Jimin went to hell and back by the time everything was over. As far as he could remember this was one of the worst heats he endured. While he always slept through his heats, the pain or weakness that followed wasn't this worse. He didn't know if he could put himself through another one if it was going to be like this.

The omega prince didn't remember majority of their journey to this new cave. He only remembered the biting cold that rattled his bones despite the amount of fur covering him. The scent of his alpha was a continuous presence in the back of his mind. The next thing he remembered was being lowered into something hot and soothing.

It felt good to have somewhere private to spend his most vulnerable moment when he bled for the next three days. Even the concoctions Seokjin made hadn't helped with the pain. Not to add the despair that followed with every wrench of his stomach. Jungkook's constant presence and assurance helped somehow.

The omega inside him mourned for the unsuccessful heat and there was nothing he could do to make it better. Now that it was finally over, he was soaking up in the hot water as much as he could. His skin was already pruning but he couldn't give a damn when the water was his only solace that soothed the ache in his sore limps. His body didn't hurt this bad even when he pushed hard in a training field.

He let his head fall back to the rock behind him, cushioned by a rolled towel. There was nothing special or outstanding about the cave except for its usual rocky formations and the twenty-four hour hot water springs. A branch of Ember Moon River ran through the parts of this cave, Jungkook had explained when they gathered for dinner the other night.

The cave was long though with at least four chamber like structures from what they explored. It even ran deep and they didn't bother to look further than not necessary. Jungkook told them he traveled a lot through these routes over the years and had a lot of safe places like this, where he saved fire wood and some other things.

The snow storm had hit them the evening after their arrival and it was the worse. Even from the inside Jimin could hear the wind howling and they were snowed inside. The cold would have been unbearable if it wasn't for the fire woods or the hot springs. Everyone appreciated Jungkook's thoughtfulness, especially Jimin. He believed the hot water helped his recovery and aided his sleep.

Later that night when they once again surrounded the small campfire to share yet another dinner, Jungkook explained his plan to them. The mercenary had become somewhat closer to them over the duration of their travel, especially after Jimin had accepted his courting proposal. Even Taehyung conversed better. As for Yoongi, he found that he was a man of few words but he was always listening and observing even if it appeared he wasn't interested and he also slept a lot.

"A caravan has left from Spirit Moon to the Fortune Moon to participate in the festivities of the crowning of the new king that would take place after the challenge," Jungkook began. He was hunched over a map that showed the mountains and the villages. He used small stones to mark some areas. "We're here now." He pointed a place high up in the mountain. "It'll be at least a week's travel before we could reach The Spirit Moon."

Namjoon moved closer so he could see better while Jimin stayed curled up to Hoseok's side. He could barely move his limbs without having to groan every time.

"According the news we received earlier today, they're camping outside the Oakfield village because of bad weather. If we start tomorrow, we will be able to intercept the traveling group in three weeks' time here," he continued, pointing at a village that was Far East from their current location. "From here, the group will mostly travel through the village roads and small towns, staying at local inns for the rest of the travel because the monsoon season has begun and the weather is unpredictable. The forest routes are unsafe. The paths are slippery and the mountain side is known for landslides."

Jimin's gaze followed Jungkook's long fingers dragging through the skin of the worn out map, storing away the details for later.

"We will have to split once we reach the group for two reasons," Jungkook drawled. "I'm a wanted man by the king of The Spirit Moon. Traveling with you will bring unwanted attention on the prince and that's something we want to avoid. So, Yoongi will take the lead until we reach the Moonsdale village. I'll meet you there."

Jimin unconsciously pouted. That meant he'd have to spend that time without Jungkook and his omega was already pining. But he understood why they'd have to do it that way. With a sigh, he sank into his embrace further.

***

Taehyung was a different breed altogether. He was a wild and untamed beast, Jimin decided on the very first day he trained with the said mercenary. He also realized Jungkook had been treating him with kid's gloves all this time.

This man didn't think twice before handing his ass back to him. Seokjin and Hoseok threw a fit when he had returned to their campsite with his hair sticking to all sides and clothes muddy and ruined. They hadn't stopped grumbling until they had scrubbed him clean and spotless once again.

Taehyung looked no better. Out of hundred times, he pinned Jimin to the unforgiving ground, Jimin managed to pin him once. He was just as dirty as he was. So the omega prince looked smug despite the bruises blooming on his pale, porcelain skin and the pain throbbing every time he moved.

When they huddled together to eat that night, his brother's kept giving a death glare to Taehyung. Jungkook looked unamused. Taehyung looked unbothered as usual but whenever their gazes met, there was a ghost of a smile playing on their lips. Oh, Jimin couldn't wait to fight with Taehyung again.

The bitch packed one hell of a punch. In Jimin's defense, he wasn't expecting him to hit him that hard for real. He couldn't wait to return the favor.

"The alphas won't kiss your feet. Get up and fight, Your Highness," he has snarled when Jimin lay down on the ground, snow soaking into his tunic and breathe knocked out.

Jimin had been livid. Taehyung played dirty right from the beginning. There wasn't a single rule he didn't break and Jimin soon learned he would never win Taehyung if he played by the rule book. The worst part was that Taehyung was ambidextrous. Both his hands were equally dominant.

He narrowed his eyes at the mercenary when he noticed him smiling. I'm gonna beat your ass tomorrow. The threat was clearly conveyed. The mercenary tipped his head slightly as if accepting the challenge and Jimin huffed.

As days rolled into a week, what began as a recipe for disaster soon turned into something more. They were close to the Spirit Moon. His brothers were no longer surprised when he turned up from the training ground like an unruly pup roughhousing all day. At least three of his tunics were ruined beyond repair and he had to borrow Hoseok's tunic.

But the omega prince was happier than ever. Taehyung showed him no leniency just because he was an omega and that was what he needed. It hurt but he embraced the physical pain and the new challenge. A few times, Jungkook intervened when he thought Taehyung was being too hard on him but Jimin had announced that he was fine and jumped right back into the fight.

However, after a week, what no one expected was for the mercenary and the omega prince to become too close. They were thick as thieves and Taehyung even took him for hunting, showing him how it was done without using bows and arrows. Jimin was in awe.

Into their second week of training, Jimin claimed the alpha as his soulmate. His newfound friendship was blooming. They had this weird connection no one could comprehend. What one thought, the other finished. Even their training sessions were becoming more fun because of this. Jimin could now see through Taehyung's tricks. Though he was nowhere near defeating the mercenary he was getting better and growing stronger.

Taehyung underneath all that hardened exterior was one overgrown baby, he soon found out. The alpha loved nature and turned into a pup when they went for a run. They raced on their horses and competed in everything and anything they did.

Once again, Jungkook wasn't too amused. His would-be mate, however, kept his thoughts to himself except for letting out occasional grunts. Taehyung also acted as a messenger between him and Jungkook sometimes, bringing him flowers from the alpha who was busy hunting or patrolling while they trained.

Jimin missed Jungkook. The alpha had kept his distance after his heat ended. He was still the caring alpha he was, always tending to his needs, but they hadn't spent time alone since that day in the woods where they claimed each other. They were traveling non-stop and Jimin trained whenever they stopped to eat and rest. So their time together was rare and limited.

A few reassuring smiles here and there, occasional scenting on furs were all the omega got and he realized he was missing his alpha. He was longing to talk to him though he wasn't sure what he wanted to talk about.

So this evening he asked Taehyung to wrap the training sooner and his new friend had said he would let Jimin go if he managed to disarm him once. It wasn't an easy task, but Jimin was determined and the reward was some alone time with his alpha. Motivated by the reward, Jimin had managed to disarm Taehyung after a few tries.

They were on a Cliffside and the climate had drastically changed the closer they approached The Spirit Moon. The clouds were gloomy and the wind was chilly but it was better than the biting cold he'd gotten used to in the heart of The White Forest. The snow had melted and when he looked down at the valley below, he could see the vast grasslands and luscious green forests.

The lake was deeper here and had fresh fish. So his brothers took overfishing while Jungkook ran the patrol with Namjoon. It took a lot of tries but Jimin finally managed to disarm Taehyung using one of his own tricks on him and the mercenary had laughed out loud before letting him go for the day.

Jimin took a long bath, washing his hair and scrubbing his skin clean while his brothers fished. He changed into one of Seokjin's tunics and pulled the black pants securing it with a handmade leather belt his brother made for him. He shrugged on the thick fur Jungkook gave him, the scent of the alpha already fading.

He made his way into the woods, following Jungkook's scent. The alpha was leaning on one of the trees casually when he found him. The place smelled like the alpha and he snickered internally at the alpha's territorial behavior.

"Hey," he greeted with a soft tilt of his lips.

Jimin's cheeks suddenly flared, remembering what they did when they were together alone the last time. "Hey."

Jungkook didn't move from his spot. He had a hand resting on a thigh while the other gripped the hilt of his sword. His head was tilted slightly to the side. Jimin shifted on his feet for a moment before closing the distance. His wolf longed to have the alpha's scent that was fading on their fur.

The alpha watched him intently when he approached. He took a deep breath, summoning the courage to put his palms on the alpha's chest. "I missed you," he said and Jungkook's features softened.

He cupped the side of his face, thumb caressing his cheek. "I missed you too." His voice was gentle, something he saved only for when he talked to Jimin and he balked in the knowledge.

They were already into two weeks of travel and they traveled non-stop in midst of occasional rain to reach the caravan on time. That meant they only had two weeks together before Jungkook would leave him to travel alone. That made him sad. He'd miss his alpha even more.

Jungkook wore only his tunic, his chest firm and warm under his touch. Jimin traced the hard plains of his chest while locking their gazes. His alpha was beautiful and smelled so fresh. He stood on his tiptoes and Jungkook bared his neck as if sensing his need.

Jimin nosed at his scent gland, inhaling the intoxicating scent. Sudden warmth washed over him so did comfort. He let out a contented sound from his throat before latching his lips on the mark he left there. Jungkook growled low, his hands gripping his slender waist as he brought him closer.

The omega scented his alpha in earnest, rubbing his cheeks and nose over the scent gland repeatedly before licking and gently sucking at the spot. He stopped only when the alpha smelled like the spring flowers. He loved the way how it mingled perfectly with Jungkook's pine scent. It smelled like nature, like them. His wolf made a contented noise in his throat.

When he pulled back, Jungkook cupped the back of his head and dived into his neck. Jimin sighed as the alpha's scent flooded his senses going pliant in his arms. Rich pine scent enveloped him completely and he drowned willingly.

It washed away the exhaustion and fatigue, relaxing the omega. He bathed in it, tilting his head to give him complete access. Behind them, the sun was setting. It cast a beautiful orange glow to the sky Jimin loved. Jungkook nibbled at his skin, earning a soft whine. The alpha kissed his mark, making his knees go weak.

After a couple of minutes, once he was satisfied he loosened his hold on him. He nuzzled into the alpha's neck when he pulled back from scenting.

When their gazes locked, they were smiling softly at each other. Jimin stood on his tiptoes again reaching for the alpha's lips. Jungkook closed the remaining distance, capturing his lips in a gentle kiss. It was everything Jimin needed then. It was so soft yet assuring.

He sighed into the kiss. There was no tongue involved, just their lips meshing together and surrounded only by the sounds of nature. The moment was so special. When the kiss finally ended, Jimin snuggled into Jungkook's warm chest, the alpha wrapping his arms around him.

Together they watched the ever-changing colors of the sky and the birds returning home for the night, standing in each other's embrace.

***

The attack came when they least expected. Jimin's eyes shot open and his hands automatically reached for the weapon he always kept closer when he slept. Jungkook, however, was already there sheltering him from the arrows raining down on them.

The wolf inside him was fully awake in an instant, his ears registering the curses and painful grunts as he rolled to his fit immediately. He shed the extra layer of fur he slept in and hid behind the alpha waiting for his turn to strike. He didn't know from where Jungkook sourced the shield, but a look around the camp told him Taehyung and Yoongi also had one in their arms, which they used to shield his brothers.

"Move with me," the alpha commanded.

They were light on their feet and semi-crouched, Jimin stayed hidden behind the alpha the entire time. Jungkook twisted his body this way and that, blocking the incoming attack and sometimes used his sword to disarm the arrow aimed for Jimin.

Soon he found his back pressed to Seokjin. The others had regrouped to take the front line while the prince and his brothers stayed back. The scent of blood infiltrated his nostrils and he realized Namjoon was hurt.

"Hyung..."

"I'm fine," his third brother grunted. "It's just a flesh wound."

Jimin nodded and refocused on their enemies. The dying embers of the fire they built and the moonlight was their only source of light. But as a wolf, they didn't need light to see in the dark. Once the omega pushed forward and settled just under his skin, he felt their energies merging and his senses heightening. His gaze sharpened, now noticing the shadow like figures moving around the tree line.

"Grab my bow and arrows from under the bed spread," Jungkook bellowed.

Jimin looked around anxiously and found them a few feet ahead of them.

"Go, I'll cover you," Seokjin said.

The omega prince pulled the hood of his robe over his head to hide his silver hair that stood out too much in the dark and sneaked to grab the weapon. He felt the alphas move to cover him accordingly but didn't turn back knowing they would always protect him.

"There's one in mine too," Taehyung called out.

"On it."

Jimin didn't waste time in grabbing he weapon. Once he was back, he quickly handed it to the alphas.

Jungkook turned to him. "Jimin, hold the shield for me. Namjoon-ssi, takeover for Taehyung and Hoseok-ssi takeover Yoongi."

They all nodded and quickly moved to do as he was told. Jungkook released the strap and swiftly, tightened the strap around Jimin's forearm. The metal shield was similar to the one his father used as a warrior. It was at least three-foot long, curved in the top and bottom and weighed heavy in his grip.

"It's a custom-made retractable shield. It'll wrap around your forearm if you pull this small lever." He turned to the others. "Cover us. We are going to return the favor. Seokjin-ssi, be ready to move when we do."

Jimin moved into position, now side by side with his brothers, their shoulders pressed together. He eyed his enemy through the small crack between the shield and they moved as one. There was no pattern to the attack. It was hard to tell how many people were there but he counted at least fifteen and there could be more hiding in the woods.

Arrows flew past his head with a swish sound and he knew it had hit its mark when there was a soft yelp. Jungkook continued to call the shots and they moved as per his instructions. It wasn't long before they had taken down at least half of them.

"Attack now!" Jungkook growled, moving from his semi-crouched position and rushing off toward the enemies.

His movements were a blur to Jimin. He only saw four figures disappearing behind the tree line. Jimin and his brothers advanced slow, cautious of their steps as there were still some arrows coming their way thought the intensity had lessened.

A few charged at them and Jimin was swift. He flowed through the practiced motions, swinging his sword left and right, attacking anyone who didn't belong to their group. He hit the lever, the shield now wrapped nicely around his forearm. Convenient.

There was no time to admire though. As he guessed, there were more men and in the distance he heard fighting and growls. It felt great to fight after so long. Actually, it was only less than a month and a half ago he attacked the bandits who captured the omegas. But Jungkook had been adamant to keep it to the forest route that he rarely came in contact with any other wolf until the day he went into heat.

The fight continued. Hoseok and Namjoon were close behind him. Their back often pressed against each other as they fought the men back to back. Jimin was agile, his movements swift and precise. He didn't waste time and went for the kill.

The omega prince, firsthand was able to use some of his new techniques and he could see how effective it was compared to his old methods. It saved a lot of energy and he was surprised to find he wasn't even panting. His sharpened sword sliced through the bodies of the enemies as if they were nothing but a piece of butter.

Apart from the small scuffle when two alphas attacked him at once, Jimin didn't have any other struggle. The kick he received in his ribs would have knocked his breath out if it was any other time. After his training with Taehyung, nothing fazed him anymore. These bastards didn't pack half of the strength Taehyung did.

The wolf inside him welcomed the splatter of blood giving into his predatory nature. Only his prey was wolves this time. They all worked for his father. That much he was sure about. The other kings wouldn't have ordered the kill. They valued him a bit too much to hurt him. They'd rather see take pleasure in breaking him and keeping him as their slave.

When they approached the deeper part of the woods, however, the attacks had stopped and they only came across the bodies of the dead men. They all wore dark clothes but he knew they were not the assassins. The assassins mostly worked alone.

He kicked the bodies with his leg, scrunching his nose at the assault of the overwhelming scents. Alphas, death and blood. The dark crimson liquid soaked the soil underneath them and some splashed on his boots. Not that he cared. Living years outside as an exiled prince brought more to his table than this shit show.

Twigs broke from the west and the familiar scents of the alphas enveloped him. He eyed all four now drenched in blood. He couldn't tell apart how much belonged to them or how much belonged to the others but they were standing and showed no signs of distress.

Namjoon clutched his shoulder beside him but that was all. Hoseok looked fine. Jimin's chest burned and he looked down to the small tear in his tunic. Now the adrenaline wore off the ache in his limbs was making itself known. He sighed, sucking in the pain. It'd take a week to heal.

"We need to leave," he said, sheathing his sword.

"Stay here. We will grab the things and meet you in ten." Taehyung was already moving ahead with Yoongi while Jungkook approached him.

"Are you hurt, my prince?" Jungkook gripped his elbow with his free hand, giving him a once more.

"Just a scratch. What about you?" he asked giving him a once over. There was a tear that ran from the left side of his chest to the center of his abdomen. His nostrils flared. "You're hurt."

Jungkook shrugged. "I've had worse."

"It looks worse, Jungkook." Jimin traced his injury with a shaking hand. "You're bleeding."

"Let me see." Seokjin who was inspecting Namjoon was at his side at once. He pulled the torn shirt apart, revealing the skin and poked around. "It's a flesh wound and not that deep, but you'll bleed out if you don't treat it." Taehyung and Yoongi arrived on time. He grabbed his satchel from Taehyung and fished for something inside. He pulled out a leather pouch and produced a dried root. "Here." He handed one each to Jungkook and Namjoon. "Chew this. It'll reduce the pain and stop the bleeding."

Jungkook obeyed with a grunt. "We need to leave at once. This place isn't safe."

They didn't wait around anymore. Their horses were brought forward and soon they were off to their next location. The forest was similar to that of The Summer Isle. Only they had different trees here. Instead of oak and maple, these were coniferous forests. Therefore it smelled like Jungkook.

The sun was already up when they stopped an hour or two later by the river. Rocks of different sizes and shapes lined the river bank.

"Let's freshen up quickly and wash up," Jungkook announced. "We can spend an hour or two here and then we keep moving until the sun goes down."

Worry filled Jimin when he noticed Jungkook's grimace. He clutched his side subtly but soon masked that pained expression from his face.

"Burn the clothes and wash the horses," Yoongi ordered. "We must have left a bloody trail here."

Everyone agreed and soon their bloodied outer wear was piled on the ground. Seokjin helped him undress away from the eyes of the others and covered Jimin with a robe he often used for bathing.

"Mates can heal each other," he said while securing the robe around his waist. "Jungkook's wound looked worse when he undressed. You have to lick the wound and let your saliva heal the skin."

Jimin had heard of this and witnessed his mother healing his father once when he was a child. He knew it was an intimate action shared only between the mates.

"Take him behind one of those rocks. You'll both need privacy," Seokjin urged. "We will watch your back but will also keep our distance. I'll also take care of your horse. Be back in time for breakfast."

"Okay."

Seokjin send Jimin ahead of him with the bathing supplies and a fresh pair of clothes for both him and Jungkook. Jimin went ahead in the said direction, choosing a spot behind the huge rock that hid them from the other's view. He placed the clothes and other stuff on another rock before settling on the shorter one with a smooth surface.

He pulled his robe to the side, noticing that his skin on the chest had swollen and reddened as the blood clotted. He dipped a wash cloth in water, thankful that it was warmer here. With a hiss, he ran it over his wound a few times, gently cleaning the area and removing a few pieces of cotton thread from his tunic that was stuck on the dried blood.

Jimin was pulling back his robe to cover his chest when Jungkook showed up. He looked pale and his steps heavy.

"Hey." He jumped to his feet, helping him to sit on the rock he was occupying earlier. "Come here. Let me help you."

Jungkook only nodded and leaned his back on the rock, his head lolling to a side. The omega prince got to work immediately. He removed Jungkook's tunic that hung loose on his torso. This wasn't the first time he saw Jungkook shirtless, but the effect it had on him was same. The wound looked worse than he expected. The ugly gash started from his left shoulder, stretching to the center of his chest.

He dipped the washcloth in the water and began to clean the wound as gently as he could. No words were exchanged. If Jungkook was hurting he didn't show it on his face. The clench of his jaw and occasional gasp he let out was the only sign that showed his pain.

Jimin dropped the bloody washcloth on a rock before hovering over Jungkook. The alpha had his eyes closed and the omega swallowed nervously. He knew how to do it. Had learned all about their biology while growing up.

He took a deep breath and let his omega takeover. His mother always told him to trust his wolf instincts whenever he had a doubt. The wolf once again shifted to the surface staying just under his skin. He knew his eyes would glow silver. His instincts urged him to touch his mate, nostrils flaring as he accessed the damage.

Heal.

Comfort.

The wolf urged and the omega moved forward, starting from the middle of his chest. His tongue darted out and lips closed around the injury. His gaze lifted to see the alpha's face to see if there was any discomfort.

Jungkook's eyes flew open at the first touch of his tongue. He growled low in his throat, his lips peeling to reveal his sharp fangs. Red bled into his eyes, a sign that his wolf was taking over. Jimin continued, taking time to let his saliva heal and close the skin.

A hand flew to grip his nape, pressing him into his skin. It wasn't too tight, just a hold that kept him there. Jimin relaxed more finding that it worked. The alpha rubbed the back of his neck, tracing smooth circles with his thumb just shy of his temporary mark.

The alpha's scent thickened around them and Jimin's omega reacted to it immediately. He hummed in his throat as he continued to lick the wound, watching it close in satisfaction. His alpha's blood was sweet on his tongue and like an aphrodisiac. He felt his omega shudder and dribble a few drops of slick. Now he understood why this was an intimate gesture done only between the mates.

Jungkook growled again, his chest rumbled against his lips. The omega returned it with a soft growl of his own as he continued his ministrations. By when he was done, he was straddling Jungkook's lap. When he pulled back, the wound was closed, leaving a pinkish mark behind. But once it healed fully, it would leave no scar.

Jimin was smiling wide but before he could say something he felt his alpha's lips crashed against his. The kiss was scorching. The alpha's tongue delved into his mouth without a preamble claiming him with a growl. The omega went pliant as he returned the kiss at his best and moaned into his mouth.

With another growl, the alpha flipped their position so the omega was under him. He rolled his hips with a purpose, causing the omega to mewl. Jimin whined when Jungkook detached their lips. The alpha slid his robe down his shoulders, staring down at his now revealed chest. Jimin breathed harder, gentle breeze brushed across his nipples, hardening them.

"Mine!" The alpha growled.

"Y-Yours." The omega nodded fervently.

Jungkook dipped his head licking a fat stripe cross his chest and over his injury. A tingling sensation pulsed through his skin and the omega arched his back into the alpha's mouth. He licked over and over again on the wound until the skin closed.

Jimin was a hot mess with his arousal thickening in the air. Jungkook rolled his hips again causing Jimin to gasp.

"Omega...I-I need..." Jungkook panted harder above him, looking feral.

Jimin nodded fervently, understanding what he needed. Because he needed it too. His skin was hot as if he was in pre-heat and his arousal was unmistakable. "Y-Yes. Whatever you need, alpha, it's yours."

Jungkook dived down, closing his lips around his nipple. The omega keened, his hands flying to bury into the alpha's hair. He threw his head back, legs automatically wrapping around Jungkook's tapered waist. He gasped arching further like a bow.

"Alpha...please..."

The overwhelming sense of arousal burned through him. He was growing wetter by the minute. Jungkook lapped at his other nipple, his fingers digging into his hips. Jimin began to grind his hips, seeking some sort of relief not knowing what else to do.

The alpha must have sensed his desperation because he pulled back, his hands working on his underpants, tugging at the waistband that was secured to his hips. Jimin bit his bottom lips, his entire body heating up. An impatient growl ripped from Jungkook's throat and the alpha ripped the cotton material apart, revealing him to his eyes.

He was lying down on the rock, his back pressed to the cool surface while his legs bracketed the alpha's hips.

Too intimate. No one other than his brothers had seen him naked after he hit puberty. Jungkook was the first and he would be the last. Jimin's toes curled in anticipation. Jungkook, however, was just staring down at him. His lips were parted as if he was in awe.

Jimin grew self-conscious and tried to hide himself but the alpha was quick to grab his hands and pin it over his abdomen.

"Don't hide, my precious omega," his voice was a growl laded with lust and desire. "You're such a sight to sore eyes." He licked his lips, dipping two fingers between his ass cheeks.

Jimin whimpered when his fingers brushed his rim. He watched with hooded eyes as the alpha brought the fingers to his mouth, sucking them. His eyes continued to glow red and another growl rumbled out of his chest.

"You taste so good. I'm going to pleasure you with my mouth, Omega."

With that he bent, taking him in his mouth. Jimin let out a cry of pleasure, bucking his hips, helplessly thrusting into the alpha's mouth. His eyes rolled to the back of his head. His legs tightened around Jungkook's broad shoulders.

Jungkook's mouth was so warm and sucked the living soul out of him. His eyes stung with tears as he watched his cock disappearing into the alpha's mouth. Somewhere around the throes of passion, his mind vaguely registered a finger prodding at his entrance.

He sucked in a breath, gasping as he felt it breaching inside of him, where no one had ever been. Not even his own fingers. "Alpha..."

Jungkook hummed in his throat, his tongue swirling around the head of Jimin's cock. Soon there were two fingers in him, moving in and out. When Jungkook slightly curled his fingers, Jimin's body almost lifted off the rock, letting out a strangled moan. Then he was cumming down the alpha's throat without warming.

Jimin felt as if he was floating. His entire body shook as he rode out the orgasm. Jungkook released his cock with a wet pop but his fingers continued to move inside him. His free hand that was holding Jimin's hip reached down to his pants, undoing the leather belt and tugging out his erect cock.

Jimin's hands slid over the rock, searching for purchase but his hands kept slipping. Jungkook looped a hand around his waist pulling him upright and then switched position again so Jimin was straddling his lap. The omega gripped his shoulder, fingers digging into his flesh.

"So beautiful like this, my Omega."

Jungkook twisted his fingers inside him causing the omega to gasp out. He ground his hips, meeting Jungkook's fingers. He threw his head back, lips parting as he let out soft moans. Their cocks brushed together and Jimin's breath hitched. Despite cumming once he was growing hard again.

The alpha dipped his free hand between his thighs, coating his fingers with some of his slick before gripping both their cocks in his large palm.

"Oh, alpha..."

Jimin's thin robe hung low on his elbows, swishing in the breeze. His abdomen was tightening again with pure pleasure with Jungkook stimulating him from the inside and the outside.

"I've been waiting forever," Jungkook growled.

"Do not lie to me, Alpha." Jimin moved his hips, following his instincts. He didn't know whether to sink down on Jungkook's fingers or move forward into his hand that was jerking their cocks off. The slick made the slide smoother.

Jungkook snarled in his face. "I'll never lie to you, Omega."

Jimin wasn't afraid. It wasn't frightening in the least. "Yeah? Then tell me, Alpha. How long have you been waiting? When was the last time you had someone warm your bed?"

The omega growled at him for asking him that. It didn't want to know.

"Ever since I presented and had my sexual awakening," the response came instantly. "Never had touched another." Jungkook was panting harder. "Never so much as looked at another."

Jimin paused, his eyes filling with tears as the omega preened at the information. "I-It can't be. Y-You're an alpha. How? Why?"

Alphas were often driven by their primal instincts. He never heard of someone waiting for the one. Heck, they lived in a world were omegas were seen as a conquest. The alphas measured their physical prowess by how many omegas they bedded. It was impossible for Jungkook to remain untouched. But as he stared at him, both of them paused their ministrations, he saw only sincerity and truth in his gaze.

But Jungkook kissed him as he paused his ministrations. "Would you believe me if I told you I've always known that I'd meet someone special?"

Jimin shook his head. A few stray tears falling off his eyes. His voice was barely above a whisper and laced with disbelief.

"It's impossible. No one waits."

They would be a laughing stock among other alphas if they don't have stories of their sexual escapades to bring to their table. It simply didn't work that way in their world.

But then he had his brothers as an example, who rarely looked at the omegas. That was because they spend all their lives training for this moment and didn't want the risk of commitment or the heartbreak it would bring when it was time for them to leave for this fight.

However, Jungkook's case didn't make sense. He was a mercenary after all. There would be hundreds of omegas who would throw themselves at his feet wherever he went.

Jungkook sighed and leaned forward to peck his lips. It should have felt awkward to talk in this position but strangely it didn't. "When I was young, my father took me to visit the Speaker of the Moon. He told me that the Moon Goddess blessed me with a mate who shall make me proud. That I should save myself for them. Wait for them with a pure heart and body."

Now Jimin was openly crying. "Speaker of the Moon?"

Jungkook nodded, kissing away his tears. "When I met you, I knew. You're my only one. I shall protect you with my life and cherish you until the last breath of my life."

Jimin kissed him. He couldn't think of anything else. The omega couldn't believe his ears. Jungkook was send by the Speak of the Moon. The same one who helped his mother plan and execute his escape. The man who saved his life as a baby.

"I believe you," he whispered against his lips. "May the Moon be the witness of our conversation. Now finish what you started, Alpha."

With that, their kiss once again grew heated. It didn't take long before both were spilling into Jungkook's hand. The alpha continued to kiss all over his face, speaking gently. Jimin was content. There was a lot he didn't know about Jungkook. For example, he didn't know about his family or what they did. What was his life like and what he was planning to do after this challenge.

The alpha picked him up and brought him to the river, sitting on the shallow side with Jimin on his lap. He took his time, cleaning their bodies lathering their skin with handmade lavender soap Jungkook bought him recently from one of the villages.

The omega was blushing. Their nakedness didn't register on him earlier because of their arousal. But now he was aware of Jungkook's every touch. Aware of every soft press of his lips on his back every now and then.

Jimin sighed when Jungkook began to wash his hair. His touch was so gentle that the omega in him was swooning and melting under his touch. He dropped his head on the alpha's chest, closing his eyes. A thought suddenly crossed his mind.

"Alpha, do you have a plan for when we reach The Fortune Moon?" he asked. "I'm afraid my father will have me executed the moment I announce my presence."

Jungkook was silent for a moment. "Do you think I'd lead you to your death, my omega?"

Jimin turned in his arms. "No. I trust you." He cupped his alpha's face. "There is so much I'm yet to learn about you and we rarely talk about this." He leaned his forehead against his. "This is one of the worries that keep me awake at nights sometimes."

"I knew what I was getting into when your brother hired me," Jungkook whispered. "I have contacted the Speaker of Moon. That's all you have to know for now. Trust me, my omega. It's my responsibility to bring you to that ring safely."

Jimin relaxed. "Who are you?" He nuzzled into his neck. "Where were you all these years? Why haven't we met earlier, Alpha?"

He felt Jungkook's smile against his skin as he kissed his temple. "The Moon Goddess has her own plan."

Jungkook led him out of the water, wrapping a towel around both their hips before proceeding to dry Jimin's hair with all the care. He started at the top of the head, moving down to dry the rest of his waist long hair. Jimin allowed him to dress him into the clothes Jin prepared for them, basking in the alpha's warmth and care.

"So...let's say I win this challenge, what will happen next?" he asked, watching Jungkook getting dressed. His alpha was a sight to sore eyes, full of toned muscles swirling with ink.

"I'll give you my final mating gift with a hope that you'd feel the same then."

Jimin chuckled. "Stupid alpha." He turned around to wrap his hands around his neck. "There's no one else I'd want in this life time."

"Are you sure?"

"Are you doubting me, Alpha?"

"Can you blame me? You have the rulers of the nation vying for your attention. And I've heard the heir apparent is a handsome man. I'm just an ordinary mercenary." He leaned to peck his lips.

Jimin scoffed. He understood where Jungkook was coming from. But things would have been different their relationship would have been something forbidden. However, Jimin was a prince who wasn't supposed to live. Though he was aware of the royal etiquettes, he wasn't bound by them. None of those alphas held a candle to him when he had Jungkook, just an ordinary mercenary to put in his words.

"Those alphas didn't make my heart race every time I look at them. Their gifts didn't appease me. Their scent isn't the one I fall asleep to. They aren't the one who is protecting me now. You won my heart when you first offered to train me and then your further actions ruined any other alphas out there for me. You were the first alpha to see and hold me this intimately. I want you to be the last alpha I would allow this privilege."

Jungkook smiled at him. "I'm honored, my precious omega." He kissed his knuckles. "I have something for you. Wait here."

Jimin watched as Jungkook rummaged through his items. When he came back he was smiling widely.

"This pin was the first courting gift my father gave to my mother." The clothing pin was made of silver. What made it stand out was the intricate design at the head with a single blue stone. "He spent several nights crafting this with his hand. My father was from a noble family while my mother was a nobody," he continued. "She was a daughter of a lowly maid who was blessed with abundant beauty. The maids didn't have a good life you see, my father noticed her wearing cheap clothing pins to often keep her torn clothes together. So he wanted his first courting gift to be something useful." He traced the pin gently. "He was only fourteen when he secretly began to court my mother."

Jimin accepted the pin, his omega moved upon hearing the story behind his mother's pin. "This is beautiful."

Jungkook nodded. "It's something I always carry with me. I've never seen my mother. She died when I was just a baby. But my father says her eyes were a brilliant shade of blue just like the stone."

"Jungkook...this...are you sure?"

Jungkook enclosed Jimin's palm in his. "Yes. Though it is just a pin, it was something my mother held dear to her heart. I want you to have this."

"Thank you," Jimin whispered, hugging him tighter. "I'll cherish it."

"And I'll cherish you."

With a smile, Jimin stood on his tiptoes, connecting their lips together.

Some Visuals:

[Images are embedded from Pinterest/Tumblr. I do not own rights for any of these images. All credits to the original owners/editors]

Cave & Hot Spring:

Some of the performers traveling to The Fortune Moon for the challenge: