11th October, 2023

kids - mgmt

It had been a wild night for everyone. Your friends had gone out to celebrate your birthday, and things had quickly gotten out of hand. The sun is streaming through the curtains of the cosy living room, casting a warm glow.  You, Jimin, and Yoongi find yourselves huddled on the sofa, each of you has a blanket draped over your heads, with just your faces popping out, shielding you all from the brightness of the day.

Isabella lies curled up with her head resting on Jimin's lap as she sleeps soundly. Jimin runs his fingers through her hair, watching her with a small smile on his face. The room is silent, save for the sound of the movie playing in the background. The hangover from the previous night is hitting all of you hard, and you can all feel it in every fibre of your being.

The pounding headache, the dry mouth, and the feeling of exhaustion seem to seep into your very bones. You let out a groan from under your blanket, your hand reaching out blindly for the bottle of water on the coffee table. You take a long sip, wincing at the taste of the tequila that still lingers on your tongue. Yoongi chuckles from beside you, his own bottle of water already halfway empty.

Jungkook enters the living room with a chuckle at the sorry sight before him. He can feel his own pounding headache, a reminder of the excessive drinking from the night before. "What are you guys watching?" He asks.

You look up from the TV with a grin. "Obviously the cinematic masterpiece Mulan," you respond, your enthusiasm not dampened by the headache you're experiencing. "We need something to cure our hangovers, and what better way than Li Shang?"

Jungkook laughs and hops over the back of the sofa behind you, pulling you in between his legs. "Where is everyone else?" he inquires, looking around the room.

You gesture to a pile of blankets on the floor. "Hoseok is buried under those, Namjoon is in the bathroom dealing with the aftermath of last night, Jin is in the kitchen whipping up some hangover food, and Taehyung is reluctantly helping him." You explain.

Mulan plays on the screen, the familiar songs and dialogue providing a soothing background to the morning after. You snuggle closer to Jungkook, seeking comfort in his embrace as you rest your head against his chest. Despite the throbbing pain in your head, you can't help but feel content in this moment. The warmth of your friends surrounding you is a soothing balm to your hangover.

You remember how you all used to watch Mulan over and over again, each of you relating to the themes of loyalty, bravery, and love. It is a film that touched your hearts and became a cherished part of your friendship. Jungkook smiles at the sight before him.

These are his closest friends, the people he has shared everything with since they were children.  As Mulan sings about reflection and honour on the screen, Jungkook can't help but reflect on the bond they all share. They have been through so much together – heartbreak, triumph, loss – and yet through it all, they have always had each other's backs, supporting and lifting each other.

Jin and Taehyung bustle in with trays of breakfast food. "Your hangover cure is here," Jin announces cheerfully, laying out the greasy food on the coffee table.

You let out a sigh of relief and gratitude. "You are officially my favourite person," you declare.

Jimin gently wakes Isabella up from her slumber on the sofa. Isabella stirs, her eyes fluttering open as she tries to adjust to the light. With a groan, she sits up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Jimin hands her a plate of food, before grabbing his own plate and settling back down on the sofa beside her.

Hoseok groans and slowly rises from his pile of blankets by the coffee table, his hair tousled and his eyes bleary. Without a word, he reaches for a plate of food and begins to eat, the greasy goodness providing some much-needed relief from his pounding headache. Taehyung, still looking a little worse for wear, flops down next to Isabella, his plate of food balanced precariously on his lap. He takes a bite, the greasy goodness of the food instantly lifting his spirits.

You reach for a plate from the coffee table, handing it to Jungkook before grabbing your own, you both let out sighs of relief. As you both dig into your breakfast, you both hum in contentment, the greasy food soothing your hangovers and filling your empty stomachs.

Yoongi, still sprawled out on the sofa with a pillow over his head to block out the light, reaches out lazily and grabs a plate. He takes a bite and lets out a content sigh, appreciating the simple pleasure of a hearty breakfast after a night of indulgence. Jin, always the chef among them, joins Hoseok on the floor to enjoy his own plate of greasy breakfast food. His culinary skills are unmatched, and the group always look forward to his cooking, especially on mornings like this when they need it the most.

Interrupting your well-needed breakfast Lucio wanders into the room with a knowing smile on his face. "You all look like you've seen better days," he chuckles.

"But no time to wallow in self-pity," Lucio continues, his voice filled with authority. "We need to scope the locations Aurora gave us."

Your group groan in unison, all feeling the need to laze around and continue nursing your hangovers. But, begrudgingly, you all get to your feet to start getting ready for the mission ahead.

TW: GUNS & IMPRISONMENT

madness - ruelle

The wind is howling fiercely, carrying with it the promise of an impending storm. You stand on the edge of the roof of a warehouse, your hair whipping around your face, the strands dancing in the wind as you keep a watchful eye on the rooftop door. Your hand is tightly gripping your handgun, ready to defend your comrades Jungkook and Namjoon if the need arises. Jungkook and Namjoon stand silently beside you, their snipers trained on the warehouse below. 

As you all wait in tense silence, Jungkook and Namjoon's blood runs cold when they spot a group of masked figures approaching the warehouse. The figures are large and menacing, their movements purposeful and determined. They are dragging a chained girl. Her desperate cries are muffled by the cloth over her mouth, but her fear is evident in her wide eyes and thrashing movements.

Jungkook feels a surge of horror and anger wash over him as he clenches his jaw, his finger hovering over the trigger of his sniper rifle "Sage," Jungkook's voice is laced with fear as he whispers her name. Before he can pull the trigger, Namjoon's hand shoots out to stop him.

"It's Sage, we have to help her." Jungkook insists, his voice filled with urgency.

"Don't you think of all people I know that?" Namjoon barks.

"If we shoot without thinking we could endanger her more," Namjoon continues calmly. His voice is steady, but Jungkook can see the worry in his eyes.

You tense, your hands curling into fists, your expression grim as the horrors of your time in captivity claw at your mind. The memories flood back, vivid and terrifying. The darkness, the loneliness, the pain. You have been captured by the same group before and you know all too well the danger that Sage will be facing. The sadistic pleasure the group take in inflicting terror and despair. They thrive on the suffering of others, revelling in the power they hold over those they capture.

"We're saving her," you declare, your voice firm despite the turmoil within. "Namjoon, call everyone else and fill them in. Tell them to get here quickly. Tell Natalie to leave Noah and take over scooping the other location."

TW: MENTION OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING, GUNS & VIOLENCE

As you, Jungkook, Jimin, Yoongi, Namjoon, Jin, Hoseok and Taehyung approach the warehouse, the storm clouds gather ominously overhead, matching the turmoil in your hearts. You all know you're walking blindly into a dangerous situation, but you're all willing to risk it all to save Sage. You all creep closer to the warehouse, you can hear muffled cries coming from inside.

Your group share a silent nod before Jungkook signals for you all to move in. With guns drawn, you all burst through the doors, ready to face whatever lies ahead. Inside, you're met with a chilling sight. A group of menacing figures in red masks stand before you, ushering a chained and gagged Sage into a shipment container. Tears stream down her face, knowing the terror she is about to face.

The group raise their guns, ready to take on the masked figures. But the figures seem unfazed by the sudden intrusion. Instead, they raise their own weapons, a dangerous glint in their eyes. The tension in the air is lofty as the two groups face off, each waiting for the other to make a move.

Without hesitation, Namjoon fires towards the figure holding Sage captive. The others follow suit, bullets flying through the air as they fight to free their friend. The warehouse is plunged into chaos, the deafening noise of gunfire and the shouts of the fighters filling the air.

Sage now free from her captor, runs towards her friends, relief flooding her face. But her joy is short-lived as another masked figure grabs her from behind, their grip unyielding as maniacal laughter escapes their lips. Sage's eyes widen in terror as she struggles against her captor.

Jungkook quickly rushes to her side. With a swift and precise movement, he takes out the figure holding her, his movements almost graceful in the chaos. Wrapping his arms around her protectively, he whispers in her ear. "You're safe now, baby blue."

His eyes search her face, wanting to make sure she is unharmed, wanting to protect her from any further danger. She looks up at him, her eyes filled with tears of relief. She feels a sense of comfort in his embrace, a feeling of being shielded from the storm that rages around them. Jungkook presence is like a beacon of light in the darkness, a source of strength in her time of need.

As they stand there, wrapped in each other's arms, the chaos unfolds around them. Sage bursts into uncontrollable tears while she clings to Jungkook. You and Namjoon stand guard around them, your protective stance a silent vow to keep Sage safe from any harm.

"It's okay, baby blue. We're here now," Jungkook reassures her while removing her gag and restraints.

way down we go - kaleo

"I wouldn't tell them anything."Sage sobs as she tries to speak, her words coming out in between gasps and sobs. "Johnathan said he did not need for me if I wouldn't talk, so he was going to sell me. They were sending me today."

The gravity of Sage's words hangs heavy in the air, a chilling reminder of the cruelty and brutality that exists in the world. Johnathan is a man devoid of empathy, a monster who sees others as mere pawns in his twisted games. He is ruthless, and known for his cruel and sadistic ways. If Sage hadn't been rescued in time, her fate would have been unimaginable.

Jungkook holds Sage tighter, his heart breaking at the thought of what could have happened to her if they hadn't arrived when they did. You and Namjoon exchange knowing glances, your expressions mirroring the anger and determination that courses through you both. You are a team, a family forged in fire and bound by loyalty. You will not let anyone harm one of your own.

You, your eyes hard and determined, hand Sage your spare gun. "Give them hell, blue. We won't let them touch you ever again," you declare, your words a promise of protection and vengeance.

With a newfound sense of purpose and strength, Sage clutches the weapon tightly in her hand. The weight of it is empowering, a symbol of her resolve to fight back against those who have sought to destroy them. With a deep breath, Sage wipes away her tears and raises the gun, she aims the figures who have kept her captive. In a swift and decisive motion, she pulls the trigger, the sound of gunfire ringing out in the chaos as she seeks vengeance for the pain and suffering she has endured.

You, Jungkook, and Namjoon stand by her side, your own weapons raised in solidarity as you all unleash a torrent of bullets on your enemies. The rest of your team joins you all in the fight, their skills and determination combining to create a formidable force against the masked figures who have sought to crush your spirits and tear your family apart. Your gang stand back to back, your weapons drawn and ready.

You're all frantically fighting the masked figures but the enemy shows no signs of slowing down. You wipe the sweat from your brow and glance over at your friends - Jungkook, Jimin, Yoongi, Namjoon, Jin, Hoseok, Taehyung, and Sage. You're all exhausted, but you know you have to keep fighting. Jungkook aims his gun at the nearest masked figure and pulls the trigger. The bullet hits its mark, and the figure crumples to the ground.

But before Jungkook can celebrate his victory, more figures appear in its place. He curses under his breath and begins firing again, trying to take out as many as he can before they get too close. As the battle rages on, you all know you're running out of options. Your ammo is nearly spent and your energy fading fast. You all can see the exhaustion in your friend's eyes, the strain of the endless fight wearing you all down.

"We can't keep this up much longer," Hoseok cautions, his voice filled with urgency.

"There's too many of them, we have to find a way out," Jimin adds, his eyes scanning the room for any possible escape route.

As you all back up towards the exit of the warehouse, you're met with a line of masked figures blocking your path. Your gang exchange looks of concern, realizing you're trapped with nowhere to run. You all tighten your formation, your backs pressing against each other as you prepare for the next wave of attackers. You all fight with everything you have, firing in a desperate attempt to hold off the enemy but you're outnumbered and outmatched. The masked figures are relentless, their attacks coming from all sides.

war of hearts - ruelle

The rain pours down in sheets, turning the once-dusted ground outside the warehouse into a muddy mess. The sky above is a dark and ominous shade of grey, the only illumination coming from the occasional flash of lightning that streaks across the horizon. Inside the warehouse, You, Jungkook, Jimin, Yoongi, Namjoon, Jin, Hoseok, Taehyung, and Sage find yourselves surrounded by the masked figures.

You have run out of ammo your guns now empty and useless in your hands. All hope seems lost as the figures close in, their grinning faces hidden beneath the dark fabric of their masks. Their hysterical laughter echoes off the walls of the warehouse, mixing with the howling wind that whistles through the broken windows.

"We're done for," Sage mutters, her voice barely audible over the howling wind.

Jungkook pulls you close, his strong arms wrapping around you protectively. Jungkook can feel your heart beating against his own, his grip tightening as if his strength alone can shield you. Taehyung places a reassuring hand on Jungkook's shoulder, his eyes reflecting the determination to fight until the very end. His gaze is unwavering, his resolve unshakeable.

Sage clings to Namjoon's hand, seeking solace in the familiar touch of her friend. Namjoon is the calm amid the storm, his steady presence grounding Sage and giving her the courage to face whatever challenges lie ahead. Jimin holds onto Yoongi, their bond as siblings giving them strength in the face of danger. They have always been each other's protectors and now is no different as they face the uncertainty of their future together.

Hoseok and Jin share a silent moment, their gazes meeting in understanding before interlocking hands. Your gang huddles together, your breaths coming in quick, shallow gasps, you all know that your time is running out. But at least you're together.

"It's been a good run guys, I love you all," Jin speaks softly, his voice filled with resignation as you all face the encroaching figures.

As the figures draw closer, a flash of lightning illuminates the warehouse, followed by the deafening roar of thunder, shaking the building to its core. The warehouse door bursts open, revealing a horde of Lobos flooding in. Leading the charge are Lucio, Natalie, and Noah, their familiar faces a welcome sight in the midst of chaos.

Your family have come for you all, just in time. With a surge of relief, you watch as the Lobos engage the encroaching figures in a fierce battle. Bullets soar through the air, the sound of gunfire echoing through the warehouse as the two sides clash in a deadly dance of survival. The air is thick with tension, the scent of gunpowder lingering as the battle rages on.

Lucio rushes to your gang's side. Ushering you all towards the warehouse door, his voice calm and steady amidst the chaos surrounding you. "Come on, we have to get out of here," Lucio shouts over the sound of gunfire. You can see the determination in his eyes, the fierce protectiveness that fuels his every move.

With Lucio leading the way, you all make a break for the door, darting past the swirling brawl of fighting forces. The warehouse seems to warp and shift around you, the walls groaning under the strain of the battle raging within. You can hear the desperate cries of the figures as they clash with the Lobos, their voices filled with rage and hatred. As you all reach the safety of the outside world, you feel a wave of relief washes over you. The storm still rages overhead, but the sound of thunder and lightning is a distant rumble compared to the chaos you have just escaped.

TW: MENTION OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING, IMPRISONMENT & PAIN

the other side - ruelle

You carefully run the warm cloth over Sage's body, the scent of lavender filling the air as you try to soothe Sage's troubled mind. Sage, with her once vibrant blue eyes now dull and haunted, sits in the bathtub, her shoulders hunched. You can see the pain etched into every line of her face, the shadows of fear and trauma lingering in the corners of her eyes.

As Sage's body trembles under your touch, the warm water cascades down her skin, mixing with the tears that stream down her cheeks. Your heart aches at the sight of her suffering, at the knowledge of all that Sage has endured. The memory of Johnathan's men, of their cruel hands and their vicious words, lingers in the air like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over Sage's fragile form.

You know that no amount of soothing baths can wash away the memories of what she has been through. You know that the scars, both physical and emotional, will take time to heal. You have endured your fair share of pain at the hands of Johnathan's men, but the thought of being sold off like property is a whole other level of horror. You shudder at the mere idea of it, the powerlessness and helplessness that Sage must have felt.

Sage had been held prisoner for twelve days, twelve days she had been on the brink of being sold off like a piece of property. You can't even begin to imagine the horror and fear that Sage must have felt during those dark moments. As you continue to gently cleanse Sage's body, you notice the bruises and scars that mottle her skin.

Each mark tells a story of pain and suffering, of a fight for survival that Sage has bravely endured. Your heart aches for her, for the trauma that she has been through and for the long road to healing that lies ahead. You know that Sage will need time to process everything that has happened to her, but you're determined to stand by her side every step of the way.

A gentle knock comes from the bathroom door and Noah voice's hums your name through. "We need to speak."

Natalie enters the bathroom, a sympathetic look in her eyes. "I'll take over, princess. I've got her" You squeeze Sage's hand while giving Natalie a small nod and make your way out of the bathroom.

As you exit the bathroom, the weight of the situation hits you like a ton of bricks. You take a deep breath, trying to compose yourself. Noah and Jungkook stand waiting for you, their expressions mirroring the worry and concern that consumes your thoughts.

The sound of Sage's muffled sobs echoes through the door, making Jungkook's own eyes well up with tears. He hates seeing Sage in such pain, knowing that there is little he can do to ease the burden that weighs so heavily on her shoulders. Noah grimaces as he hears Sage's anguish unfold. His heart aches for her.

"Thank you for looking after her," Jungkook expresses, kissing your forehead. "Let's talk in our room." You look up at him, nodding with tears in your eyes.

You collapse onto the bed, the events of the day weighing heavily on your mind. You stare at the ceiling above you, wishing desperately that today never happened. Jungkook sits beside you, holding your hand in a comforting gesture. You have all been through hell and back, and it seems like there is no end in sight. Today's events have been particularly harrowing.

You all had nearly died at the hands of Johnathan's men. If it hadn't been for the timely intervention of your own gang members, you and your friends would have surely met your end. And to make matters even worse. Sage, one of your own, had been abducted for sale to the highest bidder, likely to suffer a fate worse than death at the hands of your violent rivals.

Despite all your best efforts, despite your status as the biggest gang in London, it seems that Johnathan always manages to outsmart and outnumber you, leaving you feeling like you're all fighting a losing battle. Your hope used to shine like the brightest star in the universe, but now it is burning out. Dimly flickering in the abyss, threatening to suffocate completely. To implode leaving behind nothing but darkness as if your hope had never existed. Leaving it being nothing more than a mirage in the vast expanse of the galaxy.

With a heavy sigh, you sit up and look at Noah. "Noe, what do we need to speak about?" You ask, your voice filled with exhaustion.

Noah looks at you and Jungkook, taking a deep breath before speaking. "I found out where Johnathan will be tomorrow," he says, his voice serious.

"How?" Jungkook asks, curiosity evident in his voice.

Noah explains, "It was simple really. Nothing was going on at the location I was scooping until one of the workers took a phone call. Luckily, Jimin gave us all laser microphones, and I was able to hear the whole conversation. Johnathan will be picking up a shipment tomorrow at five pm."

You furrow your brow, thinking about the information Noah just shared. "That seems too simple. It could be a setup," you say, concern lacing your words.

Noah nods, acknowledging your concern. "Even if it is a setup, we may not have another chance."

"We need to be prepared for anything," Jungkook attests, his voice filled with a sense of urgency. "We can't afford to let our guard down, not even for a second."

I found - amber run

Namjoon enters Jungkook's bedroom, his expression filled with concern. "Natalie is getting Sage out of the bath now."

Jungkook nods, his brow furrowed in worry. Sage had been through so much already, and the trauma of nearly being sold into human trafficking has taken its toll on her mind.

"She's stopped crying but now she's worse. She just looks empty, like she's lost the will to live." Namjoon's voice trembles slightly, mirroring the pain that Jungkook feels deep within his own heart.

Jungkook's gaze flickers to you, your expression one of understanding and support. "I have to go be with her," he states.

You nod in agreement, your voice gentle. "I know, if you didn't, you wouldn't be you," you say softly.

Jungkook leans in and places a gentle kiss on your lips, feeling a sense of calm wash over him as he feels your familiar touch. You're his purpose, his best friend, and his soulmate. You know him better than anyone else, understanding his fears, desires, and dreams without him even having to say a word. But as he pulls away, he knows that he has to focus on Sage now.

Sage has been his rock through the darkest moments of his life. She has been there for him when he thought all hope was lost, her unwavering support keeping him grounded in reality. He knows that Sage needs him now more than ever. With a heavy heart, Jungkook leaves the room with Namjoon, knowing that he has to be there for Sage in her time of need.

"I'll go get Natalie, we should be going," Noah says, breaking the silence that has settled between you.

"It's late, you can stay here. Jungkook's bed is big enough for all three of us," you offer.

Noah nods his head, his expression grave. "Princess, we should talk actually. I'm going back to America, this city hasn't got room for both Fury and Lobos."

"What about the truce?" You ask.

Noah runs a hand through his hair, a pained expression on his face. "We can make arrangements. I can do Lobos business for you from America and you can do Fury's business for us from here. We'll need to discuss this with Lucio though."

"So you're disappearing on me again?" You ask, your voice laced with hurt.

Noah turns to face you, his eyes filled with regret. "Princess, you have your life here back. I'll just be in the way."

Your heart clenches at his words. You reach out to grab his hand, your eyes pleading with him to stay. "Noe," you whisper, using the nickname you had given him in the early days of your friendship.

Noah's eyes are filled with pain as he shakes his head, his gaze avoiding yours. "I'm not like Natalie. My dad never treated us the same, he never accepted her. I can't connect with you guys like her."

You furrow your brows. "So you're saying we're broken?" You bark.

"No, I'm saying you all have been through shit that I can't even imagine. You're all strong despite it all." Noah looks down at your intertwined hands. "My dad never intends to leave the gang to both myself and Natalie. I never want to run it without her but she'll always have that hanging over her shoulders if she leads with me once he's gone. I'm leaving and I'm leaving Natalie here. She's happier here. She's found a happiness she can't have at home."

Your heart feels heavy as you process Noah's words. You have always hoped that you would all stick together, facing whatever challenges come your way as a team. But you can see the determination in Noah's eyes, and the resolve to do what he believes is best for Natalie. Noah has always been fiercely protective of Natalie, ever since they were kids.

Growing up, you had witnessed firsthand the unbreakable bond between the twins. They are inseparable, always looking out for each other and standing united against anything that tries to tear them apart. They share a connection that goes beyond words. It is a difficult pill to swallow but you know that you have to respect his decision, no matter how much it hurts.

Natalie enters the bedroom, interrupting the tense conversation between you and Noah. "What are you guys talking about?" she asks, her voice light and carefree, unaware of the heavy atmosphere in the room.

"Nothing," Noah replies quickly, not wanting to burden Natalie with his worries.

"Just how you and Noah are staying here tonight," you add, forcing a smile to your face as you try to lighten the mood.