Before the Engagement ceremony
Long were the palace corridors, and longer the tapestries on the walls, whispering tales of the kingdom's history. Queen Seokjin ascended toward his private chambers, his steps measured with the weight of his title on every stride. It was not the duties of a queen that troubled him this evening but the quiet unrest which had settled between him and Prince Yeonjun-unrest needing to be tended to.
He found the prince standing by the large window, looking out into the gardens where preparations for his engagement celebration were underway. The tension between them was palpable, words hanging between them unspoken.
"Your Highness," Yeonjun said, his head bowing in respect.
Seokjin came forward, a soft smile on his face, but his eyes serious for the weight of the moment. "Prince Yeonjun, I came to offer my congratulations on your engagement to Lord Soobin. The Commander Hoseok's son is a great match, and I have no doubt you will make a great couple."
Yeojun's eyes fluttered with a mix of surprise and appreciation. "Thank you, Your Majesty. It means a lot coming from you."
There was a brief moment of silence before Seokjin spoke again. His voice was softer, yet firm in intent. "I know, Yeonjun, there is much that has gone unsaid between us. I am well aware you hold certain misunderstandings as to my bearing toward you." He paused and let the gravity of those words hit home. "But rest assured, it has nothing to do with you being the son of Consort Yoongi."
Full of uncertainty but paying attention, the prince's eyes met Seokjin's.
"Just as Consort Yoongi treasures Taehyung as if he were his own, so, too, have I always regarded you as my son. The difference," Seokjin continued, his tone unyielding, "is that Yoongi, with his more retiring heart, knows to be openly affectionate. My role, however, is different. As Queen, and with your father's attack which left him in a coma, and with Taehyung's sudden rise to the throne, my responsibilities weighed heavier. Duty bound me to see that Taehyung was ready for the throne he was suddenly thrust upon.
The eyes of Seokjin softened, though the regal bearing never wavered. "This is not to say I have ever thought less of you. On the contrary, my silence has been born out of duty, not of neglect. As Queen, I am bound to maintain balance—not just in the court but within myself."
Yeonjun was still, absorbing the depth of Seokjin's words. For the first time, understanding began to seep into the space between them.
"I appreciate your honesty, Your Majesty," Yeonjun said with a composed yet honest tone. "It means more than you know."
Seokjin gave him a gentle nod. "Know this, Yeonjun—though duty has often kept my heart guarded, I see you as a son, as I have always seen you. I hope you'll let me extend the grace to show it, in time."
The prince nodded, new respect lighting his features. "Of course, Your Majesty. I will."
As the conversation drew to a close, Seokjin laid a hand on Yeonjun's shoulder-a rare display of affection from the Queen. For now, the distance between them was bridged, though there would always be more to navigate in the days to come. For now, however, Queen and Prince stood united, bonded by understanding and duty.
"Call me Eomma." Seokjin smiled at Yeonjun.
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Word Count: 573
Date written: 09/26/24
Date published: 09/26/24
Sorry Sunflowers, I was taking a break as my brain was not braining ☠️
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Fanfikce[Originally a One-shot] Two Best Friends. Two important consorts. One King! Your girl is obsessed with Royal AU Inspired by a Chinese anime on Netflix, "No Doubt in Us!" except the King has Two loyal Consorts who are framed. Interesting Character o...
