Archive of Our Own

Year 2020

“What the fuck are you doing in my room?” Jeongguk yelled at the sight of a naked man standing tall before his french windows and staring out into the view from them. “And why are you naked?!”

“I seem to have lost my clothes on my expedition here,” the man replied with a slight turn of his head, side-eyeing Jeongguk from head to toe. “I’m Park Jimin, Prince of Goryeo and soon to be King. What year is this?”

♛

Year 1320

“We now call upon the rightful heir to the kingdom of Goryeo, the conqueror of not only kingdoms but our hearts as well, the unburnt, ruler of the hans, the one true royal highness; Prince Jimin!”

The crowd erupted in roars of praises, cheers and claps in Jimin’s name echoing around the castle’s dome as the prince stood up and made his way to sit beside his father’s throne. He kept his head bowed at an angle that displayed humility, but not weakness. A clear sign that he will be a messiah to those in need, as well as a garroter to those who cause calamity. Jimin’s goal in life ever since he developed a sense of the world - which his father proudly stated was at the tender age of six - was to be the greatest King ever to be witnessed by the throne of Goryeo.

And while one would expect the present King to grow apprehensive at his son’s ideas to transcend his father’s reign - as the cabinet remained superstitious about till this day - the King had only encouraged Jimin’s ideals until they bordered illusory rambling - for the world, at least. The King had an overwhelming amount of endearment and support towards everything remotely catching Jimin’s interest.

As if to prove his father’s trust to not be wasted in vain, in a matter of years, Jimin’s intangible and whimsical visions had taken their full-blown course. He invented the water wheel, an irrigation machine constructed out of bamboo sticks and large clay pots, that fetched gallons of water from the river to the crops and reduced manual labor. He established a separate cabinet where the common folks were appointed as members who kept Jimin updated about the needs and advice of the people as to how the kingdom can remain a comfortable land for every single inhabitant, representatives of every tribe as members. He designed new and advanced war equipment that ensured his soldiers’ safety, as well as another conquered kingdom at his mercy. Jimin was a notorious leader and conqueror, and an amiable one.

Above everything, however, Jimin was royalty who never abused his power. 

The common folk of Goryeo were civilized people, modern in terms of the general 14th century mindset and welcoming to changes that were often revoked rather aggressively. Be it trading amongst different races, homosexuality, or even bending the centuries old rules here and there to accommodate a better lifestyle. And yet, they had never seen any of their Kings in person. 

It was the one thing that irked Jimin the most; the boundaries. He would question why his father never left the castle just for the sake of it; a short stroll around town; a look around the market for new goods; anything mundane that he never witnessed his father doing before him in all 25 years of his life. Jimin never understood this concept, never supported it either. He believed that a true ruler can only be deserving of his position if he lives with the people, by the people, for the people. And while Jimin wouldn't outright call them equals - they were far from it, even if the fortunes and social posts were ignored - he believed that every man living in his kingdom had the right to voice out their troubles and opinions.

Thus, Jimin became the first royal ever to walk on foot on the streets of Goryeo amongst the common folk. He could've gone unnoticed amidst the busy markets, if it weren't for the five guards always tailing him as a means of protection. It was a ridiculous notion to Jimin, he could battle against all five of them at the same time and still emerge victorious. It wasn’t that they were poorly trained - on the contrary, Jimin’s personal guards were the fiercest fighters chosen from all around Goryeo after interstate tournaments - but the simple fact that Jimin was a born fighter. His security should be the least of the kingdom's concerns.

Yet, Jimin knew formality better than anyone. It was a concept on which his life’s foundation was set on. Formalities on how to walk, how to eat, how to talk, how to breathe. It was his reality, and he was well accustomed to it by now. Well enough, that sometimes he’d look at himself in the mirror and fail to recognize who was looking back.

♛

“Preparing well for the coronation?” Taehyung chirped up at the sight of the prince strolling about the market in plain clothes. Plainer than usual, at least. He had his armor on, indicating he headed straight to town after hunting, and plain khaki trousers with closed leather shoes. Even in simple attire he looked glamorously royal.

“My sweet friend,” Jimin said with a nod of acknowledgment to the vendor of the bakery, Taehyung, someone he’d known for years now. “I have, yes. Your cakes are selling out per usual?”

“You call me sweet for a reason,” Taehyung winked. Jimin heard an old lady gasp behind him at the display of shamelessness, stifling a snort as to appear proper. No one could understand how deep his bond ran with Taehyung, the only relationship Jimin could proudly state that went beyond the boundaries of formality. He couldn’t have wished for a better friend, not after all the blessings other than fresh bread Taehyung had bestowed upon him.

“Pack me a dozen then, sweets,” Jimin retorted and Taehyung heartily laughed out at the term of endearment, bowing his shaking head in gratitude before he delicately placed a lot more than a dozen frosted cakes in a cardboard box with a note subtly being slipped inside by his expert hands. The two were well aware that Jimin had a strict diet, hadn’t tasted the sweet delicacy of Taehyung’s cakes in ages now, and that he would only buy from his friend to smuggle in treats for his palace guards. Jimin wasn’t allowed to be generous to his servants, but the rules had never stopped him before and neither will they stop him in the future. 

“I’m sure Seokjin hyung will be very pleased to hear from you,” Jimin whispered, gesturing to the note he had amicably slipped in, to Taehyung as he received the box of cakes, a smug knowing smile plastered on his face that had Taehyung’s cheeks flushing. Taehyung was always a mystery to Jimin, more shameless than a pimp if he willed and more coy than a virgin if teased.

“My prince,” Taehyung bowed as Jimin took his leave. “Hope you enjoy your stroll.”

Jimin walked away, his guard near well ripping off the box from his hands in order to be of service. It had bothered Jimin in the earlier years, when he was but a child of age 13 and had only begun to understand how services worked. Now, after several years of experiencing his guards’ discomfort at his kindness, Jimin just went with it. No one expected the Prince of Goryeo to be benevolent, and Jimin had to fall through with all expectations.

When Jimin had first visited the town, at the age of 15 after weeks of convincing his father to let him out of the palace, he ended up at Taehyung’s bakery. Back then it was run by his father, a chubby man with a kind smile. He hadn’t known Jimin, and even then offered him cakes out of kindness. Jimin was pleased at the act, especially since he wasn’t used to being bestowed favors without the blunt declaration of his social status. Taehyung’s father kept a gentle smile on his face throughout their short interaction and had not once acknowledged the guard stood behind Jimin. When Taehyung sprinted towards him with the announcement of being hungry, his father had introduced the two to each other. It was the day Jimin had found his first and only friend.

“You look important,” Taehyung blurted out, index finger pointed at Jimin’s silk robes recklessly.

“I… am,” Jimin responded in an indignant tone. He had his head bowed, ready for the blow of being cast aside once again for being royalty. It had happened a dozen times before, kids his age would always feel so uncomfortable around him because of his status. Fame and fortune came with the price of loneliness, and Jimin had to live with that forever.

Taehyung, however, astounded him then and had continued to astound him to the very present. He playfully pushed Jimin's shoulder with a cheery tag! you’re it! and had run off into the street. Jimin had never experienced a behavior like that in his life. Had never been touched on a whim, had never been laughed at so informally. He remained frozen at his spot, his guard rushing at his side and glaring in the direction Taehyung had run off to.

“My prince!” the guard shouted in worry. “Are you okay?!”

“I’m--” Jimin’s throat closed up. He felt emotional, speechless, normal. “What’s tag, you’re it?”

“That’s, uh,” the guard was just as confused as his prince. “It’s a game, my prince. The runner tags you and you have to catch them.”

“But… why?” Jimin’s facial expressions were perplexed, gaze stuck on the street path and fists opening and closing out of nervousness.

“It’s a fun way to pass time for kids,” the guard cleared his throat, unable to meet the young prince’s gaze. “Kids your age.”

Just then, as if on cue to rescue Jimin from his dilemma, Taehyung sprinted back in view, eyebrows knitted as though he was cross. His tone definitely crossed. “Why aren’t you running after me?”

Jimin was stunned to the core. No one had ever addressed him in that tone, so accusatory and harsh. It felt amazing. “If I manage to catch you, will that mean I won?”

“It’s not about winning, idiot,” Taehyung scoffed, the guard’s hand flying to his sword at his words but Jimin stopped him with a single raise of his palm. “It’s just for fun.”

Fun. Jimin hadn’t the faintest clue as to what that felt like. Or if he did, it was drastically different from Taehyung’s sense of fun. Jimin would raid the palace library for fun. Jimin would pick up a new language for fun. Jimin would head for the palace garden and lounge there for hours for fun, reading up on different kinds of birds he’d find there. Jimin wouldn’t run around aimlessly after a baker’s son for fun, especially when it meant he didn’t even get to win.

“Alright then,” Jimin nodded. “Run, and I’ll catch you.”

If someday Jimin were to be asked about his relationship with Taehyung, he’d narrate that day. The first time they met, the start of his new life, the way he had caught Taehyung that one time and Taehyung had returned the deed by catching him every single time he fell for the next ten years. Taehyung’s friendship was what he read about in books. Selfless platonic love. A bond that ran deeper than any ocean. A soulmate.

He kept his stroll short as nostalgia hit him hard, a sharp pain in his spine from hunting mere hours ago further causing fatigue to settle in his bones. It had been a while since Jimin sneaked out of the castle on his own to meet Taehyung for a drink in private. He made a mental note to do it soon.

“Let’s head back,” Jimin ordered his guards, picking up pace and asking for the box of cakes at the gate of the palace. The guard hesitated, as always, but obliged nonetheless. Once inside, he peeked around the hallways in search of his Seokjin hyung, the head of the guards and Taehyung’s lover of four years.

♛

Year 2019

Jeon Jeongguk’s life was straight out of a cliché novel.

He was the youngest CEO in all of Korea, had an ex-girlfriend who was Gucci’s brand ambassador, and a business that was the third highest grossing company throughout the country. One of the several cars - and his favorite - Jeongguk drove was a customized Mercedes-Benz with the body made out of pure gold, lived in his main house in the Pyeongchang-dong district in Jongno-gu, and had several luxuries beach houses in the shore cities all around Korea. He graduated from Stanford University mere months ago, the degree in Business Management proudly hung up in his father’s office, was fluent in six languages, and was now the most desirable bachelor Korea had ever witnessed. His breakup made it on CNN.

“If you don’t stop nipping at that banana milk like a five year old, I promise to God that I will whip your ass,” Hoseok hissed at the 23 year old Jeongguk who had planted himself onto Hoseok’s couch three hours ago and still refused to move or speak. “You’ve had the same bottle for hours. Finish it already!”

“My drink, my rules,” Jeongguk retorted finally, nipping once again at the rim of his bottle to prove his point.

“You’re so irritating,” Hoseok grumbled with a sharp pinch to Jeongguk’s shoulder, the younger flinching at the contact and whining deeply. “Why are you here?”

“Felt like it,” Jeongguk replied.

“Seriously, why are you here? Didn’t you have a meeting to attend? I remember clearly that you did cus you fucking canceled lunch with Joon and I,” Hoseok said. “Do I see the Jeon Jeongguk slacking off?”

“Hell no,” Jeongguk scoffed, gulping down the contents of his drink in one-go and standing up sharply at the mention of the meeting. All the more reminder of how terrible today was. “I’m off now.”

“No, wait--” Hoseok trudged after the younger speedily walking out the door. “Jeongguk, hey!”

“Later, hyung,” Jeongguk barely waved at Hoseok before he hastily got into his car and was driven away by his driver. Hoseok remained stuck at the door as he watched Jeongguk drive away.

Arrogant. Brat. Privileged. Jeongguk was called many names, but it was just these three that stuck with him. Some days he’d be smug about it. Youngest CEO alive, wanted by all, envied by all, he was a walking dream. Other days, he’d just get incredibly fucking sad.

Living before the public eye was the only form of life Jeongguk had ever experienced. He still has the magazine from 1997 in which his baby photoshoot was published. Normal toddlers would hold up toys. Jeongguk held a modeling contract. His eyes had opened before a camera, and not much has changed twenty three years later.

And while some people argue that a lifestyle you’ve lived for all your life can’t possibly be difficult, Jeongguk begs to disagree. Praises and criticisms are anticipated on his every move, because people never look away. But sometimes, Jeongguk’s walls aren’t strong enough.

He was mobbed while leaving his office today, right at the gate as his bodyguards tried to push away the reporters and fans. And while it was a part of his daily routine, some days it would feel a bit too much to handle.

“Your uncle is on his deathbed and you will inherit his empire as per his will. How does that privilege make you feel?”

Jeongguk had always admired the essence of journalism, how easy it was for reporters to subtly plant their hatred in their questions whilst keeping a neutral tone. It really was a talent. He had to physically contain himself from scoffing out in displeasure, because believe it or not, Jeongguk was more heartbroken for his uncle than excited for inheriting his empire. But apparently, the rich were not allowed to feel basic human emotions.

It had made him anxious, a sudden surge of panic ripped through him after months of staying unbothered - at least on the outside. So much so, that he ordered his driver to take him straight to his best friend’s home instead of attending the really important meeting that now cost him millions. And that alone bestowed another shocking wave of anxiety. He hadn’t spoken to Hoseok, had managed to keep a straight face as well. A bottle of banana milk and Hoseok’s couch was the best remedy Jeongguk could get. Talking about it never helped anyway.

Hoseok had remained silent at first, the sight of Jeongguk’s sudden appearance on his couch being too peculiar to irk any response. He did not stay quiet for long, however, raining questions after questions onto the younger and getting annoying replies in return. Hoseok had learned the hard way that it was the best way to console his best friend.

“I’m sorry, Jeongguk-ah,” Hoseok sighed to himself as he watched Jeongguk’s car disappear from view, plucking his phone out the next moment to narrate the incident to Namjoon, his boyfriend of two years.

♛

Year 2020

“Prince-- what?” Jeongguk was flabbergasted. He had witnessed cases of delusions before, had his fair share of obsessive fans with grandiose disorders demanding to meet him since they felt too important to be ignored. But never had one been crazy enough to enter his house and loll about naked in his bedroom. “Fuck that, how did you get in here?”

“I seem to have teleported at this post,” Jimin seemed as confused as the other. “I asked for the year, good sir.”

“It’s--” Jeongguk was at a loss for words, and that had never happened before in his entire life either. “It’s 2020.”

“700 years?” Jimin asked with a slightly shocked expression. “A bit too extreme. I considered skipping a century or two, not seven at once.”

“Listen, you fucking weirdo--”

“‘Weirdo’? The language has certainly regressed. Are you a royal? You seem to be fortunate, living up this high on a tower. You’re a shameful one, though, if you are.”

“Excuse me? Why the fuck am I the shameful one here?” Jeongguk was angry. A naked stranger had manipulated his strict security and barged into his home, and had the audacity to call him shameful. Jeongguk was fuming with rage. And perhaps with curiosity as well.

“Well, for one, your language is crass. Second, I don’t see any velvet curtains because they’re the sign of royalty. And third, you have been staring at my naked body ever since you entered the room and still haven’t offered me a robe.”

“I haven’t-- No--”

“I am well aware of how desirable I look, but human decency is a royal’s greatest priority. Where is yours?”

Jeongguk remained stunned at his post, mouth hanging open in shock and eyes glued to Jimin’s bare torso. Reasonably so he was staring, Jeongguk thought, but he really wasn’t the one to blame.

♛

Year 1320

There were three weeks left before Jimin’s coronation, and the person most excited about it was the King. He had been ordering extravagant feasts all month, bringing in new chefs from all around the world to prepare unique dishes in honor of his son. There were weekly balls, every Sunday, after the mornings were spent in prayer. Lords of every district inhabited the Great Palace, princes and princesses from all around the globe circled Jimin wherever he went, not a moment passed where he was left alone to sneak out and meet his one true friend.

“You’re antsy,” Seokjin commented when Jimin jumped at his sudden appearance, the young prince hiding in the wine cellar to take a breather. “You’re never this agitated. What seems to be the issue?”

“I haven’t met Tae in weeks,” Jimin said without further explanation. Not that Seokjin needed it, he was the only one who had witnessed the two friends’ legacy first-hand. “Can’t even walk the hallways without getting parraded. Father is going insane over my coronation.”

“He misses you,” is all Seokjin says, a gentle smile plastered on his face as he brushed the dirt off Jimin’s silk covered shoulder and retrieved his arm at once when he realized it was the prince as if the touch burned him. Jimin didn’t comment on it, even though Seokjin could see the exact moment when his face fell.

“Would I be considered too demanding if I were to ask you to sneak me out of here?” Jimin asked, eyes shifting to round puppy-like orbs as a means of persuasion. “I promise not to ask you for this again.”

“A prince’s promise should be like a scratch on a rock,” Seokjin shook his head. “You’ve broken that promise multiple times now.”

“Hyung, please,” Jimin sank to his knees, a motion so barbaric it still made Seokjin’s chest tighten from discomfort even after years of trying to behave casually around Jimin. “Last time. I really need to see him.”

“Pri-- Jimin, get up,” Seokjin chuckled uneasily. He could never comprehend how Taehyung behaved the way he did with Jimin. One could simply not ignore the fact that he’s royalty even if he grew up with them. “You can’t call me hyung. I’ll help you anyway.”

“I would’ve called you that even if I didn’t have any favor to ask from you,” Jimin smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. Seokjin had to shove down the urge to profusely apologize for upsetting his prince. “Let’s get going then, shall we?”

♛

“Thank fuck, you’re here!” Taehyung shrieked as he plunged himself right into Jimin’s arms, hugging him as though they had met after centuries. It certainly felt that long. “I swear I began to forget what you looked like.”

“Already?!” Jimin yelled out.

“I can’t help it, I’m like a goldfish!” Taehyung defended.

“It’s true, he’s like a goldfish,” Seokjin added, earning a beaming smile from Taehyung in return. The couple had met through Jimin, when the prince had begged the head of guards to sneak him out of the palace in order to meet Taehyung. The first time Taehyung saw Seokjin, Jimin had to physically clamp shut his hung open mouth. And ever since, Seokjin had taken up the responsibility to bring messages by the two friends to and fro out of mere altruism. Jimin saw right through him, however, and when Taehyung graphically confessed about their abrupt and outrageous copulation, Jimin had a knowing smile on his face throughout. 

Though that didn’t stop him from feeling a surge of envy rip through his chest. He wasn’t jealous of Seokjin or for Taehyung, rather jealous of the bond they had managed to find amidst their abnormal lives. Seokjin wasn’t allowed to be romantically involved with anyone as the castle’s head of guards, and Taehyung would never have imagined falling for someone with such high authority. Yet, they found each other. And Jimin didn’t.

Nevertheless, Jimin gulped down his feelings because the future King of Goryeo could not be reduced to petty jealousy. He could marry anyone of his choice if he willed, he just needed to name his pick. Desiring a connection with the one he picks was asking for too much.

“I’ll go fetch us some rum,” Seokjin announced as he placed a short peck on Taehyung’s cheek, swiftly making his way out of Taehyung’s cottage with a cloak covering his face.

“He’s so handsome, his face glows in the dark,” Taehyung said dreamily. “I hit that. My power is unmatchable, Jiminie.”

“Yes, yes,” Jimin humored his friend. “How have you been? Feels like ages since I last met you in solitude.”

“I’ve been the same,” Taehyung smiled. “Happier, if you were to check differences with a magnifying glass. The bakery is going well, I have enough money saved up to move to a more well-built cottage, and I’ve been making sensual love on alternate days without delay. I can not be in a better position than this.”

“I’m glad,” Jimin stated with a fond smile. Seeing his loved ones happy was the greatest comfort his inconsolable soul could get. “I have some news.”

“Apart from the fact that you’ll be crowned in two weeks? Is it good or bad?”

“Depends on how you take it.”

Taehyung’s eyebrows rose up and disappeared behind his curly fringe. “What is it?”

“Well,” Jimin began, breathing in sharply as he held Taehyung’s curious gaze. “I’m going away for some time.”

“Going-- going away? Where? For how long? Why?!” Taehyung sounded worried, and justifiably so since the only time Jimin ever left the kingdom was when he went to war.

“For peaceful purposes only, Tae,” Jimin assured, then mumbled the rest of the sentence under his breath. “Or at least I hope so.”

“But-- where?!”

“It’s… a new land that I only recently discovered. Is rumored to be very advanced, a place where I could learn from as to how to grow this empire of ours.”

“Jimin, what’s this place called?” and now Taehyung had reached forward to take Jimin’s hands in his, his eyes darting between Jimin’s orbs out of suspense. Jimin knew that look, knew that Taehyung was on the brink of jumping along with him on the voyage to this new place. The idea comforted him.

“It’s… Remember when I conquered Qin? Well, I met some… people of art.”

“You met witches?!” Taehyung shrieked out.

“Tae, shh!” Jimin hushed. “They prefer to be called wizards, please keep that in mind. ‘Witches’ is extremely derogatory.”

“Don’t fuck with me right now, Park,” Taehyung said in a low tone.

“I’m not! Would you let me finish?” Jimin asked, and Taehyung nodded. “They offered their services in return for my mercy. Had a very peculiar dialect, and gruesome appearances. To be honest, I was intimidated.”

“You were intimidated? God damn.”

“My point exactly. It irked my interest and…”

“Oh no.”

“I asked what they could bring to the table that had never been done before…”

“Jimin…”

“They’ll be sending me to the future.”

“Fuck the Gods and those below them.”

♛

Year 2019

Jeongguk was at the Stevie Awards; the world’s greatest business awards with participants from all over the globe. He was nominated for the Businessman Of The Year award, and had flown to New York for the show. His body was adorned in a kitten white silk dress shirt with the top two buttons left open, a delicate black ribbon belt hugging his waist to accentuate the curve of his hips, straight black trousers, a smartly fit blazer that highlighted his v-shaped torso and pointed white boots. And since Jeongguk was feeling extra daring, he clipped one of his earlobes with a dangling white gold earring, slicking his hair to the side and displaying his structured forehead. He looked breathtaking, all the more so because he knew it.

He walked down the red carpet in his million dollar attire, eyes narrowed and mouth set in a subtle smirk. People called it cocky, but deep down they knew it was just his self-confidence that they couldn’t handle. Flashes went off all around him, cameras surrounding his figure and snapping shots of his every breath. Jeongguk almost missed his ex-girlfriend, because at least with her the attention remained diverted. Right now, he was all alone in the spotlight.

Jeongguk was an only child, which meant that he was the center of attention all his life. Add being the son of one of Korea’s most influential businessmen to the pot, and attention was all Jeongguk got from within home and the public. And while Jeongguk was not the resenting type, he did tend to hold a mean grudge. His father who had willingly sacrificed him to the wolves that was society setting itself for being the greatest and only grudge Jeongguk had against him.

“Mr. Jeon, please look to your right!”

Jeongguk turned his face to the right, it was his best angle.

“Mr. Jeon, please look straight ahead!”

Jeongguk internally huffed and turned his face to the left instead, out of sheer pettiness. Some of the cameramen laughed, some scowled. But no one could imagine the amount of satisfaction Jeongguk gained from this little act of rebellion.

♛

“And the Businessman of the Year 2020 award goes to…” there were drum rolls, there were hearts beating all around the audience, there was a single yell of Jeongguk’s name from the crowd - probably one of his die hard fans who followed him all the way from South Korea. 

Jeongguk could hear his heart beating inside his head, a dull throbbing of excitement and anticipation, and a fair share of apprehensiveness. He couldn’t quite make show of the way his nerves were jittering under his skin, trained throughout his life to never let emotions display over his face. He knew that if there was a camera panned onto his face to record his reaction, they’d see nothing but a straight face, piercing eyes and the bare minimum of a smile. No one could know how Jeongguk could feel a single drop of sweat slide down his back and how his hands shook if he didn’t clasp them together.

No one could know. They just couldn’t.

“Jeon Jeongguk!”

The dome echoed with his name and cheers erupted all around him, fireworks going off in the sky and confetti falling into Jeongguk’s hair. His expression remained neutral as he stood up and buttoned his blazer, swift strides and clenched fists, making his way up to the stage to receive his award. 

He had waited his entire life for this moment, had worked his ass off for this very award he had just won, and yet it felt as though it held no meaning.

Suddenly it struck Jeongguk why he was anxious after getting mobbed, why he was deviant before the cameras, why he missed his ex-girlfriend’s company after not thinking about her once since the break-up. All of Jeongguk’s goals had come true, and there was nothing left to work for.

Jeongguk stood before the audience, his gold-plated award in one hand and a bouquet of flowers in the other. The mic stand was pulled up to match his height by a staff member, who courageously gave Jeongguk the flirtiest smile. Jeongguk’s eyes scanned his face, and then darted over the audience. He knew his friends would be watching, and that thought alone fought off Jeongguk’s guards and urged out a wide smile, one that reached his eyes.

“I’d like to start by thanking my dear old father,” Jeongguk began formally in English, tone neutral and loud, but not too much as to discomfort his listeners. He was trained all too well for everything. “Who made me the man I am today. My colleagues who continue to put up with work pressure, I promise to appreciate your work more. My friends who have been supportive throughout my career, you guys make everything easier. And everyone else who has recognized me for my talents and pushed me to this point. Thank you all, I will forever be grateful.”

It was a speech he had rehearsed in his head for years, a speech that held no emotion or value anymore. It was dragged out. It wasn’t what he wanted to say. But then, he didn’t even know what it was that he really wanted to say. All Jeongguk was sure of when he descended the stage and walked right out of the venue, not bothering once about the after-party and the opportunities he’d get in a room full of the world’s greatest businessmen, was that his life had everything one could ask for except for the one most important thing; the will to keep living.

♛

Year 1320

“We should tell Seokjin,” Taehyung said after a long moment of silence passed. Jimin was laying beside him on an open grass field often used to feed the herds as the two gazed up at the starry night sky. “He deserves to know if his prince is planning a one-way expedition to the future. And I say one-way cus its a fucking suicide plan that will only take you to hell and not the future.”

Jimin smacked Taehyung’s arm with a sharp noise of displeasure. “I’m going to heaven!”

“Working with the Devil’s pawns would drag you to the pits of hell, don’t try to debunk my logic.”

“Fair enough,” Jimin sighed as he sank back on the grass, his silk robes catching stains that were bound to gain attention, but he couldn’t bring himself to care.

“Jimin,” Taehyung said, turning his head to the side to stare at Jimin's face, emotion apparent in his tone. “Do you really have to?”

“I’m doing this for you guys,” Jimin smiled, small and bitter, as though it was the one thing he was destined to do but he couldn’t help but despise it. “You know me, Tae. I can’t let go of a good opportunity. Especially when it ensures my people’s prosperity.”

“We only need you to prosper,” Taehyung said, voice cracking at the end at which Jimin squeezed his eyes shut because he could not bear seeing the look of despair on Taehyung’s face. “That’s all we need. Please, stay. For me.”

“I can’t,” Jimin whispered. “You know I can’t. It’s a contingency plan to make things better around here. It’s a risk I’ll regret not taking for the rest of my life.” Jimin let out a shaky breath. “I can’t live in regret like my father, Tae. I can’t live on like this after knowing there’s a way to see our tomorrow and improve our today.”

“Then let me come with,” Taehyung spoked with a painful sob. “Please. Don’t leave me back here.”

“Tae--”

“You can’t live without taking this risk, and I can’t live with the risk of losing you,” Taehyung sat up, tears rolling down his cheeks as his head sank down to bury over Jimin’s abdomen. “Jimin-ah-- my prince… Please don’t make me leave you.”

Jimin didn’t feel his tears sliding over his temple until they pooled around his earlobes, and the sudden realization of separating from Taehyung due to his impulsive decision evoked a wave of fright through his body. His skin erupted in goosebumps as the first sob escaped his lips, body shaking and provoking Taehyung to hug his abdomen tighter.

“Take me with you, Jimin.”

“I can’t,” Jimin wailed. He had killed before, he could be selfish, he had his fair share of conceited decisions. But when it concerned Taehyung, Jimin would lock away that side of him in a deep dark corner of his mind. Taehyung had a life here in the present. A bakery he was proud of, a lover he imagined building a family with, a town that was his since the beginning of his time. Jimin could not let his decisions ruin his best friend’s life, because even though Taehyung would never accept it, befriending the prince only tormented him into a life of constant fear. No more. “You will stay here, Tae. You will carry on with your life.”

“Jimin, no--”

“It’s an order, Kim Taehyung,” Jimin said, inhaling sharply at his words because they stung so much. Taehyung froze at his words, face slowly lifting from Jimin’s abdomen to stare at his face. He was a mess of bleary eyes and snot covered cheeks, and Jimin’s heart broke in the most painful way at the sight.

“Shut the fuck up,” Taehyung barked out. “I fucking despise you for being the prince and not just my soulmate who I could cuddle and keep by my side for the rest of our lives.”

“You don’t mean that,” Jimin gave a sad smile.

“Fine, I don’t despise it but I’m still not thankful for it,” Taehyung grumbled, using his sleeve to wipe off the snot from his mouth as his gaze ran across the field they laid on. “Fucking royals, always acting so altruistic. Like no, sit down and behave like selfish humans for once.”

“I love you, friend,” Jimin said after Taehyung’s grumbling went on for several moments, hand reaching up to card through his curly locks and turn his head to have their eyes meet. “I need you to remember that if I don’t come back. Tell your kids about the greatest prince of all time.”

“I’ll tell them when he starts existing,” Taehyung scoffed, sinking down to lay down beside Jimin, head resting on the prince’s arm. “I’m not having kids if you won’t come back. Remember that. My heritage depends on you, so I swear to all the Gods above if you don’t come back--”

“I’ll come back,” Jimin cut his soulmate off. “I’ll come back, Tae. You have the prince’s word.”

♛

Convincing the King to let Jimin go on a ‘vacation’ for the next two weeks until his coronation took a total of 13 hours in the main hall of the castle with the presence of all their advisory council. Jimin had a whole list of lies ready to put before them, and he had always been an expert at lying. At the end, the King had granted Jimin’s request on the condition that Seokjin accompanied him on the expedition.

Jimin was finally on his horse, ready to enter the witch den, when Seokjin finally spoke up.

“So this is why Taehyung has been anxious for days,” Seokjin stated as he looked over the dreary forest before them that was known for being the homeland of the dark arts. “Would you be cordial enough to explain why we’re here, my prince?”

“You’ll be taking your leave now,” Jimin said plainly. “Thank you for accompanying me till here. Take the two weeks off, visit the shore with Tae. He’s always wanted to see the ocean.”

“My prince--”

“You have been a great friend, hyung,” Jimin smiled, yapping the reign to have his horse walk forward.

“Jimin, please don’t do this!” Seokjin yelled behind him, frozen in place as to not disobey the prince, but every nerve in his body firing away as to assist him. This was worse than when he was tortured by the Englishmen; having torn between caring for Jimin and obeying his prince. “Come back, please, come back.”

Jimin walked right into the forest, darkness encompassing his figure and leaving Seokjin to watch helplessly.

When Jimin finally reached the stream of water where the witches had asked him to meet, the growing sense of doom looming in his gut heightened to new extremes.

Within a blink of the eye, masses of witches surrounded his horse, bodies covered in black cloaks from head to toe, only their grotesque faces in view. The trees shifted inwards, creating a dome-like roof over Jimin’s head and blocking all the light from the sky. Jimin could faintly smell something rotting near him, but chose to not question it.

“Welcome, your highness,” a man emerged from the shadows, shortest out of all the others but the only one with a face that didn’t scream death. Jimin wondered why he had never seen him before. He had cat-like eyes, a gaze piercing through Jimin, round nose and a soft mouth. “I am Min Yoongi. I will be accompanying you on your expedition to the future.”

“I look forward to it,” Jimin curtly nodded as he jumped off his horse and shook Min Yoongi’s hand. 

♛

Year 2019

Jeongguk flew back to Seoul from New York on the next available flight, carelessly packing his bags and most definitely leaving behind half of his belongings. There was an impending panic attack threatening to flood out of his pores any second, and Jeongguk desperately needed to be around his friends before it hit him, but first he had to attend the call in by his father.

It was the break of dawn. The Jeon Corp. was the one place in Seoul that never shut down for the night, having two different sets of staff to work through the day and night. His father practically lived in his office located right at the very top of the skyscraper that was the work of his entire life. As well as Jeongguk’s.

Jeongguk entered the building in the same suit he’d been wearing ever since he landed in Seoul, hair a greasy mess and shoes dirty from walking around the city on foot. He really hit rock bottom this time, the thought made him chuckle out bitterly. Employees bowed at his appearance, greeting the mess that was their boss and hiding away their judgements. Jeongguk almost punched one of them for being too polite. His father’s secretary, who was once his and had a fair share of sexual history with, greeted the young CEO with a smug smile, eyes daring Jeongguk to flee to his office for a short reunion. It sickened Jeongguk, the sneer on his face displaying his exact feelings that had the secretary stumbling back in shock. 

Jeongguk barged into his father’s office without knocking, yanking off his blazer midway because he suddenly felt too hot. The brightness of the sun’s rays were blazing into his father’s office and blinded him momentarily, making him curse out as he covered his eyes.

“Always with the polite greetings, son,” His father sighed out disappointedly. He was always so fucking disappointed. Jeongguk grunted in response. “Glad you could barge in and bestow us the honor of your presence. You’re late.”

“Got stuck in traffic,” Jeongguk lied through his teeth, eyes finally adjusting to the light and only then noticing another man seated before his father’s desk. He had cat-like eyes, shiny black hair and a soft mouth. He seemed short. “Who is this?”

“This is Min Yoongi,” his father gestured. “Heir to the Min Corp. He’s here with a proposal that may interest you.” 

Jeongguk raised a brow as he walked up to the desk with the two seated men, hand fisting inside his pocket out of habit. His eyes scanned over Yoongi’s figure, legs crossed, comfortably leaned on the backrest, a smirk plastered on his face. He seemed confident.

“Rough night?” Yoongi asked, addressing Jeongguk finally after staring him down for several deafening moments.

“For her,” Jeongguk replied, clawing away to keep the upper hand.

“Of course,” Yoongi smirked. Jeongguk wanted to punch it off. “Sober enough to hear out my proposal?”

“Too sober, if I’m being honest,” Jeongguk’s jaw clenched as he spoke. “Warn me right now if it’s bullshit so I could pour a drink before hearing your ‘proposal’.”

Yoongi stood up at that, pocketing his hands as he craned his neck and sighed out in annoyance. The sight pleased Jeongguk, because it meant he was getting under Yoongi’s skin. A man’s true colors only ever showed when he was angry, Jeongguk had learned that the hard way.

“You’re well aware of my company, yes?” he asked, seemingly ignoring Jeongguk’s mockery. “It’s #4 in all of Korea.”

“We’re #3,” Jeongguk retorted childishly.

“We fucking know,” Yoongi scoffed. “I’m here to offer you a chance to merge with us. If we do so, our combined assets and sales would certainly get us to #1 and with that influence, we can establish new franchises internationally.”

“A merge?” Jeongguk asked with a raised eyebrow, eyes darting to meet his father’s and seeing him nod slightly. He had already agreed, Jeongguk just needed to confirm it as acting CEO.

“Yes,” Yoongi smiled. “The Jeon and Min Corp. will merge to become one, and it will benefit us both with more profit and development.”

“And the shares--”

“60-40. You get the bigger share.”

“And acting CEO?”

“Will be your title.”

“The buildings--”

“Will remain just the way they are, and new headquarters will be constructed to become the main one in central Seoul.”

Jeongguk was quiet. He knew the Min Corp. had a force of sleazy bastards under them, and had been in competition with the Jeons for ages now. But never had he met the heir, and never had he been so right in his judgement. Yoongi was exactly how he perceived; blunt, attractive and with a genius mind of a businessman. But one thing that he failed to acknowledge was his willingness to submit to the Jeons for the sake of more power. There was something he had still not mentioned yet.

“Why?” Jeongguk asked after a moment’s worth of processing the information. Yoongi's gaze sharpened. “You’re getting something else out of this, what is it?”

Yoongi smiled, turning to Jeongguk’s father and chuckling with the older man. “You raised him well.”

“I did, indeed,” his father agreed with a gentle smile. It unnerved Jeongguk extremely.

“Jeongguk-ssi,” Yoongi then turned to Jeongguk, walking up to him in short steps, each one making Jeongguk’s heart thrum wildly in his chest. His smile was vicious, prey-like, as though he already had Jeongguk surrounded. “In return, I get your hand in marriage.”

♛

As soon as the realization of his new reality set in, which was about 24 hours - of aimlessly strolling the streets of Seoul in the same dirty suit - later, he headed straight to Hoseok’s apartment and banged the door furiously without pause.

“I’m coming, hold up!” he heard Hoseok yell on the other side of the door, urging him to bang harder. “Calm the fuck down, jesus!”

“Hyung!” Jeongguk breathed out once the door flung open to reveal a disheveled Hoseok, and from the look on his face, Jeongguk judged his own appearance to be equally rumpled.

“Jeongguk-ah?” Hoseok squinted his eyes, arms grabbing at his sleeves to pull him inside. “What-- Shouldn’t you be in New York?”

“I know what I need,” Jeongguk blurted out, breathless and excited, a bundle of nerves catching at the base of his throat as he panted before Hoseok. “To live a better life, I know what I need!”

“Jeongguk, come here,” Hoseok whispered, ever so gentle because he had seen this before. Jeongguk was having another mental breakdown. And while it had happened twice before in their ten years together, it was still an overwhelming scene for an ordinary helpless man like Hoseok. “Sit down, yeah? Breathe for me, Kook-ah.”

“No, no!” Jeongguk squirmed away from Hoseok’s hold in a frenzy, fumbling on his own feet and barely catching himself from falling face-first on the marble floor. “You need to listen first! I have cracked the code! I will no longer be sad!”

Hoseok had a look of pity on his face. It was rare to see his best friend succumb to the pressures of his life, because Jeongguk always wanted to come off as emotionless. He was stronger than the China wall, had barriers around him even in his sleep, would behave no less than an android void of humane feelings. But when the walls crumpled, Jeongguk crumpled with them. Hoseok couldn’t help but pity his friend, a delirious 23 year old who’s only wish in life was to be happy. It was as though he was asking for too much.

“Jeongguk-ah, you can tell me once you sit down, yeah?” Hoseok was desperate. He was tired after a long day at work, it was 4am in the morning, and his best friend’s mania was scaring him shitless. “I’ll get you some water, okay? Sit down, please.”

“Stay!” Jeongguk grabbed at Hoseok’s elbows, grip harsh enough to leave bruises. Hoseok whimpered under his hold, but Jeongguk didn’t budge. “Listen to me, hyung! You of all people should listen to me!”

“Jeongguk, you’re hurting me…”

“I will live this prisoner’s life but I won’t be unhappy, you hear me? I will take this company to the fucking top and I’ll do it with a real smile.”

“Jeongguk--”

“And I will flip everyone off for being so fucking vicious all the time with my success! This is where my reign will start and I won’t stop until I have the world in my hands!” Jeongguk was frothing at the mouth like a mad dog, eyes blown wide and pupils dilated. He looked possessed, and Hoseok knew only with sadness.

“Please let me go,” Hoseok said as he clutched onto Jeongguk’s jacket for dear life. “I don’t want to push you, Kook-ah. Let. Me. Go.”

“But you haven’t heard the whole thing yet,” Jeongguk pushed forward, grip tightening impossibly on Hoseok’s lanky arms. “You can’t go until you hear the whole thing.”

“Jeongguk!” Hoseok cried out at the pain, forcing down his survival instincts from kicking Jeongguk to the ground. He could easily get out of Jeongguk’s hold, but that would mean hurting him gruesomely in the process and Hoseok was not ready to do that. Especially in the state Jeongguk was in.

“I’m going to get married!”

And then Hoseok’s mind short-circuited. The pain of his arms getting crushed in Jeongguk’s hold fading away as his mouth hung open and his eyes met Jeongguk’s delirious face. He looked like a mess. Hair sticking out in all directions, forehead matted with sweat, eyes blood-shot. Hoseok punched him, hard.

“Fuck!” Jeongguk groaned as he fell to the ground, and Hoseok already regretted acting on reflex. The punch would leave a nasty bruise, an image that would burn itself into Hoseok’s mind and remind him of his cruelty forever. But he saw no other way to break Jeongguk’s lunacy. “Are you fucking kidding me?!”

“Stay down, or I will hit you again,” Hoseok swallowed. He couldn't believe himself. He couldn’t believe Jeongguk. This entire situation was so fucked up. “I mean it, Jeongguk.”

Jeongguk’s expression shifted from anger to fear in a matter of seconds, and Hoseok could swear he heard the sound of his heartbreak echo in his living room. Jeongguk’s eyes held betrayal, pain, hurt. But most of all they held surrender. Surrender from Hoseok, from his delirium, from life. Hoseok could only crouch before him in regret.

“Jung--” his voice caught in his throat, and Jeongguk simply sat up and stared down at his lap dejectedly. Hoseok reached out to touch his shoulder, the motion causing Jeongguk to flinch away harshly. “I’m sorry, Kook-ah.”

“I should go,” Jeongguk mumbled to himself. “I’m sorry I didn’t realize what I was doing coming here at this hour-- and-- h-hurting you like that. I swear it will never happen again, I’m sorry.”

“No, hey, it’s okay just--” Hoseok was cut off and Jeongguk suddenly stood up and sprinted towards the door. “Wait, Jeongguk!”

Jeongguk was out of Hoseok’s apartment in a blink of the eye, disappearing into the dark night that somehow looked brighter than his life.

♛

Year 2020

“A robe, sir,” Jimin said with more emphasis, breaking Jeongguk’s stupor as the younger fumbled his hands around aimlessly. His eyes darted between Jimin’s face and his torso, and occasionally over his chiseled groin that had heat pooling inside Jeongguk’s gut. He stumbled back, eyes squeezing shut as he backed away from his bedroom and sprinted into the en suite bathroom.

He took in long, deep breaths as he hastily shut the door behind him and processed what had happened. “There’s a naked man in my room,” he whispered to himself for confirmation. “I’m not hallucinating. He’s there. Yes.”

Jeongguk grabbed a bathrobe and exhaled out shakily. He was trained in taekwondo, had a black belt in karate. There was nothing to be scared of. He could call the police but he was loving the adrenaline rush through his body a bit too much. Jeongguk was enjoying the intrusion, and he distinctly wondered if he needed professional help.

“Here,” Jeongguk said as he entered the bedroom again, Jimin still stood before the french windows in the position Jeongguk found him in. Not that Jeongguk was looking anymore, he kept his head bowed. “How did you get in here?”

“What is this fabric?” Jimin inspected the bathrobe between his fingertips. “Do you not have any silk? This will surely scratch my skin.”

“Wha--”, Jeongguk spluttered. “I--”

“Nevermind,” Jimin sighed. “Surely I will not be changing our clothing. This feels like an abomination.”

“This is cotton terry,” Jeongguk justified, suddenly made to feel cheap for not having silk robes. “This is the most expensive fabric for robes!”

“Well, your generation has clearly lost standards.”

“My-- generation?”

“Are you the prince? Yoongi-ssi said he’ll teleport us right to the royal family of the future. I hope he wasn’t disorganized in his spells,” Jimin said he slipped the robe on, grimacing at the fabric rubbing over his smooth skin. Jeongguk almost apologized, but his mind got caught up at the mention of Yoongi.

“Y-Yoongi?” he asked suddenly. “Min Yoongi?”

“Yes, you’re acquainted with him?” Jimin’s ears perked up. “He was my companion on this expedition. Very eerie fella, but we all have our weaknesses.”

“You’re here for Min Yoongi?” Jeongguk’s mind began to settle in mildly. “Oh, well. He doesn’t live here, he lives two blocks away.”

“Strange for us to teleport separately when we began the expedition together,” Jimin spoke up, deep in thought.

“Where is it that you’ve come from? Yoongi hyung disappeared for a month and I only heard from him an hour ago,” Jeongguk said. “Did he give you the keys to my house?”

Jimin blinked at Jeongguk. “Yes,” he said after a moment. “He gave me the, uh, keys to your palace. And I lost him on my way here so I used the keys he gave.” Jimin was lying. He had no keys, no clothes to put them in, and neither did he have the faintest idea as to what the hell was going on. But if lying meant Jeongguk would take him to Yoongi without anymore mind numbing questions, then he’d lie for as long as he could.

“Then why were you naked?” Jeongguk probed.

“I fell in the dirt and discarded my robes,” Jimin retorted, lying again because he really had no idea why he was naked.

“Why didn’t he give you the keys to his place?” Jeongguk questioned further, his suspicions flooding through his mind as he crossed his arms over his chest and stepped closer to Jimin.

“He… lost them?” Jimin managed an excuse. Anyone could detect the bullshit, but if Jeongguk did, he didn’t push on it anymore.

“Very well,” Jeongguk said after a moment of piercing eyes scanning over Jimin’s face. “I’ll take you to Yoongi hyung. I was just about to visit him for dinner.”

“Dinner? Are you two close?”

“Close?” Jeongguk snickered. “You could say so.”

“Hold on,” Jeongguk said as Jimin began to walk out of his bedroom in the bathrobe. “You’re going out in those?”

“Desperate times,” Jimin huffed out and walked away, only calling out for Jeongguk a second later as to where he should go.

“You still haven’t told me where you’re from,” Jeongguk asked again. “You speak traditional Korean and you look like one too, but you’re…”

“Weird?” Jimin suggested once out of Jeongguk’s house. “Your vocabulary is quite poor for a royal. Thank Taehyung for teaching me the slurs, otherwise it would have been difficult to communicate with this era.”

“Just tell me where you’re from,” Jeongguk groaned out. This stranger had mocked his lifestyle far too many times by now.

“This is the year 2020, am I correct?” Jimin asked, to which Jeongguk scoffed. “I’m from the year 1320. And I must say,” Jimin looked around the housing complex in which Jeongguk lived. “Goryeo has truly developed tremendously. Then again, it’s been 700 years since my time. It’d be disappointing if it didn’t.”

Jeongguk couldn’t believe his ears, so he scoffed again. “You’re one funny clown. What, are you like an assassin Yoongi hyung hired so you have to bullshit around me and slip out of this situation without giving away much? I knew the Mins were into shady business but shit, I didn’t think it’d be true.”

“I am a prince,” Jimin defended himself, seemingly offended at being called an assassin. “I do not need to be contracted for a killing. I do that on my own will when people do not submit to our laws.”

“Just--” Jeongguk was growing annoyed now, muttering a Goryeo? He fucking with me? under his breath. “Get in the car, for fuck’s sake.”

For the first time since he arrived, Jimin was genuinely shocked at the sight before him.

“There are no horses?” he asked, gaze stuck over Jeongguk’s gold-plated Mercedes-Benz as his hands stroked the cold metal and shivered at the sight of the mighty creation before him.

“You can cut the act, I won’t ask anymore questions,” Jeongguk huffed out as he sat in the driver’s seat, but Jimin remained standing outside. “Get in already!”

“I… don’t know how?” Jimin confessed, eyes raking over the car in wonder and fascination. He spotted the door handle but hadn’t the faintest clue as to what he should do with it. “How do I get in?”

“Are you serious right now?” Jeongguk hissed, but Jimin merely blinked at him in genuine confusion. Jeongguk got out of the driving seat in sheer annoyance, limbs slamming the door shut behind him as he walked around to Jimin’s side. “Cut it out. I’m not playing anymore.”

“I’m not ‘playing’ either,” Jimin scoffed.

“Get in.”

“I don’t know how!”

“If this is your attempt at dragging me to chivalry then It’s not working. You’re getting on my nerves. Get the fuck in.”

Jimin’s eyes narrowed in annoyance. He was a man of virtue and patience, but something about the way Jeongguk began towering over him, his tone harsh and demeaning, and the mention of chivalry had heat spiking up his temple. “I may be royalty,” he began in a low and crossed tone. “But never have I begged for a man’s assistance and never will I do so for the rest of my life. I am not familiar with this era’s vehicles, so if you would just lead me to a horse then I would express my gratitude heartily.”

Jeongguk was stunned, and quite alarmed as well. Jimin seemed sincere in his beliefs, and suddenly it hit Jeongguk that perhaps it wasn’t an act he was putting on to get him safely out of this situation. His eyes bore into Jimin’s, who without blinking stared back with determination. Never had a man stood up to Jeongguk the way he did, and it almost made him cry out in satisfaction. Jeongguk stepped forward, the advantage of his height looming over Jimin, but the latter did not flinch away. He remained planted on his post, and the action alone had a slight wave of fear rippling through Jeongguk’s limbs which he welcomed dearly. He opened the car door for Jimin.

“There are no horses, you’ll have to make do with my car.”

“That’s a shame,” Jimin replied, breaking their stare-off and gingerly seating himself in the car. “Nothing faster than a horse.”

Jeongguk drove at the speed of 120km/h till Yoongi’s house just to prove Jimin wrong.

Yoongi opened the door to find a smug faced Jeongguk and doubled over Jimin wearing a disheveled bathrobe.

“Found your friend,” Jeongguk mocked as he pushed past Yoongi to enter his house, leaving the two ‘friends’ to converse in private.

“My prince,” Yoongi said slowly as to not have Jeongguk hear. “Are you alright?”

“Splendid,” Jimin coughed. “Although I feel slightly dizzy from traveling in that vehicle. It was quite fast.”

“Yes,” Yoongi nodded, bowing to Jimin before he gently held his arm to support him up. “It happened to me too. Why on earth are you wearing a bathrobe?”

“This is a bathrobe?!” Jimin shrieked. “That bastard! He let me leave his mansion in indecent robes!”

“My prince, let us enter. I’ll bring you a change of clothes,” Yoongi shook his head. Jeon Jeongguk, ever ready to be the brat of the century. “Although I would like to request you to not spill our… situations before my fiancé. He doesn’t know the entire truth about me.”

“Your fiancé?” Jimin was shocked for the second time that night. It really was setting a new record. “You exist in this era independently?”

Yoongi nodded as they entered his house, shutting the door behind him and refusing to elaborate on anything further with Jeongguk sitting in his lounge. He took Jimin straight to the guest bedroom, where he had summoned a pair of clothes for Jimin to change into and instructed him to rest for the night.

Once he returned downstairs, Jeongguk had a credulous look on his face which stated clearly that he will not tolerate anymore bullshit. Yoongi had nothing else to offer than just that.

“Who? When? Where, and why?”

“You have to be more specific with your questions,” Yoongi said as he turned the stove to heat up the stu he prepared for their dinner.

“Who is he?” Jeongguk began his interrogation.

“A distant relative.”

“When did you decide to bring in nomads?”

“Nomads?” Yoongi laughed out loud. “Don’t say that in front of him, he’ll drop-kick your ass in a second. He’s just not used to the modern way of life.”

“He mocked my robe for not being rich enough, my vocabulary for being too poor, and my car for not being fast enough,” Jeongguk stated offendedly. “What, he’s like the prince of his herds or something?”

“Kinda,” Yoongi snickered.

“Where were you for the month? You disappeared and your phone was turned off.”

“Family emergency,” Yoongi said, index finger pointing to the ceiling to gesture to Jimin in his guest room.

“But he’s a Park!” Jeongguk accused.

“I just said distant relative, Jeongguk-ah,” Yoongi sighed. Lying to Jeongguk was easy. He’d been doing that for a year now.

“Why do you always lie to me?” Jeongguk asked at last, eyes blank and shoulders deflating.

Perhaps it wasn’t as easy to lie to him as Yoongi had perceived. They had been engaged for a year now, and while they appeared to be very much in love before the cameras, they hadn’t as much shared a kiss longer than five seconds in reality. It was a business relationship, one that Yoongi still hadn’t figured out why Jeongguk agreed to, and neither had he tried to overcome the barriers between them. He was using Jeongguk for a reason, and the most he could do was call him for dinner once in a while and discuss new strategies to take the business further and let the public believe they’re the happiest couple on earth.

“Being truthful was never in the contract, Jeon,” Yoongi sighed as he turned the stove off and brought the pot onto the dinner table. “You do you, I do me. That was the deal, remember?”

“It was, until your fucking mess showed up naked in my bedroom,” Jeongguk fumed over to the table, seating himself as his accusatory gaze remained stuck on Yoongi’s face.

“I apologize for that, there was some mishap on our trip here,” Yoongi stated calmly, filling up two plates with stu and placing one in front of Jeongguk. “He will no longer be in your hair, rest assured.”

Jeongguk wished he could believe that, but something in the way Yoongi was secretly glancing at him throughout their dinner told him an entirely different story.

♛

It was the morning after, and Jimin felt his energy recharge to the very brim. He entered the bathroom and spent an awful lot of time inspecting the shower and toilet with utmost satisfaction, vowing to himself that he was surely going to implement these creations back home. He then stepped out after an hour-long shower, which was quite shorter than his usual baths, and changed into the clothes Yoongi had kept on his bed the previous night. It was a pair of navy blue satin trousers and a button-up, the sight of the buttons confusing Jimin for an awful lot of time.

Three hours after Jimin had woken up, he made his way downstairs to find Yoongi seated at the kitchen table.

“You’re up early,” Yoongi said as he saw Jimin approaching him through his peripheral vision. “It’s only 9am.”

“9 am?” Jimin inquired. “What does that mean? Dawn broke hours ago, I’m actually late.”

“This era has a set of hours dedicated to each time of the day,” Yoongi explained. “Dawn is 6am, dusk is 6pm. You’ll get the hang of it soon.”

“Ah,” Jimin nodded understandingly, though he was as confused as ever. But then, his focus shifted to the wizard before him. “Min Yoongi, your prince is here.”

Yoongi froze in his actions before he hastily set his coffee mug down and stood up to bow before Jimin. “Apologies, my prince. I’ve been in my comfort zone too much in this era.”

“Comfort zone,” Jimin repeated, tasting the words on his tongue. It had a slight tinge of bitterness. “Very well then, you need not treat me like your prince here. I’ll be just Park Jimin for the next two weeks.”

Yoongi stared hard at Jimin’s face for a solid moment as the prince seemed lost in thought. “You slept well?”

“Yes!” Jimin hummed. “Almost too well, I passed out right after I entered the room after you-- wait.”

“Hm?”

“Why don’t I remember anything after I entered the room? When did I fall asleep?”

“Not sure,” Yoongi replied with a small smile. “I came to check up on you after an hour or two, when Jeongguk left. But you were out cold.”

“That’s strange,” Jimin said after a moment’s thinking. “I wasn’t that tired.”

“Time travel has that sort of effect, relax now,” Yoongi probed, seemingly hasty to change the topic. “So, what do you plan to do here for the next 14 months?”

“Not sure. I could only see so much at night-- 14 months?!” Jimin shrieked out in pure shock. “I thought I was only supposed to be here for 14 days!”

“Were you not informed of the time rules?” Yoongi raised a questioning eyebrow. “A day in the past is as long as a month in the present. I thought you knew.”

Jimin’s mind was in a frenzy, almost havoc like, a state that it had never been in before. But then again, Jimin had never time traveled before so there really wasn’t a valid comparison here. Heart-stopping shocks should be anticipated now, he concluded.

“I was not informed, no,” Jimin stated. “However, I am willing to work with it. More time means more opportunities to learn the ways of the future. I will gain as much knowledge as possible from this era, and take my leave to build a better Goryeo.”

Jimin’s determination was admirable, Yoongi almost laughed out at how naive he sounded. He fought down the urge, however, because even if Jimin allowed him to speak informally, he really shouldn’t push his limits. Royal blood is ruthless, no one but Yoongi knew that better.

♛

Month 1.

Yoongi and Jimin sat at the back of the wizard’s car, their driver en route to Namjoon’s house.

“He’s your kind?” Jimin inquired as he inspected the mobile phone in his hand. The screen lit up as per its sensor, and Jimin jumped and threw the device out of the car window. Yoongi sighed through his nose out of frustration, not towards the now lost phone, but towards his question.

“Yes,” Yoongi replied. “He’s my brother. Also a friend of Jeongguk.”

“I didn’t know witches could copulate?” Jimin asked, innocent baby brown orbs blinking up at Yoongi, unaware of the negative effects of his words onto the wizard.

“We cannot,” Yoongi said with a rock-like weight on his chest. “But that doesn’t mean we can’t develop bonds.”

“Peculiar,” Jimin nodded. “I was always told your kind is void of humane feelings.”

“It’s not my kind who lacks empathy, your highness.”

Jimin was too busy looking out the window by then though, missing the way Yoongi’s pupils dilated to black orbs as he tried to keep in his sneer.

♛

Month 3.

Jimin was sat in Yoongi’s office, rummaging through his library and picking up whatever book interested him. Ten hours later, Jimin had read the entire top shelf with the thickest books, and he did not seem to be ready to stop.

“You should go home,” Yoongi said when the eleventh hour struck. “It’s been all day. You must be tired.”

“I’m not,” Jimin replied, nose deep into the hardback of Shakespeare’s Hamlet in hand. “This is tragic. He becomes his time’s greatest writer, you say?”

“Greatest writer of all time, as some would argue. The scripture you’re holding was the first copy ever, one he made himself.”

“Well, his handwriting is terrible,” Jimin chuckled. “But I can see why people are fond of him. He is gifted. What era did he live in?”

“17th Century,” Yoongi replied. “Why, does your highness have any interest in meeting him?”

“Perhaps some day,” Jimin smiled. “I bet he’s the eerie fellow of his era the way I am of mine.”

“He is indeed.”

Just then, as if on cue, there is a knock on the door.

“Come in!” Yoongi and Jimin called out at once.

The door cracked open to reveal a smartly dressed Jeongguk, in a chequered suit with gelled hair, a lit cigarette in hand. Jimin’s gaze fell on his face until it slid down and remained stuck on the substance. Jimin was asked to not speak before Jeongguk much, which he promised not to do until now.

“What is that?” he asked curiously, index finger pointed at the cigarette in his hand. “It has a familiar scent.”

“Still keeping up the act, Park?” Jeongguk snapped.

“Another form of the tobacco pipes your father smokes,” Yoongi chirped in immediately, trying his best to remain neutral as the two most difficult men in his life interacted.

“Ah! Can I try it?” Jimin asked, snapping the book in his hands and hopping towards Jeongguk. He was comfortably dressed in loose grey dress pants and a white button-up, a snake-skin belt around his petite waist, one he hunted himself to wear in order to look royal.

“No,” Jeongguk shut him down without even a moment’s consideration. “Hyung, are we leaving soon or should I just go by myself?”

“Wait, wait,” Yoongi grumbled. “Always so impatient.”

Yoongi stacked up the papers on his desk and stood up a moment later, grabbing his blazer and circling his desk to stand before Jeongguk. He ran his fingers through his hair, fidgeting with the strands which made Jimin wonder why he won’t just do it with a snap of his magical fingers. He chose to keep the question to himself for the time being, however.

“I’ll meet you at home, my pr-- Jimin-ah,” Yoongi said. “We have a business event to attend. Order takeout if you’re hungry!”

And then they were gone. Jimin couldn’t help but wonder why Yoongi and Jeongguk never greeted each other with a hug or kiss the way they did on the television that Jimin had grown fond of watching.

♛

Month 5.

“Does he bother you that much, Jeongguk-ah?” Hoseok asked after Jeongguk’s rambling silenced. The younger had barged into Hoseok’s apartment as usual, all frantic motions and exasperated breaths, once again complaining about how infuriating Park Jimin was.

“He’s just so-- insufferable!” Jeongguk groaned. “The other day he asked me about my airpods. Who the fuck doesn’t know what airpods are?”

“You were wearing airpods?” Hoseok questioned, shocked at the younger’s interest in music all of a sudden.

“Yeah, Yoongi hyung dragged him with us for lunch and he just wouldn’t shut up about how fascinating Amazon’s Alexa was. My ears hurt. So I borrowed my guard’s airpods and tuned him out.”

“Likeable?” Hoseok inquired.

“No, hyung. I just told you he’s insufferable,” Jeongguk nearly whined.

“I was talking about the music, Jeongguk-ah. “

“Oh, well. It wasn’t bad. He was playing some band called BTS.”

“You know,” Hoseok began. “I can see through you, right?”

“That’s ridiculous,” Jeongguk scoffed, shifting uncomfortably in his seat. Hoseok deduced Jeongguk’s greatest fear was to be understood. The thought saddened him momentarily.

“Believe it or not, I know you like the back of my hand kid,” Hoseok went on. “So this little act of yours of despising Jimin isn’t working.”

“What are you even talking about, hyung?”

“Explain to me, why in the name of fuck, do you never shut up about him?” Hoseok finally blurted out. “And don’t you dare try to bullshit me again. I’ve had a long day.”

Jeongguk scoffed. Then laughed out loud. Then laughed a little less. Until his expression settled into a somber one.

“He gets under my skin,” Jeongguk confessed. “And it’s not always in a bad way.”

“Finally,” Hoseok fisted his hands in a show of victory. “Go ahead, elaborate.”

Jeongguk narrated the one moment that had stuck with him since it happened.

Jeongguk was having a rough day. No, scratch that. Jeongguk’s life itself was rough. The day he was having was like walking on a pathway of lava barefooted.

He had just closed a huge deal with Australian clients, bringing in millions of dollars to the Jeon & Min Corp, and was one step out of the door to sprint away and celebrate in solitude when his buyers stopped him.

“If you don’t mind me asking,” the white woman spoke in a thick accent. “When do you plan on getting married?”

“Excuse me?” Jeongguk asked with knitted eyebrows, too confused to even be offended.

“We were hoping you could speed it up? Perhaps visit Australia for potential wedding venues. The publicity of having two of Korea’s greatest businessmen marrying in our economy would be phenomenal.”

Jeongguk’s chest constricted in the most painful way possible. Loveless marriage. Selfish buyers. Another publicity stunt on the cost of his life. It stung so bad.  

Jeongguk didn’t have an answer, which is why he stiffly bowed at his colleagues and walked out of the conference room, only to breathlessly begin running towards the roof of the building because suddenly the oxygen supply in the building was running low. Jeongguk got engaged almost a year ago, and yet the mere mention of being married to his fiancé felt as though a pair of ironclad hands had wrapped themselves around his throat and kept squeezing, squeezing, squeezing. Never enough to crush his esophagus, but never light enough to wave off the pressure. It was constant torture.

And while it took everything in Jeongguk to keep his head high and his shoulders strong, and while his strength fell short at times, he never cried out for help. Not once in his entire lifetime.

“You seem troubled,” Jimin’s voice broke his impending panic attack, his breath catching in his throat as his body froze against the rooftop railing. Jeongguk was indeed troubled, but he wasn’t troubled enough to be vulnerable before a lying assassin.

“I’m fine,” Jeongguk grunted through gritted teeth, jaw clenching when he saw Jimin’s figure walking up to him through his peripheral vision. His patience was running quite low.

“You don’t feel fine,” Jimin spoke gently, his tone momentarily shocking Jeongguk because the strange man claiming to be from the 14th century only ever spoke to Jeongguk condescendingly. Jeongguk didn’t know whether to appreciate the change of tone or use it as an excuse to despise Jimin more than he already did. “Expressing your troubles has proven to lessen their burden. I read various articles about it.”

“I don’t care,” Jeongguk hissed, turning his entire back to Jimin as a sign to be left alone. Though, reading body language wasn’t Jimin’s strongest pursuit. “Get out of here, Jimin,” Jeongguk added when he heard Jimin’s steps getting closer. “I’m not in the mood for your bullshit.”

“You also seem to have an intense amount of hatred for me,” Jimin sighed, steps never ceasing to move towards Jeongguk. “Are you always this obvious?”

“Excuse me?” and now Jeongguk’s body whipped around to face Jimin entirely, eyes screaming bloody murder and mouth set in a disapproving scowl. Jimin stood much closer than he had perceived.

“What is it that troubles you, Jeon?” Jimin asked, tone low and gentle, gaze tender as it bore into Jeongguk’s eyes. “You can hate me and be consoled by me at the same time.”

“I asked you to leave,” Jeongguk hissed, pushing himself off the railing to near Jimin threateningly. Jimin didn’t cower away this time either. “Don’t make me order you again.”

Jimin sighed, shoulders pulled back and eyes unblinking as he stared Jeongguk down, but a flick of surrender crossed his features that Jeongguk did not miss. He suddenly had the urge to hug him.

“Very well,” Jimin said dejectedly. “I only came here because I overheard the conversation with your clients, and for someone like me who’s seen your relationship with Yoongi up close and who has a faint idea about how burdening your social status can be, I only desired to talk to you.”

Jeongguk blinked at Jimin. It had been five months since Jimin showed up naked in his bedroom, five months since they circled menacingly around each other, and five months since Jeongguk’s mind was caught up in constant confusion with a single subject: Park Jimin. But for the first time in those five months, Jeongguk finally had an explanation as to why Jimin bothered him so much. There was a connection, one they both felt, and one neither understood.

“I know you call my truths ‘bullshit’, which is humorous because cow dung is quite useful so I don’t understand why people use it as a slur,” Jimin rambled. “But I can assure you that whatever you feel, I’ve felt it too. The formalities, the constant feeling of being suffocated, the irony of being surrounded by people all the time and still being lonely. It’s my reality just as much as it is yours.”

Jeongguk had friends. No, Jeongguk had a friend who had a boyfriend whom Jeongguk considered to be close with, the rest were just acquaintances. And while Hoseok grew up with him, had been with him for ten years now, he still hadn’t the faintest clue as to what Jeongguk went through on a daily basis. Having someone describe his life as their own felt… nice.

“There are no bad days, Jeon,” Jimin smiled, hand reaching up to Jeongguk’s shoulder and squeezing in comfort. Jeongguk almost sobbed out at the contact, eyes stinging with unshed tears and mouth parting from the force of his whimper threatening to rip through. But he held it all back. “Just bad moments. Think of them as a test you need to go through, and from which you’ll emerge more powerful than before. Hardships are not your life, they’re only a part of it.”

And then Jimin was gone. His hand sliding off Jeongguk’s shoulder as he turned his back and walked right out the door leading into the building. And ever since it happened, which was approximately 67 hours and 48 minutes ago, Jeongguk had not stopped thinking about it.

“I think…” Hoseok began after hearing the event in full detail, pausing midway to ask. “Do you want me to tell you what I think?”

Jeongguk thought about it. Does he want his hyung’s opinion to cloud his judgement or does he want to wait it out and figure things on his own? He could let an unbiased view make things less complex for him, he could let Hoseok dictate the meaning behind that moment and why Jeongguk had grown near well obsessed with it. He could take the easy way out.

“No,” Jeongguk spoke with determination. He was going to deal with Park Jimin on his own, even if it took him an eternity.

♛

Month 8.

“I don’t have an eternity!” Jimin yelled out, throwing away the scripture of architectural building in his hand out of the kitchen in exasperation. “I need something more plausible from this era. Where will I find the expertised labour for building such architecture in Goryeo?”

“I don’t understand what you want me to do,” Yoongi replied with a scowl. “There aren’t many possibilities where you can take the 21st century ways over to your kingdom. Unless it’s democracy you crave?”

“Do not step on my nerves with purpose, wizard,” Jimin breathed out in a deathly tone. He had spent eight months in 2020, and now his patience had begun running thin. There wasn’t anything left to learn anymore. “I came here to learn their ways in order to build a better lifestyle for my people. But this era is an abomination! There is no sense of collectivism, no sense of striving to conquer, no--”

“No favor for dictatorship,” Yoongi muttered under his breath. Jimin chose to ignore it.

“Humanity is on a pathway to doom,” Jimin declared. “I have no more use for their knowledge. I demand to cut my trip short.”

Yoongi panicked. “You can’t go back yet!”

“Pardon?”

“You have to complete the 14 month cycle. It’s how the spell works.”

“You said I can return whenever I desired, rather the extension until I chose to stay was 14 months,” Jimin asked with narrowed eyes, he was starting to grow suspicious. It wasn’t the first time Yoongi had gone against his words. It was though he wanted Jimin to stay.

“You must’ve misheard,” Yoongi was quick to counter, and as a means for damage control  further added. “Your highness.”

“What am I supposed to do here for the remaining six months?” Jimin asked with a dignifying groan. “I have read every book in your glorious library. I have learned the modern ways. I have even gone out for coffee!”

“Why don’t you consider more human interactions?” Yoongi suggested. “I have some people in mind that you can bond with, perhaps understand their cognition and therefore understand this generation. It will add to your wisdom, my prince.”

“Very well,” Jimin agreed after a moment’s consideration. “Bring me to those people. I suppose their mindsets can aid my knowledge.”

♛

The only ‘people’ on the list was Jeon Jeongguk. And Jimin shouldn’t have been surprised about it since Yoongi wasn’t exactly a social butterfly.

“You want me to spend an entire day with the one man who abhors my existence with a passion?” Jimin stated sarcastically. “Sounds delightful.”

“Oh, please,” Yoongi snickered. “Anyone with common sense can see that it is very much on the contrary,”

“Are you calling me dense?” Jimin asked with a raised brow, face set straight in a displeased expression.

“Not at all,” Yoongi cleared his throat, grinning guiltily. “My prince.”

“What makes you think he’ll consent to this in the first place?” Jimin probed, waving off Yoongi’s disrespect.

“He’s the one who suggested it,” Yoongi replied, shutting the door of Jimin’s wardrobe and holding up a casual chic outfit. Skinny black jeans, oversized sweatshirt, and leather boots. Jimin almost scowled at the attire before him.

“I will not wear these,” Jimin protested. “Those jeans will not fit, and my height does not need a boast by those boots.”

Yoongi smiled sympathetically before he snapped his fingers and the attire adorned Jimin’s body in a blink of the eye. Jimin didn’t even have the time to gasp out at being disobeyed.

“It looks handsome on you, your highness.”

Jimin only let it slide because he did indeed look good.

“So we’re going for dinner, and then a drive around the city in his car?” Jimin asked with a perplexed expression. “That sounds an awful lot like the dates that couples go to on television.”

“Take it up with him,” Yoongi muttered, brushing Jimin’s fringes to the side and finally clapping his hands as a display that he was finally ready. “I had only mentioned your desire to socialize. The rest was prepared by him.”

“Peculiar fella,” Jimin hummed. “He’s handsome, though.”

“Very,” Yoongi smiled, but Jimin knew a forced smile when he saw one. “I would’ve joined you guys if it weren’t for my flight in about two hours. I’ll be gone for the rest of the week, so please do try to get along with him and learn as much as you can about this generation.”

“You could’ve postponed it,” Jimin said.

“I have a life here,” Yoongi argued. “One that doesn’t work on magic or compromises. I’d like to keep it that way.” And then his phone rang, indicating Jeongguk’s arrival. “Off you go now, have fun!”

Jeongguk stood leaned over the trunk of his now matte black Mercedes-Benz in smartly fitted black dress pants and a white button-up. Jimin felt immensely underdressed.

“I said casual!” Yoongi groaned out exasperatedly. “What part of casual do you not understand?!”

“This is casual!” Jeongguk argued back, tone high pitched and whiny, shocking Jimin to his core. “I don’t even have my blazer on!”

“Get the fuck inside.”

Jimin only blinked at the two grumbling about together, pondering once again as to how in any possible sense they were engaged to be married.

Ten minutes later, Jeongguk stepped out in baby blue jeans and a navy blue t-shirt. He had strong biceps, Jimin perceived first and foremost.

“Now please get along while I’m away,” Yoongi begged. “When I come back, I better see you two moving along like great friends.”

Jimin raised a questioning brow at Yoongi’s tone, and Jeongguk merely nodded in obedience after stifling a short scoff. Yoongi nodded stiffly before slamming the door shut of his house on their faces.

“Is it normal for fiancés of this generation to send their partners on dates?” Jimin inquired with genuine confusion, leaving Jeongguk to splutter about indignantly as he failed to answer the question and simply walked back to his car.

“Hope you’ve learned to open a car door in all of your time here,” Jeongguk mocked lightly, tone humorous.

“I have indeed,” Jimin retorted, running around to Jeongguk’s side and opening the driving seat door for him. He looked up at Jeongguk with a proud smile, eyes crinkling at the corners as his baby brown orbs glinted under the moonlight. Jeongguk had never seen Jimin smile that way before. “Now we’re equal.”

It was the first time Jeongguk felt a splash of content wash down his torso, a feeling he distinctly thought of growing used to.

“This isn’t a date,” Jeongguk spoke up at last, breaking the silence at their dinner table in one of his famous pubs. Neither man had struck up conversation the entire ride from Yoongi’s house to the Jeon & Min Corps pub, Jeongguk seemingly caught up in his feelings and Jimin looking inquisitively around the interior of his car. Jeongguk was anticipating questions from him, but they never came. He wondered if his constant snapping had now made Jimin painfully hesitant around him. And now the silence began to grow uncomfortable. “Just so you know. I’m only doing Yoongi hyung a favor by taking charge of you until he’s gone abroad.”

“What is the purpose of his trip?” Jimin asked, and Jeongguk grew a tad bit annoyed at how he ignored the date factor of the conversation.

“I’m not sure,” Jeongguk replied honestly. “We don’t meddle in each other’s business.”

“But you’re partners?”

“Private business,” Jeongguk corrected himself.

“But you’re engaged?”

“And that’s precisely why,” Jeongguk huffed out in annoyance. “We practice individuality. We don’t need to depend on each other or meddle in each other’s matters.”

Jimin remained quiet at Jeongguk’s change of tone, though the way his eyes narrowed over Jeongguk’s face and raked between his orbs indicated his heavy judgement. Jeongguk ignored it at first, not entirely ready to hear another word about his relationship with Yoongi, but then snapped out a What?! when Jimin continued to judge him.

“Isn’t that what marriage is all about?” Jimin asked in an even tone, as though he was only stating a matter of fact. He was, Jeongguk knew that. “Interdependency and dualism. I’m sure this generation hasn’t changed its value towards marriage yet, your television shows are quite informative.”

“That’s just fiction,” Jeongguk retorted.

“No,” Jimin chuckled. “It’s reality. Just not yours.”

Yes, Jeongguk knew that well enough. Yes, Jimin was getting under his skin again. Yes, he was only engaged to Yoongi for business purposes. Yes, he suspected himself to be falling for this bizarre man seated comfortably before him because he suddenly craved for that reality with Jimin at his side.

“Just not mine,” Jeongguk agreed after realization hit him in full force. “Yet.”

Jimin hadn’t pondered much over his words for the food had arrived, a luxurious full lobster that he had been craving for days now out of nostalgia for his kingdom. He devoured the shellfish whole, not once looking up to find Jeongguk’s gaze fixated on him throughout dinner.

Once his belly was stuffed, however, Jimin’s mind began to replay his conversation with Jeongguk, along with the events he had witnessed between the engaged couple over the months. He had to ask, his nosy nature unable to keep his mouth clamped.

“Why are you marrying him?” Jimin asked suddenly as they exited the pub, bodies in a warm flush from a couple of drinks they ordered and limbs visibly less stiff than they were when their night started.

“What?” Jeongguk asked with widened eyes. No one had ever asked him that question, not his father, not Hoseok, not Yoongi, nobody. It seemed like a taboo question, something he had non-verbally declared as prohibited to even think about, and Jimin had just mentioned it like it meant nothing. Jeongguk wished it meant nothing.

“Yoongi is a trustable fellow,” Jimin began. “He’s loyal and intelligent. And has very attractive features. But you have been engaged to him for over 20 months now, and yet you can only describe him as a ‘business partner’. You’re well off, and your shares are settled. So your excuse can’t be the company. And you’re certainly not in love with him. Then why?”

“Please stay out of it,” Jeongguk said plainly.

“I tried,” Jimin retorted. “I truly did. I decided to stick to myself. Gain the knowledge I was here for and then leave. But some nights I’m unable to sleep because of this very question; why are you with him?”

Jeongguk stood frozen before Jimin, hands fisted in his pockets as the night breeze hit his flushed cheeks. He felt his fringes falling into his eyes, but he suddenly didn’t have the strength to push them away. Jimin’s gaze was piercing through him, as though Jeongguk was an open book that he readily volunteered to read right at that instant. And for some reason, the thought didn’t bother him as much as it usually did. He wanted to be understood, and only by Jimin.

“I have no other choice,” Jeongguk replied, which was only half the truth. “No better choice if I’m being precise. Being with Yoongi hyung benefits everyone.”

“Are you also on the receiving end of those benefits?”

“I have someone,” Jeongguk spoke, voice low with a tinge of sorrow that Jimin’s ears could pick on even in a room full of the world’s loudest instruments. “It might not show, Jimin, but I’ve been in a better place ever since Yoongi hyung came into my life. And yes. We’re not in love. Far from it. But we’re… in a compromise.”

“A compromise,” Jimin repeated as he averted his gaze from Jeongguk’s face to look around the street they stood on. Seoul was all bright lights and clean pavements, all crowds and cold breezes, all homely but not at all at the same time. Jimin had the sudden surge of homesickness flowing through him. “You’re in a compromise.”

“Yes,” Jeongguk replied with a soft smile. Jimin could feel the pain radiate off from it. “And I’ve come to accept my fate. I’ve dated before, stuff doesn’t work out for me ever. There are no lasting feelings, I have no sense of attachment and then it’s just… I’m alone and I need someone. Now be it someone on a contract with no sex or love, I’ll take it. I just need someone.”

For the first time, Jimin could see the real Jeongguk. He could see beneath his cockiness, his egoism, his arrogance. He could see that behind that chiseled jawline and that smug smirk laid a permanent frown, one that was the product of never ending loneliness and impending doom as he fell deeper and deeper into the pits of darkness with no one to pull him away from. He could see that the successful young CEO running the greatest business company in South Korea was also a twenty-three year old who desperately craved the simplest touch of love.

For the first time, Jimin could see himself. A carbon copy. A parallel offprint. An accomplice. A soul twin. Jimin’s entire body broke out in shivers as he let out a shaky breath at the realization that gruesomely set in his gut. He was falling for Jeon Jeongguk of the 21st century.

♛

Month 9.

Jeongguk was running. Faster than he had ever ran before, with more purpose than he had ever ran before. And all because of one phone call. The phone call, however, isn’t one to blame on it’s own, rather the person who made it; Park Jimin. The phone call by Park Jimin had now caused a fiercely running Jeon Jeongguk, as if for the sake of his life.

Jeongguk’s day had begun like any other. He woke up at 7am. He went for a run. He showered. He had a bountiful breakfast with enough calories to last a week. He changed into work attire. And then he was sitting in one of his important meetings for the past two hours. The meeting had another hour left to go, when suddenly his phone screen lit up. And while Jeongguk would barely spare a glance normally, he couldn’t ignore the image of Jimin’s face lighting up his screen that he had specifically set after their first night out together. And while Jeongguk would still quickly pick up the phone and grumble out a im busy to Jimin because he indeed was but he didn’t want Jimin to feel ignored, the sudden cry for help on his receiver prevented his rationality from working.

Jeongguk’s face morphed into shock as Jimin’s scream streamed out his speaker, the young CEO yanking off the bluetooth device in his ear and jumping off his seat to run outside. The meeting was left unattended, his colleagues confused, and his heart pounding in his chest like there was no tomorrow to face. Jeongguk ran all the way to his parked car, pushing away his driver and jumping in the driving street as he raced towards Yoongi’s house. Jimin was in trouble, and no force in the world could stop him from being there to help except the ungodly distance itself. But it was okay. Jeongguk was fast. He would make it.

After almost crashing into traffic twice, Jeongguk drifted in front of Yoongi’s house, not even bothering to turn off his engine or close the car door behind him as he ran to the front door and pounded over it as though a trail of zombies were after him. His fists collided with the front door without pause as a yell of Jimin’s name ripped out of his mouth, heartbeat racing all the more at an inhumane pace.

“What the fuck is wrong with you!?” Yoongi shrieked as the front door flew open and revealed a comfortably sat Jimin at the living room couch and an insanely pissed Yoongi. Jeongguk panted heavily while his brain processed what was before him.

“I thought-- you-- Jimin!” Jeongguk stuttered, feet acting on impulse when they sprinted towards Jimin who munched on popcorns as Netflix played on the lounge TV. “I heard you scream!”

“You did?” Jimin questioned, seeming genuinely confused. “Oh, that! I saw a cockroach in the shower and assumed one of Yoongi’s murderous pets had escaped, so I called the most recent number for help.”

“A c-cockroach?”

“Yes. I had never seen an uglier creature in my life before. Your generation is quite nasty for creatures like that to be born. But it crawled down the drain at my scream and by then the call ended so I assumed you never picked up.”

“What?”

“Why are you so out of breath?” Jimin asked as he set his popcorn aside and stood up to set a palm over Jeongguk’s sweaty forehead. 

“Yeah, why?” Yoongi asked as well.

“I--” Jeongguk began, embarrassed and breathless, and a tad bit shaken at the contact of Jimin’s hand with his face. He stepped back on impulse to create considerable distance between him, skin blessing him for the lack of heat and limbs cursing him for being away from Jimin. “Nothing.”

“Jeongguk?” Jimin asked again, stepping forward, arm reaching out for Jeongguk’s arm.

“It’s nothing,” Jeongguk replied, taking another step back to stay clear of Jimin’s touch. “I just-- it’s nothing.”

Jeongguk left in the same haste as he had arrived, except now his feelings had shifted from concern to annoyance. Annoyed at no one but himself for being so, so stupid. Jimin remained confused of the events that unfolded, but Yoongi had only taken a moment’s worth of thinking to conclude on the change of heart that Jeongguk was experiencing.

♛

Month 10.

Normally Jeongguk would come over and Jimin would chat it up with him in Yoongi’s lounge. Jeongguk would sit with considerable space between them and Yoongi would always be loitering around the duo, occasionally contributing to their conversation at hand. Jimin would avoid staring too long into Jeongguk’s eyes, his hands kept to himself at all times, his smile practised as to not give away too much of his affection for the young CEO. Normally, Jimin would be able to handle himself around Jeongguk.

All the lingering gazes, the hopefull comments, the light hearted teasing just to make the other laugh. Jimin could handle it.

But everytime Yoongi was not there, things would get twice as difficult. Jimin knew there was nothing between Jeongguk and Yoongi, but at the end of the day they were indeed engaged. And of course, Jimin had to return in four months’ time. He could not get reckless and entertain his feelings for Jeongguk. And yet, he couldn’t not do it either.

Yoongi was off for another business trip, this time for about three months. Jeongguk had texted Jimin to join him for dinner, and Jimin hadn’t thought much about it when he agreed, until he checked his phone and saw Yoongi’s text.

It’s okay, the text read, I don’t mind.

Jimin’s mind haywired. He knew exactly what the text meant. He knew that Yoongi was actually giving him permission to do as he pleased with Jeongguk. Of course the sudden change in their relationship dynamics did not go unnoticed by wizard. Yoongi was observing everything. All the subtle touches, the constant staring, the way Jeongguk would click pictures of Jimin whenever wherever, the way Jeongguk was willing to hang out with Jimin at every possible chance, especially when Yoongi was too busy to join them. And Yoongi was okay with it.

The thought bothered him a whole lot, while simultaneously lifting off the heavy weight of guilt on his shoulders. Jimin couldn’t. He was a royal prince of the 14th century, he had to return and serve his people, he had to fulfill his promise to Taehyung. He couldn’t.

But then Jeongguk was honking his car at Yoongi’s front yard. Then Jeongguk was getting out of his car with a beaming smile as his gaze fell onto Jimin’s figure. Then the realization hit Jimin that it wasn’t the first time he saw Jeongguk genuinely happy around him and it won’t be the last, and then Jimin thinks he fell a bit deeper for Jeon Jeongguk. Then Jimin knew he was utterly screwed.

“Are you gonna get in or are we spending tonight standing over Yoongi hyung’s cold yard?” Jeongguk said with a snicker, a subtle wink in Jimin’s direction being thrown like it wasn’t wrong at all, a glint of mischief and adoration in his gaze that Jimin couldn’t help but want to explore with open arms.

“Can I drive?” Jimin asked instead, gingerly walking up to Jeongguk and once again getting stunned at the way his honey skin tone glowed under the moonlight.

“Can you drive?” Jeongguk asked in surprise.

“We’ll have to try to see,” Jimin smiled, and when Jeongguk opened the door to the driver seat with anticipation and trust written all over his face, Jimin couldn’t prevent the flood of affection for the younger that took over his entire body.

Jimin got in as Jeongguk closed the door behind him, running to the other side and seating himself in the passenger’s seat.

“Now we’re not even,” Jeongguk said, and only after a moment Jimin understood what he meant.

“You’re keeping count, Jeon?” Jimin chuckled. “Alright, next time I’ll make sure to hold the car door for you. Then we’ll be even again.”

“Alright,” Jeongguk nodded, a small smile breaking over his face and Jimin distinctly wondered if he was blushing. “Drive carefully.”

“Why, this your favorite car?”

“I don’t do favorites.”

“Yeah, right,” Jimin snickered, mildly shocked at his language and expressions but too lost in the moment to fix them to be proper. “I say the same thing about my horses. But Black Swan will always have a special place in my heart.”

“You named your horse after that dance movie?” Jeongguk asked with a raised eyebrow. “You have a horse?! I thought we were kidding.”

“I have twenty,” Jimin smiled fondly. “Shall we?”

Jeongguk did not ask more, even though the curiosity towards Jimin’s background had been growing rather out of hands lately. He decided to go at Jimin’s pace, however, letting him open up by himself. Jeongguk, out of all the people that had walked the earth, knew all too well how difficult it was to talk about one’s life experiences.

Jimin was an exceptional driver, which was admirable and frightening at the same time as he had never driven a car before. Observation, he had explained, that watching Jeongguk drive him around was enough to learn from, and Jeongguk had to push down the gasp of amazement that stuck in his throat because once again Park Jimin left him speechless. They drove around for hours, aimlessly drifting about the streets of Seoul and chatting away on how the latest K-drama that Jimin was watching was probably the most unrealistic bullshit Jeongguk had ever heard of.

“I’m telling you, the people of Goryeo did not live like that!” Jeongguk argued. “You can’t expect me to believe that our ancestors were siblings! It has to be some kind of fetish the director developed and began using it in the drama.”

“Jeongguk-ah,” Jimin laughed out. “My grandparents were siblings!”

“What the fuck?” Jeongguk’s eyes widened.

“Of course it’s true! Royal blood is very sacred, we tend to keep our offspring pure blooded by copulating with each other.”

“This is a horrifying joke,” Jeongguk coughed in discomfort.

“My father ended those traditions, don't worry,” Jimin laughed again, this time at the way Jeongguk was squirming in his seat beside him. They had parked the car along Han-river, and Jimin’s belly erupted with butterflies at how romantic the entire scenario seemed. “I won’t be marrying any of my siblings.”

“Stop messing around, that’s disgusting,” Jeongguk scowled, looking ever so adorable that Jimin’s rationality began running thin again. Jimin didn’t think twice before scooting over and pinching his cheeks with both hands in the spur of the moment, only realizing his actions after the deed was done. They both looked at each other in shock at his gesture.

If anyone were to ask about Jimin’s first kiss, he would probably be left speechless all over again as he was when it happened. When their eyes met, both holding an equal amount of shock, Jimin’s mind struck to one and only desire; to kiss Jeongguk. Now, Jimin is intelligent and articulate. He had the thought process of a warrior, where he sizes out his situations with every possible consequence considered and every possible tactic to lessen the collateral damage assumed. So when the sudden urge to devour Jeongguk’s lips occurred, Jimin began calculating his possibilities.

He could kiss him once, call it a day, and forget all about his first and only kiss with Jeon Jeongguk once he’s back home. He could also kiss him a whole lot, give up his body for the night to the man who had made him want for the first time ever, and then bury the memory as a bitter-sweet event he only had the privilege to experience once in his lifetime. He could also do nothing, start the car and drive away, pretend like there are no existing feelings to consider. His mind was running with all open options as he continued to stare into Jeongguk’s eyes, far from making a decision when suddenly Jeongguk leaned forward and crashed their lips together.

Jimin was speechless. He had never been kissed before, and the feeling was far different from what he had perceived this to be like. During his adolescent years, Jimin only thought of arrange marriage as his one true fate. He’d be married to any royal whose kingdom was the second most strongest after his, merge their kingdoms and rule over everyone else. Jimin didn’t let himself dream of passionate kisses, of sheer lust for someone’s body, of caring so deeply for anyone else. Jimin never believed that his present would ever happen.

Jeongguk, on the other hand, was kissing him unadulterated passion. Forceful thin lips pushing against Jimin’s plump ones as his hands caged the prince’s face. Jeongguk was sighing into the kiss, eyes fluttered shut and cheeks a burning shade of red. Jeongguk was here, a fantasy come true that Jimin did not even dare to dream.

“I-- sorry,” Jeongguk said as he hastily pulled away after Jimin remained unresponsive during the entire ordeal. “I shouldn’t have. I’m sorry. Please don’t hate me, I just acted on my fucking impulse--”

Jeongguk was cut off when once again his lips met Jimin’s, the older grabbing his bicep in a swift motion to pull him in and collide their mouths together. He let out a surprised yelp, one that Jimin drank in greedily as his tongue delved into Jeongguk’s mouth and began devouring his cavern.

It’s okay. I don’t mind.

Jimin’s mind rang with Yoongi’s text, and if Jeongguk’s fiancé wasn’t an obstacle then there wasn’t any obstacle at all. Jeongguk liked him, Jimin liked him back. Jeongguk kissed him first, and Jimin had imagined this very moment for months now. Jeongguk was beautiful, desirable, lovable, and for once Jimin did not want to map out his actions before actually falling through with them. For once, Jimin wanted to be reckless. For once, Jimin wanted to know how it felt to love and be loved.

Jeongguk doesn’t know how they managed to make it to his apartment amidst their heated kisses due to their utter lack of control, but they did make it nonetheless. He knew his favorite car was left unlocked outside his house, knew the keys were still stuck in the ignition, and knew that his front door was left irresponsibly ajar. 

But none of it mattered because Jimin had now shifted to placing hot open mouth kisses along his neck as his hands unbuttoned his dress shirt and yanked it off Jeongguk’s shoulders. The thought of being irresponsible did not matter because Jimin was moaning Jeongguk’s name in broken breathless pants. The thought of being claimed by someone who wasn’t his fiancé did not bother because Jimin’s arms were around Jeongguk to pull him impossibly closer as they indulged into another passionate kiss. Nothing mattered except Jimin.

And so when Jimin was laying naked beneath him with Jeongguk’s silk sheets outlining his figure elegantly, a sense of deja vu hitting the two of their first meeting in this very room that was similar to what they faced right now but entirely different at the same time, Jeongguk could physically feel his heart swell with love for Jimin, and only Jimin. When Jeongguk had interlaced their fingers together as he entered Jimin, drinking up the moan ripping through Jimin’s lips at the mix of pain and pleasure, Jeongguk knew he had never felt what he was feeling then.

And when Jimin blissfully cried out his name at the climax, nails raking over Jeongguk’s back and leaving scratches that would last for days as heated reminders of their first time together, legs tightening around Jeongguk’s waist as he arched his back into the younger’s chest, eyes fluttering shut at the sheer pleasure coursing through his veins as he clenched around Jeongguk’s length, Jeongguk could only stare in awe because he utterly and beyond repair had fallen head over heels for this man. Jimin pulling him down for another elongated and bruising kiss that consisted of teeth and tongue primarily as their cocks softened and their orgasms subsided only served to seal the deal as a lifelong commitment.

Thus, when morning came and Jeongguk was still cocooned in Jimin’s arms, Jeongguk knew it was far from just a hopeful dream. Park Jimin was now his reality.

♛

Month 12.

“I need you to know,” Jeongguk whispered into the night as Jimin’s silver strands for hair sprawled over his lap and Jeongguk’s fingers threaded through them. “I’ve never felt this way about anyone before you.”

“I haven’t either,” Jimin hummed at the feeling of Jeongguk’s fingers now massaging his scalp. He opened his eyes to find the younger staring down at him, face neutral but eyes so god damn expressive that Jimin had to pull him down for a kiss at his own overwhelming feelings. “And I never will again.”

“Just don’t break my heart,” Jeongguk smiled innocently. “I won’t be able to bear it.”

Jimin’s heart sank at Jeongguk’s words. The young man had yet to discover Jimin’s reality, but the moment was too pure for Jimin to ruin it with the truth. He merely pulled Jeongguk for another kiss, muttering a soft i love you against his lips and earning a genuine smile by the younger one in return.

♛

Month 13.

Jeongguk was bent over the kitchen counter as Jimin deliriously thrusted into him, the younger too lost in his pleasure to complain about the way the slab of the counter dug into his hip bones. He merely cried for more, for harder, and faster, and oh fuck please Jimin! as the older obliged to every wish with a thrust doubled in intensity than the previous one. Jeongguk did not expect to ever be put in a situation like this ever in all his life, never imagined his sex life to take the plunge it had taken or to genuinely enjoy being connected with another human being. Jeongguk could simply not be happier at the turn of events his life was facing.

As if reading Jeongguk’s thoughts, Jimin leaned over him, his chest draping over Jeongguk’s back as he shifted his thrusts from hard and fast to short and slow. One of his hands firmly gripped Jeongguk’s left ass cheek to have his hole further stretching around Jimin’s cock, and the other was wrapped around Jeongguk’s neck to push his face onto the slab. It was a scene neither had imagined happening in their wildest dreams. And all because Jeongguk looked a bit more attractive in his work attire this evening.

“How does this feel, Jeongguk-ah?” Jimin enunciated each word with a short and hard thrust, knowing all too well how each one drilled right into Jeongguk’s prostate as evident from his high pitched whines. “How does it feel getting fucked by royalty?”

Jeongguk could only blabber out incoherently as Jimin suddenly shifted the pace and thrusted into him without abandon. Jeongguk could swear his body was being pushed and pulled at an inhumane pace by a lunatic for a lover. He loved every second of it.

“C-come now, don’t disappoint your prince by being so silent,” Jimin barked out, panting furiously and Jeongguk wondered how in the name of God was he silent when his throat was already aching from overuse. He was also immensely turned on everytime Jimin sprung in the royalty roleplay, still oblivious of the fact that it wasn’t one. “Tell me, do you want me?”

“I want--” Jeongguk was cut off by another loud moan. “Jimin, fu-fuck--”

“Do you want me, Jeongguk-ah?!” Jimin growled out, fucking into Jeongguk so hard that his viision began to get clouded by stars.

“I-- fuck, ah-- I want y-you-- AH!”

Jeongguk was hoisted up from the kitchen counter and stood up straight as Jimin drilled into him way faster than he had ever done before, and Jeongguk came on spot at the very first thrust after the change of angle. Tears streamed down Jeongguk’s face at the excessive stimulation to his prostate as the counter was now painted by his come, but Jimin was too lost in his headspace to even notice. He merely continued to fuck Jeongguk until his own limbs gave out, ruthless and unforgiving and everything Jeongguk had grown to love him for as a lover.

Jeongguk’s body was numb, fucked out, flushed to an impossible shade of red. He could feel his cheeks wetting from another stream of tears as his hole was rammed into mercilessly, but there was a content smile over his face that never subsided. Jimin wanted him so fucking much, and Jeongguk wanted him equally as much.

“Fuck,” Jimin gasped out as his teeth sank into Jeongguk’s shoulder at his orgasm, drilling all the way into Jeongguk’s hole as his come painted Jeongguk’s inner walls. “Fuck, you’re so fucking gorgeous and submissive I-- fuck.”

“You’ve started to curse,” Jeongguk commented hoarsely, head lolling back to rest over Jimin’s shoulder as the older’s arms hugged his torso and pulled him into his chest. Jimin kissed along the expanse of Jeongguk’s nape and shoulders, gently pulling out which made Jeongguk’s hiss in discomfort.

“Was I too rough, Jeongguk-ah?” Jimin asked, palms sliding over Jeongguk’s abs and further moving to massage his sides. “I told you we should use olive oil as a lubricant.”

“Why the fuck would we do that when lube exists,” Jeongguk laughed out, body going lax in Jimin’s arms as he further sank into his embrace. His limbs felt like jelly and he knew his back would ache like hell the next day, but he would have Jimin do it just the same all over again for ages. “Oil is messy.”

“That’s what all my friends use,” Jimin mumbled, bending down swiftly and hoisting Jeongguk up in his arms bridal style. “Trying won’t harm anyone.”

“Fine,” Jeongguk agreed without a hitch in his breath for being carried suddenly, his body now accustomed to being held up and pushed around at Jimin’s will. They both had taken a liking for being manhandled alternatively. “We’ll try it on you first. But you’re cleaning that shit up all by yourself.”

Jimin chuckled as he nodded, effortlessly carrying Jeongguk’s naked body to his room. He gently laid him over the clean silk sheets, finally ripping off his own unbuttoned shirt hanging from his shoulders to clean off the come over Jeongguk’s abdomen and between his legs. Jeongguk found it extremely sexy that Jimin did not even bother undressing fully before taking him over the kitchen counter.

“Yoongi is returning tonight,” Jimin spoke up after thoroughly cleaning the younger.

“Tonight?” Jeongguk confirmed.

“Yes.”

“I see,” Jeongguk nodded, a discomfort setting deep in his gut at the mention of his fiancé. Their engagement contract had stated that one-night stands were acceptable as long as they didn’t make the public eye. Jimin wasn’t a one-night stand, however, and only after three months of living inside the fantasy bubble that he and Jimin had created by themselves did Jeongguk begin to realize the consequences he was to face. And he didn’t even know half of the doom that he was to face as per Jimin’s reality. “Is that why you went extra hard right now? Getting possessive, Jiminie?”

“What? Of course not,” Jimin scoffed, hitting Jeongguk’s thigh gently as his gaze roamed around the room. “Okay, maybe a little.”

Jeongguk laughed as he pulled Jimin on top of him, kissing down his neck and all over his chest endearingly. He can face any force with Jimin by his side, he was confident of that.

♛

Month 14.

Yoongi had returned, and Jimin was constantly anxious in his presence. He was jumpy around him, would at times gape speechlessly at the wizard if he asked Jimin a question, would even go the extent of stuttering before him and Jimin never stuttered. It was a disaster.

“I have a request,” Jimin finally said after weeks of acting morbidly around Yoongi, mustering up his courage to speak his mind. He needed to do this for Jeongguk’s sake. “I’d like to set an agreement.”

“About what?” Yoongi said as he looked up from his tablet, seemingly surfing through the web for news. He had an unbothered expression on his face, but Jimin could detect a sharp glint in his eyes that for some reason triggered his sixth sense to put up his defenses. Jimin ignored it, however.

“A month here is as long as a day back there, yes?” Jimin asked.

“Yes.”

“Then I’d like to set an agreement to visit the 21st century weekly.”

“Pardon?”

“Your text…” Jimin said with a heavy sigh. “Jeongguk and I have… developed a bond.”

“Oh, have you now?” Yoongi did not seem surprised. Jimin’s sixth sense only strengthened.

“We have, yes.”

“And your highness is requesting a yearly trip here to reconcile with his lover of the 21st century?” Yoongi spoke evenly, but Jimin could detect the mockery in his words. Something had changed inside of Yoongi ever since he returned from his trip, and now it had begun unnerving Jimin immensely.

“Watch your tongue, wizard,” Jimin stated. He was already on edge, but he wasn’t going to forget his status and have a low life witch mock him for his decisions. He was prepared to let it go with Yoongi’s apology, except it never came.

Instead, came a loud and scornful scoff.

“Forgive me, my fucking prince, but I think our agreement ends here,” Yoongi hissed out, setting aside his tablet and swiftly standing up to meet Jimin’s eye level. “About time, really. I assumed you would fall into this trap a lot more easily than you did. Almost had us concerned for a while.”

“What are you talking about, wizard?” Jimin’s rage was spiking. He couldn’t believe his ears. Surely, Yoongi would not be doing this out of petty jealousy. He felt nothing for Jeongguk, Jimin was sure of it. He had given his permission as well. “What’s gotten into you?”

“Freedom, my gullible prince,” Yoongi laughed out bitterly. “Freedom at last.”

Jimin was left perplexed at his post, eyes narrowing onto Yoongi’s figure as heat shot up his temple. His hand lifted up to his waist on instinct, the disappointed realization setting in him that he did not have his sword on him.

“Reaching for your sword, aren’t you?” Yoongi spat at Jimin’s motions. “That’s all you royals do after all. Order people around and kill those who refuse to submit. Ironically, however, you were vulnerable the minute you came here.”

None of Jimin’s belongings made it to the 21st century, he arrived defenseless and naked, right before the very man Jimin had grown to care for more than anything. The entire trap unfolded in Jimin’s mind, a plot against him that he willingly walked into. And just as he braced himself to charge at Min Yoongi, the front door flung open to reveal a battered Jeongguk being thrown to the ground along with the wizard that Jimin had only met once in his entire lifetime; Kim Namjoon.

♛

“Hyung,” Jeongguk smiled at the sight of Namjoon standing in his doorway. “It’s been a while! How were your vacations?”

“I enjoyed a lot,” Namjoon smiled back, beaming innocently as Jeongguk stepped back to let his friend enter.

“Hoseok hyung isn’t with you?” Jeongguk asked.

“He won’t be needed tonight,” Namjoon said, his smile remaining intact.

And then Jeongguk’s world blacked out.

♛

“Do not touch him!” Jeongguk heard a scream as his senses gained back momentary focus. Jimin, he thought, as he drifted to and fro into unconsciousness.

“Or what?” Namjoon chuckled tauntingly, kicking an unconscious Jeongguk in the gut again. “You’ll hurt me? With what army? You don’t even have your sword.”

Jimin charged towards the wizard with all his might when suddenly an invisible shield struck him all the way to the back of the room. Jimin groaned out as his back collided with the wall, a few frames hanging up there that fell around him as he crashed to the ground. Glass pricked his palms and bumped into his head.

“You will pay for this,” Jimin hissed out, pushing himself to stand up tall. His gaze fell over Jeongguk’s bloodied figure wearing a stained grey hoodie and torn trousers. What did they do to his Jeongguk, Jimin’s eyes stung with rage at the thought. “How dare you go against the throne? You think time can let you get away with treason?”

“Well, yes.” Namjoon stated plainly, Yoongi walking up behind him. He had his bowed, but Jimin could swear he saw sympathy swept over his features as he stared at Jeongguk lying about helplessly on his floor. “You see, you might be the heir to the throne back there, but here you’re nothing.”

“I am Park Jimin,” Jimin roared. “I am your King!”

“Nope,” Namjoon said with a pop sound. He seemed amused, and it only angered Jimin to new extremes. “You’re not my King, and you never were.” His expression shifted then, amusement changing to outrage as his gaze sharpened and pierced through Jimin. “You lost that right when you killed my family.”

♛

Year 1313.

Jimin was up on Black Swan, his six year old black horse with a blindingly shiny fur coat, his dearest pet who Jimin only ever brought along on the greatest battles he faced. And a battle against Qin was the greatest out of all.

Jimin’s body was adorned in his iron armor from head to toe, his sword in hand which was a family heirloom - the sharpest blade in all of Goryeo with a leather hilt a wolf head carved at its pommel. It was Jimin’s greatest pride, to wield that sword as his own, a trademark of his rightful heritage to the throne. The battle was fierce, the several cuts all over Jimin’s body providing evidence, but Jimin had emerged as the conqueror with his army, his horse, and his sword.

The field before him was littered with dead bodies and soils, and Jimin had to swallow down the lump of regret in his throat. 

Winning battles was always such torture, survival was essential and so was killing. Jimin still remembers the first time he killed. It was out of self-defense, an unexpected brawl, almost cost Jimin his life, and he had still cried himself to sleep for the entirety of the following month. Jimin had come far from that child now at the age of eighteen, but the element of regret after battles and killings never quite disappeared as his father said it would.

“Check for survivors,” Jimin instructed the warriors, silently praying to the Gods above to not let any of the enemies survive because the survivors always faced the worst of brutalities by the hands of his warriors. His heart sank when he was called to decide the fate of the survivors.

“It’s a tribe of witches,” the warrior spoke up as he shoved one of the women to the ground. “What shall we do with them?”

“Women and children are not to be harmed,” Jimin declared. Please, he internally begged, don’t make him hurt them.

“They’re not ordinary women and children, my prince!” The guard said, an uproar of approval fell behind him as the rest of Jimin’s surviving army saw the tribe. “If we let them go, they will plot against the throne! We can not trust these abominations.”

“Please,” the women begged for their lives, kneeling before Jimin’s horse as they wailed. Jimin felt no different than her. “Please, spare our children! Kill us but let our children serve you! They have done nothing wrong--”

“Be quiet!” The guard kicked another woman to the ground. Jimin squeezed his eyes shut at the motion. He could not display sympathy for the enemy. He could not look away. He was once again being tested by his army, whether the illusory prince deserved their trust or their betrayal. Jimin was trapped.

“Where is Seokjin?” Jimin asked after a moment of witnessing the women being treated barbarically by the warriors. “I will discuss this matter with him and declare my decision. Until then, if I see anyone so much as touch these women I will not overlook it.”

“My prince--”

“Am I clear?” Jimin roared out, the warriors cowering under his tone. “Wait for my decision.”

“There is nothing to consider here, your highness.” Seokjin said resignedly. He was as troubled as Jimin, as tired as him, as frustrated by their situation as Jimin, but even he knew what needed to be done. The kingdom of Goryeo was open to anything except witchcraft. The women were doomed the minute the warriors caught them. “They’re people of dark arts. We cannot spare them.”

“They’re women,” Jimin laughed bitterly. “And children! How do you expect me to make that decision?”

“It is a royal’s burden,” Seokjin smiled sadly, because it truly was. Jimin’s life was considered as easy and privileged, but in reality he was the one carrying the real burdens of their kingdom. He carried the blood of people’s lives, he carried the image of the castle, he carried the burden of their ruthless and inhumane decisions. “You make the decisions a common man doesn’t have the courage to make.”

Jimin’s fist clenched as he gritted his teeth and breathed out shakily. Once again he was put in a position where he had to decide between his own values and what his people needed. Once again Jimin was being asked to give up his conscience for his people’s trust. Once again, Jimin was to pluck off a huge part of his heart and feed it to the wolves.

He wiped away the tears that were pooling around his eyes. He clutched his sword and stood up.

“Execute the women and spare the children,” he said as he exited his tent, hand gripping his sword in a deathly hold. “Let this set an example for the children… they shall stay loyal to the throne or else meet the same fate as their mothers.”

♛

Year 2020.

“That was…” Jimin said with a gasp. He had expected consequences of his actions, no one ever got away with innocent blood on their hands, but never had he expected to face them so brutally. “Your family?”

“My mother,” Yoongi hissed from behind Namjoon. “My sisters!”

“But you-- You were not there! You came as a representative from the North…”

“War broke while we were travelling,” Namjoon spoke up. “And when we came back…”

“Our families were dead and our children were your slaves,” Yoongi added. “Barbaric!”

Jimin’s head was spinning. This couldn’t be happening. This was just a terrible dream.

“No,” Jimin shook his head. “They were the enemy, they were dangerous-- I had to please my people!”

“You killed them in cold blood,” Namjoon snapped. “You burned their bodies out of fear of resurrection! You slaved our children as to oppress my kind! You did not even spare my paralyzed mother, you sick fuck!”

Thunder rumbled in the sky, the house’s lights flickering at Namjoon’s rage. Jimin’s world was crashing down as his knees buckled beneath him. A decision he made at the age of 18 caused so much hurt, so much pain to someone, and now Jimin was paying for it. And so was Jeongguk. Jimin’s heart broke inside his chest, the broken shards pushing at his ribs as his throat began closing up. Jeongguk, his mind screamed over and over again, not him.

“Do what you will with me,” Jimin managed to speak up. “But-- let him go. For God’s sake, let him go. He doesn’t deserve this!”

“Kill you?” Namjoon barked out a laugh. His platinum blonde hair stuck in all directions as he doubled over in laughter. Jimin could see him bordering lunacy, and it was all his fault. “You think I’d be that merciful? You’re rather optimistic, your highness.”

Dread sank right into Jimin’s bones in gallons.

“You love him, don’t you?” And now it was Yoongi who was speaking, raising his hand before snapping his fingers. In a second, Jimin was pinned to the wall behind him, limbs caught in invisible shackles as the will to fight evaporated from his body. “Jeon Jeongguk. You have fallen for him and only him in your entire life, haven’t you?”

Jimin remained silent. But the way his gaze fell over Jeongguk’s unconscious body was evidence enough.

“Good,” Yoongi hissed, then momentarily turning to Namjoon as he spoke further. “Our dear naive prince was willing to set up a deal. Frequent visits to his lover. Wanted the best of both worlds, didn’t you, Park?”

Jimin almost sobbed at himself. How could he have been so naive? How could he let his walls down for Jeongguk and endanger his life along with his own? Fantasies were just that, fantasies. There was no such thing as happily ever after, no such thing as finding your one true love, no such thing as the universe aligning for them. Jimin had been so, so stupid.

“Well, I’m glad,” Namjoon smiled sweetly. “Only makes our revenge all the more fruitful.”

“Please,” Jimin begged, voice cracking with despair. “He did not do anything to deserve this!”

“Neither did my family!” Yoongi screamed. “Eye for an eye, Park. You made your choice, and now we will make ours.”

And then Jimin fell to the ground as the restraints were pulled away by Yoongi. Jimin heard a crack in his knee, was sure that it was broken, but no pain could compare to the one he was feeling for Jeongguk.

“Say your goodbyes, Park,” Namjoon scowled. “We’re better than you in that domain.”

“Spare him,” Jimin limped towards Jeongguk’s body, finally kneeling beside him as he pulled his limp figure into a firm hug. Jeongguk stirred for a moment, seeming to regain consciousness and Jimin’s entire body went numb when their eyes met. “Please, please! Take everyone. Take everything. Just spare him!”

“We could’ve done that on our own,” Namjoon said, crouching before Jimin who clutched Jeongguk’s body to his chest for dear life. “But the real revenge is attacking where it hurts the most,” he continued, index finger poking furiously towards his chest. “Hurts like hell, doesn’t it?”

Jimin could only sob in reply. He had spent his entire life in solitude. Only ever got the chance to befriend one man, and that too only in secret. He had planned this expedition for the sake of his people. He had risked everything for his people. And now, he had to risk the love of his life because of his people.

Never had Jimin set any high expectations of finding someone who truly touched his heart. Never had he set any beliefs that he could experience true love. But the universe proved him wrong. Jimin fell in love, Jimin was loved, Jimin had spent 14 months in a world that wasn’t his and felt happier than he ever did in his entire life. Jimin was given everything one could get in a lifetime, only to have it snatched away in a matter of days, leaving him barren and broken. The universe was cruel, but Jimin couldn’t shake away the fact that it was only repaying Jimin’s cruelty.

Jeongguk was now fully conscious in Jimin’s arms, but there was no energy in him. Blood was trickling down his temple, hair matted with dried blood as his gaze fell over Jimin’s face. He couldn’t even move his mouth to speak, could only splutter incoherently as Jimin’s teary eyes stared into his barely alive ones. Perhaps the universe was a bit more cruel than Jimin.

“I’m sorry, my love.” Jimin was crying, was hiccuping as snot covered his philtrum and his arms shook violently around Jeongguk’s body. “I’m so sorry.”

When Jeongguk’s heart stopped, Jimin felt it shut down against his own chest. He cried in mourning, screaming out Jeongguk’s name as the world darkened around him and inside him. Jeongguk’s eyes were left open, aimlessly staring about in space as the last breath exited his lungs. Jimin clutched him harder into his chest, screaming and crying to no avail, looking around him and finding the house void of anyone else’s existence. It was just him with Jeongguk’s soulless body. Just him with the one person who he ever loved. Just Jimin with Jeongguk who he only got to be with for mere months, and who’s memories Jimin will live for the rest of his life.

♛

Year 1320.

Jimin doesn’t remember how long he cried into Jeongguk’s body, but when he opened his eyes, he was sat at the very field he had laid on with Taehyung before he left Goryeo. He was manic in his wailing of Jungkook’s name, and Taeyung was holding onto him desperately as to calm him down. Jimin doesn’t remember how much longer he cried and cursed at the field, struggling under Taehyung’s deathly hold, but when he woke up again, he was in his own room in the castle.

His only wish was for it all to be just a cruel dream.

♛

Year 2020.

“Is he back home?” Namjoon asked as Yoongi entered his apartment, an oblivious Hoseok asleep with his head over Namjoon’s lap.

“He is,” Yoongi replied. “We’re following with the plan?”

“Yes,” Namjoon nodded, softly patting Hoseok’s hair as the latter hummed in his sleep. “Start his heart again and erase his memories. Someone like Park Jimin isn’t worth losing a precious life over.”

“How are we going to face Jeongguk after… after what we did to him?” Yoongi asked as he exhaled a shaky breath. “He won’t remember, but we will. How can we just-- pretend?”

“Yoongi-ah,” Namjoon smiled gently, a flash of sorrow overcoming his features for a split-second before it disappeared as though it never existed. “I told you. Vengeance has its drawbacks.”

“I can’t face him again,” Yoongi said as a tear rolled down his face. “Jimin wasn’t the only one who fell so deeply. Jeongguk fell just as much.”

“You suggested that I use him as a pawn,” Namjoon raised an eyebrow.

“Their stars aligned, Namjoon. They’re--”

“Soultwins. I’m well aware,” Namjoon sighed exasperatedly. “But what’s done is done. Park Jimin will live to become Goryeo’s mad king after he loses every shred of sanity, and Jeon Jeongguk will continue his life as the most successful CEO of South Korea. That was the plan, and we will stick with it.”

“Joon… He didn’t deserve this…”

“I know,” Namjoon replied evenly.

“They’ll meet again, you know. In another lifetime. They’re destined to be together.”

“I know,” Namjoon repeated. “Use it as consolation, my dear brother. Now leave, I don’t want to wake Hoseok up.”

Yoongi left without another word, entering his house with the next step as he teleported his body to the other corner of Seoul with a snap of his fingers. The house was a mess. Broken glass littered the floor, a hole in his wall, the broken lights, and Jeongguk’s lifeless body in the middle of the living room. Yoongi made sure to bore the image before him into his mind, a lifelong reminder of what revenge really looks like. He waved his palm over the room, and everything was back to normal. The glass was swept away, the hole in the wall filling back in, the frames hung over it, the light bulbs gleaming with light again, and Jeongguk’s alive body sat before Yoongi.

“Hey, hyung,” Jeongguk smiled from the kitchen table, looking up from his phone. His smile did not reach his eyes. And Yoongi knew it never will again. Jeongguk might not remember Park Jimin, but the scar on his soul from losing him was not going to vanish with his memories.

“Hey, Jeongguk. What do you want for dinner?”

“The usual stew, please. I’m starving.”

And when months later Jeongguk decided to finally get married, Yoongi only smiled to mask away his guilt and nodded along. They got married in Australia, a grand ceremony that made it on every big news channel and doubled the sales of Jeon and Min Corps international franchises permanently. 

Seven years down the road of a loveless contract marriage and when the company had reached their very peak of success, Jeon Jeongguk was found dead in his bedroom one morning. The coroner’s report dictated a broken heart as the cause of death.

♛

Year 1325.

Jimin was walking down the main palace, the crown heavy on his head and his throne looking as prickly as ever. There were cheers of his name, but anyone with ears could hear the force of formality in them. He had inherited the throne, but every dream of being the greatest King of all time had evaporated with his sanity. Jimin was hated by the very people he gave up everything for. The thought made him laugh out bitterly.

“Your highness,” the head of Jimin’s council addressed him. “Another state in the North was annexed. Your army is now marching to the East. The council advises you to call them back as the rulers in the East have already offered to set a truce with the throne. It will be in the kingdom’s best interest--”

“The East will burn,” Jimin stated. “So will the West. And then the South. Their truce means nothing to me, neither does your advice. The people want battle, and the people shall get battle!”

“My King, the people want peace--”

“Nonsense!” Jimin laughed away menacingly. “Bloodshed, killings, no mercy. That was what the people expected from me. Sit back, my Lord, and let me show you the true face of the King in me which you have always desired.”

Jimin was no longer the humble prince he once was. There was no shred of sympathy left in him, no element of rationality. When his father begged him to return to his old self on his deathbed, Jimin had only laughed off the request. There was no going back to that side of him after what he went through. 

“You went against your word,” Taehyung had said a year after Jimin had returned. “A prince never goes against his word.”

“What are you saying?” Jimin barked out. He was no longer Taehyung’s soulmate who only ever spoke to him with tenderness. He was an animal now.

“You promised to come back, Jimin,” Taehyung spoke up, voice trembling before Jimin’s wrath. Never had either man imagined a time like this. “Where is my friend? What have you done with him?!”

“He’s gone,” Jimin said. “And so should you.”

Taehyung and Seokjin eloped the kingdom after that. Jimin didn’t even get to say his goodbyes.

The real Jimin died with Jeongguk. Jeongguk, the man Jimin had loved so dearly and so selflessly. Jeongguk, the man Jimin had dreamt of a future with. Jeongguk, who was killed in cold blood because of a decision Jimin made under the pressure of his people. His beloved Jeongguk.

Nothing got under Jimin’s skin ever since except for the desire to destroy, destroy, destroy. He had pushed away every opportunity of peace, had willingly sent his troops to kill and then kill again. Spilling blood was his favorite past time now, beheading anyone who crossed his path was what he was now known for. Park Jimin, the mad king who flooded every kingdom in Goryeo with blood. Park Jimin, who went down in history as the most ruthless king Goryeo had ever faced and ever will.

Park Jimin, the man responsible for the death of a million lives and of the one and only Jeon Jeongguk, and whose own death remained one of the biggest mysteries of the 14th century. His legacy was one of a heartbroken King, gone mad in the memory of his beloved Jeongguk.

♛

Year 2720.

Jeongguk was on his hoverboard, wearing a sleeveless jersey and dark grey sweatpants as he roamed the streets of Seoul. He had just turned 23 the day before, caught in a slight hangover after an entire night worth of drinking his heart out with Namjoon and Hoseok, the only two best friends Jeongguk ever needed in his life. He was the average college student belonging to a middle-class family with an older brother and parents who he loved dearly. He was normal.

The sky was an eerie shade of pink as the sun began to set, a dark shadow falling over the streets as the sudden cold breeze hit Jeongguk’s exposed arms. Jeongguk distinctly thought if the 28th century was finally about to face the day of resurrection he had heard his ancestors speaking of in history journals. Jeongguk snickered to himself at the thought. So-called day of resurrection his ass.

He was just about to cross the street as the streetlight turned red when a presumably drunk driver sped through the road. Jeongguk was standing in the middle of the zebra crossing on his hoverboard as the hovering car charged towards him. This was the drawback of technology, he thought as he closed his eyes and prepared himself for the hit, one could never act quick on these damned things. There was no time to hop off his hoverboard, neither was their time to speed it away. Jeongguk was going to collide with the car.

He closed his eyes. This was it. Jeongguk was going to die a day after he turned twenty three. “Great going, universe.” Jeongguk whispered to himself as he heard the car near him.

But the hit never occurred. At least not the car hit.

Jeongguk collided with another body as he went flying off his hoverboard and hit the cemented sidewalk, a not this time hitting his ears, another body falling over him as though it was a shield. A sharp spike of pain went down Jeongguk’s arm, and he was convinced his arm sprained badly due to the fall. The additional weight on top of him only added to the pain.

“Jeongguk!” The body yelled as a face of probably the most gorgeous boy Jeongguk had ever seen appeared before him, hair a bright shade of silver and eyes lined with dark grey eyeshadow, lips a soft shade of red. Jeongguk had never seen a man so beautiful, the boy leaving him stunned more than the fact that he just escaped a gruesome accident.

“Jimin?” he whispered before he could register what he was saying. The stranger blinked back at him as his body continued to remain draped over Jeongguk like a protective shield. Jeongguk had never met the man before in his life, and yet he knew his name. Had already the sense of familiarity sinking in his gut. The stranger knew his name as well. Perhaps they did meet before.

“Have we met before?” The stranger - Jimin - asked after a moment, only then realizing their position and hastily pushing himself off of Jeongguk. He stood up in one swift motion and towered over Jeongguk, pushing his hand forward to assist Jeongguk.

Jeongguk took the hand and got pulled onto his feet, ignoring the pain in his arm altogether as his eyes bore into Jimin’s.

“No,” Jeongguk replied, genuinely confused as to why he said what he said next. “Perhaps in a previous lifetime. Nice to meet you, Jimin.”

Jimin’s expression reflected Jeongguk’s perplexed one. “Likewise, Jeongguk.”