III) The King (2/3)

(Follows right from the end of part 1/3.)

Yeong POV:

Yeong draws the curtains in the whole suite except for one he lets half open in the living room (in case His Majesty does not wish for complete darkness), then prepares His Majesty's bedroom, letting the bedroom door ajar (for said light; if His Majesty wants any): one dimmed lamp, bed cover neatly open at a 45-degree angle, a glass of steaming water and a relaxing pill (over from the meds Kang Sin Jae had brought him after he'd been shot), in case His Majesty might want it, on the left nightstand - both His Majesty's usual side when in bed, and the one nearest to the bathroom (aka potential extra safe room if needed, with a weapon and extra ammunition at the ready whenever His Majesty sleeps in here) - the furniture's and space's orientation having been the reason this bedroom had been selected as His Majesty's bedroom when they had first got in - even if it wasn't actually the master bedroom of the suite.

Yeong sets his usual bottle of water he's fetched in his own bedroom on the other nightstand, noting that it's conveniently then both the one at the right - most practical side for him if he needs to take his gun, as he is right-handed - and the side that gives him the better view and range at the bedroom's door in this room. It's also his usual side - whenever at His Majesty's side; and even though that definitely hadn't been planned for, it feels as the most natural arrangement for them, if it comes to that.

Yeong hesitates, but finally decides to keep standing still at the other side of the room - facing the wall, back to the bed, giving His Majesty as much privacy as possible while offering a soothing, reassuring presence.

Yeong hears His Majesty coming out of the shower; drying and clothing himself; opening the en-suite door; pausing for a while in its opening, probably assessing Yeong's preparations - judging from the silence; walking to the bed; getting into bed: sitting, not lying down - judging from the noises. His Majesty lets out a tired sigh; and Yeong just sees it in his head: the way His Majesty has probably tilted his head up until it came to rest against the headboard. His Majesty takes the glass; holds it between his hands for a while, letting the warmth sip through - judging from the silence. His Majesty drinks some (Yeong doesn't think His Majesty took the pill); then puts the glass down. His Majesty turns the light off. 90% darkness: His Majesty having left the bedroom door ajar, there's still some natural light coming in. The bed cover ruffles as His Majesty lies down. On his back, Yeong thinks - he hasn't heard the punching about His Majesty usually gives in the pillow before lying on his side. Yeong tries not to read too much into it. He cannot tell after all if it means His Majesty is still thinking - unfortunately - watching at the ceiling; or if His Majesty's sleeping habits simply have changed. It's been nearly two decades, right...

/

The anniversary of that fateful night; and of his father's death.

The anniversary of his mother's death.

As kids, you bet they had often spent stolen time talking next to each other on top of His Majesty's bed, still sneaking in the dark long after their official bedtime. But those two nights had used to be the only nights His Majesty would ask for Yeong's company really late into the night - so late that Yeong wouldn't leave at all until morning.

The first time it had happened - the first anniversary of the horror of Cheonjongo - Yeong had apparently vowed to stay awake and guard over His Majesty while he'd sleep - according to His Majesty, who had used to remind Yeong of that vow at every following occasion Yeong had stayed over, retelling how Yeong of course had fallen asleep at some point, to his evident great shame, as he had awoken on His Majesty's bed to His Majesty's tired eyes (His Majesty hadn't been sleeping much) watching over him, and had whined that 'It should have been the reverse'. Yeong remembers though all by himself, he'd like to think, how His Majesty had then only given him a gentle smile, thanking him for having kept him company through the night - consciously or not didn't matter - before saying they should go to the kitchens for breakfast.

Yeong believes he'd been 11, the first time he had actually fulfilled his initial vow and had kept up all through the night - proudly sitting on the bed next to His Majesty, who had ended falling asleep curled on himself on his side, facing the other way; until His Majesty had stirred up in the morning; rolled over; thanked him as always for his company; congratulated him for having stayed awake - knowing how much it meant to Yeong - after having asked Yeong if he had slept and Yeong having answered that he hadn't; and then ordered him to get some sleep and eat some, in any order he preferred, but the two being imperatives. Yeong had first accompanied His Majesty for breakfast, and then had gone to sleep in his own bedroom - until His Majesty had had him awoken about past midday, in order not to entirely mess up his internal clock.

Yeong is certain he'd been 13, when His Majesty had told him that his company during those nights wasn't required anymore: His Majesty had to make it on his own at some point, right. "I'll be right over there, Pyeha" Yeong had just said, indicating the backdoor that opened on the (not) secret internal corridor that ran through half the area and connected their bedrooms (among others); and had gone to spend the night sitting on the ground. Twenty minutes later or so, the backdoor had opened, and His Majesty had asked him if he was comfortable and warm enough for the night, checking how many covers and pillows Yeong had brought over. "You do not have to, you know." "I know." A nod - a green light. "Thank you, Yeong-ah" was all His Majesty had said before retreating again to his bedroom, closing the door. It had taken His Majesty quite some time to fall asleep, judging from the frequent rustling; but His Majesty had - to Yeong's deeply felt relief.

His Majesty had never opened his backdoor again before falling asleep. But His Majesty had always opened it in the morning, thanking Yeong for having kept vigil again before handing him a hot tea; never mentioning anymore that Yeong didn't have to - knowing and accepting it as Yeong's choice.

Since being appointed Captain of The Guard, Yeong always rearranges the schedules and spends those nights standing at the official front door of His Majesty's bedroom with another guard. His Majesty gives them both the usual 'Thank you' nod he always offers to the guards on duty as he walks by; and that is enough, more than enough for Yeong, to know that he is still allowed to fulfill his vow.

/

Yeong is brought back to the present as His Majesty lets out a sigh obviously meant to be heard, this time.

Nothing follows though; and Yeong is about to turn his head some in order to assess whether he should keep silent still or ask if His Majesty might need anything. But right then, His Majesty's voice finally fills the room, more in disbelief than in complaint:

"Yeong-ah, are you really going to just stand all the way over there?"

Yeong's first instinct had been right, then. It slices through him; Yeong would have preferred having been wrong.

Yeong though turns around at once, already shedding his suit jacket while walking towards the bed.

"Of course not, Pyeha. It's been a long time, that's all; I didn't want to presume. May I turn some light-"

The unnecessary question dies on his lips as His Majesty has already clicked his own bedside lamp on, understanding without further prompting the need for Yeong to see and know exactly where he'd set his gun and knife down.

"Thank you, Pyeha."

Yeong makes a quick work of hanging his suit jacket on the valet stand while knocking off his shoes; then carefully places his gun at the ready on the nightstand, before opening the top two buttons and only the left cuff buttons of his dress shirt. He pushes his knife still in its sheath between the mattress and the bed, then arranges the still free pillow up against the headboard, and sits down on top of the covers at His Majesty's side; back against the pillow, feet flat on the mattress, arms loosely hanging on his bended knees. Yeong tests taking his gun and knife from the position he's in; adjusts some; tries again; then nods to His Majesty that he's done.

Another click echoes in the room, and they are once more in the dark.

And it's just as comfortable as it has used to be. No matter the years since they last sat next to each other in that way - as kids? It still feels natural; easy. There is no need to talk - to fill in the black void. Silence is not awkward. Darkness is neither something to hide in, nor to be frightened of. They're just together - aware of the other's presence nearby; and somehow, that's enough to just relax, some - despite the hurt and concerns and fears and hurt again endlessly circling in both their heart and mind at the moment.

Yeong keeps sitting up, focusing on his surroundings; but he feels more anchored than he's been since learning about all that had happened in Corea during his absence. His Majesty is still resting flat on his back; but he keeps still now, already less restless than mere moments ago.

About 45 minutes later, His Majesty solemnly breaks the silence.

"If I'm still King? - when all this is over? I'm having some Constitutional changes."

The voice is nothing but decisive; and Yeong knows His Majesty *will* follow through.

And for the second time today, Yeong believes he's never loved His Majesty more than he does right now. But then, that's just His Majesty, isn't it? Always giving him, each day anew, reasons to love him *more*. Corea is truly blessed, to have him as its King.

Yeong nods. Then clarifies, in case His Majesty didn't see it in the dark: "You know I trust your judgement, Pyeha."

"First, we're getting rid of the Special Law. I mean; what if we ever get a mad King? There must always be a trial."

So. His Majesty is burning the Death Note. And that's still brave; even after having used it. Maybe even braver than if he never had, actually?

Yeong nods again; forcefully enough this time for His Majesty to feel the movement, in case he doesn't see it.

"You're doing the right thing, Pyeha."

"Then, we should think of a way to better shield The Guard. You're *protectors* - that's what you sign for; not some louche private mercenaries The King can use for any personal vendetta."

And Yeong just can't stay still at that: His Majesty is not the one who started any of this; is not the one using henchmen for personal gain!

Yeong shifts forward and turns some, until he's sitting cross-legged, perpendicular instead of parallel to the bed, now facing His Majesty instead of being at his side; willing to give more weight to his next words. He relocates his gun at a more convenient angle according to his new position before professing:

"Lee Lim is the only one at fault, Pyeha. And sometimes, attack is just the best defense."

"Nevertheless..."

His Majesty now sits up too, mirroring Yeong's position, old habits resurfacing, to be closer to Yeong too - either to better push his point too or because his next words will be more intimate, Yeong can't tell yet. His Majesty's voice hushes lower somehow as he restarts talking; the second, then.

"You weren't there, Yeong-ah. Lady Noh was unwell - she's recovered by now; do not worry. Secretary Mo was really busy, as you can imagine; and if I'm honest, I might have consciously avoided her - keeping only minimum via-via contact until it was all done. Eun Seob was at the hospital, recovering and all; he doesn't know. Tae Eul wasn't in The Kingdom, except for the last part, and only saw me coming at her rescue, while being quite shaken at the time... So, the point is: no one said anything, Yeong-ah. And I can't help but wonder in retrospect how much of it might have simply been about not daring to contradict me; mixed with some kind of peer pressure - Seok Ho Pil for example seemed as eager as me... Watch over all of them closely when you get back."

"I will, Pyeha."

Yeong tilts his head, pondering, then goes for it. His Majesty is the one talking about it to start with.

"May I ask? - about Kim Gi-hwan?"

His Majesty tenses; then breathes in, out.

"Go ahead."

"Who-"

"The more I think about it; the more I believe I should have done it myself."

"Pyeha! No!"

"My order. And I do not regret it; and I expect I never will. But Seok Ho Pil volunteered, petitioning he had a right to it: he lost a kinsman too, at Prince Buyeong. I told him it didn't matter much to me whether the actual beheading happened pre or post mortem. I haven't asked."

"It should have been me."

A sigh.

"I know that's what you think. And that's exactly why I'm honestly glad you weren't around, Yeong-ah. Anyway, had you been around? I would still have agreed with Seok Ho Pil; no matter how hard you would have glared at me."

"Ho Pil might not have volunteered, had I been around."

"Yeong-ah! Must you always be so *intense*, really..."

His Majesty shakes his head; lets out yet another sigh; then focuses right back on Yeong.

"We've never talked about this; but we really should have - long ago, even. I guess we both shied away from the awkward conversation because we just wanted to believe it would never be necessary? But it *is* necessary; now. And I need you to listen, all right?"

Oh. This is going to be awkward, indeed. And upsetting, probably. Yeong simply nods once though; slowly - to show how seriously he is listening. They are so close now: the gesture is enough, no matter the dark; and His Majesty carries on, voice insistent, gaze pinning - even through the dark.

"I understand there is a difference between being willing to die in order to protect someone, being willing to kill in order to protect someone in a life or death situation, and being willing to kill for someone even without any imminent threat. I know though that you are ready and willing to do any of those, and even all of those; for me. I know too what I have indeed ordered you to do if you were to find Lee Lim - and this is not me taking it back; Lee Lim must be stopped - but you should know that I hope to be the one who will get to strike him down. Because you must understand that it is not because I *know* all of it that I do *want* for any of it. Not from anyone to start with; and definitely not from *you*, Yeong-ah. I do not want you to kill, nor to die; and especially not for me."

Pyeha...

Yeong refrains to push his case just yet: His Majesty has asked him to listen, and it doesn't feel as if His Majesty is done talking. His Majesty hears his retort anyway; through the way Yeong breathes or tilts his head, probably - and it shouldn't feel surprising, them being so attuned to each other for so long. His Majesty's voice turns softer, even though just as serious still:

"I also know I cannot stop you, Yeong-ah; if it ever comes to that. And I respect that."

Thank you, Pyeha. Thank you.

"And I am grateful; *so* grateful, Yeongie."

As I am, Pyeha. As I am.

"But I do not *want* it. Not any of it. And least of all..."

His Majesty's voice turns more urgent now, words coming out just a bit quicker, as His Majesty unconsciously inches closer still, gaze unescapable.

"I had to catch Eun Seob; as he fell right into my arms."

I'm so sorry, Pyeha...

"I do not want to have to catch you, Yeong-ah - ever."

Me neither, Pyeha.

(I'd still rather have it that way than its reverse, though.)

"As far as I'm concerned, you'll still be my Unbreakable Sword and the Captain of my guards even long after I retire and you quit active duty. Like, when you're 80 and I'm 84. I'll have some really comfortable chair made just for you to sit in and read actual books while I'll solve mathematic problems, and you'll taste the tea while I'll ask for an extra batch of your favorite cookies to go with it - and we'll get it, simply because no one refuses old men some cookies. Former Captain of The Royal Guard Jo Yeong will be just as revered and feared by the whole Palace staff as Lady Noh is now, while I'll just be allowed to be the adorable grandpa everyone loves to dote over. I do not want to have to make do with any less, Yeong-ah. I just have to make that very clear; if only once."

And this... This is making strange things to Yeong's heart.

/

The thing is, Yeong suddenly realizes, that he has never been considering any kind of long time ahead future for himself.

As a kid, Yeong had always used to wish for time to pass quicker - so he would get stronger, wiser, better. And Yeong had never realized, before actually looking back while answering Eun Seob's questions only weeks ago, how it had been in fact His Majesty who had made sure that Yeong had got some actual childhood anyway, despite his will to grow up not only as fast as he could, but also faster than his years - to fill that 4 years gap between him and His Majesty as quickly as possible, to *not* be some dead weight His Majesty would have to slow down his thoughts process for, or be careful around not to hurt physically while training. His Majesty hadn't had to, really - Yeong wouldn't have even realized he would have been missing anything, if he hadn't. But looking back, it is so obvious, and so heartwarming, to see and relish on all the small ways His Majesty had actually taken the time to give him what had become honestly precious memories. Watching TV programs and playing games meant for kids still when His Majesty had already been an advanced teenager? Reading to him and having him watch with him only about science fiction, fantasy and myths and legends and magic, and other thrilling and mysterious adventures of multiple kinds, from funny pirates to clever detectives to anything imaginary, fictional, in any embellished past or positive future, at least by the end of the story, where evil always loses and good and love in any form always prevails, no matter the eventual cost - simply because His Majesty had known that Yeong would never read nor watch any of those if left on his own? And how much Yeong had truly enjoyed it all! And how much he would have missed, indeed; if he hadn't been enticed by His Majesty to escape the only harsh reality of his own interests - always dictated by what he should learn in order to truly become His Majesty's Unbreakable Sword, and never considering what he might actually enjoy. Yeong hadn't realized, at the time, that they had not simply spent joyful time together, but that it had also been His Majesty *consciously* taking care of him, while spending joyful time with him.

And since becoming a guard, Yeong simply lives in the moment: day by day, week by week, month by month, year by year at the most; planning only as much ahead as His Majesty's always busy schedule requires. And Yeong hadn't even realized it? Except he just did, now; and honestly, it hurts. Because Yeong understands the reason behind his own unconscious censorship: why plan far ahead, if you didn't really expect to stick around? And it feels just *wrong*; and it makes Yeong downright mad at himself. Because, no matter the fact that Yeong would lay down his life without hesitation to save His Majesty (and with only one regret - not to be able to do so anymore) - anytime; right now if needed - honestly: Yeong *does* want to stick around; to stay at His Majesty's side until both their hair has turned gray, and even beyond. He wants it; *so* fiercely - that comfortable chair, those entertaining books, that hot tea, those delicious cookies, and, more than anything, that satisfied smug smile on His Majesty's lips as he'll watch him eat them. And once more, after having granted him his childhood, it is His Majesty who makes sure now that Yeong yearns for all those precious future memories to be made; who grants him his old days.

There is so much obvious care His Majesty *always* bestows upon him - and a care that goes beyond Yeong simply being *useful* to him. And again, none of it is necessary. Yeong wishes for nothing more in life than to be useful to His Majesty - to help him, to support him, to protect him; all in order for His Majesty to be able to be happy, with any luck. That's what Yeong wishes for above all: His Majesty's happiness. Yeong doesn't require anything for himself in return. He would give his all anyway; and always. And yet, he *does* get; and it's all just as freely given to him by His Majesty than what he himself gives to His Majesty. Because it is undeniable, how His Majesty always gives *so much* - and not to his shield neither to his weapon; but to *the person* that is Jo Yeoung. And Yeong knows it; has always known it. His Majesty's eyes and voice have never been anything but fond and warm whenever directed at him, even when placating. So why does it still feel somehow life altering, to register that His Majesty wishes him to be a part of his very far future, when it had always been obvious that he had always wanted him to be a part of each and every day of his past?

And yet; it just still is.

/

His Majesty inches closer still - deliberately this time: commanding.

"Tell me you heard me."

Yeong has to actually clear his throat before speaking; not that he's able to hide any of the emotions clearly audible still in his voice.

"I heard you, Pyeha. And I..."

Yeong waits - asking; and His Majesty not only doesn't take the reins back of the conversation, even after the first four words strictly answering his original demand, but also tilts his head - listening; and so Yeong finally lets it all out; trying to convey both his gratitude and his determination through his eyes as the words come out, out of their own volition. It is after all a truth so always present at the core of everything that makes Yeong that he doesn't have to search for the right words, nor the way to order them - it just flows out; mirroring His Majesty's pattern not because it is easy, but because it is meaningful. Yeong's voice is clear and earnest; not rushed in any way. This is not only important; it is also a once in a lifetime occasion for Yeong to *tell* - their mutual caring being usually shown or hinted at: expressed in deeds or coded statements (His Majesty's regular theatrics and beheading comments; Yeong's always loaded, because occasional, mentions of his sense of duty) more than in full sentences.

"And I thank you, Pyeha. For your will to protect me; even if from myself. And for your understanding; and your lenience - if not permission. And I am grateful; *so* grateful too, Pyeha. But be certain I do not want to ever have to leave your service - and even less your side. And it is the truth - not only because the last thing I would ever want would be for *me* to ever be the cause of any kind of distress for you; but also because I want that future, Pyeha. I *want* it - for myself; with all I have. But it is not a choice, Pyeha. It is a necessity. And I hope I can make that very clear; if only once."

A pause.

A short nod. Brief; but undeniable. And for that gesture too, Yeong is *so* grateful. His Majesty heard him. They openly agreed to disagree on that matter; at least - finally.

Yeong is about to draw back, thinking they are done with the awkward conversation.

He is stopped by His Majesty's still commanding voice:

"Nevertheless."

So Yeong right away shifts closer again.

"I have to draw the line somewhere, Yeong-ah."

His Majesty's right hand deliberately finds Yeong's left calf - fingers digging in, emphasizing His Majesty's call for Yeong's full attention.

"No torture. Promise me."

Yeong blinks. He sure hasn't seen that one coming. His Majesty has really been thinking *very* thoroughly about all this...

And the worst?

Yeong's breath catches, as realization hits.

The worst is that Yeong suddenly finds out that he just *cannot* let out the initial 'of course' that had right away come on the tip of his tongue.

Because His Majesty has *never* asked him to *promise* him anything.

Actual orders are, in fact, quite rare; among the myriad of other demands that feel more like manners of speech - His Majesty being The King. And Yeong has always felt somehow still free to decide on his own terms which ones to simply obey (95%), which ones to negotiate about or to find a loophole or some bending for (4%), and which ones (1%; always concerning the same one subject) he would simply silently beg His Majesty not to expect to see followed. True wishes or pleas are even rarer - and, as far as Yeong is concerned, always take precedent over any order eventually contradicting them.

But a *promise*? Yeong's given word would be bounding; an accepted shackle Yeong would never be able (nor willing) to break free from.

That's how serious His Majesty is right now. So. Now that Yeong has to actually *think* about it? Now that His Majesty has opened a door Yeong had apparently unconsciously always barricaded; had evidently never been willing to see even existed? If he's to be honest with himself - and he must: Yeong just cannot know to which extremes he might ever fall - if he might ever actually come to ever *believe* it might actually save His Majesty's life. And the thought is chilling, indeed.

His Majesty's voice turns both more insistent yet more pleading now - because, of course, His Majesty can guess exactly what's playing in Yeong's head right now, and knows he's the one who pressed the 'play' button to start with:

"Yeong-ah..." - fingers digging in harder, which oddly feels now more as a soothing gesture.

Yeong blinks again, shaking himself out of it; then clears his throat in order for his voice not to sound raspy nor hoarse.

"Not out of spite nor grief", Yeong finally swears, solemnly, voice loud and clear, eyes boring into His Majesty's.

His Majesty holds his gaze, absorbing the words and their implications. It is not the straight answer His Majesty might have wanted to get; but it is the only true answer Yeong can give, all considered - and His Majesty will realize then just how sincere Yeong's promise is indeed.

His Majesty's fingers dig once more in Yeong's calf.

"Good. I'll hold you to that, Yeong-ah."

His Majesty's hand retreats, leaving this time not its usual gentle warmth, but a branding imprint - as Yeong hears the true meaning behind the carefully chosen words: I can work with that; if need be.

"Pyeha!" - Yeong's voice now rushes out; frantic and horrified.

"I'll hold you to that," His Majesty simply repeats, calmly - and conclusively.

And Yeong understands now *exactly* how His Majesty must feel, every time Yeong just refuses to acknowledge any order concerning that particular 1% Yeong will never relent about... And honestly? It *hurts*.

Yeong has no time to recover though, as the conversation takes another darker turn yet:

"And. If anything bad ever happened to me-"

Yeong can't help but gasp out in shock, quite aloud:

"Pyeha!"

Two pairs of eyes blink, this time. Did Yeong just *interrupt* His Majesty - in such a serious conversation no less ?

But it had been instinctive: the subject is just off-limit. Yeong really doesn't want His Majesty to ever have to consider *that* to start with; and even less to talk to Yeong about it. That unshakable fear is Yeong's cross to bear whenever His Majesty is nowhere in his sight - and only Yeong's: His Majesty should never get to witness how the mere thought affects Yeong - because His Majesty should never feel responsible for Yeong's concerns, as they are willingly accepted anyway.

Yeong doesn't get the opportunity to apologize though, as His Majesty somehow gently pushes on instead of chastising him.

"I must insist, Yeong-ah. We're nearly done."

So Yeong closes his eyes, inhales, then releases a forced sigh. His body tenses up though, as Yeong meets again His Majesty's eyes and prepares himself for the incoming mental blow. His Majesty's voice is now nothing but authoritative and unescapable - and every word feels like a branding iron on Yeong's soul:

"If anything bad ever happened to me? It wouldn't be your fault, Yeong-ah. You must always remember that."

Typical. Contemplating his own death, His Majesty would think precisely about what Yeong wouldn't want him to consider - Yeong's own living hell; not only because of the complete abysmal loss, but also because of the bottomless guilt. And Yeong understands the words are meant to be soothing; but honestly? They only make everything feel even worse. Because of course it would be Yeong's fault - how could it not?

His Majesty hears his silent protest, of course:

"I never want to hear again about that nonsense of earlier. You *won't* *ever* fail me, Yeong-ah; I just know it - and so should you."

Pyeha...

"If a sickness; well, I don't see how you could judge it to be on you, as I'm probably the most regularly checked up person in The Kingdom to start with - but just in case. Not a lack of attention or perception on your part. Not on you. Never on you."

Everything starts spiraling out of control, and Yeong feels nauseous.

"Pyeha-"

"If an accident: it'd be bad luck, or fate; whatever people might call it. Not a lack of precautions or inspections on your behalf. Not on you. Never on you."

"Pyeha; please..."

Because the pattern is obvious; and now Yeong can't seem to remember how to breathe, guessing all too well just how shattering His Majesty's next words will be.

"If an attack-"

The words are out, then; and Yeong actually chokes.

"Pyeha, stop."

There is suddenly nothing but deafening blissful silence to hear - except from some buzzing in his ears; and Yeong realizes he is so tensed he is actually trembling. He is though finally able to take a deep breath. And then only does Yeong realize:

What?!

Yeong makes any rare disagreement usually known to His Majesty through silence and loaded eyes only. Threats about involving Lady Noh are occasional; and if in need of back up. Sporadically, there is a firm but pleading "Don't" - in retaliation for His Majesty's playful teasing in order to close or downplay a subject Yeong is definitely serious about: when connected to His Majesty's safety. But "Stop"? Did Yeong truly just *order* His Majesty around - no matter the begging in his tone? And did His Majesty actually listen?

Yeong is breathless again, but this time out of shame at his own irreverence. Yeong straightens right away:

"I do apologize, Pyeha."

His Majesty's eyes are nothing but soft, though; and so concerned. His Majesty's voice echoes, authoritative yet placating:

"I'm all right, Yeong-ah; and I'm right here. Give me your hands." - His Majesty's hands unfolding between them; palms up and waiting.

Yeong does as commanded, placing his hands into His Majesty's more out of automatized obedience over simple matters than out of actual thought-out decision on his part. He is grateful though for the welcome anchoring warmth and comforting squeeze that follows.

"I've put you through a lot lately, Captain Jo, haven't I? Maybe *I* should be the one apologizing?"

The not-joke definitely falls flat.

"Of course not, Pyeha. Never."

And Yeong just has to soldier on, then. His Majesty told they would discuss this just this once, right. So he owes it to His Majesty to endure it until His Majesty has said all he might wish to say.

"Please. Do proceed. If an attack..."

His voice falters some; but his eyes are steady, and he squeezes His Majesty's hands; urging His Majesty on both in words and actions.

His Majesty squeezes his hands back in an unnecessary but still welcome warning.

"If an attack: well, as we already agreed, it'd be on *them* - on whoever came at me. Not on you. *Never* on you, Yeong-ah."

Another squeeze, as His Majesty inches even closer - is this not over yet?

"And the most important? No matter which it might be? Promise me, Yeong-ah. Promise me you'll make it through, and still try to be happy."

It feels more as a plea than a command, this time - and it's even worse.

But once more, Yeong blinks. He sure hasn't seen that one coming either. His Majesty has really been thinking *very* thoroughly about this...

And again: it is nothing but chilling, indeed.

But, even through the terror and horror of it all, Yeong actually hears the message for what it is: His Majesty - always and still taking care of him; even beyond the grave.

Pyeha...

Yeong though isn't one to miss an opportunity when it presents itself, you bet. The pledge would be bounding, again. But this time, Yeong can actually make it worth it - *so* worth it. So Yeong really doesn't have to think twice before his voice resonates, clear and solemn:

"I promise, Pyeha. As long as you wouldn't have intentionally *not* outlive me."

His Majesty shakes his head; the ghost of a very sad smile on his lips.

"Of course, you have to negotiate, huh..."

His Majesty inches closer again, holds Yeong's gaze, and gives him a firm nod. His voice is serious; but nothing but sincerely grateful.

"Thank you, my dear Yeongie. We have a deal, then."

One last squeeze - a sealing handshake; and His Majesty releases his hands.

Yeong shakes himself out of it, and returns to sit against the supportive headboard, feeling by now literally drained, sighing:

"Let's just never do that again?"

One breath.

Two.

His Majesty sits up at his side, instead of lying back down, and Yeong can't help but notice that His Majesty looks particularly *satisfied*. So Yeong has an epiphany; and feels oddly warmed up, no matter the dread still seeping through his entire being. He's been played, and yet not played; and it is appalling, and yet comforting.

Yeong's voice turns accusing, yet playful - shaking his head even as a side smile gets on his lips.

"You know me too well; don't you, Pyeha. It isn't fair."

His Majesty gives him a quick smile back: looking very smug, yet somehow apologetic - and honestly, only His Majesty can pull that particular one.

"Now, Yeong-ah. You know the saying."

All is fair in love and war.

Bullshit.

His Majesty turns again definitely serious though:

"You promised, Yeong-ah. You cannot ever go back on your word. I will not allow it."

And so Yeong turns just as serious again too.

"I do not intend to, Pyeha."

And somehow, *they* are all right; and for now, that is enough.

.

AN:

In short: Lee Gon and Yeong both need a hug. And you bet I VOLUNTEER.

Then: I APOLOGIZE TO YOU ALL. Thinking back on how I had figured it would make sense - in a hurt/comfort dyptych way - to splits chapter 3 in 2 parts simply because I felt drained from last part and needed a break, to be honest... Let's say that I feel quite stupid and very sorry, because apparently I just HAD to have yet even more hurt still in part 2 (and so chapter 3 will be in 3 parts now) *facepalm* I swear negotiating terms about what conditions would make it acceptable or not for the one to die for the other is a thing I never thought I would come to write - but here I am? *headdesk* (I realize though some bits in here might feel OOC. But they are both not in peak shape to start with right now, so... I let it that way.) It was a now or never opportunity for them to have that very much needed conversation, at least. And yes, Gon is quite manipulative, but only with the best intentions, (and to protect Yeong('s soul) even from himself, because even though it shouldn't been necessary to talk about those 2 extremes, Gon still has to make sure, in case; and the very improbable yet calculated risk he's considering is more than worth what he gains), so Yeong honestly doesn't mind in the end - and he was definitely able to gain something that matters A LOT to him in return. Anyway, the comfort part IS on its way this time; I promise! I'm already busy writing part 3.

On a side note: "Yeong-ah! Must you always be so *intense*, really..." Well: YES, of course, he must. It's his modus operandi. MY HEART! MY EVERYTHING!

Also: I realize I just can't stop going overboard with Gon's "(Yeong) You really need some fairy tales in your life". But IMO, Gon's childhood being what it is, between the horror and the constriction, it is only logical Gon truly enjoys other realms stuff and adventures (and maths) - escaping coping mechanisms. And Yeong being so devoted and intent and yes, INTENSE, from the very beginning, it is only logical Gon understood it was on him then to slow him down somehow - he was older, and not blind, and not dumb. So yes, take any major fantasy/imaginary/sci-fi story from any medium you might enjoy, and just assume Gon tested if Yeong might enjoy it too (and yes, Yeong always did). Except for Harry Potter - that's just a NO WAY: Yeong saw BOY WHO LIVED, ORPHAN, and SCAR; and just decided it hit wayyyy too close to home for Gon to ever read this to him or watch this with him, huh. MY TEARS :(

And: I do believe Gon would retire - and not be King until his death. He had to go through the official public grieving, and wouldn't wish for anyone to have to go through it too.

Finally; because some sunshine is just necessary? About the LOTR reference in III.1; in case it wasn't clear: Gon used to see himself as Aragorn and Yeong as Legolas. Not because he is The King; nor because Yeong might be a top archer (as in my head Gon is by far the best archer out of the two of them). But because it reflects their fighting style - both precise and deadly, but Gon's is like some to the point straight line written with a ballpoint pen, while Yeong's is all circumvoluted yet fluid and graceful dancing calligraphy. OH MY - now you *definitely* can tell how often I might have rewatched the Cheonjongo scenes, huh? But more importantly: you just as definitely can tell how often Gon might have watched some CCTV vids about Yeong's combat training with the guards :) It's okay, Gon, no need to make a fuss; I can relate - and I'm sure we're not the only ones. Come out, come out, wherever you are ? :)

(And thanks for the kuddos and comments etc, it means the Manpasikjeok to me!)