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myjjongie · 14 days ago

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literally sitting here and giggling off my ass rn

like thank you sm for appreciating my work it means EVERYTHING to me. frfr

as for the manhwa, it’s not necessary to read it beforehand but more of a disclaimer that this was all inspired from somewhere. cause if i am too be really honest. the manhwa is 10 times more angst centered. like miscommunication central

jay wanted that damn cookie do you blame him???? 😇😇

and thank you again !!!! literally a good majority of the word count is purely plot LOL. so i’m glad it all just meshed well together.

THE DRAGON AND THE LADY ── PARK JONGSEONG

SYNOPSIS ⸝⸝⸝ from the day you were able to understand the things around you, you were relentlessly told about the long lineage of your family's history. being blood tied to a saintess—hand picked by the gods. you learned everything there was to learn. from the great start of the saintess and the dragon's alliance, to their inevitable downfall. you learned all of it. soon earning your parents strict instructions to never socialize with the dragon of your generation. yet now here you were standing at an altar, face to face with him—jay. all for the emperor's will of wishing you to bear jay's child.

WORD COUNT ∿ 42k

PAIRING ∿ dragonborn!jay x noble lady!fem reader

GENRE/WARNINGS ∿ marriage of convenience, love at first sight, pregnancy trope, runaway trope, angst, violence, mentions of blood, slight slow burn (jay wants the damn cookie), sexual tension, smut MDNI; oral (f. receiving), masturbation (m & f), slight breeding kink, unprotected sex, slight overstimulation - if i forgot any sorry

EVIE'S NOTE ˚. ᵎᵎ one whole month later and we’re finally here !!! FIRST this was HEAVILY inspired by the manhwa "It Was Just a Contractual Marriage". SECOND, this is my first ever long fic and its insane to me that i was truly able to cook up over 40k+ words (i am so sorry OMG). it did take a bit for the release of "the dragon and the lady" but i really hope the wait was well worth it. i also want to thank @heejamas @yeonmuse and @hoonieyun for being my proofreaders in this long process of a fic (and @heesmiles for proofing my smut :3). their support means so much to me and truly kept me inspired the whole time. time to sleep like a (barely) normal person again :3. i really hope you all enjoy this fic (aka my newborn child). MWAH <3

Your whole life, you were taught the upbringing of your family’s history. You lived by it. Learned from it. The family history had all started from a woman. Yet she wasn’t just someone ordinary. She was deemed a saintess. The Saintess—handpicked by the gods. Chosen to help, aid, and lead. As she went on spreading her wisdom and solace to the people. The saintess soon met an unfamiliar being—a dragon.

The mystical being was unlike anything she had seen before. Eyes colored like gold that quietly held the lowering sun in its eyes, scales that glistened like obsidian whether in the sun or moonlight. Then when the dragon morphed into a human, it was shown to have midnight hair that swept across the floor, with a build that of an adult man, all while still having those piercing golden eyes. The Saintess soon became intrigued by this being. Her only wish was to form a friendship—a connection. The Dragon happily accepted her offer, hoping to learn more about the humans that shared the world with him.

But soon The Saintess would be betrayed by The Dragon. It was said he hurt the people around The Saintess, going as far as burning down the things important to her. From then on The Dragon was sworn to never be forgiven so long as The Saintess willed it. As The Saintess’ kin expanded, so did The Dragon’s. As the children of The Saintess grew older and bore children of their own, the blessing bestowed by the gods withered away. With it, they were now regular humans that walked along the earth.

While learning your family’s history, you were strictly told to never converse with the dragon, look at him, or ever be near him. You didn’t understand why your parents stressed on it. Maybe it was the fact you were the first girl born to the family in centuries. Even then it was a consistent reminder at every social gathering. Even so, you never once saw the infamous dragon.

That was until the year of your debutante.

There he stood, in the middle of the ballroom—glued to the Emperor’s side. Plastered in iron armor from shoulder to toe, accompanied with a black cape which dragged across the floor. As you studied him you took note of the intricate sword securely sheathed at his side. Just like the story, the dragon had midnight hair. But his eyes were a different color—from a distance they looked to be silver, but you knew it held more than that. Even if you couldn’t talk about the dragon, you knew of him.

Said to be both the Emperor’s war dog, as well as his adoptive brother. You heard many things that were whispered amongst the maids at home.

“I heard he won a whole war without even needing an army to back him up!” One maid stated.

“Well I heard he’s killed over thousands and thousands of men! On and off the battlefield!” Another maid chimed in.

You didn’t remember much of what the maids gossiped over or chatted about in truth. But every time you heard the fleeting giggles and whispers of his name, you were quick to eavesdrop. Not caring if what was said about him was negative or positive. You truly wanted to learn more about him. Part of you felt connected to him. Perhaps it was the way you grew up listening about the family history. Or maybe it was the insistent discipline from your father and mother to stay away from him. Despite all of that you grew curious of him.

Soon your ears perked at the mere exchange of his name echoing amongst the chatter. Head turning slightly to catch a peripheral view of him. Even underneath all the heavy armor you knew his build was strong, his height clearly showed for that, since he was many inches taller than the Emperor.

Your body gently jolted at the firm hand suddenly placed on your shoulder. “Y/N sweetheart I was calling out for you.” It was your father. “The Emperor wishes to congratulate you on your coming of age.” lips turning into a soft smile.

“Sorry Father. I was lost in thought for a mere moment.” Flashing an apologetic smile.

“It’s okay sweetheart, let’s not keep His Majesty waiting.”

Placing your hand on his forearm, you both made your way to the two special guests. You could feel your father tense up as you neared the Emperor and dragon. It was your first time being face to face with the man you were forbidden to see. Of course your overly protective father would be stressed in this scenario.

“If it isn’t the lady of the hour!”

As you approached the Emperor, a smile spread across your lips. Your steps stopped, fingers grabbing the outer layer of your intricately designed dress, curtseying before greeting him. “Greetings to the empire’s sun.” As you rose back up, your fingers still held onto the silk fabric—waiting for the Emperor to dismiss you.

“I can’t believe you’re already seventeen Y/N. I remember you being only five years old, as if it was just yesterday! You have truly grown into a beautiful young lady!” As the Emperor spoke proudly your body eased—knowing you were able to speak rather comfortably with him.

“Your Majesty, thank you for the sweet words.” Your soft smile unwavering. “I’m very thankful for your help in setting up my debutante. I am truly lucky having His Majesty lend a helping hand.”

As your father, The Emperor, and you conversed a little more, The Emperor’s words were cut short. “My. Where are my manners? I haven’t even introduced you to my dear brother.” His hand gestured the dragon forth.

Your head tilted up. Finally face to face with the man you heard so much about since the moment you first heard of his name. You were finally looking at Jay. It would have been a lie if you denied not knowing his name. Of course you knew it. Your parents may have forbid any mention in front of them and you, but that didn’t stop the hushed talks within the manor. From the first day you heard his name, you made sure to memorize it—him—like a memoir.

“Y/N I would love for you to meet my brother Jay. I’m sure you’ve heard many things about him?”

A gentle laugh left your lips, readying yourself to lie in front of your father and Emperor. “No, not that I am aware of. My apologies for that.” Hand placed on your chest, you slightly bowed— feigning forgiveness. “It’s alright. Your lineage is indeed connected to The Saintess, so of course your father wouldn’t let you hear things about Jay.” The Emperor laughed. Chuckling at how serious your parents took The Saintess’ will.

“I’m so sorry Your Majesty. I pray that this act of parental care did not offend you.” Your father’s voice came off troubled, bowing in submission—fretting that he committed a horrible sin.

“Raise your head my dear friend. I am not offended in the slightest. Your deep adoration for your daughter is admirable. Don’t stress too much over it. Instead, may these two greet one another?” The Emperor placed his hand on your father’s shoulder, making sure to reassure his rising anxiety.

A light sigh left your father’s lips, happy to know the family wasn’t going to face the emperor’s wrath. Your father’s hand was firm on your upper back, gently ushering you to talk to Jay. Even if he seemed confident, deep down you knew how much he hated the idea of this. Taking the push, you warmly spoke. “It’s nice to formally meet you, Your Grace.” Curtseying once more.

You felt nervous for some reason. Was it from finally meeting Jay in person, or could it have been the mana of his dragon powers—feeling like a lingering ghost against your skin. Your head craned up, waiting for his reply back. All you got was a gentle nod of his head, paired with a disinterested look.

“Come on now Jay, give the young lady a response. Don’t just nod your head.”

The addition of The Emperor’s words made you probe the interaction more. Was Jay unsatisfied with you? Was there something you did to displease him? Your soft smile faltered at the growing questions bubbling in your mind.

“My apologies lady Y/N. It’s nice to meet you as well.” Jay lowered his head, bowing politely all while extending a hand to you.

You felt hesitant to take it, already worried your presence alone was unsatisfactory. Yet once your hand was in his, it was almost as if a missing puzzle piece fell into its correct spot. The touch of armor on your skin was cold—soothing in a way. It felt as if your hand in his was right in the world. Your eyes flickered up to Jay’s face, finally taking the moment to study every feature on him.

The first thing you noticed was the tinge of blue tucked into the depths of his eyes. Ever so lightly replicating the deep blue sea engulfed by sea foam. A gentle laugh verberated in your chest. Finding it amusing you were right about him—even if it was just his eyes.

Jay’s head tilted slightly—unnoticed to the people around him. He found your hushed laugh sweet, wishing to hear more of it. Then his thoughts paused. Fist tightening as he remembered his place in the world. Even if he was curious about you, at the end of the day you were The Saintess’ kin. No amount of persuading within himself would make him pursue more than just watching you from where he stood.

Noticing your hand still placed awkwardly in his. Jay leaned down, leaving a gentle peck of his lips against the back of your petite hand. Your face flushed at the sudden contact. It was indeed customary for men to kiss the hand of the woman they greeted. But you truly didn’t think Jay would do so.

Suddenly your father cleared his throat—pretty loudly. The unexpected sound made you draw your hand away from Jay’s. Once your hand was away from his you turned to look at your father. While you looked away, Jay stared at the cold armor encasing his hand. He may not have felt the warmth of your hand directly. But that didn’t mean he missed the heavy weight of your hand in his.

Looking at your father, you noticed the expression he gave. Almost as if he was signaling for you to finish up your interaction with Jay. Not wanting to stress out your father anymore than you already had, you turned back to Jay.

Finger tips grabbing the sides of your dress you bowed down. “It was very nice meeting you, Your Grace. But I believe my father wishes for me to head back with him.” Once finishing your sentence did you stand back up to face Jay.

“It was nice meeting you as well My Lady. Congratulations on your debut.”

The corner of your lips lightly raised at his words. Giving one last curtsey, you turned to head back with your father. As you left, Jay’s eyes didn't look away from you—unsure of when he would truly see you face to face again.

“I see you had an enjoyable time talking to the girl.” The Emperor spoke—mocking evident in his tone.

Jay’s head turned to glare at the man, displeased with how he referred to you. “Now. Don’t give me that look. You truly didn’t think I wouldn’t notice the clear enjoyment on your stoic face?” This time letting out a scoff. Jay turned away from The Emperor, unwilling to give him the reaction he wanted.

As The Emperor walked in front of Jay he spoke one last time. “But fret not my dear brother. You’ll see her again soon enough.” As Jay listened to his brother, his eyes landed back onto you. Watching you from the other side of the ballroom, brows furrowing as his words sank in. Jay knew something terrible was being planned.

With the ending of your debutante, years went by. Throughout the years you attended many more social gatherings. Within those gatherings you began to instinctively look for Jay. Eyes darting around looking for that familiar shade of black hair. But to your avail, there was no luck. Jay never showed up to any other social gathering since your debut.

You soon found out he was sent to fight in a war after your debut, finally understanding his new lack of absence in society. Once hearing about the new information you stopped looking for him at the parties. Instead all you would do was pray for his safety. Every night as your hands were clasped together, you stood outside at your balcony asking the gods to look after his safety.

You didn’t know why you did it. All you knew was if your parents found you praying for Jay’s safety, they surely would’ve died from shock. Even if your parents kept up the pretense of hating and disliking Jay due to his dragon origins. That didn’t stop you from wanting to care about his well being. You continued this new formed habit for the next year, before you would receive news that would truly change the path of your life.

Once Jay arrived back from war he was immediately told to have an audience with his brother. As much as he wished to ignore it and him, The Emperor was very insistent on wanting to speak to Jay. Making his way through the castle halls—followed by the echoing sound of heavy armor rattling with every step—Jay tugged the suffocating helmet from his head. Forehead still drenched in sweat from the long horseback ride to the kingdom. Now at the door of the audience chamber, Jay took one look at himself. He was still covered in blood. An annoyed sigh left his lips knowing his brother was going to surely lecture him about his appearance.

Pushing through the heavy double doors himself, Jay made his way to stand before his brother. “Greetings to the Empire’s sun.” Jay’s voice was calm, yet held irritation behind it. Jay stood tall, hands behind his back—preparing himself for the conversation. As Jay prepared himself, The Emperor sat at the head of the room. Slouching slightly in his throne chair, eyes not leaving Jay for a single moment.

“My dear dear brother you’re finally back from the war. What has it been? Around five years or so?” The Emperor mocked. “You couldn’t have cleaned off the blood before you got here?” He complained while plugging his nose.

“Well brother. You insisted I meet you right away to talk.” Jay retorted.

The Emperor sighed out. “Well it doesn’t matter. The thing I want to talk about with you is brief anyways.”

Jay’s fists curled tighter into his armored hands, a habit he created to not outwardly show his emotions. “And what was it you wish to tell me?”

The Emperor sat himself up on his throne. Preparing himself for the reaction his so-called dear brother would give him. “Well. I am arranging for you to marry that girl related to The Saintess.” A wicked smile now splayed across his face, truly amused with the twisted emotions coming across Jay’s face.

“Well in truth, the main reason for your arrangement is that I want you to have a child with her.”

Jay’s eyes widened, not with acceptance and joy, but that of unwillingness. Why would his brother do such a thing? His brother knew fully well of the circumstances within your family. There was no way imaginable they would agree to this arrangement. Your parents marrying their pure innocent daughter over to a monster like him? Then on top of that, having a child with you. It was ridiculous.

“I refuse.” As Jay answered, his voice came off more hoarse, more demanding and firm. This would be the first time in his life that Jay would refuse something his brother had commanded.

An amused laugh left The Emperor’s lips. “See I knew you’d say that. That’s why I’m gonna tell you something very important. So important that you truly won’t be able to refuse this arrangement.”

This time Jay let out a chuckle, believing his brother’s words to be one big bluff. “Then tell me. What type of information do you have that would ever make me say yes to this ridiculous plan of yours?”

“It pertains to your mother Jay.”

“What are you even saying? My mother died when she gave birth to me! You are my brother by title, so how dare you mention her like this!” Jay’s voice rose the more he spoke. Feeling his temper rise at the situation.

“To be truthful now. Your mother has been alive this whole time.” Jay’s face changed within the second. Brows furrowing at the thought of his mother—in which he never met since birth—being alive this whole time. “You see, after she gave birth to you some magicians of mine were able to keep her stable. So at the very moment she’s in this limbo of life and death. Essentially her death is controlled by me if we’re gonna be honest.”

There it was again, that sly smile, The Emperor knew he truly had Jay in the palm of his hand yet again. While he gloated in satisfaction, Jay still stood there—bewilderment twisting into his facial features. “This. It can’t be true…”

“Why are you doing this, why her? Why need another monstrous child?!” Jay’s voice grew louder, all while his mind became engulfed with chaos.

A scoff echoed through the room. “That ridiculous family has finally birthed a daughter after only birthing sons for centuries. And while you are here alive and well why not take advantage of this chance? A child mixed with the blood of a Saintess and a Dragon born, don’t you think that would be exceptional for me?”

Jay stood there, not wanting to believe a single word. He always knew The Emperor was not as kind and gentle as he showed off, but this. This was nothing more than pure evil. “I know, I know. The sudden news is hard to accept. But if you ever want to meet your mother you know what needs to happen. How about you think on it. Okay?”

Jay thought about his brother’s words, the situation he was now being ushered into. Even if the dragon wasn’t raised by his mother, he always felt some sort of affectionate attachment to her. Hoping those emotions alone would soothe his misery of what he is. As Jay turned his body, The Emperor spoke one final time.

“You know what will happen if you refuse Jay. So truly think wisely about this choice.”

With those final words, Jay trudged his way out of the audience chamber. Pushing open the doors more meekly as the exchangement of words sank in. The walk to his room was one big blur, mind disoriented and filled with pros and cons on the marriage arrangement.

Once inside Jay closed the doors behind him. As he stood there armor clad hands pressed against the wooden door, he couldn't help but feel defeated. Soon his hand curled into a fist, then with one swift motion Jay landed a punch onto the door. The contact of armor echoing throughout the room.

“This can’t.” Jay sighed out. Truly not knowing what to do now.

If there was one thing Jay knew for certain, was that you would die.

While the children of The Saintess were blessed with her holy power. The Dragon’s kin were foretold to be cursed. From the moment they are born into the world they emerge from their mother’s stomach. Essentially killing the mother not even seconds after birth. Of course the newborn doesn’t wish to kill its only true source of nurture and love. But that was the price to pay for being the kin of The Dragon.

Yet his mother was somehow saved—even if it meant her being trapped in a limbo for the rest of her life—but that revelation wouldn’t teeter Jay from the truth.

You were still weak and fragile. How could you possibly carry a dragon born in your body, especially for nine months? From the moment he first laid his eyes upon you he felt his whole world light up in a way he never knew could be possible. Even if five years had gone by he still remembered your face, the way you softly laughed that night, and even the comforting weight of your smaller hand in his.

Jay felt an emotion for you he couldn’t quite pinpoint. It couldn’t have been love, for someone like him didn’t deserve to feel that luxurious emotion. Instead Jay deemed this new found feeling as obsession. Yes that’s what it was, the reason why you were on his mind those 5 years he spent fighting in the war. He couldn’t forget the way your hair framed your alluring face, or the way your gentle doe-like eyes started into him.

Jay was just enamored with the sole idea of you. But now with the new arrangement, this unwarranted obsession would in truth be harder to control. And deep down Jay wasn’t sure if he could accept that.

While Jay struggled with his new found information you were just as conflicted as well. That evening of hearing the news, your mother came into your room—panic evident in her voice. “My darling you must get dressed and come with me to your father’s office.”

You sat in the seating area, book in hand. Your head shot up at the sudden disturbance of your mother. “Mother, what are you talking about?” Placing the now closed book in your lap.

“Just get dressed and we can talk about it when we’re with your father.” Your mother was surely hiding something. Yet your confused demeanor didn’t let you think too much on the matter.

Before you could ask for your maid—Serim—to come in, your mother beat you to it. Serim was someone entrusted to you for the past couple of years. She was around your age, just a couple years older than you. Her hair was a light brunette color, accompanied with hazel eyes to match. Pulling yourself up from the cushioned chair. You proceeded to stand in front of the full body tri fold mirror. Arms out at your side, waiting for Serim to help undress you.

Serim was quick with her work, she always had been. Efficient with styling your hair to match your attire. And Serim had achieved that once again. There you stood, hair done up in a half up-half down, paired with a casual cream colored dress with long sleeves.

“There you are, My Lady. All done!” Serim stood to the side, allowing you to bask in your reflection. Even if Serim helped you with countless beautiful looks, she was still always happy with her finished work.

You turned to smile at her, showing your utmost loyal appreciation for her. “Thank you Serim. You always know how to help and dress me up.”

“Oh please My Lady, you’re too kind!”

Before you and Serim could go on more with your shared compliments, your mother was quick to stop you. “As much as I would love to sit and listen. Y/N, I really need you to come with me to your father’s office.” You quickly became quiet. “Oh, yes mother. My apologies.”

Your mother didn’t reply back—her attention focused more on meeting with your father. The walk to his office was quiet, yet oddly rushed. What was so important your mother showed clear stress towards the matter? “Mother is everything alright?” Questioning her, maybe even hoping she’d be willing to speak early on the matter. Instead you were ignored, her mind truly being only focused on the three of you speaking together.

Finally making it to the office, the servants at the door pushed open the large doors to let you both inside. Now inside, it was only the three of you. You stood there beginning to feel awkward, your father sat at his desk—hands clamped together while his brows knitted into a tense expression. For your mother, she immediately made her way to the seating area, slouching into the couch—which was very unladylike of her.

After seeing this you knew there was something terribly wrong. “Mother. Father. What is it that is plaguing your mind so terribly at the moment?” Your voice broke the chilling silence. “Y/N.” A deep sigh left your father’s lips. “My sweetheart, please sit down.” You still stood there confused, taking a few seconds before making your way to sit down. Pulling out the seat in front of your father, you gracefully sat yourself to face him. “Father, please. What is going on? You and Mother are worrying me.” “Y/N, I. We.” Your father breathed in heavily, finding the words within himself—yet he still struggled to speak.

After what felt like many minutes—which in truth was merely one minute—your father spoke. “We received a letter from the royal palace. More so, from The Emperor himself.” His words faded off. Your head tilted in confusion.

“What could truly be the problem? Our family has backed up the royal family for many centuries. What could His Majesty have said in his letter that has shaken you up like this?”

Soon you could hear the faint hicks and sobs from your mother, head frantically turning. Did the family do something to make His Majesty upset? What could there have been for your mother to now start crying. She was the type of lady to never show her inner emotions outwardly—unless she was by herself or with Father alone. Turning back to look at your father, his face looked paler than a few seconds ago. “Please! What is going on with the both of you? I’m starting to get scared.”

“My love! Just tell her already. I can’t let this go on for any longer!” Choked sobs left your mother this time around.

You could hear your father gulp, before he spoke. “The Emperor. His Majesty has arranged you to marry His Grace. Duke of Seathal, Jay Velpark.”

You sat there stunned. If there was one thing The Emperor knew about our family it would be the legend of The Saintess. Not only did His Majesty know of it, but so did everyone in the empire. So why would he pair you both together? “Surely, you can deny this request? His Majesty knows about our story, The Saintess’ legend. Why would he even entertain that idea?” A wretched laugh leaving your lips.

“We can’t deny his request.” “What do you mean? He may be the emperor, but his word is not always law…” Truthfully you didn’t hate the idea of being betrothed to Jay, in a way it excited you. Getting this rare opportunity to see him for the rest of your life was surely uncalled for. But as you watched your parents wallow in their own despair, you began to feel guilty. How dare you find excitement in His Majesty’s arrangement, while your parents were suffering in front of you.

“His Majesty. He stamped it with the Imperial seal.” Your father’s head lowering deeper into his hands.

“No, that. He wouldn’t?” Everything now dawned on you. The reason why your parents looked so defeated and heartbroken. The Imperial seal was a stamp strictly used for important orders that couldn't be denied. The stamp was an insured demand to agree—denying the seal would lead to immediate execution.

You always thought The Emperor was kind and caring. Yet he stamped the Imperial seal on this request. No. His demand, knowing fully well your parents wouldn’t deny it. You sat there perplexed, unknowing on what to do or even say at this point. All you could do was accept it, for putting up a fight would just be utterly meaningless.

“Your wedding is going to be held next month. During this time you will immediately go into etiquette training-”

“Wait Father. I’ve already learned most of my etiquette growing up. What else is there for me to know?”

“Y/N. You are to be marrying the Duke, that would soon make you a Duchess. You would need to learn both more etiquette and proper training to govern His Grace’s land.”

In truth, you had forgotten Jay was a Duke. Growing up viewing him as The Dragon’s kin, it had slipped past your mind that he was given the title of Duke. As well as a land of his own to govern and care for. Seathal was said to be a territory of land constantly veiled in snow. A land shrouded in winter almost all year long.

Long ago before the tale of The Saintess and Dragon, Jay’s territory was said to be a land full of lush greenery. Filled to the brim with fields full of flowers—ranging from all kinds one could think of. Next to the capital of that land was a sea port, reasons for how Seathal got its name. The port was widely known for its exotic trades and abundance of goods from all around the world.

But when The Dragon parted ways with The Saintess, he made Seathal his new home. Very soon encasing the town in an eternal winter. Yet for some odd reason, every year around the time of The Saintess’ birthday, Seathal became a bit warmer, more liveable. Subtle flowers blooming in various places, accompanied with fruits and crops sporadically growing across the town. This strange phenomenon only lasts for four months.

The townspeople viewed The Saintess highly for this, deeming the strange break in the season to be an act of pity. They were grateful for her blessing, but that didn’t mean they hated The Dragon as well.

Another key factor about Seathal was its frequent monster attacks. Due to The Dragon marking that place as his new found territory. Monster attacks lessened—they still happened—but the people were protected regardless. As much as some people wanted to hate The Dragon and his kin, they couldn’t deny the sole reason they still stood was due to that mystical being.

Anchoring yourself back to the conversation you looked at your father—truly bewildered. This was a lot of responsibility being thrown at you. Being just a young noble lady belonging to a fairly normal household, you were soon to become a Duchess—essentially overnight. Your life would be flipped, unaware if this was gonna be for better or for worse.

“I know this is all very shocking to you my dear. You can head back up to your room if you’d wish to do so.” All your father could do was look at you somberly. Tears daring to leave his eyes. Your father always held himself up strongly—the same as your mother—so for him to almost cry. You could barely begin to understand how much this was affecting the both of them.

“I’ll be heading off to my room then.” Your voice came off weak and dejected, the changing future now settling within you.

As you stood up from the seat you were engulfed in a hug—it was your mother. Faint sobbing leaving her lips as her embrace tightened. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” You hugged her back just as tight. You didn’t know what to feel, part of you was satisfied with this outcome of a marriage partner. But on the other end, you hated seeing your parents feel defeated. They felt like they were betraying The Saintess, you knew that, but there was truly nothing else that could be done now.

Soon you were relieved from your mother’s hug, shaky hands cupping your face, truly taking in the moment of everything. Bidding your mother and father a good night you headed to your room, feet dragging as you walked along the carpeted halls. Making it to your room, you were greeted with a cheerful Serim. Yet once she saw the look on your face did her own smile drastically change as well.

After undressing and settling in bed did you muster up the courage to tell Serim everything. From being arranged to marry Jay to the arrangement being a royal decree, you told her everything. Serim was silent. Then she spoke.

“My Lady, I will go with you to Seathal.”

You shot up from the bed, shocked at her words. “Serim please, I didn’t tell you this so you felt obliged to come with me. I only wanted to tell you cause I thought you should-” Your words were cut off.

“My Lady, I wish to go with you so that I can still serve you by your side. Not that I feel obligated or am told to do so. This is something I truly wish to do.” There it was, that gentle smile Serim always held.

That was one of the things you found comfort in over the years you spent with her. You could feel your eyes water up, truly feeling grateful to have Serim in your life. “Thank you so much Serim. Truly, your loyalty means everything to me. Not as a noble lady, but as someone that views you as my friend.” Your arms opened up to hug her, face burying into her chest in an attempt to cover up your soon tear stained face.

Her embrace was just as strong, if not tighter than your own. “My. My Lady!” Serim sobbed out, her words cut short, truly feeling that she was unable to explain her deep sincerity towards you. Soon enough your room was engulfed in shared cries and sobs.

Pulling away from Serim you rubbed your tear stained face feeling a little bit better about things. You looked ahead to see her face drenched in tears and a runny nose, you let out a little laugh. “Here, take this and start heading off to bed.” Opening the drawer in your bedside, you retrieved a handkerchief. Taking Serim’s hand you placed the cloth in hers.

“Thank you so much My Lady, it means a lot.” Gratefully taking the handkerchief she began to wipe away her tears and snot.

“I will head off to bed then. Sleep well, My Lady. I’m always here if you need someone to talk to. Please remember that. I may be your maid first, but your well being is more important to me than you know.” Standing up and stuffing the cloth in her dress.

“Thank you again Serim, you sleep well as well.” You gave a smile in return. You watched as Serim bowed before turning to leave.

Once the doors to your bedroom had closed a deep sigh left your chest. Tilting your head back slightly you stared at the ceiling above you. Thinking things over in your head, you turned to get up from your bed. Standing up from the mattress, you head over to the edge of the bed to grab your robe. Tightly wrapping it around yourself you made your way to the balcony.

Pushing open the balcony doors you were immediately met with the chill air of the night. Closing your eyes to bask in it, you made your way to the railing. Placing your hands on the marble rails you stared off into the starry night above. The color instantly reminding you of him, the night sky always did. It was funny how the color of the night sky above reflected the same color of Jay’s hair, maybe that was one of the reasons why you began to miss him over the past five years.

As you stood there for a couple minutes you soon clasped your hands together. Head lowering a little, you were preparing to pray. But this time it wasn’t a prayer for Jay’s safety. No. This was a prayer for your family, for Serim. For you. You prayed to the gods that no matter what happens, that from here on out things would surely be okay.

The next month went by in a flash. During the first week you were introduced to your new etiquette classes, as well as being measured for your wedding dress. In the second week you were taught all there is to know about Seathal and its laws. The third week felt less busy, only focusing once more on your etiquette. Then came the last week of the month, probably the most struggling week you had in a very long time.

The beginning of the final week started off with finishing preparations for your wedding dress. Then you were sent to the palace, staying there in the meantime—since that was where the wedding would take place.

It took you a couple nights to become adjusted, not doing well in the new room. You never had a single problem sleeping anywhere before. But for some odd reason, when it came to the palace, you couldn’t sleep a wink. Serim was there with you the whole way, finding out remedies to help you sleep. Even going as far as to bother the royal doctor to cook up something for you. It was truly a miracle you managed to sleep soundly the night before your wedding without needing anything to help.

That night as you fell asleep, you stared at the wedding dress. Beautifully propped up across the room—the faint moonlight shining down on the ivory fabric. You truly couldn’t believe it. The wedding with Jay was tomorrow. Your heart raced in your chest—a mild feeling of anxiety eating away at you. A sigh left your lips as you tossed and turned in the bed, before closing your eyes for the night.

That morning was extremely hectic, maids and servants were constantly running about. All desperate to get you prepared in time for the ceremony. Everyone was very adamant that you were to sit back and relax. You could barely even relax to begin with, for it was the day of your wedding. You thought of many things to help soothe your growing anxiety, humming a lullaby your mother sang to you, remembering fond times you spent with your father, or the social gatherings you attend with your friends. But all of it didn’t help, if anything it made you feel worse.

Later that evening you were finally done. Your wedding dress was a gorgeous ivory color, faintly resembling the color of a white lily. Your hair was in an intricate half braid, paired with a small crown and matching ivory veil. You couldn’t believe it was truly you in the mirror, you had looked so different with a wedding dress on. In a way you felt nostalgic.

Soon Serim called for you—she would help escort you to the wedding hall. Once joining arms with her, you made your way down the castle halls. Bouquet now in hand, breathing in and out deep breaths.

“Are you nervous?” Your head turned to look at Serim, head tilted at you in curiosity.

You let out a slight laugh. “Honestly, I don't know how to feel Serim. Do I feel happy for the fact I’ll now be a wife. Or do I feel upset for my parents who didn’t ever want something like this to happen?” You turned away from Serim, still confused on the swirling emotions in your chest. It felt as if water and oil were swishing around, unable to mix and blend well together. Only causing a great deal of discomfort instead.

“Well My Lady, if I could add. What do you feel most when you think of marrying His Grace?” Serim had stopped her steps, simultaneously bringing you to a halt as well. You turned over to her, taking her question into true consideration.

“I. I feel excited about it. For as long as I remember there was a connection I felt with His Grace. Maybe it was because of our connected story, or maybe it was something less than that. All I know is that I don’t feel opposed to this. I’m ready for this new chapter in my life!”

“Then lead by that My Lady, your parents only feel this way cause they deeply and truly care for you, but don’t let those emotions hinder you from how you want to feel.” As Serim finished her words a solemn smile formed. Her other hand placed on top of your interlinked arm—reassuring you in any way she could.

“Serim, here I am thanking you a second time. When I myself have done nothing in return for you.”

“Don’t thank me My Lady, your happiness and smile is what is truly important to me. Keep doing that and I am more than satisfied.”

You wanted to trample Serim into a hug at that very moment, but knew it was unjust—especially regarding where you were headed. You kept a mental reminder to do so on this action later. You gave Serim’s hand one last tight squeeze, paired with a thankful smile before making your way to the hall.

Making your way to the wedding hall doors, you were greeted by your father. This time around he had a more bittersweet expression. Proud to see his daughter finally marry, but saddened for who his daughter would be married too. But instead of making it about himself, he truly smiled all to make you feel better.

“Oh my sweetheart, you look beautiful.” He spoke fondly, reaching out a hand for you.

Letting go of Serim you took his hand, giving him a gentle squeeze. “Thank you.” You gave him a quick hug, feeling bittersweet as well. You both turned to face the door, ready for the servants to open the doors.

Before the doors opened your father spoke up softly. “Just know Y/N, no matter what happens. Your mother and I will always love you and will always be here for you.”

You smiled to yourself, head raising as you answered him. “Thank you father.”

With that the doors finally opened. Taking the signal you both proceeded down the aisle. It was a minor wedding, not too grand for many people to come. But also not too underwhelming, for you were marrying The Duke. At the end of the aisle stood Jay. Dressed in an ivory suit to match your dress, it was the first time you had seen him without the iron armor. But it was especially the first time you saw him after the last five years.

You could tell he aged somewhat over the years, fighting in a war for that long would surely age anyone. But the moment he turned to look at you—even if it was slightly briefly—was as if you saw him for the first time again all those years ago. Those silver eyes which held a deep blue at its center, along with his midnight hair you’d spend years comparing the night sky too. A piece of you then found solace in this marriage, even if this was a marriage of convenience for The Emperor. Despite knowing that you truly agreed within yourself to find the positives in this shared life together.

Finally making it down the aisle with your father, he left a quick peck on your cheek. Quickly noting this would be the last time you’d receive affection from your father in a long time. You gave your father a happy smile—one full of warmth and longing.

There you stood, once again face to face with Jay after all these years. You kept your head low, feeling shy now that you were under his gaze. On the other hand Jay was almost losing his mind. He had only ever dreamed of something like this during the five years he was away. Seeing you in a wedding gown, none the less right in front of him. Jay could feel this thread of control breaking, yet seeing you all innocent eyed. He just couldn’t think if you like that.

When he looked at you he couldn’t think of going through with that ridiculous plan. That jerk brother of his was not going to win no matter what. Even if it meant going through the whole marriage not bedding you, Jay would commit to it. As long as it meant The Emperor wouldn’t get his way in the end.

“Today we bring forth a union between two people. One born under The Holy Saintess. While the other under The Mighty Dragon.” The priest soon began his speech, occasionally looking up from the altar—refrring to you both.

As the priest spoke, your eyes slowly looked up at Jay. Despite your eyes being casted by the sheer veil, you were able to see Jay’s eyes stare back into yours. The stare you held with him felt intimate. Almost as if he was staring at more than the outside, it felt like his eyes were looking in. Looking through your soul.

“As a representative of the Gods above, I approve this marriage of oath between you. Do you, Jay Velpark, take Y/N Marowen to be your wedded wife by oath?”

Jay was quick with his response, his tone cold yet held a faint warmth of affection. “I do.”

“And do you, Y/N Marowen, take Jay Velpark to be your wedded husband by oath?”

Your voice came off strong yet slightly hesitant. “I do.”

“Now you may finalize your vows with a kiss. Please confirm by the Gods that your oath is true.”

After exchanging rings you looked up at Jay, eyes studying him as you waited patiently for him. Jay slightly raised his hand—proceeding his way to kiss you—but in doing so, he saw The Emperor out of the corner of his eye. Seeing him wear a satisfied smile on his face. The memories leading up to this moment flooded by him in a flash, his jaw clenched slightly, still upset at the main cause of it all.

But when he looked down at you, all of that faded from his mind. Jay truly wished the union between you both happened in a normal sense. Maybe in another timeline of life, he would’ve let himself be in love with you. He wished he was in love with you. Yet he knew he wasn’t deserving of it.

Getting pulled from his thoughts Jay felt small hands place against his chest. His eyes focused to see you leaning in slowly for the kiss. “They were all waiting I’m so-” Your whisper was cut short, feeling a large hand snake at your waist—tugging you forward.

“We should do this properly at least.” His other hand found its way to your face, cupping your cheek gently as he leaned in.

Jay’s lips on yours felt electric, as if you were missing this touch of physical affection your whole life. The hand that cupped your cheek slowly moved to hold your chin as his lips began to feverishly melt into you. Your hand that was placed at his chest was now clutching his suit in desperation. Your fingers ached at the feeling of Jay’s tongue lick past your lips. This feeling caused a strange sensation to sparkle in you.

Jay began to immerse himself too much into the kiss, truly enjoying the way you clutched his suit—a hopeless tactic to help anchor yourself. Jay knew he needed to end the kiss, but your lips were like a siren’s song beckoning for him. Once his tongue swiped past your lips, he knew he was now in too deep.

The motion that made Jay stop the kiss was the light feeling of your hand tapping at his chest. Not wishing to give you any discomfort, Jay complied and parted ways. You shyly looked away—frantically catching your breath. Jay turned over to see the small crowd flustered at the scene. Your parents held a shocked expression, while The Emperor found his actions comical. He knew Jay was always infatuated with you. And this moment truly proved his point.

“I hereby declare the two of you husband and wife. With that we conclude this ceremony.” Declared the priest.

Jay softly sucked his teeth at the dawning realization. He had lost himself into the kiss, into you. But as he looked down at you, seeing your flushed face as you caught your breath. He wanted to kiss you all over again. Without realizing his next movements, Jay pulled you to his side, hand placed possessively at your hip. You looked up at him confused, but he remained unphased—leading you out of the wedding hall.

Once outside the doors Jay left your side, in all honesty you hated it. In the short amount of time you were already used to his larger hand settling on your waist. Serim headed towards you both, greeting Jay first and then running to your side. You felt like you wanted to say something to him, feeling like you wanted to commemorate your marriage with him. But before you could say anything Jay made his way down the hall—leaving you and Serim alone.

For many normal weddings in the Decelis Kingdom it was customary for the bride to move in with the groom right away. But due to the circumstances of Jay being a Duke as well as a member of the royal family, you both had to stay a night in the palace before heading off to Seathal. Once entering your guest room you were immediately changed out of your wedding dress.

“Serim what else do I have planned for the evening? I thought after the wedding it would be me getting ready to head to Seathal?” You stared at Serim, confusion clear on your face. Intricately watching as she stripped the wedding gown off of your body.

“Well my lady, usually after the first wedding night you must consummate your marriage.” Her tone was a bit flustered as she spoke, after all. She was implying that you would need to bed Jay tonight.

“Wait, that's tonight?!” You stared down at Serim—as she continued her work.

“Uh. Yes My Lady it is.”

Serim finished helping you with your dress—leaving you bare. Turning away she walked over to the wardrobe to grab a specific piece of clothing. “I thought that would happen once I’m with him in Seathal?”

Serim spoke—facing the wardrobe while rummaging about. “Well yes, but since he is a part of the royal family and you are both staying here for one night. You would need to do that duty tonight.”

You stood there stunned, it wasn’t like you were unaware of sex. You knew all about it—almost all about it. From listening to the maids yet again or hearing it from your fellow aristocrat friends. You began to have an idea on what sex was. You weren’t as innocent as meets the eye, but you were indeed still pure. So of course part of you would begin to create nerves on the thought that you were to lose that purity. But at the end of the day, this was now a part of your duty for being a newly married woman.

Serim soon finished up her searching in the wardrobe. Snapping out of your thoughts, you focused on her, wondering what it is she finally found. Noticing the curiosity on your face she pulled the item of clothes in front of her.

In one hand was a somewhat modest set of lingerie, while in the other a faintly sheer robe. You pointed between the both, too surprised to speak. “Surely, I’m not meant…” All Serim could do was lightly nod her head. You let off a soft pout, before accepting the fate of things.

Once dressed Serim helped escort you to Jay’s room. Thank goodness his room wasn’t too far—just around five doors down— it was enough to manage getting there in the get up you were in. Serim knocked on the heavy door, the sound echoing in the silent hall. “Your Grace, Lady Y/N is here.”

There was a silent pause—feeling as if minutes went by—then a response. “She can come in.”

Serim gave you a silent pep talk before pushing the door open for you. The room was poorly lit, curtains covering up the lowering fiery sun. Yet the faint glow of the fireplace allowed some light in the room. Due to the poor lighting it helped ease you, grateful that Jay wouldn’t be able to see the attire you’re in.

Your eyes scanned the room, soon noticing him near the fireplace. He sat in a single couch stationed in front of the fire, a semi empty wine glass in hand. Jay must have been drinking. As you walked over to him you noticed a circle table perched at his side—half finished wine bottle opened.

“Your Grace?” As you made your way towards him your hand faintly reached out to touch his shoulder, thinking that he didn't hear you walk over to him.

Before your hand could meet his shoulder, a strong grip engulfed your wrist. You looked down to see Jay’s hand tighten—his grasp was firm yet still gentle. The sound of the couch’s chair legs screeching against the floor startled you. Unconsciously you took a step back—frightened by the sudden noise—yet your body was yanked forward.

You were now at arms length away from Jay, eyes roaming your body as he studied your attire. “I. Uh.” You were hesitant to speak, cheeks flusteredly heating up.

Jay saw the way your cheeks reddened like budding roses, finding the flustered look amusing. Yet when he saw the outfit you were in. His thread of reasoning was starting to fray again. He couldn't give into his desire to have you, not when he made that promise merely today. Yet as he remained silent you still spoke.

“I was sent here to consummate our marriage, Your Grace.” Jay’s jaw clenched. Imagining the mere idea of you beneath him, gasping for air all with the addition of your sinless eyes covered in tears. He wanted to see it all, do it all.

Jay was quick to dig his nails into his palm, reminding himself of what he told himself. Uncurling his fist, Jay raised his hand to reach for you. His hand began to roam amongst the collar of your robe—slightly pulling it back—eyeing the bare skin that laid beneath it. “You don’t have to refer to me as Your Grace. Just Jay will suffice now.”

The cold feeling of his fingertips left a chill to run down your spine. You didn’t envision Jay as the kind to act overtly affectionately, thinking he would go for it right away. His touch truly was gentle. As his fingertips danced along the fabric—occasionally grazing your skin—you could feel he wanted more. “I’m not sure if I can do that yet. Your Grace.”

Jay exhaled, finding your reluctance to refer to his real name endearing. Yet in all honesty, referring to his formal title was surely the least of his worries. While you both stood there exchanging the few little words you both had, Jay’s hand moved its way up to your neck. Making sure to not harm you, his touch was tentative to you.

His hand slowly made its way to your chin, thumb tucking underneath as he tilted your head up. “In due time I know you can say my name. But I'm sorry Y/N, I don’t think we can consummate our marriage now.” Jay watched as your eyes shifted into a look of confusion.

He already knew the questions forming in your head. Before you could ask why he answered. “Your body is far too fragile. Remember Y/N I’m a dragon born, you're a human.”

“Yes, I understand that but.” You swallowed back, finding your words. “They’ll check to see if we shared a bed.”

Admittedly, Jay overlooked that the royal servants would be coming to check in the morning. They wouldn’t take anything for an excuse, especially with his brother breathing down their neck. The servants were sure to conduct a thorough check on the consummation. “We’ll just make them think we did.”

Your head tilted at his words, confused at his implication. Jay noticed your changed expression. Hands leaving your body, he turned away making his way over to the bed. Your eyes watched his every move as he made his way. As Jay sat down on the edge of the mattress, his hand reached out for you.

Like a moth drawn to a flame you aimlessly began to walk to him. You could feel his eyes focus on you, attentive to every step you took. Once again your hand was placed in his. A soft smile formed at the corner of his lips, looking up at you he saw the shy expression you held. If he wanted this plan to be believable Jay needed to know where your heart lied.

“Do you trust me?” Was all he asked.

You were hesitant for a second unsure of how to answer him. Of course you trusted him, but part of you still felt uncertainty. Yet trust was the first thing you needed to give one another. If this would be the first step in creating that, you had to take that step.

Looking into his eyes you nodded your head—implicating a yes. Soon his other hand guided you to sit on his lap. You couldn’t help but immediately tense up at the sudden closeness. “Just relax, I’m not gonna do anything crazy.” His words were low as he whispered in your ear.

The feeling of goosebumps scattered about on your body, finding his warm breath on your ear ticklish. Your hand reached up to your ear, all while instinctively backing up from him. Still his hold was firm, allowing you to be pressed closely to him. Your eyes scanned his face, darting back and forth trying to figure out what he was gonna do. His hand reached up pushing your hair behind your neck. “The only way for them to not question anything is if there’s visible evidence.”

You finally understood what Jay was getting at, if there were visible marks left on your body, there was no way they would question the night. Then you remembered your purity. “But. Your Grace, I’m still a…” Your voice paused—finding the courage to speak. “A virgin... How can we fake that?” Concern laced in your voice.

You saw the way his facial features morphed—thinking of a way to prove your assured loss of purity. “I have an idea. You may not like it though.” His voice was sultry, eyes locked onto your neck as he focused in.

Without any more shared words your neck became occupied. Jay nuzzled into the crook of your neck—simultaneously taking in your scent. The feeling sent an unfamiliar warmth into your hands. That same warmth you felt when he kissed you earlier.

Unable to contain the feeling your hands found its way to his shoulders—firmly holding on hoping to steady yourself. The feeling of something soft—yet warm—soon cascaded across your neck. Was Jay kissing along your neck?

Your shaky hand let go of his shoulder, soon to be tangled in his dark hair. Jay looked at you from the corner of his eyes, admiring the scrunch in your brows. Feeling satisfaction that his actions were eliciting these reactions out of you. You couldn’t help but bite your lip, the warm tickling sensation eliciting something within you, causing you to hold back.

Jay continued on with his actions, leaving soft kisses along your neck, all the way up to your ear. He enjoyed the way you would instinctively back up from him, relishing in the way you reacted to these new shared moments with him.

Not wasting another second Jay began to inflict on his plan. The soft kisses he littered along your neck soon became harsher—yet the sensation didn’t hurt. In between kisses it felt as if he was sucking on your neck, occasionally leaving the feeling of his teeth against your skin.

You would soon be greeted with the feeling of gentle nibbles every time Jay laid harsher kisses along your neck. As Jay continued onward he felt the way your body tensed as a muffled moan was encased in your mouth. He wished to hear your voice yearn for him, want him, need him, tell him to do more. But Jay knew he would be playing a dangerous game if he pressed on more.

Finally, Jay’s lips left the nape of your neck. Your fingers left his hair once he pulled away—Jay already missed the absence of your fingers intertwined in his hair. As he pulled back his thoughts were interrupted, quickly admiring the marks that cascaded along your neck. Solely concentrated on the red spots complimented by faint pink ones. A satisfied smile creeped into the corner of his lips, yet this wouldn’t be enough.

“Just one more moment.”

Jay eyed the deep v cut beneath your robe—another clean canvas to work on. Knowing deep down that some marks should at least be there as well. Soon Jay dipped his head down once more. Hand now placed at your lower back, allowing him to lean you back. A soft yelp escaped from you, the sudden movement scaring you.

Your hands clutched at his loose shirt, fearing that Jay would possibly drop you. “I won’t drop you. Nor will I ever hurt you.” His words whispered against your skin. Something in you fluttered, you couldn’t tell if it was the way your stomach flipped at his words, or your heart beating loudly. You were sure Jay would hear it. Hear the rapid beating of your heart reacting to him.

A quiet whimper slipped past your lips, shocked by the warm sensation of Jay’s lips meeting with your chest. You prayed Jay didn’t hear you, for it felt indecent, especially when it was all an act. Yet despite your prayers he did hear it, he picked up on the way your breath hitched, the rapid beating of your heart, he had heard it all.

Hearing your gentle whimper only urged Jay to continue. Lips feverishly kissing across your skin once more, paired with slight nibbles with his teeth. As he proceeded more into the action he couldn’t help but dip you lower. Your eyes squeezed tight at the feeling, fingers clutching tighter onto his shirt.

The feeling of his lips against your skin soon vanished. Yet you were still lowered back, you felt the way his hand softly tightened against you. Slowly opening one eye you saw the way Jay looked at you.

Eyes seemingly half lidded, full of something, something unspeakable yet also mutual between you both. Before you could say anything, you were now sitting on the plush bed. Your head craned up, noticing that Jay now loomed over you. His movement so quick you didn’t even take a second to process what happened.

Your head slightly tilted to the side, questioning what he planned to do next. Yet as you sat there wondering about him, Jay’s eyes once more roamed your figure. You sat before him covered in love marks he had given you. He felt himself wanting to tear off the band-aid which held him back. But he wouldn’t. He couldn’t.

He was satisfied enough knowing he was able to give you the marks that seemingly accompanied your skin. Yet also knowing you were within arms reach for as long as he would live, meant that much more for him.

“Your Grace?” That gentle voice of yours called out to him. Jay was quick to ground himself back, his bold silver eyes now looking into yours somewhat longingly.

“Sorry. I was momentarily thinking.”

You nodded your head in understanding, while doing so, Jay took this moment to walk away from you. Your eyes followed him, glued to his back watching his every move. As he walked back to the side table—out of your visibility—picked up something. Once grabbing what he needed Jay headed back to you. You still sat there patiently waiting for him, wondering what he was thinking of doing now.

Finally stopping in front of you, his hand came up from his side. You watched closely, questioning what was guarded in his hand. As Jay showed the palm of his hand, a gleam of steel flickered for a brief minute. Then as your eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, you noticed what was truly held in his hand.

A dagger.

You quickly noticed the intricate design carved in, the grip of the blade spiraling into one, while the cross-guard encased a red gemstone you had never seen before. A gemstone so deep in color, it faintly reminded you of blood.

“What is that to be used for Your Grace?” You couldn’t help but ask him with concern laced within your tone. One brow lifting up as you watched attentively.

Jay now grasped the dagger correctly. To then hover it over the other side of his hand—palm facing up. “For this.” The next scene of events shocked you—your face drained of its color. Your brows instinctively raised in shock, throat running dry as you watched the crimson droplets hit the floor. The color truly matching the gemstone mended into the blade.

“Your Grace! What?! Are you crazy!” Any tone of formality diminished watching Jay clutch his cut up palm—allowing more blood to ooze in his fist. You rushed to stand up—slightly tripping over the fabric of your robe—from where you sat, panic evident in your body language.

All Jay could do was look at you confused whilst you stirred in panic. The cut indeed hurt for him, but it wasn’t as severe as the wounds he collected on the battlefield. In a sense this only felt like a measly paper cut.

Nevertheless, watching you scramble over yourself in a desperate attempt to aid him, made him feel happy in a way. He knew finding satisfaction in this was wrong, yet watching you run up to him holding onto his arms tightly. It made him feel seemingly important.

“Your Grace! You’re bleeding. I. We.” Your voice was shaky, unable to know what to do in the situation. What you knew you needed most was a handkerchief. Before you could turn away your body was stopped.

Looking down you saw Jay’s hand holding onto yours—dagger now completely out of view. You craned your head back up to try and read his face, yet you couldn’t. “It’s okay Y/N.” As Jay reassured you, he soon led you back to the bed.

All you could do now was watch him in confusion, wondering why he was headed back to the bed while he had a cut on his hand. Then as you pieced your questions together you realized his intentions. Jay was to use his blood to make it seem like you lost your purity.

Once in front of the bed, Jay was quick to ruffle up the sheets, making it seem as if within the night you were both intent on exploring one another. In hindsight the rearrangement came off believable, but once Jay dropped his blood on the bed sheet. There was no way the maids would think twice about what happened tonight.

Taking your focus away from the bed, you turned to look at Jay. “Why didn’t you tell me?” Hand tightening in his grasp.

“I knew you’d be opposed to me being hurt. Instead you would’ve offered yourself.” His words spoke as if he knew you like the front and back of a book. Yet he wasn’t wrong. You wouldn’t have allowed him to hurt himself if it meant hurting himself instead.

“Yes but-”

“I meant it when I said I’d never hurt you. I am sorry for swaying your trust.This was the only way I thought of doing so.” Jay couldn’t help but turn his head away—feeling ashamed of himself.

“Your Grace…” Stepping forward to him, you reached your hand out to him. Softly cupping his cheek, while doing so you turned his head to look at you.

Jay saw the expression you wore, sullen brows written on your face, held together with a slight frown. Even though you looked at him as if you were upset, he knew it was only because you cared for him. Only less than twenty four hours into the marriage. Yet you held a gentle abundance of admiration for him. Jay disliked it. Feeling that he didn’t deserve such emotions catered to him. Even now as he felt that way, he couldn’t help but melt into your touch. Quickly finding solace in your warm touch—despite it feeling so fleeting.

As you studied Jay, your expression softened, accompanied with a sigh. “It’s okay, Your Grace. Just next time. Please tell me, we are now husband and wife after all.” Giving him a soft smile, hoping to ease him.

“Ah. Let me get you something for-”

“It’s fine. The wound will heal on its own.” Jay was quick to cut you off, ready to take care of it himself.

You ignored his words, whilst holding tight onto his hand. “It won’t be fine. I can help you.” As you spoke your words came off unsure. Not unsure if you could help, but unsure of your holy powers.

Jay was now raising an eyebrow at you, curious at what your words entailed. Before he could say anything a shining light emerged from his hand. The glow was tiny, yet held so much radiance behind it. Jay had never seen anything like it before.

Your eyebrows scrunched together reaching for the little bit of holy power you could muster. This was the first time you had ever used your powers on a person, let alone try to use it again. You first discovered these hidden abilities a couple years back—tending to a baby bird that fell from its nest.

The pure shock while holding the helpless bird helped manifest a flow of holy powers. You never told your parents about what happened, not even Serim. You viewed it as a blessing bestowed by the gods for being The Saintess’ kin, nothing more. Now here you were, healing your dragonborne husband with an ability you thought would never manifest again.

You could feel sweat bead at your forehead, body beginning aching in heat as you pushed yourself harder. You felt yourself soon struggling, yet you took notice of the deep cut slowly closing up. A light smile formed in the corner of your lips at the progress, but as you continued more your body began to grow weaker.

Jay immediately noticed the light emitting in his hand flicker, then the way you swayed to the side. He was quick to hold you, arm wrapped around your waist earnestly steadying you. “You did well. The wound is closed.”

“Oh. That’s good…” Your words slightly slurred. Soon losing consciousness.

As your body went limp, Jay held you against him tightly, ensuring you wouldn’t fall to the floor. With one swift movement Jay scooped you into his arms—holding you in a bridal carry. Not wasting another moment Jay made sure to settle you down on the couch. Making sure to be gentle with you while lowering you down.

Jay watched your sleeping body, taking a moment to look down at his hand. In truth Jay had lied about the cut, there was still a tear, yet it wasn’t as serious as before. It was red but not worse enough to form a scar later on.

He couldn’t help but plop down on the floor, back pressed against the leather couch. Hands reaching into his midnight hair, mind racing about. It was one thing for you to be related to The Saintess. But now knowing you had powers—even if it was slghtly—was truly another problem.

One thing Jay knew for certain was that his brother would not find out about your powers. If he did, there was no telling what his next move would be. Jay let out a frustrated sigh, leaning his head back while doing so. The feeling of your hair swept past him took a hold of his attention while he leaned back. He couldn’t help but take a lock of your hair. Fidgeting about, he couldn’t help but twirl your hair between his fingers.

Eyeing the way your soft hair passed through his fingers with ease, he proceeded on with his actions. Without another thought he brought your lock of hair to his lips, placing a gentle kiss onto it. Yet in that moment he truly wished it was your lips on his instead.

The morning was the same as the day before, chaotic and eventful. You had woken up in the same room as last night, settled into Jay's bed as if you’ve slept there your whole life. You quickly shot up, taking in your surroundings. Memories from last night flooded into your mind. Remembering what you and Jay had done, you quickly peered down at your chest. Where mulitple red marks sprawled all over your chest.

Your face deepened into a red hue, embarrassment creeping up your neck and cheeks. At the time you didn’t think Jay had done much, yes it was a few kisses along your neck and chest. But now looking, it seemed as if you were covered in bug bites.

Quickly closing your sheer robe, you stood up from the bed. You began to head towards the doors—being sure to ignore the mirror on the vanity on your way out. Once making it out of the room you were immediately greeted with Serim.

“My Lady, you woke up so early. I’m assuming your long night made you restless?” Serim held a concerned yet also sly grin—a teasing tone hinted in her voice.

All you could do was look away from her, hoping to hide your reddening cheeks from her sight. But to your dismay Serim noticed right away—deciding anyway to keep quiet for your sake. The walk to your guest room was silent, Serim held a happy smile whilst you kept yourself lowered.

Once entering the room you were immediately stripped from your night attire. Now dressed into a casual styled silk dress—allowing for more comfort on the way to Seathal—the color was a soft yellow paired with light blue and seafoam green accents.

As you finished packing up the rest of your things you began to feel excited for the trip to Seathal. Of course you’d miss your parents, but the new journey ahead excited you more. If there was anything, Jay would certainly allow you to write letters to your parents.

Before entering the travel carriage you looked out at the scenery before you. Trees and hills all covered in that luscious green would soon be replaced by the constant cold winter. You knew you wouldn’t hate Seathal, but you were sure about missing the sun beam down on you. As well as the strolls you had through your family’s garden. Those small things would be something you would most likely long for in the future.

“Are you ready to go?” A familiar voice called out to you, you swiftly turned your head to see Jay stand before you. Covered in the armor he always seemed to be wearing. He couldn’t help but reach out for your hair, his armored hand brushing through your hair gently.

You blushed slightly, finding the way he combed his fingers through your hair to feel endearing. “Oh yes! I’m ready to head out now!” A nervous laugh left your lips as your eyes focused onto Jay.

A soft chuckle was heard from Jay as he continued to play with your hair. He noticed the way your dress did a great job of hiding the marks he left. A smug smile etched into his lips when he noticed the faint mark under your ear. Feeling satisfied with himself Jay stretched out his hand to you. “Allow me to help you inside.”

You scrambled about reaching for his hand as you watched him open the carriage door for you. Jay’s grip was firm and comforting as he hoisted you up the step. Seconds later Serim came over, carrying necessities for your comfort.

You were quick to look through the items she acquired for you. A smile found its way onto Jay’s lips as he watched you both. “I will be heading off soon. Before I leave, let me introduce you to one of my closest knights.” As Jay finished, a man about your age ushered out from behind.

He was about the same height as your husband—a little bit shorter in all honesty—hair the color of freshly ripe strawberries, along with piercing black eyes. The knight was quick to bow before you. “This is Heeseung. He’s someone I trust greatly, but that doesn’t mean you don’t come to me if he has done something wrong.” Jay placed his hand firmly on Heeseung’s shoulder, a reassured reminder to take care of you.

Slightly curtseying you responded. “Hello Sir Heeseung, it’s nice to meet you. Ah let me introduce my personal maid to you, since you both will be working close to me.” As you finished speaking you pulled Serim forward. Serim came off a bit awkward which felt very unlike her. Your head tilted to the side, wondering to yourself why that is.

Even if it wasn't noticeable you saw something, a faint dust of pink brushing against her cheeks. Was Serim into Heeseung? Serim stuttered on her words as she greeted herself to Heeseung, you turned to the knight hoping to see his reaction. A faint yet obvious smile now on Heeseung’s face.

You knew later on this would be something to inevitably tease Serim on. Looking over to Jay you gave him a gentle smile—seemingly thanking him. Before Jay left to mount onto his horse his hand raised up to you. The cold feeling of iron sent chills down your arm, yet it was soon becoming something you acquainted yourself with. Not realizing it, you leaned into his touch. Even if it was the feeling of freezing iron, you felt his warmth behind it.

“I’ll come check on you when we travel for a couple hours.” As he spoke you looked up at him, taking in his words earnestly. Within the last twenty four hours, Jay became infatuated with the way you looked at him.

Eyes that held focus solely on him, he knew one day in the future this infatuation for your gaze would become a problem for him. Not that he would find it tiring, but more so of never wanting your gaze to leave him.

Once his cold touch left your cheek, it soon made you miss his touch. Before leaving you, Jay made sure to flash you a smile. You stood there in between Serim and Heeseung, somewhat beginning to miss your husband.

The carriage ride was comforting. The view of the morning fog setting a calm vibe for the voyage ahead. At every three hour mark you were allowed to get out and stretch your legs. You had never traveled such a long distance, knowing that Jay put in place these minor breaks to help you. In truth it was very helpful. Yet at the same time you found yourself eyeing Jay as he traversed on horseback. Part of you wanted to ride with him, but deemed it to be unnecessary once the thought entered your head.

While you had felt that way, you ended up riding along with Jay soon enough. He was quite perceptive of you truthfully. Jay saw the way you looked out the window, eyes somewhat longing to partake with him—it seemed. Jay made the final decision for you to join him at the next resting point. With that one goal it became a success for him. At first you were reluctant. But in the end you gave way to him.

Now here you were, seated in front of Jay. It wasn’t the first time you rode a horse, but it was indeed the first time you rode with someone else. It was struggling to get used to it at first. Strong arms caged at your side—tightly gripping onto the reigns—whilst your back was pressed into his chest. You felt yourself tense at the mere closeness.

The ride was silent, the sound of the galloping steps mixed with the carriage and cargo wagon joining in. By now the morning fog had long dispersed, leaving traces of dewdrops along the grass and tree leaves. For a while you said nothing, taking in the scenery as natural as possible. Soon that silence would break.

The familiar sensation of cold iron nearly shocked you off the horse. A small yelp left your mouth, joined in with shaky hands finding their way to the back of your neck. “Sorry. Did I startle you?” Jay spoke up, his tone came off apologetic—fearing he had truly frightened you.

“I wouldn’t say scare... More so surprised me.” You gave off a gentle sigh as you spoke, reassuring that it was of no big deal. “I just noticed, the marks I left are now almost gone.” Jay couldn’t help but rest his hand along the back of your neck. Your hair now pushed to the side, his thumb faintly rubbed against the disappearing bite marks. A chill ran down your body yet again—unaccustomed to the cold touch of his armor.

“For as long as I remember my wounds or any type of marks to my skin end up fading within the day.” Twirling your hair between your fingers, recalling childhood memories.

“Is it because of The Saintess’ holy powers?”

“Could be. My parents believe so. But we weren’t really sure.”

Jay’s brows contorted to a dissatisfied look. Unsure of whether he favored the idea that the marks he left on you healed so quickly. There wasn’t a need to be unhappy with it, yet he couldn’t help but feel irritated somehow.

The next hour was filled with small chit chat. Minor conversational pieces shared between you both, an eager need to get to know more about each other. You learned about Jay and The Emperor being brothers in name, while Jay learned about how serious your family took its own history. The conversation felt idle in a sense, but it allowed for you both to view a part of each other you didn’t get to know beforehand.

At the next resting point, Jay urged for you to ride back in the carriage. It would soon near nightfall, which would prevent the amount of stops within the trip. You didn’t want to leave Jay’s side, but you also didn’t want to be a pain in his side. Complying with his needs you found your way back to the carriage.

Before leaving Jay was affectionate with you once more. Armored hand stroking your cheek as he took in your appearance. He acted as if he wouldn’t see you for a long time, when in reality it would only be a few hours. Jay had a sense of reasoning that he’d miss you in that short amount of time, when in reality he knew he shouldn’t.

As you trudged back to the carriage you looked back to sneak a glimpse of Jay, sending him a warm smile. Once entering the carriage you were met with Serim fast asleep. Realizing this you made sure to keep your actions quiet. It had surely been a long day of traveling—especially for Serim. Settling back into your seat, you began to feel yourself doze off as well. Before you could realize it, just like Serim you were quickly asleep.

The gentle whisper of a voice slowly pulled you from your slumber. You recognized that low and firm, yet also kind and tender voice. Your body stirred slightly, unwilling to wake up. Yet as you did so, the voice still softly wished for you to awaken.

Obliging to the voice you slowly blinked the sleep away. As your eyes focused on the surroundings, you focused on the person in front of you. It was Jay. A soft smile was on his face as he watched you. Arms wrapped at your side to help you out of the carriage. Once pulling you out, Jay carried you on his forearm, his grip strong against your legs as he held you. Your arms wrapped around his neck, face nuzzling into the crook of his shoulder while the soft breeze of the winter wind chilled you.

As you snuggled up to Jay, Serim came over carrying a fur coat. Gently draping the coat over you Jay made sure to tuck the coat in tight—making sure it wouldn’t fall off your body. Jay leaned down to your ear, words hushed as he spoke.

“We’ve made it to Seathal.”

You turned your head to the side slightly—opening one eye—vaguely seeing the view before you. Feeling another gust of wind brush past you, you finally leaned off of Jay. Head now fully turned away from him, your eyes widened to the pure white landscape in front of you. It was unlike anything you had seen before. Distant hills covered in sheets of snow, alongside trees that reflected the snowcapped hills. In the middle of it all was a castle off in the distance, the tips of the roofings snow covered as well.

Jay watched the way your eyes twinkled, taking in the view before you. He knew that your breath was truly taken away by it all. “You know once you’re all settled in we can go for a walk sometime this week. I’m sure it’ll snow for the next couple of days.”

Your face turned to him, a beaming smile plastered amongst your lips. “It snows?! I’ve never seen snow before.” You looked at him excitedly, truly unable to anticipate the upcoming days ahead of you.

While entering the city, you joined Jay on his horse once more. As you trotted through the city streets you watched as the streets were full of vendors. Both selling warm food to even selling merchandise that only came from Seathal.

You noticed the way the people enjoyed the cold weather, showing how acclimated they became to it. Many of the people showed happy smiles while they waved to Jay. Warm congratulations on his awaited return back to Seathal.

The people threw flowers as the traveling party made its way through the street. Occasionally some people would hand flowers to you, all while greeting you with a warm smile. You didn’t expect such a warm welcome from the Seathal people. Their actions truly made you feel at home already.

Finally making it through the castle gates, the traveling party came to a halt. Jay mounted off the horse first, turning to you as his arms were raised out to your sides—readying to carry you down. You happily took his gesture, hands securely placed on his shoulders whilst being lifted off the horse.

Before you could walk to Serim and Heeseung, Jay’s hand interlaced into yours. “You must be tired from the long journey. Let me show you where your new room will be.”

You looked up at Jay, feeling unsure to leave without telling Serim at least. As you turned to look her way once more, Serim was now looking back at you. Taking in the sight of your hands laced together, she nodded to you—assuring you it was okay.

As Jay led you along his strides were small, making sure you were able to keep up with him. While walking along Jay walked through the backyard, making his way through the maze of a garden. You couldn’t help but look around at the surroundings. Taking in the intricate design of the garden, paired with the old castle exterior.

“This pathway isn’t the usual way to the bedroom. But I thought it would be better to show you this route. It’s a nice walk when you wish for some alone time, or to go out on your own within the castle grounds.”

Jay explained himself as he walked on, pointing out the different structures within the castle along the way. Once making it inside, he led you through a secluded corridor which led into a grand spiral staircase. The walk up looked long, but due to its seclusion it seemed to be something nice to do once alone.

As you both made your way up the stairs you noticed open windows placed along the cobble stone walls. It felt like tiny entrance ways into a world beyond the staircase. You couldn’t help but stop at every window—hand long gone from Jay’s grasp—taking a peek at the angles of the now setting sun. Golden rays shining into your eyes every time you peered outside. Jay noticed the way the setting sun’s rays reflected into your eyes, allowing them to change into a color he’d never seen. Jay couldn’t help finding himself becoming smitten with you as time went on.

Finally making it to the top, you both emerged from a painting. The art work was that of what seemed to be Seathal in its spring season. You stood there for a bit, feeling as if you were there within the warm weather. “This is Seathal during The Saintess’ spring season. That’s usually what the people here call it.” Jay noticed the way your eyes were glued onto the painting, feeling the need to tell you more about it.

“I had heard in passing that within one part of the year, Seathal does turn into spring. Despite its usual long winters. I hear it's quite beautiful. Truthfully I can’t wait to witness it.” You turned to Jay, excitement written on your face. Thoughts of Seathal in its spring season exciting you. He couldn’t help but return a smile to you, feeling the same way. He hoped this innocence of enjoyment could last for as long as possible. Hopefully before his brother would demand what he expected most from the marriage. Jay truly wished things would be alright for as long he willed it.

Making your way past the painting you ended up in a hallway. Only two large double doors leading to a room were at the end of the hall. You immediately assumed it to be your shared bedroom. Jay proceeded on as he opened the bedroom doors.

As the doors opened you were immediately met with the familiar scent of cedar mixed with hints of vanilla. The very same scent that clung to Jay last night. You felt eerily at ease once taking in his scent, certainly unaware of how much comfort he truly gave you.

In the middle of the room was a bed, big enough for the both of you to share. As you looked at the bed you thought about how Jay slept alone in something as big as this. It must have felt lonely at times. Continuing on you saw a fireplace, somewhat replicating the room from last night. A lounge couch and an armchair placed near it. Allowing comfort as one stares into the fiery flames in its place.

Deeper inside the room was a desk, positioned to seem forgettable. It must have been where Jay would complete more work even outside of his office. You envisioned quiet nights filled with sitting at the fireplace while he worked at his desk. The thought allowed a smile to appear on your face.

Jay stood near you, beginning the process of removing his armor. “Sorry it's not much. I should’ve had it more decorated to your taste, since we will be sharing this room now.” He spoke while laying the pieces of armor along the larger table within the room.

“No, no. It's okay, I like it as is. It feels very welcoming, believe it or not.”

Jay loosened up, not expecting you to find the gloomy room to feel welcoming of all things. Noticing the change in his posture you couldn't help but laugh. “Besides, the room feels very much like you. Nothing too grand or more of it.” Finishing your sentence did you realize how your words came off.

“I’m sorry that didn’t sound offensive did it? What I’m trying to say is-” Before being able to ramble on, Jay cut off your words. Hand firmly rested on your shoulder—a means of putting you at ease.

Jay let out a low laugh, finding the statement funny. “It’s okay Y/N. I understand what you mean, truthfully Jungwon says the same thing.”

Your head tilted at the new name. Jungwon wasn’t someone you had ever heard of before. “Who’s Jungwon?” Mind already forgetting about the previous conversation.

“Oh Jungwon? He’s my second hand around here. More so my personal aide to say. You’ll meet him tomorrow I’m sure. Besides, you can have a more proper tour of the castle as well.”

As you listened to Jay speak you failed to hold back the forming yawn. Hand placed over your mouth, eyes faintly squinted as a soft breath left your lips. Blinking away the stray tears in your eyes did you realize your lack of manners. “Your Grace, I’m so sorry for my lack of manners!”

“Don’t worry, we did spend all day traveling to Seathal, when usually it takes around two days.” Jay made sure to reassure you, hand finding its way to your lower back. Once his hand rested on you, he began to lead you to the bed.

“You should rest now. Tomorrow will be another longer day.”

Sitting on the mattress you began to remember your lack of belongings. “But! I don’t have any of my stuff. What am I supposed to sleep in?” Your eyes looked into his, worried about what would need to be done.

All Jay did was stand there and think. Head tilting to the side as he watched your distressed expression. Then he came up with something. “You can sleep in one of my shirts.”

Now you were the one to reflect his reaction, this time holding a flabbergasted look. “Wear your shirt? I simply couldn’t, that would be far too improper.” Your words began to shake at the mere image conjuring in your mind. “It’s alright Y/N, we’re husband and wife. It shouldn't be as improper as you deem it to be.”

You thought about his words, Jay was indeed right. You both were husband and wife, so wearing his shirt for one night surely can’t be as insane as you deemed it as. “If this is the only option I have. Then I can’t ignore your offer.”

Giving Jay the go ahead, he made his way over to the other action of the room, there stood a large wardrobe. As Jay opened it up, you saw a decent array of clothes, all in muted colors that fit well with Jay. Rummaging all the way to one side of the wardrobe, he was able to pull out a plain white under shirt. It seemed like the kind that paired well under a doublet, long sleeved with a slight fabric ruffle. With a heavy thud of the doors, Jay came back over to you.

“Here you go.” His hand stretched out to you waiting for you to take the clothing.

“Thank you, Your Grace. I’m gonna change out of my dress. May you please?” You didn’t finish your sentence, hoping Jay would catch on to what it is you implied for him. Taking the hint right away Jay turned away from you quicker than you expected—soon being back to back with each other.

In the beginning process of stripping your dress off was somewhat easy. But as you came across the intricate corset string, you began to struggle. You anxiously bit your lip, unsure of whether to truly figure it out on your own, or to ask Jay for help.

It’s not that you didn’t want the help, it was more so the way you stood only in your undergarments. Shoulders barren against the gentle cold of the room, whilst you only had the corset and skirt on. You were quick to remember Jay’s words. You were both now married, not to mention, he definitely saw more of your body last night then what you panicked over at this moment.

Biting the bullet you called out for him. “Jay?” Your voice seemed small—as if it floated off with the breeze of the fleeting wind—he didn’t even notice you calling for him.

“You called for me?”

“Yes. I. I’m having a bit of trouble…” You spoke shyly, trying your best to fight back any emotion of embarrassment you mustered. “You can turn around as well.”

Obliging to your consent Jay turned to face you. Instead of seeing your face—which he very well knew was red by now—he came into sight with your bare shoulders. Your hair swept against your seemingly bareback, the only thing allowing that to not be fully bare was your lingerie. Jay felt like he was in a trance, irrevocably entranced by your bare skin. Pieces of you his hands and mouth hadn’t yet roamed over.

Jay snapped out of his thoughts at hearing your faint voice, cursing at himself for being distracted by something as inconsequential as your bare skin. “What’s the matter?” Jay made sure to force his voice to sound tender, hoping it would hide any ounce of yearning he had for you.

You barely noticed Jay’s internal struggle over you—solely focused on wanting to be freed from the corset. “I can’t untie the string. It seems to be stuck.” You continued to fiddle about with the string—hoping to undo it at that very moment.

“I see.” Jay’s eyes trailed from your shoulder to your lower back. A smile spread across his face, watching as you fiddled with the tied up string. “Here I got it.” His slender fingers brushed past yours—letting you know he had it handled.

Drawing your fingers back you immediately clasped them, fidgeting amongst yourself as you waited for Jay to untie the corset. His faint breathing felt ticklish against your back, it sent a slight chill down your arms. Jay now focused on the task at hand, he barely noticed your reactions.

After—what felt like—multiple minutes later Jay stepped slightly aback. Finally finished with the troubling corset. “There.” As his gaze refixed itself back on your back did he now notice the redness on your shoulders. A clear sign that you were flustered during the interaction.

Jay didn’t dare to have you look at him, afraid of what sultry emotion would take over him. Instead he grasped onto that thinning thread as best as he could, truly reminding himself of what was best for you both. You let out a sigh of relief at the loosening of the corset. Both embarrassed yet also satisfied that you would be able to shed it off. “I’m turning back around now, so continue on with changing.”

You muttered out a thank you to him, proceeding back to stripping away your outside attire. As you took off the dress skirt, a soft thud echoed within the room. Jay’s jaw clenched faintly at the sound, truly wishing he could take in your form beneath the clothing. But he knew that was too risky to ask for. He made sure to stand tall, doing his due diligence to hide the urges he felt for you.

Once your clothes were finally off your body you picked up his shirt. Getting a thorough look trying to figure out how to put it on. Finally figuring it out you slipped on the fabric effortlessly. The material was smooth, unlike silk it was more dense, surely a shirt that would be very comfortable to sleep in.

Finishing putting the shirt on, you turned to face Jay’s back. Before calling out for him, you noticed his ear had a red tinge to it. Was he flustered by you? You giggled at the thought, finding Jay to be more adorable than he himself let off.

“I’m all set.” Your hand reached for his sleeve, signaling him to turn around and face you.

Turning around Jay took the moment to get a good look at you. Your smaller frame standing before him, clad in his clothes, while your bare legs peeked from below the shirt's fabric. Jay bit the inside of his cheek—feeling something in him rise—he couldn’t help keeping his eyes on you, truly like a moth to a flame.

“Is something the matter, Your Grace?” Slightly tugging again on his sleeve you’d hope to pull him out of whatever trance he was in. “I. No. I’m sorry Y/N. I just remembered I need to grab something for the room. I’m sure you’re gonna need another blanket, since it tends to get cold within the night.”

Jay’s tone was effortlessly straight, quick to get his words across as if something truly troubled him. You looked at him confused, wondering what had him so heavily bothered. Jay now had your hand in his, guiding you into the bed. Watching as you slipped into the bed, he helped to get you situated. Making sure the pillows were fluffed enough, or that the comforter for the bed would be enough in the meantime.

After an array of yes and no answers you were finally let go from Jay’s worries. Watching as you lay there tucked in comfortably Jay couldn’t help but raise a hand to your head. Stroking your hair both lovingly and caringly. You couldn’t help close your eyes to the heavy feeling of his hand on your head.

Yet when he drew his hand back a frown formed into your lips. Jay saw the change in your expression, he couldn’t help but adore it regardless of everything. “I’ll be back soon.” With that Jay began to make his way out the door. Before he tucked himself through the doors your quiet voice rang within the room. “Good night You Grace. I’m just saying it, in case I’m asleep by the time you’re back.”

Jay chuckled softly in return. “Good night Y/N.” The loud thud of the door followed behind as he left the room. As you lay there you close your eyes, hoping to open your eyes right away as you feel the morning sun beaming through the curtains. Wishing to explore your new home with Jay.

While you were being taken away by sleep, Jay only had one thing on his mind, or more so someone. You. All he could think about was the way you stood there before him wearing his attire, that of a helpless deer caught in headlights. The way your eyes looked at him innocently, while all he could think about was wishing to take you right then and there.

Making his way through the hidden door, even proceeding down the staircase, his thoughts wouldn’t stop. Soon enough there was a feeling of heat licking at his core. Stopping dead in his tracks, he peered down. The only thing in that secluded staircase looking back at him was the growing bulge in his pants.

Jay clicked his tongue in annoyance. The one thing he desperately had to avoid while he was to be around you was his growing lust. His lust wasn’t like an average human. Deep down it all derived from his dragon nature, something he desperately tried to soothe whenever he could. Earlier on in life he found a way to maintain it, that solution being blood lust.

But here he was, giving into a carnal desire he hoped wouldn’t happen. Combing a hand through his hair a frustrated sigh left his lips. Not believing what he was about to do in this very moment. Leaning against the cobblestone wall, Jay proceeded to make his way to the button of his pants.

Not wasting a single moment, Jay effortlessly set one portion of the restraint on his growing bulge free. The unbuttoned pants relieving the unwanted tightness, Jay couldn’t help letting out a sigh of relief.

For what followed would be more excruciating for Jay. While his pants weren’t in the way, his briefs were still an issue to be dealt with. Jay bit his lip at the sight of his red tip peaking out from the edge of his briefs—a showcase to how much he was holding back.

Peeling the briefs down, he was finally able to free his aching cock. An agitated—yet satisfied—moan soon echoed throughout the staircase as he palmed himself. Jay’s brows knitted in annoyance as he began to stroke himself, wondering as to why it didn’t feel as good as he forethought. Then an image of you popped into his head, hips bucking softly at the mere thought of you.

“Fuck.” Jay cursed under his breath. Now conjuring an image of you in front of him, on your knees assisting him in the relief he needed. His head tilted against the wall, brows furrowed while he imagined your soft voice ringing in his ears whispering sweet nothings to him.

He could see it as clear as day, your soft eyes looking up at him. Earnestly wishing to help him out no matter the cost. As he began to imagine you before him, the grasp on his cock tightened softly. Soon Jay was earnestly thrusting into his hand, doing his best to drag out the day dream he had of you.

With a few more mixed thrusts and strokes, paired with his shallow breaths—bouncing around him—he could feel himself reaching that high. Then he envisioned the way he would cum in front of you. Parts of his ejaculation finding its way onto your face whilst you knelt before him. Jay undoubtedly saw it all in his head, eyes squinting shut as he lost himself to the mere thought of you.

With one more desperate stroke Jay stilled himself for a second, allowing his body to relax while he came into his hand. He stood there, staring above—the spiraling stairs looming way above him—asking himself what he had truly done. Tilting his head down, Jay looked at the hand that held his cock, staring coldly at the cum glazed on his palm. He couldn’t help but feel irritated with himself for giving into this human desire.

Fishing a stray handkerchief out of his pocket, Jay diligently wiped the cum from his hand—proceeding to crumple it up in his pocket. Once his hands were wiped clean he began to tidy himself up, pulling his briefs back into place to then button his pants. Finishing up Jay continued to make his way back down the stairs—finding you a blanket like he originally intended when he left.

That morning you were awoken to the sound of drawn curtains, joined in by the morning sun’s rays sticking onto your face. You tossed to the other side, wishing to hide away from the brightness past your closed eyelids.

“My Lady, you must wake up. His Grace is waiting for you in the dining room for breakfast.” The voice was none other than Serim. You turned over to your original spot, one eye peeking open as you focused your vision onto her. Then her words truly rang in your head.

“I’m up! I’m up!” You shouted jumping out of the bed. Hair strewn about as you stood before Serim.

Serim giggled at your fast reflexes while ushering over to you. “I see that now. Come on, I have to get you situated.” She quickly led you to a corner of a room you didn’t see last night. It had a vanity as well as a mirror and rack for clothes—which at the moment seemed to be for your attire.

Serim sat you down at the vanity—brush in hand—beginning her daily process of preparing you for the day. Styling up your hair as well as doing your make up, Serim had done it all so swiftly as well in a timely manner. This time she styled your hair in a low half up, while your make up was clean—just a few touch ups for the face.

Finishing at the vanity, you were led to the mirror and clothing rack. You questioned how all your clothes got here, but knew it was most likely during your slumber. Serim busied herself looking for a dress, handpicking through every one deciding whether it was the right mood or not.

At last Serim landed on a dress, the color would be perfect on you. Making her way back to you she showed the dress to you. You nodded your head at the pick, knowing whatever Serim picked would look good no matter what.

Once Serim helped with getting you into the dress she stepped away—allowing you to look at yourself. The color was a beautiful muted rose, the hue blending in well with your hair color. The bodice had an intriguing design, cut outs that hung low off your shoulders all adorned with small pearls and jewels. The sleeves were long—meeting all the way to your hands—yet had ribbon sewed through at the wrists for cute detailing. At your waist was an intricate embroidery—the designs intertwining with one another—making your gaze down to the skirt, a subtle bow was below your waist ending into a long sash. The skirt was long, trailing down closely at your sides to slowly bloom out like a flower in spring. The dress was truly perfect.

“This is beautiful Serim. Thank you!” You flashed her a smile, feeling the pure act of generosity from your friend.

“Now let's hurry to join His Grace, I’m positive he’ll find the dress astonishing on you.”

Nodding your head, Serim leads you towards the door with a small pep in her step. Exiting the door a voice startled you. “Good morning, Your Grace.” Your head rapidly turned not only to the unfamiliar voice, but to the name as well.

Standing next to the door was Heeseung. “Heeseung you nearly shocked me to death.” Hand clasped at your chest hoping to ease your racing heart.

“Your Grace, I am so sorry for the scare. Is there anything I can do?” Heeseung looked between you and Serim, unsure of what to do.

“I’m fine, don’t worry. But why are you referring to me as Your Grace?” Fixing your posture—while faintly straightening out your dress—you looked forward to Heeseung.

“Well you are the mistress of the castle now. It is only right that I address you as Your Grace.” Heeseung stood firm as he spoke to you—yet slowly began to stress at the situation, fearing he may have spoken out of line.

Indeed Heeseung was right, you were the mistress of the house. Still it was something you needed to become used to within time of being here. “My apologies Heeseung, you are correct. My mind just had a lapse of awareness so I apologize for the worry I caused for you.” You made sure to smile at him, hoping it would sooth his worries.

Heeseung replied with a simple bow, signaling he understood fully well of your intentions. As the three of you stood about, Serim let out a quick cough—signaling for Heeseung’s attention. Right on queue, Heeseung's face beamed with realization. “Let me lead you to the dining room, Your Grace.” Heeseung gestured his way in front of you, waiting for you to acknowledge that. You lightly curtsied to him which then allowed Heeseung to lead the way, Serim followed in suit behind you.

The walk to the dining room was different compared to the route Jay had led you through last night. You walked through halls adorned in a variety of arts and decorations. Yet one painting in particular stood out to you. In the center of the hall was a portrait of someone. The subject of the painting had midnight hair, as well as silver eyes—with that tinge of blue—you recognized immediately.

It was a portrait of Jay, but he seemed to look years younger, more so of the age when you met for the first time. Your head tilted slightly as you stared at the painting. Perfectly enamored by the details etched into the canvas, one thing you did notice was the inaccuracy of his eyes. The portrait depicted them as only silver, missing out on that deep shade of blue that simmered in his eyes.

“His Majesty had this painted a bit before His Grace left for the battlefield.” Heeseung over to you—breaking your concentration.

You turned to see the knight looking fondly at the young version of Jay. “I see. I wondered as to why his younger self seemed so familiar.” Turning back to the painting you took one more good look at it. Slowly beginning to think to yourself, how someone of his age served in a war for five years.

“Shall we proceed on Your Grace?”

Being shaken out of your thoughts you looked over at Heeseung once more. “Yes, sorry. I must have been lost in thought.” Heeseung simply gave you a nod, finishing your walk to the dining room.

Soon you all made it to the dining room. Once entering through the doors you were truly taken away by how large the room was. A long table decorated with silverware and dishware at every chair, while at the head of the table sat Jay. Next to him was someone you had yet to meet. The younger man had blonde hair—slicked back in a style that showed his forehead. He wore a simple outfit, unlike Jay, who was always dressed for his status.

You now assumed the man next to Jay had to be Jungwon, they did look to be relatively close to one another. Making your way down the trail of the table, you were escorted to sit on the left side of Jay. Serim quick on her feet, pulled out your chair, allowing you to make yourself comfortable. Leaving your side, she made her way to stand next to Heeseung at the door.

Settling into your seat there was already food prepared at your seat. On the main plate was an array of some sausages, eggs, bread and some assortment of vegetables. Besides the food on your plate, the table held cheeses, fruits, more bread, and savory pastries. It truly seemed like an unaverage feast. Too busy studying the spread of food your head turned at the slight pick up of Jay’s voice.

“Good morning.” Jay spoke aloud as his eyes stared into you, watching your every movement since the moment you came through the door.

“Yes good morning to you too!” Your tone was more chipper as you replied back.

Jay smiled softly at you, enjoying your happiness so early in the morning. “How did you sleep?” Swiftly asking about your wellbeing.

“I slept really well! I’m sorry that I was asleep before you came back.” A pout formed onto your lips while your words trailed off.

A gentle laugh left Jay as he adored your reaction. “Don’t worry Y/N. When I came back from fetching you the blanket I ended up going to my office afterwards to do some work. I’m just mostly glad you slept well.”

Your cheeks heated softly, feeling how gentle and caring he was—even if it was just relayed by words. “Thank you so much again, Your Grace.” Looking down at the food you began to pick at it, hoping to hide your rosy cheeks.

Jay rested a hand under his chin as he studied you once more, truly enamored by everything about you. “Must you continue to call me Your Grace Y/N?”

You froze momentarily, almost as if you had something stuck within your throat. “Well. I’m just still nervous, forgive me for not being able to speak your name so freely.” You slightly cowered at the thought to say his name. After all you were nothing more than a noble lady mere days ago, so how could you straight address Jay by his name.

Jay exhaled at your answer, but it wasn’t a sigh filled with annoyance at your words. More so wishing you would be able to refer to his name sooner than later. “Don’t worry, take your time. I just felt like teasing you was all.” You nodded your head in understanding, but more so was embarrassed that all he was doing was simply teasing you.

The rest of the morning was quiet, but not in an awkward silence, the lack of noise was comforting in a sense. The sound of silverware meeting the ceramic plates every so often. The food was nothing more than fantastic, an array of flavors that all perfectly paired into one. As you continued on with your meal Jay had broken the silence. “Once we’re done. Do you want to explore the castle a bit more?”

You shot your face up from your food, eyes twinkling with excitement at his question. “Yes, yes, yes! I would really enjoy that!” So overtly excited you didn’t notice your voice raised a bit. Realization dawned on you at hearing Jungwon lightly laugh besides Jay. “Sorry, was I too loud?” Emitting the reaction of lowered dog ears.

Jay still kept his smile as he watched you. “No it’s okay. Jungwon only laughed cause I’m sure he finds you cute.”

Upon hearing his name, Jungwon almost choked at the exposure of his intentions. “See.” Jay called out as he pointed towards Jungwon. “Take your time, once we’re done we’ll head to certain parts of the castle.”

Once finishing the food Jay was the one to escort you out of your chair. He made sure to ask if everything was to your taste and much more. Of course you had nothing to complain about, everything was perfect as is.

Leaving the dining room—along with Jungwon, Serim, and Heeseung—you made your way to the library first. Making it inside you were amazed at how large the room was. Ceilings tall enough that the books on the top shelf needed a ladder to gain access too. Jay was sure to let you know that anything within the library was all yours to read and look through. You knew this would be a place you’d frequent for many hours of alone time within the future.

Next was making your way to the gallery hall. There you saw even more portraits, some filled with the scenery of Seathal or that of the previous Dukes who ruled over the territory. It was all so splendid and enjoyable to look at. There were even pieces imported from overseas that occupied the hall. Vases, decorative weapons, statues, art, and many more things you had never seen before in your life. Everything felt like a brand new experience to you.

After the gallery hall you made it to the main garden. A big marble pavilion sat in the middle of it all. You looked at it in awe—at that moment wishing it wasn't winter—thrilled to have tea and eat snacks with Serim, Heeseung, and even Jay. Making it past the pavilion you were shown the flowers that bloomed among the bushes, an assortment of roses, tulips, lilies, and any flower you had become acquainted with while growing up. Despite the cold frigid weather, the flowers flourished well—becoming accustomed to its environment. Jay was sure to ask you what your favorite flower was, implying he would grow an abundance of them outside your shared bedroom. You couldn’t help but melt at the thought of it. Your marriage with Jay may have been forced in a sense, but he was sure to be kind and loving with you. You couldn’t but find that curiosity you felt towards him blossom into something more. Something deeper.

As the sun rested below the horizon, you ended the day in Jay’s office—dinner already having been eaten just a couple hours beforehand. Just like his bedroom, it was simple and decorated to his taste. A desk in front of the two main windows, paired with bookcases aligning the walls. In one portion of the room was a sitting area—mostly used by guests or occasional naps from Jay—two single chairs joined with a lounge couch. In the middle of the couches was a table—used for tea time and simple snacks.

You sat along the lounge couch, tea in hand as you watched Jay surround himself with unfinished work. Before Jungwon had left for the evening, he exclaimed the work was from after Jay came back from the war. That had explained why there were piles of paperwork surrounding him at his desk.

Jay had urged that you didn’t need to keep him company, exclaiming he had done this for many years alone. You were quick to dismiss his words, making sure to tell him he wasn’t alone now, that he didn’t have to keep doing this stuff alone any longer. Jay didn’t say much at your words, head burrowed into the paper work. But underneath it all, you spotted the tips of his ears burning red. You giggled to yourself, once more adoring his vulnerable side.

Once you had finished the tea and snacks you dismissed both Serim and Heeseung for the night. Reinforcing that you wished to stay with Jay until he was finished with his work. Serim was reluctant but agreed with what you wanted. You watched your maid and knight leave the room, on the way out seeing Heeseung urge Serim to let him help her with the stuff. You smiled to yourself as you saw them leave through the doors, admiring how close they got over the last two days.

“They seem to be pretty close.” Jay pointed out—nose still deep into his work.

You laughed at his observation, hand resting on your cheek as you remembered their interactions over the past two days. “I’m sure they’re both interested in one another. Heeseung has shown he cares about Serim just as much as he cares for me. Truly a knight worthy of his title.”

Jay let off an approving laugh, finding your words to be very much true. Finishing up the paper in hand, Jay finally set his quill pen down. “I’m finished for the night. Shall we head to the bedroom?” Jay now looked at you, eyes awaiting for your reply.

“Yes, I’m ready to head in for the night.”

Standing up from his desk, Jay made his way over to you—hand now stretched out for you to take. Taking your hand in his you couldn’t help but notice how cold his hands felt at first. But as you continued to have your hand interlocked with his, the chill turned into a warmth you began to enjoy.

Making your way to the room Jay had mentioned something to you. “In around two weeks time I have to go on a patrol around the territory. And no you’re not allowed to come with me Y/N.” A frown made its way onto your face upon hearing his words. You wished to see every part of Seathal, even if that meant in and out of the city walls.

“I know you’re not happy about it. But it's for your own safety. The border is infested with monsters that I need to take care of. I just don’t want you to get hurt. I’m sorry.”

Hearing Jay speak words of worry and even an apology made your brows knit into concern. Jay had truly cared deeply about you and was showcasing that no matter what. “I understand. Maybe one day when it’s all cleaned and safe enough you can take me there?”

Jay nodded along with your suggestion. “I hope that can happen soon enough. But while I’m gone I’ll have Jungwon show you the ways of running things while I’m away.”

“I’ll be sure to learn thoughts from him while you’re away.”

Jay chuckled softly at your commitment. “Good girl.”

Your face immediately flushed at his words, feeling nervous now at the sudden praise he had given you. You turned your head to the side, hoping Jay wouldn’t notice you blushing at his words. Unlike your own worries, Jay was too busy thinking about how to bring up his next set of words.

“Also, I’m sure you’re still worried about consummating our marriage. Your body is still too weak. I’ll inform the chef to make you foods that will strengthen your health and I’m sure you’ll do a lot of exploring within the next couple of months as well, so your stamina won’t be weak as well.” Jay soon began to ramble on—hoping his words didn’t come off offensive.

You quickly noticed his rambling, being sure to soothe his thoughts right away. “Thank you Jay. Your care for me knows no bounds and I truly appreciate all of it.”

Jay forced a genuine smile at your words. Guilt slowly eating away at him. Yes he did it because he cared deeply for you, but at that same time he knew he would have to fulfill his brother’s demands soon. He just wished that fulfillment would happen in a timeframe where you wouldn’t be so physically weak. Deep down he hoped to stall for as long as he could—keeping safe the one thing he began to deeply care for.

Life within Seathal would begin to feel natural—overall normal. Mornings you would get dressed and readied by Serim. Followed by morning meals with Jay—who was always accompanied by Jungwon. In the afternoon you would either read in the library, learn from Jungwon, or take short walks throughout the cold day.

Oftentimes it would snow throughout those days. Spending most of those moments sitting beneath the pavilion—blanket huddled around you for warmth—watching the snow fall from the sky. Jay would always join you outside, worried you would become too cold within a couple hours.

By the evening you would always spend time in Jay’s office. Teacup in hand while you watched your husband busy himself with the endless piles of paperwork. Other days you would walk through the castle by yourself, feeling the thrill of excitement as you came across new rooms and areas. Jay always managed to find you when it was time for bed—no matter where you were located.

Soon the days would turn into weeks, then finally came the day Jay was leaving for his patrol around the border. Part of you was saddened at Jay being away for merely four days. Jay could sense that, doing his best, he doted on and comforted you—as a hope to not miss him while he was gone.

You watched as Jay vanished off into the distance, accompanied by the troop of knights in his stead. You had asked Heeseung why he wasn't going along with them. Heeseung had told you he did join the patrols, but this time was instructed to stay by your side while Jay was gone.

As a result, the days while Jay was away weren’t as dull. Beforehand you were always accompanied by Serim and Heeseung, yet this time they made it their main job to entertain you as much as they could. Due to that mutual agreement between the both of them, they began to grow closer in time as well. Having witnessed moments of shared whispering or giggling amongst them—their interactions soon became that of more than friends.

The day Jay came back in all honestly felt relieving. In those past days while he was gone, it felt as if you were separated for far more than four days. In his absence you began to miss his presence more than you thought you would. Jay was quick to notice your growing clingyness after he came back.

As a means to make you feel better he had one of the gardeners plant your favorite flowers in front of the bedroom like he promised. By the end of the day there were blue hyacinths planted in the garden from outside the bedroom.

“Whenever I’m gone you can always think of me when you look upon those flowers. I found out that blue hyacinths mean loyalty.” His hand played with your hair as he watched you leave your focus on the flowers below. Once hearing what the significant color had meant you couldn’t help to tip toe up to him. Lips meeting with his cheek, even if it was momentarily. “Thank you Your Grace. I love them, truely.” You had begun to fall deeply in love with Jay.

Jay stood there shocked at your forwardness, wishing his lips could be met with yours. But it was the first time you had ever made a move of your own. Not wanting to push you away he held back, instead choosing to savor the affectionate moment between you both.

As the days turned into weeks, the weeks slowly turned into months. Around the one month mark, Jay began to be more affectionate with you. Occasional kisses along your neck to even gentle touches of intimacy. He was sure to always be gentle and abide by your consent, keeping the promise of his words to never hurt you. As these shared moments between you both increased, you began to wish more from him. Simple kisses, hands grazing along your backside, to fleeting touches between you both. You began to crave for more from him. Yet anytime you brought up your consummation, he was always quick to dismiss it. Earnestly wishing for your health to grow stronger before you could tie that official knot.

Without even realizing it, five months had gone by, that meant five months living in Seathal. Yet still within those long months Jay needed to go on his patrols. In the beginning you desperately started to miss him, but as it became more frequent you were now looking forward to his return than waiting around like a lost puppy.

On the days he was away you learned everything there was to your Duchess title. Taking care of work within the city, arranging things in the castle, and many more of your duties. In between those days of learning you’d pick up some hobbies—learning to embroider, piano lessons, and even art lessons. Your favorite part from picking up these hobbies was being able to gift Jay things as well as showing him your progress in your lessons.

Yet while you had normal days without Jay, the same couldn’t be said for him.

Jay took on more expeditions to the border than normal, everyone knew it and so did he. In pretense it seemed as if it was him diligently doing his job as the Duke of the land, but in reality it was a means to escape from you. Not because he disliked you or hated you. It was due to his growing lust for you. Jay thought that if he continued to clear the borders from the monsters—killing as much as he could to satiate his bloodlust—then surely his unwarranted lust would die down. But it was all useless.

During those nights as he lay awake unable to sleep he’d create an image of you—same as he did all those nights ago in the staircase. He was able to replicate a version of you so well, it was as if you were a ghost haunting him within his sleep. In the midst of things he’d ask himself if you should’ve come along with him. You did desperately wish to see the edge of Seathal with your own eyes, but deep down Jay didn’t want you to witness what he was out of your sight.

His jaw clenched harshly as he lay on the embellished cot. Hands stuck to his face desperately trying to rub the image of you away. But to his dismay you were still there. Giving up with himself, his hand reached out for you, thumb sliding against your lip as he yearned to feel your flesh on his.

The hand that grazed against your lip soon trailed down to your chin. Fingers holding your head up to face him. In the end Jay knew it wasn’t you, the eyes he envisioned was that of sultry want—boring themselves into his very being. If it was the real you, you would have struggled to hold eye contact with him, he knew that for certain.

Every ounce of him wanted to taste more than what was on the surface. He wanted more from you, more of you. But there was no use in his selfish desires if you were to be used in a plan bigger than what he was. He could never allow himself to excuse his desires if it meant putting you in harm's way. Swatting the ghost of you away, he sat up in the cot. Hands once again finding its way onto his face—fingers gripping into his hair with frustration. “This truly is… Hell.”

The next day Jay had returned back to the castle. It was around late afternoon when he came back with his troop. Yet as he was arriving he saw a carriage from the capital, specifically The Emperor’s personal carriage. Jay’s grip on the reins tightened as he thought of his brother being anywhere near you.

Dismissing the knights behind him, he galloped his way to the castle entrance. There were maids already stationed to greet him. Hopping off of his horse, the servants lead the companion back to the stables. At the front door entrance stood Jungwon. Jay’s jaw clenched slightly knowing he’d have to go find his brother. “Where is he.” Tone as cold as the winter wind around them.

“He’s in your office, Your Grace.” Jungwon bowed as he spoke, feeling as if he was stepping on eggshells.

Without another word Jay made his way to his office. His metal armor echoed around him while his footsteps hit the floor harshly. Jay wasn’t sure what he would do if his brother laid a finger on you. Killing him wasn’t an option, but if what he feared most was true. It would be his only resort of satisfaction. Barging through the doors his eyes immediately landed on the figure lounged on the large couch. Legs propped up on the table and arms stretched out on the back cushions.

“What are you doing here?”

The Emperor peered his head over to Jay, that sly smile plastered on his face. “Now brother. That’s no way to welcome your brother. I came all the way here to visit you. Have some hospitality now.”

Jay’s hands curled into a fist as he listened to his brother. “You came here to visit me? That’s a lie and you know it.” Jay let off a laugh at his brother’s blatant lie.

“Fine you caught me. But I mean. I did come here for both you and your wife.”

Jay’s eyes flashed at the mention of you rolling off his tongue. The Emperor caught this, laughing at how his brother reacted to the mere remark of your name. Jay’s brows knitted at his brother’s laugh, finding it annoying how he saw amusement in all of this.

“I assure you I didn’t do anything to the girl. I greeted her. Had a little chat and made my way here to wait for you, was all.” A smile crept up onto The Emperor’s face.

“What do you want from us.” Jay was quick to get to the point—wanting his brother out of his sight as soon as he could.

“Well. I heard from a little birdie, that your wife isn’t pregnant yet. Matter of fact. You both haven’t even consummated your marriage.”

Jay’s body froze, anxiety bubbling up at his words. The evidence Jay laid out was believable for the likes of the royal palace’s maids, yet The Emperor knew it was all a facade. That wasn’t the only problem. Now he knew you weren’t pregnant. It had been five months since your arrival here, by now you should at the very least be showing that much was true. Jay stumbled back as things dawned on him. Hand to his head as he tried his best to gather his thoughts together.

“You really didn’t think I’d plant someone from the palace did you?” The Emperor snickered at his brother's ignorance.

Standing up he made his way over to Jay, hand resting on his shoulder. “Since I adore you like my own flesh and blood young brother. I’m giving you one last time to heed my orders.” The Emperor looked up at Jay. Analyzing the emotion of panic wash over his face—something he had never seen in the twenty three years he raised Jay.

Letting out a sigh The Emperor spoke once more. “If not. I will kill your mother.” The Emperor’s hand left Jay’s shoulder, satisfied with what it was he came to do.

Before The Emperor left through the doors his words rang through the office once more. “Remember my words wisely Jay.” With that his brother was gone from the office.

Jay stood there. Heart racing as everything swirled around him. Jay was running out of time, no, he had no more time left. Jay was so irrevocably in love with you that he would let The Emperor kill his own mother. But on the other hand, it was his mother. The person he assumed was dead his whole life due to his birth. He would do anything in the world if it meant seeing his mother, or even speaking with her once. Yet now he had to choose between you both. Something he never wished to think about the moment the truth was revealed.

Chest tightening, Jay began to strip off the heavy armor. Sweat beading at his forehead in a desperate attempt to calm himself as best as he could. The hard armor hit the floor, the echoing of the clanking metal engulfing the room. Once free, he made his way to the doors of the office. Jay sauntered his way into the hall. Hand placed along the wall to help balance himself along as he went to look for you. His eyes closed shut as he focused, using his mana to search through the castle. Then he found your presence. Walking up the secluded staircase, watching the setting sun as you made your way to the room. Jay was now on his way, desperately wishing to be with you as soon as he could.

You had always wondered how Jay was able to find you in the castle when no one else could. You were unaware of the fact that Jay’s mana is what made finding you so easy. Ever since that first night you spent together Jay had been sneaking traces of his mana all over you—marking you his in some twisted way.

As Jay finally made it to the staircase he was quick to raise his head up, eyes searching above in a desperate attempt to find you. Then his eyes finally found you, standing there peering out the window, the setting sun shining into your eyes just like it had all those months ago.

His movements were quicker than he thought, making his way to you faster than he ever did. Jay could feel his fingers tingle in anticipation. Not because he was finally allowing himself to have you. But to hold you and cherish you. Jay could feel himself get swallowed up by guilt. The only thing that could truly cure that dreaded feeling chewing away at him was you.

As you made your way up the steps you didn’t hear the sound of Jay’s presence sneaking up on you. The feeling of hands grabbing at your body shocked you. You couldn’t help letting out a shriek—body frozen as you panicked on what to do.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.”

The sound of Jay’s voice calmed all that anxiety away. His hands snaked around your waist—holding you flush against him—face soon nuzzling into the crook of your neck. The feeling of his breath exhaling onto you left chills down your spine. Something about him felt off, but you couldn’t pinpoint what it was.

“Is everything okay?” His hold on you tightened at your voice. Feeling like a slow reminder of what was to come for the both of you.

Jay didn’t answer you. You sighed out, hand reaching to his hair—patting him reassuringly. “Can I look at you at least?”

His response was still the same, only this time as he rubbed his face into your neck he began to leave a trail of kisses. The feeling was ticklish, simultaneously making the heat of your core flutter as his lips grazed against your flushed skin.

“Jay…”

You merely muttered his name, not even the empty staircase had picked up on it. Yet Jay did. His movements stopped as he heard his name fall off your lips. Your brows knitted as he halted himself—wishing that he wouldn’t stop. Before you could question him once more, you were spun around—back now pressed firmly against the cobblestone walls. Jay’s arms were soon met at your sides—keeping you caged where you stood.

Jay lowered his head next to your ear, once again finding his way to your neck. This time instead of leaving a trail of kisses all he did was take in your smell. Hoping that this was reality and not a twisted dream—maybe part of him did wish it was, but the other half of him prayed it wasn’t.

“Your Grace?” Your words were hushed as you spoke. Not wanting to break the moment between you both.

Jay raised his head from where it was. Now he was looking at you—those silver eyes you remembered in such intricate detail piercing into your very being. As Jay stared at you his eyes wandered down to your lips then back to your eyes, taking in every single aspect of you.

Raising his hand to you, Jay grazed his thumb over your bottom lip—just as he did with the hallucination of you. But this time you were really standing in front of him, not a lust filled imagery of you. As he brushed his thumb, his eyes wandered back to your lips. Staring at the way your plump lips felt underneath his touch.

“Say it again.”

You looked at him confused, wondering what it was he was referring to. “My name. Say it again.” Hearing his words your face reddened, now aware that he heard you call out his name in a fevered state.

Your eyes looked away from him, hesitance written all over your face. Jay saw the way you reacted, knowing you only felt this way due to the gap in your status. “Please Y/N. Today I wish to finally consummate our marriage. I want to hear you call me by my real name.”

Hearing his words you slowly met your eyes with his, seeing a pleading look deep in them. You were finally tying that knot with him. So surely it was only right that you did so. “Jay.” This time you said his name more confidently. There was still some reluctance behind your tone, but he was able to hear you say his name.

A smile formed on his face upon hearing his name, unknowing to how overjoyed that made him. In an instant his lips were on yours—light and delicate not wanting to overdo it. Leaving a kiss to your lips, Jay began to trail his way down, kissing briefly along your jaw and down your neck.

As he submerged himself into his actions, one of his hands now found its way to the side of your thigh. The sensation of him languidly rubbing up your thigh startled you. His kisses paused, chin resting against your chest as he looked up at you, that same smile still peering up at you.

“I don’t think you understand how crazy you drive me.”

Before anything else could be said, Jay continued on. Hands roaming amongst your waist as he began to kiss along your torso. Even if his lips against your skin were separated by the fabric of your dress, you could feel everything. You gasped out at the sensation, your body tingling from head to toe.

“Wait. Jay…” Your whimpers fell onto deaf ears as he proceeded on.

Kneeling before you, Jay was now focused on one thing. Making sure you would feel the pleasuring sensation of his desire for you. “Lift up your dress Y/N.”

You wanted to ask questions. Ask him why he wanted you to do so, but as you felt his fingers tap at your ankles you slowly realized why. Crumpling the fabric of your dress between your fingers, you slowly raised your skirt. Jay’s jaw clenched as he watched the fabric rise. Watching as your bare legs came into his viewpoint.

Without warning Jay had placed his hand underneath your thigh—propping it over his shoulder. The feeling of him lifting your leg off the ground caused you to yelp, whilst slightly losing your balance in the process. Quickly aiding you, Jay rested the palm of his other hand against your back.

The feeling of warm lips against your inner thigh made you tremble. Your fingers clutched the dress skirt tighter as his lips made way up your thigh. His grip tightening while he held you close against him. His warm breath swept past your clothed heat, a soft moan leaving your mouth at the ticklish feeling. The sensation was all too new to you, yet, it didn’t scare you. Jay didn’t scare you. But when something wet swept at your cunt your moans only grew louder. A new feeling forming in your stomach at the pleasuring sensation.

As Jay kneeled in between your legs his thread of reasoning was slowly beginning to snap. Your cunt was mere inches away from him, and when he heard your soft whimpers above him he was unsure of how much more he could take. In a heated daze, Jay inched his tongue toward your heat—despite the fabric of your lingerie being in the way. The slight taste of you on his tongue made him shudder, fingertips tingling in a way he never felt before—the thread he desperately grasped at fraying in the process.

But when he heard a moan unlike any other come out from you, that thread snapped. The hand that held you safely against your back made its way to your hip. Grip strong yet soft as he angled your body up—allowing him a better view of your cunt. “Fuck...” was all he could say as he saw the way you began to soak through your panties. The wet spot in the fabric growing in the mere seconds he stared.

Jay wanted to have you right then and there. He wanted to savor the feeling of your heat wrapped around him as he took you. But the thought faded as he remembered your weakened body. It was impossible for you to take him now, especially without doing anything to ease you onto his size.

Hooking a finger under the gusset, Jay drew the cloth back—now allowing a full view of your glistening cunt. He couldn’t help but bite his lip at the sight, you were finally within his grasp, and Jay was going to have all of you. Leaning his head further in, Jay swept his tongue at your folds—licking up the sweet taste of your juices. Your body arched back at the warm—yet also wet—feeling on your cunt. Legs beginning to shake as Jay lapped at your core.

Jay was earnest in his work, tongue licking along your folds before he’d gently suck at your clit. The overwhelming sensation of his lips wrapped onto your bud shook you, head tilting back as your body jolted with pleasure. The grasp on your skirt faltered as he proceeded on. As Jay continued his motions, the hand gripping at your thigh left its place. Too enraptured by the pleasure you were unaware of the absent feeling on your thigh. Instead that absence would be replaced with his finger prodding at your entrance.

Your breath hitched in your throat at the tight feeling of his finger inserting into you. Back arching—further—as you felt everything, body shuddering from his touch alone. Despite the slight pain it all melted away as Jay continued his ministrations on your clit.

As Jay inched his finger deeper—slightly curling it in the process—he felt something spongy. Curious as to what it was he pressed down on it, the pressure was soft. Yet that pressure alone caused you to moan louder. Jay smirked to himself, realizing he had found the spot that made you feel good.

Jay incessantly pressed at the spot. Applying gentle increments of pressure, as well as rubbing against it. As this went on your moans turned into a noisy mess, so much so you began to bite your lip in a hopeless attempt to quiet yourself.

To absorbed into pleasing you Jay inserted another finger inside. Your head began to spin, the pleasure far too much to think straight. As his two fingers slid in and out, paired with his tongue at your cunt, the tingling feeling in your stomach began to ache.

Jay could feel the way your entrance began to flutter around his fingers—signaling how close you were. He began to work more diligently, dragging out your inevitable orgasm. Your toes curled as you felt waves wash over you. Every time Jay pressed down on that spot it was as if the dam inside of you was breaking. Then with one final languid stroke you came undone on him. Jay steadied himself, allowing you to ride out your orgasm. Your body trembled and shivered above him—chest heaving as you gasped for air—eyes wide as you felt the euphoric feeling run through your body.

Jay retracted his face away from your heat, fingers slowly leaving your entrance as well. He looked down at his fingers, viewing the two fingers coated in your juices. Then he looked up at you, he saw your half lidded eyelids as you came down from that lust driven high. As Jay let your leg touch back to the floor, you couldn’t help but buckle down. Jay quickly held onto you, surprised by how much that alone did a toll on you. “I got you.” Was all he said before scooping you into his arms.

Motioning you to wrap your arms around him he held close onto you, leaving gentle kisses against your face as he comforted you. A mixture of praises were said to you as he made his way up the stairs. Making it into the room, Jay was worried he overworked you. Deciding by himself that he would take you another night instead. Settling you down on the bed, he began to leave your side—hoping to retrieve a wash cloth for you—but you stopped him. Gentle fingers clutching onto his hand desperately.

He looked at you confused. Then the next words he heard from you was a sentence he had least expected.

“Don’t go. Stay.” Was all you could weakly muster out.

Jay stood there, unsure of what to do. You seemed to be utterly weakened. So how could he push you further? “You need to rest.” Jay replied, looking away from you—unable to face you in the heat of things.

“Please. Jay. I need you.”

This time you sat up to look at him. Jay turned to look at you, wondering if what you had said was real. Then as he saw you sitting there, eyes full of something he never saw from you. The heat of his core began to ache. That look he saw in your eyes was lust. You wanted him at that very moment and Jay could see that as clear as day. Yet, he was still unsure of himself. But when you began to untie the top of your dress before him, all reasoning began to leave his mind.

He watched as the sleeves slipped down your shoulders, dropping past your chest pooling around your waist—revealing your exposed breasts. Jay licked at his bottom lip, before crashing onto yours. His hands cupped at your face, delving himself into the kiss—piecing himself to you like a puzzle piece. The hand placed at your cheek slid around to the back of your neck, angling yet pushing his fevered lips deeper into yours. Jay leaned himself onto the bed—your body following with his movements. His grip on your neck was still strong, whilst his other hand began to dance down your chest.

Rough fingers tauntingly grazing at your nipple, before kneading the bud between his index and thumb. You couldn’t help but moan into the kiss, startled by the sudden pressure on your breasts. As Jay continued to rub your nipple he soon let it go, instead this time cupping your boob in his hands.

His tongue swept past your bottom lip, urging for you to open up for him. You complied diligently, as his tongue slipped in, finding yours immediately. Soon Jay was swirling his tongue along with yours, in hopes to loosen the tension in you as much as he could—while he massaged your chest gently.

The kiss was heated and breathy, your arms desperately clutched around his neck as you followed along with his lead. At a certain point you needed to breathe, but Jay, so immersed into your plump lips, didn't notice you tapping at his chest—only when you bit his lip did he notice. Breaking the kiss right away, Jay began to observe your face—just a few inches from his—your lips now a red color as you breathed deeply underneath him. The last time he had seen such a sight was the day he kissed you at the altar. But now he would see more than just your lips red and sore for him.

Jay’s hand left your chest, reaching up to lower your back against the bed. His hand at your neck left its place, now gluing itself to your waist. Jay’s hands roamed your body as he took in the sight of you, gliding down every curve and crevice—worshipping you in the process.

The one thing left in his way was the rest of your dress. Immediately tugging the fabric down your legs. Your body was now bare—all except for your panties. Jay was quick to undress himself, fingers frantically rushing to unbutton his shirt.

As his shirt hit the floor, he made way to his pants—unbuttoning in such precision to earnestly remove them. Now he stood there in between your legs, gently grinding his bulge into your core. You bit your lip at the pressure against your cunt. Head turning to the side in a poor attempt to hide your reddening face. Jay was too engaged with what was happening below to realize you were also finding pleasure in everything.

Cursing under his breath his hips wouldn’t stop moving into you. So drunk on you he kept with his motions—which also helped in loosening you more. The moment he spotted his precum soak through his briefs he knew it was time.

Discarding your underwear, Jay got a better view of your wet cunt before him. He could see the way your entrance twitched in anticipation for him. You peeked at him from the corner of your eyes, waiting for Jay to remove his garments as well.

Then as he slid the cloth of his briefs down did you see his cock. The size was unlike something you ever imagined. The girth seemed far too big to fit inside of you, not to mention the faint ridges beneath his shaft. You swallowed back, throat drying at the mere sight of him in front of you. But out of everything, what caught your eyes the most was the tiny blue scales amongst his pelvis. Seemingly the most dragonlike thing about him—besides his eyes.

Jay nestled his cock onto your heat, rubbing himself up and down your folds. The rugged feeling of the ridges against your cunt elicited a moan from you. Despite your pooling desire you began to worry about his size.

“Jay… I don’t think. It won’t fit.” You whimpered out, hand stretching out to push his hips away from yours—yet only your fingertips grazed against his skin.

Suddenly Jay brought both your legs together, holding them straight against his chest—his dick tightly pressed in between your thighs. The pressure was agonizing whilst he imagined himself bottomed out inside of you. It was enough, but he still needed to prep you.

“Shhh.” Jay soothed you, interlocking his free hand with yours, as his hips still continued their slow thrusts.

Throwing an arm over your face you basked in the pleasure, head swirling as you began to see stars in your vision. Your hand tightened in his hold, legs trembling harshly every time he dragged his cock through your folds. Your moans only grew more as his hips began to slam into the back of your thighs. You could feel that knotted feeling in your stomach loosen again. Your heated moans slowly morphed into his name—the feeling of your orgasm looming over you as he continued. Noticing this Jay picked up his pace slightly, wishing to help you cum first.

With one final feverish rub of his cock against your clit the pooling heat inside of you was released. Feeling the way your legs viscously trembled in his grasp, Jay stopped his movements. Slowly rubbing himself into you—helping soothe your orgasm down. You both sat there for a moment. You savoring the ecstasy of it all while Jay watched you. Your arms tightly covered over your face as you laid there catching your breath. It was only the second time that you came, but you were already spent.

Soon your legs would be set into a different position—angled to be pressed at your sides. Jay sluggishly ran his cock against your cunt. Whimpers left your lips—a needy attempt to voice how sensitive you were—but Jay continued on.

Then as your eyes peered down you saw his cock, tip red and leaking of precum. That's when you realized he didn’t cum at all while he catered to you. Jay got you to cum twice and here he stood still holding it in. Your hands stretched out to your legs, helping to hold them flush against yourself—hoping Jay would also realize your want for him. Jay gulped at the sight. Laying there as you held your legs apart just for him, he was truly enamored with the sight of you.

As he rubbed himself into your core, he began to thumb at your clit. The gentle and slow circles chewed away at you as you began to feel yourself grow impatient. Yet while he thumbed your clit, it distracted you from the main course of things.

Jay settled the head of his cock at your entrance, you seemed wet enough to take him, and Jay prayed it would be enough to not hurt. As he slowly nudged his way into you, your breath hitched in your throat. This pressure was different from when Jay’s fingers were in you. You could feel the way his tip began to stretch you out. It hurt momentarily, yet the pleasure washing over your body made it durable.

The hand that thumbed at you outstretched onto your pelvis—still continuing his circles on you. His palm on your pelvis made you feel grounded as he inched his way into you. With every inch of his cock in you, your moans began to slip out. As he entered, Jay’s tip momentarily rubbed past that sensitive area. You gasped out at the feeling, back arching at the indescribable pleasure.

Soon Jay was merely half way into you, taking his time to adjust you to his size. He continued to rub your clit, noticing it helped loosen in you in the process. The whole time Jay watched you shake and shudder before him, yet as he looked down his eyes were glued on the way you swallowed him. Every inch disappearing into your tight cunt. With just a few more pushes he was able to nestle his pelvis onto your core. Staying still he needed you to become comfortable with the feeling of him inside. Softly rubbing his hips into you he leaned down to your ear.

“I’m gonna start moving now…”

Was all he said as his body caged you, arms rested at your side as he drew his hips back. Steady and slow before slamming back into you. Your hands left your thighs as you now blissfully hugged at his neck—nails digging into his back in desperation.

Every time Jay dragged his hips back the pace was the same—all while rubbing against that spongy spot—yet when he buried himself back inside, it felt needy and rushed. At a certain point in, the pacing of his thrusts picked up.

No longer was he slowly dragging himself out of you, he was now earnestly slamming his hips into yours. You were soon a mess underneath him, your moans turning into a mix of mewls and gasps. Tears began to brim at your eyes, the pain and pleasure becoming too unbearable for you to handle.

As Jay buried his head next to yours he turned to look at you. Mind wondering if your face was the exact same way he imagined it. And his imagination was correct, but when he saw the tears he couldn’t help but wanting to kiss them away. His lips met the wet corners of your eyes, hoping to comfort you through his erratic thrusts.

Jay could feel himself reaching his breaking point—his movements becoming a blend of rough and fast to lazy and stable. He was due to cum at any second, but began to doubt things once again—hips pausing for a second—truly asking himself if this is what he wanted to do.

But as he thought of you being able to carry his child and raise one with him, those doubts began to leave him. Now he was telling himself it would be fine, you had The Saintess’ blessing. So surely her holy powers would be able to help you when you would give birth. Agreeing with himself he picked up the pace of his hips one more time.

With one last final harsh thrust he steadied himself—cock nestled deep inside, twitching slightly against your walls. With that one thrust you were able to come for what hoped to be the last time. The feeling of him throbbing inside had you whimpering beneath him, paired with the feeling of a rush of warmth that filled you.

The two of you stayed in that position, savoring the feeling of each other—while you both caught your breaths. Jay left kisses along your face before pushing himself off of you—all while still being connected. You watched him, eyes half lidded. It wasn’t due to the fucked out daze you were in, but the fact you began to grow tired. Before you could say anything to Jay you were fast asleep. Noticing your tuckered out state, Jay was slightly beating himself up for being too rough with you.

Sliding out of you, Jay immediately noticed the way his cum dribbled out. In a frantic mess he left the bed searching around for something to wipe you up. Remembering his discarded shirt he grabbed it, beginning to wipe you down.

Once finished he searched in your section of the closest for night attire. Securing clean lingerie and a night dress he helped change you—not wishing to leave you in the bed naked. Finishing up, Jay tucked you underneath the covers, soon settling down on the edge of the bed next to you. He watched your sleeping form—chest rising up and down slowly—truley admiring how much he began to love you.

Jay still felt he didn’t deserve love. But you? You began to show him that he was allowed to take part in that emotion. His hand rested on your stomach, softly rubbing it as the things he did dawned on him. He just truly hoped and wished whatever happened from here on out would be okay. Not just for him, but for you.

The next morning you woke up severely sore. Your back ached as well as your legs—especially your thighs. Serim was with you the whole morning, nursing you and helping out as much as she could to comfort you. As she helped she did ask about what happened, deep down she knew you and Jay had a steamy night, but was worried regardless.

You told her what she had suspected, even telling her how it was your first night together. Serim was shocked at the truth since she believed your consummation happened the night of your wedding. Despite her surprise Serim wasn’t upset with you. She found it chivalrous that Jay wanted you to strengthen your body before he bedded you.

You laughed at her burst of admiration for him. While you both shared the conversation you went ahead to ask about Heeseung—wondering as to what was going on with the both of them. Serim blushed at your question, head shying away from you.

The room filled with giggles at not only her reaction but her speaking so highly of Heeseung—truly proving he was taking great care of her. Before the two of you could chat more, Jay came into the room. Serim straightened herself as she greeted him. Jay gave her a soft smile before politely excusing her. Serim said her goodbyes—secretly waving at you—before leaving the room. Jay turned to you, brows knitting as he saw your weakened state. “Sorry. I was too rough last night wasn’t I?”

His words caught you off guard. Your cheeks heated up as you processed what he said. “What?! Oh! No you weren’t!” Your words came off high pitched while answering him. Jay chuckled at your reaction—admiring how adorable he found you. Making his way over to you he placed a hand on your cheek, caressing your face gently. You melted in his touch like always. Cheek rubbing into his gentle hand.

“Also. I am sorry about cumming inside as well.”

You craned your head at his words. What did he mean? Then it dawned on you on what he was talking about. Your hands shot to your stomach, gently rubbing the surface. The thought of a child didn’t frighten you, if anything it made you excited. A reminder that you married Jay to live a happy life and create a family.

Jay saw the way you smiled, a bit of relief washing over him all at once. “Well it's not guaranteed you’ll be pregnant right away. A dragonborn’s sperm is potent but it's not easy to tell after one time. I mean if the idea of having a child with me is okay…”

Even if your body ached, and was sore all over you jumped up to hug him. Arms wrapping around his neck—tippy toes barely touching the floor—as you spoke happily about wishing to raise a child with him. Jay reciprocated the hug, arms tightly wrapping around your waist as he nuzzled into your shoulder.

Jay didn’t deserve you. He didn’t deserve you to agree so willingly, especially when you seemed so happy. He hated how he couldn’t tell you the real truth of the matter. Yes he wished to create a family with you, but not in a reality where his brother was threatening his mother. He just hoped you’d be able to stay ignorant of the truth—fearing deep down that he could lose you.

Separating from the hug, you settled back into the bed. Straining your body too much from one hug. You could see worriedness on Jay’s face—slightly mixed with guilt. “Hey. Don’t be upset. Remember I’m a descendant of The Saintess. I’ll be better tomorrow morning I promise.”

Jay loosened up at your words, but still held a small amount of guilt. Giving you a soft smile he agreed with your words in the end. “If that's the case, take the rest of the day to get better. Tomorrow I’ll introduce you to one of the castle’s doctors. I trust her with my life so you should be fine.”

“Thank you so much Jay.”

His ears reddened at his name, happy that you were able to call him by his name instead of that stupid title. Any worries on his face now vanished—at the mere sound of his name. Jay reached a hand out to stroke the top of your head. You enjoyed it whenever Jay did so, finding yourself beginning to crave for his affection.

“I’ll get going now. I need to finish up some work unfortunately. I’ll have Serim serve you dinner in the room. Just rest for today.” Leaning down, Jay placed a peck to your forehead. With one more gentle look at you he left the room. You laid there, fingers rubbing at your forehead as you began to miss your husband.

The next day you indeed felt better, any trace of aching or soreness was long gone from your body. You woke up earlier than usual—way before breakfast was to be served—after getting dressed and ready you made your way to Jay’s office. Already wishing to see him first thing in the morning.

As you made your way into the office Jay was happy to see that you were right. In just one day your holy powers healed you back to perfect health. Getting up from his seat Jay walked over—meeting you halfway in the room—arms open as he wished to hug you.

You were quick to reciprocate the hug. Arms wrapping around his waist as you enjoyed the warmth of his chest. You both stood there for little over a minute, the only thing breaking you apart was the sound of Jungwon clearing his throat. Parting ways you both stood there sheepishly, not thinking how much your feelings for either were in sync.

“Yes. Well. I want to introduce you to the doctor today. I’ll introduce you both around lunch time?”

“That sounds great! I will see you at breakfast then!” You turned on your heel stiffly as you made way to the doors. Before leaving you turned around, giving Jay a small wave before heading off to the dining room.

“You both are utterly smitten with one another.” Jungwon chimed in as he continued to look through his work.

“Shut up.”

Later that afternoon like Jay had said, you met the castle doctor—Yunjin. She had a beautiful color of light auburn hair and dark chestnut eyes. The one feature on her that really stuck out to you was the mole on her nose. She was truly beautiful in your eyes.

Jay introduced you both to one another. Yunjin truly cared about her position as Jay’s entrusted doctor, and was all the more grateful she was chosen to look after your pregnancy check ups. During your first meeting she checked to see if you were possibly pregnant. Jay and her knew it was unlucky after the first night but needed to check just in case.

At the end of the check up you in fact weren’t pregnant—which only meant more heated moments between you and Jay. Once Yunjin finished up, you thanked her plenty of times. Yunjin couldn’t help but grow a soft spot for you off of your first meeting—genuinely understanding why Jay was quick to adore you. As you and Jay watched Yunjin leave, he snaked a hand at your lower back, tugging you close to him in the process. Leaning down to your ear he whispered something to you. “Shall we try again tonight?”

You couldn’t help but blush at his words. In return all you could do was shyly nod your head at him. Jay smiled to himself at your flustered actions, kissing against your neck and ear as he led you back to the room. That night was filled with passion and desire just like a couple days prior.

Soon a month would pass, and within that month The Saintess’ season would start. You watched as the winter snow melted into the lush green you saw in the paintings. The colors reminded you so much of home as well. Different flowers bloomed during this season, flowers that would stay healthy and strong.But being able to witness The Saintness season was the least of your busy life.

Cause within that time you slowly began to realize how carnal Jay was. Every other day without fail he bedded you. Whether it was in the morning, evening, or night, Jay was utterly entranced by you. Of course it was all for the sake of you getting pregnant, but there were many times where it felt as if he wanted to be with you because it was you—not for the sake of having his child. That realization alone made you putty in his hands. Giving into his every whim and desire whenever he saw it, and the same was for you as well.

Some days you would do it in the room, other days in the office—Jay was more hands on during those moments, enjoying the way you grew nervous of someone walking in. Even though he made sure to lock the office doors everytime—the secluded staircase was another area in the castle.

Despite mating like bunnies, you were yet to be pregnant. Jay’s behavior shifted a little bit at this. That's when you came to notice how smitten he was—clinging to you as if he was starving. He was eager about releasing in you, always making sure to keep you on him when you both finished. Even going as far as to bending you in such an erotic position, you were bound to end up pregnant.

And just like that you were. You had your daily check up with Yunjin in the late evening—which always ended in no good news. But this time was different. Yunjin seemed more chipper this time, eagerly waiting to tell you something. Once she told you the news, you jumped up to hug her, graciously happy that you were now with a child.

With no more time to spare you quickly left Yunjin’s room. Hurriedly making your way to Jay’s office. Serim and Heeseung didn’t accompany you on your unplanned visit, since you wished to share this information with Jay alone, as well as wishing him to be the first person to hear it.

You smiled from ear to ear, exhilaration filling up every inch of your body. You could see the doors to his office right at the end of the hall. Picking up your pace as you began to grow impatient. Finally making it to the door you were about to make your way in when you realized one of the doors was cracked ajar. Then your ears picked up on the shared words from inside.

As always it was Jungwon who accompanied Jay in the office. Yet they were both talking about The Emperor, then about you. You shouldn’t have eavesdropped—you know that—but you grew curious on why you were a topic of conversation.

“She needs to know the truth one day, Your Grace.” Jungwon’s usual warm voice was cold and blunt while he spoke.

Jay meekly answered. “Yes. But…”

“Your Grace. There is no but scenario…” Jungwon hissed.

“I know that you and Her Grace have been at it non stop in hopes for her to bear a child. But you need to tell her why you’re actually doing this.”

One of your brows raised at his words. What was Jungwon implying? Was there a bigger motive to all of this besides an arranged marriage. The marriage was indeed arranged, but you believed the both of you had shared feelings. Especially with how nice and affectionate he was with you. That wasn’t false was it?

Then the next things that came out of Jay’s mouth truly shattered your heart.

“Tell her what exactly? That I’m using her to gain a child for my brother?! She can’t know Jungwon and you know that…” Jay raised his voice at Jungwon. Eyes gleaming whilst snarling at his best friend.

But those words were enough to have you running down the hall. Tears stinging your eyes as they fell from your face. You couldn’t believe what Jay had said. Was your marriage really a set up for you to have his child? Your head spun as you tried piecing everything together.

All the times he kissed you, hugged you, touched you. Was it all just a façade? Then you remembered the way he made love with you, the dawning realization made you sick to your stomach.

You didn't know where to run too. You couldn’t go back to the room, or hide out in the staircase—he was sure to find you. As you kept running you unconsciously made your way to Serim’s room—tucked all the way in one of the corners of the castle wing.

Making it to Serim’s room you frantically banged on her door. “Serim. I need you.” Sobbing out as your bawled up hands began to numb.

Serim tore the door open, her face mixed with confusion and fear. Then as she saw your tear stained face her eyes shifted to immediate concern. “My Lady! What happened!? What's going on?” Her hands stretched out to—holding onto the sides of your arms fearing you would slink down.

“I. I don’t. I don't know what to do, Serim.” Your voice hitched as the sound of your wailing sobs cut in between your words. Your shaky hands rubbing at your eyes in a poor attempt to wipe the tears away..

Serim rubbed your arms as she led you into the room, settling you down on the bed kneeling in front of you. Her hands reached to yours, pulling them to the side as she aided in wiping your tears away. You sat there allowing Serim to do as she wished—stilling weeping before her.

After lots of gentle soothing and gentle words you calmed down. Your nose a stuffy mess as you stared at the palm of your hands. “What happened? I’ve never seen you like this…” Serim’s words were full of sorrow. Her chest tightening as she saw you—the strongest person she knew—crumbling before her.

Her question of concern brought more tears to your eyes. But instead of a stream of tears, they dribbled down, your eyes already tired from the sobbing session you had mere minutes ago. Then as you cleared your coarse throat you told her everything—the news of your pregnancy up to what you overheard from Jay.

Serim sat there shocked. Unsure of how to comfort you in this situation. “What are you going to do?” She was concerned. There was no way you would be able to be the same near Jay anymore. Not only did he break your trust. He shattered your heart into a million pieces, and Serim could hear those pieces hitting rock bottom.

“I want to leave here. I can’t be here anymore, Serim. I can’t face him.” Your face landed back into your hands as you cried, the situation of things sinking into you.

“What of the child?”

You paused, tears halting as you remembered the child growing inside of you. Of course you wouldn’t get rid of it, you were ready to love and care for the little one. “I’ll keep it. It may have been brought up in an artificial marriage. But that doesn’t mean the child has to suffer for it. Wherever I go and wherever I end up, I will care for it with all the love in the world. It’s what the baby deserves at the end of the day.”

Serim teared up at your words—happy that she had chosen to serve you for the rest of her life.

“Does that mean you wish to run away. Leave far from here and raise the little one all alone?” You thought about Serim’s question for a moment. But even then it only took a few mere seconds to agree—positive on the decision laid out for you.

Serim nodded her head—understanding what you wished for—as she conjured a plan. “A trip back to the family estate is nearly impossible. You would be found out within the first few hours. You also have no land or relatives out here, so staying undercover won’t work…” Then she thought some more, the image of a familiar red head struck her.

Heeseung could help. He knew the ins and outs of Seathal, Serim was sure he’d know of a place that was decently far away but also out of Jay’s eyesight. “I’ll ask Heeseung.” You looked at her, eyes widening in shock. “Heeseung? Are you sure he’s gonna allow this? Jay entrusted his safety to me, there's no way he would possibly agree to this…”

“I am certain he will help out. I know he will…”

For the next couple of hours Serim would give you a set plan of escape. You told her about the secluded staircase, ensuring her that the both of you wouldn’t be seen by anyone else in the castle. You also made sure to have her relay this info to Heeseung, that was if he was genuinely going to agree to help.

You and Serim made an agreement to meet one another in the staircase at three a.m. That meant you only had seven hours to play pretend with Jay. You weakly made it back to the room, face clear from the stains and puffiness, yet your heart still ached. You could feel yourself being torn apart, you were unsure if you'd be able to last seven hours.

While you made it back to your bedroom, Serim was on a hunt for Heeseung—feeling distressed as she looked in every room she could think of. Then as Serim made her way to a more secluded hallway, Heeseung had miraculously come around the corner.

Serim ran up to him in a frenzy, hands grabbing at his arms before spewing an array of words at him. “Heeseung I need your help.”

Hearing Serim ask for his help the way she did had him alert. “What happened? Are you hurt? Is Her Grace hurt too?” Hands at her cheeks, turning her face side to side—checking for anything out of the ordinary.

“No, but. It does pertain to Her Grace. But she's not hurt or anything…” Serim’s words trailed off as she looked away from Heeseung.

“Please tell me what it is Serim. What's going on?”

Serim told him everything, relaying almost an exact copy of the words she heard from you. As she finished, Serim looked at Heeseung. Hoping that he at least thought about the situation.

“Serim. I.” His words were filled with uncertainty. You were right, he was torn between listening to his master or protecting you from harm like Jay had tasked him too.

“Please Heeseung. You have to help us. Her Grace. My Lady, she's suffering. I don't wish to see her like this. Please. I’m begging you Hee.”

Over the six months of you living in Seathal, Serim and Heeseung had an eye for one another the first day they met. And as time went on they began to develop mutual feelings for one another. You had known—more so it was a hunch, and the same could be implied for Jay—but didn’t say much, wishing to respect your friend’s privacy.

But as Heeseung heard his nickname fall from Serim’s lips, he knew this wasn’t servant to servant. But that of a lover asking for help from the one they love most.

Heeseung fought with himself, a war going off inside of him internally. But even if his master’s task was law, he loved Serim more than that. “I’ll help you.”

Serim’s eyes gleamed with hope, utterly grateful for the man to call her lover. Grasping at the collar of his uniform, she dragged him down to her height. Leaving a kiss against his lips—showing how much she appreciated the man in front of her. As Serim parted her lips from Heeseung he gave her a smile, truly showcasing how smitten he was with the girl.

“We have seven hours to kill. I’ll fill you in on everything before we get Her Grace.” Heeseung nodded along as the two of them walked out of the hallway.

You felt empty as you stood at the balcony windows. Your heart and soul felt like a hollow void while looking at the very flowers Jay had dedicated to you. Those same blue hyacinths that held a definition of unwavering loyalty. But what loyalty was there when he had lied to your face for six months? You scoffed at the flowers, finding yourself hating the thing you deemed as your favorite only five months ago.

The clicking sound of the door didn’t startle you, all it did was prepare you to act how you always did. The you that held an unlimited amount of love and adoration for your so called husband.

Hands wrapped around your waist, Jay pulled you closer to him, your body now flushed against his chest. Just like he always did when he held you from behind, Jay rested his forehead on your shoulder—taking in your scent before laying kisses along the back side of your neck.

“I missed you.” His words made your stomach churn, not in a fleeting way. It was far from that.

You rested your hands on his arms, rubbing them gently as you lied to him—for the first time during your marriage—all while faking a smile. “I missed you too.”

Jay looked at your face, eyes staring into yours, feeling as if something was amidst. “What’s wrong?”

Your body froze at his question, fearing he had caught you. But despite your panicked thoughts it seemed as if he was only concerned. “I’m just tired is all.”

“I can help you with that.” His words whispered into your ear, the feeling of his breath brushing past your ear sending chills down your spine.

You wanted to hate him with every bone in your body, yet your body craved for his touch. Your brain may have known what to feel, but your heart still yearned for the man you thought loved you.

Jay began to nibble the back of your neck, whilst leading you to the balcony window—caging you between him and the glass. You placed your hands on the window, helping to steady yourself as he continued on.

You wanted to push him off, scream at him, yell at him, hate him. But you had to keep up the act, just seven hours of playing pretend—was all you needed to not raise suspicion. Your moans choked in your throat as his hand dragged up your dress, ghosting along your legs before gripping the fabric back.

Your body was soon pressed fully against the window as Jay weighed down on you—hand propped at one side of you. The pressure and closeness had your legs feeling numb. You despised how much your body enjoyed it, how he knew all your sensitive spots. As if on queue he began to suck at that particular area under your ear.

You bit your lip, muffling the string of moans as best as you could.

“Don’t do that. You’re gonna hurt your lips.” Jay brought his fingers over to your lips, grazing them as he placed them in hopes you’d bite on his finger instead.

Taking his gesture you bit down on his finger. Jay winced slightly at how harsh it was, but looked past it. Jay soon rolled his hips into you, pressing his stiffness into the plush heat. It didn’t take long for him to discard his pants—and briefs—as well as your underwear. Jay rubbed his bare cock between your thighs before meeting the tip at your entrance. As always he was slow and sensual, always making sure you weren’t in pain—yet as you both did it for so long you grew accustomed to his size.

Your legs shook as Jay made his way inside—you may have grown used to him, but the feeling of him filling you always left you winded. Jay inched his way in, savoring the feeling of your walls clenching around his cock.

The hand that was at your lips left you as he dragged his fingers down the side of your body. His grip ended up on your hips, fingers now digging into the flesh of your skin. The stinging pain only heightened your pleasure eliciting more moans. Hearing your satisfied voice Jay picked up his pace.

The angle he had you in allowed him to drag along that sensitive spot nestled inside. The constant twang of pleasure made you dizzy, forgetting for a brief moment of your discontentment for him. Everything else was a blur. So lost in that dizzying haze you now found yourself in bed. Jay was sound asleep next to you. Arm wrapped over your waist holding you close to him. You peeled his arm off as you slipped out from the bed.

At the beginning of the marriage Jay was always a light sleeper. Either woke up at the smallest noise or just never slept. But as he shared a bed with you and slept next to you that habit of his went away. He would still wake up to some things, but if you were quiet enough things were fine.

As you stood from the bed you watched Jay's sleeping form. Your heart ached as you looked at him, the betrayal of him creeping back on you. Looking at the clock on the side table it read two a.m. There was one more hour until you needed to meet up with Serim.

You headed to the wardrobe, quickly changing as you fished around for clothes. Hoping to find ones that were light weight for the travel ahead. You found plain underdresses in your search—opaque enough that you could wear them as is. Pulling a couple clothing items from the closet you stuffed them into a small travel suitcase. Once everything fit you were positively ready to leave.

But before you decided to head out, your legs stopped you. Part of you wanted to leave without a word, vanish from his life as if you never existed. Yet part of you couldn’t do it. He may have lied to you about the marriage but you lived an amazing six months in Seathal nonetheless.

Walking over to the desk you pulled out a paper and ink quill. Flattening out the parchment you began to write. Etching your words onto the paper in hopes he would accept everything for what it was.

Finishing up, you folded the letter and set it next to the table on—Jay’s side—along with your half of the wedding ring. Your fingers brushed through his hair gently—taking one final look at the man before you. “May we never meet again.” Was all you whispered before slipping through the bedroom doors.

You hurriedly made your way down the hallway—still making sure to be quiet as you moved. Making your way through the painting door and down the long steps you made it to the exit. Outside stood Serim, dressed in casual clothes and a hooded cloak with her suitcase at tow. Hearing you peer out from the door Seirm gave you a gentle smile. Handing over an extra cloak while greeting you. “Did he suspect anything?” Serim asked while helping tie the cloak around you.

“No. He was the same as usual.” Your voice was soft as you tugged at the neckline of your dress—hididng the blatantly red hickies displayed on your neck.

Serim was quiet as she understood what your words had implied. Making sure you were settled, she placed her hand in yours as she led you to meet up with Heeseung.

“Where are we going?”

“We’re going to meet up with Heeseung, My Lady.”

“He really agreed to help?” You were hesitant for a moment. Unsure to truly place your trust in the knight who was under Jay.

“Yes My Lady. I trust him with my heart. I know he won’t hurt us.”

The rest of the walk was silent. The situation of everything slowly weighing down on you both. There was no confirmed guarantee that this plan would work—fearing deep down the three of you would be caught immediately. After a few more minutes you both made it to a secluded horse stable—it was near the edge of the castle which hugged the lush forest next to it. There in the night with the faint glow of an oil lamp shining against red hair was Heeseung.

He stood underneath the stable between two horses. On his left was a horse with a beautiful white coat, and on his right was a brown horse that had white specs in its coat. As you made your way closer you saw that Heeseung was dressed casually as well. He wasn’t thinking of leaving Jay to join you was he?

“Heeseung!” Serim piped happily as she ran over to hug him.

Heeseung happily held his arms open engulfing her in his arms, all while shushing her from being a bit loud. You followed in suit, eyes softening as you watched the pair in front of you. Finally breaking away from the moment Heeseung looked up at you to remember what he was originally here for. “Your Grace.” He said while straightening his posture and bowing.

You smiled at him before giving him a response. “Heeseung please, you don’t have to call me that anymore.You know I’m leaving that all behind.”

“But I simply couldn’t.” His brows knitted as he unwelcomed the thought to refer to you so casually.

“I will agree to not call you Your Grace. But allow me to address you as Your Lady instead.”

Heeseung wasn’t going to let this go no matter what, and for you, being addressed as Lady was easier to swallow so you allowed it. Solving that minor problem you asked Heeseung the bigger issue that weighed on your mind.

“Are you planning to leave Jay’s side?”

Heeseung grew quiet at your words. All he could do to answer was nod his head.

“Why?” All you could do was question him.

“His Grace instructed me to protect you. And if that means destroying his trust then so be it. In the end you would be safer far away from here.” Your face softened at his words. Heeseung had taken his duty so severely that he was willing to sacrifice his own life to uphold that. He was truly worthy of being with Serim.

Packing up the things on the horses, Heeseung had explained the scenario to you. There was a cabin that his family owned in the woods, it was a day out travel, since the cabin was located in a remote farmland. He proceeded to explain that you and Serim would stay in the cabin and he would find lodging in the small town.

This allowed him to bring over foods and items he brought in town while you continued to hide out in the cabin. The plan was perfect, it sounded like it would work. No, it was going to work. Making sure everything was all set, you set off for Heeseung’s cabin in the dead of night.

That night as the rising sun peaked through the green tree leaves of your travel you were going to leave everything behind. The Saintess’ season would be the last time you ever hoped to see Jay.

The next morning Jay woke up early—just as he always did—sunrise peering into the distance from the balcony window. His arms stretched around the bed feeling for you, thinking of wanting to sleep with you in his arms for the first time in a while. But as he felt the empty space next to him he froze.

Eyes widening at your missing presence. Climbing out of the bed Jay looked throughout the room, believing you were hiding or playing a joke on him. But his search ended in vain, you were nowhere to be found. Then he realized you were most likely within the castle, but before he could use his mana to find you he saw the folded paper in the corner of his eye.

Picking up the oddly placed letter he opened it—reading the contents right away. And written into that paper were your words of departure. Relaying how he was using you to help The Emperor for a child. Jay began to crumple the edges of the paper, eyes not believing what he was reading. But as he read on, his jaw clenched with anger.

At the every end of your letter you hoped to never see him again, and wished he wouldn’t look for you. Before he could conjure his mana, a faint twinkle of light caught his eye. Looking down, that's when he noticed it. Your wedding ring.

Jay crumpled up the letter in his hand—fuming while doing so—soon pocketing it away. If the scenario was different he would respect your wishes, but he couldn’t. Not when you barely knew the surface of the real truth. Storming out of his room Jay made a beeline to his office.

Finding a maid on the way he yelled at them to wake up Jungwon. He had never acted out like this to any of the servants, yet he couldn’t help it. He was so furious at himself for not even realizing the woman he loved planned to run away from him. Not when you reciprocated to his desires last night. It all felt impossible to him.

Pushing open the doors, Jay made his way to the desk. Frantically looking through the paperwork that littered on top. But what was he going to find? It wouldn’t be your whereabouts, there wouldn’t be any answers. There was nothing.

In a fit of rage he swept everything off the desk. Papers ended up everywhere, quills and ink splattering against the floor, along with the sound of items shattering. Slamming his hands on the table Jay took deep breaths as his mind began to question everything.

Where did he go wrong?

Not long after Jungwon came into the room—hair a mess and clearly disheveled. “What’s wrong. Why are you waking me up so early in the morning?” Irritation clear in his voice.

“She’s gone…”

“What? Who? Who’s gone?” Jungwon was utterly confused by what Jay was saying—now taking in the chaotic mess.

“Y/N! She’s gone!” His voice was raised as his hands clawed into the wood of the desk.

“What?” Jungwon still couldn’t grasp the scenario. Just yesterday things were perfectly normal. But now you were gone? Vanished into thin air like a ghost? It was impossible.

“She found out about what we were talking about Jungwon. She thinks I was using her. It’s what she wrote in the letter.” Jay drew the crumbled paper from his pocket, shaky hands outstretching to Jungwon.

He took the paper, crinkling it out as best as he could. As Jungwon read the words on the paper it clicked for him. You overheard their conversation, misunderstood Jay’s words and deemed everything to be a lie. Jungwon now saw why Jay was spiraling.

For the next couple of hours, Jay sat in the chair silently. Facing the large windows as he watched the sunny sky shine over the greenery. He wanted to respect your wishes, but knew deep down that was impossible. He needed to explain himself, tell you the real truth. Tell you how torn apart he was about everything.

But would you even want to hear his words?

The silence was interrupted by the soft knock on the door. Jay stayed silent still, choosing to ignore whoever was at the door. Jungwon instead took the initiative to open it. Once opening the door he was face to face with Yunjin. He quietly greeted her while asking what she was here for. “I wanted to come and congratulate His Grace on the news. I’m sure Her Grace already told him, but I wanted to send my congratulations as well.”

Jay’s ears perked at the mention of you. Cutting Jungwon off he asked what Yunjin was implying. “What do you mean congratulations?”

“Oh? Her Grace is pregnant. I assumed she came to tell you, she was very excited to have you be the first one to hear of it.” That’s when Jay’s world came crashing down again. You were pregnant… You were pregnant and you decided to run away from him.

His nails dug into the palm of his hand—slightly drawing blood—as he clenched his fist in anger. This new information changed everything. There was no telling what would happen to you.

Yes you were only a couple days pregnant. But the possibility of that child emerging was at random, it could arrive months or even weeks from now. Jay needed to find you, whether you would let him or not. He was going to do everything in his power to seek out your location.

“Jungwon. Gather an expedition together, we need to find Y/N no matter what.”

“Yes Your Grace.” Jungwon obliged to his words, not questioning him for one second.

“And, kill anyone that my brother planted from the palace. He can’t find out about this…” It was the last task Jay gave Jungwon before formulating a plan.

It was a couple days after arriving at the cabin—it was small and cherubic. It had everything a house needed, a small farm, watering well, and a shed. The inside was just as dainty. The kitchen area was open, a small dining table accompanied the middle—big enough for all three of you—a small sitting area by a fireplace, a room and bathroom on the first floor, and then an upstairs attic which was turned into a living space. Serim took the bed downstairs, strongly pushing that you deserved all the space to yourself on the second floor. You did your best to argue but ended up taking the room.

Heeseung would come over in the afternoon. A variety of fruits and food, as well as clothes were in his hand from the town at the edge of the forest. He also made sure to buy seeds for the farm in case something would happen to him.

The upcoming days were calm and quiet, you were certain this would be your life for a long time. But that dream ended when Heeseung made his way into the cabin in a frenzied rush.

“Heeseung what’s wrong?” Serim concernedly asked as she ran over to him.

Walking down the stairs you wondered what the commotion was about. “What’s going on?”

Heeseung looked at you as he heard your voice, brows knitted anxiously as sweat dripped from his forehead. “There’s wanted posters of you in the town. His Grace. He plans on finding you.”

You stood there, a sense of doom filling your senses. You couldn’t let him find you no matter what. Your chest tightened as your breathing halted. Then came the urge to puke. Covering your mouth you ran to the bathroom, immediately reaching for the toilet—preparing yourself to throw up.

Sticking your head into the toilet bowl you began to throw up that morning’s breakfast. Serim helped in holding your hair back as you sat there. Tears brimmed at the corner of your eyes, feeling both the pain and anxiety hit you.

“My Lady, everything should be alright.” Heeseung spoke up. “No one ever ventures out here. Besides there's only a poster for you, so as long as you stay hidden away here. His Grace will never find you.”

Heeseung’s words of reassurance calmed you down. He was right, if they only targeted you, you would be fine. As long as you hid out here, he would never find you.

After the scare Heeseung gave you, things were back to normal again. The only hiccup was your morning sickness, you could barely enjoy anything remotely solid without throwing it back up most days. Due to your pregnant state, your body felt weaker than it ever did. The hickies that were still left by Jay were a consistent reminder of that—desperately making sure they weren’t visible.

You were littered in little cuts and bruises from doing menial work around the house. Serim always got on you about overworking yourself—due to being pregnant. But you hated just standing around and doing nothing. They were here because of you. You wished to be of aid as best as you can, so what if you got a few cuts and bruises due to that.

Soon two weeks had gone by, your morning sickness was better but a small ache would swell up inside of you at times, especially in the middle of the night. Agitated and aching for some sort of relief—that was too impossible to relieve.

Your hand inched down your stomach, scorching fingers brushing past your pelvis. You knew it was your heat that tingled every night. It craved for Jay every night, you hated that it did.

But the minute your fingers slipped past your underwear you were biting your lip in anticipation. Your other hand lifted up the fabric as you eyed the way your juices clung to your fingers. A deep sigh left your lips at the sight, never noticing how wet you were until now.

Tucking up your night dress slightly you peeled the underwear off—the chill air brushing against your cunt. Your breath was shaky as you plunged your fingers in slowly. It was nothing like Jay’s cock, but you need some sort of relief.

You angled your hips in a desperate attempt to reach that sensitive spot in your heat. But your fingers just weren’t enough. You whined at the lack of length your fingers had, wishing to alleviate the itch inside of you.

Instead you began to rub your clit as you simultaneously fingered yourself. Positive that this wave of pleasure would be just enough, and it indeed was. You bit your lip as you muffled the soft moans daring to escape your lips.

As you curled your fingers into your walls, picking up the pace of the circles on your clit, you could feel that euphoric high rise to your head. Your body jolted lightly, but as you kept going—dragging out your orgasm—your back arched up, body twitching amongst the bed. Settling yourself and removing your hands from your heat, you stared up at the ceiling. Tears began to fall from your eyes. You hated Jay, you hated him so much. Yet you missed his touch, his comfort, his affection. You began to miss everything about him.

The next day Serim and Heeseung decided to go to town together. You were happy with the idea, feeling that they would get to have a moment to themselves as lovers. Serim was persistent to stay back. It took lots of persuading to make her go with Heeseung.

In the end you were left at the cabin all by yourself. You did a little bit around the house. Tended to the farm, did some cleaning, along with some simple—somewhat disastrous—cooking, you were satisfied with the things you accomplished. As you were sitting down and relaxing there was a sudden knock at the door.

The sound put you on edge. It wasn’t Serim or Heeseung, they had a key to the cabin, not to mention they would’ve just entered. Then the thought of Jay crossed your mind, your chest tightened once more—struggling to breathe as you thought of him.

He had found you, that's all you thought as you faltered away from the door. Your head began to spin, your chest tightening more.

“Miss Saintess. I know you're in there. Open up.”

It was a voice you never heard before. The unfamiliar voice helped pull you out of your anxiety. Slowly catching your breath you made your way to the door. “Who are you?” Was all you asked.

“Someone you know very well.”

Without another thought your legs led you to the door. It was as if the stranger’s presence was beckoning you to come over. Your hand wrapped around the handle—hesitating briefly—opeing the door wide.

There stood someone you had never seen before. A large middle aged man clad in what seemed to be a long black chiton—adorned with gold accessories—long black hair that swept across the grass. Then there were his eyes, golden like sunrays of a lowering sun. Part of you recognized this man, but at that same time you didn’t.

The visuals of the man reminded you of someone. You ran through your memories, trying to remember why he felt familiar. You could feel the connection on the tip of your tongue. Then it hit you.

The First Dragon.

“Wait you’re-”

Your words were cut off as he spoke—low and rhythmic. “Took you a while to recognize me.” The Dragon smirked while crossing his arms. Without another word he made his way inside, ignoring your calls for him to not enter.

“What are you doing here? No. Why are you here?” You became defensive, remembering the history of The Dragon and The Saintess. He had betrayed her, and hurt the people around The Saintess. So if he was here, then there was no good following behind.

“Be at ease Miss Saintess. I’m not here to hurt you.” The Dragon made his way to the lounge area, taking a seat for himself.

“If not that. Then what are you here for…” Your eyes glared at him—refusing to believe him for a second longer.

“That led me here.” He proceeded to point at you—more precisely your stomach.

Your eyes followed his finger to your stomach, hands covering yourself—protecting the growing child. “And why is that?”

The Dragon chuckled at your growing frown. Amused at your behavior. “I can sense that child’s mana out here. It piqued my curiosity was all. Especially since I don't feel his mana anywhere.”

“Who else are you referring to?” “Of course my predecessor. Jay.”

You began to back up, inching slowly towards the door as inconspicuous as possible. Everything was becoming far too much for you to wrap your head around. He still didn’t answer why he was here. Was The Dragon here for you or your child, you couldn’t read him, which made it all the more harder.

Serim and Heeseung won’t be back til late evening. You could only hope to bolt out of the house and hide out in the woods. As your hand was reaching behind you for the door handle, The Dragon caught you off guard.

“I’m assuming he didn’t tell you?”

Your ears perked at his words. Eyebrow raising as you tried to figure out what he was referring to. “Tell me what?”

“That the child might kill you.”

Your heart sank. Body chilling as your skin crawled with unease. “What?”

“I see. So he didn’t tell you.” The Dragon’s words trailed off, almost thinking about what to do with you.

“What do you mean the child might kill me?”

A heavy sigh left his lips, preparing himself to explain everything to you. “My descendents didn’t have it nice. You who was born with the gift of holiness and healing is truly the pure opposite of my children. Born to kill the very being that helped nurture and shelter them. Truly unlucky my children are.”

His words struck you like lightning. That explained why Jay did bed you the first night wasn’t it? It all became confusing again, unable to piece your thoughts together.

“And now here we are. A child of The Saintess bearing one of my kin. How extraordinary is that?”

You stumbled slightly, steps staggering as you found your way to sit down. All you could think of was your impending doom of death. Wiping the sweat from your forehead you asked The Dragon a question.

“Will I die?”

“Hmm. Not sure. It’s the first time I’ve seen one of her descendents mix with mine. So at the moment it’s unlikely.” His hand rested at his chin, thinking about the matter. “That’s mostly why I’m here. Curious to see if this child will be different from the others.”

Your jaw clenched at his words. He made it seem like the child was some object of studying. “Do not refer to the child as some experiment.”

The Dragon was shocked by your words. Failing to realize how genuine you were about raising the child, despite knowing the information that was kept away from you. “I see. My apologies then.”

You still stared at The Dragon, showing clear signs of discontent all over your face.

“I apologized. Can you stop looking at me like you’re going to hurt me?”

You kept the frown on your face, not choosing to listen to a thing he had to say. “You should leave soon anyways. My maid and knight should be here shortly.” Gesturing The Dragon to get a move on.

“If you wish.” Getting up from the chair he made his way over to the door. “I’ll be back soon. Who else is going to monitor your condition.”

You stayed silent as you opened the door for him. The Dragon gave you a smile before disappearing into the foliage ahead. You shook your head, unable to believe what had happened.

It was never said The Dragon died, yet you didn’t think he would show up—out of the blue at that. Soon Serim and Heeseung came back, bringing items they had bought from town—an array of foods, materials for the cabin, and accessories for you. You kept quiet about your encounter with The Dragon, wishing to not worry them any more than they already were—even if they were hiding it.

As your days in the secluded woods were restful and happy, Jay was living through hell. The past two weeks he barely slept a wink. Dark circles formed under his eyes as he kept himself awake, working day and night to find you—but never getting far

He traveled to every border spanning from north, south, east, and west. But still couldn’t feel your presence anywhere. It really did feel as if you vanished into thin air. Jungwon urged Jay to try and get some rest, but he always persisted.

Keeping everything out of The Emperor’s sight didn’t help at all for the matter. His undercover work only stressed him more. Then as night would roll around, as he tried to get some sleep. He would have nightmares. Of you.

In those figments of terror he dreamed of finding you, yet when he did you only showed hatred towards him. Wishing nothing but the worst for him. Jay knew it was only a bad dream, even so it always felt so vivid. As if you were really standing there in front of him, cursing and hating him for what he did to you.

Usually an hour into the dream he’d wake up in a cold sweat—all with a mix of panic—hoping to never see those terrors ever again. Hoping to wipe the nightmare from his mind, Jay would either bury himself in work or work out in the training grounds until he was sore all over.

He hated everything about this. He yearned to see you. Tell you how sorry he is, how he didn’t mean to hurt you, how he would make things right, and especially how much he truly loved you. But as the days went on and the searches kept hitting walls, he could feel that hopeful future fading through his fingers.

He just wanted to make things right.

After meeting The Dragon, he was serious about making a visit many more times again. He always came around when Serim and Heeseung were out. You questioned why he did so but felt that it was for the best. It was less of something to explain and less of him possibly hurting the people around you.

Within those visits you began to realize The Dragon wasn’t as bad as you perceived him as. After that day of telling him to address the child for a living being he continued to do so. Making sure to see if you were okay and if the growing baby was as well.

It was all so odd to you. This being of who knows how many centuries old was taking care of you like a parent. Lecturing you to take care of yourself like Serim consistently did, making sure you never overexerted yourself, you were always safe even outside of his eyesight. The constant supervising had you confused.

“Why are you doing this?”

You were both sitting outside, under a tree in a beautiful clearing within the forest. You knitted together a flower crown while The Dragon basked in the nice weather.

“What do you mean?” Was all he asked. But you could tell he was feigning ignorance.

You scoffed at his tone, finding his deflection to be amusing. “I know you know what I’m talking about. Let’s not be like this.”

The air grew silent at your testament of an answer. The sound of the hushed howling breeze was the only thing that killed the dead silence.

With one deep exhale The Dragon spoke. “Why am I doing this?” He paused slightly, finding the words to tell you. “Because it’s the only way I can make up for my past.”

Your head tilted at his words, confused on what he had meant. What was there to make up? He betrayed The Saintess, that was a well known fact. So why did he show so much remorse for what he had done. “And what is it you’re trying to make up?”

“Hurting her.”

Your fingers stopped their weaving, head turning to him as you realized who he was referring to. “The Saintess?”

“Yes.”

The tone in his voice quickly changed. It sounded as if he was burdened by something more than hurting the woman he called a friend. There was sadness laced in his words.

“What actually happened?”

The Dragon closed his eyes. Memories of a time he spent with the woman he grew to love flooding into his mind. As he closed his eyes he recalled everything, relaying all his memories back to you.

Things were at peace, The Saintess and The Dragon who worked together to help the people around them. Aiding one another side by side in mutual cooperation. As their time together grew, so did their bond. And as time went on the two of them realized there was something more than a platonic feeling.

But The Saintess’ people couldn’t allow the mere idea of a creature like him staying with the woman they deemed a god. So instead they chose to sabotage The Dragon. Taunting him, knowing he would blow a fuse and show what kind of monster he was deep down.

In the end, her people got exactly what they wanted. The Dragon lashed out on the town, burning things in his path—cindering everything he touched. Once The Dragon came too, he realized how grave of a mistake he made. The Saintess would surely never forgive him, for he had hurt the one thing she cared about most in the world.

That’s when The Dragon fled to Seathal, subjugating the land into an eternal winter. Many years went by as The Dragon isolated himself, bitterness taking over. Not to The Saintess or her people, but for himself.

But when the day of The Saintess’ season blossomed, The Dragon felt her forgiveness. But he just couldn’t take it, until he made things right.

“And that's where you come in.”

Your eyesight began to blur, tears brimming as they fell down softly. Your whole life you were taught how evil and monstrous The Dragon was. Despite your childness of not wishing to let your family’s history rule your life. You didn’t expect this truth to emerge from the one being you never thought to hear from.

Instead he lived a life of guilt and solitude. Soon did you realize how lonely that life must have been.

“Why are you crying?” The Dragon sounded shocked as he reached to wipe the tears from your eyes.

“I didn’t know.” You hicked as the tears streamed down your face.

The Dragon sucked his teeth at your emotional state, not realizing this would be the outcome of his truth. “That’s fine. I didn’t expect anyone to know. So stop crying.”

His protests on your tears only had you producing more. “That’s why you’re helping me. Especially since for the time ever I’m being tied down to one of your kin.” Now you were sobbing between words. Gasping for air as you bawled out to him.

“Yes, yes, yes. Now please stop crying.”

After a few minutes you were now calmed down, eyes puffy and red while you struggled to breathe through your nose. “Thank you for telling me.” Your words came off hoarse as you spoke to him.

“Yeah. Yeah.”

You couldn’t help but laugh at his reaction. After that day you knew the emotional connection you had with The Dragon would be different. For better in a way you could rely on him for a long long time.

A month had now come and gone. Things were still no different within the first month, Serim and Heeseung still did their things around the house, The Dragon still visited on days they were away. You could feel yourself becoming comfortable with a life like this, even after you would give birth to your child.

But all of that would come crashing down very soon.

That early afternoon, like any other day Serim and Heeseung went out to town. Who better to get a visit from while they’re away? None other than The Dragon.

That afternoon you decided to make something he had never eaten before. You later found out there was a wide variety of things he had never eaten before in his life. In the end you chose cookies, something simple and didn’t need too much time to work on.

After spending a long hour cooking and prepping the cookie dough you were ready to bake them. But before you could even put the cut out shapes in the oven, The Dragon spoke out.

“He’s coming.”

Your fingers went numb at his words. Pan clattering to the floor as you realized who he was. “You’re not serious are you!?” You slowly began to panic. How did he find you so soon? There wasn’t enough time to pack and relocate, not to mention Serim and Heeseung were still out.

“I can sense his mana. He’s around 10 miles out. God, he’s releasing his mana like a wild animal.” The Dragon couldn’t help but cover up his nose—depsite there being no specific scent.

“What about Serim and Heeseung where are they?” You tugged onto his arm, panic soon finding you.

“They’re still in the town. But Jay will most likely run into them first by the time they’re finished. Unless they spot him as they’re leaving.”

You began to pace in circles, unsure of what to do. You had to wait for Serim and Heeseung, you couldn’t just leave them alone in a situation like this. Fleeing on your own was simply out of the question.

“Everything will be fine. Don’t worry.”

“How can you say that! He’s using me for some ulterior motive. I can’t let him take me back.”

The Dragon studied you, trying his best to console the anxiety rising in you. “Do you trust me?”

His golden eyes stared into yours. Of course you trusted him, but you were more afraid of Jay than trusting his words. But there was nothing else you could do, so trusting him would be the only option for you. Thinking it over you nodded your head.

“When those two come back, just follow their lead. It’s too late for you to pack things and leave. He’ll find you as you're fleeing, so they’re going to think of something else instead.”

“But!”

“Everyhting will be fine. I promise you that.”

You didn’t want to agree with his plans but still ended up doing so. An hour had soon gone by and The Dragon soon dismissed himself, telling you that Serim and Heeseung were quickly making their way to the cabin.

Right on queue the two of them burst into the cabin, foreheads drenched in sweat as they frantically ran to you.

“My Lady, you need to hide!” Serim panicked as she held your hands tightly.

“We saw Jay and his expedition in the town, they finally made their way here. And I’m sure they’re gonna find information about this cabin.”

You tried your best to stay calm for the both of them but you grew more frightened as they went on.

“There’s no time to leave, so we must hide you.”

“There’s a wardrobe closest in the upstairs room! We can hide her behind the clothes!” Serim was quick on her as always. Soon she quickly led you up the stairs.

Opening up the wardrobe doors she helped you get settled in, making sure you were comfortable and settled into the wooden closet.

“My Lady. No matter what happens, stay here.” Her voice was laced with uncertainty, unsure of what would truly befall her and Heeseung. You watched as Serim closed the doors, submerging you into darkness.

The wardrobe was somewhat cramped, but you mustered through it for the sack of Jay not finding you. Hugging your knees tightly you prayed he wouldn’t even find this place to begin with. You prayed no one would sell out information on Serim or Heeseung. You just wished things would be alright in the end.

There was only a mere fifteen minutes of silence until the sound of things shattering were heard downstairs. It was all muffled in the wardrobe, but you knew the gods didn’t answer your prayers this time.

The drowned out sounds of yelling and pleading sent chills down your spine, frightened of what was happening to them downstairs. You could only hug yourself tighter as you remembered Serim’s words.

Then there was silence again. Your racing heart began to slow down. You let out a breath of relief thinking it was over, now waiting for Serim to come find you.

But the recognizable sound of shifting armor freezes you. Jay had found you. There was no running, no escaping, no one else to help. This was it, and you would now have to accept that.

The armored footsteps closed in on you until they stopped. He was just right outside the wardrobe’s doors. Hands over your mouth as you tried to hide any noise that could seep out to the outside.

But to your dismay, the doors swung right open.

The light of the room blinding you from the initial darkness. You continued to hug yourself—too sacred to even spare a look towards Jay.

Yet as you sat in that wardrobe body trembling with unease. Jay looked at you shocked, fear forming into his eyes as he watched your body—huddled up into a defensive ball—in front of him.

He had finally found you, however, you were trembling before him. Scared to face the man you once showed unlimited affection too.

“Y/N…”

The sound of his voice ringing through the room only caused more distress for you. Not wanting to show yourself to him even if he called out for you.

Jay was utterly heartbroken. Where did everything go wrong?

Unable to handle anymore of what he was seeing he pulled you out from the wardrobe. Everything flashed before you in a blur. One moment you were tucked away in the wardrobe and then the next you were in Jay’s arms.

Realizing this you began to hit and slap at his chest, wishing to be as far away from him as possible.

“I’m sorry!” Jay shouted as he held you tighter.

Your hands stopped in place, hearing the way his voice cracked as he called out to you. “Let go of me!” You began to fight out of his grasp.

“Please Y/N. It’s not what you think it is. Please just let me explain myself!”

There was desperation in his voice—earnestly wanting you to give me just a moment. You calmed down as you thought it over to yourself. Then you remembered The Dragon’s words, he said everything would be fine. Was this what he was referring to?

You stopped your attacks on him, hands resting on his chest as you waited for him. Noticing the way you stopped, Jay loosened his hold on you. Letting you go he guided you to the bed—instructing you to sit down.

Following his lead you sat down—eyes never daring to look at his. Kneeling in front of you, Jay wanted to settle his hand on yours, comfort you in any way he could. But as he saw your reluctance to meet his gaze, he knew there was no point. “I’m not using you like you think I am…”

You still ignored him, not wishing to give him the satisfaction of a response to his words.

“The Emperor, my brother. He. He’s not as good as you think he is. He threatened something important to me. I want to tell you what that is, I won’t hide that from you. But I need you to understand why I did it…”

His frown only grew more at your silence. Taking a deep breath before telling you everything. What he shared with you was the same thing The Dragon did. How his birth into the world was nothing but an act of a hideous monster. But what really shocked you was something you didn’t expect. “My mother. She’s alive Y/N. My brother says she’s in a state of limbo, teetering between life and death. What was I supposed to do? I had never met the woman who nurtured me with as much love as she did.” His voice began to crack as he continued on. “I tried. I tried so hard to stall everything, not wanting to bring that fate onto you. You didn’t deserve it, not when you are so full of love and pureness. I couldn’t allow myself to taint you.”

Jay stopped his words, gathering himself to finish off. “Then he found out. He found out we faked our marriage night. You were nowhere near pregnant. He knew about it, and once again threatened her. Out of anything in this world, using our child for his gain was all he wanted. And I hated myself that night for choosing my mother over you. I wanted to choose you no matter what, but... I’m sorry Y/N.”

Now Jay was crying, tears leaving his eyes as he poured his heart out to you. You couldn’t believe your ears. All this time he never wanted to follow along to what he was told to do. He tried his best to keep you safe from The Emperor, all while the life of his mother was on the line.

Your shaky hands reached out to cup his face, urging his teary eyes to look at you.

The sight of those silver eyes pooled with tears tugged at your heart. This whole time he had been suffering all alone. In hopes to protect the people he cared for as best as he could.

“Oh Jay.” Your thumb wiped a tear away at the corner of his eye—soothing his emotional state as best as you could.

“Oh Jay.”

Was all you could say as you continued to rub at his cheeks. After a minute or so he calmed down.

“I’m sorry.” Was all he could say on repeat. Muttering apologies as it still ate away at him.

“It’s okay. I’ve forgiven you Jay. I just. I was scared and didn’t know what to do so I ran. I’m the one who should apologize. Not you. I’m sorry.”

His eyes bore into yours, hand reaching up to your cheek to rub gentle circles before leaning in. His lips met onto yours, it was soft and gentle, no lustful desire behind it. Just a man who missed the woman he loves.

Separating from the kiss he placed pecks along your cheeks and lips, showcasing how much he had missed you within the past month. Then as you studied Jay’s face that’s when you noticed his dark circles.

“Jay! When was the last time you slept?”

He shied away from the question—brows lowering like a scolded puppy. All you did was pout at him, urging him to tell you the truth. “Last time I slept was when we shared a bed for the last time…”

Processing his words, did you realize that was almost a month ago. Standing up quickly you pulled Jay from up from the ground. “You need to sleep!” You ordered as you tried to push him onto the bed.

But his suit of armor stopped him in place—the piece weighing far too much for you. “Let me fix everything downstairs. You just wait here.”

Tilting your head at his words you recalled Serim and Heeseung still being within the house. Allowing him to walk downstairs you heard some commotion before he was soon back in front of you.

“Is everything alright?”

“Yes. Your maid, Serim and Heeseung are okay. I sent the troop of knights with me outside. I wish to sleep now.” Jay began to strip his armor off as he made his way back to you and the bed.

Now clad in the normal clothes he wore under his armor. His hand immediately found your waist—satisfaction etching into his lips at how everything felt right again—before pulling you onto the bed with him.

It wasn’t as big as the bed in the Velpark castle, but Jay didn’t mind. As long as he was here with you in his arms any size of bed would do just fine. Once he had you in his arms, he was out like a light. Head resting against your chest as he draped his arms tightly over your waist.

You weren’t tired as of yet due to the time of day, but knew you’d be off to sleep in no time. Laying there you stroked his hair while humming a lullaby your mother had taught you as a child. Even though the song was for Jay you ended up drifting off to sleep as well.

In the middle of the late night Jay woke up—eyes peering up at you—slipping out from your grasp he sat on the edge of the bed, watching intently as you slept. As you rolled over he noticed red marks on your neck.

Pulling the collar back he recognized the marks right away, they were the things he last left on your body. Recalling your healing capabilities there was only one cause for this. The child growing inside of you.

His hand lowered down to your stomach—as it transformed into something monstrous, the enlarged hand turned his skin night blue, aligned with scales and sharp claws. Part of him hated the being inside of you for draining away your life force, but as he felt the gentle hum of the baby's mana, he no longer hated it.

“Take this instead of hurting your mother. She’s precious to me as well, so behave.” The hand that rested on your stomach glowed a light blue hue, wisps of mana entering into you—easing the growing child.

As his hand returned to normal, Jay tucked a stray hair away from your face. Capturing the beauty of your face so diligently.

“My love, I must take care of something very important. I wish I could stay to tell you when you awaken. But this is of the utmost importance for a better future. Forgive me for leaving you like this.” He cooed whilst leaving a kiss on your forehead.

Placing his armor back on, Jay made his way out the room and outside. Finding Jungwon’s tent he woke up his best friend. Still as sleep eyed as usual Jungwon was awake and ready to listen to Jay.

“I’m going to take a small group of soldiers and end all of this once and for all.”

“Your Grace. You don’t mean.”

“Yes. It’s about time I allow myself the ability of freedom without the cost of anyone’s life. You stay here with the rest of the nights and look after her. I’m entrusting everything to you Jungwon.”

Jungwon nodded his head as he bowed to him. What he set out to do was something that would have him gone for months, so long that by the time he arrived back you would most likely be giving birth. “I will protect her with my life.”

“Thank you.”

With that Jay had departed ways from the cabin. Off on a quest with no set notion of when he would be back.

That morning you woke up to an empty bed, confused about where Jay was, you went downstairs to look for him. But to your dismay he wasn’t there, only Jungwon. You asked him immediately where Jay was.

Jungwon was honest with you. He told you about the quest he needed to fulfill, not just for himself but you as well. Curious on what he was speaking of, he told you everything.

You thought of many possibilities, but the one you heard had you conflicted. Jay went to kill The Emperor, his own brother.

Even if the idea of it all startled you, you understood why he did it. If there was going to be a world where you could create a happy family with Jay and live with him for the rest of your life, this was the only way.

That night, just like you did all those years ago when Jay was sent off to war. You prayed for him. Prayed for his safety to return home safe to you this time around.

Soon the second month passed. You hoped for Jay to come back within the next month, but he still didn’t arrive. Then as the third month rolled around, so did the fourth. You were now showing—your stomach slightly round as the child grew.

The Saintess’ season came to an end. The colorful green leaves turned into an orange hue, indicating its morphing into the cold winter again. Only a week later would Seathal have its first snow fall since The Saintess season.

At the same time The Dragon stopped showing up, you knew it was due to Jungwon and the castle’s fellow knights being around all the time. Despite that, you still ended up missing him. You had long finished the flower crown you started three months ago, preserving it as best as you could to give to him.

Then as the fifth month came by, you began to discuss baby names. Huddled up by the fireplace, Serim loved doing this with you in her free time, so did Jungwon and Heeseung—enjoying coming up with random names that would suit a child resembling you and Jay. There were plenty of girl and boys names you both liked, but none of them called out to you.

Yunjin came to live with you all in the seventh month, seeing that you were nearing the months of giving birth. She was happy to see you healthy and well. She was also surprised to see how big your stomach had gotten—since the last time she saw you was half a year ago.

Not long after Yunjin was now joining in on helping with baby names. She was really versatile in the names she knew. Some being originated from different countries, or even created on her own. Her input of names helped broaden the variety greatly.

It was now eight months since you ran away from the Velpark castle, and seven months since Jay left. You could feel the baby kick about, part of you was curious on how normal the pregnancy felt—well whatever was deemed normal for pregnancies. There was no child of yours murdering you yet, or maybe it didn’t happen yet cause the child wasn’t ready.

As you sat outside thinking to yourself about these things while watching the snow fall you could see a blurred figure in the distance. Your heart raced as you hoped for who you wished it to be. And as the figure came closer into the clearing, your legs had a mind of its own.

Standing up you began to walk towards the figure, the piles of snow slowing you down, but that didn’t matter to you. He was home now, you were sure of it.

As the mysterious figure closed in, they jumped off the horse. Rushing your way in a desperate sprint to reach you. Through the white smudges of snow you saw him, Jay. Your pace quickened, already yearning to have him hold you within his arms.

The snow was far too packed high as you ran through you almost tripped, but was caught by the person you missed most during the long hard months.

“Jay!”

He hugged you tightly, head lowered to the top of your head as he took in all of you. Missing your warmth, the way you smelled, your voice. Everything that was you he missed so much. Now here he was finally back with you, where everything always felt right.

Your hands gripped onto the edge collar of his armor, tugging it down as you crashed your lips onto his. For all the months you waited and waited you began to worry, fearing he didn’t win his internal war. But here he was, his lips on yours showing he was alive and well.

Parting ways your foreheads met in unison, taking in each other's presence. “I missed you so much.” Jay whispered as he left a peck on your lips.

Soon there were voices calling for you, the two of you turned your heads to see all the commotion. There in the entrance way of the cabin stood Jungwon, Serim, Heeseung, and Yunjin. All welcoming Jay home whilst also wanting you both to come inside.

There was lots of catching up to do. You wanted to hear everything that happened, especially wishing to know more about his mother. But before anyone could ask questions, something had dripped between your legs.

Wondering what it was you looked down to see a puddle of water at the base of your feet. You stared at Serim then everyone else. In a surge of panic the cabin turned into chaos as everyone ushered you upstairs. Yunjin had informed you your water broke, meaning the baby was on the way.

Your body tensed at her words, growing afraid of what Jay and even The Dragon had discussed with you. As you were escorted to the bed, Yunjin demanded only Serim and Jay stayed up here. Serim helped settle you down, making sure to angle pillows for your comfort as you laid down.

Jay was right next to you as he held your hand tightly, his mind thinking the same as you. Wondering if this would be the end of a family he wished to have or the start of an endless love he was allowed to keep.

Hours went by as you sat on the bed, contractions hurting like no tomorrow. The pain was unbearable, back throbbing harshly as every contraction rippled through you. Unable to take the pain anymore you passed out.

As you opened your eyes you were greeted not with the ceiling of the room in the house, but of a clear blue sky with the accompaniment of white clouds. Sitting up you looked round at your surroundings, a grassy green hill that swayed along with the brush of the wind’s breeze.

Realizing you were underneath some sort of shade, you looked behind to see a large elm tree, its beautiful yellow leaves swaying in the wind.

“You’re awake.”

Your head turned to the unfamiliar voice. Standing—more so flaoting—before you was a beautiful lady. She wore white dress that flowed on its own—as if the wind didn't need to pick up the delicate fabric. Her hair was a bright golden color, resembling the leaves hanging from the tree, and her eyes were as blue as the sky above.

“Who are you?”

The woman giggled. Amused by your lack of knowledge. “You know who I am silly. I’m a part of you.”

Then it dawned on you. “The Saintess?”

“Correct!”

You watched as she floated about the ground, happy that you were able to recognize her off of her singular hint.

“Why am I here?”

Propping a finger to her chin she thought of how to explain the situation. “Well you’re currently giving birth. And that child inside of you was seeming a bit feisty. But I can’t have my precious daughter go through such pain, so I’m here to give you a piece of my holy power.”

You stared at her in confusion, trying to piece the words she said together. “You’re saying your holy power can save me?”

“Yes. More so, it’ll numb the little one's dragon mana, making it so you're birthing a normal baby.”

“But why me?!” So many questions rang in your head as things went on.

“Well, you helped out an important friend of mine. Besides I was always going to come get you my child. You are my favorite one out of that big family line of yours.” The Saintess made her way over to you, closing in the gap that separated you both.

“Now I’d love to chat more, but you have people waiting for you. And time doesn't really flow the same here versus out there.” She held both of your cheeks in her delicate palms before lowering your head down a bit.

“Say hi to him for me.”

With her final words, she kissed your forehead. Then in a flash of light—closing your eyes—you could hear the faint crying. It was the sound of a baby, that’s what it was right? Straining to open your eyes, you were met with the cutest face you had ever seen.

Cheeks so chubby you could pinch them all day. The top of the baby’s head had a light dusting of hair that resembled yours. “Is this?”

Jay right at your side answered you. “Yes it is. This is our new baby girl.”

“She’s beautiful.” Your eyes watered at the sight of her. Round little face with rosy cheeks. This was your child, this was your little girl.

“Did you figure out a name for her while I was away?” Jay questioned as his finger reached out to rub your daughter’s tiny cheek.

“I had one in mind.”

The rest of the day was spent with you resting in bed, as well as many congratulations and wishes to see the new born child. Almost everyone in the house catered to your every need, making sure you were comfortable, well fed, Serim even took on watching the baby as you rested. Their generosity warmed your heart plenty.

As soon as night rolled around you felt perfectly fine, realizing that The Saintess didn’t lie about giving you a piece of her powers. While you were pregnant you felt as if you were growing weaker by the second, but now you were feeling as energized as ever.

Jay was tuckered out in the chair posted by the bed, worn out from helping everyone out and attending to your daughter. Crawling out of the bed you made your way down the stairs. You noticed everyone else sleeping in the seating area, all arranged in the most uncomfortable positions. One person was missing, which was Serim who you assumed was in the first floor room with your baby.

Laughing to yourself you picked up a discarded blanket and made your way to the door. Spotting the flower crown you made settled on the wall you took it with you. Opening up the door you walked out into the chilled winter night—making sure to close it behind you. Making your way to where the forest started you held the crown tight in your cold hands.

“I know you’re out there.” You spoke softly as you stared into the woods. Between the trees you saw two glimmering golden eyes. You smiled to yourself as you knew who it belonged too.

“Thank you. I won’t ever forget your kindness towards me. I made this for you a while back, but never got the chance to give it to you.” Showing off the flower crown you settled it down onto the snowy floor. “Also she says hi.”

Was the last thing you said as the door of the cabin opened. “Y/N, what are you doing out here?” Jay questioned tiredness laced in his voice. Rubbing the sleep away as he went up to you, hands placed at the side of your arms—rubbing up and down hoping to warm you up.

Your head turned to him slightly watching him walk over to you. Turning your head back to the woods you noticed the flower crown was gone from where you left it. You smiled to yourself as you thanked The Dragon one more time in your head. “Stretching my legs.” You turned your body to look at him, admiring the sleepy look he had on—truly unfit for a dragonborn like him. “Lets head back inside.”

“Wait.” Jay halted you as he began to wake up. “I need to give you something.”

You watched as Jay fished through his pants, earnestly trying to find something. Jay’s brows quirked as he got ahold of what he was looking for. Pulling his hand from his pocket he gestured the closed fist to you. “I forgot to give you this when I left.”

Opening his hand, there in the center of his palm was your wedding ring. After all this time you had forgotten that you left it behind. There were times when you noticed how empty your ring finger felt, but chose to ignore it. Not wanting to be reminded of him. But as Jay stood there with your wedding ring in his you felt your heart swell with so many emotions.

“I know our meeting wasn’t natural and was arranged for a different motive. But Y/N, you’ve taught me that I, a dragonborn, am able to learn what love is in this world. My whole life I viewed myself as a monster. But you? You make me feel human.”

“Jay…”

You knew there were some shared emotions between you and him. But they were never discussed, especially with the fact of you both already being married. Standing here hearing him profess the feeling you made him feel, felt as if you were falling in love with him all over again.

“I love you Y/N, and I promise to take care of you and our daughter for the rest of my life.”

“I love you too Jay. It was always you, since the first day I learned of my families’ shared past. There was something that drew me to you. And I’m happy that I get to be with you as well for the rest of my life.”

Without another second to waste, Jay slid the ring back onto its rightful home. Finger finding its way under your chin—he raised your head—giving you a gentle kiss. He couldn’t but smile into the kiss, feeling happy about the future for once in his life.

Parting lips you both couldn’t help but giggle to one another as you made your way back inside of the cabin.

EPILOGUE:

It had been three years since everything. Soon after you gave birth to your daughter did you move back to the Velpark castle. Despite being gone for so long nothing really changed in particular. Nothing except for Jay’s position in High Society.

He was still deemed a Duke and owned the Seathal territory—which is ideally his birthright. But instead Jay was no longer The Emperor’s dog. Before killing his brother, Jay had found out many years ago—during the time of the war—The Emperor had a secret brother.

The brother in question was related to The Emperor by blood, but was only his half brother. Jay kept this as a secret for many years to use against The Emperor, which thankfully ended up working. After performing a coup d'etat in those seven months he was away, The Emperor’s half brother was reinstated as the new ruler of Decelis Kingdom. You found out later on that the new Emperor was named Sunghoon.

Sunghoon was grateful in the aid for his spot back on the throne and promised Jay a long life of luxury within Seathal and with his family. And the biggest thing that came out of it was something just as important to Jay than you and your daughter.

“Mama, mama! Are we going to see grandma now?” Your three year old daughter tugged at your dress, while she watched you get ready.

Gently laughing at her antics you proceeded to pick her up—settling her on your lap. “Yes my sweetheart we are. Are you all ready?”

“Yes I am!” She beamed as she faced you.

Her hair was styled in two little ponytails paired with two pink bows in her hair. She was dressed in the same pattern as you. Her dress of course, having more frills for a cute princess look. The maid tending to you, finished your hair and makeup motioning to you that she finished.

“Now. Let’s go find papa!” Sitting up from the cushioned seat you still held on tight to your daughter as you made your way out of the bedroom, heading down the hall to Jay’s office.

After returning back to the castle you were able to use your gifted holy powers to help save Jay’s mother. Seeing him hug the woman he never had a moment to grow with shattered but also mended your heart in a way you never knew was possible. It felt right seeing Jay feel human for once in his twenty three years of living.

Once he reestablished her from the palace, he gave his mother her own section of the castle where she would live out her life. It was nice having his mother around, she loved your daughter and she especially adored you.

With the addition of new people you also lost some of your close friends. Nothing bad happened to them per se, they just moved on and started a family. The friends in question were Serim and Heeseung. Not long after coming back to the castle Heeseung proposed to Serim.

Now that the two of them were married they were given the chance to leave the castle. Of course this saddened you, you would be separated from your best friend. But it wouldn’t all be for naught, since later that year the two of them would have their first kid. With that they would visit very often for playdates between your daughter and their child.

Finally making your way to the office you could hear faint chatter inside. Heading inside you saw Jay sitting at his desk doing some work, while his mother chatted along with Jungwon.

“Grandma!” Hearing your daughter’s excitement you quickly set her down, allowing her to run straight to her.

You smiled at the shared giggled between Jay’s mother, Jungwon and your daughter. You stood there watching them play around so happily and freely. Smitten with the scene before you, you didn’t hear Jay walk up behind you.

The feeling of his hand settling on the back of your neck startled you slightly. Jay couldn’t help but laugh recalling a memory at the beginning of your marriage. Proceeding on from your neck his fingers began to play with your hair—twilring the strands between his fingers.

“I’ve been thinking. It’s been three years since the little one. Thoughts on having another mini us run around?”

“Hmm. Let me ponder on it and I’ll let you know.”

Jay chuckled at your response, knowing deep down for the both of you there would be a possibility of a second child very soon.

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#evie loves to yap :3 #feedbacks !! ◡̈#also sorry for late reblog was out of town >.<

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