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A softer gentler world

Summary:

Seo Geom lives.

Hwi and Seon Ho grow up in a hard world, but it is not as hard as it could be. They have food and they have their family. But the world is still changing and as Goryeo transitions into Joseon, Hwi and Seon Ho try to navigate and preserve their relationship as best they can.

After that finale we need fluff. So I'm writing fluff!

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Notes:

(See the end of the work for notes.)

Chapter Text

It was a stray arrow that, ironically, saved Seo Geom’s life. It was poisoned, and the ensuing battle for his life took weeks. In the interim, another found out Yi Bang Won’s plans, and another was framed for the crime. While Seo Geom fought for his life, an officer in his unit met his death for stealing rations.

When Seo Geom woke, it was to a changed world. His daughter somehow had epilepsy, his unit was disbanded, he was under suspicion for not catching his subordinate, and Yi Seong-gye was extending his hand. But Seo Geom was not only able in body, he had a sharp mind. He was aware of General Seong-gye’s ambitions. More importantly, he knew the General’s fifth son and how his mind worked.

It would be the better part of valor, the pragmatic part of Geom’s mind noted, that he retire to the countryside and raise his children. He would stay away from the intricate games of court, and serve his King by raising the next generation. He was loyal to Goryeo, but he was also achingly aware of the corruption of the court, and the dearth of able, faithful men. Poem wanted him to stay, but with Yeon’s illness Seo Geom had to put his family first. If nothing else, his long convalescence had made him realize no one else would. Not even those he had considered friends. So Seo Geom made arrangements to retire to the countryside with his family.

That included his friend Nam Jeon’s illegitimate son, Seon Ho. Hwi always played with the boy when Seon Geom visited his friend, preferring Seo Ho to Nam Jeon’s legitimate son. And Seon Ho, while being a quiet, shy, boy, blossomed in Hwi’s presence. Already the two were attached at the hip, and Seo Geom did not wish to see the friendship parted at such a tender age.

--

“The boy’s mother will be sad.” Was all Nam Jeon said on the matter, looking at Seo Geom with piercing eyes.

“I’m sure she will see that it is for the best.’ He replied. “After all, I’m freeing him. Whatever Seon Ho will be in the future, it will not be under the yoke of slavery.”

“Nor under the protection of his father.”

You’ve done a fine job so far. Geom thought, but did not say. He only smiled thinly at his friend, pushing a roll full of coins to the other end of the table. Nam Jeon started at them for a moment, then pushed them back.

“He’s worthless anyway. There is no need for money between friends. I’ll give you his ownership papers.” Getting up, the man walked to the other end of the table. Geom turned to see Hwi and Seon Ho peeking from the doorway, trying to be conspicuous but failing. Motioning with his eyes, he let the boys know to beat a hasty retreat. As they followed his instructions, Nam Jeon walked back and sat down. As Seo Geom made to take the papers, the other man abruptly caught his hand.

“Are you really leaving for the country?” He asked, eyes dark and fierce. Seo Geom hesitated, feeling the weight of the world hinged on his answer.

“Yes.” He replied faintly. “My body is still recovering from my wound. I need more care and rest. Yeon’s new illness is also a concern to me. The doctor says she might recover better in the country.”

Nam Jeon released his hand as sharply as he had grabbed it. “It will be sad to see you go, but you have made the right decision. You are skilled with the sword but have no similar talent in politics.”

“True.” Seo Geom smiled thinly again. “But perhaps it is better to live a long boring life than a short glorious one.”

“Young men would not agree with you.”

“That is why they are forever young. Only the cautious ones like you and I survive.”

“Yes.” Nam Jeon’s smile was only a slash on his face. “I wish you luck in all the years to come.”

“Thank you.” Seo Geom bowed, then got up and left.

“Do yourself a favor, Geom ya” Jeon’s voice followed him out the door. “Do not return for a great while.”

--

“Thank you, my Lord.” Seon Ho’s mother said, pushing her sobbing son away. Hwi was standing in the corner, tearing up with sympathy. Geom motioned to his son, who pulled his friend away, tears falling freely from both boy’s eyes.

“I’m sorry.” Geom said helplessly. “I didn’t think –“

“He wouldn’t have let me go anyway.” Seon Ho’s mother said. “And I do not want to be a burden to my son. Please do not let anyone know he is a slave’s son. Make up a story about his origins…let my name and status not be a stain upon his life.”

“A mother is never a stain.” Geom replied. “I will do as you say, but I will never let him think his mother was anything but the wonderful woman she is.”

Seon Ho’s mother finally broke, sobbing as she knelt. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” She wept. Her son rushed towards her and Hwi followed and the woman enfolded both boys into her arms. “Take care of each other. Never be apart. Hwi ya,” Here she held his hand, placing it in Seon Ho’s, “Please never abandon my son.”

“I won’t.” Hwi replied, also crying, holding Seon Ho’s hand tightly. “I’ll never let go!”

“Go.” She told her son, pushing him towards Seo Geom. “Don’t look back. Become someone great and change this country!”

“I will.” Seon Ho promised, eyes burning with sadness, but also rage. “I promise! I’ll make a new country for you!”

Seo Geom felt chills down his spine, listening to the tiny voice make such a vow.

My boy, my boy. He thought helplessly, already thinking of the other child as a son. Don’t be rash.

But the promise had already been made.

That promise would be the lodestar of Seon Ho’s life, guiding him in his actions and reactions.

But his lodestone would be Hwi. And the lodestone would exert a far greater pull.

--

It was with sorrow that Seo Geom and his family left Hanyang, packing only necessities. Seon Ho cried for the majority of the trip, sobbing fretfully and finally falling asleep next to Hwi. Their new home was a little bigger than their old one, though the boys would have to share a room.

“Look Seon Ho.” Geom said gently. “You’ll have to share, but I’ll make sure you have two pallets. Do you like it?”

“Thank you.” Seon Ho hiccupped. “It is better than a slave like me deserves.”

“Don’t be silly, child. We don’t subscribe to that nonsense in our family. Do you want to sleep next to the door? Or the window?”

“Seon Ho likes the breeze.” Hwi piped up. “He can have the pallet by the window.” He smiled in encouragement at his friend. Seon Ho smiled back shyly.

“Wonderful.” Geom said with forced enthusiasm. “Let’s get the home set up!”

“I’ll supervise” Yeon piped up, bossy even at a young age. “None of you are capable of placing things properly.”

Aigoo, Aigoo! Our Yeonnie is practicing to be the Madame of a big house already!” Geom teased gently, swinging his daughter up carefully. The doctors could not explain why she suddenly had epilepsy, though the fits seemed related to physical and mental stress. So Geom and the boys treated her with all the care she deserved.

Under the little girl’s supervision, they set up the home, laughing all the while. Even Seon Ho joined, and his cautious giggles made Seo Geom’s day.

Staring at the two sleeping boys that night, Seo Geom was even more convinced that he had made the right decision.

Meanwhile, in Hanyang, the tables began to turn, and the machinations of the court started anew.

And Yi Bang Won and Nam Jeon turned now towards each other, looking at the other with suspicious eyes. The country was set to burn, and it would only be a matter of time before the blaze began.

But all that was far away from Seo Geom and his family. That night, he went to sleep with a full heart.

And in their room, Seon Ho and Hwi slept close to each other, hands clenched tight.

It was a grip that was last throughout their lives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 2: Winds of Change, Winds of Destruction

Summary:

Seon Ho and Hwi grow up. Goryeo start's to be overturned.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

 

Chapter 2

Ten years seemed to pass by slowly, then all at once. Yeon grew into a beautiful girl, but continued to be plagued with her fits. As a result of paying for her treatment, Seo Geom and his family lived in constant genteel poverty. Seo Geom opened a school and taught aspiring students, with his son and Seon Ho being the stars of every class.  Seo Geom had also managed to purchase some land, and Hwi worked the fields to earn more money. Seon Ho, on the other hand, worked under a scholar, transcribing manuscripts. The money went to Yeon’s medicine, clothes, food, with little leftover for savings.  

It was a hard-living, but idyllic for all that. 

Seon Ho grew up with a loving father, a gregarious, sweet sister, and a boy he tried hard to see only as a brother but couldn’t. Indeed, that was the only dark spot in his life. As they grew, he became more aware of Hwi, of the other boy’s looks, and importantly, how Seon Ho himself reacted to them. He tried to focus on Yeon, but the attraction simply wasn’t there. Or if it was, it was a candle compared to Hwi’s sun.

There was a period of time when they were growing up that Seon Ho, aware of the attraction, tried to distance himself from Hwi. It backfired and the other boy convinced he had done something wrong, tried even harder to be close to Seon Ho. For Seon Ho, that period of time was remembered as a dark one. On the one hand, being separated from Hwi was akin to being disconnected from his other half, and the pain was to his adolescent mind, overwhelming. On the other hand, having Hwi nearby, feeling his reaction to a simple touch, sleeping near him, was also devastating. 

His apprenticeship had been a boon. The scholar was an eccentric one, more interested in knowledge for the sake of knowledge rather than for selling and Seon Ho was able to be away from Hwi for the majority of the day, learning how to control his reactions. At the same time, transcribing books opened his eyes to new worlds. Of particular interest were books from Cheonchuk , the land from where Buddhism originated. As Goryeo declined and Buddhism became more and more unpopular, the scholar sought to save and buy as many books as he could, directly related to Buddhism or not. So Seon Ho saw many books that were forbidden or were on the verge of being forbidden. One of the books, gotten at less than fair price, detailed sexual mores, and practices. Seon Ho’s face burned as he surreptitiously read about the relationship between men and women. He was stunned as he read further, as the book went into relationships between men and men, and women and women. The book made no distinction and condemned nothing. 

In this apprenticeship, Seon Ho gained an appreciation of Buddhism that he never had before, and the lack of condemnation regarding his feelings for Hwi comforted him. In contrast, he began to dislike their society’s increasing concentration on Confucianism, and its singular focus and ideology. He and Seo Geom enjoyed their spirited debates regarding the topic, and Hwi and Yeon chimed in, often contrary for the sake of it. The family, on the whole, agreed, however, that under Confucianism, all of them would be worse off.

   Seon Ho still hid his feelings for Hwi, but more because he didn’t know how the other boy would react and he didn’t want to damage their friendship. But his heart was eased and he became happier.

Hwi, on the other hand, grew up a gregarious boy, making friends and having people fall under his sway with a few simple words. He was friendly with many, but his first and best friend was always Seon Ho. He fell in love not at all, focused on helping his family, but the eyes of many of the village girls often fell on him and Seon Ho. And for Yeon, Seon Ho was her premier focus.

Seo Geom saw the relationship, saw Seon Ho’s disinterest and gently tried to stir away Yeon’s interest. He didn’t succeed fully, but Yeon, wise beyond her years, understood the difference between desire and love and knew where Seon Ho’s attention lay. But she was still a young girl, and it was hard not to notice Seon Ho, handsome, kind, and gentle as he was. Hwi found it great fun, and took pleasure in teasing Yeon when he could, though he always ended up getting thumped for it.

It was in this life that a storm came, in the form of the Army Officer State exams.

--

“They are offering ten bags of rice to the winner.” Hwi noted, looking at the notice. By his side, Seon Ho cocked his head, reading through the poster. 

“You’d have to ace it though. It doesn’t say what the second or even third place gets.”

Hwi nudged the other man. “If you and I both enter, one of us will win anyway. And if one of us wins, the other wins as well!”

Seon Ho rolled his eyes. “I’ll think about it. I’ve heard strange rumblings going on about the palace and court. You won’t believe how many books and being banned now. Seems to me that Goryeo is on the verge of being overturned. Being part of the State Army doesn’t seem to the best place to be right now.”

“You think too much.” Hwi rolled his eyes. “At best, we’d be grunt lieutenants, far from palace intrigues.”

Seon Ho punched his friend on the head. Hwi yelped and covered his stinging scalp, pouting. Seon Ho’s eyes fell on the protruded lips and he bit his lip in response. Hwi blinked, waiting for Seon Ho to say something. The other man wrenched his eyes away, looking at the poster.  

“Anyway.” He said, voice rough. “We should ask your father his thoughts before making any moves.”

--

“I don’t know what you want me to say? If I say it’s a fine idea will you obey happily? Fine, it’s a fine idea.” Seo Geom said mildly. Seon Ho sighed, and Hwi whopped in response. Yeon rolled her eyes by the side, fanning the rice.

“But Sir –“

“Tell me why not Seon Ho? It is a fine thing to serve in the army. Isn’t it important to do our best for our country?”

“Goryeo is being overturned right now.” Seon Ho’s voice was intense. “It is best to position ourselves away from the fallout so we can take advantage of the chaos. We should not be in the middle of the chaos ourselves. If we take a step back, see the winner, we can ingratiate ourselves accordingly. We can’t do that if we join the army under Central Command.”

“And loyalty to our country?”

“Goryeo isn’t my country.” Seon Ho replied passionately. “What country tramples on the weak and allows them to devour each other?”

“Whichever country Yi Seong-gye seeks to create won’t be any better,” Geom replied, eyes serious. Hwi sat by Seon Ho’s side, eyes darting between the two men. “He is a man who believes himself above reproach and is a hypocrite because of it. He cannot be trusted to remain on anyone’s side, to give anyone shelter.”

“You were his right-hand man.” Seon Ho’s voice was stunned.

“It is because I was his right-hand man that I can say this.” Geom said firmly. “I lay there dying for weeks, weeks , and no one came by my side. My men were prevented from even come within a hundred feet of my door, and my name was dragged through the mud. Yi Seong-gye saw that I was no use, infirm as I was, and cut me loose. Even your father, whose friendship I trusted –“

“Nam Jeon is no father of mine!” Seon Ho hissed. Geom paused, the continued measuredly. 

“Both of them use and use and give nothing back. Bang Won…he is not as bad, but that is not a path you can walk on.”

“Why?”

“He hates those who step out of their place.” Geon sighed. “He especially hates illegitimate children.”

“Because his father abandoned his mother and took up with Lady Kang, right?” Yeon chirped. The men’s heads swirled towards her, gaping.

“How do you know that?” Hwi asked. Yeon shrugged, taking the pot of rice off the fire. Hwi shot up, helping his sister and shooing her away. He scoped the rice up, placing it in four bowls, and placing the food by the low table. Yeon helped, and Seon Ho and Geom sat in place, continuing to stare at her.

“You know when you’re young and weak people talk a lot around you.” Yeon mused, shooting her father a pointed look as he flinched. “And the doctor’s office is the best place to gossip. Lady Kang doesn’t live that far from here, and everyone gossips about her two sons and how she’s a concubine despite all her airs.”

“Young Lady –“

“Father please.” Yeon rolled her eyes again, shooting a smile at Hwi as he placed a piece of meat on her rice, then placed another on Seon Ho’s. Her eyes followed the flush sitting high on the other man’s face, falling to her meat thoughtfully.

“The heart cannot be controlled.” She said softly. “Just because people don’t understand the relationship doesn’t mean it's wrong. It just means it makes sense to the people within it.” Seon Ho’s eyes shot to Yeon, but she refused to meet his gaze, staring at her rice. 

“The side dishes are good.” He mumbled, scoping some up. Hwi grinned at him, and Seon Ho blinked. 

“I made them.” 

“You’ve gotten better,” Geom noted, taking some more food. “Have you been practicing in secret?”

“Our Yeonnie makes me do the cooking. Says women shouldn’t do everything and that she’s training me for the future.”

Geom laughed. “Yeonnie don’t you want to learn how to cook?”

Yeon shrugged. “Past a point does it matter? There is only so much I can cover my deficiencies with.”

The table sobered for a moment, then Hwi said with forced cheerfulness. “Well, she doesn’t need to learn so much anyway! I’m here aren’t I?”

“Yes.” Geom’s voice was rough with affection and sorrow. “You are Seon Ho will always be there for our Yeonnie.”

Quiet returned to the table as the four focused on their meal.

“Don’t try for the exam if you don’t want. Try if you do. In this there is no right answer, I’m sorry.” Geom told Seon Ho and Hwi finally, placing his bowl to the side. “Just remember, I want you boys safe.”

“Don’t worry,” Hwi said, placing his hand on Seon Ho’s, ignoring how rigid the other man became. “We’ll protect each other.”

Geom smiled, gaze lingering at the space between the two. “I believe you.” He said softly.

And so Seon Ho and Hwi continued as they were. Neither applied for the exam, and both felt something had been missed. So Seon Ho started to build his own clandestine network and bought Hwi in. They became information brokers for their region, building neutrality and credibility, taking no sides but becoming ever-cautious as the situation worsened.

Six months after the conversation around the table, news of the Wihwado retreat began to filter into their small town. And the family realized that their world would no longer be the same.

--

“They say Yi Seong-gye has marched on the capital. What did your contact say?” Seon Ho’s voice was breathless and he and Hwi walked quickly back. The shops were being shuttered around the marketplace, and fear permeated the air. No one knew what would happen next, but everyone feared.

“Choi Young has sent some men to take out Lady Kang, and Bang Won has been sent to take care of her.” Hwi puffed as they both started running, eager to get home.

“Bang Won, really?”

“He’s the most competent one.”

“What news?” Seo Geom asked, standing by the door. Yeon was inside, another fit having drained her. Hwi knelt by her as Seon Ho placed a hand on his should.

“Lady Kang’s residence seems to be the place where there is going to be a clash. It is still far away…”

“Soldiers will come into the town anyway.” Geom’s voice was grim. “For the apothecary if nothing else.”

“Should we leave?” Yeon asked groggily. “Are we in any danger?”

“No.” Geom’s voice was even. “I’m nothing now. There is no danger to us Yeonnie. Just rest.”

“Father…”

“Your health is the most important. Sleep for now.”

He dragged Seon Ho and Hwi away as Yeon succumbed to sleep.

“You need to go to Lady Kang’s location and see if there is anything to be done.”

“I thought you wanted us to be neutral.” Seon Ho remarked. Geom fixed him with a piercing look.

“Marching on the capital means Yi Seong-gye is confident in his support. The country is going to fall whether I like it or not. Lady Kang is favored by Yi Seong-gye, but make no mistake that is not why I’m sending you. Bang Won is going to inherit the country no matter what anyone else says or thinks. He has a spine of steel, a mind like a trap, and the willpower to burn the world to the ground if he thinks it's for the greater good. No one can stand against him, and with his wife’s family, his support is the strongest of all the General’s sons. I want you to go to Lady Kang because Yi Seong-gye will have sent Bang Won to save her. If you can, aid him. If you can’t then stay out of his way. But make an impression.”

“Yes, Father.” Hwi nodded, turning to go with Seon Ho.

“Don’t let him know about your intelligence network.” Geom’s voice halted them in their tracks. Both men looked at the older man, mouths open. Geom’s eyes twinkled with humor.

“What do you think I’m an idiot?” He asked them, smiling. “I raised you two brats. I know you and how you both think. Just don’t let Bang Won know. Always have an ace up your sleeve.”

Bowing, both men took their weapons and started running to Lady Kang’s palace. Seo Geom made to head back and then squinted at the side. There was a woman running up to his house. While she didn’t look injured, blood spotted along her robe.

“Please.” The woman, no it was a girl, panted as she reached him. “Where it the nearest apothecary?”

“Are you coming from Lady Kang’s residence?” Geon asked, steadying her as she swayed. The girl pulled back, eyes flashing, but not in fear. In defiance. In recognition. 

“At ease, girl. My name is –“

“Seo Geom.” She breathed. “I know you. You saved my life years ago…what are you doing here?”

“My family lives here.” He motioned to the humble home behind him. 

“My name is Han Hui Jae. You saved my life when men killed my mother for information. You need to leave!” Her voice was frantic. “Nam Jeon has been looking for you this past year! Madam Seo has been blocking his inquiries but this past few months…its been too chaotic! He has sent men all over to kill you so you don’t tell…”

Seo Geom grabbed her hand. “Young lady, if what you say is true, you must help me save my daughter.” He said urgently. “I am an old man, I’ve lived a long life. But my daughter and my sons are young and need to live. Please, can you take her with you?”

“But I’m…”

“You came from Lady Kang’s residence. If Bang Won hasn’t found you by now, he will soon. And no one can stand against Yi Bang Won. That man is a destructive storm. Please take my daughter with you.”

“But what about you?”

Seo Geom shrugged. “As I said, I’m an old man. Take our cart, our medicines, and my daughter. They will help you.  You can use the medicine to aid Lady Kang, and the cart to transport them if needed. Please tell Bang Won it was I who helped you and all I ask in return is that he aid my family.”

Tears slipped down Hui Jae’s eyes, but she smiled bravely, nodding.

It took a few hours, but eventually, Yeon was in the cart, sleeping after having been lightly drugged. Geom would never forget his daughter's screams as the fit overtook her, and tears fell down his eyes as he loaded Hui Jae in. 

“Please watch over her.” He whispered. “And find my sons. They should around the residence. Tell Hwi and Seon Ho that I’m proud of them. Nothing in my life has made me happier than raising them.”

“I will.” The girl vowed.

“Don’t tell them it was Nam Jeon immediately,” Geom told her. “Make sure they don’t go near him.”

“I understand.”

The cart had disappeared into the skyline when riders came thundering up. Seo Geom saw the insignia of Nam Jeon and knew his death had come.

“Old man, we have been looking for you.” The lead rider said cheerfully. Seo Geom nodded, swinging his sword. He thought distantly that perhaps this is what his borrowed life had been coming towards anyway.

“I’m sorry to have made you look so hard.” Seo Geom said politely. “Come, let's greet each other like old friends.”

Swords raised and the fighting began in earnest. Seo Geom was experienced but older and against steep odds.

Hwi. Seon Ho. Yeon. He thought distantly as swords pierced his torso, as a spear went through his chest.

I know this country will be very different for you three. I hope that you never separate. Seon Ho ya, Hwi ya, I hope my feelings reach you both. 

Seon Ho, there is no shame in what you feel for Hwi. Open your eyes. His feelings are there for all to see. Hwi, you might have to make the first step, since our Seon Ho is so shy. 

May you both be happy. May all blessings and fortunes shower upon you. 

Yeon, my beautiful girl, live a long happy life. May your path be filled with flowers. My love and blessings go to you. 

Nam Jeon I curse you. May you lose everything and see your dreams fall.

Buddha. Seo Geom fell. Thank you. It was a good life. It was a good death.

As Seo Geom died, his attackers wondered why he smiled.

--

“You’ll avenge him.” Yi Bang Won informed a grieving Seon Ho and Hwi. Yeon sat by the side, stunned at the destruction of their home and their father’s corpse, seen inside the residence.

I will give you the means to do so.” The Prince informed the two men, eyes lingering on Hwi. Seon Ho, even in his grief noticed and shifted closer to his friend. Hwi clung to his hand, eyes wild and desolate. Seon Ho tucked his arm under his, lifted Yeon’s hand to twine with his. Yi Bang Won looked at the family, smile mirthless. Behind him, Lady Kang and her son’s clung to each other. The distance between Bang Won and his siblings was noticeable.  

Seon Ho stood, dragging the other two up with him.

“We’ll help you.” He informed Bang Won, eyes blazing into the other man. He ignored the distaste on the other’s mien, pulling Hwi beside him. His friend straightened, and their fingers intertwined more naturally, though still tightly. 

“What do you need us to do?”

“Be my spear and sword.” Bang Won said simply. Hwi and Seon Ho looked at each other, nodded then turned to Bang Won.

“Yes,” Hwi said, voice hoarse.

“Yes.”

Notes:

Chapter 2! The third chapter should be up in a week and then the modern AU and Liandong AU get updated and uploaded!

Please read and review!

Chapter 3: The one constant in life

Summary:

We come to the end- there is fighting, and jealousy and love. And a happy ending!

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Working for Bang Won was both expected and unexpected. Hwi and Seon Ho started at the bottom, and over the next two years worked and rose to the top of Bang Won’s armies. Seon Ho had told Bang Won of his father, and the man was delighted to have a son going against his sire. Seon Ho thought part of it was also the fact that Bang Won thought it justified his view of the world- Seon Ho was illegitimate and he was a man who wanted to ruin his father. What could be more natural for someone that was unnatural in the world order?

Bang Won’s contempt mattered to Seon Ho, not at all, but another thing irritated him tremendously. Bang Won and his brother Bang Gan, seemed a bit too obsessed with Hwi. Both Hwi and Seon Ho had proven themselves as able warriors, but Hwi was almost a one-man army. Seon Ho would have been fine if the interest had been professional, a master trying to understand the worth of his investment.

But the Yi brother’s curiosity seemed…more.

“I’ve heard so much about you. Voice sweet as honey and a handsome face.” Bang Gan had greeted Hwi with, capping the exchange by saying “How I desire you.”

Hwi had brushed off the exchange, but Seon Ho had to resist the urge to bash Bang Gan’s ugly face in.

Entitled jerk.

And Bang Won’s eyes always followed Hwi, a smile lighting his face every time he saw the other man. Seon Ho resisted the urge to crack his head open, knowing Bang Won wanted him gone.

Bang Won had introduced Hwi to some men that had escaped Liandong when the order for retreat had been given. Moon-Bok, Jung-beom, and Park Chi-Do took to Hwi quickly, and become protective, especially Park Chi-Do, who had worked under General Seo Geom. Seon Ho was pricklier, but soon he was also integrated into the group. No one could resist Hwi’s pull.

Another person who joined the small family was Han Hui Jae. She took Yeon under her tutelage, sequestering her in Ihwaru, where under the banner of neutrality, she would be safe. Seon Ho saw immediately that she and Hwi were attracted to each other and bitterly stepped back.

But strangely, the relationship seemed to last only a short time. When asked as to why it ended, Hwi confided in Seon Ho that his feelings had cooled upon learning that part of Hui Jae’s feelings stemmed from the fact that Hwi’s father had saved her. Not sure where gratitude ended and love began Hwi erected a wall between them. He treated Hui Jae with kindness and courtesy but made no overtures after that. Seon Ho saw that Hui Jae was disappointed, but couldn’t help his relief.

Hwi didn’t tell Seon Ho part of the reason he had pursued a relationship with Hui Jae was to understand his feelings for Seon Ho, and that while he had loved Hui Jae, it was a mere shadow of the love he held for Seon Ho.

So Hwi and Seon Ho continued to orbit around each other and Hwi and Hui Jae became friends.

If only Bang Won proved as easy to handle.

--

It was not long before Nam Jeon learned that his illegitimate son was working for his arch-enemy. Under the guise of concern, he met Seon Ho. Hwi, sitting by the side, gat covering his face, seethed with the need to hurt this man who had injured Seon Ho in so many ways, who was responsible for so many of Seon Ho’s tears.

“So foolish.” Nam Jeon mused as his son sat silent before him. “To join hands with one who wouldn’t spit on you, so insignificant you are in his eyes.”

“As opposed to you?” Seon Ho smiled bitterly. “A father who sells his son, and drives that son’s mother to death…is it your side I’m supposed to be on?”

“The world Bang Won wants to create will have no place for you.” Nam Jeon warned. “Under the current King illegitimate children have rights, but under Bang Won…”

“Illegitimate?” Seon Ho raised a brow. “Careful, Lord Nam. If the King heard that you consider his Queen a concubine still, and the Crown Prince a bastard…well, what will he do?”

“Not much.” Was Nam Jeon’s rejoinder. “He needs me to keep his mad dog in line.”

“He needs Sambong.” Seon Ho corrected. “Sambong will be the one to create a thousand-year-old dynasty. You are simply a stepping stone for Sambong. And I,” Here he rose, ending the conversation, “have no need to be working for a stepping stone.”

“You’ll regret it.” Nam Jeon retorted as Seon Ho walked away, Hwi joining him on the way out. “You’ll regret taking Bang-Won’s side.”

The only thing Seon Ho regretted was not killing his father then and there, especially after Hui Jae informed him and Hwi who had given the order for Seo Geom’s death, and why.

“I’m going to kill him.” Hwi sat hunched over. Seon Ho set himself beside his friend, pressing close to the other man, gathering him into his arms. Hwi pushed his face into Seon Ho’s chest, and he could feel the hot tears soaking through the fabric.

“I know.” Seon Ho hummed. “You will kill him Hwi. He’ll die a traitor, his truth exposed before all. I promise you that.” He shifted his fingers through Hwi’s hair, hands sinking into the soft mass. Hwi sighed, slumping even more over Seon Ho. He rested the side of his head on Hwi’s, inhaling the other man’s scent. Their breaths mingled in the cold air.

“I promise.”

--

Lord Nam did not wait much longer after his conversation with his son. He launched an attack on private armies, including Bang Won’s.

It failed, of course. Bang Won was prepared, had swapped his armories, and had informed his supporters to hide theirs. But it did not change what happened in the fight.

An archer, paid a premium for his shot, aimed at Nam Seon Ho. Hwi, noticing the direction of the arrow turned and threw himself in front of his friend. The arrow struck his chest. Hwi gasped, looking at Seon Ho’s terrified face.

“It’s all right.” He whispered. “I’ll be all right.” Blood splattered as he coughed, and Seon Ho slumped with him, heedless of the fighting around him. Chi-Do, Mook Bok and Jung-beom formed a protective circle around the two men, and Seon Ho sobbed as Hwi slumped against him.

“Please.” He gasped. “Please, Hwi, please.”

The fighting died down and the Prince approached. He saw Hwi and Seon Ho together, saw the arrow protruding from the wound. He paused, and it seemed for the men around him, the world held its breath.

Bang Won uttered Moon Bok’s name in a fell, cool voice. Terrified and trembling the physician approached the Prince. He looked into eyes where anger and terrible grief had merged. “Save him.” Bang Won rasped. “If he dies, you die. Everyone dies.”

Moon Bok worked tirelessly, forgoing sleep and food and trying to save Hwi. Even with his efforts, and the efforts of the Prince’s physicians, it was very close.

Strangely, during this time Seon Ho and Hui Jae became close. Yeon hovered by Hwi’s side as much as she could, but it was Seon Ho and Hui Jae that supported each other. Partly because Seon Ho did not feel comfortable burdening Yeon in her fragile condition, and partly because Hui Jae had a core of steel, an inner strength that was a relief to bask in. She and Seon Ho buttressed each other in those hellish weeks when Hwi flickered towards death, again and again, Moon Bok swearing and sweating and weeping over his friend’s body.

There was a silent accord than when Hwi started to recover. They had been jealous of each other but now was the time to come together and protect Hwi and Yeon. Separated they had been weak in the face of Nam Jeon, being both culpable of almost extinguishing who they loved most in the world. So from then on, to everyone’s surprise, Hui Jae and Seon Ho worked together, sharing intelligence, pooling their resources. They became the most formidable team.

“You don’t like her do you?” Hwi asked Seon Ho tentatively. He was still recovering, sitting by the side of the lake with Seon Ho beside him. In front of them, Yeon and Hui Jae flew kites.

“I admire her.” Seon Ho replied. Pausing he turned to Hwi. “There is someone I love though, but I don’t think they feel the same way.” Hwi looked back at him, eyes flicking to Yeon. Seon Ho guessed the thought and pre-empted it before Hwi even asked.

“I love Yeon as a sister. Not a lover.”

“Then…” Hwi’s voice was tentative. Seon Ho faced forward, letting a single finger touch Hwi’s hand cautiously. He could feel Hwi’s surprise, stiffened in response, then blinked in shock as Hwi slumped by his side.

“Are you alri –“ The question came to an abrupt pause as he felt Hwi take his hand stealthily.

“Honestly, Seon Ho ya” the other man chided, leaning even more comfortably against him. “You know I’m injured right? You have to take care of me.”

“I’ll take care of you.” Seon Ho promised, voice choked. “I’ll take care of you for as long as you let me.”

“For the rest of our lives then?” Hwi’s question was casual, but the tone beneath was hopeful. Seon Ho nodded, a tear escaping his eye.

 

“Forever.” He replied. 

“We’ll take of each other,” Hwi said, smiling softly at the waving girls.

“Promise?”

“I promise.”

 

The strife of the Princes as the affair was called was bloody, messy, and destroyed Hwi on multiple levels. After it was all finished, Hwi staggered away, clinging to Seon Ho, face blank, soul shook.

“I can’t do that again.” He said as Seon Ho scrubbed their hands. “Please don’t let me do that again.”

“We won’t” Seon Ho promised, kissing Hwi’s hand. “It’s over now, Hwi. It’s finished. My father is dead, Yeonnie is safe, and we are all safe. We’ve done what we wanted, we can leave now.”

“Make me forget,” Hwi whispered, fisting Seon Ho’s shirt and dragging him to their bed. “Make me forget this happened, please Seon Ho ya.

“I will.” Seon Ho swore, moving down even as Hwi was straining up to meet his mouth. His hands slide roughly into Seon Ho’s hair and gripped tight. Seon Ho kissed him, hard and sweet, hands gripped together over Hwi’s head. They continued to kiss, stripping the rest of the way. Hwi turned on his stomach, and Seon Ho prepared him lovingly, kissing his shuddering back. They often alternated, never dominating or surrendering, but today it was obvious that Hwi needed to be held.

Seon Ho slide into the welcoming heat and Hwi took it, panting, his beautiful scarred body shaking under Seon Ho’s hands. Seon Ho took Hwi apart that night, and put his back together, softly kissing away the tears.

“It’s over.” He said finally as dawn broke and Hwi slumped, exhausted, into his arms. “It’s over Hwi.”

But as it turned out, it wasn’t nearly as over as Seon Ho was hoping it was.

--

“I still need you.” Bang Won informed Hwi and Seon Ho. Seon Ho resisted the urge to glare, knowing Bang Won mean Hwi more than Seon Ho.

“My brother is likely to begin plotting against me now. I need my sword and spear at hand.” Bang Won’s voice was even as if he was discussing a picnic and not potential fratricide. “I will reward you for your contributions.” He added, as if that, and not soul-destroying fighting was the issue.

 “We don’t – “ Seon Ho started to respond, but Bang Won continued over him.

“You also have to realize my father will not forgive you.” His eyes pierced Hwi. “Ihwaru will not be safe either, not after Han Hui Jae came on my side.” Hwi stiffened at the mention of Ihwaru and Seon Ho resisted the urge to sigh. Bang Won had them and they all knew it.

“We will stay for as long as it takes to put Your Highness on the throne,” Hwi said. “And after that, we will go our separate ways.”

“Very well.” Bang Won responded, flicking his fan languidly. “I think that is a wonderful compromise.”

Seon Ho shared a glance with Hwi at the words. They both knew compromise was not a word Bang Won knew much of.

--

“Your Highness wanted to see me?” Hwi asked, stepping to the room. Bang Won sprawled languidly on the floor, motioning Hwi to sit in front of him. Hwi did so, grimacing a little in pain. Bang Won noticed, sharp eyes honing in on Hwi’s side.

“It still hurts even years later. The poison is very potent.”

Hwi grimaced and nodded. “It’ll be with me forever I fear. Moon Bok is working on making the medicine less harsh, but it is an affliction for life.”

“Hmm.” Bang Won snapped his fan shut, gazing at Hwi intently. Hwi started back, quiet and making no moves towards the conversation. Bang Won flicked open his fan, staring at the painting engraved upon it.

“Seo Geom gave this to me.” He told Hwi. “He was my sword instructor and I admired him very much. I was disappointed that he chose not to join my father and me in saving the country. You remind me very much of him. Principled, conscientious, with a warm heart.”

Hwi remained silent, not telling the Prince what his father had thought of the King and his family. It was an old thought, and not appropriate for the conversation.

“I desire you. I want you to be mine.” Bang Won announced abruptly. Hwi blinked but did not speak. “I know what the analects say,” Bang Won continued, flicking the fan open and shut as he spoke, “But as I said…if you are by my side, I believe I will not be tormented. I will be a good King, but if you stay with me Hwi…perhaps I can be a better man…”

“Your Highness.” Now Hwi interrupted. “I am not worthy of this regard.”

Bang Won laughed, though there was no mirth in it. “Is that a no?”

Hwi bowed his head. “Your Highness deserves someone who can love you for your entirety, and I’m afraid my heart is already full. I cannot accept your feelings. Forgive me.”

“You cannot ask forgiveness for matters of the heart.” Bang Won said distantly, eyes unseeing in the distance. “You may leave.”

Hwi bowed, then left quietly.

Bang Won thought Father told mother he would not have survived it if Lady Kang had told him no. He loved her that much. I often wondered how true that was.

Well Father, as it turns out, you can survive your dearest love telling you no. It will be a terrible half-life, filled with crumbs and sleepless nights. It will be torture to be in his presence, torture to be away. I will never be whole again. But I can survive it.

Bang Won sat for a long while in the room, past sundown. Tae Ryeong found him there, hours later.

The Prince wiped his face as he stood up. His fingers came away wet.

“How strange,” He mused to his retainer. “The tears came out on their own.”

--

Two years passed slowly. Yeon became more entrenched in Ihwaru, helping Hui Jae in all aspects of the work. Her fits also decreased, a diet of good food and limited stress doing wonders. Hwi was happy for his sister, though he wondered if she wanted to stay in Ihwaru. For his part, Hwi wanted to leave for the countryside, for the simple life of his childhood. Seon Ho too was impatient to leave, but that was more for the fact that Bang Won was still around. The two men hated each other and made little attempt to hide their contempt for one another. Seon Ho wouldn’t be happy until there was a large distance between Hwi and the Fifth Prince, and the sooner that happened the happier it would be.

It was in this atmosphere that Bang Gan’s rebellion began.

Bang Won had laid the trap, and Bang Gan fell in. Hwi witnessed the fall of the King on Bang Gan’s words and made ready to leave with his family.

“You’re not coming?” Hwi couldn’t keep the shock out of his voice. Yeon smiled cheekily, tilting her head to the side. Seon Ho also looked stunned, though he had had an inkling of this potentially happening.

“I want to stay here,” Yeon said. “I am doing a lot of useful work. Intelligence gathering is helping the nation. This is what I want to do. I don’t want to go back to the country where everyone will only see my disability. Please understand.”

Hwi hugged her. “Of course I do.” He assured her. “I understand your desires Yeonnie. I suppose I’m just going to miss you.”

Yeon punched him in the arm and Hwi grimaced playfully. “As if you won’t come to visit.” She scolded him. “Do you plan on becoming a turnip as you grow them?”

Hwi sighed, putting a hand behind his head. “Yes, Yes, Boss.” He rejoined playfully. “I’ll be sure to visit often and see how you make Ihwaru yours.”

Hui Jae scoffed at the side and Hwi grinned at her. “You still don’t know Yeonnie Hui Jae. She’ll be running this place in a few years mark my words.”

Meanwhile, Yeon hugged Seon Ho gently. “Take care of my brother.” She whispered to him softly. “Don’t let him be hurt anymore.” Seon Ho nodded softly, placing a kiss on her forehead.

They took their leave. The parting was bittersweet but more sweet than bitter.

Outside the city, on a leafy path, they ran into Bang Won and his retinue. Seon Ho and Hwi paused, surprised, then bowed.

The new Crown Prince came down from his horse, staring at them both. “You did well.” He finally said. “I’ve already sent your portion of the contributions to your home. Chi-Do and the others are waiting for you. I understand they have many ideas of what you can do with the earnings.”

Hwi sighed, then grinned. Bang Won stared at him for a moment, then pulled him in, planting a hard kiss. Seon Ho let out a startled shout but before he could move, Bang Won released Hwi, who stepped close to Seon Ho and stopped him from moving. It didn’t prevent Seon Ho from glaring at the King, who only smiled at his humorlessly.

“In this life he is yours.” Bang Won said. “But in the next life, he will be mine.”

“In this life and every life, Hwi is mine.” Seon Ho retorted. “As I am his. You may be King but you do not rule his heart, nor mine.”

Bang Won let out a short grim laugh, then swung on his horse and rode away.

Hwi and Seon Ho looked at each other, then Seon Ho tugged Hwi close into a long, deep, kiss.

“What are you doing?” Hwi hissed. Seon Ho scowled, then kissed him again.

“Making sure I’m all you can taste.” Hwi planted his hand on Seon Ho’s face and pushed him back.

“Stop it.” He scolded. “We need to be all our way.”
“Fine.” Seon Ho grumbled. “When we get to our home, I’m going to push you to the bed and –“

“Seon Ho ya!

 

--

In a small village outside Hanyang, there is a martial arts school. The founders are two men who helped found the Joseon dynasty, though they don’t speak about it. One is the bastard son of a traitor. The other is the eldest son of a cowardly general. Sometimes the King comes to see them. Sometimes two elegant women come. They are a source of gossip and pride.

It’s a quiet life. They share it with those they consider their country.

It is all Seon Ho and Hwi have ever wanted.

               

 

Notes:

And so ends this fic- now on to the modern AU and a post-Liandong AU!

Please read and comment!

Notes:

So after that satisfying but emotionally wrecking finale, I decided to write fix it fix. The Modern AU is still coming along, but this one is going to be shorter so will be updated faster.

Concrit welcome- thanks to my beta Dangermousie!