#admin grandma

You whimper, rubbing your legs together to get some kind of friction from your panties to your dripping pussy. “S-San, please.”

“Please what, baby?”

“Please cum on me again.”

He lets out a low chuckle—his eyes getting darker at the sight of you begging. “My little cum dump needs more cum, hm?”

“Yes, please.”

“Open up, princess.”

Your grip tightens on your breasts and you stick out your tongue, getting a couple of drops of his pre-cum into your mouth—determined to get him off once more. He lets out another groan with each thrust, feeling your tongue tease his tip. As much as San loves toying with you, you know how much he loves overstimulating himself. Covering you with his cum is just another bonus.

He lets go with a loud moan of your name, jerking himself off and covering the bottom half of your face with his seed. There’s enough cum that drips down from your mouth—adding to what’s already on your chest. His hand comes up to caress your face; the gesture is sweet, but then his thumb brushes from your cheek to your lips and you instinctively suck on it, practically addicted to the salty taste.

San sits himself up from the edge of the bed, pulling you up onto his lap for you to straddle and kisses along the side of your neck. The kisses distract you momentarily before you feel his hand sliding between your thighs and his fingers start to brush against your covered clit.  

“Such a slut for me, aren’t you?” he whispers into your ear. “Does my whore need me to fuck her?”

You let out a string of shaky moans at his words, unable to provide a verbal response. Curse his stamina; he’s been toying with you for multiple rounds and you can feel the exhaustion aching your bones.

But it feels so good. 

Your head falls onto his shoulders and your knees start to buckle as his thumb pushes harder against your clit. His other hand gathers more cum from your chest before shoving your soaked panties to the side and pumping the two fingers into you.

“You’re so fucking needy,” he says with a groan. “Your cunt is already so, fucking, wet.” With each syllable, he thrusts his fingers deeper inside of you—causing you to squirm with each one.

Just as you’re near the peak, he pulls his fingers out. You whine from the loss, but, before you can complain, he repositions you, so you’re laying on the bed with him between your legs.

He keeps one hand on your thigh, pulling your panties to the side once more. With the other hand (the same one he fingered you with), he guides his cock to your clit—brushing up against it once more.

“San,” you whine. “Just fuck me already!”

“Tsk, so impatient.”

You buck your hips closer to his. “Come on, fuck me, fuck me, fu—“

mothers would probably offer him their babies if that was appropriate

he’s just super sweet and tries to remember what he learns in order to take it back and make use of it with the current policies that the parliament is trying to endorse or something

obviously, this is the main image of him to the public

and it’s not fake

but those in the palace know he can get a bit mischievous and sassy

it’s only really seen by those who are close with him, or have been around for a longer time

like assistant!Hongjoong and head butler!Wooyoung

since they’re all close in age and grew up together too, they’re much more comfortable with one another

Hongjoong: *hits his head on a doorway*

Seonghwa: “......... are you an idiot?”

guard!Yeosang and butler-in-training!San: laughing

no, but for real, all of them know he’s basically an angel

the amount of shit he’s putting up with them, but like they make for great entertainment lmao

anyways

the older workers at the palace find him adorable

like when Seonghwa tried to sneak-eat the freshly picked strawberries

“my prince, did you just eat a strawberry?”

Seonghwa with a mouthful of them: “no”

he’s like the grandson they all want (and are trying to get, but we’ll get to that later)

other than his charities and visits and public outings, he’s also known to be a good horseback rider

like real good

Wooyoung: “this is the most princely we’ll ever see him”

he’s kidding, but he’s also not kidding

bc lbr: Seonghwa in a horseback riding fit with the shoulder pads and the helmet and the wind and

Wow

many gather to see him in his glorious, sweaty state afterwards

it’s funny bc he’s so handsome and there are times when he’ll acknowledge it and other times when he doesn’t

especially since the ateez boys just ignore him or tease him

now it just depends on how he feels that day as to how he’d react

since he’s got such a good reputation, you know what that means?

lots of treaties and lots of marriage proposals

on one hand, many nearby countries know how nice Prince Seonghwa is—and some thought he was naive enough to be deceived by them

and that led to a few wars, but they lost real bad bc they assumed he was too nice

when, in actuality, he’s very knowledgeable since he takes a lot after the king and the queen

that allowed much more respect for the kingdom, especially since he’s the first in line for the throne once he’s married

which leads to the second thing: he gets lots and lots of marriage proposals

have you SEEN him?????

do you know how CAPABLE he is????

helloo?????

anyways

the royal family kind of milks this—not in that way tho

it’s in the sense that it’s because they want him to find someone soon and there’s more time for them to learn the ropes about ruling a kingdom

that means lots of balls are thrown in hopes of Seonghwa finding someone to ~catch his eye~ and whatnot

but Seonghwa just uses this as a diplomatic advantage, you know? like a chance for him to meet other royals and build these relationships

and while he has good intentions, the rejected royals are kind of bitter, but they know better than to mess with the Royal Family

meanwhile, party planner!Yunho is lowkey racking in the dough from these events, so he’s fine throwing all these balls lmao

this is where you come in

but, it’s not how others might think

so, you used to be the daughter of a well-of-ish family—you had money for a house and caretakers who adored you and you with parents who loved you dearly

you lived in your own little bubble of love

but then your mother died

when she died, it was almost as if she had taken the lively atmosphere of the household with her

your father buried himself into his work, rarely making time for you anymore and…. there was a drift

one day he came home with a mysterious woman, proclaiming her as your stepmother

along with her came her two daughters, who were as ugly outside as they were on the inside

while you could have done without her passive-aggressiveness, it was nice to see your father happy

but lo-and-behold, you lucked out and he died on a business trip, leaving you alone with strangers to become your only family

it only got worse from there as they openly started to mock you, shame you and push you beyond your boundaries

as they could no longer pay for the staff, they also forced you to clean after them, cook for them, and make all the arrangements that they demanded

or, as your oh-so-lovely stepmother said “you’re below us and you will always be below us”

at first, you put up with it because there’s nowhere else for you

but, slowly, the idea of running away was starting to sound better

and the opportunity came as the palace was starting to look for more servants who would stay in the servants’ quarters

you immediately packed away your things, which wasn’t much to begin with—your mother’s locket being the major trinket you possessed

and ran off to work as a housekeeper, who hid away behind the palace walls and the public eye

since you clean for the palace, it also means cleaning after the balls

other than television appearances, you never really saw the royal family

even as you did work in the palace because……………. they’re running a goddamned country

but, of course, there are rumors and gossip with the other housekeepers which all come from reliable resources

**cough cough definitely Wooyoung cough cough**

so there’s a lot of what you heard, not really from what you’ve seen, despite what some might think when working in the palace

that was until you were called to work at your first ball

which meant you were cleaning after the tables and in the kitchens, going in and out of the ballroom and between dinner tables

getting glimpses of some of the royals

and picking up on some of their juicy conversations

(apparently this one duke almost had an affair with this king’s secret mistress… all the tea)

anyways

you get the point

every once in a while you have to work at the balls when they need the extra help

but, there was one that was…………. different

a lot of the balls are for the royals to take and engage and whatever, but there have been so many and Seonghwa………….

Seonghwa hasn’t been interested in a single one despite the purpose being to help him find someone

Hongjoong: “what’s wrong with them?”

Seonghwa: “there’s nothing wrong with them, I don’t want just someone”

Seonghwa: “I want it to happen naturally—call me old fashioned but if this is someone I want to spend the rest of my life with, it has to be someone who knows me”

Wooyoung, in the corner: “that is old fashioned, hasn’t he heard of tinder?”

advisor!Mingi: “I don’t think it would be a good look for the country if the prince is on tinder”

guard!Yeosang: “we should test it out”

butler-in-training!San: “omg reverse pretty woman”

Hongjoong: “everyone get out, you’re all useless”

okay, but like real talk: he’s such a romantic and the whole unofficial arranged marriage is just………. too much

so, his parents were like: so, you want more options?

Seonghwa: “not what I said”

and they expanded the invitation list for one night, meaning ANYONE had a shot with Seonghwa and

well

he is very popular, so you can imagine how many people were planning on coming and the staff (i.e. you) had to prepare for everything

for the week, the castle was bustling and you were running around to help out and it……. it was all so insane

and then it happens

you’re minding your own business and working and eavesdropping as one does when one works

because everyone is there and who doesn’t love listening to drama that isn’t just from fancy people

but since everyone is here

you failed to remember that a certain group of people were also there

the group of people being your step-mother and step sisters

instinctively, you ducked and hid, moving away from the main room that was swarmed with people who were all trying to obtain Seonghwa’s attention

(who was also trying to hide from everyone else and instinctively failing)

eventually, you found yourself in the gardens, where you tried to make yourself busy

but it ended up being a small walk through the gardens, picking up the occasional liter and small talk with the gardeners

the garden is huge, so you get a bit lost as you wander—physically and emotionally

meanwhile, Seonghwa managed to escape from the others with the help of the other ateez boys

major shoutout to Yunho and Jongho, who insisted on leading the cupid shuffle and cha cha slide

also Yeosang for blocking off people who were trying to shoot their shot with a tired Seonghwa who did not want any of this

he ended up in the gardens as well, walking down a small path with Yeosang trailing a bit farther behind

he spots you on a bench, admiring the flowers under the bright moonlight

and you were absolutely breath-taking

not wanting to disturb your peace, he tried to leave

only to knock into a garden gnome and catch your attention as he tries to not break it

You: “um”

Seonghwa: “I’m so sorry, I was just going to leave, I didn’t mean to disturb you”

You: he looks familiar

You: “I know you from somewhere”

Seonghwa: literally in the most extravagant suit and sparkle make-up as he’s still crouched on the ground trying not to break a gnome that cost like $5 at a Target

also Seonghwa: “have we met before?”

you exchange names and that’s when it clicks

You: “OH MY GOD. MY PRINCE.”

immediately, you try to curtsy or bow or whatever the royals make you do to the ground bc Seonghwa’s still at ground level

and Seonghwa’s just…………. scrambling to try to get you off the ground with flushed ears at you calling him your prince

Seonghwa: “please, you literally do not have to”

You: “I don’t want to be beheaded”

You: “plus, isn’t it like, illegal for me not to?”

Seonghwa: “well, I’m technically giving you orders not to…..”

You: well, can’t argue with that

you slowly get up and dust yourself off, unable to look at him in the eye

even from the corner of your eyes tho, you can see what the fuss is about

bc Seonghwa in that suit and hair swept back is hot™

You: “Prince,  I apologize if I’m speaking out of line, but shouldn’t you be inside?”

Seonghwa: “couldn’t I ask you the same thing?”

You: “but this is in your honor, not mine”

Seonghwa: “is it tho?”

Seonghwa: “I keep telling everyone I would like to fall in love on my own and yet………. everyone keeps meddling and making plans and now everyone in the kingdom is after me when I’m just trying to do my best for our citizens”

you’re a bit silent, unsure as to how to respond

Seonghwa: “I’m sorry for just dumping this on you, but, everyone keeps telling me I shouldn’t be so worried”

You: “well, Prince, I think what you need to hear is that your feelings are valid”

You: “it’s only natural for you to want to find someone on your own—freedom is something everyone wants, which is why it’s so hard to obtain”

there’s a bit of an awkward silence

for one bc you didn’t know what he was really like and if you were allowed to say something like that

two being that you didn’t know if you should leave

but he speaks up

Seonghwa: “you’re right—I did need that”

the air loosens a bit between the two of you

Seonghwa: “so, are you also hiding from an influx of suitors?”

you laugh a little, playing like a twinkling melody to Seonghwa’s ears

You: “no, but I am hiding from people”

Seonghwa: “it’s okay, you don’t have to share if you don’t want to”

you two get to spend a bit more time together, just chatting and getting to know one another

he’s really sweet, but also kind of goofy with a handful of cheesy pickup lines that definitely comes from spending too much time on the internet but also Wooyoung

the time is short but sweet

bc, before you know it, it strikes 12 and Hongjoong has a hold on him by bulldozing past Yeosang who just blinks at the small gust of wind

Hongjoong: “Seonghwa! your parents are looking for you! we gotta go!”

he greets you hastily, before grabbing a hold of Seonghwa and dragging him away—in which Seonghwa is still trying to get one last look at you before you disappear off into the night

or, in your case, back to the kitchen to avoid your stepfamily

the rest of the night passes as expected, at least for you as you busy yourself with washing dishes in the kitchen

but Seonghwa found himself like a mercat, poking his head around trying to find you every once in a while

the time you’d spent together was short, but it was the most fun he’s had at these balls

and it showed, as noted by Hongjoong and Wooyoung with the week that followed after

he was spacing out, wondering what could have been if things were different

basically, homeboy was sulking bc he didn’t know when he could see you again or if you had someone or if you were even interested

Hongjoong: “how are we supposed to help him when we don’t even know who it is?”

Mingi: “didn’t you get a glimpse?”

Hongjoong: “I was busy with other things”

Wooyoung: “so you didn’t even ask for a name?”

Yeosang: “it’s (Y/N)”

all the boys:

Hongjoong: “how do you know that?”

Yeosang: “I was eavesdropping”

San: “um—”

Wooyoung: “wait, we know (Y/N)”

Yunho: “so am I throwing another party or?”

Wooyoung: “we can find (Y/N) first and then throw a party”

so, they kind of hunt you down to where you’re cleaning for the day

and Wooyoung asks you about Seonghwa

lowkey bc he wants the tea but also bc he wanted to make sure you’re not one of those insane people that are completely obsessed with him

(considering what he had to witness during that last ball)

and after passing his vibe check

he sends you to the library “to clean”

which is odd because you already cleaned it for the week but

Wooyoung: “I’m technically your boss, so go”

You: weirded out

also you: “okay”

little did you know, Seonghwa was already there, occupying himself with some new books while Hongjoong and Yeosang were keeping an eye out for you

who was lowkey trying to hide in the shadows and failing miserably bc of all the goddamned windows

Seonghwa spots your shadow, quickly getting up and following you

Seonghwa: “wait! (Y/N)?”

you turn around, a bit startled from the call out

Seonghwa: “I thought it was you”

you give a small bow to greet him

You: “my prince”

Seonghwa: “you can just call me Seonghwa”

Seonghwa: “I didn’t know you were here”

You: “I didn’t know you were here either”

he lets out a small chuckle

Seonghwa: “I meant I didn’t know you were staying in the castle”

You: “I’m not just staying here, I work here prin—Seonghwa”

Seonghwa: “well I guess that makes finding you a bit easier around here”

You: “you were looking for me?”

Seonghwa: “well, I like your company”

You: flushed

Seonghwa: “do you enjoy mine?”

You: “I’d be glad to bask in your presence”

and for a moment, it’s just the two of you

*cut to Hongjoong and Yeosang high-fiving in the back*

after that, the two of you spend more time together

it’s cute bc Seonghwa also likes to clean (which explains why there were never housekeepers needed for him)

so it means he also helps you clean and still have fun doing it

speaking of which, you got to find out how domestic he is and it melts your heart every time

especially when he’s interacting with children who visit the castle

so you can tell he really wants a family

bc he’s so good with kids and knows how to take care of people and what more can you really ask for

he’s also a great listener 

like he really knows what you need based on what you tell him

and when you opened up to him about what happened at home

he was just such a big sweetheart about it, asking if you’re okay and checking with you emotionally and it 

I LOVE PARK SEONGHWA SO MUCH 

anyways

so his parents did find out bc Wooyoung has a big mouth and def blabbed to San and everyone else in the goddamned kingdom who knows Wooyoung

rip Seonghwa

also rip everyone in the kingdom who found out bc again

Seonghwa is very desired amongst many

which also led to a lot of jealous people who gossiped about you but jokes on them bc you still have Seonghwa at the end of the day and they have jack shit :) 

back to what I was saying 

when his parents found out, they were totally accepting of it considering how happy the two of you are

(also you were lowkey fearful they were just gonna straight up kill you bc you aren’t royal, but also, they’re good rulers who care about people) 

which also meant they wanted to train you to help him run the kingdom but that’s a different story

anyways, prince charming!Seonghwa is indeed very charming

He openly gets undressed from his royal robes, which are made of the finest silks, down to his undergarments. Underneath the bright pastels is nothing but pure white. His skin shines against the sunlight that pours in from the balcony and it highlights his facial features. 

A woman gushes from the sidelines. “Oh, gosh. I’ve only heard of how pretty he is, but now that I’ve seen him in person…” She covers the bottom half of her face with her fan in shyness as her words trail off. “I don’t think I could ever recover.” 

“His fingers are so delicate,” another whispers, almost fearful of the Prince overhearing her. 

“Forget his hands!” A woman nudges her, shaking her fan towards his figure. “Just look at those lips. They’re absolutely perfect.” 

Another sighs in content of the view. “His jawline was sculpted by a greater divinity. That divinity wanted us to worship that jawline.” 

“That jawline is meant to cut diamonds, not just worshipping.” 

At a separate table, a few feet away from the balcony and the crowd of women, there sits three men—friends of the Prince. Upon hearing these comments makes Seokmin gag from his seated position, so much that he leans over and pretends to retch under the table. Soonyoung’s face wrinkles in disgust at the sounds and Seungkwan simply looks away, fanning himself. 

“My Prince,” Seungkwan calls out. “To what is the aim of all this?” 

Prince Jeonghan smirks to himself as he pulls on the shabby, bright red robes. He has been adorned in much more expensive fabrics—with much better quality, bound to last for centuries—and yet, every once in a while, he lowers himself down (as his mother likes to put it) to connect with the common folks. It might be demeaning for others, but, for him, it’s a chance to express himself, his talents, and his abilities to show his connections with the citizens. 

But of course, he is deemed as nothing more than a shallow prince. 

The Prince swallows, almost as if to push down the brief moment of sadness, before he turns to the trio. He raises his smirk higher, much more smug than before. “Attention, I suppose.” 

Seungkwan’s jaw drops slightly from the audacity of the Prince. However, while disappointed, the man cannot say he is surprised. 

Seokmin simply rolls his eyes, but doesn’t respond—knowing it’s smarter not to bite at the hands of the Prince. Considering how long they’ve all known one another, Prince Jeonghan’s words are the ones that bite the hardest. 

However, Soonyoung never learns his lesson. He shakes his head at the Prince’s words, before pouring another drink for himself. “My Prince, I must say that the cheap fabrics oddly suit you.” 

Seungkwan nearly chokes on his spit at the words, holding his fan between him and Soonyoung. “You shouldn’t say that,” he says, without bothering to be quiet. “You’re only going to feed his ego more.” 

The Prince raises his hand, as if to playfully hit him with his own decorated fan—a similar shade of red that matches his robe. “You’re one to say, considering how often you provide more compliments for yourself rather than receiving them from others.” 

Before the latter can respond, Prince Jeonghan makes his way through the tables and towards the front, where there is an open stage awaiting for him. He makes his place in the center, in the middle of a rose pile that is swept across the floor, where he sits elegantly. 

The wind begins to blow softly, enough to swirl the petals around him—with the additional cherry blossoms flowing from the open balcony and into the room. The band immediately begins, playing a soft melody to calm the hearts of all within close proximity. 

His body begins to move with the music, as if he were part of the winds that drift in the air. The balance and poise his body demonstrates would leave the female dancers envious had it not been the fact that they were too busy admiring his beauty. He is more than calm and collected—but still manages to display elegance and sentiment. 

There’s a collection of satisfied sighs that can be heard from the ladies as he loses himself to the music. With moments like this, he forgets it all: the royal status, the scrutiny—he just becomes another mere dancer with talents of his own. 

As the last note is held, he bends down and folds himself towards the ground as if to thank his audience. Applause fills the air and the ladies begin to throw their handkerchiefs to the stage. 

“Absolutely beautiful!” 

“Spectacular, my Prince!” 

“A man of many talents, Prince Jeonghan!” 

Their praises continue to fill his ears as he steps down, making his way back towards his table—where the trio greets him with a standing ovation and slow claps to applaud the Prince and his talents. 

“But, of course,” Soonyoung says. “What else did we expect from our Prince himself?” 

“What he means to say,” Seokmin intervenes. “Was that it was a wonderful dance, as per usual, my Prince.” 

They take their seats again, making more toasts and snacking on the plates presented on their table. Their conversation is interrupted by the brothel’s owner, who comes with more women and numerous plates full of food and drinks that only one can imagine. 

“Prince Jeonghan,” she says with a bow. “Thank you for visiting our humble brothel. I can only gift you with my ladies and food to fill your stomach.” 

“That is more than enough,” Prince Jeonghan says. “Thank you for allowing me to dance.” 

“It’s our honor, my Prince.” She gives another bow of her head, giving time for the women to set up the additional food and drinks, before making herself scarce. 

Prince Jeonghan turns his attention back to the table, making more toasts with the trio and engaging with the conversation once more—allowing the rowdy setting to activate again. 

However, a snicker from a few tables away catches the ears of the Prince. A few men, clearly in a more drunken state that is less than appropriate given the time of day, entertain themselves with rather reckless comments in front of royalty. 

“Can you believe,” one begins to speak, “that he is a prince of our country? My chickens set a better example of leadership than that frilly pansy.” 

The other man hums, only to let out a small burp as he opens his mouth. “If he were to run the country, we would be in ruins.” 

“That’s why he’s only a mere prince,” another responds. “Prince Jonghyun is the only one who will successfully obtain the kingdom and there shall be no worries.” 

“Well,” the second man replies. “Prince Seungcheol is another option. Either one is a good choice. I wouldn’t mind being under Prince Minhyun’s rule either.” 

“Prince Jeonghan is more of collateral damage,” the first man hiccups. “A worse case scenario, if you will.” 

The Prince frowns underneath his cup as he takes another sip of his alcohol, but doesn’t say anything. While knowing some part of it is true, it doesn’t mean it hurts any less. His train of thought is interrupted as a familiar face noisily enters the room. 

He stands. “Chan!” 

The young boy looks a bit startled, but relieved to see the Prince. “My Prince!” He quickly makes his way over to the table of recognizable faces. “My Lords,” he says, bowing his head to greet the others. He turns back to the main man. “Prince Jeonghan, I have urgent news from the palace.” 

“Chan,” Soonyoung says. “Would you like some water first?” 

“Yes, have some first,” Seokmin adds. “You look like you ran from the palace itself.” 

There’s a moment of silence as Chan catches his breath, silently accepting the glass Seungkwan presents to him. After swallowing large gulps from the glass, he wipes his mouth and practically slams the glass back on the table. 

Seungkwan clears his throat. “Chan, you may now proceed with the news.” 

Chan gives him a look, almost amused as to how Seungkwan presents himself as above him—even in the presence of royalty. With a shake of his head, he chooses to ignore him. “Prince Jeonghan, your mother has requested your presence.” 

The Prince frowns. “Why is that?” 

“Because you’re to be wed in a week.” 

All chatter dies—from the ladies in the arms of others to the actual guests themselves. The trio has frozen, unsure as to what it was exactly that they had heard. A pin has been dropped. 

“Come again?” The Prince asks. “I am to be what in when?” 

Meanwhile, the trio seems to have come to their senses, as they all stand in unison. 

“To who?” 

Chan seems more nervous at the question, now that he has the full attention of everyone in the room. “I know it is out of my place, my Prince, but I believe you should discuss this with your mother. I’m unsure as to whether I am authorized to disclose this information, considering the conditions we are currently in.” 

There’s another moment of silence with the eyes of many silently pushing the young boy to release the new gossip of the week. If he’s already stirred the pot, what’s wrong with letting it boil over a little? 

“I’ll pardon you if my family threatens to behead you,” Prince Jeonghan offers. At the sight of Chan’s pale face at the mention of capital punishment, he immediately rushes to fix his own words. “Although, I highly doubt it would extend that far.” 

Glancing around, Chan hesitantly steps closer, only to be pulled into the small circle. Their heads join together—however, all of their eyes are locked on him, along with the ears of those still within the brothel. 

“According to my sources,” he whispers. “I hear Prince Jeonghan is to be wed to…” 

“Oh, to who?!” Seungkwan bursts. 

Soonyoung pulls him back in. 

Chan’s voice gets smaller. “To General (Y/L/N).” 

“THE GENERAL?!” Seokmin shrieks. 

With that, the guests partake in their chitchat once more. The second prince is to be wed to the General? There were some rumors of the General being female, but were they true? What is to be of the military, nevertheless of the royal family? Will Prince Jeonghan end up destroying his family line? There were also rumors from the palace maids themselves who said he often had trouble… performing—despite his many whores who are now palace concubines. 

The trio seems to have already processed this information—moving on to try and find some rationale as to why or what it was that led to this. Meanwhile, Prince Jeonghan has personally felt as if his soul has been sold to the literal devil. He has officially become a shell of a man. 

Should he feel betrayed by his family? Or angry at the thought of being wed to someone he doesn’t know? 

“Isn’t the General a man?” Soonyoung asks. He turns to Chan. “How could they let the second prince marry a man?!” 

Chan can only open his mouth, attempting to provide some response to the lord. 

“I think the bigger question is whether or not the General is even part of the human species,” Seungkwan slyly comments. “Do you know how many people he’s killed? He’s literally called the Devil from all the bodies he’s collected on the battlefield.” 

“Not just the battlefield,” Seokmin adds. “My father told me that they executed one of their own soldiers with a whip, which had been personalized with blades.” He shudders at the thought. “I’m glad he’s our general rather than another’s. Can you imagine the horror?” 

With his words, the trio slowly turn their attention back to Prince Jeonghan, who looks as white as a ghost—sheer horror apparent on his face as the news officially sunk in. 

Chan takes a step forward, lightly tugging on the Prince’s robes. “Prince Jeonghan?” 

There’s no response. 

“I’ve been ordered by your mother to bring you back to the palace. There’s a carriage outside waiting for you.” He turns to the trio. “I shall head back downstairs to wait for him as he changes.” 

He bows in respect to the trio and the Prince before making his exit—not before taking another glance at the Prince, gauging in the royal’s response once more. 

It’s not until after the young messenger boy has left that Prince Jeonghan eventually comes back to his senses. Although, it did take a good few minutes for the information to be fully processed. 

The guests are still chatting away at the news and he can feel their eyes on him more than ever. He preferred their scrutiny rather than their overcurious eyes that want nothing more than to pry him in his most vulnerable state. 

He’s starting to feel sick. His legs can no longer support him and he can feel himself collapsing onto the table. He turns back to the trio with eyes filled with fear and apprehension. Surely, his mother can do something, right?

“Your highness,” Eunuch Gok calls from outside the doors. “Prince Yoon has arrived.” 

The words hit the ears of all those within the room, with the maids and other servants sharing knowing glances towards one another—but none of them dare to stop themselves from completing their tasks. 

In the center of it all, the Princess Dowager sighs, feeling the exhaustion hit once more at the mention of her son. With a wave of her hand, she dismisses the maid by her side. “Bring him in.” 

“Yes, your highness.” 

The maids scurry, almost scrambling to move out of the way for the storm that’s about to hit—positioning themselves to form a line behind her highness. 

It’s not even a second after that the Prince bursts through the doors. 

“Mother!” 

She doesn’t flinch, feeling rather familiar with her son’s dramatics. “Greetings first, Jeonghan. Manners make a man.” 

He makes a face, but still bows to her with his head lowered. “Greetings, mother.” He stands up straight, immediately dropping the polite act. “What is this I hear about marriage?” 

The Princess Dowager slowly picks up her teacup, taking a slow sip from it. The Prince, however, is still feeling antsy at the news. 

With each second passing, the dread of this ill-fated marriage is getting more and more realistic. His foot taps impatiently on the expensive rug that decorates the room. 

“Mother?” he calls. “Please say something.” 

She places the cup back on the plate and signals the dismissal of her maids. They quietly make their exit, shutting the doors tightly behind them as they all leave the royals to their personal business. 

“Mother!” 

She immediately shushes him with a finger to his lips, pulling him closer to her. He’s practically on his knees, knees knocking against the brightly painted chair—only to kneel at her feet as if she has the answers to his prayers. 

“Keep your voice down!” she whispers. “You know how much the servants like to gossip and, if they are to see your panic, they will not hesitate to share this information with the others!” 

“I thought you had good relations with Dowager Choi and Dowager Hong.” 

“I do, but it would make for awkward talks if they were to find out through the servants’ gossip.” 

The Prince doesn’t understand the point of it all, but, when does he ever understand royal relations? 

He shakes his head, almost as if to physically clear his head of his lingering questions. “Mother, we’re getting off topic.” 

“Right,” she says. She grabs her son’s hands tightly, afraid to know what would happen if she were to let go. “Jeonghan, the Empress is the one who decided to wed you to the General.” 

“The Empress?” 

“Yes, the Empress.” 

This implies she has no power—no say—in what is to happen afterwards. His shoulders slump from the little faith that he had of being saved: all hope has been lost. 

Prince Jeonghan tries to think. Why would the Empress do this? What’s the grand scheme of things? How is this supposed to benefit the royals? Is this for military security? But, with that, comes the risk of further damage to the reputation of the royals—were they really going to risk that? 

“Jeonghan—” 

He snaps out of his thoughts. 

“You must listen very carefully and you may not disclose this information to anyone.” She paused. “At least, not yet.” 

“Yes, mother.” 

“It seems that the General is a woman.” 

He couldn’t stop himself from the question that slips. “Are you sure?” 

His mother’s hesitancy doesn’t help the building nerves. 

“Mother?” 

“Well,” she says. “That’s what the General has disclosed.” 

“Huh?” 

“The details don’t matter,” she says. “I have limited information based on what the Empress’ servants know and what my servants have heard.” She tries to think. “Just know you are to be wed in a week once the General arrives. There will be a parade in his—her? Their?” She shakes her head. “There will be a parade in the honor of the General, followed by a celebration amongst the surviving soldiers, and the wedding will commence after.” 

The Prince’s head is running with a million questions, yet his mother hasn’t answered any of them. 

He sighs—the grip tightening on his mother’s hand. “Is there anything you can do?” 

“My son, I’m afraid there’s nothing I can do.” She lifts her hand, softly caressing his face. “Had your father been alive, I would have more power.” 

Prince Jeonghan fully sinks onto the floor—hands fallen down onto the rug and he ends up running his fingers on it, to distract himself of the current situation. 

“Well, what happens now then, mother?” 

The Princess Dowager sighs once more, softly petting her son’s head to comfort him. “Now, we wait.” 

The dreaded week passes and Prince Jeonghan finds himself at the brothel once again—but this time, he’s alone. Well, alone as royalty can be. With a few guards outside the door, he sits in an isolated room with a sole glass in hand. The third floor’s open balcony provides fresh air, which is much needed regarding the stuffiness he feels from within. 

The Prince lets out a heavy sigh, pouring another glass for himself and instantly drowning it down. Too much has happened throughout the week that it all felt like a blur. He’d felt as if he were a cow who knew when he would be shipped off to the slaughterhouse. Considering his current condition, he’d prefer to be an actual cow. 

This so-called useless groom leans closer to the window, feeling the warm summer breeze shine on his skin. This is the closest to freedom he has been throughout the past week. And probably the last time he’ll feel this way. 

As the matriarchs from his side of the family prioritized the wedding details, he’s been used and tossed aside as if he was some type of doll—due to his “uselessness as the groom” (as one of the officials had commented). The palace servants have been bombarding him with this-and-that—from fabrics for the royal attendees to menus as for what shall be served and down to the details of the cloth napkins. If the Prince is presented with another royal blue shade, he’s going to flip a table. 

With the Prince’s internal struggle three flights above ground, below is where the peasants are rushing to prepare for the General’s return—flags are waved and flowers are prepped. The children are excited, playing amongst themselves, while the adults gather together to catch up and converse with one another. 

“Have you heard the news?” 

The Prince’s ears pick up on the conversation. Picking up a fan, he covers the lower half of his face as he leans out the window, despite how little it actually does to disguise his face. 

“The General completely obliterated the Chinese army—killed their general and their second-in-command barely managed to escape.” 

“Didn’t he meet his end as well?” 

There’s a staggered huff before the person responds. 

“Considering how the General is practically inhumane with his killings, I wouldn’t be surprised if the body count was higher.” 

“I would fear for my life had I faced the General on the battlefield.” 

“Or in person.” 

There’s a snicker. 

“Well, you do have to acknowledge his skills.” 

“The General is titled as a general for a reason.” 

“Yes, this is a joyous occasion. We must celebrate Korea’s success!” 

They skip off into oblivion that the Prince can only imagine. It’s in this case that the peasants are living in the luxury that the royal yearns for once more. To the commoners, their hero was to return home—whereas Prince Jeonghan’s hell begins with the General’s arrival. 

Speak of the devil and he shall appear. The beat of the drums is faint and distant, but still present. Everyone scrambles as the sound of galloping horses by the hundreds approaches closer and closer towards the gates. Even the Prince is flustered, the sudden arrival of his fiancee prompting him to scatter and flee out of his private room. 

“My Prince!” A guard calls, chasing after him. 

“My Prince,” another yells. “Why are you running?!” 

“To escape my problems!” 

“At least use the carriage, my Prince!” 

“No!” 

The Prince runs, passing by various groups of guests and their companions—practically jumping down the numerous flights of stairs and nearly diving into groups of strangers as he makes his way out of the brothel. 

Meanwhile, the street has been cleared to create a path for the most distinguished general of Korea. Rose petals have been prepared and spread throughout, creating colorful layers to welcome the heroes back home. The flags are up, flapping against the wind and shining its beautiful colors in the bright, warm sunshine. The horses are approaching much closer—leading to much excitement with the townspeople. 

At the main gates, you rest on your horse, pulling its reins to stop its tracks. Your army follows afterwards—Dongho, Jisoo, and Namjoo behind you. For a moment, everything is still. The blue fabric blows lightly against the wind, in contrast to the shiny black armor that remains tightly wound on your body. 

With your approach (and a glimpse of the signature colors of the flag and your armor), the head guards open the main gates to allow your entry. You and your army make its way through the gates, eventually moving past the countryside and closer to the capital. 

A shower of petals greets you and you have to hold back a smile at the sight. The townspeople are greeting you with shouts of greetings and praises, tossing grains as you and your army pass as a congratulations and welcome back home. With your head held high, you lead your way through the flowery path laid out for your army and head towards the palace, where you know your punishment awaits. 

As you move throughout the town, your men quickly navigate their ways back to their respective homes—their families, wives, children, and whatnot. Even Dongho makes his way back home (saying something about setting back into his hut for tranquility and peace). 

You know you should pop in to check with your grandfather, but you have more pressing matters on your hands. It is the King after all. 

The nerves start to get to you as you approach the palace gates, leaving you with Namjoo and Jisoo at your side once more. Your jaw clenches: the threats of a beheading are becoming more and more realistic as you make your way past the palace guards. The anxiety must have been obvious to have the paternal twins notice. 

“General,” Namjoo softly calls from her horse. “After what you have contributed, you have nothing to fear.” 

You nod, trying to convince yourself that it will not be as bad as it can be. She’s right: you have many accomplishments and the aftermath of a war can easily lead to another. They need you. The worst case scenario is the death penalty… 

… And the dread has returned. 

“I know it’s a lot to process,” Jisoo says. “But, we’re right here besides you.” She holds out her hand, which you take and hold onto. “Through thick and thin.” 

“Through thick and thin,” you repeat. 

The hand isn’t dropped until you can make out the stairs of the main court, where the King is seated outside—awaiting for your return. 

You pull on the reins; your horse whining a bit, eventually calming down as you shush him. You and your guards climb your way down your horses, walking towards the Emperor to properly greet him. On the third step, you kneel on your knee (followed by Jisoo and Namjoo) and bow your head down.

“Greeting to your majesty.” 

“Accepted,” the King says. “Welcome home, General (Y/L/N).” 

“Thank you, your majesty.” 

“Congratulations on your victory.” 

“Thank you, your majesty.” 

“On that note,” the King says. “Let us get straight to business.” He stands up, his hands folded behind him, and walks through the open doors, where the throne is present. 

Without a word, you three follow him into the court—keeping a safe distance. The King makes himself comfortable on the throne and you keep your head low, awaiting for his decision to be made… or announced. You’re still unsure as to where this is all going. 

A moment of silence passes and he speaks once more. 

“I have kept the court calm for now,” he says. “However, as some of the officials are still upset, we have come to a decision for your… announcement.” 

Your heart stops with each second he pauses, unaware of the chaos about to be unloaded onto you. 

“You are to be wed to my second-nephew, Yoon Jeonghan.” There’s a pause. “Consider it a gift from the royal family, who is forever in your debt for your military contributions.” 

You feel your heart actually dropping to your stomach. Your eyes are the only indicator of your internal panic, considering how they move around—unsure as to where they go. 

“Thank you, your majesty,” you manage to say. “I will forever remember your generosity for my crime.”

He holds up a hand, stopping you. “You have to remember that with this generosity, it is also your punishment.” 

“Pardon, your majesty?” 

There’s a sad smile on his face—a look that was similar to your father’s. “It’s generous for your deception, but it is still a punishment nevertheless. While he may be my nephew, I’m afraid he’s rather useless.” He sucks in a breath, trying to pick his next words carefully. “Your punishment is a pretty, but useless husband.” 

Your confusion is still apparent, considering how the King continues to speak—helping you understand the reasoning behind the court’s logic. 

“(Y/N),” he says. 

You freeze at the use of your first name. 

“You are the most distinguished general of our time, but you are still a woman. You have to be wed, especially at your age. Consider the repercussions had this happened at a later age.” 

You hear him make his way down, but you don’t dare to look up. 

He places a hand on your shoulder. “This is a good thing, (Y/N).” 

Yes, you think to yourself. 

This is a good thing.