Dracula [✓]

HINDRANCE

"Your Highness, the Elders are waiting for you,"

SeokJin moves away from the makeshift window in one of the hallways he was leaning on. The weather looked good today, with its bright and clear sky and zephyr caressing his locks of hair. He imagines young children running around. He sees those tiny hands forming a small white ball. 

A fleeting week has passed. SeokJin barely saw his father and the King rarely saw his son. The prince couldn't walk up to his father. He couldn't approach the sensitive subject of his older brother and mother. He had to distract himself by overseeing the progress of the Sanctuary.

"I'll be there in a bit," he remarks with a small grin. 

The sentry bows down before walking away.

Today is the day that the two have agreed to help each other. Well, more to helping MinYoung remove the unwanted memories. 

SeokJin had time to think, especially as he didn't want to show his face. He was concerned that MinYoung's nightmares would intensify just by looking at his face. He shares the same face as Xavier, after all. 

Yet they each hold their own identities. 

Surely, she'd distinguish them easily, right?

The young prince releases a deep exhale. He grips tightly on the rough frame of the punctured hole. He clicks his tongue and bites his lower lip before proceeding to walk to the underground stream. 

"You can do this, SeokJin. It's fine, you can do this," he mumbles to himself, shaky hands shoved deep in his pockets. 

As he ambles slowly through the serene yet eerie hallway, he is reminded that his decision relies on saving someone. He made this choice without further consulting his father. SeokJin had thought if things went well, then MinYoung didn't have to leave the Sanctuary. 

He didn't understand why it was a suggestion. 

Perhaps it could be for her own good. Maybe, they deserve to live their own lives that won't require any more sacrifice. 

'But then, what about the other one? Will she choose to stay with the Elders or accompany her?'

The ground is soil brown mixed with grey rubbles. His steps are brisk as the ground hums and creaks. The silence is deafening, except for his heavy steps that seem to multiple in weight. There is a chill coursing through his body. The ends of his hair stand up. 

He shakes it off.

SeokJin's thoughts were intervened when he notices the small group huddled by the entrance. The Elders and general were the only ones standing patiently. 

As usual, he wouldn't see his father being present among them, or anyone at all. He is like a hermit hiding behind the thick walls. Anyone can sense the majesty's presence, yet he chooses not to show his face. 

Yet again, there is no need for the King to be present at this time.

The Elders and the general bow down. SeokJin repays the greeting with a lower bow. He is aware that MinYoung's fate lies in his abilities. 

"Good morning, your royal highness," Sehun announces, followed by the Elder's monotone harmony. 

"Please, you don't have to be so formal," SeokJin addresses to the Elders and the general. 

He is aware that the general will never break the royal rule. He knows as long as there's a ruling King and a royal member, Sehun will never address him by his name. 

The general's palm rests on his chest. He waits for the Elders to speak. 

"You have our utmost gratitude, your highness. We are indebted to you," the Elders said.