"You know, I don't think I'll even kill you when you're ugly enough for me not to fuck you any more. I'm sure there's something a lot worse waiting for you somewhere. I'll find that." Cheon grabbed Ten's arms and forced them above his head, chaining them there to make sure he wouldn't be able to get enough momentum to damage himself. All for his own good, wasn't it?
"Tomorrow I will give you that potion again. I have people coming. I think they knew you back when. I want them to see you begging to be fucked."
Ten's already weak and strained arms protested under the position he was in and he squirmed, pained and hurting, wishing so badly that death was an option for him. Cheon would never stop, he would punish him until he was an old man. He just had to pray that someone would take mercy and slay him.
He shook his head, stubborn and determined. "I won't drink. Not again! You can't make me. I will spit it back in your face." He refused to be made into that again, he still felt horror over the last time. "I will fight you if I have to."
Cheon grabbed him, pinched his nose shut and then forced his jaw open the moment he gave him the chance. He moved his fingers into his mouth, held down his tongue and just looked at him in that state. Showing him that he wouldn't be able to keep him from making him swallow whatever he wanted him to swallow. "When are you going to learn that you can't fight me?"
With that he let go of him, shaking his head. "For that I'll let my men have you in the morning. You'll be so well fucked by the time my guests come, won't that be nice?"
Ten choked on the taste of his fingers, sweaty and salty, it burned in his mouth. He defiantly spat out the taste, trying to be strong but he was shaking with fear now, tears prickly at his eyes once more. Not again, he didn't want Cheon's men to touch him, they were as cruel as he was. They didn't get tired either. Once was enough, he didn't want it again.
"I hate you." It was childish and worthless but it's all he could. The only power at his disposable was his words and they held no weight. "I hope the Gods make you suffer as I am."
"Hmm. I think you're out of luck there. Look at us. The Gods love me. It's you they hate." That seemed fairly obvious. Cheon wiped his fingers clean and then turned, heading for the exit. "Have a good night, my prince." Why not be polite?
Before he opened the door, he hesitated for a moment, feeling as if he heard something. But then there was nothing and so he walked out, letting the door fall shut behind himself and leaving Ten to spend another night alone in despair.
Maybe the Gods did hate him. Why else would he be like this. He cried out in frustration, wriggling against his bonds as he strained, fought and eventually, his energy left and he fell limp. The Gods, his only company. He only had prayer. "Why do you hate me? I pray every day. You won't save me. You let them kill my family and I suffer for you. Why is there no mercy?"
Was this a trial? His Gods could do that, he knew, but he didn't have the power. He didn't think his Gods were listening. He closed his eyes and lowered his head, tears burning his eyes. "You do not love me."
That seemed like his cue, Hoseok liked making an entrance. Not that he was a God exactly. In a few more hundred years perhaps? What he was right now was a snake. A giant snake, with impenetrable scales and a black pearl embedded in his forehead that seemed to glow faintly.
He had been hiding for a while, but now he moved over, seemingly coming out of nowhere and closing in on Ten. He turned his head, inspecting the way he was chained and thinking about how best to free him.
Wait. He caught Ten's eyes, tongue darting out, the pearl glowing just a little more.
Ten screamed out and whimpered in fear, his back hitting against the wall as he looked dead ahead at the monster before him. No, not a monster, a God. The Gods had heard his rude words, they'd come to punish him too! Oh no, he knew he should have kept faith. He should have prayed. He knew this God from his picture books, from the family crest and all their prayers.
His family worshipped snakes, they knew how important they were, the closest to their creator and ruler .... and here he was, disrespecting them in his father's home.
The snake may have told him not to be afraid but Ten almost fainted with fear.
"I--I am so sorry. God, please, forgive me! I know you love me! Even if I am ungrateful, I will prove myself. I am sorry." He swiftly started to pray, as fast as he could, reciting his verses so the God knew he was devout.
Hoseok moved his head, lowering it until the pearl touched the chains and they dissolved, simply falling away. Moving his body swiftly he made sure that Ten would land on it as he collapsed, not wanting him to hurt himself further. His tongue flicked out again to ensure that no one was coming, then he turned until he could look at Ten, wishing he had his different vision.
Really? The Gods wanted to save him? He could have cried. Cheon believed all he said was nonsense but if the Gods didn't exist then how did his chains melt do readily? Either this was a dream or finally, someone had come for him.
Weary and tried, he wrapped himself around the snake and tried to breath.
"Save me, please." Dream or not, he wanted the best possible outcome. "Tomorrow he gives me to his men. Don't let that happen. I beg you, powerful one. Save me."
Maybe there would have been a safer way to transport him, but he didn't have time to think about safety. Ten's situation was a lot worse than he had thought. He moved quickly, simply going out the window and onto the roof, moving faster than any carriage, than anything on two or four legs. He only slowed down whenever he felt Ten's grip loosen and never for long.
It was hard to stay attached, he didn't want to hurt the beast by clinging but he moved so fast, sometimes he almost jolted loose. he buried his head against him, wondering which of the Gods he was and how best to tribute him. Was he Vasuki? Takshaka? Was he male or female? His voice was hard to be sure of. Perhaps it was a she, perhaps she was Nüwa.
He kept mumbling prayers as if to power this creature and get to freedom, his voice weary and tired but his faith was unshaken. Someone had come for him.
There will be water. Let it cleanse you and do not let go.
They had left the buildings behind, they had moved through a forest, there was a clearing, a hill and, at long last, a waterfall. Hoseok slid smoothly into the water, careful to keep his body on the surface, not wanting Ten to drown. He swam toward the waterfall and moved through it, his pearl lighting up and the water seeming to glow as well.
It actually had cleansing properties, healing as well, at least just then. As sacred as he was. He felt that Ten could use some healing, inside and out. Finally they made it through the water and into a cavern. It was still damp at first, but then less so. The walls had crystals growing out of them, many of them glowing, shining their light on their surroundings. Hoseok had always thought it was beautiful, even before he'd taken residence. It was a long, winded way, but he moved fast and he hurried. Ten would have time to marvel later, when he'd be better able to appreciate it.
Ten was his God's loyal servant. He asked, Ten did. He didn't let go and he let the water bathe over him, warm and refreshing, not too cold or harsh. His body ached less as he clung onto his God, still weary and tired but improving. Getting better. He was ready to serve him however he wished, as long as he never had to go near Cheon again. Maybe even if he did. Perhaps suffering was the way to be closest to the Gods.
He took in the beautiful cavern with awe, part of him vaguely wondering if he died. Did the chain choke him? Was he finally at peace? It was so beautiful here. Like heaven. He could have wept but he felt no desire too. "So pretty."
Perhaps not the response one would expect from a terrifying snake god, but Hoseok had never been one to care too much about expectations. They finally arrived and what he supposed was his inner sanctum. There was what looked almost like a natural fountain in one corner of the cavern, a basin that was a lot deeper than it looked, the way he usually entered. Not something he could do with the human on his bed.
Other than that, there was a lot of stuff that seemed man-made, if very ornate and beautiful. Hoseok had expensive tastes. A whole area was just soft, silken pillows and blankets, all as shiny black as the pearl on his forehead. That was where he brought Ten for now, sensing that it was sleep and proper rest that he needed above all.
Ten still didn't dare to let go of the God. The one who protected and saved him, even if he was dreaming or making this up, the dream had to be sent to him some way? He was loved. Wanted. He buried his head into the Snake's scaly back and almost cried with joy. "Am I dead, holy one? Is this the afterlife? I should hope I can be worthy of it."
He wished to see his family again. His father, mother, his nine brothers who fell first. "How do I address you? I do not wish to be disrespectful. Teach me to worship you."
"It's beautiful. You are magnificent. My father have always shown me snakes since I was a boy, I have held and loved many but you are by far the most beautiful and awe-inspiring." Also he scared the shit out of him. He was so big! He petted Hoseok, not sure if it was patronising or not, he just wanted to show his appreciation and feel those scales.
"You heard about me?"
Ten blushed. It was embarrassing to think his sorry tale was spread out but then, he knew how much Cheon loved to brag.
"I am not a whore, my lord." He just wanted to clarify. "Or a slut or a pet. If you have heard as I think you have. I am a prince, noble born, and I will do my best to be worthy of your kindness."
You are a prince. You are beautiful. You are sweet. I know who you are.
I've heard you pray, my Ten.
Unfortunately he couldn't hear much of anything when he changed his skin. Or see, for that matter. He slid away from Ten now, only a little bit, coils of his body moving into a circle and then he transformed. It wasn't something he had ever let someone witness - everyone saw him as either one or the other - but here he was now. Clad in a colour a lot like his scales and a pearl embedded in his forehead. It was smaller now, as was him, but it still glowed and he was smiling when he looked at Ten.
"I wanted to see you with my other vision." This time when he talked, his lips moved. Just as if he was human.
Ten stayed low on his knees, refusing to offend his saviour as he watched him, powerful and terrifying, move with such purpose. He hadn't expected the transformation, he was dumbstruck at the sight of it and found himself unable to find words. He just stared, mute and lost in wonder, unable to believe that the snake could so easily become a man. That a God could pretend to be one of them so easily.
"You're beautiful."
His voice was strong, masculine and controlling. Definitely male. He watched him, fascinated, lowering his head as politely as he could. "I am yours, Hoseok. Do with me as you wish."
"So sweet." Hoseok smiled and walked back over, leaning down to cup Ten's face with his hand, tilting his head up so he could look into his eyes. "I will give you something to drink. I can tell you need to regain your strength. And then you should sleep. I would like to sleep with you. I will feel better knowing that you are safe in my arms."
He had worried about him, after all. Ever since he found out about his fate. "Don't be so scared, my sweet one. You were always my favourite, don't you know that?"
His favourite? No, he had no idea. He shook his head, eyes wide and curious.
"How did you know of me? Were you always listening? I would have thought you'd favour my brother and sisters." All strong, all well accomplished. Not that Ten wasn't but he was younger, he had a long way to go to reach their kind of glory. Tenth in line to the throne. He never thought he'd ever be the last one standing. He leaned into the soft touch, the mercy of his God. "I lost faith in you. I'm so sorry, I don't think I'm worthy to be your favourite. I thought the Gods hated me."
"I can't exactly blame you for that." Hoseok still wondered whether someone would have known when he was gone, when he wouldn't be able to interfere, but there should be no way for anyone to know. Perhaps it had merely been bad fortune. "I was listening whenever I could listen. My heart is broken for your family and everyone, but if you had been taken from me too? I believe my heart would have shattered."
Hobi moved to pull Ten up, only so he could take him into his arms, feeling how cold he was to the touch. He would have to warm him quickly or risk losing him after all. "Your heart is pure when you speak of loving me. You must know that a love like that can't go unrequited."
"We never once cursed you, I swear. My father prayed to you up to his last moments. He never expected a miracle, only love. Then he could go to a better place, yes?" He leaned into the other's arms and shivered, cold and desperate for the heat. He missed clothes, he missed feeling like a person and not someone's pet or whore. He was happy that his God had come for him, that being devoted had given them some sense of salvation.
His heart ached for what he'd lost so terribly but he knew now that the Gods would reward them. Nothing was in vain. They placed their trust on the right Gods. "Please, love me. Take care of me. Keep me away from that monster."
"Your family is in a good place. They have earned it. Don't worry about them any longer. They likely worry more about you." Hoseok wanted to comfort him and he didn't know what else to say, so he stuck to the things he knew to be true. He guided him over to the softer surface, helped him lie down and moved one of the silken blankets over him. "I will be right back. And don't worry, my sweet, he can't find you here. You are safe now, as I've said. Forever."
He intended to keep that promise. Perhaps this bond was already too personal, but he didn't care. He loved this boy and he wanted him to know it.
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"Tomorrow I will give you that potion again. I have people coming. I think they knew you back when. I want them to see you begging to be fucked."
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He shook his head, stubborn and determined. "I won't drink. Not again! You can't make me. I will spit it back in your face." He refused to be made into that again, he still felt horror over the last time. "I will fight you if I have to."
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With that he let go of him, shaking his head. "For that I'll let my men have you in the morning. You'll be so well fucked by the time my guests come, won't that be nice?"
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"I hate you." It was childish and worthless but it's all he could. The only power at his disposable was his words and they held no weight. "I hope the Gods make you suffer as I am."
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Before he opened the door, he hesitated for a moment, feeling as if he heard something. But then there was nothing and so he walked out, letting the door fall shut behind himself and leaving Ten to spend another night alone in despair.
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Was this a trial? His Gods could do that, he knew, but he didn't have the power. He didn't think his Gods were listening. He closed his eyes and lowered his head, tears burning his eyes. "You do not love me."
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He had been hiding for a while, but now he moved over, seemingly coming out of nowhere and closing in on Ten. He turned his head, inspecting the way he was chained and thinking about how best to free him.
Wait. He caught Ten's eyes, tongue darting out, the pearl glowing just a little more.
Don't be afraid.
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His family worshipped snakes, they knew how important they were, the closest to their creator and ruler .... and here he was, disrespecting them in his father's home.
The snake may have told him not to be afraid but Ten almost fainted with fear.
"I--I am so sorry. God, please, forgive me! I know you love me! Even if I am ungrateful, I will prove myself. I am sorry." He swiftly started to pray, as fast as he could, reciting his verses so the God knew he was devout.
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Hoseok moved his head, lowering it until the pearl touched the chains and they dissolved, simply falling away. Moving his body swiftly he made sure that Ten would land on it as he collapsed, not wanting him to hurt himself further. His tongue flicked out again to ensure that no one was coming, then he turned until he could look at Ten, wishing he had his different vision.
Well, soon.
Hold on to me. I am taking you.
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Really? The Gods wanted to save him? He could have cried. Cheon believed all he said was nonsense but if the Gods didn't exist then how did his chains melt do readily? Either this was a dream or finally, someone had come for him.
Weary and tried, he wrapped himself around the snake and tried to breath.
"Save me, please." Dream or not, he wanted the best possible outcome. "Tomorrow he gives me to his men. Don't let that happen. I beg you, powerful one. Save me."
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Maybe there would have been a safer way to transport him, but he didn't have time to think about safety. Ten's situation was a lot worse than he had thought. He moved quickly, simply going out the window and onto the roof, moving faster than any carriage, than anything on two or four legs. He only slowed down whenever he felt Ten's grip loosen and never for long.
no subject
He kept mumbling prayers as if to power this creature and get to freedom, his voice weary and tired but his faith was unshaken. Someone had come for him.
no subject
They had left the buildings behind, they had moved through a forest, there was a clearing, a hill and, at long last, a waterfall. Hoseok slid smoothly into the water, careful to keep his body on the surface, not wanting Ten to drown. He swam toward the waterfall and moved through it, his pearl lighting up and the water seeming to glow as well.
It actually had cleansing properties, healing as well, at least just then. As sacred as he was. He felt that Ten could use some healing, inside and out. Finally they made it through the water and into a cavern. It was still damp at first, but then less so. The walls had crystals growing out of them, many of them glowing, shining their light on their surroundings. Hoseok had always thought it was beautiful, even before he'd taken residence. It was a long, winded way, but he moved fast and he hurried. Ten would have time to marvel later, when he'd be better able to appreciate it.
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He took in the beautiful cavern with awe, part of him vaguely wondering if he died. Did the chain choke him? Was he finally at peace? It was so beautiful here. Like heaven. He could have wept but he felt no desire too. "So pretty."
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Perhaps not the response one would expect from a terrifying snake god, but Hoseok had never been one to care too much about expectations. They finally arrived and what he supposed was his inner sanctum. There was what looked almost like a natural fountain in one corner of the cavern, a basin that was a lot deeper than it looked, the way he usually entered. Not something he could do with the human on his bed.
Other than that, there was a lot of stuff that seemed man-made, if very ornate and beautiful. Hoseok had expensive tastes. A whole area was just soft, silken pillows and blankets, all as shiny black as the pearl on his forehead. That was where he brought Ten for now, sensing that it was sleep and proper rest that he needed above all.
You are safe now. Forever.
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He wished to see his family again. His father, mother, his nine brothers who fell first. "How do I address you? I do not wish to be disrespectful. Teach me to worship you."
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Honestly, he wasn't sure about addressing him. It wasn't as if he really cared one way or the other and he doubted that Ten would ever disrespect him.
You are not dead. I found out about you, so I came for you. I would have been there sooner, but I just changed skins. Do you like my new skin?
Well, he wanted to show off a little.
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"You heard about me?"
Ten blushed. It was embarrassing to think his sorry tale was spread out but then, he knew how much Cheon loved to brag.
"I am not a whore, my lord." He just wanted to clarify. "Or a slut or a pet. If you have heard as I think you have. I am a prince, noble born, and I will do my best to be worthy of your kindness."
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I've heard you pray, my Ten.
Unfortunately he couldn't hear much of anything when he changed his skin. Or see, for that matter. He slid away from Ten now, only a little bit, coils of his body moving into a circle and then he transformed. It wasn't something he had ever let someone witness - everyone saw him as either one or the other - but here he was now. Clad in a colour a lot like his scales and a pearl embedded in his forehead. It was smaller now, as was him, but it still glowed and he was smiling when he looked at Ten.
"I wanted to see you with my other vision." This time when he talked, his lips moved. Just as if he was human.
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"You're beautiful."
His voice was strong, masculine and controlling. Definitely male. He watched him, fascinated, lowering his head as politely as he could. "I am yours, Hoseok. Do with me as you wish."
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He had worried about him, after all. Ever since he found out about his fate. "Don't be so scared, my sweet one. You were always my favourite, don't you know that?"
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"How did you know of me? Were you always listening? I would have thought you'd favour my brother and sisters." All strong, all well accomplished. Not that Ten wasn't but he was younger, he had a long way to go to reach their kind of glory. Tenth in line to the throne. He never thought he'd ever be the last one standing. He leaned into the soft touch, the mercy of his God. "I lost faith in you. I'm so sorry, I don't think I'm worthy to be your favourite. I thought the Gods hated me."
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Hobi moved to pull Ten up, only so he could take him into his arms, feeling how cold he was to the touch. He would have to warm him quickly or risk losing him after all. "Your heart is pure when you speak of loving me. You must know that a love like that can't go unrequited."
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His heart ached for what he'd lost so terribly but he knew now that the Gods would reward them. Nothing was in vain. They placed their trust on the right Gods. "Please, love me. Take care of me. Keep me away from that monster."
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He intended to keep that promise. Perhaps this bond was already too personal, but he didn't care. He loved this boy and he wanted him to know it.
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