The Winged Dynasties: Chanjin

Bound by Duty

The next morning, sunlight streamed into Hyunjin's guest chamber at the Golden Palace, casting golden rays across the luxurious fabrics and marble floors. The warmth of the palace had done wonders for Hyunjin's mood, but as he sat on the edge of the bed, adjusting his cloak, his thoughts lingered elsewhere.

He had hoped to escape the weight of Noctis Spire, if only for a few days, but no matter how far he traveled, the burdens of his responsibilities—and the growing tension with Jaebum—always found a way to creep back into his mind.

Hyunjin stared out the open balcony, where the sky was bright and inviting, feeling the tug of memories as he often did when things grew quiet. His thoughts drifted, not to Felix or the palace, but to Chan, who stood just outside his chamber, as vigilant as ever.

It had been years now, but Hyunjin could still remember the day Chan had become his personal guard. It had changed everything between them—especially with Jaebum.

Hyunjin had been 15 at the time, still growing into his role as a prince. Back then, he hadn't yet understood the full gravity of what it meant to be next in line to rule. It had been the day of the final trials for the kingdom's most promising knights, a day when the king would choose the royal family's personal guards—a great honor for any knight.

The top of the graduating class of knights were all gathered in the main courtyard of Noctis Spire. Hyunjin remembered the intense heat of that day, the way the sun beat down on the stone floors, and how he watched from the sidelines with anticipation. He had been eager, excited to meet the knight who would be charged with his protection, his closest confidant. What he hadn't anticipated was that Jaebum—his older brother, who had been training in the same class—would be among those vying for the role.

Standing at the center of the courtyard, armored and determined, was Chan. He was 18 then, freshly graduated from the royal training program, and everyone knew he was the top of the class. His skill with a sword was unmatched, his tactics flawless, and his loyalty to the kingdom unquestionable. He was the obvious choice. But Jaebum—Jaebum had been just as determined to prove himself, desperate to earn his father's recognition.

Hyunjin had watched from the sidelines as the knights sparred in front of the king, showing their strength, agility, and loyalty. Chan's performance was nearly perfect. He moved like a force of nature—strong, precise, and unwavering. Jaebum had fought well, too—better than anyone had expected—but the shadow of Chan's skill loomed over him. By the end of the trials, there was no doubt who would be chosen.