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!!!!!!!! Please read first: Book 1~ Case: It's You !!!!!!!!
MINORS AND AGELESS BLOGS WILL BE BLOCKED IF SEEN INTERACTING WITH ANY OF THIS SERIES, LIKES INCLUDED!
Pairing: Poly 0t8 Ateez x fem reader
AU: Mafia/detective
Genre: action, romance, thriller?
Ongoing Word Count: ---
Summary: After 3 months since agreeing to join them fully, you had buried yourself into work to make up for how less you have been feeling since the traumatic incident. However, crime does not stop so you can properly heal, nor is it a burden you have to face alone. Eight is now nine, a lesson to be learned while also fighting for everything you believe in, and learning to believe in something new.
General Warnings: 18+, member x member smut content and side ships, poly dynamics, lots of gay, kidnapping, killing minor characters, some members showing sadistic sides. Reader is recovering from a huge trauma so there will be light triggers, panic attacks, etc. General dark themes like stalking, killing, kidnapping, cnc, blood play, and a criminal world that condones human trafficking, r@pe, child slavery, and more. Smut warnings on the chapters that have them.
About "Reader": For the sake of the story Reader is physically fit and professionally trained as a detective. There are some personality traits that are more based on the backstory of reader and so forth so I understand that it isn't entirely "reader insert". I try to avoid using y/n completely, thus the pet names. Reader is Fem for plot purposes however, reader's height, skin, weight, hair and eye color are left as vague as possible so you may picture her as yourself. Otherwise you can read it like an oc and picture your version of a femme fatale badass.
Author's Note: I would like to note that the city this all takes place in is fictional, same with the country. Like Gotham or something similar. I know nothing about being a detective or undercover work aside from what i've seen in dramas. The world, characters, and actions are completely fictional and do not reflect on any of the idols used in this fic! edited in: All idols are aged up to be in their later twenties to early thirties for the time period to make sense (they didnt just become this influential after a few years but a decade). There will also be chapters that are backstory and will most likely be before MC arrived.
Banner and dividers made by me! Beta readers include: @bunnliix , @adelusionforyourthoughts, and @yourfatherlucifer for all chapters. For any additional betas will be tagged in the chapters! Networks are first tags <3
Chapters
Act 1: The Vipers - One (march 1st) | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six | Seven | Eight | Nine | Ten
Act 2: The Goblins - TBD
Act 3: The Circle - TBD
Act 4: The Pirates - TBD
Act 5: The Wolves - TBD
Act 6: The Guardians - TBD
Taglist will always be the first reblogs!! Rules to apply for the taglist lie on Chapter 30 of book 1! Will cap at 100. Slots: 44/100
~☆彡 tumblr's algorithm works off of reblogs so please consider it if you like my work :)
Playlist song key
🕸️ambush
🕯️rain
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yeosang pov
The appearance of the blue bird had been the first indication, it resurfacing in the market had been confirmation. San at the bar had been a beacon of hope, his magical healing gifts no match for any petty potion Vervona could acquire. Mingi and Wooyoung in the shadows had been the trigger in their plan. My crew, they finally found me. A single subtle nod toward San was all they needed to act first and ask questions later regarding rescuing my new friend with me.
As the arms I recognise as Jongho’s wrap under my own I can’t help but grin. The sharp inhale of breath to my left an indication of a scream about to escape, I clamp my hand over her mouth and she thankfully takes the hint. With that, Jongho and, to take a guess Yunho, pull us from our seats and down the hidden trapdoor beneath the rug. To be fair to her, when the elixir arrived in front of us, all it took was as a pointed look for her to take the hint, she’ll fit right in.
~🕸️
The shouting and gunshots continue above our heads as the trap door closes and is jammed shut by Jongho with a strategic placement of some kind of plank. There’ll be time for reunions later, for now we’ve got to move.
We begin to run down the passage way, carefully placing our steps in the darkness. My new friend, obviously not called Cara Jones, grasps my wrist and pulls me to a stop, speaking in a flurry of panic. I can just make out her features in the darkness; they’re paralysed in a state of shock and fear, yet when her eyes meet my own they somehow soften.
“Yeosang, who? Where-“
“My crew, there’s no time to explain right now we need to move.”
I feel bad for cutting her off, but she’ll thank me for the time saved on explanation later. With that, we begin running again. The sounds of gunshots are fading now, thankfully.
The tunnel goes on for what feels like forever, it must be an old smugglers passage, I hope she’s not afraid of spiders, there are cobwebs undoubtedly all over us by this point.
I call out to my crew members, the relief evident.
“Yunho, Jongho how the hell-“
It’s my turn to be cut off now apparently.
“No time for that right now Sangie, save it for Capt’n.”
Yunho clips back excitedly. Jongho laughs under his breath.
The sliver of light in the ceiling at what must be the end of the passage brings with it all the hope imaginable. Upon reaching it, Yunho delivers 1 firm knock followed by 2 scrapes of his dagger; the exit trap door opens and as I look up I see the face of my Captain’s first mate. Park Seonghwa.
~🕯️
He spares a moment to smirk down at me, shaking his head as he laughs into his chest before extending a rope down. I look over at my friend, she is looking at me with an expression akin to relief. I stifle a chuckle when she registers the cobwebs coating her and her features morph into horror. She frantically gestures and pleads with her eyes for me to swipe them away, I do so gladly. Yunho and Jongho gesture for me to take a hold of the rope, and so I do.
After a minor struggle we all get safely out of the passage, resealing and camouflaging the trap door. When satisfied, I look at my surroundings, we’re in a secluded dune on a beach. Palm trees reach high above us, effectively hiding our forms from the worst of the sun’s unforgiving rays.
Seonghwa’s voice snaps me out of the momentary daze. His tone thick with the kind of authority I’ve taken for granted all these years, a tone I’ve missed dearly.
“The Illusion is about 10 minutes from here, had to hide her in a cove. Let’s move. You can explain our extra crew member to Hongjoong when we’ve put some distance between us and the Crimson.”
“Aye.”
The contrast in emotions from now to the last I spoke that word is immense, and reminds me again how much I’ve missed everything.
I can’t help but grin at him, before gesturing to my friend to follow. I really hope she entrusts me with her real name soon.
The slow trudge through the sand feels even longer than the passage, not for the distance, for the anticipation. Seeing the ship’s billowing white sails after so long is a feeling I fear I will never be able to do justice to with words. I’m home.
The feeling of climbing aboard tops that; setting my feet down upon those all familiar planks, they creak as if to say ‘welcome back’.
Readers POV
The amount of emotions which have coursed through your body in the past 20 minutes is beyond description, terror and confusion taking centre stage. These pirates are different though, they’re Yeosang’s crew. If he trusts them then you will at least attempt to.
The door to the main cabin swings open and the remainder of Yeosang’s crew run to you all- or more specifically to him. Though you’re now stood rather awkwardly to the side, you’re more than happy to watch the scene of such pure chaos and joy unfold.
A man with hair similar to the navigator’s in length bounds over like a puppy and practically tackles him to the deck. You can already tell he will be a lot to handle simply from the positively manic expression across his countenance. His sheiks of excitement sounding across the deck remind you of seagulls, you suppress a chuckle at the thought. Yeosang’s muffled greeting into his shoulder makes you smile just as wide as the man though. From this, you learn his name to be ‘Wooyoung’.
Another - the man from the bar you suddenly realise, shows some level of restraint. His eyes and soft despite his wide smile. He opts to simply rest a hand upon Yeosang’s shoulder before crushing him in another hug when he’s released from his first. You catch his name too, it is ‘San’.
A third man ducks out of the cabin, black hair cropped close to his head with the top framing his face. His face changes from stern and intimidating to the very picture of happiness, his smile wide and crinkling at his eyes. There is a long gun of some sort across his back, he must be responsible for the lanterns going out. He doesn’t bother to wait, instead opting for a group hug- to which Wooyoung eagerly joins. The final choked greeting from Yeosang informs you that his name is ‘Mingi’.
One last man exits the cabin, his posture leaking with authority. Though he wears no signature hat, he must be the captain. The others back away from Yeosang and give them space for a more formal reunion, after a firm hand shake the captain also wraps him in a warm embrace.
The man you assumed to be the captain steps away and observes his crew with a content smile before speaking up. His tone is loud and authoritative, yet unable to mask the sheer happiness emanating from him even if he wanted to.
“Now then men.”
Everyone instantly settles down, you could swear even from the distance apart you were that there are tears in Yeosang’s eyes. His smile settles from wide and gleeful until it is almost akin to a pout, holding back whilst receiving word from his captain.
“We’ve achieved our mission. But before we can celebrate our reunion, we need a little distance. So, to your stations.”
He smiles kindly at Yeosang who practically hops skips and jumps to the cabin where you assume the maps to be held, he pulls himself up though and beckons for you to follow.
Before you reach him, you feel a hand close over your shoulder.
“We will address the elephant in the room when we’re at a safe distance, his safety is my priority right now.”
Though laced with kindness and reassurance, you feel a shiver go down your spine at the captain’s words…
I just clocked how long it's been omg! I am so sorry, with uni deadlines and job hunting I haven't had any time for writing :( I am very much still invested in this series though so more chapters will be coming :)
~☆彡 tumblr's algorithm works off of reblogs so please consider it if you like my work :)
Playlist song key
🕸️ambush
🕯️rain
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yeosang pov
The appearance of the blue bird had been the first indication, it resurfacing in the market had been confirmation. San at the bar had been a beacon of hope, his magical healing gifts no match for any petty potion Vervona could acquire. Mingi and Wooyoung in the shadows had been the trigger in their plan. My crew, they finally found me. A single subtle nod toward San was all they needed to act first and ask questions later regarding rescuing my new friend with me.
As the arms I recognise as Jongho’s wrap under my own I can’t help but grin. The sharp inhale of breath to my left an indication of a scream about to escape, I clamp my hand over her mouth and she thankfully takes the hint. With that, Jongho and, to take a guess Yunho, pull us from our seats and down the hidden trapdoor beneath the rug. To be fair to her, when the elixir arrived in front of us, all it took was as a pointed look for her to take the hint, she’ll fit right in.
~🕸️
The shouting and gunshots continue above our heads as the trap door closes and is jammed shut by Jongho with a strategic placement of some kind of plank. There’ll be time for reunions later, for now we’ve got to move.
We begin to run down the passage way, carefully placing our steps in the darkness. My new friend, obviously not called Cara Jones, grasps my wrist and pulls me to a stop, speaking in a flurry of panic. I can just make out her features in the darkness; they’re paralysed in a state of shock and fear, yet when her eyes meet my own they somehow soften.
“Yeosang, who? Where-“
“My crew, there’s no time to explain right now we need to move.”
I feel bad for cutting her off, but she’ll thank me for the time saved on explanation later. With that, we begin running again. The sounds of gunshots are fading now, thankfully.
The tunnel goes on for what feels like forever, it must be an old smugglers passage, I hope she’s not afraid of spiders, there are cobwebs undoubtedly all over us by this point.
I call out to my crew members, the relief evident.
“Yunho, Jongho how the hell-“
It’s my turn to be cut off now apparently.
“No time for that right now Sangie, save it for Capt’n.”
Yunho clips back excitedly. Jongho laughs under his breath.
The sliver of light in the ceiling at what must be the end of the passage brings with it all the hope imaginable. Upon reaching it, Yunho delivers 1 firm knock followed by 2 scrapes of his dagger; the exit trap door opens and as I look up I see the face of my Captain’s first mate. Park Seonghwa.
~🕯️
He spares a moment to smirk down at me, shaking his head as he laughs into his chest before extending a rope down. I look over at my friend, she is looking at me with an expression akin to relief. I stifle a chuckle when she registers the cobwebs coating her and her features morph into horror. She frantically gestures and pleads with her eyes for me to swipe them away, I do so gladly. Yunho and Jongho gesture for me to take a hold of the rope, and so I do.
After a minor struggle we all get safely out of the passage, resealing and camouflaging the trap door. When satisfied, I look at my surroundings, we’re in a secluded dune on a beach. Palm trees reach high above us, effectively hiding our forms from the worst of the sun’s unforgiving rays.
Seonghwa’s voice snaps me out of the momentary daze. His tone thick with the kind of authority I’ve taken for granted all these years, a tone I’ve missed dearly.
“The Illusion is about 10 minutes from here, had to hide her in a cove. Let’s move. You can explain our extra crew member to Hongjoong when we’ve put some distance between us and the Crimson.”
“Aye.”
The contrast in emotions from now to the last I spoke that word is immense, and reminds me again how much I’ve missed everything.
I can’t help but grin at him, before gesturing to my friend to follow. I really hope she entrusts me with her real name soon.
The slow trudge through the sand feels even longer than the passage, not for the distance, for the anticipation. Seeing the ship’s billowing white sails after so long is a feeling I fear I will never be able to do justice to with words. I’m home.
The feeling of climbing aboard tops that; setting my feet down upon those all familiar planks, they creak as if to say ‘welcome back’.
Readers POV
The amount of emotions which have coursed through your body in the past 20 minutes is beyond description, terror and confusion taking centre stage. These pirates are different though, they’re Yeosang’s crew. If he trusts them then you will at least attempt to.
The door to the main cabin swings open and the remainder of Yeosang’s crew run to you all- or more specifically to him. Though you’re now stood rather awkwardly to the side, you’re more than happy to watch the scene of such pure chaos and joy unfold.
A man with hair similar to the navigator’s in length bounds over like a puppy and practically tackles him to the deck. You can already tell he will be a lot to handle simply from the positively manic expression across his countenance. His sheiks of excitement sounding across the deck remind you of seagulls, you suppress a chuckle at the thought. Yeosang’s muffled greeting into his shoulder makes you smile just as wide as the man though. From this, you learn his name to be ‘Wooyoung’.
Another - the man from the bar you suddenly realise, shows some level of restraint. His eyes and soft despite his wide smile. He opts to simply rest a hand upon Yeosang’s shoulder before crushing him in another hug when he’s released from his first. You catch his name too, it is ‘San’.
A third man ducks out of the cabin, black hair cropped close to his head with the top framing his face. His face changes from stern and intimidating to the very picture of happiness, his smile wide and crinkling at his eyes. There is a long gun of some sort across his back, he must be responsible for the lanterns going out. He doesn’t bother to wait, instead opting for a group hug- to which Wooyoung eagerly joins. The final choked greeting from Yeosang informs you that his name is ‘Mingi’.
One last man exits the cabin, his posture leaking with authority. Though he wears no signature hat, he must be the captain. The others back away from Yeosang and give them space for a more formal reunion, after a firm hand shake the captain also wraps him in a warm embrace.
The man you assumed to be the captain steps away and observes his crew with a content smile before speaking up. His tone is loud and authoritative, yet unable to mask the sheer happiness emanating from him even if he wanted to.
“Now then men.”
Everyone instantly settles down, you could swear even from the distance apart you were that there are tears in Yeosang’s eyes. His smile settles from wide and gleeful until it is almost akin to a pout, holding back whilst receiving word from his captain.
“We’ve achieved our mission. But before we can celebrate our reunion, we need a little distance. So, to your stations.”
He smiles kindly at Yeosang who practically hops skips and jumps to the cabin where you assume the maps to be held, he pulls himself up though and beckons for you to follow.
Before you reach him, you feel a hand close over your shoulder.
“We will address the elephant in the room when we’re at a safe distance, his safety is my priority right now.”
Though laced with kindness and reassurance, you feel a shiver go down your spine at the captain’s words…
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
✓ Live Streaming✓ Interactive Chat✓ Private Shows✓ HD Quality✓ Free Actions
Free to watch • No registration required • HD streaming
~☆彡 tumblr's algorithm works off of reblogs so please consider it if you like my work :)
A/N: I’m so sorry for the inconsistent updates I really have no schedule for them with uni :’) I will be finishing this fic though don’t worry :)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tortuga.
What a truly audacious place.
When the anchor of the crimson hits the sea bed at long last, you feel it in your bones. The pull against the ship igniting a new flame of hope within you, you’d been living off of one flame thus far. Now there were two.
You look over at Yeosang, his eyes reflecting your own well concealed hope. The plan is simple, slip away from the crew when they’re drunk in one of the many taverns the island has to offer, call upon this mysterious favour Yeosang alluded to, and escape. If they choose to leave you behind? Well, there’ll certainly be less crew members to get past.
The navigator looks back to the map on the table between you, his thumb swiping across a crease rhythmically as if it would somehow flatten out the results of lack of care. You can’t help but remember the time those hands were so gentle with your own.
The cabin door swings open unceremoniously as vervona stalks in, Broner on his heels like a loyal dog. He observes you both for a moment before jumping into his speech.
“Well then, as you’ve no doubt noticed, we’ve made port. I can’t very well leave you here with m’ship and no crew now can I? So you’ll be coming with us. But then I can’t very well either have you wonderin’ off, now can I?”
His borderline incomprehensible speech irritates you. But that feeling turns to dread when he reveals a vile of shimmering red liquid. Vervona continues, a fresh tinge of malice in his tone.
“We can’t be turning any more heads than the usual with what’s at stake, so I can’t be shackling you. Not physically anyway no, no this little beauty will bind your minds.”
A potion?
With that Broner walks over to you and secures a rough hand under your jaw, forcing your mouth open. You don’t fight it, the second flame was fleeting. You could swear you saw Yeosang’s hand leave the map and reach for you.
The drop of liquid hitting the back of your throat burns like no alcohol you’ve ever tasted, it is pure fire. You feel it absorb into every vein and can almost picture the invisible shackles, your mind becomes a prison. It is empty, craving for instruction, terrified of free will.
Yeosang steps away when Broner walks to him, as if contemplating doing something possibly very ill conceived.
“Kang?” Vervona speaks softly now, it’s somehow more frightening.
He decides against whatever crossed his mind, you sigh in relief. Broner grips him the same as he did you, sparing no amount of force in the process. You watch as his eyes glass over and become distant, his posture losing its strength as he ingests the potion.
With that, the pair slam the cabin door behind them with gruff laughter, leaving you and Yeosang in the most docile state imaginable.
“What was that?” You’re surprised you can even ask.
“A docility elixir, it makes us follow his every command whether we wish to or not. In other words, there will be no escaping today.”
Disappointment and sadness wash over you like a tidal wave. A thought crosses your mind, it’s bold but you dare to voice it anyway.
“Is it purely instructional? Surely we can act around that?”
Yeosang smiles and laughs dryly.
“It’s instructional yes, but acting on anything which opposes that- direct or not, is still very difficult. And he will feel the tug on his mind if we try to.”
“I see…” you slump against your chair slightly.
No further time is given for you both to mull over your predicament though. For the door opens again, and when told to come outside, you do so without question or thought.
The ship is silent. You’re in front of the captain, he speaks to you both clearly and concisely.
“Neither of you will run. You will stay by my side from the moment we leave this ship to the moment you return to it. You will not attempt any form of escape or mutiny against me. Is that understood.”
A blue bird lands on the rail of the ship, it chirps once. Yeosang twitches.
You answer in unison.
“Aye captain.”
He turns, you both follow. The blue bird flies into the sky.
~
The island is a very unusual place to be sure. It’s nothing like you’ve ever seen. Everyone looks to be having a joyous time. There are people of all backgrounds stumbling about drunk to the clouds, women with more cleavage than cover atop barrels and balconies, gunshots and fiddle music. A truly audacious cacophony of sights and sounds indeed.
By the time the last batch of supplies is collected, the sun is setting and casting an orange glow upon your surroundings. It’s shimmering off of swords and the glass in various stalls, sending beams of light all around you. However, you can hardly focus on the beauty of such a thing considering the fact that your feet are aching beyond comprehension. You need nothing more than to sit down and drink some water, but you physically cannot stop walking. It’s torture.
Yeosang’s features are set in a grim line of concentration, you wonder what he is thinking about. After so long of being captive, the opportunity to escape ripped from him, is it your fault? If you weren’t here would they trust him enough to not bind his will like this?
There’s a chirp to your left, right beside Yeosang. There is another blue bird, no- the same one, you’re sure of it. The navigator doesn’t flinch this time, in fact you’re sure he’s suppressing a faint smirk.
His expression returns to that which it had been as Vervona turns and makes a loud announcement to the crew. A sly grin on his maddened expression.
“Now then, I think it’s time for a drink don’t you?”
The crew erupts into hoots and cheers. With dread gnawing at your stomach, you all make your way to the tavern.
The tavern is just as you expected to be frank, dimly lit with lanterns, reeking with the stench of pirates- for which bathing is apparently foreign. Quite small as well, tucked away in a back alley away from prying eyes. Much like the table you’re led to, right in the corner save for a well embroidered rug behind it.
You’re sat down rather forcefully by Broner. He is to your left, Yeosang to your right, with Vervona at his side. A pint of beer lands in front of each chair not long after, compliments of your captain. You restrain yourself from downing it in all of 30 seconds due to your thirst.
By an hour in, the crew and vervona are all very, very drunk; you and Yeosang have been strategically pacing yourselves and hiding out of rounds where you can. You’re both tipsy at best.
There’s a man by the bar who keeps staring at your table. You’ve noticed, you wonder if Yeosang or Vervona have too. He is very unique, fitting right into his setting. Delicate tattoos adorning his skin, a silver streak in his dark hair, with a calculating look across his features. He’s nursing a cocktail when he locks eyes with you, before turning away and beckoning the bartender over.
You’ve long tuned out of the incoherent babbling and boasting of the crew. Each attempting to one-up the other on their various conquests and tales of gore-filled glory. However the ramblings of one in particular catch your ear.
“We need to finish off Kang’s crew, the bastard needs to be taught a lesson for abandoning our captain.”
You wonder what it means. Yeosang tenses beside you, faintly, but all the same telling.
A new round of drinks arrives, not beer this time but some sort of cocktail. Vervona questions it with the bartender, only to be told it’s ‘on the house’.
There are dainty leaves adorning the tops of the drinks, the liquid a shimmering blue. It’s unlike any drink you’ve ever seen. Except it is.. it’s strikingly similar if not the same as the one the man at the bar had.
You look at Yeosang and are startled to find him staring at you, a command hidden in his now hope filled eyes. You down this one instantly.
Moments later you feel the shackles melt away, the relief you feel as you breathe free will back into your lungs in unparalleled. That feeling is short lived and replaced by fear as five strategically placed gun shots sound, and the lanterns of the tavern go out.
And whilst everyone immediately stands up and bares their arms, the sound of hinges sounds behind you followed by a soft thump. Suddenly there are arms tucking under your own. Your mouth is covered instantly and you fight off a scream into the familiar hand as you lock eyes with Yeosang in the darkness for a moment before you’re both practically ripped from your seats. The pieces begin to come together as you and the navigator are pulled down a trap door.
GUYS I FOUND THE PERFECT SOUNDTRACK FOR THE SCENE I MADE UP WHICH INSPIRED ‘A SIREN’S SONG’ I HAVE SO MUCH MOTIVATION TO SPEED WRITE THIS NOW I NEED THAT CHAPTER BROUGHT TO LIFE 😭😭
I’m curious to see what you guys think will be happening to this song 😝
~ ☆彡~ Tumblr's algorithm works from reblogs so if you like my work please consider It
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
And so it was settled. You and Hongjoong would officially join the elves in their quest to unite the magical forces and reclaim the lands igoras usurped. The questions brought about from the revelation of Hongjoong’s relations with this Seonghwa swirl around your mind like a rainstorm. The second you’re dismissed from Fraijia, the floodgates open.
“How do you know Seonghwa? You don’t appear to think of him fondly.” You delicately pose the question, just as lightly treading down the staircase to reach the forest floor.
Hongjoong tenses lightly and sends you a tight lipped smile, he shakes his head as if shaking off a memory of great discomfort.
“My dealings with Igoras go far beyond our first meeting Arla. It was 4 years ago, Darium- king of Igoras himself the bastard- came to us and offered our group full pardons in exchange for bringing Seonghwa to him. He’d exhausted all his best assassins trying already, we were his last option. If we couldn’t accomplish it, we’d be out of the picture anyway, he had nothing to lose in retrospect. Anyway, he didn’t count on one of our own already having ties to Seonghwa- the friend I told you about. Though he would have never agreed of course. His father- our leader- kept him completely in the dark. Seonghwa got lured to us and was completely oblivious, under the guise of our healer requiring some rare enchanted herb. They’d planned to immobilise him whilst he slept before taking his leave in the morning… When my friend caught wind of the true reason for his being there, he informed me thinking I also did not know. It’s one of my greatest regrets, as a friend and as a person… Needless to say, that perspective shift led to us tipping Seonghwa off. He fled of course, but not before raising our camp to the ground, some of us didn't make it through the night. I took the blame and was banished the same night.”
You’re taken aback to say the least, the thought of Hongjoong willingly going along with something like that stirs nausea in your gut.
“You said you left?” Is all you can muster.
“same difference, I would’ve left anyway after that. The point is, Fraija thinks he will now view it as him owing me and will therefore consider helping us.”
You nod in understanding. Now at the bottom of the stairs looking out into forest. The stag from your first day in Reynyr is just visible in the distance.
“What was your friend’s name?”
Hongjoong meets your eyes and smiles, a mournful one containing years worth of happiness.
“San, Choi san.”
You return the smile and bask in the tranquility of the forest for only a moment, before being interrupted by Hongjoong’s favourite individual.
“As fascinating and revealing as your little backstory is Hong, if you two lovebirds are quite finished it’s time to get going.” Hyunjin swirls past you both in a flurry of sass and nonchalance- an infuriating combination for the newly named ‘Hong’.
“Hong?” the man himself questions, his head tilted in mild irritation.
“I- Where are we going?” You inquire, choosing to gloss over the later part of the elf’s nonsense.
“You, dear humans, are going to the wolves. I, am going to find snacks to watch the looks on your faces to.” He sniggers as Felix jumps down from whatever tree he’d been perched in for the past five minutes.
You gulp in anticipation, Felix stands behind you and Hongjoong, a hand on each of your outside shoulders before sticking his head between you both.
“It’ll be fine, they’re friends.” He chirps happily before lightly pushing you both forward to follow Hyunjin.
“Just don’t look the big one in the eye when he’s all big and scary, he won’t tolerate your face as easily as me.” Hyunjin laughs over his shoulder.
“Oi, Chan is lovely what are you on about?” Felix laughs back
Hongjoong huffs under his breath before muttering something about when he gets his (your) dagger back and you can’t help but laugh too.
~
After a while of walking through the forest, you all arrive at the clearing where the wolves first made their presence known to you. A shiver goes down your spine as you step carefully around a small puddle of blood on the ground. All other traces of the attack are gone, making the area all the more eerie. Felix gives your shoulder a reassuring squeeze before offering his hand to aid you over some large rocks at the edge. The foliage on the other side is trampled, bracken leaves pressed into the forest floor haphazardly; large paw prints confirming this to be the spot the wolves had emerged from. You wonder what to expect, what form they would be in upon your official meeting, if there are any dos and don’ts depending on which. Hongjoong jumping down from the rock behind you spares you from further thoughts though, you all begin walking again.
Not five minutes later you and Hongjoong pull yourselves up and freeze. A loud snap sounding to the left. Felix turns to you both.
“We’re nearly there. They always have a scout around their borders, today he’s here to escort us.”
Upon finishing his sentence, the tall foliage to your left begins to part. One paw steps out, then a snout. More and more of the wolf emerges, you try harder and harder not to back away. He surveys you and Hongjoong carefully for a moment before walking past you until he’s situated in front of the elves- they all bow their heads respectfully and you and Hongjoong exchange a quick glance before following along. Hyunjin breaks the formal silence with a step towards the wolf.
“Hello Han.”
“Hyunjin, Felix. I see the time has come then.”
“Indeed it has.”
You’re stunned. He spoke? His mouth did not move? You look over at Hongjoong in shock, he looks back at you in confusion- yet it seems misplaced. In a hushed tone you ask him if he heard the wolf now known as ‘Han’ speak.
“No? You did?”
Felix chuckles lightly.
“You have elven blood in you, and more magic than anticipated apparently. You can hear any magical creatures words as well as I it would seem.”
“Wow…” you let out under your breath, now in awe.
Han looks at you directly then.
“It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Arla.”
His words raise questions that fill your mind for the remainder of the walk to the wolves’ camp.
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Summary: Life has been hell ever since your mother's passing many years ago. Despite being from a prominent family, you've never received the privileges associated with it. It only got worse with the arrival of your stepmother and her daughters. When the intimidating General Park was in search of a wife, your father seized the opportunity to dispose of you, simultaneously securing a connection with the powerful general—killing two birds with one stone.
Part 15 | Fic Masterlist | Part 17
What's the meaning of this, Your Highness?
As you entered the grand hall, discomfort painted across your features, Jongho and Eunsook trailed closely behind, exchanging concerned glances. The announcement made by the palace staff had only made the prince's intentions abundantly clear to them.
The head maid, not wanting you to feel alone, stepped up beside you to check on you, "Are you feeling alright, mistress?" She inquired. Jongho nodded in agreement from your other side, suggesting, "Yes, perhaps we can leave early if you are not feeling well."
"Miss Jang! Are you not feeling well, my lady?" Yeosang's deep voice interrupted, your eyes widening at his appearance. As you began to perform the formal bow, he quickly halted you by gently grasping your arms, "No need to be so formal with me," He said softly, "If you're feeling unwell, you can come and rest in my chambers."
Jongho and Eunsook froze at the fourth prince's suggestion, dread washing over them. They could only hope you would decline the invitation, but they knew it wasn't their place to intervene. The idea was simply inappropriate; as a married woman, retiring to another man's private chambers was scandalous. If news of this spread, it would undoubtedly tarnish your reputation and bring dishonour to the general's name.
To their relief, you didn't hesitate to shake your head, "Oh dear, no, Your Highness. Thank you for the offer, but I was simply taken aback by the grandeur of everything. It's my first time attending such a prestigious event, and perhaps I just need a moment to take it all in."
That wasn't entirely untrue, as you finally seized the opportunity to marvel at your surroundings. While your husband's estate was luxurious, it paled in comparison to the opulence of the royal palace. Palace servants bustled about, ensuring everything was flawless. However, you couldn't help but notice the absence of banquet guests, which surprised and unsettled you.
Yeosang fought hard to conceal any disappointment, maintaining a composed smile at your response, "Ah, yes, indeed. How inconsiderate of me not to offer you a tour of the palace first, especially after the delightful tour you provided me at General Park's estate. I believe it's only right for me to return the favour now."
You blinked, "B-but the banquet—"
The prince grinned, cutting you off, "As you can see, you've arrived quite early, my lady. The other guests are not here yet, so I might as well keep you entertained until the event officially begins."
The assistant and head maid were deeply uneasy about the situation unfolding before them as they watched you, left with not much of a choice, agreed unsurely to the so-called tour. It was evident to them that this must be part of Yeosang's scheme. Jongho had ensured your departure from the estate was precisely timed; you couldn't have arrived too early.
"Fantastic! Now, if you'll just come with me," His Highness beckoned as the three of you began to follow him. Just as you started to move, he turned around smugly with an additional suggestion, "Oh, actually, your staff can stay behind if they'd like. That way, we can converse more freely, just the two of us, as we did back at the general's estate. What do you say, Miss Jang?"
It took everything in Eunsook to resist the urge to firmly remind the prince that you already belonged to another.
Similarly agitated by Yeosang's persistence, Jongho silently prayed that Seonghwa had received his letter. Despite being well aware of the impropriety of distracting the general during wartime, after much consideration and discussion with the other guys, they concluded that your husband deserved to be informed of the situation.
Fortunately, you offered a reassuring smile to your two chaperones before turning to address the fourth prince, "I'm sure that would not be necessary, Your Highness. I prefer having them close just in case I require any assistance."
As they witnessed your resolute refusal of the offer, Jongho and Eunsook felt a surge of pride. Truthfully, they had been anxious since Hongjoong had confided in them about the doubts you were harbouring regarding Seonghwa. But they dared not bring it up, wary of your potential reaction. Though a part of them had worried you might be swayed by Yeosang's charms, your firm stance reassured them of your unwavering loyalty to the general.
However, they couldn't shake off the sly glint still evident in the prince's eyes. He seemed oddly pleased despite your rejection to spend time alone with him. That troubled them deeply, and the two exchanged worried glances, silently contemplating what else he could possibly have in store.
With a light chuckle, His Highness replied, "Very well then, I suppose they could come along. This way, my lady. I know a few places you'll find intriguing."
Unlike your husband's staff, you were entirely unaware of Yeosang's intentions. Even then, there was just an inexplicably ominous aura to his demeanour that unsettled you, further intensifying your longing for Seonghwa. The banquet had barely even begun, but you already felt mentally exhausted, wanting nothing more than to rely on the general as you always had.
I miss you, Park Seonghwa.
Before you could dwell on thoughts of your beloved and his well-being, you suddenly recognised the surroundings. The enchanting cherry blossom garden, where you had first met the prince, spread out before you, "Do you remember this place, my lady?" He asked, his tone soft with nostalgia, "It has become my favourite spot in all of the palace since meeting you."
"How could I ever forget, Your Highness?" You replied, momentarily causing Jongho and Eunsook's hearts to sink until you continued with a genuinely innocent smile, "This garden is the only place I've had the pleasure of visiting so far."
Although your response should have let him down, Yeosang found his heart melting at your sincerity. It only served to deepen his admiration for you, knowing that you weren't one to offer insincere compliments or put on a fake smile just because of his status. You were simply yourself, and he found that utterly captivating.
As the four of you neared one of the garden's tallest and most exquisite cherry blossom trees, you found yourself gazing upward in awe at the falling petals, taking in the breathtaking sight. The beauty of the place was undeniable, and you couldn't help but imagine spending hours strolling around and admiring the flowers if this were your home.
His Highness watched you beneath the gently falling pink blossoms, feeling his heart swell with warmth. The scene before him was like a painting, and he longed to preserve it in his memory forever. Just standing there with you, experiencing this moment, filled him with an overwhelming desire to give you everything he had. It was a new and unfamiliar feeling for him, this deep sense of affection for another person. For the first time, he found himself completely enamoured by someone's presence.
"It truly is a sight to behold, isn't it?" You nodded wordlessly in response to the prince's question, reaching out to catch some of the delicate flowers before he continued, "You know, perhaps it's not too late to change your favourite flower from lotus to cherry blossoms."
Though his words seemed simple and harmless, they carried a subtle yet unmistakable implication. This was apparent to the assistant, the head maid, and, for once, to you as well. Deep in thought, you pondered the best way to respond to his suggestion. Somehow, you sensed a deeper meaning in his words from the determined look in his eyes that were almost silently urging you to choose him.
With a soft smile, you caught a falling flower, "Thank you, Your Highness. Cherry blossoms are indeed beautiful, but I still prefer lotus flowers. You see, cherry blossoms may be stunning when they bloom, but they also fall quite fast. To me, the lotus represents endurance and resilience, as it thrives in adverse conditions and blooms beautifully despite its surroundings."
This time, you hoped the prince understood the subtle implication behind your words. The short lifespan of cherry blossoms symbolised fleeting happiness, whereas the lotus embodied strength and perseverance through difficulties—a sentiment you hoped would mirror the love shared between you and Seonghwa.
Jongho and Eunsook exchanged a subtle glance, their smiles growing wider as they registered the meaning of your response.
Meanwhile, Yeosang's composure faltered ever so slightly at your polite rejection. The light in his eyes dimmed momentarily, but he quickly regained his composure, masking any hint of disappointment, "Understood, my lady," He replied with a gracious nod, "You do make a good point. Since we've already been here before, let us move on to the next location then."
As he guided you through various parts of the palace, you found yourself fascinated by the history and beauty of each location. The royal library, with its towering shelves of ancient texts, stirred a sense of awe in you as the prince shared stories of his lessons there. The astronomy tower offered a breathtaking view, and you marvelled at the cityscape from above.
In the kitchen, where the aroma of freshly prepared dishes filled the air, His Highness confessed with a mischievous grin that he often snuck in for a late-night snack. You couldn't help but chuckle at his antics, finding his playful side endearing.
However, as Yeosang led you past the main hall where morning assemblies with His Majesty were held, Jongho's earlier worries resurfaced. Despite the seemingly innocent nature of the tour, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease gnawing at him. Each step further into the heart of the palace felt like a step into unknown territory, and he feared what might happen next.
The assistant's breath caught in his throat as he realised the path the fourth prince was leading you down, the daunting sight of the palace torture chambers coming into view.
No, not this place. Anywhere but here.
In the warzone on the other side of the nation, General Officer Song grappled with his own internal conflicts as he tightly gripped the letters from Jongho and Prince Yeosang. He felt a strong reluctance to deliver them to his superior.
The truth was that General Park had sustained injuries in his recent and one of the more challenging battles. While the situation had calmed down and most of the enemy troops were either strewn lifelessly across the battlefield or had retreated to their camps, Seonghwa's injury had been kept secret to prevent causing panic within their army, following the general's direct orders.
Mingi stood in the makeshift office tent, the letters weighing heavily in his hands. His mind raced with thoughts, torn between his duty as a military officer and his concern for General Park's well-being.
On one hand, keeping the letters hidden seemed like the logical course of action. They were in the midst of a war, and any distraction for their most crucial member could be detrimental to their efforts. Having Seonghwa away from camp for personal matters could compromise their military strategy and the safety of their troops.
Yet, on the other hand, he couldn't shake the feeling of responsibility towards the general and his relationship with Lady Park. If he withheld this crucial information and something were to happen between you and the prince, he would bear the blame. The thought of Seonghwa's potential anguish at being kept in the dark about his wife's situation weighed heavily on him.
With no time to spare for further contemplation, a soldier from the medical team entered the tent, "Officer Song, the general's condition has stabilised. You're permitted to see him in his private tent now."
Acknowledging the news with a nod, the military strategist expressed his gratitude, "Understood. Thank you, soldier. I'll head there immediately."
Not wasting another second, Mingi made his way over to General Park's tent, his concern for his friend overriding any other thought for now. As he pushed aside the tent flap and stepped inside, his heart lurched at the sight before him.
The usually formidable military commander lay in bed, his complexion pale and his once-strong demeanour replaced by one of weakness. Seonghwa's hand was clenched tightly around the bandages covering his abdomen, his expression a mixture of pain and discomfort.
"Hyung-nim," Officer Song's voice was filled with worry as he approached the bedside, "How are you feeling?"
Suppressing a wince, the general released a breathy chuckle, "I'm fine, Mingi," He reassured, though his tone lacked conviction, "I've never seen you look this bothered before. It's almost funny."
The taller man scoffed in response, "And I've never seen you in pain like this before. But this isn't funny."
Seonghwa waved off his friend's concern with a weak smile, "Don't worry, it's just a scratch," He insisted, though his tone contradicted his words, "One of those sneaky bastards on the battlefield played dead. I let my guard down for a moment, and he took advantage of it."
Mingi's eyes widened in alarm, "And he managed to graze you?"
Nodding grimly, the general replied, "Yes, it could have been worse if I hadn't reacted in time. But it's strange. The wound shouldn't hurt this much, considering it's just a graze. Perhaps it's my age catching up with me. After all, I'm not as young as I used to be," He admitted ruefully, "But it's nothing serious. Just a minor setback."
Relieved that his superior seemed to be in stable condition, the strategist decided it was best to allow his friend some much-needed rest. With a reassuring pat on the shoulder, he advised, "You should probably rest up. We can't have you bedridden for long. I'll keep watch for now."
As he moved to leave the tent, the general posed a question, stopping him abruptly in his tracks, "Wait, Mingi, did anything happen while I was being treated earlier?" The taller man froze, his hand pressing on the papers he had kept in his pocket anxiously. He debated whether to reveal the contents of the letters now or wait until Seonghwa was in a better state.
He hesitated, grappling with the weight of his decision. After a moment's pause, he opted to keep the letters from your husband. Turning to offer a strained smile to the general, he denied any incident, "No, nothing happened. Don't worry, hyung-nim."
Seonghwa nodded slowly, his brows furrowing slightly, "I see."
A heavy silence hung between them until the strategist broke it with a forced cough, "I should probably head out now."
Before he could move, the general's voice cut through the air with accusation, "Do you honestly think me a fool, Officer Song? I offered you a chance for honesty, yet you persist in deceit. I may be injured, but I am not deaf. I heard the messenger loud and clear. Now, hand me my letters."
Mingi cursed inwardly, realising his mistake in attempting to deceive the great General Park. Sputtering, he reluctantly retrieved the crumpled letters from his pocket before handing them over, "I-I'm sorry, hyung-nim... I didn't mean to—"
Seonghwa shook his head in disbelief, snatching the papers from his friend's grasp, "I know you only did what you thought was right, just as you always do. But we both know you're a dumbass when it comes to anything outside of war strategising."
The taller man sighed as he observed the general's expression darkening further with each word he read from both letters. His fists clenched tightly as he digested the contents of the prince's letter, the paper tearing at the edges from his grip.
This son of a—
Jongho's prayers seemed to be answered as his master finally received his letter, but merely reading it wouldn't be enough to fix any of the damage the fourth prince was about to inflict.
As you gazed at the looming building ahead, an odd sense of dread filled your stomach, signalling that it probably wasn't a place any of you should be near. Yeosang's grin only heightened your apprehension, "Do you know what this place is, my lady?" His question struck fear into the assistant, who now realised the prince's strategy. Casting an anxious glance at Eunsook, his eyes conveyed the hopelessness of the situation. Previously confident in your faithfulness to your husband, they now harboured doubts.
Blinking rapidly, you croaked out, "I'm afraid I'm not too sure, Your Highness. But perhaps we should head back to the hall; we've been gone for a while now."
The prince shook his head dismissively, "You're always so thoughtful, my lady, but the banquet can wait. Come on, aren't you curious? This is a place General Park frequents. Surely, you'd be interested to learn what he does here." Your blood ran cold in an instant, sensing the conversation was taking a dangerous turn.
"I'm sure Assistant Choi has become quite familiar with this place by now, haven't you? You're always here to pick the general up after he finishes his sessions." Yeosang remarked, amused, as he observed the younger man struggling to respond.
Smirking, he went on, "Welcome, Miss Jang, to the palace torture chambers. I thought it'd be enlightening to show you where your... husband typically conducts important duties. You must have been curious about his activities during his working hours."
The revelation hit you like a tidal wave, freezing you in place. This was where your family had suffered, where Seonghwa had overseen their punishments, as San had explained. The weight of the truth settled heavily on your shoulders, sending a shiver down your spine as horror and disbelief mingled within you.
Jongho and Eunsook exchanged a look filled with desperation. They silently prayed for some miracle to whisk them away from this awful place. Oh, how they wished their master could appear now, but they knew it was nothing more than a wistful hope.
Your silence seemed to fuel Yeosang's discourse, "We should be thankful for General Park's services to the nation, of course," He continued, his tone dripping with faux gratitude, "Only the lord knows how many war criminals and spies he had tortured behind these walls to protect us."
Feigning contemplation, he added, "And if I remember correctly, he was also here when the Jang family underwent their physical punishments. Though I'm sure the general must have already informed you of that," He glanced at Eunsook, who lowered her head, her eyes shut tightly in fear of your reaction, "Especially how he made sure to spend extra hours with the former minister post-punishment."
Extra hours...?
Your heart plummeted to the lowest pit of your stomach as his words sank in. Did your husband do more than just supervise the punishments? The implications gnawed at your mind, and a thousand questions raced through your head. What else could Seonghwa have possibly done to your father? Dread washed over you in waves as you struggled to comprehend the truth behind the prince's insinuations.
« Preview of Part 17 »
"General Park! Where is he?!" The military doctor rushed into the main tent in a panic after realising Seonghwa was nowhere to be found in his private tent.
Mingi looked up from his documents, "My apologies, I should have informed you earlier to prevent any unnecessary alarm. The general mentioned feeling slightly better and had left camp to return home briefly for a family emergency."
"He left?! Is he making the journey back to the city alone?" The physician squeaked, eyes widening in alarm.
Officer Song nodded, his brows furrowed, "Yes, doc. What's wrong? You're scaring me."
Gulping nervously, the doctor retrieved the dagger used by the enemy earlier, "We found it unusual for such a small wound to affect the general so severely. We ran some tests on the weapon and..."
Mingi began to rise from his seat immediately, anxiety was evident in his expression, "Tell me, what did you find?"
"This dagger was laced with poisonous viper venom. It's potent enough to cause damage to his internal organs. He's lucky it was just a graze, but even so, we can't be sure how much venom has entered his system. He requires thorough treatment to prevent the poison from spreading."
Shit, shit, SHIT.
I AM SO SORRY! Okay, I know I said there would be drama in this part, and believe me when I say this, I fully intended to include it in this part in the beginning... but I am planning to end the story in part 20. So, after careful calculations, seems like it's only right to put the climax in part 17.
Also, it's official! There will be spinoff stories for the other members, I'm so excited! I hope you are too! As always, thank you for reading and please let me know your thoughts! <3