*

                Wooyoung sat quietly overlooking Baxkos. The sun had risen, and people were beginning to set up their vendors for the market. He reflected on the night before and physically felt ill. With Chansung gone, he didn’t have the comfort he would have liked. Steeling himself, he took several deep breaths in an attempt to calm himself. This wasn’t the time to be downtrodden. He knew how to make it right, he just needed to lure out the people he needed and then that would be it. Walking back into his room, he looked over the assortment of items covering his bed. He had the rituals memorised and the one he needed to hand to Junho was buried deep within him.

                He took up the small piece of amethyst. He focused on it, Nichkhun’s memories flooded him. Somehow this had managed to remain with him. It could either help him, because it would give him the Nichkhun he knew from the previous dream, or Nichkhun would be a mess from having two different realities. It was a risk, but he needed to take it if the situation called for it. His biggest concern was Junho. Helios could have done anything to him. He didn’t feel his presence at all which didn’t bode well for their bond. There were any number of things Helios would have done to close them off from each other, and none of them were good.

                Wooyoung?

                He straightened. Yes.

                Junho is in stable condition, but he’s not fairing too well. Nichkhun had an attack on the way back to Baxkos palace. He seems to be more stable this morning. I think it’s because of his relationship with Taecyeon.

                Wooyoung smiled. So they are together then...

                Yes. Are you alright?

                Wooyoung turned his attention to the blue of the morning sky and hugged himself. I’d be better if both you and Junho were with me.

                Junho might be a little mad at you.

                A little? I expect a full-on reprimand. I just hope he lets me hug him. He thought and began to prepare for the day.

                He’ll let you. He really needs you right now.

                Swooning, Wooyoung couldn’t help but hug himself. Have you located Kim?

                No. He’s more heavily guarded than the Horvejkuls. Something fishy is going on with that.

                Wooyoung thought back to the previous ritual. Kim and been placed to the left of Helios. If he had been on the right, like Changmin – who had been nothing but a corpse – the dream would have taken on a different story. I’ll have to think about it, but I know it is imperative we take him with us. He was to the left of Helios when the ritual was activated.

                Nichkhun and Taecyeon were in the center?

                Yes...

                Where were you and Junho?

                Right of Nichkhun and Taecyeon, Zahi and Sano were to their left.

                Chansung fell silent for a long time and Wooyoung drank the -changing potion. This would last much longer than the one he drank the night before. He stored an extra bottle in his small bag and anything else he would need were hidden on his person.

                Changmin governed which history would be unveiled, and since Kim has always been Helios’ right hand he would affect the balance of power.

                Wooyoung’s brows furrowed as the potion began to work. What do you mean?

                He’s a container for Helios, Wooyoung. Whether it’s for power or other reasons, Helios has made him a repository for whatever he has needed. Which is why it would be imperative to separate them. It wouldn’t surprise me if Helios has established Kim as a host for himself, in the event that something happens to him, he can switch over to Kim.

                Wooyoung stared at his reflection. Is the Kim family of Inferna?

                I don’t know, but if they were from the lower classes, it probably gave Helios an edge, and that was how he managed to get a hold of us the first time.

                It is beginning to make more sense. Perhaps I need to re-think things a little. Are you alright to continue spying for the time being?

                Of course, you do your part, and I’ll do mine.

                I expect things are going to get a little rocky for a while, but I’ll try to keep their attention on me for as long as I can. Please...stay safe, Chansung.

                Same to you. I’ll see you shortly.

                Wooyoung dressed himself and looked over the face of ‘Lady Hwang’. He liked the ring to it, although that would involve marrying himself to Chansung, and he knew that wouldn’t fly with Junho. Hwang Wooyoung, Lee Wooyoung...or he could convince them both to be Jangs and that would solve his problems. Smiling to himself, he felt a little lighter. “It won’t ever happen, but it makes me happy to at least think about it.”

                Walking down to the street he found Zahi waiting for him. “Ready?”

                Wooyoung nodded and climbed into the carriage. The Queen of Lunaris was seated regally inside, her hands in her lap. Wooyoung sat closest to the door.

                “I don’t know what my sons see in you...”

                “To be honest, sometimes I don’t know either...” He admitted, trying to become accustomed to his female voice.

                “Well you best know, they’re both behind enemy lines for you and now I’m assisting.” She scolded and kept her attention outside. “I didn’t have to let you come.”

                “Well, the prince offered me an invitation himself last night. So either way I would have been there.” He shot back. “You might be a queen, but you wanted to hide behind your castle walls. You’re much more powerful than your sons. You could have helped us from the start.”

                “Oh don’t reprimand me, Jang. Not everyone wants to face chaos head on like you.” She growled.

                “No, but I have more reason to do so than you. It is imperative that this works this time...” He said, voice going soft. “I can’t afford to fail again.”

                She looked at him finally and her features softened. “I understand, I will do all I can to not be suspicious.”

                “Forming a false negotiation is being pretty brash.”

                “It isn’t false. By opening up negotiations, I will be making it easier for you all to move. If harm should come to me, my children, or my people, I alone will take responsibility. I will do everything in my power to make you succeed.” She said and then fell quiet.

                Wooyoung watched the buildings fly by, his anxiety rising as they came to the palace grounds. He knew this was just a visit, but watching and being around Nichkhun the night before without being able to tell him anything really hurt him. He hoped he could see the interaction between Nichkhun and Taecyeon. He didn’t know how hard it was going to be to convince Taecyeon to come with them, but he had to try.

                The carriage door opened and Wooyoung exited first and the Queen came to stand beside him. “Welcome, your highnesses, thank you for accepting the invitation to come.”

                Wooyoung smiled tensely at the chaperone. His hand was taken tightly by the Queen’s. “My niece and I were most excited. She met the prince in passing and they seemed quite taken with one another.”

                “Oh yes, prince Horvejkul is anticipating your arrival. Lieutenant Hwang will be escorting your niece to her lunch with the prince.”

                “Very good. Enjoy your lunch my dear. I’ll be by to fetch you.”

                “Yes auntie.”

                The Queen’s brow rose but she chuckled and walked in the opposite direction. Wooyoung knew he was going to get comments from her later. Feeling a hand at his elbow, he turned and found Victor. Heart racing, he smiled. “Hello again, cousin.”

                “Good to see you again.” He said as he turned him in the opposite direction. “How do you fair?”

                “I’m...quite tired from the event last night. I don’t think I shall attend another in the future.”

                “That would be for the best.” Victor said and they came to a staircase.

                Wooyoung’s eyes shot to the top. A man stood there, with dark brown eyes. His silver hair and cunning features sent an unpleasant shiver down his spine.

                “Cousin, this is General Toren.”

                Wooyoung bowed slightly. “Greetings, General Toren.”

                “What an exquisite creature your cousin is, Victor.”

                It took all of Wooyoung’s willpower not to stumble back as the man appeared before him. As the muscular man took up his hand, he clenched his dress tightly as cool lips touched his skin.

                “Please do not harass my cousin, General, you’re keeping her from seeing Horvejkul. I don’t think you want his highness wondering where his guest is.”

                The General relieved his hand and Wooyoung allowed himself to be pulled passed. He felt like every part of him had been exposed. “Fair well, Lady Hwang.” He called after them.

                Wooyoung nearly collapsed once they were out of earshot. “Oh night, that was gross.”

                “Well you’re very convincing, now, please, let us move.”

                Wooyoung nodded and allowed himself to be led down to a lighter hallway and came to a small dining room. His attention immediately flew to Taecyeon, who stood to Nichkhun’s right. He was really here.

                “Greetings, Lady Hwang.” Nichkhun said as he rose from his chair. “You do not look well.”

                “We bumped into General Toren on the way up.” Victor informed.

                Both Nichkhun and Taecyeon became distraught. “I’m very sorry you had to meet him, Lady Hwang.”

                “Oh don’t worry about me. You’d think I’d be used to unwanted attention from men like him by now.” Wooyoung said and finally calmed himself. “It is very nice to see you again.”

                “Same to you.” Nichkhun said with a courteous smile.

                Wooyoung didn’t miss the lingering of Taecyeon’s hand upon his shoulder.

                “Taecyeon, you can inform the servants we’re ready for lunch.”

                “Yes your highness.”

                Wooyoung watched him go before turning back to Nichkhun. “What a dashing man, your highness.”

                Nichkhun flushed immediately. “He’s been my partner in crime for 15 years.”

                Wooyoung sat back. “I assume he’s been your anchor throughout much of the hardships which have come your way.”

                A fond smile came to Nichkhun’s face. Wooyoung’s soul warmed upon seeing it.

                “Yes, I don’t know what I would do without him.”

                Wooyoung gripped Victor’s arm. “I bet my cousin causes a fuss.”

                “Oh come on, I do not.”

                Nichkhun chuckled, “no, they’ve been very helpful to me.”

                “I’m happy to hear it.”

                “You seemed very unsettled last night after the auction, Lady Hwang.” Nichkhun said as he grabbed his goblet of water. “Especially after Lee Junho’s bid.”

                Wooyoung’s mind instantly went back. A panic arose within him. “Well I...I know Junho, through my cousins. Seeing him like that really...yes, it was unsettling.” Hand beginning to shake, he tried to relax as a much larger one took his. It was too late. The panic was setting in. “Please I need air...” He rose from his chair and got to the window. Breathing heavier, the window opened and Wooyoung inhaled as deeply as he could. Beginning to see spots, he fell to his knees and gripped his throat.

                “Lady Hwang!”

                * Memory *

                Wooyoung was flushed with heat. Chansung sat beside him, cheeks just as red. His eyes were locked on him. Their clothes were disheveled, and he was covered in sweat. Chansung groaned and he undid his hair. “This is why I wanted to wait to see you.”

                Wooyoung grinned instantly, and watched his partner.

                “Be serious. We’re going to see the Prince of Baxkos, for very important negotiations, and we wind up having on the way there.” He grumbled as he re-braided his hair.

                “I wish you’d leave it down. It’s getting longer isn’t it?” He said as he came to straddle Chansung’s waist.

                “You know it’s a tradition in the Hwang family...and be a little self-conscious Wooyoung. You’re lucky our driver is a good friend.”

                “What can I say? You’re irresistible to me...”

                “Don’t even start, Jang.” He warned, finishing off his braid. “This is why I wanted us to meet there.”

                Wooyoung collapsed against him completely and hummed in content. “My hips hurt...”

                “Jang, I’m warning you.”

                He chuckled and kissed his throat. “I love it when you don’t hold back. And don’t try and guilt-trip me, we haven’t seen one another in months, and you just looked so handsome.”

                “Now I know why Junho looked like he was in such a daze this morning.”

                Wooyoung couldn’t help but grin, “I wish you were able to join us.”

                Chansung rolled his eyes and rubbed his thumbs into his cheeks. “He’s open to me joining sometimes, Wooyoung. I respect how he feels about me, and besides, we both like to have our private time with you.”

                Wooyoung couldn’t help but pout. “Fine...” He murmured and rested against him. “I’m surprised the Horvejkuls are even allowing us into their kingdom. They seem pretty radical with regards to Lunaris, and they don’t treat Immortals very well.”

                “Well, Nichkhun and Nichan are very open to fostering healthy relations with Lunaris. I think you’ll like them both-”

                “You met them already?”

                “Oh yes, I’ve been meeting with them quite a bit the last little while.”

                “Wow, you’ve been working on your social skills, my handsome prince.” He cooed as he sat back and made himself presentable. If Chansung had favourable opinions of the princes, he needed to make sure he was on his best behaviour.

                “Well, my partner is very adamant and persistent in ensuring those ‘social’ skills are top notch. My mother, while a complete about our relationship, does approve of this.” He huffed and gripped his hips. “Who gets you tonight?”

                Wooyoung groaned and rested his hands on Chansung’s chest. “Junho called dibs, although he said if you wanted to visit you’re very welcome to.”

                “How long are you back for?”

                “I can be back for a while if you want.”

                “You know it goes without saying that I want you to stay, Jang.” Chansung said as he sat up and kissed along his neck. “It amazes me just how much you can love both me and Junho...”

                “Not many understand how I can do it. That’s okay, I love you both, and that’s all that matters.”

                Chansung’s fingers pressed down on his collar, and ran his fingers over some tender spots. “He was really feeling it huh?”

                Wooyoung shuddered and pressed his hands down. “If you want to be on time, stop touching me, and reminding me of what I did to Junho last night.”

                Chansung chuckled. “Oh I have a vague idea, he really couldn’t hold a conversation this morning. Poor mage...”

                Wooyoung got off him and used magic to clean them up. “We’re having on the way back, Chansung.”

                “Well, I’m not going to say no.”

                Wooyoung smiled and looked out the window. “How’s your older brother?”

                Chansung shrugged. “Angry at all the free time I have.”

                “And your sister?”

                “I think she’s found an appropriate suitor.”

                “What?!” Wooyoung slammed his hands into the seat. “I haven’t been away that long.”

                “No, apparently this has been going on a while. So, it’s taking some of the heat off of me and my relationship with you.”

                “Hmm...” He sat back and looked over the Inferna prince. He smiled and Chansung eyed him curiously.

                “What?”

                “You look...really good.”

                Watching those cheeks redden was very pleasing. “Shut up, Wooyoung.”

                “You do though...you’ve really grown into yourself.” He said and sat himself back on Chansung’s lap. “It’s so good to be home.”

                As they came to a stop, a knock came to the door and Wooyoung stepped out first. A gentle kiss was pressed to the back of his head and he closed his eyes. He followed Chansung up the stairs and they were greeted by the attendant. A man was rushing out, followed closely by another. Wooyoung watched them closely. The older man looked him over while the younger sneered at him. Wooyoung glared back but was tugged along by Chansung.

                “Who was that?”

                “Helios-

                “That was him! What nerve, he looked me up and down like I was-

                Chansung shushed him and led him on inside. “He’s the one causing all the problems with Baxkos. He’s been winning favour with the Horvejkul monarchs. They like his ideas on what to do with Immortals, and Wolves especially...” He said quietly.

                “Who was the snarky one following him?”

                “Kim Min-Jun. I don’t know where he dug him up.”

                “They really made me uncomfortable...”

                Chansung kissed his forehead and brushed his fingers under his chin. “I don’t like people who make the infamous Jang Wooyoung uncomfortable.”

                He smiled, “you make me feel safe.”

                Chansung smiled back, and they were escorted to a small dining room. There, a youthful and reserved man awaited them. “Good to see you again, Hwang.”

                Wooyoung watched them shake hands. “Horvejkul, this is my partner in crime.” Chansung introduced.

                “Well, it’s nice to finally meet you, Jang Wooyoung.”

                He grasped his hand. “Same to you. I’ve been told you would like to talk about a potential alliance and assistance.”

                Horvejkul smiled. “Yes.”

*

                Wooyoung looked out over Baxkos, a chilly air swept over him. He hadn’t woken yet. Hearing the balcony door open, he turned his attention back. “Oh, I felt something was amiss.”

                Nostalgia washed over Wooyoung heavily as Nichkhun came to stand beside him.

                “Chansung told me you were brash, but now you’re really beginning to amaze me.”

                Staring at him quietly, Wooyoung smiled. “You’re important in the negotiations for Lunaris and Inferna. Besides, Chansung considers you a valuable friend and great ally. I need to keep you and your brother safe so not only our friendship survives, but that you gain the freedom you wish for.”

                Nichkhun flushed darkly. “I admire your devotion to Hwang. He’s lucky to have you.”

                Wooyoung turned to him completely.

                “Not many can break into the Baxkos castle, especially the inner chambers, and then proceed to attend invite-only functions – and cross-dressing and posing as a woman – not only to build business relations with my family, but help in negotiations to support Hwang as a partner. They eat it up you know? They don’t even suspect that you’re actually male or of Inferna. They really think you’re married.”

                Wooyoung chuckled. “Well, if you really want to be technical, Chansung and I are.” His spirits dampened upon noticing the exhaustion that rippled from the Baxkos prince. “I worry about you, Nichkhun. You’ve taken very drastic stances against your parents. Why?”

                Nichkhun regarded him quietly for a while. “I’ve...never told anyone this.”

                Wooyoung nodded and edged closer.

                “When I was little, I wandered away from the palace-

                “Yeah, that hasn’t changed.” Wooyoung teased.

                “Shut up.” Nichkhun laughed. “Anyway, I wandered away – it was probably the second or third time I did this. I came to this alleyway and these kids were cheering and goading on this other kid. The closer I got, I realised they were hurting a Wolf.”

                A shiver flew along Wooyoung’s arms.

                “I got really mad and told them to stop. They told me since I was the prince I should be alright with hurting a Wolf. Imagine, little kids hurting a Wolf cub just because the kingdom approved discrimination and violence against Lunaris.” Nichkhun shook his head. “I told them if they didn’t stop I’d have them all thrown in the dungeon. They ran away after that.” Nichkhun rested his chin in his hand. “I didn’t know what to do next. But, I took the Wolf with me back to the castle and snuck him into my room. I told him to be good and not make a noise or worse people would come and hurt him. I got him food and bandages. It took about a week for him to regain his strength. I can still remember how defiant his eyes were then.”

                “Oh? Did you like him?”

                Nichkhun blushed and shoved him. “Be serious!”

                “I am!” He laughed and settled himself back in his spot.

                “He told me, ‘I promise I’ll come back and protect you’.” Nichkhun looked far off.

                “Did he?”

                Nichkhun glanced up at him. “Yes...”

                Wooyoung chuckled. “Tell me, tell me.”

                “No one knows he’s a Wolf, Jang Wooyoung, so you better not tell anyone.”

                He sat back and held up his hands. “I swear upon the deep magic I will never tell anyone.”

                Nichkhun stared at him for a while longer. “Do you know the Ok family?”

                He nodded.

                “You know their prominence in Lunaris?”

                “Yes Nichkhun, get on with it.”

                “That little Wolf was Ok Taecyeon.”

                Wooyoung sat back, “you saved the son of one of the Old clans?”

                Nichkhun nodded.

                Wooyoung’s jaw dropped. “Holy Nichkhun.”

                He groaned and covered his face.

                “That doesn’t explain why you fight so hard. Anyone with a conscience would know that’s just being a decent person.”

                Nichkhun groaned and crouched down to the ground.

                “Hey, what’s wrong?”

                “Wooyoung...he’s here.”

                “What?! Where? I wanna meet him!”

                Nichkhun shot up and covered his mouth. “Keep your voice down.”

                “He’s here and you...you like him.” Wooyoung realised quickly.

                Nichkhun’s face went a deep red.

                Wooyoung grinned. “Is he hot?”

                “Wooyoung!”

                “Oh come on, you can be honest with me.” Wooyoung teased and ruffled his hair. “I promised to help you against Helios. I’m good in the manner of relationships too. Heck I’ve got two.”

                Nichkhun bit his lower lip. “It’s not as easy for me as you. I’m a prince to a kingdom who is trying to eradicate Wolves.”

                “This is so...juicy.”

                “Wooyoung! Take me seriously...”

                “I am, you prude.” Wooyoung huffed and crossed his arms. “What’s stopping you from approaching him?”

                “I worry about what might happen if he’s discovered...”

                “Well that doesn’t mean you can’t get close to him.”

                “What if that draws attention to him?”

                Wooyoung shrugged. “I expect you know how to act with tact by now.”

                Nichkhun glared. “I can’t do it, Wooyoung.”

                “You need someone to support you from the inside. I can’t be here all the time, and I know both Chansung and I would rest easier knowing you have at least one person who’ll be beside you.” He encouraged. “Junho would also be good to talk to about this. He’s more mature about these things than I am.”

                Nichkhun smiled at him. “I really...envy how much they both support you.”

                Wooyoung warmed at the thought of his lovers. “They do, but I also give them the support they need.” He said and gripped Nichkhun’s hand. “I remember the first time I met you. I hadn’t seen Chansung in a long time because I was wandering, and he said he was going to be meeting you for negotiations. You’ve come a long way since then you know? I think you should have a bit more confidence in yourself.”

                Nichkhun’s expression softened. “I just want this mess with Helios to be over, Wooyoung.” He said and turned his attention out to the city. “What’s it like to be out in the free world, to be away from captivity?”

                Wooyoung gripped his hand tighter. “It’s amazing, and I know one day you’ll be free too. It’ll happen.”

* Memory End *

                Wooyoung’s eyes snapped open and he gasped for air. He was lying on a bed, Chansung peering down at him. “These lapses are beginning to become a nuisance, love.”

                Wooyoung rested his hand against his chest. “How long was I out?”

                “Only ten minutes...” Chansung said as he removed the cool cloth from his forehead. “Are you well enough to stand?”

                Wooyoung nodded and sighed in relief that the potion had not been affected. “Dresses are so constricting...”

                Chansung snorted in amusement. “I’ve heard that from you before.”

                Wooyoung groaned and rested Chansung’s hand against his cheek. “I...I really want us to be free, Chansung. I’m remembering so much of our life – our real life, and I just want it so much...”

                “I know, but you’ve got to be able to make it without these episodes happening.” Chansung chided gently. “What happens?”

                “Memories...unlocked. I know how I first met Nichkhun, and, him telling me about Taecyeon.”

                Chansung smiled. “That hot day in the carriage?”

                Wooyoung smiled and sat up. “Yes, very hot. I really want memories of Junho...”

                “Maybe they’ll happen once you see him. That seems to be what happens right?”

                “Well, yes...sort of.” Wooyoung said and Chansung helped him stand. “Am I presentable?”

                Chansung fixed his hair and cupped his chin. “I mean it, you need to relax.”

                “I remember the first time I saw Helios and Kim.”

                “You do?”

                “It was the day I met Nichkhun, they were leaving as we entered. We’ll talk more about it later. I need to get back to my performance.”

                “Alright...” Chansung said and tapped his temple. His eyes went brown. “Oh, my turn huh?”

                Wooyoung smiled. “Are you okay, Victor?”

                “I should be asking you that.” He said as he made his way to the door.

                They made their way back to the small dining room and Nichkhun stood immediately. “Are you alright, Lady Hwang?”

                “Oh yes, I’m fine. Sometimes when I’ve overexerted myself I just get a little weak that’s all. I didn’t sleep well last night either. I’m sorry for causing you to worry.”

                Nichkhun shook his head, “it’s alright. I’m just glad you’re fine. Would you still like to eat?”

                “Oh yes please, I’m famished.”

                They enjoyed a hearty meal and they spoke much about Baxkos. When they were brought tea, Wooyoung decided it was time to change the conversation.

                “Nichkhun, may we speak in private?”

                He hesitated, but nodded to both Taecyeon and Victor. Once they were gone, Wooyoung took a deep breath.

                “How do you feel about Jang Wooyoung?”

                Nichkhun stared at him for a while. “He’s...a very important friend.”

                “I have a favour to ask you, but please feel free to decline.”

                “Ask.”

                “Will you let me see Lee Junho?”

                Nichkhun went very still. “This is where I ask why.”

                Wooyoung smiled. “I’m very good at disguises...”

                “Yes, this isn’t the first time I’ve seen you disguise yourself as a woman.”

                He sat up straighter. “Did you know it was me last night?”

                “I had a hunch, Chansung and Zahi being there were by biggest clues, especially Zahi.” He said softly, and his eyes brimmed with tears. “You...you don’t know what’s happened since you’ve been gone, Wooyoung.”

                “Shh, shh, please...” He knelt beside him. “Please let me see him.”

                “We have to do it quickly.”

                Wooyoung nodded.

                Nichkhun rose and led them to the fireplace. He opened a secret passage and dragged him along.

                “I’m...” Wooyoung gripped his hand tightly. “I’m really sorry I failed, Nichkhun. I’m sorry about your parents.”

                “I don’t care about that.” He said quietly. “I had faith you’d return, and somehow we’d get back on track, but even I can see you’re desperate.”

                “I am, but I know what I have to do.” He tugged Nichkhun back and kept him close. “You have to leave the castle with me, that’s the only way I can change everything.”

                “Hwang told me something similar...”

                “Do you trust me?”

                Nichkhun hesitated but nodded. “He said Taecyeon would have to come.”

                “He does, and we need to find Kim.”

                “I...I’ll try and help Chansung, but then it would just make them suspicious.”

                “You carry on as you have, that’s all I can ask for. I’ll take care of the rest.”

                Nichkhun smiled. “You truly are a good friend, Wooyoung.”

                He shrugged. “I’ve failed a lot...”

                “Yes, but you try and make up for it.” Nichkhun said as he pulled him along. They came to secret door and Nichkhun opened it slowly. He peered out. It reminded Wooyoung greatly of when they escaped his mansion together. Soon, they came to the holding cell and Wooyoung slowly went up to the bars. Junho sat quietly on his cot, eyes focused on him. There was something off about him, and it hurt Wooyoung deeply to see him so distant.

                “Junho...” He called, which finally seemed to brighten Junho's eyes.

                His beautiful mage rose up slowly and walked towards him. He covered his mouth and looked helpless. “You idiot...what’re you doing here?”

                “I had to see you.” He said and reached through the bars.

                Junho walked into his arms.

                “It’s so weird to see you as a woman...”

                Wooyoung chuckled and hugged him as tightly as he could. “Are you alright?”

                Junho shook his head and pressed his forehead against his shoulder. “You remember everything too, right?”

                Wooyoung shot back and looked over him. “You know this isn’t real?”

                Junho nodded and sniffled a little. “When I came to, you were running. I couldn’t stop you. I didn’t understand what was going on.”

                “Shh, it’s alright. I didn’t either.”

                “When...when he caught me...” Junho’s voice became weak. “I really couldn’t remember anything that they wanted. I didn’t know what to tell them. The memories of this world only came after a while. I had to pretend not to know anyone. It hurt so much to talk to Nichkhun and...to talk to Taecyeon. I felt so alone.”

                Wooyoung kissed his neck and brushed back his hair. “I promised you I would make it right, and I will. You have to tolerate this for just a little more. I swear I’m going to make it right, Junho.”

                He nodded and wiped at his eyes.

                “I have to go.” He said and held up two vials. “You drink both of these. They won’t be able to hurt you anymore.”

                “What are they?”

                “Just trust me.”

                Junho held onto him tighter. “I don’t want you to go.”

                Wooyoung shut his eyes tight and held Junho even harder. “I love you. I love you so much. Be strong for me for just a little longer, alright?” He stepped back. A curious glint of orange caught his eye. “Drink those vials. I’ll see you again soon!” It took every ounce of Wooyoung’s willpower to turn away. Nichkhun led him back to the room. As the door opened, they took their seats.

                “Lady Hwang, the Queen is ready to depart.”

                Wooyoung rose and nodded. He looked back at Nichkhun who squeezed his hand. “It...it was a pleasure seeing you again, Nichkhun.”

                “Same to you, and I’ll be seeing you again soon.”

                “Yes.” Wooyoung turned away. “Oh, would it be alright to ask if Victor accompanied his mother and I back?”

                “Of course...” Nichkhun said. “Taecyeon, inform the guards Victor will be escorting his family home.”

                “Yes, your highness.”

                Wooyoung remained quiet the whole carriage ride back to his tavern. The potion wore off along the way and he transfigured his clothes.

                “Jang, I’ll talk to you about next steps in the morning.” The Queen informed.

                Nodding to her, he set glamours to his face as he stepped out and made his way up to his room. Once there, he crashed into Chansung’s arms and let his emotions loose. Something was horribly wrong, he could feel it deep inside. He needed to work faster.

***

Next Chapter...The Prince and the Tortured (Nichkhun's POV)