thirty-eight || defeat the beast!

✧˖*°࿐

"Ah ha! I told you, I was right all along!"

"Soobin, quit being stupid!" Huening Kai groaned, his gears ticking a little too loudly out of irritation. "Celebrating the princes' sadness isn't right!"

"Stupid?!" Soobin gasped dramatically, pressing one of his golden candle arms to his waxy chest like he'd just been mortally wounded. "Don't be so rude, Huening Kai! It's not my fault that I won the bet about the young master falling in love with the beauty!"

"You- You're insufferable!" Huening Kai sputtered, his minute hand twitching. "Could you be at least a little bit emotional over the beauty leaving instead of gloating over some dumb bet?"

Soobin's flames flared higher as he struck a dramatic offended pose. "I'm just trying to light up the mood, he's going to be back! I'm certain!"

Huening Kai groaned, his clock face ticking erratically in frustration. "I- you- ugh! You're impossible!" 

It had been nearly an hour since Beomgyu had left the palace, and the castles halls had never felt more quieter than before. The enchanted servants, they all could feel the absence of the beauty, it was as if a piece of the castle itself had vanished. Even Taehyun, though he had isolated himself in his room and have been sulking, was visibly affected by the absence.

Still, as cursed objects, there was little they could do about the situation. 

"You all worry too much, take things so seriously!" Soobin scoffed, waving his hands around, but it was clear he felt a bit saddened by what happened. "I'm certain Beomgyu will come back soon, you saw how in love he was with the prince."

"I still can't believe Taehyun let him go," Huening Kai sighed, his little metal heart breaking when he saw how saddened he was. "But I believe Beomgyu will be back soon, he's just checking in on his brother."

"Well, Hyuka," Soobin hummed. "Love makes people do crazy things."

Across the room, a soft sigh echoed out as Hyunjin, the feather duster, swished his feather in a mix of irritation and boredom. "I just hope he comes back soon, I would give anything to be a human again, I plucked these feathers yesterday and some already grew back!"

Soobin turned to look at Hyunjin, a bit of sadness in his little candle eyes. "There's no need to worry, he's going to be back soon — the curse will be gone! We'll all be human soon!"

"And what if the curse doesn't break?" Huening Kai interjected, crossing his arms as he stared at Soobin. "What if he doesn't come back? What will we do then? Taehyun will die of heartbreak and we- we'll stay as these useless tools!"

"Now don't say that!" Soobin huffed, glaring at the clock. "You need a bit of enthusiasm in your life. Plus, we all saw them, they're made for each other — he's going to be back."

"But we have to think about the possibility of him not coming back!" Huening Kai argued back, it was clear he was terrified of being a clock forever. "I love the beauty, I do, but what if his brother changes his mind? What will we do then?"

Before Soobin could retort with a half assed excuse to ease the tension, the large doors suddenly flew open — igniting a loud bam! inside of the room as Chan, on his cart, rushed in with urgency and worry.

"Guys — guys! We have bad news, bad bad news!" Chan said with urgency as he came to an abrupt stop in front of the table while Hyunjin quickly flew down next to them.

Soobin's face scrunched in both curiosity and wariness. "What is it, Chan?"

Chan's little snout wobbled nervously, smoke coming out as he breathed out ragged gasps. "I-I can't find Felix, I was looking around to search for him until I heard- I heard these voices and- and there's-"

"Breathe!" Huening Kai said, noticing how he was panicking. "Say it slowly, what the hell—"

"There's a mob! A huge fucking mob, coming this way! I saw them from the tower — torches, pitchforks, absolutely everything!" Chan nearly shouted, his voice cracking from panic.

Everyone in the room had gasped loudly at what he had just said, staying silent for just a mere second to see if he was joking, but when Chan stayed silent — the dread dawned upon them when they realized that he was telling the truth.

"A mob...? We're... we're under attack...?" Soobin muttered in disbelief, his flames flaring slightly. "How- how did they find the palace?! It's enchanted to keep outsiders out!"

Huening Kai froze for a moment, his clock hands twitching as the news sank in. "Do you... do you think that... Beomgyu... betrayed us?"

"Absolutely not!" Soobin exclaimed, shutting down that accusation which began to linger in the air. "He- he wouldn't do that, there must be something wrong. Chan, how many people are out there approaching the palace?"

"I don't know! A lot?" Chan wheezed, smoke puffing out of his spout erratically. "They're shouting about 'killing the beast' — they're here for Taehyun!" 

"Oh my god," Soobin gasped, his voice wavering with a bit of fear as he clutched his little candle chest. "We're doomed, we have to defend the palace, protect Taehyun! We have to fight!"

"Defend? Protect? Fight?!" Huening Kai exclaimed, finding this last minute plan absolutely bizarre. "What are we supposed to do? We're tools, for fucks sake! Do you expect me to clock someone to death?!"

"We have to try! We can't just sit back and do nothing!" Soobin scoffed, waving his candle arms around. "Now — get ready! Hyunjin, gather the feather dusters! Chan, find Felix or- something, I don't know! Get Seungmin and Lee Know, and Huening Kai... stop being useless and help me think of a plan!"

"I'm not useless, you overgrown wax stick!" Huening Kai retorted, but his voice wavered with panic. 

Hyunjin fluttered into the air, feathers bristling as he took stock of the situation. "What about Taehyun? Someone has to warn him if they're after him!"

"I'll do it!" Soobin declared, puffing out his tiny chest. "I'll rush to his bedroom, see if he's still grumpy or not — I'll warn him to keep safe while waiting for Beomgyu to come back!"

"Are you sure this will work?!" Huening Kai called out, watching Soobin jump down and rush to the door. "What if it all goes wrong?!"

"Trust me!" Soobin replied, rushing out of the room. "Just follow my lead and we'll all be fine!"

Huening Kai huffed out a worried breath, looking out the window as the mob began to come closer to the palace, his thought from earlier still lingering: did Beomgyu betray them?

But he had no time to waste, with quick movements, he jumped off of the table and ran out the room with Chan.

Ready to defend their palace.

"Kill the beast! Kill the beast!"

The townsfolk's voices echoed out like fire in the midst of the cold night — Heeseung leading the group as his eyes narrowed bitterly when the enchanted palace finally came into view, the structure sending a shiver down his spine — not from fear, but from disgust.

The cold air and frost bit at his skin, but the searing anger in his chest burned hotter than any winter chill. His heart was aching with disgust and hatred when he thought about how beyond those palace walls was a horrifying beast, ready to come destroy their town at any given minute. A horrifying beast that kept his beauty hostage.

How could Beomgyu even defend him? Staying here? With that thing?

His grip tightened on the magic mirror he'd stuffed into his coat, the reflection of the ugly beast in the magic mirror was in graves into his mind — the way Beomgyu defended him sent shivers of anger down his spine.

It was all wrong. Beomgyu was supposed to be with him, not bewitched by some monstrous creature hiding behind walls of ice and magic.

He had to get rid of this wicked beast.

His jaw clenched tightly, the townsfolk's chants of killing the beach rang out loud through the cold winter air as he tightened his grip around his horses reins — ushering for it to go faster as they began to approach the towering castles gates.

Once he was close enough, he clenched his jaw as he pulled sharply on the reins of his horse, forcing it to a stop in front of the castle's gates. He dismounted it in one swift motion, the frigid winter air biting at his face. Snow crunched beneath his boots as he marched up the icy steps, his breath clouding the air like smoke from a raging fire.

Behind him, the mob halted, torches blazing, pitchforks raised, and a collective bloodlust simmering in their eyes. The air was alive with anticipation as they chanted again, louder this time:

"Kill the beast! Kill the beast!"

Heeseung turned to face them, his face set with determination filled with bloodlust. "This palace, do you see this everyone?! Winter in summer? An old, terrifying, useless palace?! This is witchcraft! This beast... There is a beast that has bewitched Beomgyu and poisoned his mind — we must end this- end him!"

The crowd roared in agreement, stomping their feet and raising their weapons as Heeseung's voice rang out in the midst of the night — full of power and strength.

Allowing the crowd to cheer out for a few seconds, he soon raised his hand to silence them. "Let there be no mercy, kill anything and anyone within this palace! We break through the doors, find the beast, and destroy him before he could bewitch anyone else — tonight, we rid the world of this monster! Cleanse our home!"

The mob cheered wildly, their fiery determination heating the cold air.

Heeseung turned back toward the towering gates, his lips curling into a bitter smile. His fingers trembled, not from the cold, but from the thrill of finally taking action. He grabbed a torch from one of the villagers and held it high.

His mind raced with a singular, obsessive thought: he would kill the beast, bring its severed head to Beomgyu, and prove once and for all that his infatuation with the monster was a foolish delusion.

"Bring the battering ram!"

It only took a few moments for the crowd to retrieve a heavy log and charge toward the gates, slamming it into the ancient wood with a deafening CRACK.

"Again!"

The men who were carrying the battering ram all huffed out a determined grunt, backing away from the doors before running forward — slamming it into the ancient wood once again as another defeating crack echoed out, the hinges of the door creaking loudly in the air.

"One more time!" Heeseung's voice rang out, the scowl on his face darkening. "Hit it one more time, we're almost there!"

The mob surged with renewed determination, the battering ram flying forward with all their combined strength. As it struck the gate, the ancient wood gave way with a shattering crash, the massive doors swinging open to reveal the dark, enchanted halls of the castle.

The townsfolk surged with renewed determination, their cries and chants echoing out as the men stepped back once more and ran forward, the bartering ram flying forward as it struck the doors — the woods finally gave way with a shattering crash as the massive doors swung open, revealing the dark enchanting halls of the palace.

Heeseung stepped through the threshold first, torch held high, his eyes scanning the dimly lit space. The interior was eerily still, as though frozen in time. Layers of dust coated ornate furniture and grand chandeliers, and the air carried a faint, musty scent.

His jaw tightened, frustration bubbling under the surface. This was the place Beomgyu had risked everything for? This lifeless, abandoned ruin? What kind of hold did this "beast" have over him?

"Pay attention," He muttered under a low breath, the townsfolk slowly following him inside further as he looked around carefully. "The beast could be anywhere inside of here, we must stay cautious. Take whatever you want from this damn palace, but leave his death to me."

Some of the men who cautiously walked next to him huffed out an agreeing grunt, looking around cautiously as they slowly walked forward — those who had a weapon held their pitchforks or torches close to them as they looked at the dark, cold, interior of the palace.

"I don't understand," Someone grumbled out, staring at everything that looked so... lifeless. "The Choi brothers said there was an enchanted palace with a beast — this looks abandoned."

"Those two were always strange, just like their deceased parents," Another one replied, his grip around the pitchfork was deathly tight. "It was bound to happen, them going insane and having delusions."

Heeseung ignored their muttering, his torchlight reflecting off a grand, winding staircase ahead. His lips curled into a sneer.

"Insane or not," He muttered, "We'll find this beast and end him. Let's move."

The group advanced cautiously, their footsteps echoing through the cavernous halls. The flickering torchlight danced across faded tapestries and cracked mirrors, giving the illusion that the castle was alive and watching them.

Just as they moved forward, someone adventured out from the group and walked over to the table full of abandoned treasury's, his eyes shining with greed and fascination as he picked up a golden clock and held it up, admiring the intricate golden designs on it.

"This could go for thousands—"

"NOW!"

The massive chandelier overhead blazed to life, its golden light flooding the grand hall and momentarily blinding the intruders. Shouts of panic filled the air as enchanted servants, who had been hidden in plain sight, sprang into action.

From his perch atop the chandelier, Soobin cackled wildly, his flames burning brighter as he swung down dramatically like a general descending into battle. His fiery gaze locked onto the group, more specifically, Heeseung, as he pointed a blazing hand at them.

"Attack them! Defend the palace!"

"What the hell — is that a talking candle?!" One of the villagers shrieked, stumbling back in terror.

Before anyone could even process the surreal sight, chaos erupted.

The clock in the hands of the man who had strayed toward the treasures suddenly came to life, its face contorting into an expression of pure rage. With a loud click, Huening Kai extended his clock hands like sharp weapons and jabbed them into the man's fingers.

"OW! What the hell?!" The man yelped, dropping the golden clock as if it had burned him.

Huening Kai landed on the floor with an indignant thud, glaring up at the horrified man. "I'm so offended!" He exclaimed angrily, staring at the man who was horrified at the sight and gripping his hand in pain. "You think I would go for just thousands?! I'm worth millions!"

"AHHH!" The guy screamed, running away from the clock like a little dog between his legs — his scream causing more uprising panic.

The palace erupted into chaos as if an invisible string had snapped, sending every enchanted object into action. Wardrobes, instruments, feather dusters, coat hangers — practically every inanimate item in the castle — sprang to life, rushing into the grand hall to defend their home.

"What are you doing?!" Heeseung shouted, grabbing at the villagers who had begun fleeing in terror. "Running away?! They're just cursed furniture! Fight them! Burn them if you have to!"

Most of the villagers, though terrified, were hesitant at first. But when Heeseung made the first move and managed to slice an enchanted clothes hanger in half with his sword, battle had erupted between the townsfolk and enchanted servants.

Huening Kai gasped in horror, his tiny clock hands trembling as a group of villagers ran toward him. Before he could flee, Chan wheeled in on his cart, steam hissing furiously from his spout.

"Huening Kai, get on!" Chan shouted, already speeding forward.

Without hesitation, Huening Kai climbed onto the teapot's tray, clutching tightly as Chan charged ahead, barreling into the advancing mob with a loud bang! The impact sent the villagers flying backward, crashing into the ground with pained groans.

"Have you found Felix yet?!" Huening Kai shouted over the escalating screams and clattering.

"Not yet! I've checked everywhere — he's not in the palace!" Chan replied, spinning sharply and spraying scalding hot tea onto the face of an attacker. The villager howled in pain, dropping his weapon grabbing at his face which began to burn.

Huening Kai huffed out a worried breath, it was strange for Felix to just disappear like this. He was always attached to Chan's side like some sort of magnet — but there was no time to sulk and worry, they had a palace to defend.

Just a few feet away from them, Hyunjin noticed the signal that Soobin had given him — swooping down from a high shelf along with multiple other feather dusters. Making a beeline towards a group of people who were trying to fight the enchanted coat hangers.

"This is the worst idea you've ever had, Soobin!" Hyunjin shouted, gracefully floating over towards a man before practically slapping him harshly with dust — sending him stumbling backwards into a pile of overturned chairs

"It's all for Taehyun! He's refusing to come out of his room!" Soobin called down, his flames burning brightly as he lobbed a small fireball at a villager's pant leg. The man screamed, flailing wildly before running outside to extinguish the flames. "We just have to drive them away — we're almost there!"

The enchanted servants seemed to be gaining the upper hand on the lower floor. But their success wasn't without setbacks — several villagers slipped past the fray, charging up the grand staircase with one goal in mind: find the beast and bring him to Heeseung.

"This palace is insane!" One man rasped, gripping his pitchfork tightly.

"Forget the magic objects — find the beast and call Heeseung! Leave nothing alive in this cursed place!"

Just as they reached the top of the staircase, a thunderous boom echoed through the hall. Out of nowhere, Seungmin appeared, his massive wardrobe form landing heavily before the group. The floor trembled beneath his weight as his towering frame loomed over the villagers.

The men froze, their weapons trembling in their hands as they gaped at the enormous, animated wardrobe blocking their path.

"Don't even think about hurting him!"

With a loud creak, his doors swung open, u leashing a storm of enchanted clothes that attacked with ferocity — causing the men to stumble around in a panic and screaming loudly as shirts began to wrap themselves around their necks, ties lashed at the arms, and socks darted into they faces like tiny little missiles.

One of the villagers found himself grappling with a massive enchanted dress, the fabric wrapping around him like a relentless predator. He flailed wildly, his balance lost as he stumbled backward, tumbling down the staircase with a series of loud thuds before landing in an ungraceful heap below.

The scene was pure chaos. Villagers scrambled in every direction, battling against an onslaught of enchanted objects that defied logic and reason.

In one corner, Lee Know, a grand piano had sprung to action, furiously slamming his lid down on the villagers fingers and firing keys like missiles.

Nearby, flying knives and silverware sliced through the air, forcing terrified villagers to retreat. Kitchen appliances charged into the fray, boiling pots of water spilling onto attackers and scalding them as they shrieked in pain.

Some of the villagers hesitated, caught between retreating back to the safety of their village or pressing forward to rid the world of the cursed beast. But their numbers were decreasing rapidly as the enchanted servants relentlessly pushed them back.

Amid the pandemonium, Heeseung moved with single-minded determination. He ignored the chaos around him, his sword cutting down anything in his way — enchanted or otherwise. His expression was twisted with frustration and fury, his steps heavy as he kicked aside a teacup and ripped apart a feather duster that had attempted to block his path.

I've had enough of this nonsense! Heeseung gritted his teeth, his knuckles white around the hilt of his sword. As he strode through the halls.

I'm going to end this magic once and for all, destroy the beast, and free Beomgyu from this ridiculous curse! He knocked over a table, sending plates clattering to the floor. He belongs to me, and no damned beast is going to take him away!

As Heeseung ascended the grand staircase leading to the West Wing, his movements became sharper, his body tense. He reached for the crossbow strapped to his back, loading it with an arrow as he scanned the dark, semi-quiet corridors ahead.

The distant chaos from below — screams, shouts, and the clanging of enchanted objects — made his hunt all the more difficult as he listened for sounds of a beast in the hall, but he knew he was close to having his head.

Reaching a door, Heeseung kicked it open with a sharp crack, raising his crossbow and sweeping the room with his eyes. Dust and cobwebs greeted him, but no beast. He scoffed in irritation and moved on, repeating the process with the next room.

Where are you, damn beast? Heeseung's blood simmered with rage, his mind consumed by thoughts of revenge. You dared to curse the love of my life to fall for you — that's unforgivable!

Finally, he reached the end of the hallway, where a set of grand double doors loomed larger than all the others. The ornate carvings on the wood and the faint, almost ominous silence behind them sent a chill of anticipation down his spine.

A wicked smirk spread across his lips as he gripped the handles tightly. Found you.

SLAM!

Taehyun's head snapped up as the door to his room flew open with a violent bang. His sharp eyes immediately locked onto the intruder, his chest tightening as he registered the figure silhouetted in the doorway.

There, standing with a crossbow in his hands and an enraged snarl on his face, was none other than him.

"You!" The man spat venomously, leveling the tip of the arrow directly at Taehyun's chest. "You're even uglier in person! How dare you curse my beloved?!"

Taehyun arched a brow, his irritation brewing like a storm. As the fiery accusations rang out, recognition dawned on him, and his annoyance doubled.

Heeseung.

Of course, it was him.

The moment Soobin had burst into his room to warn him about the incoming mob, Taehyun had envisioned some grizzled old cranky man leading the charge. Not this — a goddamned classmate.

Taehyun's lips curled in disdain as he straightened his back, his imposing frame rising to its full height.

You've got to be kidding me, he thought, his mind buzzing with disbelief. Heeseung? Really? Don't tell me... Is he supposed to be Gaston?

As much as Taehyun wanted to dismiss the notion, the facts were clear. The loud arrogance, the obsession with Beomgyu, the aggressive posturing — it all checked out.

This fairytale must seriously hate us, Taehyun thought bitterly. Casting Heeseung as Gaston? That's downright cruel.

But then again... wasn't it kind of fitting?

In the real world, Heeseung had always grated on Taehyun's nerves. Not because of his energetic personality or his over-the-top confidence, but because of his painfully obvious, embarrassingly unhidden crush on Beomgyu.

For years, Taehyun had watched with thinly veiled contempt as Heeseung hovered around Beomgyu like a lovesick puppy, volunteering to help with everything even remotely related to him. How the elder had remained oblivious to it was beyond Taehyun's comprehension.

Back then, Taehyun hadn't wanted Heeseung and Beomgyu to get together for entirely obvious selfish reasons. He used to think Beomgyu didn't deserve that kind of happiness — didn't deserve a loving relationship, let alone someone like Heeseung pining after him.

But now?

Now, it was personal. Beomgyu was his. His heart, his happiness, his future. And Heeseung? He could rot for all Taehyun cared.

"Surrender to me, beast!" Heeseung snarled, storming further into the room. His grip on the crossbow was so tight it seemed the weapon might snap under the pressure. The tip of the arrow pointed directly at Taehyun's chest. "You cursed him, you cursed Beomgyu, my love wit—"

"Your love?" Taehyun interrupted, his voice dripping with mockery as an amused smirk tugged at his lips. "That's a hilarious joke, I'm laughing so hard."

Heeseung's mouth opened like a fish out of water for a brief moment, confusion flashing in his eyes before that bitter hatred came back. "Are you- are you mocking me?! What the hell? That's- you're evil!"

"You're delusional!" Taehyun shot back, a smile growing on his furry lips at his reaction. "I didn't curse or enchant Beomgyu at all, he just fell in love with me!"

Oh, saying that out loud makes his heart flutter so much.

With his memories gone, his love for Beomgyu was still there yet hidden — but now, with his memories back and with everything reminding him of what he's fighting for, his love for the elder felt so much deeper now.

He's done a lot. Taehyun's eyes softened at the thought of Beomgyu. I'm proud, don't worry hyung, I'll take care of you now.

Beomgyu endured enough in this fairytale. Using... strange... ideas and horrible flirts to somehow get his memory back, enduring the pain and loneliness of having to do this all alone.

Even though he was kinda certain the elder was going slightly insane doing this alone, maybe it's time to finally do something... even though he doesn't necessarily know what the happily ever after is.

Heeseung's face began to turn a dark shade of red, and from the dim light, Taehyun was certain he could see steam coming from his ears like he was some sort of angry teapot — maybe he should've been the teapot instead of Chan!

"I'm not delusional," Heeseung hissed angrily, as if he were trying to convince himself more than Taehyun. "I locked him and his idiotic brother up inside of that carriage to protect him from you! The curse magic you placed on him is making him insane! But once I get rid of you—"

"You did what?"

Heeseung flinched when Taehyun's tone suddenly changed. All mockery and sarcasm were now gone as the beast stood up straighter, his face a terrifying blank expression as his eyes burned with newfound anger.

Something inside of Taehyun had suddenly snapped when he heard the words Heeseung had said, the thought of this... this monster, treating him so harshly and even locking him inside of a carriage to prevent him from coming back was... more evil than being a beast.

For the first time, Heeseung hesitated. But his gaze flickered past Taehyun, catching sight of something behind him. His eyes widened as they landed on the rose under the glass dome. Its faint glow lit the room, and withered petals were scattered across its base, seeming to pulse with some unearthly energy.

It radiated magic.

"Is that it?" Heeseung's voice changed, venom replaced by a triumphant edge. His aim shifted, the tip of his crossbow now directed at the rose. "Is this the source of the curse? Then let me finish it off! Once it's gone, Beomgyu will be mine again!"

Taehyun's eyes widened. "Don't you dare!—"

Heeseung's hand tightened around the trigger, and before Taehyun could react, the arrow was released with a sharp whoosh. It sped toward the glowing rose with deadly precision. 

But before he could process anything else, Taehyun's instincts kicked in — launching himself to the side in the path of the arrow, time slowing down as it came closer and closer.

It wasn't until then, a searing paint shot through his shoulder — the arrow embedded deep into his flesh making him gasp loudly, the force of the impact knocking him back onto the floor as he grit his teeth, clutching at the wound while blood began to stain his fur.

Shit, shit shit shit! He cursed over and over in his head, the burning pain in his shoulder was unbearable to ignore. Again?! Why is it always arrows? Seriously, who even uses arrows anymore?! When I get back to the real world, I'm going to find every arrow in existence and burn them. This is ridiculous!

Taehyun hissed a pained breath, glancing up at Heeseung who looked damn proud. "I'm getting sick of you, gosh! You're so annoying, do you know that?!"

Taehyun would rather fight goddamn Karina again than do this right now- god. Why are they always fighting for their lives in this fairytale world?! He's so ready to go back to the real world, but he needs Beomgyu here with him before he does, god he misses him.

And Beomgyu doesn't even know that Taehyun got his memories back! Shit, he needs to somehow defeat Heeseung and get to Beomgyu right away before things go bad.

But before he could fully regain his footing, Heeseung rushed at him again. The human's boot connected with his chest, sending Taehyun skidding across the floor. He groaned, the pain searing, but it wasn't enough to brutally hurt him.

"Let's make this simple," Heeseung sneered, striding closer as if he'd already claimed victory. "Surrender yourself, break whatever curse you've placed on Beomgyu, and maybe — maybe — I'll let you live. Though, let's be honest, it's a shame you have to keep existing looking like... that."

Taehyun's lips curled into a bitter smile as he forced himself back onto his feet. For a human, Heeseung was surprisingly strong. And the fact that Taehyun — a literal beast — was being pushed around like this? Embarrassing. He'd fought off a pack of wolves before; this should've been nothing.

"God, you're seriously stupid," Taehyun chuckled softly, bitterness in his tone as he looked over at Heeseung. I'm this close to achieving the happily ever after with Beomgyu, I'm not letting this idiot bring me down- god this fucking hurts! At least it's better than being impaled in the abdomen!

Okay, yeah. Too soon to joke about that.

Heeseung charged again, raising his fist for another strike. But this time, he was ready. Ignoring the pain in his shoulder, he launched himself forward. Their bodies collided with a brutal crash, and they tumbled to the floor. Taehyun growled, his claws raking against the floor as he landed a harsh blow to the males face, sending his head snapping to the side.

"You talk too much," Taehyun muttered, his voice low and dangerous as he hovered over Heeseung. "If you even think you'll succeed in taking Beomgyu from me, winning his love, then you're even dumber than I thought."

Heeseung coughed out a shaky breath, his head turning slightly to face Taehyun. The swelling on his cheek was already darkening into a nasty purple bruise, but somehow, he still found the audacity to smirk, as though this were some kind of game he was letting Taehyun win.

"I don't get why you're so obsessed with Beomgyu," Heeseung spat, his voice dripping with disdain. His hands trembled slightly, but his defiance held firm as he stared Taehyun dead in the eye. "He's nothing but a pretty face and all — a trophy wife if you ask me, you have no use for him when he's nothing but a tool for pleas—"

Before Heeseung could finish, Taehyun's clawed hand shot forward, gripping him by the neck. In one swift motion, he stood, effortlessly lifting the other boy off the ground. Heeseung's feet dangled in the air as his hands scrambled to claw at his furry arm, panic flashing vividly across his face.

Taehyun's eyes had emotions burning within them like molten fire, his expression unreadable, cold, and unrelenting. And then, in a moment so unnerving it froze Heeseung in place, a small smile crept onto his lips. It was gentle, even calm — but the kind of calm that carried a storm just beneath the surface.

The smile didn't reach his eyes, which glared at Heeseung with an intensity that could pierce steel.

"You think... he's a tool for satisfaction...?" Taehyun asked softly, his tone eerily calm. "A trophy? Just a pretty face?" He tightened his grip, just enough to make Heeseung gasp as every word became more aggressive. "That says more about you than it does to him, you disgusting piece of shit."

"I was going easy on you," He continued, his tone as calm as it was deadly. "But after hearing you reduce the boy I love to something so vile..." He leaned in close, his voice dropping to a venomous whisper. "I'll make sure you regret every. single. word."

Heeseung's face twisted in panic, but before he could respond, Taehyun's arm moved in one swift motion. He hurled him to the side, sending him crashing into the nearby window. Glass shattered on impact, the shards catching the moonlight as his body flew through and landed harshly on the stone balcony outside.

"Fuck!" Heeseung groaned, clutching his side where he'd landed hardest. He scrambled to his feet, glaring back at Taehyun as the beast stepped through the broken window. "You're nothing but a monster!"

Taehyun stopped, his fur bristling slightly as Heeseung's words echoed in the air. His gaze flicked to the edge of the balcony.

Would it be bad if I just... threw him off? Taehyun's lips pressed into a thin line as he considered it. I mean, technically, he's not even real, right? Just a fairytale version of Heeseung. And... I mean, I've already killed... who? Karina. Minnie. No, wait — that was mostly Beomgyu's doing. Or was it? Okay, yeah, I did kill Ms. Yoo, but that was technically my hair's fault...

"Are you even listening to me, you beast?!" Heeseung's voice broke through Taehyun's thoughts, filled with frustration and desperation.

Taehyun blinked, slowly shaking himself out of his mental debate. "Huh? Oh. Right!"

The smile returned to his face, this time with pure sarcasm and taunt written all over it. "What were you saying? I'd say sorry, but I'm not really sorry. Something about me being a monster, yeah? Heard that one too many times."

Heeseung's jaw clenched tightly, his face a mix of anger and desperation. With trembling hands, he grabbed the hilt of his sword, dragging himself upright despite the obvious pain he was in. He aimed the blade at Taehyun, his stance shaky but determined.

"I swore I would protect my town," Heeseung growled, his voice heavy with conviction and exhaustion. "Protect him. I'm not going to let you ruin it!"

Taehyun raised a brow, unimpressed. Slowly, he reached up to grab the arrow still lodged in his shoulder. His fur bristled as he yanked it out in one swift motion, hissing through clenched teeth as the searing pain flared up. With a flick of his wrist, he tossed the arrow aside, his patience officially wearing thin.

You know what. He thought, pursing his lips tightly.

Fuck it.

✧˖*°࿐

"Come on! Come on! Fuck!"

Beomgyu groaned, cursing under his breath as he backed away from the carriage door. His hands throbbed from pounding on the unyielding wood, and his voice was raw from shouting for anyone — anyone — to hear him. But no matter how hard he tried, the door refused to budge.

The thick, sturdy wood, reinforced with iron, stood between him and the outside world, separating him from Taehyun — and the chaos unfolding at the palace.

"Damn it!" He muttered, slumping against the carriage wall, his breathing uneven. His eyes flicked over to Yeonjun, who sat across from him with a guilty expression plastered on his face.

"Yeonjun hyung," Beomgyu started, his voice desperate. "There has to be a way out. Don't you have some weird gadget or device hidden in your pockets? Something — anything — that could turn into a key or break this door open?"

Yeonjun sighed, running a hand through his disheveled hair. "Gyu, for the last time, I don't have magical nonsense like that lying around! I barely have pockets, let alone anything useful!"

Beomgyu groaned loudly, dragging his hands down his face before burying it into his palms. A muffled scream of frustration escaped him, the sound vibrating through the small, confined space. "You have to have something! Anything! I can't let them hurt Taehyun when I'm- fuck!"

Yeonjun's jaw tightened, his gaze dropping down to the wooden floor — guilt eating him up alive. "I'm so sorry, Gyu. I really- I thought they would help me... I thought you were in danger. I haven't seen you for nearly weeks and- and I was so worried. You're my only family left."

Beomgyu kept silent, his heart aching at the words he was hearing. He knew he shouldn't feel that bad, this wasn't his real Yeonjun after all. But the vulnerability and guilt in the elders tone was enough to make him melt, he still had empathy towards these wack fairytale versions of his friends.

But he's so... so angry.

He should've stayed at the palace, they were so close to bringing back Taehyun's memories. He was so close to achieving the happily ever after— he doesn't even know whether Taehyun was okay or not. If everyone else in the palace were still alive or not.

So many questions and thoughts ran through his mind: Was Taehyun okay? Did Heeseung manage to kill him? What would happen if... if he does lose him...?

"I thought... I thought I was protecting you," Yeonjun spoke up once again, his voice trembling. "I thought that monster—"

"He's not a monster!" Beomgyu interrupted, anger blinding him for a split second. "He's not a monster, he's good- Taehyun is good! He's not some blood thirsty beast with a human appetite— he's just- he's just a boy who's cursed! He didn't ask to become a beast!"

Yeonjun stayed silent, listening to Beomgyu ramble angrily, his eyes softening as he listened to the pure genuine honesty in his tone.

"I can't lose him," Beomgyu's voice broke again, holding onto his chest as his began to ache so bad it was becoming overwhelming. "I love him so much, hyung. You don't understand— If I lose him, it's worse than death itself."

Yeonjun's eyes widened after hearing the confession, his mouth opening and closing as he processed the males words. But soon, he nodded slowly, his expression heavy. "I'm so sorry," He murmured. "I should've- I should've trusted you, but I was so- so scared. But you.. you could've sent me a letter, anything to guarantee your safety- I didn't want you to get hurt—"

"I'm already hurting, Yeonjun!" Beomgyu shouted, not processing how loud he was being. "I'm hurting because I'm not with him. Because I don't know if he's okay. Because I'm trapped here with you while he's out there, probably fighting for his life against Heeseung's crazy ass!"

Right after he was done talking, the carriage was only filled with dreadful silence, broken only by Beomgyu's shaky breathing as he sank against the wooden wall again, closing his eyes to repress his tears.

Finally, Yeonjun spoke, his voice soft. "I'm sorry, Beomgyu. I really am. I didn't understand, but... I'll help you. I'll do whatever it takes to get us out of here and back to him."

Beomgyu looked at him, his anger softening slightly. "You mean that?"

Yeonjun nodded, his jaw tightening. "I do. I'll make this right. I promise."

Before Beomgyu could respond, a voice called out from outside the carriage.

"Beomgyu! Are you in there?"

His brain stopped for a few seconds, processing what he had just heard before he immediately bolted up from his spot and went to the small barred window, pressing his face against it — his heart nearly leaping out of his chest when he saw Hanjin standing there, slightly out of breath but grinning widely.

"Hanjin!" Beomgyu exclaimed, relief washing over him. "What are you doing here? I thought you went with the crowd?"

"I mean, I was," Hanjin said, scratching the back of his nape — his face slightly flushed as if he had ran back to the village or something. "But then... I ran into something- or someone that changed my mind."

Before Beomgyu could question what the younger meant by that, his eyes fell on the males hand which stretched out, a soft gasp leaving his mouth when he saw a small teacup in his hand.

Felix.

"Felix?" Beomgyu asked, his voice laced with confusion and worry. "Wait- what is he- how did you get out of the castle?!"

"I managed to slip into your coat while you were leaving!" Felix explained, gosh, for a small teacup his deep ass voice still freaked him out. "Right before that rude Heeseung guy dragged you inside of here, I managed to slip away and hide!"

Hanjin nodded. "He found me after you left. Told me everything—that Heeseung's got it all wrong, and the beast isn't the monster everyone thinks he is. I believe him."

Hanjin nodded his head. "He found me just before I left with the crowd, told me everything about the beast and how he truly isn't a monster. I believe him."

Felix wobbled slightly in Hanjin's hand. "We're here to get you out and bring you back to Taehyun! Don't worry, Beomgyu! We've got a plan!"

A wave of relief and gratitude washed over him when he heard all of this, the male biting on the bottom of his lip as he tried to hold back an emotional sob filled with joy. "Thank you guys, but what plan? You have a plan? What kind?"

"Uh..." Hanjin hesitated, scratching his head. "Okay, maybe it's more of an idea, but we'll figure it out!"

"It's okay. I trust you both."

The two quickly stepped away and began searching around the area for something like a key or some sort of way to break the door down, both of them talking amongst each other until Felix gasped loudly, coming up with a perfect plan.

Felix hopped slightly on his tiny base, as if bouncing with excitement. "Alright, Hanjin, listen closely! We're going to need some materials, but we need something combustible — like gunpowder or dry herbs from the forest nearby — and something to contain it!"

Hanjin's eyes widened when he realized what the little teacup's plan was about. "Wait... You... there's no way that you want to do... that! It's dangerous!"

"We have no other choice!"

Hanjin sighed, nodding his head as he glanced around the area until his eyes landed on a small pouch on his belt. "How about this?" He held up a small leather satchel. "It's durable and compact. Used it to carry flint and tinder."

Felix tilted toward it thoughtfully. "Perfect! Fill it with something flammable, and I'll try and find something as well!"

They scrambled almost everywhere to gather supplies. Hanjin collected dry pine needles, resin from nearby trees, and even a little bit of gunpowder. Felix, meanwhile, found some matches to light the little bag on fire.

Once they had everything, Hanjin carefully packed the satchel with their makeshift materials, tying it tightly with a sturdy string.

"Okay, Beomgyu, Yeonjun!" Hanjin called out, stepping back from the carriage door. "Get as far away from the door as you can! Cover your ears and brace yourselves!"

"What the hell are you doing?!"

"Blowing up the damn door, now step back!"

"What?!" Both boys said in unison, horrified.

But before they could complain about not receiving a warning, Beomgyu and Yeonjun scrambled to the farthest corner of the carriage, huddling together when they smelt the smoke nearby.

"This is insane," Yeonjun muttered, shaking his head. "We're going to die. This is how we die."

"We're not going to die," Beomgyu hissed, although he didn't sound entirely convinced himself. "Probably."

Felix, handing over the matches slid back, looking up at Hanjin. "Ready?"

"Ready as I'll ever be," Hanjin muttered. He gently placed the satchel against the iron lock on the door, then darted back to safety behind a large rock.

Felix gave one last look toward the carriage. "Here goes nothing!"

Right away, Hanjin lit up the match and and allowed the stick to burn just for a moment before he threw it at the satchel — the stick landing on it perfectly as the bag slowly began to erupt into flames, nothing happened which made their hearts—

BOOM!

The explosion rocked the ground, sending a deafening shockwave through the air. Smoke and splinters burst in all directions, and the iron lock shattered with a loud clang. The heavy wooden door blew off its hinges, slamming onto the ground with an echoing crash.

"Holy fucking shit!"

Beomgyu coughed loudly through the smoke, their eyes wide in disbelief as they stared at the area where the door once was, processing everything that had just happened until a huge smile broke loose, rushing out of the carriage.

"We're alive!" Beomgyu shouted, scrambling to his feet.

"Barely." Yeonjun added, coughing.

Hanjin rushed forward, his face breaking into a relieved grin. "It worked! You're free!"

Felix teetered slightly on a nearby rock, his voice triumphant. "Told you we could do it!"

Beomgyu jumped out of the carriage, pulling Hanjin into a tight hug. "Thank you," He said, his voice shaky but filled with gratitude. "Thank you so much."

Hanjin patted his back awkwardly but smiled. "Let's save the gratitude for later."

Beomgyu smiled, walking back to the carriage and helping Yeonjun out of it while Hanjin went to grab two horses — one of them being Philippe who was tied to a fence post to prevent him from saving either one of them.

"Alright," Beomgyu breathed out, mounting properly on Philippe as Felix jumped into the small pocket. "Are you guys ready?"

He turned back to look at Yeonjun who was mounting the horse with a proud smile, Hanjin sitting right behind him as they both gave a thumbs up.

Without wasting another second, Beomgyu flicked the reins, his heart hammering in his chest. The wind rushed past him as they took off at full speed.

Don't worry Taehyun. I'm coming.

"There it is! We're here!"

Beomgyu's heart pounded as the palace began to look into view, his heart racing at the idea of being so far yet so close to Taehyun. His hands tightening around the reins as he encouraged Philippe to go faster, soon arriving at the front staircase of the palace.

Expecting to see a somewhat normal sight, the one that greeted him wasn't grandeur at all. Instead, all he saw was absolute chaos from inside the palace, along with some of it being outside.

Villagers were running in panic, some clutching injuries as they stumbled through the snow and past them, into the dark woods where they'll most likely get lost — while some of them just laid on the snow trying to mend their wounds with the cold, their bodies scattered like discarded dolls.

What the hell happened in just over an hour?

"What the hell happened here?" He heard Yeonjun mutter from behind him, his jaw tightening.

Without a second thought, he dismounted his horse in a rush, spitting towards the palace entrance as the other two were close behind him, their expressions grim as they saw some townsfolk lying there defeated.

Beomgyu soon ran past the place doors and into the grand hallway, freezing right away. If the scene outside was already crazy, then the inside was even more insane.

Enchanted servants were locked in on combat with the townsfolk, furniture and utensils flying through the air. Plates smashed against walls, rugs tripped unwary attackers, and candlesticks jabbed at anything that moved. The grand hall had turned into a battleground.

"What the...?" Beomgyu whispered, his voice trembling. His eyes darted around, searching for someone — anyone — familiar. His heart sank when he didn't see Heeseung.

Taehyun. He found Taehyun.

Just as he was about to race up the grand staircase, a familiar voice shouted his name.

"Beomgyu!"

He whipped around, his heart dropping. Yeonjun was pinned to the ground, a villager straddling him with a sword pressed dangerously close to his neck. While Hanjin was struggling against another one, but managed to fight back.

Beomgyu's body tensed, instinct screaming at him to act, but before he could move, the villager suddenly shrieked.

Flames erupted on the man's pants, and he jumped to his feet, screaming as he ran in circles, trying to extinguish the fire. Beomgyu stood frozen, his mouth hanging open.

"What the fuck just—"

"Beomgyu!" A cheerful voice called out, his eyes widening when he saw Soobin suddenly appear from behind Yeonjun. "You're back! Oh my gosh, I knew you wouldn't have abandoned us!"

"Soobin?" Beomgyu gasped, stunned but relieved. "I would never abandon you guys and Taehyun, but thank you for saving Yeonjun with... whatever the hell you just did."

Soobin nodded, his grin widening. "I knew it, don't worry, I trust you!"

Beomgyu smiled before he rushed over to Yeonjun, who was still sprawled on the floor, and helped him up, stunned at what had just happened and that there was a talking candle.

"Uhm, thanks..." He said awkwardly, turning to Soobin who froze. "I... I owe you one, I think? I'll get you wax candy... or whatever... candles eat...?"

Soobin smiled awkwardly, his usual calm demeanor slightly faltering as he met Yeonjun's gaze. "No big deal, haha, always happy to help!" His flames began to redden more.

Beomgyu blinked, glancing between the two of them. The air felt... changed, almost awkward. He rolled his eyes. "Okay whatever the fuck is going on, I'm not witnessing this, I have to find Taehyun."

Without waiting for a response, he turned and bolted up the stairs, his voice echoing through the halls. "Taehyun! Where are you?" God, please don't let him be late.

He sprinted toward the west wing, his heart pounding in his chest. When he reached the corridor leading to Taehyun's room, his stomach dropped when he saw that the doors were wide open.

"No," He whispered, running inside. "No- no no no! Taehyun! Kang Taehyun! Fuck!"

The moment he entered the room, his heart began to twist with fear. The room was a mess, stained glass littering the floor like crazy, his heart sinking down to his chest when he looked over to where the enchanted rose was, relief washing through him when he saw that it was still safe inside of its glass dome. Taehyun was safe.

It wasn't until his eyes darted towards the shattered window behind it, his eyes landing on the familiar beastly furry figure outside on the stone balcony, an overwhelming rush of emotions washing through him.

There Taehyun stood, his back facing him as his massive form towered over a beaten Heeseung, holding him by the neck and over the railing as his sharp nails dug into the males skin.

"Taehyun!" Beomgyu shouted, his voice trembling. "Tyun-ah!"

Taehyun froze as his voice echoed out through the room, his head snapping backwards as his eyes widened, instantly softening when he saw Beomgyu standing near the rose.

"Beomgyu hyung," Taehyun said, his voice low and filled with emotion. "You're back- you're okay!"

A smile grew on the elders lips, tears welling in his eyes as he nodded his head. "I'm fine! I promise, just- just let Heeseung go, I'm certain he's already unconscious or something!"

Taehyun hesitated, his jaw tightening. Then, with a low growl, he tossed Heeseung to the side. The man landed with a thud, groaning in pain.

He wasted no time, stepping back inside before he rushed over towards Beomgyu — enveloping him in a tight hug which was sorta awkward due to his large frame. "You're here," He whispered, his voice breaking. "I—"

"Taehyun!" Beomgyu wailed dramatically, cutting him off. "I'm so sorry!" His voice cracked as he sobbed loudly — without a single tear actually falling. "I thought this whole thing would be, like, a quick trip! In and out! Like running to the convenience store for snacks! Like those disgusting cotton candy flavored chips Hyuka likes!"

"Beomgyu it's okay—"

"But no!" He cut Taehyun off, his voice growing louder. "I got locked in a fucking carriage with Yeonjun, about to be taken to an insane asylum- AN INSANE ASYLUM TAEHYUN!"

Taehyun blinked. "Wait, what—?"

"And then Hanjin!" Beomgyu barreled on, ignoring him. "The tiny, innocent, baby-faced first year blew up the door with Felix! You know, Felix? The TEACUP?! He had matches! Why does he have matches? Who gave him matches?!"

"Beomgyu- calm down just—"

"And- and-" Beomgyu choked out a sob, dry tears falling. "Yeonjun almost died! Like, full-on, sword-to-the-throat, dramatic ass death scene! Until Soobin shows up out of nowhere like a knight in shining armor — or, you know, a candle in shining wax — and sets the guy's pants on fire! And then I had to watch them have this weird... romantic tension moment! It's so fucked up Tyun, All I wanted to do was retrieve your memories!"

"Choi Beomgyu!" Taehyun finally shouted, grabbing Beomgyu's shoulders and shaking him lightly. "I already remember everything!"

Beomgyu froze mid-rant, his mouth hanging open. "...Wait, what?"

Taehyun sighed softly, shaking his head at the elders dramatic ass rant. "I remember everything, I swear I do! These enchanted golden letters appeared out of no where and it was like a scavenger hunt."

Beomgyu stared at him, his eyes narrowing suspiciously as he searched Taehyun's face for any sign of deceit. For a brief moment, his heart swelled with joy — Taehyun was back! But then, a horrible thought struck him.

What if he's lying just to make me feel better?

His joy quickly turned into paranoia. His eyes narrowed even further until they were practically slits. "How old am I? When's my birthday?"

"What? What the fuck?—"

"Answer the question!" Beomgyu demanded, pointing an accusing finger at Taehyun like a dramatic courtroom lawyer. "If you don't, then you're lying!"

Taehyun stared at him in disbelief, a groan escaping his lips. Of course, Beomgyu would pull this. Rolling his eyes, he sighed. "You're eighteen, and your birthday is March 13th."

"What's my role in the student council?"

"The most dumbest president to ever exist in our schools history."

"What the hell?!" Beomgyu hissed, his eyes narrowing bitterly. "Okay whatever! Uhm... what instruments do I play?"

Taehyun's lip twitched slightly. "You play both piano and guitar, but you prefer the piano more since it's more comfortable."

"What's—"

"I remember that you're dramatic, you make decisions without even thinking, that you're afraid of alpacas because of god who knows what, but I also do know that..." Taehyun paused, a gentle smile growing on his lips. "That you used to hate me because of the Byeol Arts Academy performance. But now, you love me after I saved your life multiple times."

For a moment, Beomgyu just stared at him, his dry sobbing finally subsiding as he just stared blankly. The silence becoming deafening as Taehyun awkwardly shifted in his spot, ready to say another random fact before a wide smile broke through on the elders lips, his eyes lighting up like stars.

"Oh my god- oh my god oh my god you're back!" Beomgyu exclaimed excitedly, pulling Taehyun down so he was now hugging him tightly. "Holy shit- your memories are back I'm- I missed you so much- do you know how hard it was talking to a clueless fucking furry?!"

"You seemed to enjoy it though, what was that one compliment? That my eyes are like radiant flashlights or whatever?"

"Please, shut up!"

A small fit of laughter broke between them, but the joy was short lived when Beomgyu slowly started to realize something, his smile fading as he slowly pulled away from Taehyun. "Wait- wait. If you remember everything, then why are you a beast? The golden letter said you'll be back as a human if you remember everything again!"

Before Taehyun could open his mouth to reply to what he had just said, a loud crash echoed out from behind them — forcing them to both look at what the sound had just came from.

Beomgyu's heart sank as his eyes locked on Heeseung, who stood beside the enchanted rose. The glass dome that once protected it lay shattered on the floor, shards glinting in the faint light. The rose's enchanting red glow illuminated Heeseung's twisted, angry expression.

"Heeseung," Beomgyu breathed, his voice trembling. "What the hell are you doing?!"

"Doing what I should've done a long time ago," Heeseung snarled, his face contorted with rage. His eyes burned with a manic hatred. "You don't belong to him, Beomgyu — you belong to me and only me. And I'm going to make sure of it!"

"Heeseung, wait — don't!" Beomgyu shouted, taking a step forward.

But it was too late.

With a crazed determination, Heeseung reached for the enchanted rose. As soon as his fingers closed around its delicate stem, Taehyun let out a guttural groan of pain, doubling over as if the rose's agony was his own.

"Stop!" Beomgyu screamed, rushing forward, but Heeseung ignored him.

With a cruel sneer, Heeseung gripped the rose tighter and began to tear it apart. The vibrant petals fell one by one, their brilliant red fading to a dull, lifeless brown before they hit the ground like drops of blood.

Taehyun's body convulsed as the rose's destruction mirrored his own. The once-enchanted flower crumbled in Heeseung's grasp, signaling the death of the magic that had tied everything together — the rose, the curse, the dwindling time.

As the last petal fell, the room plunged into an eerie silence, the rose now withered and gone and scattered all across the room.

Causing the magic and their remaining time to end.

✧˖*°࿐