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haveanotherkpopblog · 1 year

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The Nutcracker Suite

Part V: The Mouse King's Castle

Pairing: Ju-ne/Koo Junhoe x You

Genre: Angst, Ballet!AU, Fluff, Regency!AU

Word Count: 4.2K

Warnings: N/A

Masterlist || <<Previous | Next>>

The Mouse King’s castle stood tall and proud. Towers made of polished, white marble stretched towards the sky. The walls were long and made of stone. There wasn’t much else to see from the south side of the castle. That must be why they never showed the back of castles in fairy tales. Mouse soldiers walked around the perimeter, spears clutched in their paws.

The group had ducked into the woods, making sure to stay out of the mice soldier's line of sight. They tied the horses to a tree, making sure they didn’t run off again. General Hanbin pulled out the map that the Sugar Plum Fairy had given them. He placed it down on the ground, securing it with some nearby rocks.

“Okay, the Sugar Plum Fairy said that there was a secret entrance a few yards away from the south wall. There, we’ll enter into a secret passageway hidden within the castle walls. She marked the path to take that will lead us to the north side of the castle. Somewhere there is his royal treasury. We should find the egg somewhere there.”

“Should? Are we not certain that’s where the egg is?” Y/N said.

“The Sugar Plum Fairy hasn’t ever seen the egg or inside the castle,” Lieutenant Donghyuk explained. “She did her best to try and remember what the Mouse King’s said before. She helped us the best she could.”

General Hanbin rolled the map up before returning it to his sack. He slung it over his shoulder, making sure it was secured before leading the group away from the woods. They had to back-track slightly before the general led them down a steep hillside. The Uncrossable Seas were next to the hill, its waters sloshing along the grass. Next to the hill was a curtain of vines and leaves.

The General pushed the curtain aside to reveal a dark and damp tunnel. Ju-ne took Y/N’s hand as they entered the tunnel. It was dark--dark and quiet. The only sound was the ocean outside, and their footsteps as they stepped on the soaked, moss covered ground. The air around them was thick as they continued through the tunnel.

“Be careful,” General Hanbin called back. “We should be coming up to the secret passageway soon.”

And they were. Soon the soft moss ground changed to hard stone. The air was no longer thick with moisture, but thick with dust. The ocean sounds faded into a deafening nothingness. Their footsteps echoed off the stone walls--the only source of sound outside their breathing. Torches lined the walls, lighting the group’s way. Ju-ne kept a firm grip on Y/N’s hand, looking back once in a while to make sure she was still there with them.

Up ahead of them was a dead end. Lieutenant Donghyuk went to the front of the group, placing his ear against the wall. He knocked on the stones in a few different places before stepping back. Ever so carefully he pushed on one side of the wall. With a loud groan, the wall began to slowly spin, revealing the inside of the castle.

The group rushed through the entrance before the wall fell back into place, as if it had never been touched. The inside of the castle was exactly as you’d expect a castle to look. Soft carpets covered the floor under them. Priceless nicknacks were strategically placed on tables along the hallway. Paintings of kings and queens of old covered the walls. Gas lanterns gave the hallway a dim glow. The only thing missing was the servants and courtiers, but Y/N supposed the Mouse King had gotten rid of them.

“Okay, there’s two main corridors on the north side,” General Hanbin said, pulling the map from his sack. “We’ll divide into teams of two, then search for the egg. We’ll meet back here once we’ve finished searching. If none of us have found it, then we’ll have to search the entire castle. Understood?” Everyone nodded. “Excellent. Lady Y/N and the Nutcracker will take this corridor, Lieutenant Donghyuk and I will take this one.” General Hanbin put the map back in his sack before turning to the Lieutenant.

The four split up and went their separate ways. Ju-ne and Y/N went down their corridor, poking their heads into the different rooms. Most were empty bedrooms, cabinets, and bathrooms. The corridor seemed to stretch on forever, turning this way and that. The doors became fewer and fewer the further they went along.

At one point there was a split in the corridor. One could either continue to go straight, or venture off towards the left. Ju-ne and Y/N stopped, looking down both hallways. They both appeared identical from a first glance. They needed to check every room they could, but going together would take too much time. The longer they remained in the castle, the more likely they were to be caught.

“You take the corridor on the left. I’ll continue straight,” Y/N said, glancing at Ju-ne briefly before she started walking. He barely caught her wrist and pulled her back to him. He stared down at her, eyes focused on her, reading her. Y/N felt her heartbeat pick up the longer he stared at her. He seemed to have that effect on her, making her sweat and heat up. In fact, it actually infuriated her how good he was at leaving her head in a blissfully fuzzy state of being.

“Absolutely not,” he finally said. He was also very good at telling her “no”. She pulled her hand away from his, crossing her arms over her chest. “If something happens to you and I’m not there I--” He struggled to finish his sentence, staring at her hopelessly. “We need to stay together.” Y/N’s gaze softened slightly. She could never find it in her to be in a sour mood when those big, brown eyes were staring at her.

“I understand your concern, but if we don’t split up, we’ll be here forever. Then we shall most definitely be caught. No, we must split up. Once we’ve checked all the rooms, we’ll meet right back here. Okay?” Ju-ne looked like he wanted to argue, but one look from Y/N had him nodding his head in agreement. She smiled triumphantly before continuing, alone, down the corridor.

The longer she traveled alone, the more paranoid she began to feel. She tried not to look at the paintings that lined the walls. Every time she glanced up, it was like those black, unmoving, abysses were staring down at her. She swallowed thickly, wrapping her arms around herself. She took deep breaths, letting her mind focus on everything else.

Domestic thoughts began to take over her head. Thoughts of Sunday morning brunches, picnics in an amazing and lucious garden, reading as it poured outside, and even thoughts of children. These were thoughts she rarely had, unless she was reading a rather romantic book, but they floated around in her head nonetheless. And they all circled around one individual.

Up ahead, at the very end of the corridor, was a singular door. The corridor ended with the room. There were no other hallways to turn down or rooms to explore. Y/N’s steps seemed to slow down the closer she got to the door. Her breathing became shallow as every part of her being became hyper aware of everything around her. Only when she was right outside the door did she finally stop.

The door seemed to loom over her like a shadow. It both beckoned and cast her away. She turned around briefly, pondering if she should walk away. She shook the thought from her head. Everyone was counting on her: the Sugar Plum Fairy, Jiwon, Jinhwan, Lieutenant Donghyuk, General Hanbin, Ju-ne… Pushing her own selfish thoughts aside, she slowly turned the door knob.

The door swung open with a surprising amount of ease. It was completely dark inside--dark and quiet. Ever so slowly, Y/N stepped in, leaving the door ajar to cast some light in the room. It looked like an office of sorts. There was a long table with a chair at the end, closest to Y/N. In fact, that’s all there seemed to be in the mysterious room. She frowned, her body slumping slightly. Something felt wrong. There was something in Y/N’s mind telling her this was wrong, but she couldn’t figure out why.

Slam!

Turning around, Y/N found herself in complete darkness. She rushed back to where the door had been, but she couldn’t seem to find a door handle. Panic filled her as she tried to look around the room, yet no matter how long she stared, her eyes couldn’t seem to adjust. She began to bang on the door, calling out for help.

“They aren’t going to hear you.” Each word was drawn out unnecessarily as, ever so slowly, light began to fill the room.

She kept her face towards the wall, her spine straightening. Her hands rested flat, as her eyes remained downcast. She knew that voice. Slowly she turned around.

The Mouse King sat at the other end of the table, his small crown atop his head. His elbow rested on the arm of the chair as the magic sceptor laid on the table in front of him. He was staring at her, but his gaze almost seemed bored. As if her being here was nothing more than a dip in his day.

“Have a seat.” He gestured to the chair in front of her. She sat down, keeping her eyes trained on him. Her breathing was steady, but her heart pounded in her chest. She wondered faintly if he could hear it. Ba-bump. Ba-bump. Ba-bump. “Remarkable.”

“Excuse me?” Her voice was clear and sharp.

“Remarkable. Don’t think I forgot our last encounter. The bump on the back of my head is a constant reminder of who you are.” He winced slightly. She smirked, watching as he stood from his chair, swiping the scepter off the table. “You and I have quite a few things to discuss, Lady Y/N.”

“How do you know my name?” she inquired, standing up. They slowly began pacing around the table, eyes locked. He chuckled slightly, shaking his long head. “Do I amuse you, your Majesty?”

“Not particularly. But she does.” He waved the scepter, and an image of the Sugar Plum Fairy appeared. She was pacing the length of her room, clearly frustrated. “She still thinks that I can’t see her, as if her magic can hide her from me.” He waved and the image disappeared. He turned back towards Y/N. “As I said, you and I have quite a few things to discuss.”

“That we do,” she conceded. “For starters, that doesn’t belong to you.” She watched as he went to the nearby fireplace, using it to start a roaring fire. The flames danced across his face as a stoic look took over.

“No, it does not,” he agreed. “It belonged to the Emperor, and in his absence, it belongs to his son. Your precious nutcracker.” The Mouse King shook his head and let out a deep sigh. “You must understand, I am not the bad guy.”

“You think so? From where I’m standing, you seem to fit the role quite well,” she said, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Yes. I suppose she has painted the image perfectly. Evil and power-hungry. Nothing is more convincing than taking your own traits and projecting them onto someone else. Especially when that other person is innocent and doesn’t see what’s going on.” He turned to her, paw clenched around the scepter. “I would like to tell you a story, Lady Y/N.”

“Why should I listen to a word you say?”

“Because if you ever wish to see your nutcracker again, you’ll sit and listen.” His voice was calm, but his black eyes flashed red, causing her to take a couple steps back. Surprised, she sat down, but her eyes stayed on him and her body was rigid.

“Not too long ago, the Emperor announced that he would no longer be ruling over us, that his time as the emperor had passed. His power would be passed down to his heir, and everyone was apprehensive. The Prince was aloof and politically inept, but we couldn’t disobey the Emperor. Until the Prince was of proper age, the reigning Sugar Plum and I were to keep order amongst the empire.

“The Sugar Plum Fairy grew impatient. I tried to talk with her, to get her to see reason, but she refused. I could tell she was growing too fond of her temporary power. Maybe if I had voiced my concerns, things wouldn’t have progressed the way they did.

“I happened to be wandering the palace late one night, unable to sleep, when I noticed the Prince’s door ajar. I stepped inside to find the Sugar Plum Fairy standing over him as he laid fast asleep. I shall spare you any more details.

“I had forced her out of the palace and seized the scepter from her. What I hadn’t realized was that while I was busy holding in my concerns, she had convinced the courtiers and servants that I craved the crown myself. That being a reigning Lord hadn’t been enough for me. I, unfortunately, only cemented her words when I threw her from the palace.

“I knew that, given the chance, she’d go after the Prince. To keep him safe, I did the only thing I could think of. I turned him into a nutcracker and sent him far away, claiming he had perished. What I hadn’t expected was for him to fall into the lap of a girl. I hadn’t expected him to find you, but maybe now things can be righted.”

“What makes you think I’d believe a word you said?” Her heart was pounding in her chest as she listened to him.

“Why did you take the key from her room?”

A small gasp left her mouth as she fought the urge to reach for it. They watched each other for several minutes. There was conflict inside her. After all, what he said was completely plausible. On the other hand, as he had said himself, nothing is more convincing than taking your own traits and projecting them onto someone else.

He lifted the scepter above him, and the one thing she’d been looking for appeared on the table before her. It was a small, ornate egg, covered in gold and precious gems. Her mouth fell open as she stared at it. There it was, the one thing she needed to defeat him and return home, just within reach, and yet, she couldn’t bring herself to grab it. She glanced over to him.

“Take it,” he said, waving the scepter again so the door reappeared. “Take it to Ju-ne.”

She snatched the egg off the table and ran out the door, nearly collapsing in the hallway. When she turned around, the door was gone. Her hand went to her pocket, where she could feel the outline of the key. She let out a breath, placing the egg into the pocket of her dress skirt.

She made her way through the castle, back to where she and Ju-ne agreed to meet. She waited for a few minutes, but after a while, it seemed like he wasn’t coming. Curiously she went in search of General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk, yet where everyone agreed to meet, they couldn’t be found. She nearly smacked herself in the face. Of course the Mouse King had been distracting her.

She blew out a puff of air and began her search of the castle. She went through many corridors, yet they all seemed to lead back to where she started, but even after a while she couldn’t remember where she started. Everything seemed the same and yet nothing was familiar. Paintings seemed to move and doors disappeared as soon as you turned.

She sat on the floor, bringing her knees to her chest. She had to think of something before it was too late. She scooted over to the nearby wall and pressed her ear against it. She slowly lifted her hand and began knocking various places.

Further down than where she’d been sitting, where she knocked sounded hollow. Summoning all her might, she shoved her shoulder into the wall. It swung with surprising ease and she tumbled into another area of the castle.

No more endless halls, she came to a second floor with a railing that peered down. Looking down she saw two mouse guards in front of a door. She nibbled on her bottom lip, looking around. She walked along the railing until the room was below her and she could no longer see the soldiers.

What she did see was a solution. Taking a pin from her hair, she crouched down to undo the lace of her boot. She tied each end of the lace to a pole along the railing. She placed the pin in the center and aimed for a vase in the opposite room. She exhaled softly, letting the pin go. It flew, knocking the vase off the shelf and drawing the soldiers away. She ran to a nearby velvet drape and slid down it. She shook her rug burned hands and quickly stepped into the room, being sure to shut the door quietly.

Her face fell as she discovered the room was empty. Her shoulders slumped as she backed herself against the door. Fooled, once again. She wanted to shout. What was the point of placing guards in an empty room? To trick her of course. Now that she was in the room, she either had to stay or risk being caught by the guards.

She pushed herself away from the door. There had to be a way out, like in the hallways. After all, that was his game: rats in a maze. She went to walk to the other side of the room and fell backwards. She rubbed her forehead, reaching a tentative hand out.

There was an invisible wall before her, cutting the room in half. It felt like glass.She let out a mirthless laugh. She went over to grab a nearby torch and went to smash it against the wall. The wall shattered and revealed the second half of the room. Still empty, there was at least another door. Dropping the torch, she opened the door.

It revealed a set of stone stairs leading up. Picking up her skirts, she began her climb. There were no windows and the only lights came from the torches that appeared just as the light from the last one nearly disappeared. She continued to climb until she came to a second door.

She pushed it open and found General Hanbin, Lieutenant Donghyuk, and Ju-ne in the room looking miserable and angry.

“Ju-ne!” She ran to him and threw her arms around his wooden neck, nearly laughing.

“Y/N? How did you find us?” He pulled away from her slightly, mouth open. She waved his question away.

“Lady Y/N, are we glad to see you!” Lieutenant Donghyuk bowed his head, a genuine smile on his face. General Hanbin nearly nodded.

“I’m so happy to have found you all, but we can’t stay here. Any longer and I fear the Mouse King shall try something else to prolong our visit,” she said. She turned towards the door. There was no guarantee that they wouldn’t be caught. Inside the room was rope, probably used to tie them up and a window overlooking the woods at the edge of a cliff that dropped into the Uncrossable Seas. Even on a clear day, the waters looked violent.

“I can see the gears in your head turning. What is it, Y/N?” Ju-ne asked.

“How well can you swim?” she inquired, stepping away from the window.

“Irrelevant. I’m made of wood. Why do you ask?”

“I have an idea, but it’s mad.” She told them her idea, and seeing no alternative, they all reluctantly agreed.

Lieutenant Donghyuk took his elbow and smashed the window out, pushing out any spare shards as best he could. General Hanbin was the first to exit, holding fast onto the rope as Lieutenant Donghyuk followed. Both men were arguing with each other as Ju-ne pulled Y/N to the side.

“Are you sure you want to do this? I know staying here is dangerous, but at least you know you’d be… okay.” The word he wanted to say refused to leave his mouth. She smiled sweetly, placing a hand on his arm.

“If you think this has been the most terrifying part of my day, I envy you.”

“I am a nutcracker.” They smiled at one another before he stepped away to climb out the window. She followed suit and once they were all outside, they jumped.

The waters were harsh, cold, and relentless in their assault against the group. As they plunged into the black depths of the Uncrossable Seas, an unseeable force kept them down. Y/N struggled as she fought her way back to the surface. Slowly she made her way back to the surface as her lungs screamed for air.

Once she broke the surface she gasped, only to be thrown back down into the water. She resisted the urge to shout and shut her eyes. She pushed herself back to the surface and fought to keep her head above the thrashing water.

Ju-ne was nearby, on his back, as the water failed to drag him underneath. She swam towards him, throwing herself over his torso as he bobbed. He brought his hand to her back, rubbing it gently. She turned slightly, catching sight of the green military jacket. Using him as a board, she pushed them to the jacket where General Hanbin was struggling to stay afloat.

She pulled him over Ju-ne’s torso and began her search for Lieutenant Donghyuk. She couldn’t seem to find him anywhere. The longer they stayed floating, the more she worried. Unable to wait any longer, she pushed off of Ju-ne. He went to grab her, but she slipped through his grasp.

She dove into the waters, allowing the waves to push her further down. She swam out several yards, ignoring her need for oxygen, when she spotted the bright red pants. She swam towards him, grabbing onto his arm and pulling him up towards the surface. The water fought against her, but she fought back twice as hard.

Soon the pair broke the surface, gasping for air. General Hanbin maneuvered Ju-ne’s body towards them and helped her drape the Lieutenant across him. They pushed his body towards the nearby shore, where the horses were waiting for them.

“Lieutenant Donghyuk?” Y/N shook him gently, before pressing harshly onto his stomach. He began coughing up water, turning to his side as he choked. She gave his back several firm pats as he slowly regained his ability to breath. “Welcome back, Lieutenant.”

“That’s twice now you’ve saved my life.” He gave her a weak smile. His voice was hoarse from all the salt he swallowed. “Please, call me DK.”

“As you wish.”

“It’s almost nightfall,” General Hanbin called. “We’ll go a little further into the woods and make camp.” He grabbed his horse and wasted no time in marching into the woods. Ju-ne and Y/N helped DK onto his horse, then grabbed Cinnamon and Cocoa to follow the General into the woods.

As General Hanbin set up a fire for DK to rest by, Y/N took a seat on a nearby log next to Ju-ne. He was staring down at the ground. Their backs were to the others.

“It was a waste to come here. We almost died, and we didn’t get the egg.” Ju-ne let out a sigh, resting his head in his hand. She bit her lip, glancing over her shoulder to make sure the others were still occupied. She reached into the pocket of her dress and produced the golden egg. His mouth fell open as he looked at it. “How did you--”

“The Mouse King gave it to me. He knew we were coming to get it, and he knows where the Sugar Plum Fairy is. He told me a lot of things, but before we do anything else, we need to know what’s in this egg.” She pulled out the small key and placed it in his hand. “This is your birthright. Not hers.”

Ever so slowly, he put the key into the small hole and turned it until a series of clicks echoed. He opened the egg and revealed a mirror. It was simple, yet deeply profound as he stared into it.

“But, I don’t understand.”

“Can’t you see?” she said, moving to crouch in front of him. “It’s you who’s going to save us. You are your kingdom’s greatest strength. You don’t need anyone but yourself.”

“How can you be so sure? You’ve heard what everyone’s said about the prince. They believe they’re better off without me.”

“And look how well you being gone has turned out for them.” She stood up, placing her hands on her hips. She garnered the attention of General Hanbin and DK, both of whom were watching with confusion. “You are Prince Koo Junhoe. The pity party is over. We’re returning to the Safe Haven and we’re ending this war. Once and for all.”

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haveanotherkpopblog · 3 years

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The Nutcracker Suite

Part 4: The Expedition

Pairing: Koo Junhoe x You

Genre: Angst, Ballet!AU, Fluff, Regency!AU

Word Count: 4k

Warnings: Clowns, Mild Language

Masterlist || <<Previous | Next>>

The next morning, Y/N made sure she was dressed comfortably as possible. She wore a red dress, the same color as the pants General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk wore. She even had the same green military jacket they wore. She laced up her boots and pulled her hair into a low and secure bun.

As she made her way down to where she was supposed to meet everyone, she stopped outside the Sugar Plum Fairy’s hut. She stepped past the curtain, calling out to her. She had been hoping for a moment alone with her. She knew she should have left once she realized the Sugar Plum Fairy wasn’t there, but curiosity got the better of her.

She walked around the room, staring at all the magnificent things she owned. The emperor must have been a generous man. Something shiny on the vanity caught her eye. It was the gold key that was supposed to unlock the egg. She picked it up, staring at it. Ju-ne would need this if he was going to defeat the Mouse King. After all, the Sugar Plum Fairy wouldn’t be angry if he had it. He was the prince.

“Looking for something my dear?” Y/N spun around quickly, hiding her arms behind her back. She quickly tucked the key up her sleeve, doing her best to hide her emotions. The Sugar Plum Fairy stood before, looking as regal as she did the day prior. Y/N forced a smile onto her face.

“I was actually looking for you,” she said. Which was true, she had been looking for her. “I was just curious, are you sure you can send me back home?” The Sugar Plum Fairy seemed to relax, a warm smile on her face.

“My dear, once you have the egg, I can send you to wherever your heart desires.” Y/N relaxed her shoulders, a genuine smile on her face. The Sugar Plum Fairy waved her forward. “Now hurry along now, you don’t want to have those boys leave without you now. How rude would that be?” Y/N curtsied briefly before rushing out the door.

Ju-ne was waiting with General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk. Jiwon and Jinhwan were also there, along with Cocoa and Cinnamon. Y/N smiled, descending the steps as fast as a lady could. Jinhwan glanced over and waved. Everyone else turned and welcomed her. Cinnamon let out a whinny, nuzzling into her neck once she was close enough.

“I hope you’re feeling better boy,” she said, rubbing his neck.

“He’s as good as new,” Jiwon said. “He’s even ready to travel.” Jiwon handed the reins to Y/N. She took them hesitantly. “Don’t worry about it. I know you’ll take good care of him.” Y/N smiled.

“That’s really nice of you to let me take him, but the journey could be really dangerous.” Jiwon shrugged, patting Cinnamon on the neck.

“Then you should have at least someone you can trust.” Ju-ne glanced over, a scowl on his face. Jiwon smirked, shooting Y/N a wink. She shook her head, a smile on her face. Jinhwan excused himself from the conversation, making his way over to Y/N.

“My Lady, I just wanted to wish you luck before your journey,” he said.

“Thank you, Jinhwan. I’m sorry you can’t come with us.” He shrugged.

“I know you’ll be perfectly fine without us. You have General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk by your side should things turn awry. And the Nutcracker of course.” Y/N nodded, sparing another glance to Ju-ne. He had returned to his conversation with the General and Lieutenant. “The best of luck to you, Lady Y/N.” Ju-ne came to Y/N’s side, Cocoa next to him.

“Let me help you up,” Ju-ne said. He offered Y/N his hand as she found the stirrup and tossed her leg over the saddle. Once she was situated she gave Ju-ne a satisfied nod. “Are you sure you’re ready? I’d hate for you to change your mind halfway there.”

“The only way I won’t be going is if I’m dead, and seeing as I’m rather much alive, I shall continue on,” she said. Ju-ne smiled, nodding his head.

“As you wish, My Lady.” He mounted Cocoa as General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk mounted their own horses.

“Right then, onward!” General Hanbin called.

The beginning of the journey was, if it had to be put in one word, lackluster. There was a lot of riding and hardly any talk. Y/N let herself fall behind the group slightly. She pulled the key out of her sleeve, staring down at it as it rested in her hand. She glanced up at Ju-ne, who was staring straight ahead. She opened one of the pockets of her coat and tucked the key into it.

She urged Cinnamon forward, falling into pace with Ju-ne. They didn’t talk for a while, enjoying the peace and quiet. General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk would occasionally turn back, making sure the pair was still with them.

A heavy fog began rolling in, turning the blue sky grey and making it difficult to see anything further than the end of your nose. The horses began to whine and stomp their hooves. Y/N tried to calm Cinnamon down, but nothing she did seemed to work. She was thrown from her horse, landing on her back with a loud groan.

“Y/N? Y/N! Are you alright?” Ju-ne called.

“I’m fine, just a bit bruised,” she replied standing up. She brushed the dirt off her skirt, rubbing her backside. “Where are you?” The fog was still too thick to see anything, she’d been thrown away from everyone else. “Ju-ne?”

“Hello!” Y/N whipped around and almost let out a scream. In front of her was a clown, like the kind at the circus her family once went to. It had been an absolute disaster which had resulted in them never going back. Long story short, Y/N was terrified of clowns. “What’re yer doin’ so far from home?”

“I--I don’t know who you are, but you--you stay over there,” she said, backing away from the clown. It cocked its head at an unnatural angle, staring at Y/N with a big grin. “I mean it! Don’t come any closer!” It stood up straight, its unnatural grin on its face. Then, the most horrifying thing Y/N had ever had the displeasure of witnessing occurred.

Like a locket, the clown snapped in half, its top half falling forward, putting it on its hands and feet. Y/N’s eyes furrowed as her mouth fell open in horror. The clown didn’t move, staring at Y/N with the same grin it had the entire time. Its eyes were unblinking, wide, and terrifying. Its head began to spin in a full circle, making Y/N’s stomach lurch.

“Run.”

Turning on her heel she ran as fast as she could as far away as possible. She could hear the clown’s shrill laugh as it chased after her. She didn’t dare to look back as she raced blindly through the fog. She picked up her skirt and ran as hard as she could. Her boots thudded against the ground as she continued on.

The fog began thinning and she could see what appeared to be the outline of woods. Still hearing the clown behind her, but its laughter beginning to grow slightly faint, she pushed on and ran into the woods. She ran until her legs threatened to give out beneath her. The fog was almost completely gone as she stopped and pressed herself against the tree. She was panting heavily as she heard the clown approaching. She put her hand over her mouth, silencing her desperate need for air.

The clown’s steps were slowing, stopping right behind the tree Y/N hid behind. She held her breath, praying the clown couldn’t hear her heart pounding in her chest. Tears welled in her eyes as her lungs begged for oxygen, yet she resisted, continuing to wait as the woods grew deadly silent.

Ever so slowly, Y/N removed her hand from her mouth, taking slow and deliberate breaths. Her heart was still pounding as she slowly peaked around the trunk of the tree. It was completely empty, the clown nowhere in sight. She let out a sigh of relief, shoulders slumping forward.

She went to turn and smacked into something solid. It grabbed her and panic set in. She began kicking and screaming, doing everything in her power to get away from whatever was holding. She kept her eyes shut firmly, pushing whatever had her as hard as possible and kicking with all her might.

“Y/N! It’s me! It’s Ju-ne! Stop hitting!” Once the voice registered in her brain, she stopped fighting. Daring to open one of her eyes, she realized that it was, indeed, Ju-ne who was holding her. Relief flooded her system as she wrapped her arms around his wooden frame. Taken aback by her sudden change in behavior, he cautiously put his arms around her. She began to cry softly as everything that happened finally settled in her brain. Ju-ne rubbed her back, letting her cry into his chest.

Eventually she began to calm down. She slowly released Ju-ne from her death grip. She pulled out a handkerchief and wiped away her tears. She was rather glad that there wasn’t makeup on her face, otherwise she was sure she’d look more like a wreck than she already did.

“Better?” Ju-ne inquired. Y/N nodded, not quite yet trusting her voice. “Okay. I think you needed that.” Y/N nodded again, folding her handkerchief and tucking it back away.

“There you guys are!” Lieutenant Donghyuk emerged from the trees, General Hanbin closely behind him. “We lost you in the fog there. You and the horses it would seem.”

“What was that?” Y/N asked. Her breathing was still rather labored and her voice was shaking. General Hanbin turned back, glaring menacingly at the direction of the fog.

“That is the Mouse King’s magic,” he said.

“That fog is meant to show you your deepest, darkest fears. It’s a magic tactic used in times of war to keep enemies from coming close, or to drive them so full of fear that they never come back,” Ju-ne added. Y/N frowned, staring back at where the clown had returned.

“What an awful trick,” she said. She looked around the woods. Tree branches tangled themselves together, blocking out the sun. Crows cawed from the treetops, swooping at each other. She let out a loud sigh. “Which way to the castle” The three men stared at her shocked. “We’re out of the fog and we’re all alive. If anything, that fog should motivate us to find that egg and return it to the Sugar Plum Fairy. I don’t know what you all saw, but what I saw will haunt me for the rest of my days. I don’t want anyone to live with the fear I just did. So, which way to the castle?”

“It’s, uh, it’s this way,” the General said. He took the lead of the group and began walking through the woods. They stuck closer together, paying attention to every rustle of leaves and tree branch snap. Ju-ne kept a hand on Y/N’s back, keeping her close to him. The closeness heated Y/N’s cheeks. The only time a man’s hand had ever been placed on her back was when she was dancing, and even then most dances didn’t involve touching unless it was each other’s hands.

They continued through the woods until they came to a clearing with a bridge. The bridge in question was, well, questionable. Pieces were missing and the rope seemed like it would snap if the wind blew. Y/N looked around, but she couldn’t see any other place to cross.

“We aren’t crossing her, are we?” Y/N inquired. General Hanbin turned on his heel, quirking a brow.

“And precisely where would you suggest we cross?” he challenged. She furrowed her brows, planting her hands on her hips.

“Certainly not here! That doesn’t look like it could support one of us let alone all of us.”

“My dear lady, you shall do well to remember who is in charge of this expedition.” Y/N fought the urge to roll her eyes as General Hanbin approached the bridge. He straightened his back and squared his shoulders before he took the first step onto the bridge. The bridge shook slightly, but nothing else happened. He looked back smugly before continuing on. Y/N didn’t bother holding back rolling her eyes as they followed him.

Lieutenant Donghyuk followed behind him, copying his steps to a tee. Ju-ne was next, holding his hand out for Y/N. She slipped her hand into his, allowing him to lead her across the rickety bridge. They slowly made their way across the bridge, careful with each step they made.

Crack!

One of the boards gave way and the Lieutenant fell through. Without thinking, Y/N dove to grab his arm. She was able to just catch his wrist, but his weight was pulling her down. He let out a yelp, holding onto her with both hands.

“Don’t let go!” she called.

“Wasn’t planning on it!”

Ju-ne and the General both went to help her, but the bridge began to sway and they stopped moving. Y/N took a deep breath. With all the strength she could summon, she slowly began to pull Lieutenant Donghyuk back up through the hole. Ju-ne, being the closest, reached down as far as he could until he made contact with the Lieutenant. With effortless strength, he pulled the Lieutenant back onto the bridge.

Lieutenant Donghyuk sat back on the bridge, panting heavily. Y/N rubbed her sore shoulder, shooting the General a pointed look. Not wanting to stay on the bridge any longer than necessary, the group moved swiftly, albeit carefully, until they were safely on the other side. Y/N and the Lieutenant collapsed as soon as their feet touched the solid ground. Ju-ne knelt beside Y/N, carefully massaging her shoulder.

“Are you sure you’re okay to travel?” Ju-ne asked. Y/N nodded, taking a deep breath. She turned to the Lieutenant.

“I’m more concerned for your health. You did almost, well, die.” She hated to put it so bluntly, but after everything, they were well past pleasantries. Lieutenant Donghyuk smiled.

“My Lady, you, quite literally, saved my life. Even if I wasn’t in good health to travel, I would to help you reach your goal. I am forever in your debt,” he said, bowing his head. A shy grin took over Y/N’s face. She bowed her head in return.

“Please, think nothing of it. I’m sure you would have done the same.” He nodded his head. General Hanbin called for their attention, insisting that they must continue if they wanted to reach the Mouse King’s castle at a decent time. As they began their journey once again, Ju-ne held Y/N back slightly.

“You really must stop putting your life in danger,” he said. She pursed her lips, staring up ahead at the Lieutenant and General. She shook her head.

“For the first time in my life, I’m doing something extraordinary. I’m a part of something bigger than myself. I’m not familiar with this land, but I know that I would do anything to help. After all, isn’t that what you’re doing?” Ju-ne shook his head, clasping his hands behind his back.

“What I’m doing is saving my people, my own life be damned. So I suppose I can’t blame you too much for being reckless.” Y/N smirked.

“I guess you’re rubbing off on me,” she said, nudging him slightly. He smirked, shaking his head. She thought he heard him say something, but when she didn’t respond and he didn’t repeat himself, she brushed it off as the wind.

Their journey continued until they came across a field of flowers. The flowers seemed to stretch on forever and ever. They all paused, taking in the breathtaking scenery before them. Further past the field was a sea. While the sky above the field was as blue as could be without a single cloud in the sky, the sky over the sea was dark and cloudy, threatening a violent storm.

“The Mouse King’s Castle, which runs adjacent to the Uncrossable Seas, shouldn’t be too much further. We’re approaching from the South side, which gives us the advantage. However, we need to try and find supplies. Since the horses ran off with our supplies, we need to find a way to recover what we lost. Nutcracker, Lady Y/N try the Valley of Eternal Spring, we’ll look closer to the shoreline.” Everyone nodded at General Hanbin’s words.

Y/N and Ju-ne made their way to the field where the flowers filled the air with their sweet scent. Y/N inhaled deeply, a content smile taking over her face. She had never seen so many flowers in one place, especially on the ground. London wasn’t too fond of them, and her mother didn’t keep a garden. “Much too work,” she claimed. When she returned home, she would persuade her father to put one in. They certainly had the room.

From the flowers, tiny balls of colorful lights began floating. They spun around her, mesmerizing her. She peered closely at the tiny balls of light and realized that they were, in fact, tiny fairies. Like the ones from the Wintry Forest. Soft music filled her ears as they fluttered around her. She turned to Ju-ne, a curious smile on her face.

“They’re talking to you,” he said. She glanced at them briefly before turning back to him. He cleared his throat, rubbing the back of his neck. “They’re um, they’re saying you’re--you’re beautiful.” Y/N looked down, turning her head away as a blush crept to her cheeks.

The fairies began dancing around her, going further into the valley. Y/N followed them, curious to see where they were going. They led her over the hill and to the most wonderful thing she could have possibly seen.

“Ju-ne! Come quick!” she called. At the bottom of the hill was the horses, happily munching on grass, and in perfect health. Picking up her skirts, forgetting all proper etiquette she’d been taught since birth, she ran down the hill, positively bubbling with excitement. Cinnamon stopped his lunch briefly to give Y/N a soft neigh. She let out a glorious laugh, resting her head against his.

“I can’t believe it,” Ju-ne said once he reached the bottom of the hill. Y/N smiled, rubbing Cinnamon’s neck affectionately.

“Isn’t it absolutely marvelous?" she said. “Now we won’t have to worry about supplies. We have everything.” The fairies continued to circle around them, dancing to the music only they seemed to hear. Ju-ne watched them too, sneaking peeks at Y/N. The fairies moved closer around them, forcing them to move closer to one another. The fairies continued to do so until Y/N and Ju-ne were almost nose to nose.

They gazed into each other’s eyes, a smile on their faces. Y/N was finding it difficult to continue breathing as Ju-ne watched at her with an unwavering stare. Without breaking eye contact, he reached out for her, his hand barely grazing her knuckles. Y/N felt her breath get caught in her throat as a bolt of electricity shot through her.

Something ran over Y/N’s foot, startling her. She let out a yelp, jumping from her position. Ju-ne let out a hearty laugh, bending over. Y/N looked down and saw a tiny field mouse scampering past her. She let out an annoyed huff, crossing her arms over chest. Ju-ne wiped away imaginary tears, walking past her to grab the General and Lieutenant’s horses, along with Cocoa. Y/N went and grabbed Cinnamon’s reins, leading him towards the hill.

Another mouse ran past her foot, this time only making her jump slightly. Then another one ran past. Then another. Then another. The field seemed to be littered with field mice. Shaking her head, she continued on. Yet she found herself stopping. There was a tall, dark, menacing presence behind her. Ever so slowly she turned around.

All the tiny field mice had come together, running on top of each other to form a giant mouse-like man. Y/N felt her heart jump into her throat at the sight. She mounted Cinnamon, urging him up the hill as fast as he could run. Ju-ne was already with General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk, standing next to a makeshift boat.

“Lady Y/N? What in heaven’s name are you--”

“No time!” Y/N said, cutting General Hanbin off as she dismounted Cinnamon. “Take the horses and hide in the edge of the woods. Quickly!” The giant mouse man was starting to come into view, letting out a high-pitched roar. Y/N looked around, spotting some large sticks. She grabbed rope from one of the sacks on the horses and started tying the sticks together. “You need to go now!”

Lieutenant Donghyuk grabbed the horses’ reins, pulling them to the safety of the woods. Ju-ne tried to argue but General Hanbin pulled him away from Y/N. She did her best to focus on her idea in front of her and not on the approaching monstrosity she had fled from. She began placing the sticks, semi human-like, onto the makeshift boat before she pushed it out into the sea. As fast as she could she ran to the edge of the woods, hiding behind the trees.

Peeking out from behind the large trunk, she watched as the giant mouse man chased after the boat. A fog had settled over the sea, giving the sticks human shadows. As the mice tried to chase after the boat, the mouse man began falling apart. The mice, unable to chase after it, began to retreat back into the Valley of Eternal Spring.

Once the last of the mice had disappeared into the valley, the group re-emerged from the woods. Cinnamon came up behind Y/N, nudging her softly in the back with his nose. She turned around, rubbing his head.

“That was some quick thinking,” General Hanbin said, coming to stand next to Y/N. She smiled, turning to look at him.

“If I didn’t know any better, I’d dare say that was a compliment.” General Hanbin cleared his throat, turning on his heel and returning to his horse. Y/N shook her head, moving to mount Cinnamon once again. Ju-ne joined her side, holding tightly onto Cocoa’s reins.

“He’s right. That was extremely clever,” he said.

“Thank you,” Y/N said smiling. Ju-ne bowed his head, turning to follow General Hanbin. Y/N followed as well, letting herself get lost in her own head.

The rest of the journey wasn’t too hard. They didn’t face more terrifying fog or misshapen monsters, but something nagged Y/N. She occasionally put her hand in her coat pocket, wrapping her fingers around the key. She watched Ju-ne carefully. He seemed so confident riding Cocoa, his back straight, his shoulders squared. He looked like a prince ready to fight for his kingdom.

“Do you think we really need this egg?” Y/N asked softly, making sure General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk didn’t hear her.

“What do you mean?” Ju-ne asked, turning to stare at her curiously.

“Think about it. We’ve bested the Mouse King’s soldiers, twice, survived facing our worst fears from that horrible fog, survived that bridge that almost claimed Lieutenant Donghyuk’s life, and just bested that horrible monster. All without the egg. With the Sugar Plum Fairy’s magic and your brave, determined spirit, you could defeat the Mouse King.” Ju-ne stared at Y/N, his expression almost unreadable.

“As kind as your words are, you’re wrong. The Mouse King is far too powerful. Besides, we need that egg to return you home to your original size. That is still what you want?”

“Of course.” Despite how fast she said it, Y/N’s answer didn’t sound convincing to herself. Something in her heart felt different when she gave Ju-ne her answer. She brushed it off, focusing on the road ahead of her. They were supposed to be arriving to the Mouse King’s castle soon, and she needed to be focused on finding the egg.

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