It's almost sunset, meaning that Wooyoung has been in his house for around four hours, which is way too long for a prince who snuck out during a snow storm. Yeosang looks at the window, it's still snowing but significantly less than a few hours ago.

"It should be okay to go now," Yeosang says and Wooyoung looks out the window, sighing. Somehow, he doesn't want to go back.

"All right," He says reluctantly, getting up and leaving the blanket on the floor, immediately missing the warmth it gave him.

"Will you be okay out there, it's still snowing pretty bad". Wooyoung eyes him in confusion as to why he is suddenly concerned about him, he didn't seem to care a few hours ago when he tried dragging him into 5 feet tall snow.

"Actually... I can teleport there. I lied before."

Yeosang frowns at him. "What- Why would you lie, why would you even want to stay here?"

Wooyoung just shrugs, not actually knowing the answer. He thought it would be more interesting staying here than being stuck in the castle during a storm. He can't say if it was though, they mostly sat in silence.

Yeosang struggles to stop himself from facepalming. Wooyoung knew the risks of staying here but he still did, it's like he actually doesn't care if Yeosang is sent to the dungeons. "Fine, just teleport out of here then. And this time, don't come back. I'm being serious".

When the prince stays still and fidgets awkwardly, Yeosang gives him a puzzled look. "Actually, I need somewhere to go"

The other frowns, wondering what he could possibly mean by that. "What do you mean?"

Wooyoung sighs, "Well, the storm is slowing down and if I show up to the castle warm and dry, it would look suspicious like where have I been all this time? And I can't tell them I've been at yours so I need an excuse place to stay at so they can find me there"

"That makes no sense" Yeosang can't believe what he's hearing. "You can just make up a place you've been. Also, they'll ask why you didn't just teleport when the storm started".

"I know, I know. But I can't just make up a place because they'll want to do some investigating to make sure I wasn't kidnapped. If I say a random place, those poor people will have guards interrogating them the next day. That's why I need a place for them to find me in, maybe one of your friend's houses?"

Yeosang raises his eyebrows in annoyance. "You know that still doesn't make any sense"

"It does! trust me when I say those guards are meticulous, that is why we need someone who knows about us, we can quickly explain it to them, and I can't go to San or Yunho now because they're most likely with the search party too. And you need to come too, to explain to your friend".

Wooyoung goes on and on, explaining his plan. "Fine, we'll go to Mingi's" Yeosang only gives in because they're wasting time arguing, even though the storm has calmed down a bit, it might start getting heavier again.

He quickly grabs a container of soup for Mingi as a thank you and sorry, and an extra one for Jongho too, then looks at Wooyoung in confusion when his hand is out. "What?"

"Hold it, we need to in order to teleport together" Wooyoung rolls his eyes at Yeosang's hesitance.

When Yeosang doesn't move, Wooyoung sighs in annoyance and grabs it himself, teleporting them to Mingi's house after Yeosang tells him the address.

Yeosang yells when they suddenly take off. It only takes a second but he wasn't ready, Wooyoung had just grabbed his hand and all of a sudden they are somewhere else. He immediately lets go of the other's hand, pinching his forehead after feeling extremely dizzy. "I did not like that".

"Whatever. Now quick, tell your friend to come out". Wooyoung nudges him towards the door, telling him to knock. It's absolutely freezing outside and he feels sick after teleporting.

Yeosang blinks a few times, trying to regain his senses before knocking at the door. Only a few seconds later, it's opening to reveal a puzzled Mingi. "Yeosang? What are you doing here, are you ok?"

The concern in his voice is reasonable since Yeosang never comes into the village. In fact, he's only been to Mingi's house only once for a few minutes since he lives relatively close, he's never even been to Jongho's house, mostly because he lives with his family and Mingi lives alone.

"I have a huge favour to ask you, I'm really sorry". Yeosang feels bad because in this weather the only thing you're supposed to do is lie in bed with the fireplace on and sip some hot tea.

Mingi tilts his head in confusion, wondering what was so urgent that he had to come all the way here in the middle of a storm. When Yeosang moves aside to reveal Wooyoung behind him, Mingi is so shocked that he forgets to hide his expression, leaving his jaw hanging open along with wide eyes gawking at the prince.

He lets them in timidly, Yeosang explaining it all to him, how he has to pretend he found Wooyoung lost in the middle of the storm and offered shelter. "Don't worry, I'll make sure you won't get into any trouble". The prince promises but Mingi can only give a small smile in return, feeling nervous. He's not a good actor.

"He'll do all the talking don't worry. In the meantime, I need to hide before the others come." Yeosang says, heading to the bedroom and leaving Wooyoung and Mingi alone. He keeps glancing at the prince, still not believing that he's in his house.

"They'll be here anytime soon, since you live near the end of the village they'll search here last". Wooyoung breaks the silence, both feeling awkward since their first and only encounter was a bad one.

Mingi is more intimidated than awkward, first with the fact that there is a literal prince in his tiny and messy home and second that he has no idea what will happen to him when they find that he is here. He trusts Yeosang though, so he tries not to worry, Yeosang would never make him do anything he thinks would get him into trouble.

Neither know what to say to each other, Mingi offers him a drink and Wooyoung asks for water. They have nothing to talk about but Mingi is absolutely dying to know why the prince was with Yeosang in the first place, especially now of all times, where were they during the storm? Did Wooyoung come to punish Yeosang for growing food illegally? Why is he alone, where are the other two? He can't ask Wooyoung of course, so he holds it in until he can talk to Yeosang.

Thankfully, it's not long before there is loud knocking heard. Mingi clumsily rushes out to get the door, opening it to reveal palace guards. He can tell by the emblem on their uniform, there are five of them, armed and stern. Mingi gulps.

The one in the middle, Mingi recognises, the blue diamonds on his cheeks looking familiar. He guesses the other thinks he looks familiar too as his face shifts slightly in recognition.

It's gone in a second though, returning to a blank expression. "As you may have heard, the crown prince is missing, we have the authority to inspect all homes, anything suspicious will be taken and a notice for questioning will be sent shortly after. We have the right to use force if you refuse. Please step aside."

He sounds like he's reading off a paper, which he probably did memorise anyway. Mingi blanks for a bit, extremely nervous about what is about to happen.

The other frowns when Mingi doesn't move, thinking he's refusing to show his home. "Sir, if you don't give way we will use force".

Mingi snaps out of his daze, about to move away but Wooyoung stops him.

"There's no need." He shows himself from behind Mingi. "Hey Yunho".

"Wooyoung!" Yunho widens his eyes, grabbing the prince away from Mingi. At the same time, the guards move in practised unison, pointing their firearms at him. Mingi widens his eyes, putting his hands up to surrender.

"Stop!" Wooyoung shouts, Mingi's hands are shaking in fear. "He didn't do anything wrong. In fact, he saved me from the storm. I've been taking shelter here."

Mingi wants to cry in relief when the weapons are put down. Looking at Wooyoung in thanks. Yunho only frowns in confusion. "What are you talking about? Is this where you ran off to?"

"Look, I'll explain later but all I'm saying is that the only reason I'm alive is because of him. I would've frozen to death otherwise."

Yunho takes a step towards the other, he's taller by a tiny bit so Mingi is a little afraid. "Is it true. That you saved Wooyoung?"

"Hey if I already told you, why do you have to go and interrogate him!" Wooyoung says but Yunho just ignores him, raising his eyebrows at the other.

Mingi gulps, he's a bad liar but luckily in this situation, it can be disguised as nervousness. "Yeah, he was near my house when I found his highness. He looked weak so I took him in. With his permission of course".

Yunho eyes him, the evidence checks out and if Wooyoung is saying it's true then it must be. It doesn't seem like Mingi is threatening or blackmailing Wooyoung to say this story.

He finally sighs in relief, at least Wooyoung is safe. He smiles at Mingi, trying to make the man look less terrified. "If that is the case then, we thank you for helping the prince. The king was very worried so expect a generous reward". Yunho winks at him, making Mingi splutter at the change of emotions.

"And you." He turns to Wooyoung. "You're going to be in huge trouble. Sneaking out- especially in this weather. What were you thinking? You didn't even tell me or San, do you know how worried we were?"

"Ok ok, you can scold me later. Not in front of Mingi" Wooyoung pouts, feeling bad that he put Mingi through all this and now has to witness him getting told off.

"Ok. We'll get going then" Yunho grabs his arm, pulling him away, Wooyoung manages to wave at Mingi before they're gone.

He watches them leave, making sure they're out of sight before he quickly shuts the door and goes to his bedroom. After shaking off the shock and trauma of what just happened now, his initial curiosity of why Wooyoung was with him hadn't died down one bit. Especially since he's found out that he snuck out without telling his friends.

So he met Yeosang in secret?

He's dying to know. But when he enters his room, Yeosang is knocked out on his bed, snoring quietly. He sounds exhausted, exactly what did the prince put him through?

~

The following day is still heavily snowing, it would be impossible for Yeosang to go home in weather like this.

Mingi offers to teleport him back but he refuses, not liking the experience last time, it had made him nauseous. But he has attachment issues and he's never been away from his home before so after a lot of reassurance from Mingi, he agrees to have a heating spell put on him. It would keep him warm while walking outside and make his surroundings warm too.

"Don't worry, this is a basic spell even babies can cast. It will last around an hour" Mingi says, Yeosang is nervous to have a spell put on him again but he sucks it in since it's necessary this time.

Mingi forces him to eat breakfast before going since he also has to head off to Jongho's stall. So now he's stuck in the kitchen under the tallers questioning gaze.

"So, why was the prince with you yesterday. What were you two doing that he couldn't even tell his minions where he was?"

Yeosang chokes on his food, looking at Mingi incredulously. "Why would you word it like that? He just came for the same reasons as last time, idiot came in this weather and got stuck in my house". He frowns at the memory. "Thanks by the way, for covering up for me".

Mingi eyes the other in suspicion. Yeosang might not be aware of it but he feels like there's a different reason as to why the prince came alone to his house. Maybe he's acting as a spy for someone. Which makes no sense though, no one would order a prince to do jobs for them. Maybe he is on his own little mission.

He doesn't have much time to think about it as Yeosang is getting up, done with his food and asking for the spell.

Once Yeosang is all heated up, along with an extra coat Mingi quickly throws on him, he is bidding his friend goodbye as he covers his face and trudges to his house.

Mingi gets ready to go to work, casting the same spell on himself. The reason why stalls are still open and people can buy things is because of the convenient power of magic. They could keep their stall heated and sell things with no problem. Although, their spells aren't as powerful because they are red marked so in bad weather conditions, they close a little earlier than usual.

He makes his way to the stall, greeting the village people on his way. He's quite popular since he's tall, handsome and smart, he'd always have people asking for him to tutor them, or just chat to him in general. Apparently he's easy to get along with.

"Hey hyung" Mingi is brought back to reality when he sees Jongho, realising that he's already arrived.

"Hey Jongho" he says, immediately helping him set up, it's all muscle memory at this point, not needing to think while doing it. Mingi could obviously get a better job since he's well educated at practically everything but he likes relaxing and spending time with his best friend and socialising with people at the stall. He probably will get a proper job later on but for now, he likes helping Jongho's family. Both he and Jongho are technically just helping out for free but Jongho's mother does sneak in some money in their pockets from time to time.

"Anything interesting happen lately?" The younger asks, it's practically their greeting even though they saw each other the day before.

"Nope," Mingi says out of habit because it's how their conversation usually goes. The pair only separate to go home for the night and nothing ever happens in that short amount of time. "Wait. You will not believe what happened".

Jongho looks up from what he's doing, surprised that Mingi even has any news to tell.

He tells him everything. Yeosang knocking at his door in the middle of a storm, the freaking prince appearing behind him, guards knocking at the door. Every detail.

Jongho listens intently, jaw dropping upon hearing about the unusual events. "Why was he even with Yeosang hyung?"

"He said it's because he wanted to ask him some things, I don't know." Mingi shrugs, Yeosang seemed annoyed that the prince has come once again to his house, he wonders if he'll come again.

By the looks of him and his reckless personality, Mingi reckons he'll come again to Yeosang's house, even though his friend has repeatedly expressed his dislike of his presence.

"I don't like that prince, he gives me bad vibes". Jongho says, voicing out Mingi's thoughts. They're about to gossip some more when their first customer arrives and they get to work.

The day is slow and mundane due to the weather, no one wants to go out. They are just glad to close early, both counting down the hours until they can go home and when the time finally comes, neither hesitate to quickly pack up.

When Jongho hears a customer walk up to the stall, he clears his throat and turns around. "Sorry, we're closed now. Please come back tomo-"

San is frowning at him, arms crossed Yunho is next to him too. "You don't usually close this early".

Jongho pauses, trying to hide the surprise on his face by turning away from them. "We close early in bad weather," he says quietly.

He completely ignores the pair and calmly walks to the room where Mingi is in. "The prince's minions are here" he whispers, pulling his sleeve.

Mingi widens his eyes. "What why?"

"I don't know," Jongho says, perhaps they're here to punish them. He didn't ever want to see them again after their encounter, especially after finding out that they had followed him and Mingi to Yeosang's house.

"Come, let's just see what they have to say." Mingi says, acting brave all of a sudden.

He's already gone to them before Jongho has any time to prepare, just standing behind Mingi who looks at the pair.

"Is there a reason you're here?" Mingi asks, avoiding eye contact with Yunho. He doesn't know why but he doesn't have it in him to look at the taller. Maybe it's because he feels guilty about lying about Wooyoung yesterday.

Yunho speaks up, displaying an amused smile. "I'm here about yesterday".

Mingi pauses, trying to hide the panic in his face but before he can ask, Yunho elaborates.

"You're invited to the castle next week to receive an award for taking care of the prince, the king wants to show his appreciation". He hands an envelope to Mingi which he takes tentatively.

He looks at the white envelope, wondering how someone can even make a piece of paper look expensive.

"You will receive a good citizens award and some money too" San adds, and Yunho gives him a thumbs up.

Mingi smiles awkwardly, still finding it strange, that these people were not good to him or his friends at first, and now all of a sudden they're being nice. Still, he doubts they'd make a fake invitation and get him in trouble, these guys are rude and entitled, not evil.

"Wooyoung wanted to give the invite himself but he's under heavy surveillance and not allowed to leave the castle bounds for the time being."

Jongho nods, stepping forward. Mingi is being too nice, forgetting that these people are assholes. "Didn't this happen just last night? How are you giving an invitation so quickly"

San scoffs, also coming forward. "This isn't for you, it's for Mingi over here so mind your own business".

The glare younger gives him is brutal. He clenches his fists, trying to stop himself from grabbing that guy. "How can we trust you people, you were the ones stalking and eavesdropping on us! Even attacking Yeosang hyung! You blues are so self-obsessed, never caring for anyone around you... how do we know you're not luring us into the dungeons for just selling food?"

San laughs in disbelief. "Aren't you stereotyping us a bit too much? I would've thought a red like you wouldn't believe in stereotypes but here we are I guess. You must not mind me doing the same then? I did wonder why you're selling illegal crops, business must not be doing well huh? You must've threatened Yeosang am I right? Makes sense since you're a diamond. Did you threaten to beat him up?"

San is laughing and Jongho can't stand seeing him smile. He grabs the tallers shirt and pulls him forward. "Shut up. You don't know anything about me". He says with clenched teeth. Jongho has never in his life laid a finger or even cast a violent spell on anyone. But San is testing his patience right now.

Mingi touches Jongho's arm and that's all it takes for him to let go of San with a sigh. Yunho also grabs San's arm, telling him to stop being rude.

The pair still give each other glares though, while the other two talk calmly.

"I know especially with how we met this may all seem sketchy to you, also I apologise on San's behalf for crossing the line" San steps on Yunho's foot, clearly not wanting to apologise. "I don't know how to make you believe it and I know you don't trust me but this is a real invitation, I can't force you to come but yeah. There's nothing else I can say".

Mingi gives him a small smile. "I'll think about it but anyway, thank you for the invitation. Also sorry for Jongho, he gets sensitive when someone assumes things about him. He's nothing like the conventional diamond! He's very kind and soft aGH-"

Jongho kicks his shin. "Hyung why would you tell them that" he whispers angrily, glancing at San who is struggling to hold back a scoff.

"So? I had to tell them so they don't get the wrong idea, why did you suddenly grab that guys shirt! You've never done that before. Remember these people can take us to the dungeons!" he whispers back, making sure their guests can't hear.

"We're not supposed to be friendly with them, they're blues! And the fact that they're friends with the prince is the ultimate reason why we should stay away from them"

Yunho watches the two bicker, not hearing a thing but it still makes him want to laugh. It reminds him of how he, San and Wooyoung argue all the time. He glances at San to see him also looking at them with a small smile.

"Um," Yunho tries to get their attention, the pair stopping mid debate, forgetting that he and San were here. "We just came to give the invite, you're allowed to bring a guest so hopefully we'll see the both of you next week. San and I will get going now" they leave quickly, not giving any of them a chance to reply.

Jongho watches the pair leave, waiting for a safe distance before speaking. "You have a crush on that tall guy don't you?" He puts his hands on his hips questioningly.

"What? Why on Earth would you think that?" Mingi frowns.

The younger scoffs "you're suddenly being all nice and shy when talking to the enemy! And don't think I didn't see how those clovers glowed when he smiled at you!" Jongho points at him accusingly.

Mingi only laughs. "You've got it all wrong kid, I just think he's nice that's all"

"We'll see" Jongho frowns in disappointment, walking away.

~

After endless arguing and convincing, Mingi manages to drag Jongho into going with him to the castle.

The invite says not to dress up or anything, since this is a small award for him, they'd just be going in then out in twenty minutes.

When they arrive at the castle grounds, the guards stop them, wary of their red marks. Once Mingi shows the letter, they allow him and Jongho in. At first, they are mesmerised with the grand decor and the size of everything, not knowing anything could be this luxurious.

The place is massive, with too many hallways leading to different places. They have no idea where to go but luckily Yunho and San are waiting at the entrance, the taller's face lighting up when he spots them.

"You came, I'm glad you decided to!" Yunho smiles and Mingi can't stop the smile forming on his face too. Maybe Jongho is right.

Jongho greets Yunho too, purposefully ignoring San. The other rolls his eyes, not caring about the silent treatment.

They're led to a room, told that the king, queen and prince are waiting to greet him.

Mingi begins to feel extremely nervous. He's about to get an award that he doesn't deserve at all, and Wooyoung's going to be there too which makes it a thousand times worse.

He feels guilt creeping all over him, telling him why did he even bother coming here. Yeosang should get this not him. But he obviously can't tell them that. Yeosang is the one who gave him shelter during the storm, all he did was cover for him. Mingi hates when someone else takes credit for something he did, and he hates himself now for taking credit for what Yeosang did. He feels like he's deceiving everyone, worried about what would happen to him if the king or queen find out.

Jongho can recognise that nervous look anywhere. He pats his shoulder comfortingly, "it's okay hyung, you did the right thing. Take a deep breath and be confident!"

Mingi nods meekly, following his instructions. Once he's ready, the guards at the door open it and the four of them walk in.

His eyes meet Wooyoung's immediately, the other giving him a knowing look with a comforting smile. He must also feel awkward about doing this since Mingi isn't the right person for this.

Jongho squeezes his hand and Mingi takes a deep breath, ignoring his thoughts. They're here so there's nothing he can do about it now.

Yunho had given him instructions just before going in so he knows what to do. Yunho, San and Jongho stay at the side while Mingi walks to the front in front of the thrones where the royal family is sat.

He gulps at the intimidating presence of three purple marked in front of him. He bows 90 degrees, staying in that position to introduce himself. "Hello your majesty, I am Song Mingi"

He stands straight and the King smiles at him. Though Mingi can't seem to find comfort in that smile, something about it makes him feel uncomfortable.

"Mr Song, you were the one who gave my son shelter when you found him stuck in the midst of a storm. Am I correct?" The king's voice is deep, Mingi has never actually heard it before. Only ever heard things about the king.

He gulps, glancing at the spades on his cheeks. "Yes your majesty, you are correct." He tries not to make his voice waver. He looks at Wooyoung, who is already looking at him, giving him a thumbs up. He appreciates the support, although he is a little embarrassed that he's a phoney and Wooyoung is witnessing all of this.

But something about the prince's encouraging smile eases his mind a bit. Mingi would like to say that he's a good judge of character, and he can see himself growing fond of the other.

"That day was a very restless day for me, looking for my son who had gone missing" the king looks at Wooyoung, raising his eyebrows. Mingi gets nervous watching the interaction. "Mr Song you were the one who eased my worries, and I thank you immensely for that. I heard from the prince that you took him in when he was weak and unable to do magic. I'd like to reward you for your brave and kind acts"

The king waves a hand and a medal comes floating towards him, looping around his neck and placing itself nicely on his chest. Mingi takes a look at it, letting out a shaky breath.

"You have been given the brave citizens award" a certificate also comes flying towards him, dropping in his hands. "Your name will be engraved at the town hall with others that have been given this award, along with a thousand gold coins that are at your house now. Congratulations."

Mingi struggles to conceal his shock. A thousand gold coins... he could live off that for a good few years without lifting a finger.

"Thank you so much, your majesty" He bows once more before he is allowed to leave, exiting the room in a mixture of shock and guilt. Jongho approaches him and pats his back.

"Well done hyung!" He says happily.

He smiles weakly in return, feeling awkward since Wooyoung has most likely told his friends what actually happened, and they just watched him get a reward even though he's undeserving.

"I can tell what you're thinking" Jongho whispers, lightly slapping his arm. "Don't worry too much about it, besides, you just stole money from the rich!" Mingi rolls his eyes, as if that makes him feel any better.

Clearly, he doesn't need to worry though, as Yunho approaches him. "Don't feel guilty Mingi, you helped in ways no one else could have. You deserve it"

His smile is bright, making Mingi's heart react in a strange way. He can already hear Jongho telling him 'I told you so' throughout the whole journey back because he can definitely feel his cheeks glowing, the clovers displaying a deep red.

~

Wooyoung is about to go crazy. He's never gone this long without going out of the castle. It's only been a week but his father has never been this harsh with his punishments, only grounding him for at most a few days. Perhaps it's because he's older now and his father is obsessing over the fact that he's not prepared to be king.

However, Wooyoung isn't a troublemaker for no reason. During his excruciatingly long imprisonment, he had worked endlessly to discover a new way to escape.

This time, he gets the help of San and Yunho. Fortunately, he is actually allowed to talk to them. Though, he did have to beg them for days on end to go along with his plan. Wooyoung always gets his way with them and they know it. When they give in to helping him leave without anyone finding out, Wooyoung is ecstatic. There's only one place he's dying to go to.

"Nope. I'm out. I'm not helping you anymore" San groans, pacing the room. "Why would you go back to that unmarked guy's house!"

Wooyoung understands San's reluctance. The last time he went there he snuck out and didn't even tell them. They must have felt upset. "I know I know, it's just that I wanted to thank him, you know. For the storm day" he shrugs, pouting.

"Don't tell me, this guy who's been only rude and said mean things to you just has to feed you and now you're suddenly fond of him?" San is in disbelief.

"No! What-" Wooyoung groans. "I am nowhere near fond of that asshole. But I can't ignore the fact that he allowed me to stay in his house during the storm, I really thought he was going to kick me out. I just want to say thanks, it's not like I'm giving him a trophy or something".

"Okay okay, we'll help you" Yunho breaks up their little argument. "Only because I know you're still going to go if we don't help. I don't want you getting in trouble again"

Wooyoung beams, running to Yunho and linking their arms. "Thank you my best friend!"

San frowns. "Fine. I'll help too." He knows if Yunho agrees he'll end up doing it too so he just gives in.

"Yay!" Wooyoung cheers, linking his arm with San's too and dragging the pair to the door. "I found a way to get out through the staff kitchen. You two have to just cover for me okay? I won't be long"

The pair nod, it's relatively easy to cover for Wooyoung, they have too much experience anyway from the countless times they've had to help him sneak out. It's the same as all the other times, San and Yunho making sure Wooyoung isn't seen and then covering for him while he's gone.

He's forced to promise to be no more than an hour today since he's under strict surveillance, the staff are slowly starting to not believe San and Yunho, so now they aren't even completely trusted.

Wooyoung teleports to Yeosang's house, it's quicker and it's still cold so he saves himself the journey.

He somehow manages to appear right where Yeosang is, the other yelling and dropping the things in his hands. "What the fuck!"

Wooyoung winces at the glare Yeosang is giving him, he clearly doesn't like being startled.

"How many times do I have to tell you not to come back" Yeosang says, annoyed after being scared. He's never in his life seen anyone teleport near him. Even Mingi and Jongho just walk since neither like the dizzy feeling.

"And you should know by now that I don't listen to what people tell me" Wooyoung says, but Yeosang is already walking away from him. "Hey!" He calls, going after him. There's no time to waste today, his friends will kill him if he's late.

Yeosang sighs loudly when he hears Wooyoung getting closer, he cannot seem to understand this guy at all. He's just trying to get his chores done for the day so he can hurry inside and stay in front of the fireplace. "What do you want?" He turns around to face him.

Wooyoung goes silent for a second, almost looking timid. "I just. About last week, I wanted to thank you".

Yeosang frowns in confusion. "Last week? For what?"

"You know... letting me stay at your house during the storm". Wooyoung explains and Yeosang gets more confused.

"I didn't let you, you could've teleported all this time, but for whatever reason, you insisted on staying". He thinks Wooyoung is really strange. They stayed in complete silence, ignoring each other for the majority of that time. He has no clue as to why Wooyoung is thanking him for it.

"You gave me dinner, and a blanket. I just want to express my appreciation since your friend got the credit and got a reward"

Yeosang smiles in amusement. Did he come all the way just to say that? "I don't really care about all that."

Wooyoung fumbles with something in his pocket and Yeosang's smile drops when he sees what he's getting out.

"Here," the prince hands him a necklace. A brown string with a tiny pink crystal tied like a pendant. "It's just to say thanks"

Yeosang doesn't take it, only looking at the other sceptically. Wooyoung rolls his eyes and shoves it into his hand.

"I don't want this" Yeosang says, inspecting the piece of jewellery, worried that it might be laced with some magic.

"Why? Just keep it, you don't have to wear it or anything." Wooyoung frowns, annoyed that he's being difficult over such a small thing.

He puts it on the table. "Take it back. I'm fine with just a thanks, don't get me gifts". Yeosang doesn't hate gifts, he loves it when Mingi or Jongho get him things. But he doesn't want things from this guy, they don't even know each other, Wooyoung could have some other motive. Is he trying to woo him into doing something for him?

"I'm not taking it back" Wooyoung pouts, no one has ever rejected something from him before.

"Fine, throw it away on your way out then" Yeosang says, heading into his room.

"Hey! If you're going to throw it, do it yourself in secret, don't tell me to do it!" Wooyoung scoffs, how rude can this guy be. He just wanted to show his appreciation, he refuses to admit it but he's a little hurt. He knows Yeosang doesn't like him but he could just take his gift.

"I'm not allowed out of the castle for a while and even when I can go out again, I'll probably be forced to take guards with me. So it will probably be difficult for me to come here" Wooyoung says, trying to get him to actually converse with him.

Yeosang doesn't even spare him a glance. "Good".

Wooyoung sighs, expecting this kind of comeback but he still has to make an effort not to feel disappointed. "Why do you hate me?

Yeosang turns around at this. He's unable to explicitly read the prince's expression but it does make him feel a little guilty. "Hate is a strong word, I'm just wary around you"

"Why. Can't you see I want to be friends?"

Yeosang can indeed see that Wooyoung wants to befriend him. He just doesn't get that he's not like everyone else. Trusting and making friends is extremely difficult with everything he's experienced. "I don't interact with marked people".

"What about Mingi and Jongho? What do they have that I don't!" Wooyoung raises his voice a little, surprising Yeosang and making him wonder why he's so passionate about this.

It's not like Wooyoung has been cruel to him, he's never done anything to discriminate against him at all. Yeosang acknowledges that and appreciates Wooyoung for it, but it's just too much of a risk to befriend him. "They're completely different from you and you know that".

"Fine, I get it." Wooyoung does. They're too different. They're on completely opposite sides of the spectrum, heck, they're the labels of the spectrum. He gets why Yeosang is being cautious around him but he can't understand why he doesn't try or at least be a little nice.

Maybe he does need to give him some space.

Wordlessly, he turns around and teleports back, not bothering to tell Yeosang that he's going. It's not like he'd care anyway.