Chapter Text
Dom-Subverse.
It's a world where, in addition to male and female genders, there is a secondary gender known as "Dynamics", featuring a "Dom" and "Sub". Doms have an instinctive need to dominate a Sub.
They want to control, punish, protect, and care for them. Doms also have a unique ability called a "glare", allowing them to control someone depending on their strength.
Naturally, it makes subs want to submit both physically and mentally when used in an intense gaze.
Meanwhile, Subs are just the opposite. They have an instinctive need to be disciplined, pampered, and praised. When the Sub's consciousness is under complete control of a Dom, they go into a state of euphoria - a floaty, lightheaded-like state of subspace. If they wake up too quickly during it, they'll experience drunken sickness. The reciprocal of subspace is formulated when a Dom leaves a Sub alone without aftercare or when a Sub is subjected to punishment by a strong Glare without their consent, leaving them mentally unstable and fearful to the point their health becomes detrimental.
Between those are Switches - a very rare dynamic that possesses both characteristics of a Dom and a Sub. They can either switch their dynamic at their own will or they can be forced to switch depending on their surroundings. People who aren't a Dom, Sub, or Switch, are normal humans who represent more than half of South Korea's population.
The relationship between a Dom and a Sub is based on the bond between them. A pair, similar to soulmates and fate, is a part of that relationship. Although fated pairs are rare to come by, it's easy to know you're linked when you've spent time around them, noticing a special connection and something that only happens with them. Between them, there is a special type of communication called a "command" where a Dom gives an order and the Sub obediently obeys, helping both to build trust and stabilize their needs. Those needs are satisfied by various forms of "Play" to fulfill their desires, including praise, caretaking, or even punishment - which all depend on the intensity of one's desires. Whether a Dom or a Sub, If left in a frustrated state for too long where their dynamics' needs aren't satisfied, it will result in physical deterioration.
All that said, however, playing without consent is a crime, yet it happens so often because of a miscommunicated safeword. Without establishing one beforehand, subs generally can't disobey nor resist being dominated, leaving them subject to sexual assault and controlled against their will. Because of that, they generally need to take suppression medication, a type of tablet that could solve that problem. It'll help them resist commands and orders, giving them the option to fight back, but that all depends on the quality and accessibility. Suppressants are generally hard to come by as they can only be obtained by getting a prescription from a doctor, which is purposely costly and complicated as they're not recommended due to having harsh side effects. No one should be taking them, matter of fact, but there's no other choice as the world isn't perfect.
Especially when certain people like to take advantage of others. They like to push and pull; shove for a taste of power at the top, a seat on the throne with their name plastered in bold while an audience is kneeling beneath their feet. They like to follow you, and harass, and demand for something you don't want to give them. They like to force half of society into protecting themselves, rendering them terrified of being found out and ripped away from those dear. Therefore, suppressants are necessary. Quite so. They're an escape, a way to conceal one's dynamics from the masses and blend into the crowd. They're—
They're something Hwang Hyun-Jin has been all too familiar with since the start, especially with the life he has. You see, he was one of those kids born with a golden spoon in their mouth, destined to lead and be a popular public figure right out of the womb. Everything came served right up to him - attention, fame, and love, especially from his dear parents. He had the perfect life, but that all changed when he presented at sixteen. As soon as his parents saw the records of him being tested as a sub, all went to hell from there. He was the first ever to be one in their family - and certainly the last.
They couldn't accept that their prestigious, beautiful son presented as anything other than a dom - a lowly sub, and they immediately got him prescribed suppressants to try and reverse it, or at least, try to limit the urges that come with being one. It took a while to get used to them, having multiple moments when he'd run to the bathroom and double over the toilet as his body rejected them at first. He told himself to get over it, forcing himself to get used to the change to please his parents. And since then, he's made sure to keep gaining their favor, no matter what. There will be no more mistakes.
Work hard.
Be proper and precise.
Don't be a shameful, disgusting sub.
It's only then he'd be able to love and be loved, even if he was abusing suppressants along the way. And now, at twenty-four, he doesn't know what life would be like without them. He doesn't blame his parents at all, he shouldn't, when they were worried about the outcome and his presentation going public - their image, even if there were times he was forced to do something he didn't want to for his sake by them. He doesn't blame them at all, because he has certain privileges that he wouldn't be able to have nor keep if he acted like the sub he's meant to be.
He doesn't need to have them taken away; to have someone run their fingers gently through his hair, kiss his flushed face as they tell him that he's been "good" and "obedient"; He doesn't need someone to assure him that things will always be alright and that he's fine how he is; And he absolutely doesn't need someone to praise and pleasure him, holding him close in a warm, tight embrace and getting him weak to the point he slips into that vulnerable state of subspace that makes him feel all floaty, dumbly compliant, and disgustingly docile for whoever's put him in it - desperate to obey, please, and feel wanted by them.
He doesn't need that at all. As much as his body may cry and wail for some relief - even if his subgender yearns for the attention, soft touches, and commands to satisfy his whole being; even if it can keep him from spiraling into an endless pit of despair with the fact that he isn't, and can never allow himself to be, a proper sub. He's content without having a lover and he's content with sacrificing his health, blissfully ignorant to how his body is slowly crumbling within by unsatisfying his dynamics.
That's all it is, and all it will ever be.
-💉-
Hyun-Jin sat in the backseat of the car, eyes glazed over as he stared out the window. The night sky was dotted with stars, a stark contrast to the bright lights and loud music emanating from the mansion ahead. His fingers drummed absently on his knee, his mind miles away from the glitzy event he was about to attend. "Hey, Hyun-Jin?" His assistant and close friend, Sung-woo, could be heard cutting through his thoughts, a hint of worry lacing his words. "We're here. You should go inside before you're late."
Hyun-Jin turned to face him, his expression a blank canvas devoid of emotion. He knew Sung-woo meant well, but the mere thought of entering that mansion filled with wealthy people and prominent idols made his stomach churn. It was always the same-self-absorbed celebrities who cared nothing for the world outside their exclusive circles - gossiping, rumoring, and staying ignorant to keep the life they have. Though, it's not like he's much different.
"I know," Hyun-Jin eventually sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I just..."
Sung-woo offered a sympathetic smile. "I get it. But you can handle it. Just get through tonight, and it'll be over before you know it. Min-ho will be there eventually too. But always, if you truly need to leave, I'll be out here."
With a reluctant nod, Hyun-Jin opened the car door and stepped out. The music grew louder as he approached the entrance, each step feeling heavier than the last. He could already feel the eyes on him as he went up the stairs, the whispers already starting as he pushed through the crowd of dancing bodies.
"Isn't that Hyunjin?" Someone muttered. "Oh my, it really is. I thought he barely went to gatherings—he's a rare sight, So this one must've been important."
"Isn't he so hot though? Does he have a pair?" One wondered.
"No, he's currently on the market, I hear. But isn't he a womanizer and player?"
"Yeah, he is," Another voice sneered. "Because doesn't he have a bunch of sub friends and hardly any Dom ones? He must be getting his fill from them. I'm rather jealous."
"Why would you be? He's so cold and rude to everyone," A fourth person added. "No one wants a person like that."
"Right. He thinks he's better than anyone else."
Hyun-jin's jaw tightened, but he kept his head high, refusing to let their words get to him. He had heard it all before, the baseless rumors and the lies. It was part of the very reason he despised these gatherings. No one bothered to know the real him-they were content with their assumptions and gossip, creating the most elaborate stories that they thought they knew the truth about. As he made his way deeper into the mansion, Hyun-jin felt the weight of their judgmental stares but pushed on, determined to get through the night without letting anything sour his mood more. He would endure this, just like he always did for everything else. For now, he just had to survive the evening. And...give his respects to the host, who was currently at a booth with a couple of women loitering around him - one on his lap, two to the sides, and another behind stroking his shoulder blades.
Hyun-Jin grimaced at the unsightly, shameful scene before him, but quickly fixed himself once he came before him. "Mr Park," Hyun-jin spoke up, keeping his tone cordial. He plastered on a polite smile, bowing slightly as he extended a hand. "Thank you for inviting me. It's a pleasure to be here,"
Mr. Park, a man in his thirties with jet-black hair, returned the handshake with a broad grin. "Hyun-Jin! It's always a pleasure to have you at my events. Your presence adds a certain charm that everyone appreciates."
"Pleasant?" Hyun-Jin forced a chuckle, nodding along. "You're too kind, Mr. Park."
"Well, I can never be kind enough. Come—sit here with me. I see you've just arrived, yes? Do you need a drink or anything?"
"No, but thank you for the offer."
"Aw, why not? You're of age now, aren't you? Twenty-four right? Then a little whiskey won't hurt. This party is for us all to let loose and have fun! Or—are you telling me you can't hold your alcohol yet?"
Hyun-Jin chuckled, trying to mask the discomfort gnawing at him. "No, it's just I simply—"
"Well, if whiskeys are not to your liking we have Wine, vodka, and tequila too. Which one will it be?"
Hyun-Jin dug his nails into his palm, forcing himself to keep his composure. "The whiskey will be fine, please. Thank you, sir.''
"Of course, I knew you couldn't resist that one. I shall have a servant fetch it right away—-you there, bring me...."
Part of Mr. Park's voice tuned out to the radio silence inside his head, and Hyun-Jin took a moment to close his eyes and stare down at his lap. He only had three more hours to be here - pretending, faking, and playing along with this ungraceful display in front of his eyes like a puppet being twisted by its creator's strings.
"Ah! There we are!" Mr. Park's voice pierced through the noise, pulling him from his reverie and bringing his attention back to the situation around him. His gaze locked onto the waiter standing next to him, carrying a large bottle of whiskey in hand and ice. He swallowed hard once Mr. Park took it and began pouring them drinks in fine glass cups, although far too much liquid was poured for his comfort. He set the drink in front of Hyun-Jin and watched him take it, a smug smirk curling across his features.
"Drink up." He cheered, holding his drink to his.
"Thank you," Hyun-Jin murmured, taking the glass. It felt less cold than the air surrounding him. As Mr. Park started drinking his, he kept his eyes on Hyun-Jin, just observing, and having to give him what he wanted - Hyun-Jin downed it. The liquid burned down his throat, igniting a fire in his chest that briefly distracted him from the current emotions he felt.
"Wow!" Mr. Park clapped, eyes shining with more interest. "It seems I was mistaken. you really can drink, huh?" He commented, and the women around him laughed as if that was the funniest thing in the world to say.
Hyun-Jin put down his cup and nodded. "I never said I couldn't," He mused, and the host's grin stretched even further, almost showing every single tooth as his gums revealed themselves. Hyun-Jin shivered involuntarily, the man looking a little too predatory, a little too happy.
"Would you...care for another, then? It's not every day I get to drink with someone like you."
Once again, Hyun-Jin reminded himself to be careful. He straightened up and mustered the most neutral expression he could. "Of course, I don't mind."
As Mr. Park began pouring him another drink, and they exchanged more pleasantries. Some were about business, others were about how Hyun-Jin's life has been. Over time they got even more personal, and Hyun-Jin was able to avoid some of the answers by being occupied with taking a sip of the whiskey - almost like a child who constantly stuffs their mouth full at a family dinner when they don't want to talk with anyone.
"But, what about your grandfather? How has he been—" Mr. Park suddenly paused once a servant came near and tapped his shoulder. They then leaned forward and whispered in his ear, and Hyun-Jin noticed Mr. Park's eyes light up. "Ah, now that you mention it, the atmosphere has changed—a clear sign he may be here. He always has such an attention-grabbing entrance, doesn't he? Whether he's doing something or not. I believe that's a perk of being an idol. Nonetheless, I should go greet my other special guest now, yes?"
"Yes, that's right." The servant confirmed.
"I see then" Mr Park stood up, fixing his suit and pulling down the cuffs of his sleeve. "Mr. Hwang, would you like to come with me? I think it would benefit you if you two were acquainted."
"Sure." Hyun-Jin followed Mr. Park through the crowd, weaving past clusters of guests who were lost in their own conversations and dancing. The noise and heat of the room seemed to swell around him, the collection of laughter and music growing louder with each step. Something felt off to him, but he didn't know why until he spotted a somewhat familiar male silhouette in the distance - with striking blond hair and an aura no one would miss. Their presence caused a ripple of excitement among the guests, and couldn't help but be more uneasy. Once he and Mr. Park came before them, however, he knew exactly why.
"Hyun-Jin, you'll be mine in the future, won't you? Please??"
"You're silly, Yong-bok. Two Dom's can't be with each other, plus we're friends."
"How do you know you'll be a Dom when you get older?"
"My family is very sure I will,"
"Well, I'll like you regardless, even if I become one too. Friends can grow into more, after all. I'll always...."
"—Hyun-Jin? Hello~?" A hand waved in front of his face.
"Ah," He blinked. "I'm so sorry about that. I had something on my mind. What were you saying?"
"That's quite alright. I know that feeling very well. I just wanted to introduce you. Please meet Mr. Lee."
"Mr. Lee...?" Hyun-Jin repeated, hesitantly looking forward and locking eyes with the said man standing parallel to him - and immediately his breath was stolen from his throat. He looked a lot different than Hyun-Jin remembered, now...far more grown up than the selfless kid he remembered. He wore a sleek, tailored suit that fit him perfectly, the deep navy fabric complementing his complexion. His shirt was a crisp white, contrasting sharply against the dark suit, making him seem more elegant than ever.
His blond hair was styled in a beautiful mullet, the strands falling over his cheekbones in a way that also highlighted his jawline and striking features. And his eyes - even after all these years - remained the same. Those same eyes that are a mesmerizing shade of brown, expressive, and always have a certain look in them that makes his insides twist oddly.
For a second Hyun-Jin thought he might be dreaming, that perhaps the alcohol he'd consumed was playing tricks on his mind, but it wasn't a dream.
"Jin," Felix's eyes met Hyun-jin's, and his lips curved into a warm, knowing smile. When he reached out to shake his hand, the gesture was undeniably real. Hyun-Jin swallowed hard, grounding himself in the moment as he extended his hand to meet Felix's.
"Do you two know each other? It seems like you're on a nickname basis." Mr Park smiled behind his hand, glancing between the two of them.
Hyun-Jin put on a small smile. "No, we—"
"We do," Felix finished before him, looking at him intently, squeezing his hand. "I've known Hyun-Jin since childhood. We're actually very close. Aren't we?" Felix tilts his head with a frown.
Hyun-Jin narrowed his eyes. "I'm not—"
"Are you purposely saying you don't remember your best friend? I know we haven't seen each other for a while so it's not as clear...."
"No, that's not it. Sorry, I'm just...a bit confused. But yes. I do remember."
"Ah, I see!" Mr. Park said, clearly pleased with this revelation. "What a delightful surprise. Come, let's return to the table. Felix, would you care for a drink? I was just having some with Hyun-Jin here."
Felix nodded graciously. "Thank you, Mr. Park. That would be lovely."
As they walked back to the table, Hyun-Jin felt the weight of Felix's gaze on him. He couldn't escape the memories that surfaced, nor could he deny the familiarity between them any longer. He truly thought everything they had between them would be over after he was forced to leave.
"Here we are," Mr. Park said, motioning for them to sit. "Please, make yourself comfortable."
Soon, another waiter arrived with a tray of elegantly arranged drinks, offering a whiskey to Felix. Felix took a glass, his eyes never leaving Hyun-jin's.
Mr. Park clicked his tongue. "You must've missed Hyun-Jin, huh? I've noticed you haven't stopped staring at him."
"I did," Felix replied, taking a sip of his drink. "I haven't seen him for a while, so I was wondering where he went away to. That part I'm most curious about, but I'll save that question for another time. So I'm happy to have found him at a party like this."
"Ah, true friendship I see. You both are very lucky."
"That's right," Felix smiled. "Now, how have you been Hyun-Jin? Are you keeping yourself busy these days?"
Hyun-Jin hesitated, his eyes flicking to Mr. Park before responding. "I've been okay. Just the usual. Working on new projects, meeting deadlines...you know how it is."
Felix nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I do. It's always the same whirlwind, isn't it? But it seems like you're handling it well."
"Yeah, I suppose so," Hyun-Jin answered, forcing a polite smile. He felt the familiar pang of unease gnawing at him. This conversation was too personal, too close to things it could lead into that he'd rather not discuss in this setting. "But why are you here? You're not one to come to parties that often."
"And you're not one to drink, are you?" Felix pointed out, his eyes flickering to the two glasses Hyun-Jin had already drunk. If he were really digging into things, Hyun-Jin would say that Felix looks almost irritated by that fact, but before it can sink in, his demeanor becomes normal again.
"I'm not, but things change," He says either way.
"That they do," Felix said.
"My, you two are so interesting." Mr. Park interjected before the mood could sour. "It's wonderful to see two successful young men reminiscing. Felix, I understand you have a new album coming out soon?"
Felix acknowledged Mr. Park's attempt to steer the conversation. "Yes, that's right. It's been a lot of hard work, but I'm excited for its release. And what about you, Hyun-jin? Any new projects we should be looking forward to? If I remember you loved art."
"I still do, and there are a few things in the pipeline. Nothing is concrete yet, however, especially when I'm occupied with modeling now,"
"As expected as the industry's two finest Doms."
"Two?" Felix furrowed his eyebrows at Mr. Park's words. "What do you mean?"
"Oh, yes. Mr. Hwang here is a Dom, has he not told you? Well, I guess not, considering you said you haven't spoken to each other for a while."
"No, he hasn't," Felix murmured. "I haven't been able to get in contact with him, so that's understandable why I don't know." He said quietly, twirling his glass in his hands. There's a hint of disappointment in his voice, but also excitement. Hyun-Jin watches the liquid in his cup move about, creating a small whirlpool that he wished was big enough to swallow him up.
"Yeah," He confirms. "I am a...Dom," The words taste bitter on his tongue - everything is filled with lies.
As the gathering went on, Hyun-Jin found it increasingly harder to fight back the urge to leave. It was difficult to concentrate. The weight of Felix's gaze, the loud buzz of the crowd, the endless questions from Mr. Park, and then the curious whispers and eyes circulating were too much. His head was starting to throb from a headache and the alcohol was seeping into his blood each moment he wasted here - a reminder enough he drunk past his limit. He didn't want to get tipsy and do something stupid, after all, but he was already thinking of just getting up and running out. Even though Chan said he should stay for at least three hours, it's not like he's ever lasted longer than two hours. Today he just can't put up with it anymore. All he wants is to go home and rest, and rot in bed until the next day while cuddling with his dog.
He's sure how he's feeling is becoming obvious because he can't stop glancing toward the entrance he came from - maybe even to the bathroom if he's lucky it's empty. He just needs a moment, but he isn't given one when Mr. Park won't shut his mouth.
"Hyun-Jin?" He felt Felix's hand being placed over his, his deep voice interrupting his thoughts and bringing him back to the present. "Are you alright?"
And that was the final straw. Of course, he isn't upset at Felix for asking, he's just...overwhelmed, and this might as well be the perfect time to leave.
"No, I've realized I need to go." Hyun-Jin blurts out, pulling his hand away and standing up hastily.
"So soon?" Mr. Park looked surprised. "The banquet hasn't even begun—"
"I'm well aware, Mr. Park. I've just exhausted myself today enough—I need to go." He says firmly, and taking offense to that Mr. Park stands up, coming forward.
"Was the party not to your liking? I gave you the honor of being one of my guests and you couldn't even stay till the most important part of the party." He points a finger at Hyun-Jin.
"No, I really...I don't mean it like that. I just—"
"No, I know exactly what you mean, Hwang. This party obviously isn't good enough for you. I should've known those rumors were true. You really are a rude and self-centered bastard like they say. Could you maybe be more considerate? I had a deal with your grandfather—"
"That's enough." Felix cuts him off sharply, stepping between Mr. Park and Hyun-Jin. "Hyun-Jin has been gracious enough to attend, and he has his reasons for needing to leave. There's no need to berate him like this. Not everyone has time to drink and chat for hours." Mr. Park's face flushed with anger, but Felix stood his ground. "You have no right to speak to him this way. If he needs to go, then he needs to go."
There, Hyun-Jin had reached his limit. The argument caused even more people around them to stare, the suffocating atmosphere was only growing and it was truly, and undeniably all too much. Without another word, he turned and bolted for the nearest hallway - trying to find the bathroom, another exit, or some private room because if he went out the way he came it would only get worse.
Felix, seeing that, quickly followed him.
"Hyun-Jin—" He called, breaking into a run to catch up. He didn't care if he pushed some unsuspecting guests around or even bumped into some strangers. All he cared about was making sure his friend was okay - before he lost him for a second time. He'd already spent so long looking for him, attending everywhere and anywhere, and at this gathering he finally found him. He won't allow anything else to separate them.
"Hyun-Jin, stop!"
Hyun-Jin faltered in his steps, and suddenly he was hit with a wave of extreme dizziness. A shudder rippled its way down his spine, and heat pooled in his gut in a flash. It's a weird feeling, something he hasn't experienced in his twenty-four years of existence, and should never - but he has. And there's no reversing it. He just reacted to Felix of all people, and he used a command, whether it was intentional or he just had no control over it yet. Why though? Did his suppressants wear off because of the alcohol? Is it because he's already been on edge for the past hour he doesn't have the strength to reject it? Either way, that doesn't matter now. Because as much as he resists, and as much as he tries to keep moving—his body stops.
And it obeys.
"Are you alright?" Felix asked worriedly once he caught up, reaching out and resting his hand on his shoulder. HyunJin pushes him off.
"Why are you following me?" He gritted out, his voice faltering around the edges.
"I wanted to check on you," Felix said, furrowing his eyebrows. "Your face is all red,"
"Well, I'm fine. If you have nothing more to say, leave me be." Hyun-jin said, and had his voice been any weaker it'd sound like a beg. And right now, he is begging Felix to hurry up and get away from him before he reveals something that should never be revealed.
"No wait. Would you—I was also wondering if I could have your contact info. Since It's been..." Felix pauses, licking over his lips and taking a deep, deep breath. He's suddenly so nervous. "It's been a long time, you know?...and maybe I thought we could meet and catch up. There's a lot I'd like to share with you. I know my words weren't directed the kindest today, but I was surprised to see you, really."
"Then you must know that you being here...brings up a lot."
Felix nodded. "I get it. But you don't have to bear it alone. We've been through a lot together, and I'm always here if you need me."
"It's not that simple,"
Felix stepped closer, his voice softening. "It never is. But avoiding me won't make things different. We should talk, Hyun-jin."
For a moment, they stood there in silence, the sounds of the party muffled in the background. The area they stopped in was secluded enough for them to talk like this, but it didn't ease any of Hyun-Jin's nerves which were getting more agitated by the minute. Eventually, Hyun-jin nodded, wanting to get this over with. He knows if he says no Felix will try to reach him again, just like he did in the past.
"Alright."
"Thank you Jinnie." Felix hands him his phone. As he types in the number, Felix doesn't fail to notice how Hyun-Jin's hands are shaking immensely, leaving him to wonder what else is wrong, but before he has time to ask Hyun-Jin has already given his phone back and left.
Hyun-Jin had made a beeline for the nearest bathroom, slipping inside and shutting the door behind him. The moment he locked it, his legs gave out and he collapsed to the floor. All his strength was gone, heat circulating through him like wildfire. He leaned his head back against the cool tile, closing his eyes as he tried to steady his breathing. For now, he could only hope that the privacy of the bathroom would offer him the respite he so desperately needed, if only for a little while. He knows later will have consequences for him, especially as this was the start of his second hell, you could say.