[ Chenle POV ]

(Note: As this is Chenle's chapter, all Eshinec will be in italics to cut down on word count. Normal text is assumed to be in Naerok or Lienshg otherwise.)

Chenle had always been Shanghai's most beloved angel. He was born in a flourishing empire. To him, gold-lined napkins or ruby-studded chairs were just typical things he saw every day. Dainty shoes he wore always had at least gold or silver lace. His baths were of jasmine, milk, and seasonal flowers. Expensive bath salts were regulatory. 

As of now, the angel of Shanghai was fiddling with his silk robes. They were a delicate sky blue with grand pink peonies embroidered prettily on them. His soft fingers traced the fabric work with a touch of boredom. It was a familiar gesture; one he did with a sense of longing. He young boy heaved a sigh, slightly pouting. 

"Sister Jade, I'm bored," he said.

"Appreciate the peace, younger brother," a smooth voice came from a beautiful golden cage in front of him.

This was Jade. A beautiful white snake with pink eyes. Also known as the second prince of Shanghai's bestfriend. The royal family of Shanghai had their fair share of quirks and strange things. Jade was one, but she detested being categorized as so.

"Sister, tell me about how life was before you came down from the mountain," Chenle perked up and asked. 

"Will it satisfy your boredom if I do so?" The snake stood up tall with it's body, facing Chenle through the elegant carvings of her cage. 

Chenle nodded his head strongly.

"Alright. Listen well, younger brother," the snake agreed. "But first. Let me out. A lady must have her sophisticated posture while telling a worthwhile story."

The prince immediately went to do so. The golden cage was as big as a parrot cage. But it was in fine taste, as Jade was not one to slack on appearances. The snake's cage was gold with carved leaves on it of the highest craftsmanship. Chenle opened the little door on the front. Jade slithered out, small white snake body greatly contrasting the red cloth on the large table. A large misty cloud materialized out of the air, gradually fading away to reveal Jade, in her beautiful human form. She was sitting across from him, grabbing a piece of parchment and ink. 

Her long hair was draped down her back, embellished with silver clips and hairpins in the shape of snakes. The pink eyes Chenle always recognized stared at the parchment for a bit before she grabbed a brush. 

"Where would you like me to begin?" Jade asked, elegantly making jet black strokes of ink on the parchment. 

"When you and your sisters had decided to come down from the mountain!" Chenle excitedly opened his eyes and ears. 

"Ah," She gave a small smile. "Well I was born on a mountain as you know, younger brother. I was born from the snake goddess Yangqi. I had sisters. Andesine, Sardonyx, Amber, Chalcedony, Jasper... I was the fourth to be born. Our birthplace was on the great Phoenix Mountain. It was said that the magnificent Phoenix of Creation had settled down on that mountain and rested in a nest of willow trees. We were born centuries after. My home bears magical stones and creatures running through the lush forests. Thus, my sisters and I lived peacefully as snake spirits. But then..."

"But then!?" Chenle gasped.

"One sunny morning, my eldest sister Andesine and I were going to pick fruits for breakfast," Jade explained, still painting something delicately on the parchment with ink. "I still remember how young we were. She was only 200 years old--"

"200!?" Chenle gasped louder. 

"Well, mortals live shorter than us. In your standards, we would look around eighteen and fourteen. I carried our baskets while Andesine carried a stool for us to reach the higher fruits. I was taller than she was, so I stood on the stool under a great pomelo tree to harvest the fruit. She stood by me, holding the basket. Now, the night before we went had a terrible storm. Thus, all the trees were wet. I picked what I could reach, only to find she was no longer holding the basket and instead walking towards a tree of her own."

Chenle watched, listening intently as Jade's smooth voice matched her movements on the parchment. A picture starting to form. He could made out a large waterfall surrounded by trees while cranes wadded in a spacious lake. 

"I followed her, confused as to why she suddenly left me. When she stopped walking, I was just about to question it when she silenced me," a gentle smile made it's way onto her lips. "Do you know why?"

The prince shook his head. 

"Dear younger brother, there will be a time in your life where a single glance at someone drowns the world away and the universe is condensed into one person," Jade said, as if those words applied to herself. 

It was evident by the softness of her eyes. They were filled with such emotion, swirling with an underlying sadness that Chenle could only wonder about. She paused, lifting the brush away from the parchment, seemingly mentally steadying herself. 

"He was underneath a cherry tree," she quietly went on, as if she were caressing the story like a fragile object. "I had never seen my sister's eyes so full of adoration. For years, she was stone-cold, following in the mountain master's footsteps to become the Snake Queen. This made her carry herself with distance. But a single look at this man reduced her to gentleness comparable to a ripple of water. I was stunned to see a mortal on the mountain, yet there he was. Collapsed under a tree with my sister's hands tracing the lines of his face."

A bit worried, Chenle felt the need to move closer to his sister. Her words came out calm and composed, but her eyes held such an immense sadness that the younger had no capacity to understand. It was if her mind controlled her voice but the heart controlled her body. The snake spirit looked like a grandmother regretting some unfortunate events in her long life. But then the prince concluded that if Jade was as old as she was, she was probably even more than that.  

"Who was he?" Chenle asked, interested in the story as his sister's face had fallen into something he had never gotten a long glimpse at before. 

"A hunter," the corners of her saddened lips lifted the slightest. She dipped her brush into the ink and started to paint again, "He had gotten lost in the storm from before and miraculously stumbled onto our mountain. He was probably just a few years older than you, younger brother. His physique was one that had just barely met maturity. He had long ebony hair and dressed in furs of all kinds."

Jade pursed her lips, making a couple of ink strokes into birds.

"Andesine cradled him in her arms, wiping the wet hairs out of his face. She just held him like that for a long, long time before she turned to me and asked me to help hide him away until he recovered."

"Why?" Chenle scooted closer to his sister. "Why did you need to hide him?"

"The mountain master liked my sister a lot," Jade explained, not bothered by the prince's constant questions. "She was the ideal disciple. She was high above the other candidates for becoming the next mountain master after she became Snake Queen. This was because my sister strictly followed the rules."

"Rules?"

Jade smiled for a minute, looking at Chenle before saying them in a memorized chant.

" 'Thou shall not speak without history, or dwell on time's misery. Shall not disrespect the gods, or challenge fate's odds. Thou shall follow thy seniors, and nurture thy juniors. Thou must cultivate a soul of civil, never to slip into the clutches of evil. Shall treasure thy gifts and shan't bring the mountain conflicts. Thou will keep peace in mountain ties and never dabble in mortals' lives.' " 

The words flowed out of her mouth like a river, sweeping away Chenle. The rules came out as if they were engraved in her mind and seared into her skin. But Chenle wasn't too dumb. He realized that saving the hunter went against the rules. 

"And then what happened?" 

Jade paused, "...I helped Andesine hide him away in a crystal cave. She had duties, as a senior disciple. She begged me to help her treat him in her stead. I, of course, said to her that this was not in anyway eloquently abiding by the mountain's guidelines. But younger brother, you should've seen the glow in her eyes whenever she saw him."

The older girl sighed.

"Her gaze upon him was like he was a gift from the gods himself. She never ceased to adore him. He awoke two days later, while she and I were caring for him together. And by the heavens..." Jade's eyes grew ever more soft. "His voice was warmer than a summer's day and smile more gentle and watchful as the moon."

It was only for a sheer minute, but Chenle could sense consciously for the first time that Jade had fallen out of her usual character. She was usually slightly aloof and sharp-tongued. But no trace of that was here. Jade's body was of a young woman, but just by how tender she spoke would clue you in that she was an aged and time-worn soul. 

"He was so, so kind," she continued. "He was very polite as we treated his cold. He didn't question us either, simply making small, honest talk. Believe me as I say, up until that point in my life, I had never realized that mortals were admirable in their own right. He showed me that mortals truly find more than just power to treasure in their lives. They don't only care for embracing themselves. They live short, but they live fulfilling, true lives. He told me about his family of hunters. How they were all just orphans in a forest and how together, they were full-stomached in the fruits of labor."

Chenle was now confused. At the beginning, his sister seemed to be troubled and saddened by the story. Yet, her face was glowing now, the glimmer of youth surrounding her. 

"He taught me so many things, younger brother. He showed me what compassion was. What goodness really was. . . and there were more such precious things."

"Really? Like what Sister Jade?"

Her smile fell a little. A graceful hand went to put her brush down, silver bracelets jingling a small melody. 

"By winter, I had realized we had kept the young man for two full seasons," Jade went on. "The young man was perfectly well, living on the mountain hidden away from the immortal beings. You wonder why, I suppose? Well..."

Whatever Jade was going to say, it was leaving a sour, sour taste in her mouth soon. 

"...I have already told you that there will be a moment where your whole universe seems to be in front of your eyes, fading the world into nothingness. I could vouch for this to be true, as that was the sensation running through me after I had cared for him for a time," the bitter, vastly sad look came back into her eyes. It was as if gentle, stormy ocean waves lived in her eyes. "There was a day where the yellow leaves of autumn were falling, raining like golden gifts from the sun. We sat outside the crystal cave, reading from our favorite scriptures. We read line after line, drinking fragrant tea looking towards the sky. It had become our favorite pastime. I still vividly remember when a cold gust came by, followed by his warm coat resting on my shoulders and..."

The tip of her finger just slightly touched her lips.

"...the kiss of a lifetime."

No, Chenle did not squeal like a dolphin. But yes, he felt compelled to. He was hearing about his sister's first love. The prince was familiar with such feelings, but not to that extent. 

"He stayed with us, younger brother," Jade just barely whispered. "He stayed because he loved me."

Under different circumstances, Chenle would be happy, chattering away at how lovely that sounded and asking if anything else happened. But the fragile look on the older girl persuaded him not to, silencing him. 

"After that day, he and I saw our time together more precious. Winter brought eating roasted yams together. We danced in the sparkling snow and read together from our favorite books. We were happy, even if I had many duties as a disciple myself and spent time away for some weeks at a time. Andesine would check on him then. And before I knew, the buds of spring had come around again yet to open..." She took in a breath. She seemingly had to settle herself. "I had been away one month when I was allowed time to myself. I used this to return to him. But I was called away even before I could try."

Spots.

There were spots on the table cloth. 

"The immortal court called me away for a meeting of all creatures on the mountain. I had to go, lest I anger the mountain master. When I arrived at the holy temple, I was the last to take seat in court..."

The table cloth bloomed more spots. 

"Do you know, dear younger brother... what hurts more than love or betrayal?"

The prince shook his head. 

"Love and betrayal."

Chenle shuddered at the way Jade let the words fall from her mouth. They were not angry, nor upset or full of vengeance. They screamed of devastation. Of hurt. Of deep rips in a heart. Of a sear so painful it sank from your body into your mind.

"...Andesine and Yu Shu were caught," her even voice up until now began to shatter, breaking her calm speech with bursts of uneven air. 

Chenle didn't need to be told who Yu Shu was. 

The dark blotches grew larger on the table cloth. 

"...The mountain master was furious. Not only had we taken in a mortal, Andesine had fallen in love with him... No matter how I reasoned, begged, and cried, everyone in the court turned a blind eye. My sister had gone from beloved disciple to despised in a matter of a heartbeat. No one listened to the rest of my sisters and I. We tried to stop it, but at the very end, Yu Shu and Andesine were convicted since the beginning."

Chenle walked over. Silently hugging Jade. 

"...they were sentenced to death."

The prince's heart dropped. 

"N-No! Just for falling in love?!" Chenle couldn't help but to release the loudness of his voice. 

"Yes," Jade shakily took in a breath. "In all my time alive, I had never hated my own home more. That day, all of us cried. They could not kill our sister. I, for the part, also had no heart to kill the man who swore his love to me..." Jade's tears had been creating dots and blotches on the table cloth. Now, Chenle wiped them gently as she spoke. "...They were going to be killed. What could we have done..?"

Jade's voice nearly died.

"Andesine and Yu Shu already had a name picked out for their child..."

This wasn't what Chenle expected to hear. He was hoping Jade and her sisters left the mountain because they were bored or some funny thing happened. But nothing prepared him for this.

"We had to help them escape. They were to be killed on the last day of summer. The mountain master restricted our powers and we were unable to see them. We could only get messages through some faithful friends who knew where they were kept. Eventually, these friends would help us leave the mountain too. Immortals are not to interfere with mortal lives. If we escaped and got involved with mortals, the rest of them couldn't touch us because we were now a part of the mortals' lives. I escaped with my sisters and Yu Shu ten days before the last day of summer. Andesine and Yu Shu were guarded by the rest of my sisters and I in case the immortals chose to come for us. Our powers, to this day, are still restricted. What you see from me are mere party tricks. Andesine became a mortal the moment she gave herself to Yu Shu... So I watched my lover and sister leave this world after such short lives..."

"B-But their child?" Chenle asked. 

Jade smiled at this matter, dissolving the bitterness of her expression just a bit.

"Their child married into nobility. Eventually that child had a child. And that one had their own. And generations later, Yu Shu's descendants were wealthy, well-off folks. It has been centuries..." Jade said. "I can't remember all of their names anymore. As for my sisters and I, we all split our ways. I came to serve you, younger brother. I made a deal with your ancestor to guard the youngest child of each generation."

But there was one thing that didn't make sense to Chenle.  

"...But Sister Jade," Chenle said sadly. "...did Yu Shu really love you..?"

This sent Jade into a long, long period of silence. The prince was soon fiddling with his robes in anxiousness that he had done something wrong. Of curse that loud mouth of his. Soon, Jade was putting away the ink painting. The brush and ink were put away as well. Chenle watched as Jade's sadness subsided, replaced by the usual calm and slightly aloof face she usually had. 

"Probably."

Jade said this like a fact, but Chenle knew that his sister had uncertainty under that facade. 

"Did you hate her..." Chenle said softly. "You know... Andesine for--"

"Nothing else could compare to the love my sisters and I share for one another," Jade cut in, her slightly aloof, casual tone was back. "We ladies walk arm-in-arm and stand side-by-side. My sister was in love. She lived her life happily after leaving the mountain. I too, celebrated for her."

Chenle watched as Jade stood up, putting away everything she had gotten out to paint with. She was calm. Calm for someone who was crying inside for the hurt she had lived with all this time. Calm for someone who watched her lover lie and impregnate her sister. The prince couldn't imagine what she had struggled with. Even now, she was fooling everyone with her mesmerizing looks and mask of perfection. It was if the heavens had never made her cry as a child. 

"I caution you, prince."

The younger felt weird to hear his close friend and sister address him like that, but he listened nonetheless. 

"Love is a strength. It can heal the deepest wounds but also cause them. Love can be your medicine. But don't be surprised when it's used as a sword at your throat."

With that, Chenle only saw a familiar poof before Jade had reverted into her small snake form. 

"I'm going for a walk around the boat," Jade said. "You may follow me after you've changed for dinner."

Chenle watched as she slithered away. 

The prince of Shanghai found that his boredom was more than satisfied, but he could tell Jade wasn't really doing it just for him. 

Perhaps she really needed it for herself. 

---

After dressing up, Chenle practically turned the whole boat upside down looking for his sister. He was surprised to meet another prince going to Carnival. The Jeju prince was very nice and extremely friendly.

Chenle really liked his new friend. He was funny! They ran around the ship, dodging other guests and squealing like children. Their shoes thumped on the floors, echoing with their laughs. 

"Whoa! You guys have so many rooms on this boat!" The Jeju prince's eyes sparkled with wonder.

"Of course. The Ninth Empire is one of the biggest empires in China," Chenle shrugged. "There are bigger ones at home, in the capital of Shanghai."

Donghyuck's eyes grew bigger. 

"Really?!"

"Yeah," Chenle and Donghyuck were now just walking after their intense game of tag. 

"There are more empires in China?"

"Yes," Chenle did a speed session in his mind to remember. "There are five empires in China. The Ninth Empire is on the east coast. To the north is the Lotus Empire. Westward is the Swallowtail Empire. The Moon Empire stands in the south, and the largest is the Celestial Empire in the center of China."

"Wow! But why is the Ninth Kingdom called 'ninth'?"

Chenle recounted his history lessons, "Our guardian is the dragon. In the Ninth Empire, we honor the mystical nine dragons of the universe. There's a lot to name, but there's a specific dragon that rules the seas, sky, plants, and such. It is said that the ninth dragon watches over mortals. That's where 'ninth' comes from."

Shining and overflowing, the sparkles in Donghyuck's eyes were almost spilling out.

"So your empire is named after dragons?! That's awesome!"

And, in celebration of how cool the Ninth Empire was, Chenle squealed in laughter as the Jeju prince picked up his feet and did an impromptu dragon dance. It was surprisingly good, despite messy arm movements and a TON of tripping.

Nearing dinner time, many crew members were walking with dishes to the eating hall already. They could smell soups of savory broth and meats spiced with the most appetizing spices. Juicy platters of fruits were also carried to the hall. Chenle laughed hard when Donghyuck spouted about how much his Papa hated fruits and just the idea of eating one was enough to give him nightmares. 

"It's almost dinner time!" Donghyuck happily said to him. "I'm starving!"

"Me too!" Chenle agreed. 

"Good evening, princes," they turned, surprised to be addressed so suddenly. 

Chenle stumbled as Donghyuck bumped into him. They awkwardly laughed before turning to the servant. The servant spoke in Naerok, fully confusing the Shanghai prince.

"I have been sent to ready Prince Donghyuck for dinner. Master is delighted to meet you," the servant said.

"He says I have to go get ready for dinner," Donghyuck translated for him in Eshinec.

"Alright," Chenle let a small pout form.

"Oh, the second prince can come if he so desires," the servant quickly offered after reading the situation.

Donghyuck relays this to Chenle again, who nods excitedly. He didn't have many friends and he wanted to spend lots of time with them.

"Well then, right this way, your Majesties," the servant bowed.

---

"Little Prince, Master requests that you wear red this evening."

All of a sudden, it was announced to Donghyuck, Chani, and Chenle that apparently some very special guests had just made their presence known on the ship. The two princes were currently in Donghyuck's room, being put into elaborate and decorated garmets.

"Okay," Chenle said.

"The Empress Mama stated before this trip that you must wear a veil in formal meetings and in public for your stay in Korea," the servant relayed.

Chenle could feel his throat constrict at that name.

'Empress Mama'.

He quickly shut the anxiety rising in his chest and nodded for some servants to help put the veil on him.

Chenle's more casual, ocean blue robes he had selected for dinner earlier were now swapped for a mature red. His long sleeves weighed down his arms, being that the robes were heavy. The fabric came from a brocade of high quality, as the gold phoenixes were embroidered smoothly. His robes swept the floors with a slightly long train.

Ruby earings sparkled on him as some rouge was applied to his lips. On his fingers, thin rings were slid on as well as some gold lace nail rings, forming some of his fingers into beautifully sharp claws. He groaned at the thought of eating with them on. Twin dragon hair clips went on either side of his head, tucking his blonde hair away to reveal the earings.

Last came what he dreaded the most.

The veil.

It was a long, borderline sheer piece of fabric. This one was a deeper red to match his robes. Gold lace dragonflies chased around the borders of the veil along with small pearls. It was long. It covered his face, going from the middle of his ribcage up and over his head, going back into a long train that dragged behind him like a long shadow.

The red veil made his vision that very color.

Though Chenle's face wasn't very visible, anyone could make out his stunning blonde hair and soft red lips. The veil gave him an air of shyness. Of virtue. Of an ideal soft omegan prince.

He hasn't even presented yet.

"It is done. Excuse us..." Some of the servants bowed and left after Chenle was fully dressed.

At the very least Chenle got to keep on his comfy white, gold-laced shoes on. They weren't visible, but it saved him from putting on any other painful shoes.

He turned to look at Donghyuck, who wad being dressed on the other side of the room. Chenle found himself slightly envious of his new friend.

Donghyuck was beautiful.

The sun-kissed boy was in a lovely golden yellow. The robes also swept the floor. Donghyuck's outfit mirrored Chenle's except for that his fabric was just prettily embroidered with crysanthemums. His sleeves weren't nearly as long as Chenle's, giving him the ability to move around freely. Despite this very traditional Shanghai wear, the Jeju prince added his own touches.

What Chenle first noticed about Donghyuck was the pretty beads in his hair along with his smile. The bead had now been replaced with prettier ones. Four of different colors. Around the boy's waist was a belt of beads and Chenle saw beaded bracelets on him too.

Donghyuck looked wonderful and lively, like a happy flower garden.

"Ah, you look amazing!!" The Jeju prince caught a glimpse of Chenle observing him.

"Thank you," Chenle said greatfully. "You look really pretty, Donghyuck-hyung."

Twirling in delight, the Jeju prince clapped at his friend's fast improvement in Naerok. Donghyuck walked towards him, reaching to hold his hands and soon, they were spinning in a happy circle. They laughed, trying and failing to not stumble on their impossibly long robes.

Eventually, both settled to sit down. Chenle's veil began to slip and slide, so with much disdain, he tried to fix it. However, this is a task meant to be done without long metal nail extensions. The younger boy pouted in frustration as his accessories continually got caught.

Kindly, Donghyuck moved over to adjust the veil for him. He gently shifted it back into place.

"Thank you, hyung!" A big, bright smile made its way onto Chenle's face.

"You're welcome!" Donghyuck chirped. "The veil is really pretty. Why do you wear it?"

Chenle's smile fell.

"W-Well..." The younger prince tried to hide his distaste. "Unmated royal omegas aren't allowed to be seen directly in public without veils. We can only be seen by those who have been courting us for a long time or with close people in private quarters."

Fluttering his lashes, Donghyuck's eyes widened in full curiosity. The older boy laced his fingers together, waiting with a knowledge-hungry silence, a non-verbal gesture for Chenle to go on.

"It's really just sort of a boring tradition at most," Chenle admitted.

"Why not?"

"Because..."

As mentioned beforehand, Chenle is the angel of Shanghai. He was always expected to be an omega, as his older brother had presented as an alpha. Shanghai was a huge, vast empire. Everyone wanted him to be an omega to secure alliances and such if in need.

Chenle was not a pawn to be used.
He was not meant to merely be a body used for political reasons.

Chenle felt he was meant for something more. Something bigger.
Something that didn't involve a stranger as a fiance and pups.

He wanted--

"Hey Hyuck... oh, hello."

A head popped into their room. It was a boy Chenle had never seen before. He had nicely combed black hair and full cheeks to match round eyes. He was on the shorted side as well.

"Ah, Chani!" Donghyuck clapped. "Chenle, meet my friend Chani! He's usually a sleepy turtle!"

"Chan... C-Chanyi? Chani. Chani!" The scrambled, embarassing attempts at Naerok flooded out of Chenle's mouth. "N-Nice to ... m-meet you?"

"Chani, this is Chenle, second prince of Shanghai!" Hyuck introduced them.

Chani went wide-eyed before falling into a quick bow.  Chenle wasn't sure of Hyuck's words in Naerok, but he hoped they were good things.

"G-Greetings, prince...?" Chani's Eshinec wasn't the best.

Chenle held back a giggle, making a careful formal bow in his lavish (he prefers to call it annoying) attire. He neatly brought his hands together in front of his chest, letting the long sleeves cascade in front of him. He tilted his head and back just so and bent his knees just a little. He hoped it was an overall clean bow.

"Hello, I am Chenle, the little prince of Shanghai. Pleased to make your acquaintance," Chenle formally greeted.

He looked up to see Chani embarassed and stunned in obvious confusion. Hyuck's loud, childish laughs were infecting everyone.

"He says that he's the little prince of Shanghai and he's pleased to meet you," Hyuck translates.

Chani's relief definetly showed on his face. The attendant was dressed in standard Eshinec clothing as well. Just a simple light blue robe. His was nothing as glamorous as the princes',  but he looked quite dashing.

"The servants have come to grab us outside," Chani spoke to Donghyuck in Naerok. "We need to..."

Chenle just listened quietly. He didn't understand, but he had a nagging feeling in his stomach. Something was telling him this won't be good...

"Chenle," Hyuck said with a smile. "We have to go now."

"Ah, alright!" Chenle shoved that feeling away and told himself that everything was okay.

Stepping out the door, eight servants bowed to them politely. They were all in lilac robes made for easy movement. Chenle envied them.

There were four servants for each prince. Two in front and two behind. Chani walked slightly behind Donghyuck as his attendant. Chenle walked in front. His veil was extremely long, trailing behind him like a red koi tail.

He made careful, precise steps. Not too far forward to walk on his robe, not too small to fumble with his legs. Elegant, proper steps with perfect posture. 1, 2, 3, 4... check your back alignment and start again. 1, 2, 3, 4... make sure to only smile a little and look towards the ground. Look obedient, behave modestly, only speak when spoken to.

The rules ran through Chenle's head again and again. It slightly tormented him. 'Lie to yourself ' it told him. Lie a bit and you'll be okay.

1, 2, 3, 4... quiet, sure steps.

"His Highness, second prince, Zhong Chenle of Shanghai!"

A servant had announced his presence?

Chenle had walked into the dining hall before he realized, and now he was in his seat at the table. The dining hall was of the most spectacular of the ship's architecture. Pretty patterns decorated the ceiling tiles, reminding those viewing them of colorful porcelain.

The table cloth was of neat linen and vases with sophisticated art stood proudly on side tables. He recognized some familiar faces at the table. They were sat around the large circular table, chatting back and forth in refined outfits

Needless to say, the aroma of food was beyond pleasant, and that's just an understatement. Spanning a portion of the hall, the oval table was stuffed with a plethora of dishes. Among these were braised pork, savory crab soup, stewed vegetables, lamb chops with sauteed onions, seared fish, rice pudding, and fluffy buns filled with lotus seed paste. Fine wine filled the cups of those present, wafting a light, sweetly intoxicating scent into the air

At the head of the table sat a man in beautiful golden robes. He had the kindest smile and a steady, thoughtful voice. His bronze hair was accompanied by a golden crown. Long, elegant pins with beads framed his face, swaying with him as he looked from guest to guest. Enchanting, anyone would be charmed by a single bat of his eyelash. Pink lips matched the small imprint of a lotus at the center of his forehead.

He wasn't wearing a veil like Chenle, but Chenle couldn't bother to be jealous with him.

"Kun-mama."

The beaming head of the table looked to him, sending Chenle a warm, cheek-rising smile. A gentle gesture of his hands displayed his long golden sleeves, quietly beckoning Chenle to come sit next to him.

Had this been any other day, Chenle would've ran right to him.

But red robes were a formality. Someone important was here.

Carefully, Chenle stepped in his rhythm and sat down on the cushioned seat next to his Mama. Four servants rushed to his aid, keeping their heads low as they cautiously readjusted his long, flowing veil, pulling it behind him but keeping his face adequately covered to apply to mannerisms. Chenle, swallowing his deep annoyance away, fixed his sleeves effortlessly into a neat position, allowing his hands to fold nicely on his lap. (Well, minus the chaos of his golden nail rings poking the fabric as the biggest immediate inconvenience of the century.)

"His Highness Prince Seo Donghyuck of Jeju!"

It was Donghyuck's turn to make an entrance. The guests quieted down, mesmerized by the Jeju prince's beauty. As he wasn't obligated to cover his face, anyone could see the sparkling night sky reflected in his eyes and heart lips curving into an endearing toothless smile. His bead accessories made a melodic sound as he walked casually, bright and sunny. Again, it felt as if he were as free and pleasant as a well-loved flower garden.

Chenle was slightly jealous. His steps had to be careful and elegant. Timed, perfectly executed, and ginger. Donghyuck walked at his own pace, zipping cheerfully from guest to guest greeting them in languages the Shanghai prince knew nothing of, resembling a humming bird chatting with merry roses.

Donghyuck was unchained.

Donghyuck was at his own leisure.

Donghyuck was something Chenle yearned to be.

Reality is a sore disappointment, however. And as the guests gradually made their way to sit down, Chenle too, gradually made his way to remember that Donghyuck was a friend, not an object of envy.

A warm hand grabbed his.

"My child," Kun's gentle lashes fluttered. "Are you feeling alright?"

"I'm okay," Chenle restrained his voice, trying with all of his might to sound humble and smooth.

"I'm sorry. I know you aren't comfortable like this."

"I'll be alright, Mama," Chenle turned to give his Mama (well, his papa technically, but Chenle preferred to call him that) a big, unrestrained smile.

He couldn't worry his Mama. Chenle did not stand by being a burden on him.

"Alright. Please don't be nervous. I'll be right here," Kun lovingly caressed his child's cheek, despite the veil creating a thin barrier.

All of the previous envy Chenle had grown withered away, Kun's fingertips comforting him in ways little knew of. Chenle loved his Mama beyond the rainbows and through the crevices of the earth.

"Dear guests, how are you all today?" Kun began, speaking two languages one after the other. "Honored guests, how do you fare?"

Chenle shifted a bit, uncomfortable as the attention had turned their way. He tried to make his form seem as meek and shy as possible. He didn't want to talk to those outright assuming he was an omega. The only thing grounding him was his Mama's soft reassurances in the back of his head and friendly smiles from Hyuck, just a few seats down to his right.

"Thank you for joining us to the 100th celebration of Carnival. I assure you we will be arriving in Korea in a day's time. With all said, please enjoy your time," Kun said in good spirits. "The 100th Carnival is just a day's time away. Do relax yourselves."

Chenle wanted to clap, proud of his Mama. His Mama had been studying Naerok on his own. The omega royal of Shanghai wasn't required to do so, but it made Kun incredibly smart.

The festivities soon began.

With a graceful gesture of a hand, servants poured more wine as the guests went on conversing eagerly with delight. Laughs and exclamations of surprise were sprinkled among them, bringing the table to life and somehow making the meal more scrumptious.

Chenle giggled as Donghyuck took the freedom of shoving a whole chunk of braised pork in his mouth. Chani, standing behind him, shook his head in embarassment, moving to wipe Hyuck's mouth with a napkin.

Meanwhile, Kun politely spoke to all of the people. He switched between languages fluently. Most of what he heard were along the lines of politics and news on the kingdoms of Korea.

But Chenle was struggling.

An annoying thing about being the 'omega' prince of the nation is being scrutinized from your toes to the hair on your head. Thus, golden nail rings and a veil were a hassle. What's really aggravating is when you want to eat but you can't because your freaking hand gets stuck in your face cloth.

What's there to do?

Starve while people pig out in front of you.

Ah, what a wonderful life.

Chenle was getting bored again.
It was tiring, really. He had his role, and the fact that it consisted of pretending, starving, and being quiet was not pleasing.

He had such big ideas.

The Ninth Empire and Korea had only started trade two generations ago. Largely, the Ninth's products weren't well-known. Maybe there would be a better network of trade going on if they opened more ports to Korea. Mostly delicacies and fish came to the Ninth Empire from Korea. In exchange, the Empire sent silk and porcelain.

With trade relations furthered, perhaps trade would be stabilized. More fishermen could find work, and the larger percentage of common folk could make a living for themselves.
More trade meant boats. Boats also meant work. In all, it was a good way to help the people find jobs.

But he couldn't put that into effect.

Chenle sighed, slightly playing with his red veil. No one was talking to him, and he felt very lonely. Oh my, his fingers just got caught in his veil again---

Royal omegas were not allowed to give ideas in the political discussions. They could only suggest to the king alpha things to adjust. It made Chenle frustrated. He knew he needed advice from the land's ministers and also knew that they were more informed on the way to reach his goals. However, just because he was an 'omega', nothing in his head would ever be a serious consideration for them.

Again, Chenle is too young to present.

He is not an omega.

"Her royal majesty, make way for the Empress Mama!"

What?!
The... Th-The Empress Mama---here?

All conversations hung in the air, almost freezing as a sudden silence took over the dining hall. Then, she was there.

Pristine, deep black robes glided on the floor, shimmering with gold dust. These robes were intricate, embroidered with auspicious golden dragons interacting with delicate, fluttering cranes. A large gold headpiece sat upon the older woman's head, extravagantly expressing her dominance over all others in the room. Her steps were filled with assurance and pride, coldly serving her confidence to match her face.

The woman raised her hand, motioning.

In within a second, six servants scrambled. The chair to Kun's left was pulled out, the wine glass filled, the woman's train tended to, and a move to give her a towel to wipe her hands.

The aged lady sat down, icily giving a polite smile and wiping her hands.

"Good evening, Mother," Kun, surprised, greeted her politely. "I did not know of your presence. Forgive my negligence."

That was the most baseless statement ever. No one knew of the Empress Mama's presence. Chenle wasn't even aware she boarded the ship. This infuriated him. He knew exactly where this was going.

"No need to beg. I see you're still crumbling under all of your responsibilities after all this time," her voice was slow, firm, and definitely biting.

"I thank you for your pardon," Kun slightly bowed his head, enveloping her with a welcoming smile Chenle wondered he could even pull off.

The Empress Mama was not at all for pleasantries.

"My Bing'er is already in Korea greeting the kings. I suppose you intend to make a ruckus at your late arrival?"

Says she who came to dinner late.

"Not at all. I'm pleased that Sister Bing is early to enjoy Carnival. May we see her soon," Kun, unfazed by the Empress Mama's remarks, calmly replied as if she hadn't just took a shot at his pride.

"Once Bing'er gets married," the Empress Mama sipped her wine. "The court will vote on who will rule the empire."

Chenle wanted to sock the old lady so, SO hard. His Daddy and Mama worked hard and ruled the empire well.

Emperor Hansol and Empress Kun traditionally were never meant for the throne.

His Daddy was born to the previous emperor's third concubine. The Empress Mama had a son of her own, his uncle Jiulian, but he found his peace as a temple priest and willingly handed the throne down to the next son. His Daddy was a good ruler. He ruled fairly and probably knew a lot more than previous rulers. He visited the ministers once a week, saw the people in between, and called for the court meetings every two weeks. He visited the borders every month without fail and passed letters along with the other empires to keep good relations.

His Mama also did incredible things. Chenle admired his Mama for visiting the orphanages every few days and working in the fields for some farms who fell behind. He went to market with the servants on a daily basis to support the people and also picked out some amazing ingredients for the meals. The most amazing thing he did was get some of the schools to agree to have him come in and report to the students some issues of the country.

In all, his parents were dedicated, busy, loving rulers who did their absolute best. Meanwhile, the Empress Mama had no end to her distaste for his Mama and Daddy taking over the throne. In fact, his auntie, BingBing, was the Empress Mama's way at getting back at them.

Which was fruitless, because Auntie BingBing was always nice to them and as far as Chenle knows, dreamed of becoming an actress. However, the Empress Mama was known for her fair share of shady business. Whatever it was, Chenle was NOT letting anything happening to his parents. 

"I see. Have you eaten, Mother?" Kun's nonchalant response exhibited no opinion whatsoever. "The food is wonderful tonight."

"I suppose it is sufficiently presentable," the Empress Mama seethed, the crow's feet of her eyes scrunched as she narrowed her eyes.

"I'm pleased you find the festivities satisfactory."

"Short of barely."

Kun elegantly raised a cup of warm tea.

"To your good health, Mother," Kun smiled, toasting her with the welcome energy he so easily radiated.

Chenle was ready to toss the old granny off the boat. His Mama was to be respected!

"Psst! Chenle!"

The Shanghai prince was surprised to hear his name. He turned, seeing a grinning Donghyuck wave hello from a couple seats away. The red veil made it seem like an obnoxious gesture of an imp, but the prince knew not of that.

"Yes?"

"May I propose a walk along the deck?" Donghyuck walked over doing a beautiful formal bow before him.

The tanned boy held out a hand in exquisite posture. Chenle felt the older boy wasn't as tight on mannerisms from the get go, but the punctual execution of the movements showed a glimpse at some sort of formal training the other had. Perhaps any prince of any kind couldn't avoid mannerisms anywhere.

He looked at his Mama, as if to say, 'May I please go?'

Kun smiled and gave a slight nod of head. 

"I...would be pleased to do so," Chenle took Donghyuck's hand, almost wanting to burst out laughing.

Donghyuck himself also felt the same, a ghost of mischievousness and slight cringe at the tips of his lips. Once Chenle's hand was in his, Hyuck's face lit up in delight. He excitedly started to take the younger prince to play when they were abruptly stopped.

"Pause. Little Prince, are you leaving before greeting our special guest?" The Empress Mama barely spared Chenle a look, her biting voice annoyingly dipped in sugar.

Chenle looked at Donghyuck before bowing towards the elderly woman. She really loved to ruin all of them. The prince couldn't stand her.

"Excuse us, Empress Mama," Chenle softly said, slipping into a perfect bow.

The bow was pretty. The Shanghai prince stunned everyone with his angelic voice and beautiful movements, as autonomous as he felt they were. It was if he were a blooming flower. However, under that prim and pretty facade, under his red curse of a veil, under his skin, a fire burned.

Chenle could hear Donghyuck quickly bow beside him too. They remained low in position when Donghyuck shifted to look at Chenle.

There it was.

Fiery, powerful eyes matching frustrated, twisted lips in a glare burning holes into the floor. Chenle knew that Donghyuck could see the anger on his face. He would have to explain later.

"Sit."
The Empress Mama ordered.

---Not even responding to Chenle's apology. Chenle shifted to stand and then smile as if he was nothing but the heavens instead of the deathly underground. Donghyuck did the same, returning to his seat as Chani whispered something to him.

Once Chenle was back in his seat, a fire still in his heart, the Empress Mama began to speak. Or, in Chenle's words, 'Make everyone miserable'.

"How old is Little Prince?" The older woman said, not even bothering to eat.

Kun, still talking to the guests, excused himself from a nice conversation. He turned to the Empress Mama.

"Seventeen. He just had his birthday last winter," Kun warmly said.

"What is he?"

"Chenle," Kun reached next to him to squeeze Chenle's hand. "Chenle hasn't presented yet."

"I see..." She gestured, wordlessly calling for the servants to hand her something.

Whatever they were handing her, Chenle didn't like it.

"I presume you are familiar with Master Zhandai?" The Empress Mama opened a letter.

The letter was folded neatly into a booklet. The covers were patterned with white and gold. Colors of the Celestial Empire, the empire just next door to Chenle's.

"Ah, yes. I exchange letters with Foreign Affairs Minister Zhandai from time to time," Kun replied. "Is there news from the Celestial Empire?"

"We must discuss this letter," the Empress Mama set it on the table. "I expect you to see me after the festivities."

"Certainly."

"Little Prince," Chenle almost choked as the old lady finally turned to look at him. "Greet our guest."

"His royal highness, Fifth Prince  Zheng Ning!"

Chenle had a bad feeling from the start. That feeling went past the constant knots his nail rings tangled into his veil and down into his chest, weighing it down to restrict his breathing.

Donghyuck gave him a questioning look.

Chenle just sighed, offering up a weak smile.

Shimmering like stardust. That's how the robes of the Celestial Empire were noticable whichever way they swayed. Six servants quickly walked in, heads low in respect. They paved the way for the 'special guest'.

"Good evening." (By SHINee)

Ladies swooned, golden bracelets jingling as they flirtatiously tucked back their hair. Chenle didn't bother to look at the guest, knowing fully that if he was already presented, he would be able to smell the disgusting mix of omegan scents in the air. Luckily, being unpresented means you're immune to smelling body odor. Chenle only gagged at the thought of one day enjoying the activity of sniffing someone. There's an idea called personal space.

Donghyuck made a wide-eyed, surprised face.  Chenle narrowed it down to him being able to take in the suffocating pheromones probably flying in the dining hall.

"Prince Zheng Ning," the Empress Mama gave a dirty smile. "You've grown."

"May Empress Mama live for ten thousand years," Chenle could hear a deep, calm voice coming from right behind him. "I am pleased to be with you."

The Empress Mama finally took a drink of the wine on the table, laughing mechanically.

"Sit," She said in that oh-so-goody-good, polite old lady way.

Chenle clenched the side of his chair. He didn't care if his nail rings broke. The bubbling, heavy feeling in his chest began to make it hard to breathe. The little prince was tense, bracing himself for what was to come next.

"If you would forgive my boldness, dear prince," Zheng Ning said.

Before Chenle could process what was happening, a shimmering robe followed the silhouette of a guy probably just a few years older than him. The Celestial Empire prince effortlessly kneeled next to Chenle's seat, long dark hair neatly combed. That same hair brushed against Chenle's hand through the veil as the older prince gently took it. It was only after the prince (who was a stranger to Chenle) placed a gentle kiss on his hand, did Chenle realize the situation.

Chenle wanted to scream.

Instead, he blankly nodded and retracted his hand. The older prince stood up, serene eyes gazing at Chenle. To Chenle, those serene eyes really meant a catastrophe in his near future.

"Little Prince," the Empress Mama said, dead in tone. "Pay respects to the Celestial Prince."

Chenle really wanted to sigh and pretend he didn't hear that. Unfortunately, you can't do that when you're a royal. My oh my.

Gathering up the last bits of rationality he had left, the red-veiled prince turned to those serene eyes with a forced smile.

"Delighted to make your acquaintance. Second Prince Chenle hopes Fifth Prince will be blessed with prosperity," Chenle did a neat bow, even though he was sitting down.

When he looked back up to look at Zheng Ning directly, Chenle quickly picked up on a lot of his features. Prince Zheng Ning had a wider set face. Chenle found that funny, because he felt that he himself was big-headed.  The Celestial Prince looked mature. Chiseled jaws and strong eyebrows. However, his eyes carried a relaxed peace that Chenle saw in monks.

Someone Chenle wasn't sure how to approach.

"It is an honor to gaze upon the Ninth Empire's most beautiful blossom," Zheng Ning, calm and collected kept his smile. "May Little Prince live peaceful days."

"It is a pleasure to see you again, Prince Zheng Ning," Kun greeted him. "Please, have a seat. Help yourself."

"My highest respects to Flower Empress. May his majesty live ten thousand lifetimes and be blessed in his fruitful reign."

Chenle didn't have anything against Zheng Ning. At least... Not yet. Still, he had a sickening feeling in his stomach. It really didn't help that the food on the table only added to that as well. The Little Prince contemplated on what the old hag (Empress Mama) was planning next as the Celestial Prince sat down directly across from him.

Before he could get far, though, a firm hand had taken up his wrist and pulled him away. Chenle's veil slipped, possibly jeopardizing him. However, nothing was questionable after a pair of hands held keep the veil in place.

Chani.

"My apologies. I will be imparting a few words with Little Prince for a moment," Donghyuck shot in amazingly fluent Eshinec. "Do humbly excuse us."

With that, Donghyuck's firm grip on Chenle's wrist went into a tug, leading him away from the suffocating dinner hall.

"Hey Chani!" Donghyuck shouted in what Chenle could only make out was rushed Naerok. "Do make Chenle comfortable!"

Chenle was now running down the hall with the Jeju prince, Chani running behind him holding onto his veil. Suddenly, the red screen was removed from his vision.

"A-Ah?!" The young prince exclaimed as his heavy veil was yanked off.

"Trust me!" Hyuck laughed, pulling him along and turning a corner. "I don't think you're down for what we just left."

Chenle's heart warmed.

Donghyuck looked back with a playful grin.

The three boys ran to the top deck, breathing in the fresh air and shouting the stars a good evening. The brisk wind kissed their cheeks. Chenle was amazed he hadn't fallen over on his robe from all that running---

"AH!"

THUD!

Yes, Donghyuck just slipped on some water. No, he wasn't looking okay. But did getting caught in some nets and then rolling into some barrels make great comedy?

10 out of 10, should definitely witness again.

"Oh my goodness!" Donghyuck exclaimed in Naerok, surprised.

Chani quickly dropped Chenle's long veil and rushed to help Donghyuck out of the nets. At this point, the tanned prince was basically spinning. Chenle bit his lift. A joy he couldn't bottle started to tickle his heart. Sooner than he had anticipated, he burst, letting out a wheeze. . .

--and then his loud, unapologetic, squealing laugh.

Chani flinched at the loud voice as Donghyuck only beamed at Chenle.

Chenle could feel it and he was sure Donghyuck could too.

He had just been freed from the nets of a malicious fisherman, and now he as able to swim freely with no threat.

The red veil that tangled him so uncomfortably had been removed, giving him an energy to thrive like a dolphin dancing in the ocean.

(And he may or may not have just called packs of those lovely sea creatures to their very ship.)

---

Unfortunately, Chenle's blessed time with the Prince of Jeju had to end at some point. It was like a dream; freely laughing loudly and dancing around the deck under a river of stars.

But it all ended too soon.

Now, Chenle was dressed back in his smooth silk robes that were easy to walk in. They were a soft white, further making him look like an angel. The rouge on his lips was removed, and the heavy jewelry was put away. Instead, a single pink flower clip was put into his hair.

A bunch of apple blossoms.

He was escorted by a servant to a lush throne room. The seats were of dark oak, save for the throne. It was gold, furnished lavishly, and garnished with gems. The throne room was small compared to the ones back home, but Chenle preferred this one more. It displayed paintings on all walls and the vases of flowers made it warm in a very simply way.

"I dare say, I smelt an old hag and missed dinner."

Chenle smiled.

He pulled back the sleeve of his robe, revealing Jade in her delicate snake form wrapped around his left wrist like a bracelet. The snake's pink eyes narrowed.

"It's Empress Mama," he informed.

"My goodness, then that explains the stench!" The snake slithered farther up his arm as to get away.

"Sister Jade, I think there's something bad coming..." Chenle worriedly said.

"Do not fear, younger brother. I have promised to protect you," she hissed, rubbing her small snake head on his arm in a show of affection.

"Sit."

What a nasty voice.

Chenle quickly hid Jade under his sleeve again. He turned to the throne, seeing the Empress Mama (aka old hag) take a seat. His dear Mama calmly took a seat in one of the guest chairs.

The second prince wanted to scream.

That was his Mama's seat! Kun held the title of Flower Empress, a current high power. No matter the Empress Mama's age, Kun had more authority even as an omega ruler. Just what audacity!?

Chenle took a seat before his frustrated pause became too overt. He sat next to his Mama. Kun smiled at him gently, sensing his distaste. The Little Prince slightly pouted, guiltily shoving his mood aside for his Mama.

"What news do you bring us, dear Empress Mama?" Kun said easily as if they were good friends.

Chenle snorted in his head.

The Empress Mama was still dressed extravagantly. She motioned for a servant to fan her, another to come forth and hand her a familiar piece of parchment.

She then grinned, motioning for it to be given to Kun. Chenle swallowed his seething. What was his Mama? Some dog she was giving food to?

He could feel Jade slithering a bit. The snake changed positions and slightly peered outside of Chenle's sleeve. The prince hoped she wasn't too noticable.

"It seems like the Celestial Empire has made an offer for a political alliance," the Empress Mama said, an ominous tone creeping into Chenle's head. "I believe it is beneficial for us to have such relations to the biggest empire. The Ninth Empire is known to be the strongest in material and trade worth. Combining with the Celestial Empire's fame, size, and military power is an unbeatable pair."

Kun read the parchment placed in front of him, studying it slowly like a hearty scripture. Chenle could make out the official seal of the Celestial Empire on it. It was a real document.

The dots suddenly connected.

Beating heavily, the prince's heart surged with fear. This can't be happening. This can't--

"We are already on good terms with the other empires," Kun said calmly. "I'm afraid a sudden alliance will bring their doubt upon us."

Chenle's jaw almost dropped at what his Mama did next.

"I beg her highness Empress Mama to sincerely reconsider."

Kun walked to the center of the room, going onto his knees and bowing fully.  Jade gave out a small hiss, clearly as frustrated as Chenle about the situation. His Mama was never the type to treat the Empress Mama with disrespect. The Little Prince swore his eyes were sore from the continuous, straining respect Kun showed.

The Empress Mama didn't bother to even look at him.

"This alliance will stabilize our empire. Are you insisting on putting the feelings of other empires over your own, Flower Empress?"

Kun's voice didn't waver at this remark, still maintaining it's calm and kind intentions.

"Empress Mama, I love the empire. It is my home, my world, my life. But before I am the Empress of Ninth, I am a mother."

Kun tenderly gazed at Chenle before softly speaking his opposition.

No.

Don't say it.

Please don't say it.

"...Chenle is much too young to be married."

If hearts were paper, Chenle's was torn to oblivion.

He felt the tears burn in his eyes and his lips tighten into a line. The prince clenched his fists. Jade slithered around a bit, knowing well that the prince was not happy.

He was outraged.

He was not a pawn.

He had goals to help people.

He was not going to be some child married away.

Never. Never in his life...

"Prince Zheng Ning is a prized scholar and fifth prince. He is favored and may be chosen to be the next emperor. Is that not enough to satisfy your thirst?"

Chenle moved to stand up.

Kun gave him one look.

Chenle sat back down.

"I do not thirst for a wealthy suitor or a powerful prince..." Kun sat up, looking directly at the older woman. His voice still held kindness and respect, "I only long for the happiness of my child and his freedom to marry."

There was a long silence.

Chenle could barely swallow his sadness and rage. This couldn't be the life he was living. He had hopes. He had dreams. He had more to show the world.

And that's when it occured to him.

He despised it.

He despised that anyone would ever give him away assuming he was just and omega.

For the millionth time, he was not and has not presented!

Omegas had no freedom, and he detested it.

The Empress Mama laughed.

Chenle wanted to snap her neck.

"Happiness? How precious. I've ready consulted the ministers however," the older woman grinned. "They've agreed to the arrangement."

Finally, Kun showed a bit of crack in his composure.

"What?"

"Make a choice, Empress," the Empress Mama chuckled. "Marry him away or risk your title being stripped by the ministry. I suppose it's an easy decision then..?"

"I will not make any decisions without my husband's approval."

"The court of ministers have already agreed," the older woman stared at her fingernails. "If you don't agree, I suppose Hansol will have to listen to his mother instead. How disobedient... you pauper."

Chenle stood up, running in front of that evil woman. 

"How dare you call my Mama that, you ungreatful, vile hag!" 

*slap*

Kun fell to the floor. 

"Mama! Mama!!!" Chenle ran, mortified. 

Jade hissed, baring her fangs, but hidden by Chenle's sleeves. She wanted oh so badly to just transform and give that woman a piece of her mind. However, the Flower Empress came first. 

"How disappointing. You can't even teach your cubs how to behave," the Empress Mama coldly glared as Kun covered his cheek with a hand. 

Kun, the Flower Empress, graceful mother figure of the empire and a true beauty to his heart, gently breathed and kept his head down to the ground in respect. Chenle wanted to scream. 

The servants in the room audibly gasped, shocked and most divided if they should be helping Kun up or staying in place in fear of the older woman. Fear is a strong emotion, and so with their courage retreating like the voices in the back of their throats, they stayed in place until the Empress Mama made a move to leave. Her shoes clacked sharply on the floor. 

The hag's black robes cascaded on the floor as if billowing smoke was roaming the earth. She paused before exiting. 

"We're not done yet," she didn't spare them a glance. "The ministry can easily replace you. There are more than enough peasants." 

The clacks of heels and a rush of servants left the room empty and freezing. 

Chenle made a move to yell, but Kun pulled him into a hug instead. 

There was that familiar scent. 

Warmly baked sweets and subtle richness of berries. 

"My child..." Kun smiled, that warm, hearth-like glow emanating from him. "It's alright."

"Mama..." Chenle hugged him so tight. 

Kun and Hansol were everything. Everything. Chenle remembers days where they would cry secretly in bed. Hansol would fall asleep in his office. Kun would work endlessly at night sometimes in order to make sure Hansol could rest. In the end, both of his parents were drained, tired, sickly, and wonderfully passionate about taking care of the empire. 

Kun was not someone people could just insult. 

He held nothing but love. 

Chenle knows for sure. 

"Mama... I'm so... I-I'm s-s-so sorry...!" Chenle squeezed him. 

He never meant to hurt his Mama. Ever.

"Shhh. It's okay. No worries child..." Kun pulled away to look at his baby. "Don't fret. The old lady's getting older... her slaps hurt less now. Old age, eh?"

The room was still too dry for jokes.

"Mama..." Chenle sadly sighed. "What's going to happen to me..?"

"Nothing," Kun pulled him close again, softly calming his pup. "I assure you my child. You will never, ever have to be put through anything like that."

The prince basked in the comforting hold. He felt at home, even in a boat miles away from home. But even so, many, many worries built up in his head. What was going to happen to them? Why was the Empress Mama even here? What about his older brother..?

...What about his Mama?

I'll protect you Mama. No matter the cost. 

The stars heard his vow. 

But the darkness still eavesdropped. 

"Are you alright, dear Empress?" Jade slithered out from Chenle's sleeve.

She made her way onto Kun's shoulder and rubbed her head affectionately to his. 

"I'm fine, thank you Jade," Kun beamed. 

Chenle stared at the red handprint on his Mama's cheek.

He frowned. 

---

"Huh?"

Chenle was in the dark. Pitch black. 

He was still in his night wear. He remembered being sent to bed by his Mama and bid Donghyuck good night on his way. Next, he hit his pillows and then...

Everything was cold.

All he could see was the dark. 

Was this a nightmare?

He stood up. First, his feet wobbled. Then his knees. Then... 

"Whoa there!" A pair of hands caught him. 

"aaAAAAHHHH!" He screamed. 

"Ouch... you're a loud one," the hands spoke. 

Chenle turned around. 

"Who are you?!" He saw someone else, startled, almost falling again. 

"Oh! Careful!" The short stranger's eyes worriedly widened. 

Chenle, in fear, took a step back. 

"Hey now, don't be afraid," the stranger smiled softly. "I'm not here to hurt you, I promise."

"W-What..."

The stranger shook his head, a kind look in his eyes. 

"It's nice to meet you," he held out a hand. 

The Shanghai prince stared at it. The hand was small, pale, and really made the stranger look around his age. 

Hesitantly, Chenle rose his own hand to shake it. 

"Z-Zhong Chenle..." He mumbled. "Prince of Shanghai." 

"You're very charming, your highness," the stranger giggled. "You may call me Angel."

"Angel?"

"You know, with halos and such."

"Angel...Angel..." Chenle gradually found a smile making it's way onto his face. "Nice to meet you, Angel."

"My pleasure. Something tells me we're going to be seeing each other much more," Angel smiled. 

"What? But where am I?"

"A dream. But I must let you rest. Don't worry. I'm just here as your friend in your head. I'll always be watching over you. Angels do that, right?"

Angel had a small face, black hair, and beautiful eyes. He looked young and radiated a youthful energy. Chenle felt he could trust this person.

"O-O... Okay...."

The world was starting to go black. Darker than before. 

Angel seemed to glow in the dark though. Like a star. 

Those hands caught him again. 

"Sleep, Prince Charming," Angel's kind voice soothed his worries away. "It is time for some rest."

Chenle drifted away. 

---

"Chenle!"

"OWWWWW!"

Usually, servants wake the prince of Shanghai up gently and nicely. Apparently, princes of Jeju don't fall into that category. That explains why Donghyuck had leaped into his bed and started playfully poking him. 

"AH! AAH!" Chenle's loud, cheery laughs came out in shrieks.

"Wakey-wakey!" Donghyuck giggled. 

The prince of Jeju was in a beautiful orange. Like mandarins. His attire was light and airy, glowing like the sun. It didn't rival his smile though. He was gleaming. Chenle could see a striking resemblance of a merry yellow flower that gazed at the sun. 

"What is it?" Chenle sat up, happily chatting with Donghyuck. 

"Your Mama asked me to teach you Naerok today so you can get around Korea better!"

Chenle pouted. 

"Naerok is hard." 

"Well..." Donghyuck smiled and booped his nose. "You'll need it to get away from that mean old lady!"

Chenle grinned, eyes curving. His face bloomed with happiness, a fresh, crisp, and baby-ish kind of expression. He radiated a refreshing sort of energy that would wake anyone up pleasantly. 

"I'll do it!"

The second prince of Shanghai was indeed beloved and kept away like treasure. Though this was against his will, he still grew with a hunger for his freedom someday. At the beginning, he was a sapling, just a small life trying to survive big storms. Now, he has grown enough to see the world from a higher, freer kind of view. 

Loud princes, weird dreams, and cool snake sisters, Chenle was ready for the world and he had plans. 

Shanghai's tree of influence had just started to settle his roots.

Apple blossoms.

They fit him perfectly.

Fresh, prosperous, and lovely.

Donghyuck sniffed the air.

"I smell flowers and apples."

"Maybe it's breakfast?" Chenle raised a brow.

Donghyuck shook his head.

"I don't know. It's faint but not."

"Common hyung! Teach me Naerok!"

Donghyuck shoved his thoughts away.

There's no way.

-----------------------------------------------------------
(A/n:

11,552 words.

AAAAHHHH

FIRST OFF!

I deeply apologize. I have two AP classes this year and they're actually eating me alive. I sleep at 2AM these days and I'm always tired.

This book is what I consider a masterpiece in the making though.

I hope it's going okay. >\\\\<

I will still update this book! I promise!

Now, I have to update Red Strings.

I also may be travelling to a different country soon. I'll update!

Finally...

I'M DRAFTING THE NEXT CHAPTER SO DON'T BE SAD, OKAY? 💕👌

Thank you for understanding, my dear lovelies ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️)