Forewords

Title: I'm Only Your Servant
Author: KadriahPadfoot (co-written with SweetSacrificeV)
Rating: PG-13 (Maybe some R later on)
Warnings: This is a boyxboy love story. Don't like, don't read.
Summary: Yunho is a prince of a far off land and for his twenty-first birthday gets an able bodied slave named Jaejoong. The two begin to fall in love but there are two small problems, Count Avaelian's son is after Jaejoong and Yunho is already engaged to the cruel Princess Violette Cordawn.
Will they be able to be together? Read to find out.

Chapter 1

A new servant?

The king sat on his throne as he looked over different documents of his country, just then a servant came in a said to the king,

"Sire, the gift you wanted for the prince has arrived."

"Good bring my son to me."
The servant nodded quickly and took off to find the prince. Yunho came in soon enough to his father's throne room,

"You summoned me father?" the newly 21-year-old asked.

"Yes I did, I have a gift for you." the king said as he motioned for the gift to be brought in, two guards came in with a black-haired boy, his hands tied in front of him, they threw the boy down at the prince's feet, the boy fell to the floor, maintaining the one shred of dignity he still had by remaining silent.

"A new servant?" Yunho asked his father. The king only nodded,

"I thought you would like one that was young and able." Yunho just sent a glare at his father,

"Yes, but I don't want them to be treated that cruelly. I accept your gift father, but at least be kinder." Yunho said as he helped the boy off the floor and untied his hands.

The black-haired boy just kept his eyes on the floor and didn't comment when he was untied - he'd found that silence was often the best path.

Yunho took the boy's arm in his hand and started leading the boy to his chambers, "What's your name?" Yunho asked him.

"...Jaejoong." He hesitated before answering him in an undertone.

"Nice name." Yunho said as he opened the door to his room. The Prince's chambers were extravagant, Yunho lead Jaejoong over to a smaller room which had a bed, a sink, and a place to put his clothes. It was small but compared to a peasant the servant's quarters were huge.

"This is where you will be staying."
Jaejoong just remained silent as he looked over the room.

"You don't say much do you?" Yunho asked.

Jaejoong shook his head slightly, causing some of his smooth hair to fall in his face.

"Well I wanted to apologize for my father's cruelty, I keep telling him he shouldn't treat his servants like that but he never listens to me."

Jaejoong nodded as a way to answer him.

"Alright, well I'll start you on your duties tomorrow morning, for now you may rest." Yunho said walking towards the door.

Jaejoong nodded again but remained completely silent, taking a hesitant step into the room.

Yunho left Jaejoong in his room and went into his own, he laid down on his bed and put his hands behind his head.
Once Jaejoong had shut the door quietly, he didn't even bother with the bed and just laid down on the floor to sleep.

The next morning, Yunho woke up and got dressed, he walked over to where Jaejoong's room was and opened the door, he saw the boy sleeping on the floor, Yunho just raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything that is until he woke the boy up with a very loud, "JAEJOONG WAKE UP!!"

Jaejoong was startled awake and was on his feet in a moment.
"Good, you're awake, it's time to start the day!" Yunho said happily as he threw a bag of clothes at Jaejoong's feet,

"Could you have those clothes washed?" Jaejoong nodded and proceeded to do as he asked.

"Thanks, Jae!" Yunho said as he ran off to do some stuff.
Jaejoong shook his head at the nickname and continued on his way.

Yunho came back to his room a bit later with a set of clothes in his hands,they were a gift for Jaejoong, he set them on the boy's bed and walked back into his room. He sat at his desk and began writing a letter to one of his friends in one of the outer regions of the country.

Jaejoong came back a while later from taking care of the laundry.

Yunho was still at his desk writing like crazy.

Jaejoong noticed the pile of clothes on the bed, but he was unsure of their purpose so he left well-enough alone.

"Jaejoong." Yunho summoned him to his side.

Jaejoong walked over, looking at the floor so he wouldn't have to make eye contact.

"Those clothes I left on your bed, those are for you. My father has summoned me, and I would like you to come along."
Jaejoong nodded.

"Go change and be back here in five minutes." Yunho said, getting up.

Jaejoong nodded again and went to do as he said.
Yunho got dressed as well, except in something a little more formal than what he was wearing and waited for Jaejoong.

Jaejoong finished changing and went back out into the other room.

Yunho was waiting for Jaejoong and when the other boy came out, Yunho started towards the throne room with Jaejoong following obediently.

They walked in and the King was sitting on his throne at the other end of the room. Yunho went and bowed to his father before standing up straight, "You needed to talk to me about something father?"

Jaejoong remained silent, looking at the floor.
"Yes, I did. I wanted to tell you that there is going to be a ball in your honor. Also telling of your engagement to Princess Violette."

"WHAT?! I TOLD YOU I WOULD NEVER MARRY HER!!"

Jaejoong nearly flinched at the sudden volume his voice took on.

"Yunho, we need this alliance, if you don't marry her, it could start a war!" The King said.

Jaejoong began seriously listening at the word 'war'.

"Father! I beg you! Violette is cruel, malicious, she is a horrible person!" Yunho ranted, but the king's mind wasn't changed.

"I'm sorry Yunho, you have no choice." Yunho huffed and started to storm out of the throne room.

Jaejoong followed as he was expected to do.

Yunho burst into his room and sat on his bed with his head in his hands. "Sometimes I hate being Prince." he said.

Jaejoong just nodded silently - realizing he hadn't spoken but one word in the time he'd been here.

"When I was younger," he smiled at the memory, "I used to read books that had a prince fall in love and get married. That's what I always wanted, to marry for love, not an arranged marriage."

Jaejoong remained quiet.

"You're lucky, Jae. You'll get to marry for love and have a wonderful life." Yunho said.

"If I marry at all." The soft words were the first to leave Jaejoong's mouth besides his name. Realizing his slip of tongue, he quickly added, "Master."

"You don't need to call me master. Yunho is fine." he said before his words finally set in, "You spoke."

Jaejoong nodded, retreating back into his silence again.
"And back to silence in an instant." Yunho said smiling slightly.

A half smile quirked at the corners of Jaejoong's lips. "If you wish me to speak, you need only ask."

Yunho smiled, "Alright. I will from now on."

Jaejoong almost smiled. He really was a kind man - unlike many of the others he'd seen before.

Yunho scootched over and patted the spot next to him, indicating that Jaejoong should take a seat.

Jaejoong walked over and sat, surprised at the gesture.

"So tell me something about yourself, Jae." Yunho said.

"There is nothing of interest to tell," Jaejoong said.
Though he now spoke freely, he still refused to make eye contact.

"I wasn't looking for interest, I was looking for the real you."

Jaejoong shrugged. "I grew up in a small village along the coast. Our family was large, but we always managed to get by. One day the town was raided by slave traders. Only the able bodied were spared - the rest were killed."

"My God, no one ever came to my father about it."

"That is because anyone who knew what happened was either dead or enslaved." Jaejoong swallowed past the lump in his throat, remembering how he'd been held back by the slave traders as they forced him to watch his little sister being killed.

"Jae, I swear that I'll find who did this."

Jaejoong shook his head. "You need not."

"Alright. But I have a question, how many people have you been sold to?"

Jaejoong did a few mental calculations. "Nine, now. The first eight got rid of me. I tend to start acting out after the first week."

"Well I don't want to get rid of you. This will be your last place, I promise."

"You may change your mind."

"I doubt it, my last servant served me for 18 years."

"I'm going to give you more trouble then your other servant."

Yunho looked at him skeptically.

Jaejoong chuckled slightly, the first emotion he'd really shown since arriving.

Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong rested his chin on his hand, deep in thought.

"Whatchya thinkin about?"

"Nothing," Jaejoong said.

"That is a load of crap." Yunho said.

"Thoughts can be unpleasant, as mine are now."

"I know how that goes."

Jaejoong shrugged. The subject was chasing him back into his comforting silence.

Yunho looked out his window and noticed the sun was going down. "We better get to bed, it's almost dark." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded and got up to go into the other room.
Before Jaejoong left, Yunho shed his shirt and stretched slightly.

Jaejoong's steps faltered slightly as he witnessed the spectacle out of the corner of his eye.

Yunho didn't notice and he just climbed into his bed and began to fall asleep.

Jaejoong paused a moment in the doorway and took a look back at a peaceful face of his sleeping master. He shook his head to clear the unfamiliar thoughts in his mind as he saw Yunho's face, and chalked it up to anxiety as he shut the door behind him and fell asleep on the floor as he had the first night.

Chapter 3

The Thunderstorm

Yunho woke up the next day as the sun shined on his eyes, he sat up and rubbed the sand from his eyes and saw that Jaejoong was already up, cleaning this and that.

"Good morning," Jaejoong said quietly, swiping some errant hairs out of his face.

"Morning." Yunho slightly slurred from his sleepiness.

"Breakfast is being served in a half hour."

"Alright, thank you." The young Prince said as he got up and went over to his wardrobe.

"I'll have one of the other servants bring you some food," Yunho said while getting dressed, "My room needs to be cleaned, my armor needs to be polished and my boots need to be shined."

Jaejoong inwardly groaned, but he nodded and set to work.

When Yunho finished getting dressed he walked out of the room and down the hall.

Three hours later, Jaejoong had finished with all the work he'd been assigned. His fingers were raw from scrubbing and on his bed, a plate of food was set and waiting for him. He ate the food gratefully and sat down to relax for a few minutes since he'd fulfilled all his obligations.

A little while later, Yunho came back and started taking off his armor. Yunho got almost everything off by himself except for his back plate, "Jaejoong, would you help me please?" Yunho called.

Jaejoong came out of the other room and started helping him get it off.

"Thank you." Yunho said as Jaejoong got it off of him, revealing his toned body underneath.

Jaejoong turned is eyes to the floor again to avoid staring at his master and just nodded.

"You finished everything?" The Prince asked.

Jaejoong nodded.

"Well done." Yunho said, looking around his room. He was tired of wearing his under armor so he went and got into some more casual clothing.

Jaejoong stood in a corner with his eyes to the floor to give his master some sense of privacy; he looked up only when Yunho said, "Up for going for a ride? I need to take my horse out."

Jaejoong only nodded in answer.

Yunho put his boots on and strapped his sword to his hip; he walked out of his room and started down to the riding arena.

Jaejoong followed him down.

The Prince walked into the stables and untied his black stallion, Nightrunner. Yunho patted the stallion’s neck and smiled.

Jaejoong stayed behind him.

Yunho jumped onto Nightrunner bareback and started riding.

Jaejoong ran behind, assuming that was what he was expected to do.

Yunho slowed his horse and looked back at his servant, "Grab a horse, you’ll tire yourself out too quickly."

Jaejoong hesitated before nodding and going to mount a horse.

Yunho continued to ride Nightrunner.

Once Jaejoong had gotten on the horse, he rode over to just behind Yunho.

Yunho slowed his horse so he was riding next to Jaejoong, "Riding horses is my favorite past time."

Jaejoong nodded.

"Do you ever get to do anything fun?"

Jaejoong shook his head.

"I think we're going to have to change that. Race you to the woods?"

Jaejoong shrugged, deciding to let the other win.

"Alright, but you have to actually try." Yunho said smiling.

Jaejoong just shrugged again and resisted the urge to chuckle.

"Alright, on your marks, get set, GO!" Yunho and Nightrunner took off towards the forest.

Jaejoong raced after him at a bit slower of a speed than Yunho was going.

"I know you can go faster than that!" Yunho yelled behind him.

Jaejoong spurred the horse to go faster, but not much.

"Come on Jae! At least try!" The prince yelled.

Jaejoong sighed and spurred the horse on a bit more, though still not at full speed.

"I hoped I wouldn't have to do this. I order you to race as fast as you can."

Jaejoong gritted his teeth and spurred the horse on to its full speed.

Yunho spurred Nightrunner to full speed and they were neck in neck.

Jaejoong decided to actually try, and made his horse fall back a little to fake out Yunho.

Yunho caught what he was doing and sped up.

Jaejoong spurred the horse faster again, seeing he'd been thwarted.

Yunho grinned and laughed and kept going, he reached the forest with Jaejoong only a beat behind him.

Jaejoong brought his horse to a stop.
"I win." Yunho said smiling.
Jaejoong nodded, confirming that yes, he did indeed win.
Yunho looked up into the sky, "It's going to rain, we should probably get inside."
Jaejoong turned frightened eyes up to the darkened clouds above them. "You don't think there's going to be a thunderstorm, do you?" he asked in a small voice.

"I don't know, but we better get inside before we find out." Yunho said reining his horse to the castle.
Jaejoong anxiously spurred his horse after Yunho.
Yunho got off his horse and left one of the stable hands to take care of it, he wait for Jaejoong to return as well.

Jaejoong did the same and quickly walked back over to Yunho.
"Let's go." Yunho took off at a run as the rain started drizzling.

Jaejoong ran after him.

Yunho made it to his room and shook the rain from his hair.

Jaejoong followed him inside, fretfully glancing behind him as if the storm would follow him in.

Yunho looked out the window and it started to downpour. He was just about to say something to Jaejoong when a thunderbolt crashed.

Jaejoong yelped quietly, covering his ears and closing his eyes. He opened his eyes again when all he could see behind his eyelids was the scene from that dreaded day he was captured.

"Jaejoong?" Yunho asked his servant with a worried look in his eye.

Jaejoong shook his head and started to flee to the room he'd been given. He could face the possible consequences later.

Yunho went and caught Jaejoong around the waist, "Jaejoong, it's alright." Yunho said trying to calm him down.

Jaejoong shook his mutely, trying to peel Yunho's arms off of him as he flinched every time thunder struck.

"Jaejoong, stop, nothing will hurt you, I promise." Yunho said as he folded his arms around the smaller man.

"Let go," Jaejoong whispered, trying to pull himself away from Yunho.

"No." Yunho said.

"Please," Jaejoong insisted in a gasp as gory images flashed before his eyes.

"Jaejoong-" Yunho said.

A huge crash of thunder shook the room, and Jaejoong yelped, fisting his fingers in Yunho's shirt and hiding his face against his chest, trying to escape the images flooding his mind.

Yunho folded his arms tighter over Jaejoong and he picked up the smaller boy and carried him into the servants quarters he sat down with his servant next to him, still trying to escape the thunder.

Jaejoong held onto Yunho tightly, clenching his eyes shut against his waking nightmares.

Yunho started singing in a low voice, trying to calm his servant down.

Jaejoong gradually settled down and began extricating himself from Yunho's arms.

The storm gradually died down and when it had stopped completely, Yunho let go of Jaejoong and walked into his own room.

Jaejoong stayed in the servant's quarters, groaning at his idiocy for showing weakness in front of the younger boy.

Jaejoong's weakness didn't faze Yunho at all he just went and changed into his nightclothes and laid down in his bed.

Jaejoong sighed and went over, laying down in the bed he'd been given for the first time since arriving.

Yunho soon fell asleep.

Jaejoong drifted off eventually as well.

Chapter 4

The Ball

Jaejoong got up early in the morning, still restless from the previous day's storm.

Yunho was still asleep. There was a note on his bed from a servant to Jaejoong, telling Jae that he would have to work at the ball that evening and help Yunho get ready.

Jaejoong saw and read the note, nodding to himself as he did.

Yunho groaned and rolled over onto his back, his hands going above his head to show from his waist up.

Jaejoong came out the servant's quarters just as he was doing this, and quickly turned his eyes away.

Yunho snored lightly.

Jaejoong walked over and shook his shoulder gently. "You have to wake up."

Yunho eyes fluttered open slightly, "Ugh, I hate mornings."
Jaejoong resisted the urge to chuckle.

Yunho rubbed his eyes and sat up, the blanket pooled around his waist.

"The ball is today," Jaejoong informed his quietly.
Yunho groaned.

'My thoughts exactly,' Jaejoong thought.

Yunho sighed and got up out of his bed, he got dressed in casual clothing for right now, he would change into something formal later.

Jaejoong moved to fix the covers on the bed.

A servant came up to Yunho's room, "Sire, His Highness King Adrian and his daughter Princess Violette have arrived." he said, Yunho groaned louder.

Jaejoong raised an eyebrow at the open display of dismay.

"I will be down in a minute." the Prince said as the Servant bowed and left the room.

Jaejoong went off in search of something a bit more formal than what he was currently wearing.

Yunho finished getting dressed and then started downstairs to the Throne room where King Adrian and Princess Violette would be waiting.

Princess Violette was waiting impatiently. "Father-" she began under her breath, but she was cut off.

"No, Violette. It's for the good of the country. I don't want to hear another word on the subject," King Adrian hissed with a slight scowl.

Yunho came down the steps and walked into the throne room he bowed once he reached the King and Princess, "Your Highnesses, please forgive my tardiness." Yunho said formally.

Violette looked over at the holder of the voice, her mouth fell open slightly. "It is fine," King Adrian said. "Close your mouth, it's unbecoming," he added in an undertone to Violette. She shook her head a bit and shut her mouth.

"Thank you Your Highness." Yunho said. He then turned to Violette, "My Lady," he bowed, "it is a pleasure to meet you at last."

"The pleasure is mine, my Lord," Violette said, curtsying deeply.

Yunho offered his arm, albeit unhappily, and said, "If you will please follow me, I will show you to your quarters."
Violette nodded and took his arm.

Yunho lead her up the stairs and down the hallway, he opened one of the doors and allowed Violette to enter. "Here is your room, My Lady."

"Many thanks, My Lord," Violette said with a curtsy.
Yunho nodded and then turned to King Adrian, "My Lord, your room is right next door to your daughter's."

King Adrian nodded. "Thank you, Prince Yunho."

"My pleasure." Yunho bowed and left the King.

When he was out of sight, Adrian turned to his daughter, who was about to escape inside her room. "Do be polite," the king told her. Violette nodded and shut the door on Adrian's sigh.

Yunho ran back to his room and shut the door quickly.
Jaejoong had found something nicer to wear for the ball since he'd be helping.

Yunho slid down to the floor.

"Is something troubling you?" Jaejoong asked him quietly.
"The Princess, I don't want to marry her and she doesn't want to marry me. Our fathers are forcing us."

"Ah." It seemed as if Jaejoong conveyed numerous emotions in the one syllable.

Yunho sighed.

"There is still an hour before the ball," Jaejoong reminded him.

"Yeah and it will take me that long to get ready, my formal wear sucks."

Jaejoong nodded. "Thus is the life of royalty."

"Ugh."

"Perhaps you should get dressed so you are not late," Jaejoong suggested.

"Probably be a good idea." Yunho said as he started to put on different clothes.

Jaejoong turned away to give him some privacy.

Yunho switched into some more formal clothes and then he put his crown on his head.

Jaejoong stood from where he'd been sitting on the floor.

"How do I look?" Yunho asked.

"Fit to face the night," Jaejoong replied.

Yunho nodded.

Jaejoong heard the chimes toll the hour. "It's time," he said.

Yunho sighed, "Alright, let's go." Yunho walked out of the door and down to the ballroom.

"I have other work to do tonight," Jaejoong informed him as they walked.

"I knew that already, but your main job is to attend me. Don't forget that."

Jaejoong nodded. "I know."

Yunho smiled and the doors to the ballroom were opened, a servant announced, "Prince Yunho of Seoul." Yunho walked in and everyone beneath him bowed.

Jaejoong walked behind him meekly, keeping his eyes averted.

Yunho walked into the ballroom and stood in front of his throne next to his father, "Let the festivities begin." the King announced. The music began to play and the servant began serving food and drink.

Jaejoong went back to the kitchens to receive his assignment.

The head cook gave him a tray of drinks, "Serve the nobles." he said.

Jaejoong nodded and a carried the tray back to the table at which Yunho and the rest of the royalty were sitting.

Yunho took a drink, "Thank you, Jaejoong."

Jaejoong nodded his head and moved on to the next person.

Yunho started looking around and saw a young girl sitting by herself against the wall with her knees up to her chest. He continued looking around and he saw a group of three girls pointing and laughing at the girl who was by herself. Yunho had an idea on how to fix this.

Jaejoong finished coming around the table and was once again beside Yunho.

"Jaejoong, you see that girl over in the corner all by herself?"Yunho asked.

Jaejoong looked around for a moment, then nodded.
"Bring her to me." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded and went over to the girl. When he reached her, she looked up at him. "Prince Yunho wishes to speak with you," he told the girl. With a startled and confused look she got up and walked over to him. "Yes, My Lord?" she asked.

"What is your name?" Yunho asked.

"Kyrene, My Liege," she said, without meeting his eyes.

"Pretty name, now tell me something. What were those girls saying about you?"

"Oh." She looked down at her feet at if they were the most interesting thing in the world. "They were talking about how no one wanted to dance with me because I'm half commoner," she said quietly.

"Were they now?" Yunho asked. He stood up, bowed and offered his hand to the girl, "May I have this dance, my Lady?" he asked.

"Um, yes, of course, my Prince," Kyrene said, taking his hand, shocked at the gesture.

Yunho lead her to the dance floor by her hand, placed a hand on her hip and began to dance with her.
Kyrene, still kind of stunned, danced with him, smiling brightly.

The three girls that were making fun of Kyrene now were standing there stunned as she danced with the Prince.

Kyrene ignored their faces as she danced with them, elated that the Prince was dancing with her.

The song ended and Yunho bowed to Kyrene and kissed her hand, "Never be ashamed of who you are. Be proud, be confidant." he said before smiling at the young girl and walking away.

Kyrene blushed. 'Who would've thought the Prince was compassionate?' she wondered mentally.

Jaejoong stood still as he watched the scene unfold before him, Yunho was not like anyone he had ever met and here the man was dancing with a half-commoner. Jaejoong couldn’t help but smile slightly when the song ended.

Yunho went and sat back down in his seat next to Princess Violette, a smile was still on his face.

"Why did you dance with her?" she asked him in a heated whisper.

Yunho smile dropped "Because I wanted to." he said taking a drink of his wine.

"But...she's half commoner," Violette protested. "That's extraordinarily bad for your image."

"So what?" Yunho asked. "You should never be ashamed of who you are or where you come from, be proud. I chose to dance with her, because it seemed like the right thing to do." Yunho repeated some of what he said to Kyrene.

"Did you not even think of what if might do to your reputation?"

"Yes, I did...and I don't care."

Violette huffed and turned away from him. "To be married to you will be a curse."

"Thank you." Yunho said cockily.

Violette huffed and stood, as Jaejoong was making another round of the table.

Ryder Avaelian saw Jaejoong and he also saw the perfect opportunity to cause some mayhem, he stuck his foot out and tripped Jaejoong.

Jaejoong tumbled to the ground, the refreshments on the tray flying onto the bottom of Princess Violette's dress. She let out a small squeal, as guards came over and grabbed Jaejoong, hoisting him to his feet. Violette stormed over. "You vile little cockroach! Look what you've done!" she nearly shrieked, lifting a hand to slap the meek servant across the face.

Yunho jumped up and grabbed Violette's hand before it could connect with Jaejoong's face. The look on his face would make the strongest men cringe in fear.

Violette glared at him. "Release me."

"In Seoul, we do not beat out servants." He thrust her hand away and turned to the guards, "Release him, this instant."
The guards, out of fear of being punished, quickly released Jaejoong, who stumbled back slightly before regaining his balance.

Yunho grabbed Jaejoong's arm and lead the other boy out of the ballroom and up to his room.

Jaejoong followed him.

Yunho opened the door to his room and went in. "Now you see why I don't want to marry her?"

Jaejoong nodded fervently.

"I don't have any problems with King Adrian but she's just the evilest little BRAT that ever walked the earth."

Jaejoong nodded. "I can agree with you there."

"THANK YOU!"

Jaejoong laughed quietly at Yunho's outburst.

Yunho huffed and flopped onto his bed, "Ugh."

Jaejoong figured he wanted to be alone and began walking away.

"Don't leave." Yunho said.

Jaejoong paused. "Alright."

"Jaejoong, have you ever been in love?"

Jaejoong shook his head in a negative.

Yunho sighed.

"Why do you ask, Yunho?" Jaejoong inquired. It was the first time he'd used the Prince's name - it felt natural rolling off his tongue.

"Because-" Yunho licked his lips as he tried to find the right words to say, "Because I think I might be falling in love with someone, I kind of hope I'm not and it's just a strong infatuation."

"If you don't mind my asking, who is it?" Jaejoong inquired, walking closer to the younger of them.

"I don't think I'm ready to say yet." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded. "Excuse my asking."

"It's alright." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded, feeling bad for lying to the Prince. He had indeed fallen in love - he was in love right now, as a matter of fact - but the love he felt was taboo.

Yunho sighed, "You probably want to get to sleep." he said to Jaejoong.

Jaejoong shook his head. "After tonight's events, I am surprisingly wide awake."

"Wow. Never heard of that happening."

Jaejoong was actually dead-beat tired, but didn't show it, preferring to speak with the Prince, so he just shrugged.

"You are definitely not like any of my other servants." Yunho said.

"I've been told that quite a bit," Jaejoong chuckled.

Yunho smiled. "I'm probably a little like some of your other masters." he said.

"Not at all," Jaejoong said. "You, at least, don't whip me for speaking out of turn."

Yunho frowned. "What is it about me that's different?"

"You're not stuck up like the rest of them. You put others first rather than yourself, and you think about how to help someone even if it means hurting yourself, or in tonight's case, your image." Jaejoong looked Yunho in the eyes with every word.

Yunho pulled his knees up to his chest and wrapped his arms around them.

"But I think what makes you most different from the others is that you were willing to comfort me through a bad point in time without scoffing at my weakness." Jaejoong looked down at the ground, still ashamed of his actions the night before.

Yunho looked over at Jaejoong.

Jaejoong refused to meet his eyes.

"I didn't know that I was that different." Yunho said.

"You are. And you know what else?" Jaejoong felt like he couldn't keep it to himself any longer. "I lied to you earlier. That's another thing. I'm not afraid to admit that to you. I would have been were it someone else."

"You have fallen in love before?" Yunho asked.

Jaejoong nodded, sitting on the floor and pulling his knees to his chest.

Yunho sat on his bed thinking, ‘Jaejoong is in love?! With who? What's their name? Oh God, Yunho get your head out of the clouds. I can't help that I'm in love with my servant!’

Chapter 5

Count Gryphon Avaelian's Son

Yunho woke up late in the morning with the sun shining through his window.

Jaejoong was in the servant's quarters, already awake and sitting in the windowsill, looking out over the hillside.

Yunho got up and started getting dressed.

Jaejoong, after a few minutes, sighed, and went into the other room, averting his eyes nervously when he saw that Yunho was changing.

Yunho put his shirt on and buckled his sword to his hips.

Jaejoong fixed the bed covers, as was routine now.

"I'm going to sword practice, you up for coming with?" Yunho asked.

Jaejoong nodded. "Of course."

"Good." Yunho said.

Jaejoong waited for him to finish getting ready.

Yunho finished getting ready and started his walk to the arena.

Jaejoong followed behind him.

Yunho walked to the arena and indicated for Jaejoong to take a seat on a bench. Yunho drew his sword and started sparring with one of his knights.

Jaejoong sat where he was directed to.

Yunho continued sparring and showing his true skill at the blade.

Jaejoong watched, absorbed in the sight.

Ryder Avaelian and his friends were walking around the arena, they saw the Prince sparring with a knight of his and then they noticed the man sitting on the bench watching. Ryder smiled evily, he was the servant from the ball, Ryder took a swig of his mead and walked over to Jaejoong, "Why, hello there." Ryder said taking a seat next to Jae.

Jaejoong glanced over and nodded a curt greeting.

Ryder took another drink of his mead, causing him to be even more drunk. "How about you entertain us a little, gorgeous." he said.

"I have other duties to attend," Jaejoong said quietly, yet firmly.

"Come on beautiful, I am a simple man with simple pleasures. Surely you could spare a few minutes, since you're sitting here watching your beloved Prince."

Jaejoong sighed. "I have no interest in pleasuring you." He didn't car if the words got him punished.

"You disobedient wretch!" Ryder yelled and he knocked Jaejoong to the ground before straddling the younger's hips.

Jaejoong pushed his chest, frantically trying to move the other man away from him.

Ryder didn't budge he got Jaejoong's and his own shirts off and was about to start working on Jaejoong's trousers when he was wrenched away from the servant and thrown onto the ground. A silver blade glinted in the sunlight and was pointed at Ryder's neck.

Eyes wide and breathing heavily, Jaejoong scrambled back to his feet and back away a few steps.

"Give me one good reason why I shouldn't rip your heart out." a voice said, It sounded kind of like Yunho's but it was a lot deadlier and angrier that Yunho.

When Jaejoong looked up he saw that it was Yunho that had come to his rescue. "Speak." Yunho commanded, Ryder said, "I'm Count Avaelian's oldest Son. You kill me, you lose a crucial ally." Yunho growled and sheathed his sword then sent a kick right into Ryder's family jewels and watched as the older man cringed and doubled over in pain. Yunho walked over to Jaejoong and knelt next to him, "You alright?" he asked.

Jaejoong nodded shakily. "You need not make enemies over me."

"Ryder has always been a cocky bastard, we've never liked each other." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded.

"Can you stand?"

Jaejoong tried to get to his feet, but stumbled and plopped back down on the ground.

Yunho moved his sword to his back and then picked up Jaejoong bridal style and started carrying back to the castle.

Jaejoong had a hard time holding back his blushing as he was lifted.

Yunho carried him to Jaejoong's room and laid the older boy down on the bed.

"Th-thank you," Jaejoong stuttered, his cheeks red.

"Don't mention it." Yunho said.

Jaejoong smiled slightly at him.

Yunho smiled.

"Why do you do it, Yunho? Why do you bother caring about me so much?"

Yunho sighed and rubbed his hand over the back of his neck. "It's kind of hard to say."

"I'm sure it's not that bad."

"Something that I could lose my crown over, something you could be put to death for." Yunho said.

"I'm good at keeping secrets," Jaejoong insisted.

Yunho started pacing.

Jaejoong rested a hand and Yunho's shoulder. "Yunho, I'm only a servant, what's it going to hurt?"

"You, my reasons for doing what I did today would hurt you. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if anything happened to you."

Jaejoong could have sworn his heart stopped in his chest for beat.

"I'm in love with you, Jaejoong." Yunho said.

Jaejoong let a small smile grace his lips. "And I with you, Yunho."

Yunho's eyes widened. "You're- you're in love...with me?"

"Yes," Jaejoong admitted, embarrassed.

"Jaejoong, please excuse me, I need to get some air." With that, Yunho ran out of his room and towards the lake on the outskirts of the city.

"Great job, Jaejoong, you've done a wonderful job of killing any chance," he grumbled to himself.

Chapter 6

The Servant's Voice

Jaejoong woke the next day, and, remembering the events of the previous day, sighed

Yunho was already out of bed and down by the lake, he left a note on his bed for Jaejoong saying that the older boy could have the day off.

Jaejoong sighed, getting up and out of bed before moving into the other room, catching sight of the note. He sighed once more, shrugging and deciding to take a walk.

Yunho was sitting on the shore of the lake looking over the reflection of the trees surrounding him.

After a while of walking, Jaejoong came to the lake. Absorbed as he was in his thoughts, he didn't notice Yunho about twenty meters away and started singing softly to himself.

Yunho heard Jaejoong singing and he went and hid behind a tree.

"Alas, my love, you do me wrong, to cast me off discourteously. For I have lovéd you so long, delighting in your company," Jaejoong sang, smiling sadly as he did.

The young Prince was mesmerized by Jaejoong's voice.

"I have been waiting at your hand to grant whatever you would crave, I have both wagéd life and land, your love and goodwill for to have," Jaejoong continued.

Yunho couldn't stop listening to the beautiful voice that came from Jaejoong's mouth.

Jaejoong lapsed into silence before her reached the end of the song, his voice catching in his throat.

Yunho was still frozen in his spot.

Jaejoong sighed and glanced around. "Y-Yunho-shii?" he stuttered when he saw him, blushing.

"That was incredible." Yunho said coming out of his hiding spot.

"Ah, thank you..." Jaejoong blushed dark red.

"No need to thank me for speaking truth." Yunho said as he walked closer to Jaejoong.

"I did not know you were listening," Jaejoong said, "Else I wouldn't have been singing."

"I'm glad you were." Yunho said.

Jaejoong took a step back, wanting to leave before things got too awkward. "I'm sorry for disturbing you here."

"No, you didn't disturb me at all."

"Alright."

"Ah, just the person I wanted to see." Yunho turned to see Ryder Avaelian walking up to him with a smirk on his face.

"What do you want Ryder?" Yunho sneered.

"To talk to you about a transaction that I would very much like to take place."

Jaejooong was just about to leave when he picked up snippets of a potentially interesting conversation. He got a bit closer and started to listen.

"I want to buy Jaejoong from you." Ryder said.

Jaejoong's eyebrows shot up.

"No." Yunho said immediately.

"I'll give you a hefty price for him."

"No."

"500,000 crowns."

"Never, I will never let Jaejoong go into your service, you're cruel, malicious, vindictive and just an overall Bastard. So never in a million years."

Jaejoong smiled at this.

Yunho stopped listening to Ryder and started walking away.

Jaejoong started walking a direction he could avoid running into Yunho.

Yunho kept walking until he reached his room.

Jaejoong appeared there a few minutes after.

Yunho was laying on his bed with his arms behind his head.

Jaejoong was coming across the room when his toe caught on something next to the bed and he tumble downward.

Yunho jumped up and caught Jaejoong around the waist, "You alright?" Yunho asked, but his eyes ended up getting locked in Jaejoong's.

"Yeah," Jaejoong managed before he fell into a similar trance.

Yunho subconsciously leaned forward and covered Jaejoong's lips with his own.

After a moment's shock, Jaejoong's eyes slid shut and he began to return the kiss.

Yunho placed a hand on the nape of Jaejoong's neck and prodded the other boy's lips with his tongue.

Jaejoong parted his lips, leaning into Yunho.

Yunho deepened the kiss, all the while pulling Jaejoong closer to him.

Jaejoong's arms wrapped around his neck.

Yunho put his hands at Jaejoong's hips.

Jaejoong tentatively settled in Yunho's lap.

Yunho smiled slightly.

Jaejoong pulled away, his eyes wide.

"I'm sorry." Yunho said getting up.

"I-it's ok-kay."

Yunho started pacing all the while rubbing his neck.

Jaejoong sighed and tried to escape to the other room.

"Damn it Yunho, what did you just do?"

Jaejoong heard him yelling at himself.

Yunho continued to pace, trying to work out his feelings.

Jaejoong sighed and slid down the wall to sit on the floor, running a hand through his hair.

Yunho unknowingly slid down on the same wall that Jaejoong was behind.

"I guess this is what they all meant when they said my life would start moving more quickly," Jaejoong mumbled to himself.

Yunho heard Jaejoong and stayed quiet, he continued to listen.

"I guess it's not a bad thing... Just a little different." He continued musing.

Yunho raised an eyebrow.

Jaejoong sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I wish I wasn't such a coward. I wish I could just come out and tell him I love him."

Yunho sighed and got up, he had that same wish. So he gathered up all the courage he could muster (which wasn't much) and walked into Jaejoong's room.

Jaejoong's eyes shot over to him when the door opened and he pulled his knees to his chest.

Yunho went over and knelt in front of Jaejoong, "Jaejoong I- I really need to say this, so please don't hate me if I do. I love you, I'm in love with you. I loved you after the first two days you were here."

Jaejoong smiled widely at him. "I'm in love with you as well. I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner."

"Don't worry about it." Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong leaned forward and wrapped his arms around Yunho's waist.

Yunho smiled, folded his arms around Jaejoong's shoulders and rested his cheek against the top of Jae's head.

Jaejoong sighed happily, just content to sit in his embrace.

Yunho smiled and sighed happily.

Jaejoong rested his head on Yunho's chest, smiling.

Yunho placed a hand under Jaejoong’s chin and lifted his head slightly. He leaned forward and kissed Jaejoong's forehead.

Jaejoong smiled brightly.

"I love you." Yunho said.

"I love you too," Jaejoong replied sincerely.

Chapter 7

"I want to be more like Me, and be less like You."

Jaejoong woke up smiling for once.

Yunho was already up and getting dressed, his father had summoned him so he was getting himself ready.

Jaejoong went into the other room.

Yunho put on his crown to finish the look.

Jaejoong walked up behind him and put his arms around his waist.

Yunho smiled and leaned back into Jaejoong.

"What happens now?" Jaejoong asked.

Yunho's smile dropped, "We're going to have to hide. If we are found out, you'll be put to death."

Jaejoong sighed. "I think the risk is worth it."

Yunho sighed and looked down to the floor.

"What else can we do, though?"

"We could run. Get away from here and never look back."

"But what about your crown?" Jaejoong asked.

"I don't want it. I want to be with you and love you, I don't want to be married to Violette."

"I don't want you to risk everything for me."

"I'd rather risk everything for you than live without you."

"You should slow down and really think about this."

"You have been working for me for two months. Don't you think that I've thought about this enough?"

"Yunho-ah... I'm only your servant."

"I don't care. I love you and I want to be with you."

"I love you too, but I don't want you hurt for my sake."

Yunho sighed.

Jaejoong hugged him tightly. "Just think more on it, okay?"

"I will for your sake." Yunho said hugging him back.

"Thank you," Jaejoong said, closing his eyes and smiling.

"I received a summons from my father." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded. "Do you want me to go with you?"

"No, I need to do this alone."

Jaejoong nodded and released him.

"I'll be back soon." Yunho said as he smiled and placed a light kiss on Jaejoong's lips. He pulled away and left the room.

Jaejoong sighed and smiled sadly at Yunho's back as he left the room.

The young Prince walked with determination to the Throne room, where his father would be waiting for him. The guards at the doors opened them for Yunho and he stepped through and bowed to the King.

“You wished to see me father?” he asked.

“Yes I did. I would like to talk to you about your actions the other night.” The King said. Yunho just sighed.

“Why did you defend that lowly servant?” The King demanded.

“Because I am not cruel, I do not hit my servants for one small mistake. Violette had no right to hit him, he is my servant and I deal with discipline as I see fit.” Yunho defended himself.

“Yunho you have to understand, if you want to be like me and rule the kingdom then you-“

“THAT’S JUST IT DAD!” Yunho yelled cutting him off. “I don’t want to be anything like you! I want to marry for love, not duty! I want to be a normal guy, not the Prince! I want to be more like ME and be LESS like you!” he cried and then stormed out of the throne room.

******
Yunho started walking down the corridors after he had talked to his father, his own words were echoing in his head, "I want to be more like me, and be less like you." At that precise moment, he realized that he's truly in love with Jaejoong and he's on a mission to let the other boy know.

Yunho came across Jaejoong in the hallway outside his room, the younger boy was sweeping the hallway floor.

"Jaejoong!" Yunho said as he ran forward and kissed his lover.

"I have something I need to say to you." Yunho said as Jaejoong listened intently.

"I-I-I-" Yunho started stumbling over his words but Jaejoong just smiled and put a finger to the prince's lips, indicating for him to be silent.

"You don't have to say it, Yunho. I already know and I feel the exact same way."

Yunho smiled widely and wrapped a hand around the back of Jaejoong's neck, giving the prince the opportunity to pull his servant to him and lock their lips together in a passionate kiss.

The next thing Yunho and Jaejoong heard was a very angry man yelling, "Yunho!" Yunho and Jaejoong sprung apart and looked to see who had yelled, and to their dismay, it was the King with his face red with fury.

"Guards!" the King yelled and at that moment, Yunho's eyes widened and he grabbed Jaejoong and pulled the smaller boy to his chest and held onto him tightly. Jaejoong in turn grabbed Yunho's shirt and clung to the prince in fright as he tried to hold back his tears.

At the sound of the King's cry, the guards came running to his assistance, the King then yelled, "Arrest that Servant!" the King pointed to Jaejoong. At that moment, Yunho folded his arms tighter around Jaejoong but they were both grabbed by the guards and wrenched away from each other, "No! Jaejoong!" Yunho yelled as he fought against the guards that held him.

"Yunho!" Jaejoong cried as his tears freely began to fall as he tried to get to the Prince.

Yunho finally got himself free from the guards and he ran up to Jaejoong, he placed his hands on either side of his loyal servant's face and placed a kiss on his lips, "I'll fix this, I promise." Yunho said to Jaejoong just before he was grabbed again and hauled the opposite way of Jaejoong, who was now crying and trying his hardest to get to Yunho but he just kept getting drug to the dungeons to await his inevitable fate: death.

Yunho still fought his hardest to get to Jaejoong, but it was useless, he was thrown into his room and he landed on the floor with a loud thud. He got up and saw his father standing over him.

"How could you, Yunho?" The king asked.

"I did nothing. All I did was love someone. I absolutely Hate Violette Cordawn and would never marry her in a million years!" Yunho screamed at his father, the king, having heard enough, stormed out of the room.

Once Yunho was out of view, Jaejoong's fight just left him and he slumped in the harsh grip of the guards.

Chapter 8

The Happiest They've Ever Been

Yunho was pacing his room, he needed to talk to Jaejoong, but to do that; he needed to talk to his father first. The young Prince got dressed in some nice clothes and grabbed his crown; he didn’t put it on his head though. He went through the halls of the castle and when he got to the doors of the throne room, he threw them open and marched up to his father.

“Release Jaejoong.” Yunho commanded.

“I’m sorry, I can’t do that. That servant is a distraction to you and your inevitable marriage, so that servant will be put to death at dawn tomorrow.” The King said nonchalantly which only caused Yunho blood to boil. He then did the only thing he could do to make his father listen; he threatened his position as prince.

“I release my duties as Prince, I give up my crown and Ryder Avaelian will rule Seoul.” Yunho said as he set his crown down on the floor and began to walk out of the room.

“Yunho! You can’t give up your crown!” The King yelled with fury laced in his voice.

“Oh yeah?! Watch me!” The ex-Prince started out of the room.

“If you take back your crown, I’ll free the servant.” Yunho stopped dead and turned to his father,

“On one condition, the servant needs to leave Seoul and never come back.” The King said.

“I’ll think about it.” Yunho said as he grabbed his crown and walked out of the throne room. His destination wasn’t his room though, it was the dungeons.

------
Jaejoong was sitting in his cell with his head leaned back against the wall, staring at the other side blankly.

Yunho snuck down deep into the dungeons where Jaejoong's cell was, when he came upon it, he slid to his knees, "Jaejoong." he whispered.

Jaejoong jumped, his eyes widening, and he scrambled over to Yunho on hand and knees. "Yunho!" he spoke in a fervent whisper.

"Hey, are you okay?" Yunho asked while grabbing Jaejoong's hand.

"Yeah, I'm fine. You don't need to worry." Jaejoong held his hand tightly, reaching through the bars and placing a hand on Yunho's cheek.

Yunho placed a hand over Jaejoong's, "I'm so sorry." he said.

Jaejoong shook his head. "Don't be. It's not your fault."

"If I had just been more careful-" Yunho began.

"Yunnie, stop," Jaejoong cut him off. "We would have been caught eventually either way."

Yunho sighed and his head drooped.

Jaejoong's hand stroked his hair comfortingly. "I love you. No matter what happens, I'll always love you."

"I talked to my father, he said that he'll let you go, but you have to leave here and never come back."

Jaejoong smiled sadly. "I'll miss you, Yunnie."

"No, I won't let you. If you go, I go with you."

"Yunho, don't ruin your entire life over this."

"I have never wanted to be Prince, this wouldn't ruin my life, it would make it better."

"If you're sure..."

"I'm positive." Yunho said with assurance.

"Then let's go," Jaejoong said with a smile.

"One second, I'll be right back." Yunho took off in the direction he came there was a yelp, a thud, and then the clang of a helmet rolling in front of Jaejoong's cell. Yunho came back with the keys in his hand.

Jaejoong got to his feet and grinned widely at him.

Yunho unlocked Jaejoong's cell and opened the door.

Jaejoong flung himself into Yunho's arms.

Yunho wrapped his arms around Jaejoong and held him close.

"I love you," Jaejoong whispered.

"I love you too."

Jaejoong smiled against Yunho's neck.

"Come on, we need to get you out of here." Yunho said grabbed Jaejoong's hand and starting to lead him out of the dungeons.

Jaejoong followed him.

Yunho got Jaejoong all the way up to his room and then he started packing some stuff into a bag that he could throw over his shoulder. He then started writing a note, when he finished, he left it on his bed with his crown beside it.

"Ready?" Jaejoong asked him.

"Yeah, let's go."

Jaejoong grabbed his hand.

Yunho lead him out of the castle and to the stables, Yunho got on his horse and offered a hand down to Jaejoong.

Jaejoong took his hand and hoisted himself up behind Yunho.

Yunho spurred his horse into a gallop and raced out of the kingdom.

Jaejoong rested his head on Yunho's back.

Once they were out of the city, Yunho slowed his horse down to a walk, "Go to sleep Jae, it will be a long ride." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded and quickly drifted off against Yunho's back.

Yunho stayed up until they were past the borders of Seoul.

Jaejoong woke after an hour or so.

Yunho stopped the horse while it was still dark out he hopped off and held his hands up for Jaejoong.

Jaejoong grabbed his hands and got down.

Yunho set up a tent and built a fire.

Jaejoong sat down beside him next to the fire.

Yunho wrapped an arm around Jaejoong's shoulders.

Jaejoong leaned against Yunho's side.

"We should probably sleep; we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

Jaejoong nodded.

Yunho went into the tent and lay down.

Jaejoong thought about lying down and going to sleep as well, be he wanted a little more tonight. He straddled Yunho hips and pulled the younger boy up into a kiss.

The Prince responded, immediately kissing back and putting his hands and Jaejoong’s hips and pulling the other boy closer to him.

Jaejoong snaked his hands up Yunho’s shirt and started ghosting his fingers over the Prince’s toned stomach.

Yunho shivered and flipped their position so that he was on top. He shed his shirt and started kissing along Jaejoong’s jaw line.

Jaejoong’s breath hitched slightly and he shed his shirt to give Yunho more room to roam. The Ex-Prince started laying a trail of kisses down Jaejoong’s chest, he traveled further and further south, and what happened next, you can well imagine was the best time of the lovers’ lives.

Yunho collapsed next to Jaejoong and pulled the older boy into his chest. Jaejoong, in turn, wrapped his arm around Yunho’s waist and rested his head on the bigger boy’s chest.

“I love you, Jaejoong.” He heard Yunho say.

“I love you too, Yunho.”

Yunho smiled, draped an arm over Jaejoong's waist, and the two soon fell asleep in each other’s arms, and they were the happiest they’ve ever been in a long time.

Chapter 9

The Obsidian Box

Jaejoong woke up early the next morning when the sun shined through the opening of the tent. He looked around and saw that Yunho was gone. When he walked outside, he saw that Yunho was already awake and taking care of the horses.

“Good morning, Yunho.” Jaejoong said.

“Morning.” Yunho said with a smile.

Jaejoong smiled back at him.

Yunho went back to tending to the horse when he heard hoof beats, ones that were not from his horse.

Jaejoong looked around. "What's that?" he mouthed to Yunho.

"I don't know." Yunho mouthed back, he drew his sword and waited for the rider to appear and when they did, his eyes widened slightly, "Kyrene." he said.

"Who?" Jaejoong asked.

"The girl I danced with at the ball." Yunho said as he walked over to her.

Kyrene saw them and got off her horse.

"Kyrene, do you live here?" Yunho asked her.

The girl nodded “Yes my Lord.”

"How did you find us?"

"You had a fire burning last night. I just remembered where I saw the smoke." She said to them.

"Right." Yunho replied.

"If I'm not being intrusive, what are you doing out here?"

"Jaejoong and I did something wrong in the eyes of my father, so he was going to kill Jaejoong. So we ran."

Kyrene nodded. "And now you're trying to get away from being found again." It was more a statement than a question.

Yunho nodded.

"Well, in that case, how can I help?"

"You maybe could find us a better place to stay for the time being." Yunho suggested.

Kyrene thought for a moment. "There's a shed out in the woods that no one's used for years."

"Could you lead us there?" Jaejoong asked.

Kyrene nodded and mounted her horse again.

Yunho mounted his horse and held a hand down for Jaejoong.

Jaejoong grabbed his hand and pulled himself up.

Yunho then rode off after Kyrene.

Kyrene led then to an old-looking yet well-constucted shed about a mile into the woods.

When they reached it, Yunho hopped off of his horse and went to inspect it.

Jaejoong followed him and Kyrene stood back.

"Thank you, Kyrene." Yunho said sincerely.

Kyrene smiled at him. "My pleasure."

"I won't forget this." Yunho said.

"You don't have to remember it," Kyrene assured him.

"Yes I do. Thank you." Yunho said as he led Jaejoong into the shed.

"Anytime," she called after him.

Yunho smiled and opened the door to the shed.

Jaejoong followed him inside.

"Wow, this place isn't bad, it could use a little TLC but it works."

Jaejoong nodded. "Not bad at all."

Yunho smiled.

"Things are already looking up," Jaejoong said with a smile.

"Yeah, they are." Yunho wrapped an arm around Jaejoong's waist.

Jaejoong leaned against him.

Yunho smiled and kissed the top of Jaejoong's head.

Jaejoong smiled happily.

"We should probably get our stuff in here and start setting up."

Jaejoong nodded and went outside to take the saddlebags off the horses.

Yunho got all of the heavier bags, and walked inside.

Jaejoong carried in everything else.

Yunho set the bags down on the floor and started taking things out.

Jaejoong helped him.

Yunho kept digging and he found a medium size box, it was made of obsidian and laced with silver.

"What's that?" Jaejoong asked.

Yunho opened it and inside of it was a picture of a woman with a crown on her head and a very beautiful dress on her body.

"Is that your mother?" Jaejoong guessed.

Yunho nodded.

Jaejoong nodded understanding.

"She loved me so much, she carried about me, not just Seoul.

"Unlike your father," Jaejoong stated.

Yunho nodded.

Jaejoong leaned over and hugged him.

Yunho was still staring at the picture of his mother.

Jaejoong sighed. "I lost my mother too."

"I know you did." Yunho said.

Jaejoong rested his head on Yunho's shoulder.

"When I was 13, an assassin got into the castle and was going to kill my father and me. A knight sacrificed himself for my father, but- but my mother-" a tear slipped down Yunho's cheek.

Jaejoong wiped the tear off his cheek with a thumb.

"My mother sacrificed herself for me." Yunho finally said.

Jaejoong wrapped his arms around Yunho comfortingly.

Yunho continued crying, something that he hadn't done since that day.

Jaejoong pulled the younger boy against his chest and rocked him.

Yunho cried into Jaejoong's chest and after a few minutes, he was reduced to silent sniffles.

Jaejoong rubbed his back, humming softly to him.

Yunho sighed.

"You can't change the past, but you can do the best with your life, as she would have wanted you to," Jaejoong told him.

Yunho nodded.

Jaejoong kissed Yunho's cheek.

"I'm sorry."

"It's alright," Jaejoong assured him.

Yunho wiped his eyes while Jaejoong stroked his hair.

“I haven’t cried since my mom died.” Yunho said.

“Everyone cries, Yunnie. It just makes you human.” Jaejoong consoled.

After a few minutes of silence Yunho finally said "Thank you."

Jaejoong smiled. "Anytime."

Yunho was comfortable in Jaejoong's arms and he didn't want to move.

Jaejoong didn't want to let go and just held him there.

Yunho ended up falling asleep in Jaejoong's arms.

Jaejoong smiled, falling asleep leaning against the wall.

Chapter 10

"Try me."

Jaejoong woke, smiling when he saw the still sleeping Yunho in his arms. He leaned down and kissed the top of the younger’s head, which resulted in waking the sleeping Prince.

Jaejoong smiled at him. "Good morning."

Yunho rubbed the sleep from his eyes, "Morning."

Jaejoong smiled at Yunho's expression.

"Ugh. Did I ever mention that I hate mornings?"

"Yes, practically every morning."

"Okay, well I’m going to say it again, I hate mornings."

Jaejoong sighed which made Yunho chuckle.

The older boy smiled and got himself up, he helped Yunho up as well.

Jaejoong stretched like a cat.

Yunho smiled and went and continued unpacking his things and doing odd jobs around their small shack.

Jaejoong followed his example, helping him take things out and put them away.

Yunho found a ring at the bottom of his bag, he picked it up and examined it, the ring that his mother planned on giving him for his 21st birthday. Yunho slipped it onto his middle finger.

"That's pretty," Jaejoong remarked.

"My mom picked it."

Jaejoong nodded.

Yunho looked over the ring once more and then went back to unpacking.

Jaejoong rested a hand on his shoulder for a moment before doinig the same.

Yunho finished putting the few things he brought with him away and then he started cleaning this and that.

Jaejoong finished putting away his own few belongings and helped Yunho.

After a day of work, when they were finally done, Yunho smiled and wrapped an arm around Jaejoong's waist.

Jaejoong smiled and leaned against him.

"I think leaving that blasted castle was the best thing I ever did."

"Meeting you was the best thing I ever did," Jaejoong told him with a smile.

Yunho smiled and kissed him once on the lips.

Jaejoong grinned at him.

"It has been a long day. We should probably sleep."

Jaejoong nodded and sat on the floor.

"Why don't we sleep on the bed I found?" Yunho asked smiling.

"Oh, right," Jaejoong said, with a light blush at his forgetfulness.

Yunho just smiled and laid down on the bed and opened the covers for Jaejoong.

Jaejoong laid beside him with a smile, wrapping his arms around Yunho's waist.

Yunho smiled and draped an arm over Jaejoong's shoulder.

Jaejoong nestled against Yunho's chest and let his eyes droop shut.

Yunho smiled and soon fell asleep himself.

After about an hour's sleep, Jaejoong woke due to a pain in his abdomen, and got up with a light frown. He left the little shed and walked to the village that wasn't too far away, quickly finding the healer's little hut and knocking on the door.

The healer opened the door, "May I help you young man?" the kind elderly lady asked.

Jaejoong gave her a weak smile. "I'm not feeling so well," he told her.

"Come on in boy, and we'll have a look." She said moving out of the way for him.

"Thank you," Jaejoong said sincerely as he came in.

"Just sit over there." She told him, indicating a cot in the corner of the room.

Jaejoong sat down where he was directed to.

"May I have your name please?"

"Jaejoong," he answered. "Kim Jaejoong."

"Alright." She scribbled some notes on a piece of parchment, "Now, how are you not feeling well?"

"I have pain in my stomach, right here," he said, lightly touching the spot that was bugging him.

"Is that all? Any Nausea, headaches, or anything else like that?"

"Both," Jaejoong admitted, not used to telling others about his problems.

"Alright." She made some more notes, "Just lay down there, and we'll have a look."

Jaejoong nodded and laid down.

The elderly lady came over and lifted his shirt slightly to see his abdomen, she started pushing on certain spots.

Jaejoong winced slightly, barely noticeable, as she pressed on a specific place.

"Alright, I have another question. Have you had any intercourse in the past two weeks?"

Jaejoong blushed very red and nodded.

"Alright, then I know the problem."

"What is it?"

************

Yunho was at home pacing, as he waited for Jaejoong to show up.

Jaejoong finally walked in the door, his expression still shocked from the news he'd received.

"There you are, I've been worried si- What's wrong?" Yunho asked.

"It's not necessarily wrong, it's just...you wouldn't believe me if I told you."

"Try me."

Jaejoong sighed and walked over to him, placing his hands on Yunho's shoulders. "Yunho-ah...I'm pregnant."

Chapter 11

The 5 Times I said I loved him

Yunho eyes were wide. "You're pregnant?"

Jaejoong nodded. "According to the village healer."

Yunho's eyes were as wide as saucers.

Jaejoong waved a hand in front of his face. "You okay?"

Yunho shook his head to get out of his daze, "Yeah, I'll be fine. It's just- I'm shocked."

"Me too. I mean, I never expected...THAT."

"Yeah." then a lightbulb went off inside Yunho's head, "I'm going to be a Dad."

"That's about right, yeah," Jaejoong chuckled.

Yunho's mouth broke into a smile, "I'm going to be a Dad." he got up and kissed Jaejoong, "I'm going to be a Dad!"

Jaejoong laughed. "You certainly are."

"This is fantastic!" Yunho said smiling brightly.

"And unbelievable, don't forget that," Jaejoong added, throwing his arms around Yunho's waist.

"Of course it's unbelievable." Yunho said folding his arms over Jaejoong's shoulders.

Jaejoong buried his face in Yunho's chest and and smiled widely.

"I have some news as well. My father found my note and now there's a reward for someone to bring me back to Seoul."

"Well, we'll get through that like we've gotten through everything else. One step at a time."

Yunho nodded.

Jaejoong tightened him arms around the younger boy.

"I love you." Yunho said smiling, "I love you, so much."

"I love you too, Yunho-ah."

Yunho smiled.

All of a sudden Jaejoong wrinkled his nose. "I'm going to be fat."

"You'll be beautiful."

"And fat."

Yunho just sighed.

Jaejoong laughed and hugged him.

Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong grinned up at Yunho.

"I love you."

"I love you too!"

Yunho smiled widely.

Jaejoong did as well the laughed and leaned up to kiss him.

Yunho kissed back immediately.

Jaejoong smiled widely.

Yunho placed his hands at Jaejoong's hips.

Jaejoong's arms went around his neck.

Yunho prodded Jaejoong's lips slightly.

Jaejoong lips parted for him.

Yunho dove his tongue into Jaejoong's mouth.

Jaejoong sighed.

Yunho smiled into the kiss.

Jaejoong leaned into him.

Yunho pulled back and smiled at him.

Jaejoong grinned at him.

Yunho smirked and picked up Jaejoong bridal style and carried him to the bed.

Jaejoong giggled and rested his head on Yunho's chest.

Yunho laid him down in the bed and then lay next to him.

Jaejoong smiled.

Yunho draped an arm over Jaejoong's waist and pulled the smaller boy closer.

Jaejoong cuddled next to him, sighing happily.

"I love you, Jaejoong."

"I love you too."

Yunho smiled and rested his head against the bed.

Jaejoong drifted to sleep quickly in his arms.

Yunho smiled and soon fell asleep himself but he ended up waking up a few hours later.

Jaejoong was still asleep in his arms, breathing softly.

Yunho smiled and kissed his lips lightly.

Jaejoong's eyes cracked open slightly, and he pouted at Yunho beore turning his face into the younger boy's chest and going back to sleep.

Yunho chuckled lightly and stroked Jaejoong's hair.

After a few minutes, Jaejoong stretched, yawning.

Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong smiled sleepily at him and kissed his cheek.

Yunho smiled even wider

"Morning."

"Good morning, beautiful."

Jaejoong giggled quietly. "Silly."

Yunho smiled and kissed Jaejoong's cheek.

Jaejoong smiled lightly.

"What would you like for breakfast?" Yunho asked.

"Food sounds nice," Jaejoong told him with a grin.

"Any kind of food?"

"Pretty much."

"Okay, I'll be right back."

"Alright." Jaejoong kissed his cheek before releasing him.

Yunho went into their small kitchen and started making some breakfast.

Jaejoong got up in a few minutes, going and wrapping him arms around Yunho from behind.

Yunho smiled but continued cooking.

Jaejoong released him and leaned against the counter.

"Did you sleep well?" Yunho asked.

"Very," Jaejoong said with a smile.

"Good."

Jaejoong smiled at him.

"There, done." Yunho said holding out a plate of food for Jaejoong.

Jaejoong thanked him with a bright smile and sat down to eat. It felt nice to be taken care of, rather than being the caretaker.

Yunho sat down next to him and started eating.

Jaejoong finished after a few minutes. "Thank you."

"No problem." Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong grinned widely at him.

"I've been thinking. Should you and I go back to Seoul?"

"For what?" Jaejoong asked curiously.

"Since you are pregnant with my child. I have an heir to the throne if I am Prince. If I have an heir, my father cannot deny me the right to be Prince or to whom I want to be married."

"Are you sure this is what you want?" Jaejoong asked, reaching across the table and placing his hand atop Yunho's.

"I don't know, that's why I'm asking you. To see what you want."

"I want you to do what feels right. As long as we're together, I don't really care where we are."

"Would you mind being Queen?"

Jaejoong chuckled. "It'd be weird getting used to the title, but no, I wouldn't."

"Alright, we'll wait until you have the child, and then you and I will go to Seoul." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded.

Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong grinned at him. "I love you."

"Love you too.”

Jaejoong smiled, then yawned. "I'm sleepy again."

"Then go back to sleep." Yunho said.

"Come with me?" Jaejoong asked, pouting at the younger boy.

Yunho chuckled, "Yeah." he stood up.

Jaejoong smiled, grabbing his hand and pulling him into the other portion of the small cabin.

Yunho smiled and let himself be led.

Jaejoong laid down on the bed and pulled Yunho down next to him.

Yunho draped an arm over Jaejoong's waist.

Jaejoong smiled and rested his head on Yunho's chest, closing his eyes peacefully.

Yunho smiled and soon fell asleep.

After about half an hour, Jaejoong turned over in his sleep, his face contorting into something
between fear and anger as pictued flickered in his dreaming mind.

Yunho woke up when Jaejoong shifted in his sleep, "Jae?" he asked quietly.

The sleeping Jaejoong flinched away from his voice, his expression deepening.

"Jaejoong?" Yunho asked as he sat up slightly.

The resulting flinch this time was more severe.

Yunho watched with concern.

Jaejoong let out a pained whimper, clutching his left hand close to his chest.

Yunho lightly touched Jaejoong's shoulder.

Jaejoong's eyes shot open as he awoke with a startled yell.

Yunho sat up abruptly and pulled the smaller boy into his chest.

Jaejoong fought his grip for a moment before relaxing.

"Shh, it's only me." Yunho said as he started to stroke Jaejoong's hair.

Jaejoong calm down gradually, clinging to unho like his life depended on it.

Yunho continued to stroke his hair and speak sweet nothings into his ear softly.

Jaejoong, after a while, calmed completely and just laid in Yunho's arms.

"You okay?" Yunho asked.

Jaejoong nodded his head.

Yunho kissed the top of his head.

Jaejoong smiled lightly.

"You wanna tell me about it?"

Jaejoong shook his head immediately.

Yunho frowned slightly.

Jaejoong sighed and leaned against him.

Yunho folded his arms tighter over Jaejoong's shoulders.

Jaejoong's eyes were closed, but he wasn't sleeping.

"I know you're faking Jae."

Jaejoong shook his head. "I'm not trying to fake. I just wanted to close my eyes."

"Alright." Yunho started stroking his hair again.

Eventually, Jaejoong fell asleep against his chest.

Yunho soon fell asleep as well.

Jaejoong slept soundly for a few hours, waking up in the late afternoon considering they'd gone to bed before the sun had reached its highest peak.

Yunho was still asleep when Jaejoong woke up.

Jaejoong bent and placed a kiss lightly on each of Yunho's cheeks.

Yunho's eyes fluttered open.

Jaejoong smiled lightly at him. "Hey, sleepy."

Yunho smiled slightly and sat up.

Jaejoong sat up with him.

Yunho rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

Jaejoong smiled slightly at Yunho's action.

"Hey, how're you feeling?" Yunho asked.

"Better," Jaejoong told him with a smile.

"Good." Yunho smiled as he placed a hand on Jaejoong's stomach and kissed him once on the lips.

Jaejoong smiled.

"We should think of names for our child." Yunho said.

"I like the name Changmin," Jaejoong said, smiling.

"I like it, there's also Minho."

"So many names," Jaejoong chuckled, "So little time."

"How about we meet in the middle and name him Changmin Minho if it's a boy."

"Alright, I like it."

"Alright, so now what would we name her if she's a girl?"

"How about Taeyeon?"

"I like it, but I have a question. What was your mother's name?"

"Eun Ha," I answered him.

"How about if it's a girl, we name her that?" Yunho suggested.

Jaejoong shrugged. "I've always thought the name was cursed. My little sister's name was Eun Ha too. And they're both gone. What's your mother's name?"

"Yoshiko." he said.

“She doesn’t sound like she’s from Seoul.” Jaejoong commented.

“She’s not, she was Princess of Tokyo for the longest time.”

"Ah, well we should name her that. If she's a she."

Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong hugged his waist.

Yunho hugged him back, "I love you."

"Love you more."

"That's kind of difficult." Yunho said with a smile.

"Yet not impossible."

Yunho smiled and kissed the top of his head.

Jaejoong smiled against Yunho's neck.

"Thank you."

"For what?"

"For everything."

"I haven't done much at all."

"You're wrong, you've done so much for me. More than you will ever know."

"Funny, I feel the same way about you."

Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong chuckled.

Yunho just hugged him tighter.

Jaejoong smiled.

Yunho covered Jaejoong's lips with his own.

Jaejoong kissed back.

Yunho pulled Jaejoong into his lap and prodded the smaller boy's lips slightly.

Jaejoong parted his lips willingly.

Yunho slowly pushed his tongue into Jaejoong's mouth.

Jaejoong wrapped his arms around his neck.

Yunho placed his hands on Jaejoong's hips.

Jaejoong leaned against his chest.

Yunho placed a hand on the back of Jaejoong's neck.

Jaejoong smiled against his lips.

Yunho pulled away and rested his forehead against Jaejoong's

Jaejoong sighed contently and smiled at him.

Yunho smiled and kissed Jaejoong's forehead.

Jaejoong smiled.

"I love you."

"Love you too."

Yunho smiled.

Jaejoong's eyes began to slip shut.

Yunho laid down and pulled Jaejoong to his chest.

Jaejoong smiled and sighed happily.

"Go to sleep, Jae. We have a long nine months ahead of us." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded and quickly drifted off.

Chapter 12

Father, Son, and Grandson

*9 Months Later*

Yunho was making lunch for Jaejoong.

Jaejoong was laying down upstairs - it seemed all he could do lately was lay around and eat.

Yunho walked upstairs and walked into his and Jaejoong's room with a tray of food.

Jaejoong smiled at him when he came in. "Hey."

Yunho smiled back at him, "I brought you some lunch."

"Thank you."

"Anytime."

Jaejoong sat up straight, leaning on a pillow.

Yunho placed the tray on the night stand next to Jae.

Jaejoong patted the spot beside him, signalling for Yunho to sit before he started eating.

Yunho sat down next to Jaejoong.

Jaejoong finished soon and turned his attention to Yunho.

"How are you feeling today?" Yunho asked.

"Fat."

"Do we have to have this conversation again?"

"Quite possibly."

Yunho sighed.

Jaejoong chuckled and kissed his cheek. "No, we don't."

"Good." Yunho smiled.

"Yunnie?"

"Hmm?"

"I love you."

"I love you too." Yunho kissed Jaejoong on the forehead.

"Yunnie? One more thing," Jaejoong said with a slight smile.

"Yeah?"

"My water just broke."

"Oh shit. Hang on okay, I'm going to run and get the healer." Yunho said.

Jaejoong nodded.

Yunho sprinted out the door, jumped onto his horse and galloped into the village. No more than 5 minutes later Yunho and the healer ran up to Jaejoong's room.

Jaejoong was, as expected, still laying on the bed.
Yunho went and sat next to Jaejoong and took the older boy's hand in his own.

Jaejoong squeezed his hand, smiling at the younger boy.

Yunho smiled and kissed his hand.

Jaejoong winced all of a sudden, his hand tightening around Yunho's.

Yunho held onto Jaejoong's hand.

The pain passed and Jaejoong sighed, loosening his grip.

After a few hours of labor, Jaejoong’s contractions were almost a minute apart, now there they were, their child was ready to be born.

Another contraction came and Jaejoong’s hand squeezed tighter on Yunho’s.

Yunho winced as Jaejoong held onto his hand tighter.

Jaejoong was practically drawling blood with his nails as he clutched Yunho's hand tightly.

"Alright Jaejoong, push." the healer said.

Jaejoong gritted his teeth and pushed, his eyes clenching shut.

Yunho moved Jaejoong's hair out from his eyes and then he looked down when he heard the wailing of a child.

Jaejoong sighed as the pain began to subside, looking toward the sound of the cries.

The healer wrapped up the child and said, "It's a boy." she handed the child to Yunho, who held him with delicacy.

Jaejoong smiled, watching Yunho handle their child with so much care.

Yunho smiled, looking down at the perfect child in his arms.

"Wow," Jaejoong breathed.

Yunho nodded and passed the child to Jaejoong.

Jaejoong cradled the small boy in his arms.

"Changmin." Yunho smiled.

"Welcome to the world, Changmin," Jaejoong said with a smile.

Changmin's hair was the same color as Jaejoong's and when the newborn opened his eyes, they were the same color as Yunho's.

Jaejoong smiled. "I guess miracles can happen to anyone."

"I'm just glad it did." Yunho smiled brightly.

Jaejoong grinned widely. "Me too."

Yunho kissed Jaejoong's forehead and then kissed Changmin's forehead.

Jaejoong sighed happily.

Yunho smiled. The healer slipped out of the house unseen.

Jaejoong looked down at their child proudly.

"I love you, so much." Yunho said.

"I love you too."

***

A few days later, Jaejoong was feeling better and now it was time to pack up and go back to Seoul.

***

Yunho was packing up their stuff and putting it into the saddle bags of his horse, Nightrunner, and Jaejoong's new horse, Bear.

Jaejoong was keeping Changmin entertained as he did.
Yunho got everything in the bags and he walked over to Jaejoong and Changmin. "Come on, it's time to go." Yunho picked Changmin up and wrapped him in a blanket, keeping him close to his chest.

"Ready?" Jaejoong asked, standing.

"Yeah, I'll carry Changmin." Yunho offered.

Jaejoong nodded. "Nightrunner walks more smoothly anyway."

"That's what I was thinking." Yunho said as he went and mounted his black stallion.

Jaejoong walked out and swung onto Bear's back.

Yunho kicked Nightrunner into a walk.

Jaejoong spurred Bear after them.

After a day of riding, they reached their destination, the Castle of Seoul. Yunho took a deep breath and got off of Nightrunner with Changmin still in the crook of his arm.

Jaejoong dismounted as well, moving to be at Yunho's side.

"Let's go." Yunho said as he started towards the door.

"Maybe I should take Changmin?"

"Yeah, let me go into the throne room first though." Yunho said handing Changmin to Jaejoong.

Jaejoong nodded, taking Changmin from his arms.

Yunho led Jaejoong up to the doors and he motioned for him to wait there. The Prince took a deep breath, pushed open the doors to the throne room and walked in.

The King looked up from the paper he was going over and his eyes widened slightly, “Yunho.” The King said as he stood from his throne.

“Hello, Father.” He said calmly but in his mind, Yunho was freaking out.

“Why have you come back now? I was for sure you were long gone.”

“No, Father, I have a reason for coming back.” Yunho said.
The King’s eyebrows creased in thought when his son moved to the door.

Yunho went and motioned for Jaejoong to come in.

Jaejoong walked in, holding Changmin against his chest.

The king froze on the spot. Yunho took Changmin from Jaejoong's arms. "Father, meet your grandson, Changmin."

The King looked at the child in his son's arms and the child had an aura around him that the king just couldn't explain. Yunho went and set Changmin in the King's arms and the King actually smiled, something he hasn't done since the day his wife died.

Jaejoong moved to stand beside Yunho.

The King looked at Jaejoong, "You birthed this child?" he asked.

Jaejoong nodded.

The King's eyes softened. He looked at Yunho, "You love him?"

"With all my heart." Yunho replied, The King turned to Jaejoong, "And you love my son?"

"Unconditionally," Jaejoong answered sincerely.

"Then you my boy, must see the royal fitter. We have a wedding to plan." The King said with a smile.

Jaejoong smiled widely. "Thank you, Your Highness."

"You mean it, Dad?" Yunho asked.

"Yes, I mean it. I've had a lot of time to think while you've been gone, and I realized that I have been more worried about the Prince, instead of my son." The King said.

Jaejoong smiled lightly.

Yunho smiled brightly and hugged his father. Changmin woke up and reached for his father. When Yunho pulled away he took Changmin into his arms.

Jaejoong chuckled quietly.

Yunho went and kissed Jaejoong.

In the corner of the palace Ryder stood in the shadows, watching the two with disdain. He still wanted Jaejoong for himself and mark his words, the boy would be his if it was the last thing he ever did.

end.