Jungkook sat on the edge of the boat with his legs spread. The angel sighed and cupped his chin with his hand before releasing a loud yawn that made his head spin for a few seconds. He then leaned forward and stared at his reflection in the water to see his blonde hair and blue eyes.

The others were sitting around a campfire in front of Jungkook, each of them chewing on a skewered flame-grilled fish. Jin was the most uncomfortable about the idea so he ended up cooking some squirrel meat that Olivia had in her satchel. Yoongi was the only person in the group who wasn't eating, instead he was on the ground and was flat on his back, hands clamped over the sleeping Holly on his stomach and eyes closed.

Jungkook noticed how Jimin was just hugging his knees while staring at the ground so he decided to enter his thoughts. He was instantly hit with a chaotic mix of Namjoon, Kaeva and confusion when it came to his feelings towards them both. Since his head was starting to ache as well, the Hemelian left the thunder gem bearer's thoughts alone.

Maybe that's what I get for intruding into Jimin's thoughts; Jungkook told himself. He thought back to when the thunder gem bearer had spoken to his mother on the phone for approximately an hour. It was strange, really, but he respected his friend's privacy to some extent and didn't ask about it or search for the answers through his thoughts.

Jungkook chewed on his bottom lip as the crackling fire rang in the dead silence. His mind wandered until he thought about Taehyung and gritted his teeth. He could not believe that all this time, his supposed best friend had been on Hel's side. It felt like he had been kicked in the ass and had fallen from the highest tier of betrayal.

When the LOONA girls mentioned that some of them would have to sneak inside the palace by attending the royal ball, Jungkook knew that seeing Taehyung would be inevitable. Before, he would have loved to see his dearest friend finally be coronated as the rightful prince of Hel. Now, however, the mere thought of it made him scowl.

"Okay," Yoongi picked up the still sleeping Holly and rolled on his stomach before he sat upright. The fire gem bearer smiled as he placed the dragon on his lap and pet it gently. "Can we get a recap of the plan again?"

This time, nobody questioned Yoongi's forgetfulness.

Namjoon raised a finger as he continued to chew his fish. He swallowed and Jungkook saw his Adam's apple bob up and down on his long neck. "LOONA can't come with us because they're in the palace's watchlist and we'll get caught instantly—"

"We're sorry about that by the way!," Chuu cheered from LOONA's camp, which was just a few feet away from theirs. Yves was asleep, her head on the other's thighs. The girls were eating grilled fish as well.

"As I was saying..."

Namjoon trailed off and stared at Yves and Chuu for a brief moment. Jungkook knew that the earth gem bearer was trying his hardest to not glance at Jimin.

"We're split into two teams," Namjoon finally peeled his eyes away from the girl couple. "The Party team and the Rescue team."

"Jungkook, Jimin, Sky and I are in the Party team," Jin had a huge smile on his face, some char from his grilled meat dotting the sides of his mouth. "We're in charge of sneaking into the palace and making the dungeon accessible to the Rescue team."

"That's when Yoongi, Namjoon, Emily and I come in!," Hoseok announced with a mouthful of fish. Now seeing the air gem bearer's face would automatically make him think of Jia and being tapped regardless of age. The angel shuddered. "We'll help out the imprisoned LOONA girls and will lead them back here!"

"Sounds simple enough," Yoongi shrugged. "Except for one thing."

"Which is?," Emily was collecting all the fishbones from her meal. Jungkook assumed she was going to make some kind of weapon.

"How are you guys going to blend in?," Yoongi paused when he realized that Holly was now awake. He placed the dragon on his shoulders. "I mean, no offense Cloud but your hair gives it away."

"I... think I can solve that," You said slowly. Everyone faced you due to the nervous tone that was present in your voice. Jungkook squinted his eyes and watched as you untied your silver hair.

You closed your eyes and slowly ran your hands down your hair. Jungkook's eyes widened at the faint purple mist that surrounded your palms. Everyone gasped as the hair that had been passed through turned into a dark shade. Once your hands were on your neck, your silver hair had completely turned jet black.

"Sky," Emily was speechless for a moment. Her fishbone collection was scattered across the floor. "How did you do that?"

"I...," You continued to feel your now black hair. Everyone was still staring at you with a mixture of shock and awe. "I just did."

"That's so cool!," Jimin squealed loudly and Jungkook couldn't help but notice the fish scales stuck on his teeth. Hoseok laughed loudly. "Can you turn me blonde?"

Your nervous premise immediately shattered at those words. Jungkook found it hard to guess what was going through your mind, especially because he could not read your thoughts at all. Due to that, the Hemelian prince was always left guessing—

Wait. Wait a minute. Jungkook was struck with a sudden realization. He leaned backwards and nearly fell ass first into the boat as he collected his thoughts. The purple mist, sudden appearance of never before seen abilities plus failing to read your mind would only lead to one thing—

"You are right, Jungkook. Sky is Helian."

Jungkook nearly jumped at the sudden voice but calmed down when he realized that it was Kiana instead. He couldn't help but smile at the sight of her giving him such a cute and innocent look. "So you knew this whole time?"

"Sky has a mind full of mysteries. It took me a while to confirm it myself," Kiana looked forward. Jungkook followed her gaze and saw his friends laughing with each other as they ate. Even Jimin and Namjoon were smiling, although they were avoiding each other's gazes. "It must be nice."

Jungkook took a bite of the grilled fish in his hand. He frowned at how cold it was now. "What do you mean?"

"To be alive."

A silence passed between Jungkook and Kiana at that moment. The angel stopped chewing and stared at the Helian magical, who was just watching his friends converse playfully. He wanted to say something or comfort her in a way but his throat and fish-filled mouth failed him. Then, he realized, maybe silence was what she needed.

Jungkook felt the tears threaten to spill out of his eyes again. He recalled Kiana's words and that she had a mysterious mission to complete before she can pass on. Truthfully, he didn't want her to leave. The prince didn't want to experience the loss of a loved one again.

But Jungkook knew that it was inevitable. Kiana did too. Death was something not even the darkest of spells could cheat. Knowing that his time with his beloved was limited, the angel reached out to grab her hand and squeezed it tightly. Despite the Helian being a ghost only he could see, her hand was warm to the touch.

Kiana and Jungkook stared at each other in a moment of meaningful silence.

"I only told Sky that she has Vredeian blood," Kiana spoke suddenly, the solemn expression still on her face. "Her being Helian is something that only she has the right to find out. She will uncover the truth of her past eventually."

Jungkook opened his mouth and almost started to beg at Kiana to stay. But, he knew that it wasn't what she needed to hear right now. "This... Jiyang that Miss Ashleya mentioned back home. Is he..."

Kiana turned around to face Jungkook, the expression on her face unreadable. She didn't say anything and only gripped his hand tighter. This only made the angel confused. But before he could ask what she was trying to say, another voice rang.

"Jungkook?"

Jungkook faced ahead and saw that you were standing there with an stick on boney fish while you rubbed your arm awkwardly. He knew that it took a while to get used to seeing you with jet black hair.

"Can we talk?," You glanced at the others, who were too busy conversing with each other to notice that you had wandered off. Turning back, you spoke up when you noticed that Kiana was about to fade. "Kiana, I think you should stay too."

Kiana glanced at Jungkook before she nodded. Confused, the angel helped you take a seat next to him and watched silently as you fished something out of the pocket of your shorts. His eyes widened at what was in your hands — An opened white envelope with Hel's logo printed on its paperback.

"What is that?," Jungkook asked dumbly since his mind failed to process what he was currently looking at.

"It's a letter from the King of Hel," You whispered softly and took the letter, which was colored a faint purple hue and neatly folded in half. "It's addressed to Taehyung. You guys should read it."

Jungkook stared at the letter as he handed it to you. Kiana scooted over and leaned her head on the angel's shoulder as he slowly opened the letter. His hands trembled as dread pooled at the pits of his stomach.

A few seconds of silence passed between them. Jungkook's eyes widened as his breaths shortened as he continued to read the letter. The moment he finished, the paper slipped out of his hands and fell on the concrete floor below.

Jungkook looked up and saw staring at him expectantly. Contrary to what you had in mind, the angel gritted his teeth. "You actually believe what's in there?"

You paused. "Jungkook—"

"Taehyung has done so much to deceive us, Sky," Jungkook hissed loudly, which almost caught everyone's attention. Only Jimin peaked curiously. Kiana was silent next to him. "How are you sure this isn't something he fabricated again? What if he's making us bait—"

"Listen, I don't trust him either," Your words shocked and silenced Jungkook. You sighed and a ran a hand through your dark hair. "But... Taehyung would do anything for his sister, right?"

Jungkook almost protested but he remembered one of the reasons why Taehyung even left Hel in the first place. He wanted to become strong — strong enough to be able to protect Shay from his father. His jaw was no longer clenched.

"He would," Kiana answered instead, her voice soft. "He'd do anything."

Even leave all his friends behind. Jungkook winced.

"Jungkook," You leaned forward with burning eyes that were now flashing purple. Jungkook stared and wondered if you even noticed this. Kiana looked away. "You saw what was written in that letter. King Michael threatened to kill Shay if Taehyung doesn't join his side. If there is even the slightest chance that he's doing this out of force then I am taking it."

Truthfully, Jungkook was impressed at how you had the tendency to believe in Taehyung even more than he did. He faced Kiana, who was staring back at him with a small smile, and chuckled.

"And if Taehyung really is on our side," Jungkook asked with a laugh, both amused and relieved at the idea. "What exactly do you plan on doing? Take the prince of Hel right after his coronation?"

It was obvious that Jungkook's laughter did not sit well with you. You sighed and looked ahead. The angel followed your gaze and saw that you were looking right at your friends, who were still talking and eating.

You turned to Jungkook with determination written all over your face. "I have a plan."

-

Today is a big day. After a good meal and a night of rest, it was finally time for your team and the LOONA girls to perform the plan. You stared at the ladder in front of you then at the exit above. The light seeping through the hole made you cover your eyes and created a shadow that casted across your pale skin.

You felt the tension and rumbling nerves pooling at the pit of your stomach. There was also a sharp pain in your back that made you groan and roll your shoulders. Honestly, you weren't worried at all when it came to blending in with a palace filled with Helians but one thing made you nervous — seeing Taehyung again, especially after you and Jungkook had shown everyone the contents of the letter.

Of course, the reactions of your friends were to be expected. None of them believe the letter to be real, not even Emily, the one who would support you no matter how stupid or ridiculous the idea was. The only one who had a little faith in Taehyung was Jungkook although the angel himself was unsure.

You, on the other hand, believed that there was a reason why Taehyung had left the letter under Hel's map. It felt like all the items in his room had been positioned for you to see on purpose, like clues laid down and intended to be solved.

The problem? You weren't sure what Taehyung wanted to say except that maybe, a very strong maybe he was being a double agent. But, sadly, you did not have the evidence to prove this to your friends.

"Hey," Emily stepped forward and gestured at your back. You groaned again as the prickling pain under your skin returned. "Want a massage?"

You wordlessly turned around and let Emily do the work. Rolling your back, you hummed as your best friend continued to massage your back.

"You've got tight muscles," Emily chuckled and tilted her head. She rubbed circles. "Nervous?"

You groaned and rolled your shoulders. "Yeah, a bit."

Emily didn't say anything. Instead, her hands pressed on your back harder. Once she was done, you turned around and saw that your best friend had her eyebrows scrunched together as she exhaled through her nose. No words were needed. It was obvious that she could read you like a children's book.

"Sometimes I don't understand you, Sky," Emily shook her head, although there was still a warm smile on her face. "Why do you still trust Taehyung after all he has done to you?"

"I don't trust him, Em," You said truthfully, the words making your mouth and heart sting. "But I do believe in second chances."

Emily stared at you right in the eyes before she released a long and exasperated sigh. "You really are something else."

You laughed at Emily's remark and replied with the same. Behind her, you saw Jinsoul raise her hand and call for the assembly of the Party Team. You then glanced at your best friend before walking towards her. Since you stood in between Jungkook and Jin, you suddenly became extremely height-conscious. Jimin was pouting from the angel's other side.

"Alright," Jinsoul cracked her knuckles then purple mist started to surround her hands. Honestly, you didn't expect her to be the magical of the group. "You guys need to dress up for the party. Stand still."

Jinsoul pressed her hands on Jimin's chest and purple mist instantly surrounded him. You reached for your katana out of instinct but stopped yourself midway. When the mist faded, it revealed a now dark-haired thunder gem bearer in a completely different get-up.

Jimin now wore a black jacket designed with fancy silver curls and knots over a silky black buttoned top with a laced collar. There was a wide black cummerbund wrapped around his waist, its color and material matching that of his pants. His hair was parted to reveal his forehead, smoky eye shadow dotting his eyelids.

"I...," Jimin ran his hands down his clothes in a moment of silence. He turned around to check his reflection on the water. He smiled widely and Jinsoul nodded. "I love this outfit! Thank you so much, Jinsoul!"

"Wow, hot," Namjoon spoke suddenly with a cracked voice, making everyone face towards him. You laughed a bit at the dumbfounded expression on his face. His cheeks flushed a deep shade of red. "I meant in here! It's really hot in here, isn't it? Whew."

Namjoon then proceeded to fan himself with his hands and you saw Hoseok facepalm for the nth time today. Jimin himself had pink tinted cheeks that he was desperately trying to hide with his hands. There was a moment of silence. Someone pretended to hurl but you couldn't tell who.

"Stand still," Jinsoul broke the silence and pressed her palms on Jungkook's chest.

With Jungkook's new black hair and dark outfit, nobody would be able to tell that he was a Hemelian at all. He wore a dark blue coat patterned with white designs of tall towers, structures and abstract patterns. Buttons dotted his sleeves. His inner shirt was white with frills running down his chest and pants that matched the color of his coat.

"Oh my, you can pass as a Helian prince," Jin almost released a squeaky window-wiping laugh but paused when he received a burning glare from Jungkook. "Sorry, bad joke."

Jinsoul sighed and pressed her hands on Jin's broad chest next. At first sight, his outfit looked like it wasn't suited for the ball but the more you looked at it, the more you realized that it was just as good as the rest. The water gem bearer wore black from head to toe, his top made of silky cloth with white stitches covering his waist, shoulder blades, wrists and down his shoulders as well. Harnesses were strapped down his torso. His leather pants made his long legs look even longer. Hair now dark, it was spiked and parted to expose his forehead.

Emily whistled loudly and you couldn't stop yourself from laughing at her expression. "You look really..."

"Handsome?," Jin wiggled his eyebrows, a knowing smirk on his face.

Emily rolled her eyes and smiled warmly. "Yes, you idiot. You look really handsome."

Jin, obviously satisfied, smiled. You, on the other hand, thought about what kind of dress you would wear to the ball. A mental image of a purple floral dress came to your mind with transparent cloth over the top part of your chest and arms. There would be a pattern of leaves flowing in the wind on those areas. Vines wrapped around your arms and flowed down your skirt.

Your closed your eyes when you were surrounded by purple mist. Opening them, you looked down satisfied at the dress you were wearing. It came just out of your imagination. "Thanks, Jinsoul."

"I didn't do that," Jinsoul said blankly. What. You noticed that everyone was staring at you again. All the eyes on you made a shiver run down your spine. "You gave yourself that dress."

A silence. Jungkook secretly gave you a side glance and chewed on his bottom lip. You stared at your trembling hands with wide eyes, just as you heard Kiana in your head.

"Sky, please... do not fear your abilities. You are much stronger than you know."

And those thoughts filled your mind even after the four of you waved goodbye to the others and exited the underground base. Now you and the rest of the party team were standing in front of the gate to Hel's palace. Seas of Helian men and women in formal poured into the palace, their chattering filling your ears. All was silent as you looked up at the archway and studied the snake-scale patterned marble. Bile rose in your throat once more.

"You know," Jimin words made everyone face him. He ran a hand through his dark hair and smiled cheekily, which made his cheeks even rounder. "If we fail miserably and die painfully here, this will be our last party. So, I suggest that we have fun before our inevitable deaths!"

"Are you even taking this seriously," Jungkook muttered under his breath. You could tell he was uncomfortable disguised as a Helian. The angel kept rolling his shoulders, as if expecting his wings to flap behind him.

"Of course I am!," Jimin continued to smile. He snapped his fingers and winked playfully. You saw some Helian women glance at the men of your group, which made you frown. "But I don't want us to come out of this party as depressed zombies. Well I'm already depressed but that's not the point! Let's enjoy! Eat and dance, you know?"

"No matter how ridiculous it sounds, Jimin is right," Jin nodded. He had both hands behind his back, expression soft and tone firm. It reminded you of the first time you and Yoongi met him. "It is the perfect way to blend in with the Helians. If we stand out awkwardly, people will know that something is wrong."

"They're right, Jungkook. I know that you don't like the idea but we have to act like Helians for now," You gave Jungkook a soft pat on the arm and hoped that it would reassure him, even if just for a little bit. "It's the only way for us to keep this plan together."

Jungkook stared at the three people giving him pleading before he craned his neck and released a heavy sigh. He groaned. "Fine, we'll have fun too."

"Yes!," Jimin fist-bumped the air. He then slapped his gloved hands together and smirked. "Helian party, get ready for the electrifying Park Jimin!"

The three of you laughed at Jimin's excitement. With that, the Party Team walked under the archway and into the courtyard of Hel's palace. You looked around and glanced at the fountain, its water sparkling with purple glitter. Above the gates of the palace was a plain white tarpaulin with big and bold purple letters that said — Royal Coronation Ball.

Somehow, those words made you gulp nervously. The four of you joined the line of Helians about to enter the palace and you wondered why it was taking so long. You peeked over at the soldiers stationed in front of the gates and realized that they were checking each person for an invitation. This made you face everyone else with wide eyes.

"What's wrong, Sky?," Jin was adjusting the harnesses on his upper body. "It's like you've seen a ghost."

"They're asking for invitations," You glanced you and were horrified to see that there about two people between your group and the entrance. Everyone gasped in shock. "What do we do? Does anyone have suggestions?"

"Maybe we can tell them that getting inside means saving the world? And they'll believe us so they'll let us in!"

"We should use our charm, specifically mine, and convince them to let us in smoothly."

"I say we knock out the guards and let ourselves in."

You sighed at all three suggestions that definitely won't work and fell into your own thoughts. There must be a way to enter normally to avoid suspicion, there had to be. You looked down at your hands and saw purple mist flash around your fingers. An idea came to mind, just as the four of you reached the front of the entrance.

"Invitation?," The guard demanded. You glanced at the others' nervous expressions.

You slowly turned back towards the guard with a determined expression on your face. With gritted teeth, your hands balled into fists as your eyes flashed purple. You took deep breaths and remembered Kiana's words — Do not fear your abilities. You are stronger than you think.

"You will let us in without question," You whispered to the guard with eyes now glowing a powerful purple. "If anyone asks, you have seen our invitations."

The guard went quiet and in that moment of silence, you realized how stupid you were. You had a strong chance of failing which meant giving the four of you away and eventually sealing the plan as a failure. Gulping nervously, you watched as he opened his mouth.

"I will you let in without question. If anyone asks, I have seen your invitations," The guard spoke as if he was in some sort of trance. The four of you sighed in relief. "Welcome to the Royal Coronation Ball."

"Whoa, Sky," Jimin whispered excitedly. He was basically hopping in his place like a rabbit, which made you laugh a bit. "Your guardian powers are so cool!"

Guardian powers, of course. You sighed to yourself and wondered why you even considered yourself to be a Helian. There was a possibility, yes, but you couldn't think of a single scenario that could end with you being from Hel and somehow ending up in an orphanage back on Earth.

You smiled at Jimin and nodded. "Thanks. I think they are too."

Pulling your skirt up slightly, you glanced around the palace as soon as the doors to the ballroom opened. The ceiling was high, a big silver chandelier hanging in the middle with floating lit candles circulating it slowly. There were tables and chairs at the sides, all occupied by Helians splashed with a variation of colored clothes, most of them dark and purple. In the center was a buffet table lined with food and drinks. Just up ahead was the dance floor which, for now, was an area to converse.

Even farther ahead were three thrones lined up on different levels. You just stared at it for a moment and imagined sitting on one of those royals chairs. Shaking your head, you snapped out of those thoughts and clutched the skirt of your dress.

"This is a lot different than parties back home," Jin whispered under his breath and glanced at the others behind him. "We have to stick toge—"

"A chocolate fountain?! No way!," Jimin squealed. He instantly ran towards, more like spun towards the fountain and scooped a plate of colorful desserts. The Helians around the buffet area glanced at him. "Sweets? Don't mind if I do."

Jungkook facepalmed loudly. He sighed and faced Jin with an evident frown. "Just... look out for him and don't forget the plan, yeah?"

Jin chuckled and nodded. The water gem bearer straightened his coat and slapped his harnesses. In that moment, it seemed like he had transformed into a more sophisticated elite. His expression became firm yet soft with every movement slow and elegant. As what Emily told her before — he was in the zone.

"I will," Jin smiled before he disappeared into the crowd and tailed behind Jimin.

"So, Jungkook," You paused when you saw a Helian waiter pass by, towel hanging over his arm and a balanced over his three fingers. The waited murmured something you nodded to as you grabbed two cocktails drinks. "You enjoying yourself?"

"I feel like making my wings burst out of my back to scare some of these Helians shitless," Jungkook chuckled and took one of the drinks from you. He shook his head. "But I'm fine."

You stared at Jungkook for a blank five seconds before you shrugged and clanged your glass on his. "Bottoms up, I guess."

The two of you sipped on your glasses at the same time. You expected it to be an alcoholic drink but honestly, you thought it would at least taste good. The drink barely even touched your tongue before you had a sudden urge to barf all over the carpet floor.

You placed your full glass on a nearby table whilst coughing and turned towards Jungkook with an expectation of him reacting the same way. Instead, you saw the Hemelian chug down his drink in one gulp.

"Why are you looking at me like that?," Jungkook licked his lips and frowned at the disgusted expression on your face. He placed the glass away and shrugged. "Don't answer that. You still remember the plan, yeah?"

You nodded and recalled Olivia and Namjoon's joint plan. "We have to wait for info from Jin and Jimin before—"

"Sky," Jungkook called before you could finish your sentence. You faced him with a confused expression. "I meant the other plan."

You paused. Jungkook was staring you expectantly. Sighing, you ran a hand through your dark hair. "I do. I'm still working on how we can speak to Taehyung privately."

Jungkook grimaced. "We'll figure it out, I guess. Let's go."

You made your way to the crowd and did your best to dodge the Helians who were holding glasses and plates with Jungkook tailing behind you. Glancing around, you recalled the details of the palace layout given to you by the LOONA girls.

Just behind the row of thrones was the entrance to the more inner part of the castle that could only be accessed by the palace staff and royal family. According to Olivia, they were able to sneak before via underground tunnels. Now they just had to sneak into the hallway and into the security room.

You paused when you saw rows of guards standing next to the door. Jungkook grabbed you and hid the both of you behind a pillar. In your head, you started to count. Jin and Jimin were going to come up with a distraction in any moment now. One, two, three—

"Yeehaw!," Jimin's voice boomed loudly. He was standing on top of the buffet table and was swinging around a string of sausages like rope. Helians stared at him with a mixture of shock and confusion. "I want to be a cowboy baby!"

"Get down from there!," Jin screamed from behind the table and you wondered how he kept a straight face throughout it. He glanced around apologetically. "I'm sorry, my friend here is a lightweight and—"

"Giddy up!," Jimin tossed his sausage rope, which wrapped around a poor Helian woman who was innocently eating ice cream.

You and Jungkook were barely able to hold in your laughter. Once the guards moved towards cowboy Jimin and distressed Jin, the two quietly tiptoed towards the door and entered the hallways. You were immediately greeted by a long hallway with purple walls and wooden flooring.

"Jungkook," You whispered and looked around, hoping that there were no security cameras present. "Which door again?"

Jungkook pondered for a moment. He snapped his fingers and showed off his bunny smile. "Third, right side."

With that, the two of you started walking ahead. You were a bit disturbed at how the dead silence in the hallway made you and Jungkook's footsteps echo loudly. Thankfully, there was nobody else present but you couldn't shake off the feeling that you were being watched. It felt like a pair of eyes were boring into the top of your skull. A shiver ran down your spine.

You thanked the heavens that you and Jungkook made it to the security room without any problems, since all you had to do was knock out the guard inside. Pushing away the Helian's unconscious body, you scanned the cameras monitors and panels of buttons.

"We have to turn off the alarms fi—," You were cut off by Jungkook, who punched the box of the alarms' button and pulled out its wires. It sparked in the silence. "...Okay, now all that's left is..."

You squinted your eyes as you zoomed into the camera in the dungeons. Using the joystick to move the lens, you spotted a girl in a frog mask in one of the cells. She was hugging her legs close to her chest and was crying into her knees. Although you didn't know this girl, the sight itself broke your heart.

Looking back at the control panels, you recalled the instructions given to you by Vivi. After reciting her words in your head once more, you pressed one of the red buttons. A holographic screen immediately appeared before you and asked which cells you should be opened. You wondered why these controls were so easy. It was almost frightening.

"Cells seven to ten," Jungkook spoke behind you, his hand pressed on your shoulder. You slowly input the numbers and watched the four cell doors open through the monitors. The angel tapped his earpiece. "They're out, go get 'em."

"Jungkook, we have to go," You whispered when you saw a group of Helian soldiers marching through the hallway you recognized.

Jungkook cursed under his breath. He balled his fists and went into a fighting position as the footsteps started getting closer to the door. You gulped and faced the monitor, your heart shattering when you realized that the area in front of the door wasn't in the camera's view. Suddenly, you were filled with dread — The plan was already successful, why did it have to be now?

The door slowly opened. You stood in front of protectively and were willing to fight despite not having your katana and shield. Behind you, the Hemelian clicked his tongue loudly.

But contrary to what the two of you expected, there was no army. Instead, there was a single soldier.

Jungkook tried to speak but was stopped by the soldier, who pressed a finger to his lips in a gesture of silence. According to his armor, you could tell that this Helian was one of the generals. He slowly closed the door behind him as he entered the room. You stared in utmost confusion but still made sure to not let your guard down.

"The guards are back to their stations and more are walking just outside," The Helian general whispered softly and glanced at the unconscious soldier on the ground. You and Jungkook glanced at each other in confusion. Still, you eyed the sword on his belt cautiously. "If you guys step outside this room, you will immediately get caught."

"What are you doing?," You spoke as the general stepped forward and closed the holographic screen. Scanning him, you spotted his name tag — Bogum.

"Helping you," Bogum said and pressed his hands on Jungkook's chest, which made the angel swing a fist out of instinct. The Helian impressively dodged it by ducking. "Relax, I'm going to teleport you to the men's room. Nobody will suspect you there."

Jungkook couldn't even say anything before purple mist consumed him. Then, in that split second, the angel was gone. You stared at the floor where your friend stood for a moment and dreaded the possibility of him being teleported into a different place. Bogum held your shoulders and you looked up at him.

"Why are you doing this?," You asked, just as the purple mist started to swallow you.

The last thing you heard from Bogum was a single word. "Orders."

When you opened your eyes, you were standing in the middle of the thankfully empty women's room. You stared at the mirror and at your own reflection as Bogum's words echoed in your mind. Orders. Whose orders? Due to the shock and confusion of it all, you failed to connect the dots. Still, you were glad to come out of it safely.

You exited the washroom and bumped into a very confused Jungkook. Honestly, same. He just stared at you in a moment of silence as a sea of Helians passed you both, obviously speechless at what had just happened. Due to that, neither of you noticed the announcement being made from the throne area.

"We should go, yeah?," Jungkook cleared his throat. He grabbed you by the wrist and dragged you across the crowd of Helians, who were all facing the opposite direction. Jimin and Jin were nowhere to be found.

Suddenly, the lights dimmed. You and Jungkook paused and spared each other a glance just as a booming voice came from behind you both. Swallowing dryly, you slowly turned around and saw spotlights light up the throne area. Four people stood there and it was obvious which one of them were part of the royal family.

You glanced at Hel's royal family, your heart beat quickening with each second that passed. In the center was a bearded man who stood with an expressionless face, both hands clasped behind his back. You noticed the crown on his head and realized that it was none other than Taehyung and Shay's father and the ruler of Hel — King Michael. Your hands balled into fists.

To King Michael's right was Shay. She was wearing a long sleeved fit purple gown that showed off her curves with long transparent purple cloth coating it. There were silver glitters on the cloth as it fell to the ground softly. A pattern of silver embroidery dotted her shoulders and back. Her dark hair was curled and tied, the expression on her face one of fury.

And just a few inches ahead of King Michael was none other than Taehyung. He was knelt to the ground on one knee with an arm crossed over his chest. The darkness gem bearer was wearing dark pants and a purple snake skin long sleeved coat over a black turtleneck top with a frilled collar. There were gold chains wrapped around his torso and waist. On his head was a smaller version of the King's crown.

"The royal family proudly presents," The man next to Taehyung spoke. He had a different outfit from the rest of the soldiers and you could tell that he had a high position in the palace staff. "Hel's Crowned Prince and heir to the throne, Taehyung Bristene!"

The crowd of Helians cheered and chanted Taehyung's name, just as the now Crowned Prince of Hel stood up and watched. You turned towards Jungkook, who was hissing under his breath, teeth gritted and eyes shifting to his Seraphim form. Eyes widened, you immediately shook his shoulders.

"Jungkook, calm down," You panicked when a low growl started to form in Jungkook's throat. "Not here, please."

Jungkook stared at you for a few seconds before he exhaled through his nose. His eyes shifted back to their regular blue color. You sighed in relief and gave him a brief hug.

"And now the Crowned Prince will choose a lucky lady to be his first dance partner!"

You glanced behind you and saw the Crowned Prince scan the crowd. Helian women squealed as his gaze passed theirs. Jungkook was speaking to you, maybe, but his voice was only muffles in your ears. And in that moment, when Taehyung faced your direction, your eyes met.

Even with the cheering and whispers from the crowd, it seemed like there was a moment of silence. You stared at Taehyung as he returned an empty gaze. As he stepped down the throne area, you wondered if he even recognized you. In his eyes, who were you? Just an ordinary woman?

Taehyung slowly walked towards you as the crowd parted. The sight of his figure nearing you almost gave you the sudden urge to run far away from here but instead, you froze. Helians murmured as he stood before you. He looked down at you with that still empty gaze and you glanced at the eyepatch over his right eye.

"If you are not otherwise engaged," Taehyung's deep voice rumbled. It all went in slow motion. He gently slipped his hand under yours and bent down to kiss it gently. Your skin tingled at the touch. "Would you do me the honor of taking this dance with me?"

You could feel all eyes bore into your skull at that very moment. Throat dry, you gulped as you started to panic internally. Taehyung was looking up at you and was expectant of your reply. Jungkook was staring blankly from behind. Oh God, this was not part of the plan at all.

Then you stared at Taehyung's face and realized that you were angered by how calm and composed he looked. You gritted your teeth and glanced down at his hand in yours. He wanted to play like this? Fine. Let's play.

You squeezed Taehyung's hand tightly. A wry smile spread across your face. "I'd be delighted to, Your Highness."

Taehyung squinted his eyes at how you spat your last words. He gently pulled you through the ballroom and thought it was accurate that someone as jarring as him had the ability to be so elegant. You glanced behind you and mouthed at the concerned Jungkook that you were going to be fine — New plan, maybe.

"Crowned Prince," The same man with the weird outfit walked down from the throne and whispered into Taehyung's ear. "May I have this fair maiden's name?"

Taehyung glanced at you and panic started to fill your system again. You took deep breaths and blurted out the first name that came to mind. "Cloud! My name is... just Cloud."

The man stared at you for a moment. You wondered if Cloud was as strange as the name Sky, although you did not think so since Yoongi always called you that. Taehyung glanced at you with a raised brow.

"Presenting Crowned Prince Taehyung, who will be dancing with Miss Cloud for the first royal dance!"

Taehyung gently pulled you across the ballroom again until the both of you reached the center. A spotlight flashed from above and blinded you for a few seconds. The Helians formed a circle around you and you could hear them murmuring, some wondering why you out of all the women were chosen by oh-so-handsome prince. Scoffing, you nearly jumped in place when you felt a large hand snake around your waist.

This made you look up. Taehyung was still giving you that cold and empty gaze. You studied his expression and tried to find some kind of emotion, some form of regret or hope, anything. But you found none. His grip on your waist tightened as he pulled you closer, which nearly left you breathless, and held your other hand. You started to regret doing this as you placed a hand on his shoulder. The silk of his coat was smooth and soft.

Taehyung leaned forward with his hot breath tickling your ear. You could feel his eyelashes brush the skin of your cheeks. "Follow my lead... Cloud."

Almost instantly, loud ball music played. Taehyung took the lead in the dance and started to sway side by side. Despite how the two of you were performing the classic Waltz, you struggled a bit with your footing but somehow managed to not step on the Crowned Prince's feet.

Taehyung quickened his footing and you nearly tripped as you followed his pace. Honestly, you were amazed at how the darkness gem bearer hadn't stepped on your long skirt yet. He was staring at you hard, his eyes never leaving your face. It made you more uncomfortable than nervous.

"I didn't know you could dance so well," Taehyung commented in a low whisper. You looked up at him but he turned his eyes away before any eye contact could be made.

You gritted your teeth in annoyance. Taehyung was acting like you were some kind of child he could easily fool. He kept staring at you like a total stranger. And you knew exactly how to get back at him — you were going to be just as playful, just as sly and just as deceiving.

"I don't really know much," You paused and wanted to tell Taehyung that you never even knew him at all. Instead, you sighed. "But I learn."

The music's beat quickened. You felt goosebumps fill every patch of your skin as you and Taehyung continued to spin. His breaths were short yet deep, his every step quick yet sure. This made you feel the urge to compete with the prince. You mirrored his footing, your toes practically dancing around his feet.

"Oh? Any teacher?," Taehyung teased with the corner of his mouth rising to form a smirk. You barely stopped your eyes from twitching.

You. That was the answer you wanted to scream out so badly, especially because Taehyung looked at you with such a teasing expression and it seemed like he was begging for you to fall for his charms. No. Not anymore.

"Experience has been one harsh teacher," You hissed and extended your arm. Taehyung did the same as the two of you spun with stretched arms and intertwined fingers.

"I see," Taehyung whispered back as he pulled you closer. You felt his breath fan your lips in a quick pace. He was hesitant. "But it is very effective, yes?"

You pressed a hand on Taehyung's chest as the song's beat turned slow. He had a whole arm across your waist now and the two of you swayed with the music. Your faces were inches apart. This didn't faze you, however, and you only gave the darkness gem bearer a burning glare.

"I suppose it is," You scoffed at how Taehyung's cocky expression faltered for a moment. "It really opened my eyes to certain things — to certain people too."

"Certain people?," Taehyung asked with a straight face. The fact that he had the audacity to even question it made your blood boil. He didn't wait for a reply. "You should think about it. Maybe this person's actions were for the best. Maybe it will yield better results that benefit not only him but everyone else too."

"I'm sorry for my language, Crowned Prince," You hissed and made sure to emphasize those last two words. Taehyung again raised a brow at your tone. The dance forced you to move closer so you took the opportunity to whisper in his ear. "But I call bullshit on it."

As if on cue, the music started to reach its climax. You gave Taehyung a heated glare as he raised his hand and twirled you powerfully. The purple skirt of your dress spun, glitter sparkling under the spotlight. He guided your every move, the speed of the song's beat giving you a rush. The crowd of Helians, including a very nervous looking Jungkook, watched the dance carefully and silently.

Taehyung then picked you up by the waist and spun you in the air for a quick moment, the cold breeze brushing against your face as you pressed hard on his shoulders. The Helians gasped and cheered. You landed softly your feet and did one final spin before the song ended.

Claps and cheers surrounded you both. You took deep breaths and had a hand on Taehyung's chest, the other still in his hand. The Crowned Prince of Hel looked just as tired as you were and had a firm grip on your waist. Your foreheads were pressed together and a silence rang between the two of you. You stared and he stared back. The tension in the air was thickening.

A remorseful expression flashed across Taehyung's face. You didn' know whether to be amused by this or not but you were tired of being played around like a doll. He's a player? Fine. I'll be a player too.

"I'm tired of being toyed around like this. If you're going to say something then mean it."

Taehyung stared at you with his one eye. You couldn't help but stare at his eyepatch as you awaited his reply. He glanced to the side, which made you follow his gaze. The Helian official who had crowned the prince was now walking towards the two of you.

You were pulled closer by Taehyung, which made the onlookers think that the Crowned Prince was giving his dance partner an embrace of gratitude. His strong arms were wrapped around your waist. He leaned into your ear and whispered, his breaths making a cold shiver run down your spine.

"I know I shouldn't ask of this," Taehyung paused and smacked his lips together. "But please believe me. You've seen the letter, haven't you?"

The letter. You scoffed for the nth time today. Still, your breath was shaky as you replied. "And why should I?"

"Because I mean it."

A silence passed between the two of you. Truthfully, you wanted to believe that Taehyung was trying to be sincere, but after all that has happened you just couldn't bring yourself to trust him. The Helian official was getting closer.

"Listen to me, Sky," Taehyung hissed in your ear and his tone made you flinch slightly. His grip on your waist became even tighter but he made sure that you would't get hurt. "I know you—"

"Well," You released a sarcastic laugh. "I thought I knew you too."

Taehyung went silent. It seemed like he was debating within himself whether he should retort that statement or not. He glanced at the Helian official again, a sense of urgency filling every fiber of his being. "At the end of the earth's moon cycle, the darkness will come. But there is crack of light in the east. Wrench it open before then."

You stared at Taehyung in confusion and blinked rapidly. "Wha— Taehyung, that doesn't make any—"

"Remember it," Taehyung said before he stepped backwards and grabbed your hand. He bent down slowly to kiss it before he looked up with a completely different expression. It was almost like he was another person. "I am grateful to have had my first dance with you, Lady Cloud."

You squinted your eyes at Taehyung then you remembered that everyone else was watching. A wry smile spread across your face as you bowed slowly, the skirt of your gown flowing to the ground like water.

"So am I," You glanced at Taehyung, who was staring back meaningfully. "Your Highness."

The Helian official then spoke to Taehyung, who took one last glance at you before he walked away. What was that in his expression? Hope? Remorse? You stared in both shock and anger as the darkness gem bearer's figure slowly disappeared into the crowd. The music changed to an upbeat crescendo of chords as Helians around you started to dance.

You just stood there without knowing how to react to what had just happened. Taehyung's riddle played on a loop in your mind and you wondered why he couldn't have just told you what he wanted to say in a simpler way so you can actually understand. Well, he never did.

A hand suddenly grabbed your arm tightly and almost made you scream. You whipped your head around swiftly with a balled fist and swung. Your hand was caught before you recognized who it was.

"Sky, it's okay," Jungkook breathed. He glanced behind you and fell into silence for a few seconds. You watched as his expression shifted to one of anger then sorrow. "Let's go."

As Jungkook pulled you across the crowd of dancing Helians, you glanced behind you and saw Taehyung standing on the throne area once again. He had his hands clasped behind his back as he faced away.

And right before you and Jungkook exited the palace, you swore that Taehyung glanced back.

-

Taehyung stared over the Helian crowd and at the palace doors. He made brief eye contact with you and Jungkook before the two disappeared outside. The prince sighed and sat on his respective throne. He took the crown off his head and stared at the gold shine.

Truthfully, Taehyung had both dreamt and dreaded of the day he would finally become Hel's Crowned Prince. Now he was but he felt... weird. Right now, his position did not matter to him. All he had in mind was how beautiful you looked in that purple and at how you and Jungkook were so disgusted at the sight of him.

Taehyung groaned loudly. He stared at the dancing Helians before a voice rang from next to him.

"Crowned Prince," Bogum bowed as he stood next to Taehyung, who leaned on his seat and glanced at the general. "It has been done."

Taehyung glanced at King Michael, who was conversing with Animo and some other Helian elders he didn't remember the names of. Then he looked at Shay, who was quietly sitting on her seat with crossed arms.

"Are you sure that nobody saw them?," Taehyung whispered and curled his fingers over his mouth.

"Yes, Your Highness," Bogum smiled meaningfully. The corner of Taehyung's lips rose to form a small smirk. It was hidden behind his fingers. "I am sure."

"Good," Taehyung nodded at Bogum, who bowed once more before he walked away. The now Crowned Prince of Hel sighed loudly as he stared at the darkness gem in his ring. "Sky, Jungkook... I'm sorry."

-

A/N - /buzzfeed wheeze/ 9k words fam also unedited so pls forgive me for any errors huhu

HAHA TAESKY HAS REUNITED!! I anticipated this moment so much the build-up killed me lma o anyways thank you so much for being so patient with me y'all!! I have summer classes rn so ;;

Sooo the letter's contents are out did y'all guess right 👀

Also here are the references for 3J's outfits

and Sky's

This will be a super short note that I'll probs edit later cos I rlly want to upload this chap haha SO PLEASE ANTICIPATE THE REST OF THE ARC TNX BYE

Final note can anyone answer the riddle 🤔

My custom-made Jikook cough Cooky and Chimmy toys ehe bye