Hello, lovely readers. My account reached 10k followers today but behind this lies the 3+ years of togetherness. Thank you for holding my hand on this journey, I will be forever grateful to all of my readers.

We always discuss the rules before starting the chapter. But this chapter lies on the emotional side so I don't think any rules would justify it.

I hope you will enjoy reading the Chapter💜.

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Gyuri stared at her own reflection in the mirror, watching the adding accessories on her body with a nervous breath. She lifted her hand when one of the attendants held a pair of bracelets in front of her wrist. The bracelet was simple but adorned with several jades, one of its tassels connected with her middle finger by a ring. She was wearing pastel green hanfu which was complimenting her pale green eyes.

Her long eyelashes raised to see the other attendant wrapping a pearly white necklace around her neck. In between those pearls some small green leaves, made with a silk cloth, were dangling around her delicate neck. Next comes the earrings, long and slithery similar to the art of the necklace around her neck.

“How come the miss is so silent today?” One of the attendants asked.

Gyuri caught her eyes, a smile spreading on her lips, “There is nothing like that. I was wondering if the arrangements of the Royals’ arrival were completed or not.”

“I have seen the General ordering the people since early in the morning. I am certain most of the work would be completed by now.” The attendant informed while tucking the hooks of the necklace.

“There is a difference between yet to be completed and perfectly finished. I must visit the new pavilions to see the arrangements, there should be no shortage of anything.” Gyuri hoisted herself up and let the attendant tie a waist chain around her sash. The chain was exceptionally rare, its band was made with frizzling silk while the dangling scales covered her entire hips from the sides.

“How could there be a shortage of anything if you have prepared the Royal pavilions by your own hands.” The curtains of her chamber pushed open when some another attendant entered.

The smile on Gyuri's lips enlarged, “Mooshin!” She turned around and accepted her greetings while looking at others, “You all may go now, I wish to be dressed by her.”

Once the chamber emptied, Gyuri hugged her friend tightly, “ Oh Mooshin! I'm so scared. What if I do something wrong while introducing myself or what if the Empress won't like me? Mooshin, I wonder if I will be able to talk much at all.”

Mooshin pulled away while shaking her head, “Don't be sceptical about yourself. I'm here to deliver good news and I'm sure after hearing that you will find another augment in your confidence.”

“What is it?” Gyuri asked while pulling away, her face holding the curiosity of a child.

“The work of pavilions is entirely finished. We have established three pavilions in the dense locality of Gigeré for the Royal Emperor and the Royal Betas while two pavilions in the locality of Western land for the Royal Empress and the Royal Omega. Everything has been done as per your orders, Miss Gyuri.” Mooshin smiled while holding her hands. Her eyes twinkled with tease and mischief altogether.

Gyuri sighed in relief and turned towards the mirror again, understand the teasing glint in her friend's eyes, “ I ordered for building different pavilions because it would be easier for the Royal Emperor and his comrades to look over the borders if they settles in Gigeré while the Royal Empress and Royal omega would be more comfortable to live among us. Nothing more.”

Mooshin coughed and nodded her head, “ I must never disagree.” She cradled Gyuri's long hair in a bunch and started to make small braids on the sides to hold the open hairs together.

“How come you are confident with your decision, Gyuri? What if the Royals opposed living far from each other?” Mooshin asked while decorating the braid with utmost care and delicacy. The black braid went down to her hips, holding the knot with a rubbery silk at the bottom.

“A war is soon to be occured on this land, their living arrangements would be their last concern at this moment. Moreover, They are the humblest people in the entire race, so nothing would be commanded to create commotion.” Gyuri explained while looking at her new robe. It's beautiful just as she wished for.

Mooshin took that robe and held it open for her. To complete the look, she added shoulder chains on both sides of the robe. The chains held three layers of small beads which jingled when brushed over each other.

“You are looking gorgeous, Miss. Today… No one could drift their eyes away from the Lady of Western Household.” She tapped her arms in assurance.

“We should leave the chamber now. I need to see if the chefs prepared the meal for the troops.” Gyuri said while balancing the lapels of her robe around her dainty wrists.

“General Dae has visited the cookhouse three times now. They are haste enough to complete the feast before their arrival.”

Mooshin teased her concerned friend once again while both of them started to walk out of the chamber. However, Gyuri stopped in the middle and looked at her friend with alarming eyes. 

“Oh? Mooshin, we forget to use that fragrance.” The fragrance which her mother gifted at her designation ceremony, filled with flowery scent and dewdrops.

Mooshin gasped and ran to bring a red rose from the threshold vase, “One moment,” She opened the dressing drawer and took out the fragrant flask. She opened the flask carefully and dipped the corners of the rose in it before handing the rose to Gyuri, “Here.”

Gyuri held the rose in her agile fingers and let the petals of the rose touch her neck and her ears. She repeated the notions again, this time around her wrist and smiled while inhaling the air around her, “ I am ready.”

Mooshin was looking at her with a shining glint in her eyes, “You sure are.”
Both ladies went out of Gyuri's chamber and joined the crowd of ministers which soon will be taking them to the local premises of Chinra.

~

General Dae was standing at the peak of a thickest rock, eyes witnessing the approaching troops with prideful eyes. The dust was wafting high in the sky, as the werewolves clambered the mountain after choosing the inclined path. He frowned when he noticed only a few countable numbers of troops coming towards the Chinra but the Royal letter interpreted the arrival of two hundred soldiers… So where is everyone else?

They might be following the similar route eventually. He reassured himself while turning towards the ministers, “The troops are approaching, keep the gates open.”

The air of the mountain uproared when the thumps of several paws echoed on the path. The path includes three circles around the Chinra to finally reach the localities that live in the middle of the mountain. The locality was not crowded, only the families of some hunters and fishers live here to keep both their ends meet.

Their awaiting eyes shined when they witnessed the werewolves entering inside the gates. Some of the wolves were carrying goods on their backs and as if they had received pre orders because just as they entered the premises of local regions, all of them scattered in all directions. Only some of the werewolves had their snouts high in the sky, standing on both sides of the road.

All the folks of Chinra and the ministers of the Western land were holding their breaths. In the midst of a huge storm of dust, embellishing beautiful white furs…another werewolf entered the gates. The ambiance around this wolf was cogent, his wide eyes surveying the people enough to behold their gazes down on the ground. The folks started to bow down on their knees one by one as they have never seen such Majestic omegan wolf before. All of them had only one thought in their minds.

This one… unquestionably… would be the Empress of Europe.

Just as the breeze wafted the dust again, another wolf entered. Adorned with black furs, rough paws thumping highly on the ground before it stops right beside the white one. Both wolves raised their snouts and howled with their comrades to declare their presence all around the mountains.

People kept bowing on the ground when they felt the ambiance of the Royals. It was completely different from the words they have read in ancient books and heard in folklore. The folks expressed their happiness with agitated heartbeats and hopeful eyes.

The folks of Chinra endured the most flames of assault during the fight between Western Land and Strays. The enemy had taken this locality as a bridge to enter the territories of Mosnic and Western Land. During such face offs they have assaulted their pups and demolished their huts. Watching the increasing attacks of the enemy, there was no hope remaining in their sorrowful eyes.

But now, the arrival of the Royals charged a new energy in their veins. The hope of a safe and secure future bloomed in their hearts along with gratitude.

Some of the scattered wolves returned soon and howled towards an empty hanok. The structure of the hanok looked barren but it was supported by four walls. So, Instead of bothering the people and ministers, Van nudged the omega towards the hanok by his snout to shift back into their human forms.

When people raised their heads from the bowing position, they were surprised to see only soldiers around them. There were no signs of the Royals. Before the commotion could start, the noise of neighing caught their attention.

Kenji stopped Artax at the threshold of the gates of Chinra and climbed down. He smiled at the locals and stepped inside after clasping the reins in his hand.

“Let your Emperor and Empress shift into their human forms. Meanwhile, you can order the soldiers to close the gates, General Dae.” Kenji suggested as he handover the reins to one of the soldiers.

General Dae bowed to the unknown man, assuming his high position in the Royal court. But the suggestion made him frown, “But, Noble uh-”

Kenji smiles brightly because he really likes this part of the conversations where he has to introduce himself to the folks, “ Noble Kao Kenji, Royal Alpha's first friend, the right hand of the entire Europe.” Well. The last line. Once upon a time he used to be.

General Dae bowed again, “Noble Kenji, have all the troops arrived? We were informed to make preparations for more than two hundred soldiers and-”

“I understand your concern, General.” Kenji has this ancient habit of cutting off people in between their talks, well… life is too short to listen to people's full banter, “His Majesty hid the full information due to safe execution of the troops, so no one could create trouble in the route. However, the real strategy was entirely different. The three-fourth of the Army troops along with Royal Omega and his noble mates reached the Western Land through Gigeré forest. They had taken the routes of the land. While the One-fourth soldiers decided to climb the Chinra along with the Royals.”

All the ministers were shocked while General Dae looked entirely pale, “ In Western Land? But all the ministers accompanied me here to welcome the Royals. I am afraid they might face inhospitality in our absence.”

Kenji waved off their worries with one hand, “There would be nothing like that. We are not here for territorial tours, General. You should not stress yourself on this. I would suggest gathering around in much open space, His Majesty will be holding a court soon.”

The Royal Alpha stood at the threshold of the hanok after shifting and wearing his black attire. The long boots were reaching up to his knees and a Royal cloak was adorning his shoulders over the black suit. Soon the Empress came and stood beside him, wearing the same baggy pants that were further squeezed into the long boots beneath his knees. A black ruffled shirt with high collars and loose cuffs. His hairs were held up in a tight bun and he was tying the scarf under that bun when Alpha looked at him.

Taehyung found the omega wearing the scarf that was hiding his face upto his nose, leaving the eyes to hold his gaze. The Royal Alpha was puzzled because the Empress hadn't told him the decision if he would wear the scarf or not. For all intents, He was preparing for another strategy.

“Are you sure to carry the scarf with you?” He asked.

Jungkook tied the final knot and repositioned the dagger around his waist before looking at the Royal Alpha again, “Yes. I'm quite inhabitat to my scarves now so it would be easier for me.”

The Royal Alpha looked away while nodding and found the masses sitting around an open space, “We should go now.”

The Sun was beaming at its peak, showing the time as half of the day passed in the inquisitive wait of the Royals. Jungkook walked beside the Royal Alpha, their steps matching but a respective distance in between their shoulders as they walked towards the crowd.

The Royal Alpha walked straight to the front of the crowd where a chair was settled for his arrival. Jungkook was about to follow him when a bunch of omegas bowed in front of him, he bowed in return but the crowd of omegas kept increasing and before he could gesture them to settle down, Alpha had already settled down on the chair. The whole crowd settled and sat down on different sitting arrangements.

The folks were sitting one side of the Royal Alpha while the ministers were sitting on the other side, both the crowds were facing the Emperor. The path in the middle was empty and Jungkook was standing exact opposite to the Alpha. He watched how the ministers engaged the Emperor in formal greetings while moving his gaze he found Kenji standing in between some Alpha soldiers.

Jungkook blinked his eyes and watched over the area to look for a seat. He found a similar chair placed beside some omegan ministers whose clothes were twinkling under the Sun. But should he use that chair for himself? Because if he follows the Royal traditions, the only seat he could use in such kinds of gatherings is… his Alpha's lap.

Jungkook changed his thoughts immediately, how absurd it would be to just sit like that when people are yearning for solutions to their problems. However, his gaze matched with the Royal Alpha for a fractional moment and all of his confusion melted under his feet.

He watched as the Emperor parted his legs, one knee moving further apart till it left the distance of fitting another body in between. Jungkook's feet moved on the empty path, hands clenching over the dagger when tons of eyes moved towards him.

Taehyung raised his open hand towards the Empress and Jungkook held it before taking a seat on his left thigh. Their posture radiated dynamic power when the Alpha supported the omega's back with his left hand. Jungkook dug his toes in the boots to clutch the floor under him, balancing before looking at the people.

Jungkook accepted the formal greetings of the ministers and the Royal Alpha continued the discussion. Meanwhile, locals of Chinra were shocked, some of them held amusement in their eyes while some had hidden smiles on their faces. Jungkook could even hear some delightful giggles from the opposite side where folks were sitting. The side of the ministers was awfully calm. Once again, his scarf saved him from utter bashfulness.

“Have you received any answer regarding the letter of negotiation?” The Royal Alpha asked while looking at the General.

The general was looking down in bowing position, he straightened his back and answered the Royal Alpha, “We had sent the letter two days ago but haven't received any response, Your Majesty. The Royals’ arrival on this land must be an unbelievable event for them.”

“Send one more. This time the letter should carry my regards and warnings both. What are the conditions of Chinra?”
Taehyung asked while supporting his elbow on the armrest of the chair.

“We have closed all the caves that Commander Hoseok ordered us to. The attacks have stopped after that but the Entrance gates still need protection so we have been planning to deploy some soldiers around it.”

“That won't be needed now. I will be staying here with the Empress, place these soldiers around the coastal area of Lavin instead. If not the mountain, they will try to barge through the river.” Taehyung ordered, leaving the General in more confusion.

“As per the orders, Your Majesty.” The General said instead because in no circumstances he could ever question the Royal Alpha but for the dignity of Western Land he can surely place some suggestions, “ If the Royal Majesty allows, I would like to suggest something.”

Getting the affirmation from the Royal Alpha and catching the attention of the Empress as well, the General continued, “We weren't aware of the partitions of the forces, so we had done all the preparations for the Royals’ arrival in Western Land. I apologise, Your Majesty, this place won't be a convenience to live in. I would request to bless the Western land by giving us a chance to serve.”

“No. Strategically, this place has it's importance.” Taehyung denied bluntly. Jungkook bit the corners of his lips when he watched the sorrowful look on General’s face. He tried to diplomat the situation so that the stress of holding Royals in the neighbouring areas could become a bit less on the General's shoulders, “ The folks of Chinra has faced the effective assaults during the past attacks. It's unfortunate but Strays has accomplished to ignite fear around the locals of Chinra. And where the fear resides there could never be a victory. We have chosen this place for our stay so the people could overpower their fear and fight along with us.”

The General bowed to the Empress, “ I am afraid if this place would not be able to serve the Royals, Your Empress. We are yet to build the demolished hanoks in Chinra, the area is open and have less resources than the land.”

“I can understand your concern, General. I would urge all the ministers to not worry about providing us utmost comfort and hospitality. We have other decisive matters to look into. However, your preparations in Western land won't wither to nothingness. A couple of our friends have accompanied us on this journey, it's my request to assign the prepared necessities to them.”

The Royal Alpha was observing the interaction and noticed the blooming smiles on the folks of Chinra. He looked at the General and completed the omega's words by himself, “We will be needing a few feets land on this mountain. We will be eating the food with folks, I don't think they will let us starve on their land?”

As soon as the sentence was finished, the people of Chinra roared in unison, expressing their thoughts as to how they won't leave anything behind to serve their Emperor and Empress. The Empress had to raise his hand to settle them down again, “ We have no mistrust on the people of Chinra.”

“Have the tribes of Mosnic sent any signals?” The Royal Alpha asked.

“No, Your Majesty. During the past attacks, they only permitted the Commander to enter their territory to search for any cause and secure the borders. After that we did not hear anything from them.”

“So there are no further attacks in Mosnic?”

“Not on my account, Your Majesty. Strays used to enter their territory through the caves of Chinra, after closing those caves, we heard no further commotions.” General said while clasping his hands behind his back. 

The discussion continued as the Royals asked the outcomes of the established securities by the Commander. The hustle and bustle around the borders, their previous strategies and what kind of weapons used during the past attacks. With each question, the discussion was densing the atmosphere.

Far from the words of discussion, behind all the ministers, the minister of household was sitting. Her attendant was sitting beside her, covering her hand over her lap, assuring Gyuri to not feel disheartened. Gyuri was looking down, a grim expression was covering his features. The Sun above was melting all of her confidence, even after preparing everything so diligently, the Alpha hadn't looked towards her.

She dreamed every night how the Royal Alpha would recognise her while she would introduce herself as one of the ministers of Western land but his gaze didn't even fall around her direction when she was introducing herself.

She looked at Mooshin sharply and yanked her hand away from her hold. This is not what she had imagined for …. Only the Goddess knows how long… She had prepared the pavilions, even decorating each one with her own hands. And now, the Royals won't be even staying in Western land let alone using those pavilions.

She noticed how the Empress has a sweet tooth with words, perfectly crafted and delivering notions. She rubbed her wrist with her other hand and gritted her teeth, her eyes were dying to look up and admire the Royal Alpha but she didn't want to show the disappointment swirling in her own gaze. So, she kept her head down till all the discussions of the court finished.

“All the ministers should return back to handle their duties now. General, lead the way. We will be following you soon.” The Royal Alpha adjourned the court and one by one the ministers and folks started to disperse from the open ground after bowing to the Royal couple.

Taehyung's thumb brushed against the lower waist of the omega to gain his attention. Jungkook looked at the Royal Alpha instantly, eyes holding unsaid curiosity. The voice of the Alpha was low when he asked, “ I will be going to visit the territories of Western land and deploy the soldiers around the most crucial places. Would you like to accompany me?”

Jungkook looked around him, squinting his eyes to see in between the dust of several movements, “But what about the deployment around Chinra?”

“Once the territorial round of Western land completes, we will look after the borders of Chinra as well.”

“How about if I deploy the soldiers around Chinra? You can take the final round around the mountain after all the deployment completes. The Sun will be approaching the evening soon, dividing the duties might help us arrange the localities in less time.” Jungkook suggested, his eyes conveying thoughtfulness from above the scarf.

Taehyung gave a thought to the suggestion and agreed afterwards, “Kenji will accompany you on the route, he has excessive knowledge of directions.”

“Noble Kenji? What if he wouldn't want to? In my opinion, it would be better if I take a stroll with the soldiers.” The small conversation with the Alpha's friends wasn't very pleasant for Jungkook to seek their company again. He doesn't want to produce any kind of inconvenience for the people who once sacrificed their lives for the Kingdom.

Taehyung could see the concerns swirling in those doe eyes and he didn't want the Empress to dwell much on these thoughts, “Their first interactions could seem disrespectful and mistrustful but they are aware of their duties. They are aware of what title you hold for the Empire. The soldiers will be busy in securing their positions, Kenji would be a better option.”

“If that's the case then may I not go alone? I will memorise the routes with soldiers while subjecting their positions and then they won't have to worry, I will come back alone.” Jungkook proposed, the thoughts running rapidly in his mind.

Taehyung's thumb brushed past his waist unconsciously this time, stopping his babbling in the middle and calming his thumping thoughts, “ Lunas never travel alone, Your Grace. Have Kenji made you feel uncomfortable somehow?”

Jungkook bites his lips before exhaling a soft sigh, he looks down on his lap and shakes his head.

“Then why are you opposing his company?” Taehyung asked because this is the first time that the omega was opposing such a trivial arrangement.

“I do not wish them to feel obliged towards me. People should have the freedom of disliking someone. If they don't want to tolerate my presence, they shouldn’t be forced to do it.” Jungkook looked up from his lap and expressed his concern.

The Royal Alpha blinked and held the omega's gaze, “They will be obliged to you but it wouldn't be by force. Above all, prevailing over the current situation should be our priority, everything else will fall in its place eventually. I had warned you about their presence because I was expecting such reactions from them, I apologise that you have to face such accusations… again.”

“Their reactions were inevitable, I am not concerned about that. My concern lies more towards… What if my presence makes them uncomfortable?” Jungkook said.

“I wouldn’t say your concern is invalid. But you can only confirm it by experiencing their ambience.” The Royal Alpha expressed his opinions, his one hand was supporting his jaw as he was conversing with the Empress.

“However, you should prioritise your comfort first. I can send the Commander to accompany you on the territorial route of Chinra instead of Kenji.”

“No.”

Jungkook stopped the Royal Alpha and moved his knees towards him to focus on the Alpha. The Emperor is right, if he wants to analyse the behaviours of the Royal Alpha's friends, he needs to experience their auras. Moreover, they have duties to accomplish, common or uncommon, no such things should hinder his thoughts from their goal, “I would like to go with Noble Kenji.”

Instead of brushing his thumb, the Alpha flattened his hand over the Empress's waist and tapped it once, “As per your desire.”

Jungkook sensed the order and stood from the Alpha's lap, cheeks flushing brightly. But the scarf helped him again as Jungkook calmed himself while the Alpha called for the Noble Kenji. The man appeared with a stick in his hand, one hand behind to show respect for the Royal Alpha.

“You will be accompanying the Empress on territorial rounds of Chinra,” Taehyung informed Kenji, “ Examine the caves more closely whether they are closed or not.”

“But I was about to come with you to Western land. I am yet to meet Jimin's mates let alone scare them away.” Kenji opposed while crossing his hands on his chest. Yes, he met with Jimin but the Almighty Kim Taehyung decided to march towards the mountains right away so the meeting remained brief. He couldn’t even see his mates.

“You won't do such things. Moreover, His mates are too mature to get scared by your noisy behaviour. You are ordered to fulfil your duty first, rest should come afterwards.” Taehyung doesn't want to know what his friend actually thought about his brother now. Courted mates are more sacred than holy spirits, any unconditional affection or unfulfilled tales ought to fade away.

“You are imposing your decision on your best friend? It's unbearable but I would like to inform you that I won't be listening to your orders, Taehyung-ah. My freedom has blessed me with skin and bones, I can make my own decisions.” Kenji said while forcing a smile towards the Empress as well.

“Are you certain?” Taehyung asked, his face devoid of any expressions, barren eyes looking down at the ruby ring that was adorning Alpha's forefinger and just before his thumb could brush over the ring, Kenji screeched and bowed deeply, “Your Majesty, I humbly request you to keep your thumb on rest.”

Taehyung sighed and clasped one of his hands behind his back, his other hand went on Kenji's shoulder. “I thought so… till you make me believe otherwise.” He squeezed his shoulder in comfort and moved to the Empress.

“I would expect a detailed analysis on my return. Till then Chinra will be under your care.”

Jungkook and Kenji both bowed in greetings as the Alpha walked past them. Kenji raised his head and looked towards the waning back of the Majesty, the cloak flaring around his boots, “Why pretend to follow the General when he would be reaching the Western land way before them, how flamboyant he is!”

“What?” Jungkook questioned but Kenji just turned and showed his humble smile while bowing, “Nothing, Your Empress. This way, Please.” He gestured his hand towards the right but Jungkook didn't budge and kept staring at the Noble.

“You don't have to hold this pretence around me. I would rather welcome slurs than dishonesty.” Jungkook said and moved past Kenji.

Kenji straightened his back and looked to his right where the Empress was walking ahead towards the hanok and then looked towards his left where the Alpha was now nowhere to be seen. How come their thoughts align with each other but at the same time hold different opinions? h
He shook his head pathetically, “ Is this what fated mates sound like?”

~

Gyuri opened the curtains with her arms and entered her chamber. She undressed her robe and let it slip past her arms before falling on the floor. Her eyes looked red but there were no tear streaks present on her cheeks. Mooshin entered the chamber and stood beside her friend, “ Gyuri? Please calm down. It's just the first time, you will get more opportunities in the future. I heard they will stay here for some months.”

Gyuri walked to her mirror and tilted her neck to open the earrings from her ear, “ How many months?”

“People don't know the confirmed season but I hope the winter will pass.” Winter season is just around the corner, if they calculate precisely the duration will be around three months. It will be enough time to create many opportunities to finally get noticed by the Royal Alpha.

Gyuri closed her eyes and sighed sadly, “After three long years, I was finally able to see him… Mooshin. He was so close to my eyes but I couldn't even catch his attention. Am I expecting too much?” She looked at Mooshin through the mirror and sat on the dressing cushion with a miserable thump.

“I must be lacking something. Have you seen the Empress? His confident walk and courtful conversations?” She asked as she opened the knot of the necklace. Mooshin stepped ahead to help her friend and removed the necklace.

“I witnessed. I didn't expect that the Empress would sit on Royal Alpha's lap in between the running court. Was it a part of some traditions because I haven't seen such things before.” She commented while picking up the robe from the floor and folding it delicately.

“If I'm not wrong I observed that His Majesty had gestured to the Empress to sit on his left thigh. It must be some ritual.”

The curtains of the chamber parted once again and a lady adorned with shining yellow hanfu entered the chamber. A wide smile was spread on her lips but as soon as she saw the gloomy face of her daughter that smile slipped into concern, “Gyuri? What happened, my child?”

Mooshin bowed to the lady and left the chamber while Gyuri turned around to look at her mother. She greeted her mother with a dull voice and kept sitting on her dressing cushion. Her mother analysed her child's behaviour and let out a sigh, “I am assuming that you couldn't meet our Emperor?”

She walked close to her daughter and picked up the necklace from the dressing table again, “ This dejected face doesn't suit you at all.”

“He hadn't even looked at me, Mother. I was thinking that perhaps… perhaps he will recognise my face if not my name. I kept sitting behind the ministers like a sculpted puppet.”

Her mother placed her hand on her shoulder to comfort her daughter and leaned across her cheek, “ Right now, you should be preparing for the next opportunity rather than feeling sad over the failed one.” She placed the necklace around her neck once again and knotted it properly.

It wasn't an easy decision for the Lady of Noble house when she learnt about her child's love for the first time. She opposed it for a long time, stopping her from going out of the Western land and banning her from stepping out of the house. She undertook her feelings as infatuation and attraction with the age evolution. But in the span of three years, she had witnessed her daughter's yearnings and miserable tears of sadness.

She decided to support her love, even if the dream of her daughter doesn't fall under the ideology of the society. Who would ever be perfect for her daughter if not the Emperor of Europe?

“Have you seen the Empress?” Her Mother asked.

Gyuri smiled sadly and tilted her neck when her mother started to drape the earrings in her ears, “Yes. But I couldn't see his face, he was wearing a scarf.”

“A scarf? Tell me all the details while I enrobe you again.” Her Mother ordered and started to comb her dishevelled hair again.

Gyuri told her mother all the details, a part of her heart started to feel light when all the expressions she read during the court started to come out of his mind. She explained how she felt dejected when other ministers pushed her at the back of the crowd and stood in front of her like a shield. She explained how ethereal the Royal Alpha looked when she saw him after so long, similar to the day when she first saw him. She explained how the Empress entered the hall and how the entire attention of the hall fell on him. She explained how he sat on the Royal Alpha's left thigh, how he communicated, and how the whole discussion took a disastrous turn towards all of her plans.

“He is indeed fortunate to have the Royal Alpha as his fated mate.” Her mother said while holding the robe for her.

“They won't be living with us, Mother. The General tried but His Majesty denied at once.” She expressed her worries, she doesn't see any more opportunities to see the Royal Alpha again.

“We can't oppose their decision, can we? But it is in our hands to fully utilise the given opportunities on our accord. His Majesty would definitely visit Western land every once in a while, you have to be prepared for that time.” Her Mother was certainly telling the truth and soon Gyuri's eyes lit up in excitement.

“Yes, you are right. They will be coming down to Western land this evening. I heard His Majesty saying that they will be following the General to the borders.” She turned around and faced the mirror again, this time lips holding a hopeful smile.

“Perfect. You prepare your best cuisines for the night, I will make sure that His Majesty will taste the delicacy of your hands tonight itself.” The Lady of the Noble house promised, earning a tight hug from her daughter in return.

“I am blessed to have you, Mother. Thank you. Thank you for understanding my love and supporting me.” Gyuri said while snuggling into her mother's arms.

“My blessings are always with you, My Child.” She tapped her daughter's shoulders and pulled her away to hold her cheeks.

“I will be attending the cookhouse now. I need to secure my place before the chefs take over the dinner.” She informed her Mother and was about to cross the curtains of her chamber when her Mother stopped her.

“Are you sure you are not forgetting something?”

Gyuri gasped and twirled around to pick another rose from the pot. She dipped the corners of the petals in the fragrant flask and let the flowery aroma surround her. When her Mother finally approved her movements, Gyuri smiled bashfully and left the chamber.

Her mother closed the fragrant flask and hid it under the third drawer, “Your Mother will make sure that you will have all of your desired things in the end. You are my child, I have turned you into a Noble Omega laced with all kinds of manners and skills. If the moon goddess permits no one would stop you from securing that left thigh of the Royal Alpha.”

~

Kenji swirled the stick in his hand and pointed at the mountain that had slanted marbles around its periphery, “This is Mosnic. Soldiers! Let's not dare to cross the peripheral boundaries and respect their territories.”

“Five of you will be deployed here, you can choose the group among yourself.” The Empress said as he moved ahead and inspected the territories further. He was carrying a black bow on his back, its white string stretched across his torso. A bow quiver was attached to the curve of the bow where six pairs of arrows were stored perfectly.

Jungkook jumped down a rock and observed the valley in between both mountains. It wasn't deep but the entire valley was covered with spiked marbles, no one in their right mind would dare to surpass this valley.

But Strays still attacked the tribes of Mosnic. How? If this is the only route that connects both mountains then how would they be able to cross this valley without ripping apart by these marbles?

“Where are those caves?” Jungkook asked Kenji who was plucking out a shining marble with his wooden stick or maybe trying his best to acquire it. They hadn't talked much since they started their journey from the eastern territories of Chinra. Now three hours later, the Sun was spreading its last rays over the orange clouds when they reached the territories of Mosnic. 

“Towards your left, Your Empress.” Kenji said, not paying enough attention to his surroundings. Soon his stick slipped and before he could plunge himself on the spikes, he left the stick and moved behind, “Dying one time isn't enough for you, Kenji?” He asked himself and looked around.

The field was entirely empty so he turned left, knowing very well where the Empress could go for his next inspection.

Jungkook reached the caves and the Eclipse soldiers who were already deployed there for a few weeks, recognized the Empress right away. They bowed deeply and greeted the Empress. Jungkook acknowledged their greetings and watched the openings of the cave covered with stones, “Is this how we have covered the mouths of the caves?”

“Actually we have blasted the both endings of the cave, both routes are now melted to dust. But we can show you some interesting changes, Your Empress.” One of the soldiers offered.

“What changes?”

The soldier moved quickly on his feet and brushed away some bushes from another part of the mountain. It was close to the cave but on the opposite side. The soldier pointed at the stone and called for Luna, “ I request you to hear the sounds that's coming from this stone.”

Jungkook walked ahead and heighted his wolf hearing till he heard the sharp striking of metals over each other, “They are building a new cave?” His suspicion turned into reality when the soldier nodded his head, “But we are well prepared this time, Your Empress.”

Another soldier moved and opened a sac that was filled with barrels of oil, “Before they could even see the sand of Chinra, we will cook their bodies inside the caves.” All the soldiers laughed as if waiting for their enemies to finally complete their work and give a face to the digging cave.

Jungkook found their laugh courageous and went back to listen to the noise again. The clinking of metals was happening much far away but his wolf powers blessed him to be able to pick the sound. He pressed his palm on the surface and proposed, “How about we caught them instead? In the midst of the war, they could become our assets for gaining much valuable information.”

“They are trained to keep their mouths sealed, Your Empress.” Kenji joined the conversation, his red hanfu wafting along with wind as he walked towards them. His hands holding a new stick, “ They will prove to be a nuisance rather than an asset.”

One of the soldiers recognised the face and bowed, “Noble Kenji, we are glad that you joined us.” Kenji accepted his bow and smiled brightly at him, “Ofcourse, I had to leave my kingdom in the middle to support our Emperor. We are friends after all.”

Jungkook blinked his eyes to digest the false conversation, the soldier must have seen Kenji in the battles of the past years. He just can't imagine how these people fed different stories to people to mislead their minds. Every time. This should be a part of some artful creation… telling false stories like that.

“They don't have to speak their secrets out for us. We have other options to use their memories without the use of their voices.” Jungkook contorted back and stepped away from the mountain. He was pointed towards the ability of the Royal Alpha to read their minds and perhaps Kenji has caught on to his suggestion because he started to laugh while hiding half of his face.

Jungkook's eyes squinted at him before he addressed the soldiers, “ This noise could be used to distract your mind from the other surroundings. Be attentive towards the entire periphery, our instincts can lead us to manage the fields in different proportions.”

Jungkook left the premises after that he hadn't felt this annoyed in a while now. He used to be calm and think coherently during such circumstances but this noble was instigating the worst in him. The Sun was set in the west when he walked down the same path which they used to climb the mountain.

Kenji stopped his laugh and coughed a bit to control his mannerisms. He waved off to the soldiers and followed the Empress right away. Soon his steps caught up with the Empress and apologised diligently, “I didn't mean to cut off your suggestion. I just find your proposal very conflicting with the nature of the Royal Alpha.”

“How?” Jungkook asked while glaring ahead. He won't look at the Noble till his instincts feel peace around them.

“The heights of Taehyung's morale are taller than this mountain. If he truly wanted to use his powers, do you think any war will ever happen? There are some values that he applies to his powers as if they are some written rules from the Elders.” Kenji said as he flicked the stick in the air and secured it behind his back.

Jungkook slowed down his pace but still hadn't looked at Noble, “ What kind of values?”

“Some basic ethics. For instance, not invading someone's mind without their permission, not using his scent to agitate the people, not using his spells for his own advantage. He is strict with these values, I am yet to see any exceptions.” Kenji explained as both of them walked down the same route.

Jungkook's heart bounced with a hiccup when he realised he is indeed one of the exceptions. He remembered how the Alpha confessed that he had read him during his triggered heat. His hand went to clutch the dagger when the tremors surged to his fingers. But unaware of the omega's turmoil, Kenji kept talking around him.

“When the ability of healing existed, he used to infuse the power only once a week. He wanted to feel the pain of his people. According to him, it will bring them closer to his people and help him to understand their physical pain. And When the ability of invisibility existed, he never used it to invade the privacy of people.”

Existed?

Jungkook remembered when the Alpha had told him that he sacrificed his power of healing before the execution of his great grandfather. But the power of invisibility? Why did he have to sacrifice that power? For whom? Or are there any other reasons behind it? The curiosity hindered his thoughts of peace when he asked the Noble, “Existed? What happened to the Alpha's power of invisibility?”

Kenji stopped in his steps and looked at the Empress with horrendous eyes, his face exhibiting a pale complexion, afraid if he might have said something that he certainly shouldn't have.

Jungkook read right through his expressions and looked at him passively, “I knew why and how he sacrificed his power of healing. I am aware of the happenings of the past, not the details but the major changes so if you are hesitating to disclose the secrets…they are no longer any secret to me.”

Kenji visibly sighed in relief, “Then I am safe. Oh my goddess, I was having visuals of the most crucified deaths.”

Jungkook ignored his movements and started to walk again, Kenji following him behind, “ Well… you might be aware of the condition behind killing a Royal. That's how he lost his power of healing while murdering his great grandfather. As for his power of invisibility, he sacrificed that power to kill one more immortal.”

“Who?” Jungkook eyed the Noble with wide eyes, anticipating the answer of the older.

“The Moon Goddess.”

The name sent shivers down the omega's spine when he heard it, his feet staggered on the path as he looked at the Noble, “What?” The Royal Alpha, his mate, tried to kill the moon goddess? The epitome idol of their worship, the preserver and creator of their entities. How can this even be possible?

“Foolish act. He failed in his plan, of course, but having such thoughts in the first place were utterly witless. The man was in love, no one expected less from him to protect his mate.” Kenji had a strange expression on his face, a expression that held misery along with anger.

“Protect? But Alpha said his mate rejected their bond so why would he need protection from Moon Goddess?” Jungkook wasn't able to grasp the depth of the situation but his mind was circulating the memories to collect all the bits and information.

“He believed that when Hwan rejected him a third time with a dagger in his chest. Before that his mind and heart were busy assuming the innocence of his mate and blaming the Moon Goddess. He was disastrous.” Their walk continued till both of them turned towards the local premises of Chinra.

“Was the Moon Goddess involved behind the rejection of their bond?” Jungkook wondered.

“No one knows. And when everything took place, nothing mattered more than the tragedy everyone faced because of the decision of Hwan. Hwan was the man of his words, what could even force the moonchild from doing what he wanted? Or what could even exist that the Moon Goddess couldn't solve herself?”

“Still. Doesn't the rejection feel so sudden?” Jungkook doesn't feel the annoyance that always knocks on his heart when he hears that name. This time, he felt the suspense that could be hidden behind that name.

“It wasn't sudden. I still remembered we were on our last adventure for conquering the Royal sword. It took us around a month to come back and during that month people around the Eclipse had many folklores to share. I won't dwell much on that but the tales could be enough to shred apart a bond of wolves. Yet Taehyung didn't believe those rumours and then paid for enriching his faith in love.” Kenji said while observing the notions of the Empress. The omega looked nauseous, it could be due to the excessive use of the scarf but the environment wasn't that humid to feel the heat.

So he suggested it on purpose and asked, “Are you Hwan?”

He noticed how the omega's eyes sharpened and how his hands whipped out the dagger from the belt hoop, “No.”

“I haven't seen any omega so much invested in the past love interest of their Alpha. I would surely have doubts about you.”

“Your doubts aren't my concern. I am invested because once my mate was invested enough to kill the Moon Goddess for that love interest. Nothing else.” There was a tinge of warning stressed in the tone of the omega and Kenji took it as severely as he could.

“I would suggest that you shouldn't think about the past. It's already ruined for everyone. Just remember that the Kim Taehyung that you have received as your Alpha is no longer the same Kim Taehyung once fell in love with Hwan. That Alpha died centuries ago and this Alpha seemed to begin his life soon.”

Jungkook couldn't catch the last words of the Noble because he didn't quite agree with him. One can't separate their pain just because it had happened centuries ago. The person who once loved his mate, the person who once faced rejection, the person who suffered the sorrows of his friends’ death, the person who left behind with nothing in his hands… was his Alpha.

These are not two different persons, only one. His Alpha. But he doesn't have to fight off his thoughts to clear the misinterpretation of others. So he didn't oppose the Noble's words and didn't believe them as well.

Kenji rolled his eyes and brought his stick forward from his back, “ You can say that you disagree with me. There wasn't any need to scowl so loudly.”

Jungkook looked at Noble in surprise. What did he do? Without even realising the omega had shown such intrusive expressions? What's happening around him? First with the Alpha in Apex Dunes and now here with the Noble, why can't he just control his voices and face expressions before delivering them.

“I didn't mean to-”

“You definitely mean that scowl.” Kenji scowled loudly, mimicking the omega, “Do you have any knowledge how much older I am compared to you? How disrespectful!”

Jungkook bit his lips in concern and walked past the Noble. He didn't mean to disrespect the Noble but he should know that he can't, for the love of Moon Goddess, bear disgrace on the Alpha's name. The Noble was wrong in interpreting the nature of his Alpha, hence he received his scowl in response.

“We need to rebuild that hanok as well, do you think I will help you if you behave like this with me?” Kenji shouted from behind but Jungkook didn't turn around, he kept walking ahead, taking big steps on the route.

“Such a stubborn Empress!”

~

The darkness covered the sky fully when Taehyung completed his round from the territories of Gigeré to Western land. He found the borders rather peaceful, the soldiers were deployed on both sides but the tension remained the same. He won't be able to cast any protective spells in any short time but the barriers of soldiers would be enough till the negotiations take place.

The Commander and the General both were walking behind the Royal Alpha, indulging in a conversation about the letter of negotiation they just sent to the borders of the Strays when two servants bowed in front of the Royal Alpha and informed, “ The dinner is ready, Your Majesty. Soldiers are waiting for you.”

The news caught the General's attention and he came forward to wave off the servants, “ The shift of daylight soldiers has ended and they must be aware of your presence in the Western Land. We will be grateful if you bless them during the mass feast.”

Taehyung acknowledged his request and replied, “I will be glad. Please make sure to serve them appropriate portions, young blood is always hungry.”

“Of course, Your Majesty. The Royal Highness has helped with the distribution of food allocations in all the cookhouses. We have enough packed resources for the next five months. Western land and others will forever be grateful to the farmers of Eclipse.” His eyes held gratitude towards the Royal Alpha and the people of Eclipse.

“They are delighted to help you. Serve the soldiers first,” The Emperor ordered and the General received it with all his heart before moving towards the cookhouse where huge tarpaulins were laid out to sit and dine.

“Commander,” The Royal Alpha called.

Hoseok was standing behind him and came forward at the call, “Your Majesty.”

“Where are your mates?” The Alpha asked.

The question left the Commander in surprise but he soon covered it beneath his practised features, “ The Royal Highness was helping in the cookhouse when I last saw him during the day and Guard Min was instructing the navy officials about not carrying the weapons on the wooden boats. He was wearing the scarf and his gat as per orders so spotting him in the crowd wouldn't be much effort.”

【 Gat ; Traditional hat worn by people of Eclipse.】

The Alpha looked at the Commander with a discontent glint. The same glint that he had received during the courtroom where he bore the punishment of writing reports, “Have you ever knew the exact whereabouts of your mates?”

Hoseok coughed and looked down, “ I apologise, Your Majesty.”

“I must deliver a piece of advice to you, Commander.” Taehyung said as he clasped his hands behind his back. Hoseok raised his eyes in attentiveness and waited for the Royal Alpha.

“One should always be aware of his mates' whereabouts especially when you are taking part in war together. Sometimes familiar people are more dangerous than strangers. I will be watching from Chinra but you have to be attentive around the Western land.”

“Agreed, Your Majesty.” The Commander delivered a strict nod and noted the advice in the deepest part of his brain.

Both of them walked towards the cookhouse when the Commander proposed, “Should I bring the Empress down for the dinner?”

“No. We will be doing the dinner in Chinra.” They entered the cookhouse and everyone continued to eat their dinner after delivering greetings to the Royal Alpha. Big lines of soldiers were served food, the loud noises of cutleries and in between food talks were overpowering the reverberating of the clouds.

The Commander went straight to the Royal Highness who was sitting at the corner of the tarpaulin with the red-haired Beta but today those hairs were hidden underneath the gat. Jimin welcomed the Commander while feeding him a gracious bite of the food.

Taehyung kept standing at the front of the crowd and looked around properly, the life of Western land which was disturbed by the commotions of the borders now seemed to have more peace in the surroundings. The fear of tomorrow is still present but sooner the negotiations will be done, sooner the journey of freedom will start.

His gaze fell upon Byung Sang who had his mate sitting in between his legs as both of them were eating the dinner like starved animals. He shook his head and looked for Nami but he couldn't feel the presence of the witcher around the cookhouse.

The Lady of the Noble house noticed the Alpha and instructed all the attendants with one gesture. All the attendants started to work while she approached the Alpha with confident steps, “ We will be indebted to your generosity, Your Majesty. I am the lady of the Western land Noble house.” She bowed and introduced himself.

The Royal Alpha nodded while looking around the premises of the cookhouse, it was vast, enough for the army to together sit and dine at once, “Western land has wide infrastructure.”

The lady smiled widely and said,“We will be delighted if the Alpha blesses the soldiers and eats with us. Everyone has made preparations for your humble arrival.” From behind the lady, several maids came forward while holding different kinds of cuisines.

“We have prepared the dinner, Your Majesty. Your acceptance will give relief to our hard work.” She gestured to the maids who kept decorating the large sheet with all kinds of dishes. From grilled meat to soupy chunks of shrimps and prawns, from clams to rice rolls and crabs. Everything was presented in willful portions, adorned with clean dishes and cutleries.

Taehyung looked at the sheet and then towards the lady, finally observing her excited smile,“I can't accept this.” The smile faded away to nothingness and a fear spread around her features, “Is something happened, Your Majesty? Have we made any mistakes?” She asked when the maids returned to the cookhouse after leaving all the dishes on the sheet.

Jimin looked at the crowd that was starting to form at the front, “What's happening there?” He asked his mates.

The Commander lowered his voice and started to speak, “They have invited the Royal Alpha for dinner. He agreed and decided to be present during the dinner of the soldiers but it seems like they wanted something more.”

Jimin sighed and tapped Yoongi's knee to gain his attention because the Commander was already looking at him, “ I will be joining you both soon. My brother needs a bit of my assistance.” The Commander hummed as Yoongi fed him another bite.

The Royal Omega approached the commotion and found his brother in the midst of it, standing proudly but silently listening to the lady, “Lady Pyuhani?” He addressed.

When Lady in the middle faced the Royal omega and bowed to the Highness, Jimin continued, “We are appreciative for the kind services of Western land but I'm afraid your demand mayhaps to no avail.”

He showed his big smile to his brother and looked all around the soldiers, “Eclipse has a traditional ritual where the Emperor eats only after all of his folks have eaten their food. My brother has followed this ritual since his coronation.”

The Lady explained with unmatched enthusiasm, “We aren't aware of the ritual, Your Majesty. Please accept my apology. However, all the soldiers have almost finished their meals. Can we serve after that?”

“You are truly a nice host, Lady Pyuhani. But you are forgetting about the folks of Chinra.” Their conversation continued for a while but the Royal Alpha took his leave after listening to the passable words of his brother.

He could still hear the lady talking among the crowd of attendants, “But will all this food go to waste now?” Just as she finished her concern a new batch of soldiers entered the premises of the cookhouse, “Soldiers!” Jimin waved towards them to come closer, “ We have yet to fill many stomachs, I hope you will understand.”

The Lady controlled her features while nodding in appreciation and let the Royal Highness present the sheet in front of the soldiers who beamed with excitement and sat down in a circle to assure their appetites.

“You can ask the attendants for more food, the people of Western Land are generous.”

~

Taehyung stepped out of the cookhouse and held his gaze towards Chinra Mountain. In the midst of the dark, its peak was completely hidden. Far above the land only a few lanterns were illuminating the light in some parts. He wondered if the Empress had completed his work or not? Kenji hadn't informed him if they had chosen a hanok or not.

Has the Empress eaten something or not?

As far as he noticed, they hadn't had any kind of food in Apex Dunes and not after arriving in the mountains. A stonic shadow settled inside the Royal Alpha's stomach when he recalled the abrupt weight loss of the omega. He pondered over the omega's behaviour who always forgets to eat his meals. If one asked the Royal Alpha he would proudly say that he had practised starvation so the meals doesn't affect him anymore but the omega, he has no such experience. Then why is he playing with nature?

“Are we summoning the mountain now?” Kenji asked as he followed the gaze of the Royal Alpha.

Taehyung flattened his gaze and looked over his shoulder, “You seem to have finished your work?”

“Yes. The Empress had chosen a hanok in the north region of Chinra, some parts of it needed restoring so with the help of some soldiers we did some repairings and constructed it fully. And the deployment is done as well.” Kenji stretched his hands and tickled his shoulder bones.

“It's appreciative. You can join the people of Western Land for dinner, the rest are eating inside.” Taehyung informed his friend who was busy looking around the river.

“No need. I already ate with the folks of Chinra. Their salmon was the best. Have you seen Nami?” Kenji asked instead.

Taehyung looked at Kenji and blinked his eyes slowly before shaking his head, “I haven't seen him since Apex Dunes.”

Kenji frowned and looked around with more concern, “ You should leave for Chinra now, I will look for him.” Before the Royal Alpha could ask him to leave the man alone, Kenji was already walking towards the Gigeré forest.

So the people of Chinra had already eaten dinner. It's good. He hoped that the Empress had taken his meal as well. Taehyung turned towards the route of the Chinra and started to walk on it, his body shifted from one point to the other till he appeared at the coastal gate of Chinra. His nostrils picked up the scent of pines and followed the trails of it.

He could see the folks lighting up the lanterns in front of their huts and hanoks, some even preparing the beddings for the night. His feet lead him towards a circular bridge beside the mountain, Taehyung kept walking till he reached the door of the hanok that the omega had chosen for their stay.

He climbed a few stairs and lifted his hand to knock on the door. He heard the movements behind the door before a pair of feet rushed to the door and opened it. Taehyung found the omega in a very dishevelled state, his body was sweating profusely, hairs and clothes ruined in dust, face looked exhausted.

“Are you feeling alright?” Taehyung asked as he entered the hanok and closed the door behind him. He wanted to take a close look at the hanok but his eyes weren't moving away from the omega.

Jungkook folded his hair in a loose bun and smiled sceptically, “I am fine just searching for a place to take a bath. I asked around the people but they said they dive in the river during some specific hours. I wasn't aware so I missed the time.” The omega turned around to set his m clothes in the wooden closet.

“Have you eaten something?” Taehyung asked while still standing at the threshold of the hanok.

The long silence of the omega converted into a loud sound of thump when Taehyung opened the black chest and took out a pair of his fresh clothes, “Grab your fresh clothes. We are going out.” He declared before opening the door wide and leaving the hanok.

Jungkook pressed his lips in a thin line and deliberately reached out for a fresh pair of clothes. He picked up some wide cotton pants and a white hanfu-shirt along with a long scarf. He wrapped the scarf around his face and left the hanok after locking the door.

The Royal Alpha was standing outside the door and when he heard the clink of the closed door, he started to walk ahead. Jungkook made a short run and walked side by side with the Alpha.

“Are you upset with me?” Jungkook asked.

“I would rather be upset at the negligence you are showing towards yourself.” The Alpha replied while turning towards the left corner of the mountain streaks.

“I was feeling dusty, I served everyone and made sure all the soldiers had eaten as well but when it was my turn I asked them to store it. I will eat after the bath, you have my words.” Jungkook expressed his thoughts with the softest voice his throat could ever muster.

Taehyung knew about the excuses the omega was coming with and he certainly knew the exact reason why he didn't eat the dinner. But the omega seemed already drained with the day, further arguments won't be beneficial for either of them.

“We will see about that.” The Royal Alpha went silent after that and bent his head to avoid the dangling branches of the trees as both of them surpassed the local territories and entered into the forest of Chinra.

“Where are we going?” Jungkook asked.

“The Commander told me about a waterfall around this place, we can use it at night.” Taehyung explained as he left the path for the omega to walk ahead. Jungkook took the lead and kept looking around to memorise the directions. Everything was covered with darkness but the moonlight was enlightening their path.

“Wouldn't it be too open?” Jungkook hasn't ever taken a bath in such an open area. Maybe he should have taken some spare clothes with him so he could take a dip while wearing those clothes but it seems like he has to use the old ones now.

“I will be joining you from the other side. No one would invade the privacy of the waterfall, I will take care of that.” Taehyung flattened his clothes on his shoulder when he heard the loud soaring of water waves falling down the hill.

Jungkook removed his scarf as he looked towards the hill. The water was falling down from the highest peak of the chinra or maybe from above the clouds. The peak of the Chinra was covered with clouds so he couldn't be sure from where the water was emerging but the water was falling down in three different waterfalls, striking from one hill down to the other before falling on the ground.

“This is a beautiful creation of nature.” Jungkook was mesmerised by the dynamic flow of the water. Both of them walked close to the waterfall and the sound of falling waves started to echo around them.

Taehyung stepped on a big stone and stretched his hand towards the Empress. Jungkook held the hand and followed the steps of the Alpha. In the precise steps of the Royal Alpha, both of them reached at one corner of the waterfall.

They kept their clothes in the corner and removed the shoes.

“The water is warm so don't dip for long.” Taehyung said over his shoulder while removing his cloak. Then comes off his shirt and hair tie.

“Hmm. You will be using the other side of the waterfall?” Jungkook asked.

“Yeah. So I'll have to go first. If you feel uncomfortable anyhow…mindlink me right away.” The Royal Alpha looked at the omega who was looking back at him. When the omega nodded his head, Taehyung moved and dived in the water. His body swimmed far till the other side and aroused to wave off excess water from his black locks.

Jungkook removed his gaze from the Alpha's bare back and turned around. He let his scarf fall around the sole of his feet and removed his socks. He sat on a flattened rock after opening his hair and dipped his feet in the water. The omega sighed in comfort with an open mouth as if his body was craving for this warmth.

His body glided into the water on its own, the hot water healing his skin inch by inch. Jungkook took the support of another rock and relaxed his back against it. He let his body showered by the falling droplets and closed his eyes.

He felt the water penetrating his clothes, soaking his feet, knees and thighs before reaching above his waist. His face was getting sprinkled by the round droplets, drip by drip. He took another dip and let the water move past his red long hairs. He rotated his body in the water, the curls moving along with the motion before wrapping around his arm. His head rose from the water. front hairs hugging his cheeks before he pushed them behind his shoulders.

He opened his eyes and found the Alpha turning his back towards him. He was diving in the water more enthusiastically than him. This could be all Jungkook would need to feel relaxed and full. The hot water held thick layers of vapours which were working as a veil in between their bodies. He blinked his eyes slowly and pushed his back against that rock.

He opened the cuffs of his shirt and used his fingers to rub his face and neck. He let the warm water wash his dusty skin and hold his body in one place. He was aware of his surroundings, the loud showering of waterfall, the striking droplets on the rocks and his floating body around the rock. He was aware of his surroundings till the loud sound of waterfall became a berceuse to his ears, till the striking droplets on the rocks became a part of some gentle song, till he couldn't feel his floating body against the rock. The omega was indeed aware of his surroundings.

The Royal Alpha huffed for oxygen when he rose from the lowest dip, his mind creating a hollow space till he filled the gap with excessive air. He pushed his hair back and moved his body, the warm water soothes his burning bones leaving a balm in the wake of it. His pruney fingers flicked away the water from his chin and turned towards the Empress.

In the midst of the dark night and the misty vapours, Taehyung could only see some blurry images of the omega, “Luna?” He shouted from afar, voice louder than the burble of the waterfall.

When the Royal Alpha didn't receive any response from the omega, his body swimmed towards the other corner. Pushing away the curtains of mist, Taehyung found the Empress sleeping against a big rock. Head tilted back till it was supported by the rock, hands and waist relaxing against it.

He swimmed closer to the omega and stood in front of him, blocking his body showering droplets. “Luna?” Taehyung called him again but the omega didn't budge from his sleep. He looked peaceful as if half of his body wasn't floating in between the rocks.

Taehyung raised his warm hand and placed it over the puffed up cheek of the omega, “Jungkook?”

The omega didn't open his eyes but his body sensed his touch. It was dangerous how Jungkook moved his face and muzzled his nose into the Alpha's palm. Taehyung raised his other hand and cupped the omega's face, “Open your eyes.”

The order was enough for Jungkook to push his eyes open, his eyelids felt heavier than the rocks behind him but kept them open just to see the Alpha standing so close to him.

“I have told you to not dip for longer.” Taehyung brushed his thumbs under the Omega's eyes and Jungkook closed them with a sigh again. The touch was soft, his face was cradled by the palms of the Alpha.

“We should leave now, you need to eat.” Taehyung said and pulled his palms away from the omega's face. Jungkook moved his neck in the direction of those palms, seeking that touch again. The Royal Alpha was about to call for him when his eyes caught the red mark nestled in the depth of the omega's neck.

He moved his gaze away momentarily and called for the omega, “Jungkook.”

The night reached its peak when Jungkook opened his eyes again and pushed himself away from the comfort of rock. But rather than swimming across the brink of the waterfall, Jungkook swimmed right into the Royal Alpha's arms.

His arms wrapped the man into his arms and placed his head on his shoulders. His warm breaths falling at the treasure of the sandalwood. Taehyung caught the omega's waist to balance their bodies and held him close.

“You are going back on your words, Your Grace.” Taehyung whispered. But that low whisper moved Jungkook's eyeballs from one point to the other. The omega shook his head against the shoulder of the Alpha.

“You said you will eat after the bath.” The Alpha quoted and Jungkook nodded in agreement.

“Then shouldn't we be moving out of the waterfall?” The Alpha asked and Jungkook sighed into his neck before nodding his neck once again. Taehyung supported the omega's body till both of them reached the shore of the waterfall, warning him about the rocks in the path.

Jungkook forced himself to open his eyes and looked for his clothes. He didn't look around to know where the Alpha was changing his clothes. He trusted the Alpha with his instincts because his own seemed to swim away with the warm water. He changed his clothes fully, from closing the hooks of his wide pants to buttoning the buttons of the hanfu-shirt. He decided to not wear his boots and wrapped them into his old clothes.

When he turned around to look for the Alpha, he found him standing while facing the waterfall. Jungkook walked to him and held the Alpha's hand before he could stretch it towards him. Taehyung pulled them out of the riddles of the rock with strained steps. Jungkook found that the Alpha was also not wearing his shoes, he caught the sight of their mating rings shining under the moonlight.

The long walk back to the local premises of Chinra opened Jungkook's eyes completely. But before he could step inside the local territories, Taehyung offered his cloak to him. The omega wore it around his arms and pulled the hood over his head.

Taehyung opened the door of their hanok for the omega and said, “Rest here while I bring the dinner.” Jungkook didn't argue at what and how the Alpha will know about the cookhouse of the Chinra, he entered the hanok and let the Alpha close the door behind him.

He removed the cloak and placed it on the mattress. He took out his long towel from the closet and wrapped it around his dripping hairs. Jungkook spread a new sheet on the ground and kept a flask of water in the middle. He kept moving and encasing the chamber till he placed all the excessive chests in the corner and set the Alpha's clothes in his wooden closet.

He flicked the towel and dabbed it over his hair till it observed the moisture of the dripping red tresses. He sniffed the air and was about to move for the door when the Alpha opened it with a light kick of his knee.

He was carrying a big platter covered with a new cloth, Jungkook helped the Alpha and placed the dishes on the sheet one by one, there was two loaf breads, two bowls of curry, two bowls of rice and one bowl of soup, “Are the chefs still awake?”

Taehyung shook his head, “ I might have scared them with my knock but the food was stored so it has to be eaten today.” The Royal Alpha pushed his hair back and tied the knots of his ruffled shirts behind his neck.

Jungkook used his towel to clean his feet and then passed it to the Royal Alpha, “I will apologise to them in the morning. We should be having a meal at its fixed time like other folks or we would disturb their daily routines.”

Taehyung wiped his feet while watching the omega talking coherently, it was enough proof of the omega's consciousness. Jungkook took out portions from the dishes on one plate and mixed them together to make a bite, “Have the people of Western land had their meals?”

The Royal Alpha could see the hidden motive behind the surging questions of the omega. If he looked closely, it isn't that difficult to read those doe eyes. So when the omega raised the bite in front of his lips, Taehyung stopped his hand in the middle. He pressed his forefinger on the top of the omega's wrist and pushed his hand down, “I will accept that bite when you finish this plate first.”

The Royal Alpha pushed the omega's hand aside and folded his cuffs before mixing a bite from the plate. He held his lathered fingers against the lips of the omega and pointed at the bite, “ Eat.”

Jungkook opened his mouth and chewed the food after his tongue gulped it inside. His wide eyes kept looking at the Alpha but Taehyung didn't match his gaze and moved to mix another bite with the bread and curry, “ Yes. The folks of Western Land have finished their meals.” He answered while presenting another bite to the omega.

Jungkook accepted the bite while nodding his head slowly. He noticed the Alpha's finger, red and orange flavour covering the nodes of the fingertips. The fingers were moving on the plate strategically before lifting another bite in front of his lips. He parted his lips and sensed how the Alpha pushed the bites ahead with his thumb for his tongue to capture.

“Yes. We should have a meal at a fixed time.”

Taehyung answered his old question, colouring the omega's cheeks red in response. Jungkook was staring at the Alpha while Taehyung kept answering all of his sensible and non-sensible questions one by one. He didn't know how his stomach had enough space and he didn't know when the entire plate emptied but he was shocked when the Alpha filled the plate once again.

“What about your visit around the territories of Chinra?” Taehyung asked as his fingers raised another bite in front of the omega. Jungkook accepted it and chewed it slowly while answering with full cheeks, “It was productive. We found that Strays are making another cave to enter the territories of Chinra.”

“Another?” The Royal Alpha frowned while feeding the omega another bite. Jungkook nodded his head, his temple supporting lines of anger and lips puckered to chew the food.

“Yeah. But soldiers have all the tools to stop their heinous actions.” Jungkook assured and accepted another bite. Maybe he was hungry or it was the cohesive gaze of the Alpha that was pushing him to accept the bites one after the other.

“As they should. I have to survey the Chinra territories as well. I will leave after dinner.” Taehyung informed while collecting another bite from the plate.

Jungkook's wide eyes squinted, the tongue came out to wipe off the lower lip, “You will survey the territories at night?” The omega couldn't help but ask.

Taehyung nodded while feeding another bite to the omega, “I have to complete the rounds but it will be quicker as you have already surveyed the territories before.”

The Royal Alpha pushed the flake of rice in the omega's mouth when it crumbled at the corner of his lips. Jungkook's tongue comes out to wipe it off of his thumb before gulping it inside.

“When will you be back?” Jungkook asked after balancing his voice to not sound in dismay.

“In a few hours, before dawn.”

When the next bite didn't come forward Jungkook looked down at the plate. He gasped when he found the plate was drained of any grains. He looked at his mate with surprised eyes, “But you said you eat after me.”

Taehyung held the omega's gaze this time and voiced out slowly, “ I had said that I will accept the bite when you finish the plate first.” He pointed towards the omega's hand who, like a fool, was still holding the food in between his fingers. The curry had lathered half of his palm when he felt a hand around his wrist.

“Alpha, I will bring another-” His voice got lost behind his vocal cords when the Royal Alpha wrapped his lips around the nodes of his fingers and tongue peaked out to swap the food inside his mouth. Jungkook forced his hand to pull out of the Alpha's grip but Taehyung kept holding his wrist before sucking on his forefinger.

The warm tongue flattened on the node of his finger before swiping the surface in the upward direction. When Taehyung wrapped his lips around the middle finger, his gaze lifted to match with the omega. Jungkook parted his lips to voice out some incoherent words but nothing came out at all.

Taehyung licked the last finger before gulping down the chewed food, “ Thank you. The dinner was delicious.”

Jungkook couldn't even catch the scattered whiffs of the air when the Royal Alpha collected the dishes and went out of the chamber. The door left open and Jungkook could see the Alpha washing his hands with the stored water in the outside pots.

The omega trusted his legs enough to rise on his feet and walked towards the door. His fingers were vibrating with the chills that they felt with the open air. Jungkook collected the towel from the floor and lifted his hands to hand it on the hooks of the ceilings.

His hands stretched above his head when Jungkook reached for the hook. His hanfu-shirt which was covering his torso up to his waist hauled up with the stretch, leaving the expanse of his waist all bare.

Taehyung washed his hands and looked up to find the omega looking towards the ceiling. His eyes caught the bare waist of the omega and the Alpha was to move his gaze when he noticed handprints on that pale skin.

His handprints.

The dark marks of some fingers were covering half of the omega's waist, a thumb mark almost touching the belly button of the curved waist. How could it be possible? When they scented each other, the Royal Alpha was aware of his grip around the omega's waist, he was certainly holding the omega from above the clothes. Then how could the marks turn this severe?

Jungkook successfully hooked the towel, his gaze moved towards his mate only to find the Alpha already looking towards him. But he wasn't looking at his face this time. Jungkook followed his gaze and when he noticed his raised shirt, the omega flicked it down and turned around on his feet. His heart exploded with the fireflies when he hugged his waist from the middle.

Taehyung turned his body around as well, his feet moved away from the hanok till he heard the door shutting close behind him. He lifted his right palm and looked at it, the moonlight showing all the lines and curves of fingers. He kept looking down at his hand and closed his eyes in shame. He should have controlled himself enough to not hurt the omega!

Jungkook’s whole body vibrated with tremors when he wrapped the Alpha's robe around him and laid on the mattress. His negligence will be the reason for his death one day, he is sure of that. His waist trembled when the robe floated over his body before engulfing it into its embrace.

Taehyung covered his eyes with his palm and sighed in defeat. He should apologise to the omega, his feet moved before he could collect his thoughts and made a perfect form of words. His hand hovered over the door when he heard the quivering voice of the omega.

The austere stares carries the starved desires…

He could hear the words loud and clear, Taehyung's feet pushed him away from the door as he stared at it with wide grey eyes. The voice held the yearnings, tremors and hidden thoughts of the omega. Taehyung's gaze turned soulful when the melodious voice filled the region once again.

The austere stares carries the starved desires…
In between your sharp inhales and held back sighs…
Lies the fickles of anodyne…

Taehyung took another step away from the hanok as a deep breath exhaled out of his lips. His wet fringes curling down to his collarbones suddenly felt cold over his shoulders.

The marks around my waist show your signs…
In between your yells and biles…
Lies the apology that I decline…

Jungkook turned on the bed, pulling the Alpha's cloak under his neck. The scent forced him to close his eyes again as his nostrils flared to inhale.

What frolics can you perform to mesmerise…
If I say I forgive you for the divine?

Forgive? Taehyung moved towards the door this time, not exactly understanding the meaning of the words this time. Could it be… no… the omega had said that he won't forgive him for a long time. Is he forgiving him for the pain he cascaded on him during that dark night? The mistrust that he showed to the omega when he accused him of being his past mate.

Would you hide it under a generous sigh or bless my eyes with a blooming smile…
In between your yes or no…
*Don't forget*
Lies a part of mine…

Taehyung closed his eyes when he felt his heartbeats pushing against his scar pouch. The omega was indeed forgiving him for his offence, seeking such trivial things in return. But the Royal Alpha wasn't aware if he is capable of delivering a smile anymore. The words accumulated on his tongue as his voice pushed it forward.

Among the honour and eminence…
If it's my truth that you side…
With the care of patience, I wonder the answer…
That you have yet to decide…

Taehyung licked his upper lips to wet his throat and looked behind the path that leads to the territories of Chinra, he had to leave for his duty soon.

The excuse of duty was proved to be a lie…
In between your barren eyes and unannounced byes…
Lies the brain of wise…

The voice stopped the raising feet of the Royal Alpha as he kept standing in front of the closed door. The omega could only bear this virtue of simplicity where he was complaining about the crime to the criminal himself. When the omega closed the last door of his excuses as well, he hadn't left nothing but to stare at the closed door with a bated breath as the omega continued his words.

What excuse could you write in the sky?
In between your essence and unsaid replies..
Lies a truth that should be mine…

Taehyung's gaze softened when he heard the mellifluous voice of the omega. He walked one more step closer to the door and pressed his palm on it.

I have duties that can cover the skies…
Yet in between my truth and lies…
I choose the truth for the allies…

Jungkook rolled out of the bed when he heard the Alpha's voice close to the door. He wrapped the cloak around his body and looked at the door. It could be a trick of his mind that his heart was supporting to enact in real life. Or it could be possible that the Alpha misleading his thoughts just to grab his forgiveness.

I won't be deceived as I know you in all disguise…
In between bow and daggers…
I will choose the knives…

Jungkook shivered in tremors when he sang the verse with a low voice. His fingers twisting the skin of his wrist to check his presence in the real world. He waited for the Alpha's reply as he took another step towards the door.

If I lied to my Empress, knives should cut through my eyes…
In between death and despise…
I deserve to chastise…

Jungkook covered half of his face and laughed at the words of the Alpha. His feet covered the next distance of a step as he reached closer to the door. The cloak was trailing behind the omega, supporting his hairs in one place.

Then tell the truth and stop this puzzle of dice…
The time has always demanded my sacrifice…
In between haste and slow ties…
Lies this moment to memorise…

Taehyung's palm was pressed on the door, he straightened his arm and bowed his head in between the door and his chest before singing the next words. He had collected these words for a long time now, so weaving them into sentences wouldn’t be much difficult.

For the balant yells, I would apologise…
Such valiant mistakes, I would recognise…
Won't shatter the trust of your eyes…
There should be none, that I would subside…
It this apology of mine, could be accepted this time…
I won't forget the favour, dear gracious divine…

Jungkook's cheeks flushed at the promises of the Royal Alpha. His lips spread into a big smile. He pressed both of his hands on the door and placed his temple on the wooden surface.

By the Emperor of our paradise…
This favour should be analysed…
In between the said promises and exercise…
Lies my mate where I empathise…

When the forgiveness of the omega was delivered to the Royal Alpha, Taehyung raised his head from the bowing position and stared at the closed door. His palm curled around the wooden surface before he struck his fingers on them.

Jungkook flinched against the door when heard the loud knocks. He took deep breaths and clutched the shackles of the door in his trembling hands. He took a step behind before pulling the door open. His face was holding a soft smile when he opened the door for the Alpha which soon melted into a blankness when he looked at the Alpha.

The Royal Alpha was standing in front of the omega with a small smile on his face. It wasn't the usual tick of his upper lips or the amusing eyes. It was a smile. Both of his lips were stretched upwards, barely curved but he witnessed those grey eyes. The dilation of pupils, wider gaze with soft curves of eyelids.

A smile.

A smile for him.

Taehyung doesn't know what his face holds for the omega but when he noticed the moisture in the doe eyes, the Royal Alpha frowned in concern. Before he could ask the omega, Jungkook stepped ahead and hugged the Alpha, silencing all of his worries and doubts.

Jungkook melted into the arms of the Royal Alpha when he wrapped his hands around the omega's waist, “Are you okay?”

The omega could cry when he heard the concern in the Alpha's voice. He didn't trust his voice enough so he nodded his head again and again.

The moonlight shines above the two souls, spreading their glow in the entire atmosphere. For the first time in his life, Jungkook wished for a dark night where his Alpha could hold such a soft smile without any evil eyes.

💜💜💜💜💜💜💜.

Please forgive me if you find any major mistakes in the chapter. I hope you enjoyed it.

What do you feel about Gyuri?

And Lady Pyuhani?

Good night, lovely readers💜.

💜💜💜💜💜💜💜.