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As they entered the palace, Jeonghan in princely attire and Seungcheol exuding the strength of a seasoned warrior, they were greeted by the Queen in her chambers. Her stern gaze, a testament to her disapproval of Seungcheol's non-royal lineage, settled on them.
"Jeonghan, my dear," she began with an air of formality, "I've arranged a meeting that I believe is in the best interest of our kingdom." A pause hung in the air before she continued, "Allow me to introduce you to Prince Seokmin, a suitor more befitting of a prince."
The double doors swung open, and Prince Seokmin entered with an elegance that mirrored the regal surroundings. Jeonghan and Seungcheol exchanged curious glances, their uncertainty heightened by the air of mystery surrounding the newcomer.
"Your Majesties, Prince Seokmin," the herald announced, the tension in the room palpable.
Seokmin, a vision of royal charisma, greeted them with a polite bow. "It is an honor to be in the presence of such esteemed royalty."
The Queen observed the unfolding drama with an unreadable expression, while Seungcheol's eyes held a mixture of intrigue and concern. Jeonghan, maintaining his composure, inclined his head in acknowledgment.
As the conversation flowed, Seokmin's eyes wandered, and it didn't take long for them to fixate on Jisoo, who discreetly attended to the proceedings. Entranced by Jisoo's beauty and charm, Seokmin's gaze lingered longer than the usual royal etiquette allowed.
Seungcheol, ever vigilant, noticed the subtle exchange and tightened his grip on Jeonghan's hand, a silent reassurance that spoke of shared concerns.
The Queen, seemingly satisfied with the introduction, suggested, "Why don't you all join me in the grand hall? We have a celebration planned for our distinguished guests."
The grand hall, adorned with tapestries that told tales of generations past, welcomed the entourage with a symphony of murmurs and clinking glasses. Jeonghan, Seungcheol, Seokmin, and the Queen took their places, the atmosphere charged with a blend of expectation and apprehension.
Seokmin, seizing the opportunity, engaged in conversation with Jeonghan, his words laced with charm. "Prince Jeonghan, tales of your grace and beauty have reached even our distant kingdom. It is truly a pleasure to finally meet you."
Jeonghan, ever the diplomatic royal, responded with a measured smile. "The pleasure is mine, Prince Seokmin. I hope your journey has been pleasant."
Meanwhile, Seungcheol discreetly observed the unfolding interaction, his instincts on high alert. He exchanged knowing glances with Jisoo, who continued to navigate the sea of nobility with impeccable grace.
As the night progressed, Seokmin's attention subtly shifted from Jeonghan to Jisoo. The allure of the prince's personal butler proved too captivating to ignore. Seokmin, though not yet aware of the depth of his own feelings, found himself drawn to Jisoo's presence and the enigma that surrounded him.
The Queen, satisfied with the diplomatic exchange, proposed a toast. "To alliances and unions that strengthen our kingdoms."
Glasses clinked, but beneath the veneer of celebration, a silent storm brewed. Jeonghan stole a glance at Seungcheol, who met his gaze with a reassuring smile that conveyed both love and defiance against the strings the Queen sought to pull.
As the revelry continued, Seokmin and Jisoo shared brief encounters, their eyes locking in moments that transcended the formalities of courtly life. Unbeknownst to the Queen and the royal entourage, the seeds of an unexpected connection were being sown.
Amidst the festivity, Jeonghan felt the weight of duty pressing upon him. He couldn't allow the charade to continue, not at the cost of his own happiness. Guided by a newfound resolve, he sought a private moment with Seungcheol.
"Seungcheol, we need to talk," Jeonghan whispered, leading him to a secluded balcony overlooking the palace gardens.
Seungcheol, sensing the urgency in Jeonghan's voice, followed with a furrowed brow. "What's on your mind, my love?"
Jeonghan took a deep breath before speaking, "I can't go along with this charade any longer. I won't let my mother dictate my heart's desires. We need to stand up to her, together."
Seungcheol's eyes softened with understanding and admiration. "Jeonghan, I'm with you every step of the way. We'll face whatever comes, as long as we face it together."
As the moon cast its gentle glow upon the balcony, the two lovers embraced, their hearts intertwined in a pact of love and defiance against the constraints of royal expectations.
Back in the grand hall, the celebration reached its peak. Unbeknownst to the Queen, the royal drama had taken an unexpected turn, and the next chapter of their intertwined destinies awaited with bated breath.
invu by taeyeon
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Royal | Jeongcheol
Hayran Kurgu"Do you need anything?" he asked politely, but still showing authority as the alpha that protected this house. "We have a letter from his majesty" one of the men cleared his throat before opening a scroll and reading it out loud. "Dear head of the...
