Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sun walked fast, shoulders hunched, hands stuffed deep into the pockets of his worn-out hoodie. The city air was thick with smoke and the distant scent of rain, the neon lights above casting warped reflections in puddles along the sidewalk. He should’ve been more cautious—he knew that—but he was exhausted. Too tired to care about the men lingering in the alleyway, too numb to pay attention when footsteps started trailing him.

The shelter was just a block away. One more turn, and he’d—

A hand clamped over his mouth. The world blurred as he was yanked into the shadows, his muffled shout swallowed by the roar of an engine. Panic shot through his veins. He kicked, thrashed, but the grip was iron-clad. A voice, rough and unfamiliar, murmured, "Easy, pretty boy. Don't make this harder than it needs to be."

Then everything went dark.

Sun woke to the scent of expensive cologne and faint cigar smoke. His head pounded. The room was dim, luxurious, with a faint glow from the fireplace casting flickering shadows against dark wood paneling. He wasn’t alone.

A man sat before him, reclined in a chair like he owned the world. And maybe he did.

Moon.

Sun recognized him from whispered stories, from the half-terrified, half-reverent tones in which people spoke his name. The Don of the most powerful crime family in the city. Ruthless, calculating, untouchable.

And now, he was staring straight at Sun, unreadable eyes reflecting the firelight.

Moon tilted his head. "You're not who I expected."

Sun swallowed hard, every muscle tense. "No shit."

A low chuckle. "Bold, considering your position."

Sun set his jaw. "If you’re gonna kill me, get it over with. I don’t have anything worth ransoming."

Moon exhaled, resting his chin on one hand. "You think I’d go through all this trouble just to kill you? No, sweetheart, that would be a waste."

Sun bristled at the condescension, but before he could snap back, Moon leaned forward, elbows on his knees, voice dropping lower.

"Tell me, little stray, what exactly were you doing alone on these streets?"

Sun didn’t answer. He wouldn’t give this man the satisfaction of knowing just how badly life had screwed him over. But Moon had power, and power meant information. If he didn't already know, he soon would.

Moon smirked like he’d already won. "I think I’ll keep you. At least until I decide what to do with you."

Sun’s blood turned cold. "You don’t get to decide that."

Moon’s smile widened, slow and dangerous. "Oh, but I do."

And just like that, Sun realized he was no longer just a mistaken identity.

He was a possession. A pawn.

Or, if he played this right… something more.

Chapter Text

The following days blurred together in a haze of tension and captivity. Sun was kept in a lavish room, food brought to him on silver trays, but the gilded cage did nothing to soothe his frayed nerves. Every time the door creaked open, his body tensed, expecting the worst.

Moon visited him often, his presence like a shadow stretching across the room. He never hurt Sun, never raised a hand—but his control seeped into every interaction, every lingering glance that made Sun feel like he was teetering on the edge of something dangerous.

"You're stubborn," Moon mused one evening, swirling a glass of whiskey in his hand. "I admire that."

Sun scowled. "I don’t need your admiration. I need to leave."

Moon chuckled, setting his glass down. "That’s not an option. Not yet."

"Why?" Sun snapped. "You already know I’m not who you wanted. Let me go."

Moon leaned in, his gaze sharp. "And waste such an interesting turn of fate? No, Sun. You’re not a mistake. You’re an opportunity."

Sun's breath hitched. He didn’t like the way Moon said that—like he was something to be shaped, molded.

Like he was something Moon intended to keep.

Moon’s presence became a constant in Sun’s confinement, lingering just at the edges of his personal space. Sometimes he would sit and talk, his voice a smooth purr of intrigue, like Sun was a puzzle he couldn’t quite figure out. Other times, he simply watched—assessing, waiting.

It was suffocating.

Sun had tried fighting, at first. He refused food. He ignored Moon’s questions. He paced the room like a caged animal. But nothing rattled the Don. If anything, Moon seemed entertained by Sun’s defiance, like he enjoyed the challenge.

Then, one night, the dynamic shifted.

The door opened, but it wasn’t Moon who entered first. It was Eclipse, his right-hand man, carrying a neatly folded set of expensive clothes. He placed them on the bed without a word, his icy blue eyes pinning Sun in place.

“The Don is expecting you downstairs.”

Sun stiffened. “Expecting me for what?”

Eclipse’s expression didn’t change. “Dinner.”

Sun scoffed. “Not happening.”

Eclipse didn’t so much as blink. “Put the clothes on.”

Sun crossed his arms. “Or what?”

The silence that followed was thick. Eclipse didn’t raise his voice, didn’t move aggressively. But the weight of his presence was enough. Sun could tell there wasn’t an ‘or what’—not in the way he was hoping.

A slow, taunting clap echoed from the doorway. Moon leaned against the frame, a smirk curving his lips. “You really are determined to make everything difficult, aren’t you?”

Sun glared. “I don’t see why I should play along with whatever game this is.”

Moon pushed off the frame and strode forward, stopping just in front of him. “It’s not a game, sweetheart. I’m giving you a choice. Come willingly, or I’ll have Eclipse bring you anyway.”

Sun’s stomach twisted. Moon wasn’t bluffing. He hadn’t laid a hand on him yet, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t. And Eclipse? Sun had a feeling he wouldn’t hesitate to drag him downstairs, dignity be damned.

Grinding his teeth, Sun snatched the clothes off the bed. “Fine.”

Moon’s smirk widened. “Good boy.”

Heat flared in Sun’s chest—anger, embarrassment, something else he didn’t want to name. He turned away, gripping the fabric so tightly his fingers ached.

As he changed, one thought ran through his mind: he might have lost this battle, but he wasn’t about to lose the war.

Whatever Moon wanted from him—he wouldn’t give it easily.

Chapter Text

The mirror reflected someone Sun barely recognized. The fine black button-down and tailored slacks clashed against the bruises of exhaustion under his eyes, the tension set deep in his jaw. He looked like someone pretending to belong in a world that would chew him up and spit him out without a second thought.

Moon wanted him to play along? Fine. But that didn’t mean he had to make it easy.

The dining room was as extravagant as the rest of the house—long polished wood table, expensive chandelier casting a golden glow over an elaborate meal. Crystal glasses and silverware gleamed under the dim lights, a stark contrast to the cold atmosphere that settled as soon as Sun entered.

Moon sat at the head of the table, casual yet commanding, his suit pristine, his expression unreadable. A slow, pleased smile stretched across his lips when he saw Sun. “You clean up well.”

Sun bit back the urge to snap at him. He was already trapped; the last thing he needed was to give Moon the satisfaction of a reaction. Instead, he sat stiffly in the chair Eclipse pulled out for him, glaring at the untouched plate before him.

Moon rested his chin on one hand, studying him. “You’re awfully quiet. No witty remarks tonight?”

Sun picked up the fork, twisting it between his fingers. “I didn’t think I needed to entertain you.”

Moon chuckled, swirling the whiskey in his glass. “Everything you do is entertainment, sweetheart.”

Sun’s grip tightened around the fork. “Don’t call me that.”

Moon merely raised a brow, amused but unbothered. “Eat.”

Sun didn’t move. His stomach ached with hunger, but the idea of accepting anything from Moon made his skin crawl. He wasn’t about to be another piece on this man’s chessboard, moving at his command.

Moon sighed, setting his drink down. “You think this is a battle, don’t you?”

Sun’s silence was answer enough.

Moon leaned forward, voice smooth and coaxing, yet laced with steel. “I don’t make a habit of starving my guests. But defiance without purpose? That’s just foolish.”

Sun clenched his jaw. Every moment he spent in this house felt like another piece of himself slipping out of his grasp. But he had to be smart. Recklessness wouldn’t get him out of here.

Slowly, he picked up the knife and cut a small piece of the food, bringing it to his mouth. Moon’s smirk lingered, victorious but patient.

“There you go,” he murmured. “See? That wasn’t so hard.”

Sun swallowed down both the food and the resentment burning in his throat. He didn’t reply.

Moon watched him a moment longer before speaking again. “Tell me, Sun… do you have anywhere to go?”

The question struck deep, sharp and cruel in its precision. Sun stiffened, forcing himself to meet Moon’s gaze. “Why do you care?”

Moon’s expression darkened, something unreadable flickering behind his eyes. “Because it changes things.”

Sun hated the way his chest tightened at those words. Because he knew, deep down, that Moon wasn’t just toying with him. No, this was something else. Something worse.

Moon wasn’t just keeping him here.

He was claiming him.

Chapter Text

The silence that followed Moon’s words was suffocating. Sun’s fingers curled around the edge of the table, knuckles white. His heartbeat pounded in his ears, but he forced himself to stay still, to not give Moon the satisfaction of a visible reaction.

“I don’t belong to you,” Sun said, voice low but firm.

Moon exhaled slowly, as if he had expected the defiance but found it more amusing than frustrating. He swirled the whiskey in his glass before taking a slow sip, his eyes never leaving Sun’s. “Belonging is an interesting concept, isn’t it? Some people think it’s about ownership. But I see it differently.”

Sun scoffed. “Let me guess. You think it’s about loyalty.”

Moon’s lips twitched into something dangerously close to a smirk. “Smart boy.”

Sun bristled, his grip on the table tightening. “I’ll never be loyal to you.”

Moon leaned forward slightly, resting his forearms on the table. His presence filled the space between them, oppressive yet oddly intoxicating. “We’ll see.”

The words sent a shiver down Sun’s spine.

A quiet knock interrupted the suffocating tension. Eclipse entered the room, his expression unreadable as always. “Don, we have a situation.”

Moon sighed, annoyed at the disruption, but he pushed back from the table, standing with slow, deliberate movements. “Duty calls.”

He turned his gaze back to Sun. “Stay here. Enjoy your meal.”

Sun shot him a glare. “Like I have a choice.”

Moon merely chuckled before walking out with Eclipse, leaving Sun alone in the vast dining room.

The second the door shut, Sun exhaled sharply, his body sagging with pent-up tension. He glanced around, searching for anything useful. Moon had him watched constantly, but right now, he was alone. His gaze flickered to the ornate silverware—solid, sharp edges. A weapon in the right hands.

His hands.

He grabbed a knife, slipping it into his sleeve just as the door creaked open again.

Not Moon.

A young man stepped inside, his face unfamiliar. He was nervous, shifting his weight from foot to foot. He barely looked at Sun before he whispered, “You shouldn’t be here.”

Sun’s heart leapt. “Then help me leave.”

The man flinched, glancing toward the hallway. “I— I can’t. But… be careful. The Don doesn’t keep people without reason.”

Sun swallowed hard. He already knew that. What he didn’t know was what Moon truly wanted from him.

Before he could ask more, the stranger slipped away, vanishing as quickly as he had come.

Sun’s pulse thundered in his ears. He wasn’t imagining it—there was something deeper at play here. And if Moon thought he could keep him like some caged pet, he was dead wrong.

One way or another, Sun would get out of this.

Even if it killed him.

Chapter Text

Sun’s pulse was still racing when he heard voices echoing down the hall. He stiffened, gripping the knife hidden in his sleeve. His mind whirled—if he was going to escape, it had to be soon. Moon’s patience, while seemingly endless, had its limits. Sun wasn’t going to wait around to see what happened when he reached them.

The door creaked open. This time, it was Eclipse.

He regarded Sun with his usual detached expression, but something in his gaze flickered to the untouched food. “You didn’t eat much.”

Sun’s fingers twitched. “Not hungry.”

Eclipse didn’t press the issue. Instead, he moved to stand by the door, arms crossed. “The Don wants to see you.”

Sun’s stomach turned. “Now?”

“Yes.”

He hesitated, his grip tightening around the knife’s handle. He could use it now—strike fast, make a break for the hallway—but Eclipse wasn’t stupid. He was twice Sun’s size, and from what little he’d observed, lethal without breaking a sweat.

Not yet.

With a slow inhale, Sun stood. Eclipse gestured for him to follow, leading him down the lavish hallways of the mansion. The deeper they went, the more Sun realized he had never been beyond his room and the dining hall. Moon kept him in a tight, controlled orbit, never letting him see too much.

But Sun was watching. Learning.

The grand double doors at the end of the hall loomed ahead. Eclipse pushed them open, revealing Moon’s office—dark wood, warm lighting, a massive window overlooking the city skyline. Moon stood by the window, hands clasped behind his back, a silhouette against the neon glow.

Sun swallowed his apprehension and stepped inside. Eclipse closed the doors behind him, sealing them in.

Moon didn’t turn right away. Instead, he spoke in that calm, assured tone that made Sun’s skin crawl. “I hear you’ve been making friends.”

Sun tensed. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Moon chuckled, finally facing him. “Lying doesn’t suit you.”

Sun’s jaw clenched. So he knew about the stranger who had slipped into the dining room. How? Cameras? Spies? It didn’t matter. What mattered was that Sun was losing whatever tiny edge he thought he had.

Moon stepped closer, stopping just short of invading Sun’s space. His gaze flickered over him, taking in every small movement—the tension in his shoulders, the defiance burning in his eyes. “You still think you’re leaving.”

Sun lifted his chin. “I know I am.”

Moon hummed, amused. “Then tell me, sweetheart—what’s your plan?”

Sun had no answer. Not yet. But he refused to let Moon see that.

Moon smiled, slow and knowing. “That’s what I thought.”

Sun’s breath hitched as Moon reached out. For a brief, wild moment, he thought Moon would touch him. Instead, he hooked his fingers under Sun’s sleeve—and pulled.

The knife clattered to the floor between them.

Sun went rigid. Moon’s smirk deepened. “Clever. But not clever enough.”

Sun wrenched his arm back, heat rising to his face. He braced for anger, for punishment, but Moon simply sighed and shook his head. “You’re making this harder than it has to be.”

Sun’s fists clenched. “You’re the one keeping me here.”

Moon stepped closer, voice dropping to something softer, more dangerous. “And you’re the one who doesn’t understand why.”

A chill ran down Sun’s spine. There it was again—that cryptic, infuriating way Moon spoke, like he knew something Sun didn’t.

He wouldn’t give Moon the satisfaction of asking. Not yet.

Instead, he met Moon’s gaze and said, “I don’t care what game you’re playing. I will never be yours.”

Moon’s expression didn’t change, but something in his eyes sharpened. He tilted his head, watching him closely. Then, with the same infuriating calmness, he murmured, “We’ll see.”

Chapter Text

Sun didn’t sleep that night. He lay awake in the plush bed Moon had provided, staring at the ceiling, his mind racing. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw the smirk on Moon’s lips, the glint in his eyes when he had discovered the knife.

He was losing control of the situation, and he knew it.

By morning, his resolve was ironclad. He had to get out. He wouldn’t let Moon keep him in this gilded cage any longer.

When Eclipse arrived to escort him to breakfast, Sun was ready. He kept his face neutral as he followed, eyes scanning for anything—any small weakness in the security around him. He’d find an opening. He had to.

Moon was already seated when they entered the dining hall, sipping his morning coffee. He looked up with a lazy smirk. “Sleep well?”

Sun didn’t dignify it with a response. Instead, he sat, folding his hands in his lap, waiting.

Moon watched him, amused. “You’re learning.”

Sun clenched his jaw. “I want answers.”

Moon took a slow sip of his coffee. “About?”

“Why me?” Sun’s voice was firm. “What do you want from me?”

Moon sighed, setting his cup down. “It’s not about what I want, sweetheart. It’s about what you are.”

A chill ran down Sun’s spine. “And what’s that?”

Moon leaned forward, voice low and deadly. “Valuable.”

Sun’s breath caught. He wasn’t expecting that. His stomach twisted with unease.

“What does that mean?” he demanded.

Moon tilted his head. “You’ll find out soon enough.”

Frustration burned in Sun’s chest. He wanted to press, to demand more, but he knew Moon wouldn’t give him anything yet. He needed another approach.

So, he exhaled slowly, forcing calm into his voice. “I want to go outside.”

Moon raised a brow. “Do you?”

Sun nodded. “Just the garden. Some fresh air. You don’t expect me to sit in here forever, do you?”

Moon studied him for a moment, then leaned back with a smirk. “Fine.”

Sun blinked. He hadn’t expected him to agree so easily.

“But,” Moon added, “Eclipse will accompany you.”

Of course.

Still, it was something. A step toward freedom.

Sun nodded. “Deal.”

Moon chuckled. “See? We’re already making progress.”

Sun swallowed back the retort burning on his tongue. He’d play along for now.

But soon, he’d find his chance.

And when he did, he wouldn’t hesitate.

Chapter Text

The garden was larger than Sun had anticipated. Walled in by towering hedges and lined with marble pathways, it felt more like a private sanctuary than a simple outdoor space. Flowers bloomed in every color, their scent mixing with the crisp morning air. A fountain trickled softly in the center, its serene sound a stark contrast to the turmoil raging inside him.

Eclipse followed closely, his presence a silent reminder that freedom was still just out of reach. He said nothing, merely watching as Sun took slow steps forward, testing the boundaries of his new allowance.

Sun inhaled deeply, the fresh air filling his lungs. It was the first time he had been outside since his captivity began, and despite the lingering tension in his shoulders, he allowed himself a moment to savor it.

“Don’t do anything stupid,” Eclipse finally said, voice flat.

Sun shot him a glare. “Like what? Smell the flowers too aggressively?”

Eclipse didn’t react, and that only fueled Sun’s irritation. He was always like this—stone-faced, unreadable, like nothing fazed him. Sun had no idea how much Moon trusted him, but it was clear Eclipse was more than just an enforcer. He was a shadow, an extension of Moon’s control.

Sun continued walking, mentally mapping the exits, the security measures. Cameras were tucked into the corners of the estate’s exterior, and while the garden itself seemed open, he had no doubt that the gates were locked, the walls too high to scale unnoticed. Still, it was the closest thing to freedom he’d had since being taken. If there was an opportunity to escape, it would be here.

He crouched near the edge of the fountain, running his fingers through the cool water. His mind spun with ideas, calculations. He needed to be patient.

“Why do you do this?” Sun asked, breaking the silence.

Eclipse blinked. “Do what?”

“Follow him. Obey him. Act like his personal guard dog.” Sun glanced up at him, eyes sharp. “What do you get out of it?”

Eclipse’s expression remained neutral. “Loyalty isn’t about getting something in return. It’s about understanding where you stand.”

Sun scoffed. “That sounds like something Moon would say.”

“Because it’s true.”

Sun turned back to the water, jaw tightening. It wasn’t the answer he wanted, but it wasn’t unexpected. He doubted Eclipse would ever admit to any cracks in his allegiance.

The garden door creaked open, and Sun stiffened before he even turned. He knew who it was before Moon spoke.

“Enjoying yourself?” Moon’s voice was smooth as ever, but there was something in his tone—a quiet satisfaction, like he had given Sun a taste of something he knew he couldn’t truly have.

Sun forced himself to relax, wiping his damp fingers on his pants as he stood. “It’s better than staring at four walls.”

Moon chuckled, stepping closer. “Good. I was beginning to worry you’d lost your appreciation for the finer things.”

Sun clenched his fists. He hated how effortlessly Moon could get under his skin. How every word felt like it carried a double meaning, a leash tightening around his throat.

“I assume you didn’t come out here just to check on me,” Sun said.

Moon tilted his head, studying him. “Smart boy. No, I came to tell you that your role in all of this is becoming clearer.”

A cold weight settled in Sun’s chest. “And what does that mean?”

Moon smirked, but there was something almost unreadable in his expression. “It means you won’t be a guest forever.”

Sun’s stomach twisted. He wasn’t sure what Moon had planned, but he knew one thing for certain—

Whatever it was, it wouldn’t be good.

Chapter Text

The garden was nothing like Sun expected.

He had anticipated something manicured and lifeless, a display of wealth rather than beauty. But this place—this was alive. Ivy curled around iron trellises, roses bloomed in deep, velvety reds, and the scent of earth and greenery filled the air. It was an oasis, a quiet world hidden within Moon’s empire of crime and control.

Sun inhaled deeply, feeling the crisp morning air cool his burning thoughts. For the first time since his capture, he wasn’t surrounded by walls.

But he wasn’t alone, either.

Eclipse stood a few paces behind him, ever the silent enforcer. His presence was as suffocating as the bars Sun imagined locking him in.

“You don’t have to hover,” Sun muttered, running his fingers along the edge of a marble fountain.

Eclipse didn’t respond.

Sun clenched his fists. “What’s the point of letting me out here if you’re just going to watch my every move?”

“Because you’re unpredictable,” Eclipse finally said, voice cool and detached. “And because the Don ordered it.”

Sun’s stomach twisted at the mention of Moon. Even out here, Moon’s control loomed over him like a storm cloud. But Sun wouldn’t let that stop him.

He had asked for this for a reason. This was his chance.

He wandered further, feigning idle curiosity as he took in the paths that snaked through the garden. His gaze flicked toward the wrought iron gate at the far end, tall and imposing, but not impenetrable. He could see the street beyond it, just out of reach.

If he could just—

“I wouldn’t,” Eclipse’s voice shattered his thoughts.

Sun froze.

Eclipse’s expression didn’t change, but his gaze was sharp. “You’re not the first person to think of running.”

Sun forced a smirk. “And?”

“And you wouldn’t make it ten feet before you were dragged back.”

Sun swallowed hard. “Maybe I’m faster than you think.”

Eclipse’s lips twitched, but there was no amusement in it. “Try it. See what happens.”

The weight of his words settled over Sun like a warning bell. He wasn’t bluffing. This wasn’t just a threat—it was a promise.

Frustration clawed at Sun’s insides, but he forced himself to stay calm. He had expected resistance. He just needed to be patient. He needed to wait for the right moment.

For now, he turned away from the gate, wandering back toward the fountain. “Some fresh air really does wonders,” he said casually.

Eclipse didn’t respond, but Sun could feel his eyes on him, watching, waiting.

Sun had to be smarter. He had to be careful.

Because his chance would come.

And when it did, he would be ready.

Hi ya, hope your enjoying the fic.

If you enjoy Mafia Aus I'm going to try and re do this au but different kind of like the request said so keep a eye out.

Anyway,

Thanks for reading <3

Chapter Text

**Chapter Five: Cracks in the Cage**

The morning air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of damp earth and blooming flowers. Sun inhaled deeply, letting the fresh air fill his lungs as he stepped into the garden. The space was vast, lined with trimmed hedges and bursts of vibrant roses, but even in its beauty, it felt more like a well-decorated prison.

Eclipse trailed a few paces behind, his presence a silent reminder that Sun wasn’t truly free. His golden eyes flickered around the perimeter, scanning for any weaknesses, any potential routes of escape.

"You should enjoy this while it lasts," Eclipse said, his voice even, unreadable. "The Don doesn’t grant freedom lightly."

Sun crossed his arms, glancing at the taller man. "And yet, he gave me this."

"Only because he knows you won’t get far."

Sun suppressed the urge to scowl. Eclipse was right—Moon wouldn’t have let him outside unless he was sure Sun couldn’t run. But Sun wasn’t about to give up that easily.

He walked slowly along the stone path, noting the guards stationed along the walls. Their eyes barely flickered in his direction, but Sun knew they were watching him closely. He needed information, and right now, Eclipse was his best shot at getting it.

"You’ve been with him a long time, haven’t you?" Sun asked casually.

Eclipse exhaled through his nose. "Long enough."

"Why?"

Eclipse didn’t answer immediately. "Loyalty isn’t always a choice."

Sun frowned at that. "So, you’re trapped too."

Eclipse turned to him, a sharp glint in his eyes. "I never said that."

Sun wanted to press further, but the sound of approaching footsteps made him pause. Moon entered the garden, his dark suit impeccable, his presence as suffocating as ever.

"Enjoying the fresh air?" he asked, voice dripping with amusement.

Sun met his gaze, unflinching. "Could use less company."

Moon chuckled. "Oh, but I’d hate for you to feel lonely."

Sun clenched his fists at his sides. He refused to let Moon get under his skin.

Moon stepped closer, eyes gleaming with something unreadable. "You can fight all you want, but sooner or later, you’ll realize there’s no escaping me."

Sun swallowed, his throat tight. "We’ll see about that."

Moon tilted his head, smirk unwavering. "Yes. We will."

The tension crackled between them, thick as the iron bars of a cage. But even in the confines of Moon’s world, Sun refused to break.

Not now. Not ever.

Chapter Text

**Chapter Five: A Glimpse of Freedom**

The sun was bright, almost blinding, as Sun stepped into the garden for the first time since his captivity. He had expected something grand and extravagant—Moon didn’t seem like the type to do anything halfway—but the sheer beauty of it still caught him off guard. Lush greenery stretched in all directions, flowers blooming in carefully tended arrangements, and a fountain bubbled softly in the center.

It was the first time in days that Sun felt like he could breathe.

Eclipse trailed behind him, arms crossed, his expression unreadable as always. Sun knew better than to think this was a kindness. It was a test. A leash, slackened just enough to see what he would do with it.

He strolled through the garden, keeping his steps even, his posture relaxed. He needed Eclipse to believe he was content with this, that he wasn’t plotting anything. If he played his cards right, maybe—just maybe—he’d find an opening.

“You should enjoy this,” Eclipse said, his voice mild but carrying an edge. “Don doesn’t often grant favors.”

Sun didn’t respond. He reached out to touch the petals of a rose, its softness at odds with the steel bars he felt around his life.

“What does Moon want from me?” he asked after a moment, keeping his gaze on the flower.

Eclipse was silent for a beat too long. “You should ask him yourself.”

“I did.” Sun turned, meeting his gaze. “He likes to play games instead of giving real answers.”

A ghost of a smirk crossed Eclipse’s lips. “That’s just how he is.”

Sun narrowed his eyes. “And you? Do you enjoy being his enforcer? His shadow?”

Eclipse chuckled, shaking his head. “You think you understand anything about this world?”

Sun bristled. “I understand that I don’t belong here.”

“Maybe not,” Eclipse admitted. “But that doesn’t mean you get to leave.”

Sun’s stomach twisted. He clenched his fists at his sides, forcing himself to stay calm.

Not yet. Not yet.

Instead of pressing further, he exhaled and walked toward the fountain, letting his fingers trail along the cool water. The sound was soothing, almost enough to drown out the weight of his reality.

Almost.

He needed to find a way out.

Before it was too late.

Chapter Text

Sun barely noticed the passing hours. The days felt like endless loops, repeating in the same pattern: breakfast with Moon, a tense exchange, a forced smile, then more empty hours spent waiting. Every conversation felt like a game, a game Moon seemed to play with ease while Sun was left trying to catch up. But today was different. Today, Sun had a plan.

The sun had barely risen when Eclipse appeared at the door, his usual stoic expression in place. "Time for breakfast," he said, his tone neutral as ever.

Sun nodded, rising from the bed. His eyes flickered to the door, where Moon had entered every morning, but he wasn’t here yet. That was something Sun would use to his advantage. As they moved through the halls, Sun kept his gaze sharp, looking for any opening, any small chance to get out of this gilded prison.

“Where’s Moon?” Sun asked, trying to sound casual, though his heart was pounding.

Eclipse didn’t respond immediately, his gaze flickering over to Sun before he muttered, “He’s preoccupied. Don’t get any ideas.”

Sun smirked to himself. "I don’t need ideas. I need a chance."

Eclipse shot him a glance, his expression unreadable. "You’re more trouble than you’re worth."

That only fueled Sun’s resolve. He wasn’t about to let Moon control him any longer. If he was going to be useful to Moon, it would be on his terms.

The dining hall was quiet when they entered. Moon was seated at the far end, his gaze already fixed on Sun. There was something about the way Moon watched him that made Sun’s skin prickle. It was the same way someone might observe a rare animal in a cage—curious, almost affectionate, but always with the understanding that the animal was meant to stay inside the cage.

Sun kept his expression neutral as he sat down across from Moon. Eclipse remained standing by the door, his gaze scanning the room, ever vigilant.

Moon smiled, but there was something cold about it. “I trust you slept well?” he asked, his voice smooth, like he was trying to coax Sun into saying something.

“Didn’t sleep a wink,” Sun replied. “But I’m sure you knew that already.”

Moon’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “I have my ways.”

Sun narrowed his eyes. “I don’t belong here, Moon. You’re not keeping me locked up like some pet.”

Moon leaned back in his chair, clearly enjoying the exchange. “You’re wrong. You’re here because you’re valuable to me. More valuable than you realize.”

Sun’s stomach twisted at his words, but he wasn’t going to show weakness. “You keep saying that. What do you mean by ‘valuable’?”

Moon’s lips curved into a slight smirk. “Patience, sweetheart. All in good time.”

The words sent a chill down Sun’s spine. He wasn’t sure if Moon was just playing with him or if he was serious. Either way, it didn’t matter. Sun wasn’t going to stay in this house forever. He would escape. He had to.

Moon’s gaze lingered on him for a moment before he looked over at Eclipse. “Escort him to the garden after breakfast. I think he could use some fresh air.”

Sun stiffened at the suggestion. “You’re going to let me out?”

Moon’s eyes flashed with something darker. “Don’t get any funny ideas. Eclipse will be with you.”

Sun had expected that. Still, it was better than nothing. The garden might be a cage, but at least it was outside. At least it wasn’t inside the oppressive walls of Moon’s mansion.

“Fine,” Sun said, keeping his voice steady. “A little fresh air never hurt anyone.”

Moon’s smile softened, but it still carried a certain weight. “We’ll see how long that lasts.”

As Eclipse motioned for Sun to follow him, he couldn’t help but wonder if this was just another trap. Moon was too calculating to offer freedom without some sort of catch. But it didn’t matter. Sun would take whatever small victories he could get. If Moon wanted to keep him on a leash, he’d make sure he had enough slack to run.

The sun was beginning to set by the time Sun was escorted back to his room. Eclipse had kept a watchful eye on him during their time in the garden, and while Sun had tried to push the limits, it had been clear from the start that Eclipse wasn’t someone who let his guard down easily. Every step, every movement Sun made was calculated in that cold, watchful gaze.

Still, the brief moments of freedom had done something to Sun. It reminded him that the world was bigger than Moon’s walls, that there was still room to breathe. It wasn’t much, but it was something.

As they reached the door to his room, Eclipse paused for a moment, giving Sun a sharp look. “Don’t do anything stupid,” he muttered, before walking away.

The door shut with a soft click, and Sun was left alone in the quiet. For a moment, he just stood there, processing the unease in his chest. He’d learned to adapt to his surroundings, to play the part of a captive when he had to, but the tightness in his chest refused to go away.

The knock at the door came a few minutes later, too soft to be Moon’s usual entrance. Sun’s heart skipped a beat. He wasn’t expecting anyone.

He opened the door cautiously, just wide enough to peer through, and saw the same young man from the previous night. His face was pale, his eyes darting nervously. The moment Sun looked at him, the man quickly glanced over his shoulder, then stepped inside without waiting for an invitation.

“I told you last night,” he whispered urgently. “You need to be careful. He’s watching you.” His voice was trembling, but he seemed insistent. “You think you’re being clever, but Moon doesn’t miss a thing.”

Sun furrowed his brow, confused but curious. “What are you talking about?”

The man’s eyes flickered around, making sure no one had followed him. “Moon knows you’re planning something. He’s known for days. He’s letting you think you have control, but you don’t.”

Sun’s stomach twisted. “How do you know that?”

The stranger hesitated before answering, his voice dropping lower. “Because I’ve seen it. He lets you think you’re free, but he’s been pulling the strings the whole time. You’re not as much of a pawn as you think you are... but you’re still in his game.”

Sun stepped back, a cold rush of realization hitting him like a bucket of ice water. “So this whole thing... is a game to him?”

The man nodded, his eyes full of unease. “You’re valuable, Sun. But you’re not the only one. Moon doesn’t keep people for just loyalty or love. He keeps them because they’re pieces in his bigger plan.”

The weight of his words settled into Sun’s chest like a stone. He didn’t want to believe it. He couldn’t. Not after everything that had happened—the moments of tenderness Moon had shown him, the way he looked at him when they were alone. But the more he thought about it, the more the pieces started to fit together in a pattern he hadn’t seen before.

“Then why are you telling me this?” Sun asked, voice barely above a whisper.

The man’s face softened for a brief moment, his features tight with concern. “Because I don’t want to see you get hurt. I can’t tell you everything... but you need to trust me on this. Moon’s not a man who plays fair. And right now, you’re being played.”

Before Sun could say anything else, the man turned, disappearing into the hall without another word, leaving Sun standing there, a storm of thoughts swirling inside him.

His hands clenched into fists at his sides. Was it true? Was he really just a piece in Moon’s game? The thought hurt more than he wanted to admit.

Sun let out a shaky breath. He couldn’t let this go. He wouldn’t let Moon use him like this, not if he had a choice.

It was time to stop playing by Moon’s rules. He had to make his own move now.

The next few days passed in a haze of tension. Sun spent his time in the room, pacing restlessly and trying to push back against the mounting feeling that Moon was always watching him, waiting for him to slip up. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he was being toyed with, that Moon had a plan, and he was just a part of it. Every time he looked at the man, all he could think about was the conversation with the stranger.

Moon wasn’t just a powerful figure; he was a manipulator. He controlled everything, every situation, every movement. And Sun, well, Sun was nothing but a pawn in his game.

Still, Sun couldn’t completely let go of the connection between them, the moments where Moon had been... kind. It wasn’t enough to ignore the truth, though. The truth that Moon saw him as a piece to be moved, not as someone with agency.

The following evening, after dinner, Moon called for him. Eclipse was once again at his side, silent as always, his sharp eyes scanning Sun with that ever-watchful gaze. They entered the study, where Moon was leaning back in his chair, a glass of whiskey in his hand, looking as though the world was his to command.

"Sit," Moon commanded.

Sun did as instructed, taking a seat across from him, though every fiber of his being screamed to get up and leave. He couldn't stop himself from glancing at the door, wondering if there was a way to escape again. But he knew better. Moon would never make it that easy.

"I’ve been thinking about you," Moon said, his voice smooth, like honey dripping from his lips.

Sun met his gaze, trying to keep his face neutral. "About what?"

Moon’s lips curled into a smile, a smirk that didn’t reach his eyes. "About how you’re always looking for an escape. You think I don’t see it?"

Sun’s pulse quickened, his stomach twisting. "I don’t know what you’re talking about."

Moon’s smirk widened, and he leaned forward, placing his glass on the table with a soft clink. "You’re clever, Sun. But not clever enough to fool me."

Sun’s throat tightened. He hated the way Moon made him feel so small, so powerless. "What do you want from me?"

Moon studied him for a moment before replying. "Nothing, yet." He leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving Sun’s. "But you are important to me. More than you realize."

A chill ran down Sun’s spine. "Important?"

"Yes." Moon's voice softened, but there was an edge to it, like a blade hidden beneath velvet. "You’ve been in my world for too long now. And whether you want to or not, you’ll eventually see things my way."

Sun clenched his fists beneath the table, biting back the urge to retort. He could feel the walls closing in, and he hated it. He wasn’t going to be another one of Moon’s pawns. He was better than that.

"I’ll never see things your way," Sun said, his voice low but steady.

Moon’s eyes gleamed. "We’ll see about that."

The words hung in the air like a challenge, a threat. Sun could feel the power radiating off Moon, the certainty in his voice. He was already thinking three steps ahead, always one move away from taking control of everything.

"I won’t give in to you," Sun said, trying to sound more confident than he felt.

Moon chuckled, a sound that sent a shiver through Sun. "We’ll see how long that lasts."

The tension in the room was suffocating, and Sun found himself caught in a battle he hadn’t asked for. But he wasn’t going to back down. Not yet. He would find his way out, somehow. Even if he had to play Moon’s game.

The days bled together in a haze of tension and uncertainty. Sun had become a master at hiding his emotions, his every movement calculated to appear calm and composed, though beneath the surface, he was anything but. Each conversation with Moon felt like another carefully orchestrated dance, with Moon always several steps ahead, always in control.

But Sun wasn’t going to give in. He couldn’t.

One evening, after a particularly stifling dinner, Moon called for Sun to join him in the study again. The routine was becoming too familiar, too predictable. Eclipse was already waiting outside, his expression unreadable as always.

Sun walked into the room, his hands clenched at his sides, his back straight. He hated that Moon had this power over him. The feeling of being watched, the constant pressure of knowing that his every move was being observed, it was suffocating.

Moon was seated behind his desk, his fingers drumming lightly on the surface, his gaze focused on Sun as soon as he stepped in. "I’ve been thinking," Moon began, his voice low and thoughtful.

"About what?" Sun asked, his tone flat, betraying none of the unease that was bubbling inside him.

Moon looked up at him, his eyes gleaming with something dangerous, something Sun couldn’t quite decipher. "About the way you’ve been behaving. You think I don’t notice? The little acts of defiance, the way you try to escape when you think no one is looking."

Sun’s jaw tightened. "I’m not trying to escape."

Moon chuckled, a low, dark sound that made Sun’s skin crawl. "You’re trying, but you’re not succeeding. Not yet." He leaned back in his chair, studying Sun like a predator examining its prey. "But that’s what makes it interesting, isn’t it? You’re resisting. You think you have a choice in the matter."

"I do have a choice," Sun replied, his voice stronger now. "I can leave whenever I want."

Moon’s smile was slow and deliberate, his gaze never leaving Sun’s. "Is that so? And what would you do if you left? You’re trapped, Sun. You’ve been trapped from the moment you stepped into this world."

Sun shook his head, refusing to believe it. "I’m not trapped. I’m just… waiting for the right moment."

Moon raised an eyebrow. "Waiting? You mean, running? Running from me?"

Sun’s heart pounded in his chest, but he stood his ground. "I’m not afraid of you."

Moon’s smile faded, replaced by something colder, more dangerous. "You should be."

Sun felt a shiver run through him, but he refused to back down. Not this time. "I’m not afraid of you," he repeated, his voice firm.

Moon leaned forward, his eyes dark and intense. "You will be."

For a moment, the room was silent, the air thick with unspoken threats. Sun’s pulse quickened, but he refused to flinch. He had to stand strong, had to show Moon that he wasn’t going to break.

After a long pause, Moon finally broke the silence. "I’ll give you one thing, Sun. You’re stubborn. And I respect that."

Sun narrowed his eyes. "I don’t need your respect."

Moon’s lips quirked into a small smile. "Maybe not. But you’ll need more than stubbornness to survive here."

Sun didn’t respond, his mind racing. He was trapped, but he wasn’t going to let Moon break him. He had to hold on, had to keep fighting.

Moon stood up, walking around the desk to stand before Sun. He was close, too close, and Sun could feel the weight of his presence pressing in on him. "You’re more valuable than you realize," Moon said softly, his voice carrying a strange tenderness. "But you’re not ready to understand that yet."

Sun didn’t trust him. He couldn’t. But there was something in Moon’s eyes, something in the way he spoke, that made Sun question everything. Was it possible that there was more to this than just manipulation? Was Moon really playing a game, or was he telling the truth?

Sun swallowed hard, trying to push the doubt away. He couldn’t afford to get too close to Moon. He couldn’t let himself be swayed by the dangerous allure that Moon seemed to carry with him everywhere.

"I’ll never be yours," Sun said, his voice low but unwavering.

Moon’s smile returned, though it was darker, more knowing. "We’ll see about that."

Sun turned away, refusing to engage any longer. He didn’t have the answers yet, but he was starting to understand something more important: whatever game Moon was playing, it was far from over.

And Sun had no intention of losing.

The tension between them was growing, thick and suffocating, like the air before a storm. Sun could feel it in every interaction with Moon, the way the Don would study him, his eyes dark with unreadable intent. Each time they spoke, it felt like a test—a game with invisible rules that Sun didn’t fully understand but knew he couldn’t afford to fail.

For the first time, Sun found himself questioning what Moon truly wanted from him. Was it just about control? Or was there something deeper, something hidden behind Moon’s carefully constructed mask?

It had been a week since their last conversation, and Sun had spent every moment since trying to piece together the mystery. Moon's actions, his words, they all felt like part of a much larger puzzle, and Sun was determined to figure it out.

But there were days when the feeling of being watched, of being controlled, was almost too much to bear. Eclipse was always nearby, silent and ever-present, his sharp eyes tracking Sun’s every movement. The guards in the hallways, the security cameras, they were constant reminders that escape was not an option.

Yet, Sun still found moments to slip away—to think, to plan, even if only for a few minutes at a time. He needed to stay sharp, needed to keep himself from losing his mind.

Tonight, Moon had summoned him again, this time to the study. Sun’s chest tightened as he approached the room, his heart pounding in his ears. Every time he entered that space, it felt like stepping into the lion’s den. He knew what Moon wanted—power, control, and loyalty—but Sun still didn’t understand the depth of his game.

Moon was already seated when Sun entered, his fingers steepled in front of him, his expression unreadable. Eclipse was standing just inside the doorway, his presence like an unspoken threat.

“Sit,” Moon said, his voice calm, though there was an edge to it.

Sun didn’t hesitate, though his mind raced. He lowered himself into the chair across from Moon, his posture rigid. He was done playing the part of the obedient prisoner. If Moon thought he could break him, he was wrong.

Moon studied him for a long moment, his gaze intense, and then he finally spoke. “I’ve been thinking.”

Sun didn’t respond, though his pulse quickened. He hated when Moon said that. Thinking meant planning, and planning usually meant trouble for him.

“I’ve decided,” Moon continued, his voice smooth and calculating, “that you’re too much of a distraction.”

Sun’s heart skipped a beat, but he didn’t show it. “What do you mean?”

Moon leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. “You think you can outsmart me. You think you can escape. But you can’t, Sun. Not from me.”

Sun swallowed, forcing himself to stay composed. “I never planned on escaping.”

Moon chuckled softly, the sound low and almost sinister. “You don’t have to admit it. I already know.”

The air in the room grew thicker, the tension palpable. Sun fought the urge to look away, to shrink under Moon’s gaze. He wouldn’t show weakness, not now.

“I’m giving you a choice,” Moon said, his voice suddenly softer, more coaxing. “You can stay here, under my protection, and play by my rules, or you can leave.”

Sun blinked, taken aback. “Leave?” His voice was a whisper, almost disbelieving.

Moon’s smile was slow, almost predatory. “Yes. Leave. But not on your own terms. I’m giving you the option, but it comes with a price.”

Sun’s heart sank. There it was again—the game. Moon was always offering choices, but those choices were never really choices at all. They were traps, and Sun was caught in the middle of them.

“What price?” Sun asked, though he had a sinking feeling he already knew the answer.

Moon’s smile deepened. “If you leave, you’ll be marked. No one will help you. You’ll have no allies, no safe places. You’ll be hunted.”

Sun’s breath caught in his throat. The price was steep, far more than he could afford. Leaving meant becoming an outcast, a target. It meant giving up everything, and he wasn’t sure he could survive that.

“But here, you’re safe,” Moon continued, his voice softer now, almost tender. “I’m offering you a place by my side, Sun. A position of power. Loyalty. Respect.”

The words hung in the air like a heavy weight. Sun could feel the pull, the temptation to take the offer. It would be so easy, so simple to accept it and live in the comfort of Moon’s world. But deep down, Sun knew better.

Nothing came for free with Moon.

“I’m not your pawn,” Sun finally said, his voice steady, though it shook with the force of his resolve.

Moon’s smile faltered for a brief moment, his eyes narrowing as he leaned back in his chair. “You’re already more than that,” he said softly, almost as if to himself.

There was something in his voice, a note of vulnerability that Sun hadn’t expected. It threw him off, made him question what Moon was truly after. Was he just trying to manipulate Sun into submission? Or was there something else?

The silence between them stretched on, thick and uncomfortable. Finally, Moon stood, his movements deliberate and controlled. He walked around the desk to stand before Sun, close enough that Sun could feel the heat of his presence.

“I’ll give you time to think about it,” Moon said, his voice low. “But remember this, Sun: You belong to me. And I’ll make sure you understand that, one way or another.”

Sun didn’t respond, his heart hammering in his chest. He didn’t know what Moon was playing at, but he couldn’t afford to be swayed by it. He couldn’t let Moon have the upper hand.

As Moon turned and walked toward the door, he paused, glancing over his shoulder with a knowing look. “I’ll be waiting.”

The door closed behind him with a soft click, leaving Sun alone with his thoughts.

The game was far from over. And Sun was beginning to wonder if he would ever be able to escape it.

The days blurred into one another, each one a mirror of the last, until Sun couldn’t tell where one ended and the other began. The routine was suffocating—he ate, he sat through tense meetings with Moon, he was watched by Eclipse, and he slept in the same cold, sterile room. The walls seemed to close in around him, pressing him into the world Moon had created, a world where every move he made was scrutinized, and every word he spoke felt like a trap.

But as much as he hated it, there was something else gnawing at him. Something deeper.

Moon had given him a choice—stay or leave. It had sounded simple at first, a clear decision between comfort and freedom. But now, the more Sun thought about it, the more complicated it became.

Leaving would mean exile. It would mean a life on the run, hunted by the very people Moon controlled. But staying… staying would mean becoming one of Moon’s. It would mean giving up everything he fought for—the independence, the autonomy, the right to choose his own path.

In the silence of his room, Sun found himself staring at the window, the faint light of dawn creeping in through the curtains. He knew he couldn’t stay here forever. But could he truly leave? Was the cost worth it?

The sound of footsteps approaching snapped him from his thoughts. His heart skipped a beat. Eclipse. The ever-watchful shadow, always there, always ready to remind him that he wasn’t free.

The door opened, and Eclipse stepped inside, his expression unreadable as always. “It’s time.”

Sun didn’t ask what for. He knew.

The dinner table was set, Moon seated at the head as usual, his dark gaze following Sun as he entered the room. Sun’s stomach churned, but he kept his face neutral, determined to play the part for as long as he could.

Eclipse remained in the corner, his eyes fixed on Sun, always watching. Sun’s skin prickled under the weight of his gaze, but he ignored it, focusing on Moon instead.

“Sit,” Moon commanded, his voice low but commanding.

Sun obeyed, sitting at the table across from him. The tension was thick, palpable, but Moon didn’t seem to mind. In fact, he seemed to thrive on it.

“I’ve given you time to think,” Moon said, his eyes glinting with something unreadable. “What have you decided?”

Sun took a deep breath. He had rehearsed this, over and over in his mind, but now that the moment had arrived, the words felt like lead in his mouth.

“I’ll stay,” Sun said, forcing the words out, though they tasted bitter on his tongue.

Moon’s smile was slow, satisfied. “Good choice,” he said, his voice dripping with approval.

But it wasn’t approval Sun wanted. It was freedom. And he had just sold a part of his soul for a taste of something he could never truly have.

As Moon stood and walked around the table to stand before him, Sun’s stomach twisted. There was something in Moon’s gaze, something that made Sun’s skin crawl and his pulse race.

“You made the right choice, Sun,” Moon said, his voice soft, almost affectionate. He placed a hand on Sun’s shoulder, his touch unexpectedly warm.

Sun froze, resisting the urge to pull away.

“But remember,” Moon continued, his voice dropping to a low whisper, “I’m not just keeping you here for my own amusement. I’m offering you a chance. A chance to rise, to have everything you’ve ever wanted. Loyalty is the key, Sun. With loyalty, you can have power, respect—everything.”

Sun didn’t respond. He didn’t want to give Moon the satisfaction of seeing his inner turmoil.

But deep inside, a part of him was breaking. Was he truly trapped? Was this the price he had to pay for freedom—the loss of everything he had once believed in?

Later that night, as Sun lay in bed, the weight of his decision pressed down on him. His mind raced, but there was one thought that kept circling back to him, a question he couldn’t ignore.

What would happen if he tried to escape now? What would the cost be?

He didn’t know. But he was starting to fear that it might be higher than he was willing to pay.

Chapter Text

This fic is being rewritten as a oneshot some point in time sorry