"The Second Ruler"

•°17°•

The sun arose in the early morning over the forest of Shadow Wood. The chirping of birds echoed through the bustling forest, and the leaves of the trees danced with the breeze.

The sun was still yet to be visible in the sky. The horses of the royals were present in the not-so-small stable.

Hoseok was practicing his sword skills while the others were still asleep. He had been unable to sleep last night, though the reason was indeed shameful for him to voice out.

The voices of the princes had been entering his ears, nevertheless he was helpless to stop them.

As his sword danced in the cold breeze, the darkness was yet to fade away, but the droplets of Hoseok's sweat sparkled like diamonds on his rigid warrior physique.

His legs were perfectly placed on the ground as he battled with the mannequin standing in front of him.

His fluffy brown hair flowed in the air, and his inner layer of hanfu clung to his physique, making him look ethereal and mighty.

Hoseok frowned, hearing the mild footsteps approaching him from behind. He wasn't sure if it was his friend or someone else.

As he felt the presence behind him, he tightened his grip on the sword hilt and spun around, his sword directly aimed at the person's throat.

Fortunately, those mighty hands gripped Hoseok's hand tightly in a swift motion.

Hoseok's eyes widened, realizing it was none other than his friend Yoongi, who was standing inches away from him, hand grabbing his, sword pressed against Yoongi's throat.

"Two days past, I survived poison's cruel embrace, and now you seek to sever my throat. Hoseok, this pain you inflict cuts deeper than any blade."

Yoongi's morning raspy voice stirred something deep within Hoseok's heart. Flustered, he quickly backed away, rolling his eyes to mask his emotions.

"If you continue to sneak up on me like this, I fear that one day your head may part ways with your body, a fate too grim to bear."

Hoseok fretted playfully, redirecting his attention to his training. Yoongi, with a soft chuckle, leaned casually against the mannequin, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

"You dare to challenge the life of a royal guard? Such audacity will not go unpunished."

Hoseok smirked, his eyes glinting with mischief.

"Only if the royal guard is reckless enough to approach a warrior in the midst of training, inviting their own peril." He retorted, resuming his practice with renewed vigor.

Yoongi watched him for a moment, the early morning light casting a soft glow on his friend's determined face.

""You're up early," he remarked, curiously. "Couldn't sleep." his voice still carrying the remnants of sleep.

Hoseok's movements faltered for a split second before he regained his rhythm.

"Something like that," Hoseok replied, his tone evasive.

He didn't want to admit that the sounds from the prince's chambers had kept him awake, stirring feelings he wasn't ready to confront.

Yoongi, sensing his friend's discomfort, decided to change the subject.

"Indeed, we must be ready for the journey to Goryeo. The Black Cloth people are relentless and will not wait for us to gather our strength. Let us prepare with utmost diligence and resolve."

Hoseok nodded, his expression hardening.

"I know. I've been thinking about our strategy. We need to ensure the safety of the princes and the emperor. Their protection is paramount."