Taehyung's frustration boiled over as he pounded his fists against the cold, unyielding prison bars. The dim, flickering light cast eerie shadows across the desolate hallway, emphasizing the bleakness of their situation. "We cannot stay here any longer!" his voice echoed through the empty corridors, filled with a sense of urgency. "Tonight, we must reach Scotia," he insisted, his tone laced with desperation and determination. Jungkook shared his friend's anxiety, his thoughts consumed by worry for Aleyna's safety.

In a rare moment of vulnerability, Jungkook reached out to comfort Taehyung, his fingers tracing the faded scars where his friend's once majestic wings had been. The black ink that now covered those remnants of past glory served as a cruel reminder of the suffering inflicted by the underworld king. Anger surged within Jungkook at the memory of Taehyung's monthly torment.

"Do you dare to trust his words?" Taehyung's voice was filled with skepticism as he pulled away from Jungkook's touch, his eyes flashing defiantly. Jungkook nodded solemnly, hoping his eldest brother, Yoongi, would honor his promise. The weight of uncertainty hung heavy in the air as Jimin's reassuring grip on Jungkook's shoulder offered silent solidarity in the face of a hopeless situation.

"Let's not fight. It's not the time for arguments. If Kook trusts his brother, then we should trust our friend. He knows his brother better than anyone," Jimin's calm voice resonated with Taehyung and Jungkook, their eyes locking in understanding. Taehyung shot Jungkook an apologetic look as Jimin continued in a straightforward manner. "Tae, we get how you feel. Kook and I agree, but losing control now won't help Aleyna. And it definitely won't help us escape this prison. So, let's all work together."

"Jimin is right," the priestess affirmed as she moved to stand beside Taehyung. Jin shadowed her closely, positioning himself between them, yet Kaya remained undeterred, her voice unwavering. "Uriel said we'll be released soon." As her words trailed off, all eyes fixated on her.

Jungkook endeavored to approach Kaya, but Jin's outstretched arm obstructed his path. A tense exchange of glances ensued between Jungkook and the general, each meeting the other's gaze with equal intensity. Annoyed, Jungkook rolled his eyes. "Don't be so overprotective. I mean her no harm," he reassured.

"Well, that didn't seem to bother you when you grabbed her earlier!" Jin hissed, his eyes flashing with a warning. The general's gaze shifted from Jin to Jimin before settling on Taehyung. "No one is to lay a hand on her," Seokjin declared, pointing sternly at all of them. However, Taehyung seized the general's finger and held it firmly.

"Point your finger at me again, and you'll see how we handle troublemakers in our world. Ignorant human!" With each word, Taehyung closed the distance between himself and the general, their foreheads nearly touching. To Jungkook's surprise, Jin stood his ground, locking eyes with Taehyung in a silent battle of wills. As the tension mounted, Kaya intervened, stepping between them with a gentle touch to their chests, separating the two males.

The priestess's incredulous expression morphed into a mixture of disbelief and annoyance as her gaze settled upon the two burly men standing before her, their presence contrasting starkly with her own diminutive stature. With a hint of sarcasm, she quipped, "Are we regressing to kindergarten levels of maturity now?" Her tone carried a touch of impatience, a clear signal of her irritation at the situation unfolding before her.

Jungkook and Jimin exchanged knowing grins, finding amusement in the priestess's boldness and the comical nature of the scene playing out in front of them. Kaya, turned to the general, her voice holding a note of urgency as she implored, "Jin, I value your concern, but I alone have the right to decide who may lay hands on me. Trust me, they won't hurt me."

As Kaya's delicate hand reached out to touch Jin's face, a subtle shift in the room's atmosphere was palpable. The unspoken connection between them spoke volumes, hinting at a past or lingering intimacy that transcended mere words. Jin's demeanor softened under her touch, his gaze reflecting a depth of emotion that belied his stoic exterior.

Taehyung's posture stiffened noticeably, his eyes darkening with an array of conflicting emotions. Jungkook couldn't help but wonder at his friend's reaction, pondering whether it stemmed from jealousy, surprise at the closeness between Kaya and Jin, or perhaps some other hidden motive that lay beneath the surface.

However, the priestess's gaze shifted towards Taehyung, her eyes, once filled with a sense of authority, softened into pools of warmth and understanding. A gentle smile tugged at the corners of her lips, conveying a sense of compassion and wisdom that seemed to envelop the male before her.

Jungkook, ever observant, noticed the subtle transformation in his friend as their eyes locked in a silent exchange. In that moment, he witnessed a remarkable shift within Taehyung - the lines of tension that had etched his features seemed to dissolve, replaced by a sense of calm and openness that mirrored the serenity radiating from the priestess.

An unspoken bond seemed to weave its way between Taehyung and the priestess, transcending words and bridging the gap of misunderstanding that had lingered in the air. It was as if they communicated on a different plane, where intentions and emotions danced freely, unburdened by the constraints of language.

Kaya, standing by with a quiet strength, exuded a sense of authority that seemed to permeate the space around them. She looked like a queen, right now. He thought. Without uttering a single word, her mere presence seemed to act as a balm, diffusing the tension that had hung heavy in the air like a veil, allowing harmony and understanding to bloom in its wake.

Numerous questions swirled in Jungkook's mind. Kaya was undeniably an enigmatic figure, her true nature was still shrouded in mystery. Taehyung, known for his guarded demeanor and cautious trust, had surprisingly revealed his vulnerabilities in her presence. This was a rarity among his inner circle. The priestess held a captivating sway not just over Taehyung, but also over Jimin and Jungkook himself. He keenly felt the subtle yet undeniable influence she wielded over them.

Just as the tension settled, echoing steps reverberated through the prison hall. Instantly recognizing the approaching presence, Jungkook knew it was none other than Uriel, the formidable guardian angel. His commanding figure stirred memories of a time when all was serene and harmonious. Jungkook recalled the days when he and his brothers, alongside Celeste, underwent rigorous training under Uriel's tutelage, though he often found himself silently cursing the angelic mentor. Uriel was renowned for his strict discipline and unwavering pursuit of perfection.

"Uriel," Jungkook spoke softly, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions - surprise, gratitude, and a hint of melancholy. "It's been so long since we last crossed paths. How have you been, old friend?"

With a serene aura that seemed to hold the secrets of time itself, Uriel flashed a warm smile at Jungkook, his eyes sparkling with ancient wisdom. "I've been well, my prince. It fills my heart with joy to see you safe and sound, surrounded by friends who have become your cherished family," he remarked, his gaze drifting across the group, pausing briefly on each face, including Jin's questioning expression when it landed on Kaya.

A shared understanding passed between Uriel and him, a silent tribute to their shared history of trials and redemption. Uriel had stood as Jungkook's unwavering ally after his banishment by the king, a steadfast presence in his darkest hours. Jungkook vividly recalled the night when Uriel had carried him, battered and bruised, through the perilous forest, ensuring his escape to the realm's gates.

"Uriel, words cannot capture the depth of my gratitude. I owe you a lifetime." Jungkook spoke earnestly, his voice filled with emotion. "You were more than a guardian to me; you were my mentor, my confidant, guiding me with lessons of honor, courage, and compassion that have shaped the very core of my being." His voice cracked slightly as Uriel placed a comforting hand on his head, a gesture that brought back memories of triumph overshadowed by loss. Jungkook's heart ached with sorrow, the weight of unspoken farewells and unfinished conversations pressing down on him like a heavy burden.

"I never had the chance to say goodbye, and Celeste..." Jungkook's words trailed off, his voice barely above a whisper as he struggled to articulate the pain that gnawed at his soul.

"You owe me nothing, prince," Uriel's gentle voice cut through the heaviness in the air, his warm smile a bittersweet reminder of what once was. "You saved Celeste, my love," Uriel continued, his words like a soothing melody in the midst of anguish, "and for that, you'll always have my back. Even though she's not under our sky anymore, she'll never forget what you've done for her."

The weight of those words settled heavily on Jungkook's shoulders, and he felt his resolve crumble like fragile sandcastles against the tide of sorrow. Tears welled up in his eyes, warm droplets mingling with the dust of his journey, as the reality of loss washed over him in waves of heartbreaking realization.

Celeste was dead. She died. His best friend was gone.

In that moment, Jungkook's grief was a tempest of emotions, a symphony of sorrow and regret that echoed through the chambers of his shattered heart. And as he stood there, a broken prince in a world that no longer felt like home, he knew that the memory of Celeste would forever be etched in his soul, a painful reminder of a lovely friendship lost but never forgotten.

Tears streamed down Jungkook's face as he spoke softly, his voice trembling with grief and longing. "I miss her so much. All these years, I held onto hope that I would find some clue about her whereabouts, but her presence slipped away before I could even set foot in the human realm to find her." With a heavy heart, he leaned into Uriel's comforting embrace, seeking solace in the angel's arms.

As the sounds of his companions' footsteps drew near, Jungkook paid no heed, consumed by the overwhelming ache in his soul. "How long has it been..." His voice trailed off, the unspoken question hanging heavy in the air, his heart shattered by the fear of facing the harsh reality of her absence.

In that moment, surrounded by his friends but feeling utterly alone in his sorrow, Jungkook clung to the memories of her, his heart aching with the weight of unfinished conversations and unfulfilled promises. Promises typically made by children, yet Celeste harbored a deep desire for a family. She yearned for a shared journey of parenthood, envisioning their children growing up alongside each other, much like she and Jungkook had grown up together. She wanted their kids to be best friends as well.

"Ten years," Uriel answered in a whispery tone. "After you brought her to her mate, I wasn't allowed to see or speak to her. The king didn't permit it, but the war dragged on endlessly. All I knew was that Prince Kazimir from the underworld and Prince Hobi still coveted her. So, for the first time, I ventured from my post and visited Celeste in the human realm. She had female friends, and seeing her amidst them brought me joy. You remember her well-she was always too wild for a female, especially within the confines of the angel realm." Jungkook chuckled in agreement as Uriel continued.

"A shape-shifting fae-queen and the alpha queen of the Glowstone pack were there with their families beside Celeste." Jungkook noticed the tense shift in Jimin but Uriel continued. "Time was short, but I suggested that she relinquish her immortality. This way, she could evade Kazimir and render herself useless to him. As for Hobi, your father would have never sanctioned a union with a human. And so, she made the sacrifice, surrendering her powers, but in doing so, she lost her home and friends. You. "

A thick lump formed in Jungkook's throat as he grasped the gravity of Celeste's actions. "She gave up her powers for her mate?" Gasps could be heard behind him.

Uriel nodded solemnly. "She fell deeply in love with her mate, as you know. But she did it not only out of love, but also out of a desire to end the bloodshed. King Damon from the underworld had decimated the faerie and wolf realms. Celeste longed for peace, yet even after she relinquished her immortality, the demons did not cease their onslaught."

"Does that mean she gave up her powers for nothing?" Kaya interjected, joining their conversation. Uriel's eyes, once filled with sadness, now sparkled with joy as he gazed at the priestess. It must have been difficult for the guardian to meet her gaze.

A smile played at the corner of his lips as he replied, "It wasn't in vain. While she lost her newfound friends in the war, she lived her life. And in the end she had her own family with her chosen men, her mate. So, no, I wouldn't say it was for nothing."

"She created a family?" Jungkook's heartbeat increased. "Did she have children?"

Uriel nodded, and that simple gesture was enough to send Jungkook crumbling to his knees, overcome with a rush of emotions that threatened to consume him. Tears welled up in his eyes once more, but this time they were tears of a complex mix of joy and sorrow that he couldn't quite comprehend.

At last, she had achieved her deepest desire-a family of her own. The words about Celeste's life and legacy struck a chord deep within Jungkook's heart. He felt a bittersweet ache as he imagined the life she had led, filled with love, happiness, and the warmth of family. He wished he was there to see her children grow. He wished he would have thanked the man who made his best friend happy and feel loved. He wished he was there to witness every second of it.

As Uriel knelt beside him and gently squeezed his shoulders, a sense of comfort washed over Jungkook, yet the weight of his emotions still pressed heavily upon him.

"Dear Prince," Uriel whispered softly, his voice a soothing melody in the midst of his turmoil, "Celeste's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of love and happiness, all because of your unwavering loyalty and friendship. She cherished you until her very last breath."

A trembling breath escaped Jungkook's lips, his chest constricted with the intensity of his conflicting emotions. The boundary between mourning and joy blurred, and he found himself caught in a whirlwind of feelings he couldn't fully articulate.

"The messenger of death," Uriel continued, "spoke to her in those final moments, delivering her heartfelt message for you. She wanted you to live your life without regrets, to know that her love for you transcends even death itself. Every heartbeat, every thought-she carried you with her always, grateful for all you had done. And someday, you too, will find your purpose just like she had found hers."

Jungkook closed his eyes, allowing the weight of Celeste's last words to envelop him in a warm embrace. As he closed his eyes, he willed himself to remember the sound of Celeste's voice, like a gentle breeze caressing his soul. In his mind, he replayed the moments when she spoke to him with such tenderness and care, her words were always a soothing balm to his weary heart. And then there was her laughter, bright and full of life, a melody that echoed through his memories like a beacon of joy.

Despite society's expectations and judgments, he cherished every peal of her laughter and moment of unabashed joy she shared with him. To Jungkook, her laughter was a symphony of freedom, breaking through the constraints of convention and daring to be unapologetically itself. It was a reflection of her spirit, untamed and wild. At that moment, he felt a profound connection to her, a bond that not even death could sever. And as the tears continued to fall, mingling with his laughter and sorrow, he knew that her love would forever guide him on his journey.

°●°

Uriel led them out of the prison with a quiet and steady presence. The weight of his words lingered in the air, causing each person to contemplate silently. Jungkook, typically reserved about discussing Celeste with his friends, had only briefly mentioned her in passing conversations. Whenever he disappeared for a few days, his friends refrained from asking questions, unaware that he was searching for any trace of Celeste, hoping for even the faintest hint of her whereabouts.

As they neared the borders of Utopia, Jungkook turned to Uriel with a question that had been weighing on his mind. "Uriel, do you know which Kingdom she called home?" The guardian angel paused, a soft smile playing on his lips as he shook his head gently.

"That is a journey you must embark on yourself. I have already shared all I can," Uriel replied cryptically, his silver eyes briefly glancing at Kaya before retrieving a necklace from his pocket. The golden gleaming heirloom, adorned with a pendant Jungkook recognized as a cherished family possession, caught his eye. The pendant featured intricate engravings-a symbol of heritage and connection. Turning to Kaya, who stood by his side, Uriel spoke gently.

"Kaya, I would like you to have this," he said, carefully placing the necklace around her neck. A look of surprise crossed Kaya's face as she touched the pendant, her fingers tracing its delicate details. On the front, six wings were intricately engraved, while on the back, inscriptions in the ancient Cherubims language adorned the surface, their meaning elusive to Jungkook's understanding.

Jungkook had seen it on Celeste the last time, and as far as he knew, the necklace was always given to the family's eldest daughter. This practice had been upheld for generations, with Uriel receiving the heirloom from his mother, who inherited it from her mother. The lineage of this precious artifact could be traced back through the mists of time, spanning hundreds of thousands of years.

Jungkook's eyes widened as he realized the significance of this legacy. His gaze returned to Uriel, who met it with a knowing look. No words were needed between them, for the weight of history and tradition spoke volumes in that silent exchange. It was a silent confession.

Kaya's voice trembled as she spoke, her eyes glistening with unshed tears as she looked at the beautiful gift in her hands. "I'm truly grateful for this gift. It's exquisite," she said softly, her words filled with emotion. Jungkook felt his heart race at the sight of her, a mix of emotions swirling within him as he longed to hold her close. Despite the overwhelming urge, he restrained himself, keeping his composure in check.

Uriel gently clasped Kaya's hands in his own, a warm smile on his lips. Pride and adoration shone in his silver eyes as he spoke, "This necklace once belonged to my daughter, Kaya Celeste Malik." His words hung in the air, causing a collective gasp from those present as the revelation sank in. Jimin and Taehyung visibly paled as the puzzle pieces fell into place, explaining the uniqueness surrounding Kaya.

The priestess, her hands shaking, attempted to remove the necklace, her mind reeling with the newfound knowledge. "I can't accept this... Wait, your daughter's name was Kaya?" she stammered, her eyes widening in realization as she looked at Uriel for confirmation. When he nodded, a gasp escaped her lips, her entire being trembling with the weight of the truth unveiled before her. "My grandmother's... my mother's..."

"The tradition dictates that the eldest daughter bears the name Kaya-a name that embodies purity," Uriel explained gently, his words laced with reverence. He knelt before the priestess, reaching out to wipe away the tears that cascaded down her cheeks. "Kaya Aurora-pure light. A name befitting a woman of such grace and beauty." As their eyes met, a shared understanding passed between them, their gaze reflecting the profound connection that bound them together. Kaya's lips quivered, moved beyond words by the significance of her heritage and the legacy she carried within her soul.

The priestess hesitated, her words caught in her throat. Before she could articulate her newfound realization, Uriel gently placed a finger over her lips, silencing her.

"Do not speak it aloud, little angel," he murmured softly and surveyed the golden jewelry with his eyes. "Remember, keep it close to your heart. Let it be your silent guide and shield." Kaya nodded in comprehension, though Jungkook could sense the inner turmoil she wrestled with the questions that must have flooded her mind.

Turning his attention to Jungkook, Uriel made a solemn request. "Prince, I must ask for a favor." Jungkook drew nearer to the guardian, his hand lightly resting on the priestess's shoulder. Their eyes locked, and in that moment, Jungkook heard her heartbeat-indeed heard it. He sensed her frustration, her silent plea for answers, yet she battled to suppress it. A sharp intake of breath escaped him as he withdrew his touch. Kaya, ever observant, detected the subtle change in him, but his smile was enough to dispel her unspoken queries.

"I wish for you to erase all memories of the priestess from my mind," Uriel stated.

Perplexed, Kaya interjected, "But why? I just discovered the truth about my grandmother-I have so many questions."

"There is no other recourse. Should King Raven or Prince Hobi delve into my thoughts and uncover your identity, you would be imperiled," Uriel explained, enfolding Kaya in a protective embrace. She nestled against his chest, seeking solace in his presence. "We shall meet again, and if I glimpse you, if I see the pendant around your neck, I will recognize who you truly are-to me and our forebears, my dear little angel."

Once more, Jungkook experienced a peculiar sensation in his chest, a rhythmic echo that resonated with her heartbeat. Confusion clouded his thoughts as he grappled with the inexplicable connection he felt. What was this strange bond between them? he pondered, the mystery deepening as he exchanged a fleeting glance with Uriel.

As Uriel acknowledged Jungkook with a subtle nod, a sense of determination flickered in the prince's eyes. His abilities lay in mind control, a power honed through years of training and discipline. However, without his celestial halo and the precious Sapphire gemstones that once amplified his gifts, his control was diminished, a mere shadow of its former potency. King Raven, his father, and ruler of Skyheaven, had stripped him of these artifacts when he was exiled from their celestial realm and cast out from his cherished home, Utopia. Yet, the task at hand-erasing memories-required finesse rather than raw power.

With a steadying breath, Jungkook braced himself for the forthcoming act, his mind focused and resolute. Despite the absence of his full strength, he understood the gravity of the request and the importance of safeguarding Kaya from potential harm. In this pivotal moment, he steeled himself, ready to wield the remnants of his abilities with precision and care, guided by a sense of duty and compassion.

Blue light flickered around Jungkook's hands as he reached to touch Uriel's temples, preparing to delve into the guardian's mind. However, before he could proceed, Kaya intervened urgently. "Wait!" Jungkook immediately halted his movements, withdrawing his hands from Uriel's temples. Confusion clouded their expressions as they turned to look at her.

"The cloak. I was wearing a cloak before I arrived here. My mother inherited it from my grandmother, who received it from a fae queen, her dear friend," Kaya explained rapidly, her eyes alight with a sense of urgency.

Uriel's eyes widened in understanding, and he nodded in agreement. "I sensed the fae queen's scent on the cloak," he confirmed, whistling a melodious tune through his fingers. A majestic white owl gracefully landed on Uriel's arm. "Hermes, bring forth the cloak," Uriel instructed. The owl took flight once more, circling Kaya. The surrounding clouds dissipated as it completed its rounds, revealing a beautiful cloak draped around Kaya's form.

A sense of wonder swept over the onlookers as they gazed in awe at the magical display. Kaya beamed with joy, running her fingers over the familiar cloak material. "My mother would never forgive me if I lost this," she joked, eliciting laughter from everyone except Jimin.

Drawing closer to Uriel, Jimin's voice quivered with vulnerability as he inquired, "You knew the fae queen?" Uriel nodded solemnly, meeting Jimin's gaze with a knowing look. With a shaky breath, Jimin pressed on, "What did she smell like? How did she appear?" Uriel placed a comforting hand on Jimin's head, mirroring the fatherly gesture he often extended to Jungkook and his brothers when they were distressed.

Uriel whispered softly, "You, too, will uncover your truths. If it brings you solace, she exuded the fragrance of an evergreen forest in full bloom, and you bear a striking resemblance to her in appearance and scent." Jimin's lips quivered at the guardian's words, and he sought comfort in Uriel's embrace, burying his face in the crook of his arm. With a tender touch, Uriel patted Jimin's head reassuringly. "Do not harbor resentment towards her actions. She would have gone to any lengths to protect you. Remember that, young Fenryir," Uriel spoke with a sense of wisdom and compassion.

As Uriel's words sank in, Jimin's emotions surged, and he could no longer contain his grief. His gasping sobs tore at Jungkook's heart, and a shared glance with Taehyung revealed that he, too, was struggling to hold back his own emotions. Taehyung, known for his stoicism, displayed a rare vulnerability, showing how deeply he cared for Jimin.

Realization dawned on Jungkook as he recalled the name Uriel had used - Fenryr, Jimin's family name that he never used. The weight of the revelation settled heavily on Jungkook's shoulders, knowing the danger that lurked if King Damon, the ruler of the underworld, discovered Jimin's true lineage. The Fenryr clan, a powerful realm led by a fae queen who could shift into a wolf and her formidable alpha wolf mate, had been decimated in the war. The King never discovered that one of the Fenryr bloodlines had survived.

The emerald gemstone atop the palace shimmered with ethereal light, stirring a sense of urgency in Jungkook and Uriel. "Prince, we must hasten. Your brother is seeking me," declared the guardian angel. With a solemn gaze, Uriel enveloped Kaya in a tight embrace, imparting whispered words into her ear. His eyes traversed the group as he bid them farewell before finally fixing his gaze upon Jungkook. However, before commencing the procedure to erase his memories, the guardian leaned close to the prince. "My prince, I entrust my little angel to your care. Please, protect her."

°●°

Kaya clung tightly to Jimin, seeking to offer him solace in his moment of vulnerability. Witnessing him break down in tears earlier had left her overwhelmed with emotion. Of the trio, she had always felt a special connection to Jimin, sensing that he was somehow intertwined with her world. Now, with the revelation that he was the son of the fae queen and the alpha of the Fenryr wolf pack, the weight of his destiny as the last living male wolf pressed heavily upon her.

Despite Jin's sharp glares directed at Jimin, Kaya remained steadfast in her support, focusing solely on easing Jimin's profound sorrow. The mingled emotions of Jimin and Jungkook resonated within her, a potent blend that resonated deeply in her soul. She could feel them both and heard their fast heartbeat. It was almost overwhelming, but amidst the turmoil, she clung to the glimmer of hope that both males radiated deep within.

As Taehyung led the way toward the white gate marking the exit of Skyheaven, Kaya sensed a shift in Jungkook's demeanor, prompting her to check on him with concern. In the distance, a flickering dark red light emanated from the palace's red gemstone, captivating Jungkook's weary gaze. A single tear seemed poised to fall from his eyes, tugging at Kaya's heartstrings.

Suddenly, a voice echoed in her mind, unmistakably Jungkook's. "Thank you, Yoongi," his words reverberated within her consciousness, leaving her stunned. Was it a figment of her imagination, or had she indeed heard his mind? Before she could dwell on this revelation, Taehyung swung open the gate, and a blinding white light enveloped them, transporting them into the mystical realm of Eden.

The sacred place evoked a new and profound sensation within Kaya. Learning that Queen Gaya once resided in this very location filled her with a deep melancholy. The thought of the queen enduring centuries of solitude, knowing she had a child somewhere but choosing to avoid encountering them for their safety, weighed heavily on Kaya's heart.

"The queen's strength and sacrifice are truly remarkable," Kaya whispered to herself, momentarily forgetting that the trio accompanying her possessed heightened senses that were now keenly focused on her every word and gesture. With a nonchalant shrug, she brushed off their curious gazes.

As they drew closer to the imposing black gate marking the entrance to the Underworld, a magnificent wolf emerged from the shadows behind the bushes. This was the same majestic wolf they had encountered in Pneuma, surrounded by a gentle swirl of glowing purple butterflies that carried the fragrant scents of cinnamon and lilies through the air. Jimin's sensitive nostrils flared slightly as he briefly closed his eyes, attuning himself to the wolf's presence. The wolf's amber eyes first met Jimin's gaze before turning to fixate on Kaya.

Approaching the wolf affectionately, Kaya stroked its soft fur, eliciting a chorus of delighted laughter that escaped her lips as the purple butterflies danced joyfully around her. "It's wonderful to see you once more, my beautiful," she expressed to the wolf, which lowered its head and nuzzled her gently, brushing its damp snout against her nose. A peculiar sensation stirred within her chest at that moment, accompanied by a rapid, resounding heartbeat. A soothing voice filled her mind to her amazement, calming her overwhelmed senses and enveloping her in a comforting warmth as she realized the speaker's identity.

The wolf's gentle yet resonant voice carried an unmistakable aura of ancient reverence. "It is indeed an honor that you remember me, priestess," it spoke with a wisdom that seemed to transcend time.

Kaya's eyes lit up with recognition, a brilliant smile adorning her lips. "How could I ever forget you?" Her words, filled with genuine warmth, were directed towards the majestic wolf, yet the onlookers around her couldn't help but exchange bewildered glances, momentarily convinced she was conversing with herself.

"We meet again, Kaya. I am Aveline," the wolf declared, its words accompanied by a sudden flurry of butterflies that erupted around Kaya's head, their iridescent wings creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Aveline's eyes sparkled with amusement as she observed the fluttering insects. "This is Nayade. She does not take kindly to being overlooked."

With a soft chuckle, Kaya leaned in to kiss the wolf's damp snout tenderly. "Aveline, the pleasure is mutual," she expressed warmly before focusing on the radiant butterfly perched delicately on her nose. And Nayade, it's lovely to meet you, too." Her voice filled with genuine affection, she addressed the shimmering butterfly.

In that fleeting moment, as two distinct heartbeats resonated in harmony with her own, Kaya couldn't suppress a sense of wonder. She pondered whether the second heartbeat she felt belonged to Nayade. This ethereal butterfly companion now graced her presence. Three heartbeats were pounding in unison.

"I really don't want to disturb your date, but we must go. My time is ticking." Taehyung interjected his hands already on the lock of the imposing black gate. Aveline nodded respectfully to Kaya while Nayade gathered around the wolf's head as if bidding farewell. Returning the nod, she walked beside Jin, who had his hand outstretched towards her.

Jimin locked eyes with the wolf, and that's when Kaya smelled their scents together. The aromas of sweet cinnamon and fresh evergreen intertwined in the air, mingling with the golden light of the setting sun to create a tableau of breathtaking beauty. Jimin and Aveline seemed to blend, their auras merging into a tapestry of radiant colors and shimmering light. At that moment, it was as if they were woven into one soul, bound by threads of destiny that transcended the boundaries of time and space.

°°°

[Well, I think a few secrets are out, right?] New characters comming soon.

Aveline & Nayade