#jiminxoc

“Just saying she was pretty. That’s all hyung…” he said nonchalantly, shrugging his defined shoulders before picking up the remote and moving the channel into the music chart show he originally was meant to watch before he got distracted.

“It’s not like I’ll ever meet her…” he whispered, not realising Namjoon had heard the whole thing.

Namjoon guffawed, not believing what he had just heard. “What was that Jiminnie?!”

“Ah—ah.. nothing hyung! Just saying how I can’t wait when we starting promoting again soon.” Jimin pointedly indicated towards the screen. Now that wasn’t a lie. BTS were hoping to release an album soon which was to become a part of their chronology.

“Ne.. ne—” Namjoon teased — “You nearly sounded like our international ARMY fans when they compare the limited interaction they get in comparison to our Korean ARMY fans.”

Jimin was about to retort back when Jin-hyung called from the kitchen.

“Dinner’s ready guys! Wash up and come to the table while its still hot!”

“Finally!!” Jungkook yelled out eagerly before rushing towards the kitchen.

To avoid further grilling, Jimin immediately followed the maknae to the kitchen where the rest of the members resided, hoping Namjoon-hyung doesn't bring up the subject again.

Minutes before…

Showtime, Mia thought as the car slowly came to a halt in front of the theatre where the premier was being held, neatly stopping in front of the half a mile red carpet specially set out for this special occasion. Outside, the environment was charged with excitement with one side of the venue consisting with crowds of enthusiastic people lining against the barrier while the other side consisted of press junkets all awaiting behind the winding stanchion with their camera; all set up to interview her and her colleagues. Movie posters were scattered throughout the site and plastered against the railing with the sole purpose to promote the film. A long backdrop could also be seen at the end of the carpet where some of her fellow colleagues were already posing in front of forever hungry paparazzi's.

“Mia…” a voice called out, halting Mia’s admiration of the venue before glancing at Haeun-unnie who was sitting right beside her. Having been in the film industry for only four years, it never failed to astound and surprise Mia of how far she had come and the support she has received and continues to receive from her fans. She was truly honoured and blessed.

“You know me... I don’t mean to pry but what’s happened the past couple of months and what’s happened between you and Rob—“

“Unnie! It’s fine... I’m fine.” Mia insisted. “I just don’t want to waste any more minute mulling over that jerk” — she exasperated  — “I’m just glad I found him out before it got any deeper… does that make sense?” Mia asked glancing at her unnie, her eyes also insisting Haeun to not discuss the subject any further. She was in a good place in her life now.

Slowly nodding her head, “As your manager… but firstly your caring unnie—“ Haeun slowly teased — “I want to make sure you're in a right frame of mind. Specially with all of this going on.” she said seriously while nudging her head towards the chaotic site outside.

Mia gently smiled, “I am unnie… I wouldn’t lie to you now.” she said before cutely sticking her tongue out towards her to break the somber vibe. “I know how you love to report everything to Eomeoni in regards to everything about me. I just wished you wouldn’t go into too much detail… I’m 22 for pit sake! Not an irresponsible teen wilding out painting the whole town red!”

Haeun laughed along with Mia. She preferred this Mia. A carefree Mia. As her first cousin, it hurt her when Mia went through such difficult situations. As a close family member, Haeun knew Mia inside out; before the film offers, the fame, before the million dollar contracts. Heck! she had gotten quite acquainted with Mia when she went through her teen angst years. So when Mia was hurt, Haeun was also hurting. She was like the dongsaeng she never had and likewise, Haeun truly wanted only the best thing for her. 
 Besides Mark who was Mia's younger brother, men has traipsed through her life and caused more hurt than necessary. Sadly started by her own father.

“What’s with the long face unnie? We have no time for your melodramatics tonight!” Mia said teasingly. “My crowd awaits for me!” she shouted dramatically before fluttering her eyelashes and framing her petite face with both hands.

“Araso.. araso. Let’s go hotshot!”

"Just saying!”

Security moved towards Mia’s side of the car before prying the door open. Taking a slow deep breath in advance to calm her racing heart, Mia then gracefully got out of the car and smiled towards the excited audience. 
 Wanting to keep it simple, Mia wore a slim fitting nude dress, held by two thin spaghetti straps upfront before crisscrossing behind her nude back while her jet black hair was expertly tousled up with soft curled ringlets framing her face. For jewellery, she kept it minimal with a pair of diamond earrings and a white gold thin bracelet encasing her left wrist; both of which were gifts from her Eomma and dongsaeng. A little piece of them that she could bring along to this type of events; her own good luck charms. 
To the people around her, she simply looked stunning and elegant.  Screams increased in volume at her entrance and she could just about pick up her name being called out by the swarm of people. She glided towards the carpet before stopping midway between the press and the crowd. As per protocol, she faced the blinding cameras first to pose for the paparazzi to promote the film and when it was finally acceptable to move on, Mia turned and greeted the crowd.

“Hey guys! Thanks for coming along and I hope you guys haven’t been waiting for too long…”

“I will wait till the end of time for you!!!” one man shouted enthusiastically, one hand animatedly waving a magazine with her recent photoshoot cover on; with a marker pen in the other.

Grabbing the pen and the magazine altogether, Mia quickly signed her autograph before returning them back to their rightful owner. “Thank you but you’re too kind.” With one last smile she moved down the red carpet greeting her fans and repeating this same process for the next couple of minutes before Haeun-unnie gently touched her forearm and leaned towards her to whisper in her ear.

“You’ve got a quick interview with Tara from Movie Screen Junk.” Haeun said before nodding her head towards one side of the barricade. Nodding her head to show she was aware of the situation, Mia thanked the current person she was speaking to before moving towards the section where the interviews were specifically being held.

“Good to see you again Tara!”

“And you Mia! I also think that congratulations are in order! Looking at this rowdy crowd and according to reviews from the previews, it looks like you have another award winning film bagged.”

“Thank you but I can’t take all the credit! I’ll have to say that our lovely director John Thompson did such an amazing job showcasing the story. All I did was read the script and hope I did a good enough job portraying the character.” Mia jibed jokingly. “But on a serious note, everyone worked extremely hard in order to feature the story and do it justice. Sometimes it can be difficult to transition a books plot line into film and I think John did an exceptional job. It specially helped that we had the author come along to set and worked along with the actors during the filming process. It specially helped me get into the nitty gritty of my character.”

“I think you did more than read the script…”

The interview went on for a couple of minutes before Mia thanked Tara and was directed by the staff to enter the theatre hall in preparation to preview the film. After two hours of watching herself on screen, Mia decided that she wasn’t prepared for the after party and decided to head straight back to her hotel room alongside Haeun who was extremely happy with the films outcome but more than ready to relax. Both knew that they had busy schedules to fulfil for the next couple of months to promote the film so anytime free was golden in their eyes.

Settling herself comfortably in the car for the drive back to the hotel room, she excitedly shouted at Andrew; her driver for the night to play her ‘jams’. Closing her eyes, she contentedly listened.

The night was a bit on the cool side, the shipping containers stacked high on the cargo ship tied off in the harbor. Men walked along the dock loaded with rifles and keeping an eye out for anything suspicious. A deal was going down; for the trained eye it was easy to see, men in suits were sitting in a spacious room with tinted windows. Their silhouettes the only thing giving them away, the room was heavily guarded as men lined the walls with guns on their person should something go south. A group of men dressed in all black hid amongst buildings and cars as they got closer and closer to the ship in question. Each being careful not to bring attention their way, their inner ear comms giving them directions on where to go to get into position for the attack. The group had been scouting the harbor for weeks waiting for the deal to take place and now was their chance to take out the gang that was bringing in narcotics and other contraband into the harbor.

“Hobi are you in place yet?” A man said gruffly as he peered around a building at the cargo ship.

His skin covered up in his black attire, a mask pulled up over his face. Behind him two of his team members were surveying the area as well.

“I’m in place Mon. Kook and Min head to your right behind the stack of shipping containers you will be in place there. Suga on your left there is a warehouse with a high balcony; set up there should put you in perfect shot. V and Jin hold steady.” Hobi reported.

Hobi was laying on his stomach on top of a warehouse his sniper rifle in place on it’s tripod; scope zeroed in on the men doing the deal in the spacious room. Being skilled in reading lips he was able to tell what was being said through his night vision scope; apparently the new shipment of narcotics had such an adverse effect on whoever took it making them trip for way longer than anything else on the streets currently and they had a shipment of women they took up from America. Hobi scoffed; how low were these guys that they got involved in human trafficking.

“Mon. Looks like we got a bit of an issue. There is a shipment of women on that ship, girls from america.”

Mon cursed over the com. That wasn’t really what he was there for; they were going to intercept the deal and take out the gang like they were hired to do. But he couldn’t leave the girls there. Making a quick decision he delegated orders.

“Kook, Min head over to the bow and see if you can gain access to the ship. I want a stealth sweep.”

“On it.” Min answered.

Hobi watched as two of their youngest guys made their way over to the bow, no men were guarding the area, they used the ropes that tied the boat to the harbor to gain access to the boat. They disappeared into the shadows like ninjas; a smile stretching across his face as he watched. Movement caught his eye as he watched Suga set up on the balcony he mentioned before, his sniper rifle being set up on his tripod and being zeroed in on their targets.

“Min report.” Mon ordered over the coms after a few minutes.

“40 guards tops on deck, 16 shipping containers. 10 crew members and then 14 gang members in the upper deck room.”

Hobi smiled; Min was good at his job and quick, his attention to detail was impeccable. The line was quiet for a moment.

“Hobi what's the status on the deal?”

Hobi looked through his scope to see the gang members were showcasing the drugs; the seller was throwing his pitch and the other gang was looking over the merch before bringing up their own metal case full of money for the deal.

“Exchange is taking place, money is about to be traded for the narcotics.” Hobi reported.

“That’s it everyone move. Take them out.” Mon ordered.

All hell broke loose; Hobi and Suga shot at the upper deck taking out everyone in the room in a shower of bullets and blood. Min and Kook being the silent killers they were took out everyone inside of the ship that posed a threat, while V and Jin shot up everyone on the deck painting the ship deck in blood.

Once everyone stilled; Mon moved onto the ship with his team and scoured the ship for any more threats, leaving V and Jin to guard the deck he descended into the ship to meet up with Min and Kook. Moving through the halls they found the cargo hall and searched through everything until they came across the cargo container containing the girls. All the girls were huddled down in the corners of the container in ratted clothing, some with visible bruises on their faces. Jin had already called the authorities who were aware of the situation so the girls would be returned home safely.

Mon checked the rest of the ship with Min and Kook, checking every hall and every room until they finally reached the boiler/ engine room. Min and Kook each put their backs against the wall on either side of the door with guns drawn before Min opened the door and scanned the room gun in hand. However the sight they found was not what they were expecting. Laying on the floor was a bloodied and bruised woman with her hands bound behind her back, gag in her mouth and blindfolded, laying on her side in a small pool of her own blood. Kook sucked a breath through his teeth; she was beat up pretty good, it was hard to tell if she was even breathing. Her hair was stuck to her head and face covered in her own blood; gashes littered her arms and any exposed skin they could see over her torn shirt that probably used to be a t-shirt, her jeans were ripped and torn in areas also showcasing more gashes that seeped slowly with blood. Min moved forward cautiously fearing the worst; he touched her pulse over her carotid, her skin was cold but there was a weak pulse still going. He looked over his shoulder and nodded to Mon.

“Search for ID or something.” Mon ordered.

Kook felt over her pockets and found nothing; a pile of her belongings wasn’t far away, he found her phone smashed to bits, a jacket and a wallet with some money in but no identification of any kind. Min was looking her over and found something strange on her shoulders where her shirt had been ripped as if she had been lashed with a whip. Through the bloody gashes he could make out the tattoo on her shoulders, splayed across the top of her shoulders lay the design of black wings like that of a bird. 

“Mon. She’s a black sparrow.” Min rushed as he stood up quickly putting a bit of space between him and the sparrow in disbelief.

“Are you serious? Weren’t they wiped out like years ago?” Kook asked.

“Something tells me they somehow got ahold of this one and have kept her for entertainment. Who knows how long she’s been here, by the looks of it a long time. Bring her back with us, Jin and Suga can look her over and see if they can do anything for her.” Mon said as he turned on his heel and headed back to the deck, his mind racing.

How was it that a low life gang like this one could find a black sparrow and not used her as a trump card. Something didn’t feel right; he was afraid of what had been done to her...if she was even going to be able to pull through. He had a good relationship with the black sparrows and was devastated to learn they had been wiped out by some unnamed group, not your typical hit either everyone of the sparrows had been tortured before murdered. This sparrow had been through a lot but he wasn’t sure if she was a lucky one or not. 

Min kneeled down by the girl shrugging off his jacket; lifting her up carefully he wrapped it around her, she let out small sounds of distress but it was almost too weak to hear. Picking her up fully in his arms he was surprised how tiny she was, she was far too skinny and weighed nearly nothing...she had been starved. Kook followed Min back up to the deck with the girl; curious glances fell on them as they emerged, the girl’s head lolled over Min’s arm as he carried her off the boat and to their SUV parked safely away from the harbor. Sirens could be heard from the distance that was their cue to leave; Mon was telling one of the girls from the cargo container help was on the way and what to tell the authorities when they arrived and where they would find their goods in the upper deck. Then the team disappeared like smoke into the shadows back to their SUV. 

Hobi and Suga were packing away their rifles when Mon and the rest emerged from the shadows. Suga’s brows knitted in confusion as he took in the girl Min was carrying.

“Who the hell is that and why is she coming with?” He barked.

“She’s a sparrow. Found her in the engine room beat to hell.” Mon informed.

“Shit.” Was all Suga could say before he walked up to Min.

Lifting up Min’s jacket to get a look at her condition he cursed again; her breath was weak and had a slight wheeze to it, he suspected a few broken ribs if not a collapsed lung to boot. Her body was littered in gashes and he could only guess what else was broken underneath. 

“Let's get back so we can see if we can fix the bird or not.” Suga barked.

Mon smiled as he got in the passenger seat, Jin took his place behind the wheel. Min had to use help from Kook to get the sparrow in the car, laying her across their laps as the rest crawled in and they took off into the night. Back at their base they drove into their warehouse like garage. Min and Kook were careful pulling the girl out of the car and followed Jin and Suga to their infirmary below ground in their bunker of a base. Bright fluorescent lights flickered on as Jin motioned for the guys to lay the sparrow on the table; Kook cut off her bindings and removed the blindfold and gag only to reveal terrible bruising. Jin tsked at the damage he could see. 

“Better get out of here if you don’t wanna see the gory stuff.” Suga said as he started to cut at her tattered clothing with scissors. 

Kook left with a tight nod he looked to Min who shook his head, he was going to stay and help if he could. Kook just shrugged before leaving the room closing the door behind him. Setting down his excess gear Min washed up and put on gloves before he was wheeling trays with tools and supplies for Jin and Suga to use. With her shirt and jeans cut away she was left in a tattered set of sapphire garments, the bright red of her blood all over a contrast to the garments. 

“Grab some gauze and start cleaning her up; we won’t be able to see much until she's cleaned up a bit.” Jin ordered Min.

Grabbing a basin and filling it with a combination of diluted alcohol and water; he started to clean away at gashes he could see and revealed smaller cuts under the blood he cleaned away. On her torso he could see puncture wounds he could only guess were semi healed stab wounds. Suga and Jin rolled over their x-ray machine breaking Min of his thoughts. Taking a few shots they could see from the pictures uploaded on the screen that indeed one lung was completely collapsed, didn’t mean it wasn’t fixable though. Jin and Suga washed up again before getting ready for surgery...it was risky but they were willing to risk it if they could help her. Min stuck around for as long as he could until they got to the point of starting to cut open the side of her ribcage to fix her lung then he bailed. Mon saw him in the hallway.

“So how bad we looking at?” He asked in a soft tone.

“It’s pretty bad; Jin and Suga just started surgery though...we’ll see if she pulls through.” Min said with eyes haunted at the broken body that was the sparrow.

Mon rubbed his shoulder before steering him toward the chow hall to join the others. As the night came to a close the bunker was put in lock down as the guys one by one started to head off to their rooms to crash. All reports were done and sent to the organization that hired them for the hit. Money was transferred into their accounts shortly after. After hours and hours of careful mending, Jin and Suga finally emerged from the infirmary. Mon was first to see them as he was coming down the hall; looking for a sign if the sparrow made it or not. 

“She’ll be fine. She is starved but we were able to fix up most of the damage, a few broken bones and lots of gashes. I think they were slowly bleeding her. Her lung is fixed but she is going to be down for some time, she is sedated for now and should probably be kept that way for a while, we have a tube feeding her and hopefully we will see some good results in a few weeks.” Jin reported.

“How the hell did a gang even get a sparrow?” Suga growled.

“Your guess is as good as mine. I don’t even know which flock she is from.” Mon spoke.

“I’m guessing the european one or american one. She’s not from around her thats for sure. We cleaned her up the best we could, until she gets more stable we can’t really do much else.” Jin spoke quietly before heading for his room.

“Thanks though, you two are the best we could ask for when it comes to this. I’ll keep watch you two go sleep.” Mon joked.

Suga nodded his agreement before slinking down to his room and slipping inside. Mon walked into the infirmary; the sight was better but still heart wrenching...the girl was hooked up to numerous machines giving her fluids, nutrients, and keeping tabs on her vitals. She looked so small in the bed with all the wires and tubes hooked up to her. Her skin was fair as it was but it was still lacking the pinkness of life, her frame swallowed up by the gown they had dressed her in. Mon tried to wrack his memory to see if he had ever seen her before from in the past; he had worked with the sparrows multiple times and different flocks in both europe and america. Her face didn’t seem familiar, but his heart still ached at the fact a sparrow had survived and was lying before him. Mon stayed by her side for most of the night until V came in and sat down next to him on a swivel chair. He nudged Mon with his shoulder giving him a smile, Mon gave a weak one back.

“You didn’t report your find to them did you?” V asked. 

“No and they are not going to know about her until we find out how she is even here in the first place. I want everyone to keep tight lipped about this.” Mon responded.

“You know that no one will say anything. So no idea who she is though?” Mon shook his head. 

“Well don’t stay up too late.” V left him alone with the sparrow.

 Mon stayed until Suga and Jin came into check in on her later on in the morning. He briefed everyone to stay tight lipped about her until further notice. Days turned into weeks as they slowly watched her heal, her vitals becoming stronger and stronger. Jin and Suga had told Mon they were going to keep her off the sedative and let her wake up on her own, the guys all took turns taking watch over her waiting for her to wake up. On Kook’s day she started to stir...and he panicked he didn’t know how to speak to a sparrow, they had their own language so he yelled down the hall for Min or Mon that she was waking up. Min was the only one in house as Mon was out on a surveillance mission with the others. Min walked in shoving Kook for looking like a scaredy cat, a smile playing on his lips. Kook made up some excuse to leave so he didn’t have to interact with the sparrow; Min just sighed as he waved off the younger.

 Min pulled up a chair next to the sparrow’s bed, her eyelids were fluttering as she was starting to wake. Fingers twitching before she opened her eyes with pure fear in them and gasping; she went to sit up and a strangled noise left her lips as she sank down on the bed in pain. Min jumped up and spoke to her to calm her down. 

“Calm down little sparrow you’re safe here. You’re with Bangtan, do you know us?” Min had learned the language of sparrows long ago when he and Mon would work with them, it was complex but expressive and he liked the sound of it. It had been a long time since he had used it so he might be a bit rusty. 

She seemed to relax hearing her language and she nodded to his question. Her painful eyes opened to him trapping him in the azure color of them. Her chestnut locks splayed on the pillow as she took him in.

“Do you know what country you are in?”

She shook her head slowly; she couldn’t remember hardly anything just being on the ship and being in pain all the time. The more she tried to remember the more the pain in her skull increased. Why couldn’t she remember?

“You are in south korea. Do you know your name?”

It took some thinking; what was her name? She had aliases but she didn’t know which name was hers and hers alone. Finally a light lit in her eyes.

“Skyler of white throated sparrow house.”

“Great that’s a start. Skyler I’m Jimin everyone calls me Min around here. Mon will be back later to speak with you, until then I’ll stay with you.” Min supplied.

“Rapmonster? He still works?”

“Yes? Did you think otherwise?”

Skyler shook her head; she was confused on how much time had passed. Last she knew of Mon was he was planning to retire from their line of work years ago, how long had she been captured, had she not been gone for that long? What year was it?

“I’m sure you are thirsty and hungry, I’ll have Kook get you something.” Min spoke.

He got up and went to the door to yell for the younger to bring back something. Soon after the younger came in with a tray with some food and a cup of water on it, he set it on a table tray and wheeled it over to the bedside, he even included a straw in the cup for her. Skyler gave him a weak smile as she adjusted herself to sit up a bit, wincing as she did.

“Let me help you.” Min spoke as he adjusted the bed she was on so it sat her up carefully.

Sitting up she was able to carefully grab the cup of water and sip at the water, instant relief covered her face as her parched throat was soothed with the water. Taking small bites of food she was still too weak to hold the utensils properly to eat, so she would save it for later.

“This here is Jungkook, we call him Kook or variations depending on if he’s a brat or not. He is the youngest of our team.” Min introduced.

“He looks young but strong. Must be about 20 yes?” Skyler asked weakly.

Min beamed and nodded. Jungkook was confused on what was being said so Min filled him in.

“Looks like you won’t be able to pull the kid card on her Kook, she’s sharp.” Min joked.

“So what. She doesn’t look that much older than me.” Kook huffed.

“He is curious how old you are.”

“I don’t know...what year is it?” She asked confused.

“2017.”

“I have been captured for five years...that makes me 24 now.” Skyler spoke but her eyes looked haunted.

Five years she had endured being tied or bound, beaten repeatedly and broken time and time again. Thankfully she had not been assaulted; she was a prize to parade around after all for the gangs of the underworld. She was a punching bag for the gangs that had a sour deal or who had sick fascinations of bleeding people. She wasn’t stupid she had paid attention and listened to everything and remembered every detail of her experience; she visibly shuddered before the two bangtan men. The two men exchanged worried looks; she had dazed out before them...the haunted look in her eyes giving them a familiar feeling of their own experiences in the past.

“Why don’t you get some more rest. Mon will be back shortly. I’ll stay in here with you until you fall asleep if you like.” Min offered.

Skyler heard him but she only gave him a small nod of acknowledgement, still looking at her hands lying in her lap her mind far away as she heard Kook leave shutting the door behind him. Min rolled the tray table away from her bedside, lowering the bed slightly so she was still elevated but more comfortable. He turned on a lamp on Suga’s desk and flipped off the fluorescent light.

“Min?”

“Right here. What do you need?” Min asked softly.

“Are the sparrows gone? I heard gang members saying so...is it true?”

Min’s heart clenched a little; was it wise to tell her? He wasn’t sure if he should be the one to tell her or not, thinking better of it he figured it would be better for Mon to explain it to her.

“There has been a lot that has happened in the last few years; I think Mon is the better one to explain it all to you. Get some rest I’ll be right here.”  Min kept his tone as level as he could.

Skyler eyed him for a moment but gave up questioning him further; her eyes grew heavy as her mind grew fuzzy. Perhaps she was in worse shape than she thought, her head sinking into her pillow as the darkness in the room wrapped her in sleep. Min sat at Suga’s desk scrolling on his phone as he waited for Mon to get back.

Seemed like hours had passed before Mon walked down the hallway into the infirmary finding Min laying his head on Suga’s desk, his arms folded as a pillow on the desk. Looking over to the sparrow he was glad to see she was showing strong vitals. Nudging Min he sat down on the other chair in the room as the man woke up from his nap.

“So?”

“She woke up earlier, her name is Skyler of the white throated sparrow house. Do you remember that flock?” Min asked.

“Yes. Did a job with them in Italy. A very strong flock too.”

“She asked if you were still working? I told her what year it was and she kind of shut down a bit. She was captured five years ago Mon, five years she has been like that. She asked about the sparrows but I told her it would be better to hear from you.”

“Good call. Maybe she knows of me from my past, I can’t seem to place her though.”

“She probably would have been a fresh sparrow at the time you wouldn’t have seen much of them.”

“True. Did she eat or drink anything.”

“Kind of, still seems a bit weak but she wouldn’t ask for help.”

“Doesn’t surprise me, sparrows are prideful women after all. How was your Sparrow skills?” Rapmon asked.

“Rusty as hell but decent enough. She didn’t seem too lost when we talked, she’s sharp but I think she might have had a head injury...whatever she shared seemed in pieces and broken.”

“Like amnesia?”

“Possibly, Suga or Jin could figure it out.”

Silence fell over the room then the machines started to beep off alarms; Mon jumped up trying to figure out what was wrong with her, her hands clutched the blankets so tightly her knuckles were white. Min put a hand on Mon’s arm to stall him; the vitals were spiked but not dangerously so.

“I think it's a night terror.” Min whispered.

“Wake her, I’ll get Jin and Suga.”

Mon left the room quickly; Min inched closer to the bed, he wasn’t the most skilled in situations such as waking someone from a night terror it was a first for him so he did what he could only describe as normal people did for comfort. He stroked her forearm soothingly his touch gave her something to ground herself with she gasped as she woke, clouded eyes focusing on him.

“Shhh little sparrow I’m here.”  He cooed.

Her chest heaved in short spurts of breathe she had gripped onto his forearm as she bolted up, regretting it now that waves of pain washed through her. Min tried to comfort her cradling her against his chest as she calmed down; closing her eyes as she fought off her terror...the memories of being helplessly tied as she was beaten over and over again, being sliced bit by bit and the cruel laughter at her suffering ringing through her ears. Skyler had a grip on his shirt; shivering against him as she fought her demons.

“Nothing can get you here little sparrow.” Min continued to soothe her.

“It feels so real. Hurts just as bad as I remember, again and again...their laughter, more cutting more beating just more.” Skyler confessed her breathing gasping as she remembered.

Min felt sick hearing the fear lacing her tone; sparrows were indeed prideful women and were tough women...but this sparrow had been broken down over years and to see her shivering in fear and caught in the clutches of horrific memories franky pissed him off to high heaven. Mon walked back in with Jin and Suga following close behind; they walked into see her clutching onto Min like a lifeline, her features crunched up in a mixture of pain and horror. Jin was careful as he slowly approached the bedside giving her the most open expression he could to help calm her.

“This is Jin; he helped patch you up. Will you let him look at you?” Mon spoke carefully.

Skyler eyed the man in question getting a read on him; seeing no malice in him she nodded slowly releasing her grip on Min’s poor shirt. He helped her to settle back on the bed; when he tried to move away her reflexes grabbed his wrist with lightning speed stopping him. He looked at her over his shoulder and she shook her head with pleading in her eyes biting her lip. Patting her hand he released her from his wrist and stood beside the bed to keep her company. Mon watched the whole thing...she trusted Min which was a good sign, she was in a weak state and needed allies while she was down. He hoped she would trust all of them and return to her former self as he remembered sparrows to be. Suga approached with a tray table with a cup of water for her with a straw and some pain meds. Jin was gentle as he checked her over; his smile reassuring as he did. Deeming her well enough to remove the tubes feeding her fluids and medicine they were removed, her movement was still stiff from all the stitches she had and sore muscles.

“Mon I think she should be able to be moved to a room now, her recovery is going well shouldn’t be long and we can remove the stitches.” Jin smiled at Mon.

“Good. Meanwhile since her trust is limited at the moment...Min I need you to look after her. Consider it a vacation for a while.” Mon smiled.

“Sir.” Min nodded to his leader’s orders.

Suga fussed about her blood pressure being high but she was still running on the adrenaline from her night terror. He walked over to some cabinets he kept by his desk and collected some sweatpants and a hoodie, he kept stashes of clothes in the infirmary for when the guys needed a change after being patched up. Everything he had would be too big for her but it would do; he set them on the bedside next to her and gestured to it with a small smile. Skyler was cautious as she bowed her head in thanks.

“There is a room open by the chow hall next to yours Min, put her up there.” Suga suggested.

“Right.” Min nodded.

Jin, Suga and Mon left to give Skyler some privacy.

“I’ve been appointed to look after you. Change into these that Suga got for you and I’ll be right outside ok?”

Skyler kept a sharp eye on him as he spoke; he was being truthful with her she could tell. As Min stepped out into the hallway she slowly eased herself out of the bed. She winced here and there as she moved, her body still battered. First she pulled on the sweatpants; they were at least four sizes too big she had to roll them up and roll down the waistband to fit her. Shrugging out of the hospital like gown she groaned to herself at her stiff joints and was glad to see she still had her garments on, she pulled the hoodie on with a bit of difficulty she was out of breath when she finished. Wobbling over to the door she opened it to be met with Min leaning on the wall across the hall, he gave her small smile and led the way down the hall to show her to her new room. Skyler refused help when he offered to give her support; she instead used the wall when needed to keep her steady, her legs were weak and the weakness was pissing her off. Once they reached the door that led to the room that would be hers she was feeling a bit breathless but refused to rest.

The room given to her was midsized with a queen sized bed and an ensuite bathroom and closet. No natural light as they were underground, she could tell by the coolness of the place they were underground. The floors were all blue tile and the walls were cinder blocks painted in an off white color. As inviting as the bed looked she didn’t want to rest anymore she wanted to learn her surroundings.

“I can have Jin make something for you and bring it here…”

“Show me around some more please...I don’t like sitting around.” Skyler said softly.

“Alright this way then.” Min smiled.

He showed her the training room, their meeting room, the infirmary she already knew, the weapons room, and the garage with all of their cars. Backtracking to the chow hall; Jin whipped up some soup for her and was glad to see she was able to eat a bit better on her own. Upon request she was able to get a small laptop from Mon so she could get herself caught up since she had been captured. Holing herself up in her room after Min escorted her back to it; she got set up on some pillows on her bed and studied online trying to figure out all that had happened since five years ago. As she searched and searched online the more she learned that the life she knew and the people she knew were all gone. All of the sparrows businesses that helped fund their way of life were gone and worst of all was she could find no sign of any fellow sparrows...she was alone. A soft knock at her door had her looking up to see Mon walking in; his movements calculated as he tried to decipher where her mind was.

“I hear you have been doing better; Jin was happy you ate well. I’m sure you know why I am here though.”

“To tell me about what happened to my kin. I have already tried searching for them...everything is gone. Does that make me the last one?”

“I’m not sure; perhaps some are in hiding for their own safety. I also do not know who took them out either, someone put a hit on them and wiped them out in a widespread scale leaving no signs behind. You can refuse if you wish but I would like to invite you to stay with us. Be apart of our team; perhaps we can help you find more sparrows along the way.”

“Thank you. I think I will, I’ll need new gear though and a place to train.”

“I’m sure we can find something for you. Welcome to bangtan.”

Mon gave her a genuine smile and left her in peace; meanwhile Skyler returned to her computer and figured it would do her some good to brush up on her korean if she was going to be a part of the team. The idea of being able to be a part of the sky again had her body buzzing in excitement; it was going to take some time to get her strength back but she was determined.

Day by day afterward Skyler was regaining her strength and training on her own; using the same methods she was taught from a young age, strict regimens of meditation, flexibility and honing her body into the deadly fighter she once was. If she wasn’t training she was fashioning her own gear in the workshop they had in the garage; or brushing up on her skills in other areas. One afternoon she sat in the infirmary; Jin was giving her a clean bill of health and the green light to return to the field should a job come up. To say she was elated was an understatement; she had studied hard on her korean and was able to speak decently enough to all the members of the team now. She still spoke in Sparrow with Mon and Min when she needed to go more in depth in discussions or something.

“Well go on then; go take over the world before I lock you away myself.” Jin joked.

“Right, Thanks Jin Oppa.”

Skyler waved to him as she slipped out of the room and headed toward the garage to work on her gear some more. Hobi had asked her about her gear before but she wouldn’t go into detail about what it was for teasing him saying it was a surprise. Keeping a lot of her skills to herself she didn’t want to show anyone until she was for sure she could trust absolutely everyone. Her gear awaited her a on a table she had been working on; every piece was handmade by her and customized for her needs, finding materials had been difficult but she was confident in her work. There was talk of an upcoming job that would require some of her skills and she was hoping Mon would allow her to be a part of the job and test out her skills. While she was welding some metal pieces together; Jungkook appeared beaming at her.

“Noona...got a minute?” He asked.

“Sure, whats up?”

“So V and Min have a bet going and I need to prove them wrong...think you can help me?”

“Depends on what the bet is.”

“I need you to challenge me in a match in the training room.”

Skyler rolled her eyes at the ceiling of the garage; of course it would be something so mundane of men to bet on strength and ability. Shoulders sinking she pulled off the welding mask and tossed it to the table and turned off her torch.

“What do I get out of this?” She asked.

“If you win; the lot winnings.” He smiled his bunny teeth at her.

Sighing she got up from her stool and walked passed him toward the stairway leading down into the bunker, she could her him hiss a “YES!” to himself behind her. Being lazy in her pace she made her way to the training room; V and Min were caught up in a boxing match, both looked like they had been at it for hours. Sweat ran down their faces; shirts sticking to their bodies as they circled each other making jabs at each other. Jungkook rushed passed her to break up the match.

“Hey she’s here like you wanted now let's start the bet.” Kook complained.

Min and V pulled off their gloves; grabbing towels to dab away at their sweat. Min gave her a small smirk as a hello, V was throwing himself down on a bench as he caught his breath. Skyler found herself an area and started to stretch, loosening up her joints and muscles.

“So what is this bet?” She asked with her accented korean.

“You get to fight Kook. He is trained in taekwondo and other martial arts and we want to see if he could hold up against a sparrow.” V explained.

“Fair enough; what are the exceptions?”

“No incapacitating hits; groin and such. Also nothing damaging just stunning.” Min explained.

Skyler nodded her agreement; she continued to stretch as Kook got himself ready. She almost felt bad for the youngster...he had no idea what he was getting into. Then again he might still have a chance; she was probably rusty after all. Rolling back on her back into an handstand she righted herself on her feet. Kook seemed to be ready rolling his neck as he took his spot on the other side of the sparring mat.

“I won’t go easy on you noona so don’t hold back.” He smiled at her cocky.

Giving him a nod she waited for his first move; they walked around the mat sizing each other up before he lunged going for a strike to her gut, Skyler read his body and immediately flipped backward with such ease it was like she was lighter than air. Raising an eyebrow at him she waited for him to come at her again, he answered with a smirk the light of a challenge brightening his eyes. Kook went for a kick to her legs but she sank down into the splits blocked his leg and yanked him off his feet with a strong tug, his body hitting the mat hard. He went to tangle her up in his legs only to be met with her wrapping him up in a hold instead making him immobile.

“Damn Kook she's quick you better speed it up.” V cheered.

Kook got out of the hold; Skyler gave him space folding her arms behind her head like she was just relaxing and this was just a game with some friends and not a serious fight. It was quite comical looking to Min who was having trouble keeping his chuckles to himself, Kook was getting agitated while Skyler was cool as a cucumber. Kook ran at her going for a tackle; she jumped up in the air and quite literally flipped over him as he ran forward still having to stop himself at the wall, Skyler was landed in a squat in the space he had once been. Running back at her Kook was sure he would catch her this time as she was squat down, as he approached she got low to the mat and swiped her leg out so fast he couldn’t see it, taking him down hard and she rolled on top of him pinning him to the mat in a hold that had his arm in an odd position but not a painful one...yet.

“Give?” She asked.

Jungkook was out of breath and sweating bullets; he hadn’t even done that much but she had made him exert himself. 

He tried his luck at getting out of the hold but that proved to be foolish because he felt her putting pressure on some points in his back that could render him incapacitated for some time on the floor. With a loud groan he gave in.

“Fine I give just get off!” He complained.

Skyler released him and rolled away from him. Kook got up rolling his shoulders to get the kinks out after being pinned for some time, V and Min were roaring in laughter as the youngster glared at them. Grabbing bottled water out of the fridge near the wall; Skyler threw one to Jungkook before drinking her own. He was complaining to the two at how unprepared he was and that it was a faulty match. Skyler had heard it millions of times before from other fighters; he just didn’t want to admit he had lost to a girl. While she was looking at the posters and whatever the guys decorated the training room in she could just barely hear someone walking up behind her; with a small smile on her lips she moved to the wall and launched herself up until she reached the rafter above and hung from it looking down to Min below her. His surprised face making her laugh to herself.

“How in the hell did you know it was me?” He asked.

“I heard you; your foot scuffed on the mat just a small bit but I heard it and moved accordingly.”

“Are you like some kind of crazy ninja from the ozark mountains or something?” V joked.

Ninja? Not quite but maybe a variation from something similar, the sparrows were an old group and the foremothers of the group could have been from all kinds of backgrounds no one knew for sure where it all started. Just that it was and had been going strong; the somber thought had her smile disappearing. Putting on her poker face she let go of the rafter and landed silently on her feet, she had too many emotions running wild below the surface and didn’t want anyone to see it. 

“That was fun and all but I’m going to go. Keep the pot I don’t need it.” Skyler smirked and waved over her shoulder as she left and headed to her room.

V and Kook complained about her being no fun; but she could care less at the moment...she needed to get locked away in her room before her poker face broke. Min watched her carefully as she left, silently trying to get a read on her. Skyler made it to her room and locked her door before running to her bathroom and ripping her clothes off her as she turned the water on as hot as she could tolerate and sank down to the floor as the water cascaded down on her heating her skin, the noise of the shower masking her small cries and screams as she broke down. Why was she so unstable? Why was she alone! All sparrows were skilled like her if not more so and yet they were all gone, how? Why? Faces of the women she knew flashed in her mind; teachers and friends alike smiling then as her thoughts turned darker those same faces being covered in blood and their bodies broken similar to how hers was when she was found by bangtan plagued her mind.

Cries clawed out of her chest as she let it all out; hitting the tiled walls of the shower in her anguish. When the water started to run cold she finally got up and showered completely before stepping out...feeling numb, but at least it was better than being empty like she usually felt. Padding to her closet she pulled on a sweater that reached her knees, cotton underwear, wool socks that came up just under her knees and toweled dried her hair. A chill had sunk into her making her shudder and she was sure it wasn’t from the cold water, it was fear...what was going to happen to her? Was she going to meet the same fate as all her kin? Being a target for some unknown killer and end up as just a number on someone’s kill sheet? Was she ever going to find answers on who killed the sparrows? Was she ever going to be herself again?How long had she been in the shower? Her throat burned from her cries and screams...surely her voice would be hoarse for a few days now. 

Now she felt embarrassed about herself, she was supposed to be a strong fighter not a little girl crying in the corner because she didn’t get her way. Covering her face in her hands she groaned, what was she even doing with her life? A solid knock at her bedroom door had her jumping in her skin, cursing herself she got up slowly and made her way to the door only to crack it open a small bit to see Min standing outside in the hallway. Confused by his appearance she opened the door up more raising a brow at him; he smiled before pulling out a bottle of whiskey and soda from behind his back.

 “I figured you could use a drink and maybe an ear, you seem troubled.” His million watt smile melting her resolve to refuse him.

Sighing she left the doorway and sank down on her bed; Min closed the door behind him before finding two glasses and setting them both up with their drinks. Skyler accepted hers graciously holding it in her lap as she watched Min kick off his shoes before sitting on the end of her bed a foot away from her. 

“So little sparrow are you going to tell me what is wrong or are you going to bottle it up until you explode?” Skyler scoffed at him. 

Who was he to think he knew what she was feeling or that something was even wrong with her in the first place. She eyed him as he waited patiently taking sips of his drink.

“What makes you think something is even wrong to begin with?”

“Wow some credit would be nice. Not to mention those puffy cheeks and red eyes are dead giveaways. So spill now or forever hold your peace.” Min teased.

Her eyes dropped to her lap; had he heard her? Fidgeting in her spot she groaned to herself before looking up and locking gazes with Min; his chocolate orbs were open and kind silently urging her to spill her guts to him and she wanted to do just that but she was still cautious of how much to tell anyone. What if she wasn’t the only sparrow and she let loose some important information that would completely eliminate sparrows forever. Then again Bangtan were allies to sparrows for as long as she could remember and nothing about them had given her reason to second guess them or suspect them of killing her kin.

“Fine I will talk. But whatever is said stays here you understand me?” Skyler pinned him with her gaze.

Upon Min solemnly swearing he would not speak a word she let loose. It would be the first time she would let her guard down around anyone since she could remember. She was putting her faith in trusting him on the line; with a heave of her shoulders she grabbed a pillow and hugged it against her chest still cradling her drink. 

“I am lost if not losing my mind at least. It’s been some time and yet I still cannot remember what happened to me before waking up on that ship. I may very well be the last sparrow; if I can even call myself that and now I am here as a misfit in your band of brothers and I feel like I am drowning in uncertainty. What will tomorrow bring? Will I find answers? Will I be of use, what am I to do...I have lost so much time and have no idea what I should do as a fighter...as a person.” 

Watching Skyler unload in a rush of words was not something Min was prepared for; he had expected her to resist him a bit more. He was glad she chose to trust him and let him see a piece of her, to help understand her. Min took a generous gulp of his whiskey and soda mixture; letting the burn tinged in sweetness work its way down before setting his glass down on her nightstand. He took her glass from her chilled fingers and set it next to his, her confused gaze watching his every move; he moved to face her and opened his arms patting his chest. 

“Come on. Don’t make me drag you over here; hurry while I’m offering before I take it back.” Still uncertain of what he wanted she cautiously moved closer to him until there were only a few inches between them; his arms snaked around her quickly pulling her in until her nose nearly met his collar bone. 

Her palms were splayed across his pecs as she stared wide eyed at his shirt. What was this? Sure she had been embraced before but only by sparrows...men weren’t really allowed near them much like amazonian women. This felt different; the warmth and strength surrounding her was different and the mixture of citrus and musk made her feel calm? The rapid beating under her right palm told her he was just as unsure as her. 

“Min…”

“Relax I’m not going to do anything. You need reassurance right; well I’m right here. You are needed here; you are not a burden nor are you in anyway a bother to us. Yes we are a band of brothers but you are part of our group now, even as a sparrow you are now a bangtan too. You don’t have to find the answers to your troubles alone...utilize us, ask Mon or Suga to find information for you. Don’t be afraid to be selfish sometimes.” 

Skyler may reprimand herself later but she let the tension ease out of her body and just relaxed in his hold. Perhaps it was her insecurities that had been making her stress out about everything. Closing her eyes she let his tone take over her; resting her forehead against his shoulder.

 “Hey now you falling asleep on me?” Min chuckled.

“No...relaxing like you wanted.”

“Why so quiet?”

“It’s my first time...being embraced by a guy...who isn’t fighting me.” Skyler stampered cheeks burning hot.

 “What? Like ever?” Min pulled her back to see her face.Her gaze not able to meet his; cheeks still burning hot. 

What was it about him that disarmed her so easily, it was starting to concern her. Upon getting a weak nod from her; Min was stunned. How in the world had a woman made it to her twenties and never been embraced by a man; yes he knew she was a sparrow but even still sparrows still fraternized with men sometimes. Maybe she was too young at the time of her capture to have experienced that little tradition.

 “I’m going to ask you something pretty personal and I want you to be honest with me...no judgement here ok?”

Skyler nodded giving him a curious look waiting for him to continue.

“Did you ever take part in the um...mating rituals while with the sparrows?” Min asked carefully.

Her face grew crimson as she shook her head now avoiding his gaze; why would he ask her such a thing. She was a fresh sparrow the last time she had even heard of Bangtan that much she knew...but the mating ritual was a bit extreme and only full fledged sparrows were included. The older women in the sparrows would either lure men to the house or use men they captured while on jobs and essentially have their way with the men before letting them go or killing them. Only female children were kept, male children were given to orphanages or sent to the men who were their fathers. Only females could be sparrows, the thought of the ritual and the sounds she had heard as a youngling made her cringe.

“W-why would you ask me this?”

“Because to never have been with a man is just rare for a girl your age. I’m not trying anything I’m just surprised is all.”

Skyler was surprised by his answer; a smile broke out across her face as she laughed slightly. His curious gaze making her laugh a bit more.

“Min I have been with men, just not in the ritual and it was not in a comforting setting. Slept with yes, cuddled or been embraced no. I was young but not stupid it was strictly no strings attached and no touching unless I allowed it.”

“Jesus you had me thinking you were saint or something.”

Skyler laughed some more earning a playful shove from Min. She felt better now that she was laughing, her troubles seemed to melt away and she could enjoy having company. 

“In my line of work definitely not a saint, I’m sure you have been quite the lady killer too huh Min? Using the boy next door charm to get anything you wanted?” Skyler joked.

“There's been a time or two it came in handy. But mind you I’m not easy...that’s more V’s style. Kook is too introverted to worry about that, but get a competition going and he’d be game. The others are pretty normal I think.”

Skyler spent hours it felt like laughing with Min, they ended up finishing the bottle of whiskey together. Laying on her bed trying to catch her breath from laughing so hard at stories about past jobs Min had been on and stories he shared about the other members. Her cheeks hurt from smiling so hard.

“I have a feeling the guys would not appreciate you sharing such stories with me. Could be good blackmail you know?”

“Let them whine they have had their fair share of embarrassing me or telling stories I wish they wouldn’t. Besides I need to fill you in since you’re part of the team now right? Can’t feed you to the wolves blind. It’s good to see you smile...if nothing else you can use the information to knock the guys down a peg or two.”

“Very true.”

“Alright I’m very  buzzed and tired I’m going to go. Get some sleep and see you tomorrow.” Min got up a bit wobbly collecting his empty bottles before heading to the door. Skyler laughed to herself watching him sway on his feet as he went.

“Alright lightweight see you tomorrow.”

“Lightweight! Seriously this little brat.”

“Thank you Min for helping me out.”

“Yeah yeah. See you later.”

He left her room and she locked the door behind him. Making her way back to her bed she buried herself under the blankets laughing to herself remembering the stories Min told her before succumbing to her buzz induced sleep.A new job came in the next day; Rapmon collected everyone in the meeting room, the specifics of the job on the projector showing the layout and detail of the job. Jungkook stood by Skyler resting his arm on top of her head as she was a bit shorter than him, his cheeky smile to her glare making him chuckle.

“Alright listen up! The job is to infiltrate this compound; rumor has it they have a major flow of human trafficking through this compound. We are to immobilize the operation and wait for pick up of any cargo we find. Be lethal if necessary; leave a few behind for interrogation. Hobi and Suga I want you two posted on either side of the mountain side. Kook; going to need some of your demo skills here by the entrance for our grand appearance. For our little sparrow; a dive attack to eliminate threats...think you are up for it?” 

Skyler perked up at her mentioning; she was more than ready to get back in the field and show them what she could do. Thankfully she had finally finished all her gear and she was ready to put it to the test. 

“Definitely!”

“Great that's what I like to hear. V and Min I need you as our lead men as we scour the place, only take out hostiles not the cargo.” 

“Yeah yeah I know.” V grumbled.

“Alright so the compound used to be a monastery from ancient times; be prepared for lots of nooks and crannies. Be on guard at all times; not much is known about the hostiles, rumor has it they could be some terrorist group or gang related. Suga and Jin had got us some new comms, state of the art...do your best not to break them.”

The job was to take place the following day; Skyler ran up to the garage to get to her gear. Excitement running through her veins; the thought of being able to fly again and do a job had her buzzing. Checking over her gear she packed them up in a backpack; the soft pit pat of feet let her know she wasn’t alone. Turning around she was met with Kook; disappointment evident on his face, it had been a game for him to try to sneak up on her yet all his attempts had ended in failure so far

.“Are you sure you are even human? No one hears me...that’s why Min and I are the silent killers.” He complained.

“Ofcourse not Kook I’m sparrow remember.” Skyler joked.

“What does that stuff even do anyways?” Kook asked motioning toward her bag with her gear in it.

“Thats a secret, you’ll just have to wait and see.” She winked before walking passed him back into their compound.

“What's so secretive about it? You shoot off lasers or something?” He kidded.

“Maybe.” She answered laughing at his shocked face.

“Are you for real?” His excitement short lived as she disappeared into her room shutting the door on him.

Min walked out of the chow hall when he saw Kook standing at her door, giving the younger a questioning look.

“Hyung! She won’t tell me what her gear does...it might shoot off lasers or something I wanna know.” The younger complained.

“What she tell you?”

“That I had to wait and see. But I want to know now.” Kook whined.

Min chuckled as he shook his head walking to his own room and disappearing inside, Kook pouted before moving to the training room to bug V. Attention span was a bit short for the youngest. Skyler took to working out to get her body as primed as possible, stretching and honing her senses like she always did before a job. Determination set on her features as she balanced herself in a handstand, extending her legs as far back as she could to stretched out all areas of her back and shoulders, core training herself as well for her attack for tomorrow.The next day everyone had a level of excitement running through them. 

They took their own plane to the meeting point a safe distance from the real target; Jin then took over being the driver and took them to their starting point. Everyone got in position waiting for the go ahead from Mon.“Alright everyone in position?” Mon said gruffly over the comms.With a collective affirmative from everyone he pulled up his mask over his face before putting on his goggles.

“Sparrow you’re up first. Watch carefully everyone.” His tone was playful then.

Skyler walked to the edge of her perch above the monastery; a ledge on the rock face looking over the building. She had on a skin tight suit; a mask covering her face and goggles to protect her eyes. Taking a deep breath she jumped and plummeted toward the building, almost at the last second she opened her arms where webbing was sewn to her suit and the wind caught it slowing her descent until she was upon her first victim. Landing a kick to his chest she took him out with an elbow to the face knocking him out. Disarming his gun and chucking the clip over the railing she moved on to the next target and then the next, any she didn’t get Hobi and Suga took out with their snipers.

 Flinging herself over the railing she landed on the level below and repeated the process; using grappler shooters she swung herself out of harm's way from her enemies before she took them down. 

“Jesus she's like a wild cat or something.” Kook whistled watching her tumble about taking the guards out.

“V! Min! Your up getting going.” Rapmon ordered.V had set up C4 around the entry point with Min, they hid behind some boulders as V detonated the place making the mountain around them tremble from the explosion.

 At that point they rushed in and took out any threat that came their way; disabling anyone they came across. Sweeping the halls and corridors; Skyler had a feeling something wasn’t right it was almost too quiet for a terrorist group or whatever, their should be more man power yet there wasn’t really that much. 

“I found the cargo in the basement.” V reported.

Skyler continued to sweep the halls until she came across an open door leading to a closed off area; the hair on her skin was standing up...something was not right and she knew it. Shots being fired echoed through the building, the tension growing thick as Skyler moved carefully. Entering the room at the end of the area; Skyler had to sink to the floor to avoid a kick to the face, rolling away she got up only to be met with a face she never thought she would see again.

“Well if it isn’t the little sparrow that got away.” A sinister tone spoke.

“Nora? What are you doing here?” Skyler ask shocked.

Not trusting the situation Skyler hit her comm button when she wiped dirt from her cheek; keeping her eyes trained on Nora. The woman before her had aged a bit since the last time she had seen her; emerald colored eyes with elven like features and pale skin, midnight curtain of hair falling around her face. She still had a thin frame that was only a facade for her lethal skills hidden within.

“What no joyous embrace seeing a fellow sister, so cold Skyler.” Nora smiled sickly.

“That doesn’t answer my question, what and how are you here?”

“Oh you stupid little sparrow; I’m taking over the underworld bit by bit. Awfully fun if you ask me; picking who lives and dies, who gets rewarded and who suffers. Everything your stupid sisterhood stood against, everything they were afraid of...power!” Nora laughed to herself.

This was not the Nora she remembered; this woman was something twisted and mangled by greed. Sparrows were women who strived to be self sufficient not taking part in material things and power, only doing what would benefit the sisterhood as a whole not by individual...selfless actions.

“You were a part of that sisterhood at one point or have you forgotten!” Skyler seethed.

“Honey I’m the one who brought them down; didn’t you know? Or maybe you were left on that boat a bit too long.” Nora chuckled to herself.

Memories flashed in Skyler’s mind; she had been a “mission” with Nora to scout out a ship that was importing and exporting questionable goods. Skyler was a fresh sparrow at the time and it was her third mission, she was excited the whole time being able to use her skills out in the field. Nora had insisted they get on the boat and scout around; being young and stupid Skyler didn’t pay it any mind and went with her. Once on deck Skyler was ambushed by men; call as she might for Nora the woman did nothing but give her a sinister smile as she accepted money from the lead boss. She had been sold to that gang by her very own sister; Nora left the boat with a full pocket and nothing but pain followed Skyler for five years after. The betrayal was evident on her face.

“Ah so now you remember? Must not have been all that bad if you’re in top condition, maybe I should have given you to the russians instead. They are more thorough with their playthings.” Nora cackled.

Skyler launched at her before she could think twice, the two tumbled about in a tussle of kicks and punches. Nora pulled out some blades at some point and sliced Skyler on her bicep; they pulled apart for a moment sizing each other.

“You’re a disgrace, taking everything that was given to you and sullying it like this. You would have been de-winged so fast.” Skyler spat.

Nora just smiled as she spit blood out of her mouth from a good hit Skyler landed; twirling her blades around her fingers.

“To bad there aren’t any sparrows left to do the job huh? Just a little chick...lets see how long you last.”

Nora launched at her and Skyler had to maneuver away to avoid getting stabbed in the gut by a blade. Skyler could hear the guys yelling in her ear but she couldn’t make out what was being said her full attention was on Nora and her blades. She was going to take this woman down even if it ended her in the process. Running against a wall and flipping over Nora; Skyler landed and kick in the center of her back flinging the woman against the wall. With an angry growl the woman was on the attack again; Skyler kept up the best she could blocking every strike and blow, landing a few hard ones of her own. Nora was more skilled and experienced; Skyler knew it but she wasn’t going to let that be her downfall, if she had too she was going to play dirty because surely Nora wasn’t going to follow codes anymore. Using her grappling shooters she tangled Nora up in her ropes immobilizing the woman. Wrenching the blades out of her hands and disarming her with anything else she had on her person; Skyler kicked her in the stomach for good measure leaving the woman gasping for air. Securing the knots on all the ropes, Skyler tied a few more until she was satisfied and then sank down on the floor against a wall.

“Let me guess you’re going to take me prisoner and expect me to spill my guts so you can feel better about all your birdie friends being dead.” Nora chuckled.

“Yep and more than that...I will follow through on their justice and de-wing you myself. One of my friends also has a thing for dissecting animals, you might look pretty pinned to a board as he cuts you open.” Skyler spat, it was false but Nora didn’t know that.

“SKYLER DO YOU HEAR ME?” It was Min over the comm.

“I’m here.”

“Jesus you had us freaking out. Where are you?”

Skyler told them where she was. Not long after they came in guns ready to fire; seeing as the threat was bound on the floor they looked to Skyler who was sporting a few cuts and scrapes and a busted lip.

“Have fun?” Kook asked.

“Loads.” Skyler spit out some blood as she got up.

“You look like shit.” V commented.

“Still better than you.” Skyler rebutted.

“So I take it this is a friend of yours?” Mon interrupted.

“More like deranged aunt sixty times removed. I want to take her back for interrogation.” Skyler kicked Nora again this time in the face knocking the woman out.

“Was that necessary?” Mon asked.

“Its efficient...she deserves worse and she will get worse when I’m finished.”

“Skyler…” Mon began.

“The sparrows have their own way of dealing justice. I won’t kill her if that’s what you are worried about. But I will make sure she will never be tied to sparrows ever again.”

Shouldering her way out of the room; Skyler took off until she reached a balcony where she could get fresh air, taking in gulps of air as she trembled in anger and betrayal. Hearing the small shuffle of feet she turned quickly with a gun raised; seeing it as Min she lowered it guiltily before leaning her arms on the balcony railing. Min approached carefully; he could see the shakiness in her...knew there was strong emotions battling in her. He wasn’t a pro on reading people but he did know a troubled soul when he saw one; he knew Skyler only because she had let him in a little bit, confided in him and built a friendship with him.

“I was sold...like I was nothing. I remember it now...I trusted her and thought of her as family. Sold Min like an animal.” Skyler said with a shaky voice.

Memories resurfaced more vivid than ever before; it was a cold night that night. The smell of saltwater in the air by the harbor with the ship they were going to check out, Nora had been nothing but happy go lucky and smiles the whole time. The men on the ship were not heavily armed so it wasn’t that big of a concern to Skyler she was ready to prove herself as a sparrow, gearing to get started. The moment they touched the deck of the ship men popped up out of nowhere and crowded Skyler until she was restrained in their tight hold calling out for Nora who just walked up to a man in a tailored suit and took a briefcase of money from him.

“Enjoy your new toy.” She called as she left the ship.

Instant fear taking hold of Skyler as she thrashed against the men holding her; their hold like steel cuffs on her arms as they dragged her down below down the halls until they reached the engine room. The room was hot with steam from the engines, humid and putrid smelling. A couple men grabbed chains and wrapped them around her wrists and ankles once they took all her belongings off her. Weighted down by the thick chains they left her in there alone. Nothing could have prepared her for the next five years. Min listened carefully as she told him everything she was reliving; anger burned in him but his enemy was no more he could do nothing to avenge her.

“I can’t...no…” Skyler started to breakdown in a moment of weakness.

“Hey Skyler I’m right here, you don’t have to be tough for me.” Min cooed as he pushed sweaty strands from her face.

“What did I do...to deserve that? Beaten day in and day out, cut up, paraded around like a pet. What?”

“You didn’t do anything for that. How could you know what that woman was thinking, who would have known she was a snake among the nest?”

“Someone’s coming.”

Skyler shot up wiped her face of anything that would give away her state, pulling her mask up to her nose she put on her goggles. Rapmon came through the doorway leading out to the balcony.

“Kook and V are taking your prisoner to the car; authorities will be here shortly for the cargo. I suggest we head out while they are a bit out of our way.”

Min nodded as Skyler flung herself over the railing using her suit to glide down to the car they were using to get back to their safehouse. Mon sighed as he leaned against the railing.

“Is she always going to do that?” Min asked.

“She’s a sparrow...at one point they were all like that remember.”

“I guess some things just don’t change.”

“I heard some of the story. I don’t mean to add more onto your plate Min but she needs someone, especially right now...she's unstable and could go down the wrong path.”

“I know I already planned on sticking to her. Define wrong path? I’m pretty sure a lot of people would say our line of work is on the wrong path.” Min chuckled.

“Let's call it the gray area then, we do the dirty work for the suits.”

“Gray area. Sure.”

All the men rounded up and met at the car; V and Kook threw Nora in the hatch shutting the lid leaving her in the dark. Skyler had got out of her glider suit and tossed it in her backpack, upset she would have to make a new one since this one had a few tears and was cut up in some areas. Jin got behind the wheel again; Mon sat beside him up front leaving Kook, V, and Hope in the seat behind them and the far back seat had Suga, Min and Skyler crammed in. The ride back to the safe house was deathly quiet; a few of the guys had got banged up a little but nothing too serious. Once at the safehouse Skyler was the first to jump out; Min was about to go after when Mon silenced everyone with a shake of his head. Skyler popped the hatch; Nora was ready to launch at her and tried to headbutt her, grabbing the woman by her hair and dragging her out of the hatch so she fell in a heap on the ground was more gratifying than Skyler would like to admit. Dragging Nora by her bound feet into the safe house; down a flight of stairs to the basement, Skyler strung her up with her hands over her head hanging like pork ready to be cut up. Nora’s eyes followed her every movement. Skyler left the basement turning the lights off and locking the door behind her. Bangtan came into the house giving her a curious look.

“You guys might want to go out for a bit.” She began.

“Skyler what are you going to do?” Mon asked sternly.

“I won’t be killing her, as much as she deserves it. But I will be taking her wings, she has disgraced the sparrows and no longer needs them.”

“How are you…?” Kook asked.

Skyler grabbed a gas torch from under the counter in the kitchen; followed by a cleaver.

“I don’t do well at cutting so peeling them off is out of the question, so burning it is. No matter what you hear do not open this door.” Skyler commanded as she descended into the basement.

“Mon?” Hope asked concerned.

“This is sparrow justice; we have to respect that. Let’s wait outside.”

“Are you serious!?” Suga asked.

“That woman is the one responsible for how we found Skyler in the first place, do you really want to interfere?” Min spoke coldly.

The guys left the house in silence; building a fire outside as they grilled food and waited until Skyler resurfaced. Skyler turned the lights on in the basement; Nora glaring at her. Setting down her tools she pulled a chair just out of reach of Nora and took a seat.

“Do you regret any of it?” She asked coldly.

“YOU THINK I’M GOING TO REPENT OR SOMETHING!? I FUCKING LOVED LEAVING YOU ON THAT BOAT YOU LITTLE BITCH!”

Skyler punched her hard in the gut knocking the wind out of her.

“Let’s try that again. Do you regret any of it?”

“I regret not killing you myself.” Nora wheezed.

“Maybe in your next life then.” Skyler sneered.

The guys were sitting in silence, the sky clear and full of stars blinking back at them. Soon muffled screams could be heard from the house; the men all turned toward the house. Suga being the first one to recollect himself settling deeper into his chair by the fire.

“Are you sure she won’t kill her?” Hobi asked concerned.

“She said she wouldn’t so I’m going to trust her word.” Mon sighed as he looked back to the fire.

“Why does she get to have all the fun, I would’ve helped.” V pouted.

“Well not everyone is as twisted as you are.” Suga sighed like it was a burden to talk.

After about three hours Skyler emerged from the house freshly showered and dressed in fresh clothes. Taking a seat by the fire she warmed up her hands. The guys watched her waiting for her to say something or just do something. When nothing came Mon took the lead.

“Should I be worried about what the basement looks like?” He asked.

“No it's not too bad.”

“What did you do?” Mon asked almost afraid of the answer.

“I burned her wings off and destroyed her hands, she won’t be able to fight again, otherwise she’s fine.” Skyler said with an empty tone.

Min gave a look to Mon, the leader looked to Skyler who was just staring into the flames. A silence fell over the group.

“Let’s pack up then and get out of here.” Jin offered.

The guys got up leaving Skyler at the fire; fishing out Nora’s cellphone she went through the contacts until she got the one she wanted and pressed call. Min and Kook were loading up the plane when they stopped for a moment and looked to Skyler.

“Hyung...do you think she will be alright? Like in the head?” Kook asked.

“Like you are one to talk. I don’t know but for now just leave her be.”

Skyler grabbed her things and left Nora’s cell phone with her in the basement; her hands mangled messes, the skin on her back bubbling up with severe burns turning the once sparrow wings into a distorted mess so it was no longer possible to recognized them as wings. Nora shied away from her when she got too close. Skyler gripped her face and glared into her eyes.

“Enjoy your stay; someone precious will be coming to pick you up soon. Behave yourself.” Skyler said smacking her cheek a bit harder than necessary.

Picking up her tools from earlier; Skyler made her way up the stairs to leave. The rattling of ropes and chains Nora was bound with caught her attention.

“YOU CAN’T LEAVE ME DOWN HERE!” Nora screamed.

“Watch me.” Skyler turned off the lights and left the basement.

Grabbing the rest of her things she joined the rest of Bangtan on the plane ready to take off; taking a seat in the far back away from everyone she buckled in and leaned her head back closing her eyes. Mon checked on everyone before nudging her knee to get her attention, taking a seat beside her.

“Do you want to tell me what was is going on in that head of yours?” He said flatly.

“Not much just reliving things I would rather not. She did mention something about how she should have sold me to the russians instead of that gang, so I gave them a call...they should be here to pick her up shortly. I suggest we get moving if you don’t want to play with them. Also you are correct I am the last sparrow; she gave away all our nest locations and everyone was eliminated...there won’t be finding any in hiding.” Skyler said her tone empty and flat, her eyes empty.

“Skyler…” Mon began.

“It's going to be a long flight; can we just get going please.”

She closed her eyes again leaving Mon no choice but to leave her alone; he returned to the copilot seat and gave Jin the go ahead. The plane picked up speed as it ran down the grass before getting caught by the wind and taking to the air. Vehicles could be seen driving up the drive leading to the safe house, Rapmon looked over to Jin who saw them too.

Nora was left in the darkness of the basement; footsteps above made her flinch, she had heard everyone leave. Heavy booted steps echoed throughout the basement as they made their way to the basement; the lights flipped on and she winced against the bright light.

“Well if it isn’t my friend Nora.” Said a gruff voice in a heavy russian accent.

Cold chills ran down her spine, it was Viktor the russian mob boss who had a reputation for playing sick games with his playthings until they either killed themselves or died during his “lessons”.

“Imagine my surprise when the sparrow you promised me years ago calls me up on your phone to make good on your promise with you as the trade in. Strange to think that the little bird has turned on the snake, I think I like her. She has done wonderful work on your hands for me; and such art back here.” Viktor said as he walked around Nora.

Nora was silent as she hung there completely defenseless from him.

“No words for me? That is alright...you will sing for me soon.” Viktor said as he undid her bindings and tossed her over his shoulder and started up the stairs.

Nora tried to fight against him but his hold was ironclad against her thighs. A line of vehicles waited outside in the dusk; men in suits armed with rifles watching for trouble as their boss emerged from the house. Viktor took her to the vehicle in the middle and tossed her into the backseat before motioning to leave, it would be the last time Nora would ever see the sky.

Jin landed the plane gracefully; jostling awake everyone aboard, some groans and shuffles answered his attempts at waking them up. Pulling the plane into the hanger; everyone walked off the ramp before heading toward the garage and bunker. Skyler nearly speed walked to the garage and disappeared down the stairs into her room locking herself inside, she was safe and protected there.

Kook nudged Min with a worried look; Min could only shrug, what was he supposed to do? Clearly she was dealing with some stuff and needed some space, was he supposed to just waltz right in and have a dr.phil moment with her? Not likely. V walked by next.

“I wouldn’t touch that one for a while if I were you; something broke in her...could be risky getting close.” Was all he said as he walked like he didn’t have a care in the world.

“Hyung what if she’s like mental now?”

“Then we will deal with it, worse case we can have Suga look into it.”

The guys all put their stuff away before meeting up in the chow hall for some food; screams echoed to them from Skyler’s room...agonized heart wrenching screams and they were powerless to do anything about it. They just eyed each other; each feeling like a jerk that they couldn’t do anything for their newest member.

Skyler had held everything in the whole way back; locked her feelings away deep inside even when she was burning the wings off of Nora and destroying her hands. She had interrogated the woman until she got her answers; had finally gotten closure there but that didn’t stop the pain nor the memories that came back. Locked in her room she stripped and turned the water on in the shower only to sink on the floor and let her emotions loose. Her screams echoed throughout her bathroom as more and more memories resurfaced; flashbacks of the girls and women she grew up with, their smiling faces forever gone. She grieved until the water turned cold; exhausted she finally turned off the water, trudging to the linen closet to grab a towel and wrapped up in it. Sinking onto her bed she felt numb again...what else did she have? Everything she knew and was had been eliminated; what was she supposed to do now? A light rapping on her door let her know someone was coming in; she could care less about her appearance at the moment. Suga walked in clicking his tongue at her; he brought with him a small first aid kit and dragged the chair in the corner to the front of the bed.

“Do you plan on freezing to death?” He said gruffly.

She didn’t respond just staring off into space; clicking his tongue he opened his kit and looked at the nice gash she had on her arm from her tussle with Nora at the monastery. It was going to need stitches and he told her such but still she didn’t respond; after cleaning it he prepped his needle and thread before starting to stitch it up, yet still she didn’t respond not even a flinch. Suga was worried...she was closed off and if his history in their line of work was anything to go by then either she would snap and lose control or she would come out battered but still herself. He was hoping for the latter; he didn’t want to have to take her out. Once he finished stitching her up he put everything back in the first aid kit; squishing her cheeks he forced her to look up at him.

“Hey! I get it you’re messed up right now but don’t go giving up on me dammit. You’re better than this; don’t give up on yourself or us, we are here. Now put some clothes on and get to bed or I will make V and Kook force you.” Suga glared before he left her alone in her room.

Using muscle memory; Skyler got dressed before crawling in her bed just staring off at the wall lost in herself. Outside her room everything carried on like normal; well as normal as it could since the guys worried about her. Skyler had sent a briefing of what she had learned from her interrogation to Mon ahead of time before closing herself off. The details he was not wanting to share with anyone; Nora was more sinister than originally thought and he didn’t want to imagine the betrayal that was plaguing their sparrow. For safety precautions Mon destroyed every report she made about her history, he would be damned if anyone got wind of her and came after her...not on his watch. Maybe he wasn’t able to help the sparrows in their last hour, but he would protect this one with everything he had. Jin poked his head into Mon’s office.

“Got a minute?” He asked.

“Ofcourse; what is it?”

“I’ll give you one guess.”

“I know. I don’t want to force anything...let's give it a few days and see how things go. If nothing then we will have to go by force.”

“It might not be that simple Mon; she could have serious issues here, everything she had been through has been traumatic and could cause ptsd or worse. We have to think about our boys and what's best for them too.”

“I have a feeling where you are going with this and the answer is no, she stays and that's final.”

“Mon I don’t want to think that way either but she could be a danger to our team or even jeopardize a mission?”

“Like I said give her time. Until then drop it.”

Mon didn’t want to be cold with Jin he really didn’t but he was not going to stand by and watch the team turn on Skyler when she had only just recovered and took out her own demon. No he would protect her and make sure she knew she always had a home with them, if she wanted to leave he wouldn’t stop her but he would not force her out ever. Jin sighed as he rubbed a hand over his face.

“Alright fine for now consider it dropped. But if shit hits the fan then it's on you understand.”

Jin just sounded tired as he got up and left the office; Mon watched him as he left. He couldn’t blame the man for worrying; their group was tight as a family and as the oldest Jin always worried for everyone.

By the third day Min couldn’t take it anymore; he paced in his room frustrated that he couldn’t do anything to help Skyler. She would cry at night, scream from nightmares and he could hear it all from the vent system since she was right next door. He wanted to just break down her door and help her but he didn’t because Mon had asked for everyone to just give her time. He was the only one who knew about her state, hear the pain and anguish the raw emotion. Finally having enough he stormed out of his room to Mon’s office; startling the man when he slammed the door shut behind him. Mon looked at him with wide eyes trying to figure out what was going on.

“I can’t do this, I can’t sit idly by while she is suffering like this. Screaming, crying, tearing herself up and noone to help her, she will go mental if something isn’t done.”

“Min I understand your frustration but if we barge in don’t you think we will be breaking her trust in her time of need. Giving her time to work things out on her own maybe the best option right now, who’s to say she wouldn’t lash out at one of us in her state?”

“I don’t care I’ll chance it I want the key.”

“Min think this through…”

“Enough of the bullshit! I have had enough just give me the damn key and let me do something at least for fucks sake!”

Mon sighed his face showing the signs of dark circles and shallowness from not sleeping and overworking himself. Any other time Min would have felt guilty for yelling at the man but he was at his limit and had to do something. Mon opened his desk drawer and grabbed a keyring with a single key on it, setting it on the desk he pushed it toward Min.

“If you go in there I cannot be responsible for what happens to you; if she lashes out and something happens to you that's on you. If you can...bring our girl back will you.” Mon said in a hushed voice.

Min just gave a nod before swiping up the key and nearly jogging down the hall; stopping by the chow hall he ignored Kook and V and went straight for the fridge to get water and a few snacks, he was sure she hadn’t ate since they got back from the last job. Kook tried to say something but Min just left in a hurry back to the hallway and stood in front of her door. Taking a deep breath to calm himself he unlocked the door and stepped inside locking the door behind him; it was pitch black in the room save for the light peeking out from under the bathroom door. Setting down the food and drinks on the desk against the wall he kicked off his shoes and treaded carefully to the bathroom door listening for any sounds.

“Little sparrow do you hear me?” He asked through the door.

“I-I-I h-h-hear you.”

“Can I come in?”

Min waited outside the door anxiously waiting for an answer, with a weak hum from her he opened the door slowly. Not sure what he would find on the other side, the bright light from the bathroom made him blink a few times before he could focus on the room. Skyler was huddled on the floor in a corner by the shower; she had on sweatpants that were far too big for her, and a t-shirt that nearly swallowed her in its size. Her cheeks were red from crying and her breaths were shudders from her distress, red rimmed eyes watching him carefully...fearfully. Min squatted down to her level and held his hands out so she could see he was harmless; reaching to touch her he was thankful she didn’t flinch away from him. Pushing strands of hair away from her face he could see she hadn’t been sleeping much at all, dark circles looking like bruises under her eyes.

“Little sparrow...what am I going to do with you? Have you eaten anything? I brought some food and water with me so we can sort this out.”

“I can’t be fixed Min...I’m damaged. I bet I've already been labeled a danger to the team and will be kicked out as soon as I leave here.”

“No you haven’t everyone is worried about you Skyler...you’re a part of our team remember?”

“I’ve done horrible things! How could anyone be okay with that Min? What even am I? I feel like a monster and top it off with all the crap tagged on it it's a mess.”

“NO!”

Skyler froze eyes wide at Min’s raised voice. Taking a moment to collect himself he tried again.

“You are not a monster Skyler you are a survivor, all of us are in one way or another. No it’s not going to be easy but you will move passed this and be stronger than ever, don’t give up just yet. Don’t give up on us; we are here for you, I am here for you.”

“I-I-I don’t deserve it.”

Skyler made to get up and run from him; Min jumped up and wrapped her up in a tight hold against his chest, her back pushed up against his chest as he held her arms and she struggled. His strength was impossible for her to break in her weakened state, both hungry and sleep deprived she was useless to fight him.

“Let me go Min!”

“No, we are going to work this out I don’t care how long it takes!”

“You can’t fix what's already broken!”

Skyler was going to scream more when she felt his lips against her neck right behind her ear; a strangled noise leaving her at the unexpected feeling. His lips curved against her skin; he kept doing it moving up to nibble at the shell of her ear.

“Min?”

“You have so much anger pent up with nowhere for it to go; let me help with that.”

Min turned her around quickly in his arms so her arms were pinned against his chest and he wrapped his arms back around her holding her tightly. His gaze trapping hers.

“Give me your best shot sparrow, show me what you got.” He challenged.

Her breath hitched and her eyes dropped down to his full lips tempting her; at her hesitance he wrapped a hand in her hair and held her still as he crushed his lips down on hers. She made a small noise of surprise before it turned into a moan when he bit down on her bottom lip. Pulling back Min could see her pupils blown wide.

“Let's change scenery shall we?”

Min picked her up with ease and walked into her room still attacking her neck and enjoying his handfuls of plump ass too. Wasn’t long before she returned the favor with attacking his lips, his neck anything she could reach, when was the last time she had slept with a man? She couldn’t remember that now that the offer was there she was going to take it. Min fell with her down on her bed and was not surprised when she pushed him down and straddled his hips, her teeth nipping at his pulse, collarbones and attacking his lips again. Skyler didn’t know when she started grinding down on his growing member just that it made him make the most delicious sound and she wanted to hear it again. Clawing at his shirt she pulled it off him before attacking his chest with bites and bruises, working her way down to his jeans making quick work of undoing them before smacking his leg for him to lift his hips so she could pull them down.

“Not the soft and sweet type huh?”

Skyler just gave him a look and he held his hands up in surrender giving her a smirk. Taking his jeans off she bit at his thighs as she palmed him through his boxers earning a curse from him as he tried not to thrust against her hand. Min was not expecting her to be so brazen; soon taking off his boxers he barely had time to register what was going on before her mouth was on him making him throw his head back as she sucked his head and teased the underside of his length with her tongue.

“The fuck did they teach you girls, god dammit!” Min hissed as Skyler took him deeply.

Skyler took Min as far as she could, loving the noises she was getting out of him. Watching as he couldn’t decide if he wanted to grab her head and fuck her face or fist the blankets; she felt powerful like this watching him writhe under her. When Min couldn’t take it anymore he grabbed her under her arms and pulled her up his body yanking off her shirt in the process and crashing his lips on hers, happy she was braless he let his hands explore her body as he made her breathless. Flipping them over he yanked her sweats down and her underwear.

“Oh sparrow two can play this game, your dripping for me!”

Min growled before he attacked her heat with nips and slow licks that picked up speed the more she got worked up and started moaning for him silently begging for more with small bucks of her hips. It was getting to be almost too much for him; he remembered his reason for being there in the first place. Flipping them over again he had her straddle his hips again.

“Come on sparrow...show me that anger you got. Give me your worst...I want this whole place to hear you.” Min growled beneath her.

Skyler bit her lip as she glared at him for the challenge, lining herself up she sank down on him. Sighs leaving both of them as she took him to the hilt, her nails digging into his chest as she adjusted to his size. His girth stretching her just right and his length hitting spots she didn’t know she had making her moan when she started to move her hips. Min held her hips to help guide her as she picked up speed, her head falling back as she sat up straight and rode him using just her leg muscles and momentum she created. Curses fell from Min’s lips as he watched her body dance on him, he had never been so fascinated and turned on by a sight so much in his life. Holding her hips he thrusted up into her a few times giving her the hint that he could take the power away. Gyrating her hips she had him hissing as he tightened his hold on her hips.

“Alright that’s it time to make you scream!”

Min tossed her over on to her hands and knees pushing her shoulders down to the mattress before he was slipping inside her make them both moan. Picking up a brutal pace he had her screaming his name and words he didn't understand in the sparrow language. Bending over her nipping at her shoulder and talking nasty in her ear he could feel her walls flutter around him, he held her hips tight as he started to slam into her quickly chasing both their highs. She tipped over the edge first screaming into the pillows as she clamped down tight on him making him follow her with his own growls and curses. Falling beside her in a heap he tried to catch his breath as she did hers laying beside him.

“So...feel...better yet?” He asked.

Skyler chuckled softly as she looked at him; she wasn’t sure what was going to become of them now but she was too tired to care to be honest. After a few moments Min tugged her arms making her get up and into the shower to clean them both off. Afterward he tugged her back to her room and they fell asleep in a tangle of blankets and limbs both wore out.

The following morning Skyler woke up first sore as all get out; the burn in all her muscles bringing her groggy mind up to speed a bit, looking over to the radiator like body next to her she saw Min with his tousled locks of black all over the place and red marks along his neck from her. Not really phased she was more concerned about her aching stomach, spotting the snacks Min had mentioned last night she got up and padded over to the chips and grabbed a water. Since Min didn’t move when she opened the bag she figured he was dead to the world, chugging her water she nearly forgot how dehydrated she was. How long had she been in her room for after the job? She lost sense of time; but thanks to Min she felt more like herself and slightly embarrassed about how out of control she was, maybe she shouldn’t have been so rough on him. Red marks peeked at her when he shifted in the blankets revealing more on his back and shoulders. Feeling a bit guilty for them she put down her snacks and crawled back under her covers; his body putting off enough heat to chase away any chills from the room. Poking his side a bit she learned he was ticklish and he complained.

“Leave me alone Kook fuck off!”

Skyler laughed to herself and Min cracked an eye open before glaring at her over his shoulder. Confusion drew his brows together before everything came back and stretched before shoving her playfully.

“Think you’re funny huh?”

“Of Course, seems you forgot about me though.” Skyler scrunched up her nose at him.

“More like thought it was a dream and kook was fucking it up.”

“Hmmm I guess I can let it slide this time.”

Min pulled her arm making her lay on his chest as he wrapped his other arm around her; she fit comfortably against him and he sighed. They would have to get up soon and face the outside world, he just hoped Skyler was up to it.

“I’m hungry.” Skyler complained.

“Starving. Let's go eat then.”

Reluctantly they got up and dressed before getting ready to head out the door. Min gave her a once over chuckling at how her sweats and t-shirt swallowed her, she just punched his arm as he opened the door. The halls were quiet; walking into the chow hall they were surprised to see everyone sitting at the dining table with breakfast served and all eyes on them, some faces were shocked and others were full of big smiles.

“He survived!” Kook laughed.

“Don’t stand there like fools come eat.” Jin ordered.

Skyler suddenly felt shy; following behind Min to the table and taking a seat. V was smiling at her and winked.

“Busy were you?” he teased.

She flushed trying to deny anything.

“Fucking hell Min what happened to you? Fight a cat or something?” Jin was complaining at the marks he could see over Min’s collar.

“He said he was going to do something to help Skyler recover and it looks like he has.” Teased Mon.

Now it was Min’s turn to flush.

“Got the job done didn’t I?” He retorted finally.

“Sure did I heard it all night.” V smirked around his pancakes.

“What did he do….ugh hyung she's like our sister.” Kook scrunched up his face.

“Not for me kid.”

“Can we talk about something else!” Skyler yelled.

The guys chuckled but obliged, leaving her to feel the burn in her cheeks as she tried to avoid eye contact with anyone as they spoke about other things.

“One last thing before I forget...were you at least safe?” Suga teased.

“For fucksake I just can’t live can I? Now I’m the laughing stock of the whole compound.” Skyler complained pushing her food around on her plate.

“No worries Hyung I made sure to paint the sheets for you to clean later.” Min beamed.

“Thats gross.” Kook laughed until he saw Suga’s unamused face.

“Alright enough enough. Skyler welcome back, it's good to have you here. If you all haven’t checked your accounts recently we got paid extra well for the cargo we saved as one of the girls was a princess of sorts to some country so spend it well.” Mon spoke up.

“I got a few ideas on what to do with that money.” Min wiggled his eyebrows at Skyler.

“Do not say anything else.” Skyler warned, a smirk on her lips.

Min feigned hurt as he clutched his chest. After a briefing everyone took off to do their own thing. Min was going to join Kook and V in the training room but Skyle grabbed his wrist before he could get too far.

“Can we talk for a minute?” She asked a bit unsure.

Upon him nodding his agreement; she led him to her room and sat with him on the edge of the bed. Min’s brows were drawn together as he tried to figure out what she was wanting to talk about. Heaving a sigh she started right off the bat.

“I’ll talk in your language to make it easier. I want to talk about what this is between us.” She motioned with her hand between them.

“Ok where do you want to start?” He asked.

“I don’t….I don’t know how to you know...date like normal people. It’s always just been for basic needs then moving on; I don’t know what I’m doing.” She told him flat out.

“Is that what you are worried about? It’s nothing to really get worried about; all you have to do is just tell me what you are thinking or how you feel about something and we work together to make things work. I’m not one for the cringing romantic crap anyways so if anything just leave things how they are and consider times like last night as an added bonus.”

Skyler seemed to relax her shoulders slumping as she gave him an appreciative look. He was too good to her; after the abuse she put him through the night before she was surprised he didn’t run from her as soon has he woke.

“I don’t need the cringing romance either; just be loyal and keep being my friend and I’ll be content.” She mumbled.

“It’s settled then. Do me a favor though and don’t lock yourself away again; you had me going crazy for days. I had to demand for the key to your door from Mon, I would have busted it down if I had too but I figured getting the key would be safer. Come to me when you have a problem ok?” He spoke gently holding her chin up so she was looking him in the eyes.

A small nod from her had him smiling his million watt smile; messing up her hair playfully he left her to train with Kook and V. Skyler then decided to pay Rapmon a visit after her ordeal. Nervousness rested heavily in her stomach as she approached his office; the door looking more intimidating than a gaping hole in the ground. Swallowing thickly she rolled her neck to give herself a moment to collect her thoughts. Knocking loudly she waited for an answer before she entered.

Mon sat behind his desk with papers strewn across it; maps hung from the wall to his left with pins stating locations of jobs both completed and uncompleted. Looking up from his paperwork Mon smiled seeing Skyler looked better; color to her skin and her nervousness making him smile more.

“Take a seat kid.” He said kindly.

Skyler moved further in the office and took a leather chair before his desk; he was finishing up a report and scanned it into his computer before sending it off. Once finished his gaze fell on her and if she was to be honest she slightly flinched like a child waiting to be scolded. Mon gave her a soft smile.

“What can I do for you?”

“I don’t need anything...I just came to apologize. I was out of line on the job and could have potentially gotten the team involved with the russians.” Skyler glared at her toes too afraid to look at him.

“As much as I would say I could be angry at you; I’m not. I’m not foolish enough to believe you could just stand idly by as the woman who put you through everything you have been through leave untouched. Now I am more curious as to how you knew the russians were nearby in the first place?”

“That was more like a happy accident. Apparently I was to be a bargaining chip for Nora to the russians to fulfill some deal she made with them but never completed. So I changed Nora into the bargaining chip; I’m sure she’s being given special lessons by Vicktor as we speak. Are you familiar with him?”

“Unfortunately yes. So I’m guessing it is also true that sparrow justice is just like eye for and eye.” Mon spoke rubbing the exhaustion out of his eyes.

“Every action has a consequence of equal value; hers had interest on it for the other sparrows.”

“Now my question is….are you good?”

“For the most part. I’ll get there.”

“Good. For now we’re going to stay low key until things settle down a bit before taking more jobs. Go get out there and keep those brats in line.” Mon smiled at her.

Skyler gave him a weak smile back; she was glad he didn’t want to kick her out of the team. Leaving him in peace she found the rest of the team all working on something or other...this was her team now, her home. The thought made her heart clench. Watching Min as he sparred with Kook she smiled brightly...maybe she wouldn’t have to worry too much anymore...she was free again.

Viktor sighed in content as he heard the screams; his excitement reaching new levels of a high. His ministrations to Nora were proving to be most entertaining; try as she might to stay quiet she could not. The quicker she sang for him the quicker his lessons were over. Careful to never put her too close to death; Viktor enjoyed testing her body’s limits with cutting, breaking and lashing. Her screams were music to his ears making him wish more sparrows were still around. There was still one sparrow he knew of; but he knew better than to get involved with bangtan...plus it would be rude to disrespect the one you gave him his precious gift of Nora. Pleasure ran through his body as he lashed her one more time earning a blood curdling scream...panting with exertion he finally ended his lesson leaving her in her knelt position she was restrained in. Some of his assistants would tend to her keeping her alive until his next lesson came up. Kharma was an devious bitch when it caught up to people; Viktor loved the ability he had in taking payments from his playthings.

To say that society let science get a bit out of hand would be an understatement; between the constant strive to find cures for terminal illnesses or splicing DNA for “top secret” projects it was hard to figure out where exactly it all went wrong when scientists decided to play god. As a result of failed projects and outbreaks of viruses that took over the human population, there was only one option for survival and that was what all creatures do to survive...evolve. After years and years of evolution, there were some that were born just little bit extra different that couldn’t fit in with normal society. It was these individuals that were hunted down by the military or worse to be used in wars or as more science projects.

A small squad of men with heavy artillery guns was scanning the alleys of old Chicago on a mission to find a girl they had gotten a tip about from some “concerned citizens” who had seen her display her abilities recently. The girl had nearly been run over by a semi truck but she had stopped it by putting up a barrier around herself stopping the truck in its tracks demolishing the whole front end in front of a lot of people. The girl had panicked and ran off afterward. The squad was dispatched from a military compound outside the city; known for its shady activities...anyone who entered usually never left besides their soldiers.

Running down the alleyways she knew like the back of her hand; Ash ran until her lungs were burning. Once she could no longer hear the men following her she stopped to catch her breath; she scanned the area around her for a place to go, peeking around the corner of the building she hid behind she could see the men just beginning to walk down the alleyway she ran down. Trying for calm she looked for options and chose to run down the alley she was in and then blend into the crowd on the main sidewalk. Stealth was a skill she was proud of; slipping into the crowd seamlessly once she reached the end of the alley and headed toward her home as long as no one interrupted her along the way.

Feeling confident those on her tail were left far behind she slipped into her apartment building checking over her shoulder as she ascended the stairs to the third level where her apartment was located. Everything sounded the same as she drew close to her apartment; even her neighbor Mrs. Cramer was yelling at her tele about a character in her drama being a trifling cheat, bringing a small smirk to the girl’s lips. Drawing her keys from her pocket the girl opened her apartment and eyed her apartment for any disturbances before shutting her door and locking it. Not a thing was out of place, breathing a sigh of relief she tossed her keys into a bowl by the door and peeled her jacket off and hung it up before heading to her kitchen to get a much-needed caffeine fix. It was a close call that day; she knew they would send someone to look for her after her display a while back, but what was she supposed to do let the truck hit her and kill her? She didn’t even know she could do that to a truck her abilities had been minuscule in their usefulness thus far until that day. Not to mention afterward she suffered a pretty epic nosebleed from the exertion. Sighing she leaned back against her couch and closed her eyes; her muscles were very displeased with the strain put on them from running, but it wasn’t anything a hot shower couldn’t fix and maybe a pint of ice cream. With her eyes still closed she was starting to nod off until she felt a disturbance...something wasn’t right she could feel it; the energy around her felt overly charged like there was something coming and she had a feeling it was for her. Jumping up she pulled on her shoes getting ready to bail as soon as she found out which direction her attackers were coming from, her only warning was the deep rumble of a chopper above the building and then men dressed in black breaking through her windows off of ropes. Grabbing her door she was unlocking it faster than she ever had in her life.

“Ash Maddox! You are being detained by order of the city of Chicago’s threat council.” A man assumed to be the general of the group said as he stood in the middle of her living room.

“W-what?”

Ash didn’t have time to process that she needed to get away she knew these military types were from that side-show lab where people were taken and never returned; turned into science projects for the government or whatever she wasn’t going to be a part of it. As she started to bolt out of her door she was shot with an energy burst gun; dropping her in a twitching heap rendering her defenseless on the floor in the hallway. The soldiers crowded her and picked her up not all to gently before headed back to her broken windows where the ropes to the chopper were waiting; struggle as she might she was weak sauce against these men and they were armed to the teeth while she was barely able to resist against their strength. Panic took over and she felt herself seizing up; her body was still jittery from being hit by the energy gun which was only used for stunning people but wow it packed a punch. Digging her heels in the carpet as she might she was still easily dragged along; a soldier cuffed her hands behind her back and picked her up like a sack of potatoes before clipping his harness to the rope to be hoisted up; Ash struggled and kicked but it didn’t seem to phase the soldier at all.

Seeing the street below and the people standing around recording her being kidnapped was not how she expected her day to go; nor the lovely treatment of being tossed on the chopper floor when the soldier reached the top of the rope. Ash was grabbed by another soldier and tossed into a small holding space and as charming as the small four by four space was she was not happy about it. Glaring at the soldiers didn’t really do anything to help her situation but she didn’t want to keep her eyes off them for even a moment. Options were limited on what she could do to get out of her situation; not like she would know where they were going or how much ground they have covered while she sat in the holding space.

A soldier squatted in front of her little-caged area pulling down his mask only to reveal a very nasty smile that had a cold chill running down her spine. What did they want? Who even where they and threat council her ass she had done nothing to garner such hostility she had only protected herself from being hit by a truck.

“Well, Ms. Maddox now that we have a moment; do you plan on being civil and speaking.” He sneered.

“I haven’t done anything to be kidnapped for so you can start by explaining yourself.” She spat. “Oh on the contrary Ms. Maddox; you destroyed a semi truck in the middle of the street with plenty of witnesses to testify what they saw.”

“The truck was going to hit me! Should I have just let it mow me down? What would you have done?!”

“You see Ms. Maddox it's not about what you did; it's how you did it. An ability like yours is quite valuable and such a valuable ability must be protected and utilized by the proper authorities don’t you think?” He chuckled darkly.

“I’m not going to be a dog for your sick scientists or you're messed up military goons.”

“We’ll see about that because as far as I can tell you have no one that will be missing you or coming for you, maybe you should think about that a bit before we arrive.”

The man pulled up his mask again and moved away from her line of vision. What a prick. Ash pushed herself as far back as space would allow her; the metal was thinner toward the back, it was cooler than the rest of the area she was in...chewing on her lip she formulated a plan. Was she strong enough to withstand the mental strength it would take for a fall that high up? She was going to have to risk it; closing her eyes she tried to focus on how she was going to implement her plan of punching a hole through the weak spot of metal and bail hoping they wouldn’t open fire on her as she fell. Making quick work of her cuffs she rubbed her wrists before eyeing the soldiers to see if they were watching her. Night had fallen before long and she could feel the temp drop from that high up; it was now or never. Using her mind she built a barrier around her to muffle any noise she made...the soldiers would be able to see through it like it wasn’t there but that's what she wanted, bringing her hand over the weak point of metal it didn’t take too much power to punch a hole big enough for her to fit through. When no one was looking her way she slipped through it and crawled to the railing under the chopper; they were moving quite fast and she had a feeling no matter where she decided to fall...it was going to hurt. The wind was whipping at her hair and stinging her cheeks as she looked for a suitable area to drop. When they were going over a heavily wooded area she let go and formed a barrier around herself to protect her from being shot and hopefully her fall too.

Inside the chopper, the barrier disintegrated and the air pressure change threw off the chopper before the pilot got it right again, the general looked into the holding space and cursed to high heaven as he opened the side door of the chopper only to see his catch free falling. Grabbing the machine gun attached to the chopper he opened fire towards her, bullets soon ricocheted off her barrier but she was growing weak and wouldn’t be able to hold up the barrier for much longer. Ash could already feel blood running from her nose; wiping it away with the back of her hand she cursed as the trees grew closer and closer the impact was going to suck. The barrier was starting to waver and if the searing pain now running through her side was any indication the general had made a shot, pain burned through her making her pull on any strength she had left to minimize the hit of the impact, she crashed through the trees and hit a few branches going down before falling into a heap on the ground amongst the leaves. The chopper became a distant noise, but Ash was sure they would be on their way back to scout for her.

“Shitty landing but overall I’m not dead yet,” Ash mumbled to herself smirking.

Moving proved to be more than excruciating but she couldn’t stay still for long if she wanted to survive, her little daredevil escape would be worthless if she got caught by those soldiers. Assessing the damage done; a few ribs felt broken but she could handle it, thanks to the ever so forgiving branches on the way down. The bullet hole through her side was a bit alarming; pulling off her t-shirt she tied it around her waist to put pressure on it over her tank top...which just felt wonderfully painful.

“Fuck!” Ash hissed as she finished tying the knot and staggering to her feet.

The nosebleed had lessened thankfully; probably since blood was seeping out elsewhere. Ash trekked through the woods careful not to leave an easy trail for them to track her with, thank you girl scouts for that lesson. She came across a stream; stepping over some rocks she walked from rock to rock in the water until she spotted a few rocks piled up over a hill. Thankfully the moon was providing adequate enough light for her to see where she was walking without falling face first in a pit of snakes or something, the piled up rocks proved to be an abandoned bear den...crawling inside she moved all the way to back of the den. Old shedded fur was still laying everywhere; it was probably abandoned a while ago as there was no indication of recent activity in the tracks in the dirt. The chopper sounded above as it was circling around no doubt trying to spot her with night vision or something. After holding her breath for what felt like hours the chopper finally seemed to leave the area...probably to go back for reinforcements in finding her...lovely. Ash was feeling her strength seeping out of her...she was losing blood fast but there wasn’t much she could do about that at the moment and her broken ribs were making her wheeze. She had to admit though that there were worse ways to go than in a bear den...better than being sliced and diced by scientists any day. Ash was starting to lose feeling in her fingers and toes from the cold night air, her consciousness weaving in and out as she laid propped up against the rock wall, wheezing as her chest ached from broken ribs. How long had she been lying there now? She wasn’t sure...not until the early morning hours shone cobalt blue through the opening of the den. Not being very coherent she was numb to the sight of black booted feet making an appearance at the opening of the den, she could hear talking but couldn’t hear anything like her ears were muffled, she was scared but could barely move at all even as the boots entered the den and got closer to her. Looking up she couldn’t even see the face that belonged to the boots just a dark silhouette of a man.

“Shit this is bad. SEND IN SUGA AND JIN NOW!”

More shadows moved into the den...Ash feared the worse, were they soldiers from the compound or what? As two of the shadows moved closer she tried to move away only to let out a strangled noise of pain as fresh blood seeped from her side and out her nose too. Warm hands held her still as she wheezed through the pain.

“Shit this isn’t going to be easy to fix here; we need to get her out of here. Radio Hope to bring the ATV down here Kook this is serious.” Jin commanded.

Kook left the den to see V waiting for him radio already in hand; calling for Hope to bring the vehicle down to the stream with blankets. Inside the den, Jin was digging in his duffle of supplies until he pulled out gauze and tape to at least try to hold off her bleeding to death. Suga worked on untying her shirt around her waist, an unintentionally strong tug jostled her making her groan before she started to tremble.

“Shit, Jin I think she's going into shock.”

Jin was quick about his work and replaced her shirt with gauze and tape to seal the wound temporarily, he took off his jacket and wrapped it around her before grabbing an IV bag and inserting the needle to the line into her arm and taping it. It wasn’t much but it would help her until they got to their compound. The sound of the Atv was welcome as Suga and Jin carefully picked her up and walked out of the den, they had to lay her across the back seat and secure her with straps while everyone else either sat on the wheel wells or the back of the ATV on the way back to the compound. Ash was delirious at this point; too much blood loss and weakness making her oblivious to what was going on around her. The men drove through the woods like they knew the place, which technically they did before they drove down a hidden ramp leading into their compound. The men were met with two others holding a gurney; Jin and Suga got Ash out of the ATV and on the gurney where she was immediately wheeled away.

“Take her to ops now. Someone go tell Rm we found her. Suga let's wash up.” Jin ordered.

Jin and Suga followed the men with the stretcher who were Jimin and a young recruit by the name of Bambam. Once in the ops room Jin and Suga washed their hands and dressed up for surgery...it was looking pretty grim for the girl on their gurney but hopefully she was strong enough to pull through. Jimin and the recruit transferred her from the gurney to the op table; Jimin already working on gassing her and before long her unfocused eyes closed as she went under. Jin and Suga shooed the guys out before making quick work of her clothes; cutting through them with scissors until they could see all the damage done. A wide bullet hole on her left side a bit high looked like it had missed any major organs, her wheezing was worrying as they would have to x-ray to see the extent of how many ribs were broken and they needed to give her blood quickly. Suga took over hooking her up to a blood bag; while Jin got to work checking out the bullet hole...lodged in a rib was the bullet it had folded in on itself in an abnormal way, he held it up for Suga to see.

“How the hell did that happen?” He asked.

“She had a barrier up...it slowed down the shot but had to have been too weak to stop it. Look it didn’t melt the metal nearly as much as a normal shot would.” Jin handed the bullet over to Suga to look at.

Jin worked on sewing up the damaged tissues with precision before stitching her up and bandaging her securely. Pulling his moveable x-ray machine over he got a few shots of her chest and sides before going over to his computer to assess the damage to her ribs. Two on both sides were broken; mostly from one of the nasty hits on a branch as she fell through the trees. None were too close to her lungs so they were not worried about perforation. The men cleaned her up the best they could before putting her in a scrub gown and having Jimin and Bambam set her up in a room to recover.

“Think she will make it?” Suga asked Jin.

“Who knows...she's pretty banged up. The military is going to be looking for her no doubt, but we can let RM  worry about them. I’m going to check in with him now, keep the youngsters away from our patient until otherwise told.” Jin said before leaving for RM’s office.

Their compound oddly enough was an abandoned military one they found from the anti-terrorists days; it was pretty deep underground with thickened walls that made it nearly impossible for satellites, night vision or even thermal imaging to find. When Jin arrived he found RM pouring over maps and biting the end of his pencil as he concentrated.

“Think too hard and you’re heads going to explode.” Jin joked.

“Ah Jin; I heard recovery was a bit troublesome...what's the status on your patient?”

“A bit rough I won’t lie. She was using a barrier as she fell...but got too weak at the end before hitting the trees. Had a bullet still lodged in one of her ribs, it's been removed and she’s been stitched up. Maybe three days and she should wake up on her own, she slightly went into shock on the way here. I’ll give her a few more bags of blood before she wakes. Do you think she is the girl you were looking for?”

“Really? I mean you saw just like I did how she blasted a hole through that chopper and free fell, no one but Kook could do that but she didn’t use strength I felt her mental signature...she’s strong but only for short periods of time it seems. We’ll have to help her tap into that power better. She’s the one I’m sure of it.”

“You know the military will be looking for her; they are not likely to give up easily.”

“Already on it...I sent Mark to scout out the area for any info about any squads looking for her.”

“I’ll let you play strategic leader; I’m going to my room if you need me or something happens to my patient let me know.”

RM only grunted his understanding as he still poured over his maps; Jin gave him a small smile as he left to his quarters. The halls were mostly empty; walking by the common room he could hear the guys retelling the recovery story to the others.

“I thought she would be dead for sure the way I saw her fall out of the chopper; took me a while to find her trail but when I did...oh man it was thick with blood and fear. She crawled into a bear’s den and hid in the back with the old fur when I found her it was bad...blood pooled under her and she was barely even awake. Good thing we had Jin and Suga there or she would have been a goner for sure. But to punch out the back of the chopper like that it was sick!” Kook was retelling the story.

“How did she do that? Is she like you?” Youngjae asked.

“Nah she's something else uh what did RM call it?”

“Telekinetic Kook she used her mind to do stuff.” Jimin supplied.

“No shit! Dang, that's tight.” Jackson was excited.

“So she’s like Mark then...is he going to train her then?” Bambam asked.

None of the guys knew so they just shrugged. Jin continued on his way after that...who was going to train her, would she even want to stay? Jin’s quarters were pretty decent; everyone had a decent sized room to themselves with a queen bed, bathroom attached and closet for clothes. The ceilings were lined with a rope of lights that kept the rooms lit to the owner's desire, low or high it could be controlled remotely. Jin kicked off his boots and disrobed before walking into his shower to wash away the day; then he flopped on his bed staring at his ceiling. What was going to become of this girl they saved?

It had been four days since they had brought Ash into the compound; Jin was slightly worried as he checked her vitals, everything read fine but it seemed her mind may have taken a stronger strain to it than they thought. Every now and then the lights would flicker as he observed her, it gave him hope she would wake soon her powers already reaching out to her surroundings. For safely precautions RM had appointed Mark to stay on standby until she woke; which usually consisted of him just sitting in the room with her.

That afternoon Mark could feel a slight probing at his shields on his mind; she was coming too. Ash opened her eyes and blinked a few times until she could see clearly; she was laid in a bed that was propped up so she was in a near sitting position. A hospital bed? Did she go to a hospital? The room looked like one until her eyes fell on a man sitting in the corner of the room, fear took root in her chest as she took in his appearance. Lean face with high cheekbones, silvery hair parted down the middle long enough to almost touch his ears, silver earrings hung from his ears, his dark eyes looking up at her from the book he was reading. Then she heard it...his voice in her head.

“Relax Ash you are safe here. I’m Mark, I’m going to be looking after you. First thing is first let's test your memory ok. Do you remember what happened to you?”

Ash was shocked to have someone speak to her through a telepathic link but she was also thankful for it because she doubted her voice would work and her throbbing ribs weren’t encouraging.

“Yes...sort of. I was being collected by the threat council...I escaped out of the chopper and fell.”

“Do you remember what happened after that?”

“Bits and pieces...then nothing.”

“You were injured pretty badly; you took a bullet from the machine gun...your barrier wasn’t strong enough to stop it but it slowed it. You took a pretty nasty fall through the trees before crossing the stream and finding a bear den to hide in. Do you remember any of that?”

“N-n-no.”

“That's alright you probably hit your head pretty good. Our doctors took good care of you here, a six-hour surgery got you patched up as best as we can, we can't fix your ribs they have to mend on their own. I’m going to call in my commander to come to talk to you; are you ok with that?”

“W-w-why am I here? Where am I...this isn’t the compound is it?”

Her voice was fearful and Mark felt bad for her, she was doing her best to keep a neutral face on but her mental voice was riddled with fear.

“This is a compound but not the kind you think; we are all gifted here Ash...no scientist here and no military here. RM will be in here shortly...I’ll work on getting you some food and water in the meanwhile.”

Ash took in the environment she was in, she could sense she was underground but she couldn’t gauge how far down. The room was white one white with tiled floor in a light gray; she was in a scrub gown covered in a blanket and she had an IV in her arm. Patting herself down she was thankful she still felt normal. A light knock on the door brought her attention to the door; a tall man stepped through bowing his head slightly as he approached and gave her a big dimpled smile. Thick rimmed glasses rested on his nose; his eyes a warm chocolate brown, his hair a shade of chestnut brown and tan skin. His aura was open and friendly helping Ash relax a little bit he didn’t pose as a threat yet.

“It's nice to meet you, Ash, I am RM; Namjoon is my name but I prefer RM. I’m sure you have questions and I intend to answer them all to the best of my ability; however, first I would like to address why you are here.”

Ash gave a slight nod of her head to tell him she was following him.

“You were being collected because your ability had been reported to the threat council. I was aware of this and anticipated a way to intercept the chopper that collected you; yet surprisingly you escaped all on your own, I was thoroughly impressed. It was unfortunate how injured you became but you’re here and that's all that matters. We have brought you here because we are all gifted and we are part of a movement to end the experimentation and misuse of gifted people and fight the government if needed. We are hoping you will join our cause and fight alongside us. We will train you so you can control your gift better and perhaps even enhance it...we have many individuals here that are all different yet we have a common goal...to end the mistreatment of people like us and live freely.”

Ash couldn’t talk yet...her throat was far too dry and her ribs throbbed with every breath so she had to use her telepathic link to speak to him.

“RM sir.”

RM jumped at first but a smile soon spread across his lips as he looked at Ash waiting for her to continue.

“Thank you for helping me; I was in a tight spot and probably would have died without your help. I can’t talk just yet...ribs are a bit painful. I have a feeling this is the only safe place for me at the moment so yes...I’ll stay for now.”

Ash gave him a weak smile. RM was pleased, however.

“I’ll have Jin come in and check you over; he is our resident doctor along with Suga. They are the ones who really did most of the work in saving you. If you get the ok from Jin I’ll have one of my men show you to your residential room. Don’t push yourself too much; when you have healed we will talk about training...until then minimal usage of your ability.”

Ash nodded as she watched RM leave her in peace; shortly after Mark returned with a tray of food and water as promised. He wheeled over a table and put the tray on it for her and lifted the lid; beef roast set on the tray steaming with mashed potatoes and green beans on the side.

“Your mind is busy when you sleep just so you know; you kept craving this while you slept. Jimin made it for you, thank him later if you like it.”

Mark gave her a knife and fork to use...her hands were too weak to hold them. Mark offered to help her but she shook her head and instead focused her mind to cut it up for her and feed her pieces of everything. Mark smiled as he took a seat in the chair that RM vacated. Jin walked in shortly after with a surprised smile on his face; he wasn’t used to seeing someone feeding themselves with floating utensils it was kind of spooky.

“Hello, Ms. Maddox I am Jin. RM told me to stop by and see how you are doing, mind if I run a few tests?” He asked kindly.

Ash shook her head no and let him get started while she still fed herself. He grabbed a blood pressure cuff and tested her pulse, satisfied it was strong he moved on to checking her reflexes and again he was satisfied. Her ribs were still quite tender to the touch so he prescribed her some pain meds to help her ease the pain and advised her to not exert herself for fear of worsening the broken ribs. After all his tests he announced she was good to go to her new room and get situated. Mark found her some clothes that were borrowed from the guys in the compound...clearly, she was the only girl in the compound currently and she would have to make due with what was available for clothing. With Mark waiting outside she wobbled on her legs but was able to get dressed in the grey sweatpants that were too big for her so she had to use her ability to roll up the hem to fit her better. She also used her ability to help her into the white t-shirt so as not to hurt her ribs anymore than she had too, the shirt was rather large too and hung off one shoulder. Someone had provided her with some house shoes so she slipped them on before walking over to the door a bit shakily and knocking on it to let Mark know she was ready. He was quick to open the door and offered his arm to her to use for support.

“I did enjoy that roast...may I thank...Jimin was it? It was quite delicious.”

Mark chuckled but nodded as he led her toward the kitchen; the compound was rather large Ash noticed and she was a bit out of breath when they made it to the kitchen; although she blamed it on her current condition and not being out of shape. The kitchen was bustling with two guys prepping food and cleaning dishes.

“Jimin! Come here, dude.” Mark called.

The man that was prepping food looked up and Ash felt her breath catch; he had raven colored locks that layered around his face just above his ears, chocolate brown eyes, full lips and soft features. He walked over drying his hands on a towel looking at Mark curiously.

“Jimin meet Ash Maddox. Ash this is Park Jimin our chef of sorts.”

“Nice to meet you Ash; hope you enjoyed the roast.” He smiled and his eyes turned into crescents making it difficult for her to keep her train of thought.

She tried her voice but only ended up coughing and then groaning as she sank to her knees from the pain of her ribs. Jimin was quick to help her to a chair at a table and grab her something to drink, Mark retrieved her pain meds from the room and giving them to her. A light sweat broke out on her forehead at the strain of trying to breathe properly through the pain.

“I was trying to say thank you for the food it was great. Fuck this hurts.”

Jimin jumped from her for a second before looking at Mark who nodded at him; she was indeed telepathic and Jimin was surprised she was able to talk to him that way. Collecting himself he put on his smile and sat from across her.

“You’re very welcome. Glad you liked it. You should probably go get some rest though you're getting ghostly pale.” He smiled.

“I promise I won’t pass out here. I just wanted to say thank you to the chef.”

Ash smiled but didn’t chance to laugh like she wanted too; the pain was starting to ebb away but it was constricting how well she could breathe so she rested for a few more moments trying to regain some strength.

“You’re welcome here anytime you want; if you get hungry just call for one of us and we will help you out. That guy there washing dishes is Jhope...he's the one that drove you here. He's sick behind wheels. Both of us man the kitchen mostly with help from Jin too.”

“Thanks...I’ll keep that in mind. I better get going so I don’t pass out in your kitchen.”

Ash smiled and looked to Mark who was already offering his arm for support; he led her out of the kitchen and down a few halls until he stopped before a door. Opening the room; Ash was greeted by a nice comfy looking queen bed, the lighting was set on low so it was dim in there and the bed was just calling her. Mark led her to her bed and helped her to sit down; he put her pain meds on the nightstand and moved to her bathroom to get her a glass of water and set that also on the nightstand.

“Can you lay down on your own?” He asked her.

Carefully Ash pulled back the covers and tried to lean back but it hurt more than she was willing to admit; Mark sighed as he used his mind to help her lean back carefully and cover her up. Once situated she was content.

“If you need anything you can call for me; also like Jimin said you can call on him or Jin. Don’t suffer if you don’t have too ok so don’t hesitate to call any of us. You can meet the rest of the guys tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Mark. I’ll keep that in mind.”

Mark left her lights on low so she had some light to see before he left shutting the door after him. Ash stared up at her ceiling...never would she have thought she would be in a place like this. With others that were like her, who saved her and cared about her like she was a real person. Not many people knew she was different and anyone who did find out would immediately turn hostile toward her or cut her out of their lives forever. Made for a very lonely life growing up; she was never quite sure what happened to her parents as she was raised by a grandparent until they passed away when she was still a pre-teen and now here she was in her 20’s doing everything as best she can on her own. Getting collected by the council had not been included in her plans for her life but she was glad she had found this compound with other gifted people. If only her ribs would stop throbbing so much so she could sleep some more, that was all she wanted at the moment. Moving around as little as she did prove to be far too much for her weakened state.  

The following day she struggled to get up but eventually succeeded and got a hot shower before dressing in some more borrowed clothing. After checking her reflection she pouted at her pale complexion, she looked sick and she hated that. Easing out of her room and down the hallway she remembered her way to the kitchen; the sound of dishes and sizzling of food had her stomach immediately growling. Using the wall for support she made her way into the dining area; chatter was going but stopped as soon as she was seen. Jimin who was cooking over a grill looked up at the sudden silence and beamed when he saw Ash.

“Good Morning Ash. Take a seat and I’ll get you some breakfast.” Jimin called.

Ash could feel her cheeks burn...the sudden attention on her was uncomfortable. A young man got up from his seat and approached her; immediately she braced herself in case he was a threat. He gave her a reassuring smile displaying his bunny-like teeth, his brown eyes bright, his dark brown locks a bit messy like he had been running his hand through it. His smile never faltered even when she regarded him carefully; he simply gestured for her to take his seat at the table. Ash was nervous but walked slowly to the table; using the table for support as she sat down gingerly. Other men sat at the table that she didn’t recognize and they all had curious gazes on her. The man sat down next to her with a smile on his lips again.

“Since we know who you are we’ll introduce ourselves. I am Jungkook. At the table here is JB, Bambam, Jinyoung, and Youngjae.”

Ash nodded her head as she looked around the table giving them a polite smile. Jimin soon bustled over with a plate of food for her and juice to drink; her stomach growled in hunger making the men around the table snicker.

“Eat up Ash before your stomach eats you instead.” Jimin joked before returning to the grill.

Ash took a few bites to calm her ferocious stomach; everything tasted amazing. The juice was cool enough to ease the dryness in her throat and she could already feel some of her energy returning.

“So Ash what do you think of our lair.” Bambam laughed.

Trying again she tried to speak but nothing would come out; frowning to herself she sighed before opening a link to all the men at the table.

“It’s actually pretty cool. Kind of like a post-apocalyptic zombie movie feeling. I can’t talk yet I think I messed something up. Where do you guys get this food it's amazing.”

The looks of shock around the table had her dropping her fork; feeling uncomfortable she looked away from them all. Did she mess up already? Weren’t they all gifted as well? Did she make a fool of herself? Jungkook was the first to collect himself chuckling.

“Now that is cool! What else can you do? Can you like control people with your mind or something?”

Ash shook her head; the rest of the table seemed to return to normal as well and the chatter started up again. Ash ate the rest of her food and spoke to the guys at the table when she had an interest in whatever they were discussing. Jungkook was laughing at a joke when he looked over at her and his face fell.

“Ash you’re bleeding.”

Ash grabbed her napkin and touched it to her nose; sure enough, she was bleeding...she was overexerting herself again. Cutting the link to everyone she kept the napkin to her nose, her head starting to feel a bit dizzy. Mark had just made an appearance when he saw Ash starting to sway; thankfully Jungkook was quick and caught her shoulders before she could fall.

“What happened?” Mark asked.

“She was just eating and talking with us...like in our heads, then her nose started to bleed and now this,” Jungkook explained panicked.

Ash was leaning heavily on Jungkook, her head was spinning and she felt like she was sinking. Mark kneeled down to her level and looked her in the eyes...they were unfocused. He sighed as he thought of how much Jin was going to give him an earful about her condition.

“Kook help me take her to the infirmary...Jin’s going to be pissed but she needs attention.”

Jungkook nodded quickly as he easily picked her up; she groaned in protest because of her ribs but Jungkook couldn’t do any better than be gentle with her. Her head was getting too heavy for her to keep up, looking at the ceiling as they went she watched light after light pass over her. Jin was not happy when Mark entered the infirmary and Jungkook laid Ash down on a bed.

“What happened?”

“She overdid it is all; she had a link open with five people at once,” Mark explained.

“We were just eating breakfast and were chatting when I saw her nose start to bleed, is she going to be ok?” Jungkook asked concerned.

“Don’t worry about it Jungkook she will be fine after some rest. Go ahead back to the others I got it from here.” Jin gave the young man a small smile.

Reluctantly Jungkook left. Mark waited for Jin’s orders. Jin looked over Ash; her complexion was a bit pale and was proof that she had been pushing herself too much. Blood still ran down her nose but it was a weak flow, he grabbed some paper towel and wetted it with some water before he started to clean off the blood from her face.

“Ash? Can you hear me ok? Don’t use a link just nod or shake your head.”

Ash nodded.

“Good. I want you to stay here with me today; you pushed your mind too far and you are too weak at the moment to handle that. I’ll give you something to help you sleep.” Jin was gentle as he checked her vitals.

Ash nodded again...sleep sounded good. Jin sent Mark away and gave Ash an injection that quickly put her in a deep sleep. RM appeared later on asking about her condition.

“What's your opinion...is she going to be alright?”

“Yea she will be. Her ability takes more from her than she realizes...she had a link open with five people at once. Imagine what she could do with more training? We need to help her build up her body and mental strength.” Jin sighed.

“Good thing I have two of the best doctors around then huh.”

Jin gave him a smile. RM left to attend to business. Jin was strict that no one was to come to the infirmary unless it was serious, he kept a close eye on Ash all day. When she started to look more like herself with a nice color to her skin and her vitals were stable, Jin carried her to her room to let her rest some more.

Ash awoke in total darkness...something she didn’t want to admit to but she was scared like deathly afraid of the dark. Panicked she tried to feel around her to figure out where she was; feeling the blankets she knew she was in a bed but wasn’t sure where she was. Try as she might she couldn’t get her bearings and it looked like there were shadows moving about around her; fear took hold and she screamed internally not aware she was broadcasting to everyone in the compound through a link. Ash fell off the bed the throb of her ribs stealing her breath; she crawled to the wall and felt along it until she found a corner and huddled into it too fear-stricken to move anymore. She could hear running footsteps growing near; her breath caught in fear...had she been collected by the council while she was sleeping? Was she going to be sliced up by the scientists now? She screamed again through the link tears running hot down her cheeks. The door to her room opened and light filtered into the room; the beam of light landing on her but she couldn’t see it with her hands covering her face, her breath shuddering out of her. The footsteps drew near and then a gentle hand touched her shoulder; she jumped looking up with tear-blurred eyes.

“Shhh you’re alright; take a deep breath.”

“D-d-dark...s-s-shadows…”

“It’s alright I’m right here, nothing can get to you here.”

Jimin was crouched down beside her with Jungkook looking on over his shoulder. The soft timbre of his voice seemed to be relaxing Ash and she was able to collect herself. Jimin was purposely slow in his movements so as to not spook her further; he gently grabbed her wrists and helped her up to her feet.

“Let's get you to the kitchen and get some food in you ok?”

Anyone who had been in the hallway made themselves scarce as Jimin led her out of her room and down the halls to the kitchen with Jungkook in tow. RM had arrived shortly after Ash had been sat down and given a glass of water; Jimin busying himself in the kitchen cooking up something for her to eat. How long had she been asleep? Her stomach was growling its displeasure loud enough for everyone to hear it. RM had taken a seat beside her giving her a bit of time to calm down more.

“Are you feeling better now?” He asked after he felt she was ready.

“Sure. I think I’ll be fine now.”

“Are you aware that everyone could hear you screaming?” He asked carefully.

“Huh?”

“Ms. Maddox you were screaming through a link with everyone here in the compound. Thankfully Jimin and Jungkook were closest to you and found you. Can I ask what had you so scared?”

Ash felt her cheeks burn; it was embarrassing to admit she was an adult and still scared of the dark. Looking down at her lap she sighed before answering.

“The dark.”

“The dark? What is it about the dark that scares you so?”

“Shadows.”

Ash refused to look at him her embarrassment burning her cheeks before his eyes. RM gained understanding and patted her shoulder in comfort.

“We will make sure to take better care in the future.”

“Here you are Ash, nice and hot be careful.” Jimin smiled as he sat down a plate of pancakes.

Ash wanted to just tear into the pancakes but she had company so she ate politely instead making sure to douse her pancakes in syrup. Jimin sat down across from her with Jungkook beside him; RM watched on as she ate. He felt partially glad she was gaining her strength back and yet a bit unnerved by how she could open up to everyone in the compound, what if someone outside could have heard and pinpointed their location?

“Jimin, Jungkook...change in plan. You two look after Ash for me; Mark is needed elsewhere for now.”

The two men nodded slowly unsure about the change.

“Ms. Maddox rest easy please. Jin will have all our throats if you don’t heal properly. I will send Suga by to look you over.”

Ash nodded with a mouthful of pancakes. The men sitting across from her snickered to themselves. RM left them on his way to find Jhope and have him do a perimeter check for anything suspicious should her link scream have been heard by council scum. Finding Jhope working on the ATV in the garage; RM peered under the vehicle at the man.

“Don’t touch a fucking thing!” Jhope called under the ATV

“Why not? It's not like I would know what I was doing anyway.”

“I’m not sure what's worse your natural affinity to break things or your lack of control over your wind currents that tear up my garage. Whats up anyways? The girl alright?”

“Yeah she’s fine...she got spooked waking up in the dark not sure how she got there. Jimin and Jungkook are going to take over looking after her. But since she was broadcasting I want to ensure no one else heard.”

“Fine, I’ll go. Send Mark out too, in case we find spies.”

RM nodded before leaving Jhope to his ATV; spotting the organized arrangement of wrenches on a table. RM picked up one and the whole thing fell to the floor with a loud crash, Jhope cursed as he hit his head on the ATV.

“WHAT DID I FUCKING SAY DON’T TOUCH ANYTHING WHY IS THAT SO HARD!”

RM dropped the wrench in his hand and sheepishly left the garage. Jhope cursing him still as he picked up the wrenches.

Ash finished her pancakes and sighed content. Jimin cleaned up her dishes before offering her his arm for support to go back to her room. Jungkook walked ahead and turn the lights on dim much to her delight; Jimin helped her sit down on her bedside. A light knock at her door revealed a thin dark haired man with a face of soft features and distinctive cat-like looking eyes.

“Ah, Suga just in time. Want us to step outside?” Jimin smiled.

A short nod from the man and the two others stepped outside. Suga walked over to a chair in the corner of the room bringing it with him when he sat before Ash. His features registered in her memory making her blurt out.

“I remember you. In the den...you helped me.”

“That I did. I’m surprised you remember anything from then, you were pretty far gone when we got to you.”

“I think when I realized you all weren’t there to hurt me I could relax. Thank you by the way; I heard you and Jin had to surgically remove the bullet from me and stitch me up.”

“It would have been a shame to let such a courageous woman die like that. You were courageous but also foolish for what you did. It could have failed and you could have been in worse shape you understand?”

“Yes. I had to risk it though...anything was better than being a science project.”

“Well, we are passed that now. Let's get a look at you and see where you are healing wise.”

Ash nodded but was instantly embarrassed because she couldn’t get her shirt off without help, plus she was sure she would be scolded if she used her mind to do it so she looked at Suga sheepishly. Surprisingly he smirked at her in understanding and helped her. Grabbing his stethoscope from around his neck he checked her heart and breathing, there was some rattling but he would sum that up to the restrictions of her ribs still healing. Her vitals were good. Removing her bandages he could see her bullet wound was healing nicely enough for him to remove the external stitches. His biggest concern was her inability to use her voice just yet; perhaps her vocal chords had been severely agitated or damaged only time would tell. Suga felt around her throat, the valley by her vocal cords proving to be rather sensitive making her wince. Helping her put her shirt back on he called for Jimin; who poked his head in from the door.

“I need your gift,” Suga stated.

Jimin looked at him puzzled as he walked into the room with Jungkook close behind. Suga helped Ash up and had Jungkook stand behind her as support while he directed Jimin.

“Use your water to first cool the inflammation on her vocal chords, then on her rib cage, there is more inflammation that is impairing the healing process. Careful though not too strong. Jungkook...hold on.” Suga said in a bored voice as he waited.

Ash wasn’t prepared for what was about to happen; Jungkook had a gentle but firm grip on her shoulders letting her rest her weight against his chest which felt solid against her shoulder blades. Jimin’s demeanor changed as he squared his shoulders...his chocolate eyes turning a turbulent ocean blue as he moved his hands in smooth circles collecting water before her eyes from the air. She could feel the air becoming dry as he pulled the water molecules from it, with a decent sized ball of water the size of a small melon collected between his hands he walked up to her. Uncertainty had her swallowing thickly before reaching up to Jungkook’s wrists for something to hold on too.

“Relax Ash he won’t hurt you,” Jungkook whispered.

Watching Jimin stop only a few inches away from her she was not prepared for the cool feeling as he lifted his hands up to her throat; the water stretched between his hands like putty. The water was cool but not frigid, after a few moments she felt the ache in her throat dissipate and her vocal chords felt immensely better.

“Nice Jimin. Now the ribs.” Suga directed.

Jimin was totally focused as he pulled back his hands; Jungkook released his grip on her shoulders and laced his arms under hers bringing the hem of her t-shirt up with him to just under her breastbone as he resumed his grip of her shoulders making her gasp. Jimin seemed too focused to notice the pink tint of her cheeks as she looked away. His hands separated the water mass in two and used his hands to focus the water masses over her broken ribs indicated by the still bruised skin. She hissed through her teeth as the cool water touched her skin, everything was still tender. Her body was tensing from the sting and a small line of perspiration started along her forehead, gripping Jungkook’s forearms for support she opened a link to Jimin.

“J-jimin can you hear me?” She asked.

“Yes.”

“N-not so focused on the inner ribs, please. H-hurts. Try lower to the bottom ribs.”

Jimin followed her directions. The relief from the focused areas making her relax a small bit, she closed her eyes to focus more on the soreness in her ribs to help Jimin pinpoint where he needed to go.

“Better?” He asked sweetly.

“Tons. Can you warm it up a bit I’m chattering my teeth.”

He laughed through the link but obliged and warmed up the water temp to help her out. Soon the bruises looked to be fading and the tenderness of her ribs relieved. Suga watched with a hawk eye as Jimin worked, he wasn’t privy to what was said between the two but he could tell she was directing Jimin where he needed to go. Might come in handy later on with patients. When Jimin finished he stumbled a moment before his eyes returned back to their chocolate color, Jungkook released Ash and she tested her arm range now and was happy to not feel any pain from her ribs. Clearing her throat she got a whispered Thank you out for Jimin who beamed at her.

“That was impressive I won’t lie. I will have to let RM know about this, Ash you might be more valuable than you realize.” Suga mentioned before he weakly waved and left the room.

Ash looked at the guys for an explanation but they just shrugged. Jungkook whistle behind her when he saw the huge scar from the bullet she took, Ash flushed and yanked her shirt down properly. Jungkook chuckled.

“No need to be shy I didn’t mean to come off that way, your scar caught my eye. I’ve got tons of them. Each with a story and now you have one too.” He flashed her a big bunny toothed smile.

“Kook has a thing for scars.” Jimin shoved the younger playfully.

“You two are pretty close then huh. Is everyone like that here?” Ash asked in a whisper.

“This fool and I are only close because we come from the same city, plus he's lost without me.” Jimin jabbed.

“I’m the lost one? Yeah, right your ass would have been squashed tons of times if it wasn’t for me you water brained mochi!” Jungkook shot back.

Ash laughed for the first time since she got there and the sound caught both guys by surprise making them smile in return.

Mark and Jhope had split up to cover the perimeter quickly; luckily they found no sign of anyone. However, they had seen patrols from the threat council compound a few miles away from their perimeter. Something to report to RM, wouldn’t be long until they had a run in with them. RM was not happy about the news but he knew that the council wouldn’t give up that easily; especially if what Suga had told him was anything to go by. They had to protect Ash and help her strengthen her gift. Her ability to create links so that she could project her feelings or thoughts or who knows what else were amazing and the council would surely exploit her and use her for nothing good that was for sure.

A few days had passed and now Ash found herself sitting on her hands and knees with sweat dripping down her face; Mark walking around the large sparing room without so much as a flush to his skin in exertion.

“You’re going to have to try harder than that Ash. You have it in you...embrace it. Follow your instincts and you will persevere.” Mark directed.

Easier said than done. She huffed as she got to her feet again a bit wobbly but still up. Closing her eyes she built up her resolve before attacking Mark again with a focused ball of energy he had taught her how to do. He easily dodged, of course, nothing ever comes easy when sparring. Ash braced for his impact as he darted around her shots, she threw up a barrier around herself and he collided with it bouncing back a few feet.

“There you go. Make it tighter, stronger, leave no gaps.” He smirked.

Ash jumped back from him and launched more shots at him which he dodged firing his own at her, she had formed a barrier around her arm like a shield and deflected the shots as she ran away from him launching more at him. The almost excited smile on his face was a bit disarming but she didn’t let down her guard, Mark was sneaky she realized and his mental shields were too tight for her to get a read on him. He promised to teach her how to do that as well at some point. More shots were fired at her that she deflected and as she ran she fired more tumbling away from incoming shots. Mark slung an energy ball at her that wrapped around her feet and tangled her up as she fell; she braced her arms for an impact but it never came, peeking her eyes open she was shocked that she was in midair just hovering. Mark walked over whistling as he took in the sight.

“Well, that's new.” He deadpanned.

“How do I get down?” Ash panicked.

“Um...I don’t know.” Mark tried not to laugh at her predicament while rubbing his chin.

“It’s not funny Mark what if I get stuck like this?”

“I mean Jungkook could always yank you down.”

“AND BREAK MY FACE!”

Mark didn’t even try to stop his laughter as he doubled over. Ash crossed her arms defiant and pouting at her problem. V came in strutting up to them silently as he swung a gun around his finger playing around.

“Whatcha doin?” He asked.

Ash yelped and fell to the ground in a groaning heap, Mark laughed even more before he gave V a playful shove. Ash got up grumbling about rude men never thinking before they do things.

“Ash here just discovered a new trick. Thanks to you she’s grounded again.” Mark jabbed.

“Glad I could help. Are you two done? I wanna practice some shots before dinner.” V asked still swinging his gun around.

“Yea I suppose. Ash go clean up you’re a mess.” Mark commented before sauntering out of the sparring room.

Ash was seething; Mark had developed a fondness for picking on her and pushing her buttons that he was succeeding in very well. Huffing as she left the sparring room stomping to her room; V chuckling to himself as he set up some targets to fire at. Walking down the hall fuming Ash wasn’t aware of Jungkook until he ran up behind her and grabbed her up in a hug, she yelped and then the hallway fell in darkness making her panic, her body tensing in his grip.

“Ash? Ash calm down it's me.” Jungkook instantly tried to calm her down.

The lights flickered before turning on again; her rushing heart trying to calm itself down. Jungkook patted her on her back after he had set her down, she gave him a weak smile.

“You look rough, what has you so bent out of shape?” He asked with a smirk.

“Mark!” Ash spit out his name.

The name alone was enough for Jungkook to get the just of the issue. Ruffling up her hair he walked with her the rest of the way to her room after she got in he said he would see her at dinner. Ash jumped in her shower so fast it was embarrassing how gross she felt, the hot water washing away all her hard work in the sparring room leaving her refreshed and clean. Changing into some actual clothes that Jhope was so kind to go find for her, she sported a pair of fitted jeans with a large long sleeve in gray the hung off of one shoulder giving her an almost childish look. Her hair was rather long so she twisted it up in a claw clip and slipped on some vans before making her way to the kitchen. Just about everyone was there already seated, Jimin was manning the kitchen as usual with Jin as his partner cooking up something that smelled delicious. Jungkook patted the seat next to him excitedly kind of like the kid he still acted like. Ash took her seat next to him and was instantly handed a plate of food by Jin who was complaining she didn’t eat enough. Jungkook was snickering behind his hand as were a few other of the guys sitting at the table. Ash scrunched up her nose and glared at her plate; it wasn’t her fault she couldn't pack away the food like they could she was smaller than they were and didn’t need that much food. Once everyone had their food and drinks; conversations started up and soon the room was full of laughs and good mirth. Ash was sure to eat well while Jin was staring her down, he was never happy with how little she ate but she ate until she was full no more than that.

The room quieted down drawing everyone’s attention to RM at the head of the table. He had a serious face on and the atmosphere in the room had goosebumps running up her arms, it couldn't be good news.

“As you, all know...the council dogs have been trying to find our compound for ages now. Many of you have run into them on your patrols. Jhope had uncovered some troubling news...they are using gifted in their ranks now, but they are hollow like and seem to be being controlled somehow. This is cause for us to be on our toes and always alert when we patrol, I don’t want anyone of you being taken in. Team up, buddy system, whatever it takes do not leave anyone alone ever. Gear up anytime you leave the compound no exceptions.” His voice was strong with command.

There was mumbling among the men; looks of uncertainty crossing their features. All of which making Ash feel guilty; the council was only out looking for her and could quite possibly cause all of the trouble. Was she really worth the risk they were putting themselves in?

“Stop that right now. You know better than that.”

Ash looked up to see Mark giving her a pointed look.

“I can’t help it; what if something happens because of me?”

“That is a gamble we are willing to take and you know it.”

“Still.”

“You are a part of this group Ash...we watch over our own.”

Jungkook nudged her shoulder breaking her link with Mark; she looked over to him. He was already grinning like an idiot at her.

“Whats up you sick or something? You gonna barf?”

Ash shoved him playfully making him snicker. RM was called away to go manage some recruits. After a bit people started to head back to their rooms or go do their chores. Ash collected dishes off the table and took them over to the sink to start washing them.

“You didn’t have to do that doll we could have gotten it.” Jhope beamed at her.

“I don’t contribute enough around here let me help.” She smiled back.

Jimin was soaking some pots on the stove while he watched the exchange. Ash wiped her hands off on a towel while the dishes washed themselves thanks to her gift; Jimin was sure he would never get used to that. Jhope was a beaming ray of sunshine giggling about the dishes washing themselves.

“Guys it’s not that big of a deal. I did stuff like this all the time before I was being collected. Although I have to say it was a lot weaker then...surprisingly I’m getting stronger at it.”

“Must be that crazy training Mark is putting you through.” Jhope laughed.

“Crazy is right! Geez feels like a man of steel marathon. But at least I’ll be in shape right?” She beamed.

“Just do us a favor and don’t push past your limits, don’t need the nosebleeds everywhere.” Jimin chuckled.

“Hardy har har. Because I totally do it on purpose.” She snarked.

Jhope excused himself since he was on patrol that night. Ash made herself useful and helped Jimin finish cleaning the kitchen before they sat down at the dining table with some sodas. The room was still with them being the only ones left, the silence wasn’t awkward thankfully just peaceful.

“Are you worried?” Jimin asked.

“About the council...yes. I want to do something but I’m weaksauce right now.”

“I think you are stronger than you know.”

“I’m sure the council has stronger foes for me than your dirty dishes.”

“You know what I mean smart ass. Have more faith in yourself.”

Ash pouted as she sipped on her soda. She was starting to get a bit tired of being treated like the newbie by everyone, she wanted to prove she was capable and could look after herself. With resolve, she finished her soda before thanking Jimin for dinner and she headed back to the sparring room.

Thankfully it was empty, targets still lined up against the far wall with tons of bullet holes in them from V. Ash stood in the middle of the room and relaxed with some deep breaths before working through some exercises Mark had taught her. With her eyes closed she opened up her mind and used her ability to feel everything around her, she could feel the dimensions of the room and everything that was in it. She put up a barrier within the whole room so no one would be able to enter without her access. The ceiling was high in the room like an aircraft hanger; focusing on her position she gradually started to glide up in the air. Upon opening her eyes she could see she was nearly at the top of the room, a small smile played on her lips. Maybe she wasn’t as weaksauce as she thought. Returning to the ground hovering a few feet above it she then tried her hand at making multiple energy balls at once and launching them at the targets V had so helpfully left out. An array of different sized energy orbs floated around her as she zeroed in on her target of choice and launched them all at it disintegrating the target. Elated was hardly enough to describe her happiness in herself, she didn’t want to stop there. Next, she tried lifting up items far too heavy for her to lift on her own, channeling her inner Jungkook with his super strength. She picked up a large pallet of crates letting it float in the air; setting it down carefully she returned to the ground herself and released the barrier.

There was a commotion in the hallway; Ash ran out into the hallway watching as men were running from place to place orders being shouted out. What was going on? Ash searched for Jimin and opened a link.

“What's going on? Did something happen?”

“Ash where are you?”

“The sparring room why?”

“Bambam and Jhope ran into Council dogs and were captured while on patrol. RM wants everyone to report to the kitchen. Mark is on surveillance in case the dogs try to find the compound.”

“Will he be alright by himself? Shouldn’t someone help him?”

“Mind yourself, kid, I got this under control,” Mark interjected.

“Wow is that Mark too? Just hurry here ok? RM is getting antsy.”

Ash ran through the halls until she skidded into the kitchen area, the table full of anxious looking faces and RM looking tense. He was afraid of something happening that he didn’t expect a sneak ambush to happen and so soon. Taking a seat next to Jungkook; Ash looked at Jimin who sat across from them, he looked worried as did everyone else.

“Well, are we going after them?” JB said a bit agitated.

“Of course we are. We need to make a plan first. This isn’t just a simple recovery mission we have to think about the best way to minimize anyone else being lost you understand?” RM said leaning his palms on the table.

“I say we make teams and attack in full force,” JB suggested.

Alarm ran through Ash that was like handing themselves over to the council.

“Wait!” She exclaimed.

All eyes turned to her making her swallow thickly.

“Think about it if you attack full force then you will be playing into their hand, what if they only captured the two to lure you out? Haven’t you been working so hard to keep from being found? Why not have a dummy team go instead...let me be the decoy. They want me anyways and what better way to find out where Bambam and Jhope are but get inside the compound to search for them.”

“Absolutely not!” Jin was the first to jump up.

RM put a hand on his shoulder to calm him; he was thinking over the idea. Everyone waited in silence. It was risky but thinking about it was tempting, as far as the council knew she was still barely able to use her gift, she had improved since then and would do better should things go wrong.

“RM you can’t be seriously thinking about this? It would be foolish to throw her to the dogs.” Jin grumbled from his seat.

“Jin...we must consider our options. Would you like your infirmary full to the brink or have our boys safely home?” RM said calmly yet his glare was icy with agitation from the whole ordeal.

The room was silent as RM thought about his options; what was he to do to minimize casualties and get his men back? He wasn’t too worried for Bambam; as airheaded as he seemed at times he was the wildest of them all being able to tap into a beast that lived within him making him a raging humanoid beast with immeasurable strength and the anger of a volcano all in one. Jhope could use any electricity around him natural or not and manipulate how he needed, his men were trained and had been through enough tests with Mark to pass any kind of torture that messed with their minds. It wasn’t physical by any means just mental but the effect was the same where the men became hardened. Could Ash handle the same tests?

“Please RM...let me do this.” Ash stood firm eyes locked on his waiting.

“This is an opportunity to see the extent of her ability.” Suga yawned looking bored by the meeting. 

“I know I am not the only one who has felt a change happening, besides surely we wouldn’t send her alone that would be foolish...so who is stupid enough to volunteer?”

Suga slouched in his seat lazily looking around the table. V raised two fingers in a salute before his pistol was swinging around his finger like a toy that wasn’t loaded and potentially dangerous. Suga raised an eyebrow at him; should have been obvious the trigger-happy foolish earth gifted man would volunteer. It was a tie between what was more dangerous his sharpshooting skills or his ability to control how the ground around him moved or in some cases opened up and swallowed people whole never to return. Jimin sighed but he raised his hand as well, Ash’s eyes wide as saucers.

“Jimin what do you think you are doing! No, I can’t risk you getting hurt. They need you here--”

“I am not letting you go alone. Especially with a wild card like V you need someone to keep him in line.” Jimin’s mental tone was final and left little room for her to argue.

She looked around her for anyone who could help her talk him out of it, then Jungkook sighed before raising his hand.

“If water brain is going I will too.” He seemed annoyed but the look of mischief in his eye said otherwise.

“Jungkook?” Ash whispered.

“I guess that settles it. You four will be the dummy team, get Ash inside find our guys and bring them home. Destroy whatever you can before coming home.” RM seemed tired as he directed. “Hash a plan and run it by me in the office.”

With that RM left the room with the rest of them looking at each other uncertain of what to really do. Ash turned on the guys she had grown so fond of, she didn’t want them to risk themselves for her and she was more than ready to handle things on her own if she had too.

“What the hell was that?!” She ground out through clenched teeth.

“Settle down princess; as cute as you are even you cannot take on the council alone. Plus I’m getting rusty I need the practice...my headcount total hasn’t changed in ages I need to add to it.” V gave her a wicked smile sending a chill down her spine.

Barely even touching his mind she could already hear how excited he was for destruction and his excitement at getting to kill council scum. Scenarios running through his head playing like movies in hers, men running from him and him picking them off like flies. Jimin had to shake her arm to get her attention.

“Did you hear me?”

“No what did you say?”

“You are going to need back up and someone to help if anyone gets hurt. Besides with Jungkook with us, there will be no door or person who could stop us.” Jimin smiled.

“I’d like to see them try me.” Jungkook flared his nostrils in a challenge.

What if it wasn’t enough? She could feel Mark trying to probe her mind; she locked down her shields tight rejecting him, not wanting anyone to sense her fears. Ash was worried she had grown too close to Jungkook and Jimin, they were friends to her and she didn’t want to lose either one of them. V was a different case; he seemed very childlike at times or completely maniacal when the prospect of firing off rounds came up. She was leery of him. Sighing in defeat she sank down into her seat again and hashed out a plan with the guys.

RM was not happy with the plan but he was not blind to the fact that the probability of it working was higher than his cons list. V was in charge of weapons and took to checking all weapons, while Jimin was in charge of being the navigator and medic, Jungkook was the brawn and driver for their ATV. Ash’s plan was to essentially to scope out the place before having the guys set up C4 around the place and blowing it up to smithereens. Was she nervous about the plan? Well duh yeah, it involved people she saw as her friends and she wouldn’t be able to forgive herself if anything happened to them.

It was going to be quite the trip to even get within distance of the council’s compound so they planned accordingly. About halfway through the trip, they found a small cave similar to the one Ash was found in; nothing like being all snug and cozy in a bear cave but hey can’t be picky when trekking through the wilderness. Jungkook had made good work of disguising the ATV so nothing would look out of place should anyone be patrolling. Ash had taken to set up a fire while V brought back a few rabbits for dinner. Jimin was setting up bedding for everyone. After Ash finished getting a good flame going she went to help Jimin.

“So um...what are we going to be doing about sleeping arrangements?” Ash asked quietly.

“What do you mean?” Jimin asked while laying out more blankets.

“I’m not sure you remember or not but I’m the only girl in this sausage fest. Do I have to like sleep with one eye open or what?”

Jimin chuckled to himself giving her a smirk.

“Afraid we are going to gang up on you? I thought you had more faith in us than that?” Jimin replied.

“Oh forgive me it's not like every day I go camping with three guys who mind you all have abilities that can or cannot be used against me it's a bit new to me.” Ash snarked.

“No one will touch you I promise. Unless you want them too that is.”

“You seriously just can't say anything without being annoying can you,” Ash grumbled aloud.

“Nope.”

V was efficient with preparing the rabbits and getting them over the fire to cook, Jungkook was nearly salivating just looking at them. Ash had thought ahead and packed a few cans of veggies and passed them around to the guys. Thunder rumbled in the distance and the air changed with the charge of a storm on the way. Ash was a bit concerned about how well the plan would pan out if at all; she was taking a big risk giving herself over to the council and she couldn’t guarantee the safety of her team either.

Jungkook nearly moaned after finally getting to bite into his rabbit; V was fishing out green beans from his can when Jimin brought everyone drinks from the cave. Ash was on autopilot as she kept sweeping her mind around the area for anything; her nerves were bugging her and making her fidgety. Getting a raised brow from Jimin she just shook her head before finishing her food; the rumble of thunder growing closer and closer as the storm built. Killing the fire the guys joined her shortly after, rain fell heavily outside accompanied by flashes of lightning from the cave mouth.

“Hope you can sleep through storms princess; looks like this one will be sticking around for the night.” V teased.

Jungkook was snickering from his corner in the cave getting settled on his small cot of blankets. The urge to cause him mental anguish was high but Ash restrained herself; Jimin nudged her to the blankets he laid out for her before going to sleep on his not far from her. Muttering to herself she laid down; setting up a barrier at the mouth of the cave both to protect them and muffle the sounds of the storm.

“I’m half tempted to leave that one behind in the morning.” Ash threatened.

“He would find us quickly he's sharp when he's on a mission. Jungkook is no different he is kind of animalistic like a Tarzan or something. Nothing gets passed his nose and he almost goes feral in battle.” Jimin said tiredly.

“Band of misfits we are.” Ash laughed.

Jimin chuckled to himself before falling asleep. Ash had a harder time falling asleep; nerves making her antsy and scenarios playing out in her head not working out. Hearing the calm breathing of everyone lulled her to sleep eventually in a fitful sleep.

Waking up the next morning they scouted out their target the compound; it was heavily guarded and everything screamed trap to Ash. There were patrols that seemed to leave the compound every two hours like clockwork; not even touching the minds of the soldiers she could tell some of them were gifted, their faces gaunt and their eyes zoned out. They were like zombies; what had happened to them? Waiting for nightfall the guys took turns resting as they prepared for the break-in; they had found a weak point via the ducting system. Clearly, the council figured people may be able to get in but not likely leave, a bit cocky Ash thought. V was the lead as they carefully snuck up to the building; Jungkook made quick work of the grate and everyone filed into the tunnel, the darkness was not Ash’s favorite part about it but she dealt with it. Jungkook was using his nose leading them to Jhope and Bambam’s scent; the tunnel ran under the floors of the building only grating on the floor above them allowed them to see here and there as they moved.

“Make a right here; I can smell Jhope strongly there,” Jungkook whispered.

Faint noises could be heard from gifted people who were imprisoned there; groans and frustrated cries. They continued down the tunnel until Jungkook stopped; above them was a cell with Jhope inside, Ash opened a link to him but was rebutted with a wall. She stumbled against the tunnel wall; Jimin eyed her curiously.

“There is a barrier up, but I don’t think it’s his...someone has tapped into his mind. I’m going to have to break it down.”

Getting as close to Jhope as space allowed she squared her shoulders before she started to unravel the barrier that was up over Jhope’s mind, she could hear the constant murmuring that was telling Jhope to obey and that he wanted to obey trying to brainwash him into believing he did. Ash gritted her teeth as she unraveled the barrier carefully until she found his conscience in a corner of his mind trying to drown out the murmuring with his hands over his ears. Ash reached out and pulled his arms down so he would notice her.

“Hobi we are here.”

“You can’t be here they said they wiped everyone out. I’m so sorry! I wasn’t strong enough!”

“No Hobi you are strong enough. We are here to get you out of here, do you know where Bambam is?”

“No. We were ambushed and knocked out the next thing I know I woke up here and this guy was messing with my head. Make them stop...the voices make it stop.”

“I will Hobi. Stay with me ok, I need you to be strong for me and be prepared to fight ok?”

With confirmation from Jhope; Ash continued to break the connection that caused the voices sending along with it a power play of her own that would surely give the creator of the link a massive migraine. Jhope seemed to sag with relief; taking deep breaths as he became in control of himself again. Jungkook moved around Ash when she gave him a cue and he picked up the grate pulling himself up through the hole. His muscles flexing as he pulled on his inner strength and ripped open the door to Jhope’s cell freeing the man. Alarms started to go off and lights flashing.

“Well guess they know we are here now.” V huffed.

V pulled out his pistols as he prepared for the oncoming attacks; his fingers wrapping around the triggers ready to fire away. Jimin helped Jhope out of his cell, Jungkook followed his nose down the hallways until he picked up on Bambam’s scent. V picked off anyone that came their way; Ash threw up protective barriers for incoming bullets bouncing them back at the enemy. Jungkook stopped in front of another cell and pulled the door open. Bambam’s small frame was strapped to a table his eyes glazed over. Ash touched his mind and found the same kind of barrier as with Jhope. Growing agitated she unraveled it, but when she found Bambam he was reverted to more of a beast than himself...being a dominant presence she got him to listen to her, implanting the need to fight anyone of the council gifted or not was all she could do. It would take more time later to bring his conscience back to normal and she didn’t have the time to spare at the moment.

“Everyone step back. Don’t look him in the eyes I’m going to let him go.” Ash ordered.

Releasing the straps on the table Bambam instantly started to change, his frame growing and growing until he was a towering eleven foot tall and burly with pure muscle, a wolfish muzzle with sharp teeth dripping with saliva as he readied for a fight. Everyone stared at the floor as he sniffed everyone before howling a bone-chilling howl and taking off out of the cell down the hall where screams could be heard once he came across soldiers. Ash felt for the brainwave signature of the person behind the control on the gifted; Jimin pulled her along as they continued on their way to find their information base to destroy it. Using the signature she followed it back to the person only to receive maniacal laughter.

“I see this little bird has learned a few tricks how cute.” He sneered.

“Who are you?”

“Curious aren’t we? I am the dragon...play while you can you will be mine soon enough.”

Ash fought her rising anger, she followed the signature telling the guys where to go. She would confront this person and take them down even it if cost her life. Taking out soldiers as they went; Jhope regained himself fully and was using the electricity in the building to attack or disable the mobility of doors. The way he moved his arms made it seem like he was conducting a symphony rather than controlling lightning. Jimin had water droplets surrounding him; when an enemy appeared the droplets would thin out into needle-like projectiles and shoot at the enemy taking them down instantly. Jungkook was a force to be reckoned with; he would toss soldiers like tree limbs knocking down groups at a time or would use a solid metal door as a shield for incoming fire.

Jungkook and Jhope continued to release more imprisoned gifted as the others continued on to the man behind it all. V was starting to act funny; he was shaking his head a bit like he was trying to clear his vision or something. Ash eyed him carefully as she put herself between him and Jimin.

“Hey V you alright there?” She asked cautiously.

The ground started to shake around them, his shoulders were hunched up before he stood up straight and they straightened out again when he turned his eyes were glazed over and his face was emotionless. Fear struck her as she quickly threw up a barrier as he raised his pistols at her and Jimin, a bullet nicked her arm but it didn’t cause much damage other than a flesh wound. Hissing she glared at V, Jimin tried to warn her he was a wild card and she knew he had a desire for destruction but she didn’t think he would give in so easily to it and let the dragon or whoever controls him.

“Too easy. How does it feel to have one of your own against you?” Laughed the man in question.

“You’re sick.”

“It could all end if you would just bend to me little bird. You can’t beat me at this game it's too easy, minds are so impressionable.” More maniacal laughter.

Ash grit her teeth as she kept deflecting fire coming from V. Jimin tried to talk to him but was answered with only silence.

“It’s no use Jimin he's under control, I need you to go find the others.”

“I’m not just going to leave you here!”

“Do you want to die here! Go find the others and get out of here. I will handle this. Trust me Jimin.”

Pulling back until they reached a hallway that split into a T; she held up her barrier until she could usher Jimin to go down to the right and look for the others. He was angry at her for wanting to split up but he did it regardless.

“You better not die.” He ground out.

“You either.”

Jimin took off down the hallway; Ash formulated orbs of energy to knock V on his ass and hard. Releasing her barrier for just a fraction of time she fired at him and he took a solid hit to the chest sending him down the hallway skidding to a wall slamming his head against it. Approaching carefully she waited to see if he would wake; he laid motionless on the floor. Disarming him she called for Bambam’s beast; she could hear him crashing down the hall toward her. Pulling the hold the dragon had on V she left him unconscious temporarily. Bambam’s beast came up to her nuzzling her arm, Ash put the command to take V out of the building as far away from the building as possible and not to return after. The beast whined but complied; picking up V with the utmost care like he was a cub. The beast took off down the halls leaving Ash alone; chills ran up her spine she was all alone now and would have to fend for herself. Being on high alert she prepared for anything that might pop out at her; she drew closer and closer to the room she knew she would find the man who called himself the dragon, the building was becoming a mess with wires hanging down sparking, broken drywall laying in bits on the floor and the lights flickering repeatedly.

Using her mind she felt around her for anyone who may be close; she was alone save for the dragon himself, his laughter still echoing in her mind. His amusement was grating on her nerves. Facing the door to the room she knew he was in she prepared a tight barrier on her mind and a barrier around her body; good thing too because as soon as the door opened he fired orbs at her pushing her back against the wall of the hallways. They burned against her barrier; the heat making her breath nearly leave her lungs...she could do this.

“Took you long enough little bird. Now are you going to play nice or do we need to educate you.”  He laughed menacingly.

His face was pale in color with pitch black eyes no irises, his mouth is what creeped her out the most it was sewn shut, the strings pulling at the skin around his mouth when he moved it. He could not actually speak she realized; the sickness of his mind was becoming alarming. He was standing with his arms behind his back in a black uniform like trench coat from what she could see. His dark hair was sticking in all different ways making him even more unnerving than he already was.

Taking advantage of her shock at his appearance he shot off an attack on her mind making her cry out as she stumbled back from the force. His laughter in her head making her clench her teeth through the pain. He was jumping in glee at her pain; he pulled one of the energy guns from behind his back and shot at her, there wasn’t enough time to put up a barrier and she took the hit directly making her fly back on her back twitching from the aftershocks. She did not miss that stupid contraption. This man was clearly insane and laughing at her pain, his black eyes creasing as he smiled and laughed in his head.

“Oooh this is the best, you should have shown up earlier when we were testing the deatomizer. The screams were amazing! Watching as the testers were disintegrating at a molecular level, their bodies contorting on itself as they beg for their lives...gives me chills just thinking about it!” Again he was bouncing about in glee.

Ash glared up at him as she got up again; wary of him as he was clearly unstable. Taking in her surroundings more carefully this time she noticed they were in a command center of sorts. It was empty save for the two of them; yells could be heard and gunfire could be heard from the hallway echoing from who knows where. There were towers of servers that could be seen and monitors all around the room that displayed flickering camera feeds from around the compound.

Hordes of soldiers running and fighting against gifted. Ash threw back a mental attack on the man who called himself the dragon; Mark’s advice to embrace her powers replaying in her mind, giving her a bit of courage and making her numb to diving into his brain and breaking down who this person really was. It was a painful process for both parties; he screeched as she dug past his barriers and picked through his memories, Ash gritted her teeth as she got deeper. His memories playing like movies around her; watching him being a scared boy who didn’t know how to control his power and being abused at a young age, the growing hatred he harbored as he got older developing  to a hunger for power, he wanted to wipe the world clean of non gifted people and serve as a leader of sorts over the world. But his idea of ruling was sick and twisted, he had no regret for the people he hurt who were gifted he just saw them as cannon fodder or collateral not as beings. His mind was leaving a sour taste in her mouth and nauseous feeling in her gut. She learned his name was actually Jiyong, he held his head on the floor as she kept sifting through his mind.

“GET OUT GET OUT GET OUT!”  He screamed.

Ash wasn’t going to let up; disrupting his control he had on gifted in the compound she could see some of them looking around as the fighting was happening and going on the defense against the soldiers who held them captive on the monitors. Digging deeper she could not find even a glimmer of the conscience that would be the good in Jiyong he was rotten through and through, closing her eyes she did what she hated to do but needed to do...she caused an aneurysm in his mind and he fell to the floor limp and dead before her. The compound started to shake and tremble underfoot; she thought of V, was he out? Was he safe? Feeling wetness running down her chin she wiped her face only to see blood...the exertion did not come as a surprise she had done a lot. Stepping over to the servers she produced a USB and downloaded everything she could pocketing it and stumbling out of the command center. Using the wall as support she made her way toward the noise she could hear. Opening a link to her friends she gave them one more command.

“Retreat guys, get out of here. Grab anyone you can and get out of here, the dragon is dead. I can handle this from here. Get out.”

She was met with refusals but she cut the link from them her head was pounding but she would end this here and now. Finding a center point where the hallways connected it she watched as hordes of soldiers headed her way from all sides; she would take them all out and protect her friends. Reaching deep within herself she let go; untapped unstable power being unleashed. It burned like a fire in the center of her chest, letting it take over with the only thought being to protect her friends. Her skin burned with the raw power; her vision whited out as she felt her feet leave the floor and the walls around her crumbling. The whole building shook and started falling apart all around her, soldiers ran in fear but were crushed in debris as they tried. All her anger being unleashed on the building and the people inside it; the discrimination for being gifted, the experimentation on gifted, the hostility for being different all surfacing making her eyes glow as her power took hold bringing the building down on itself crushing the enemy inside. Only a beam of light could be seen shooting up in the sky before everything went dark and silent.

Jimin and Jungkook were safe outside with V and Jhope; the rescued gifted watching on in awe. The compound was destroyed and with it, they feared their friend as well. Jungkook was the first to move toward the rubble, his nose was never wrong he could still smell Ash knew she was still alive.

“V get over here we have to get her out!”

“Kook what are you doing?” Jimin ran up to him trying to pull him back from the rubble.

“She’s still there; I can smell her...I don’t know for how long though.”

A glimmer of hope sprung up in Jimin; V appeared by his side and started to control the pieces of concrete moving them bit by bit, each slab revealing crushed bodies of soldiers. Jungkook picked up pieces of rubble and threw them aside as he searched for Ash, her smell was growing weaker and he was panicking. V removed a rather large piece of concrete and under it lay Ash; her body was in a sorry state, cuts, and scrapes everywhere and a large gash on the side of her head that bled heavily. Jimin barreled passed Jungkook only to cradle her head gently, pulling out a bandana from his pocket to add pressure to the gash. His hands trembled as he tried to wrap his head around that fact that she was still alive.

“We should get her back to the compound,” V suggested.

“It’ll be too risky to move her that far, call for an helio pick up,” Jhope suggested.

V pulled out his radio and called back for a pickup, meanwhile Jimin collected water from the air around them. He was exhausted but didn’t want to risk losing her; pulling on any reserves of strength he had left he used his gift to heal the gash on her head, the gash closing on its own weaving back together. Jungkook was apprehensive too, her scent was wavering and he feared the worst. Kneeling by Jimin he offered as much support as he could as his friend focused on trying to heal her as best they could. It wasn’t long before the hum of a helicopter was heard approaching; everything was a rush after that. Both Suga and Jin jumped out of the copter and rushed over to them in the rubble; Suga being the first to curse as soon as he saw Ash. Jimin was swaying in his spot as he tried to heal her with his water. Jin had to forcefully pull him away; Jin had Jungkook help him gently put Ash on a stretcher and take her back to the copter, Jimin was slipping in and out of consciousness so they loaded him up as well. V took control of the situation on ground level as the copter took off back to their compound, he directed the newly released gifted and offered to give them sanctuary at the compound or they could return to a normal life if they wished.

The copter ride seemed forever long, Jin had set Ash up with an IV and was working his hardest to stabilize her. Jimin was not in much better shape; he laid beside Ash on another stretcher he reached a hand over to her wrist and refused to let her go.

“Looks like we might have to use the chamber...this is nearly beyond us,” Suga grunted.

Jin didn’t have much choice but to agree; they had recovered a chamber from a recon mission of an abandoned compound that enhanced healing with a controlled environment. It had never been tested, however, their options were limited for helping their friends so what better test subjects than them. Upon landing at the compound they were greeted with RM and a few recruits that helped unload Jimin and Ash, a worried frown took over RM's face as Jin filled him in on their plan to put them in the chamber. Taking their two now unconscious friends down into the compound to a room restricted from most in the compound is where they stored the healing chamber, taking scissors they made quick work of the tattered clothing covering Jimin and Ash. Jin fired up the chamber and typed in commands for the extent and strength level needed for healing the two. With the help of the recruits, they were able to carefully lift both Jimin and Ash into the chamber and close them inside it. RM was patient as he waited for Jin to finish the sequence on the chamber.

“What happened?” RM asked.

“I don’t have all the details but I can give you the quick version I did learn. Ash took out a man who was basically the leader. Then from what I gathered from V and Kook, she told them to retreat and the building started to crumble due to her and destroyed everything.”

Suga was going through Ash’s clothing when he found the USB she had pocketed; ignoring the other men he went to his computer and plugged it in, instantly videos of experiments started playing with documents reporting of their finds and names of individuals involved. One video stood out as it was of a man who was bound to a chair; the video was titled deatomizer test 63. He was hit with an energy blast from the gun in question; he screamed in agony as his body essentially broke down at a molecular level leaving nothing but a puddle of blood and bits of flesh in its wake. Silence filled the room, RM was the first one to curse after a moment.

“What else is there? What kind of sick person would create such a thing?” He grunted.

“There are projects for higher powered energy guns, and other potential weapons designed specifically for taking out gifted and nongifted alike. There were plans for a purge of sorts that would eliminate anyone that was ungifted, this guy seemed to want to create his own utopia.” Suga grunted not even hiding his disgust.

“Take what information you can and send it to my computer, I think it’s time we expose the government for their involvement in this and demand our rights back,” RM said as his anger lingered under the surface.

Getting short nods from both Jin and Suga he took his leave. Suga ran a hand through his hair messing it all up in frustration, his shoulders slumping as he looked over to Jin who didn’t look like he was in any better shape.

“Do you think they will pull through?” Suga finally asked.

“I don’t know; I hope so. Kook will kill us if we lose Jimin. I’m worried about Ash...her pulse was barely there when we picked them up...who knows how far she pushed herself.” Jin sighed.

Mark came in closing the door behind him quietly and clearing his throat to let the two doctors know he was there. Giving him tired looks they waved him in. They explained what the chamber was to him and that because of the urgency they put both Jimin and Ash inside.

“Do we even know if this thing works?” He questioned immediately.

“We don’t but we are willing to take a chance on it or we most likely would have lost both of them by now. All we can do is wait.” Jin said rubbing the back of his neck trying to ease out the kinks.

Mark tried to reach for Ash’s mind but was met with nothing but silence, it was unnerving, to say the least. Even when she was unconscious when she first arrived there was still some activity, now there was nothing. He tried for Jimin’s and was met with the same result, it made him uneasy not knowing if they would make it or not.

The men ended up leaving the room letting the chamber do its job; meanwhile, the others had returned later that night with refugees that required everyone to do their part and accommodate the extra mouths to feed and bed. When things finally settled down Kook was still in the chow hall with Bambam and V. Bambam regained himself once he wore himself out and transformed back into his small frame in the middle of the woods naked, he laughs about it now but it was a bit freaky at the time. V doesn’t remember being controlled or anything he did while under the influence of the dragon, just that his clips to his pistols were near empty. Kook had filled him in on it after they got back and he relayed everything that happened to Jimin and Ash afterward.

Days went by as everyone waited for any updates on Jimin and Ash, Jin was closely monitoring the chamber and said that the machine was working it was just a process due to the damage both had received. To say everyone was getting a bit antsy was an understatement; Kook seemed to be going through withdrawals from Jimin, the kitchen seemed empty without his presence. At the end of the week, the two had been in the chamber Jin started to feel a bit relieved as their vitals were stronger now and there seemed to be progress on their condition. Now it was only a matter of time before they were healed.

Jimin could feel a gentle caress on his mind; he knew instantly it was Ash...her mind seemed fragile and uncertain. Reaching out to her mind he sent to comfort and affection through the link; he told of his fears of losing her and his feelings for her he hadn’t been brave enough to admit to her or himself. He wasn’t sure when it started other than that when the idea of her being out of his life at all left a gaping hole in his chest ragged in pain. He wasn’t sure where they were just that he felt warm and almost like he was floating, he had feared they were dead at one point and that everything was just a dream or something. But then he could feel her body next to his; not thinking twice he reached out for her and pulled her close to him, his nose nuzzling against her neck.

“Jimin...is this real? I feel so heavy yet like I’m floating.”

“I don’t know...but I’ll take what I can get.”

“I don’t know how you can love someone like me...I’ve done horrible things, I killed a man...I killed him and who knows how many others.”

“You did what you had to do to stop him, without you he would still be tormenting people and getting a sick satisfaction over hurting us. You did what had to be done, that others were not strong enough to do.”

“My headaches still...I can’t remember everything. I don’t even know how I’m here. Is everyone alright? Did everyone get out? Where are they? V! Is V alright is he normal again?” Ash panicked.

“Shhh everyone is fine, V was fine when the building started to collapse...did you know you did that? Everyone got out just fine and probably waiting on us as we speak.”

“I don’t remember any of that. I don’t even know where we are.”

“I don’t know where we are either; but I know I have you here and that's more than enough for me for now,” Jimin said nuzzling closer to her.

The feeling started to return to Ash’s body the more time they were in their suspended feeling state; with the return of feeling, she realized she was naked and so was Jimin. Heat burned her cheeks as she tried to open her eyes only to be met with a dim blue light surrounding them. Jimin pulled back to see her face; his dark eyes cast in the darkness that drew her in more and more.

“W-w-we’re naked….hh-how?”

“Beats me. Why are you getting shy all the sudden? You were just fine a moment ago cuddling up to me with all these curves and teasing me.” Jimin joked.

“I-It's not funny! Just freaks me out.”

“I’m not freaked out...we are safe here, I kind of remember hearing the helicopter coming for us before I blacked out. We have to be in our compound so there's nothing to worry about.”

Searching his face for any sign he was uncertain; Ash sighed when she found none. They were safe then. Relief rolled off her and through the link, making Jimin relax though he didn’t know he had unintentionally tensed up. Carding his fingers through her hair to move it out of her face he was taken aback by her appearance...it had changed. Her irises had changed color to a vibrant purple, she still had the same glowing skin but her hair had changed to a silver like color.

“Ash...you're beautiful.”

“W-what?”

“Your eyes...they are like amethyst and look your hair...its beautiful.”

Taking her locks in her own fingers she could see it was now silver, when did that happen? Why did it happen? Jimin pushed her hands down so she would focus on him; he was leaning over her with his plump lips just moments away from hers. Caressing her cheek he leaned in and kissed her as he flooded their link with his affection for her, his need for her and his desire to be with her from that moment on. It was so much information at once all she could do was let out a breathy sigh as he leaned further on top of her, needing to feel skin on skin and be as close as possible. She didn’t fight him; she would be lying to herself if she didn’t say she hadn’t felt something for him for some time but was too afraid to do anything with the world potentially being destroyed as they knew it at the time. Jimin’s need was making itself very known by the hardness pushing against her hip making her gasp.

“Tell me to stop now or I won’t be able to control myself.” Jimin groaned into the link.

“Don’t stop.”

Her body was already moving on its own accord, hips rocking against him, hands weaving into his dark locks staring him down as she pulled him closer only for him to cave to his own desire and crush his lips on hers trying to steal her breath away. Like the turbulent waves of the ocean washing ashore; Jimin got lost in the moment, his hands roaming anywhere he could reach learning every curve every plain trying to commit it to memory, storing away every sound she made every sigh every moan. Turning his blue eyes on her amethyst ones they lost themselves in not just their power but each other, the air charged with their desire. Jimin slipped himself between her legs; his patience waning quickly, nipping her neck and dragging moans of his name from her he nearly lost his control there.

“Less thinking more moving!” Her own impatience evident.

Chuckling to himself Jimin bit her bottom lip as he lined himself up with her entrance and eased in slowly growling at how tight she was, what made it even more intense was how Ash passed through the link what she felt. The pleasurable stretch as he went further; the euphoria she was already experiencing from being filled and wanting him to move faster. Was he going to deny her? Of course not; wrapping his arms under her shoulders to hold her tightly he slammed his hips against hers driving into her faster and harder just like she wanted and hitting areas she had never experienced before making her world spin. Ash was beside herself in the flurry that was her thoughts; everything could be felt from his point of view just like her own, every thrust, every groan music to her ears.

“I think it’s time we check and see if they are ready to get out.” Suga drawled as he walked down the hallway with Jin.

“I didn't think it would take this long, to be honest. I’m concerned on how Ash will be; she was very close to the brink of death even after all Jimin had done.”

“It’s not like we are pros with the damn thing yet.”

“I hate worrying you know that.”

“Yea yea.”

Suga pushed open the doors to the room the chamber was stored in; lights flickered on as they entered the room. Jin went over to the cabinets along the wall and pulled out some standard sweatshirts and pants to give his patients should they be well enough to get out. Suga was looking over the readings on the screen knitting his brows.

“What the fuck?”

“What is it?” Jin walked over worried.

“Everything is elevated.”

“Is it malfunctioning or something?” Jin tried to decipher what was happening on the screen.

Muffled sounds could be heard from the chamber but they summed it up to the hum of the machine doing its job. Suga dragged a chair over to the chamber to reach the observation window; Jin tried going through options on the screen to see if he could figure out what was going on. Suga slides back the door to the window and peeked inside; his eyes widened before he shut the door quickly and busted up laughing as he leaned against the chamber holding his ribs.

“What the hell is wrong with you?” Jin asked him with a raised brow.

Suga couldn’t answer as he continued to laugh and Jin started yelling at him for not spitting it out already.

Ash squeezed her eyes shut as she felt the tension in her womb then snap like a rubber band making her walls tighten and flutter around Jimin stealing his breath as he pumped into her faster and harder until he heard her scream as they both fell over the edge.

“Shit! Shit! Shit!” Jimin chanted as he emptied inside her.

He didn’t get a response from her other than the feeling of being high; he collapsed beside her drawing her closer as he pushed her sweat-drenched hair from her face and tilting her chin up for a kiss.

“I can’t feel my legs.” She laughed.

“Good...means I did well then.” Jimin chuckled.

Before they could get too comfortable the mechanical sound of the chamber around them startled them; Jimin instantly got in a protective position in front of Ash as the chamber opened revealing Jin and Suga. Suga was still chuckling to himself and Jin was looking cross at him as the chamber opened.

“How you doin Min? Have a good fuck?” Suga blurted.

Jin blanched as he looked to Jimin and then Ash taking in their appearances and then back at Suga. Then angry Jin appeared.

“You were laughing over that what the hell is wrong with you!” He pointed at Suga who just shrugged then he turned to Jimin. “WHY! IT'S BRAND NEW! YOU COULDN’T WAIT 20 MINUTES!”

Jimin had the sense to blush while rubbing the back of his neck; Ash hid behind his back only looking around his shoulder to see Jin’s flushed face before the man was silenced.

“Ash?” Jin asked.

She jumped at hearing her name; looking around Jimin’s a bit further she nodded to Jin. Suga held up his arm to keep Jin from getting closer and tossed the sweats to the two in the chamber. Making Jin turn around.

“Hurry up and get dressed before we have everyone down here after hearing this idiot yelling.” Suga snarked with a smirk on his face.

“ME! YOU COULD HAVE TOLD ME WHAT WAS HAPPENING YOU SICK LITTLE FREAK!” Jin yelled.

Jimin chuckled as he passed clothes to Ash who quickly tugged them on before waiting for Jimin to finish before he helped her down from the chamber. Padding over to the two doctors; Jin turned around quickly getting up in Ash’s face taking in her appearance.

“What happened here?” He asked picking up a lock of her hair.

“I-I-I don’t know I woke up this way.”

“Would you back the fuck up Jesus.” Suga pulled him back. “Looks like from exerting yourself you either manifested or altered your gift somehow that it affected your outward appearance. Let me get a blood sample from both of you to see what I can find.”

Suga left them to collect some syringes and vials while Jin was looking at Ash like she was an exotic animal or something. Jimin didn’t like the look too well and stood closer to Ash tugging her a bit closer to him.

“Alright, kids hop up on the gurney over here so I can get this shit over with.” Suga patted the gurney on the other side of the room.

Jimin grabbed her hand and led her to the gurney putting himself between her and Jin. Suga was as gentle as he could be with her as he found a good vein in her arm for the syringe; Jimin rubbed her back as he waited for Suga to finish.

“JIN! Get your shit together, get me some gauze and tape.” Suga barked.

Jin jumped before glaring at the younger before muttering to himself as he went to collect the items. Suga finished with Ash pressing the gauze to her arm before securing it with tape; moving on to Jimin who was helpful and already had his arm outstretched for him.

“Do you guys feel any different? Any aches or pains anywhere?” Suga asked all business.

“My head ached a bit when I woke up...I can’t seem to remember a few things. There are a few gaps in my memory.” Ash spoke rubbing at her temple where a dull ache still lingered.

“With as much as you pushed your limits it would be expected you would have some issues with your mind, what do you remember?” Jin asked.

“Um...I found that Dragon guy, I-I-I killed him.” Her voice dropped at the end, Jimin wrapped a comforting arm around her shoulders.

“What else?” Jin asked kindly.

“Telling everyone to get out...then nothing.” She looked up to Jin with fear in her eyes.

“It’s alright. We will take things slow, perhaps you will remember in time. For now take it easy until you are cleared got it?” Suga spoke up.

Nodding Ash watched as Suga secured gauze on Jimin’s arm before tugging down the sleeve to his shirt. Jin took the vials and headed out to the infirmary where their testing machines were; following behind Suga, Ash clung on to the hem of her shirt as she walked beside Jimin.

“I’m sure you two are starved; you’ve been in there for little over a week.” Suga drawled.

“A WEEK!” Both yelled.

Suga covered his ears as he glared at them over his shoulder; the two had the sense to look sheepish. They continued down the halls until they were reaching the chow hall. All conversation ended as they entered all eyes trained on Jimin and Ash, he squeezed her hand as they stared at their friends. Everyone was accounted for and a small wave of relief washed over her. Jungkook ran across the room and tackled Jimin knocking him to the ground like an offensive player.

“Had me worried sick you fucking water brain!” He chuckled as he helped Jimin up. Turning his gaze on to Ash he beamed.

“Look at you looking all fancy with a new look, whoa check out them eyes...nice!” He pulled her into a tight hug as the others gathered around to greet them.

Soon everything seemed just fine; laughs were shared and before long plates of food were pushed in front of Jimin and Ash making their stomachs growl loudly. Taking the time to eat and talk with their friends they finally started to relax that is until Suga spoke up.

“So Jimin you wanna tell everyone what you did today?” He smirked.

Jin still seemed upset about the christening of the healing chamber, Ash was pretty sure they would have to sanitize it for him later. Jimin could feel heat burn his cheeks as he glared at Suga who seemed to be having a field day at his expense. Jimin tugged Ash closer to him as he made everything clear.

“Ash is my girl now so hands off.” He pointed playfully at his friends.

“No that's not what I meant.” Suga chuckled.

Ash couldn’t bear it she jumped up and walked to the fridge to get a refill for her to drink her plate and utensils following behind her in the air distracting a few people. Going back to the table she figured she might as well clear the air and get it over with, setting her cup down loudly she sent a pointed to Suga who was enjoying himself too much.

“We fucked...there happy?” She growled.

If his growing smile was anything to go by yes he was. The guys around them were a mess of hollers of congrats or shock, Ash rustled Jimin’s hair before she left the chow hall a bit fed up with the embarrassment. As she entered the hall she saw Mark coming her way; his look of relief made her smile.

“About time you woke up sleeping beauty.” He jabbed.

“Yea yea gotta keep this face young you know.”

“That's not all you’re sporting a new look too. It's good to have you back.” He hugged her gently like a brother would.

“I was scared, Mark...I didn’t think I could do it.”

He knew immediately what she was referring too; he had taught her how to defend herself but he had also taught her how to kill if necessary. Pulling back so he could see her face he messed up her hair earning a growl from her.

“The first time always sucks no matter the circumstances; you did what you had to do and thanks to you we got all the intel we needed to fight against the government. You and Jimin have missed a lot. RM leaked the videos you downloaded on every facet he could you name it the internet, tv, streaming everything and bet your ass it got the government shaking in their boots now. They have opened negotiations that's where RM is now with Jhope and Bambam, using them as testimonies of the mistreatment of gifted.”

Ash looked up at him stunned; negotiations? Would they be able to return to normal lives someday? Live normally without fear of being captured and used as test subjects? The possibilities were unlimited and hope started to flare up in her chest at the thought of a normal life for herself and with Jimin too. Mark couldn’t help himself as he hugged her tight against his chest; whispering in her ear.

“Ash we owe you everything; you are the hero today. Thank you.”

He let her go and left her in her thoughts as he continued on to the chow hall; a small smile tugged at her lips. Continuing down the hallway she had the biggest urge to get some fresh air; going up to the garage she could feel the light caresses of a breeze coming through. Walking to the door she stepped outside and was greeted with a full sky of stars; the milky way seeming to smile down at her as she gazed at it. The breeze was lightly tugging at her hair making strands tickler her cheeks; a childish glee seemed to bubble in her chest and a smile pulled at her lips.

“Welcome back.” A deep voice pulled her out of her thoughts.

RM was walking up to the garage from the tree line; Jhope and Bambam not far behind and they already had smiles on their faces when they saw her. RM pulled her into a hug; she could feel the tension leaving his body as he hugged her. Guilt had her nibbling on her bottom lip; she must have worried him a great deal and she wanted to promise to never do it again but she wasn’t sure she could.

“You have missed a lot, but I am glad to say we might be able to return to normal lives again soon.” He beamed at her as he pulled away.

“What do you mean?” Ash was confused.

“The negotiations were a pain in the ass but I think things will work out in our favor; I have a few friends of mine who are supporters of our cause working laws and clauses to protect gifted and to keep us protected from the government and give us equal rights to those ungifted. There is the idea of making a gifted only neighborhood or city. There are tons of possibilities now all thanks to you and everything you have done for us.” He beamed at her like a proud father.

Her mind was racing and she had the sudden urge to want to cry; first Mark called her a hero and now RM treating her as one too had her feeling like she should be thanking them not the other way around. Tears tried to well up in her eyes and she looked away from him to Jhope who was giving her his award-winning smile.

“Hey, stranger. Digging the new look.” He chuckled.

Ash willingly walked into his outstretched arms for a hug. Bambam joined in hugging her as well, her tears won and trekked down her cheeks unchecked as her happiness went uncontrolled. A voice called out to them making them all laugh.

“I leave for a week and you all become softies on me,” Jimin called.

Ash detangled herself from Jhope and Bambam going up to Jimin’s side; he swept her cheek with his thumb wiping away wetness from her tears. Giving her a look asking if she was ok she only smiled and walked with everyone back inside.

RM gathered everyone in the chow hall and gave them the good news; he explained how he used the videos of the test subjects being killed and asked the government officials if they would like to explain such things. He also explained how he had shared the videos on every outlet he could and how the public was now aware of the treatment of gifted people and how their very own government had a hand in it. Speaking about the possibility of a normal life returning to them had everyone feeling hopeful. Afterward, Ash left with Jimin; he took her to his room and she finally got to see what his quarters were like. Pretty neat for a guy anyways; his bed wasn’t made and he had a few clothes draped over the back of his desk chair but otherwise it was neat and smelled like him...like home for her.

“What's running through your head?” He asked quietly.

“Honestly nothing...it's all so overwhelming.”

“Hard to believe it all worked out right? What will you do now then? Will you stay with us or move on?” Jimin asked a bit uncertain.

“That's a stupid question...I don’t have anywhere else I would rather be. My home is here...with you stupid.”

“Oh getting haughty now that you think you’re big shit? I might have to teach you a lesson or two.” Jimin growled playfully.

“Bring it on water brain.” Ash quipped.