A/N: Yes that gif was necessary. Thank you to everyone reading and voting, it boosts me in the dreaded algorithm and since I work on this story for hours every day, it feels nice to see success with this story.

I have a lot of engaged readers; I have a high and consistent view count every chapter. Thank you guys. To the silent readers, I would really really really appreciate it if you vote. Less than half of my engaged readers are voting, so I would appreciate it if you took the extra second to vote. I know I sound like a broken record, it's just that I give this story daily updates, so naturally, I want to see it succeed. I haven't given daily updates to a story since Adrift three years ago. That's why I say "please vote" a lot, because I work more on this story than I do for my full-time writing job.

Either way, I appreciate you reading my work. From a writer's perspective, I'm always worrying if this story is good enough and if you're enjoying it. Thank you again to everyone who reads, votes, and comments. I love reading the comments, you guys are comedians I swear. Oh, and I hope you're still enjoying it 30 chapters in (happy 30 chapters!). Unfortunately, we're more than halfway done with it, but I'll do my best to make sure the second half is impressive. I hope you like it.

┊ ˚➶ ｡˚𝓞𝓷 𝓪 𝓜𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓸𝓯 𝓕𝓪𝓲𝓽𝓱 ˚｡➶˚┊

Y/n loved Mount Moros.

Other than the terrible ocean right next to the rocky island, Mount Moros was a perfect home for the rebellion. The few surviving grunts were going to stay there, living with the Moros rebellion. Moros adored their home, too. The uneven surfaces meant they had plenty of hiding places.

Now, Y/n was in one of the medical buildings with Jungkook. He needed urgent treatment and almost didn't survive. He was on the verge of death due to blood loss, but the Moros doctors, with the help of Jin, managed to save him. Jungkook was conscious after being out for several hours. He stared at her while she checked his bandages to make sure he didn't bleed through.

"I'll have to relearn how to use a sword. I thought losing a pinky was bad, but this..."

"You're alive, that's what matters. I'll pray for your future girlfriend, though-"

"And you yelled at me for my sex jokes," he said with a chuckle. She chuckled with him, putting his hand, which was really just his thumb, down on his side.

They were quiet as the torches flickered. The room was tiny with only two beds. The other bed was empty. The surviving rebels didn't need as much treatment, so they were allowed to wander around Moros as they pleased. Jimin spearheaded it, meeting with Shawman to arrange future visits. It was nice to have someone to rely on. A true leader. Just like Jungkook.

"You stepped up when I couldn't," Y/n said, Jungkook tilting his head at that. "Everyone always put me in the leader position. Second-in-command, now the leader. I never asked for it. It just kind of... happened."

"You're a good leader, Y/n. You got overwhelmed. You're still human, don't beat yourself up over it. That's why you have other higher-ups, right? To help you when you're down. That's why we're here. Use us. Please."

"Overwhelmed doesn't excuse me freezing up. If I acted faster, if I organized the attack, how many would be alive now? If you hadn't stepped up, none of us would be alive."

Jungkook shook her off with his good hand. "You're a clever woman, Y/n. You come up with plans fast, you're determined, you're strong. There's no one better fit for the leader position. You have great ideas. And... you were right."

"About?"

"Jimin," he said, hanging his head. "When we were there, on the ship, I tried looking for you. I found you fighting someone twice my size. He pushed you off the ship. Before I could even move, Jimin was jumping in the water to save you. He didn't hesitate. He shot the man between the eyes and... jumped. Y/n, I don't know if you fully understand what happened, but you drowned. You were dead."

"I knew I passed out, but dead?" she asked, her eyes widening.

"Why do you think Jimin gave you CPR? He saved your life. He brought you back. That's why your ribs are bruised."

She rubbed over the bandages hiding beneath her tunic. "I didn't know that."

"He saved you before I so much as moved. I still don't trust him. I doubt I ever will, but I'll try. For all our sakes. Can't promise I'll be friendly to him, though."

"Jungkook," she said with a groan. "Please try harder. We're too deep in this shit. He's more than my lover. He's my best friend."

"I got replaced?"

"Not completely, just partially."

"I'm sitting here with gaping holes in my body and six fingers and you're still making fun of me?" Jungkook asked with wide eyes. Y/n grinned, and he laughed. "Glad to know my personality is rubbing off on you." Jungkook froze. "Ah shit."

"What?"

"Speaking of rubbing, that was my jacking off hand. How am I gonna rub one out-"

"I wish they cut off your head instead."

They were interrupted by Jin stepping in with Jimin. The pair were laughing, Jimin's arm thrown around Jin's shoulders. Jin went after Jimin's hair only for Jimin to slam him against the wall. Jin retaliated by grabbing scissors from off the counter next to Jungkook's bed.

"Boys," Y/n said as Jin threatened to chop off Jimin's long locks. "Jin, as your commanding officer, stand down. Jin, also as your commanding officer, please do it to him while he's sleeping. I'll give you a spare key."

"Y/n!" Jimin yelped, her snickering. She glanced at Jungkook, but he shook his head and mouthed 'later'. Great. He was too much of a pussy to talk to Jimin now. Or ever. She doubted he'd ever grow a pair and actually do it.

"Alright, why are you two here?"

"Came to check on our favorite person," Jin said. Jungkook lit up, but Jin went to Y/n instead.

"Okay, fuck you," Jungkook said, flinging him off with his good hand.

Jimin smirked. "Does that even count? You only have-"

"Don't," Jungkook interrupted with a glare.

"Seriously, how are you holding up?" Jimin asked, sitting on the side of Jungkook's bed. The younger of the two seemed amazed by the proximity, but he managed to smile.

"I miss my hand already. Part of me wonders if I should amputate it. My thumb isn't doing much good just sitting there."

"You might find another use for it." Jimin motioned to his four-fingered hand. "I thought I'd never recover, but now this hand is more useful than ever."

"I would know," Y/n said with a smile.

"Y/n, honey," Jimin said, sighing. He turned his attention back to the horrified Jungkook. "It'll be easier than you think. You already lost your pinky, how was that?"

"Terrible."

"Alright, this is why my social skills need work. I think I suck at comforting people."

"Jimin, why don't you and Jin go talk to Shawman about the Emperor's castle? Tell him everything you know. Maybe train some of the soldiers?"

"I'm starting to think you don't want me here."

"He's learning," she said with a fake gasp, Jimin giving her a pout. "Don't act cute, you murder people for a living."

"I'll never win," he grumbled to himself as he took Jin out of the room.

Jungkook glanced at her. "Y/n, sweetie, him? Of all people in New Theon, you chose him?"

"He wasn't always like this," she said, slumping her shoulders. Jungkook went quiet at that. "He used to be so stoic and sad. Making jokes to hide what he felt. Now, he wants to have fun. He's not making jokes to hide, he's making them because he likes being around us. He wants to make us laugh. I know it sounds stupid, but he's changed a lot. I wouldn't trade him for anyone else in the world. He's my person, Jeon. He makes me happy."

Jungkook used his good hand to take hers. "I may question your source of happiness, but I'm glad you're getting it. You deserve it. I don't know if he deserves you, though."

"He doesn't," she said, sighing. "He deserves so much more. We need to get his brother."

"And how are we going to do that? He's in the castle."

"After we destroy the flagship, we can take the castle. We have the support of Moros now. We're not the underdogs anymore, we're ready to take on the Emperor."

"The vault was only a taste of the castle. Multiply the vault by fifty and maybe you'll get the difficulty of the castle. That's the heart of New Theon. They have cameras, top security, Leekas, Hellsirs. We don't just have to worry about the guards, but the cameras and the traps, the creatures nearby, the escape plan if something goes wrong. That's without mentioning the Emperor himself. He knows how to fight, he just prefers not to."

"Jimin can take him down."

"Can he?" Jungkook asked. "I'm not questioning his skills, but Y/n, isn't it unfair to make Jimin fight him?"

"I think it'd be unfair to let anyone else have the killing blow. Jimin deserves it."

"I agree, but can he do it? It's not about his abilities, it's about his mind. How do you know he won't freeze up the second he sees the Emperor again? He finally got out of that life, what do you think will happen when he sees the walking reminder of all the horrors of his past? You know him better than me, that's why I'm asking. Do you think he'll freeze?"

Y/n kept her mouth shut. He scooted closer and rested his hand on her cheek. "Listen, Y/n," he continued. "I don't mean to upset you, but I want to make sure we're realistic about this." When she didn't reply, he tilted her chin up. "I'll fight the Emperor if I have to. Jimin and I can take him together. No matter what, the Emperor will die for what he's done to the rebellion. I'll make sure of it. If Jimin doesn't freeze, he'll get the final blow. I promise."

"Good. He deserves it more than all of us combined." Y/n stopped and placed her hand over Jungkook's. "What about you? Are you okay?"

"I was too slow," he whispered, his eyes soft. "I couldn't save you. All I could do was watch while Jimin did what I should have. How can I be okay? I failed you. It seems like that's all I ever do."

"You kept Jimin safe while he gave me CPR. That's enough."

Jungkook frowned. "It's never enough. Not until we're free."

"And then what? Will you finally give yourself the credit you deserve?"

"I..." Jungkook broke off and averted his eyes, leaning back. His hand fell from her face. "I think I should be alone for a while. I have to think. Or cry. One of the two. Maybe both."

"Jungkook-"

"It's okay, Y/n," he said with a tight smile. She could see the agony hiding behind his irises. "I'll get over it eventually. For now, I need sleep and rest. The rebellion needs my fighting skills."

"And your leadership skills," she replied. "Again, you took over when I was too scared to. Thank you, Jungkook. You're doing amazing. Better than you think you are. You're more of a leader than I'll ever be." She didn't give him a chance to reply.

Instead, she left.

┊ ˚➶ ｡˚˚｡➶˚┊

She didn't plan on approaching Jimin like this, but it was too late now.

"I died?" she asked. Jimin froze while holding his morning coffee. Back in Flerry, they didn't have that luxury. They used hot chocolate as a substitute, and Taehyung was more than happy to get it for them. Now, they had mugs made from a material Y/n didn't recognize, but it was smooth and polished. It held heat well, making the coffee even more enjoyable.

"Yesterday, you mean? On the ship?" he asked back, and she nodded. He took a sip. Some of the brown liquid got on his upper lip. "You drowned, yes."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"I told you I gave you CPR. Why do you think your ribs are bruised?"

"I didn't think I died. I thought I had clogged airways or something. My heart stopped?"

"Your heart stopped," he repeated, and she deflated.

He placed his mug on the counter. They were in their new kitchen that had light blue and white tiles making up the floor, cupboards built into the walls with a stove that ran on gas smooshed in between a row of said cupboards. The entire kitchen had a pale theme, contrasting the mature feel of the rest of the home. It was almost like the kitchen was designed by a kid that wanted to see a fairy-like room. It worked seeing as even the lighting matched the theme. There were candles placed around the counters that were attached to the walls. The cupboards hung over them, which was where Jimin found the coffee.

"What's wrong?" he asked, placing his hands on her shoulders.

"You pulled me out of the water and had to swim me back," she said. He nodded but only seemed more confused. "Your nightmare. I died in your arms." He stiffened. "That's why you looked so distant last night. You weren't thinking about 'everything', you were thinking about my death."

"Yeah," he said, slowly.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to remind you, it's just that I-"

He cut her off by kissing her. He held her close, pressing their chests together and refusing to let go for several seconds. When he parted, he made sure his forehead was pressed on hers.

"Y/n, you're the woman I love. I don't want to hide anything from you, so I'll be honest. Yesterday was the hardest day of my life. I thought I lost you. It was only for a minute, but I thought you were gone. I was in the middle of battle, but I didn't care if my head got cut off since it meant I'd join you."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. But Y/n," he said, stopping for a moment so he could smile. "Please let me teach you how to swim."

"You're using that as an excuse to see me drenched in water."

"Wouldn't be the first time you've gotten wet for me."

She backed away from him. "Okay, that's enough Jimin time for today. I'm going back to Jungkook. He needs someone by his side. He'll need to learn how to use basic tools."

"He'll be okay. He's done it before." Jimin hugged her from behind and kissed her cheek. "Seriously though, don't worry about the nightmare. You're alive. You're here. That's what matters now, right?"

"Of course, but I want you to know I'm sorry you had to do that. It's unfair that you keep facing all these fears of yours. First me dying, then heights."

"I don't mind the view," Jimin said with a chuckle. "Besides, the only thing I'm looking at is you."

"Oh my- you know what? I need to leave. Enjoy your coffee."

"I never thought I'd like coffee, but here I am," he replied, taking a long sip of it. He made an 'ahh' sound as he pulled the mug away from his lips. "Alcohol tastes better. So do you. My two favorite things to taste-"

"Bye. I'll see you later."

He chuckled and pecked her lips. "You sure you don't want me to make you a coffee for the road? Or do you want me to walk you there?"

"I'm okay. Jin's hosting dinner tonight. I'll see you there?"

"Of course. Get back safe."

"I will." She went to leave, but Jimin stopped her by taking her elbow.

"I worry," he said.

"No, you don't say?" she replied with wide eyes, her tone high and light.

He chuckled. "I meant I'm walking you there. I don't trust anyone."

"Do trust issues run in the Park family?"

Jimin flashed her a charming smile. "I like to think I started that trend. Come on, I'll walk you."

He walked her to her destination. It was a nice morning. Jimin kept his arm around her waist, the two staying close together because of how cold the mornings had gotten. Mount Moros was colder than New Theon, likely due to the elevation. Y/n didn't mind it. It meant she could experiment more with her clothing. Maybe she could have a sense of style. She wondered if Jimin would like fashion.

"You're shivering," he said, rubbing her arm. "Want my jacket?"

"Does it smell like alcohol?"

"I don't feel comfortable answering that question."

He gave it to her anyway, making sure she was as warm as possible as they went up the mountain. Originally, she wanted to check on Jungkook, but she knew she needed to be a responsible leader and go visit Shawman. It made sense now that Jimin was with her. Together, they went to his home at the top of the mountain. It was right next to the watch tower.

They knocked on the front door. It was made of wood and had a cute stick figure carved into the side of it. Shawman answered a few moments later and allowed them in. She noticed it was smaller than their house, which had her knitting her brows together.

"Why did you give us a larger house than you?" she asked, Shawman laughing it off.

"It's not the size that makes a home, but rather the people in it. Come, sit."

They followed him through the front room, which had wooden floors and torches propped up all over the walls that matched the floors. There were windows scattered around, allowing the morning light to pour in and illuminate the paintings hung up. There was a painting of the water, and another of the Exodus Caves, and another of the Rocklands. All the landmarks surrounding their home, yet Y/n had seen so few of them.

"Right here," Shawman said, leading them into the next room: his kitchen. It was tiny, holding only a gas stove and a counter with various fruits resting in a basket on top of it. The table was in front of the counter. It had room for four people, and much to Y/n's awe, there was a little boy sitting in one of the chairs. He couldn't have been any older than nine.

She glanced back at Jimin only to see him frozen, staring at the kid. His lips parted as if to speak. Nothing came out. Jimin's eyes filled with tears as he turned to Shawman.

"You have a son?"

Shawman nodded as he took his seat at the head of the table. "This is my boy, Asher."

The boy was coloring with a paper that was half-torn, barely paying them any mind. Jimin came closer, and that got Asher to tilt his head up. His hazel eyes met Jimin's, and Y/n softly smiled.

"Hey bud," Jimin said, kneeling. "Whatcha got there?"

"A pencil," Asher replied, holding up the wood with a proud smile. He had thick brown hair that fell in his face. His hair was half the length of Jimin's. "Do you want one?"

Jimin grinned. "I do. Do you have any space on that paper? I'd love to test my drawing skills."

Asher got up and got another pencil for Jimin, skipping back over and handing it to him. Jimin laughed and pulled up a chair so he could sit next to the kid. Y/n opted to go for the final chair available, sitting by Shawman.

She watched Jimin play with the kid, but she couldn't see what Jimin was drawing. "Can I draw you?" Asher asked Jimin, who happily agreed. Together, they focused on working, and Y/n smiled as she watched. A few minutes later, Asher grabbed the paper and ran over to Y/n. "Look! He drew you!"

She sighed. It was a stick figure. "I don't think I look like that, bud."

Jimin beckoned the kid back over. At least the kid's drawing looked somewhat like Jimin. It was another stick figure, but it had the long black locks. And, most importantly, the kid made sure to draw Jimin's boots.

"You have skills, kid," Jimin said, ruffling Asher's hair. "You should meet my friend Taehyung. He's an amazing artist. Do you want to try painting?"

"I'd love to!"

"Then I'll take you to him sometime. How does that sound?"

Asher bounced in his seat and whipped around to his father. "Can I? Can I?"

"Of course you can. Ash, this is Jimin and Y/n, my friends."

"Can I call you Uncle Min?" Ash asked Jimin, who laughed and agreed. Asher ended up drawing another picture of Jimin, pursing his thin lips as he did his best to add more detail.

"We can talk about the flagship, if you want," Shawman said, Y/n nodding.

"We should launch from here and board it."

"Boarding it is risky, Y/n. We have small ships meant for speed, but the flagship has cannons. No matter how fast we are, we won't be able to make it past that many."

"Okay, what if we bring cannons of our own? We have a large ship that needs repairs. If you add cannons to that, that can work. We can have that one, then build another. Put cannons on both of them and have them lay down covering fire while the small ships move in. They'll board the flagship and take control of it. The flagship could have vital information. It could have Kim Namjoon. If we take out Namjoon, the Emperor's military no longer has a leader."

"Nice to know he replaced me so easily," Jimin said with a tongue click. "Honey, I know you want this mission to succeed, but making another ship with cannons will take a long time. Do we have that time?"

"Sure we do. In the meantime, we'll plan smaller events. Jin will go around the outskirts uniting our people and convincing them to help us get the materials we need. If we have Mount Moros and the outskirts on our side, surely that'll speed up the building process."

"It could, yes, but we only have so many builders. Materials are only half the problem," Shawman said. "It'll still take months. Potentially up to six."

"We can cut that time in half if we bring people from the outskirts over here. They can help with the ship. They don't need experience to help out. Half of building is holding things for other people. The more volunteers we have, the faster this will go. Jungkook can look for the materials needed for cannons, he's good at that."

"Me too," Jimin threw in. "I know where the Emperor hides his arsenal, and it's not in the castle. We can steal some from him, but that's only if you want to cause more damage."

"Too obvious. They'll expect a flagship attack if we steal cannons from him," Y/n said. "But not a bad plan for the future. We could use more swords and bows. I'm getting tired of having to make them."

"Agreed. I'll talk with Jin and mark the arsenal on a map. Do you want me to take Jin to the City? We can get him to lead a protest."

"And also get him and you killed. Remember what happened last time you went to the City?"

"Sure, but we need to get the City on our side somehow. What if we raided it?" Jimin asked. "The flagship is our main plan, but we try to convince the City in the meantime. We have everyone else on our side. The next logical step is to take out the City."

"Not a bad idea," Shawman added. "We could give you more firepower. Maybe we have enough people to take control of the City."

"I appreciate the optimism, but even I know that's suicide," Jimin said. "The City is dangerous not because it's heavily guarded, but because it's guarded by the best. I know you want to think Namjoon will be on the flagship, but he won't. He'll be at the City, that's his main station. Yoongi stays in the castle while Joon stays in the City."

"Can Yoongi fight?"

"He knows the basics, it's kind of a must if you're living in the castle. Not nearly on the same level as Namjoon. I'd prefer not to kill either of them. Can we spare them?"

"We can try, but if we have to..."

"I understand," Jimin said. Then, he covered Asher's ears. "I just realized I said 'kill' around a child. Any chance he'll forgive me?"

"He doesn't know what it means. He's eight, he won't understand much of our conversation," Shawman said.

"Uncle Min!" Ash said with a laugh. Jimin grinned and ruffled the boy's hair some more. Ash laughed again, collapsing against Jimin as he kept bombarding poor Asher with hair ruffles.

"You can't escape me!" Jimin teased, proceeding to tickle him. Jimin held the boy so he wouldn't fall, Ash's head falling in Jimin's lap. "What's wrong? Can't handle my wrath?"

Asher shot up and tried tickling Jimin. Y/n knew Jimin wasn't ticklish, but for Ash's sake, Jimin broke out laughing and pretended he was in pain from the intense tickling. Jimin fell off his chair from the intensity, and Asher clapped.

"Revenge!"

"You got me!" Jimin said, hopping up and getting back on the chair. "Hey, I come in peace. Truce?" But as soon as Asher went to shake Jimin's hand, Jimin tickled him again. "Haha! Uncle Min strikes back!"

Y/n snickered but shifted to Shawman. "So our plan is to attack the flagship, and in the meantime, we're going to lead protests. We'll continue to build our farms in the outskirts and try to expand."

"We'll focus on building ships, too. As soon as we're ready, we'll attack the flagship. Any ties we have to the Emperor will be gone after that. He'll order a full war against us."

"With the flagship gone, he won't have the firepower to maintain naval combat with you. I'm sure we'll be okay," she said, peeking at Jimin. He was drawing with Asher, teaching him about the different types of flowers in New Theon. He showed Ash a Fersin first, then he escalated his lessons to Hellsirs and Leekas, drawing each one as quickly as he could. Despite them being quick sketches, Y/n could tell he had talent.

"I have a Leeka. Her name is Shadow," Jimin explained. "Do you want to see what she looks like?" Asher rapidly nodded, Jimin drawing a rough outline of Shadow. He filled the drawing in, making it all black. "Now imagine glowing red eyes. That's my baby." Jimin pointed to Y/n. "Well, my other baby, anyway."

"I threw up in my mouth."

"Oh come on, I tried."

Y/n shook her head, Jimin pouting at her, but she didn't budge. She turned her attention to Shawman, who had his eyes on his son. Asher and Jimin went back to drawing, Jimin teaching him the wonders of New Theon. He intentionally didn't say anything about the Emperor.

"Do you have family there?" Asher asked, Jimin softly smiling.

"I do. My little brother, Jihyun. You'd like him. He likes drawing too."

"Can I meet him?"

Jimin's soft smile turned to a painful one. He brushed the kid's ruffled hair down, smoothening it and refusing to stop until there wasn't a lock out of place. "One day. I'll bring him to you, okay bud?"

"Okay!"

Asher kept coloring with the pencil, Jimin watching and helping him whenever he could. Together, they made more creatures. Some were from New Theon, others from Mount Moros. Y/n frowned as she watched Jimin zone out. He spoke with Asher, but his tone wasn't the same. It wasn't as light and amused as it used to be.

"Jimin," she said, him snapping his head up. "I think we got what we came for. Why don't we head out and get breakfast? I'm starving."

Jimin smiled. It didn't reach his eyes. "Wouldn't want my girl starving to death. Thank you for letting us in, Commander. I hope we get to speak again soon."

"Of course. I'll walk you to the door."

As soon as Jimin got up, Ash clung to his side. "I don't want them to leave yet!"

"Bud, we'll come back," Jimin said, squishing the boy's cheek. "Y/n is starving, so I need to get her some food. You don't want Auntie Y/n to starve, do you?"

"No," Ash said in a defeated tone. Then, he lit up and glanced between the two of them. "Auntie Y/n? Does that mean you two are married?"

"First Jihyun, now you," Jimin mumbled, chuckling after. "We aren't, but we will be one day. Marriage is a bit complicated for me." Jimin held up his stub, and Asher gasped.

"That's so cool! What happened?"

Jimin had tears in his eyes, but he still laughed. "Back home, I'm a legendary fighter named the Reaper. I go around hunting the dangerous animals so none of my people will get hurt." Jimin knelt, taking the boy's shoulders. "One day, I was hunting a rogue Hellsir when bam! It came out of nowhere and went after Auntie Y/n!"

"No way!"

"You wouldn't believe it! It ran right after her. Of course, I was her dashing savior."

"Of course," Y/n muttered, Jimin shooting her a glare that had her innocently smiling.

"Then the Hellsir got my finger! But that's a small price to pay for my love being here. I rescued her. That's right. Park Jimin saved Y/n L/n."

"Alright, that's enough," Y/n said, but she couldn't hide the amusement in her tone. "Let's go meet Tae for breakfast. He's probably with Jungkook now. Say goodbye."

"Bye bud," Jimin said, holding up his four-fingered hand for a high five. The kid eagerly accepted, Jimin laughing. Ash gave Jimin a quick hug he returned before it was time to go.

Ash and Shawman walked Y/n and Jimin to the door, them waving to each other as they left. Jimin held her hand, guiding her back down the mountain. It was peaceful. There were no insects or animals this high up. What it lacked in sound it made up for in color; the top of the mountain was white, reflecting the sun's rays and lighting up the rest of the mountain. It was caked in various shades of brown and green, the grass mixing with the dirt to create the perfect hue that welcomed her eyes.

"We'll save Jihyun. I promise," she said, leaning against him. "I'm sorry. I didn't know Shawman had a son."

Jimin hesitated. "It's okay. I like him, he's a cute kid. Reminds me of when I used to take care of Jihyun. When he was that age, he had the same curiosity. The same smile, even. The same..."

Jimin stopped and sucked in a breath. Y/n pulled him off to the side, away from the path. Jimin took his time to regain his composure. He didn't cry, which made her proud. He was healing. Slowly but surely, he was getting there.

"I love him, Y/n. He's my little brother. Whenever I was at the castle, no matter how bad it got, I used to think 'well, at least I have my brother'. Now I don't have him. He's gone. I don't know what to do."

"We'll get him out. Right after the flagship, we're invading the castle. We're so close to freedom. Do you trust me?"

Jimin placed his hand on her cheek. "I do."

"Then trust me when I say Jihyun will be in your arms again soon. You can take him, Ash, and Kastor out hunting, just like your dad did with you. What do you think?"

He sniffled, but there was a smile on his face. "You remember me telling you that?"

"Of course I do. Everything you say is fascinating."

"I can't tell if that's an insult or a compliment, but thank you."

She pecked his lips, the two laughing afterwards. "It's a mix of both. Now come on, we have breakfast to get."

"You're my breakfast. Let's go home so I can eat you."

"I swear-"

"Yawn," Kastor's voice said from not too far away. They jumped apart and noticed Kastor standing on the path, his arms crossed over his chest. Kastor, like other rebels, came over today thanks to Moros sparing a ship for them. "Are you two done being disgusting? I miss it when you two slapped each other."

Jimin proudly smiled. "We still do that. Well, it's mostly me doing the slapping, but not on her face cheeks-"

"Jimin," Y/n interrupted.

"Sorry."

"Him," Kastor said in a huff. "Him of all people. He's my future son-in-law."

"Why does everyone keep talking about marriage," Jimin said, groaning.

"We want you two to get married, it gives us an excuse to get drunk and party."

Jimin paused. Then, he made an 'o' shape with his lips. "Actually, when you put it like that..." He turned and got on one knee. "So, Y/n, wanna get married?"

Y/n rolled her eyes. "Romantic."

He took her hand and kissed it. "Please? Pretty please?" She gave him a look that had him clearing his throat and getting on his feet. Then, he shifted toward Kastor. "Something you need, Kas?"

"Nothing much, kid. Just looking around."

Y/n could read right through him. Seeing as Jimin snorted, Y/n could tell he could too. "Don't be a stubborn asshole. You were looking for me. Come on, let's get breakfast together. One big, happy, dysfunctional family."

"You got the dysfunctional part right," Kastor said. "I'll wait by the café. Don't take it personally, but I really don't want to walk next to two lovebirds holding hands and giggling."

"We don't... giggle," Jimin said, but it sounded weak as it passed his lips. Kastor waved them off and was about to move away when Jimin cleared his throat. "Hey old man?" Kas turned back. "Walk safe."

Kastor seemed as though he was about to make a snarky remark. Then, he stopped. "You too, kid."

Kastor left, Jimin turning back to her. He was about to make Y/n move when she took his hand and pulled him back. He knit his brows together.

"Yes," she said, and he tilted his head.

"What-"

"Let's get married."

His eyes bulged. "Woah, wait a second-"

"Why not? We've been together for over a year. Let's plan a wedding. Let's get married after the war. When we earn our freedom, let's make it the first thing we do."

"But, my finger..."

"Who cares what hand you wear the ring on? Wear it on your pinky for all I care. What matters is you're getting married to me. Isn't that awesome?"

"My girlfriend just said 'awesome'," Jimin murmured.

"No," she said, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Your fiancée did." She paused, pressing her nose against his. "Well, not yet. I still want a romantic proposal. I'm talking flowers, moody lighting, lovemaking - the whole nine yards."

"Just as demanding as always," he whispered against her lips.

"Yet you're gonna do it anyway because deep down, you know damn well you want to marry me."

"Fuck you."

"You have, you seemed to enjoy it."

"I hate it when you're right," he whispered again before kissing her. He pulled back a few moments later and stroked his thumb across her cheek. "Okay."

"Okay what?" she asked. He backed up and took her hand, rubbing her skin and giving her a soft smile. This one reached his eyes. The eyes that still had tears behind them, but this time, they were happy tears.

"Let's get married."

┊ ˚➶ ｡˚𝓞𝓷 𝓪 𝓜𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓸𝓯 𝓕𝓪𝓲𝓽𝓱 ˚｡➶˚┊

A/N: Awwwe everything's going so well, I hope nothing happens