It took a while but here is the next, long chapter... have fun reading it...Hope you like it. (Sorry for the typos and any grammatical mistakes in advance)

Warning: There are a R18 and violent scene so be aware!

The song is Beautiful Moment by K.Will (The Beauty inside OST)

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Arthit and Kongpob sat on the bed in their chamber where they were attacked by assassins some moments ago. They could switch to another chamber but the younger one rejected his offer, giving him the reason that he was accustomed to this room and would remain there. Kong couldn't force him to something he didn't like so he gave in and accepted his decision. He would like to take him in his grand palace where it would be safer but that place could turn into his worst nightmare too. There were countless spies among his servants there who could expose him to danger. He could get rid of the spies but he had to wait for the best opportunity. For now, he was using their disloyalty to confuse their masters with false information and set them on the wrong track. It seemed to be the most effective method for now. 

While they were in this chamber, he had stationed two guards outside of the entry. Maprang as the maid and a guard, Prem as the main guard. Even if they were having their fun in bed, those two would be few steps away from their room to be on high alert to protect them. Meanwhile Bright would stay outside to control the situation there and Knott would be the shadow in the darkness and detect suspects faster and kill them.

Kongpob hold his hand up to Arthit, the latter had cleaned the wound with clear water and was bandaging it with a long white soft fabric. He wasn't a skilled and experienced physician like Wad but he had some acknowledges about wound after taking care of Kongpob's injuries back in Burma. While wrapping the silk over the wound Kongpob received during the fight against the assassins, he remembered the good old days, indulging himself in the past where he still had his noisy family with whom he fought over every little meaningsless things. He was still the crowm prince and Kongpob was by his side, how much he wished he could turn back the time and went back to Burma. He was homesick but never mentioned or let it shown to Kongpob to not worry him. It would break his heart if he knew that he didn't forget his old home despite having him by his side. Honestly, he loved Kongpob and Siam's people but he was missing his parents and his homeland too. Nowadays, he missed them more than before. Maybe because the bump was getting heavier and bigger that his pregnancy could be revealed anytime, he was restless and wished that he had this family who could be a support to him. If they were here, he wouldn't have to fear anyone who could harm their baby, Kongpob and him. Only if they were stil alive, would he have a higher status to protect himself.

The taller man noticed that his lover was lost in thought, he didn't like the sad expression on his beautiful face. He gently hold him on the chin and lifted up his head to see his face clearly. Like he already guessed, Arthit had tears in his eyes but he suppressed them for Kong's sake.

„...I'm fine...", Arthit said, lying before Kong could mutter a word. Even though he was determined to hid his sorrows, he failed to surppress the sadness that controlled his voice, it quievered due to the tears filling his eyes.

The Emperor leaned the wounded hand that was neatly wrapped in soft fabric over Arthit's hand and touched his chubby cheek with the other hand. His hand caressed over his flawless, pale skin. „I know that Siam isn't your home Burma but bear it with me for a while...", he took his hand in his palm and rested it on his own cheek. „I will give you the home you're supposed to feel welcomed and comfortable". Bear it with me untill I take care of all of my enemies and give you a safe home, Arthit... I'll find a way to get you your homeland back! But the last promise remained unspoken, he would never let him know about his secret if he wasn't sure about their chances of winning his parents-in-laws country back. While fighting against his foes, he had sent some spies back to Burma to investigate the situation. His spies had sent him a letter, telling him that Burma didn't regain its prestige back yet but was calmer now after the people had settled down with the new Emperor. However, according to them, the country would be plagued by a turmoil soon. The reasons were the people complaining about Emperor Jay's negligence towards them and the Empress's brutal way to conquer her servants. Even the former imperial family's allies among the higher officials were doubting Jay's ability to rule the land and were already conspiring against Jay but they were holding back for the right opportunity. Arthit didn't need to know about the turmoil in his homeland. If he found out about it, his attention would be brought back at Burma and he would neglect himself again.

Kongpob revealed a calm expression, his sharp eyes filled with affection and devotion, „I'll take care of everyone who wants to harm you and our baby...", he promised again, rubbing the latter's hand against his cold cheek, the other hand caressing the bump. He needed some warmth from his sun to raise his own body temperature. It felt good to have Arthit beside him, it was a lovely pleasure he couldn't deny neither receive from someone else.

Arthit didn't say anything, he remained calm but was scrutinising the older man's face more. After reading every line on his face, he realized that he didn't have it easier either. Not only he was tired of the countless assassination's attempt but Kongpob also was giving his effort to give him a comfortable residence without conspiracies and enemies, a place where he could call home. He knew that Siam would be his home from now on but he couldn't help but think about Burma. However, he shouldn't dwell in the past but be his support and his safe cushion whenever he fell, always ready to catch him. Arthit heaved, showing a bright smil.

„I have an important matter to tell you, Arthit. I want you to be the first one to hear before I announce it in the court... You should heard it from me and not from anyone else, Arthit", he said, really considering Arthit's feelings and position in that matter. He didn't continue but waited for Arthit's confirmation first that he would listen to him.

As soon as he got Arthit's attention, he heaved a heavy sight. The most powerful man in Siam seemed to be reluctant to announce the news to his man. Apparantly, he was scared that Arthit would be mad if he learned about the decision he made yesterday without his approval first. It was a wonder that the most powerful man in Siam feared a harmless, young man who looked more like an angel without wings. But appearance were deceitful. Arthit had a gently look that let everyone let their guard down around him and not take him serious but he always took this weakness to hid his scary side. He could be mischievous fierce and scary if he was angered. If he got mad and showed his disagreement toward his plan, he would take back his decision and think of another idea. Of course, he didn't want to ever hurt the man he would spend the rest of his life with. Kongpob would even put his own life in danger only to save and protect the man without regretting it later.

„I'll have the fourth concubine Praepalin as my Empress", Kong finally revealed the secret.

The smile dropped from Arthit's face, he was calm at first but frowned after a while. He was shocked but didn't want to expose his feelings so easily. The two persons outside of the entry, listened to their little conversation. They were shocked just like the male concubine, their eyes open wide. They exchanged looks, Maprang couldn't control her emotions well just like the trained guard Prem. Arthit's lips curved up, a sweet smile followed with dimple showed, his hand in Kongpob's palm was hold tighly.

„I see... I respect your decision..."

„Won't you ask why I choose her and not you?", the Emperor was anxious again. He feared that his man was enraged but fighting against the rage to not disappoint him. It was better for him that Oon asked him about the reason so he could explain and justify his decision.

A faint smile brightened Arthit's face, it made him look more beautiful than before. The smile was for Kongpob, he couldn't help but feel nervous about his man's reason why he remained silent instead of bombarding him with thousand questions. „You want to know why I didn't ask for the reason about concubine Praepailin being your next Empress? It's because I know it already. You won't take me as your Empress too soon since it's still dangerous for me. There are still enemies out there to use me to take the throne away from you. I heard from the maids about concubine Praepailin family's strong reputation. She's strong and can resist against the court officials while I, without any title and strong family, can't do anything as to succumb to them if I'm the Empress. You intent to use her family's reputation as my shield to protect me and also as a threat against the dowager. The new Empress'll protect me from the front while you'll guard me from behind, more like in the darkness". Arthit's expression was gentle and full of understandings, „She'll carve a path for me to take the throne later!", he was confident in his explanation. He already knew Kongpob's intention, as if reading his thought.

The Emperor's lips curved up, a bright smile exposed on his face. He was relieved but angry at himself that he doubted Arthit for a moment, thinking that he wouldn't accept his decision. Even without explaining, Arthit already read his thought and could comprehend his choice.

Arthit approached him, he placed his palm over Kongpob's chest, listening to his heartbeat and rhythm. His heart was restless, beating fast against the chest. „I see... You're scared just like me...", he raised up his head to gaze passionately at his man sitting in front of him. The smile remained perfect on his lips, „I will never forgive you if you dare to sleep with her!"

The taller one's eyes widened in shock, his mouth wide open too. He didn't believe that Oon wasn't disappointed that he appointed concubine Praepailin as his substitute but was restless thinking that he would had to sleep with the new Empress after the celebration. This is the matter you're worried about? Only now did he remember that he would have to sleep with her after the enthronement to fulfill the ceremony. Kongpob's heart skipped a beat, it was in harmony with Arthit't heartbeat. He flushed, something that happened occassionaly and only in Arthit's presence. Since he always restrained himself, he seldom showed his blushed face but today he didn't want to hold back his desire. Arthit's possessiveness and jealousy he loved so much awoke the beast in him again. Why he loved to see his lover being possessive and jealous? Because it always showed how much Arthit loved him and hated to see anyone else touch him. He chuckled, „I'm not going to but... You don't want to share me with anyone?"

„Of course not! You're mine!", the younger one insisted, touching the place where his heart resided, grabbing at the place as if holding his heart in his palm. „Your heart belong to me...", he whispered softly between his hot breaths.

„Then I can say that you're mine too...", Kong approached Arthit with his lips, they parted from each other, ready to lock Arthit's smooth lips with his and violate his lips to their heart content.

However, Arthit laid one finger against his lips and pushed his lips back. He bit on his lower lips, looking at him in a flirtatious and seductive way, „I'm going to be on the top today...", he claimed then pushed Kongpob back in a gentle manner.

The taller man laid on his back on the bed, „You want to take the initiative today?", Kongpob reached his hand out to caress his man's chubby cheek but Arthit held both of his wrists and pinned them down next to Kong's cheeks on the bed.

Arthit bent down to him, his upper body close to the Emperor's chest. He pinned him down on the bed then bit on his lower lip again, parting his lips from each other and placing them on the latter's lips. Instead of kissing him, he waited, making the Emperor addicted to his kisses so he wouldn't want to wait anymore for it. He intended to make Kongpob beg for intimacy and succeded with his next move. Kongpob couldn't wait anymore, his body trembled under Arthit, he craved for the intimacy. He came closer to steal a kiss from Arthit's sweet lips but the shorter man backed away, putting a mischievous smile. Arthit enjoyed their little roleplay but he underestimated Kongpob, the more clever and sly one. Of course, Kong was already addicted to the whole person, Arthit, but he wasn't easy to win against in matter of seduction. The intention backfired at Arthit. Kongpob's next movement was unpredicted, dangerous and too strong, it shattered Arthits dream to take the initiative and be on top of him while doing it.

Kongpob slipped his hand through Arthit's undergarment to caress the soft, round buttocks that perfectly fitted in his palm. He kneaded it with much passion and love, one hand grabbed at Arthit's nape and slowly pulled him closer to him. His lips were close to Arthit's ear, „I'll always be yours...", Kongpob whispered in his ear with a sly grin on his face, his hot breath brushing against the latter's sensitive skin.

Arthit shuddered under Kongpob's hot breath, his body trembled for a second but he regained his calmness a moment after. He blushed, his face was hot from Kongpob's gentle voice and touch. Kongpob's finger slipped between the two round buttocks, it gently caressed the small hole. Of course, Arthit responded to the sudden, lovely touch by moving his hips up to relaxe and ready himself to be entered, a soft moan escaped his mouth and filled the air. That was Arthit's doom! Kongpob's gentleness was only enough to make Arthit's member work on its own, it tingled and began to raise stiff. Arthit was surprised and slightly shocked, his dream was shattered into pieces the moment Kongpob used his seductive methode against him. He pouted. How unfair!

Two people were having their fun in their chamber but two people were dying outside of the chamber listening to the prince and the Emperor's perverted action behind them. Maprang, the pitiful innocent one among the maids, didn't earn any mercy from her two masters. Kongpob and Arthit were in their own world, ignoring her innocent soul that could die from hearing too much of their fun. She blushed in embarrassment, her breath was hot also uneasy, her heart thumped harder too. Prem, more experienced in sexual intercourse, had taken pity toward the young maid turned guard. His hands reached out to her, they covered her ears so she wouldn't listen to their master's dirty play behind them. Maprang was grateful that he was considerate toward her but his action raised her embarassment too, she wished she could dig a large hole and disappear in it forever.

Kongpob pointed at the bulg raising in Arthit's undergarment, „You're already like this and want to top me?", he couldn't hold back the urge to tease him. He wanted to see him getting flushed and frustrated, Arthit's fierce and embarrassed sides were cute for him after all.

„Shut up!", Arthit cursed, feeling sad that his always desired dream was shattered into pieces but he refused to give up yet. He had his eyes on Kongpob's member, giving himself time to concentrate on the older man under him. It was the first time he would take the initiative and ride on him from the top but it made him feel aroused and hard already. It was his suggestion but he was reluctant for a while. He was confident in his methode but didn't know if he could succeed to make Kongpob feel good. It's always him who initiated the intercourse... Today I'll have my fun too...

The taller man raised his arms to surrender, „Okay, I give up... I'll let you on top of me but you'll have to work me down there", he pointed at his member, „...to make your Phee raise first", he said, wingling his browns. It was a big lie. Of course Kong was aroused the moment Arthit suggested to ride on him but he was trying hard to surpress his horny self for a reason. It was an occassion that didn't happen yet so he was more than delighted but he didn't let his excitement shown or his man would take his luck away by changing the plan. To imagine Oon above him and riding on his hard cock, was a dream he didn't dare to mention before to keep himself sane.

Thinking about it, already accelerated Kong's heartbeat, the hairs on his body tingled. Kong always desired to see his sun from below, adore his slim and smooth body, he wouldn't take his gaze from him during the entire intercourse. It would be a perfect gift from heaven to see Arthit exposing his body completely to him when moving his hips up and down while riding on him, shuddering slightly under the rides and moaning in pleasure. It would be a wonderful view, just like the eagle view where he could see everything of him. He was shortly before to have a nosebleed because of his phantasy but he pleaded in his mind that his body shouldn't spoil his happiness by letting him have a heart attack or nosebleed to show that he was too excited.

Arthit gulped, his hands reached out to Kongpob's clothes, he undressed him one by one and threw the clothes behind without seeing where it landed. Kongpob was in his undergarment, Arthit was reluctant to take the undergarment off but he was excited too, his eyes beaming a certain ambition, desire and determination. His trembling hands hold onto the small cloth then he slowly pulled it down to take it off. Now, Kongpob was exposed naked in front of him. His eyes scrutinised the Emperor's strong body, his handsome face, his red thin lips, his broad shoulders, his brawny chest and his stomach full of hard muscles, his manly, long legs and... and his cock. It was a delicious view for Arthit, he couldn't resist it anymore. He licked on his lips, sending sexual tension in the air. Right now, he looked more like a beast awaken from his deep slumber. And the first thing the beast wanted to do, was having this man and his body. He wanted to enjoy himself to the fullest.

Kongpob realized the burning desire in Arthit's hot gaze, his eyes were filled with excitement, he couldn't wait for the appetizer, the man dish and the sweet dessert. The strong gazes Arthit was giving him right now, weren't good for his heart. It almost exploded in his chest, Arthit's gazes were just too hot for him to handle, his body temperature raised all the sudden. I need to calm down or I won't survive after this. His eyes mustered the man above him from head to toes, he enjoyed the amazing view the beautiful body of his man was offering him. Ah, I don't care if I don't survive today. Even if I die after this, I'll die as a happy man whos dream was fulfilled. He laid back, his arms crossed under his head, letting himself be served today.

Arthit approached Kong's member with his mouth in a provocative but sexy way, he parted his lips from each other and took the soft tip of the crotch in his mouth, closing it with his red lips. He licked on the tip first, Kongpob shuddered at the new seductive methode. It was the first time he had to give in to Arthit and hell yes, he loved it. The younger man's hand gently wrapped around the long member, he licked on it slowly and passionately, his saliva remained on the crotch. It worked, Kongpob's slowly raised from his suppression. Arthit's lips curved up in a small smile, he sucked on Kong's member slowly. After a moment, he put more effort and strength in his blowjob. A soft moan escaped someone's thin mouth, it filled the calm air. The voice was deep but arousing. Arthit was surprised to hear Kongpob moan under him. His smile turned brigther when he realized that he was on a good way to make the Emperor horny. He sucked harder on the older one's member, letting his voice out too.

While they were having their fun, someone's soul let her body some meters away from the evil chamber that was filled with moans, dirty speeches and loud thrusts. Maprang's face was blank, pale and... death. At that moment, Prem thought to himself: R.I.P Maprang. You'll never be forgotten.

****

Arthit waited till Kongpob left the flower palace, assuring himself that the older man wouldn't be back soon. He knew that Kongpob would be busy with the meeting with the court officials then burry himself in his duty as the Emperor when he stepped out of his chamber. However, Arthit didn't feel lonely that he left him since he didn't want to have him in his palace for the time being. Now that he was gone, he could finally visit the injured female guard he brought in his palace yesterday. Since the Emperor would be against his intention to take care of the injured one till recovery, he held the matter a secret for now. He went back in the east wing of his palace with the idea to see her healing progress but he was greeted with a shocking view. The female fighter was still unconscious, the severe wound in her stomach that they managed to dress properly was soaked with blood. The original white colour of the silk had the colour red now, blood dripping down on the bed. Maprang was there, pressing more clean silk fabric on the wound to staunch the bleeding. Meanwhile Prem and eunuch Toota were standing next to her, helplessly since it was the first time that they had a wounded female fighter in front of them. They were tense, scared how and where to touch her. Arthit realized how reluctant they were due to her gender, he dashed to her and helped Maprang to press on the injury.

„Please, your highness, you'll get dirty. I'll..."

„Concentrate on her instead...", the male concubine interrupted. „Did you forget that I have experience in this field too?"

Prem and Toota were surprised, more like confused how such a charming man got experience in the medical field. According to them, the male concubine didn't look like a physician. Only Maprang didn't get confused because she knew Arthit's capability. She remembered the time when Kong got injured while protecting Arthit back in Burma and the crown prince remained on his sick bed to take care of him everyday. She knew that it would be waste of time to argue with him. Once he was determined to do something, no one would change his opinion.

Together with his help, they could staunch the bleeding. Arthit took a sharp object to cut the silk wrapped around her stomach, the skin around the long cut were red, surely infected. The wound wasn't only long but also deep, the red muscle of her stomach could be seen. Her body temperature raised, her breathing was shallow but fast too, her heartbeat accelerated, her chest moved fast up and down. The infection deteoriated her healing progress. She moaned in pain, her hands clenched against the bedsheet. Now that it got this worse, Arthit had to admit that it was out of his capability. He wasn't a skilled physician like Wad after all. Toota shivered as his eyes fell on the wounded stomach, her smooth and white skin shining under the sun. Prem wanted to look away when her soft skin on her stomach made an appearance but was stopped in the middle of his action.

„Don't you dare to look away!", Arthit's commanding voice echoed in the chamber, scaring the hell out of the ones present there. „I want you to see her properly because you have to get accustomed to female bodies". He shot Maprang a glance before turning back to face Prem again, „You don't only have male guards as your followers but also female guard. You should get accustomed of having female soldiers around you!". His expression turned soft, „I want to trust Maprang in your care. You have to dress her wound when she get wounded in a fight...", this time he didn't use his commanding voice to order or force him but to plead. Apart from protecting him, he needed Prem to be there for Maprang too. It was important for Arthit that he could rely on the male guards to take proper care of Maprang in time of needs. If they were reluctant to save her to not offend her, she would die lonely without even getting the chance to survive.

Only now did Prem understood why the male concubine appointed Maprang and him as the heads of the guards and put them together to guard him. After witnessing Maprang fighting in Ashin Wunna's residence, he had to admit that she was a capable, fearless fighter he learned to respect. Although he recognized her ability, he still couldn't understand why they were put together as team. Now that Arthit explained it to him, he finally realized that he was reluctant toward her the whole time. The male concubine wanted them as a team to make both of them comfortable with each other.

Prem conquered his weaker self and approached them, kneeling down before them and felt her stomach. He was careful enough to not touch the concubine and offend the Emperor this time. „Her stomach is filled hemorrhage... She needs an experienced physician or she'll die under this circumstance...", he explained, choosing his words carefully.

„Should I inform the royal physician?", Toota took few steps forward to them while asking.

„No, not the royal physicians!", his voice raised in panic. His voice softened, „He'll inform the Emperor about me taking in one of the dowager's in my palace..."

Maprang shot him a surprised look, she frowned. Are you still doubting the Emperor's ability to know everything happening around you? She heaved a sigh at his obliviousness. I'm sure that the Emperor knows about her the moment you brought her in. Not only Maprang but also Prem and Oak were frowning, they were sure that their Emperor had known about the injured female fighter's but didn't ask him about it for now.

Arthit covered her wound to keep her privacy as soon as he heard someone closing in to them. The three of them were pondering how to save her as a man entered the guest chamber. Bright blinked many times, questioning himself why they were staring at him as if he was a thief. He shook his head to banish the thought from his mind. Arthit and his servants were surprised to see him here since he was posted outside to guard the entrance. However, Arthit seemed not to be bothered by his soldier's presence.

„If only we could bring in an unknown physician... Do someone know a physician outside of the palace?", the male concubine asked. Even though he didn's have any expectation, he still asked them.

Maprang, Prem and Toota shook their head. Bright scratched at his forehead.

„I know a capable physician in the city who could help her...", Bright uttered so faintly that Arthit almost failed to heard him.

„Who is he? Is he someone we can trust?"

„It's a she...", Bright said, his cheeks red in embarrassment.

The three around Bright couldn't detect whether he was embarrassed or blushing. A female physician wasn't allowed in the palace in first place according to the law but Prem and Toota could already guess their friendly master's answer. Even since Arthit stepped foot in the hell of fire called palace, he didn't discriminate anyone and accepted both genders around him. He brought a chance of wind in the palace no one dared to do for so many years due to fear to be punished. The wind wasn't cold anymore but warm and comfortable. The two Siam's servants were slowly accustomed to the male concubine own way of taking care of the matters around him. The more surprising thing was that the fierce Emperor allowed him almost everything.

Arthit had a bright smile on his lips, finally the long awaited hope, however, he didn't expect to get his hope raised from the silly one between his strong soldiers.

The palace of Siam was in upror upon the youngest assassination attempt that took place in the flower palace where Arthit was living with his servants. Assassins infiltrated the imperial city without the many guards's knowing and almost succeeded in killing the Emperor and the male concubine. Thanks to the Emperor's sharp senses, he could prevent a tragedy that could had have a heavy impact on him for the rest of his life. Kongpob sat on the throne, his ellbow on the armrest, his cheek leaned against his fist. He discussed the matter with his subordinates who were the court officials, especially the general of the guards. Since they had acquaintance with his short-temper a while ago, the higher officials knew what awaited them if they didn't give him satisfied answers to his questions. The questions that made most of the subordinates tremble were how the assassins could infilatrate the heavy guarded palace and even attempt to kill the concubine and him. Silence took over the hall, it felt like a pure torture for the many participants surrounding Kongpob.

Kongpob had enough of their murmurs, slammed against the armrest of the golden throne and raised all the sudden. „You incompetent fools! I know that you can't accept me, a young man born from a filth of the red light destrict, as your Emperor but I am be your master you have to respect, listen to and ensure my safety as long as I'm sitting on this throne. Mark my word! Whoever dares to approach me or my concubine with ill intentions again, will be tortured to death by my own hands!", it was a good methode to teach his enemies some fear. „I want the survived assassin to be found and brought back to me at the end of the day. If not, everyone will meet the consequence of failing to do their work properly!"

His methode was successful, his enemies among the court officials were trembling, looking at each other and gulping hard to avoid meeting Kong's gaze that could kill them on the spot. They remained silent to not provoke him. It was best for them to keep quiet in front of him.

Before he stepped out from his position, a smirk played on his thin lips. Of course, Kongpob would never let the chance slip to use this occurance as his advantage to announce a shocking news. „I already found the next Empress who will take former Empress's Kaofang's throne in the women's court. Fourth concubine Praepailin will be the next mother of our country. Prepare for her enthronement! It will take place in one week from now...", he revealed the secret he was holding since yesterday night.

Now that he dropped a bombshell, another commotion raised among the officials, chocking the old leechers with his unexpected announcement. He waited for a moment to listen to their complaints but the people in front of him remained silence till the end. Why? Whoever raised from his position, would be accused as the traitor who sent countless assassins to assassinate the Emperor and the concubine. If one valued his life and wanted to avoid painful torture, one should hold back their disagreement toward the Emperor's decision. Even if they despised him to the bone, they thought that the young boy everyone looked down on and were sure of that he would remain a nobody till his death, grew into a strong opponent. However, those old mercenary leechers would never admit it or their defeat. Kongpob's mother words before she was accused and killed mercilessly, replayed in their head: My son will take over the throne one day and avenge my death by killing you all brutally and mercilessly. They shivered when remembering the cold glares she was shoting them before she died.

Kongpob stepped down and left the hall with a big smile on his lips. This time, luck was on his side and he achieved another meaningful victory against the Empress dowager. The court officials were shocked that the blood dried in their veins for a second but ran up to their head a moment after, their veins revealed on their hot forehead, revealing how enraged they were right now. They were discontent about his decision but they kept their calmness to not appear suspicious of conspiracing against their powerful ruler. There was a staring contest, they were staring at each other, not daring to ask the question „Who the hell put them in an disavantage by plotting an assassination?". Even Kong's alies were surprised at the shocking annoucement. They agreed among each other that their master would choose the male concubine as the next but he decided for the least expected person? But why her? The doubt were written on their face but they decided to trust their Emperor for now. 

****

A man stepped in the grand woman's palace, was greeted by the few maids who were allowed to serve their confined master. The young man remained outside in front of the chamber as an older woman announced his visit. A voice spoke in the room and allowed him to step in, the coldness in the voice sending chill down the maids' spine. He stepped in the chamber and met an older woman who was lucky enough to keep her beauty and youth. The dowager sat on one of her chair around the table, sipping on her steamed hot tea. The Empress dowager looked at him, revealing her beautiful round eyes and enchanting smile. She deposed the small mug on the table. Her son, Pitcher returned the small smile and bowed his head down to his mother to express his respect. Even though there weren't any change in her cold expression, she still felt delighted to have a visit form her beloved son during her confinement.

Pitcher sat down in front of her, „I got permission to visit you in your humble castle because I'm your son... How are you faring, Empress dowager?", there was a certain mockery in his voice. He didn't even hid the teasing, he was obvious as always.

„Drop the honorifics and call me mother, you mischievous son of mine...", she didn't even get angry at his mockery.

„Since when did you allow us, your children, to call you mother? You always wanted us to address you as the Empress or dowager after father's death...", Pitcher didn't spare her from any unfriendly comment.

„Bold as ever...", she sipped another gulp of the tea. It was hot but she managed to drink it well without complaining. She loved her food and drinks more hot instead of cold, she was already cold enough to cool down everything and didn't need any coldness to add to her.

Pitcher waited for a moment, gazing at his mother before stating the reason why he came to visit her today. There was an information he couldn't hide from his mother. It was important that she heard the shocking news from him instead from someone else.

„And?", she raised one of her eyebrown. Actually, she was was curious about the Emperor and his male concubine the three days she was confined in here. During her stay in her palace, she didn't get any visitors neither heard any information from her maids. Her allies lost trust in her and refused to help her. Kongpob even made sure to shut her from the outside world so she wouldn't conspire behind his back again. She knew that he was trying to protect the male concubine from her but she didn't finish with them yet. She would come back, stronger, more evil and fierce.

He took a deep breath before speaking, „The Emperor stated in today's meeting that he would enthrone the fourth concubine Praepailin as the next Empress..."

The dowager's mouth twitched all the sudden, the cup almost fell out of her trembling hands. She tried to hid her anger but she failed on playing the strong woman. Her rage raised, boiling her blood dry. Without a warning, she slammed the cup on the table, spilling the hot content on the table, it even scladed her hand. Pitcher sighed, he brought a silk fabric out of his cloth and wipped her hands clean with the handkerchief.

Her eyes were filled with hatred, revenge and killing intent. „That bastard son dared to steal my work from me!", she slammed her fist on the table, dirtying her hand that her son wipped clean just a moment ago. „I had to give up a fortune to buy her as MY concubine!", her voice was so loud and terrifying that the maids jolted in fear, they shivering because they knew the punishment that awaited them soon. Whenever the dowager was irritated or displeased, she would let her rage on them.

Pitcher sighed, he wipped her hand clean for the second time, wishing that she wouldn't dirty it again since he didn't come here to work as her servant. „Yeah, we have a common enemy."

She couldn't help but laugh in delight, she admitted that she underestimated him again. The son of that prostitute was clever, more determined also ambitious than she ever imagined. He was an equal opponent who wouldn't let the fight be boring as her previous fight between her former husband's concubines. She was angry that her blood almost dried in her body but she remained calm, never admitting it in public that she had respect toward her foe Kongpob. „Do you why he choose her as his Empress?", a gloomy expression darkened her face.

„Not really. Besides, I don't have any interest in your conflict. I'll just lay back and observe the fight between you two...", Pitcher laid back on the chair to relaxe more.

„Oh, you silly boy of mine... I thought you were the most ambitious and strong one among my sons but you are going to end as a nobody just like your 2 younger brothers... How could you let that bastard of son overturn you so easily?", the dowager was disappointed in her three sons' incapabilities. They had their own talent but none of them was so strong and ambitious like Kongpob. Even if her stepson almost got rid of her because of his love for a man, she still respected his determination. She wished her 3 sons would take a page from Kongpob's book but her wish would always remain a dream. Because of her two younger sons' weakness, she sent them far away from the palace to not let them get in her way to make the eldest son the next Emperor. As a mother, she wanted to raise them properly so they could grow up into a fearless young man but she failed in their upbringing. Pitcher was her only hope she had to rely on from now. She explained Kongpob's idea to him, „Concubine Praepailin has a strong and wealthy merchant offspring which had connection to many countries all over the world. She knew which way to use to conquer her fiends that's why I brought her in the palace."

„The shy woman who looks like she can be controlled by anyone? It can't be... She's worse than the second concubine, I didn't get any impression on her the first time I saw her..."

„That's because she was hiding her true self to not stand out too much. You'll be surprised if you saw how well connected and informed she's about every countries' secrets. Kongpob saw her potential that's why he choose her as his next Empress. She's the only woman who can be equal against me in the womens' palace."

Pitcher couldn't believe that his witch mother feared a self-contained and shy woman like the fourth concubine. If his mother was telling the truth then he could guess why Kongpob choose to enthrone her as the Empress instead of Arthit Rojnapat. After invetsigating for a while, he found out the true name of Burma former crown prince who should be actually dead. A smirk played on his lips. So you're using Praepailin as Arthit's substitute to protect him from your enemies, huh? That's smart of you, Kongpob. „What are you going to do then?"

The dowager clenched her hands, she smirked. It was a devilish smile that Pitcher didn't see for a while. It showed that she had a master plan that she would put into action soon. What are you planning this time? Somehow, he was worried about Arthit. He knew that her plan would involve Arthit, the man he felt something for. Something he couldn't detect as love or a desire he would like to have and taste. A picture of Arthit appeared in his mind, it was the first time he met him in the palace in front of his mother's palace when Arthit wrapped his arms around his bump as soon as he saw him. He couldn't help but chuckle at the innocent man's picture projected in his mind. He took a glance on his mother. She resembled a scary witch who was on the hunt for innocent childrens' souls. How will you react if you found out that Arthit is pregnant? You'll kill him for sure, right? Because a child of Kongpob means that his throne is secured, right? He heaved a sight, looking up at the ceiling. But do you know what, mother... Arthit's going to die soon... The pregnancy will kill him if he didn't get proper medicine and I... hold the key to the treatment he needed to survive. I want to get revenge on Kongpob and teach him a lesson but I don't want Arthit to die. I want him for myself...

The dowager wasn't oblivious, Pitcher tried to hid his ambition to own Arthit but she realized a certain determination burning in her son's eyes. She couldn't detect where the feeling came from but she was glad that he was finally ready for the fight. Whoever or whatever made him like that, she was grateful toward that person. 

****

The female physician Bright smuggled in the flower palace was a beautiful young woman named May. Arthit recognized her as the woman he saved once in Ashin Wunna's resident. She met Knott and Bright at the border of Siam, the two Burma's soldiers were dehydrated and malnourished. She brought them home to treat Knott's wound and cook many foods for them to recover. According to Bright, Knott would had died back then if they didn't met her, their life saviour. It was a happy reunion between Arthit and May at first but the atmosphere turned gloomy as Arthit remembered the brutal death of Two, Maprang's older sister. There wasn't a day he didn't reminisce about her and regretted her death. Deep in thought, he didn't realize Maprang calling for him. She was worried and touched him on the shoulder to shook him carefully. Only now did he notice her calling him for a long time now.

He looked in the chamber whereupon he faced May who was putting herbal medicine on the female fighter's severe injury. She dressed the wound properly to protect the injury from more infection. She wasn't an official physician because of her gender. A woman wasn't allowed to work as a physician but she helped her grandfather when he treated her patients so she learned medicine by herself by memorizing his works.

A maid dashed in the chamber, bowing her head down as respect and apology to enter without permission but she was agitated for an unknown reason. „The Emperor is here..."

Arthit gasped in shock, he didn't expect him to arrive yet. Actually, he expected him to return in the middle of the night. Why are you back so soon? „Don't let him see May... I'll distract him...", he dashed in his own chamber where he met Kongpob.

Arthit arrived in his chamber, he jumped in shock as his gaze met Kongpob's. The taller man was standing just in front of him, his arms wrapped around his back, his expression serious.

Arthit beamed a smile, trying to hid his worries. „What are you doing here?"

„Shouldn't I be here?"

„No... No...", he laughed in embarrassment. „I thought you would return later... I wanted to surprise you and didn't expect to see you here so soon", he had to use lies to hid his secrets.

Kongpob raised one of eyebrown, he clearly didn't believe him. „I'm here to inform you that I announced the news to the higher officials", his eyes glanced over Arthit, mustering him from head to toes. His eyes rested on the younger man's pale face.

„I see...". He was curious about the court officials' reaction to the news but he had to hold back his curiosity. Kongpob had to leave so he could return to May and discuss the treatment of the injured fighter with her.

Kongpob approached Arthit, he caressed his thumb over his cheek then gently grabbed on his chin, he pulled him closer to his body. He stared deep in Arthit's big eyes, as if trying to find something out. His lips parted from each other, he placed his lips on Arthit's and kissed him. They kissed for a brief moment, Kong sucked on his lips, he teased him by using his tongue to graze the latter's tongue but he didn't go deeper with the kiss. Kongpob broke the kiss then gave Arthit a peck on his lips. Arthit was content but somehow disappointed that he didn't deepen the kiss.

„Don't test my patience, Arthit! If anything happens to you while taking care of that woman, I'm going to kill every of your servants! Mark my words!", it was a threat he shouldn't ignore

Arthit was shocked, in that moment he realized that Kongpob knew about the female fighter in the guest chamber. He didn't even need to ask him how he got the information about her. His spies were everywhere, following his every steps. Kongpob passed beside him and left for his duty as the Emperor in his study room. Actually he wanted to warn Arthit that he should be careful and not trust everyone so easily but he decided to let him play the saviour for a few more days. Nothing will happen to him. My men are everywhere to protect him.

Arthit sighed heavily. I should have guessed that he will found out about her. I can't keep a secret from him, huh. As he took a step forward, a sharp pain shot through his stomach. He wrapped an arm around his bump, pressing on it slightly to alleviate the pain. It felt like his guts were ripped apart by something. What's that? I didn't feel like that for awhile.

****

A few days later, the ceremony to crown the fourth concubine Praepailin as the next Empress took place already. It was a grand celebration, not also pompous like Kaofang's ceremony but the courtyard where they celebrated, was filled with wealthy higher officials, merchants and many Emperors from neighbouring countries. Two days after the ceremony, Kongpob was on his way to visit his ancestors' graves with the new Empress as he met series of unfortunes that twisted his guts in a painful way. Because his instincts were warning him from an unexpected events, he returned to the palce, riding on his horse Ma, closely followed by few soldiers.

Kongpob jumped down from his horse, he immediately ran the way back to the flower garden to visit Arthit. He was greeted with a shocking sight. There were corpses everywhere on the ground. They were the maids and guards who served Arthit, they were the servants he saw in this morning laughing with Arthit before he left. The soft soil was covered with their blood, not even a spot on the ground wasn't dirtied red with blood. The corpses had lethal injuries on their stomach or on their chest, some were even decapitated. Eight persons were in the middle of the courtyard, they were surrounded by piles of corpses and more than forty black clothed assassins who had pointed their swords at them. The eight persons were Prem, Bright, Toota, Knott, Maprang and four other guards who survived. They were exhausted, badly wounded and drained from their energy. They made a circle, using their bodies as shield to protect a certain man in the center of the circle. Kongpob realized Arthit standing in the middle of the circle, his arms wrapped around his bump. His expression blank as if he didn't feel anything expect immense pain, his lips were blue from lack of oxygen, his eyes were empty, his body trembled so much that he couldn't stand straight. He had blood in his porcelain white face, his hands were dirtied with blood too.

The Emperor was in shock, his body hot from the raising rage. His veins were visible on his forehead, he clenched his hands. His hand touched the hilt of his sword that he had attached around his waist, he drew it out. The sound of a drawing sword attracted everyone's attention. The assassins were in panic when they noticed the raging Emperor in front of them. Maprang and the others realized the Emperor's arrival and seemed relieved but Arthit didn't react. He seemed to be in a trance, not noticing his surrounding at all. The moment Kongpob saw tears filling Arthit's eyes and dripping down, he screamed, letting out loud, painful screams then charging at the fiends. The assassins were reluctant to fight against the strong Emperor but they couldn't escape either. It was die trying or not trying but ending up as prisoners. They wanted to die as fighters instead of being tortured as prisoners for the rest of their lives. They charged at Kongpob.

Kongpob fought his way to the front to his Arthit. Everyone who was on his way was slashed mercilessly, he only had Arthit in his mind right now. He wanted to get to his man as soon as possible or he would lose his mind and turn insane. After forcing a way between the assassins, the imperial guards managed to kill the rest of the fiends. Kongpob arrived in front of Arthit's fighters, they scattered aside to give the Emperor place to march to Arthit.

Kongpob moved forward to Arthit, the latter still frozen on the spot, his expression still blank. The shock was too profound, his maids were all dead. 95 percents of his guards were death. Only 8 fighters survived the assassination attempt. The survivors were injured, some were so badly injured that they would never be able to hold a sword to fight again. Kongpob arrived in front of Arthit, the sword fell on the ground beside him. His hand touched Arthit's cheek, his thumb caressed the latter's smooth skin, passionately and gently. He noticed that he dirtied his man's cute face with blood. He saw his hands, they were stained with blood, his clean clothes were covered with the red liquid too. He wipped the blood on his hands on his imperial gown before touching Arthit's cheek again but the shorter one didn't react to the lovely touch. His eyes were staring into space but his mind was in chaos. Many pictures of death appeared in his mind, they were the last images of his family and servants in Burma, how everyone's bodies laid on the ground, motionless and lifeless. The current situation awoke his memories of the sad past.

„Arthit...", Kongpob used his softest voice to call him. He could feel Arthit's pain and fear, it stinged in his own chest. Again, Arthit blamed himself for his servants' death. It was painful for him to see his lover in this sad state.

„Kong... pob...", Arthit managed to mumble faintly.

„It's alright now... I'm here now..."

Tears dripped down Arthit's eyes nonstop, he wasn't crying or sobbing. It were only the tears he was shedding endlessly. Kongpob hold him on his neck then pulled him closer to his body and hugged him. Only now did Arthit cry. The moment he fell in Kongpob's tight embrace, he finally let his cry out. A faint sound echoed in the air all the suden. It was an arrow that was shot in the proximity. Kongpob noticed the danger flying toward them, he tried to dodge the sneak attack but it was too late. The moment he turned away to cover Arthit, the arrow hit someone's back. Shot! Kongpob didn't move for a moment to not alert his beloved one, he staggered but refused to let Arthit go.

Arthit's eyes widened in shock as he grasped the situation. Kongpob fell to his knees but his arms were still wrapped around Arthit. His blood dripped down from the arrow and hitted on the ground. The shorter man reached out to his back and he touched the spot where the arrow hitted Kongpob. The taller man's vision turned blurry, his grip loosened whereupon he finally let go of Arthit, his arms hang down. He fell in Arthit's arms, the younger man leaned him on his lap, his arms wrapped around the Emperor. The soldiers were shocked that they froze on the spot, gasping in shock. Arthit looked to the front and found the culprit standing at the entry of his chamber. The person was there, staring at him too, the bow falling down out of his/her hand. He/she staggered, his/her eyes reflecting regret, sadness and helplessness. I'm sorry... I didn't have any choice...

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Feel free to leave comments :) Another tragedy striked KongxArthit. And did anyone guess who the culprit is who taimed at Arthit but shot Kongpob instead? Pitcher against the dowager? A mother and son war?  

The next chapter will start with the last scene of this chapter, Prae's enthronement :)