Lean

XIX

BEOMGYU

Four days had passed since the battle of King's Coast where the Kangs emerged victorious. It was a bloody battle that resulted in many lives lost on both sides. Eventually, his father's army was overpowered and the Kangs took over, entering King's Palace and seizing control of King's Coast. They captured many of his family members, while some escaped to Aurumstone. Beomgyu was one of the ones who was captured. Now, he was confined to a small bedroom on the outskirts of the palace, under constant guard.

He was separated from his family members and unsure of their fate. Beomgyu had little contact with anyone while he was in captivity. He anxiously awaited the news of Yeonjun and his father. Yeonjun had fought in the battle and with the Kang's victory, Beomgyu could only imagine the worst possible outcome. He hoped that Yeonjun and his father were safe somewhere.

Taehyun was safe and was set to assume the throne of Mirage tomorrow at his crowning ceremony. Beomgyu knew he didn't want the title, but the council voted for him to become king after the war. Beomgyu hadn't had a chance to talk to him at all since they last saw each other at camp where he was taken back by his family's men. He would sit by the small window in his bedroom, hoping to catch a glance of him out in the yard.

The days filled him with anxiety as he tried to busy himself by reading books and drawing on parchment paper. Unfortunately, the hours didn't fly by fast enough. Beomgyu felt like he was being consumed by his thoughts. He didn't leave his room except to use the bathroom or to eat. Even then, he was guarded by a stoic Kang bannerman.

Suddenly, a knock at the door interrupts his quiet afternoon. Beomgyu leaped to his feet and dashed to the door, quickly opening it. Standing at his door was Taehyun, surrounded by nearly a dozen guards. The guards had royal blue robes on with gold armor, signaling that they were members of Taehyun's newly established king's guard. Beomgyu immediately recognized several of the guards, their faces showing signs of the recent battle. Bruises and scars marked their rugged features.

Beomgyu couldn't help but notice how much Taehyun's appearance seemed to have changed since he last saw him. He looked tired and almost like he had aged ten years. The spark in his eyes that he recognized when they were together was gone. He looked much too like his father.

"Choi Beomgyu, we have some things to discuss," Taehyun announced in a steely tone. He glanced back at his king's guard. "Please leave us be, I'll find you all," he dismissed them.

The guards nodded, confirming with an affirmative before they quickly walked off toward the staircase. Each step they took caused their gold armor to clank and clash. Once they were out of sight, Beomgyu parted his way, allowing Taehyun to enter the bedroom.

Taehyun walked into his bedroom, peering around before making his way over the bed. He sat down on the edge of the bed and a wince escaped his mouth. Beomgyu shut the door behind him and glanced over with a look of concern. Taehyun was grabbing at his side through his elegant silk shirt.

"I meant to come sooner," Taehyun explained, gripping his side, "I've been recovering since the battle. I'm sorry I kept you waiting."

Beomgyu couldn't hold back anymore. He rushed to Taehyun, wrapping his arms around him tightly. Taehyun reciprocated the hug with one hand, a soft grunt escaping his lips. Seeing him here now reassured him; knowing he was alive and safe eased his mind from some of his troubles. His dark hair tickled his chin as Beomgyu held him close, planting a soft kiss on his head.