Sitting behind his desk, the emperor had his focus on his laptop. Sehun breathed in slowly. He could smell the hot air of magic/tech devices present. He could hear the small foreign chirpings of microscopic devices inside Kai's desk, where he must have had security equipment and some form of voice recorder. Sensing Sehun's presence, Kai lifted his head, his eyes widening slightly at the sight of Sehun. He regarded Sehun with a heated look. In response a pressure settled in Sehun's chest, while his beast yet again tried to come forth. Of course Sehun fought the emotions spiking in him. He always felt raw in Kai's presence, flayed open by the emotions Kai elicited in him. Sehun took a deep breath, hoping to keep those emotions buried. The pressure in his chest just didn’t want to let up. To top it all. His beast couldn’t stop pacing like a cub seeing their most loved possession.  It was driving him completely mad. He’d thought the last few days had been bad enough, but they were nothing compared to the intensity of this complete obsession. Want King.... Ours. Ours, ours, ours. Sehun rarely resorted to actually talking to his beast—it felt like a step too far in the direction of madness, talking to himself within his own head, but he needed to calm the situation down somehow. He took a breath and focused inward. Hush. We’ve barely talked to him. You’re losing it. Not losing. Right there. Waiting. Sea scent. Waiting for us. Yes, Sehun soothed. Waiting. Not going anywhere.  His beast gave a loud growl at the thought. Sehun continued on, sensing victory. He doesn't know what I am. We might scare him if you come out We need to be careful. Let me handle it. We’re staying in the palace. So hush. His beast gave another growl in response but much softer this time. It was actually listening to reason, for the first time in a very long while.Sehun let out a loud, steady exhale. He was staying in palace at least for now. That much was clear.  He wasn’t sure his beast would listen. If it was impatient enough, it might even try to take over, take control of Sehun's consciousness without his permission, and that was the road to revealing his secret. "Majesty!" He bowed deeply, when he was certain he had tight control over his beast and emotions. "Sehun glad you made it" Kai said his tone friendly like he were speaking to an actual old time friend. Sehun resisted the urge to roll his eyes, it wasn't like he couldn't not come, he didn't have a choice. The emperor wasn't in his red royal garment, he was dressed in simple grey pants. His simple white shirt was partly ed, revealing lightly tanned skin and a length of golden chain around his neck. The sleeves rolled up, to show strong arms. The clothes hugged his powerful frame, and didn't leave any room for imagination. Not that Sehun needed to. He had seen and touched what was beneath Kai's clothes. And his hair, dear Goddess, it was tied in a man bun. Just the way Sehun had wanted to see so badly in the past. Sehun couldn't look away from Kai, even when he wished to do so. With a smile, Kai stood and walk around the table– a slight swagger to his walk. He was the picture of golden-man confidence– to where Sehun was, staring like a lovestruck at Kai. Kai's enticing scent filled him instantly, and Sehun had to hold his breath, literally, not wanting to aggravate his beast, that seem to lack the needed control when around Kai. Kai extended a hand toward, Sehun resisted the urge to wince, while he gazed down at the hand with mixed feelings. The very hand had held him, made him feel safe at some point, brought him pleasure numerous occasions, at same time it was the same hand that took his life, ripped his heart out. Sehun pushed down the unpleasant memories of that brutal incident. Thinking about it wasn’t helping the anxious knot building in his stomach and chest. He focused on the fact that Kai was offering him a handshake. Which was out of Kai's character. Sehun knew the emperor didn't just shake anyone's hand no matter how high their station was. For him to offer Sehun his hand, meant two things. Either Kai was trying to lure him into a sense of false security, by being friendly or he genuinely held Sehun in high regard. Sehun would go with the former. It was more likely. Whatever the reason might be, he accepted the hand and shook it. He couldn't not, no matter how he loathe having any physical contact with Kai. It would be seen as outright disrespect. He was glad when Kai didn't linger and pulled his hand back after a brief shake. The emperor went to sit on one of the plush couches in the room, both hands braced on his knees as he gestured for Sehun to do the same. Sehun nodded once, taking the seat opposite Kai. Kai fixed him with a stare unblinkingly, that might have sent Sehun into a tailspin, but he ground himself, only finding it difficult to keep his head up. He let his eyes to roam around the room, it was better than having a staring contest with the emperor. The room was just like Sehun remembered it to be. And once again emotions threaten to surge up. Don't go there Sehun. Focus on the beauty of the room. The curtains made in the best traditions of the beautiful interior design classical style. Curtains with embroidery handmade by Varal best designer gave to the room charm of elegance and sophistication. Along with the luxurious silk with rich ornamentation harmonized perfectly with the upholstered furniture. The interior wall design were decorated with stucco matte cream hue.  Against this background, incredibly stylish thin lines of gilding. The decor of the walls blended perfectly with the furniture decoration, which was decorated with gilded carvings. The floorings decor of marble with carved patterns completed this perfect pictures. It was cosy, quiet and warm. Lacking any distracting elements like a television or a bed. It had an understated and elegant feel. Kai had ed Sehun on every surface in here, and Sehun had to take yet another deep breath to divert his thoughts from venturing to dangerous territory.  His eyes landed on the shelves behind Kai's desk. Behind the shelves was a secret door, linking to Kai's sleeping chambers. It served as an escape route in case of emergency as well as an easy way to have access to his study, if the need arise. Sehun had stumbled upon the door by chance, and was the first time he'd met and known about the existence of shadow guards, that were in the study. Speaking of which. Though Sehun couldn't see them but he was certain they were lurking in the shadows, watching his every move. A reason he needed to be careful, anything that would rise suspicious wouldn't be good for him. He had to behave as if it was his first time, being in here, the palace in whole. This was a different timeline. Kai didn't know him, most importantly he didn't hold Sehun's heart no more. Was what Sehun kept telling himself, and he was able to relax a little. "Thank you Taemin, you can leave us." Kai's silky voice said. Sehun had almost forgotten about Taemin. He craned his neck, to look behind.  "You're welcome majesty." Taemin bowed. "I have something to report." "Important?" Kai asked, and Sehun look to see a frown forming on his illegally beautiful face. Taemin glanced at Sehun briefly, moving closer in a way Sehun didn't have to crane his neck to see "It's about Hyunjin's attack." "Go ahead." The emperor said. "He was there." He pointed at Sehun when Taemin hesitated. "I am sure he's aware of what happened, probably know more than we give him the credit." Sehun frowned, his gut telling him he wouldn't like what he was about to hear. Nodding, Taemin looked at Sehun as If trying to gauge his reactions when he spoke. "It appeared the blood mages were controlling a basilisk." The warm relaxation that had been building in Sehun cooled in an instant. The knot in his stomach was back in full force. "Yes Jungkook had said as much." "We found its remain– ashes to be precise. It appears it was burnt to death, or probably after being killed. Whomever was responsible seem to be trying to cover their tracks." Sehun sat unbearably still, trying to resist the urge to bite at his nails. It was happening, exactly as he’d feared. Oh mothers! , . Sehun had to use every ounce of willpower not to show any reaction whatsoever, especially when Kai's eyes found his. He was staring at Sehun as if he were telepathically telling him something extremely important."You know something about it?" Sehun shook his head, putting more effort than necessary to control his heartbeats. Kai was a powerful dragon and could pick up the change in his heart rate. "No I didn't see the basilisk he speaks of ." Sehun suddenly felt like he was walking on very thin ice, and he wasn’t quite sure how he’d gotten there. All he knew, he had to watch what he say and do. Kai hummed, like he trusted Sehun's words for it." Do you think it's one of the blood mages? Maybe trying to cover their tracks?" Taemin shrugged. "Probably. But I have a feeling it's a different person. Though a very powerful one with fire element." "Meaning we're looking for fire elemental." Kai had a thoughtful look on his face, his fingers drumming the table, a brief distraction Sehun welcome. "There are not many powerful enough to burn a basilisk, those with that much power we know them –" he shook his head as though suddenly realizing something. "I have a feeling whomever it was, isn't connected to the blood mages."  "Is this person on our side?" Taemin asked, once again eyes going to Sehun. Why the was Taemin gazing at him? Did he know something? Though Sehun doubted he did, but he wouldn't put it past the man to find a clue that might lead back to Sehun after thorough investigation. Taemin was that good.  "I hope they are. We wouldn't want someone as powerful as our enemy." Kai said. "Keep me updated on what you find." He said to Taemin. Bowing for the second time, Taemin yet again caught Sehun's eyes before walking out, shutting the doors as went. Sehun tried to push down the restlessness caused by Taemin. Where was Minho? Sehun wondered if the shadow guard had stayed outside or had taken to hide in the shadows like his brethren. Probably to keep an eye on Sehun? That conclusion didn't do anything to ease the restlessness in Sehun. Oh mothers. Please let things stay buried. Taemin was a capable mage. It was why Sehun had asked for his help. He was good at solving and putting things together. . Sehun was in trouble wasn't he? He would have to talk with his guardians to keep tail on Taemin, to make sure he was met with a dead end and nothing would be traced back to Sehun. "I hope you find the palace welcoming." Kai said. Shutting his mind, Sehun snapped his eyes to look at the emperor that was starting back at him. "Yes " he simply said, trying to keep himself occupied, by rubbing his hands together. Damnation, he was nervous for some reason. "Would you like something to drink or eat?" Kai offered kindly. "No thank you." Sehun cleared his throat. He wanted things to be done with, but didn't dare urge the emperor. Kai hummed, somehow managing to make the simple noise sound intimidating. Fortunately the emperor didn't drag things out, always one to cut to the heart of things. He explained things shortly and efficiently, pausing occasionally to make sure he wasn't ahead of Sehun. Kai told Sehun, the nature of his work–Of course Sehun knew his life came second. He had to put Hyunjin's first– what he needed to look out for, working hours, his accommodation for the time he would be in the palace. Sehun would be staying in the royal barracks, that was near Hyunjin's apartments. That didn't bother him, he was fine with living with other guards. What did bothered him was the lack of free time. His working hours started from two pm to midnight. From seven to one he would be in the order for classes/training.  "Your salary, I am surprised you did not ask how much you'll be paid." Kai said regarding Sehun carefully. Sehun's brows ceased, truthful he hadn't thought about it. He had his mind still set into thinking Hyunjin was still his stepson. "Do I really need to get paid?" However even in this lifetime, It didn't feel right to accept payment, just because he was asked to protect Hyunjin. Kai's eyes widened in surprise for the second time. "You want to work for free? Even when putting your life in danger?" "Yes?" Sehun scratch the back of his head, it came out as a question even to his own ears. A soft chuckle escaped the emperor. He regarded Sehun with what appeared to be deep amusement. "Have you always planned on working without payment after completing your training?" "No. That is different." Which was true. "How so?" The emperor leaned forward, sounding very interested in the conversation. "I will be working for the empire, it's natural to get paid." Sehun said lamely, for lack of a better explanation. There was no way he was going to 'hey it's because I've lived with Hyunjin as my stepson for two years' Kai raised an eyebrow."And this?" Sehun made a gesture with hands, not knowing how to say the words "I don't want to accept payment on this particular job of protecting the crown prince." He decided to be honest. Kai didn't ask him why. He only gazed at him intensely for a very long moment and Sehun forced himself to keep his head up. Kai seem to see what he'd been searching for, because a moment later he nodded. "Alright. Is there anything different you want from me?" "No. I don't." Why would Kai think Sehun would want something else just because he refused payment? "You're an odd one Sehun." He said, a soft smile on his face. "I appreciate it. And I promise your stay in the palace will be a pleasant experience." Like that would be enough to keep him here, if he really wanted to leave. Sehun was loyal, true, but he wasn’t anyone’s lapdog. Not anymore, you mean. Sehun brushed the thought aside
 
Sehun doubted it would be. Because he didn't want to he here. However he nodded. "I will like to offer you a boon. You have two favors to ask from me. It can be anything and I promise to grant it. It did not matter what or when." Then, almost as an afterthought, he said," But only if it doesn't concern me personally." A boon! That would be awesome. In the future Sehun could ask for anything and Kai would grant his wish like a ing genie. Well Sehun could accept that, he had a feeling he would need it someday. Besides Kai seem eager to offer something. "Thank you for your generosity majesty. I accept it." For some reason, his mind seem to brush off the last part of Kai's statement. Pleased, Kai smiled once more, leaning against the seat, one leg crossing over the other gracefully. So ing elegant."Any questions?"  Sehun shook his head eager to be out of the room. Just like that the meeting was over, much to Sehun's delight. His beast didn't share his sentiment. Not like Sehun gave a damn. He was more than happy to escape Kai's presence, with the way his beast was trying to take over.  "You may take your leave. Stop by Hyunjin's apartment to familiar yourself with it. And check for any threats while you're at it. The party starts by seven on tomorrow. A guard is outside, waiting to show you around." Just as Sehun stood up to leave, the doors opened. "Royal father!" Came Hyunjin's grumpy voice. "Grandmother refused to feed me those sweet heart shaped cookies." There was a pout in his tone. "She says it's bad to have too much sugar." Sehun instantly turn toward the boy that was stomping his feel in a child like manner, as he approached them – Kai. Hyunjin didn't seem to have noticed Sehun. Sehun's heart grew bigger in his chest. The combination of bird and beast inside him that demanded he take care of what was his. Provide. Protect. Cub. Ours, cub Yes ours. Sehun agreed in a heartbeat. "Mother is right." Kai said fondly. "Come have you met–" "By the goddess Sehun?" Hyunjin seem to have finally noticed Sehun. He raced over, throwing himself into Sehun's arms without warning. Sehun staggered from the force but he managed to steady them both "You're here." He sounded so happy that Sehun couldn't help but chuckle. "Yes, I am here." Not knowing what do with his hands, Sehun left them hanging by his sides. But damn it, he wanted to hug the boy back. So bad. Unable to help it, Sehun briefly glanced at Kai seeking permission with his eyes. Like always Kai understood what he meant, because he nodded his approval. And that was all Sehun needed to wrap his arms around Hyunjin. Something about Hyunjin soothed him. Touching Hyunjin had a way of settling the swirl of messy emotions that usually roiled in Sehun's gut. "So happy you're here." The boy said.  Sehun tightened his arms around Hyunjin, giddiness making him feel almost light-headed.  Kai w