"The Second Ruler"

•°10°•

February 23, 1510

As the Crown Prince of Elysia, and the Second Prince, strolled towards the dining hall, they were accompanied by the Royal Guards.

Jungkook was eager to share the news of the blossoming relationship between the Crown Prince and Guard Yoongi.

After battling his own emotions, Yoongi had finally accepted the love that the Crown Prince had longed for.

Jungkook was certain, the Emperor of Goryeo was aware of Yoongi's decision. His heart pounded in his chest, for he had not spoken to Taehyung since his arrival.

And now he would meet the Emperor directly in the dining table.

Lost in his reverie, Jungkook did not realize when they reached the ground floor of the castle. Jimin led them towards the commissary.

Upon entering, they bowed to the Emperor, and the King, who were seated at the diner, engaged in conversation.

The table was laden with traditional European dishes, prepared by the two princes themselves.

The traditions between Europe and Asia were distinct, As they settled down, Ji-woo inquired,

"Royal Guard Min and Royal Guard Jung, may I know if the esteemed guards of Asia found their chambers satisfactory?"

His voice held a hint of hesitation, which dissipated when Hoseok replied, "Indeed, Your Majesty, the chambers are perfect. Thank you for your efforts."

Ji-woo nodded and gestured towards the food. "Kindly taste the dishes, Emperor Taehyung."

Taehyung smiled and served himself a few dishes. "Crown Prince Jimin and Second Prince Jungkook, may I know why both of you are still on your feet? Kindly sit and let us eat together."

Jimin and Jungkook shared a smile and stood beside their father. "Your Emperor, they serve me first, then they eat. I have the best sons in all of Europe,"

Ji-woo praised sincerely. Taehyung smiled softly.

After serving Ji-woo, Jimin and Jungkook also sat, with Jimin beside Yoongi and Jungkook between Jimin and Hoseok.

As they took their first bites, and was blessed by the delicious food.

The juicy meat was cooked with perfection, and the curry with rice was surprisingly mouthwatering. Taehyung couldn't help but state.

"Your Majesty, may I know who the chef is? I fear I will take the chef to the Empire of Goryeo and never let them return to Elysia."

Jungkook's heart wavered softly at the praise, while Jimin smiled cheekily, side-eyeing Jungkook. Ji-woo grinned and replied,

"I am afraid you might have to ask for the chef's permission, Your Emperor."

Taehyung glanced at Ji-woo, his mouth filled with meat.

He was certain that if the King himself requested the chef to visit Asia, the chef would do so without hesitation.

However, his thoughts were interrupted by Jimin's mischievous voice.

"Hyung-nim, fret not. If Father is ready to give you our chef, then believe me, that chef will walk beside you for the rest of his life without hesitation."

The Emperor and the royal guards were puzzled by the roundabout talk. Nevertheless, Yoongi stated.

"I apologize, Crown Prince, but we did not quite apprehend your words."

Jimin's cheeks suddenly flushed when their eyes locked for an instant. Though Jimin quickly looked away and replied.

"I am implying that the chef is sitting right beside me. You may ask him to stay in Asia for the rest-"