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Alpha Hoseok paced restlessly within the confines of his cell, the rhythmic sound of his claws scraping against the hard stone floor echoed in the dimly lit chamber. Once a proud and powerful leader, he was now reduced to a mere shadow of his former self, consumed by grief and madness.

It had been weeks since the tragic death of his mate, a loss that had shattered him to the core. In the aftermath, his once noble spirit had been overtaken by a primal rage, transforming him into a creature of pure instinct.

To contain his unpredictable and dangerous behavior, the pack had constructed a special locked room with iron bars, deep within the heart of their territory. Here, Alpha Hoseok was confined, isolated from the rest of the pack and the outside world.

Outside his cell, guards stood watch, their faces grim and determined. Trained specifically to handle a feral alpha, they knew the risks involved in their duty. Their job was twofold: to keep the wolf alive for as long as possible and to ensure that he did not harm himself in his frenzied state.

The guards had their work cut out for them. Alpha Hoseok's ferocity was unmatched, his howls of anguish reverberating through the stone walls of his prison. But they were undeterred, their resolve unshakeable as they stood vigil over the troubled alpha.

Each day brought new challenges as they struggled to contain the beast within. Sometimes, Hoseok would hurl himself against the iron bars with such force that they feared he would break through. Other times, he would retreat into a corner, his eyes filled with a haunted emptiness that spoke of the pain within.

But through it all, the guards remained steadfast, their bond forged by a shared sense of duty and a deep-seated loyalty to their pack. They knew that they were the only thing standing between Alpha and oblivion, and they would not falter in their task.

"How is he, today?" A sound echoed through the chamber followed by a soft footfall as she strode in, her question hung heavily in the air, laden with concern and emotion.

The guards, standing at attention, visibly tensed upon her arrival. One of them, shifting uncomfortably under her penetrating gaze, responded cautiously, "Alpha Hoseok is sedated for now, Zeta Iseul. He became uncontrollable."

Iseul clenched her jaw, suppressing the surge of anger that threatened to overwhelm her. She stood outside the heavily guarded entrance of her brother's prison room. News of his deteriorating condition had reached her during her rigorous training in the West, and she had rushed back to their pack lands as soon as she could.

Months had passed since she last saw him, and the weight of her absence during his mate's death had left a void in the pack's leadership, plunging them into chaos. It took her relentless efforts to restore order and stability, ensuring her brother's legacy remained untarnished.

Thanks to Seokjin's most trusted group of warriors, who stood by her side and aided her in tough times. She heard everything Seokjin did for their pack in times of need and how he stood guarding their borders against another attack until he heard she was returning. She made a note to thank him later.

"Open the door," she commanded, her voice betraying a hint of urgency.

The guards hesitated, taken aback by her sudden resolve. Despite her daily inquiries about her brother's well-being, she had never mustered the courage to visit him again since that fateful night she arrived.

However, today was different. Today, she made the decision to step inside as he was sleeping during her visit. Otherwise, the anguish in his cries and whimpers would have continued to rend her heart.

"Zeta Iseul, I don't think it's a great idea..." one of the guards protested weakly.

But, without another word, she pushed past the guards and entered the room. This was her brother. Hoseok was no threat to her. The only person's life she was worried about was her brother's.

Inside, she found her brother lying on a makeshift bed, his chest rising and falling rhythmically as he slept. The sight of him, so vulnerable and helpless, brought a pang of sorrow to Iseul's heart.

She approached him quietly, her steps light as she leaned over to study his sleeping form. He looked so much like her, their features mirror images of each other's. But now, there was a haunted look on his face, a darkness that seemed to consume him from within.

Iseul reached out to brush a stray lock of hair from his forehead, her touch gentle yet firm. "Hang in there, brother," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm here now. I'll take care of you and the pack."

Taking a step back, Iseul straightened; her resolve hardening. She may not have been the official leader of the pack, but she was more than capable of handling the responsibilities that came with it. In fact, she had surpassed even Hoseok in a fight, a fact that few dared to challenge.

The Zeta Werewolves, as described in Western explorer Kate Argent's Hunting Diary, were "Intelligent Beta Werewolves" that were an Alpha's "left hand" and specialized in both Strategy and Pack Coordination.

They were the war general of the pack. They take direct orders from the Alpha in case of a war. The Alpha may be the one to declare war, but the Zeta led the army and created strategies for war. Hoseok was a second born and was announced as a leader since she had no interest in leading the pack. Iseul aimed to be the best warrior and Hoseok helped her pursue that.

As she turned to leave, a weak voice stopped her in her tracks. "I-Iseul?" Hoseok's voice was barely a whisper, but it cut through the silence of the room like a knife. "Is that you?"

Iseul froze, her heart skipping a beat at the sound of her brother's voice. The guards rushed in to protect her, but she halted them with a raised hand. She turned back to face Hoseok, her expression softening as she took in his weary form. There was a hint of lucidity on his face, eyes blinking open and close as if he had no strength to even perform that smallest task.

"Hoseok," she called before crossing the room to kneel by his side. "How are you feeling?" She knew he was in his weakest state, incapable of posing any threat.

Hoseok's eyes fluttered open, the pain evident in their depths as he struggled to focus on her face. "Iseul," he murmured, his voice barely audible. "I-I'm sorry. I couldn't protect her. I couldn't save her."

Iseul's heart clenched at his words, the guilt weighing heavily on her shoulders. She reached out to grasp his hand, her grip firm yet comforting. "It's not your fault, brother," she said softly, her voice laced with reassurance. "You did everything you could. And now, it's time for you to focus on healing."

Hoseok shook his head weakly, his breaths coming in shallow gasps. "Iseul, I don't know if I can," he admitted, his voice wavering with uncertainty. "I don't know if I have the strength to go on. Jeongseon and our pup..." He couldn't complete the sentence.

Iseul's heart ached at his words, her own eyes glistening with unshed tears. She had always been the stronger one, the one who carried the weight of their pack on her shoulders. The one who Hoseok looked up to. But seeing her brother so broken and defeated filled her with a sense of helplessness she had never known before.

"I-I can't die," he croaked.

"You won't." Her voice was full of emotion. "I won't let you."

"I have to l-live." His features hardened. "I-I have to find her and bring her home." His voice broke and body shook with sobs. "And I'm going to kill every single one of them."

"You don't have to do this alone, Hoseok," she whispered, her voice fierce with determination. "You have me. I'll be here for you, every step of the way. We'll get through this together, I promise. You need to regain your strength and I promise I'll help you kill every single one of them if that's what you desire."

Hoseok's eyes searched hers, a flicker of hope igniting within them as he squeezed her hand weakly. "T-Thank you, Iseul," he breathed, his voice barely audible. "I don't know what I would do without you."

Iseul smiled softly, her heart swelling with love for her brother. "You'll never have to find out," she vowed, her voice unwavering. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

Hoseok didn't respond this time but she felt his body weaken and saw his eyes roll back into his head. Sadness balled in her throat. "Summon the healer," she commanded. "Help my brother regain his strength."

"Yes, Zeta Iseul." One of the guards bowed and rushed outside.

"I promise, Hoseok," she said again. "Our lives might never be the same without her, but I vow to kill every fucking bastard that put hands on her. I'll kill them and everyone in their bloodline. I'll make them regret the day they were born," she vowed. "Let this tragedy end with us and together we will end these vermin that have festered our lands."

***

"You had your first kiss," Taehyung observed as soon as Jimin plopped on the omega's bed like a starfish with that shit eating grin.

"That obvious?" Jimin asked, cheeks heating up uncharacteristically and heart fluttering with hummingbird wings. A rush of warmth spread across his chest.

Taehyung's bed was small and could only accommodate two people snuggly. His nest was small, stacked with extra duck feather pillows strategically to give them enough space but also create a cozy nesting space. His room itself was small, but warm just like Taehyung. He soaked in the omega's scent, inhaling deeper and feeling it calm him.

Taehyung scoffed. He moved to make more space for him but Jimin didn't mind. "Anyone who sees you right now can tell. So it went well I suppose." He rolled to his side, supporting his upper torso on his elbow.

"Better than expected," he admitted. "Taehyung, he's so dreamy. So handsome and it was so hard to hold myself back the entire day. This stupid mating ceremony can't come faster." He huffed. "He's just so amazing. I could hold his hand all day."

The omega chuckled. "You didn't even last a day," he teased.

"As if you're any better." Jimin rolled his eyes. "Yoongi is still in the woods by the way. Someone is tailing him in a safe distance. He isn't hunting or anything. He's mostly pacing that small clearing by the river it seems. Jungkook told me it was normal for him to run for days when he's agitated or needs to clear his head. Also, his wolf was always restless since his mate passed away."

Taehyung hummed, worry shadowing his features. "I didn't push him too much, did I? Sometimes I feel maybe I'm trying too hard but I can't shake off the feeling in my chest. I can bring him back, Jimin. He's not that far gone. He's still in there. You saw what happened at the challenge. He fought for me. Yoongi had no reason to do so. He didn't have to do that for appearance sake either. There's something. Even if he doesn't want to admit it or realize it for himself, he feels something."

Jimin exhaled, rolling to lie on his stomach. "There's no right or wrong answer here, Taehyung. It's not easy to state something that's black and white and there's no certainty. We don't know how his wolf would react to you. You saw what happened. Even Jungkook submitted to his wolf and feral wolves are unpredictable."

"I'm afraid to make things worse, but I also don't want to stand by and do nothing when I know I can," Taehyung said. "But I'm also worried." His scent was a mixture of determination and fear. "I'm also afraid my parents would do something to stop me." A shadow fell on his face."

Jimin put a comforting hand on his arm and squeezed. "Mom said something about it and told me to stay out of it. But I might have distracted them with mom's help." He winked. "So it's just us tonight."

Taehyung blew out a breath. "I'm grounded," he said. "Mom and dad are livid. They don't want me anywhere near Yoongi and they told me they'll disown me if I continue to pursue him. We haven't spoken much after the huge argument. One of my asshole cousins bitched about me wanting to be your surrogate. The initial arrangement was to send an older omega as a surrogate along with our healer. But I didn't like using that old croon's eggs." He scowled. "No baby of yours is taking her nasty lineage. You can use my egg and I'll be the one to birth my god children. I even informed Jungkook about it and he didn't seem to mind."

Jimin lifted a brow in surprise. "Taehyung, what?"

"What?"

"You know they're not gonna allow that?" Jimin couldn't hold in his surprise.

"Once I became Yoongi's mate, no one can stop me from doing so. It's not like I have to sleep with your mate. All the healer needs is his swimmers and they're just going to put them inside me during my heat. Before you say something, I'm younger and have higher chances of success than that older omega they have chosen as a surrogate. She's over forty-five and she's also an aunt of Yeo-jeong. So nope. I'm not letting that happen."

Jimin gasped. "You mean that woman lives by the river? The one who doesn't even smile anymore?"

"Yep." Taehyung grimaced.

"But she hates us!" he exclaimed. "Does my mother know?"

"I don't think so." Taehyung shrugged. "We were discussing who would be the right candidate on our way. Seokjin had a list of middle-aged omegas, who already bore pups and are living with their mates. He was going to ask them as a favor, but others suggested that might not work since their alpha might see that pup as a threat and recommended to choose a widowed omega," he informed. "Later someone brought her up and can you imagine most of them voted in her favor and it was only me and Seokjin on this side? Heard she doesn't even get her heats anymore."

"Oh, goddess!" Jimin gasped in horror. He was aware of the bargain but never thought this far because he didn't think this proposal would work out.

"And your parents found out."

"They did."

"So are you gonna stop and change track now?" Jimin inquired, his curiosity picking. Taehyung wasn't someone to back down from his decision but this was way bigger than anything he has ever done.

"What do you think?" Taehyung glanced at him with a playful smirk on his lips.

"That you'll pack yourself in my carriage and transport to the Kim pack." Jimin grinned.

"Exactly," The omega piped in. "I'm only staying because this could be the last time I'm sleeping here. I know what I want. And I'm sure I won't live in this pack if you're not here to make my days better."

Jimin smiled, feeling more warmth spread in his chest. Taehyung's mom always blamed him for ruining her son and told him several times to stay away from him but that never stopped them. Later, she stopped trying and instead gave him the cold shoulder.

"Listen, I've already told you this once. I'll say it again. I don't know about Yoongi but I know you. People might think you're impulsive but I know your instincts are never wrong and you never do things without reason. You must have seen something in him that encouraged you to pursue him. And if you're confident that he will become your place of happiness, who am I to stop you? I'm with you." He winked.

"You're the only one who believes in me." His tone was solemn, ringing with a hint of sadness. "No one even tries except for you."

"I'll always believe in you. Maybe we should brainstorm ideas to seduce him. Did you ask around what type of person he was before he lost his mate?"

"Mhmm. I asked around a bit." Taehyung's features lit up and his scent sweetened. "He was shy and reserved. Spoke only if necessary. Mina brought the best out of him and his mom told me, she always put a smile on his face. And she also told me, he's different when he's with me. So that means something, doesn't it? Even Aera admitted her brother is different."

Jimin nodded. "That's hopeful," he said. "Let's try and bring this wolf to the right track, hmm? Quitting is not in our genes."

Taehyung chuckled. "Yeah." He lay down and rolled on his back to stare at the ceiling of the small cabin. "I'm planning to sneak out tomorrow. I want to see him but I'll let my mom sleep peacefully at least for one night."

"That's the spirit." Jimin bumped his shoulder. "She's helping my mom with something and won't be here until morning. Wanna sneak out?"

Taehyung immediately sat up. "Yeah?"

"I know where Yoongi's wolf is."

In a few minutes, they were out of the bed, dashing through the forest grounds and taking off into the night.

***

Next Day:

"We're going to the ocean again?" Jungkook asked curiously as soon as he rounded the corner of the unfamiliar street.

The smell of seafood, specifically the dish that was popular to the Park Pack wafted to his nostrils and Jungkook had memorized the path they had taken today, counting steps and measuring the distance as they navigated. It has become a habit ever since he lost his vision and something that now came as natural to his breathing. It would take a few more weeks for him to familiarize and get acquainted with the area but he could identify a couple of things today and it was enough to tell they were taking the same path.

The beta had refused to tell him the plan for the day and instead said they were going on an adventure. Jungkook didn't push further. As they walked together, the sound of the ocean grew closer. The calming sounds of the waves crashing the shore and the distant sounds of the seagulls washed him with a sense of nostalgia once again.

He should admit. He loved the ocean.

"Smart," Jimin chirped. "Yes, we are." He squeezed their joined hands, letting him know they were about to descend a set of twelve stairs and then turn right. "Taehyung's uncle owns a boat. I heard he returned from the East this morning with some merchants. So, I asked him for a favor."

"A favor?" Jungkook's curiosity spiked and his eyes naturally widened. His heart picked up pace. "Don't tell me we are going for a ride." He sounded ridiculously hopeful and his ears heated up. He couldn't help it because this would be his first time on the sea.

"We are," Jimin confirmed and Jungkook halted in his tracks, sucking in a sharp breath. "Surprise!" The beta sang.

For a moment, Jungkook couldn't function. Several emotions washed over him and it must have shown on his face because he felt a pair of soft, yet calloused hands cup his face.

"You're very expressive, you know that?" Jimin's voice was so soft, gentle like the sea breeze.

Jungkook shook his head. He closed himself off to people who weren't family and he didn't have such light conversations with anyone else who weren't family. So he didn't know. Aera or his mom never said anything. Maybe they were afraid of him closing up again.

"You are," Jimin confirmed. "Your face is like an open book when you're unguarded and I love that I can take one look and know how you're feeling."

"Oh." His face flushed a little.

"And I know you like me a bit more than you'd like to admit," Jimin added, causing more heat to rush to his face. "Seokjin told me you don't have any beaches in your pack, so I thought we will make the most of it when we're here. Also I hope this pack wouldn't be a horrible place to spend our vacation once my brother takes over."

Jungkook chuckled. "Vacation?" He tasted the unfamiliar term in his mouth. He understood the meaning but never thought of using it in his life. There was no need to.

"Yep. That's what Seokjin calls his trips to the other packs." They began walking again.

Jungkook nodded again. "We don't travel often since it's risky. Dad used to visit other packs when I was young, but the increase in attacks kind of isolated our packs from the others. The West pack used to trade herbs and meat with us, but now not much because of the risks involved." He sighed. "Namjoon hopes our alliance will change all that."

"I can sense why your pack members are hostile with the idea of this marriage," Jimin said understandingly. "My dad never helped your pack in times of need and it justifies their anger."

"Maybe. But hatred gets us nowhere," Jungkook said. "Anger is blinding them right now, but when the winter comes, they will understand why my father is ready to put everything behind us and accept the alliance with the Park Pack. We've been trying for years to bridge the gap and it's finally happening."

Jimin exhaled louder. "Steps, two feet ahead," he said. "Bet my time there is going to be exciting."

Jungkook was careful when the steps approached and Jimin was patient. He slowed down, never once making Jungkook feel like he was a burden. To be honest, Jungkook didn't expect it'd be like this with the beta.

They had spent one day together, walking around hand in hand like normal couples. Never once was his lack of sight caused any inconvenience or if it did, Jimin said nothing. Jimin descended first and waited for him to make the move while striking a casual conversation. It didn't feel like he was delaying them at all. The beta seemed to enjoy their time together and never once complained.

"The seagulls are ready," he said. "I can tell the one that you carried with you yesterday has spotted us."

"The one with pink feet?"

"The one and only," Jimin affirmed. "He's slightly bigger than the males or he is bigger in my eyes so it's easy to tell apart from the others. Or maybe he's my favorite seagull so I'm being partial."

That drew a chuckle from the alpha. He liked how Jimin clung to him.

"Don't get me wrong. He's a selfish prick, but once he pecked Yeo-jeong's ears because he won't stop messing with me. I was here to feed the seagulls as usual and Yeo-jeong stole the grain sack from me. Our boy here got irritated and had his entire flock peck and chased the gang away. So he has my ultimate loyalty and I come here almost every other day with some grains to express my gratitude."

"And he left it like that?" Jungkook asked. As much as he disliked the gang, Jimin had a lot of interesting stories to share. He also didn't think they would leave without kicking up a fuss.

"He tried to convince the entire pack that I've trained these birds to target the four." Jimin chuckled, confirming his doubts.

"And?" he probed.

"Fortunately, the pack members scoffed for even suggesting it and called him a fool, saying they cannot be tamed. He tried to gather a few and hunt them down but the people in this area chased them away because we don't kill animals or birds unless it's for food," he explained. "They keep the rodents in check and consume all the food and fish waste around this area. Honestly, they're a lot more useful than these four idiots combined."

Jungkook hummed, enjoying the conversation. He wanted to know what Jimin planned to do with the four families but didn't want to bring it up in case it dampened the mood. So he shoved that conversation aside for some other day.

"So we're getting on a boat?" he asked instead.

"Mhmm... I want to take you to the island nearby. It's small and has a lot of trees. It's beautiful during the day but not for night stay since water levels sometimes increase after sunset. But it's a good fishing spot. We can catch fishes and roam around before coming back. Most of all, we'd be without a chauffeur there."

A grin breached his face before he could stop it. He was really excited. "Okay."

They descended the remaining stairs and he heard the seagulls before they approached them. One of them perched on Jungkook's shoulder.

Jimin hopped off the last step. "Ah, this one clearly has a favorite," he chirped. "The pink feet gull likes you." He grabbed Jungkook's palm, filling it with grains.

Jungkook grinned enthusiastically as the bird hopped to his palm and began to eat the grain. It didn't take long before Jimin was whisked him away through the narrow docks, warning him to hop over at some places. The smell of fish was heavy in this place and Jimin informed him that a fishing boat had just docked.

"Taehyung's uncle has a trawler and a ferry. Today we are taking the trawler since we are going to catch fish and it's smaller than his ferry," Jimin explained as he guided him effortlessly. Once they were near the trawler, he helped him climb with clear instructions.

Jungkook was in awe with how Jimin handled the situation. There were several instances where Jimin asked him questions on how he could assist him but they were always respectful and filled with genuine curiosity and eagerness to help him. The alpha appreciated his efforts to make their dates a better one.

A few members in his traveling group wondered how it felt like to be courted by a beta wolf. They were curious because it was usually the alphas, who courted them and not the other way around, but Jimin seemed to break all the norms. They wanted to know how his wolf was reacting to all of this.

Jungkook had told them that his wolf felt desired and wanted. And that Jimin made them feel special with his courting attempts. Jimin was genuinely drawn to him and tried to show his attraction in many ways. He was taken with the beta too.

Namjoon too pulled him aside last night to check how he felt about everything and Jungkook told his brother that he was genuinely happy. Jimin was everything he imagined and much more. His questions started with 'Tell me about your childhood' and ranged to 'Tell me your hunting technique and the favorite sleeping position'. He could tell Jimin was honest and he was genuinely interested in him.

Jimin said something to him, pulling him out of his thoughts. "We're here. Taehyung's uncle doesn't care much for pack politics or gossip and he's a perfect fit to transport us without being nosy," he explained. "Others would eavesdrop and every member of the pack would know of every tiny detail of our day by tomorrow. That's the reason I didn't suggest it yesterday."

"I see."

They briefly met Taehyung's uncle and settled on the deck to begin their journey. The salty wind whipped on Jungkook's face. His hand automatically flew to grip Jimin when the trawler rocked gently and a rush of excitement filled his chest.

The sound of water lapping against the sides of their boat was a sensory feast to Jungkook and he heard a flock of seagulls flying above their heads.

Keow. Keow. Keow.

That combined with the sound of waves was exhilarating. He couldn't tell where they were headed to. It was somewhat similar to when he was riding a horse, but he was aware of every paw hitting the ground, here he couldn't say the same. It kinda threw him off the hilt and a momentary panic replaced his excitement before Jimin moved closer as if sensing his discomfort.

"Hold onto me," Jimin demanded gently, wrapping the alpha's hands around his middle before walking them to the edge where he helped him hold onto the banister with one hand. The beta stood in the front. "I'm right here. You're not gonna fall."

Jungkook was torn between hiding his panic but also accepting his help. He swallowed feeling like his head was floating.

"Can you hear the sound of the boat cutting through the water?" the beta asked.

Jungkook nodded tersely.

"Just focus on that sound."

"Okay." His voice was a breathy whisper.

It was all too much in that moment and his breathing was growing erratic. But Jimin turned to face him and wrapped his hands around him.

"We are now headed toward the island. It's just a bunch of trees when you look from this distance, but it's beautiful up close. When the sun hits the middle of the sky, the ocean would shimmer around the lush greens," he continued. "But now it's deep blue. We're standing at the nose of the boat. Doesn't it feel like a horse ride? We're just riding on the ocean instead."

Jungkook nodded again. The experience just couldn't be put in words, but his initial panic subsided with Jimin by his side. The beta rubbed his back as his mother would do sometimes and he grew calm. He had traveled across the river a few times before the incident but he felt like that experience was nothing compared to this.

For one, the river was calmer than the sea. The journey was often relaxed as opposed to this. The boat braving the tides was way far from the calm he knew. Jimin once again turned to face the ocean once he was sure Jungkook was alright. The salty breeze continued to tousle his hair as their boat continued the steady course toward the island. The sensation of the boat moving on the sear underneath his feet was thrilling yet unsettling until he got used to it.

The beta's presence alone was reassuring like a steady anchor amidst the storm. If Jungkook's hold was tight around his waist, Jimin said nothing.

"We're close now," Jimin announced. "At this distance, you can see the outline of the trees. We have a few tropical trees out here." His voice broke through the sound of waves and birds, painting a vivid image in his mind.

Jungkook took a deep breath, breathing in the beta's scent along with that of the ocean as his hold tightened around the banister. His heart pounded with excitement and anticipation. When the boat slowed down, he knew they were close.

"Alright, alpha, we need to get down here. The water is knee deep and we will walk from here."

"Oh."

Jungkook blinked but once again Jimin made it feel like an easy task. He followed his instructions and soon stood in knee deep water after jumping on Jimin's command. The beta immediately gripped his hand and began to guide him toward the island, describing everything around them.

"We will be quick!" he called out to someone behind them.

"Be careful!"

"Sure!"

The seagulls cried overhead as Jungkook struggled to walk in the water. It was confusing as he was never used to the gentle force of the waves trying to throw him off balance every time he moved. His steps were awkward and drew laughter from Jimin.

"You look like a fawn," his future mate chimed. "We're almost there." His presence was steady in the midst of unknown waters. "Just ten more feet."

Jungkook felt the water depth reducing as they proceeded. Soon it was only ankle deep and then they were on the shore. As they took their first steps onto the shore, the waves kissed his legs and the sand was warm underneath his feet.

"Welcome to our island retreat," Jimin greeted. "This is the smallest island near our pack with diverse flora. You can walk from this end to the other in a matter of ten or fifteen minutes. There are no animals here, but you can see a lot of birds." He dragged him further into the island. "And this is our little paradise, a place away from all the hustle and bustle. A place just for you and me."

A rush of warmth filled Jungkook's chest again.

"Come on," Jimin beckoned and Jungkook followed him eagerly.

Everything sounded and felt so serene here. It wasn't too hot or cold here. The weather was just perfect. As he followed Jimin, relishing the way sand squished beneath his toes, it was an unexplainable sensation. They had earlier ditched their shoes on the boat upon Jimin's insistence.

Jimin expertly guided him through the vegetation, weaving through the trees before approaching a large tree. "This is it!" he announced. "A place far from everyone's ears and eyes to have our heart-to-heart."

Jungkook chuckled. "Yeah?"

"Yeah," Jimin confirmed. "So tell me, alpha. Have you been with anyone else before?"

***

"So tell me, alpha. Have you been with anyone else before?" Jimin questioned, relishing how the blood rushed to the alpha's pale face. The beta thought his blue eyes were the striking features of his face. The faint flush on his ruggedly handsome face was one for the books. He couldn't stop looking even if he wanted to.

The alpha shifted in his feet, averting his gaze to stare aimlessly above Jimin's head. He loved that the alpha was taller and at the broader side. He could easily burrow into his body and disappear if he wanted to.

"No." The alpha sounded a little bashful when he replied after a few anticipated breaths. "I've been saving myself for my mate."

Jimin grinned, his scent sweetening and blooming upon hearing his response. He waited for Jungkook to ask something. When he didn't, he asked, "Don't you want to know?"

Jungkook's face was so easy to read, his emotions so transparent. Perhaps it was because he didn't know how to mask it or that he just didn't care. Gone was all the bashfulness, his scent pulsed with something else. "No!" he replied with conviction.

"Why is that?" Jimin asked curiously. This alpha was definitely something else.

"I don't care." His voice was laced with a growl and once again Jimin felt elated to see the hint of jealousy and possessiveness in his eyes. The way they narrowed and his nostrils flared gave him away even if his scent didn't.

"But I asked you about your previous relationships," Jimin pushed, wanting to see where this would lead.

Jungkook clenched and unclenched his fists. His chest expanded and he looked away. "It means I don't wish to fight your clan men for being with you before me." His jaw looked so tight and a muscle ticked in his jaw. "I don't think your brother and parents will appreciate another pile of bodies' right before our mating ceremony."

Jimin burst into laughter, his wolf extremely pleased by the alpha's possessiveness. The alpha was just so adorable.

Jungkook grabbed his hips with a snarl, twisting them to pin him against the nearest tree. His blunt nails dug into his hip bones. "You better not talk about the ones you were previously with and do not take me lightly," he growled at his face. "I'll be the only alpha in your life from now on. I swear, beta, if you make fun of me one more time, I'll hunt them all down, skewer them in a pole and put them for everyone to see at the entrance of our mating ceremony."

Jimin's cock twitched at his words. "Fuck, that's sexy," he said huskily. "So damn sexy."

Jungkook only growled in response. However, Jimin couldn't help but laugh. The alpha's lips peeled back, revealing his sharp canines.

"You're so adorable, you know that?" Jimin stated, pinching his cheeks. Perhaps not an intelligent move to handle a furious alpha. "I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you then," he sang, his scent bubbling with happiness. "You'll have to fight four." He tapped four fingers on his cheek, relishing the alpha's scent bubbling with hot anger. It was so hot that he could taste the heat in his tongue. "These four are really menacing, though." He traced the alpha's jaws to his lips. "Very very menacing, albeit a bit short to reach deep," his voice lowered.

Jungkook grabbed his hand, letting out a snarl that almost resembled a roar. His chest rumbled with controlled rage. His hand tightened around his wrist. "Who. Are. They? Give me a name and their scent." His nostrils flared.

Jimin only soaked in the anger. It was hella amusing and Jungkook looked extremely handsome. His scent was hot and heavy, so heady like that new ale imported from the West. He inhaled deeper. "You're holding their throats in your hand already," he said in a teasing tone. "If you hold any tighter, I'm sure they'll die."

The alpha went silent and Jimin smiled as Jungkook released his wrist to trace his four fingers again. He saw the exact moment realization dawned on the alpha's face and Jungkook narrowed his eyes, grabbing the back of his head to capture his lips in a searing kiss.

This kiss was nothing like the one they shared before and there was nothing gentle about this. The alpha seemed to be more possessive than he thought. Jungkook's lips moved over his with determination and his tongue breached the seam of his lips with a purpose.

Jimin opened his mouth willingly and Jungkook immediately dominated his mouth. His tongue tasted every corner before sucking his tongue into his mouth. The beta's eyes rolled to the back of his head as the alpha kissed him senseless. His lips began to tingle and body thrummed with need.

But Jungkook pinned him against the tree, wedging a thigh between his legs. Jimin moaned into his mouth at the first brush of his thigh against his erection.

"You're a fucking menace," Jungkook growled against his lips.

Jimin breathed heavier, chest rising and falling against the alpha's chest. "I've been saving myself for you too," he admitted.

Jungkook kissed him again; his grip on his hip bruising. When he pulled back again, the alpha's eyes were unfocused, scent laden with arousal. Jimin wanted to melt into it. The thick musky scent of arousal was unlike anything he had smelled. It smelled so divine.

The alpha's hands fluttered over his torso hesitantly. It traced the line of his abdomen and chest, skimming over his aroused nipples.

"Taehyung said I should touch and see your ass for myself," Jungkook suddenly stated. "I want to see you."

"I'm not stopping you," Jimin breathed in anticipation. "Go on."

Jungkook looked so eager, scent spiking once again as his hands began to map his torso. The touches were feather-like and curious. It lingered a little longer over his nipples, tweaking them and listening to his soft moans before dipping his head for another kiss.

Oh, Jimin could kiss him for every waking hour of the day. The alpha tasted so good. Unable to resist, Jimin circled his hands around the alpha's neck and pulled him down for another kiss, which Jungkook immediately granted.

Jungkook's hands continued to trace his body. The beta sensed how the alpha's breath hitched when his hands dipped just below the curve of his ass. One second he was just touching him and the next he was squeezing the firm flesh, grabbing a handful of each butt cheek until it spilled out of his hands.

"Fuck!" the alpha cursed against his lips. "Taehyung held back a lot of information," he groaned.

"For your own sanity, I suppose," Jimin teased.

Jungkook kneaded his ass, pulling him so tight against his body that Jimin could feel the outline of his hardened cock. Oh, goddess, have mercy on me.

The alpha's kiss held a promise and the mere touch sent sparks flying. It ignited his desire and it took a lot of strength and will power just to break the kiss. He could see the fight in Jungkook's gaze too.

"I think we should go." Jungkook cleared his throat, ears and face red. "I don't think I can keep my hands to myself." He took a step back. "I've always wanted a mate and after losing my vision, I thought it was impossible. Now that I have you, I'm having a hard time controlling my emotions when I'm near you."

Jimin sighed, stepping forward to embrace the endearing alpha. "Just a few more days and you won't have to hold back anymore." He lifted his head to kiss his chin. "So how about we catch that fish?"

Jungkook chuckled. "I think that's a much needed distraction right now."

Both shared the laughter and walked back to the shore hand in hand. Getting back to the boat didn't seem daunting to Jungkook as it was the first time. He looked at ease and followed Jimin's instructions. Soon they were on the boat again, steering to the fishing area.

Jungkook has fished before and found it interesting. When he was a juvenile wolf, his father took him and Namjoon to the shallow parts of the river, teaching him how to fish with bare hands. It was a fond memory. Later, however, those same parts of the woods became a dangerous place due to increased activities of an intruder.

A more rational and logical idea would be to increase the patrol in that area but their pack simply did not have enough wolves to spare that year or in the following years. Their population was on decline until a decade ago. Still, surviving the winter was not as easy as one would think.

Fishing with Jimin was fun. He was clumsy when it came to that and got berated by Taehyung's uncle a few times for doing it all wrong. But it never diminished his sportive nature.

Three hours later, Jimin certainly caught at least half the amount of fishes Jungkook managed to catch. It was fun because of all the fun banter. Their laughter rang out, echoing off the silence of the sea.

***

Before they knew the day was over and Jungkook found himself standing in front of the stables.

"No kicking," Jimin's warning tone reached him first before he felt the donkey bump into his hip. "Nutcracker, I mean it. He's my alpha and I value his family jewels more than anything. I'll not talk to you if you kick his nuts."

The alpha lifted a hand, holding a treat for it to accept. But he kept his hips averted and held a protective hand in front of his privates just in case. It took a few minutes of sniffing before Nutcracker, Jimin's donkey nibbled the treat.

"She came from the East," Jimin said. "Taehyung's uncle brought her and Monalisa as foals. The first thing she did when she was brought to the market is kicking Hanwool's nuts because he tried to tug at her tail and I chose her to be mine. Taehyung chose Monalisa."

Jungkook chuckled. "You have an interesting story to go with everything."

"I do." Jimin laughed. "We used to have a lot of fun. She's been sick for the past couple of days so I couldn't take her with me."

Nutcracker allowed him to pet her as Jimin divulged her quirks and personality, sharing all the nut kicking stories involving her. Time seemed to fly when Jimin was around or Jungkook was just captivated by his charm.

They caught a lot of fish that day and delivered it to Jimin's mother, who promptly invited him over for dinner later that night. Jungkook could tell the woman carried the similar warmth of his mother and reminded him a lot of her. She asked him about his family before Jimin dragged him away from her with difficulty.

As the sun began to set for the day, the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in a bubble of warmth and love. In that small stable, surrounded by hay and animals, Jungkook felt he was right at him. He never expected to blend so perfectly with Jimin.

The beta surprised him at every turn. He was passionate, kind, considerate, strong, yet so tender. When Jimin stood to embrace him one more time before they had to part for the night, Jungkook felt wrapped in a warm cocoon of comfort and love that was beginning to blossom between them.

He knew their journey was just beginning, and it would stand the test of time, because his life never lacked any hurdles. However, with Jimin, he was sure he could navigate anything thrown at him.

***

The dinner with the Park family was seemingly a silent affair compared to the family dinners at the Kim pack. Jungkook could feel the tension radiating off the Head Alpha Park even as he sat several seats away from him. Even Jimin didn't speak much in his presence, which made him wonder if their family dinners have always been this tense.

Jimin's mother had cooked various dishes for them and half way into the dinner, Taehyung had sneaked in, grabbing a chair for himself. From Jungkook's side Namjoon and Yoongi were invited by Seokjin to join them for dinner at the table.

The conversation was minimal and Jungkook was okay with that. No one asked him anything but he could naturally feel the weight of several gazes on him. Probably seeing how he was managing eating and drinking on all his own.

Jimin stuck closer, whispering to him about the dishes they served and sometimes helping him remove the fish bones he missed. But it all happened so effortlessly and conversationally that Jungkook wondered if anyone ever noticed a thing.

Often the beta would put deboned fish on his plate saying he should try it before gently removing the other one from his plate. Sometimes he would say he should try it with some side dishes for a better taste and offer to show it to him before discreetly removing the bones from around.

Back in his pack, they only had fresh water fish and it wasn't their main diet. So to learn the dietary differences between the pack was exciting. Jimin's mother also divulged into some details of how they would preserve fish for the winter that got them invested.

She even volunteered to send some barrels of dried fish with them along with some delicious recipes they could try during the winter. Jungkook was enamored by the different practices once Seokjin began to talk about the East and West pack food practices. It was something his pack couldn't afford but the knowledge was vast and he was sure Seokjin's wisdom would come handy.

Perhaps once Aera has delivered, Namjoon should start traveling like Seokjin did. They could travel together once the weather has become favorable. With the Park pack borders now open, they could always access the safest route to the East or the West pack. The possibilities were now endless and he was just as excited as everyone else.

"Taehyung, is it true that you have volunteered to become my son's surrogate?" Head Alpha Park asked as soon as Jimin and his mother began to clear the dining table.

He heard Taehyung's chair gently scrape across the floor before he stood. "Yes, Head Alpha."

"And you also volunteered to move to the Kim pack after their mating."

"Yes, Head Alpha."

"Is your future mate okay with this?" he asked.

"We have discussed briefly and he's certainly not against it," Taehyung stated confidently while Yoongi didn't utter a word.

Jungkook didn't know when the discussion happened. He doubted he'd get a proper answer if he asked.

"Good." The Head Alpha stood. "I'll speak to your parents tomorrow."

That was the end of the conversation and no one spoke a word until he left the dining room. After dinner, head alpha Park retired to rest for the night and after that the atmosphere seemed to relax a lot.

Namjoon and Seokjin settled with some drinks at the patio while Yoongi and Jungkook refused politely. Jimin dragged Jungkook away while Taehyung excused himself to go home. The beta showed him around his room and they talked until Namjoon called for him, telling him it was time to leave.

Jungkook had no heart to part ways with Jimin so he lingered even when Namjoon finished his drink and got ready to leave. Unlike yesterday, they had company and Jimin had to keep a respectful distance from him, which he didn't like at all. He longed to kiss those lips again but what could he do? He had to respect the pre-mating ceremony curfew. It also didn't feel right to kiss Jimin with his mother in the next room.

One of the rules was that they weren't allowed to meet anymore, considering they would be mated in three days. Usually, they should head out for the hunt tomorrow, but since Jungkook didn't know the parts of woods here, Seokjin had informed them they would use one day to help him assimilate with the hunting area here.

"Jungkook, the day after tomorrow is the pre-mating hunt," Seokjin informed. "I'm sure your brother would have informed you already. We will leave at dawn and be back before sunset. You're expected to hunt something for your mate as a part of your courting ritual and present him with your hunt."

Jungkook nodded. "Yes, I've been informed."

Excitement bubbled within him. He couldn't wait to participate in the pre-mating hunt. It was a common practice for the alpha to go on a hunt and bring something for their mate. Namjoon went on one too. Everyone did. It was fun.

"Jimin has requested to join the hunt as well," Seokjin said. "The curfew is only for the omegas and since he's a beta, he's allowed to come. He's an excellent hunter. I don't see why I should keep him from all the fun."

An unexpected grin breached Jungkook's face at the prospect.

"My father didn't agree to it at first but Jimin is very convincing and I also feel the rules are meant to be broken. Perhaps, we should stop sticking to the customary roles too much. This hunt isn't dangerous and we will be in familiar terrain. I also believe this would give Jimin a chance to bond with your wolf."

The idea of his future mate joining him doubled his excitement. He agreed to Seokjin. The customary rules didn't fit Jimin anyway. He might not be able to shift to his wolf form but Taehyung had told him that he was a good hunter.

"I can't wait," he replied to Seokjin and sensed Jimin's scent bloom. He was inside his home but Jungkook could still feel his presence. He then turned to bid farewell to Jimin's mother before leaving with his brother.

The walk back to the guest cabin was silent but Namjoon seemed excited. "Jungkook, our further conversations were really fruitful. I must say Seokjin's vision for our future is something else. He's really revolutionary and I can see our packs thriving if his vision comes true. But we also need to fortify our borders for better protection from the Northerners. Seokjin has agreed to exchange healer apprentices for a short term. This way we will be able to learn their ways of healing while they can learn ours. We will be able to learn how to use their herbs and then other healing techniques. Can you believe they're far ahead of us with their treatment?" His voice carried wonder. "I can't believe the amount of possibilities this proposal has opened for our entire pack. It's truly beneficial for our packs."

Jungkook grinned. "I'm glad to hear that."

A sense of pride filled him. Finally, something good was happening because of the mating. Well, a lot of good things were happening. Though he initially agreed to this marriage for the benefits of his pack, he was also gaining a lifelong companion out of this. So Jungkook felt like a winner on all accounts. It must be the Moon Goddess who blessed him with Jimin as his mate. He couldn't think of anyone more capable than Jimin now that he has met him.

"I'm going for a walk," Yoongi announced, after being silent for most of the night.

Jungkook wondered when he came back and how. Usually he'd be gone for days in the end. It was a miracle, he was able to rein in his emotions this fast. He didn't blame Yoongi. Jungkook couldn't imagine losing his mate and bouncing back from it unscathed. He was sure he'd follow his mate without question.

Yoongi was alive only because he thought his purpose was to kill as many Northerners as possible. Or it was something else. No one would know.

"Did you speak to him?" Jungkook asked. "How is he holding up?"

"He's torn," Namjoon said once he was out of earshot.

Now it was just him and Seokjin. The guest cabins weren't that far and a Park pack wolf lingered at a distance upon Seokjin's orders, giving them a sense of freedom.

"Taehyung was able to crack something in him and the omega is making him question everything as he knows it. He's feeling like he's betraying Mina by allowing himself to indulge in these new feelings. His wolf is conflicted because it does not understand why it was feeling so protective of Taehyung while his human side is only seeing this as doing the right thing. It's not easy.

Jungkook nodded in understanding. He had witnessed so many wolves losing themselves and deteriorating into nothing after losing their mate. Compared to them Yoongi had held stronger by channeling his anger and grief into something much more primitive as hunting down their enemies.

"How did you convince him to come back?" he asked.

"It was Taehyung," Namjoon said. "He sneaked out of his home last night and Jimin took him to Yoongi. I wasn't there but Minseo said that the omega was able to approach Yoongi's wolf unharmed. They were together for a few hours and the omega fell asleep in the woods. Later, Yoongi shifted, carried him to the guest cabin and left once again."

Jungkook paused. "Wow. That's..."

"It's something they have to work together with," Namjoon added. "Taehyung is adamant and is hell bent on his decision. As a friend, I'd be grateful if Taehyung can bring my old Yoongi back. But I cannot watch Taehyung destroy himself while trying to save Yoongi."

"I think I understand," Jungkook said. "I believe everything happens for a reason. When I lost my eyes, I thought I was bound to die alone and lonely, but Jimin came along. And Taehyung came with him. Yoongi never allowed anyone near him but Taehyung managed to slip past his defenses. Jimin trusts in Taehyung's ability. So I think we should support him. If something good is going to come out of it, then it's good. But I'd hate it if Taehyung got hurt in the process. It would affect Jimin too."

Namjoon fell in pace with him. Their shoulders brushed as they walked. "I agree but we cannot dictate the matter of hearts. Nothing good is going to come out of this. I have a feeling that Taehyung has imprinted on Yoongi and nothing is going to keep him away from him."

Jungkook nodded in understanding.

"Don't worry about it right now. Get some sleep. We have a big day tomorrow. I also sent a messenger to our pack explaining everything in detail to them," Namjoon informed.

"Okay. I'll see you tomorrow then."

"Good night, brother." There was a hint of smile in Namjoon's tone and his patchouli scent was calm with a sense of contentment.

"Good night." Jungkook smiled, heading to his sleeping quarters.

Sleep wouldn't come that easy to the alpha, though. He spent hours thinking about Jimin and their date. He felt like a teenager and even berated himself but he was also in no mood to listen. After living in solitude for years, he finally had someone to cherish. He deserved this. Maybe he was over excited but it was okay, he told himself. Life was short and he will take everything in stride. His excitement was palpable and he couldn't wait for the sun to rise so he could see Jimin again.

Jimin's words kept replaying in his mind and his delicious scent surrounded him. Jungkook lay on his back, finally giving into sleep in the wee hours of morning with a soft smile etched on his lips. 

***

See ya next month!