Chapter Text
The rhythmic cadence of footsteps scans the seconds passing, as the king moves from his private quarters to the large rooms where his guests are already awaiting him.
The winter rages out of the wooden doors, the structure of the palace creaks as it settles firmly against the harsh wind carrying snow from the north and right into the royal gardens.
From the room he’s walking across, he can already hear the loud sound of music and voices raising and lowering in neverending patterns that he recognizes as cheers and toasts. Kyungsoo has to stop and breathe in, feeling in dire need of a moment for himself, a small dose of calm and silence before being thrown in the midst of the loud celebration. He ceases his walking and with him the entire entourage comes to a halt as well, their last footsteps create one collective thud, they’re all in perfect order, all conformed to the cadence set by the king. Despite his servants’ virtuosity when it comes to following orders, Kyungsoo hears a faint murmuring coming from behind him, half muttered words questioning the king’s actions, they must be dying to enter the room animated by the biggest festivity that has livened up the palace since the Dongji festivals.
Kyungsoo doesn’t feel as eager to see what expects him in the main rooms, knowing that he will be walking in a room crowded with important guests that will only have eyes for him has his body tense with anguish, despite how many times he has already gone through it, the moments before important events never fail to force him into spirals of worry.
A strong gust of wind makes the door on his right tremble, the air filters through it, producing a small, gloomy sound. Alongside the frigid air, the white panels of the doors let the ghost of the light shining outside push through as well. The scenery hidden behind the wooden exit casts a pale glow over the dimly lit room they’re standing in, the mid morning sun reflected over the white snow piling outside is bright enough to make the white glimmer in a gelid shade of blue, even Kyungsoo’s precious, golden clothes don’t seem as colorful under such a light.
The cold light coming from the outside fights valiantly against the warm orange glow coming from Kyungsoo’s left, produced by lanterns perched on the corners of the room, just above where two of the oldest servants are kneeling, working on something that the king isn’t able to see from where he’s standing, he looks at their backs for a short while before returning his eyes to the door on his right.
Touching its handle freezes his fingertips, he pulls lightly until there is only a narrow gap open, barely enough to observe the heavy white coat drowning the bland, winter colors he’s grown used to seeing in his gardens.
“Your Majesty, I would advise you against being exposed to such unpredictable weather. This season has nothing to offer other than threats to Your Majesty’s health.” Confucian scholars have been following him wherever he goes these days, sneaking in his entourage without his invite, they resemble fleas, all of them jumping restlessly off his expensive furs, sticking their knowledge where it’s not required. Kyungsoo will have to remember not to share his interest in philosophy anymore, before he’ll find himself being followed by swarms of literates instead of useful servants.
The scholar sounds comfortable, not at all anxious to be in front of him or about having spoken on his own accord, probably feeling familiarly accustomed to being in the king’s presence. A bit too bold, too insolent for Kyungsoo’s taste “The next time you’ll speak without being consulted, you will be banished from the palace and its immediate vicinity.” Kyungsoo turns away from the sight out of the door to look through the rows of pearls cascading in front of his eyes and directly at the thin, tall scholar standing beside him, almost hoping that the man will dare to raise his eyes and meet his gaze, so that he’ll have an even more glaring reason to neutralize this fastidious infestation right from its roots. Instead, the scholar smiles, his protruding teeth, are covered by a nervous tight lipped expression as he bows and trails towards the end of the entourage, where two more Confucian scholars are standing with their heads lowered, the weightless wings on the back of their hats wiggle, following the flinching of their bodies when the king’s words travel up to them, despite the calmness in his deep voice, the promise it holds is enough to startle them. Kyungsoo can’t combat the tug on the edge of his full lips, a smirk makes its way in his firm expression, nothing amuses him more than playing around with shameless fools.
His hand doesn’t relent its hold on the door handle, he pulls it swiftly, letting more of the outside scenery appear, but what he sees is fuzzy, frozen and shaken by the whirls of wind dancing alongside the hefty snowflakes falling from the sky. The white is pure, untouched, expanding far beyond what Kyungsoo can see, the way it naturally glows almost hurts his eyes, the brightness is quite different from the shades of brown and deep red domineering the interiors of the royal palace, only observing that glacial hue is enough to feel it chill his bones.
Kyungsoo stays a few moments longer, delighted by the view and the way the cold air entering the palace attaches its brisk touch to the tip of his nose. It doesn’t take too long for him to grow restless, the pressure of what is expecting him doesn’t let him appreciate the calm moment as he would normally, his gaze shifts to the ground as he exhales a long sigh, the amber pearls and gems hanging from his headwear clink against each other, moving with his head. His hand leaves the handle as he picks back his walking, to his own steps follow many more, all keeping the same pace; Kyungsoo doesn’t look back as one of the servants lingers behind and closes the doors with a single sharp move.
The music grows exponentially as they come closer to the rooms occupied by the celebration, Kyungsoo can already see some of the musicians and their instruments, the haegeums, a gayageum and the daegeums, all coming together to accompany the dancers performing at the center of the room, between the two rows of seated people. Their bright smiling faces complement pleasantly the vivid colors of their chimas and their twirling fans, Kyungsoo’s eyes easily find themselves observing their pretty faces and their skillful movements, wondering whether he will feel willing to invite any of them in his personal rooms.
Despite the dancers’ efforts, not many of the guests seem interested in their performance, their dancing feet shuffling over the smooth wooden floor don’t seem to be enough to distract the two long rows of seated people from the stock of royal soju they’ve been offered. Some of the musicians seem to realize his presence, the music suddenly loses its tempo as he steps inside, one by one they leave their arches and instruments to lower their heads to the ground, bringing themselves to the level of Kyungsoo’s feet.
“The Heavens’ Son, the King of Kings.” the guests all turn towards him and lower their heads, the officiant on his side is the only person still talking "Long live the King of Kings!" The crowd repeats the same words and erupts in loud cheers, all raise their cups for Kyungsoo and shower him with their best wishes.
"Thank you, kind guests!" Kyungsoo responds, holding his hands to his chest "It’s a day of celebration, so please don't let me distract you from it." He extends his left arm towards the musicians and makes a small gesture inviting them to retake their accompaniment from where they left off.
"Long live our Benevolent King!" Kyungsoo smiles at the new wave of generous words and takes the first step towards the raised platform where his seat has already been readied, it’s waiting for him on his wife’s right side, who is already sitting down, her hands cradled on her lap and her body enveloped by the most gorgeous golden robes she owns, matched to him to the most minute detail. Kyungsoo climbs the three steps and quickly reaches her, their tables are lavishly covered with all of his favourite dishes. Before he gets a chance to dig in, though, Joohyun, the queen, turns on her seat, the rustling noise of her expensive robes accompanies the movement.
"Best wishes, your Majesty!" Her voice resounds clear in the room, as the guests have once again put a stop their ruckus to listen in their conversation.
"Thank you, my dear Queen." He kneels beside her and takes her hands in his making her raise her head, in turn he lowers his own but only for a moment, but it’s enough to make show out of their union and let the crowd burst in cheers and songs, followed by thunderous and joyous music. The strict rules that the etiquette dedicates to the king and queen’s displays of affection, don’t allow anything other than gazing at each other and short touches on their hands, but it’s still sufficient to let their guests believe that their marriage should be taken as an example of what devout love should be. Kyungsoo barely keeps himself from laughing remembering the amount of songs written about his and the queen’s love and how it will bring prosperity to the country.
The most important detail to a royal’s life is to hold an immaculate image to the eyes of their people, gain their respect and admiration above everything, all of them are well informed about the rumors lurking around every corner of the palace. Whatever happens when the doors of the palace close, doesn't concern them.
"Thank you, my most precious guests, for your attendance! Let's begin the feast!" Kyungsoo raises his deep voice as he turns away from his wife and returns the gazes that the officials, advisors, scholars and close and distant relatives have been posing on his figure since he has walked into the room. His attention is quickly swayed by the abundance offered by the palace cooks.
Every single dish lives up to Kyungsoo’s highest expectation, the kitchen is serving him with great success, his cooks truly always live up to their fame, Kyungsoo couldn’t have asked for anything more on such a stressful day. After countless dishes, the feast hits a slower phase towards the mid afternoon, between the soups of cow head and the veal served in every recipe the kitchen could muster up, Kyungsoo and his guests’ stomachs begin to feel close to being full with an amount of food that seems like it could last them for the entire year.
Such a moment makes it hard to keep the interest high, most of the guests don’t feel like engaging in conversation as a pleasantly soft quilt of sleepiness descends over their bodies, everyone is only a few slow breaths away from falling into the kind of deep sleep that only savage gluttony can cause. The two singers in the middle of the room aren’t doing a good job at catching their audience’s attention either, their melancholic songs have a few of the guests and servants shedding a tear, but at certain times, the symphony of snoring, coming from the ones that have subdued to their lazy weariness, makes it hard to empathize with their emotional singing.
“King of Kings!” Kyungsoo is startled out of his lethargy, snapping his head towards the voice calling for him, he finds Baekhyun’s smug grin. The expression alone is enough to let him know that his cousin has once again planned something on his own accord, without informing anyone at the court, not even Kyungsoo himself “You know well that I have spent the last months away, over the northern border… In the country of our greatest allies.” His voice is commanding and firm, his talent for attracting attention is powerful enough to gather everyone’s wits and have them hang from his lips, fighting proudly against the heavily sleepy mood pervading the room.
“I have brought back a very special gift for you, your Majesty,” Kyungsoo sits a bit straighter behind his table, curious about his friend’s words “I would have preferred to be the last to offer it, because nothing you will receive after it will live up to such an outstanding present.” Baekhyun points obnoxiously at all the other guests sitting near and in front of him, Kyungsoo shakes his head at the short speech, but lets it go without intervening; after all, it’s not too hard to believe his cousin’s words, he’s the only person in the room, apart from his servants and his wife, that has seen him privately in unofficial meetings.
“Welcome the brightest flower of Hunan, plucked directly from the Empress’ gardens!” Baekhyun’s theatrical introduction has all the guests follow the king’s path and sit up, all their lazy gazes suddenly kindled with obvious interest.
A small group of three musicians enters through the main doors with their heads lowered, the instruments in their hands are lighter and simpler than the ones sitting with the court’s musicians, but they are treated with the same enormous reverence, each of them touch the ground in front of Kyungsoo with the smallest of noises as their owners get on their knees and bow deeply at the King’s feet, they raise in one orderly move and shout wishes to honor their host, Kyungsoo raises a hand and gestures lightly to thank them. They shuffle their feet on the wooden floor and take a seat on the right side of the room. While they prepare themselves, Kyungsoo’s attention is caught by his best friend’s figure moving swiftly along the walls of the room and making his way towards him.
All the servants let him pass with no resistance, he’s one of the few that holds such privileges “Happy birthday, King of kings” he takes a seat near him and whispers in his ear, saying Kyungsoo’s title in a mocking tone, the king side eyes him with a warning look that holds no real threat “The performances I’ve seen in the theaters in Beijing… You wouldn’t believe.” he sounds excited, his fingers fidget with the fabric of his hanbok, he’s clearly uncomfortable wearing it, since he’s returned from his travels all Kyungsoo has seen him wear are western clothes, “When you’ll see this actor you’ll understand what I mean…”
“There’s also an actor?” Kyungsoo had thought the musicians would be his gift, but the mention of an actor is more than welcome, it’s been so long since he’s seen anything other than singers, fan dancers and ritual Talchum performances.
“Of course! This is the Jingju I’ve written about in my letters, the Empress dowager’s favourite entertainment!” Baekhyun interrupts his enthusiastic talking when the musicians break through the air with a sharp, short struck of drum and the vibrant sound of the gong.
The light sound of cymbals and string instruments builds up over the rythm given by the largest percussions and soon a bright, dazzling voice enters the scene through a vessel of what Kyungsoo can only describe as blessed with the finest, most exceptional beauty.
Fine features, colorful robes tinted in brilliant blue and yellow, the gems sewn on them catch the light with every small, calculated step that the actor takes. Sitting atop the head of long, black hair there’s an elaborated headpiece, dainty lines of small, sparkling pearls move with the actor’s head in gracious, trembling motions. There is so much to observe on this person’s body, the amount of detail on the clothing and accessories is blinding, Kyungsoo is sure he wouldn’t be able to catch all of them even if he were trying to do so intently.
Despite the visual generousness of the actor’s appearance, there’s only one single feature keeping a strong hold on his attention: the presence of red, a brilliant shade of it
A softer, faint red around the actor’s sweet eyes, on his high cheekbones and, more importantly, strong and vibrant on his full lips. The perfect, doll-like lines of his upper lip stand out starkly and precisely against the pale hue painted across his entire face, meanwhile his more generous, lower one seems less defined, more inviting. Like roses being born from merciless snow, whose intent seems closer to seduction than the righteousness that Kyungsoo would expect from the way Baekhyun has talked about these plays in his letters.
Stories of Kings and Princesses, Emperors, Wars and Concubines. Although, all Kyungsoo can see is beauty perspiring like nectar out of this actor’s form and voice.
The actor sings a string of vowels over the music, the voice chimes beautifully in the silent room, every guest, even the rowdiest among them, have discarded the soju to observe the creature made of gold crossing the way from the room entrance to the king. The music stops abruptly on a high note from the percussions as the actor finally stands in front of Kyungsoo with his head lowered and his hands meeting in the familiar gesture he has seen his Chinese acquaintances use to greet, the light voice speaks only in the language of the Han, but, fortunately, the studies of Chinese, that have been imposed on Kyungsoo since he was a child, help him understand most of the words being spoken. He catches easily the wishes for his birthday and for a long, prosperous reign, before the actor’s head raises again and the music picks up from where it left off, accompanying the words being sung.
“It’s…” Kyungsoo starts, not turning towards Baekhyun but leaning closer to him without letting his gaze leave the hypnotic, subtle movements of the actor’s dance,
“Outstanding.” Baekhyun repeats the words from his introduction and concludes Kyungsoo’s sentence, he’s always had less reservations than him about expressing excitement “His name is Yixing, I found him in Beijing with his small troupe, I knew you would have loved his performance... And I promise you’ll be delighted by his company when you’ll meet him privately.”
“Tonight.” Kyungsoo turns to look at him, his tone demanding.
Baekhyun shakes his head and clicks his tongue, flaunting his complete disregard for the court etiquette and the way subjects should address the king “We all know how much you enjoy being acquainted with artists… But Yixing isn't a court performer, he is not used to being brought to kings’ private rooms after his plays.” Baekhyun doesn't lose the chance to comment on the king's tastes and how most of his concubines used to be performers of some kind; Kyungsoo resorts to ignore him and turn back to look at the actor, his right eyebrow raised on his forehead “And you better not try anything if you want him to stay more than one day.” he adds backhandedly.
The actor is still moving with short, shuffling steps over the floor, every movement performed follows a delightful pattern of circles and other harmonious shapes. With the way his moves and the musical accompaniment are synchronized, it feels as if the instruments were the ones breathing life directly into the performer’s body; the gentle swaying, the sharp movements and the singing is all held together by threads tied around the musicians’ skillful fingertips.
The song comes to an end quicker than Kyungsoo had expected, everything wrapping up with a building, glorious musical crescendo and a long, stable note from the only singer performing, while standing straight and extending his preciously clothed arms forward, the hands are presenting the palms, reaching for Kyungsoo.
The music stops and the room explodes in a storm of thundering praises and clapping hands. Kyungsoo himself joins them, but still keeping his behaviour within the standards of courtesy that are expected of him. His wife on his side doesn’t clap her hands, but she seems raptured, her eyes shine brightly while following the actor’s form; on the other hand, Baekhyun lives up to his fame, making his voice and his clapping the most boisterous in the room. Kyungsoo relates profoundly to both of their reactions, like most of the people in the room.
“This is Zhang Yixing, Kyungsoo…” Baekhyun leaves his spot near his friend and reaches the actor’s side, the confidence the man had been displaying during the performance has left space to a more sheepish appearance, his hands hold the blue hems of the bright yellow cape of his costume tightly as he bows to Kyungsoo’s guests, he seems to pick himself up a bit only after the only person he is familiar with reaches his side.
“Mister Zhang, your performance has left us all… Unable to speak, it was…” Kyungsoo starts, grasping for words, not knowing how to describe appropriately what he has experienced “Absolutely incredible!” he finishes and the room erupts in more cheers. Baekhyun leans on the actor, whispering in his ear a translation; he quickly seems to become embarrassed, immediately reaching for his elaborate headpiece to keep it in place while he goes through another round of bowing, he lowers his head towards every single corner times and times again, until he’s facing the king once again and dips his torso for as far as it’ll go with the amount of clothes and tinsels on his body.
“Your words are too kind, King of kings,” The actor speaks in Chinese, Kyungsoo stares at him intently doing his best not to miss anything, employing all of his rusty memories of the lessons he was made to attend “But my performance isn’t worthy of such high praises, if your Majesty will allow me to perform again I will try my best to live up to your appreciation.”
The room listens in silence, the actor delivers his lines in a nervous voice, but he never falters, not even when he stops talking and Baekhyun snorts from his right.
“You might as well give up now, I’ve been trying to compliment him for months and he’s never accepted any of it without a fight.” Only a handful of people react to Baekhyun’s words spoken in Korean, not knowing the other side of the conversation must be confusing.
Kyungsoo leaves his seat, taking careful steps to the stairs, he is tempted to go down and greet the actor, Yixing, closely, but he decides to postpone it to a later time when he will have enough time to dedicate to him; so he stops right on the edge of the first step, his hands clasp behind his back as his face takes a relaxed expression, his full lips turn into a playful smile “Well, this is the first time someone doesn’t just take my praises and accepts them in silence…” Something seems to snap in Yixing, he jolts on his feet and then falls on his knees in one smooth motion, the sound of his bones hitting the ground makes Baekhyun squeak in concern.
“I am terribly sorry, your Majesty! I did not mean to disrespect you, performing for you in your court has been the highest honour of my life and receiving your praises is-” This time the panic shakes Yixing’s voice violently, his hands scramble against the floor as he adjusts himself into a full bodied bow.
Kyungsoo can’t help but let out a small chuckle as he interrupts him “There’s no need for you to lower your head, it was just mere teasing…” Baekhyun continues laughing as well, already helping Yixing back on his feet as Kyungsoo sighs and finally decides to take the few steps that divide him from the actor “Seeing you perform has been an honour for us as well.” His hand reaches carefully for the actor’s headpiece, it has moved far down his forehead, pulling with it the wig of black hair; his long, thin fingers are holding onto it tightly, Kyungsoo joins him as well, in an effort to help, but as soon as he touches him a handful of servants appear on his side, all of them moving to help Yixing sort out his appearance “I would be delighted to hear you sing again.” he continues, letting his hands leave the stunning piece of headwear as it goes back to sit firmly atop the actor’s wig, he ignores completely the looks Baekhyun is giving him from the side. Kyungsoo moves his arms back into the warm cocoon of his furs, despite his most rational reasoning and his cousin advice, he finds himself even more intrigued, itching to see Yixing occupied with another piece and maybe also to see him shed his colorful costume and heavy mask of paint, get a glimpse of his features with nothing covering them. His eyes continue to follow Yixing’s every little expression, the small smile on his brightly red lips is enough to make Kyungsoo wish for things he should be thinking of only in the privacy of his rooms.
“And I am sure, our King would be even more glad if you were to accept an invite to stay here longer than just today.” Baekhyun affirms suddenly, Kyungsoo is shaken off his heavy glances once more, but not to deny his friend’s claim, on the contrary, he would be more than glad to welcome the actor in the palace for as long as he's willing to stay.
“Of course,” he nods, not letting the actor speak, he isn’t used to having his wishes denied and he wouldn’t want to risk Yixing’s seemingly pathological humility to hold him back from accepting, Kyungsoo won't settle for hasty responses “We can discuss it tomorrow, in front of a few cups of soju.” he adds with an easy smile, implicitly inviting the actor to ponder over his response at least until tomorrow. The actor hesitates, he glances over at Baekhyun with eyes that seem brimming with silent questions, Baekhyun encourages him with a warmer stretch of lips and a pat on his back, until the actor gives in and lowers his head with an unsure nod.
♢
Kyungsoo’s fingers fidget with the pile of papers laid in front of him, their rough patterns scratch him pleasantly.
"The rice fields to the north east are all frozen by the snow, the administrators have been asking for more resources to help the farmers, without even mentioning that the food for the animals has been scarce for most of the quarter..." This exact conversation over what needs to be done about this year’s fields has been brought up even before it became an actual issue and yet the advisors still haven’t managed to come up with a solution; there seems to be so much to say about such an usual problem, every time winter rolls around everyone acts as if not a single snowflake has ever touched this country’s ground. Kyungsoo has been attending all the meetings about it anyway, not wanting to leave the decision-making to the advisors alone, it wouldn’t be the first time one of them tries to spare a few pieces of gold for themselves and he has no intention to risk something like that happening again.
"Ah, your majesty, you've been receiving nothing but requests for more money from every province, the resources will wither in no time if we comply with everyone." Kyungsoo doesn’t raise his eyes from the numbers on his scrolls as another advisor speaks up.
"You want to risk a riot just to be prudent? If we send what they ask for in the north, their coltivations will be enough to feed you and half of the country!" The tone of the conversation starts boiling as the men’s voices become heated, Kyungsoo clears his throat once, making sure he is being heard.
Once the conversation resumes, in a much calmer fashion, Kyungsoo can refocus on the reports from the last cold season. The plans written down in them are the same being discussed in this year's meetings, the same fears are expressed in the side notes. It makes Kyungsoo wonders if they put themselves through the same arguments every year just to feel a bit more useful than they actually are.
“The plans in last year’s register might bring more clarity to the assembly, illustrious advisors.” Finally the king seizes the opportunity to speak in a short pause between the arguing developing around him “After you will all have the chance to view them, we will be able to continue the discussion… And hopefully be inspired to find a durable solution.” he prepares the scrolls and passes them to one of the six servants sitting behind him, he wordlessly leaves his spot to bring them to the elders gathered in front of the king.
“King of kings, I am sure you realize that the conditions we are facing this year are substantially different from the ones occurred during the last winter.” One of the old men speaks before Kyungsoo can excuse himself, the sleeves of the man’s dark gray robe are too long for his scrawny arms, he must have been wearing those clothes and the role they impose for longer than Kyungsoo has been alive.
“The issue seems to become more and more serious as time goes by, if we don’t take into consideration the decisions we’ve taken before we will never be able to understand where the root of the problem lies and how to eradicate it.” Kyungsoo has been brought up with the rule of never disrespecting an elder, he would never be so upfront with any of these men outside of this room, but expecting him to be a passive presence in such vital meetings doesn’t align with his beliefs nor with the ones his father expected him to abide to
“Now, if you’ll excuse me… I have affairs to attend.” he stands up eager to leave and continue with his day. As always, all the people sitting in front of him bow their heads for as far as they’ll go, those, to whom their age still allows it, get on their knees and touch their foreheads to the ground “Have a good afternoon, advisors.” his furs are posed on his shoulders and two of his servants quickly reach the doors to slide them open.
“Long live the King of Kings!” The formal greeting resounds in the large room, only followed by Kyungsoo’s steps towards the large, opened doors, as soon as he makes it outside of the room, he closes his eyes and lets a loud, frustrated breath flow out of his lips, his eyebrows crease on his forehead, the muscles on his face locked tight by the disappointment lingering from the meeting.
His frown finds rest only after he is informed that his day will continue in his personal library, for a few hours of leisure accompanied by his eldest son; the best antidote for a day with such a underwhelming beginning.
Sehun is already with his brush in hand when the servants pull the doors to let the king inside the library. He is sitting with his teachers, some of them are the same that have taught Kyungsoo, or better, had to run after Kyungsoo through the gardens each time he escaped from their lessons.
In comparison to his child self, Sehun is the most benevolent of deities: always calm and serene, and most importantly, contrary to his father, he seems genuinely interested in the knowledge the teachers’ are trying to pass onto him, meanwhile the most profound thought Kyungsoo has ever had when he was Sehun's age involved chasing the toads living in one of the ponds around the palace. Whenever Kyungsoo hears about him misbehaving, it's always about the most minor things, mostly about him refusing to complete tasks and how his refusal usually turns out to be a fox-like ploy to be promised gifts and favours in exchange for whatever activity is being pushed onto him.
“Father!” Sehun's voice greets him as soon as he steps inside the library, his realisation provoked by the teachers around him bowing down to their knees. Sehun sits straight and holds his brush tighter, like a true scholar, he likes to put on airs when he sees Kyungsoo, to make it look like his calligraphy exercises are important documents that require the crown prince’s supervision “The teachers have brought new scrolls today.” he shows them to him and the copy he is in the midst of completing, a clear air of pride shines through his happy expression. Kyungsoo kneels beside him, only after he has hit the floor the teachers stop bowing and start to look at them eagerly, prepared to answer anything the king will have to say about his child's education.
“Good job,” Kyungsoo lays his hand on Sehun's dark hair, “It's already almost perfect, if you continue like this you'll be the best calligrapher in the county.” Kyungsoo is aware that a big part of Sehun's will to study is fuelled by being praised, so he never denies him a compliment whenever he deserves it.
“Do I deserve a reward?” Sehun asks bluntly, it makes Kyungsoo chuckle lightheartedly.
“It depends on what it is you want…” Kyungsoo tilts his head and a bit awkwardly moves off his knees and sits down comfortably, he adjusts his dark gray clothes as he waits for Sehun to elaborate.
“I heard Chanyeol say that there's a new actor at court…” Sehun juts out his lips, like he is embarrassed of what he is asking for, Kyungsoo hums and looks at the servant that his son has mentioned, he hasn’t done anything wrong, but being under the king’s scrutiny makes him visibly nervous anyways.
The excitement with which Sehun responds to the performance Yixing has chosen to grace them with after lunch is definitely inappropriate for a prince, but his tutors’ scoldings never reach him. Baekhyun takes it upon himself to sit right beside him, indulge and instigate all of his cheering by putting just as much, if not more, energy to praise Yixing's impressive singing to his heart’s content.
Kyungsoo is definitely more composed, he claps his hands when Yixing invites them to, while he goes through the graceful steps of his dancing, twirling the long silk sleeves of his sumptuous costume and his reflective, golden fan in controlled, delicate motions. Today, his role doesn’t exude the same confidence of the one he performed the day prior, this time around, his appearance is less boisterous, the bright, saturated colours on his clothing have left space to untouched white and dusty pink, instead of a tall piece of headwear he has a simpler composition of gems and golden tassels pinned to his wig of long black hair, long enough to brush against the pavement. His act is more coy, his gaze stays on the ground and his head tilts in tiny, deliberate motions; this dreamy, young princess he is acting out today makes Kyungsoo think of the few words Yixing had spoken yesterday, the steady sound of his non-singing voice and his trembling, fidgety hands holding onto his clothes, nervous and delicate.
The king can’t wait to have the chance to sit down with the actor, see him shed his costumes for his normal clothes and finally discover how similar Yixing will be to the image he has created of him from their short conversation and the few words that Baekhyun has used to describe him, maybe instead of this princess dreaming among the buds of peonies, he will be more like the fierce concubine ready to die to follow her king, that he played during their first encounter. Kyungsoo truly can’t wait.
♢
The chance arrives that same evening, after Kyungsoo’s usual bath in water infused with chamomile and peppermint, a precaution against the numerous threats of such a hostile weather.
“Has everything been taken care of?” Kyungsoo asks, while two of his servants fasten the belt around his waist and adjust the robes over his shoulders.
“Yes, your Majesty.” they respond in unison, not letting the king’s questions distract them from their work, “The food and beverages have already been delivered to the room, the guests have arrived as well.” the eldest of the two women explains after Kyungsoo eggs her on with a questioning look.
He has disposed clear orders to his servants for the preparations of the room for the private encounter since the morning, eager to leave a good impression and making sure that the best care is being reserved to his guest. He was adamant in stressing the instructions to make it as welcoming and comfortable as it can be, as well as being furnished with rich, tasty side dishes and the best soju and mijiu from the palace’s stock.
“Good.” he says, raising his arms, to agevolate them as they help him wear his blue durumagi.
Kyungsoo wears a less formal attire for the evening, he doesn’t comply with the layers advised by his doctors, deciding to ditch the thicker, more uncomfortable fabrics for something lighter, but still enough to keep him warm, an attire more appropriate for the kind of informal meeting he is about to attend, it also allows him more freedom of movement, he wouldn’t want to be stuck in his usual formal clothing in such a small room, where any possible clumsiness will be impossible to avoid and he isn’t looking forward to being ridiculed by his cousin in front of their guest.
As soon as his personal preparations are completed, he doesn’t stall any longer, immediately making his way to the door. At this hour there usually wouldn’t be many people roaming the palace, especially the wing where the King’s personal rooms reside, but the celebrations for his birthday are still lively tonight, and they will be continuing for the following eight days, the oldest members of the family and his advisors will cheer and toast for him to their heart’s content, not minding in the least that Kyungsoo has no plans to join them. As he walks past the rooms they’re occupying he quickens his pace, not wanting to risk anyone seeing him.
The room he is trying to reach finally comes in sight and the servants move around him, two of them speed up their pace to reach the door the king is walking towards. The room is much smaller than the one he has just left behind and the decorations are much more understated, nonetheless, the two servants slide the entrance open with the same reverence they always reserve for each of their tasks.
Kyungsoo steps into the room and the two men already sitting inside stand up, only one of them bows his head to him, though; Baekhyun just claps his hands and clears his throat
“Finally! Finally you’re here, you had us wait too long! The wait has made Yixing’s nerves even worse, he couldn’t even drink!” Baekhyun says loudly, patting Yixing’s back so hard that he forces him to take two steps forward, his head raises for a moment before falling back into a deep bow, it is still enough to let Kyungsoo have a first glance at the actor’s face, to have the chance to observe the features that he has only seen covered in a thick coat of paint until now: instead of the strong eyebrows Kyungsoo has seen painted on his face, Yixing’s natural ones are scarce and light, the skin stretched over his high cheekbones glows healthily, the shine probably heightened by the sweat that nervousness is pushing out of his pores; his lips, on the other hand, are perfectly recognizable, plump and still red, looking just as enticing to Kyungsoo as when they’re hidden under the red pigments, although tonight, the cause behind such a deep, gorgeous hue seems to be the torment inflicted on them by the anxious pull of Yixing’s teeth, who haven't stopped biting down on them since greeting the king.
Baekhyun pulls Kyungsoo inside the room, who had stopped on the threshold, too interested in gawking the new version of Yixing to realize where he had been standing, his cousin also takes the initiative to wave away the king’s entourage paying it no heed “Introductions aren’t of much use at this point, but we might as well go through them anyway…” Baekhyun puts himself between Kyungsoo and the other man, who’s still holding his eyes lowered, his arms look as stiff as logs on each side of his body, “This is Zhang Yixing, our dear guest.” Baekhyun puts his hand on Yixing’s back again to pull him even closer, openly fighting against the actor's stubborn shyness, he looks at him expectantly, Kyungsoo almost chuckles at the confused expression Yixing uses to respond to Baekhyun’s raised eyebrows and quiet whispering about his unnecessary nervousness.
“It is an honour to meet you King of kings, your hospitality has been the most gracious I’ve ever experienced.” Yixing deepens his bowing and speaks tentatively, in a way that holds the unnatural stiffness of words that have been rehearsed to the point of exhaustion.
“The honour is mine, mister Zhang, your performance is one of the most memorable I have ever had the pleasure to attend, I am grateful that you have accepted to visit my palace and I’m looking forward to the time you’ll delight us again with your art.” Kyungsoo speaks truthfully, he smiles gently as he moves closer to the actor, he doesn’t think he can do much to help him feel more at ease, so he opts for conveying his real feelings despite foreseeing the reaction his guest will have.
Just as expected, Yixing continues to bow and shake his head in nervous denial “Such an inexperienced actor as myself is really not worth these praises,” Instead of going through the same routine he had gone through during the day of the celebration, he finally raises his head and only for a moment he lets them linger somewhere on Kyungsoo’s face, but never meeting his eyes, Kyungsoo feels like for him following the court etiquette works better as a shield for his nervousness than just being a formal courtesy. The more Yixing adverts his eyes, the more Kyungsoo’s interest grows “But I thank you, your Majesty, I am glad I was able to entertain and show you the Jingju, I hope your interest for it will continue to grow in the future.”
Gracious, polite, sincere; this is only their third meeting, but a life spent in a court where everyone could be a potential traitor has taught Kyungsoo to understand people since their first meetings. Their behaviour, their bodies and their choices have a voice of their own that only few people are able to keep under control. With Yixing’s light voice there are a hundred more speaking to Kyungsoo and they all are just as righteous and just as sweet. It’s such a rare sight for Kyungsoo’s eyes, so used to the sneaky, heavily filtered ways of the people roaming his court, it almost makes him want to test it, see how much can a honest man take of the teasing that is usually reserved to the men and women that get their chance to sit with him in the same way as Yixing but certainly not with the same attitude.
“I knew you would have enjoyed his performance, I’m glad I could save your celebrations once again.” Kyungsoo’s gaze is torn away from Yixing’s tense form by Baekhyun’s words and they land square on the table in the middle of the room, where there’s a bottle of mijiu already opened, which explains why Baekhyun’s tongue seems to be looser than usual “You should be thankful that I'm such a generous soul and that he owed me a favor or he would have never accepted the invite.” Baekhyun takes the initiative to sit down, he falls on his cushion almost limply, not wasting even a second to get his hand back on the white, square cup; both Kyungsoo and Yixing follow his lead, sitting opposite of each other.
“How come?” Kyungsoo is surprised to know that Yixing would have preferred not to perform in his court, when a performer is invited to the palace, it normally ends with them trying to extend their stay for as long as they can get away with. Kyungsoo isn't sure how he should feel knowing that Yixing would rather not be here at all.
“I wouldn't say that… I mean there's no way I wouldn't accept an invitation to perform for such an important person.” Yixing is scratching the back of his ear, he isn't bowing anymore, but he stubbornly keeps himself from looking at Kyungsoo for longer than a split second.
“You should have seen the face he made when I told him I wanted him to come with me…” Baekhyun laughs obnoxiously loud, while trying to imitate the look of horror he had seen Yixing make.
“I wasn't aware that performing here would be so aggravating…” Kyungsoo understands it can be nerve-wracking to perform for people of his caliber, but he is also aware of what sort of things are said about him out of the palace, he has done enough rash things to believe that it could be a bit less favourable than he'd like to think, he wouldn't be surprised if such rumours made their way to China.
“Oh, no!” Yixing's voice responds, louder than before “I didn't intend to say that, your Majesty, it is me that is not used to having such an opportunity, I hope you won’t think my nervousness is caused by your person, of course, I can't deny that your role is intimidating but… What I was worried about the most was the possibility that I wouldn't be able to deliver a good performance. It's just me alone, after all, without my troupe, I was afraid of being nothing but a bore to you and to not being able to live up to Baekhyun's praises and to repay his generousness.” the longest string of words Yixing has said since Kyungsoo has known him are pushed out completely unprompted, his usually airy voice a lot firmer now that he is explaining himself in a less public space.
Kyungsoo would have no problem repeating how much he has enjoyed his act, if that is what will bring him reassurance, but before starting with a new round of praises, his curiosity gets the best of him and asks about the last line spoken by the actor “Baekhyun must have been a great help then, if you were so preoccupied with repaying him…”
“He really was!” Yixing is suddenly much less secluded, a bit of his tenseness leaves his shoulders and even if he is still not returning Kyungsoo's gaze, at least now he is comfortable enough to look intently in his general direction “He helped our troupe with building a theatre, he is so knowledgeable about so many different things! No one expected him to be so well versed after seeing him getting drunk so easily after our performances.” Yixing's laughter is endearing, full chested and occasionally broken by light giggling, Kyungsoo and Baekhyun smile as well, their senses tickled by their guest's contagious chuckling. Kyungsoo is glad to see Yixing slowly become more comfortable, considering how informal he is when talking about Baekhyun, he has easily figured out that he is the main reason of his nervousness, no matter how much force he uses to deny it. Usually he wouldn't mind it too much, he is aware that befriending a person as cheerful as Baekhyun comes easily even if he is part of a royal family, Kyungsoo, on the other hand, has been brought up to follow a more stoic, less frivolous attitude, he was shaped to be intimidating.
“Too bad, it can't be used yet.” Baekhyun adds wistfully, clicking his tongue.
“Yes… Really a shame” Yixing’s head tilts, his mood deflating slightly “We will be able to open it soon, though.” Kyungsoo listens to the exchange interestedly, he fills his own cup and starts sipping on the sweet alcohol.
“What happened?” he asks eventually, after a short stretch of silence.
“Some of the actors haven't been able to rehearse and perform lately… Without them we can't perform most of the plays.” Yixing explains, his hand reaches for the cup in front of him, Kyungsoo takes the opened bottle and nears it towards him, Yixing lowers his head and holds up the cup with both of his hands, accepting Kyungsoo's silent offer.
“That's why I'm going to have to go back soon,” he says after taking a sip, “I have to help the other actors tend to the school, while the teacher tests who will be ready to perform.”
“What?” Baekhyun says through a fit of coughing, the suddenness of Yixing's words made him swallow the alcohol too fast, surely the back of his throat must be burning fiercely.
“When?” Kyungsoo asks going back to looking at Yixing unabashedly, not minding Baekhyun choking on a sip of the strong alcohol on his left. Knowing that he has so little time left to be delighted by Yixing's acts and to become acquainted with him fires a spark of panic inside him.
“Tomorrow.” Yixing says seriously, his demeanor is a lot more posed, less fidgety, looking absolutely irremovable, incredibly different from the cute ways that have captivated Kyungsoo in less than a day.
“Already? That’s too early… You should stay at least until the end of the ten days of celebration.” Baekhyun leans towards him, finally having regained his breath. Kyungsoo drinks up, silently weighing what chances he has to convince the actor. The things he could offer him are endless, so he starts with the offer that no one has ever had a reason to decline.
“I could repay your time with money or as many pieces of gold as you will deem appropriate… Or gems, anything you might desire.” The edge of desperation coming through his words embarrasses Kyungsoo, but he tells himself it will be worth it.
Yixing jolts on his seat, his head shakes strongly and he waves his right hand in front of himself, his gaze travelling back to the surface of the table, his entire body rejecting the proposal “I can't accept something like that, I’m here to repay a favour…” he says and had it been anyone else Kyungsoo would have let it go, after all, he's never known anyone in their right mind that would refuse rewards as rich as those, but thinking about it, it makes sense for Yixing to do something like this without a second thought.
So, Kyungsoo takes a risk and reaches forward quite dramatically, both of his hands catching Yixing's waving one in a soft grip. Yixing's head snaps upwards, his eyes meet Kyungsoo's and just for a moment the latter is breathless. He thinks it makes even more sense now for him to be refusing, Yixing already possesses such clear and bright, beautiful, dark gems, why would he ask for sapphires? The yellow lights of the lamps make them shine in countless shades, from the darkest earthy hue to rare, precious gold. He is so beautiful and Kyungsoo starts to be suspicious of the ease with which he became so enthralled by him in such a short time, it brings back to mind the stories of splendid nine tailed foxes and the stupid men who throw their self preservation away to fall for them.
“Your Majesty…” Yixing adverts his eyes searching for support from Baekhyun who is looking at the scene in shock and seemingly with no intention to intrude.
“You can ask for anything you want, if money doesn’t interest you.” Kyungsoo says confidently, nothing has never been unattainable for him and even if Yixing were to ask for the Moon, he would be glad to try to give it to him, if it meant that he would stay at the palace just for one more week.
Yixing’s attitude seems to shift from the shock to a less guarded reaction after Kyungsoo’s new proposal, the panicked expression is deviated by a touch of interest, the king observes him for a few seconds before continuing “You can think about it for as long as you like, but don’t be afraid to refuse if it doesn’t interest you.” Kyungsoo lets his light hold on Yixing's hand go and for the first time, he mentions the possibility of being refused, only because he has seen the spark lighting Yixing’s interest, sure to have finally caught the actor’s attention.