Chapter Text
Jungkook sat with his parents, utensils in hand as he made his way through their meal. His mother speaking calmly but lovingly about her recent trip to see her nieces. Jungkook listened but didn’t comment as his father did. His mind was still on the papers which lined his desk upstairs.
“Jungkook, are you listening?” His father spoke, his tone demanding but not at all threatening.
“I’m sorry, I was in my head.”
“Always thinking about work, you will make a good leader someday, which is what we wanted to speak about with you.” Jungkooks mind was now centered on his parents.
He was not one to take his future responsibility lightly. His parents ran the North of the country. King and Queen to a vast land. A position which would eventually fall to him. His father had given him plenty of responsibility already and he ate it up. Always prepared for the next challenge.
“Your mother and I believe we have found a suitable partner for you.” Jungkook only stopped his chewing momentarily before continuing. His eyes widening at his parents, urging them to elaborate.
“I have been in talk, as you know, with King Park.” Jungkook nodded to confirm.
“As you know the North and South differ greatly. Although we have been at peace all throughout my reign as with your grandfathers, there is still some tension and animosity on how each side chooses to rule.” Jungkook nodded again.
He wasn’t blind to his people's views of him. He was aware his people saw him as cold and calculating. His choices often favored those of the politicians who worked below him. A few times his father had revoked Jungkook's sign, not for disagreeing with him but due to the displeasure of their people. Jungkook was aware some of his decisions were risky and could be seen as cruel or unkind but his priority was sustainability of their Kingdom. Without being in his shoes, his people could not understand his reasoning. As such for the most part he ignored their comments against him.
The South of the country was run differently. They were frivolous with their money, putting the people before what was needed for the Kingdoms longevity. The south was highly praised by their people, but their politicians and business owners were constantly at odds. More than once had politicians attempted to raise a vote to disband the throne, each time unsuccessful but nevertheless it was attempted. They were soft on the weak and hard on the strong. Not something Jungkook could empathise with easily. He prefered to help the people who helped themselves first.
“We have discussed this for a couple of years now, it was at first considered a joke but as time passed we realised it could be a very advantageous and convenient arrangement.” His father stated.
“So you would have me marry in the Park family?” He asked and his father nodded in response.
“Very well. Is the daughter specified or is there more than one?” His mother's chuckle caught his attention. He looked between his parents. Seeing their light amusement.
“The Park kingdom does not have a princess, Jungkook. They have a prince, as we do.” Jungkook was surprised and he knew it was showing on his face.
“I will marry a man?” His father nodded and seemed to assess his reaction further. Ever the dutiful son, he schooled his features and shrugged his shoulders.
“Very well, though I am surprised. I would have thought an heir to the throne would be something of priority when choosing my partner.”
“These days my dear, adoption is very common upon couples unable to bare a child. Granted it would not have noble blood but we are past such arcain beliefs. With the correct training and nurture, anybody can be worthy of the throne.” His mother, as always the forward thinker in their family. Jungkook once again noted how different his mother and father were yet never failed to miss the shine of adoration in their eyes once they meet.
“Well spoken, my dear. Am I to assume you are happy to go into negotiations in regards to the arrangement then?” he questioned. Jungkook nodded his head without hesitation. He was aware this moment would come and frankly didn’t mind the pressure being taken off of him. What mattered to him was the future of their country and he could not find a better arrangement than the north and south joining as one under one rule.
“Yes, I was aware my partner would be chosen by you and can agree the joining of the two kingdoms would be very advantageous.” His father nodded, a smile reaching his eyes.
“Then I will make arrangements for a meeting. I believe as the south runs its land very differently from ours, there may be some hills to climb along the way but the south seem very eager for this arrangement too. Prince Jimin has already agreed to come to our kingdom first. When he is here I want you to get to know him, show him how we work things around here and you will go visit their land and do the same. Remember, this is a union of two kingdoms. We must meet them halfway. There will be equal rule between yourself and Jimin. Teach him and learn from him and our kingdom will become stronger than ever.” His father spoke with enthusiasm which made Jungkook chuckle.
“Of course, father.”
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Jungkook watched as their door man introduced his future partner, Prince Park Jimin. A small frame entered the room with confident steps, his demeanor graceful and welcoming. He was thin but clearly healthy and the smile aimed at his mother and father was bright, his eyes creasing and curving. His hair was a mix of silver and gray. He noted that he must have already been shown his room to freshen up and chosen to keep himself casual with a loose shirt without dress robes, blazers or coats. The first few buttons undone as though he had just arrived home. Although his choice was casual there was still something distinctly royal that Jungkook couldn’t put his finger on. As he watched the man take a knee, one hand behind his back, head bowed and the other arm crossing his chest Jungkook noted the feminine features his friends had spoken of, but the sharpness of his jaw, the curve of an adams apple in his neck and the distinct indication of hidden muscle put any misunderstanding to bed.
“King Jeon, It's nice to see you again,” the prince spoke as he stood. “Queen Jeon, it's a pleasure to finally meet you.”
Jungkook watched as the man turned slightly to face him, their eyes meeting only briefly before his head bowed.
“Prince Jungkook, I hope our meeting goes smoothly.” Jungkook bowed his head in response but said no words.
“Jimin, you are a prince.” The king spoke. “You should not bow.”
Jungkook disagreed but knew his father appreciated the gesture.
Jimin smiled brightly again.
“King Jeon, I am in your home and have great respect for you, as such I see no harm in bowing.” Jungkook looked to his father to see a fond smile, it was clear his father approved of the prince and held him in high regard.
“My Queen, I must say your gown is stunning. I am not familiar with the designer but it is certainly vintage and inspired by the French.” Jimin spoke playfully and Jungkook resisted rolling his eyes. He was never a fan of those who charm their way into what they want.
“You’re right, please tell me how a young gentleman as yourself has such knowledge of ladies fashion.” His mother marvelled.
“I spent some time abroad, the english princesses were my main source of company. Compliments on their fashion was favorable but only from those with knowledge on the subject” Jungkook's mother chuckled with delight and Jungkook once again resisted the urge to roll his eyes. The feeling came to him that Jimin’s visit would feel longer than it would last.
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Jungkook sat across from his future partner. Their dinner served in front of them along with Jimin’s comments on how wonderful it was presented. His mother sat to his right and his father on his left. They had moved into the more comfortable smaller dining room for intimacy sake.
“Jimin,” his father addressed as he began cutting into his dinner. “Your father mentioned your preference is in men. Is that correct?”
“Yes, again something I came to realise while abroad. Spending the majority of my time with well educated and admittedly beautiful women, none appealed.” His mother chuckled and Jungkook stared at the man across from him. His eyes darting to his father in question who only looked back in confusion.
“You seem surprised, Jungkook.” Jungkook's wide eyes moved back to Jimin. He tried to calm his expression.
“I was under the impression that, like myself, you would also be straight.” He explained.
“I don’t think Jimin’s sexuality is important with the marriage being one of convenience.” His father seemed to defend.
“Of course it would matter for me to feel comfortable in his presence. With such an arrangement as this, I would feel the need to watch my back.” Jungkook avoided Jimin’s eyes. Watching only his father's reaction to his words. Unfortunately Jimin didn’t seem to want out of the conversation.
“Please explain further. I don't understand why you would need to, as you put it, watch your back.” His smile seemed amused and not at all insulted. Jungkook cleared his throat. Picking up his drink as though it would dispel the awkward atmosphere he was feeling.
“Well...there are certain things men do in the secluded space of their home such as walking to the shower without clothes. I could not do that with you.” Jungkook appealed. Jimin's light laugher make the awkwardness in the room dispel but made Jungkook feel much less at ease.
“My interest in males does not stretch to the whole species, Jungkook. As we sit across from each other now, I assure you my attraction to you, matches your own for me.” The King chuckled along with him and Jungkook averted his gaze to his dinner. His pride slightly wounded and feeling more distaste towards his betrothed.
“Jungkook, I hope this man may tame your ego in time. As your mother did with mine.” Jungkook remain silent for the remainder of the dinner.
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“I just don't like him. I do not think this union will work if I have to work with someone like him. His very being is irritating.” Jungkook groaned.
“In other words, your pride has finally been bruised and you dislike anybody who doesn’t let you get what you want.” Yoongi sneered.
His friends were far too amused by his telling of the previous day. They were instantly impressed with Park Jimin and they were yet to meet to man themselves.
“As your parents said Jungkook, this is a union of two kingdoms. You are both very different. It will take some time to warm up to one another. It is because you are so different that the country needs you both to rule as one. We need the care of the south but the brute of the north.” Hoseok received a sneer from Jungkook in response.
“You were a fool if you expected him to lay back and let you do all the work, he is a prince who is soon to rule a kingdom just as you are. He has not been raised to bow to you nor anybody else. The fact that he did so out of respect shows great character.” Yoongi agreed with his partner.
Jungkook sighed as he leant against the window. His eyes watching Jimin take the reins on his horse from the stable hand and stroke its neck as he walked, mouth moving as he spoke to the animal. He was even betrayed by his horse. The same horse who threw Hoseok just a month earlier.
“From here he looks good. Your horse seems to like him too.” Jungkook pushed Hoseok away from the window.
“I’m going to go greet him.” Hoseok was out the door before Jungkook could refuse. Yoongi running after him in one of his rare energetic moments. Jungkook looked to Namjoon who smiled to him with mild sympathy and gestured for him to go first.
When they make it to the paddock Jimin is riding around the space. Gently encouraging the horse.
“Good Lord, he is beautiful.” Hoseok spoke with awe as he lifted himself to sit on the fence.
“I would hit you but I think I am about to leave you for him anyway.” Yoongi agreed. Jungkook heard Namjoon’s amused chuckle behind him.
“He is not that pleasing to the eyes.” Jungkook mumbled.
“Jungkook, I am straight and well now I am not as sure of myself.” Namjoon added. Jungkook had to admit defeat. He was outnumbered.
He watched Jimin smile in their direction, slowing his trot and bringing the horse towards them with ease. He looked to Jungkook expectantly who realised he was the common party a moment late.
“They wanted to meet you, My friends. Hoseok, Yoongi and Namjoon.” He gestured to his friends who bowed in respected. Jimin as always polite and bowing to each in turn from the horses back.
“Is everyone from the south as beautiful as you?” Hoseok questioned with a grin.
“There are many that surpass me, I assure you.” Jimin chuckled.
“Take me back with you.” Hoseok put his hands together in a beg which caused another laugh from Jimin. Jungkook grinned himself as Yoongi’s hit nearly pushed Hoseok off the fence.
“What? I promise I won’t touch. Just look.” Hoseok reasoned with his partner.
“You sound like you are propositioning Jungkook's future partner.” Namjoon added.
“It’s a marriage of convenience, I could be” Hoseok dodged another hit from his boyfriend earning more small laughs from Jimin.
“No you can’t” Jungkook finally added.
“Have you finally realised your partner is stunning?” Hoseok teased
“No but I certainly don't want your face showing at my home daily.” Jungkook responded “Plus Yoongi looks like he is ready to kill you both.”
“He is dead to me.” Yoongi confirmed making the others laugh. Jungkook's eyes met Jimin’s as they did. Quickly averting them feeling somehow uncomfortable with the distant contact.
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“This is where I spend most of my time.” Jungkook spoke, walking into his office with Jimin on his heels. His office was cosy to him. The only modern equipment inside being that of his computer and printer. Although there was comfortable furniture and bookshelves, he couldn’t say he ever put them to use. Usually sat at his desk going through pieces of paperwork one by one.
“It’s very nice,” Jimin spoke and he followed Jungkook around his desk. Pulling a chair around to sit next to him. Although Jungkook found the proximity a little unnerving he knew Jimin could not learn while sat at the opposite side of the desk, so he pushed it to the back of his mind.
“As I understand from your father, our roles differ very little. Most of your work centres on the financial side, as does mine.” Jimin stated and Jungkook hummed his confirmation.
“I look forward to seeing how you come to your decision making.” Jungkook saw Jimin smile brightly in the corner of his eye but only afforded a another hum in response.
“I believe the process we use is similar. For instance,” He picked up the first lot of requests. This one from one of the capitals mayor. “I was reading this last night. Recently there has been an influx of immigration. Most coming from countries further north who are currently on the brink of civil wars. These people come to the city with very little. The mayor is dissatisfied with their sleeping arrangements. Usually in doorways of businesses, transport shelters and other residents homes or garages. He is requesting funds to build a home for these people to live temporarily so they can seek jobs and gain their footing. Believes their arrival is good for our economy and assisting them will please the people of the city and avoid any negative disruption, but the amount is quite large.” He looked to Jimin who nodded in agreement, his eyebrows knitted together.
“For this reason I have rejected this request. I will have it sent back to the mayor with a brief letter as to why I have rejected his request. My letters are short and this one will simply state the amount is not feasible especially given it will no doubt cost more money than these people will bring to our country.” Jungkook explained as he began typing the letter.
“Wait, so you’re not even going to advise an alternate?” Jimin questioned. Jungkook shook his head.
“But the people this is for are in need. They come to this country not from choice. Their homes and lives are often destroyed, their family starving. Here they can live in the streets with very little fear, it is not an option in their own country.” Jungkook heaved a sigh. Sitting back in his chair. He wondered when he would see this side of Jimin.
“It is not for us to protect them, nor should it be down to us that their country has failed them. There is no profit to be had in this arrangement and as such accepting it will not benefit our country at all.” Jungkook attempted to educate but the deep set frown that rested on Jimin’s face as he looked to the bill told him his reasoning had fallen on deaf ears.
“This is not a financial matter, Jungkook. It is an ethical one. One where the right and wrong thing to do is very clear.” Jimin’s voice was lower, more serious than Jungkook had heard previously.
“The right thing to do would be to protect the longevity of our kingdom, that includes the financial burden this would be.”
“The profits from another engagement could cover this request or a smaller amount that is provided as an alternative. The right thing to do here is to help the people who have come to us in a form of asylum.” Jungkook rolled his eyes and as they landed back on Jimin he saw the irritation mirrored back at him.
“I knew the south was more charitable but was not aware you were such an easy target, Jimin. You are easily persuaded into helping others. I do not think you would be suitable to handle such matters.” Jungkook chuckled, his attention turning back to his paper before the scape of the chair next to him on the wooden flooring brought his attention back to Jimin.
“I will remind you, Jungkook, that I do this same work for my own kingdom-” Jungkook stood in response. Satisfied that his eyes were above Jimin’s head.
“And that is why you need this marriage. You are too weak to do this work. Too forgiving and too trusting. Always thinking of the easy way out.” His eyes bore into Jimin’s. Seeing heat rise on the smallers face as his frustration grew.
“And you need this marriage because you are too cold hearted. Last year you sentenced thousands of people to homelessness, many were children. And you wonder why the people are scared to let you run their country. You would see them eat dirt for the price of your watch.” Jimin sneered with disgust. Jungkook quickly counteracted
“You’re forgetting your own expensive attire.”
“You’re forgetting I sold a palace to the national history association.” Jungkook only scowled in response. “You may be strong willed and brutal, Jungkook, but that isn't all that is needed of a leader. You need compassion, intelligence and respect for your position.” Jimin's tone calmed slightly but soon returned with Jungkook's words.
“Compassion is weakness.”
Jimins hand brushed back his hair, a clear sign of his annoyance with the conversation. Jungkook watched again as Jimin seemed to forcibly calm his tone. Internally sneering at the clear victory he had over Jimin.
“To stand in another position and see the world from their eyes is not weakness. To make a decision for you people betterment is not weakness. This country would be nothing without its people but if it was without you. No one would care. There are millions of bad people to take your place. You may think I am weak for the faith I put in people but if you think, when this country is run by us both, that I will stand by and let you make all the decisions, then you are a fool.” Jimin's calm but insulting words burned through Jungkook. Feeling his anger bubble to his chest.
“Your ego is this big? You are all looks. That is all anyone sees of you. Even your father saw a pretty face he could easily marry off.” As the words left his mouth his head was thrown sideways, the sharp slap almost echoing in the room as the sting started to prickle his cheek. His eyes met Jimin’s again and he saw pure disgust and anger, shimmering in access tears that didn’t fall. Before further words could be said, Jimin turned and left the room. Leaving Jungkook in a state of shock which soon made way to rage.
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Jungkook stood beside his father and mother, his friends standing to the side of the hall as Jimin entered. Although his eyes were red and swollen, showing he had shed tears, he still walked with an air of pride and confidence before bowing to the king and queen. Jungkook looked to his friends to see an overall look of confusion and pity, an expression mirrored by his mother, while his father held only mild disappointment.
“Thank you for coming to speak with us, Jimin.” His father spoke. Jimin stayed silent and offered only a small smile in response.
“Would you mind explaining to me what transpired between yourself and my son. As I understand you expressed a difference of opinion which Jungkook disagreed with which lead to you raising your hand to my son and obviously also caused you great discomfort.” Jimin nodded in response, preparing to speak.
“What bill was this in discussion of?” His father asked.
“Forgive me your highness, the bill was not the problem. It was as any other. Jungkook rejected the bill on a financial basis which I questioned as the matter was in regards to immigration from the north. I believed it an ethical issue which needed addressing, which Jungkook chose to ignore. As we discussed our differences, something I expected to do while here, Jungkook’s arguments became based around his belief of my inability to hold the position I do in my Kingdom.” Jungkook watched his father scowl and for a moment was confused as his father looked to him with question.
“Please do elaborate, Jimin. What exactly did Jungkook say?” His mother continued, her tone dripping with sympathy.
“The first was that I lacked the ability to make such decisions. The second that I needed this marriage as I was too weak to make difficult decisions. I will admit after such objections to my character I made my own comments in regards to Jungkooks coldness towards his people and their distaste of him in return. I lost my temper just as Jungkook did and when he made his final judgement that I was only good for my father to marry off...i hit him.” Jungkook heard his friends mumble to each other and saw his mothers eyes turn to him in a promise of coming scouldings. Jungkook did not understand how they could ignore the matter of Jimin hitting him so easily.
“For this I deeply apologise. At no point is it proper of me to raise my hand to anyone and I can assure you this is the first and final time it will happen.” Jimin again bowed. His head still facing the floor as he rose, showing shame at his actions.
“Jungkook is entitled to his opinion of me but what I do not expect is the amount of disrespect he has show me since I arrived. I know it is not down to the King and queen, your hospitality has been truly welcoming. But if it is acceptable to you both, I would like to leave for home. I don't believe this visits intentions can be saved and the atmosphere should be dispelled for there to be better opportunities in the future.” Jimin completed. His request clear. Sadness showed on both of his parents faces, something Jungkook was not used to when the topic revolved around him. He had never been one to disappoint them.
“If you wish to leave we will not disagree. But please know you are always welcome here. I would enjoy your presence.” The queen spoke first. Earning a bow and pleased smile from Jimin. One that did not reach his eyes.
“Will you refuse the arrangement?” Jungkook's father asked, his elbows on his hair arm, face resting against his fists.
“I am sorry, at this moment it is not wise for m to make any decisions regarding myself and Jungkook.” Jimin responded. A very open reply which neither refused nor accepted the arrangement.
“Please tell me your concerns.” The king requested. After a moment collecting his thoughts Jimin spoke again. His eyes meeting with the rulers again.
“I am concerned that Jungkook's heart is not in this arrangement. He feels he has nothing to gain from it, from my presence by his side. I have to do what I believe is right for my land and I do not believe allowing Jungkook sole control over all matters, is good for what my family have managed to build. I by no means think our process is perfect and I believe a union between both would be ideal. But Jungkook does not want this union. He does not welcome the change we were hoping for and as such, he does not welcome my input. I am in the same position as Jungkook but he doesn't respect me. I do not think it would be a good idea for me to enter into a marriage where not even that respect is present.” Jungkook's head bowed with the words spoken. It was a surreal moment where he realised Jimin was more observant than expected. He had not noticed his own preferences until Jimin spoke of them, only then did Jungkook realise his thoughts were of how he could improve the country alone, rather than as a pair with Jimin. His parents nodded in understanding with Jimin’s words.
“Will you allow us to meet with you again on this matter?” His rather requested. A rare moment he does not often see from his father.
“Of course, I did expect that this arrangement would need to be smoothed over before both parties could agree.” Jimin smiled with fondness to his parents.
“Thank you Jimin. We hope to see you again soon.” Jimin once again bowed to the king and queen with his dismissal. Smoothly turning to Jungkook's friends and bowing, his friends returning the gesture. Jungkook did not expect the next bow to be aimed at him. He bowed in return. Noticing Jimin’s eyes stayed cast to the floor as he turned and left.
As the door closed behind him his father quickly stood, footsteps foreboding as he left for his study.
“My room, now.” His strained voice echoed in the hall. Jungkook knew it was aimed at him and he quickly followed his father.