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Chapter Text

Beautiful Poster by Nancy

•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

After much discussion and consultation with the priests of both the kingdoms, the engagement and marriage of the Emperor, Jeon Jeongguk, of Limerence and the Crown Prince, Kim Taehyung, of Equivocate was fixed. 

On the night of the third full moon from here on, they would get engaged and on the sixth full moon, the two souls would be united. As well, Taehyung would be crowned as the consort of the palace and Luna of the Kingdom on the same night. 

Truthfully, Queen Mother Mi-cha wasn't quite happy about the function taking place so soon. After all, Jeongguk was her only son. She wanted to take her time in order to make sure that it was as grand as possible. 

Limerence was going to get their new Luna, their Queen. She wanted to make sure that the glory of Limerence was all that could be heard in every single kingdom. 

She wanted to do so much and the three month interval for both functions certainly wasn't long enough for it but there isn't much she could do about it. 

According to the priest, the two days were quite auspicious and after them, the next auspicious day would come a whole year later. 

Jeongguk wasn't ready to wait that long, he was paranoid that if they were to take so much time, Taehyung would change his mind, overcome with the fears he had momentarily defeated. 

Taehyung didn't wish to but he agreed with the Alpha. The sooner they got married, the better. He doesn't want the option of backing out open for him for so long, he didn't want that much time to overthink it. 

The sooner that choice was taken away from him the better. 

Luckily, these six months were filled with a variety of rituals that were required to be carried out and making all the arrangements before the engagement and marriage. There was just so much work that it immensely helped him in keeping his mind off that thing. 

As both the kingdoms have their own sets of customs and traditions which are equally important for their kingdom. After much discussion, they had decided to honor both and find the middle ground for those which were clashing against each other so it basically doubled the work. 

Once the date was fixed Jeongguk's parents had officially gone to Equivocate to once again ask for Taehyung's hand in marriage, which the King of Equivocate happily accepted. 

Taehyung had gone with Jeongguk's parents and decided to stay there until the pre-marital rituals. As per the traditions of Equivocate, the Omega groom has to stay in his home and isn't allowed to meet with the Alpha groom until their marriage. They are to only meet for customs where they both are required.

This could have been quite troublesome since the travel time between Equivocate and Limerence is extremely long. Even though Oracle is now their friend and they don't need to travel around it, it still took quite a long time. 

So to tackle that, it was decided that both the families would stay in Equivocate for the engagement and they would stay in Limerence for the marriage. However, Jeongguk and Taehyung aren't supposed to meet without permission despite living under the same roof. 

Since there weren't many pre-rituals before the engagement, the Jeon family decided to arrive a week prior to the engagement. 

Former Emperor Jeon and Queen Mother appeared first. Emperor Jeon came a couple of hours later with a freshly hunted goose. 

As per the traditions of Limerence, the Alpha groom has to hunt a goose for the parents-in-law all by himself. As geese mate for life, through this, the Alpha groom is hoping to showcase that they would love and cherish the Omega groom till the end of their life. 

Jeongguk was a little sad that throughout his time in Equivocate, he couldn't see the Omega. Both of them resided in the opposite sides of the palace and one was banned from going to the other wing. 

Though, luckily, a day prior to the engagement they had to meet in the Royal temple of Equivocate in order to gain blessings from the Lord Shiva, the Deity of Kim clan.

However, even during that time they weren't allowed to speak to anyone as both the grooms had to take a vow of silence for the whole day. As it is believed that silence can help one achieve their desires and attain the abode of Lord Shiva. 

The vow of silence was only broken at the dawn of the next day, on engagement day when during the sunrise, both of the grooms had to blow a conch shell at the temple to show that they had kept their silence and wished for the god's blessing. 

After that, they had to be ushered back to their respective rooms to get ready for the engagement. 

Jeongguk was filled with excitement yet nervousness as he got dressed for the occasion. It was all so surreal to him. He was getting engaged to Taehyung, the Omega who had captured his heart the moment he saw him. 

The Omega who rejected him at every possible moment— he did have his own reasons, of course— but despite that, despite all the hardships, they were here now. Taking a big step towards their upcoming marriage. 

If you would ask Jeongguk, he would have forgone the engagement and gotten married instead but as the ruler of the biggest kingdom, he needed to make his union with the Prince of Equivocate abundantly clear so here he was. 

The Alpha let out a deep breath, feeling nervous as he stared at himself in the mirror. Jeongguk wore a flowy white hanfu with light and subtle rose embroideries on the gown area of his long upper garment. 

A yellow slash keeping his garments intact as he was adored in little but gorgeous jewelry which perfectly complemented the outfit he had chosen for himself. 

To include the traditional wear of Equivocate, the Alpha wore a dark red angavastram in a criss-crossed manner on top of the hanfu, somehow making it look as the other crossed collar of his hanfu. 

Angavastram is a long rectangular piece of cloth that is worn by the Alpha groom during traditional occasions like marriage, praying or religious festivals. Originally, it's worn with a dhoti and kurta but Jeongguk thinks it suits well with his hanfu. 

He likes the way he looks, his hair is tied in a braid, adored with tiny jaded stones and sapphires— signifying the National stones of their particular kingdom. Sapphire for Limerence and Jadeite for Equivocate. 

There's a red and white colored mark on his forehead; his servants told him that it's called tilak and is worn by the people of the kingdom almost every day as it's to honor the deity that protects their clan. Each clan has a different tilak in accordance with their kuldevta — The deity which protects the clan. 

As Jeongguk is marrying into Taehyung’s family, he's to wear tripundra tilak which symbolises Shiv ji— that is — It consists of three horizontal bands across the forehead with a single vertical band in the middle. The white bands are drawn with sacred ash known as vibhuti while the red band is drawn from red kumkum. 

To showcase that he has accepted and respects the clan he's going to be associated with whenever he will come to Equivocate. 

In his ears, he wears single pearl earrings, kohl in his eyes and lips tinted just enough to make them plumpy. 

Jeongguk expresses his gratitude to the personal maids that were assigned to him before he requests them to leave him alone till the time of engagement starts and he has to leave. 

He looks at himself in the mirror one last time before he moves towards the window to get some fresh air until the time for engagement is up. Jeongguk closes his eyes to feel the breezy, cold wind. The winter is slowly fading, a couple of weeks more and then summer would come. 

By the time of their marriage, it'll be almost two years since they have met. Two years since he had the good fortune of getting attacked by Nymphaea and almost becoming her chew toy. 

Jeongguk inwardly chuckles at the thought of it. He visits her and the cubs every once in a while— they're no longer cubs though. Have grown into an adult, most have left as well— left behind their mother in moonlight forest to make a pack of their own, family of their own. 

Now, in the moonlight forest, only Nymphaea and Zeena— the cub who didn't have one paw— live alone. Nymphaea didn't leave for Zeena and Zeena probably assures herself with the thought that her mother is too old to be left behind. 

Jeongguk wouldn't know, they don't have the brains like they do but he thinks Nymphaea is expressive enough to rival any average werewolf. She certainly expressed her distaste for Jeongguk quite boldly back in the day. Now they're good friends, he'll say. 

The alpha chuckles again at the thought of it. He's not sure why he's remembering about all of that now, perhaps because she was the starter of everything. 

If she hadn't attacked him, he wouldn't be here, on his way to marry the Omega he loves.

When he opens his eyes, a part of him is hoping that Taehyung would be standing in front of him, expressions full of nervousness and eyes expressing his fear. A throwback to the past maybe and suiting their current situation. When Jeongguk would look close enough, he'll find the silent begging for assurance. 

Taehyung still gets scared, still panics if there's even a slight scratch on Jeongguk, tries to call the whole thing off because it's his fault that Jeongguk got hurt. 

Jeongguk didn’t understand it well until Taehyung sat him down once— before the marriage date was fixed— and told him about his childhood, how it was like growing up, and why his fears may look irrational but are still very real for him.

He told Jeongguk that he knows he will get scared, he will try to back out, try to give reasons that make sense only to him but Jeongguk— he needs to understand that there's no malice behind the rejection. Just a silent beg to gather Taehyung in his arms and assure him that whatever he's thinking, it's not going to happen. Remind him of Tathastu.

It helps, keeping those thoughts at bay. Stops him from thinking that he'll lose Jeongguk in a blink of an eye, the same way he lost his mother all so suddenly. 

Jeongguk knows those thoughts must be haunting his Omega, must grip him tightly in their arms right now as they're taking the first bold step towards the marriage. 

Jeongguk wished they could meet just so he could do exactly that, gathering him in his arms, pull him out of the embrace of his demons. Squeeze him tight. 

Somehow that helps, the tighter he squeezes Taehyung in his arms, the better. Jeongguk thinks Taehyung simply likes to feel the pressure, the sound of his normal heart beat, the solidification that Jeongguk is here, he's not going anywhere. He's not… dying. 

He decides he likes it too, likes to hold Taehyung that tightly, as if to make sure that the Omega knows he can't run away anymore. That he's holding on tight and wouldn't let go. 

When Taehyung hugs back, Jeongguk feels assured too. Maybe they both need it for their own reasons. 

The Alpha huffed, he truly wished he could do it right now. It would be nice.

Jeongguk flinches when a guard announces the presence of his mother standing outside. 

The Alpha walks away from the window as he gives the permission for his mother to enter the chamber. 

A fond smile immediately makes way to his lips while his shoulders snag in comfort when he engulfs her in his arms, burying his face in her neck. 

“How is he feeling, mother?” Jeongguk whispered, his chin resting on her shoulder. 

Mi-cha chuckles as she cups his face, “Nervous but he's determined. I'm... I'm just so happy you're finally getting engaged, my son.” 

Jeongguk sniffled, leaning into her palms as he nodded. He was so happy too. The man he loved would wear a ring of his name today, and would stake his claim on Jeongguk in front of everyone. 

It was a surreal feeling. 

“I wish I could marry him, already.” Jeongguk expressed, squeezing her wrist. 

Mi-cha chuckled, “Just a couple of more months. Now come, the engagement has to start now.” 

With those words, she drags him towards the main venue. 

When Jeongguk reached the stage, Taehyung was already seated. The omega possessed a nervous smile, his whole body begging for Jeongguk’s assurance and once they held each other's hand, it was as if all of Taehyung’s nervousness melted away. 

The Alpha resisted the urge to pull his Omega in his arms and shower him with kisses for being so brave, for defeating his demons and getting engaged with him.

And Jeongguk is probably biased but when he slipped the ring in Taehyung’s finger. It was probably the most magical time of his life. 

The ring looks absolutely breathtaking against Taehyung's beautiful slender finger. 

The ring is made of gold with lilac coloured crystals. A five petals flower and a dew drop with little tiny flowers design on both the sides. 

It's pretty, Jeongguk could never forget how his sweet little Omega got teary eyed while staring at the ring. 

It's thin, nothing far too fancy so Taehyung could wear it everyday, could happily show it off to any and everyone. 

At that moment, both of them truly felt blessed. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Honestly, Jeongguk didn't even realise when the days after the engagement passed. Everything after the engagement passed by a blur. 

All of them, including the direct family of Prince Taehyung, were travelling to Limerence once they had made their respective arrangements for the marriage. 

It was all so hectic that before Jeongguk knew it, there was only one week left since the marriage. From tomorrow onwards, the pre-wedding functions had to start. The close family and people had already arrived in Limerence to enjoy all the functions and the rest were to arrive a couple of days before the marriage. 

However, before the pre-wedding functions could start, there was one thing that they had to do. 

According to the Royal Priest of Limerence, Taehyung and Jeongguk had to first get purified in river Ganga before they could dip their toes in the holy union called mating. 

As Jeongguk had already marked Omega Taehyung, it was sort of a necessity to get purified beforehand so they could properly wish for moon goddess blessing during their marriage. As Maa Ganga is said to purify and forgive the ill acts of anyone who took a dip in her water, it somewhat made complete sense. 

In order to do so, they had to be near the banks of Maa Ganga early in the morning, around the time of dawn. 

When the moon and the sun both are in the sky, they have to take five dips into the chill water while holding each other's hand and chanting a mantra under their lips. 

After that, the Alpha groom, Jeongguk has to adore the Omega groom with jewellery made out of fresh flowers and bow down in front of the divine feminine energy. 

An indication that he will forever respect his partner who will come into his home. 

“My salvation.” is what Jeongguk whispered when the Alpha gave a full body bow in front of Taehyung. 

The Alpha smiles once he looks up at his Omega, adored in necklaces and earrings made out of night blooming jasmines. 

He takes a hold of Taehyung’s hand, sitting with the support of the heels of his feets. The Alpha kisses the back of Taehyung's hand, sighing deeply as the priest continues to chant mantras under their lips. 

Taehyung's eyes water as he looks around him, unsure if he even deserves to be loved like this, worshipped like this. After everything that he has done, after inflicting so much pain on his alpha. 

Those mantras tell the tales of the divine, the union of two most powerful deities. They talk about always respecting each other and being there for each other but Taehyung wasn't. 

He wasn't there when Jeongguk required him the most so how could he promi—

“Precious,” Jeongguk whispers, pulling the Omega out of his spiraling thoughts. 

The Alpha looks up from where his head is resting on top of Taehyung's lap, his face buried in his hands. Only the eyes are visible while his voice is muffled. 

The Alpha subtly shook his head, pressing his lips harder against Taehyung's hand, tightening his hold. “My precious.”

Somehow those two words are enough to do their magic, enough to tell everything that Taehyung needed to hear and calm down. 

He takes a deep breath, letting go of the negative energies as he bends a bit to rest his head on top of Jeongguk’s head, taking in his sweet scent of cedarwood and lemongrass. 

It's alright, it's fine. Whatever that happened is in the past. 

He's here now isn't he? That's all that matters. It's ok if he wasn't there for Jeongguk in the past, he's here and now he wouldn't go anywhere. 

The story of their union also came after lots of hardships and waiting. When even the deities couldn't run away from suffering and pain then he was merely a nobody. Who was he to question the ways of the moon goddess. 

With those thoughts, Taehyung smiles to himself. 

It's ok. They're together now and that's all that matters. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

In this almost 6 months, Taehyung had barely seen the Alpha, even less interacted with him. 

That’s what the priests had told them. They aren't supposed to meet if it is not related to their marriage. 

And honestly? Taehyung is fine with it. Even if it’s an absolute torture to not have his Alpha around to assure him and stop his mind from going to a million directions and creating a thousand scenarios, each worse than the last one. 

Sure, it’s extremely painful but it's fine. It’s alright. It’s said that it’s bad luck for the mates-to-be to meet alone before their marriage and moon goddess knows Taehyung would rather die than let any bad luck hover over their marriage. 

It has taken him awfully long time to come to peace with his feelings and accept Jeongguk as his mate, has taken a lot of time to defeat his demons. He doesn't want to fall back into that painful spiral. 

So really, this is far better than meeting up and bringing a bad omen in their union. 

They have been doing well in maintaining it as well. 

There’s barely any time left until their marriage date. Only three days remain until the most important day of their life. Surely they can manage a couple of days more, right?

 Wrong. 

Taehyung had thought that they could live a couple of days more without meeting each other but it seems as if Jeongguk had entirely different plans in his mind. 

Three nights away from the full moon, Jeongguk broke into his bedchamber at the dead of the night. 

Taehyung had drawn out a dagger from under his pillow at the intrusion, his heart in his throat as he took slow steps towards the balcony from where the voice seemed to have come from. 

He was scared to call for the guards stationed just outside his temporary resting chamber. 

The Omega prince had ordered the man to come out and show himself as he kept an attacking stance. 

His shoulders going taut as the silhouette of an alpha emerged from the shadows, eyes fond and pride glinting in them once they come to rest over the dagger in Taehyung's hand. 

“Hey, precious.” Taehyung heard Jeongguk call him out softly.

The unknown alpha pulled down on the scarf that covered his face. Taehyung's shoulders go lax once he comes face to face with the Alpha, the dagger falling from his hand. 

“What are you doing here, your majesty?” Taehyung scans the Emperor from top to bottom, frowning at the commoner clothes. “In this look?” 

“I missed you, my sweet flower,” Jeongguk comes closer, pulling the Omega in his arms. His nose followed the path to Taehyung's scent gland, sighing softly in the pheromones of raspberries and blossom apples. 

Taehyung relaxed in his arms, baring his neck. He missed Jeongguk too, so much. However, the comfort is short-lived. 

The Omega pushed his mate-to-be away, the gravity of his actions dawning down on Taehyung. 

“Why are you here, hyung?! You shouldn't be here. This is— We are not supposed to meet, it is forbidden!!” Taehyung panicked, his voice rising with each word. 

The Prince of Equivocate immediately shoves Jeongguk back to where he came from, murmuring under his breath that he needs to leave as soon as possible. They can't afford to have a bad omen fall upon their marriage. What will he do if something bad happens to the Alpha? No. It can't be. 

Jeongguk needs to leave immediately. 

“Hey, hey, precious!” Jeongguk dug his feet into the ground, keeping his footing strong as he turned to look at Taehyung. 

The Alpha takes a hold of Taehyung’s hand. The Omega, however, refused to calm down. He violently shook his head, trying to pull himself free from the Alpha’s grasp. 

“Hyung, you do not understand! Why would you come here? We are making such a big mistake. Please, just leave before anyone can—” Taehyung huffed, going out of his breath. 

He needed Jeongguk to understand how wrong this was. 

“Stop! Hey, stop, stop. Taehyung, stop!” 

Taehyung pants, his eyes wide as he stares at the Alpha in disbelief, gulping as he feels his throat go dry when Jeongguk steps closer, cupping his face. 

“Calm down, my love.” Jeongguk whispers against his forehead, voice low and soothing. 

Taehyung swallowed, leaning into his touch, “Why would you do this, hyung?” 

“It is required, I have to show you something,” Jeongguk explained. 

“Could it not wait?” Taehyung asked, “Our marriage is only in three days. I would be all yours after that.” 

Jeongguk smiles, a mixture of emotions passing through his face. Sadness, fondness. Love. Defeat. Taehyung doesn't really understand the causation behind them all. 

The Emperor shook his head lightly, his un-braided air swaying with the wind. “I am afraid not, my love. It is urgent and you would have hated to miss it.” 

Taehyung swallowed at that, his confused expressions making the Alpha nod once again, a bit more firmly. As if to assure that he didn't want to do this either but it is important, urgent for them. 

Taehyung took a deep breath, taking a step back and out of his arms to collect his thoughts and stop the voice that's screaming in his head that something bad is going to happen, something extremely bad. 

Still, he nods at the Alpha. Trying his best to smile though it comes out as a grimace. “Okay... What is it, hyung?” 

Jeongguk's shoulder snagged, a loud sigh of relief coming out of his lips. He had thought that it would take him far more convincing to get the Omega to come with him.

“You need to come with me, precious.” 

“Okay…” Taehyung trailed off, nodding to himself. 

He looked down at himself, he was merely in a light night gown, the cloth was good enough to keep him modest but certainly, he couldn't go out wearing them as a Prince, a Luna-to-be. 

“I— I need to change.” 

Jeongguk nodded, staring at him intently. Taehyung blushed furiously once he realised what must be going inside the Alpha's mind. 

“I will go and—”

“No need,” Jeongguk said, almost instinctively. He blinked his eyes, “I mean, you cannot go out wearing royal robes. I have brought a change of clothes for you. We need to go out as common citizens.” 

Taehyung stopped at those words, looking at the plain hanfu Jeongguk passed onto him. 

The Omega takes it slowly, biting down on his lips. “Is everything okay, hyung?”

“Huh? Yeah, yeah, everything is fine, precious.” Jeongguk tries his best to smile. 

Taehyung is hardly convinced. “You're scaring me a tiny bit,” he admits as he walks to the small wall partition made for them to change their clothes when required, he quickly changes into the hanfu Jeongguk gave him. 

A simple black hanfu with barely any designs or embroideries. Perhaps, to blend well with the night. 

Taehyung sighed, hearing the sound of Jeongguk roaming around his bedchamber as the Omega got out of the night gown. 

♡

♡

♡

“Where are we going?” Taehyung asked once he walked out, now dressed in the plain and simple hanfu. 

His hair tied up into a low bun as he walked towards the Alpha who's sitting on his bed. 

“You will know once we get there.” Jeongguk said vaguely, getting up from the bed as he takes a hold of Taehyung and leads him to where he came from. 

Clearly, they couldn't sneak out from the main door. Luckily, Jeongguk knew all about the secret passages and routes that could securely get him out of the palace without alerting anyone. 

“You are not trying to get me to elope with you, yes?” Taehyung tried to joke as they walked through a secret tunnel which directly led to the stables situated at the outskirts of the palace grounds. 

Jeongguk chuckled, “I would have loved that but Eomma would kill me if I even thought of pulling such a stunt.” 

He scrunched his nose, guiding Taehyung out of the tunnel. “Sorry, precious. No eloping for us.” 

“Shame.” Taehyung grinned at him, stopping a little to grab Jeongguk's face and leave a light kiss on his cheeks. “I would have been a bit more assured if we were going to marry today itself. Breaking the vow to not meet until marriage would have been worth it then?” 

Jeongguk’s brain short-circuits a bit at those words. His heart thudding as Taehyung smiles at him, though it's anything but joyous. The pain in them makes him feel a tiny bit guilty for doing what he's doing but he's also well aware that if he wouldn't take Taehyung to meet her, the Omega wouldn't be able to forgive himself and perhaps blame Jeongguk for not telling him as well. 

“I am sorry, my love,” Jeongguk whispered, watching the Omega. 

Though Taehyung simply shakes his head, swallowing slightly. “You must have your reasons… I trust you to not do this simply out of impulsivity.” 

He told him oh so sweetly. Jeongguk smiled brightly, walking a bit faster to catch up to him until they came inside the stable. 

“Thank you, precious,” Jeongguk mumbled as he moved forward to take a horse out of the stable. His majestic black horse which immediately nuzzles against him. 

Taehyung looks at the horse in absolute awe. Jeongguk smiles as he strokes her , introducing her to Taehyung before he encourages the Omega to come closer. 

Jeongguk lets his fiancee mingle with the horse while he goes out to get all the necessary equipment for the journey. Once he has tied the bridle around her head, he helps Taehyung to sit on it before swiftly jumping to sit behind the Omega. 

Jeongguk takes the reins of the harness, his arms looming past the Omega's waist to keep him well secured in his position. 

“You ready, precious?” Jeongguk asked softly, the close proximity between them making Taehyung's heart race a marathon. 

It's been a while since they have been seated together so close. It's messing with his head still he does his best to nod. 

“Please be slow. I— I have never ridden a horse,” Taehyung expressed, leaning into Jeongguk. 

The alpha nods before he kicks at the saddle to get the horse to start galloping through the field and out of the palace. 

♡

♡

♡

It takes a bit of time for Taehyung to realise where they're going. Perhaps, because the journey was literally taking them hours to reach and it's been too long since he had travelled around Limerence like a common citizen. 

However, his heart rate picks up when he finally realises where exactly they're heading. 

They're moving towards the moonlight forest. 

The place where it all started. 

Taehyung tilts his head just a tiny bit to look at his Alpha. Is the Alpha wishing to remember their old times? When they had met for the first time? 

Taehyung frowned, trying to remember if today is the date that they had met. It certainly wasn't, there was almost a week left to it if Taehyung's memory wasn't failing him. 

He stares at the Alpha's side profile, trying to decipher what is going on in his head in hopes of getting a little idea on what is probably expected of him. 

However, he's left empty.

Jeongguk’s face is stoic, barely any emotions on his face but he tightens his hold around Taehyung, his grip on the reins turning his knuckles almost white. 

Taehyung wishes to ask, of course but he doesn't get much time to formulate a question. By the time he does, they have already reached the forest. 

It's surrounded by soldiers, the one who must do the night patrolling around the area. 

Jeongguk shows them the Royal insignia and slowly gallops deeper into the forest once they reach the place where it all began. 

The omega notices how the lanterns are lit around the wooden cabin, the place which was his home while he was under the disguise of a commoner. 

“Hyung, wha—” Taehyung shuts down his mouth as Jeongguk gets off the horse and turns towards the Omega, silently helping him get down as well. 

“What is going on?” Taehyung whispered, holding onto his fiancee’s biceps as they walked closer to the cottage. The amount of soldiers and people — who appeared to be healers — surrounded the place surely raised some sort of suspicion in his head. 

“You need to see someone…” Jeongguk mumbled as he opened the door of the cabin, getting themselves inside. 

The Alpha swallowed thickly as they tentatively walked into the living room. “Need to say goodbye to someone, precious.” 

Taehyung's heart drops down in his belly, his eyes widening as he finally takes notice of… her. 

Her. Nymphaea. 

She's sprawled over in the middle of the living room, whimpering as she tries her best to lick her wound. No, not wound, wounds actually. 

There are multiple wounds around her body. They awfully look like arrow wounds. 

Zeena is wrapped around her, she appears sleepy. As if sedated by medicine but she too, appears to be growling whenever anyone got too near to her mother's injury. 

“Nymphie…” Taehyung whispered, immediately leaving Jeongguk’s side to run to her and wrapping his tiny arms around her giant neck. 

The giant tigress seems to stir awake at his voice, the oh so familiar voice. The majestic tigress opens her eyes. She bumps her against Taehyung's leg after a small moment as if to tell that she recognised him. 

The Omega falls down on the ground, hugging her closely. “Oh, what happened to you while I was gone?” Taehyung whispered, tears welling up in his eyes the more he looked at those wounds, wincing under his breath at the sight of her blood and mass. 

He looks at the healer for the explanation, still hugging her closer. Trying to gather as much of her as possible in his arms. 

Nymphaea doesn't try to protest either, she happily snuggles closer to him, panting in his arms. Zeena hasn't looked up yet, perhaps the medicines are finally making her sleepy enough to no longer cause any moments and give everyone else a scare. 

“She... She was attacked by a hunter, Your Highness.” The healer explained, keeping his head bowed and hands busy as he worked around the wound, trying to patch her up as much as possible even though it was damn clear that she was suffering from far too many wounds and had lost way too much blood to even survive anymore.

The Emperor had ordered him to not give up until the very last breath so that's what he does. He doesn't give up. 

Taehyung couldn't control the sob that leaves his lips. He shakes his head, desperately trying to search for his Alpha. 

He needed answers. How could that be possible? The forest was banned from human entrance, let alone have hunters. How could anyone dare try to hunt the tigers here when it's very clearly stated that it's a safe place for the wild animals? 

Jeongguk is by his side, wrapping his arms around Taehyung's shoulder as he comes to sit by his side. 

“How did—” Taehyung's words end up in a sob. He cried loudly as he leaned into his shoulder. His hand tightening around the tigress who whimpers quietly at his pain filled sobs. 

“Illegally.” Jeongguk swallowed thickly, looking down at the tigress. He had to take the Omega here as soon as he came to know about the news. 

However, they had a function in the morning so he had to stop until that was over and then wait for everyone to get their attention off them so he could sneak out with the Omega. 

Jeongguk bites down on the lips, he's just glad that they arrived before she was… no more. From what he's been reported by everyone else, it is very obvious that she wouldn't be able to make it. 

It's a given fact. 

The Alpha is just a tiny bit relieved that at least Taehyung would get the opportunity to bid her goodbye properly. 

“They... entered the area without permission, sneaked in. Were in hopes of hunting an elephant but instead found her. She had tried to attack them, of course but they were faster.” Jeongguk bites down on his lips, holding back his own emotions as he tightens his arms around the Omega.

He needed to be strong for his love, needed to be the strong pillar Taehyung can lean on right now. 

“I… I don't believe you would have liked to let her leave without a goodbye. So I had to bring you here, precious.” 

Taehyung shook his head, no. What did Jeongguk mean by goodbye? He's not saying goodbye to her. Why would he do that? Why would he bid farewell to her as if she's leaving him? She can't. 

Taehyung pushed himself away, his movements disoriented and frantic as he tried his best to get up, shaking his head. 

“I— I need to get my herbs. I can tre-treat her, hyung. She's not leaving. No one is leaving, I just need a couple of hours and I will nurse her right back to health! Yes, I can heal her ba-back. She's not—” Taehyung shook his head, muffling his scream as he wiped his tears, trying his best to not break into another fit of cries. “She's not leaving, no one's leaving.” 

Jeongguk grasps his wrist, stopping the Omega from going anywhere. The Emperor of Limerence, looks up at his beloved. His eyes were wet and pleading. 

He slowly shook his head, “We can't do anything, precious.” 

Taehyung still shook his head, refusing to believe in the universal truth that every living being has to leave this world someday. 

“I am a healer! Of course, I can do something! Hyung, please let's go back to the palace. I need to bring my—” 

“Taehyung.” Jeongguk closed his eyes, letting a tear slip away. A small showcase of his vulnerability, a small glimpse of the fact that he's just as affected, just as pained by the grieving situation. 

“Please… She doesn't have much time left…” Jeongguk tugs at his sleeves softly. 

Taehyung complies, defeated as he falls back on the ground, in Jeongguk's arms. 

“We did everything that we could...” the Alpha swallowed, pulling back his mask of stoicism. “She's leaving… Let's stay with her as she passes the bridge, okay?” 

“Make them suffer.” The Omega sobbed, “Every single one who did this to her, please make them suffer.” The Omega Prince sobbed into her fur, his voice muffled. 

Jeongguk muted silently and Taehyung didn't say a word after that, his tears saying all that's left to be said. 

He stays with her, keeping his arms around and hoping it doesn't hurt as much as she seems to be suffering. 

The Omega doesn't know for how long they stay together like that. 

That day, in his arms, Nymphaea passes away.

But she hasn't left him alone. She is gone and given him the responsibility of taking care of his daughter, taking care of Zeena. 

And as much as Taehyung hates bidding her goodbye. He's at least glad she left while being surrounded by people she loves. 

•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

If anyone had ever told Taehyung that one day, he would willingly marry the man he loves. Would marry him despite knowing the consequences and despite not having his mother to protect his future mate from the ill fate that awaits them, he would have laughed at their face. 

It wasn't possible. There was just no way he was going to marry the man he loves and subject him to such a fate. 

He would never do that. After all, how could he claim to love if he couldn't even be selfless for their safety? 

But here he was, adored in a long marriage hanfu given by the Jeon side. 

The hanfu was just like everything else; grand and elegant. 

They were chosen by the Alpha's side and Taehyung must admit, beside the fact that the hanfu is absolutely divine. It is also extremely comfortable. 

The fabric is light and flowy, multiple layers of thin fabric giving it the elegance a wedding outfit should carry without making it too heavy to bear. 

A gentle white hanfu with delicate embroideries of bright red, the length of the Qun was almost six metres long, requiring the constant care of half a dozen servants. 

His hair grown from the last six months now almost reached his hips, they were gently brushed, fragranced with lavender and decorated with jewelries. For tonight, his hair was supposed to be left free, at the crowning ceremony, The Queen Mother would braid his hair and crown him as the Consort and Queen of Limerence. 

The Omega stared at himself in the mirror, pink tint on his cheeks, lips were soft and fluffy cue the result of coconut, honey and rose serum he has been advised to use since the last couple of months. His eyes are highlighted with kohl and bring shimmer on the eyelids, making them become noticeable almost immediately, far more than they ever have been. 

They make them pop and if he's being truthful, he's unable to recognize the gorgeous being staring back at him. 

There's a different kind of glow on his face, there's no dullness on his face. 

"That's the glow of a happy groom, my son.” Jeongguk’s mother and his mausi had spoken in unison the moment their eyes had rested on him. 

Taehyung had noticed the tears shining in Mi-cha's eyes, the happiness radiating off her face. She had come closer, putting away the jewelry she was meant to make him wear in order to cup his face. 

“The goddess has blessed your marriage, my son,” She whispers, “The glow on your face rivals the moon itself. If this is not a sign that it's the right decision then what is?”

“Eomma…” Taehyung held her wrist, stopping himself from bursting into tears. 

How did she know what Taehyung wanted to hear? 

Mi-cha smiles with pride, “You are a blessing to Limerence, my son. I cannot wait to crown you as the new Queen of Limerence.” 

Taehyung smiles at her, grateful that she didn't acknowledge his weak moment. He would hate to start crying and ruin the make up everyone worked hard on. 

“I have brought a pair of earrings.” Mi-cha stated, bringing the tray of jewelries she had initially kept on the dressing table. She took out the sapphire brooch and a pair of earrings. “They are a royal heirloom of Limerence, meant to match the anklets and bracelets you are wearing.” 

The Queen Mother continued, picking them up and helping Taehyung in wearing them. 

The Omega watched and yes, they indeed matched with the pair of bracelets and anklets the mother-son duo had given to him back in Equivocate. Certainly, they knew what Taehyung refused to believe, they were meant to be. 

Taehyung’s eyes met with Aabha through the mirror who was silently watching everything, her eyes glinting with unshed tears as she smiled at Taehyung. 

The Omega didn't need her to say it, he already knew what she was thinking. 

“Your mother would be extremely proud and happy to see you like this, my son.”

Taehyung smiles back, biting down on his lips. 

He wished she was here, with him. She would have truly been very happy. After all, this is all she ever wanted. 

Taehyung blinked at the vivid image of her smiling face that was created in his head. Her big eyes grew fond as she watched him, the wrinkles around her eyes making it clear that she has grown old now. 

Oh how Taehyung wished it was true. 

“Utterly breathtaking,” Mi-cha's whisper of awe pulled Taehyung out of his melancholic thoughts. “Ready to leave, my dear?” 

Taehyung smiled, giving a nod as he stood up to walk out where his father was ready to take him towards the aisle. 

It's okay if she isn't here with him. Taehyung knows that his mother would always be there for him. She's watching over him and that's more than enough for him right now. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Jeongguk's eyes scan over the crowd while standing at the aisle which was built over a stage, in hopes of letting everyone get a glimpse of the varmala ceremony; The ceremony where they would be exchanging a garland, or mala made out of flowers. The garland symbolises their agreement and love for each other. 

It's a part of Equivocate's marriage ceremonies and Jeongguk truthfully quite likes it. His eyes scan everyone sitting on their respective assigned chairs. 

Na-Eun smiles when she catches Jeongguk’s eyes looking over the crowd. Jeongguk grinned back, tipping his head in a silent greeting as he hasn't been able to properly talk with anyone since the morning, too busy getting ready for his big day. 

“Are you nervous, little one?” Yoongi asked as soon as Jeongguk came on the stage, ready to wait for the Omega. 

Jeongguk turned towards the older alpha, his heart skipping a beat at the tray with a huge flower garland the alpha was holding for him. The one Jeongguk would put around Taehyung’s neck. Jimin was standing on the other side with a similar tray along with Siya. 

Taehyung is yet to arrive. His mother has gone to bring the Omega to the venue. Once the Omega would arrive, they would make each other wear the flower garland and then walk towards the shrine to take the blessings of the moon goddess before they would continue the wedding rituals and at last, crown the Omega as his consort and the Queen of Limerence. 

“Little one?” Yoongi called out, raising a brow when Jeongguk blinked in surprise. 

“I apologize,” Jeongguk flushed red in embarrassment. “What were you saying, hyung?” 

Yoongi chuckled, his eyes fond. “Are you nervous?” 

The groom smiled, rubbing his nape. His eyes flicker towards the entrance from where Taehyung is supposed to enter. 

He gave a curt nod, there was no doubt that he did feel a bit nervous. Not because he was having cold feet regarding the marriage but simply because a small part of him was afraid that Taehyung would somehow find a way to back out. 

“He will come, right?” Jeongguk expressed his fear, his eyes flickering back to Yoongi. 

The older alpha smiled, nodding. “Of course, have some faith, yes?” 

“I am just scared,” Jeongguk admitted, smoothing out the collar of his sherwani.

“Everything will be fine.” Yoongi assured him, balancing the tray on one hand as he goes to give a gentle squeeze on his shoulder, smiling with assurance. “Nothing bad will happen and if it did, I am here to make sure everything is perfect, okay?” 

Jeongguk grinned, his shoulders snagging a little in relief. “Thank you, hyung.” 

“Anytime, little one.” 

“Do I look good?” Jeongguk asked after some time, looking down at himself. 

Yoongi scanned him from top to bottom, humming appreciatively. 

The Alpha was wearing a white long-sleeved close-fitting knee-length coat with a stand-up collar and it has golden intricate embroidery all over it. The sherwani is paired with a white salwar, which is a fitted trouser. A white dupatta with a heavy border is draped across his shoulder and then brought around his back to rest on his other arm. The whole look is tied up with a pair of white jutti and a gold multi-layered necklace.

The wedding ring Taehyung had chosen for him surprisingly, perfectly blended with his wedding outfit. 

The ring was similar to the one he had chosen for Taehyung but it was still somehow a bit different. 

It was a thin rose gold ring with diamond intricates, a small flower petal like designs spread across the front and a dew drop shaped was hanging from it.

Originally, they weren't supposed to show to each other what they have chosen until the day of engagement itself but looking at how uncannily similar they are, it wouldn't be very surprising if someone is to assume that they chose together. 

Guess, it simply shows how well they compliment each other and truly belong together. 

The Alpha smiled at the thought of it, pulled out his line of thought only when Yoongi hummed appreciatively, scanning him from top to bottom. 

“You look good. Is it their traditional wedding wear?” Yoongi asked, jutting his chin towards Siya and Jimin who were talking among themselves about something, deeply immersed in some conversation. 

Jeongguk followed his line of vision, “Yeah. Taehyung is going to wear a hanfu. Mother chose the outfit for him.”

To honour the culture of both the families, it was decided that Jeongguk would wear the traditional outfit of Equivocate while Taehyung would wear a hanfu to honor the traditions of Limerence. 

Yoongi nodded, he was about to ask how much more time it’s probably gonna take when the sound of a conch shell being blown echoed in the area and on cue, the orchestra started playing music. 

play song: Ajab Si by KK

Jeongguk turned around to look at the Omega entering through the entrance, his eyes focused on the ground. 

And just then, as if feeling Jeongguk's eyes on him, the Omega looked up at him and smiled so brightly it felt as if the whole universe was radiating in his glow. 

There have been countless times when Jeongguk had looked at Taehyung and concluded that the Omega was otherworldly. 

Thousands of times he’s been convinced that the Omega was no less than a nymph himself. Today, however, it feels like even those compliments are not enough to explain the beauty that is Taehyung. 

From top to bottom, Taehyung was the epitome of beauty. Not even a single strand of his hair felt out of place. 

There was a special kind of grace in his eyes and Jeongguk felt blessed that those beautiful eyes never seemed to look away from him. He was the sole focus of them. 

Jeongguk resisted the urge to clutch at his chest, worried that his heart might fly out of his chest at any given second. Taehyung was that gust of wind which could make him soar up in the sky. 

Jeongguk watched the blinding smile that the Omega gave to him, his eyes asking a simple question, /‘How do I look?’/ 

This time, Jeongguk didn't even try to pretend that he wasn't absolutely gone. He openly clutched at his heart and pretended to fall down backwards, a blessed expression adoring his features. 

No less than a man who has attained nirvana. 

Men rushed to catch him but Jeongguk just grinned, his eyes never straying away from his love. 

Oh he has never felt so blessed in his life. 

Taehyung chuckled in surprise, feeling proud of himself. Even while standing so far away, Jeongguk could tell how happy his Omega was, so delighted to get married to him. 

When the Omega came closer for everyone to get a better look at him. There were collective gasps from everyone around them which made it pretty clear that he wasn't the only one who felt that Taehyung simply looked /divine/. 

Jeongguk smiled brightly when the Omega was close enough to get on the stage. 

Jeongguk walked closer to take a hold of his hand from Taehyung's father, smiling brightly at the omega. 

“You look divine, my precious.” Jeongguk whispered as he helped the Omega get on stage. 

A series of maids behind him to make sure that his clothes don't become a problem for him. 

Taehyung blushed, ducking down his head as he gave a compliment to the Alpha under his breath. 

The Alpha is barely able to acknowledge it, too busy focusing on the beauty that is his mate-to-be. 

The priest walks up to the stage once they both are standing in front of each other. 

He chanted the mantras under his breath before guiding them and deciding on who will put the /varmala/; the flower garland on whom. 

Taehyung took the garland out of Jimin's tray, turning towards Jeongguk with a fond smile. 

The Omega looked at the garland then back at Jeongguk, unable to believe that this is his reality. “I am finally marrying you.” Taehyung whispered, his voice laced in awe. 

“I cannot believe it either, precious.” Jeongguk assured, taking a step forward to bend down just a tiny bit for Taehyung to put the garland around his neck. 

Taehyung giggled brightly as he put the varmala through Jeongguk's head, the loud sounds of hooting and screams echoed around the area while everyone showered them with flower petals. 

Taehyung took a hold of Jeongguk's hand, his eyes fond as he took a deep breath to give his speech, solely meant for Jeongguk alone. “I know, I hurt you a lot, hyung. I do not have any justification for it but... I promise, never again… I would never try to push you away... I—I love you and I will always cherish you, Alpha.” 

Jeongguk's eyes twinkled with empathy as Taehyung squeezed his hands before letting it go, the promise lingering on his skin as he took a shaky breath. 

He turned to take the flower garland from Yoongi's tray before turning back to his mate-to-be. The older alpha smiled at him, giving a curt nod of approval and assurance. 

The Alpha turned back towards Taehyung who bounces at his place, excited and making everyone chuckle at his antics. 

The alpha looked down at the flower garland in his hand and then up at Taehyung. He resisted the urge to cry, oh for how long he’s been dreaming of this moment, has been dying to belong to Taehyung. So much trouble he had to go through before he’s finally here. 

The Alpha looked back at Taehyung who’s no longer bouncing, just smiling with his gorgeous feline eyes glistening with something unknown. 

Jeongguk closed his eyes as they were once again showered with flower petals once he put the /varmala/ around Taehyung's neck. 

“They say, if you want something with your whole heart. The universe conspires to bring it to you,” The Alpha started, biting down on his lips as he took a hold of Taehyung's hand, squeezing. 

He took a deep breath to continue, Jeongguk smiled over, "Perhaps, I desired you so much that the whole universe conspired to bring you to me.”

Taehyung didn't utter a word, just took a step forward to hug the alpha close to himself, his confession dissolving into Jeongguk's chest. 

The only reason they pull away from each other is because of the priest who asked them to walk towards the shrine now in order to take the blessing of the moon goddess and their respective /kuldevta/

Jeongguk offered his hand for Taehyung to walk alongside him. 

This time the Omega smiled brightly, letting his hand fall on top of Jeongguk as they walked together, side by side. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Taehyung had thought a lot about until the moment they would get married. There were a thousand scenarios running in his head, some of wistful fantasies and instigate fear that was dormant in his head. 

But he simply hadn't thought about the situations that would follow /after/ the marriage and all the post-wedding rituals that would follow. 

He simply hadn't thought about it. 

Maybe because a good chunk of his heart still believed that something extremely bad would happen the moment they'd get married or something would happen and they wouldn't get married at all. 

It would be a lie if he said he wasn't contemplating such kinds of scenarios in his head and trying to prepare himself if something like that /did/ ended up happening. 

He was so busy preparing for the worst that he simply hadn't thought about what he'd do once he got married. 

Well, now he could. 

All the post wedding rituals were over and here he was, seated comfortably on his bed, in Jeongguk's bed chamber. 

No, in /their/ bedchamber. He was sitting on their bed. 

The one which was decorated with flower petals and garlands. 

The whole bed was surrounded by it, as it was their first night together and the day they are supposed to mark each other and consummate their wedding properly. 

Well, since Taehyung is already marked by the Alpha. He simply needs to reciprocate it while they're getting…. intimate. 

Taehyung bites down on his lips, a natural blush rising up on his cheeks at the thought of it. 

It's nothing that hasn't happened before. Of course they have gotten intimate before, the proof of it rests on his neck and /yet/ , it makes him feel giddy and shy. 

The Omega has already changed into a nightgown, a scandalous one at that. 

That's what was recommended to him by his personal maids who have been assigned to take care of him ever since he came to Limerence for the wedding with the rest of his family. 

Now that he's crowned as the consort of the Kingdom, he has a couple of dozen of them to take care of him. Some of them are assigned to a specific job while some could help him with anything. And Taehyung is pretty sure that some of them are well skilled assassins in disguise. 

Meant for his safety. 

However, all of them, no matter the rank or role, were extremely excited to dress the Omega up for his first night with his Alpha. 

At that time, Taehyung didn't truly understand the appeal of it. After all, it's just the first night of them being mates no? 

However, now that he's seated here, waiting for his Alpha to come back to him. He understands. 

Truly understands the appeal of it, the hype about it. It's not just the sexual aspect, it's the feeling of belonging to each other. The feeling that there is a person who should be here to make everything feel complete. 

The waiting, the thought that you need to go back somewhere because /someone is waiting for you/.

He understands the hype about it. 

It's a weird kind of buzz, a different kind of yearning that arises in his heart. 

Taehyung gets up, pulling the excuse of a gown closer around himself as he paces around a little bit. He rubs his arms, feeling a bit cold despite the well lit fire burning in the furnace. 

Monsoon is coming, it's only a couple of days until the rainy season makes itself known so the weather is chilly. 

Taehyung bites down on his lips, eyeing the open window. The source of his coldness. He wants to go near it and close it but for that he needs to cover himself appropriately. 

The Omega would hate it if any of the guards ended up looking at his window and catching a glimpse of him in such a scandalous piece of cloth. 

It's meant for his Alpha, solely for his mate and himself. 

No one else should be able to see him in it. 

The Omega sighed, looking at the closed door of the bedroom chamber. The Alpha still had a ritual to follow before he can be allowed to retire to bed, something about teasing him or something. 

Taehyung truly doesn't care, he just wants his mate. 

The Omega doesn't even realise when simple waiting turns to restlessness. 

The irrational fear that something bad must have happened and that is what's stopping the Alpha from coming here starts to make its way in his heart. 

Again, he wants to go out and check but Taehyung tries to calm himself down, trying to stop his demons from taking over and before he knows it. 

He starts building a nest for himself, using whatever discarded clothes he could find around the chamber— which wasn’t much truthfully— he covers himself with the blanket before he calls for one of the maids to bring him more clothes of Jeongguk for his nest. 

The Omega folds them neatly, arranging them to his liking, even wearing a light one on top of the one he previously wore once realising that his /husband's/ scent was the most prominent in this one. 

By the time Taehyung is finished making the borders of the nest and can finally lay down on it, the Alpha comes in. 

His cheeks rosy from the forced alcohol probably. The Alpha halts, blinking in surprise once he notices the gigantic nest sitting right at the center of his room, on his bed. 

Taehyung peeking out from the middle of the nest, his gorgeous eyes widening in surprise before he ducks down, shy. 

He was so restless and so in need of a nest that he didn't even stop to think that Jeongguk would see his nest, /his Alpha/ would see it.

Taehyung doesn't remember well but he thinks the first and only time Jeongguk saw it was when the Alpha helped him through his heat back in the day. 

And that time, he was too busy trying to get off and begging the Alpha to knot him. Jeongguk was definitely too shocked by everything that he wouldn't have noticed his completely ruined nest then. 

Today, however, the Alpha was free to /properly/ see it for the first time. The Omega chews his thumbnail, keeping himself hidden as he worries over it. Would Jeongguk like his nest? What if he didn't? What he doesn't wish to come in here? 

Oh no… Taehyung wouldn't like that. His Omega was already whining at the thought of it. A whimper leaves from his lips. No, certainly the Alpha would like it, right? 

“Are you trying to hide from me, precious?” 

“Go away!” Taehyung grunts, a muffled loud groan leaving from his lips once the meaning of his words weighed down on him. 

Jeongguk chuckles, shaking his head as he walks closer to the bed. “Well, I can't really do that now, precious.” His smile turns extremely fond as he continues further. “You are stuck with me for the rest of our lives now.”

Taehyung's mortified expression turns shy. “Come out, would you not show me your gorgeous nest, my love?” 

Taehyung peeks out from the pile, his eyes hopeful, “You think it's pretty?” 

Jeongguk nods, his fond eyes taking in the whole nest. “It is gorgeous, pup. You did such a great job in such little time.” 

Taehyung giggles shyly while his Omega preens at the praise. “My talented pup,” Jeongguk continues, loving the blush that rises on Taehyung’s cheeks. 

“I was missi-missing you.” Taehyung reveals, sitting up more appropriately as he beckons the older man closer. 

“Yeah?” Jeongguk grinns, standing at the edge of the bed, waiting for the permission to enter which he immediately got. 

Jeongguk carefully gets inside the nest, making sure he doesn't accidentally displace anything. 

The alpha cups his face, nuzzling against his cheeks, “We have been married only for a couple of hours, Jeon Taehyung and you're already missing me?” 

Taehyung clutches at Jeongguk’s dress shirt, feeling his heart skip a beat at the name. 

His big doe eyes begging for something unknown. 

“My husband.” Jeongguk continues scenting him, the tip of his nose tickling Taehyung’s fluffy skin. 

“Yours.” Taehyung agrees, trying to get closer. His deep voice breathes, too into his Omega space as he goes pliant in the Alpha arms who continues to scent and suck around his sensitive gland. 

“Yes, all mine. Will be giving me your bite mark as well, will be making me yours tonight, yes baby?” Jeongguk sucked on Taehyung's mating bite to reinforce his words, the effect of the moan it elicits moving straight down south. 

The Omega hums, straddling Jeongguk's thigh. His arms moving around the neck, fingers cradling Jeongguk's hair, playing with it. 

The Alpha leans against the headboard, his fingers gently resting over Taehyung's hips. 

The weight of it and the grip they held made all kinds of inappropriate thoughts run wild. Taehyung felt just a tiny bit embarrassed for immediately wondering if the Alpha would tighten his hold as he rams up into him or would he use it to guide his hips, letting him bounce on his manhood to his liking. Controlling. 

/Will they leave a mark?/

Taehyung almost moans at the thought of those glaring red fingerprints around his hips, bite marks around his thighs. The way they'll bloom against his honey skin. Oh dear, he would love to have those marks adoring his pretty little body. 

“How will my precious one like to give it to me, hm?” Jeongguk smirks mischievously, almost as if he could /hear/ the dirty thoughts that seemed to swirl in his head. 

The Alpha’s one hand moves to cup Taehyung's bottom while the other lifts to caress his lips, smudging the fruit tint before he presses his thumb inside the mouth asking with anticipated excitement, “Like this?” 

At the same time, he squeezes his husband’s ass like a pervert, “Or this?” 

His eyes darken with barely contained hunger when Taehyung sucks on it, the tongue peeking out to lick around it. The Omega guides the other fingers inside his mouth, sucking on them with vigor. As if the intention was to lubricate them so they could enter him with ease. 

Taehyung's eyes never stray away from him, despite the lewd act. Those eyes contained a weird kind of innocence in them. 

The big doe eyes silently hoping for his approval— Oh, Jeongguk approved, alright— The proof of it was already poking Taehyung’s ass cheeks, eager to enter. 

The slick was already inviting it, the cloth drenched from the sweet nectar. 

Jeongguk pulls out his fingers, earning a depraved whine. He leans over to bite down on his adam's apple, pulling the Omega closer till he was nestled right over his cock, so hard and /willing./

Taehyung moans, rocking his hips almost out of instinct. 

Jeongguk makes a sound of disapproval, tightening his hold on those hips to stop him. Eyes glaring when Taehyung pouts at him, his big glassy eyes complaining silently. 

“How do you want it, precious?” The deep voice sends a shiver down his spine. 

“Hyung!” Taehyung whines, trying to move his hips but all in vain. “Don't make me say it, /My Lord/… please.” 

“/Taehyung,/” The Alpha husks out, squeezing his hips. 

Taehyung sighs, dropping himself on Jeongguk completely, shoulders slumping down in defeat. 

He hides his face while he admits, shy “Want to sit on you while we... uhm... do it.” 

There have often been many moments in Jeongguk’s life where the Omega has left him speechless but this one certainly takes the cake. 

He swallows thickly, feeling his mouth go dry at the mere possibility of the Omega sitting /on his face./ 

A moan stumbles out of his lips, unexpected and sudden.

Jeongguk squeezes his asscheeks, spreading them apart. He couldn't help but imagine his face in between them, the sweet slicked hole right over his face, the slick dripping down his lips while he's choked by this thick pair of globes and thighs. 

He had never really even considered the possibility that his Omega would harbor such desires in his heart. Though, he was certainly not complaining. 

“Are you sure? You want to sit on my face, pretty?” Jeongguk asks, letting his hands roam free to flicker the hardened nipples. 

The Omega shivers, unable to put together coherent sentences. He nods his head, whimpering in shame. Taehyung hasn't been able to stop thinking about it ever since the alpha ate him out back in the bathing chamber. 

The alpha chuckles, endeared, “Yeah? Want me to reduce my pretty husband into a mess tonight? Want to sit on your throne?” 

He whispers dirty little words against his ears, vulgarity dripping from his every single movement.

It was astonishing to see how easy it was to get the Omega worked up. 

The Alpha couldn't help but laugh at the irony when the Omega shows concern regarding dropping his whole body on Jeongguk when he was the one who suggested it in the first place. 

All this time, Jeongguk has always fucked the like a man starved. As if he didn't eat all of it now, maybe he wouldn't get to eat ever again. 

Today, however, he makes sure to take time. Enjoys every bit of their act, explores every nook and cranny, lets his tongue do the wonders alongside his fingers. 

The Alpha makes sure to tease and edge, savours the silent pleas of release, the sound of sniffles and whines as the Omega stays completely in his mercy, nothing more than his personal cocksleeve. 

Jeongguk manhandles the omega to his liking, chuckling when Taehyung drools over his cock, trying to fit as much as he can inside his mouth. The eyes big and watery, begging to be fucked. 

Jeongguk allows himself to be a little sadistic tonight, making the Omega work himself into his cock, encouraging but refusing to participate. Leaning back as he simply guides the Omega to bounce himself on his cock despite the quiver of those marked thighs. 

The orgasm doesn't come in forms of a sudden shock, no, this time it's much awaited, the result of a prolonged anticipation. 

♡

♡

♡

Taehyung sighs softly, body well spent as he rests his head on Jeongguk’s bare chest. 

The sheets are soaked with their bodily fluids, the smell of sex heavy in the air. The marks blooming brightly all over Taehyung’s body like a personal ornament. 

The Omega moves just a tiny bit to rest his chin, getting a better look of his husband’s face in this position.

“What are you doing, precious?” Jeongguk mumbles, sleepy. His raspy voice makes the Omega feel far more giddy than he would like to admit. 

“Nothing.” The Omega assures, not really providing any more context. He was too busy admiring the beauty that is his Alpha, his husband. 

Though, most of his attention was taken away by the mating bite that proudly stood at the junction of Jeongguk's neck and shoulder blade, right over the pheromones gland. 

Jeongguk peels one eye open, raising his head up from the pillow just a tiny bit to look at the Omega and what was it that seemed to capture his attention so well. 

The Alpha chuckles to himself as he lets his head fall back on the bed, “You appear to be far more obsessed with my mating bite than I am, my love.” 

Taehyung flushes red, hiding his face in the side of Jeongguk's torso, “It just looks good on you... The bond is thriving... I can just feel it.” 

The Omega admits shyly, again stealing a glance towards the mating bite on Jeongguk’s neck. It was fresh, red and barely healed. The newly marked sign of their marriage, the fact that they have consummated their marriage and now Jeongguk belonged just as much to Taehyung as the Omega did to him. 

Taehyung couldn't believe that Jeongguk was carrying /his/ bite now. That they were officially mates, bound to each other in every way possible. 

Jeongguk grins, feeling ecstasy at the admission. He hugs the Omega close to himself, turning to lay sideways in order to corner his husband. 

“Me too..” Jeongguk kisses his cheeks, grinning. “Now, let us sleep and allow our bond to strengthen overnight, yes?” 

“Yes, Alpha.” Taehyung smiles, peeking his cheeks and ignoring the little voice in his head that told him that maybe they wouldn't see another day together. 

The Omega was happy to be proven wrong as he woke up safely in Jeongguk’s arms. 

Everything was okay now. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

After their marriage, they hadn't really been able to go to any other event outside of the kingdom from the last couple of months. 

Partially for Taehyung to become well adjusted as the Luna of such a big kingdom, it's not easy to rule beside his husband after all. He needed his time and partially because well, there haven't been any big events where their presence was required. 

So it's safe to say that Taehyung is quite excited and nervous when they get the invitation for a ball party hosted by Impetuous Emperor Min Yoongi. 

In the invitation, it was stated that it is to celebrate the 50th birthday of Queen Mother Na-Eun, Yoongi's mother. 

However, what Taehyung has understood from Jeongguk, Yoongi's mother is simply using her birthday as a disguise to look through the eligible omegas and find a suitable partner for her son since clearly, the alpha was barely making any improvement in that aspect of his life. 

She had even tried to drag him in her schemes so it was easier to convince Yoongi to finally marry someone. 

However Taehyung had already become great friends with the older alpha so he felt compelled to speak ill about marriage bonds and the cons of being married. 

He made sure to not speak about a single benefit of marriage. 

Even though there were many.

One of them was that he didn't have to lift a single finger in order to carry anything or go get anything from the refreshment table for himself. 

He had a perfectly healthy and amazing Alpha mate who was happy to make all those unnecessary rounds around the area. 

A plate of fruits? Jeongguk would get it. Someone is required to fix the pleats of his hanfu? What is his husband for? Taking care of jewelries he will remove amidst the function because they are simply too heavy. Who is going to take responsibility for them? Of course, Jeongguk. 

A glass of water? The Alpha will get it for him. 

See? It's very beneficial to have a partner who's bound to you by the moon goddess and will go to great lengths in order to manifest happiness in your life. 

What he is, however uncomfortable with, is the fact that somehow every single omega seems to find his Alpha much more attractive now. 

The protectiveness, care and love Jeongguk seems to showcase towards him is making many admire their bond as well as make one jealous of their bond. 

So, it certainly shouldn't be surprising to Taehyung that somehow many omegas are trying to be around him. 

Truthfully, Taehyung couldn't care less about it. He knew his husband well and it's totally fine if he will take a bit more time to wrap everything up. 

He knew no one would be bold enough to actually consider flirting with Jeongguk when clearly, his Alpha was taken. The scent was proof enough of it. 

Well, all except one stupid Minister. 

Taehyung hated the way the omega was trying to cling to his Alpha. 

Taehyung hadn't noticed it earlier but now that he thinks about it, the omega has been trying to get some alone time with the Alpha. 

Which he certainly got when Taehyung had turned away just for a tiny second to ask an attendant to fill up his glass once again. 

By the time Taehyung had turned back, the omega was already by Jeongguk’s side like a leech. 

Taehyung watches from afar, merely a few feets away. Jeongguk tries to call for him once he sees that Taehyung had his glass back but the Luna of Limerence refused, feeling a weird sensation travel up his chest the more he watched them interact. 

He couldn't quite name it but it was similar to what he had felt back then when that omega Princess had come up to Jeongguk in hopes of finding another partner to dance with, it was a similar feeling.

Taehyung's hand tightens around the glass, glaring daggers at the omega who was trying to stand closer to Jeongguk. Though his husband— god bless this man— continues to keep a safe distance between the two of them. 

“Why are you doing this to yourself?” Taehyung flinches at the sudden voice, turning his head to see Yoongi standing right beside him, looking through the refreshments to pick something to eat. 

“What do you mean?” Taehyung asks, frowning. 

“Letting Minister Chang be all over your husband.” Yoongi aligns his head towards the place where Jeongguk iss standing. The alpha picks up a glass of sparkling champagne along with a chicken skewer to enjoy, turning to lean against the table. 

“I am not—” The look Yoongi gave him immediately shuts him up. 

Taehyung pouts to himself, “I don't like how Minister Chang is trying to flirt with my Alpha. Can he not get away for goddess’ sake?” 

“Go and say that?” Yoongi shrugs, sounding like it's almost the obvious thing to do. 

“How can I—” 

“What's stopping you? Jeongguk?” Yoongi raises an eyebrow, “Go and stake your claim?” 

“You just want me to fight with Jeongguk, don't you?” Taehyung narrows his eyes. The older man has been pissed off since the Alpha kept boasting about how amazing a married man’s life is when Na-Eun was trying to convince Yoongi. 

He shrugs, “I simply want to see some domestic drama since a married life is so amazing.” The alpha scoffs to himself and Taehyung giggles. 

Yoongi nudges him forward, “Go on, provide some entertainment.” 

Taehyung rolls his eyes fondly before his eyes turn back to Jeongguk, ready to walk towards him and gently tell the omega to get lost. However, what he witnesses makes his blood boil with anger. 

The stupid omega has his hands wrapped around Jeongguk’s arms. The omega was staring directly at Taehyung with a smug smile as if he achieved something by doing this. 

Taehyung marches towards them with anger at each step. As soon as he reaches there, he's quick to pull his hand away from his husband. Sweetly glaring at the Prince.

“Minister Chang, where is it?” Taehyung asks in the sweetest voice he could muster. 

“Where is what, Consort Jeon?” The Minister asks back, acting as if he did not just have his hands around Jeongguk like an annoying little serpent. 

Jeongguk is quick to move towards Taehyung’s side, feeling uneasy at the way the Minister was touching him just not too long ago. 

“Your shame,” Taehyung raises a brow. “Where is it?” 

The omega Minister gapes at him, left speechless while Jeongguk’s jaw fell on the floor, not really expecting his Omega to be so sassy. 

“Why don't you go and look for it and leave my husband alone?” Taehyung continues, uncaring of the stunned expression of the omega Minister. “It will be ideal if you find shame and stop trying to flirt with other people's husbands.” He shrugs casually, his voice loud enough to gain the attention of other people around. 

Yoongi chuckles to himself, hiding it behind his glass. 

Minister Chang looked as if he wanted to say something but considering how many people are looking at him with judgement in their eyes, he decided to keep his head down and leave. 

Once the cause of his jealousy was out of sight, Taehyung turns and glares at Jeongguk, moving to pull at the crossed collar of his hanfu. 

“What is the use of my mating bite if you would not show it off?” Taehyung growls, thrusting the glass he was carrying on Jeongguk's chest. 

The Alpha struggles to not drop the glass of wine and makes sure he doesn't end up staining himself, not really expecting his husband to get so aggressive out of nowhere. Though, he should have seen it coming.

Taehyung barely cares though, too busy loosening the belt to redo the collars.

The Alpha watches the Omega with a dumbfounded expression. Noticing how the Omega works around while muttering curses under his breath, clearly worked up over something so trivial. 

“Moon goddess, the tone of his voice itself was so irritating. ‘You appear to be very strong and powerful, Your Majesty,’” He mimics, making a disgusted face. “Yuck, such a ridiculous line, terrible conversation starter. Is that how he thinks I made you fall for me?” 

“The audacity to hit on my husband?! Argh, so annoying. And why wouldn't you shoo him away, you useless Alpha?“ The Omega’s eyes narrow in annoyance. 

“He was hitting on me? I didn't realise.” Jeongguk admits honestly, he really hadn't thought that the omega Prince was flirting with him until he had tried to grab his biceps. And before Jeongguk could himself pull away, his dearest had arrived.

Taehyung rolls his eyes, muttering a “Of course” under his breath before he goes back to making the collar in such a way that his mating bite will stand out proudly.

He continues to mutter under his breath, complaining about the idiotic attempt of the so-called Prince. And the more Jeongguk listens to him, the more it makes his confusion melt into giddiness, realising the simple fact that his husband is jealous.

Once the Omega is done fixing the collar, he grins to himself. Happy to admire the mating bite that stands proudly, obvious and glaring. 

Making it very clear to everyone that the alpha was taken. 

He narrows his eyes when the Alpha doesn’t say anything, clearly he was expecting the older man to agree that now he looks much better. The Alpha was clearly too dumbfounded by the latest information that he could barely speak. 

It fuels whatever little anger that was left inside Taehyung. 

“There,” The Omega huffs, aggressively patting Jeongguk's chest. “Now, no idiot Prince or Princess will think you are up for taking! Truthfully, how did they even miss our wedding? It's utterly obvious that you are ma—” 

“Are you jealous, my precious?” Jeongguk grins, love shaped light illuminated in his eyes. 

Taehyung gapes at him, momentarily taken off guard before he scoffs loudly. “Me? Jealous? Pfft. As if. Why would I be jealous? I—” Taehyung shut down, glaring at him as snatches back his glass of wine and gulps it all down in one go, scrunching his nose at the taste of it. 

The Omega huffs, thrusting the empty glass back in Jeongguk's hand. “You are mine, Your Majesty. I do not need to get jealous, hmph.” 

Jeongguk pulls the omega by his waist, casually keeping the empty glass on the tray carried by a waiter without looking up at him. 

The Omega’s hand came to rest against his chest, about to scold him when the alpha asks like a lovesick fool, “Who's am I?” 

“Mine.” Taehyung whispers, eyes glaring at him, fisting the fabric under his fingers. The question itself was so ridiculous to Taehyung. Who else would Jeongguk belong to if not Taehyung? 

“Who do I belong to?” He continues, the smile turning even more tender if it was possible. 

“Me.” Taehyung speaks, still only a mere whisper but a bit more firm. 

“I didn't hear you.” Jeongguk resists the urge to grin. 

“Mine, hyung! You are mine. No one can have you except me. Why are you even asking such a ridiculous question?!” Taehyung growls at him, his voice loud enough to draw the attention of people around them.

Jeongguk glances at them, feeling prideful. He nods at his omega, leaning to pull him in a tender and affectionate kiss. 

“That's right,” Jeongguk mumbles against his lips, spit slicked and breathing into his air. “I belong to you.” 

“Yes, never even think of looking at anyone except me.” Taehyung claims, like it was his right. 

Jeongguk shakes his head, “Never, precious.” 

And how could he even? After all, he's been dying to have the omega claim him like this in front of everyone else. 

This is all he has ever wanted so how could he stray away anyway? 

After all, it's the universal truth, “Jeon Jeongguk belongs to Jeon Taehyung.” 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

“Earlier you were saying all that about marriage just to stop me, weren't you?” Taehyung turns away from the dancing center to look at Na-Eun who's sitting beside him. 

“I— I have no idea what you are talking about, Eomma,” Taehyung feigns innocence, biting his lips to hide his smile. 

He had asked Jeongguk how he should address her as they technically don't have any kind of blood relation with each other. The Alpha had simply told himm that she was like his mother and so Taehyung had decided to call her the same. 

Na-Eun narrows her eyes on him, Taehyung notices how both Yoongi and her are perfectly capable of giving the ‘no nonsense’ kind of look. 

The Omega flushes brightly, giving a curt nod. “Sorry, Eomma.”

The older omega chuckles, waving him off. “Just needed you to admit… He really needs to get married.” She sighs to herself, wistful. Her eyes fondly watch his son as he interacts with Prince Jimin, both of them admiring a painting. 

There is no love in their eyes, not in the way Min-jun, Yoongi's father had when he had looked at Na-Eun but she knows there's a chemistry there, a small flame waiting for the right encouragement. 

Taehyung, unaware of her thoughts, frowns to himself. Unsure as to why she would keep on insisting for Yoongi to get married. Sure, the alpha is past the ideal age of a marriage but he's an Emperor, if even a decade later he wishes to marry, there would be lines of omegas waiting for him so truly, he doesn't understand her worry. 

“Eomma, do not take it the wrong way but may I ask, why are you so adamant on getting him married? I mean, he's a young al—” 

“My son has a lot of love to give,” Na-Eun explains, not at all offended by such a question. “I simply want him to experience the type of love I shared with his father. He's not allowing himself to it and I just... I believe he needs the push to open up.” 

She smiles to herself, turning to face her son-in-law instead. “You know, I have been trying and hoping that the mate of my son would be your brother.” 

“My brother?” Taehyung parrots, stunned by the sudden information. 

“Mhm… I believe Prince Jimin would be perfect for my son.” She murmurs, chuckling to herself when she sees Jimin playfully glaring at her son. 

Taehyung falls into her line of vision. His brother is talking with Yoongi, gesturing wildly as if he is scolding the alpha over something. 

For a second, he can see her vision, believing in it almost but he also knows what his brother wants and it's not a marriage. 

“Why so?” Taehyung asks, looking away from the truth that was in front of him. 

“At first, It was a mere gut feeling but the more I see them interacting, the more I believe that my instincts are on the right path. Prince Jimin… makes him more... human-like.” Na-Eun swallows thickly. Her heart soothes, noticing the fond smile his son possesses before he bursts into a fit of laughter, unable to handle the cuteness of Jimin. 

Taehyung frowns at those words. Sure, he has seen that Yoongi is a man of few words and those words often are very wise but he can't really see how the alpha is not very ‘human-like’ but then again, he isn't the one who sees the alpha through all his highs and ups. 

“I am sure you must know that he had to take over the throne very soon.” She explains. “And the only friend, Jeongguk, he had was no longer really present. I feel like he didn't get to have the childhood he truly deserved. He doesn't share his worries with me, doesn't talk about the problems he faces as a person in hopes of not making me feel guilty… I simply want him to have someone to lean on, I believe Jimin could be that anchor.” 

Na-Eun sighs, hugging herself as she leans back on the seat, keeping her chin slightly high in order to not let any tear slip past. 

“Does Yoongi hyung know?” Taehyung asks cautiously, glancing at the two of them. “About you wanting them to get married?” 

Na-Eun nodded, “He does.” 

“What did hyung say?” 

She shrugs, “He says that their age difference is far too much. He doesn't want to marry the omega who is so much younger than him.” 

Taehyung frowns, age difference? He does a little math in his head and they have an age gap of around seven years and some months and if he remembers correctly, they had first met when they his brother was almost twenty years old. 

She seems to notice his confusion as well. “I know but that's what he says and I... I can't really argue with that because neither I nor he can tell the real reason behind his refusal.”

“Real reason?” 

The older omega sighs, nodding. “It's just... This is what I personally believe. I'm not sure if that's the reason behind his refusal but I lost my husband quite early on and I— I suffered a lot. I was merely thirty something. His father and I had a big age gap so he believes that if there is a big age gap then if something ever happened to him, his mate would suffer far more because they'll be much younger than him.” 

She chuckles but there isn't any humor present in her voice. “It's silly and ridiculous but fears do not really need to be logical, do they?” 

Taehyung nodded in agreement, no one would know it better than him. “I understand, Eomma.” 

She smiles at him, patting his cheeks as she murmurs blessings under her breath. 

There's a weird kind of emptiness in her eyes, the type Taehyung hadn't seen earlier in all the interaction he had with her before today. 

It's the emptiness of losing your mate. The Omega’s eyes momentarily flickering towards her faded mating bite. 

He swallows thickly, he could never imagine how it must feel like losing his love. How painful it must have been to lose your mate. 

Taehyung’s eyes instinctively search for his mate, overtaken by the urge to make sure that the Alpha was safe. 

Taehyung’s shoulders snag in relief when he finds the Alpha standing along his father-in-law and Taehyung’s parents-in-law, immersed in some deep conversation. 

The Alpha smiles at him when he notices his eyes on himself. Taehyung smiles back, assured. 

He turns back to Na-Eun, pulling in her a gentle side-hug. 

“I hope Yoongi would find his happiness soon, Eomma.”

Na-Eun smiles, leaning into his shoulder. “I hope so as well.” 

⋅•⋅∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

As a healer, Taehyung is very well aware that after mating, heat cycles become a bit irregular. 

It is a universal truth since there are a lot of hormonal changes that occur after mating and it usually takes almost a year before it goes back to being regular. 

It's important for the mated omega to be careful and have the alpha around as much as possible since the heat could hit out of nowhere. For some even the pre-heat symptoms may not show themselves. 

Taehyung knows all of that so clearly, he should have been prepared for it and yet, when his heat hit him all of a sudden, Taehyung is utterly stunned by its arrival. 

He was in the study room alongside his Alpha, reading a novel on the history of medicine in Limerence while the Alpha was working when it suddenly hit him. 

Luckily, when his heat comes into full swing, the Alpha is right there, ready to take care of him. 

The Omega smiles as he lets Jeongguk carry him towards their bed chamber, ready to spend the next two days taking care of his Omega. 

While he's being taken to the bedchamber, he decides on one thing. 

He isn't going to take medicines to prevent pregnancies this time. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Considering how much the Omega was begging him for his knot and pups and his stubborn refusal to eat the medicine to prevent pregnancy. 

It certainly doesn't really come as a surprise when almost a month later, the symptoms of pregnancy started making their way. 

Dizziness, fatigue, acne, tender nipples, nauseous and what not. 

They had become all too familiar to Taehyung and before he knew it, the omega had found himself in the healer’s chamber with the Alpha and former Queen Mother by his side. 

Taehyung held their hands tightly as the healer confirmed to him that, yes, he's pregnant.

One month along. 

Despite already expecting it, Taehyung still finds it hard to comprehend. He sits there in utter surprise as they hug him tightly and leave kisses on his cheeks. 

It takes the whole day for him to finally come to terms with the fact that yes, he's indeed carrying a pup, growing it within himself. 

“I'm carrying our pups.” Taehyung gushes for probably the hundredth time as he follows the Alpha to the dining room. 

“You are,” The Alpha nods, grinning at him over his shoulder as he comes to sit at the head of the table.

“I am so excited!” Taehyung claps his hand, trying his best to ignore the voice in his head which tries to put negative thoughts in his head. 

The alpha hums, watching the Omega jump around while babbling excitedly instead of sitting in his place. 

“Hyung—” Taehyung gasps in surprise as Jeongguk pulls him on his lap. Taehyung wraps an arm around his belly as he falls over Jeongguk's strong thighs, the Alpha’s hands keeping the Omega balanced as the attendants continue to serve the food on the table, placing everything neatly. 

“Why am I here suddenly?” Taehyung raises a brow as he gets a bit more comfortable on his personal throne. 

“Why, to eat, of course.” Jeongguk chuckles, moving to tuck a strand of Taehyung’s hair behind his ears, beaming in delight when the Omega smiles bashfully. 

“I meant, why am I on your lap, Your Majesty?” Taehyung chuckles, his hand slowly letting go of his belly. The omega himself was surprised over the fact that just how natural it was for him to wrap his hands around his belly protectively. 

He only came to know about his pregnancy just yesterday and confirmed early in the morning by the healer and yet, now that he knew he was pregnant. His entire existence seemed to insistently wish to protect them. 

It was awestrucking. 

Jeongguk however seems to be unaware of his thoughts as he takes a hold of Taehyung's hand, kissing the back of his hand. 

“My pup is far too excited about having mini us that he is not focusing on eating. What other route am I left with?” Jeongguk raises a brow, grinning. 

Taehyung rolls his eyes, a giddy smile unable to stay hidden as he mutters, “Well, you could have just told me to eat instead of pulling me on your lap, hyung.” 

The alpha shrugs, “These delicacies simply do not interest me as much as you do, my beloved,” Jeongguk murmurs, pressing Taehyung’s palm against his cheek, looking over the dinner being served in front of him. 

Taehyung chuckles, caressing Jeongguk's face, “As much as I appreciate the sentiment, I'm afraid my mere presence would not be keeping you alive and healthy. You need to eat, Your Majesty.” 

Jeongguk grins, taking Taehyung’s hand and kissing his palm. He looks at the Omega with an intent as he announces, “Who knows? Perhaps your presence does keeps me healthy, alive and delighted.” 

Taehyung looks away, he knows Jeongguk was no longer simply talking about the food or jesting. 

He leans against Jeongguk, resting his head on his broad and firm shoulders. 

Taehyung releases a sigh as he closes his eyes, burying his face in his lover's neck to calm himself down with his comforting scent, “Perhaps I wouldn't be as sure as you, Your Majesty.”

Jeongguk caresses his waist, not so quick in arguing against the Omega’s views upon himself. He understands that Taehyung’s insecurity and beliefs run deeper than he would like. After all, he can't expect someone to just abandon something they have believed their whole life. It's something which will take a lot of time, perhaps years too. 

Jeongguk sighs, kissing the top of Taehyung’s head. He'll take it. The man he was when he didn't have Taehyung by his side… it's not a situation he would ever like to go back to. The place was too dark, the mind too pained to see hope and happiness. 

He'll rather spend the rest of his life assuring his Omega than not having him at all, after all, he might as well not have a life at all if he doesn't have his beloved. 

“You would be, if you had seen the condition I was in when I didn't have you, precious.” Jeongguk murmurs, staring at a distance though his arm makes sure to keep caressing Taehyung’s waist, slipping past the fabrics to feel the warm skin which still bloomed with love bites. 

It is so hard to believe that there is a life growing in there now, a gift, a symbol of the love he shares with his precious. 

“Don't subject me to such a torture, my love,” Taehyung murmurs, making himself comfortable in Jeongguk’s lap by curling more against him. He closes his eyes, suppressing a yawn as he basks in the calming pheromones. 

He latches onto Jeongguk like a kitten, making a sound of disapproval when Jeongguk stops caressing his waist to pick up cutlery. 

It makes the Alpha smile as he resumes the caressing with his left hand instead, “For someone who wants me to focus on eating, you surely are getting comfortable and may I dare add, demanding.” 

Taehyung pulls away just a little bit to squint at Jeongguk, “You like it when I'm being demanding.” 

“Does not mean I can not complain about it.” Jeongguk shrugs, slowly resuming eating and feeding his omega in the middle. The Alpha tries his best to make sure he doesn't accidentally spill on Taehyung. 

“I believe you are no longer allowed to complain, Your Majesty,” Taehyung announced as he opens his mouth for Jeongguk to feed him, happily chewing. 

“Why so?”

Taehyung smiles bashfully, his hand automatically coming to rest on top of his belly, caressing it softly. “It's no longer just me who will be demanding attention.” 

Jeongguk grins, his hand moving to rest on top of Taehyung's hand, intertwining them together. 

“That is true, you are blessing me with our pups after all.” Jeongguk squeezes their intertwined hands gently, the warmth of his palms seeping over Taehyungs's. 

The Omega smiles, going back to his previous position as he lets himself get fed by his Alpha, by his husband. 

He pouts when Jeongguk encourages him to eat more, expressing that he's no longer eating for just one person but ends up obliging nonetheless. 

It was still hard to believe that they were actually mated now, been mated for almost six months and Jeongguk was completely safe, nothing had happened to him. No attacks, nothing. 

Taehyung sighs, snuggling deeper into Jeongguk's neck, scenting the alpha to his contentment. 

It felt good to have his alpha with him, healthy and all safe. However…. 

There's been this thought in his head, taunting and terrifying. He can't stop thinking about it ever since he has come to know that he's carrying Jeongguk’s pups. 

The Omega consort wrapped his arms around his waist, hugging himself tightly as he closed his eyes, trying to calm himself down and wash those thoughts away. 

Jeongguk seems to notice his silence as he gently nudges him, “What has gotten your pretty little head all occupied, my flower?” 

Taehyung bites down on his lips, staring at his husband's side profile, contemplating. It's a silly thought, really— “Do you believe I will be a good father…? What if my curse is passed down on our pups? What if I los-lose you—” Taehyung takes a deep breath, his voice shaking the more he thinks about it. 

“What if the moon goddess would steal you away from me now? L-leaving me alone to raise our pups… No, what if she takes away our happiness? Our p—” Taehyung didn't complete the sentence, choking on a sob instead. 

“Hey, hey…” Jeongguk lets go of the chopsticks, moving to cup his face and wipe away those tears. “Nothing like that will happen. Moon goddess would do no such things. I'm here right? See, I am right in front of you, my love. Why would the moon goddess write such an atrocious act in our fates?” 

He kissed his forehead, scenting him softly. 

Jeongguk closes his eyes as he feels Taehyung's Omega relax, whining as he bares his neck. 

“You aren't cursed, my sweets,” Jeongguk exhales against his mating bite, “You wouldn't pass any such things, you understand? The only thing you're passing down is your gorgeous features and hopefully, your amazing personality too.” 

When the Omega doesn’t respond, Jeongguk squeezes his thighs lightly, “You hear me, precious?”

Taehyung hums, his eyes glossy as he moves just a tiny bit to pull Jeongguk in a kiss, soft and soothing. 

“I hope you’re right.” He whispers, nuzzling against Jeongguk’s cheeks. 

“Can we go to sleep please?” Taehyung asks, there was too much going on in his head and he needed to forget it all, needed Jeongguk take his mind off those awful thoughts only in the comfort of their bedroom. 

Jeongguk smiles, already understanding whatever is going on in his husband's mind. 

He signals at the servants to pack everything up and send a bowl of fruits in their chamber instead as he picks up his Omega and moves to their bedroom as asked. 

He wouldn't mind spending the whole night assuring his Omega if that’s what his Taehyung needs. 

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

It's not very often that Taehyung calls for Jeongguk while the Alpha is immersed in the Royal court matters, having important meetings with the other ministers. 

Despite being pregnant for over five full moons, the Omega has never asked for him abruptly in the day. No matter what, it hasn't happened despite Jeongguk's protest. 

His sweet, sweet consort believes that he can wake the Alpha up in the dead of the night and get him to cook something for him but he cannot, for the life of him disturb the Alpha when he is immersed in his duties as the Emperor of the Kingdom

So certainly, it comes as a great surprise when Taehyung calls for him, requesting the Alpha to come to him as soon as possible. 

A large part of Jeongguk was immensely worried, he wouldn't lie. He was afraid that something bad must have happened to his Omega or their pup for Taehyung to break his own set rules. 

However, it is safe to say that Jeongguk is deeply amused and utterly joyous once he does come to know about the causation behind the sudden request of his Omega. 

The Luna of his kingdom had asked for him to arrive in his personal work space. A place where he enjoys working on knitting little clothes while being surrounded by little bunnies and his personal handmaidens who keep him entertained. 

As soon as Jeongguk enters Taehyung's personal chamber which is more of a closed balcony, the Omega beckons him closer with a barely concealed glee. 

“Finally, you are here, Alpha. Come fast,” Taehyung raises his hands as if that would bring the Emperor faster to him. 

It does, perhaps works. 

Jeongguk doesn't miss a second before running into him. The Omega is sitting on one of the sofas, The Alpha doesn't bother sitting beside him, bending down in front of him instead. 

The Alpha’s one hand automatically moves to cup the underbelly while the other one goes to cup his face, caressing him softly. 

“You okay, precious? Are the pups okay?” His eyes stay worried despite the confusion over Taehyung's enthusiasm. 

Taehyung giggles, instantly soothing Jeongguk as he gives a nod, leaning into his touch. “We're completely okay, hyung.” 

Jeongguk’s shoulder snagged once assured, his body relaxing. He sits a bit more comfortably after that, sitting near his feet instead, at the perfect position to scent the belly. 

“I got worried.” The alpha whispers, taking a hold of Taehyung’s hand to nuzzle the place and scent him. 

Taehyung's smile becomes a bit more fond of those words. “I just got excited over something,” he explains. 

“Yeah? What happened?”

Taehyung bites down on his lips, his grin barely concealed. “Your pups did something for the first time... I needed you to feel it too.”

Jeongguk raises a brow, his wolf stirring up in alarm at the mention of the pups. “What?” 

Taehyung takes a hold of his hands and moves to rest over his belly, roaming around the stomach before they come to rest at a specific place on the right side. 

Jeongguk holds his breath, waiting for the omega to reveal it to him and then, in a low whisper he tells him. 

“They kicked,” Taehyung chuckles in disbelief, unable to believe that just happened. His eyes shining with unshed tears. Unable to truly understand how he is supposed to react. 

Jeongguk gapes in surprise, constantly looking between the two places. “They did?” 

Taehyung nods, a tear finally slipping away. “I... I finished making a pair of mittens for them and I pressed it against my belly to… you know, ask if they liked it and I— alpha, they kicked.” 

Jeongguk feels his heart race as he presses his hand just a bit more strongly, letting his hands roam around. “Oh moon goddess, pups… I— will they do it again?” He asks, not letting his hands rest at once place for longer than a couple of seconds. Not wishing to miss it no matter what. 

Taehyung bites down on his lips, “I'm not too sure… they did not kick after that one time. Maybe talk to them?” 

Jeongguk nods, taking a deep breath to collect his wits. “Hey, my babies... It's your appa,” Jeongguk chuckles, feeling so out of his element. He has never really talked with his pups directly even though he never stops talking about them with Taehyung. 

Probably because it hadn't just settled in his head that there are literal pups growing in his mate’s belly. Actual pups, his pups. 

“I am ex-extremely excited,” Taehyung nods in encouragement, understanding the awkwardness surrounding his husband. “to meet you guys... The herbalist said that there might be two of you in there.” Jeongguk giggles, huffing under his breath. 

Slowly, slowly, he starts to feel a bit more comfortable. Talks a bit more openly but there's no response. 

Jeongguk slowly starts losing hope, he looks at his omega who smiles sadly at him. 

“I believe they are no longer interested in making their presence known,” The alpha sighs, his shoulders drooping down.

“I am sorry.” Taehyung mumbles. The alpha immediately shakes his head, cupping his face with both of his hands. 

“Why are you sorry, precious? You called for me as soon as possible. I am sure they wi—” 

Taehyung gasps loudly, his eyes ready to pop out. The sound of it stops Jeongguk from saying anything any further. 

“What—” 

“Quick! They did it again!” Taehyung grabs his hand, the excitement of it all so familiar. The movements are so frantic, so exciting. 

It's all so surreal when Jeongguk feels it. The moment his hands rest on his belly, he feels it. 

There's two kicks, back to back. 

As if both of them are saying hi, making their presence known. The gasp echoes in the chamber, their bodies buzzing with excitement and just so much love. 

They look at each other with tears in their eyes, bodies coiled into itself as if there's nothing more than this in their life. As if, they wish to be cut off from this world and simply exist in this moment. 

It's just so hard to believe that they have come so far. Just yesterday it felt like they had met for the first time, a peculiar but interesting coincidence which brought them together. 

Jeongguk giggles. Who would believe that he is having pups with the man he loves, he's building a family with the one he cares for. 

Oh what a blessing life has become for him. 

⋅•⋅⊰∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

“You're lucky you didn't get any bruises on your face. It is our baby shower, hyung.” Taehyung pouts, a hand under his belly while he is standing in front of his bare chested husband. 

It's been almost eight and a half months since he has been pregnant. Naturally, since only a couple of weeks are left until the delivery. It made sense to have a baby shower for everyone to give their blessings and gifts for the upcoming twin pups. 

Only if his stupid Alpha had been clever enough to understand that he shouldn't have gone out to attend the annual duel program that is organized at the capital to select as well as honor the hardworking warriors of their kingdom. 

Of course, in hindsight, Taehyung understands that as an Emperor Jeongguk needs to be there and have a match of his own to showcase his respect for his people but right now, he's simply a pregnant Omega who worries for the father of their pups. 

Perhaps, it would have been fine if Jeongguk had come back home while being an utterly unharmed bug. That wasn't the case. There were multiple wounds around Jeongguk’s body, all paper cut thin, of course, and well dressed but it was enough to trigger his inner Omega. 

“Did you even think what everyone might think if they saw your bruises? At least today, you should not have gone for the annual duel. And what if—”

“And nothing,” Jeongguk cut off his ranting with a gentle smile, reaching over to take a hold of both hands of his beloved mate, gently making the omega sit in front of him.

“They would think nothing,” Jeongguk smiles softly, assuring. 

He tugs a strand of Taehyung's hair behind his ears, his finger lingering on the skin as he goes on, “And if they are to think, They will think that you have a really strong and capable alpha as your mate. Not to forget, a competent leader.” 

Taehyung glares at him, swatting away Jeongguk's hand. Pulling away his other hand from Jeongguk's grip with annoyance. 

Clearly, he was in no mood to let the alpha get away with such behavior so easily, “Do you believe this is the time to jest, my love?”

"It is not time to get so stressed either, precious," Jeongguk sighs, reaching over to caress Taehyung's baby bump. “Stress is not good for the pups, my dearest. You are worrying over nothing, I am quite alright.” He assures with a gentle smile. 

“If you do not want me to stress then don't give me stress.” Taehyung grumbles, reaching for a cotton ball, dipping it in antiseptic paste before he turns to clean the wound on Jeongguk’s shoulder blade. Jeongguk was already dressed up by physicians in the program but Taehyung didn't feel comfortable until he had inspected the wounds and treated them himself. 

Jeongguk was only a man in love so if this is what made his love more comfortable than so be it. 

Taehyung hisses as he starts applying a cream over it, as if he is the one who is injured. “I hate seeing you getting hurt.” 

“They are inevitable, precious,” Jeongguk mumbles, hoping that his eyes were able to soothe away his worries. 

Taehyung bites down on his lips, focusing on dressing up the wound. 

He sits back in his place, sniffing softly. “It doesn't assure me, my love.” 

His glossy eyes look up at Jeongguk. “Everytime I see any of your wounds, I feel like I am the one who caused them.” 

He bites down on his lips, caressing the bump, wrapping his arms around it protectively. “I am scared of losing you, Alpha. I feel as if… what if one day you leave for something like this and not come back.” 

Taehyung holds back the urge to burst out in tears. “What if the reason you're painted red almost every other day is because of me?”

“Precious…” Jeongguk whispers, pulling him closer till the Omega is sitting on his thighs. It was far from the truth, he wasn't ‘painted red’ every other day but he'd be a fool if he tried to give logistics to his pregnant mate who very clearly is overwhelmed with the hormonal changes of his body. 

Jeongguk carefully wraps his arms around the Omega, his hands come to rest under the baby bump. He cups Taehyung's cheeks with his free hand, pulling his face closer to kiss his temple. 

“You could never be the cause behind my wounds, precious. Not anymore.” Jeongguk assures, caressing the baby bump as he releases calming pheromones in the air. 

“I am a king, my love. I am no wolf made up of porcelain. These wounds are only normal. How could you blame yourself for something that is so normal?” 

Taehyung sighs, leaning into his hold. Slowly melting into him.

 “I do not know,” Taehyung whispers, huffing in annoyance. He wants to believe it but he is just so.. It's hard to even explain exactly what he's feeling. 

It's probably the result of the babies growing inside of him, they made him feel things he has never felt before. The mood swings were the most irritating part of his pregnancy journey. 

Taehyung felt extremely blessed over the fact that at the very least, his Alpha was extremely understanding and co-operative of his unpredictable mood swings. 

Even if it meant sleeping on the couch without any definite reason except for the fact that Taehyung simply did not want the Alpha to set a foot in his nest, his pheromones are most welcome but not him. 

“I do not know why I feel this way, it's so frustrating.” Taehyung grunts, tightly squeezing Jeongguk’s biceps. 

“You're going through a lot, pup. It's only natural.” The Alpha assures, holding back the wince as Taehyung nails dug into the skin. 

The Omega's eyes widen in utter horror when he sees blood pouring out of the wound he seemed to have caused without realising it. 

“Alpha I—” 

“Shushhh.. It's okay, precious.” Jeongguk whispers, hugging the Omega tightly as he kisses his temple. 

“Does it hurt?“ Taehyung asks, appearing as if he was at the brink of bursting into a fit of sobs. 

“You could never be the cause of my pain, precious,” Jeongguk smiles, caressing his cheeks. “And even if you are— by accident— As long as I have you in my arms, I do not mind being painted Crimson in your love.” 

 The End