”
“That’s even better.”
Jungkook glares at him, pressing his lips in a thin line. “Can’t I expect some help without being poked like this.”
“No. It’s your fault for asking the wrong person.”
Taehyung shrugs and takes a step forward to pick Jungkook up by the waist, coiling his arms around to haul him up. The purple haired gasps, hands flying to hold onto his shoulders as he’s caught completely off guard.
It takes seconds for him to safely land Jungkook on the ground, limbs unwinding like flash as soon as he finds a stable footing; and he walks away, without uttering another word.
And he stands there, a ghost of touch still lingering on his waist and stomach, on palms that were sprawled over his heavy jacketed shoulder, the sturdy muscle still making a presence.
Jungkook just wanted a hand, but he was given a whole prince for help. That man always did something unexpected.
Smoothening the lapels of his skirt, Jungkook follows inside with large footsteps and finds them talking to the tavern’s owner, who was definitely awe-strucked by the literal prince stopping at his place to eat. He walks forward to stand right beside Taehyung, accepting the deep bow he receives from the owner.
“The guards and others will eat here. Can we get a separate hall for the prince?” Yoongi discusses, expertly taking charge on behalf of them.
“We have one large room upstairs. I’ll escort you there.” The owner delightfully replies, gesturing to follow.
Jungkook walks behind the two, the prince right after him and simultaneously his gaze lands on other’s food, on what they’re eating and a delicious looking item that catches his attention. He momentarily halts to watch it carefully, trying to remember if he ever had it or what it’s called.
Taehyung clears his throat from behind to chastise him for stopping in the middle. “Walk, Sapphire. It’s rude to block everyone’s way.”
The light scolding makes him flush from embarrassment and he almost runs to catch up to Yoongi.
They’re soon settled comfortably in a very private, premium room to peacefully have their meal, all three seated around a rectangular table. Unlike the palace, the table was a low seating one, allowing them to sit on plush cushions placed around them. No one had any issue with it as all were seated comfortably well.
“What would you like to have, your highness?” The owner politely asks, hands crossed in front. He was almost ecstatic to serve a royal like this. It wasn’t everyday that he got to see the future heir in person.
The aforementioned spares him a glance, “A portion of buckwheat noodles.” He calmly says, while the other nods in attention.
“I’ll have the same. So make it two.” Yoongi chirps from the side, placing his order on time.
“And for you, Sir?” He turns to ask Jungkook, keeping the same polite smile.
While ordering the same thing looked polite, he really wanted to try something else, his mind still reeling with the image of a mouth watering dish he saw earlier. So with a hesitant look, he starts asking for it.
“Uh… just earlier I saw this thing. I think they were some kind of stuffed rolls.” He helplessly describes, confusing everyone along with him.
“Sir, can you be a little more specific?”
Jungkook bites his lower lip, searching for a concrete description. “Someone was eating it downstairs. It had cheese I’m sure. I just don’t know the name.” He peers around to find Taehyung silently snickering at his cluelessness, Yoongi mutely telling to drop it off and the owner still failing to understand what he wanted.
It turns a tad embarrassing and he decides to not trouble them further. “I’m sorry. Just get me some noodles too. Thank you.”
His mood sours, stomach shakes his head unsatisfied and he almost goes to grumble in frustration before someone calls the owner who was about to leave.
“Get some cheese corndogs too.” Taehyung orders without even sparing him a glance and watches the owner nodding his head before finally leaving them alone.
“Did you mean to order that?” Yoongi whispers leaning towards Jungkook’s ear, keeping his voice enough to not reach the blonde haired.
How was he supposed to know?
Jungkook says as much, whispering back. “I don’t know. And I’m sure he must’ve ordered it for himself. How would he know what I wanted?”
Yoongi purses his lips, thinking how similar Jungkook’s description was to this. Though it was unlikely for the prince to fulfill any of his wishes, and even now he looked very unbothered as his chocolate orbs gazed around the room.
It doesn’t take long for them to get their bowls of steamy, brothy goodness, two trained lads serving everything carefully. Jungkook watches as they place a bowl one by one in front of them, some side dishes, a jar of wine and finally a tray of freshly fried corndogs.
Those were the same things he failed to describe earlier.
Jungkook gasps, catching everyone’s attention immediately. His round eyes go rounder in amazement, mouth parting a little to utter out a letter of gratitude because this was for him right? Taehyung ordered this for him.
It’s just three of them in the room when he decides to speak, voice pitched and delightful. “I was talking about these. They were having it downstairs. How did you know what I wanted, your highness?”
“Oh really? I didn’t know, nor did I order it for you.” Taehyung lies through his teeth, forcing his mouth to stop twitching in a menacing smile. It’s fun teasing Jungkook, more so when he gets to see his crumpled face.
“You didn’t…?” Jungkook immediately wilts, his petals lips falling into a saddened frown.
“No.” He carelessly mumbles and picks a corndog, biting into it without any preamble.
The sight pulls a frown from Yoongi, who silently watches Jungkook eyeing Taehyung with a bitter expression, his eyes dimmed suddenly. The royal was sometimes too uncaring of the other’s feelings that it was hard to witness.
“How did you not know that these were corndogs?” He questions, snapping him out of that constant staring.
Jungkook shrugs, picking up chopsticks to grab a globe of cold noodles. “I’ve never seen it. They never made it in the palace.”
“Should’ve stepped out a little then. Being this clueless will never do anyone good.” Taehyung uninvitingly offers from the side, reaching at half of that crispy corndog.
The unnecessary jab makes him scowl. It wasn’t his fault that they let Taehyung go out sometimes and he didn’t have to tag along because it wasn’t far away; while keeping him always inside the palace walls. He doesn’t voice it out though, afraid to start another discourse.
“It’s just a food item. I can surely survive without knowing its name.” He snarks and observes as Taehyung just brushes him off.
So infuriating.
To aggravate him further, Taehyung passes the corndog tray to Yoongi, offering him some while completely ignoring the one who actually wanted to have it. “Get one, Yoongi. These are delicious.” Yoongi picks one, hoping for it to be offered to Jungkook next, who also perks up momentarily but is left disappointed again. That was unfair, his mind supplies.
“You can have mine. Here.” He kindly extends it to Jungkook, who gives a tight smile while stabbing that bowl of noodles.
“The one who ordered doesn’t want me to have it, Yoongi. It’s fine. Thank you for offering.”
The jab does nothing to the one it’s directed at. He’s simply busy swirling his own noodles, not even attempting to retaliate this time. Yoongi sighs. These two stubborn ducklings.
Though after a short while, the corndog tray is loudly slid towards the purple haired’s direction without any warning, catching him by confusion.
“Eat them.” Comes a stern, rigid order from none other than the stubborn prince, who doesn’t even look in his eyes while doing that.
Jungkook blinks, watching two crispy, golden brown corndogs placed right in front of him. This wasn’t a dream right? “Are you sure?” He belatedly asks, still stunned. “You want me to take these… really?”
Taehyung purses his mouth and glares, retreating back to that stoic face. “I’m certainly full and food shouldn’t be wasted but I can still take it back if you don’t want to eat.” He threatens, completely bluffing. Eating two more of those delicious rolls, as Jungkook called them, wasn’t hard.
But he was having a hard time seeing that sad face. Also, there were other ways to tease other than snatching food away.
He wasn’t that stinky.
Hearing that warning, Jungkook scrambles to grab that plate and happily picks one. “I’ll eat.”
Biting into that cheesy goodness was better than he imagined and couldn’t help the small delighted sound that left his throat. There wasn’t any particular displeasure on Taehyung's face after seeing him enjoy that wholeheartedly, so he continued till both of those corndogs were inside him while everyone patiently waited for him to finish and didn’t rush.
He was so happy.
°°°°°
The journey continued after some time, their small troop entering a distinct, challenging terrain of the infamous kingdom. Rocky mountains were starting to peek from dense forest greens, a thick layer of fog settling down following a soft apricot-grey windy dusk as the evening twilight approached its peak.
Soft gusts of chilly wind hit his face as Jungkook was starting to shiver with the change of place and weather, a breezy mild air switching to a cold harsher one. Still he was reluctant to close it and possibly miss the refreshing pats that were keeping him entertained, awake.
Yoongi was out with guards on horses, probably guiding and assessing the direction they were heading to. It wasn’t complicated, though he believed in keeping things in check and under control.
So naturally, it was just him and Taehyung inside the carriage, the latter completely quiet, his lids shut to avoid the person in front altogether. Jungkook thought he was asleep, but the sudden demand in a loud voice startled him.
“Yoongi, hand me a coat.” Taehyung said, occasionally glancing at him.
Maybe he was cold? Would make sense considering they were in northern terrain.
Jungkook was himself bundled in a fluffy, snowy stroll to trap that miniscule heat inside and possibly block any chilly waves hitting his exposed arms. Though a small part of him whispered that it wasn’t enough protection for his frail self.
Yoongi handed the prince a long fur coat right after and went back to his place beside the guards. Jungkook was waiting for him to wear it, but when it was unceremoniously thrown over his lap, he let out a surprised gasp, looking all puzzled.
“Wear it.” He instead orders him, his eyes hard and unrelenting in approval.
“Uh– prince… why?” Jungkook stutters, slowly picking it up to hold in hands.
Taehyung rolls his eyes as if it should be obvious, “Before you freeze here and catch a cold wave. Wear it.”
“But this is yours.” It’s astonishing how he was keeping an eye on him and caught the slight shivers that were gently starting to jolt him. Taking a step like this was so unexpected and equally surprising, especially coming from someone like him who swore to hate Jungkook’s guts.
“Stopping them again would be impolite. Just stop throwing tantrums and don’t dare make me repeat myself again. Be careful.” He threatens, clearly very keen on forcing him to wear that. He didn’t care whose coat it was, as long as it did its job.
“What if you get cold, your highness? I can’t take this.” He never in his life imagined Taehyung to offer his own clothes in any circumstances, nor willingly force him to just… take it. And the prince could easily ask any of them to grab Jungkook’s coat, which was probably kept in one of the chests.
But he didn’t.
Maybe he really didn’t mind whose it was or actually didn’t want to disturb them while being in a harsh condition themselves.
“Sapphire.” His stern, no-nonsense command bellows and Jungkook quiets down, accepting that with full arms.
He shivers while shedding off the blanket and carefully pushes his arms inside that warm, thick coat, fully covering himself from the cold. A soft sigh of relief leaves his lips as all that pale exposed skin gets protected from stingy cold air, offering his mind an immense sense of ease.
“I don’t even get why you insist on tagging along when you aren’t made to endure slightly harsh conditions.” Taehyung muses, not asking him in particular but just wondering.
“There was an order.” He still answers, serving the obvious.
“Those orders will be a mystery forever.” He tsks, snapping the carriage window shut and draws the curtain, obscuring his view. “Be a bit more responsible. You’re the first one to possibly catch a cold. We don’t want that uncalled situation.”
He was right.
Jungkook was easily the weakest one in the palace, in terms of immunity and physical strength, for multiple unsaid reasons that others didn’t know but everyone saw him as someone vulnerable and in need of care most of the time.
He stays mute and observes as Taehyung goes out to check or communicate with his group and comes back rubbing his hands together to warm them up. He might not be as cold as him, but Jungkook was still slightly worried for his being.
He keeps looking for a perfect opportunity and grabs his abandoned stroll and stands crouched to take a step towards the prince, surprising him. Taehyung watches him unfurl the snowy piece and swing it over his shoulders, without even asking beforehand.
“Step back, Sapphire. I don’t want it.” He grimaces and goes to push him back but for once, Jungkook refuses to stumble.
“You’ll be cold. I don’t mean any harm, so it’s futile to fight me, your highness.” He mutters while being adorably engulfed in the prince's warm coat, his satisfied self eager to drape the prince in a safe cover too. It’s just a nice gesture, and a will to return the favor.
Taehyung snickers but lets him wrap that woolen piece around his shoulders, making sure to cover his mildly cool hands. “I’m perfectly fine. Some of us know how to choose appropriate clothing. Not everyone desires to drape layers of airy fabric and be underdressed.”
Jungkook accepts the jab on his attire, focusing more on his task for now. His hand easily goes to touch the blonde’s ear, accessing the cold skin that he wishes to cover too. Taehyung waits till he stops fuzzing over him like a mother hen and smiles satisfied after deeming his work done.
Jungkook’s always like this, too worried, too focused on him and he can do nothing but sigh defeatedly.
Though he doesn’t want to admit, the stroll is really welcomed to obscure a bit of that chilly air, even if his thick clothes are enough protection. He doesn’t return the smile that Jungkook gives him while settling back on his seat, too busy trying to hate that small gesture.
“Thank you.” He hears him say and raises a questioning brow, asking to elaborate.
“For the corndogs and this coat.” Jungkook happily murmurs, lifting his arms to show how it snugly engulfed him.
“For the last time, those weren’t for you.” He lies, “And if you get sick, I’ll be the one in trouble. So you shall not get ahead of yourself. Nothing’s for you.”
Jungkook wasn’t expecting another kind of response, he was used to this and never thought otherwise. So he didn’t respond while they kept traveling further into the mountains, soon reaching their destination.
“We’ve reached Maplain.”