Taming The Beast - Tumblr Posts

Taming the Beast.... I AM ON MY K N E E S IN WORSHIP OF THIS FIC ALREADY. I humbly ask to be added in the taglist please, thank you 😭🙏💕💕

Of course darling! I’ll add you right now 😉

And thank you for your sweet words, they keep me going 🥺❤️

hellooo! i hope you had a nice day🥰 i was wondering when are you gonna update taming the beast? love your writing btw💙💙

YES BABE I AM! It's actually done, I had to write it practically in one night.

So it's a shorter chapter but there's a lot in there!

Taming the Beast - Part II

(Thank you to Amelia @knjsnoona for the beautiful banner I love it!)

Pairing: Kim Taehyung (V) X Reader

Genre: Romance, Prince!AU, Angst, Fluff, (Future Smut)

Rating: 18+

Warnings: Violence, Gender inequality, Slight descriptions of drowning (if I forgot anything please let me know)

Words: 6.8k (Please bear with me and the shorter chapters until I can get more comfortable in the writing schedule - Thank you!)

Summary: You were the next in line to be the head of your village, when your mother gave you to the enemy to save your people from merciless slaughter. What happens when they try to Tame a Beast?

Your first appearance after being shipped to this inland hellscape was coming up closer than you thought possible.

There was some kind of knighting ceremony happening in the quad near the water. You were dressed in a lighter gown, something to keep the heat off of you. However, the men in uniform weren’t so lucky.

Coats of bright violet decorated their skin along with blazing white trousers running down their legs. Taehyung was standing next to you, looking on at the proceedings with a blank expression. He’d been avoiding you, yet again.

This seemed to be his normal with you however, so you tried not to let it affect you too much. Even if you were growing lonelier by the day. Your days were spent, either locked away in your room with tutors or roaming the grounds in search of someone, anyone to talk to.

This sense of isolation wasn’t normal for you. You’d grown up in a community, not shut off and left to rot in a glamorous cage that was far too suffocating for all it’s beauty. Perhaps that’s what they wanted though, for you to suffocate and finally give in to their demands. The offer was tempting, you couldn’t deny that. But what would become of your people if you stepped down? Walked away and let this tyrant of a King rule them in your stead?

Your decision was clear in your mind at least.

The knighting ceremony drolled on and on. The King’s voice echoed across several rows of men awaiting their chance to be recognized by the illusionist they called a royal. But out of the corner of your eye you noticed Taehyung swaying slightly. You turned your head to face him head on and he seemed to snap out of whatever daze he was in and kept his head forward.

Following suit you continued to drown out his majesty’s voice. You looked out across the water and sighed, trying to let the familiar scent of water fall over you. It did little to help you, however, only leaving a familiar ache in your chest as the smell of home etched itself into your nostrils.

Your feet were beginning to hurt, from standing for so long. The heat was also starting to get to you as well. Sweat was pouring down your spine and pooling into the fabric of your dress. Even if Elaine had selected something a little lighter for today’s proceedings you were just as warm as you would be in those other stuffy gowns.

That’s when you saw Taehyung swaying again. This time your eyes shot to him, instead of your whole head. He was incredibly pale, sweating profusely as he was dressed like all the other men today. But unlike how the other’s got some reprieve in the shade, Taehyung was stuck in the sunlight.

“Are you alright?” you whispered.

“Don’t speak,” he warned, keeping his head up.

“But-”

“Don’t.”

You shut your mouth.

You’d like to argue with him but the king’s shoulders were tensing at the sound of the two of you speaking, so you left it as it was. Him swaying and looking particularly rough in the light of the sun.

Soon, the ceremony finally came to an end. But there was a necessary gathering in the quad as the newly made knights mingled with their king and prince. But, instead of joining his father, Taehyung moved towards the back of the ground, leaning against the stone wall that kept the quad separated from the water.

You watched as he took his hat off, fanning himself with it desperately.

Why didn’t he just take off his jacket? Wouldn’t that be the simplest option here?

Moving towards him you watched in horror as he started to sway again. But, now he was up on the steps. You wanted to shout for him to get down, that he was going to fall that way but yelling, as you had been told on multiple occasions, was improper for a lady. So you tried your best to walk towards him without looking too frantic.

But, you were being stopped.

“My lady, it is best to leave him be for right now,” Xavier’s voice came through your ears.

“And let him fall into the water? Sounds like a great plan,” you growled. He tensed at your tone, but stood firm regardless of his slight fear of you.

“If you’re truly that worried then I’ll send someone to check on him in a moment,” he said, beginning to pull you back from the prince.

“Why can’t I just go do it now? At least let me get him away from the edge, look at him swaying like that!”

Xavier frowned and paid little attention to the ill prince on the stairs.

“He doesn’t need to be babied my lady, he’s a grown man and he will handle it himself,” he said.

Oh.

You understood now.

He didn’t want you fussing over him and making him look weak compared to you. He didn’t want these men here to think that you had any kind of power over the prince. He wanted it to be the exact opposite. Xavier wanted these men to see you bow to the royal advisor’s wishes and be a complacent bride to be.

To hell with that.

You ripped your hand away from Xavier’s surprisingly tight grip before heading off towards Taehyung.

“My lady!” Xavier almost yelled, but kept himself quiet for the sake of his guise... He must be patient... For now.

You stalked towards the stairs, little care for what anyone else thought as you watched Taehyung sway in an alarming fashion.

Just as you were about to reach for him, Taehyung’s body all but crumpled, falling over the edge of the wall and into the unforgiving waters below. You didn’t know it, but you screamed, looking down at the water as it bubbled, taking Taehyung deep into its depths.

Several people came rushing over and looked down.

“What happened?”

“Where is the Prince?”

“Oh God did he fall?”

Elaine moved forwards from the back, pale in the face as she looked down at the water beneath. You looked at her for a moment before she met your eyes.

“H-He can’t swim,” she croaked.

“He what?” you asked, gripping her shoulders. She balked at you for a few moments before righting herself in your grasp.

“The prince, he can’t swim,” she confirmed.

“Oh for the love of the Goddess,” you growled, ripping your hat off and pushing it towards her.

“My lady, what are you doing?” she asked.

“Saving that insolent pup,” you said, before flinging your shoes off and letting your hair down.

“Buy my lady! The current will suck you out further into the water!” Elaine said.

“That’s just a possibility, if I don’t go in there then he’ll certainly drown,” you said, rolling your shoulders before diving off the wall.

You pierced the water delicately, like an arrow shooting through the wind. You dove down, farther and farther until you saw Taehyung. Floating in the deep like a doll, body limp and unmoving.

Diving deeper than before you reached your hand out, grasping Taehyung’s wrist and hauling him forwards. You saw the docks under the water, and they weren’t that far from where you were now. If you could pull him up onto the docks, you’d be golden.

The water caressed your body, but your dress was redistricting your movements. Finding the sash under the water you pulled it open, pushing it off with one hand. You watched as the beautiful fabric sank towards the bottom, giving you more leverage to pull Taehyung towards the top.

Carefully, you swam towards the surface. When you were almost there you pushed Taehyung up ahead of you, so he broke through the surface first. You joined him at the top, gasping in greedy lungfuls of air. But you didn’t hear Taehyung breathing.

With a strength only a member of your tribe could possess, you swam towards the dock, dragging Taehyung along by the collar of his jacket. Finally, with a huff of effort, you managed to get yourself up onto the dock, only in your undergarments. But you didn’t really care about your state of undress when your supposed fiance wasn’t breathing.

Hooking your arms underneath his armpits you heaved with all your might to bring him up onto the dock. Somehow, by the grace of the Goddess herself, you managed. He wasn’t as light as he was in the water. And now with his thick clothing being water logged you had an even harder time getting him out of the frigid abyss.

Taehyung fell against the wooden dock like a soaked towel, limp and lifeless as you assessed the situation. You weren’t unfamiliar with people going unconscious in the water, and needing to help them regain their breath after.

Holding your hand over his face you confirmed he wasn’t breathing. So you did what you knew worked best. Tugging his coat off of his body you listened for a heartbeat, and felt your own stammer at his lack of one. Looking up at his grey face, you put your hands over the middle of his chest and started to push, hard.

His whole body lurched as you continued the compressions, counting in your head and keeping a rhythm. You heard the shouting from down the way, but you kept going, trying to keep up the pace.

“Come on, come on,” you said, while everyone surrounded you.

“My lady! You simply cannot present yourself in such a manner-”

“Shut up! You’re going to throw off my rhythm and then he’ll die,” you growled, forcing your entire upper body down on Taehyung’s chest. Xavier quieted at your feral tone, but you could tell you’d be in for a lecture on mannerisms and everything like that later.

That’s when you heard it.

A little sputter.

You stopped your compressions and watched in relief as Taehyung coughed up the rest of the water. Finally, you let yourself relax as you watched a few men come around and haul Taehyung into a sitting position. Seokjin and Jimin patted him on the back and checked him over for a moment.

Taehyung’s eyes focused on you and noticed your state of undress.

“G-Get her a jacket,” he croaked, still coughing harshly as he rid himself of the water in his lungs.

Soon you felt the warm fabric gracing your shoulders, but you kept your gaze fixed on him as he waved off several attempts of people trying to help him up. You watched as he stood on shaky legs, almost collapsing to the ground again. But, he finally stood and stayed on his feet. You did the same, wrapping the jacket around your chilling frame tighter.

“My lady!” Elaine’s voice came rushing down the dock, looking at you with worry written across her features.

“I’m fine Elaine,” you said, giving her a weak smile.

“Why would you do that!? Why on Earth would you save the prince? Was it your intention to humiliate him in front of the entire court?” she almost growled.

“H-Humiliate him?”

Seokjin and Jimin were already escorting Taehyung back towards the Palace.

“My lady, why didn’t you let one of the knights do it? He’s going to seem like a pathetic whelp in front of the court!” she stated, tightening the jacket around you as she began to push you back towards your cage all over again.

“I don’t understand, was I just supposed to let him drown?”

“You were supposed to let someone else do it,” she said, sighing as you two walked.

“Of course,” you sighed. “I saved his life and somehow I get in trouble for doing so. Not even a thank you?”

Elaine seemed exasperated, but kept her mouth shut. She knew if she said anything more about manners or etiquette you’d most certainly explode. But her silence was just as infuriating, if not more so.

“You are all so prideful that you can’t accept it when you need help. Needing help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. Knowing when you can’t accomplish something on your own. Being aware of your limits is one of the best assets out there.”

--

Of course, you’d received a lecture from Xavier on how you were not to act savagely in public. You were to be poised and elegant, someone deserving of the young prince. As much as you wanted to disagree, that you didn’t need to be some cookie cutter version of a princess to be worthy of someone, you couldn’t find it in yourself to argue.

And a few short days later, you’d fallen ill.

Honestly, you should’ve been more careful. You didn’t take a warm bath after the freezing waters graced your skin and you also had overexerted yourself.

The fever set in shortly after, and you were miserable.

Elaine came in every once in a while to change the cloth on your head, but other than that it was a lonely few days so far. You were cold, even under the mass of blankets they’d piled on you. You shook and your teeth rattled with a vengeance.

You’d asked about Taehyung, wanting to know if he was suffering any repercussions from his little stint in the water, but no one really gave you any kind of answer other than he was performing his duties as usual.

The tutors cut your lessons short, seeing that you weren’t in a state to remember or provide decent feedback to their questions. So, your days were filled mainly with silence, save for the sound of birds chirping outside your barred windows in the morning.

That was, until a knock came to your door one afternoon.

Your fever still hadn’t broken, and you were really feeling drained this particular day.

But what sent your mind swirling more than the fever was the fact that Prince Taehyung was standing in your doorway, looking like a nervous child as he stared at his feet. You raised a brow, looking at him in confusion.

“They said you aren’t getting any better,” he said, voice soft in the large room. “I wanted to come check on you.”

“I see,” you said, leaning back against the pillows.

“May I come closer?” he asked, shutting the door behind him.

“If you don’t fear my fever,” you said, shrugging.

“There are few things I fear more than a fever,” he said, swallowing hard.

You understood what he meant immediately, and shut your mouth. But, you patted your bed with a gentle hand, urging him to come forward. He did just that, and sat towards your feet. You looked at him, noticing he wasn’t pale or suffering any after effects of almost drowning like you were.

At least he managed to get away practically unscathed.

“How are you feeling?” you asked, trying not to let your weakened voice crack as you asked your question.

“I think I’m supposed to ask you that,” he said, a soft smile brushing his lips before disappearing all together.

“It’s a fever, I’ve gotten them before. I’m sure I’ll be fine,” you said, clearing your throat.

“But what if you don’t?” he asked, lifting his gaze to yours.

“Then I don’t,” you said, as if it was the simplest thing in the world.

“Do you really not fear death?” he asked.

“I don’t fear it for myself, no. I fear it for those around me, my mother and friends back home that would miss me if I were to die. But for myself? I am not afraid,” you said, tilting your head. “Why?”

“You act as though nothing frightens you, I wonder what a life without fear is like,” he sighs, shoulders slumping forwards.

“It’s not that I don’t fear anything at all. I do. But I don’t let that fear control me, rather, I let it fuel me. Instead of constricting me I let it give me purpose and direction,” you explained.

“I wish I could do that,” he marveled, leaning forward on his knees, placing his head in his hands.

“You can, but it takes practice,” you said, voice wavering as a fit of coughs hit you hard. Taehyung looked at you in concern, watching as you reached for a glass of water on your nightstand with a shaky hand. Without much more thought he was on his feet and handing you the glass, waiting patiently until you were done to place it back on the nightstand for you.

Swallowing hard, you watched as Taehyung sat up by your hips this time.

“People have been telling me I should come in here and discipline you. For making a spectacle out of me, in front of the court and several newly knighted men. As well as my father. He is-he is the one wanting me to assert myself over you. But, the only words I wish to say are thank you,” he said, looking at you with an odd look swimming in his eyes.

“Forgive me for sensing duplicity,” you said, raising a brow at him.

Taehyung sighed before nodding. “I can’t ask you to believe me when I tell you those words, but, they are genuine. I mean it. Thank you for saving me. You didn’t have to, and yet you risked your life to save mine. I won’t forget that.”

“And what about looking weak in front of the court, hmm? Have they shamed you yet?” you asked.

“A few have asked about my constitution. If I am faring well after falling in the frigid water,” he said.

“It could be worse,” you reasoned.

“Certainly, but your situation is worrying me more,” he said.

“You have left me to my own devices for weeks. I apologize for prying into your business, but it seems that you only want to speak to me when you’ve done something wrong. To appease your guilty conscience? I’m afraid you won’t get any pity from me. Because you’ve been cold and distant on your own. And you’re worried about me? Funny how you haven’t been worried until the interaction directly correlates with you,” you said.

Taehyung frowned and looked at his lap. You knew that he wasn’t aware of your struggles. But he also hadn’t ever asked. You were like a pretty accessory that had been locked away for safekeeping. But, you weren’t pretty in their eyes, you were a tool to be used when necessary. You were a means to an end.

“I’ve been uprooted from everything I know. Everyone I’ve ever taken comfort in. I’ve been isolated, humiliated and treated like an animal. Do you know how that fares on someone’s mind?” you asked, raising a brow at him.

Taehyung remained silent.

“You barred these windows like I’m some kind of prisoner. But, where do I have to go? My family has already accepted our terms, I have no place among them anymore. My people will listen to me, but I’m being told they will be regurgitated orders from the king here. I am to sit like a doll and be obedient. I try to do well by you, I try to help you, but apparently that’s not allowed either. So tell me Taehyung, when you say thank you to me-exactly what sacrifice are you thanking me for?”

The prince sat there with a pained expression.

“I didn’t want you to come here,” he whispered. “I didn’t know what it would do.”

“Perhaps not, but you listen to your father blindly because you’ve been taught that blind devotion is more powerful than genuine leadership. Leaders should be strong, yes. And leaders should be just, but most importantly leaders should know when enough is enough. When it is time to show mercy, because sometimes... we as people don’t know when to stop.”

Taehyung stood up quickly, back turned towards you. Your eyes felt heavy, you’d exerted a lot of yourself in this argument.

“I’m not the one to blame here. I’ve done nothing wrong. But perhaps you don’t understand, considering your background. Your people probably solved arguments with their fists instead of their minds,” he sighed.

You felt the anger come over you in a wave. It fueled every beat of your heart, every inch of your being was scorching hot in fury. How dare he? How dare he assume that you were lesser. You didn’t grow up with pedigree, your people didn’t see the point. You worked for what you wanted. Since when was using your two hands to get what you wanted, a bad thing?

Seeing red, you flung the bedding off your legs and stood up, hauling off and forcing him to spin around to face you. Taehyung’s eyes were wide with shock.

“You will listen to me,” you growled. “I am not incapable of rational thought. Nor are my people. You will not insult my tribe nor will you insult me. Just because I don’t fit into the standards your people have cultivated, doesn’t mean that I am unworthy. I am sick of people saying that I am undeserving of you. Who gets to decide that?”

Taehyung was wide eyed. Never before had a woman spoken so openly to him, challenged him. He wasn’t sure how to react, so you kept going.

“I am a person. I have a heartbeat, just like you,” you said, tugging one of his hands onto your chest. Taehyung almost gasped, but he feared his outburst would only aggravate you further. “I’m alive. I’m not some object for you to toss around when it’s convenient. I am Y/N of the Nightcrawler tribe, your future wife. Treat me as such.”

Your chest was heaving. Your heart was pounding, blood rushing through your ears. Taehyung could do little but look down at you with shock. You had spoken out against him, put your hands on him and defied him. Like a tally of things the future queen would never do, you did in the span of five minutes.

“Y/N,” Taehyung started, his voice soft.

“I’m vulnerable too. I have weak spots, so please, don’t push them,” you whispered.

Taehyung looked at you. Properly.

Your body was ravaged by this fever. Your face was sunk in and your hair was limp against your head. He didn’t come here to pick a fight with you, although he never expects to and you wind up here anyways. But, everything you say is always different from what he thinks. And it’s frustrating for him.

Although, he hasn’t tried to see this from your perspective either.

You were about to further your point when Taehyung’s face started to go out of focus. You swallowed hard, blinking slowly to try and level your vision.

Taehyung noticed you started to lean back, making him frown.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, watching as you started to sway lightly.

“I-I’m... my head,” you whispered, body succumbing to your exhaustion and falling backwards.

“Y/N!” Taehyung yelped, reaching out and grabbing you before you could hit the floor. The prince sunk to his knees, you cradled in his arms. Your eyes were closed, breaths coming in short and erratic. “Guards! Call the palace physician! Now!” Taehyung yelled.

“Yes your highness!” one responded. The sound of metal armor accompanied them down the hallway as Taehyung tried to get you to look at him.

“Y/N, open your eyes. Look at me,” he said, squishing your cheeks between his fingers.

“Mama,” you whimpered, clutching his fingers tight. Your small hands held onto him with a strength he was impressed with considering your state.

“It’s alright, I’ve got you,” Taehyung said, curling his fingers around yours.

“What happened?” a woman’s voice echoed through the room.

“She fainted,” Taehyung said, not turning his back.

“She’s sick, why was she out of bed in the first place?”

Taehyung turned and frowned.

“Elaine,” he warned.

“My apologies,” she sighed, looking down.

“She was yelling at me, I think she just tired herself out,” he said, brushing your hair away from your face. Elaine didn’t miss the tender action, swallowing hard.

“She yelled at you?” she asked.

“Yeah, I came here to thank her for saving me,” he explained. “But it turned into an argument.”

“There’s no reasoning with people like her,” Elaine said, shrugging.

“People like her?” Taehyung asked.

“Savages,” she answered, looking at you with a muted interest.

“She will be your future queen, don’t forget that,” he reminded.

Elaine was deathly quiet.

“You don’t have to keep telling me Tae, I know,” she whispered.

“I don’t like it either, but you have to respect her. She will be your ruler and my wife,” he said.

“Taehyung, we've had this conversation several times. What she doesn’t know, won’t hurt her! Several kings take mistresses,” she exclaimed.

“My father didn’t, nor did my grandfather before him. Regreyan men are loyal, once we are married we will no longer be able to see each other,” Taehyung said.

“Tae,” she said, reaching out for him. Taehyung took her hand before it made contact with his shoulder.

“That’s final, Elaine. I will not disrespect my queen by being with you,” he answered. Elaine ripped her hand from his grasp.

“I’ve given you everything. All of me, every ounce of me is yours. I-I can never marry,” she tried, a pleading tone taking over.

“Elaine, I asked before we went further. I asked if you were sure, if you were aware of the consequences. You said you didn’t want to marry if it wasn’t me,” Taehyung said, eyes shining with tears.

“I don’t! But, Taehyung. Listen to yourself, you barely know this woman. We’ve loved each other for years, why can’t it be me? Huh? If you’re willing to marry this creature then surely a servant wouldn’t be an issue,” Elaine said, gripping her skirts.

“You don’t have any form of title, Elaine. You never have. She may not have a Regreyan title, but she is a princess in her own right,” Taehyung said, looking down at you.

“You aren’t listening to me,” she whispered.

“We need to stop this, Elaine. Before we both wind up hurting more than we need too,” he said.

“Fifteen years of loving you and you want me to just stop?” she asked, heart shattering with every word.

“You think this is easy for me? You think I want to shut you out and throw you to the wind? I love you so much, but we can’t do this anymore. It’s wrong,” Taehyung whispered.

Elaine kneeled down, taking his face in her hands. Taehyung leaned into the familiar warmth. She rubbed his cheeks with her thumbs, soothing his fears with the touch.

“I love you too. So much, we can figure this out,” she encouraged. Quickly, Taehyung pulled away yet again.

“No, Elaine. You are the one not listening. I’m saying no, this can’t happen anymore. Don’t make me say it again, please. Quit giving me hope when I know there isn’t any,” Taehyung croaked.

You groaned in his arms, hand lifting to your forehead. Taehyung cradled your head, pulling you into his arms more comfortably for you.

“It’s alright, I’ve got you,” Taehyung whispered,

“Where is she?” The palace physician’s voice echoed through the hall.

“Here! Elaine, go take the evening off, I’ll watch over her,” Taehyung said, picking you up in his arms and carrying you to bed.

“Yes, your highness,” Elaine said stiffly, turning and walking out of the room.

“Now, what seems to be the problem?”

“She fainted, I think she just over exerted herself,” Taehyung answered.

Elaine felt her heart hammering against her chest as she flew down the hall. She had to let him know. Their plan was failing. Taehyung was going to marry you and everything was going to go up in smoke if they didn’t do something.

Now.

Rushing down the hallway she stumbled into the eerily familiar room. Elaine was panting, chest heaving as her fears and anxieties culminated into an ugly monster that roared within her.

Taehyung was hers...

He always had been.

T-There was no way some beastly woman from the Nightcrawler tribe was going to take him from her.

“What seems to be the matter,” the dark voice of her counterpart asked.

“T-The prince, he won’t listen to me anymore. H-He says we must stop meeting, he doesn’t want to be with me anymore. You-You said that she wouldn’t come between us! You promised me that in the end I would wed Taehyung!” she cried.

“Silence you insolent brat!” his voice practically turned her blood to ice. Elaine remained silent as her partner looked across the books in the room with muted interest. “What did he say?”

“He said we can’t be together anymore. That he won’t disrespect her by being with me as well,” she whimpered. “Please fix this. Tell me you can fix this.”

“My dear, I can fix several problems. But, I can’t stop him from losing interest in you,” the voice warned.

“H-He’s not losing interest! It’s his sense of duty,” she said, frowning at her skirts.

“Sense of duty you said,” her partner murmured. “Perhaps we need to give him a different person to be faithful too.”

“What do you mean?” Elaine questioned.

“When was the last time you and Taehyung were intimate?”

Elaine choked.

“We-well... Um, perhaps a little over a month ago? Perhaps longer? We haven’t been intimate since before he left for the Nightcrawler tribe,” Elaine mumbled.

“A good time frame, you wouldn’t be showing yet,” their voice murmured.

“Showing what?”

“Do you take the tonics regularly?”

Elaine blushed yet again.

“Y-yes I do,” she answered.

“Does he see you take them?” they asked.

“No, usually he’s gone before then,” she said, face pulling down in sadness.

“So even though you’ve taken it, he wouldn’t know for sure. Say the apothecary gave you a poor tonic. Say you believe to be with child,” the cruel voice urged.

“I-I can’t lie to him,” Elaine refused. Suddenly, a hand was gripping her throat. Elaine struggled, gripping the hands with desperation.

“You want him to be yours, right? You want to send that Nightcrawler filth back where she belongs? Then you’ll do whatever I say, and I will ensure that Taehyung and you are together,” they promised, slowly letting the pressure of their grip go.

Elaine rubbed her tender throat, swallowing harshly.

“Y-Yes, I’ll do as you ask,” she said, placing her hands on her stomach.

“Good, tell him soon.”

“I will.”

--

The next week you had been feeling better. You were still a little shaky when it came to walking for long distances and your head still felt a little dizzy when you stood up, but, for the most part you’d made a full recovery.

Taehyung had been oddly attentive the past few days.

He would check on you after your studies, making sure you weren’t feeling ill or too exhausted. He even told the tutors to take it easy on you for the time being, until you were one hundred percent better.

Being babied isn’t something you were used to, coming from where you did. In the Nightcrawler tribe, you took care of yourself unless it was life or death. And if you were sick? You’d work until you couldn’t feel the pain anymore. Or you collapsed. Whichever came first.

Now, it may sound cruel to teach people not to listen to their bodies. Making you push your limits and then some, but it was all for a purpose. To be the best you could. If you pushed yourself when you were weak, then you’d be stronger. Push through the pain to get to the other side where you could rest.

But, it was also about learning your limits. Knowing what you can and can’t take is important.

Today you had lunch scheduled with Taehyung and a few others. Xavier mentioned it wouldn’t require much on your end, just some pleasantries. Sometimes those were the worst things. Exchanging meaningless words with people you didn’t care about. Why did anyone care about saving face when these people made their own assumptions about you beforehand?

It was all so exhausting.

Elaine came in, deathly silent.

She’d been like this for a while.

Only speak when spoken to. You weren’t necessarily close with her, but you didn’t like the silence. It was unnerving.

“Elaine,” you said when she walked over holding your dress in her hands.

“Yes, my lady,” she responded, monotone.

“Are you alright?” you asked, watching as she came closer.

“I’m fine,” she answered, curt and short.

“What’s happened?” you pressed. Whatever she was hiding must be a large burden to carry on her own. Perhaps, you could make a friend in this hell after all.

“It’s nothing to concern yourself with, my lady. Please, don’t put more unnecessary stress on yourself because of a servant’s problems,” she said, turning and gathering your shoes.

“Problems are still problems, no matter who they belong to,” you shrugged. “You don’t have to tell me. But you can if you want to.”

“My lady, it is very kind of you to offer, but please... Please stop asking,” she said, voice cracking at the end.

“Very well,” you nodded, turning and looking at the window.

It was a nice day outside today. You would be having lunch in the gardens according to Xavier, with several elite members of the court (he liked to stress this part in hopes of getting you to behave but it rarely ever worked).

Elaine dressed you, pulling your corset tight against your body. Was it just you, or was it tighter today? She fastened everything and pulled the fabric over your head. You felt it pool around your arms and feet, gently caressing you.

The color was a soft pink, like a flower that grew right by the lake back home. The thought of home made a twinge of pain shoot through your heart, it was likely you’d never seen it again. Especially with the way things were going now...

Elaine finished gathering your skirts and helped you get your shoes on. She didn’t spend too long on your hair, just placing a small pin in before letting the rest fall naturally.

A knock came to the door.

Elaine walked over, opening in and bowing low to the individual on the other side.

“Your highness,” she said.

Taehyung walked in, dressed nicely. You assessed him. He looked okay, if anything he appeared to be tired. Although, that was a common theme for him anyways. The prince approached you, giving an appropriate nod before offering you his arm.

“What is that for?” you asked, raising a brow.

“I thought they were training you on etiquette,” he said, still holding his elbow out to you. “I’m escorting you down to lunch.”

Your brows raised in recognition. “I see,” you said, taking his arm gently. Taehyung nodded to Elaine and took you down the stairs.

You were quiet for the majority of the walk to the gardens. Taehyung kept pace with you easily, guiding you down the halls of the palace with practiced ease. You followed behind, keeping your face level. Guards lined the walls as you got closer to the outside.

Soon, you were walking into the large gardens. There was a table set up, people were sitting around already enjoying some tea and finger foods. Taehyung walked over and the individuals were on their feet fast.

You and Taehyung both nodded in their direction. Taehyung pulled a chair out for you, helping you sit down and pushing your seat in when you were comfortable. He found his spot next to you, and shortly thereafter food was being served.

Small plates came out and the idle chatter started. No one really addressed you, keeping their conversation mainly between themselves and sometimes including Taehyung.

Until, one woman from the back spoke up.

“Lady Y/N, this is your first time dining with the court, is it not?” she asked, leaning her head on her hand.

“Yes, it is,” you agreed, bringing your food to your mouth gingerly.

Your stomach was still fitful at the best of times and you weren’t looking to vomit in front of several people. Even if it didn’t bother you, you would certainly get a lecture about a bodily function you had no control over.

“I’m surprised you speak so well,” another woman announced.

“Did you think otherwise?” you asked. Taehyung could see where this was going a mile away. Quickly, under the table, he grabbed your leg. You almost jumped at the contact, but you kept yourself still.

“Do your people know how to read and write? Or was it only for the leader’s children?” the same woman asked.

“It’s not common for my people to read and write, we don’t particularly have a use for it in the masses. So, we select a few who don’t appear to be natural warriors and train them in it instead. We play to people’s strengths,” you said, trying not to sound too proud.

“Funny. We thought you just killed the weak,” someone said towards the back. Your head snapped to the side, finding the person who spoke. Your eyes narrowed.

“That’s a waste of precious human life. Why would we kill our own people simply because they aren’t meant for one path. No one is meant for the exact same path as another. Being a warrior isn’t for everyone,” you reasoned, trying desperately to keep calm.

“Being a queen isn’t for everyone either,” someone mumbled.

You slammed your hands on the table, tea sets rocking and plates clattering. Taehyung looked like he was going to explode, but you were already boiling.

“You think me to be so simple? You think that I am a mere animal in your eyes. That I know nothing of discipline. Nothing of control. Well, you must think I have some form of control, because you know what Nightcrawlers can do, and you’re still speaking to me like a child. How brave of you. So you know what I’m capable of, but you’re still pushing my buttons. You want to see how tight of a leash they put me on, is that it? Because I can assure you, no amount of collars or restraints will tame me. I am unbreakable,” you growled. “And you are nothing in the wake of me.”

“You’re nothing but a beast! You wouldn’t know cordial if it hit you in the face!”

“We expect some kind of heathen to be our queen? You’re laughable, that's what you are,” someone bellowed from their seat.

“Everyone please, settle down-”

“This is what I think of you and your people!” a woman screeched, tossing a glass of water right on you. You felt the rush of cold water soaking into your dress and you felt the anger double. The guards quickly surrounded the woman who soaked you, making you raise a brow.

Then a knowing smile took over your features.

“I see...”

“Y/N, sit down!” Taehyung barked, your head dropped, looking at the ground with that same smirk on your face.

“Your guards are protecting a member of the court before they’re protecting me. She threw water at me and they’re defending her. This shows me how you view me. What you all think of me. I am just a monster to you, aren’t I?” you said weakly.

“Y/N, please,” Taehyung started.

“I hoped that I would find another home here,” you breathed. “But all I found was a prison.”

Taehyung’s heart stammered in his chest at your tone. You wiped the water off your face, turned towards Taehyung.

“I’m not feeling well, I’m going to my room to rest. I hope you all enjoy your lunch,” you said, walking towards the palace. Elaine was there at the door, wrapping you in a towel and ushering you inside.

Taehyung wanted to bolt after you, make sure that you would take a bath and not further damage your health. But there was a mess to clean up here.

“What a rude woman,” a lord to Taehyung’s left said, wiping his pants off. Some of the water that hit you had also gotten him as well.

“I’m so sorry your highness,” a woman lamented. “She seems horrid.”

“No. She is not to blame for this, you all pushed her. You knew what would happen and you wanted to make sport of her,” Taehyung glowered at his court. “If this were any other woman. You’d all be bowing to her.”

Taehyung started to leave the table in search of you, he was done with the mindless people with nothing but money and greed filling their hearts.

“We’d never bow to the likes of her!” someone shouted.

Taehyung chuckled.

“You will.”

Taglist: @ladyartemesia, @lolalee24, @mawwnsterr, @defenestre-me, @musicalitae, @asifihaveaclue, @midnightsora, @mylifeisafxingmess, @jeonartemis, @coolmusicnut, @daydreambrliever, @chimchoom

Oh my God the second chapter of taming the beast was nothing short of incredible. Like I never saw a lot of things coming. I'm glad that taehyung finally understood that she is as vulnerable and human as him but still try to hold on and do her best for her people overcoming whatever situation was thrown at her. I understand Like this story is set in the past and sexism was pretty much prevalent then but still mu blood boiled and felt indignation when the oc saved taehyung and the response she got from others was that she was purposefully trying to humiliate him. Like do they not have brains at all? Why would someone risk their own life just to humiliate another person like it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever. My heart also goes out for teahyung who is forced to pretend he is not weak even when he almost died and i truly agree with what you said there, it is really a strength to acknowledge when you need help and to let others help you then, it shows maturity and humbleness. And the secret plotting against taehyung? That was somehow something I expected and never expected simultaneously does that even make sense? And I have a sneaking suspicion it is either Xavier or seokjin but that's just my gut feeling tho. And I really hope Elaine wouldn't go as far as to fake a baby, because as far as I can understand where she is coming from, she is going to really loose taehyung once he finds out it was not true (which he will if after 3 months she still doesn't start showing and I hope Elaine and the plotter won't plan another things to rectify that) and I'm happy to see taehyung actually being fond of her and taking care of her feelings. And I am absolutely in love with the oc in this story she is just so amazing.This is just a really beautiful story and I'm very excited to see what more you have in store for us. Sending lots of love your way 💗

This is the longest ask I’ve ever received and I’m so soft 🥺🥺🥺🥺

I’m so glad you’re enjoying the story and this kind of comment just makes me melt tbh.

And I love thinking through the story and what is in store for the future! You have some interesting observations and things you picked up on 👀 but thank you so much for reading, it truly means the world to me ❤️

Elaine looked like a sweet person at first maybe she is genuine and I feel for her to some degree it feels like everything is being taken from her which sucks but she had it coming at some point both of them would have to let go of each other love drives ppl crazy and can bring out the worst in someone and it looks like she’s on that route and why do i feel like she’s a jung? Or maybe she’s affiliated with them I can already see the havoc this will bring I feel so bad y/n who’s getting roped into their mess like the girl didn’t even ask for any this she’s dealing with the king and kingdom putting her down at every opportunity they get and stuck btwn a relationship that isn’t even hers to begin with 💀 I hope she gets ally soon there’s only so much she can take these ppl even had the audacity to put her in jail on the first night she came yeah imma need repercussions I also really love how you portrayed her to be strong and independent at the same time showing her vulnerability it’s really feels refreshing coz not many stories have such a strong female lead overall I just love this story so happy I came across i can’t wait for the next update 💛 ☺️

AWWWW BABES 😘😘😘 Youre so sweet, for real. Some really great ideas in there 👀 Elaines story is sad and I also feel for her, but Taehyung never promised her forever either, so, she’s kinda stuck with that too 🤷‍♀️

Taming the Beast - Part III

HOLY SHIT I'M BACK!

Shout out to @knjsnoona for the beautiful banner! Thank you Amelia it turned out beautiful! And as always thank you to my lovely beta Ryn @queenofthedamnit! Please enjoy guys!

Pairing: Kim Taehyung (V) X Reader

Genre: Romance, Prince!AU, Angst, Fluff, (Future Smut)

Rating: 18+

Warnings: Violence, Gender inequality, Minor Character Death, Strong language, (If I forgot anything please let me know nicely! Thank you <3)

Words: 7.6k

Summary: You were the next in line to be the head of your village, when your mother gave you to the enemy to save your people from merciless slaughter. What happens when they try to Tame a Beast?

You sat, staring out your window. Your hair was still wet, but you had put it down now. Elaine had suggested starting a bath and getting in, but you didn’t want to do it at the moment.

She sighed but acquiesced and left you alone.

You really missed home. Your heart ached at the loss of your family; your people.

You wish there was some way you could hear your mother’s voice. Feel her fingers stroking through your hair on the last night you were with her. It made you feel so alone, so utterly and heartbreakingly alone. There was nothing for you in this place.

Perhaps this is how Taehyung felt that night before you hauled him from the balcony in a frenzy. You couldn’t help but snort at the lunacy of the whole ordeal. Taehyung was dreamy eyed and pliant then.

At this luncheon, he was anything but.

Demanding things of you. Protecting that woman over you, choosing her side…

Was this the life you were expected to live? You were meant to live your life for him? To serve him? What kind of shit was that? The vows Elaine went on about seemed absolutely archaic. In your village, you worked together in the relationship. You each had your roles of course, but there was a mutual respect for each other. You lifted each other up, not tore each other down. How could anyone function like that?

You sighed and brushed your hair away from your face. It was getting long, your mother would’ve loved it. She adored putting jewels and decorating your hair. But now, all that you felt was the hole in your heart where home was supposed to be. Because right now?

You had no home.

No where you belonged.

These people would never accept you as their Queen. Even if Taehyung and his Father worked actively to make you pleasant to the citizens, there was a good chance they still wouldn’t take to you.

You’d been told before by several people here in the palace that you’re hard to swallow and people don’t like you. Maids, servants, people who were supposed to be underneath you in this weird hierarchy were looking down on you. How did that work?

What were you supposed to do?

Every corner lead to disappointment for you and for them. It was hard enough as it was to deal with the different culture and everything that came along with that. Elaine was nice enough, but it was clear she didn’t like you. She was in love with your soon to be husband. You weren’t as asleep as they had thought when they had their little conversation.

You had an inkling there was more than a friendly relationship between the two of them from the beginning. It wasn’t upsetting, you were glad they had found someone but… He’d broken it off, claiming loyalty to you.

Where was that loyalty in front of that court? Where was that protective nature?

This must be an act, right?

Something he puts on in front of her?

Or is it the opposite? He only feels comfortable to show his true self to her because of their background…

Whatever it was, this two sided coin was spinning. And when it falls, you fear you may suffer the consequences…

A soft knock came to your door, startling you back to the present.

Elaine popped her head in.

“Are you ready for that bath now?” She asked, a towel and new clothes already in her hands.

“I’d prefer to be alone, thank you,” you said.

“His Highness the Prince insisted I have you bathe,” she urged.

“Tell him if he wants me to bathe so bad he’ll have to join me,” you gritted out. “Since everyone seems to need to supervise every little thing that I do here. Perhaps I’m bathing wrong.”

You saw Elaine tighten her grip on the bath towels and you didn’t feel an ounce of guilt run through your body. If they were so set on being snobbish, you could play that game.

“My Lady please, just come with me to the baths,” Elaine pleaded.

“No,” you argued back.

“Y/N,” a deep voice came from behind Elaine.

You raised your eyes to meet the dark onyx ones of Taehyung.

“Ah, so you do exist. I thought that after that embarrassment to your pride you’d hide from me for weeks,” you snarked.

“Y/N, just listen-”

“I think I’m done listening for today, if you’d both leave me-”

A coughing fit took over, the chill was already starting to run through you again. The water was truly going to be your end. How ironic.

You’d love playing in it as a child, now the medium was one of death.

“Just get in the bath, come along,” Taehyung urged, beginning to approach you. You saw Elaine’s eyes flare in anger, but she hid it well enough. You were surprised you hadn’t noticed before.

“If I get in the bath then the next meal you’ll have that lady apologize to me, in front of the court,” you said, with piercing eyes.

Taehyung paled.

“You know I can’t do that,” Taehyung sighed.

“You can, you just refuse to admit that they were wrong and I wasn’t. For once I can’t be blamed as the problem in a situation and it doesn’t sit well with you. What a coward you are,” you sighed.

“People who speak to his highness like that can be hanged,” Elaine yelled.

“Elaine, that’s enough! You are dismissed. This is between me and my fiance,” Taehyung said. Elaine’s eyes glazed over before she threw the clothes and fabric on the floor before storming out.

“I won’t lose him. I can’t lose him. I refuse,” she murmured to herself, walking down the hall. All she had to do was get a faulty potion. It was easy enough, she knew where the cheap apothecaries were...

But, she couldn’t do it for real. Just a fake one. Just a fake tonic, that’s all it would take.

She could start showing symptoms soon. It’d been about a month and a half since their last tryst. Elaine’s heart ached with the lost passion between them. Taehyung had been cold and distant since you’d arrived and she’d have none of it anymore.

She’d had him first.

So she’ll have him last.

Her footsteps echoed down the hallway, leaving Taehyung sighing heavily.

“You certainly know how to push all the right buttons,” Taehyung shook his head.

“I know it was her,” you whispered.

The room became deathly quiet.

Taehyung’s face paled even more.

“Y-You what?”

“I know Elaine is the woman you love,” you said, rubbing your elbows defensively.

“B-But how could you know?”

“The way she looks at you. Anyone could see she loves you, although you don’t really return her stare anymore. How sad for her,” you murmured.

“We haven’t done anything since you’ve come here. If you torture her with this-”

“Taehyung, I know we don’t really like each other, but I’m not going to cause suffering without reason. She loves you, there’s no reason to make her suffer more than she already is. I’m not heartless,” you defended.

“Then why do you make everyone believe that you are?” he asked.

“I’ve done this?” you asked, genuinely curious when you’ve made yourself seem like a heartless individual.

“Talking about death so freely, scaring people intentionally, being defiant-”

“Being ‘defiant’ as you call it, isn’t heartless. It’s holding my own, and in a place where there’s no else looking out for me but me? I think I’m well within my right to speak freely and candidly when I think it necessary,” you said.

“You’re so difficult to understand,” he sighed, rubbing his face.

“I hardly think so, I really do speak a lot of what’s on my mind, you people just don’t listen to me.”

Taehyung rubbed his face in frustration.

“You can be so unreasonable,” he said. “But I think you’re right. I don’t think we listen enough to you.”

The surprise must’ve shown on your face because Taehyung’s face broke into a soft smile.

“You’re really something else. And I think everyone should know you are, without making you apologize,” he said slowly.

“You mean I can be myself? Without having to ask for permission? Without apologizing? I can be me?” you asked, trying to keep your hopes from getting too excited.

“There’ll be certain limitations, but you can be yourself with me... I hope that’s enough for now,” he said.

You knew there would be a catch at some point. But this was a start, albeit a dangerous one. If you bore everything to Taehyung and he went and told the King or his advisors, they could manipulate you into doing everything they want...

“As long as you do the same with me. Be yourself,” you said.

“Consider it a deal.”

--

“You’ll tell him today,” the deep voice told her. She stood in the study awkwardly, rubbing her palms together.

“Yes,” Elaine said, biting her lip.

“Is there a problem, Elaine?”

Elaine couldn’t help but shudder at the ice in the tone used. She hated dealing with people like him, but there wasn’t much that could be done. If she wanted to keep Taehyung, there was little to be done but to force her hand.

His hand twirled in the air, she watched as a dark purple glow entered her chest.

Taehyung... Taehyung and her-together? That’s all she could see. All she cared about...

She took her trays and started towards the kitchen. She greeted the cooks like she usually did, a soft smile on her features. But underneath it all...

Elaine was a beautiful woman. No wonder Taehyung was so infatuated with her while growing up.

You sat on the counter of the kitchen, staring at Elaine.

Taehyung had managed to finagle you into a bath with a couple of the other maids helping. You were a bit of a menace but you couldn’t really help it. They were pulling your hair a bit. And you were certain that it was on purpose.

But something about Elaine seemed off today.

She was beautiful, yes, you’d been aware of this from the first day you’d met her. She wasn’t really mean. Petty, absolutely, but not truly mean hearted. There was a certain look to people like that, they held themselves differently than everyone else in the room. Like they had something to hide.

And for the first time since you met Elaine, she held that very same look.

So, you decided to follow her a bit.

You didn’t have much going on today anyways. This might prove to be much more interesting than anything else. Plus, she was your head maid, so you were allowed to be with her. Perhaps they’d think you were starting to get along with people.

Playing nice.

Hardly.

But as you followed her around, you noticed that her shoulders were tense. She was up to something, but you just couldn’t put your finger on it. You already knew she and Taehyung had been together, but Taehyung had said that there hadn’t been anything between them since you’d arrived.

He’d even begun to be more open with you. Even though you haven’t been allowed back at another court session, Taehyung said you’d get the opportunity to show yourself in a different light at an upcoming ball.

If you showed the people how appealing you could be when you wanted, then maybe you could get close enough to let the barrier down and truly open up.

It was getting more and more difficult to deal with these people. Looking down on you. You were a Princess in your own right from your tribe; there wasn’t a higher position for someone your age unless married.

This kind of insult would’ve been handled swiftly back home-no...

This was your home now. How ridiculous of you to forget...

Your mother would only come once you conceived to help you while giving birth and then she would leave again...

Then that would be it... You’d never see her after that...

The idea made you want to cry, but you had other things to focus on right now. Elaine headed towards a random room towards the servants quarters and she shut the door, knocking on it four times.

You hid behind a pillar to see if anyone came after that. And lo and behold, someone did.

Taehyung walked into the room carefully, looking around but not really caring much before rushing inside of the room and shutting the door with a soft click. You got closer then, leaning against the wall against the cold stone of the palace.

“Taehyung, this is serious. Quit,” you heard Taehyung whine something, but it was unclear.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t expect you to call so suddenly. You know we can’t do anything, but I can kiss you. I’m not married yet, not just yet so let me kiss you at the very least,” Taehyung complained.

“Taehyung,” Elaine said in a shaky tone. “I haven’t bled this month.”

Your heart stopped in your chest.

She hadn’t bled? How long?

“W-What do you mean you haven’t bled? What about the tonics you’re supposed to take?” Taehyung’s voice turned concerned.

“I had to buy it from a different apothecary. The one I usually purchase from wasn’t there at the market. I’m sorry Taehyung, but I’m scared, I don’t know what to do!”

Taehyung sighed.

“You have to leave,” he said.

“What?”

You could hear the confusion in Elaine’s tone. That certainly wasn’t what she was expecting him to say.

“Do you realize what this will do to the alliance? If it’s discovered I got a servant pregnant... My father will kill you. He won’t care-”

“You won’t let him, I know you’ll defend us,” she said, placing her hand on her stomach gently.”

“Elaine I can’t! I can’t even protect my soon to be wife from him, let alone you and a possible child.”

“Possible? Taehyung I haven’t bled! That’s as good as saying I’m-”

Her voice cut off quickly.

“Don’t you say it, you don’t know who could be listening. Imagine if Y/N heard this? She could call this whole thing off and then the kingdom is defenseless against the Jung empire. What will we do if she tells her family of this? How will it look?”

“You’re talking as if this is all my fault! Stand up to your father, tell him you don’t want to marry Y/N! Tell him that you’ll marry the woman who is carrying your child!”

“Can you hear yourself? This is all delusional thinking! I’ve heard women can skip bleeding if they’re stressed enough. You’ve been nothing but stressed since Y/N got here. Perhaps that is the case and not a child,” Taehyung said, trying to soothe her. But apparently all he did was agitate her.

“And what if it’s not? What if I really am pregnant Taehyung!? This is how you react? I thought you loved me, I thought that what we had-”

“You have to forget me. You really can’t keep bringing this up, Elaine. I loved you so much, I loved you until my lungs ached, but we can no longer be together. I-I long to kiss you, to tell you how much I do love you. But the more I do that, the more I hurt us both. I’m trying to build a relationship with Y/N, the future Queen. There’s nothing I can do about this, as much as it hurts me. And believe me when I tell you Elaine, to have loved you has been a great treasure to me. But now, we both must let go,” he urged. You could hear the emotion in his voice and knew this was all he could do.

“Taehyung don’t give up-please. Don’t give up on us,” she said, quietly.

“I have to give you up, as much as it hurts me,” he whispered.

“And if I am with child?”

Taehyung was silent for a moment.

“I’ll give you something, enough to give you a decent life. Something to care for you and the child for the rest of your lives. But that’s all I can do. We can’t have a bastard child in this palace, can you imagine what the court would do to them? Look at what they’re already doing to Y/N,” he said.

“But she’s a savage! In this palace! She deserves every ounce of anger and hatred thrown her way! She doesn’t belong here!” Elaine spit out.

You didn’t think that those words would sting so much coming from her, but they do. She’d always been kind to you, kind enough. You knew she didn’t particularly like you, but, those words stung just the same.

You really shouldn’t listen anymore. This was a private conversation that you were peering in on. How shameful, your mother would be disappointed.

Sighing, you pushed the door open.

Taehyung and Elaine both looked at you, tears prevalent in their eyes.

“What are you doing here?” Taehyung asked.

“I’ve been listening. I apologize, I shouldn’t have intruded. But, I was following Elaine.”

Elaine’s face turned to shock.

“H-How long? Why?” She asked.

“Originally? It was curiosity, you seemed different today. Now I know why,” you said.

“What do you want?” she asked. “I won’t get rid of it. I refuse, you can’t make me!” She cried.

“I haven’t said anything yet,” you soothed.

“Y-You’re here to take Taehyung away from me. That’s all you’ve ever been here to do. I-I won’t let you,” she said, shaking.

“Elaine calm down,” Taehyung said, rubbing her shoulders.

“You don’t see it. None of you see how much better I am than her. How perfect I would be as your bride! As your wife. I would obey you, everything you asked I would do it! Without question!”

“Perhaps that’s not the kind of bride he needs. Maybe Taehyung needs someone to question him so that he can think harder about the decisions that need to be made,” you said off handedly.

Although that wasn’t the right thing to say.

“What?”

“Y/N, stop!”

“This isn’t meant to be malicious,” you said, putting your hands up.

“Everything you do is disgusting! I’ve had to watch you and take care of you while knowing that I’d be perfect for Taehyung.”

“Elaine! That’s enough! She knows now, that means she could get you killed!”

“Taehyung, I'm not going to get her killed!” You exclaimed.

“It might not even be intentional. But now that you know who she is to me, you-you hold that power over me.”

“It’s not something I intend to hold over you, that’s wrong any way you look at it. Elaine, if you are pregnant Taehyung can figure something out where you can live comfortably. But he’s right when he says you can’t be together. If he marries you, then war will start all over again, countless will die. Plus, if you think the people will like you any more than me, you’re mistaken,” you said.

“Y/N,” Taehyung warned.

“I’m not saying this to be harmful, but you need to know this Elaine. If you truly are pregnant, I’ll protect you and your child with my life. They’ll never be discovered. But you’ll never have Taehyung. And I apologize for that,” you whispered, bowing your head slightly.

“You’re going to die if you keep saying shit like that,” Elaine said, head still staring down at the floor.

“Elaine, calm down. This can be resolved calmly and orderly. You need to focus,” Taehyung said.

“Focus-yes. Exactly,” she said, lifting her head. You saw the tinge of purple around her irises and fear struck down your chest.

“Magic. She’s been charmed, Taehyung,” you warned.

“What?” he asked, looking towards Elaine.

“Her irises are purple. It’s a charm, she’s dangerous. Be very careful with what you say,” you warned.

“Coming from you, that’s hard to swallow,” Taehyung sighed.

“You’re trying to take him away from me. It’s you, you’re the problem. I-If I get rid of you, then we can be happy. Taehyung and I can be together and be in love...”

“No Elaine, we can’t!” Taehyung shouted.

“Listen to me Taehyung. If we kill Y/N, then everything is solved. She’s gone, saying it was an accident and I’m sure her people will still back you. Then you can face the Jung empire with them and we can be together,” her voice was getting frantic.

“Elaine, that's not something you should be saying. It’s treason!” Taehyung warned.

“She’s not your wife yet, I can say what I want. And I intend to!” she growled, coming forward and digging her fingers into your flesh.

“You’re pathetic. Clinging to Taehyung like a lifeline when you know you’re alone here. There’s not one person in this palace that cares for you. You’re disgusting, lower than trash. I hate you, I hate what you’ve done to him, and what you’ve made me do, you’ve made me a murderer,” she said, brandishing a blade from her side.

“Elaine, what are you doing?!” Taehyung screamed.

“You don’t want to fight me,” you warned.

“I do, and I’m going to win,” she snarled.

“You have motivation, but I have the patience,” you explained.

She struck then, aiming for your throat. She’s charmed so she’s stronger than she’d usually be, so you took her momentum and threw her over your shoulder, having her land hard on her back.

“Y/N, Elaine!” Taehyung yelped, rushing over.

“Stay back Taehyung, she won’t stop. You don’t need to get in the crossfire. I was bred to do this,” you said, eyes narrowing and looking at Elaine with sheer venom.

“I won’t back down,” she wavered. Purple around her irises blinking out for a moment.

She was fighting it.

“Don’t expect me to,” you stated.

“Please Y/N, what if she is pregnant you need to be careful,” Taehyung said.

“I’ll do my best but she’s not going to give me an opportunity to go easy,” you said, moving right as she jabbed the knife up and almost slicing your cheek. She hauled herself off the floor in her skirts and everything, panting hard against the corset.

Corset...

If she thought she was pregnant, she would’ve taken it off.

There’s something more going on here. There's something that she isn’t saying.

It’s seconds later that she tries to land a stab to your stomach. You manage to move in time to avoid getting skewered. But it’s the fact that she’s attacking so erratically that’s throwing you off. You’re used to tactical fighting, not this kind of mess she’s putting on.

You moved out of her way yet again, but Taehyung caught her by the shoulders. “Elaine, stop this before you or Y/N get hurt!”

Taehyung had never seen Elaine act so feral. Would she do this if she really was pregnant? It seems really dangerous. Especially to someone supposedly with child. Unless…

“She’s lying Taehyung! She’s not pregnant!”

“How do you know? You’re nobody, just a random savage that they picked up to play a princess,” Elaine growled.

“I’m a Princess of the Nightcrawler Tribe and you won’t say such things to me without consequences.” With that you charged forward and hit her right in the chest, knocking the wind out of her, watching as she lay flat on the floor.

“Stay down,” Taehyung warned her. “Y/N is trained in hand to hand combat you had no chance.”

“I won’t lose, I refuse,” Elaine said, standing up and shakily holding the knife out towards you.

“What is the meaning of this?” Seokjin’s voice echoed through the room. Elaine’s charm seemed to disappear, eyes turning back to their original color. She looked at the knife in her hand and to Taehyung, then to you.

“M-My Lady, I’m so sorry,” she whispered, dropping the knife quickly.

“It’s alright-”

“It’s treason, actually Lady Y/N. Something that Miss Elaine is quite aware of,” Jimin’s voice said, appearing behind Seokjin like he’d been there the whole time.

“What’s the meaning of this?” Seokjin asked, raising a brow at Elaine, Taehyung and yourself.

“N0thing’s going on, nothing’s wrong,” Taehyung scrambled to say.

“Highness, a servant is pointing a weapon at your fiancé, I believe there is something wrong with that,” Jimin said.

“She’s not anymore so let’s just forget it happened,” you urged, coming towards Elaine.

“Please don’t, you’ll make it worse,” she whispered.

Freezing in your tracks you looked back at Jimin and Seokjin who had solemn looks on their faces.

“Miss Elaine, this is treason, you know the punishment,” Jimin said, brining his sword out.

“Please no,” Taehyung whispered.

“I-I’ll leave, you’ll never hear from me again I swear it,” she promised, kneeling on the ground, putting her head to the floor.

Jimin came forward.

The room was dead silent. No one breathed.

“That’s not the punishment for treason,” he said, taking his sword and running it through her back. Jimin pulled his sword back and sheathed it, stepping behind Seokjin once more.

“Justice has been served. We’ll alert the King of the proceedings and other members of the guard. If she was after Lady Y/N, we know there will be other’s. This wedding needs to happen soon,” Seokjin stated.

“Ack,” Elaine groaned, falling to the side, blood pooling from her stomach.

Taehyung collapsed next to her, bringing her head into his lap, staining his clothes with blood.

“The servants will be back to collect her,” Jimin stated, turning and headed out the door, Seokjin following him shortly thereafter.

You sighed and looked down, turning your back and heading towards the door.

“W-wait,” Elaine’s weak voice reached your ears. You turned and looked at Taehyung’s tear filled eyes and swallowed hard.

“Yes Elaine,” you said, coming back.

“T-There’s something you both should know. I-I wasn’t alone… I was working with someone… Someone wants you dead Lady Y/N, and they want the crown for themselves-”

“Who? Who Elaine?” You asked, trying to get the information. But she gripped onto Taehyung’s hand tighter and you knew that this was their chance. Their last chance.

“I love you Taehyung. I really do, and I’m sorry Lady Y/N, I was blinded by jealousy, and I wish you nothing but good things in your life. I apologize,” she coughed, blood staining her hands.

“I love you too Elaine, as much as I shouldn’t. I’ve loved you for so long, I’m sorry I was cruel,” he whimpered.

“It’s okay, you’re going to be okay. Lady Y/N is going to take care of you and you’re going to take care of her,” she whispered.

“But-”

“Shh now, Taehyung,” she said, holding his hand. “It’s okay. I know we were never going to be forever. That’s okay, find someone who can be your forever,” she urged.

“I-I want forever with you,” Taehyung hiccuped.

“I-I did... as well,” she whispered.

“I love you Elaine,” Taehyung cried.

“I love... you...”

Her hand dropped from his cheek and hit the floor, splattering blood across the dirt.

The dam within Taehyung broke as tears fell down his cheeks quickly, sobs wracked his body. You wanted to say something, you wanted to comfort him. But there were no words that could convey how sorry you were to him. All of them would do Elaine an injustice.

She wasn’t the bad guy...

She just got caught in the middle of a fight she never should’ve seen.

Taehyung grabbed Elaine and pulled her limp body to him, kissing her head and rocking back and forth. You could feel his pain like it was your own, your heart ached for him and for the love he’d lost.

He was utterly broken at this moment, and you had no idea how to help him put himself back together.

The sound of feet and metal carried through the hall.

Guards?

Soon there were several bodies crammed around the room. You stood to protect Taehyung while he grieved, but soon were shoved out of the way by Xavier. You landed on the ground like a rag, making your eyes widen. How did he do that so easily?

“What do you call this?” Xavier asked, staring at Taehyung’s weeping form.

“Please, leave us,” Taehyung whimpered, shedding more tears at the sight of servants entering the room.

“Reganold, remove this harlot from the Prince’s feet, someone get a bath running for him. I want that whore’s blood off of him this instant. We don’t need any more reason to make the public think you’re a weak willed man, Prince Taehyung,” Xavier grilled.

“How dare you speak to him like that,” you said, standing up and glaring at the Royal Advisor with nothing but malice. “He’s hurting. He’s allowed. He’s human.”

“He’s a prince first,” Xavier said, waving you off with a dismissive hand.

“No, he’s a person first. Prince is just a label you’ve placed on him and forced him to adhere to. He might be no better than a commoner in your eyes with his emotions, but that makes him so much stronger than you’ll ever know. A King with compassion is more powerful than anyone takes care to notice,” you growled.

“One more word Lady Y/N, and I’ll have you forcefully removed,” Xavier warned.

“Here my boy, hand her here,” Reganold said, leaning down to pick up Elaine from Taehyung’s bloodied hands.

“No, please not yet,” Taehyung pleaded.

“She’s in a better place now,” the older butler soothed, easing Elaine’s body from Taehyung’s grasp and into his own. A few other maid’s came over and started to clean Taehyung up, but he seemed to be losing his contact with reality.

“Taehyung,” you called, stepping forward.

“Grab her,” Xavier said.

“But-” however before you could protest, arms were linking yours and hauling you off your feet.

“Remove her, the Prince and I need to have a private conversation,” Xavier said, raising his chin as Taehyung’s eyes seemed to lose all their light.

“Please! Let me talk to him! Let me speak with him,” you begged,

“I have nothing,” Taehyung whispered as you were removed from the room.

Me neither, you wanted to scream back at him.

But it wasn’t as true as you’d thought.

--

Roaming the halls that night you shuddered.

A different maid had been assigned as your handler for lack of a better word, but she was almost silent when she worked, hardly speaking unless spoken to. At least Elaine would try to make conversation, even if she apparently didn’t like you as much as you had perceived.

It was cold down this hallway.

You walked past the study in this wing of the palace and saw Taehyung on the balcony yet again. But this time, he wasn’t talking.

He was staring at the stars, blankly gazing into the bright night.

Slowly, you approached him.

Placing your hands on the railing you watched him carefully. If he had noticed your approach he hadn’t acknowledged you, and you weren’t expecting him to either. He’d been a lot that day. His eyes were still red like he’d continued crying after the guards had dragged you out of the room and locked you away in your room until dinner time.

You knew Taehyung was hurting more than you could comfort right now.

But maybe someone else could.

“Queen Hiyori, my name is Y/N Y/L/N and I’m of the Night crawler tribe. I-I’m speaking with you because I’m worried about your son. Prince Taehyung,” you said, keeping your eyes trained on the moon. “He suffered a great loss today and I was hoping you could bring him some comfort. I don’t know the words to say to bring him peace, I don’t know if I ever will. But, I do know that you bring him peace when he needs it. So, please, Queen Hiyori, bring solace to his mind and love to his heart.”

Suddenly you felt strong arms pushing you against the cold stone brick of the palace.

“Shut up, just shut up!” Taehyung screamed at you.

You froze.

This wasn’t what you were expecting.

You wanted to extend an olive branch to him, something that would show him that you wouldn’t let him be alone during this. He wasn’t by himself.

You didn’t expect him to be angry.

Although, you shouldn’t be surprised.

This was his mother, you didn’t really have a right to be calling for her.

“Please… Please stop,” he begged, hands gripping tighter.

“Stop what?” You asked, wondering if you were thinking the same thing.

“Stop being so kind… Stop doing brash things, it’s dangerous. These people won’t hesitate to make you obsolete. It’s horrific the things I’ve seen. The things I’ve allowed to happen. I never should’ve fallen in love with Elaine, I never should’ve been intimate with her… But I loved her so much, how could I say no?”

Taehyung’s eyes filled with tears once more and you felt your heart lurch.

He wasn’t angry with you. Not in the slightest.

He was so utterly heartbroken that there was nothing else he could see. There was only Elaine, and the loss he’d suffered today. You were here, you could comfort him. You just needed to try.

“Taehyung,” you whispered.

“Please, I-I don’t know how much more I can take. He’s gonna kill me when he finds out that I slept with a servant. If she wasn’t already dead… I’d fear for her life,” he choked out.

“I’m here,” you breathed, slowly bringing your hands to his wrists, taking them away from your shoulders and interlocking your hands.

You weren’t good at comforting. It wasn’t really your forte. But like hell you weren’t going to try.

“Please don’t leave me,” he cried, wrapping his arms around your neck and locking them tight. You almost couldn’t breathe, his mass almost enough to overpower you, but you locked your stance and held him up, keeping him strong.

“I won’t leave you,” you said softly.

You weren’t sure why you said it. But you were certain if there was one person in this forsaken palace you could trust, it was Taehyung. Even though he could switch at the drop of a hat, you knew it was a conditioned response. He didn’t know what a stable relationship looked like, except with his mother and that ended horribly.

The same could be said with Elaine.

You let him cry into you a few moments longer before pulling him back and wiping his tears from his face gingerly. You watched as he leaned closer, and closer…

Softly you place a thumb over his lips so yours wouldn’t touch.

Taehyung pulled back quickly, almost like he was shocked at his behavior.

“I-I apologize,” he said, bowing at the waist clumsily.

“It’s alright Taehyung, but I don’t think you should think with your heart for a little while. It’s wounded, but once you heal, we can revisit this course of action,” you winked. Taehyung flushed bright pink, looking down at the ground to avoid eye contact with you.

“I-I’ll leave you to go to bed, good night Y/N… And-thank you,” he said, walking off of the balcony leaving you alone in the starlight.

You sat there for a moment, letting the moon and stars swirl above your head. You took a deep breath in, moving your hands up to your face. Running your fingers along your lips you felt the heat in your face.

Smacking your cheeks a few times you rushed inside and to your room, hoping no one saw your embarrassed features.

As you nestled into bed you tried not to think of the misunderstood Prince with the stars in his eyes.

—

“The wedding will be hosted in a fortnight,” the King announced at the table.

It had been a few days since Elaine’s death and you were shocked to say the least.

“B-But Sire we-” Xavier was cut off quickly.

“I will hear nothing of it, the sooner we solidify this allegiance the sooner we can have the night crawler troops coming to our aid in the south,” the King declared.

“Father, we hardly have had time to get to know each other. Plus, she’s not yet finished her training,” Taehyung said, trying to sway him towards a longer wait.

“Taehyung silence, you have no say in this matter any more. You think that sleeping around with the staff will make you a respectable king? You’re laughable. You must be loyal to your bride,” the King announced.

Taehyung turned bright red in shame, head turning down and focusing on his lap.

You felt anger course through you at the blatant disrespect for him, but you kept quiet, trying to avoid attention.

The court was here and you didn’t need to make any more enemies here. That one snot nosed lady was still sitting towards the King, making your blood boil, but you refrained. Something you’d learned was useful to do since coming here. But the problem was, there was nowhere for your bottled up emotions to go.

Except deeper down.

You felt like a bottle fit to burst at times, but here was not the time or place. You needed to aid Taehyung somehow, but not by throwing the usual fit.

You had to focus on what mattered. Your alliance with Regreya, Taehyung’s safety.... Your own safety to be honest.

This court business was brutal and you hardly understood half of what was happening at all times. They spoke in riddles with each other, trying to out smart one while informing the other. It was ridiculous to be honest.

Why make all these people your enemies when you could utilize each person as an asset. Why make enemies when you can make allies instead?

“Xavier, I want the preparations made. Invitations sent, this will be a glamorous affair. We will show the Jung Empire that we are stronger now than ever before. With the Night Crawlers at our side we will be nigh unstoppable,” the King smiled, something akin to a grimace that made your stomach churn with unease.

“It will be done, your majesty,” Xavier said, bowing his head low.

“And Taehyung, I expect your bride to be pregnant with an heir within the year’s end,” he said, picking up a piece of meat and shoving it in his mouth. The juices ran down his beard, making you want to be sick.

Within the year’s end? The frost would be coming in less than two months. You didn’t have a lot of time...

“Taehyung, speak when spoken to,” the King growled.

“Y-Yes, Father,” he whispered. Your head shot to Taehyung. He was just going to let the King demand a child of you two? You knew it was expected at some point, but so soon? It seemed a little rushed.

Like he was planning something.

“And if she has trouble conceiving?” Xavier asks. “Who knows what kind of things they do to young women from her upbringing. I think we should give them a little more time than the year’s end, sire,” Xavier spoke up.

“Perhaps you’re right Xavier. I wouldn’t want her to birth a lame heir, we’ll give them a year to conceive,” the King stated. “However the marriage will be consummated on the wedding night.”

“Yes, the guards and maids will confirm it,” Xavier said.

Taehyung’s face had remained red for the duration of the conversation. You just kept your mouth shut, trying not to literally burst at the seams from anger. But you felt a gentle hand on your elbow, Taehyung’s head was down, but his arm had extended to grab you. Gingerly, you grabbed his hand and held it under the table, soothing his knuckles with your thumb in a manner that felt odd, but it seemed to bring him some comfort so, you continued.

The rest of the meal was boring and you hardly tasted the food as it went in your mouth. But Taehyung’s hand held firmly in yours, and neither of you let go.

--

The wedding approached much faster than you had anticipated.

Soon, jewels were decorating your throat tightly, making your chest constrict even tighter in the corset. The boning in the damned thing was exquisite. So much so that it took your breath away. Quite literally.

They pulled this ridiculous white dress over your body, latching it on in different places. The sleeves billowed and pulled in at your shoulder, elbow and wrist, creating a puffed effect. There were several beads and lace pieces being laid at the last minute.

But then came the hair.

The ladies spared you no favors in yanking and pulling on your head as they tried to get your hair to behave to their standards. You gave them some grief, but a firm look from the head maid quieted you down.

Your hair was decorated with more finery, something that could feed people for years, and it was just sitting on your head... They laced down the pieces and slowly, in front of the mirror an ugly duckling became a swan...

At least in their eyes.

You looked almost nothing like yourself.

And they still weren’t done, they continued to paint your face with rouges and colors that complimented your skin tone, but it all seemed like a mask...

You’d prepared your vows and the whole court was going to be in attendance. You certainly hoped you hadn’t gone through all this trouble just to be ridiculed even more on this day. Today was already tough enough as it is.

You desperately wanted your mother.

She was the one supposed to put the jewelry on you, to tie your hair into a beautiful arrangement of her choosing on your head. To paint the reddest of colors on your lips.

She was supposed to make you a warrior queen...

But now, all you were was a doll.

You felt almost empty at the thought of walking down the aisle towards a man you’d barely come to know. You’d taken comfort in each other in public settings, almost making it appear as though you were in love. But Taehyung was very much still grieving the loss of Elaine and you weren’t sure how tonight would go.

But you swallowed hard and stood when asked, and made your way towards the door.

The head maid handed you off to the guard, Jimin, who had murdered Elaine. Your arm felt heavy in his as he walked you down the grand staircase.

The stone was cool to the touch, making a shiver go down your spine. Everything about today felt so wrong. So terribly wrong. It felt like you were itching in your skin and desperate to be free of this garment, of these heavy jewels.

But you kept your gate with him as he led you to two mahogany doors.

“Time to smile princess,” Jimin taunted. You wanted to scowl, to throw him off you and pummel him into the floor. But you did as he said and put the brightest smile you could make on your face as the doors opened. You gripped your flowers in your hand as the ladies carried your dress behind you.

The court stood, watching as the ‘beast’ walked down the aisle towards their beloved Prince. As they sullied their ‘kind’ for you. For the greater good.

Young girls threw flower petals along the floor before you as you walked, making you look down at the red staining the white satin traipsing along the ground.

Soon, you looked up and saw Taehyung. His collared shirt was high on his neck, almost like it was-

There, right beneath the frill was a purpling bruise.

Fury infused your being as you walked towards him.

Jimin handed you off properly, keeping your hands firmly in Taehyung's.

“You may all be seated,” the priest said.

The crowd shuffled into their seats, heads straight forward as you tried to keep your eyes trained on Taehyung.

“We are gathered here today to witness the joining of two lovers in Holy matrimony,” he began.

Taehyung’s hands were shaking terribly as he droned on about anyone wanting to stop the proceedings. You rubbed your thumb over his knuckles slowly, trying to ease his frantic heartbeat that you could feel in his palms.

“To love someone is to cherish them, no matter their flaws, no matter their misgivings. To love someone is to understand that there will be times you must obey,” the priest said.

You bit your lip, but kept your eyes glued on Taehyung.

“His Highness, Prince Taehyung, do you take Lady Y/N to be your lawfully wedded wife and in the eyes of God?”

“I-I... I do,” Taehyung stammered out.

“My Lady Y/N, do you take our highness, Prince Taehyung, to be your lawfully wedded husband and in the eyes of God?”

You looked at Taehyung and gave his hands a squeeze.

A small reassurance.

The only thing you could offer him.

“I do.”

“By the power vested in me and in the eyes of God I pronounce you husband and wife, you may kiss the bride,” the priest said.

Taehyung inhaled sharply, before surging forward and kissing you boldly in front of the crowd.

Claps arose from the court, but all you could focus on was Taehyung’s sweet kiss. You slowly began to wind your hands up his arms when he pulled away quickly, taking your hand and interlocking your fingers.

“To the Regreyian Royal Family! May they be prosperous and strong!” the priest hollered.

Taehyung dragged you down the aisle towards the exit and into the feast hall.

All you could think of though, was his soft kiss, and gentle hands as the doors of the chapel shut behind you.

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