-Zelo’s POV-

Tears started to fall silently down my cheek as I saw the palace. It hurt so much to be here. I couldn’t believe anything that just happened. They still continued to protect me after knowing the truth. I’m a completely horrible person.

Youngjae’s expression and reaction kept replaying in my head. After knowing everything about them, I still continued to lie to them. More tears started falling, and faster. I’m the worst.

Once we arrived at the stables I quickly jumped off the horse and ran to our hangout, crying. The hangout had a separate bedroom so I ran in there and locked myself in. I jumped onto the bed and cried into the pillow.

“Junhong.” Himchan called knocking on the door. But I didn’t answer, I just continued to drown in my tears. I wanted to drown in them so bad, for what I did. “I’m sorry…I’m so sorry Youngjae.” I cried throughout the hours of the night. I hurt him. I betrayed him. “I’m so sorry. Youngjae.” I squeezed the pillow. I betrayed all of them, even after they found out the truth and stuck by my side. “You have every right to hate me, but please don’t remain sad or angry. Just smile and be happy again. Please Youngjae.” Hours later the door was pried open.

“Get out!” I demanded still crying. The door closed and I felt someone sit on the bed next to me. “I said get out.” I said weakly. The person gently rubbed my back soothingly, their hand was warm and soft…but I didn’t like it. I sat up and pushed the hand away. “Don’t touch me!” I shot. I looked and saw that it was Yongguk.

“It’s time for you to come out. You’ve been in here for hours.” He spoke calmly. “How did you get in here?” I asked ignoring his so called request. “Daehyun gave me a key to unlock it. Come on. The others are back in the castle.” He said resting his hand on my own. I pulled my hand away. “No. I’m not going with you.” I spat.

“Zelo…” he sighed. “Don’t call me that either.” I cried the tears returning. “You shouldn’t be acting like this Zelo.” He said still calm. “I don’t want to hear it from you.” I said. “Why are you being like this? Did they do anything to you? You have to tell me Zelo. I will take care of it.” Yongguk persisted.

This made me burn with anger. I glared at him with red watery eyes. “What would you do? How would you hand it? Huh?” I asked. He didn’t say anything. “Answer me!” I demanded. “Junhong! What…why are you being like this?” He asked “They did do something.” I said calming down just a little bit. “What is it? What did they do?” he asked concerned putting his hand on my shoulder. “They…well…they made me really happy.”

Yongguk frowned and removed his hand. “They made me feel accepted Yongguk. They were really kind and funny, they took good care of me.” I said. It made me smile a little remembering the things we did and how happy all of us were. “You don’t need them.” He said seriously. “Wh-What?” I said surprised at his sudden sternness.

“You can’t trust them. They fooled you Junhong.” He said. “What? No. They’re not like that. I wasn’t fooled. Youngjae and his friends are sincere and honest.” I argued. “Youngjae? You can’t trust Youngjae…he’s a good for nothing peasant. Youngjae can’t trust people like him, they’re dirty stealing thieves.” He said.

“Peasant? Thieves...People like him?! Yongguk I am just like them! Why don’t you throw me out then huh?!” I snapped furiously. “Junhong…you are not like them.” He said. “No! You’re wrong! I am like Youngjae! Just because my dad suddenly became extremely wealthy and I hang out with you guys doesn’t change the fact that I am a so called peasant!” I spat. “Junhong!” he snapped back. He knew that I was right but he wouldn’t admit it.

“Is that all you saw me as? As a rich kid? Is that why you accepted me? That’s not even who I am. Did you choose to forget about where I actually came from? And my mother? I am a lowly peasant, I was born into it. Yongguk if you can’t accept that then…then I should just leave.” I started to cry again. I knew it. I knew he didn’t accept all of me. “How can you say that so easily? Did Youngjae put all this…this nonsense in your head? Huh?” he questioned.

“You’re not even listening!” I exclaimed getting up heading towards the door. “Where do you think you’re going? He asked. I didn’t answer and opened the door. “Are you going to Youngjae? Huh? Do you think he wants to see you right now? After what happened earlier today?” Yongguk said. I froze. He was right. Youngjae probably wouldn’t want to see me right now, or ever. No. Why? Why did he have to be right? This is all his fault! I felt myself making a fist and closed the door. “Fine! But tomorrow I’m going over there!” I yelled at him.

“How can you go back there?! You can’t! I won’t let you. Do you know what he did to Daehyun 10 years ago?!” He shot. “No! I don’t know! You guys never told me!” I shot back. Yongguk took a deep breath and calmed down.

Youngjae did nothing to Daehyun. Daehyun was the one who betrayed Youngjae. I started to cry harder. This wasn’t fair. Youngjae is being treated like a criminal when he didn’t even do anything. All he wants to is to get out of here with his mother and friends so that they could live well and happily. But he can’t even do that with everyone in his way. “This is unfair.” I mumbled between tears.

-Yongguk’s POV-

Junhong stood there crying heard. It made me extremely sad and mad to see him like this. That Youngjae kid messed with Zelo’s mind. I stood up and took him in my arms. He tried to pull away but I was stronger, he gave up. “Forget about it for now. Just rest okay?” I said trying to calm him down.

He nodded and I walked him over to the bed. He climbed underneath the sheets. About an hour later he finally fell asleep. I got into the bed next to him and caressed his hair. “You’ve had a long day…so just rest. You’re back with us now, you’ll be okay.” I whispered. But he wasn’t resting peacefully. He kept flinching and mumbling words, he was sweating a bit as well. I looked at him sadly. This hasn’t happened before. This is all because of that Youngjae kid. He’s really something else. Nearly destroying the Jung Kingdom and confusing Junhong. This kid needs to be taught a lesson before he messes with anyone else, he’s dangerous.

-Daehyun’s POV-

I burst into my room knocking everything down off my dressers. Jongup and Himchan followed behind me. I breathed heavily, holding onto one of the dressers with both of my hands. Jongup and Himchan remained silent.

What’s going on? Why am I like this? Why do I feel like this? The more I thought about it the angrier I became. “How dare he?!” I breathed. “He hasn’t changed one bit!” “I should have him punished! Arrested! Why didn’t I do anything earlier?! Youngjae~…” I felt like I was going to go insane.

Seeing him today just filled me with so many emotions. I actually felt guilty towards Youngjae. I had this longing feeling for him. I felt jealous of Junhong. I felt angry…but I don’t know who I was angry at and why. Why was I feeling this way?

“That stupid fool!” I shouted angrily. “Daehyun you need to calm down.” Himchan spoke up. But I ignored him. Youngjae was all that was on my mind. I tightened my grip on the dresser in more anger. “How dare I? How dare I? How dare you! Barging into my home! Taking anything and anyone you want!” Youngjae’s words replayed in my head.

“I’m not surprised. You are all the same you take advantage of your powers to others’ disadvantage because of your greed and selfishness. I can’t believe I thought you were any different.” “You made me this way.” I breathed. I remembered the look he gave me.

“He’s no King…He’s not a king. He’s a monster! I won’t ever serve him as long as I live!” He had shouted 10 years ago. Those words had been haunting me for the past 10 years, and now they were back. “You made me this way!!” I shouted throwing the dresser down. “Daehyun!” Himchan gasped snapping me out of my thoughts.

I looked down and around at the mess I made. I suddenly felt dizzy and a major headache hit me. “Wh-What happened?” I asked weakly. “Daehyun?” I heard Jongup say with concern.

“I-I’m tired. I should…go and-and rest.” I said completely out of it. With that I fell to my knees. “Daehyn!” Himchan cried, him and Jongup ran to my care. I started crying. “Daehyun what’s wrong?” Himchan asked worried. But I continued to cry. Jongup felt my forehead. “He’s burning up.” He announced. “Go get one of the nurses or a doctor.” Himchan ordered. Jonup quickly stood up and ran out the room. I was overtaken with fatigue.

“You did this to me…you made me this way.” I continued to cry. Himchan knelt down wrapping his arm around my shoulders. “Daehyun what’s the matter? Are you okay?” He quizzed. I slowly looked at him with heavy eyes. “Himchan…I’m not like this…I’m not a bad person.”

“I know Daehyun…I know.” He urged. “Why c-can’t he see that? I’m not a monster. I’m not like the rest of them. Why?” I continued as more tears fell faster. “Forget him Daehyun. He’s not important.” Himchan said gently. “I can’t…I can’t forget him. No matter how hard I try, he keeps getting in the way…he must be important. Don’t you think? Don’t you think so? I was able to say that he hated me…but I was never able to say I hated him.” I said. He didn’t say anything but shook his head. “He-He made me this way.” I said before finally blacking out.

-Zelo’s POV-

“Youngjae!! I screamed waking up. I sat up breathing heavily, looking around. I was shaking with fear. I had another nightmare. I pulled the covers closer to me. I kept shaking my head. “No…no...it can’t be true…it won’t ever happen.” I kept telling myself. Youngjae! I need to go see Youngjae.

I looked to my left and saw that Yongguk was gone. Yes, this was my chance. I quickly slipped out of the bed and noticed that I was in my pajamas. Who changed me? Youngguk? It doesn’t matter I just have to go and see Youngjae.

I slipped on my slippers and ran to the door. But when I turned the door knob the door didn’t open. What? This can’t be. I tried several times more but the door didn’t budge, I couldn’t even unlock the door! The lock on the inside was gone! What was going on? Why is he doing this?! I started banging on the door. “Yongguk! Youngguk!” I called.

No one said anything. “Himchan!” No response. “Daehyun!” Still nothing. “Jongup?” I called more desperately. “Someone please unlock the door!” I begged. My eyes began to water, something wasn’t right. Youngjae is in danger...I can feel it. “Bang Yongguk!” I cried banging harder. I leaned against the door feeling defeated and slid down to the ground. “Don’t be like this…” I said weakly.

-Youngjae’s POV-

I woke up slowly the next morning feeling lifeless and got ready for work at the fields. “Who was that Zelo kid huh? Was he a spy?” The man that claimed to be my father asked. But I didn’t respond. “I saw him riding away with them royals. Is he close with them? Huh?” He went on. I still didn’t answer him and headed towards the door. “Yah! You rude kid! I asked you a question.” Now answer me!” He was getting angry. I just looked at him then turned back at the door and opened it.

“Youngjae! Answer him please…” my mother said. I sighed and looked at her. She seemed to have read my mind and nodded. “I understand…I’ll explain.” She said morosely. With that I left.

As I walked through the village to the fields, people stared at me with sorrow. I didn’t think anything of it, it didn’t matter to me. Honestly…I didn’t want to think about anything right now.

I walked at a slow pace, it didn’t matter, I was late anyway. Besides I can work overtime. Just then some guy in a red hooded cloak stepped in front of me. Without saying a word I just walked around him.

Then he stepped in front of me again; and I walked around him again. And he stepped in my way again and so I walked past him. This time he didn’t move.

“Yoo Youngjae.” He said. I froze for a second, his voice sounded familiar it was deep, like that guy’s voice who took…who took Zelo away. I quickly shook my thoughts away and continued walking. The guy turned me around and grabbed me by my collar.

“Yah! You punk!” He said angrily. I just looked at him with no expression. “Do you not recognize me?! Huh?!” He shook me a little. Of course I don’t. You have that hood on, I can’t see your stupid face. Are you an idiot? I thought to myself, but I didn’t say a word.

“Tch…how rude. Can you talk? I know you can!” He said. I just sighed. “You wanna die?!” He shook me a little more. Still I did not respond. “You listen Yoo Youngjae. I’m here to teach you a lesson, so you better watch yourself.” He threatened. I didn’t talk because I didn’t care. I didn’t want to care. Also it kind of hurt to move my mouth because of those brutal punches I received yesterday.

I continued to look at the guy with no kind of emotion. I could tell that this made him angrier as he tightened his grip. “Hey Youngjae!” I heard someone call. I didn’t turn my head, I already knew who it was. “Jiho sent me back to check on you, to see if you were alright.” Kyung said walking up to us. “Yah! Let go of my friend! Does he look like he’s in the condition to be messed with? Huh? Are you even human?” Kyung turned to the man in the cloak. But the guy ignored him and continued to focus on me. “Yah!! Are you even listening? I told you to put him down.” Kyung demanded.

This time the man listened and let go of me. “Heed my warning Yoo Youngjae…You better watch yourself.” He said and with that he was gone. “Aish…Youngjae why do you keep getting yourself into trouble?” Kyung remarked dusting me off and then the two of went on our way to the fields together.

As soon as we got to the fields I went straight to work without saying a word to the others. Kyung went over to Jiho and spoke seriously with him. “Hey…Youngjae, you okay?” Jaehyo asked. I just shrugged. “Mmm…I see.” I heard Minhyuk say as he and Ukwon came over towards us. “What?” Jaehyo said. “He’s not going to talk…he’ll respond but just not talk.” Minhyuk explained. “What? How do you know this?” Jaehyo asked both confused and annoyed.

“Didn’t I tell you? I-,” “Okay. Okay…I don’t want to hear it.” Jaehyo quickly changed his mind. Ukwon snickered a little at this. “Is it true? You’re not going to speak for a while?” Jaehyo asked me. I just nodded, I really honestly didn’t know what I was going to do. I just don’t feel like talking. “Awe. Okay.” Jaehyo nodded in understanding. “See I told y-,” “Yah! I don’t want to hear it.” Jaehyo said as the 3 of them walked away getting back to their own work.

I stopped to watch everyone. I smiled at how happy they looked. They weren’t all that happy though, but I was glad to see that they were able to smile. Well except for Jihoon. He was taking it hard to where he couldn’t hide it like everyone else was.

Just then Jiho walked up to me. “Kyung told me what he saw earlier.” He said. I nodded. “Did you recognize him at all?” He asked. I pointed to my mouth. “You recognized his voice?” He caught on. I nodded. “It was deep wasn’t it…like that guy…um Yongguk?” He said. I nodded again. “It was probably him. Kyung said he threatened you.” He said in thought. I just went back to my work not wanting to discuss this anymore. “Youngjae…let us walk you home, don’t go out alone either. Okay?” Jiho insisted.

I didn’t acknowledge him. “Hey! Youngjae…do what I say okay? I don’t want anything to happening to you. We don’t want anything to happen to you. Okay? You won’t be a burden.” Jiho said. I sighed and nodded. “Good. So have you made your decision yet?” He asked this time. I shook my head sadly. He gave me a gentle pat on the back. “Don’t rush it or think about it too much, you have time.” He smiled getting back to work.

I worked late at the fields, everyone had went home except for Minhyuk and Ukwon who stayed behind and waited for me. They helped me a little with my work and then they rested privately chatting with each other. I couldn’t help but smile at their silliness. They thought that I couldn’t hear them but I could hear them loud and clear.

“You ready?” Minhyuk asked me after I put my tools away. I nodded and with that the two of them walked me home. Once we reached my home I turned and bowed my head as way to express gratitude and saying goodbye. “Hope you feel better soon.” Minhyuk said. “Yeah, please get better soon.” Ukwon smiled in agreement. I waved as the two of them left.

-Daehyun’s POV-

I woke up not even remembering when I had even fallen asleep. I looked around to see that it was dark outside and that I was tucked in my bed with a warm wet towel over my forehead.

I slowly sat up feeling tired and weary. “Daehyun! You’re up!” Himchan exclaimed excitedly as he and Jongup entered my bedroom shutting the door behind them. “Wh-What happened?” I asked adjusting my eyes to the lighting of the room.

“You were acting crazy like a mad man, but throwing a tantrum like a cry baby.” Jongup joked finding the scene quite entertaining. “I know that.” I muttered, I glanced around and saw that everything was cleaned up. “You were saying weird things and then you out. You were out all last night and all day today.” Himchan explained. I nodded slowly thinking a bit. “Are you alright? How are you feeling?” he questioned. “I’m alright. I just have a little headache and feel a little dizzy.” I notified him. “Oh good. It’s nothing too bad. I was worried.” Himchan said relieved. “Yeah you should’ve seen him.” Jongup began.

“Mother Himchan was going crazy. He was acting as if you had died or something.” He said. I chuckled a little. “He was getting ready to go out and find that Youngjae kid.” He added. “It was all his fault!” Himchan frowned. I didn’t respond. I didn’t know how to feel about Youngjae anymore. Should I still continue to try to hate him? But old feelings keep coming back no matter what. For a quick moment I felt woozy and even dizzier. “Daehyun…are you okay?” Himchan nearly panicked. “Uh…Yeah. Where’s Junhong and Yongguk?” I asked blinking a couple of times.

Himchan was silent. I looked at him, waiting for an answer. Junhong’s in the hangout. Yongguk locked him in there.” Himchan said shamefully. “What?” I said trying to digest what he had just said. No way. “He locked Junhong in.” Jongup repeated. “H-How? Why??” I was confused. “Yongguk said that Junhong needs to settle down for a while…that’s all he said.” Himchan explained getting uncomfortable just thinking about it.

“He told us not to go into the hangout at all. He knows that we’ll unlock it.” Jongup added. What is he up to? Yeah I don’t trust Junhong. But locking him up in a room? For a day? “Where’s Yongguk?” I asked. “He left this morning in his red cloak. He probably went to the village…to find Youngjae.” Himchan said. “Is he going to…hurt him?” I asked.

Jongup shrugged, “He’s most likely going to try to teach him a lesson.” I quickly got out of bed and slid on my shoes. I nearly fell during the process, I still felt severe fatigue. “What are you doing?” Himchan asked helping me keep my balance. “I have to stop him.” I said reaching for my white cloak.

“He’s doing this for you and Junhong.” Himchan said. “I can’t let him harm Youngjae.” I said slipping on the cloak. Himchan let go of me. “What? I don’t understand.” Himchan said not knowing how to respond. “I understand.” Jongup spoke up. I looked at him. He was smiling. “I’ll see you guys later.” I said running out the room. “What’s going on?” I heard Himchan ask.

I ran through the back of the castle and snuck out of the palace walls and entered the rich’s neighborhoods. For a moment I had a Deja-vu but I shook my mind out of it. Once I entered the Village I was on high alert for Yongguk. There were no guards out tonight. They were probably celebrating their victory on finding Junhong…those idiots.

I took off my hood and observed the area. There were very few people out. There was a group of ladies gossiping. I usually don’t care for peasants’ conversations but this one caught my attention when I heard the name ‘Youngjae’ come from their mouths.

“Did you really see it?” Lady 1 asked. “Yes! Of course I did. I would never lie to you.” Lady 2 said. “Yeah, I saw it too. Ooh I wonder what’s going on in that house.” Lady 3 inputted. “I work with Ms.Yoo. I asked her what happened but she just looked at me and smiled saying ‘Thank you for your concern but it’s a situation between my son and those he know,’ and she just walked off.” Lady 4 said.

“You shouldn’t expect anything from that wretched woman…She doesn’t talk to anyone.” Lady 2 huffed. “Uh…I want to know what’s going on with them.” She whined. They’re just jealous because Ms.Yoo has more class than them combined, I thought to myself. “I heard people are thinking about burning down the Yoo family’s house to scare them away.” Lady 3 said. What?!

“Why?” Lady 4 questioned. “Because there are rumors that all of these raids are because of the son, Youngjae.” Lady 3 answered. “That makes sense seeing what the Prince did to Youngjae the other day.” Lady 2 said tapping her chin. “Hasn’t Youngjae had some history with the prince?” Lady 2 pointed out. The other three ladies nodded.

How do they know? Hm…I guess I shouldn’t expect anything less from a bunch of gossipers. “No wonder. The Prince must hate him.” Lady 1 muttered in thought. “He brought all this upon us. We were already miserable, but now it’s beyond that.” Lady 2 said angrily. “We should go now! Go right now and burn his house down.” She protested. The women were getting excited by her words.“But we can’t.” Lady 4 spoke up. “Why not?” Lady 3 questioned. “Because it has already been planned to burn down their home as soon as the royals left the other day. But they couldn’t because…Mr.Yoo is back.” Lady 4 said in a hushed tone. Here companions gasped at the news.

Mr.Yoo? Youngjae’s dad? I immediately pushed the thoughts out of my head. Why am I thinking about this? I should be looking for Yongguk. I don’t care for Youngjae like that anymore. I hesitantly stopped listening and continued to look for the elder.

Next thing I knew I was right in front of Youngjae’s house. I could hear screaming and shouting coming from inside the house. Could Yongguk really be…I didn’t dare to finish the thought, but did flinch a little. “What are you doing here?” I heard a familiar deep voice ask me.

I turned to face Yongguk. He was in his red cloak. “That’s what I was going to ask you.” I said. “You came looking for me…didn’t you?” he sighed. “What’s going on?” It was my turn to ask. “Let’s go back.” He said turning around ignoring my question. “Locking Zelo up and going out stalking Youngjae…” I began. He stopped in his tracks. “What are you planning to do?” I asked again.

“Daehyun…I don’t want to talk about it right now.” He said. I could tell that he was angry but not at me. “Don’t hurt Youngjae.” I said quietly this time. Yongguk slowly turned around to face me. “What? He needs to be taught a lesson. Do you not know what he did to you and Junhong?!” he spat. I took a deep breath.

Daehyun what are you doing?? I kept asking myself. “I know…but I…I have this weird feeling. Just don’t mess with Youngjae. The villagers are already planning something.” I let out. Yongguk’s expression completely changed to one that was concerned. “Are you having old fe-,” “Aniyo!” I quickly spat not letting him finish. “I don’t have any feelings for him at all. I don’t even remember those feelings.” I muttered.

Yongguk narrowed his eyes at me trying to read me, he was good at that. “Yah! I didn’t come and get you for you to stare at me…I know I’m that good-looking…let’s go!” I spat. I didn’t want him to try to read me and worry. “Alright, alright.” he sighed. And we were on our way. I took one glance back and saw someone in a brown cloak run up to their door.

That was when I felt dizzy and weak again…and I fell to my knees. “Daehyun! Daehyun!” I hard Yongguk call but it began to fade and everything went black…again.

-Youngjae’s POV-

“You need to learn to talk boy!” The man who claimed to be my father shouted. I don’t believe that he’s my father, so I don’t call him father, dad, or even Mr.Yoo. He is just The Man. “Yu cause a lot of trouble” He spat. I didn’t react nor respond. “You know what? I haven’t been around to set you straight. You think you can do whatever you want huh? Huh? Answer me!” he yelled. But still he didn’t receive a response from me. “You…” He began and raised his arm getting ready to hit me.

My mother quickly stopped him by hanging onto his arm. “Please have mercy on him…He’s really a good kid. Youngjae is very smart, it’s not him who causes the trouble. So if you would just-,” “Smart kid? Good? No trouble?” the man cut off my mother’s begging with forced laughter.

“This kid is involved with ‘em royals! And he’s not on their good side. You call that ‘no trouble?’ Not to mention he kidnapped one of the prince’s friends. You call that smart?” He went on. “He didn’t kidnap him…” my mom said softly. “You’re lying! He got you fooled! You two are good for nothing fools! Idiots! These past raids have been because of him! That’s why I’ve come!” he shouted shoving my mother to the ground. I turned and watched the two of them. She stayed on the ground and watched him ramble.

“I’ve come to set things straight!” he shouted in her face. “Do you think I don’t know anything? Do you take me as he fool?!” He went on and started to trash things. “I hear things all the time! And I can’t stand it! You living under my house! My earned money! Just to give me a bad name? Huh?!” My eyes widened at this. What was he talking about? I earned that money, so did my mom, we paid the taxes, we bought the supplies. Who is he to say all that?! My mom looked at me and I back at her. Her eyes watered as she looked away shamefully. “Please.” She begged weakly.

The man stopped. “What? You didn’t tell him?” he questioned. She didn’t budge she just continued to look down in shame. The man scoffed and walked over to me getting in my face. “Well listen here little boy. You know that hard earned money that you and your pathetic mother make? You wanna know what she did with that money?” He started.

I just stared back at him showing no emotion. I didn’t believe him. I wasn’t going to believe any word that comes from his mouth. “She didn’t use it to pay the taxes and for other you need. No. She gave it to me! I’m the one who bought this house. I’m the one who pays for your taxes and the materials you need.” He said. “And then she pays me back as a loan or something like that. Or rent. And all that little extra money you had was left was used for food and clothing or whatever.” No. He was lying. None of that is true. “You never earned anything.” He said sharply.

My stare trembled and I looked away at my mother who slowly nodded without daring to look at me. I felt weakened with defeat. “pathetic.” He sneered standing straight up. “You do what I tell you from now on. No complaining...no nothing. I am in charge. And I am taking over.” He ordered.

I couldn’t believe this. Was this really happening. Why? How? I couldn’t even stay firm. My pride was hurt. Why didn’t she tell me this from the beginning? I made a fool of myself.

“And don’t try any funny business…because I own you. He said kicking the dishes. “I can’t stand watching you two pathetic people. I’m going out to smoke. Clean up these dishes.” He ordered my mother and went out the door. My mother dragged slowly and picked up the dishes.

The sight sickened me to the bone. I wanted to leave. I stood up and walked to the door silently. “Youngjae.” She called weakly. I stopped but didn’t turn to face her. “Please don’t misunderstand this.” She said sincerely. I reached for the door knob when I suddenly heard someone calling, “Daehyun! Daehyun!” I froze.

My hand began to suddenly shake. I tried to stop it with my other hand but it continued to shake anyway. What’s going on? Why is he here? I started to feel extremely angry and heartbroken. Just then the door suddenly opened. It was Dr. Lee Sunhi in her brown cloak.

I stared at her, as if to ask why she was here. But she didn’t return the message and stepped into the house. “We need to go.” She told my mother urgently. My mother nodded and stood up. What?! She wasn’t crying anymore!

She looked strong, as if nothing happened! But when she looked at me her eyes turned sad. “Were you going to actually pick up those dishes?” Dr. Sunhi asked. My mother nodded. The royal doctor shook her head, “Ahh…You love doing things the hard way.” She sighed playfully. She snapped her fingers and all of the dishes instantly went to their original spots. My jaw dropped.

What the? What t was that? How could she? Aaah! I’m getting a headache. Mom slipped on her coat and walked up to the door. "Youngjae I won't be out for long. So just please stay here and be careful." she said and with that the two women left.

I was alone not knowing what to do or think. I forgot about Zelo, about Daehyun, about that man. All that was on my mind was what Dr. Lee Sunhi just did. I slid down against the wall onto the ground with a hand going through my hair. Was I seeing things? How come Dr. Sunhi always appears during times like these? And how in the world did she do that? What was she? How did my mom change so quickly? The hard way? What the heck is going on? I looked over at Niko. I studied the stuffed bear. Is there something you're not telling me?

-Zelo's POV-

I sat there on the bed watching the door, just waiting there. Yongguk would come back soon and when he does I am going to give him a piece of my mind. I squinted harder at the door. He'll be here any minute now. Wait. Maybe I shouldn't give him a piece of me. He's not going to listen. He'll just blame Youngjae.

My eyes began to water again. I couldn't help it. I felt like I did something wrong. I felt like I betrayed them. They trusted me telling me their secrets that no outsider knew, not even their own parents knew. All of them were so friendly and they continued to fight for me even after they knew the truth and yet...I still betrayed them.

I have to go back. I have to see them even if they don't want to see me right now or ever again. I owe them an explanation, they deserve to know....Youngjae, out of all of them, especially deserves to know everything. He's the one who took me in, the one who helped me. I got out of bed and tried to open the door again. But it was still locked. I'm not going to give up. I will see them, no matter what it takes.

-Yongguk's POV-

"Will he be alright?" I asked Himchan. "He will get up." Himchan said looking at Daehyin with sad eyes, caressing his hair. "How do you know?" I questioned. "Because he fainted yesterday too." Jongup answered. He was standing against the wall by Daehyun's bed with his arms crossed. "What? Why didn't you guys tell me?" I asked. "Cause you were gone all day." Jongup simply responded. I narrowed my eyes at him trying not to get angry at him because he was right.

"Why didn't you stop him from going after me then?" I questioned him. "Do you really think we could stop him? We're in his territory, so he can do what he wants. In other words it's either join him or leave him." He answered plainly again. This kid. “Then why didn’t you follow him?” I challenged. “I didn’t want to. It would be a waste of time. It wouldn’t make a difference. I forced Channie to stay because this is between you and Daehyun.” Jongup smiled sweetly. I shook my head. Jongup, he won’t ever change. That’s when I thought about Junhong…something, something was changing about him.

“I’m worried about Daehyun.” Himchan said interrupting my thoughts. He sat by the unconscious Daehyun’s bedside continuing to look at him with pity. I walked over to Himchan and rested my hand on his shoulder to comfort him.

“He was all worked up yesterday after seeing that Youngjae kid. He was a huge wreck. He kept saying these ridiculous things, like that he wasn’t a bad person.” He said. My fist bawled up hearing that this was also because of that Youngjae guy. Suddenly there was a loud crack of lightening that struck right outside the window, and rain followed immediately.

The lifeless Daehyun started to twist and turn rapidly. Seeing him move like this reminded me of Zelo. He hates thunderstorms. “Junhong.” His name slipped from between my lips, the other two gave me worried glances. “You two stay here and take care of Daehyun.” I ordered and rushed out of the bedroom, then out of the castle. It was pouring hard as I ran through the rain, I was drenched by the time I reached the hangout. I unlocked the bedroom door and ran inside.

The first thing I saw was Junhong laying on the ground by the door. I knelt down beside him and checked his pulse. I was relieved. It was normal, he was just sleeping. But as I observed him he didn’t look like he was having a nice sleep. He looked terrified and he was flinching.

“Junhong.” I said shaking him lightly trying not to make him panic. “Junhong.” I said in a more worried tone as his movements became more rabid. “Junhong!” Still no response. I lifted his head up to my chest. “Zelo…wake-up. It’s alriht I’m here.” I said trying to calm him down. He shook his head. He started murmuring things. “No. Please~,” he begged in his sleep. “Zelo what is it?”

“N-No…Please…I-I will do anything please.” “Zelo. Wake up it’s just a dream. It’s okay.” I urged. I never felt this way before. He was scaring me. He moved more viciously ending with a jerk and became completely still. I held him tightly. “…don’t Yongguk…please.” He begged helplessly as a tear streamed down his cheek.

I froze. A chill went down my spine. I felt my eyes heat up. Was he…was he dreaming about me? No this couldn’t be. He was begging, saying that he’d do anything. He was terrified, crying. He couldn’t have been dreaming about me. He continued to cry in his sleep silent tears. I picked him up and carried him onto the bed and tucked him in. But that didn’t change anything he continued to twist and turn and cry. I changed into the spare clothes and laid in the bed next to him.

He couldn’t be dreaming of me…he just couldn’t.

-Daehyun’s POV-

I kept twisting in my sleep. I wanted to wake up but I couldn’t. Every time I had thought I opened my eyes I was back in that weird dimension. I was in a large empty white box with lots of space with nothing except for me there. I kept running and running but I hadn’t the slightest idea of what I was running from or towards. How was I running? How was I going anywhere in this white box?

I fell on my knees and cried. No sound came from between my lips though I was sobbing hard. It was just tears. Why am I crying? Why am I so confused? It’s just a dream.

“Why are you crying?” Someone asked. I looked up and saw it was a little boy. He was wearing a yellow cloak, I couldn’t see his eyes or nose because his hood covered his face all I could see was his mouth. There was also another little boy behind him, he was a few inches taller and wore a purple cloak.

Where am I? I tried to say but nothing came out. “The question isn’t ‘where am I’ but it’s ‘who am I’?” The boy in the purple hood answered. I looked at him confused and scared. What does that mean? Am I really not me? Who am I…really? The kid in the yellow elbowed the one in the purple. “Don’t psyche him out.” He scolded. “You are in the empty part of your heart…well at least what you think it is, because it is your dream.” The boy in yellow smiled.

I looked around. It was so large and empty. What? I tried to ask. “It’s not completely empty silly. You keep the people you care about in here. Can’t you see?” the boy in yellow assured me. I looked around again and saw it. It was very colorful like a rainbow, literally. There were people in cloaks that matched the colors. I saw my parents and sister who wore gold. Yongguk in red, Himchan in pink, Jongup in green. But there was another boy in blue who sat in a corner by himself. I couldn’t recognize who he was because his hood covered his face.

But half of an area was all white and empty still. What about over there? I asked still no words coming out of mouth. “It’s the part of someone or someones that were once in your heart.” The yellow hooded boy said sounding sad. I stared at the large white, empty spot. The two people must been really important to me to have such a large area. Who are the people? What happened? I asked (more like mouthed). The two shrugged.

“We don’t know…it’s your dream, if you don’t know something like that then we can’t.” The purple boy shrugged. Then who are you two? I asked. The two boys looked at each other confused. Then they looked at me and started to take off their hoods but that’s when I was snapped out of my sleep.

I quickly sat up in my bed breathing heavily. I felt hot, I was even sweating a little bit. Who were those two boys in my dream? Why did I feel comfortable and safe with them? Especially with the one in the yellow cloak? Wh-Why did I suddenly wake up now? I didn’t mean to wake up at that point. Why right before they revealed themselves?

Will I be able to see them again? “What? That’s crazy Daehyun. It’s just a dream.” I mumbled quietly. But I still had the urge to know who they were. I also couldn’t help but have a hunch that those two boys may have been Jiho and Youngjae from when I first met them.

I was taken out of my thoughts by a sudden strike of lightening. Without thinking I slid out of my bed and walked over to my balcony door and pushed open the drapes. It was a thunderstorm, it was raining hard. My mind instantly went to Youngjae…he won’t be able to work in the fields. That’s the only place he likes to go to. How will he make money for the day to feed him and his mother?

Wait! Why am I worrying about them? I don’t care! I turned my back to the door. At that moment an excruciating pain came to my head. I fell back against the door, holding my head. “Argh.” I bent over in pain. “Daehyun? Daehyun! Are you okay? What are you doing?” I heard Himchan call. Since when was he in my room?

Himchan ran to my care…again. “Yah…Daehyun what’s the matter?” he asked. The pain continued to get worse. I could only groan in pain. The elder looked around the room. “Why are these drapes open?” he said as he closed them. Then he walked away somewhere.

“Jongup wake up.” I heard him say. Jongup is here too? It was too dark, I could hardly see anything. “Wake-up!” Channie demanded, but Jongup just moaned. “Jongup how can you sleep like this? Daehyun is hurt.” I heard Himchan say. Jongup only moaned again. “Yah! Did you hear me?” Then I heard him kick Jongup. “Hey! What was that for?! What did I do??” Jongup snapped out of his sleep. I would’ve laughed but the pain only kept getting worse. “Aah!” I screeched in agony letting myself fall to the ground. It hurt so much, my vision wouldn’t focus. “Hurry up and light some candles.” Himchan ordered. He walked back to me. “Want us to get a doctor?” He asked. I couldn’t respond. I was feeling hotter and becoming sweatier as if I were sick.

“Why…Why does this always happen when…when I think about him?” I said out of breath. Himchan only gave me a worried look. “Maybe it’s because you loovee him.” Jongup remarked rubbing his lower back where Himchan must have kicked him. The elder glared at him. “I lit the candles mother Himchan.” Jongup said. But before Himchan could respond I groaned in pure agony. It was horrible. It felt like there were nails going into my head. “Go get one of the emergency royal doctors any kind!” Himchan ordered Jongup.

“No!” I demanded. Jongup stopped in his tracks. “Get Dr. Lee Sunhi.” I breathed. The younger nodded and bolted out the room. Himchan knelt by my side trying to comfort me. “Wh-Where’s Yongguk?” I struggled to ask. “He’s at the hangout with Junhong.” Himchan answered. That’s right…Junhong hates thunderstorms. Junhong…how come he gets to become close to Youngjae? Huh? Ah! My head. “When is she coming?” I asked burying my face into Himchan’s chest. “Soon…Jongup is fast.” He assured, wrapping his arms around me.

Minutes later Jongup returned but Dr. Sunhi wasn’t with him. “What are you doing? Where is she?” Himchan asked impatiently. “I checked everywhere, but I couldn’t find her. I asked if anyone has seen her but they said she went out hours ago. So I left a note on her door telling her to come here immediately.” Jongup reported. “Then why didn’t you get another doctor??” Himchan gritted through his teeth. Trying hard not to get irritated.

“No! Don’t…I’ll wait for her. Thanks Jongup.” I said painfully. Himchan only sighed. “Let’s get him back on the bed.” Jongup said. He came over and the two helped me to my feet taking me to my bed. I really hated this feeling of helplessness. Once I got into the bed, Himchan tucked me in tight. I heard Jongup snicker a little and Channie elbowed him in the chest.

We waited for 10 minutes more and she still did not come. My pain in the meantime become more and more unbearable. I tried to sleep it off but I couldn’t go back to sleep. I was rolling over in my bed. “Jongup! Go get a doctor now!” Himchan finally said urgently. Jongup headed towards the door. “No! I’ll wait for her.” I said. “Dae we can’t wait any longer.” Himchan said. Dae? That’s what Yongjae used to call me. “Aarg…” I groaned. “What are you waiting for?” Himchan spat at Jongup. Jongup looked at me and shrugged as if to say ‘sorry’.

He understood what I was trying to do, but who knows what Himchan would do if he didn’t listen at a time like this. I layed on my back. I heard him open the door. “Whoa~,” Jongup said. “Sorry…I was out. I came as soon as I saw the note. Please forgive me.” It was Dr. Lee Sunhi!

Thank goodness, I thought in relief. She bowed before entering the room. “What is the problem?” She asked standing next to Himchan at a respectful distance. “He woke up about an hour ago and he started having these bad headaches.” Himchan answered. Dr. Sunhi bent over and felt my forehead. “He’s really hot.” She reported aloud. “How many fingers am I holding up?” She questioned. “3.” I answered. “Correct…how many now?” “5.” “Good. How about now?” “4.” It was silent.

“No…it was 2.” She said. “Okay. Let’s do this again.” She said holding up another set of fingers. “3.” “Yes. Now?” “1.” “Correct…last one.” “5.” Another dead silence. “Daehyun~…it was 2 again.” Himchan sighed. “Follow my finger with just your eyes. Don’t move your head.” Dr. Sunhi instructed. I did what she said for about a minute or so before she stopped.

“That’s strange…his eyes seem okay but he got the first test wrong.” She thought aloud. “But I don’t understand. Usually I’m not the one who deals with emergencies. I only do therapy, check-ups, and prescribe herbs and other medicines.” She said. “He had asked for you specifically.” Himchan responded. She gave me an uneasy look. She knew the reason.

“Himchan and Jongup can you please leave the room. I would like to speak to Dr. Sunhi alone.” I spoke up. “Sure.” Jongup said opening the door. But Himchan didn’t move. “Channie~.” I pouted in pain. He crossed his arms and sighed, “Fine.” He reluctantly gave in following Jongup out the door, closing the door behind them. “Is there anything you need your highness?” Dr. Sunhi asked.

“The pain in my head can’t be healed. Not through medicines at least.” I said. She thought for a minute, I knew she knew what was going on. There was no medical problem. “You are right. We can do some surgery to see if there are any internal organ problems.” She responded. I was getting impatient.

“But in my opinion you are physically healthy.” She inputted. “Mentally?” I asked raising an eyebrow. “Please forgive me your majesty.” She bowed. “Continue.” I sighed in annoyance. “I cannot tell a lie.” Was all she said. I sat up and looked at her. “If you can’t tell a lie then don’t give me some of the truth. I want all of it!” I said angrily. Her posture straightened and she looked me dead in the eyes. That was forbidden for those to look at a royal directly in the eye. But she was an exception. She was actually a royal. She’s my father’s cousin, whom my father favors a lot, they were very close when they were younger.

He was going to give her one of the highest positions next to the queen but she politely refused. She asked to be a nurse or medicine doctor. So he gave her the position as a doctor but at the highest rank. Though she is a doctor she doesn’t do lot of checkups or emergencies because my father still wanted her to be treated like royalty and royals don’t do those kind of things.

“You may be suffering from a slight case of Hallucinations.” She said. “Cut the formalities.” I said frustrated falling back onto my pillow. “Daehyun…We are forbidden to talk about him or even mention him within the castle walls.” She reminded. “But you aren’t on the same level as everyone else. You can do what you want.” I retorted. “I don’t consider myself that way.” She defended.

Dr. Sunhi I am asking for your help…please~.” I begged in pain. She sighed. “Will Youngjae be able to stope these crucial pains in my head? And keep me from passing out every time I think of him?” I asked. “…If he is the main source of the problem then he may be of some help.” She answered. That’s what I thought. Wait. No! “Why? Are you thinking about-,” “Aniyo! No…why would I do that? You can go now thanks.” I said cutting her off. She bowed then exited the room.

What am I going to do with that Yoo Youngjae?

-Youngja’s POV-

I walked out of the house the next morning heading towards the fields. I know that there wasn’t going to be work today because of the stupid rain, but I had to get out of the house. I needed some space, somewhere to breathe.

When I arrived at the fields it was empty, just as I expected. It was still cloudy from the storm. The ground looked extremely muddy, ruining some of our work. Once the ground is suitable again we’ll have a lot of extra work to do. Which should be within a week’s time…minimum. Ugh! A week? A long seven days without being in the warm sunlight. And that’s only if it doesn’t rain again.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, letting the cold thick wind hit my face. I felt someone walk up next to me. “You okay?” it was Jiho. I shook my head. I heard him sigh.

It was quiet for a few minutes. “I’ve been thinking…” I finally spoke. “Mm…” was Jiho’s response. I could tell that he was happy that I was at least speaking now, but he knew this would be the only time for a while. “Be honest…what are your feelings towards Zelo?” I asked opening my eyes looking at him.

“Zelo…I consider him one of us. So I worry about him. He’s a really good kid. I still think about him wondering how he’s doing…if he’s happy.” Jiho answered looking back at me. I looked out back at the fields and scoffed. “You sound like it’s been years since you’ve seen him.” “It feels like it.” He responded looking out in the distance. I didn’t say anything as memories reminisced in my head. I remember the 9 of us in the fields enjoying ourselves in our section.

Ukwon and Minhyuk having their little ‘moment’, Jaehyo complaining to Taeil about Ukwon and Minhyuk. Jiho, Kyung, and Zelo stopping in the middle of their work to have their daily rap battles with Jihoon watching as their audience cheering for Zelo. I laughed at the thought of how Jihoon was always on Zelo’s side.

The image slowly vanished and I began to hear the sounds of sorrow of what the guards said about Zelo and Zelo leaving. No…Zelo didn’t leave, he was forced to leave…to protect us. My eyes began to water. Even though he hung out with the royals he was still one of us at heart, he enjoyed being here.

I remembered the guy with the deep voice who threatened me the other day. My fist bawled up. I don’t care if he knew Zelo first. I don’t care how long they’ve known each other. “Jiho…” I spoke up. “Yeah?” he said. I wasn’t about to lose someone else. “I want to get Zelo back.” I announced looking at him. He looked back at me and a smile appeared on his face.

A/N: This is supposed to be a fantasy story, and it isn't very fantasy-like just yet. I'm getting there! I promise! There's just a lof of secrets and stories that need to be unveiled first. Thank you so much for all of the support. I truly appreciate your comments and everything! I'm glad you're able to enjoy it! :)