#f:tightrope

Prince Kyungsoo’s breath caught in his throat, his gaze transfixed on the performance unfolding before him. The acrobat’s maneuvers drew him in like a hypnotist as he lingered uneasily at the tree line, torn between duty and curiosity. The spell broke once more acrobats made their entrance, and the first one disappeared back into the shadows. He was only abiding by his father’s orders to spy on the wandering troupe that the people seemed to love, searching for signs of dissent against the crown. However, the artistry that the troupe showed in their movements, combined with the music and their comedic theatrics, started to distract him from his mission.

Taking flight on the tightrope, the acrobat who started the performance reappeared. Kyungsoo felt himself drawn in, taking step after step forward, getting closer and closer. The acrobat moved as if dancing on air. A serene smile under the elaborate mask evidenced the elegant artistry of his movements. There was an undeniable sense of fearlessness that defined his craft. It was contagious, and Kyungsoo discovered a feeling he didn’t quite understand stirring within.

The prince felt his inner balance waver; the sense of freedom that the aerialist exuded in each step reflected his own suppressed yearning for adventure and the longing to explore a life beyond the confines of the palace walls. At the same time, he couldn’t deny the beauty of his smile and how it started a fire within. Even at his expense, Kyungsoo laughed and smiled at the acrobat’s comedic performance of the crown prince while on the tightrope.

Unaware of being in front of the crowd, the prince caught the performer smiling in his direction. A swift glimpse of his bright eyes sent a flutter through his chest, and even in the dimmed light coming from the lanterns, he knew he wouldn’t be able to forget the light within them.

“Your Highness.” The whispered voice from his guard brought him back. “You’re too exposed here; we should go back to our last location.”

The prince finally realized where he was. His guard was right; even in disguise, he could be noticed faster by any knowing eye possibly keeping a watch on him. But before they could move on, he caught one of the members of the troupe running deeper into the forest.

The guard noticed the prince’s hesitation, but he managed to see the man too. “Should I follow him and catch him?”

The prince was still static. He knew it was the perfect opportunity to advance on his mission, but kidnapping someone to interrogate them felt too extreme for him. Kyungsoo only managed to let out a resigned sigh and nod, prompting his guard to follow his orders and pursue the man.

As Kyungsoo observed the troupe interacting with the spectators, offering flowers to children and bringing smiles to everyone’s faces, he couldn’t help but question the true intentions of his father when he urged him to spy on the troupe. It was a familiar awareness that he couldn’t just ignore again.

There was so much kindness and gentleness in their performance. They weaved tales about the royals that subtly alluded to each of their identities, but these were mere generalizations and deductions about them. The staging seemed celebratory, making him question the severity of the threats his father had warned him about. Perhaps, there was more to this group than met the eye, and their routine performances held the hidden messages that required his closer attention.

Someone was watching him. Even when lost in thought, his instincts caught the growing density in the air. Just as he was looking in front of him, a figure moved on the other side of the crowd. Vigilant, the prince maneuvered through the commonality, taking care not to collide with those around him. He tried to blend in, trying not to be perceived, and followed as he discreetly trailed his guard.

Once the prince caught sight of his guard, he noticed that he managed to capture the member of the troupe without causing any harm.

“Your Highness, we have apprehended him,” the guard reported, his voice filled with determination and loyalty.

Kyungsoo glanced at the man, his eyes searching for any signs of malice or rebellion. Yet, all he saw was fear and confusion, not the dangerous insurgence that his father tried to convince him about.

“Well done, Aeron. Escort him back to the palace,” Kyungsoo commanded, his voice firm yet filled with a hint of compassion. “We will interrogate him there… but I want to know more about this troupe and their intentions before we proceed.”

The guard bowed, taking a small glance at the frown on the prince’s face, understanding his hesitation. Making their way back to the palace, Kyungsoo couldn’t shake off the feeling that he needed to find out more about this troupe. He was determined to uncover the truth and see it with his own eyes.

The journey back seemed to pass in a blur, with the prince’s mind still spinning with questions sparked by the troupe’s performance.

His performance.

The look on the troupe member’s face that they were taking away wasn’t helping either. The conflicting feelings within him were burdening his conscience.

Still following procedure, Kyungsoo imprisoned the man before he requested an audience with his father. The guards let him in once they received the king’s approval.

As Kyungsoo entered the throne room, unease stirred within him, wondering in what state he might find his father. He was aware that it would be almost impossible for the king to accept his request, but his steps were steady as he allowed a small spark of hope to remain.

The imposing throne engulfed the hunched form of the king. His eyes wandered aimlessly around the room, seemingly oblivious to Kyungsoo’s presence, as if he didn’t exist at all. It wasn’t something he hadn’t witnessed before, since the king’s deteriorating mental condition had been evident for years already. It had worried Kyungsoo even when the relationship with his father was already too ruptured after his mother’s death.

Kyungsoo bowed cautiously, his senses on high alert as he attempted to unravel the enigmatic nature of the king himself. “Father, I have advanced on the mission and detained a troupe member to interrogate him.”

“Why haven’t you killed him yet?” The king let out an unsettling laugh, making Kyungsoo flinch and look back at him.

Taking a deep breath, he kept his composure. “Allow me to speak with him first, before other methods are implemented,” Kyungsoo pleaded calmly. “I will inquire about their whereabouts and performances while I keep spying on them. I strive to make this a successful mission once the entire troupe is caught.”

“You must not show weakness, or the wolves will rend this kingdom.” The king uttered under his breath in an endless echo.

Kyungsoo stared as his fight or flight instincts reacted at the familiar murmurings. He had seen the toll that ruling had taken on the king’s mind. In his heart, he still grieves the heroic figure he had seen in his father, even if it had been but a child’s impression. Now, through wariness and trepidation, the prince can’t let any vulnerability show if he wants to get his father to at least consider his strategy.

“Father,” he breathed and gathered his composure, carefully selecting his words for his father to listen, even when they could burn through his throat, “my aim is to eradicate all of the treacherous troupes that dare challenge your reign. I require valuable information, for that the prisoner would serve useful.”

“Weak boy,” the king whispered, yet Kyungsoo managed to hear. “Do as you must, and bring me facts, not fanciful suspicions. If they scheme revolt, they die. You have three days.”

“But, father, the hunting games—”

“I said three days!” His yell resonated throughout the entire room, even reaching the guards outside.

Kyungsoo clenched his jaw to restrain his own anger as he bowed and proceeded to leave. His mind was in turmoil—three days were not enough if he wanted to find the truth without hurting innocent people. The hunting games were now overlapping his mission time span, leaving him with only a day to carry it through.

As the prince walked out in a hurry, his guard Aeron followed. Kyungsoo made his way back to the prison where the troupe member was. A clear intention set his pace. Something within called for his compassion to remain until clear proof contradicted his intuition.

Upon arriving, the prince noticed that the man hadn’t touched the food he ordered to be served to him. Kyungsoo crouched down with a sigh. “You must eat something,” he whispered to the man. Taking the spoon, he took a bite of the porridge. His guard called at him, alarmed, but Kyungsoo stayed calm and smiled.

“You don’t have to trust me. I sent my guard after you and have you locked up here, but… I just want to talk,” he said with a calm and respectful tone. “This isn’t so delicious. Aeron, please ask for a better meal. I’ll eat here with him, and please stay outside while we talk.”

Aeron’s expression didn’t match the acceptance of his nod and bow, yet he still followed the prince’s orders. As he brought the grand dinner, he hesitated, but the prince insisted that he leave. Aeron was a little intimidating if only his height was taken into account—his face was too friendly and innocent—but it was still better for him to stay outside not to frighten the troupe member any further.

The prince started feasting as soon as his guard walked out, but the captive troupe member was still not at ease. Kyungsoo stopped eating and looked at the man. “I truly apologize for the circumstances that brought you here against your will. I hope you can trust my words; harming you is not my intent.”

He stopped to try to read into the man’s face. “Will you not share your name so that I may address you as a friend rather than a prisoner?” Kyungsoo offered with a slight smile tugging on the corner of his lips.

The troupe member dared to look up at the prince, recognizing that his tone hadn’t been harsh at any moment. Yet, at his still-present hesitancy, the prince continued his monologue, trying to convey his sincerity. “I saw tonight’s performance. Your troupe is tremendously experienced and talented. I have to admit, it lifted hearts as mine has not in years…” A small sigh took his imagination back to the acrobat on the tightrope. His determination only heightened.

“Share with me your troupe’s ways and aspirations, and I promise that no harm will befall you unjustly. I only wish to learn the truth in hopes of finding a peaceful path forward.”

The man eyed him warily. It was the very first moment that Kyungsoo saw defiance in him. Yet his eyes held no hostility, only a performer’s passion. “Then why imprison me? We’re but humble performers bringing joy to the people.”

“I know,” the prince replied, “but my father sees otherwise, and I must navigate intricate politics to change his mind… or rather find a way to disobey his orders without him noticing.”

Tension started easing as he comprehended the prince’s intentions. “Jay. They call me Jay,” he softly said as he grabbed the piece of meat that had called his attention since the food platter was brought. He chose to trust the prince, hoping to help his troupe and keep them from harm. Hoping that his faith wasn’t betrayed.

Their conversation extended into midnight, sharing both light and heavy truths as they finished their meal. As trust began to bloom, Jay opened up about the troupe’s wandering ways and their unwavering passion for captivating performances. Kyungsoo learned that the troupe was still in the town he had visited for the spring celebration, with some more performances left taking place near the market.

The next afternoon found Prince Kyungsoo making his way through the lively market crowds, his demeanor calm yet focused. Though duty required vigilance, his heart swelled with curiosity to comprehend the vibrant community that Jay had depicted his troupe to be and to uncover the underlying discontent beneath the facade of festivities.

His brother Hyun chatted amiably with vendors, brightening as colorful wares and foods caught his youthful eye, which brought a fond smile to Kyungsoo’s face as he cherished the carefree joy that remained untouched by the weight of his own burdensome responsibilities on that particular day. He hadn’t planned for his brother to join him, but upon hearing him talk about the market before breakfast, Kyungsoo was unable to deny the younger one’s request.

Aeron accompanied them, while two guards stayed behind to ensure Jay’s safety as he remained imprisoned, maintaining the illusion in the presence of the king. The prince found himself once again entangled in a perilous game. He could only strive to fulfill his mission without causing more harm.

“Kyungsoo! Sorry, hyungnim,” his brother called out, snapping Kyungsoo out of his reverie. He couldn’t deny the rush of emotions that surged within him upon hearing his brother utter his name, fearing the possibility of being recognized. It was more than mere luck that his brother only said it when they were close.

“What do you have there, brother?” Kyungsoo asked, taking a deep breath to regain his composure.

Hyun’s face lit up as he showed Kyungsoo the items he found. “Do you think Riyoon noona would like this bird barrette? How about this mirror for Hwayoon noonim? Since I broke her favorite one, maybe she won’t be so angry if I bring her a new one.”

Kyungsoo giggled at his brother’s innocence. “You know them better than I do. These are beautiful indeed; let’s get them these if you approve.”

With a clear of his throat, Aeron interrupted. “The people seem to be gathering now; the show must be about to start,” he informed them, and Hyun sparked up leading the way forward.

Maintaining a careful distance from the younger prince, Aeron whispered at Kyungsoo. “The guards are already in position to keep an eye on anyone suspicious, regarding the mysterious person you saw last night among the crowd.”

“Thank you, Aeron. Let’s hope it was only a paranoid thought; instead, let’s enjoy the celebrations.” Kyungsoo placed his hand on Aeron’s shoulder, reassuring him of his lightened mood even in the circumstances they found themselves in. Aeron wasn’t so sure about taking the mission so lightly, but he trusted the prince, so he still tried to remain alert while trying to unwind and enjoy the show.

The crowd was as lively as the one from the night before. But a sudden expectant hush fell over as some vendors and travelers joined at the back. Prince Kyungsoo scanned with intrigue but didn’t miss his brother’s delighted gaze.

Rumbling drums played an ominous sound. It set a different tone already, compared to the spring festival performance. The prince felt Aeron’s concerned look over him, but he dismissed him and focused on finding the acrobat who set his soul free. Kyungsoo awaited patiently, but a startling laugh alerted him.

A woman wearing a crown just like his father’s swirled around the drummers as she laughed and danced. The people seemed to enjoy the spectacle as they chuckled and applauded. Jay had been honest; this performance felt more challenging.

Veils magically moving with the wind drew the crowd’s attention away. The woman dressed as the king was standing on a throne. Four dancers held the veils as dresses and masks, twirling at the same pace. Other troupe members soared from the back, looking like lords and officials from the castle. The story started looking too real for the prince.

Kyungsoo flinched as the woman drew a prop sword and started dancing along, still acting in a manic way. Knowing what came next, the prince squeezed his eyes shut, but the roar of the crowd made him want to see what happened. The astonishment was palpable.

It was him.

Skipping through the crowd, the acrobat who filled the prince’s thoughts interrupted the scene. The drums stopped, but his heart kept the beat going within.

“Hyungnim! That was incredible! Did you see that acrobat?”

Kyungsoo heard his brother, but he was too busy contemplating the object of his admiration to answer him. The audience offered an enthusiastic applause. As the prince clapped, mesmerized by the aerialist, a familiar voice drawled beside him.

“Back again, cousin? One might think you’re growing fond of these entertainers.”

Prince Kyungsoo’s joy disappeared; he frowned and sighed inwardly at Prince Yeongwon’s sly tone. Though he had hoped to keep this outing discreet, of course his cousin would take notice. “If you’re so determined to follow my movements, I must be more careful not to leave tracks for you.” Kyungsoo’s tone held a subtle warning through his smirk.

“Just like at the festival?” Yeongwon raised an eyebrow and looked back at the troupe. Kyungsoo was nervous, but he managed to camouflage it with a gaze full of resentment and indignation towards his cousin’s behavior.

Yeongwon chuckled and smirked at Kyungsoo. “You’ve piqued my curiosity. You seem utterly enthralled by these performers, cousin, when by rights you should be attending to your princely duties.” He hummed mockingly. “What fascinates you so about these traveling actors that draws you to these performances time and again?”

Kyungsoo was struggling to easily let out his breath; his anger was growing, but before he could respond, Prince Hyun tugged on his sleeve excitedly. “Is that the end? Can we watch more? Please?”

“I’m afraid not, Your Highness,” Aeron interjected in his stoic tone, hoping to distract everyone from the tense moment that Yeongwon created. “We must return to the palace before dusk or risk questions.”

Yeongwon opened his mouth as if to lead to another pointed inquiry, but Kyungsoo cut him off swiftly. “You’ve come back for the hunt, I assume. Entertain us back to the palace with your stories if you must. The preparations will start soon. Hyun, Aeron, we must be on our way.”

Kyungsoo took one last longing look back at the troupe before steering their group towards the market outskirts, hoping the dense crowds might deter Yeongwon from continuing his prying. But from the calculating look in his eyes, the prince knew this conversation was far from over. His cousin’s curiosity had been piqued, and Kyungsoo would need to stay several steps ahead if he wished to maintain secrecy of both his mission and his growing feelings for the acrobat.