yoonmin | 40k | by: GalsaegPiano
tags: mulan!au, abo!au, action, romance, slow burn, rated m
warnings: blood and violence
When the simple way of life for the Dìguó Tribes is threatened with war by an invading clan, all the alphas across the land are forced to join the army and fight for the head alpha. But Jimin is the only son of the Park family and his father is a frail alpha, sporting a lasting injury from the last war he fought in. So even though it's forbidden for omegas to fight, Jimin sneaks away from home to join the army in his father's place.
There he meets his alpha commanding officer: Min Yoongi, and stupidly finds himself falling in love with him all whilst trying to hide his omega rank and bring honour to his family.
➜ Genre: Angst, tad of Fluff, Historical, Mulan!Au
➜ Summary: For your loved ones, the people who are waiting at home, the people who have died - you will fight. And sometimes to fight means to sacrifice: who you really are and the person you really love.
➜ Warnings for underlying misogynistic themes, blood, war and death.
In one simple command, the comrades scream at the top of their lungs as they rush forward.
A blizzard of arrows swoop across the horizon and the enemies sprint. Swords clash in the middle as the two seas of men meet like the seams of two fabrics sewn together. It’s barbaric and vicious, a brutality that no one can ever be immune to.
The horses roar out, galloping ahead and leaping over the corpses, hooves marking into the dirt. Friend or foe, there is no fear. It is the destruction of humankind; a horrific massacre of chaos. There is mangling of flesh, pummeling down swords and battering skin. The sound of choking and strangled screams play like broken recordings, driving people to insanity. The battle ensues.
Every stitch and seam is mended by silk threads, each movement vital in order to keep the embroidery accurate; it is an art. An art that you are unfortunately unskilled at. One tug with too much strength and the strand would...snap.
“You did it again!” She sighs, ripping the cloth away from your hands to do it herself. You look down at your fingers, cursing in your head why your own are never nimble enough to mimic the seamstress’ motions. “You’re using too much force. Gently and smoothly, softly and quietly...like the way a woman should be.”
“I just can’t do it.” You throw your head back, groaning to the brick roof. “I’ve always been terrible.”
“You can do it.” She hands it back to you, making you hold the needle between your fingers. “Don’t give up so easily. The Y/N that I know is tenacious. With more practice, anything can be done.”
You give her a long stare before giving in, taking back the cloth to begin the pattern again. As you’re about to make a stitch, a few ladies storm into the room in boisterous laughter, holding rolls of fabric in baskets. “How’s it going, you two? Are you making any progress?”
Ara looks at you and then smiles, turning to the eldest woman. She stands up and takes the weight off the other’s arms. “Y/N’s doing fine. Her pattern’s just a little rough around the edges.”
“Oh dear…” The old woman falls into the creaky chair. “Well, at least you’re making some improvements...no longer that girl who storms out in anger.”
A noisy lady plops down the fabrics, stealing a good look at you. “Now when are you planning to get married, Y/N? And don’t you dare change the subject like you did last time.”
Your fingers freeze. Marriage?
When your eyes slowly travel up to the ladies settling themselves in, they all laugh to each other. “Yes, it’s time you’ve gotten married. I do miss the wedding festivities around here.”
“Do you need someone to set you up? I believe the butcher's son is at the right age.”
“Ah, but that boy is too much of a rascal. You know, I have a cousin who has a son who has a friend that might be really suitable for you, Y/N.”
Your mouth opens, then it closes and then it opens again. “I-I….uh…”
“The clock is ticking. If you wait too long, people might think that you’re unpopular for a reason or that there’s something wrong.” Someone shoots you a playful smile, trying not to sound rude but failing.
As the others begin to talk amongst themselves and Ara gives you a pitiful glimpse, you interrupt them- “I don’t want to get married.”
It goes completely silent. A woman drops her embroidery hoop. Everyone twists to stare at you with wide eyes as if you declared that you’ve murdered someone. Your teeth sink into your lower lip but you stand your ground.
“I don’t want to get married.”
“Y/N….” She calls your name in disappointment and with a sigh. It takes a moment for her to collect herself, and she takes a seat next to you, putting her hands on top of yours. “When I was your age, I didn’t want to either. But there’s not really much an option. What else are you going to do in this small village?”
“It’s not like you’re going to be a seamstress for the rest of your life.” Someone else pipes up. “Do you really want to be in this shack, sewing all day?”
“And what about your father?” The eldest lady croaks, still focusing on stitching the pattern. “Don’t you want to make him happy?”
At the mention of your only family member left, something uncomfortable lodges inside your throat.
“That’s right.” The woman beside you coaxes, “Your father is a very brave man who fought in the previous war. I know that your mother and younger brother have longed passed. He’s the only one you have left now. Who will support you when age takes him away? You’ll be the only one left, Y/N. I know it worries him.”
“I can take care of myself.” You rip your eyes away, putting down the needle and threads, pulling away your hands from the lady to stand. She calls your name again. “I’m….I’m going to take a walk for fresh air. I’ll be back soon.”
Ara nods, continuing where you left off and all the women’s eyes are glued onto you as you leave. They sigh as they turn back to their works, shaking their heads and not exactly sure how to mentor you onto the right path. The door opens and slams shut.
Your feet move quickly, shoes digging into the dirt and surely ruining them for good. It’s not ladylike at all, the way you hitch up your long skirt and stomp on the ground, rushing past wooden shacks and makeshift homes of your poor village. Your temper and muttering scarcely cools down as a group of young children pass by you, giggling and throwing several sticks around. You wonder when it was the last time you got to be a child, free of obligation and worry of filial duty.
“Woah.” There’s a wince and a jolt when you accidentally ram your shoulder into a stranger passing by. You duck your head immediately, focusing on the rags they’re wearing. An apology is about to spew from your mouth but you’re intercepted by familiar bright laughter. “What’s gotten the princess so mad?”
“Taehyung.” You look up to the blazing smile and a grin grows on your own lips, “Don’t call me that, punk.” Any animosity you feel subsidies and comfort washes over you. He laughs, lips drawing up into a wide shape, eyes glowing of mirth.
Kim Taehyung, your old friend who you’ve known since you were a child. The memories you have of the past all include him, whether he was in the corner eating away or threatened to beat you up, only to have you beat him instead; he was and has always been there.
“Ah...Is that why you’re so mad?” He tips his head to the side, gazing at your profile. “It’s so easy to get you riled up, Y/N. You never change.”
“Isn’t it just ridiculous, though? Maybe you don’t understand.” You grunt in frustration, not knowing how to explain the turmoil raging inside your chest. “I just…..”
You’re angered as to why people, everyone you ever talk to, insists that marriage is the solution. That you must be married because that’s the sole future that you have. On the other hand, you’re perfectly aware of the obligations that you are bounded to. In order to make your father happy, in order for him to live a good life, you’ll do anything within your power. But must you sacrifice your own happiness and well-being to fulfill your duties as a daughter?
Taehyung rests his chin in his hand, softening eyes that you don’t notice- “I’ll marry you.”
“What?”
“If it comes down to it…” He mischievously beams at you, looking away with arms behind his back. “I really wouldn’t mind either way. It’s not like you’d be the greatest wife but thinking about who has to marry you, I feel bad for that person...so I’ll make the sacrifice.”
You scoff, nudging him harshly. Taehyung laughs, grinning until his cheeks hurt. If you closed your eyes in that moment, basking in the cool breeze skimming along your blooming cheeks, you could almost travel back in time when your world felt…...simple.
//
The cane thumps against the floor with each step. The minute you place down the plate, you run over to assist, but he waves you off. “I haven’t gotten that old.” With his quivering hands, he barely manages to pull the chair out, and he heaves while taking a seat. “Maybe just a little bit.”
He laughs it off and you smile, filling his bowl first. “How was work?” Your father asks, “You didn’t run off, did you?”
“I didn’t.”
“Don’t let that temper get the better of you, Y/N. I don’t want to remind you so many times.”
“I know.” You sit down, the entire home in silence aside from the two of you at the dinner table. Taking a meager bite, your eyes flicker to your father whose age is displayed amongst the wrinkles marring his face, the hollows of his cheeks and the constant tremble of his limbs. “Have you taken your medicine yet?”
“After dinner I will…” There’s no more questions asked, conversations exchanged. After a few minutes, your father sets down his utensils with a sigh. “Tell me what’s wrong.”
“T-there’s nothing wrong…”
“Y/N. I may be getting old but you know you can’t fool me, right? There’s still a long way before I lose my mind. Now tell me-”
“What do you think if I got married?”
A pause draws out. “Married?” He looks at you in amusement and curiosity as if you’re a completely different child from whom he raised. “Why so sudden?”
“I-I...it’s just...you know, it’s time….” You don’t know how to explain yourself. Taking one good look at the old man in front of you, you drop your hands into your lap. “Would you be happy if I got married?”
“If your mother had gotten married because everyone was telling her to, and she rushed into one, I would’ve never gotten the chance.” He smiles to himself. “I don’t need a son-in-law or grandchildren. It would be nice but if you’re married, who will spend time with me?” Your father raises an eyebrow and laughs in a joking manner. “Y/N. If you want to get married then I won’t stop you but don’t do it for my sake. Do it for your own.”
“With or without marriage, I am already happy that you’re my daughter.”
Your vision clouds and you swallow back the lump in your throat, tearing away your watering eyes. Your heart swells and you can only be thankful that you have such an understanding father, someone who full heartedly respects your decisions and supports you no matter what happens. “I’ll make sure you live a good life.” You mumble underneath your breath, “It’s the least I can do.”
“Please.” He places a comforting hand on your shoulder. “I don’t need anything. Just stay safe for me, will you?”
You nod, ready to open your mouth and retort but there’s a loud drumming in the distance.
It shatters through the serenity, making you and your father steal a glance at each other before standing. You support his weight as you exit. The other families pour out of their homes and into the street. The dusk orange light soaks into your skin, rays hardly reaching past the rooftops. Three men on horses marked with the imperial seal ride to the center. The officiate in front holds a scroll and opens it as the villagers gather.
“The war is progressing! The enemies have reached the border and the front lines are being pushed to the brink.” There are numerous murmurs and you look at your father who’s staring straight ahead. “A final decision has been made. One man from each family will be drafted into the imperial army. Tomorrow, those who will be fighting will gather at the closest camp. There are no exceptions. Always remember that it is an honour to fight for one’s nation.”
“Father….” This is all too much at once. You grab onto his arm, shaking your head slowly. “You can’t.”
It’s a death sentence.
“The Kang Family.” The soldier shouts out, handing the scroll to the young man who scrambles from the hoard of people. “The Choi Family.”
Your father is ill. He’s weak. He isn’t even able to walk without his cane.
“The Yoo Family.”
You won’t see him again.
“The Kim Family.” Taehyung emerges, searching for you in the crowd and when he finds you, his eyes full of worry never leave. He bows down, receiving the scroll with both his hands and as another name is called, he shuffles towards you. “The Yi Family!”
Your father will die.
“Y-you can’t.” You whisper harshly, tugging him. He glares at you from the side of his eye and pulls your arm off. “Father!”
The soldier inhales a huge breath, “The L/N Family.”
The cane clacks as it hits the ground, your only family member left marching forward and striding towards his death. You scream outstretching your arm to grasp at him, afraid that he’ll perish in front of your eyes. But affectionate arms reach around your waist, holding you back. Taehyung spins you to meet him, cradling your cheeks between his hands as the pad of his thumbs wipe away the tears pouring down your face. “Your father will be okay. I’ll protect him, I promise you.”
“No….no.” You hiccup, trying to drown out the chaos around you. Your hands tremble as you touch his, head shaking. “He...he won’t be okay. M-my father will die, Taehyung.”
The boy exhales, not sure what words to say to console you. Instead, his arms shift, and he embraces your smaller body. He shuts his eyes, preserving the moment like it’s his last.
Taehyung seems to hesitate, then he settles with- “Stay safe, Y/N.”
//
The thunder rumbles the Earth, bright flashes flickering light into the room. The rain barrages and roars against the roof and walls, weeping for the world of warfare. Water rushing down in sheets, it washes down to the valley, drowning the land. With another vicious boom, you rise from your seated position.
Your father had not voiced a word, solely holding your hands within his own, warm eyes searching your face; cherishing each feature that reminds him of his deceased wife before he let you go. “It is an honour to serve my nation another time. Even if it will cost me my life.”
“Dad-”
The flame of the oil lamp flickers. Your shadow casts against the wall.
“Get some rest, Y/N. I want to see you before I leave tomorrow at dawn. Goodnight, child.”
You don’t know what it’s like to be what they call a ‘woman’. To be proper, filial and obedient, silent until spoken to, gentle and pretty. You don’t know what marriage means or what it feels like to bear children, feel their embraces as they giggle in your arms. But what you do know is who you are.
And you won’t pray to fate when you can mold destiny yourself.
“I’m sorry. I can never be the daughter you want.”
The wind howls. The downpour drums. The thunder and lightning rip through the blackened sky.
With haste, the ink smothers onto the parchment, your written words and apologies spewed out for your father. It’s placed at his bedside and you take one longing look, capturing a picture beneath your lids before turning away, stealing the scroll. In the other room, the sheath is pulled to reveal a smooth surface, a mirror reflection of your eyes. You press the blade against your hair, tearing the long strands away. Your locks pool against your ankles, threads that you tended to so carefully in the past, the same shade as your mother’s.
You don’t dwell as you slip into the armour, grabbing the only horse from the stable. It resists your touch, familiar with your father who has been caring for it in the past few years. You don’t give up. It backs down at your orbs shining in determination, face drenched from the rain. A saddle is placed on the horse and you give a whipping motion of the reins. It calls out, hooves digging into the wet dirt and your home disappears behind you in the fog.
Your father wakes up hours later, startled at how daybreak has begun. He scrambles, only to be faced with your letter. As realization hits him, he cries out your name. “Y/N!” He struggles out of bed, hitting the ground hard when he fails to get onto his feet. “Y/N!”
The old man clutches the parchment close to his chest, wailing to the silence. “Y/N!”
By then, you’re already long gone.
The tents are pitched high, flags fluttering in the slight breeze where the smoke of the fires swirl. There’s a horn sounding in the nearby distance. You bring your hand to stroke dotingly against the horse’s muzzle, brushing it once as you hand the animal over to a soldier who leads it to the stables. With your makeshift cloth sack in your hand and the scroll within the other, you line up.
“Name?”
“I am Junho, from the L/N household.”
The officiant frowns, looking through the stack of his parchment. “I thought the L/N household didn’t have a son. It says within the records that there is only a daughter.”
You give a humourless laugh, “There must be a mistake. My older sister died many years ago with my mother.”
“Oh.” He nods, feeling sympathetic to your family’s tragedies and not wanting to linger on the sensitive subject. “I apologize. We will get that fix right away…” The man crosses out your name and mumbles, “L/N Y/N is deceased.”
There’s a silence. A pause and a slight wind that blows against your cheeks when you tip your head up to the blue sky; a mute commemoration for your death.
“Alright. You can go line up now.”
The military camp is void of any colour, an ashen world with soil grounds. There’s synchronized and stern shouts in the distance, a group of soldiers practicing their positions while wielding swords. You can hear the ‘clanks’ of metal, the speed of the air rushing by as arrows smack on bullseye, the horses cry as they leap forward. Your hand wraps around the small wooden plaque that’s engraved with your name; the small item hanging off your clothing to serve as a reminder that it is the object your father will receive when you die.
“Are these the new recruiters?” A man in front whispers to another, smiling at the young faces that are innocently looking in the vicinity, not yet ruined from the adversities of the war. “This will be fun.”
“Listen!” He shouts, stepping ahead and the murmuring in the orderly crowd quiets down. “You have all registered using your family name, whether you are fighting for the nation or in place of someone in your family. War is nothing like you know it. Erase every heroic and pretty image you have. Take a good look around you…”
Everyone turns to each other and you lower your head, afraid of a stranger seeing through your deception. “The people you are standing next to you will most likely die. I cannot guarantee to any of you that you will make it back alive to your loved ones but remember that without your sacrifices, our country will be torn apart.”
“From now on there is no going back.” He sighs, arms behind his back. “I am General Kim Seokjin and the person to your left, to your right, in front or behind you is your comrade. This means if you desert your comrade, you will be executed. Your punishment is automatically execution.”
You swallow hard, shutting your eyes for a split-second. There are a few murmurs but it quickly becomes hushed when General Seokjin paces in front. “You will obey your superiors no matter the circumstances - going against order is execution. If you withdraw without being told to, it will be seen as betrayal and you will be executed. If you leave camp, you will be executed. If you communicate with the enemy, you will be executed.”
“If you let a woman into the camp, you will be executed.” At his booming voice, you hide your shaking hands. “If you know a crime and you do not report it, you will be executed.”
“Do not tarnish your family name. Do not disgrace your ancestors. And remember, it is always a privilege to fight for your nation.”
The general shifts swiftly on his feet, his reddened cape drifting as he walks away. You focus your eyes on his backside, his widened shoulders that have carried numerous bodies and have allowed thousands to rely on. Despite his kind face and upturned lips, General Seokjin bears an aura of earnestness; hushing the entire crowd with a single glance.
“How is he so handsome?” A boy murmurs to another, nuding him. “Isn’t he?”
“What are you, a girl?” Someone else turns, taunting him and another laughs.
You shift uncomfortably on your feet, hoping and repeating mantras to every deity that no one will notice you.
“You can fawn over his face as much as you want but it’s his strength that matters. And from the looks of it, it’s no wonder so many of his men have died.”
“Excuse me?” A stranger cocks up their eyebrow, barging into the conversation. “Do you even know who Kim Seokjin is? He is a genius strategist in warfare. Do you even know how he’s led an army of five hundred into an army of a thousand and still won? Not everything is about muscle mass and strength, you unintellectual fool.”
“Did you just insult me?” The brute steps onwards and the other man scoffs, rolling his eyes despite being physically smaller. “I could kill you in one punch.”
There are looks exchanged in the group, mutterings of disapproval and the remainder looking on in, anticipating for some kind of fight to break out. The brute has his hand curled around the other man’s clothing, arm ready to jut out. Unfortunately, before anyone can land a blow, there’s loud coughing at the front.
“Shut up! Get back in line.” A man with sleepy eyes, donning some sort of official uniform, scratches his head. He’s much shorter than General Seokjin but with a less kind face. He seems to have much less tolerance as well, even menacing in the way he sweeps his cold orbs over.
“Did you not hear what General Kim said? Or do you guys want to be executed?”
The threat is so lazily and calmly said that no one knows how to react. “It’s great that you kids have so much energy. Save it for the battlefield. It would be a shame if your heads have to be cut off.” The two drop their holds on each other, everyone shuffling back into their lines. The man in front mumbles a curse and something about not wanting to do this.
“I am second in command, Lieutenant Min Yoongi. You will address me as Lieutenant Min and nothing else. I will be training you all into suitable soldiers. If I tell you to jump, you will not ask me ‘how high’. You will simply do it. I don’t need any back talk or misbehaving. If you want to do so, you can do it in the stables where you’ll be sleeping or at the guillotine where you’ll be executed.”
You swallow hard, trying to pull back to blend with the others. He takes a good look at the faces and inhales, “Do I make myself clear?”
Everyone shouts in synchronization, “Yes!”
“You have all been assigned into units based on your numbers. You get three meals a day. You’ll wake up at four thirty and lights are out at nine at night. There’s an hour to write letters, do laundry, organize, shower or relax if you want but the rest of the time is dedicated to training. With that said, before you all go off, we will conduct a fitness test to determine your physical aptitude.”
“What?” You look around but no one even seems fazed.
“Each of you will carry the bag of sand, run twenty meters to that course.” He points and everyone turns. “If you can carry it up the wall and walk across the rope without falling or ripping the bag open……...I’ll make you a general.”
Several eyes double in size, your own breath hitches. Lieutenant Min tips his head back and laughs, shifting over and making himself comfortable by leaning against a wooden pole.
“Who wants to go first?”
“Me.” The brute pushes himself in front. “My name is Han Chul.” Lieutenant Min smirks and signals for him to begin. “This should be easy.” He snickers to himself as he hauls the bag over his shoulder.
“Let me remind you that it’s twenty-five kilograms.” The Lieutenant looks off into the distance as if bored. You go on your tiptoes to watch, palms clammy and nervous at what you’ll do when it’s your turn. What happens if they find out you’re a woman? What will happen to your father?
Your reverie is quickly interrupted.
“Ahhh!” Chul gives a loud scream, racing the twenty meters without breaking a sweat. When he approaches the wall twice his height, he uses his strength to throw the bag upwards. You steal a look from the Lieutenant who seems quite impressed, humming to himself but with a slight smirk that tells you he’s nothing more than marginally amused.
Chul leaps, trying to grab the top of the wall to maybe haul himself up. Unfortunately he misses several times, the edge slipping from his fingers. He curses and swears, the other new recruiters laugh under their breaths at his failure though anxious about their own turn.
He ends up being able to hang off to the side, not before falling to the ground completely. The bag of sand tumbles onto his body, breaking apart as he gasps for breath.
“Who wants to go next?”
“I will.” The man who was picking a fight with the brute from before steps up. “I am from the Jung Household, Jung Hoseok. As long as I can get the bag across the course, then it’s fine, right? I can use any means to?”
The Lieutenant stares at him for a long moment before smiling. “Yes. Go ahead.”
Hoseok gives a smirk to Chul who walks back in defeat, the latter man too tired to pick another fight. With a new bag of sand placed, Hoseok takes a good look at the premise. You tip your head to the side in curiosity, observing his every move and how analytical his eyes are.
He steals a rope, tying it around the bag and using it to drag the heavy weight. There’s a unanimous ‘ohh’ in the crowd, impressed at his idea.
Jung Hoseok ends up making the twenty meters before taking the rope and creating some sort of pulley system with the crack in the wall, heaving it upwards. You can already recognize for what he lacks in strength, he makes up with his smarts. Regrettably, a trickle of sand pours out when the bag manages to the top, the entire side ends up ripping.
A bunch of people end up trying, most not able to get the bag up the wall, others struggling to carry or pull it the twenty meters. Jimin, a kind looking man, ends up tipping backwards the moment he tries to hold the bag; he laughs with an eye-smile out of embarrassment. No one accomplishes the task and at this point, the Lieutenant looks bored out of his mind.
“Anyone else need to go?” He flips through the parchment of paper, finger going through the lines to read someone’s name. “Kim Taehyung.”
Your breath hitches and you immediately divert, lowering your head and pushing yourself towards the back. A few give you strange glances but focuses again as a hesitant male slowly walks forward. “I am from the Kim Household, Kim Taehyung.”
“Great. Now go.”
You watch through the thin spaces of people’s shoulders as your childhood friend pulls the sand to his chest; making you blink hard in surprise at his strength. He hoists the bag for twenty meters but doesn’t manage to get it up the wall, falling back and breaking the fragile cover. Some people beside you laugh and you give them a hard shove. When they turn with raised eyebrows, you’ve already disappeared off to the side.
“Next.” Lieutenant Min reads off his list and you pray you won’t be called- “L/N Junho.”
Taehyung walks back to the crowd. No one budges. The Lieutenant looks upwards. “L/N Junho? Is someone deaf here or did the fellow run off to the toilet in fear? Hello?”
“What?” Your childhood friend halts on his feet, frowning as he hears the name. “L/N….Junho?”
You push your way up. “H-here, sir. I-I am….I am from the L/N household.” Lieutenant Min gives a good look at you, shaking his head mildly at your scrawny form. You force your eyes downwards, ignoring the way Taehyung’s are glued into your skin, and he’s gaping at your presence.
“Y/N…”
It’s a tiny murmur from his lips that is all too painful as you brush past his shoulder.
The sand of bag is thrown in front of you, twenty-five kilograms that you know you cannot bear. When you grab onto the edge, ready to pull it as hard as you can, it doesn’t budge. Your feet are stuck. The other new recruiters burst out into laughter at how you can’t even shift it one inch.
You twist around, grabbing on the edge with both your hands, tugging with your entire weight. Still, — it does not move. Your strength cannot even rip the bag. The Lieutenant is staring at you in puzzlement, Taehyung with a huge frown and the others are either gazing at your tiny frame in sympathy or chortling at how weak you are.
“I can do this…” You mutter as you let go, looking around. A rope won’t be enough….
When you spot something and go running, the entire group cranes their neck over in interest. “Oh my god..he-he…” The soldiers burst out into laughter at how frantically you run with the wheelbarrow. The Lieutenant does not utter a word when you steal a peek and roll the bag onto the tray.
Rolling the bag of sand twenty meters, you find wooden boxes and stack them to make a staircase. “The weakling is a dimwit too.” Someone yells and you can feel your entire face flush, the sweat dripping from your forehead. You struggle to carry the bag, falling into the dirt. With a strangled cry, you stand up again, pushing on relentlessly.
The sunlight brutally beams down. Your hands are smeared and stained with mud. The boisterous mocking ends up subduing. It’s a pitiful sight. Ten or twenty minutes pass. Perhaps even half an hour. You curse yourself in your head, blinking back the tears of humiliation and frustration. You fall again. And again. Again.
As you’re struggling, the bag crushing your stomach, the Lieutenant gets up and approaches you.
His steps echo, getting closer and closer until his shadow looms over your exhausted face. Lieutenant Min moves back his leg and you’re afraid he’s going to hit you but instead, his foot makes contact with the bag. In one kick, the sand is off your body.
“Enough.”
“But-”
“Enough.”
He glares down at you, travelling away from your patheticness. “Last one for today.” Lieutenant Min reads the name next to yours on the list. “Jeon Jungkook.”
A boy no more than your age steps up. He speaks no words, simply lifting the bag over his shoulder. It takes no effort for the male to walk the twenty meters. When you turn to him, frozen in your spot, he ignores your existence. Jeon Jungkook places the sand at the top of the stack of boxes you made. He jumps up the wall, fingers curled at the edges to lift himself up.
The gasps of others are faint to your ears.
The male who stands on the ledge, looks down at you. The rays of the beaming sun piercing your eyes. You can barely make out what you see. His irises are a dark hue of cinnamon, coal locks that sweep his forehead. Sweat drips down the side of his sculpted face. His lips are parted, soft inhales and exhales releasing between them as his chest heaves. The man with doe eyes gazes at you for less than half a second before he turns and carries the bag across the rope.
Then...he falls.
Almost too easily. As if on purpose.
No one seems to notice this as the new recruiters gives a sound of disappointment at his failure, others a sigh of relief that he didn’t manage. Jungkook groans on the ground and Lieutenant Min nods his head. “Alright. Off to your bunks. Tomorrow, we’re beginning hard training. Some of you especially need it.”
The Lieutenant disappears and Jungkook brushes past you. “Wai-” He ignores you completely.
//
The trek to your assigned tent is grueling, your legs dragging your exhausted body away.
“Y/N! What are you doing here?” Taehyung grabs onto your arm and you click your tongue, looking to see if anyone’s staring. You drag him to the back in a desolate area. Your childhood friend is quivering, hand tightening around your wrist so much that it hurts. “Y/N!”
“Let go of me!” You pry off his grip before sending a glare into his soul. “I can do whatever I want, okay?”
“Are you crazy? You will die!” He grits his teeth, then looks away, choking back as tears begin to overwhelm him. Taehyung wipes at his eyes harshly and you begin to feel guilty for your sharp tone. “You’re going to die.”
No, I won’t.
You don’t have any strength to lie. “Better me than my father.”
“What are you even doing? Do you know what you’ve gotten yourself into? This is insane. You’re crazy! Didn’t you hear what he said? You’ll be executed! Aren’t you afraid?”
“It doesn’t matter if I am.” There’s a long sigh that leaves your mouth before you secure your hands on his shoulders. Taehyung looks at you and you feign strong eyes. “Listen to me. I chose to do this in place of my father. We both know he would’ve died here and I….what would I have done then?”
“But at least I have some sort of fighting chance. Believe in me, okay? Everything will be fine.”
You tilt your head to one side, lowering yourself down to meet his downcast eyes. You exaggerate a pout and a tiny smile sneaks itself on his lips despite him trying to suppress it.
“Will you stop it? This is serious…I’m serious.” His voice is not at all stern, yet his orbs are still full of worry and concern. “Y/N. This is war.”
“I know.” You stand back up. “I know it is and I’ll train hard. I’ve already promised that I’ll come home someday to see my father again…...at least we’re in this together, right? Together until the end.”
“Y/N…”
“Let’s go before someone goes looking for us.” You tighten your hands on his before letting go. And as you walk off, you spin around once more. “And also...Y/N has died. I am Junho.”
The tent is supported by wooden beams, tables on all sides with mats on each of them. Two people sleep on each mat, belongings stowed underneath, on the shelves or next to the wall of the tables. As you walk in, feet digging into the dirt, you find your designated spot. And your partner is the familiar man with cinnamon doe eyes and coal coloured hair: Jeon Jungkook.
“Let me switch with you.” Taehyung brings his things over, looking at your bunk mate.
Jungkook doesn’t respond. There’s a loud - “HEY!” - and all three of you turn around. It’s Chul whose fists are balled up and his brow is cocked. “Why are you looking to switch, Kim? You got a problem with me?”
“N-no.” Your friend shakes his head. “It’s just that I’ve known...him..uh Junho...for a while now. We lived in the same village together.”
“That sounds like an excuse to me.”
“Will you leave him alone?” Hoseok interrupts, “Why are you always looking to pick a fight?”
“Do you have a problem with me?” Chul rolls up his sleeves. “Last I checked we never got to settle what happened earlier…”
A boy you recognize as Jimin tries to walk in between them. “Guys, we shouldn’t fight. Didn’t you hear the rules? We’re all comrades now. We need to support-”
“Comrades, my ass. The minute we run into battle, I’m going to kill this asshole.”
“You better watch what you say, bastard.”
“What is going on?” The cloth of the doorway is pulled back, armour clicking together as Lieutenant Min steps in. Instantly, the entire interior of the tent is silenced. All twelve people deflect their eyes, sealing their lips. Taehyung even moves out his arm as if to protect you.
“Someone speak or I’ll punish every single one of you.”
“I...I-” After a minute of torture, Taehyung steps forward slowly. “It’s nothing. I just wanted to switch since I knew Junho from-”
“There will be no changes made. You’ve all been designated spots based on your number.” Lieutenant Min takes a good look at everyone’s faces, stopping on yours for a long second. For a moment, you’re fearful that he’ll point at you and call you on your lies. Instead, he sighs. “If you all have that much energy to want to fight each other, then you’re on kitchen duty tonight.”
Chul looks up, “But-”
“You will not go against my command.” He steps out. “Save it all for the battlefield, boys. You’ll need it.”
There are glares exchanged but no one dares to say a word. Taehyung withdraws as he looks at you in doubt. You nod to him, confirming that you’re okay. Jeon Jungkook does not spare much of a glance in your direction, much less than words.
When you sleep that night, he’s facing away from you and you curl up to the edge of the mat with as much distance in between. He is quiet, having a cold demeanor and seldom interacts with anyone. Though you can’t find yourself to be bothered to find out more about the mysterious man; not when all you can think about is your own life on the line and your father.
//
On the first official day, you’re awakened before the sun is on the horizon.
Someone clatters two metal pans together, entering each tent and shouting that it’s time to get up. There are a few groans and grumbles. When you stand on your feet, for a long moment you’re confused at where you are.
“Dad?”
“You’re not going to sleep until noon, right? Don’t you have a job to go to? Don’t leave them waiting.” Your father laughed at your disgruntled expression. “Hurry up. I’ll make breakfast.”
Except, you aren’t at home. And one look around, gazing into Taehyung’s eyes, slaps that message across your face. There’s no time to dwell when you have to race through your morning tasks, preparing for the first physical training session.
“If you want breakfast, run fifty laps. Then fifty push ups and fifty situps.” Lieutenant Min declares with hands behind his back. “You have one hour. Begin.”
It’s five in the morning when you start to run, shoes digging into the dirt and Taehyung is by your side, trying to match your slow pace. “Just-” You’re wheezing by the twentieth round, some are already finished and beginning their calisthenics. “Just go ahead.”
He peers at you with furrowed brows, “Are you sure?”
“Go Taehyung.” The last thing you would want is to hold him back.
Taehyung peeks at you one more time as he begins to speed up, pushing himself to the limit.
Your arms move back and forth in a repetitive motion, legs numb and lungs burning. It feels as if you’re floating, moving onwards but you have no control over your body. With your knees threatening to buckle, you simply keep going without letting them. And when you look over after what feels like an eternity, Taehyung is already finished and initiating his next exercises.
“J-Jungkook?”
He’s one of the several people left that’s still running. For some reason, he doesn’t look at all tired despite his slow momentum. There’s no sweat, he’s not heaving for breaths and his eyes are trained forward. He ignores you and runs past. “W-wait.”
It takes you twenty more minutes and by then not only are you the last one but your legs are unstable and you’re wheezing miserably. Lieutenant Min glares, the recruiters sneers under their breaths and you quickly move onto the other exercises. “If you’re not finished, you’re not eating.” He announces as he strolls back and forth, eyes sweeping onto you a second longer.
You push yourself onto the ground, struggling at an excruciating pace while others are finished.
Taehyung lingers but when you wave him off, he reluctantly leaves to go have breakfast. When you’re finished and a sweaty mess, the Lieutenant huffs and stands over you. He swivels on his heel and leaves. As you limp to the area, there’s one measly bun placed into your palms, stone-cold and no longer warm.
“H-hey…” You sit down and everyone at the table leaves aside from your childhood friend. “Don’t worry about them. Are you okay?”
“I-I’m fine.”
Everyone’s gobbling their food as if their life depends on it. In two seconds they’re done, and they glare at you when they realize you’re staring at them. “I can handle this.” You take one bite, chewing quickly but then-
“Your half an hour of breakfast is up! Get down to the grounds in ten seconds or you’re on kitchen duty! Hurry! Hurry up!”
Taehyung looks at you and you motion to him, “Go.” He gets up and you hastily stuff your face, biting as much as you can before running with a mouthful.
Lieutenant Min is already standing at the front of the crowd when you join. He looks and sighs, the soldier beside him beginning to hand out long sticks. “Before any of you get swords and accidentally kill each other, I’ll teach you the basic practice stances, defense moves and so on.”
The wooden bamboo is placed into your hands and you follow instructions on how to hold it, curling one hand over the other towards the bottom. With one foot placed to the side and the other taking a step, you jut out the supposed weapon exactly as he demonstrates. Except your footing is wrong and you accidentally slip, hitting the person next to you.
“Ow.”
“I’m so sorry.” You tense up but then familiar doe eyes turn around to scorn you. “J-Jungkook?”
There’s a loud ‘ahem’ at the front. Everyone’s turned to stare at you two. Lieutenant Min moves up his eyebrow. “Is there an issue? Are we interrupting your tea party?”
“N-no. I’m sorry.” You bow from your waist, others chuckling and smirking at you. The Lieutenant leaves another experienced soldier to continue showing the stances as he paces. Jungkook glowers at you for drawing unnecessary attention and you focus staring at the ground.
“Practice the stances and the defense moves with the person to your left.”
“Are you not going to do it?” It’s the first full sentence or rather question that the man asks you. His voice is smooth and unlike what you expected it to be. You find yourself blinking with a dazed expression. Jungkook sighs as he pokes you with the stick. “Can you hear me?”
You clear your throat, “Yes. I can.”
His stick moves against yours and you frantically defend when he strikes an attack. From his strength, you sway backwards, bumping into someone else. “Hey!” Chul faces you, “You have a problem?”
“No.” You bow your head but clench your jaw in anger. “I’m sorry.”
Jungkook scowls at you, a permanent scrunch between his brows like you’re nothing more than a nuisance. Instead of switching back and forth between the offense and defense, he decides to strike hard three times in rapid succession. Your stick ends up flying to the ground with a strangled cry, his hits nearly making impact on your hand. “What’s wrong with you?”
“Can you not even handle this much?”
It’s a quiet mutter that you hear all too clear. You open your mouth to go off on him, tired of keeping your temper subdued but then Lieutenant Min walks by wearing an unimpressed expression. Your spiteful partner looks away, swiping your bamboo off the ground and throwing it to you. “Again.”
As if your bunk mate hating your guts, glaring at you every time he hits you wasn’t enough then when you’re holding the bow between your fingers and every arrow hits the grass. Your supposed comrades laugh behind your back, the Lieutenant frowns at your every blunder and Taehyung can’t do much to help. It’s frustrating and you’re angry with your own abilities or lack thereof. No matter how much you wail inside your head, your body won’t listen.
There seems to be only humiliation in the cards.
“Hand to hand combat is without weapons. It requires strength, agility and alertness.”
“Taehyung.” You frown as you dodge his easy punch in the air. “Hit me.”
“No!” He whispers harshly through his teeth, “I’m not going to hit you!”
He is obviously trying not to hurt you, punching in the air and missing your face by a ton. Each of his kicks, jabs and blows are weak and strengthless. Part of you and your aching muscles are thankful for the consideration. But Lieutenant Min is staring right at you two, as if able to decipher exactly what’s going on.
“Stop.”
All the soldiers freeze in their movements. “You there.” The Lieutenant points beside you, “What is your name?”
“K-Kim Taehyung...sir….”
“You can be my demonstrator. Get over here.”
He exchanges a look with you, teeth sinking into his lower lip nervously. Taehyung walks forward-
And you block him. “I can be your demonstrator.”
Lieutenant Min chuckles breathlessly, amused at your courage. He motions for you and you take a deep breath, walking out of the crowd and ignoring the countless faces who gawk, wondering if you’re just plain stupid.
“I expect everyone…” The man moves towards you, smashing his fist right where your cheek is. Luckily you dodge in time, eyes widening and ears tingling as the wind from his fluid movement whistles. “...to take my training seriously.”
You defend yourself, blocking with your arms in an x shape, but he still thrusts his clenched hand out, making you stumble back in a cry. A few people wince away. No one dares to laugh.
It is the quietest you’ve ever heard in the camp.
His voice booms, exploding in your ears in the close proximity.
“This is war.”
The lieutenant strikes a kick at your knees, making them buckle. “This isn’t some sympathy game.”
When you stand back up, wobbling on your feet and coughing for air, he kicks you straight in the stomach. “I can’t have my soldiers incapable of fighting. Get up!”
You obey his will, gritting your teeth and forcing your screaming body to stand. As Lieutenant Min moves to kick you again, you deflect successfully. Only, he bashes your stomach again and you cry out in pain, landing on your back in the dirt. “You don’t want to die, do you? Stand!”
Taehyung looks at you in horror, on the verge of crying. Your vision swirls, each wound throbbing with a newfound pain. Your face is smeared with dirt, bruises and bleeding slashes. “I said stand up!”
Some soldiers look at you in pitifulness as if telling you to give up, not to be stubborn.
Part of you wants to lay and sink into the Earth, close your eyes and embrace the wind that caresses your cheeks. But you find your father’s aged face behind your lids, his gentle smile and hand that brushed your hair when you were merely a young child who had lost a brother and a mother.
“Is this how you do it?” He asked, sharply inhaling while he secured bands around your messy braids. “How was your mom so talented at this?”
“I can do it.”
Your father gently slapped your hands away, “No. I can do it for you. You mustn't give up before you try...remember that.”
You find the strength to stand again, slowly kneeling and heaving your body upwards.
“I don’t want to die.”
Min Yoongi smirks at your resolve. “Good.” He walks forward, “But your determination-” The Lieutenant bends and lands a kick to the side of your abdomen. You do not waver. “-isn’t enough.”
You try your best to defend yourself. He lands a punch to your shoulder, another swing towards your legs. Your body staggers against your wishes, feet planted deep into the dirt, mind screaming to fight. “You’re still…” His fist collides against your ribs and you cry out, falling back.
“...a weakling.”
The world is spinning. Time passes and you stay where you are. Your legs are bruised, stomach convulsing with each pathetic cough. Scarlet liquid leaks from your mouth and stains against your lips. The sound of feet on gravel lets you know that everyone is walking away. When you look upwards, you find a man with coal locks and cinnamon hued irises staring back at you. The sunlight pierces past him, his shadow looming.
His eyes are void of any emotion.
//
The lights are off, the darkness of the night has settled to occupy each empty space.
There are soft snores interrupting the void. You’re lying on your back, staring up at the ceiling and unable to catch a wink of sleep that you know you desperately need. It was only the first day, yet, your limbs are numb. Your body feels like it’s being ripped apart, aching and sore on each muscle and bone; a skull that throbs, skin raw and tender, every injury swollen and stinging. It hurts to even shift on the hard mat.
“No...please…” There’s a quiet voice next to your ear, whimpers and mumbles of agony causing goosebumps to rise. When you turn your head and wince from the movement, you find Jungkook thrashing in his sleep. There’s a frown marring his face, locked down by some sort of nightmare. His black hair hides his soaked forehead. He cries softly between parted lips.
The man might’ve been ruthless to you. But in the moment of drowning in the lonely twilight, you find sympathy in your heart.
You shift closer to him and you lift a hand, bringing it to wrap around his.
Jungkook’s whimpers become silenced.
//
It’s a bit difficult to ignore the stares and the name-calling. Somehow you’ve been known as ‘weakling’ around camp, amongst new recruiters and experienced soldiers. They watch you, bumping in purposely and snickering when you stagger. But it’s even harder to keep your temper in balance, jaw clenched and teeth gritted, your hand clasped together into a fist as you quickly walk away. The only thing that keeps you calm is the fact that you’re more concentrated on-
“Jungkook!” You’re rushing past the clusters of people, trying to grab his arm. “Jeon Jungkook!”
“What do you want from me?” He harshly spits out, turning on his heel abruptly and nearly making you bump into his chest. His face is mere millimeters away from yours and you step back, afraid that your cover will be blown.
“I...uh-...” You clear your throat, shifting your tone into a lower pitch like you’ve been doing since you arrived at the camp. “I wanted to ask how you were doing. Since..um….I noticed you had a nightmare last night.”
He scoffs, turning around.
“Wait! Can you listen to me just once?” When you reach around to grab his wrist, angered that he consistently brushes you off — “Jungkook!” — he shoves your grip off.
“Let go of me!”
You stumble on your feet. His excessive strength causes you to fall back. Jungkook’s hand reaches out but it’s too late. He snatches the air in front of you. And then there’s a loud ‘crash’.
A cry sounds from your lips as you withdraw your hand, a fresh wound imprinting red into your skin from pressing onto the hot, metal container. The breakfast that was supposed to be served is spilt onto the dirt ground. “You really did it this time, weakling.” A soldier shakes his head and sighs at you. There’s a crowd forming, all looking down at you in pity or disgust.
“Will he get executed?”
“At this point...I wouldn’t doubt it.”
“What’s going on here?” The Lieutenant pushes himself through before his gaze lands on you and the food that has gone to waste. You sharply inhale, shifting your glare at Jungkook; the man avoiding your eyes completely. Taehyung joins the hoard of people surrounding you. He opens his mouth to ask you what’s going on but closes it. His brows are furrowed and concern marks across his features.
Lieutenant Min’s voice is icy- “Explain yourself, soldier.”
“It’s...I-...”
The high rank officer follows where your vision is pinned. “Did you do this?”
Jungkook opens his mouth- “I..”
And you interrupt. “I did.” Your comrades sigh and the Lieutenant chuckles out of disbelief. “I tripped. It was an accident.”
You challenge Min Yoongi, orbs boring into his own, unwavering and flames igniting underneath your pupils. He lowers himself to meet your height. “Then you must understand that what you’ve done has cost all these soldiers their meal? You’ve wasted food on your idiotic mistake.” You swallow hard, mustering your courage to face the man who is murderous. “Not only will you pick up each piece and clean it up but you will lower your head and apologize to your fellow comrades for spilling their food. After you’re done, I do not want to see your face again.”
“And since you’re so keen on using wheelbarrows…” He stands up again. “....run two hundred laps around the area with it. Maybe you’ll be less idiotic when you’re less weak. Don’t rest until you’re done. ”
“Yes, sir.” You falter trying to get onto your feet. Taehyung reaches out to steady you but retracts when you manage. “I’m sorry. It was my fault. I made a huge mistake.” You’re bowing from your waist downwards, facing the others who can only exhale in annoyance. “I’m sorry.”
No one watches when you start picking up every single piece, brushing off the grains of dirt and ignoring the sting of your burn. Even your childhood friend is dragged away for training.
“This is your last chance.” Min Yoongi’s shadow hovers over you. “Are you sure there is no one else to blame?”
Your teeth sink into your bottom lip.
Even if you blurted the truth, what would be the point if Jungkook was punished with you? Part of you wants the man to feel guilt, let it eat him alive, allow him to brood over his mistakes and be thankful that you took the fall. But a larger part can’t help but feel…..empathy for him.
There’s just something about Jeon Jungkook that you can’t quite pinpoint.
You shake your head, “There is no one else.”
//
The grip of the wheelbarrow is around your waist, five sandbags packed onto the tray as you drag it with you. You can’t see straight. Your feet continue to move. Sweat drips from your skin like you’ve dunked your body into a lake. The sun is now on the skyline, evening tide trickling light into the sky. You’ve lost count of how many laps you’ve done, the pain around your waist too hard to bear, much less concentrate on counting.
“How long has he been running for?” Chul watches from the side, rather feeling sorry for you and the poor state that you’re in.
Hoseok hums for a long time, “Twelve hours?”
“Has he even drank any water since?”
“No.” Taehyung swallows hard, biting back tears that brim his eyes. This isn’t the girl that he remembers - the one who has a joyful and bright smile, whose face wasn’t dirtied by mud, a spirit that was always filled with energy. If he closes his eyes, he can see the twirl of your dress, your smile and your name being called upon his lips - “Taehyung!”. But perhaps you haven’t changed at all. The recklessness, stubborn traits still linger in your tired eyes. “He hasn’t stopped.”
“He should just beg for forgiveness.” Namjoon, an experienced soldier, appears to observe. “At this rate, he might die.”
“It’s...worse than an execution.” Jimin shudders, turning to his fellow comrades. “Maybe we can coax the General or something. Lieutenant Min might forgive him now.”
All the men exchange looks with each other, considering the idea.
Jungkook pushes past them, striding into the field without uttering a word. Their eyes double and their necks crane, following his form. At the same time, Lieutenant Min exits his tent and looks on.
A breath wheezes out of your lungs. Your lips are parched. You can’t see what’s in front of you, the weight dragging you down and when your mind manages to catch up that you’re about to faint-
“Jungkook?” A strong hand wraps around your wrist, forcing you to stop. The grip of the wheelbarrow falls from your grasps. “Wha-”
“Stop.”
He doesn’t ask why your wrist is so small, fitting perfectly into his palm. He doesn’t ask why you took the blame for him, why you’re such an idiot. Jungkook drags you away and when you limp from weakened legs, stomach compressing in emptiness, he wraps his arm around your shoulder to support your weight.
“You are not to go against my orders.” The Lieutenant calls out in a stern voice behind the two of you. “It is your duty to obey your superiors.”
Jungkook turns around and narrows his eyes. “But it’s also my duty not to betray my comrades and leave them to die.” Lieutenant Min smirks at his response.
You don’t know what your bunk mate is doing but you’re too feeble to fight back. The man simply whisks you away. And in doing so, you don’t notice the frown that washes across his features...wondering why your hand is so soft.
“Here.”
You’re sitting on the table where the mat is, tent empty except for you and him. “What?” You stare down at the bandages placed in your fists.
“For your burn.” He raises his brow like it’s obvious. “From this morning. Do you not remember?”
“I...I do.” You unconsciously pout, slightly upset that he insinuated you were stupid enough to forget what happened earlier that day. You were just surprised he remembered.
Jungkook shifts with his belongings and then plops a warm steam bun into your hands after you’re done bandaging. “Isn’t this yours?”
“It’s yours.” At every meal time, one person is only allowed a single portion - no more and no less. You’ve already missed your dinner…
He smiles when you blink at him in confusion, cheeks slightly swelling and giving him a more boyish look. “Just eat it.”
You stuff your mouth without restraint, awestruck at how strangely….kind Jungkook’s being.
//
“Hey...weakling…” There’s a nudge at your side and a quiet groan leaves your mouth. Your muscles are still on fire and it’s pitch dark when you flutter your eyes open for a millisecond. There’s no way you’re getting up. It’s not physically possible. “Get up.”
You turn your head the other way, mumbling under a breath, “No.”
“Weakling, there’s no time to sleep with your case.” He rips the blanket away from your body, grabbing your arm to haul you up in a sitting position. Your head droops down and you cry out.
“Why? Jeon Jungkook…...what is your problem with me?”
He smiles at your whining and then covers your mouth with his rough hand, shushing you. “Be quiet, will you? Everyone’s asleep unless you want to anger them by waking them up. Just hurry up.”
With lids barely open, you get dressed in shabby clothing, shoes slipped on as you exit. “What’s going on?” Jungkook resists the itch in his fingers to ruffle your messy hair that’s hastily tied up into a bun. Instead, he walks down to the empty field, taking a bamboo stick and throwing it to you.
It almost slips past your clutches- “What?”
“You’re a weakling. There’s no point in denying it.” He takes his own pole, grasping the ends gingerly. You close your mouth, deciding not to retort or storm away in anger, wondering why in Heaven’s name he’s dragged you out here. “But that doesn’t mean you can’t fight and defend yourself.”
“What are you doing?”
“Bend your knees.” He commands, poking your legs and with a sigh, you listen to him. Jungkook smiles, instructing you to hold the stick correctly and when you curl your hands around the base, he hits it gently. “Now….you have to be able to balance yourself well…”
Jungkook strikes a light hit and you don’t stumble. “You’re weak - that’s one thing for sure but you’re agile.”
“How do you know?”
“I’ve been watching.” Before you can react, he hits you again and you scarcely block it. “Use it to your advantage and hone that skill. You’re also smaller than most of the men here so you can use that to your advantage. What you lack is your strength.”
“But it isn’t about strength and it isn’t completely about the mind either.” He explains as you circle each other, a strike on his behalf that you dodge. “Use your intuition.”
“You have to be able to predict your opponent's moves but still be able to defend well, blocking or avoiding. Trust your gut feelings.” Jungkook makes another swing and this time, you’re able to protect yourself without slipping. He smiles and blocks as you hit him back. A few minutes pass of the two of you hitting each other back and forth with your mind concentrated on his potential moves. Though, he does catch you off guard and you barely manage to jump away in time.
“Relax. Don’t panic. If you panic, you can’t act with control or speed.” You take a deep breath in response to his guidance, nodding when you’ve calmed down. Following everything he’s been saying and feeling a surge of confidence, you step forward and slam the bamboo against his five times in rapid succession. Unfortunately, he blocks each turn and when you’re exhausted and uncovered, he uses the opportunity to jab your side. “Don’t be reckless.”
You frown at him. “Easy for you to say.”
Jungkook grins at your pout, and he pokes you several times to keep going. “What you can do is use your surroundings to your advantage…...are you listening?”
“I am, okay?!”
He has the audacity to laugh at your indignant outburst and you hit him once, only for him to block. It goes back and forth with offense and defense, the stances that you remember coursing through your muscles without needing to think and your senses focused to predict his following movements. “Ah-ha!” You attack openly again, right at his head which he deflects. Jungkook’s legs are exposed and you land a kick. He stumbles back, about to catch balance until his feet trip on the basket holding the other numerous bamboo rods.
“How’s that for using my surroundings?”
Jungkook throws his head back in laughter, a bright and melodic sound that you never expected to stream from his lips. “I’ll admit, you got me there.” You throw your stick to the ground, plopping down beside him. You’re still exhausted, though no longer dazed despite being pulled out of bed abruptly.
“It’s different on the battlefield.” He begins again, “fighting in an army means you’re part of a team, more than acting as an individual. You will depend on other people for your survival and them on you. If you act recklessly alone then you will die alone and your comrades will too.”
“It sounds like you’re a general.”
“Do you think I’d be a good one?”
“You would be.” From your admitted words, the side of his lips discreetly tug upwards in satisfaction. “How do you know all this?”
“Hmm…..what can I say? I’ve been practicing.”
You scoff, pushing yourself up. And then, you spin around with your hand held out.
“It’s time to get up, my fellow comrade.”
Jeon Jungkook grins at you. His arm outstretches, his palm clasps around yours. The two of you stand together as the sun begins to rise over the horizon to a new day.
//
There’s a scoop of porridge, the ladle tipping over and plopping into the disposable bowl. For once, it’s different from the steamed buns and you’re immensely thankful.
“Junho!” Taehyung waves you over and you nod in appreciation, scanning the premise before you flop on top of the crate across from Jungkook. You don’t notice the way your old friend retracts his hand and glances at your backside in confusion.
Jungkook’s eyes travel up to your face in surprise, the side of his cheek full. “Wha- r yu doin?”
“What does it look like to you? I’m eating.”
You don’t face him, focusing on eating quickly, and he mimics your tiny smile.
The man, oddly enough, often has his meals alone and goes off alone, separate from the other soldiers no matter the case. It’s not like you feel pity for him…..you’re not exactly sure why you’re doing what you’re doing or even what you’re doing.
“Your hand has to be steady.” He shifts your fingers, his breath ghosting along your neck. “The problem you have isn’t necessarily your aim. It’s your strength. Don’t grip it too tightly and when you let go, don’t snap the string back.”
“Inhale as you draw it, exhale as you release.” You listen to his instructions and your eyes narrow on bullseye. When you let go, the arrow hits the target perfectly. “See? You did it.”
Out of his own spare time, before dawn and after dusk, Jungkook helps you train. Your muscles are always aching, bones exhausted to the very core but you slowly begin to enjoy it with the adrenaline rushing through your veins. And every time you accomplish a little more than yesterday — Jungkook smiles.
Somehow, it makes it all worth it.
“Why are you helping me?”
He hums for a long second, “because it’s sad to see you as a weakling.” His eyes watch you closely, crinkled in mirth as you scoff at him. “And I owe you.”
You don't catch the last part. “Huh?” With a tip of your head, he grins and strikes a light blow on top of your head. “Ow!”
“Do we really need to get back to the basics? Don't be distracted!” Though as the words materializes from his own mouth, his smile falls, and he grows solemn. “....never be distracted. Especially in times of war-”
“Hey!”
You hit him a few times, breaking his trance and shattering it before you can even analyze the meaning behind it. “I'm just following your words of wisdom! Don't be distracted!”
The pair of you continue together relentlessly; hand-to-hand combat, swordsmanship, archery to endurance exercises. Slowly but surely, you are becoming a soldier worth standing on the battlefield. Your father would be proud.
“What are they doing?” Kim Seokjin looks on, having just left the main tent after a discussion of the next battle strategies.
“Practicing…”
Min Yoongi looks on with arms behind his back. You and Jungkook are making laps around the dirt field, sandbags strapped to your body. The two of you move as one unit, occasionally Jungkook shouting something and you bursting out into laughter.
“Wow...the sun hasn't even risen yet.” General Jin nods to himself as he turns to his companion. “You're a brutal teacher, aren't you?”
“No.” He shakes his head, “I never made them do this.”
“Then your soldiers are really diligent.” Jin pats his friend on the back as he walks away. Yoongi’s eyes watch you two earnestly.
He’ll admit that the hard work you're putting in isn't going to waste. The sheer speed of your improvement doesn't go unnoticed, not even amongst your comrades.
“Give it your best shot.” Jungkook taunts you and you roll your eyes. With a large inhale and keeping a streaky centre of gravity, you throw a punch for him to block. “You can do better than that.”
“Keep talking…” You shoot out your arm, controlling your strength and not letting it go to waste while keeping your elbows tucked in. “I’ll-” You punch again, “beat you.”
It's his turn to switch to offence and you tighten your muscles as you take the blow, defending your arms in the correct stance. “Don't let your temper get the better of you.” He has a huge grin, aware of exactly what it takes to make you agitated. As you open your mouth to defend yourself, he steps on your shoes.
“Hey!”
“What did I say? Ah-ha!” He shoves you right in the middle of your chest and your eyes grow in alarm, afraid that he’s found your secret. Jungkook seems to frown for a split-second but the tension is quickly dissipated when you're falling backwards unprepared.
He immediately grabs your arm, pulling your smaller frame against his. A squeak emits from your lips and when you peel your lids back, you’re startled at how close he is to you. If he wanted to, Jungkook could count each eyelash, he could memorize the pattern of your irises but instead he is caught in the moment, marveling at your beauty and muddled at how much smaller your hand is within his.
That’s when his suspicions are confirmed, and he realizes-
“Ha!” You grab his leg, about to flip him over but his reflexes are too quick. Jungkook pushes you down as you fail to fight him. He pins you to the dirt and sits on top of you, immobilizing all your limbs. “Get off of me!”
He laughs in your face. “You still have a long way to go. Did you really think you could beat your master any time soon?”
“Psh.” You turn your head. “Who says you’re my master, comrade?”
When Jungkook eventually gets off of you, you don’t miss the look on his face; an expression that you can’t decode, making you stare in a daze. Why can’t you ever understand him?
//
All eyes are pinned on you. They hitch their breaths, not knowing what to expect and preparing for the absolute worst.
“Just because you’re improving, doesn’t mean you can become arrogant.” Lieutenant Min touches your shoulder, smiling at you despite his harsh words. You nod, and he takes a step back, looking at Chul who’s across from you and preparing. “Begin!”
Your comrade is twice your size, both in length and in width. He screams from the pit of his stomach as he charges towards you. Your feet scrape along the sand, bending your knees and centering your balance. And with everything you’ve learnt, you hastily evade and dodge as his clenched fist hits the open air.
“Oooh!” The soldiers around smile at your swiftness and you sneak a quick peek at Jungkook who doesn’t make a change in his expression. ‘Never be distracted’.
Chul turns around to grab you but you duck, sweeping out your leg to make him trip. He ends up stumbling and you use the opportunity to tackle him down. The man, however, does manage to push you off of him and when he begins to stomp at you, you roll away and shift onto your knees. “Get back here, brat!”
“I’m not much of a weakling anymore, am I?” You taunt him with a smirk, more for Lieutenant Min to hear than your own comrade. Though, the former doesn’t respond and Chul goes in for a swing. Your arms are brought up faster than you can process, defending yourself and when you don’t stagger back, you take the opportunity to grab his fist.
“What?” He can’t tug out of your grip and you use the restraint you have on him to push him into you. It’s a risky move but you bring up your leg at the same time, striking him in the middle of his abdomen. Chul coughs out and falls to the ground in defeat - making you the ultimate victor.
Everyone seems to stare in shock and silence.
A full minute ticks by as you’re catching your breath. And then….cheers break out.
“You did it!”, “The weakling really isn’t that weak anymore!”, “And here we thought, this kid was our weakest link!” There are claps and you’re enveloped by numerous embraces, somehow trying to fling you into the air. Even Chul seems pleasantly surprised as he gets up and laughs. Amidst the crowd, you catch Jungkook at the back who turns and walks away. But you don’t miss the smile that spreads across his lips.
“I’m so proud of you!” Taehyung hugs you and you giggle.
“Don’t get too ahead of yourself now.” Lieutenant Min clears his throat. “There’s still a lot of training to do!”
“Yes sir!” The two of you salute towards him, and he shakes his head lightly with the corners of his mouth upturned. One look towards the bright faces grinning at you and the sudden morale boost is all it takes. One look around is enough for you to realize that you’ll fight alongside these men any day.
//
The moonlight downpours, soaking the water into a milky shade. It’s a reflection on the surface, a still painting of beauty until the waves ripple and shatters the tranquility. You look down to find yourself, a person that you do not recognize; smudges and scars that mar your face, hands that have become rough and calloused, eyes that carry a fire that has not been smothered like in the past but roused. You barely recognize this girl...this person.
“Who’s there?”
A crack of a branch has caused you to turn around, sinking deep into the waters and taking refuge behind a bolder. “Relax. It’s me.”
“J..Jungkook?”
It was impossible to go without bathing. You had realized that very soon after three days when you first arrived; receiving dirty looks from the stench you emitted. At first Taehyung had standed guard for you but after a few times, you didn’t want to bother him anymore and decided to do it in the dead of the night where no one would be around. And certainly, there wouldn’t be any risk of someone one finding you. Except for now-
You cough, lowering your voice in a deeper pitch as usual, “What are you doing here?”
“I was just taking a walk….”
Your arms are brought up to try to cover your body and murmurs of curses leave through clenched teeth as you think of a way to escape the situation that you’re in. If Jungkook catches you, everything will be ruined and you’ll die-
“It’s fine. I’m going to leave…” He says but then you both hear rambunctious noise approaching. “What are you guys doing here?”
“Jungkook?” It’s Hoseok’s voice and you hear several others with him. “We were just going to take a quick bath. Do you want to join?”
Your breath hitches and you can’t imagine the disaster you’ll be placed in. That is until your bunk mate speaks up. “Ah, actually I heard there was something weird in these waters.”
Jimin’s mouth draws open, “Wait. What?”
“Yeah. It’s unsanitary and there’s something weird at the bottom.” His voice is convincing...almost authoritative. “It’s best to bathe in the other lake across camp.”
“Oh, okay. Thanks for telling us, Kook.”
“But-” The feet halt and you hold still completely, not allowing any movements to wrinkle a wave on the surface. “What are you doing here?”
Jungkook answers without missing a beat- “Taking a piss.”
“Alright. Well...uh...sorry for asking. Now I feel intrusive.” Hoseok laughs stiffly and then Jimin and a few others pat his back, walking away and speaking their farewells to the younger man.
There’s a full second of silence and all the noise is drowned out.
“You can come out now.” He whispers gently, “I’m not looking. And I promise I won’t.”
It’s risky but for some reason or another, you have enough trust to listen. Stepping into plain view and facing him, you’re met with his backside. He’s seated on the ground with his legs crossed, guarding you without you needing to ask. “You’re self-conscious, right?” He breaks your reverie, “That’s why you won’t bathe with everyone else?”
“Y-yeah. Something like that.”
He laughs and you continue to quickly wash yourself, scrubbing your skin with the cool waters. Jungkook hums, swaying from side to side and savouring the quietness. “You did well today.”
A smile tugs on your lips. “It was all thanks to you.”
“No it’s not.” He replies, “It was your own abilities and hard work that brought you here.”
Staring at his broad backside for a long moment and wondering what it feels like to lean against his shoulder - something clicks into your mind. You can understand why Jeon Jungkook is so strange to you…..
He reminds you of yourself.
Taehyung is someone who can get along with anyone anywhere, draw in crowds with his natural likeability and energy. He trains hard but you can see his bright smile and chirpy laughter magnetizes people before they can become aware. Even Jung Hoseok and Park Jimin have all become well acquainted with each other through a line of close comrades and friends. But unlike them and the rest of the soldiers who fight for the passion of the nation, Jungkook looks lost. He is out of place.
It’s as if he doesn’t quite belong here.
Jungkook is the mirror reflection of you in ways you have yet to figure out.
“No...please…” He whimpers once more in his sleep, brows that furrow deep and creates a knot that creases his skin. It’s another nightmare. Another cry that leaves his lips. In such a way that insinuates his hands have been coated in scarlet. His orbs have consumed the images of bloodshed. His tainted sword has sliced through bones, and he cannot stop if he wanted to.
In the moonlight brewing darkness, you shift closer to Jungkook and embrace his trembling body to provide comfort. He nuzzles into your warmth and you hum a sweet lullaby your father had taught you long ago.
There are murmurs and rumours. No one knew why the tension was so heavy in the air, why no one spoke or smiled. But as the soldiers gathered together and Lieutenant Min was off to the side with a grim expression, you knew it couldn’t be good.
“Men! We have received news early this morning.” Kim Seokjin is at the front, screaming out in a booming voice to all of your comrades below. He hesitates with a breath, “The Cehon Army has been defeated.”
“What?!”
People are panicking, whispering underneath their breaths. You turn around to find Jungkook’s eyes staring back into yours. Taehyung beside you shakes his head. “They’re the most elite….how?”
“The enemies are pushing!” General Seokjin’s voice cuts through the noise and it’s silenced. “And we have been called to the front lines.” Taehyung grabs your hand and you tighten your fingers around his, trying to conquer the fear that swells inside your chest.
“Remember that it is an absolute honour to fight for our country. Never forget about the ones who you love and those that you are protecting. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
He looks once more at the faces of the crowd, aware that each have their families and children awaiting for their arrival back. All the soldiers rely on him for their life. Jin keeps his head high and shoulders strong when he shifts and walks away.
Lieutenant Min steps forward. “We move out in two hours!”
//
Everyone walks in lines, some carrying more equipment than others. The General and Lieutenant are ahead on horses, discussing plans and you’re walking with the others.
Three or four hours have passed without rest, your feet sore and your back aching.
“I’m excited.” Hoseok chirps up with a small smile.
Jimin tilts his head to one side, “You are?”
“We can finally fight like real men!” He spins around with a laugh. “Everything that we’ve been training for can finally come into use!”
“I suppose that’s a nice perspective to put things into.” Namjoon agrees, “We can defend the ones we love most.”
“And when we get back, we’ll be heroes!” Taehyung cheers and his arms are thrown up into the sky.
“If.” Jungkook corrects in slight bitterness. “That’s if we get back.”
“Which we will.” You speak up to keep the morale high. “We’ve trained hard, and we have each other. We are comrades.” The soldiers look at you in appreciation and you turn to Chul who has been oddly quiet. “What do you want to do when you get back home?”
The brute thinks for a second and smiles to himself. “There’s a girl I want to marry.”
“There is?!”
Your eyes double, not expecting that particular answer and the others seem pleasantly surprised as you are. “She’s one of the most beautiful girls I know.” He reminisces with a long sigh, “And she’s waiting for me back at home.”
“I never knew you were such a romantic.” Hoseok means it with the utmost sincerity. “For me, I just miss my village and the people. It wasn’t much but I used to be a baker...and before I left, I had to close shop. I’d like to open it again.”
“You bake? I’m definitely going to have to visit now.” Jimin nudges him and when you ask him the same question, he answers almost immediately. “I have my four younger siblings and my mother waiting for me. I was the oldest of the bunch….I miss them a lot. I think about what they’re doing all the time and if they’re managing to get by.”
You sympathize for the Jimin’s feelings but what Namjoon utters next makes everyone freeze in their steps causing others to grumble behind you all-
“My wife’s giving birth in a few more months...so I’d like to be there in time for the baby’s birth.”
If you thought Chul’s love confession was shocking, this was on a whole new level. “Wait..what?!”, “You’re married?!”, “And you have a baby on the way?”, “How come you never mentioned anything?”. Everyone’s tripping their own words, sputtering over each other in near shouts.
“No one really asked, so I never said anything.” He shrugs and shifts the attention over to someone else. “What about you Taehyung? What do you want to do when you get back?”
“Hmmm….” The mischievous man’s eyes flicker to yours for a split-second before a boxy grin takes place on his mouth, and he faces the ground. “There’s this amazing girl...strong...and beautiful that I’ve always loved. If I can make it back into one piece with her by my side, I’ll definitely tell her.”
“We have another romantic!”
“Wait...there is?!” You’re suddenly shocked by this new revelation, racking your brain on- “Who is it?”
He smiles at you. “Not telling.”
“Oh c’mon, Taehyung!”
“Still not telling! Don’t look at me like that! There’s nothing you can do that will make me tell!”
“Oh right.” Hoseok snaps his fingers before you can beat up your childhood friend and sit on the damn bastard. “You two are from the same village, right? Then what do you want to do, Junho?”
The answer appears quicker to you than ever, “Be with my father.”
“He’s my only family member left and I miss him.” You don’t know where to begin or how to vocalize the emotion that overtakes you, an ache that screams and makes you stand strong at the same time. “I took his place in the army since he was sick and getting old…It would be nice to fulfill my filial duties and make sure he lives the rest of his life well.”
The others nod at you, completely understanding the abiding love of a child to their parent. Jungkook especially gazes at you and you clear your throat to rid of the lump. “What about you, Jungkook?”
“I...don’t know.”
“What do you mean? Isn’t there something you want to do?”
Your bunk mate smiles meekly and leans his chin up to face the azure sky. “I don’t know if I want to go home.” His cinnamon hued irises travels to you and lingers. You frown in confusion, not being able to help the heat that presses onto your cheeks. The intensity of his stare becomes too muddling.
Taehyung interrupts- “Aw is that because you love us so much you don’t want to leave? You’re so sweet, Kook!”
The soldiers burst into laughter, even a few others around who was eavesdropping into the conversation.
Jungkook pushes him away and can’t help the smile that raises on his lips. “No!”
Nevertheless, the colour of his eyes are imprinted within your memories, a mark left that is untouchable to yourself; materializing when your lids flutter shut, as vivid as the moonlight soaked waters of that night.
//
The entire trip to the border isn’t all lighthearted and full of spirit.
If anything, it quickly becomes grim when the surroundings are muted shades of monochrome. Bones are barely buried in the soil, decaying bodies lying on the open ground. Debris and broken homes are the few things you witness. What’s even more horrifying is the villages that have been burnt to the ground. Standing in the middle of the broken land, you could practically hear the shrill screams, visualize the flickering blaze and the children running, ripped away from their parents. It’s a vision that makes you sick to your stomach, reminding you of how you lost your own mother and younger brother.
“What are you doing?”
Temporary camp has been set up before sunset was over. You were wandering around, looking for the missing person that is part of your unit. And instead, you found him in front of General Seokjin’s tent, appearing nervous and apprehensive.
“No.” Jungkook jumps when you speak up, perhaps even relieved as he smiles at you. “I wanted to ask exactly what the plans were. I don’t think we’re ready….and to run in like this is reckless.”
“It’s not like we have much of a choice but you’re right.” You motion over to the main grounds. “Lieutenant Min is calling for us. We should gather together.”
There’s a division with the soldiers, everyone placed in different positions, and he goes over the general plan with everyone in specifics. Beyond the border is a field and after a little way, the enemy camp is there. Being so close to the people who killed your family, the same people who you were fighting against and potentially to die at the hands of was not as frightening as you thought it would be. Maybe because you were standing with your most trustworthy comrades...friends.
Family.
“We will be leading an attack in the morning.”
When you turn to your side, Jeon Jungkook has disappeared. He is nowhere in the crowd, no matter how much you push through and call out his name. The man has vanished into thin air.
“Y/N.” Taehyung is sitting on the small hill, studying you in amusement. The name that streams from his lips is unfamiliar in your ears. You barely stop in your tracks, forgetting that he’s saying your name. “Who are you looking for?”
“Ah, it’s...no one.” You plop down next to him, heaving onto the ground and crossing your legs. “What are you doing here?”
“Just thought I’d watch the sunset.” The way the orange light casts upon him makes him glow in an eternal, sun kissed shade. You’re mesmerized for a long second, counting his lashes and letting your eyes dip with the slope of his nose. Maybe you’re trying to memorize each crinkle in his eyes, the crevices of his features and everything you might’ve overlooked before. But you find yourself wondering since when your old friend, once a grimy child beside you, grew to become so reliable and...beautiful.
Honest and loyal, Kim Taehyung never once failed you. If your father is your reason then your Taehyung is your backbone. He is the pillar that has held you up in your weakest times. He is everything that anyone could have even wished for.
“Are you scared?”
“Yes.” The corners of his lips turn gently. “But if I have you by my side then I’m not so scared.”
Your head falls onto his shoulder. The both of you stare out at the corals and tangerines painted against the fractus clouds. “You’re such a fool.”
“Maybe…” He laughs and the sound is melodic, ringing like church bells. “Though, only for you.”
“Promise me you’ll be safe.”
“If you promise me too.”
“I’ll only go home only if you’re with me.”
“Likewise.”
You’re searching for things to say, afraid that you’ll regret wasting time when tomorrow comes.
“Y/N…”
“Hmm?”
“Nothing. I just wanted to call your name again.”
It has arrived.
The soldiers are marching in even rows, horses hooves imprinting on the dirt and the air is still. “A few more miles forward!” Lieutenant Min announces and you swallow hard, keeping a stoic expression when you turn to your equally nervous comrades. There are those carrying shields in front, archers behind them and the handle of your sword is gripped tightly, the sheath is covering the blade.
It is quiet....oddly so when war is ravaging the plains and peace is far from grasps.
It’s off.
Something’s not right.
An instinct tears you from within and you stop in your tracks, whipping your head up to where the mountains are. And your eyes grow wide, your mouth rips open as an arrow darts past the air. You scream at the top of your lungs, “IT’S AN AMBUSH!”
Chaos unleashes, enemy soldiers pouring from the sides and into the valley. The horses roar out, shouts from the officiants and generals that you can’t hear above the screams. More arrows shoot down, killing those standing behind you with one shot in the chest. You’re frozen, not knowing what to do or how to move when you watch someone impale another with their weapon.
Jungkook pulls you down and you keep your eyes focused upwards where the enemy flag is flickering in the wind. The shades burn into your orbs.
“Listen to me.” He shakes you and you find him. “We need to fight!”
You nod your head and the both of you stand up. Though as he moves on, swiping his sword and the metal whirling out, you’re still stuck. Time slows down and you face the horrific sight, the sounds drowning out in your ears. Those who you have spoken to in the past days, ate meals with, are falling to the ground. Their wives, children...families are still under the blue sky somewhere, unaware that their loved one has left the world, leaving nothing but an echoing wail.
It’s a slaughterhouse. A massacre of death, the ghosts of the battlefield crying to you and the Reaper grinning over your shoulder. The Earth is coated in scarlet. You feel sick to your stomach, watching the tragedies unravel in front of you. Necks are being twisted, limbs sliced off of bodies and blades severing into skin with ease. Someone pierces another through their stomach, the tip of the silver protruding out their backs. They pull out the tainted weapon and the other collapses — dead.
“Y/N!”
You clasp the handle, finally revealing your sword to the light; it reflects your eyes, yet to be painted in red. Who ever said there was glory in war? You take a step forward, pointing the weapon to an enemy. Are we really heroes? You lift the metal in your hands, ready to strike down and cause the destruction you have been trained to do. Why do we fight?
You can’t find it in yourself to move, to kill. Not when you remember your father and his whispers “I don’t need anything” - “I am already happy that you’re my daughter.” You cannot hurt another human, allow your hand to puncture another’s flesh, saw down into their bones. You can’t do it.
“Y/N!” There’s a scream that tears through his throat and you spin around, searching past the crowds of people and you come face to face with your one and only true friend...Kim Taehyung.
He articulates your name carefully, allowing each syllable to lay upon his tongue for the last time. “Y/N.”
Tears fill his eyes. He soaks in your features and finds it in himself to muster up a smile. The man grins at you, the same smile that followed you through your childhood. Taehyung ignores the searing pain in his abdomen. He realizes that in any day, any hour - in any life, this one and the next - he would do it again.
“...Tae...hyung…” The enemy soldier pulls out his sword and Taehyung’s warm blood splatters onto your cheek, painting your skin in red. “Taehyung!” He crumbles onto his knees, gaze never leaving your face. “Taehyung!”
Before the enemy can slash his back, you rush onwards without a thought, your blade impaling the soldier. He gasps and when you withdraw your weapon, you bring it down upon him again and again; God’s gavel on judgment day. You whip upon him your wrath and tears, allowing the ugly beast from within your soul to unleash. A full minute must pass with you slashing the dead body until it’s unidentifiable, mangling the corpse with your ruthless beatings.
“That’s enough!” A familiar voice pulls you away and you push him off.
You search and throw yourself through the fighting figures. “Taehyung...” Jungkook follows you closely, harming anyone who tries to harm you. Your friend’s body is undisturbed and you collapse, allowing your metal to clank beside you as it hits the dirt. “Tae...Taehyung. Are you listening to me? We’re going to get you help okay? You’re going to be okay. I promise you. Please, just stay with me.”
His eyes are half-lidded, focused onto you and his smile remains on his lips. With all the energy he can gather, he shakes his head once. You press your hand against his wound but the blood continues to pour out past the spaces of your fingers. “Taehyung….” Your teeth sink into your lower lip, a horrendous sob breaking you.
His lips move.
You can’t hear.
He mouths something.
You bring your ear down closer, and he barely manages to wheeze out your name and a gentle -
I love you.
When you look at him again, Taehyung’s last breath leaves between his parted lips. His eyes are still slightly open and you run your fingers over them. He looks at peace. There is no worried frown marring his face, no downturn of his mouth. Your one and only companion is gone.
‘I’ll marry you.’
‘If I have you by my side then I’m not so scared.’
‘I’ll only go home if you’re with me.’
Y/N. I love you.
You stand up on your weak knees. Jungkook’s stare is pinned onto you. Your hands wrap around the grip, holding it to the point of where your knuckles turn white. A scream rips through your throat and you recklessly run into the cluster of people, not differentiating between friend or foe, blindly swinging around your blade.
“There’s this amazing girl...strong...and beautiful that I’ve always loved.” You sever someone’s head off. Their blood coats your lashes, spraying against your armour and your face. People jump back from you in alarm and you slash through more of the enemy colour, kicking them down to your feet. Skin and flesh are sliced and cut by your hands. “If I can make it back into one piece with her by my side, I’ll definitely tell her.” You’re still crying. The tears won’t leave.
“Retreat!” There’s a horn ringing behind you. “Retreat!”
Your comrades withdraw back. You’ve already made a decision to never leave, to die here.
“That’s enough!” Jungkook yells at you. “Stop it!”
You continue to kill. Tens and tens of people are succumbed to your madness. You won’t stop until all of them are dead. “Stop!” And you ignore the pleas of the man behind you. The calls of ‘retreat’ are continuing and you turn deaf to them. “It’s enough!”
Jungkook tries to pull you away and you turn around abruptly, accidentally slashing his arm. He grunts, wincing at the stinging pain. The fury subdues with your mistake. “I-I’m sorry.” His wound is open, blood trickling down but he ignores it, grabbing your hand and dragging you with him.
“Let’s go.”
You’re weak. In his hands, your decisions have broken into pieces.
The two of you barely manage to get by unscraped, arrows cutting through the wind and past your ears. You lean against Jungkook’s back, defending each other from the enemies that hurl forward. When it’s clear, you run again.
The battlefield disappears behind you.
//
There is nothing but silence. No one can speak. The soldiers are sitting on the ground, most bandaged up and lifeless within their eyes. Your unit is scattered around, Jimin being seen with severe injuries and on the brink of death at the infirmary. Jungkook is beside you, resting against the wall and you’re brewing, lost in thought as you focus on the bandages wrapped around your hands. That is until the two men leave their tent and you stagger upwards.
“Did you even have a plan?”
Everyone around is startled and General Jin stops in his tracks. “You knew none of us were ready, didn’t you? And we still went out there to die! Why did we retreat?”
Min Yoongi commands you with his cold glare. “Stand down soldier!”
“Hundreds have died and they died for nothing!”
“We retreated before more of our soldiers would die.” The man you're confronting responds in firmness, “It was an ambush that no one was expecting. A setback from our original plans.”
“Do you know our names?” You question him, walking onwards before Yoongi lifts out his arm to defend the other man in case you dare to do anything. “Kim Taehyung. A soldier of yours has died today….he has family at home, someone who he loves, and he died. Many, many others have too.”
You ask him again with desperation, “Do you know who. we. are?.”
“People die all the time. This is war.” Lieutenant Min interrupts. “How dare you question us-”
Jin raises his hands to quiet him down. “You’re right. I may not know all of you by your name…” He looks around at the weary faces of the numerous soldiers watching, depleted and darkened orbs that stare back at him. “But I know that you are all my soldiers who are fighting for our nation. We cannot let the people who have passed today go to waste. We cannot waste away the sacrifices that have been made. We need to move forward and forward.”
“I never forget the people who have died.”
The man begins to walk away and you take another step. “Kim Seokjin!” Your voice is clear as the air, piercing through the coldness. Everyone looks at you in shock at how you blatantly shouted his name without any titles, disrespectful beyond warrant. “Kim Seokjin!”
He turns around and smiles at you. His irises are forgiving and compassionate, understanding your pain all too well.
“Never forget what we are fighting for. For our loved ones back home, the people who are waiting for us and the people who have died for us. If we do not fight, everyone will die.”
The breeze caresses your cheeks, blowing through the stray strands of hair that fall in front of your face. Your heart keeps aching. The tears though have long dried, prick at your pupils like needles. “How dare you disrespect the general? Have you forgotten your place?” Lieutenant Min punishes you, “Run. A hundred laps so you remember who you are.”
You stand and do as you’re told, packing bags and bags of sand onto the wheelbarrow.
The other soldiers beg him for mercy. Hoseok especially pleads for your case, “He’s hurt over the death of his friend, forgive him. Please. He’s injured.” Jungkook rises to his feet and watches you without a word.
“Have all of you forgotten that you must obey your superiors no matter the circumstances. Going against order is execution.”
“Don’t worry.” You interject, grasping around the handles with your bleeding fists. “I will run all of them. And mark my words I will not rest until I become stronger.” Lieutenant Min acknowledges your determination and not once does your gaze falter or does your voice shake. “I vow to fight harder and harder so his sacrifice will not go to waste.”
Your comrades watch as you fulfill your punishment, wobbling but never hesitating. You don’t stop, letting your sorrows and grief wash over your form, crying out your hatred for the unfair world. I love you. His voice still echoes in your mind.
If you had been stronger.
If you had never wavered.
But the reality of the fact is that you are still too weak-minded.
Y/N.
Taehyung was killed trying to save you.
The soldier raises his sword and you rush before he can slash you. Rage controls your bones. You cannot think of anything; releasing an inhumanity that is monstrous. And your silver blade impales his stomach as you scream out. The first man you’ve ever killed.
His face is finally uncovered when the sunlight passes through the clouds, cascading a yellow beam downwards, bringing a bright luminescence to the murky plaines.
“T-Taehyung?”
A single tear from your childhood friend drips down his cheek. He grips the sword you’ve stabbed him with tightly, fingers bleeding and his lips part- “Y/N….I’m sorry. It’s okay. I promise you.” He trembles and droplets of scarlet drip from the wound. “I love you so much, okay? I always have...and I always will.”
You sob in your sleep, thrashing for a quiet second. Water seeps past your lashes and mark your face. Jungkook gazes at you in the moonlight wash, the way you’re grasping onto a small wooden plaque that is engraved with the deceased man’s name. You’re reliving another nightmare, experiencing the horrors again and again. He knows it all too well.
In the night, it’s this time that Jungkook is the one who pulls you closer to his chest and tries to envelop you in his warmth. His calloused hand is raised to brush your hair and you curl up against him in soft whimpers. Jungkook wonders if there’s anything in this world that could bring the two of you peace.
You’re gathering courage to write your father a letter, apologizing for the countless sins you’ve committed and the daughter you could never be - but as you grab for the parchment in your bag, you accidentally knock over Jungkook’s belongings.
Your heart stops. It lodges inside your throat. And your hands quiver uncontrollably, fingers barely able to reach down to grasp the tube that’s rolling on the floor.
A million things race in your mind. You don’t understand. You can’t understand any of it.
You crumble lifelessly onto the ground and you find your hand wrapped around the top, ripping off the cap. A scroll falls into your lap.
It’s the same shades that have burned into your orbs.
You can remember the flag flickering in the wind.
You can smell the burning ashes and fire emblems of the village burning down.
“Mother!” “Someone help me!” “Junho!”
You’re running. “Move! Get out of my way!” Soldiers shoot bewildered looks at your frantic state, dirt smeared across your forehead and sweat running down your jaw. Loose strands of hair fall over your eyes, yet you pay no mind when you rip open the covering of the tent.
“What are you doing?!” Min Yoongi immediately stands up at how you’ve intruded into the classified meeting. High ranking officers and commanders all stare at you but you focus on the man in front, Kim Seokjin. “Stand down immediately!”
“This...” Two people begin to drag you out but you fight against them. “It’s an assassination order-! Let go of me!” You thrash and scream, holding up the scroll. It’s a struggle as the officers order you to go.
“Don’t speak nonsense!” Yoongi frowns and he looks away in disappointment. “Leave.”
“And there are plans!...f-for an- get off of me! - ambush from the enemies! Please listen to me! General Kim Seokjin! General!” You’re thrown outside and into the dirt. “General Kim Seokjin! Please.”
The officers give you a glare of disdain, and they enter again. No one reaches out to you. No one listens. The scroll still lays in your clenched hand.
//
“What are you doing here?”
“I could ask you the same thing...” Your pupils narrow into his and you discreetly clutch the handle of your knife that’s tucked in your waistband. “Jungkook.”
He smiles, the hues of cinnamon lighting up his irises. His gaze softens into adoration and fondness. His lips upturn and his eyes crinkle. “Is there something wrong?” Jungkook smiles and it’s all for you.
“Stop.”
“What?”
“Don’t look at me like that.” He takes two strides to meet you and he engulfs your body within his arms, holding you tight in fear that you’ll vanish. “Stop it.”
You grab onto his arm, digging your face into the crook of his neck to imprint this memory. You allow his scent to linger. He already knows what you’re talking about before you’ve even spoken. “Why is it you? Why does it have to be you?”
“Are you going to stab me?” He knew the entire time about the weapon you held in your hand, intentions of bringing him harm. Still, he chose to step closer and closer, wiggling his way next to your fragile heart until you were surrounded in nothing but him.
“I want to...so badly.” Your voice trembles and the salt water of your eyes leave trails on your cheek. “Your people killed my family...t-they killed Taehyung. I can never forgive them…” You wonder why you’re so weak as a whisper leaves your lips, “...or you.”
“I’m sorry things had to be like this.” His own voice is filled with pain and hurt. “I never wanted this either. And I never wanted it to be you.”
“Who are you, Jungkook?” You pause, “Or is that even your name?”
“It is my name.” He shuts his eyes, savouring the moment before it’s gone. He lingers in your touch, in your warmth and presence. He focuses his mind to remember your voice and each breath you take before you call his name. “General...commander and chief...spy.”
“I have to kill you.”
“I know. And when you do it, make sure you don’t hesitate.” Jungkook cries, tightening his hold even more. “...just next time. Next time, okay? The next time you see me.”
“Jungkook…”
He holds you in place, fingers digging into a pressure point at your collarbone and the seams of consciousness are stolen away. You slip past Jungkook’s fingertips, collapsing right through his arms and falling to the ground. He is hugging the empty space in front of him.
“Y/N.”
The man looks at you and swallows hard, leaving an echo before disappearing.
//
Kim Seokjin is dead.
The powerful general is found with his throat sliced and in a pool of his own blood. His body on the floor of his tent, a cruel death that is not fitting for the honorable man who has sacrificed his life to fight; a person who had lost his family, his wife and child, dedicating what strength he had left to not lose his country.
The entire camp is quiet. Nobody utters a word but bowing their heads to pay their respects. The soldiers lay down their weapons. The remains are carried out and buried in the midst of the battlefield.
“Many of you might’ve not known but Kim Seokjin was sincere and honest. He had led thousands and won hundreds and hundreds of battles. It is a loss that we must remember and a loss we can never forgive.” Min Yoongi isn’t a man of many decorative words, and he finds himself not knowing what more to say when he stares at his friend’s name marked on wood as a headstone.
He kneels down to whisper to the ghost of his comrade. “Go and be at peace. You are finally with your wife and child.” Yoongi chokes back his tears. “Thank you for your years of service.”
What he finds the most distressing, his own self-hatred slapping him across the face, is that you were right. Yoongi could’ve saved his friend. He could’ve listened to you but he turned a blind eye and deaf ear. You were right. And he threw you out without looking back. You were right. And he chose to ignore you.
No amount of apologies could bring the dead back to life.
No apologies could ever compensate for what he’s done.
No apologies could erase his shame.
“How is he?”
Someone had found you knocked unconscious, and they delivered you straight to the infirmary. A full day has passed since then and Yoongi didn’t know how to face you.
“There’s something…” The medic shuts his eyes tight and downcasts his head, “There’s something we discovered.”
//
When you’re staring out the cloudy plastic to the outside, the tent cloth is pulled back. Min Yoongi enters, and he throws your bag onto the wooden table you’re sitting on. You stare at your belongings for a long second until your eyes travel to the man’s face. His expression is blank.
“Go.” He says, “Go back home.”
“I’m not leaving.”
“You are a woman.” Yoongi states in a cold tongue. “You must leave immediately. Do you know the consequences?”
You laugh mirthlessly, cocking your head to one side as you glare at him. “Execution.”
“And yet you still…” risked your life, came here to fight. What courage did you have? Where did you arrive from? And why does Yoongi feel like a coward in front of you? “...you still came here knowing these things.”
“It doesn’t matter if I am a man or a woman. I am a human who wants to fight for their country.” The strength you’ve lacked is flourishing underneath your skin. There’s nothing holding you back from sacrifice. You have nothing left to fear. “Like General Kim told all of us: ‘for our loved ones back home, the people who are waiting for us and the people who have died for us’. We are fighting for them.”
You aren’t the weakling from back then.
Yoongi wonders who he is looking at.
How did you become so strong?
“What we need to worry about is the ambush that is coming.” You stand up, never staggering despite the lightheadedness. “We’re in a compromised position right now. The soldiers aren’t ready to fight and the morale is low with General Kim Seokjin’s death. We know the direction that the enemies came from and with the terrain we’re on….we need to move east as fast as we can. Quietly and carefully, no fires and nothing that can give us away. At most, we have a few hours.”
It’s a delayed response on his part, “Okay.”
Just before he leaves, your voice stops him. “Jungkook.” You’re looking out again, arms behind your back and eyes deep in thought. You speak with hesitance, “Where is he?”
“The traitor left.”
His belongings were left behind. A horse from the stables vanished.
A faint smile befalls on your lips before you kill it in sight.
“Are you going to move or stand there, General?”
Min Yoongi smiles meekly at the title, aware that he is the leader now.
Though he carries a feeling that you’re the one who will bring victory.
Months and months elapse. A compilation of training and fighting, past any limits until your body no longer feels like it’s your own. It’s a weapon. An arm for the country to use to its expense.
Your tears become your force. Your sweat is the result. The various wounds and scars that litter across your back and wrap around your skin serves as a reminder for the bloodshed and the battles. You become capable and powerful, someone worth intimidation, a beacon of hope for those who are weak to grow strong. And in retribution for your backbreaking labour, you’ve become second in command, aid of General Min.
Thousands have died, forgoed as the sacrificial lamb but the army has pushed beyond the border, moving forward and forward, faster and faster.
There are few left of your comrades. Park Jimin was injured after the first battle, now walking with a permanent limp in his leg, yet he still persists and fights by your side. Jung Hoseok was heavily wounded in combat and sent home against his will. You can still remember his pleas to stay and how he fell to his knees with the bandages wrapped around his head and torso. Han Chul and Kim Namjoon are two soldiers who are managing, though they are far from having light within their eyes. The rest...
General Kim Seokjin — dead
Kim Taehyung — dead.
Jeon Jungkook — traitor.
“Lost in thought?” He sits beside you and you hum.
You’ve grown close to Yoongi, and he’s learnt to trust you, always asking for your assessment about strategies and sometimes wondering out loud if you’re okay or sleeping well. His eyes are always glossed over in concerns, some part of him feeling guilty with the way he misjudged you all that time ago. You always tell him you’re fine, that you sleep peacefully...even if they’re lies.
You can’t help but pull back your lids in the middle of the night, desperately searching for the warmth that you long for. When your dreams aren’t plagued with nightmares then it’s him. His smile and embrace….the colour of his irises-
“Yoongi.”
“Yes?”
“What’s your reason for fighting?”
“I don’t really have one. Well...I didn’t.” He tells you and the pair of you stare out at the campgrounds together. “I grew up in poverty. I didn’t have anything, no one to protect. There was nothing for me and no reason. I joined the army because it was a warm place I could stay at.”
“Then I met Jin.” He chuckles to himself and you peer at his profile, the subtle upturn of his lips as he thinks about his dear friend. “You wouldn’t believe that he was so clumsy….a lot like you actually….we trained together, and he just became someone that I stuck by through the years.”
“You know...for every soldier that he led into battle and died, he wrote their name in a book. He really didn’t take for granted the sacrifices, and he never forgot.” If you closed your eyes, you could remember the time you called the man’s name and questioned his intentions. You asked him if he knew you, knew where you were from or what he was doing. But back then you never understood his hardships.
“Our soldiers trust us. And sometimes we wonder if we’re making a right decision or not. It’s a burden we must carry. Their lives are within our hands.”
“You’re a fine general.” You nullify his doubts with a simple nod, turning away. “We can’t help the sacrifices that must be made. As long as we don’t waste those sacrifices then we must move forward.”
Yoongi smiles, looking down into his lap. “I buried the book with him.”
After a long pause, he turns to you. “What about you? What do you fight for?”
“My father.” You don’t have any other reason. “He’s the only one I have left. I took his place when the enlistment came. He’s old and ill. I thought it was the least I could do since he raised me for so many years. I didn’t want him to die at war.”
“I miss him.” You don’t notice how Yoongi’s gazing at you with a softened look in his eyes, the same way Jungkook looks at you. “I wrote a letter awhile back but I never sent it.”
“Why not?”
“I’m scared.” It’s a whisper, a raw admittance that you’ve been too scared to say. “I’m scared of his response. I know he’s not mad at me but I’m scared to see him worried. I’m scared that he’ll tell me I’ve made a mistake and cause him more harm.”
“I’m scared that I’ll miss home.”
“You shouldn’t worry. You’ve fulfilled your filial duties. He should be proud of who you are and that you’re his daughter. You’re courageous and strong...anything he could ever wish for.”
“Thank you, Yoongi.” You smile, and he snaps a shot of you within his memories. “If something...anything happens to me - deliver my letter to my father. Can you do that for me?”
“Nothing will happen to you.” He inhales a breath, “But I promise you.”
You’ve already made a vow.
You won’t be returning.
You will fight for your country until death.
Jeon Jungkook reminds you of yourself. He is your mirror. Someone who doesn’t belong.
A piece of the moonlight has fallen. It casts an angelic glow around him, radiating off his skin and broad backside. The waters ripple as you stand, stepping away from the reflection you no longer recognize; a weakling held by the cords of destiny to become strong.
“Jungkook.”
He turns around when you’re dressed, and he walks with you until the end.
“Don’t you find it ironic?” The leaves rustle against the trees, a serenity of quiet that cannot be captured in the midst of battle. “To fight for peace.”
He smiles to himself, stealing a glance of you. “It is.”
“We fight for peace but not once have I ever felt at peace….even if it’s what I’ve wanted most.”
There’s a long moment of hesitance, one where Jungkook gazes at the way the white luminescence bathes into your skin. One where he longs to thread his fingers between yours. One where he wants nothing more than to hold you close in his arms.
It’s a time frame that blinks by, a second that he stops and you turn to him. Jungkook’s eyes flicker to your softened lips and you flutter your eyes, staring back at him. His calloused hand lifts to gently caress your cheek and you yield to his touch. For an instant, the two of you yearn to lean closer. But instead, his arm drops and you pull away.
This isn’t a fairy tale.
When you can die tomorrow, there is no reason why you should make it more painful than it needs to be. You are here to fight. You are the lamb of sacrifice of the country. There isn’t a point in tying yourself up with strings of emotion. You are here to die.
“How far are you willing to fight for your nation?”
“Until the very end. It isn’t a choice. It is my duty.”
In the moonlight brewing darkness, Jungkook is plagued with nightmares and you embrace his trembling body. “No...please…” You hum a sweet lullaby from your father, perfectly unaware that his whimpers and cries are because of you.
Jungkook dreams that his hands are coated in your blood. His tainted sword has sliced through your bones and a single tear drips from your eyes before you drop dead in front of him. He holds your body and screams at the sky. The battlefield never once stops.
“Are you ready?”
“Of course I am.” You feign a smile. “This will be the deciding factor. If we can win, then we keep going all the way to their capital. There’s no way they’ll be able to do anything. They’ll be at our mercy.”
Yoongi grins with you. “And then we can go home.”
You nod and repeat his words in a whisper.
“We can go home.”
The troops are lined on the hill, soldiers bearing arms and ready to uncover their sheaths. The shades of your country display on the fluttering flags behind you. Han Chul stands by your side, Namjoon at Yoongi’s. The both of them look up at you two, perched on top of horses with the sunlight gleaming downwards. You’re strong, determined and resolute but the others don’t know how your soul has long withered away.
“Fellow comrades!” Your voice booms over the valley. They are all listening. “Never for one second forget why you are fighting.”
A soldier closes his eyes and the image of his daughter laughing is almost tangible in front of him. He resists the urge to run over and embrace her when she calls out ‘Dad! Look at me!’ and twirls in her white dress.
“Never forget those who you love. Never forget those you are protecting. Never forget those who have died.”
Another man can hear the ringing laughter of his best friend. A friend that stood next to him, that laughed and shared tears with. A friend that listened when he revealed his deepest worries and defended him, taking the shots of firing arrows, using his body as a human shield.
“If we die today, know that we die as protectors of our land. For those who can make it...thank you for fighting alongside me. I will never forget you.”
Jimin turns around, watching the shadows of his Lieutenant and General. Instead of feeling intimidation like he once did - he feels protected. There are no better leaders under the sun who he would be happy to die for.
“And always remember that is an honour to fight for one’s nation.”
The other army rises from the mountain top, revealed hundreds of meters across the land. It’s the last inevitable confrontation. There is no escape, nowhere to run to. Your eyes are focused on their flag, the same shades that have burned into your orbs. But then, they travel to the silhouette uptop the horse. You already know who he is. And he’s staring right back at you.
Your gaze never wavers or leaves.
General Min Yoongi inhales a huge breath.
The soldiers brace themselves.
Your fingers that have once held silk threads and needles, now holds a blade. You are embroidering a history that will mark books in black ink.
“Attack!”
In one simple command, your comrades scream at the top of their lungs as they rush forward. A blizzard of arrows swoop across the horizon and the enemies sprint. Swords clash in the middle as the two seas of men meet like the seams of two fabrics sewn together. It’s barbaric and vicious, a brutality that you will never be immune to.
The horses roar out, galloping ahead and leaping over the corpses, hooves marking into the dirt. Friend or foe, there is no fear. It is the destruction of humankind; a horrific massacre of chaos. The feeling of anguish is ignored when you bring down your blade, causing gashes and ruptures.
Somewhere in the disorder, Chul’s arm is sliced off and with his remaining strength, he runs into a crowd. He closes his lids and thinks about the girl who is waiting for him at home. The girl who promised that would wait for him. The person that he vowed to marry. Chul screams as he knocks down enemies with his body, and he dies upon impact. There aren’t any regrets.
There is mangling of flesh, pummeling down swords and battering skin. Your troops push forward but a stranger beats the leg of your horse with his knife. The creature that your father tended to, cared for and brought you to this place falls with a cry. You fall onto the ground, agility and adrenaline causing you to shift out of the way before your skull is fractured.
“Go!” Jimin kills your attacker, ripping out his sword from the dead body and causing their blood to spray upon his face. You nod your head once, getting to your feet in a blink of an eye and fighting until your last drop of sweat. Jimin watches your back, using his figure as a shield and enduring the pain that carves in him. A tear rolls down his cheek. He thinks about his siblings and his mother, their smiling faces as he crashes onto his knees, the afterlife carrying his soul away.
The sound of choking and strangled screams play like broken recordings, driving you to insanity as you snap bones of terrified people. The last image of their scared eyes printing into yours will never be erased. Your cheeks are splattered in red. The battle ensues.
The scent of death lingers in the air. The ground has become slick in scarlet, the splashing of wounds and deceased. You look up to the mountain top, the flag of your enemy still waving in the wind. But the horses are gone. You come face to face with the man who’s deceived you. The man who embraced you with every dying wish. The man who you lent your heart to.
He is a boy no more than your age. He speaks no words. The rays of the beaming sun pierce your eyes. You can barely make out what you see. His irises are a dark hue of cinnamon, coal locks that sweep his forehead. Sweat drips down the sides of his sculpted face. His lips are parted, soft inhales and exhales releasing between them as his chest heaves. He is the same as when you first laid your eyes upon him, yet, he has aged.
You wonder why he is gazing at you in such a way. It’s softened into adoration and fondness, a reminiscence of an undying yearning. He smiles. His lips upturn and his doe eyes crinkle. Jungkook smiles. And it’s all for you.
“I have to kill you.”
“I know. And when you do it, make sure you don’t hesitate.”
You run forward and he rushes towards you. In one movement, your sharp blade pierces into his abdomen. It is effortless, digging into his flesh like it calls for it, and he chokes out blood past the seams of his lips. The two of you topple down onto your knees together. Your own stab wound pulses pain. His hands are seeped in your blood. His sword has sliced through your bones.
The battlefield pauses.
The land is silenced.
Jungkook holds you in place, fingers digging deep to hug you tight. This time, he isn’t scared that you’ll slip past his fingertips. Your own hands tremble as you raise them, wrapping around his back. He even has the audacity to chuckle in your ears and you smile, nuzzling into his fleeting warmth.
“Y-you could’ve dodged that.”
“Sa….me wit...h yo..u.”
There are a million things that are left unspoken, but they don’t need to be heard or laid upon tongue to understand. In your entire life, you had never been more content than this very moment.
With your dying last breath - you hum a sweet lullaby your father had taught you long ago.
He walks slowly. He soaks in the image of wooden shacks and makeshifts home of the poor village; the place of your childhood. A group of young children pass by, giggling and throwing several sticks around. They giggle freely to each other without concern, completely free.
“Excuse…” He leans to the side, opening the gate and calling out in a weakened voice. “Excuse me?”
The cane thumps against the ground with each step. Your father whose age is displayed amongst the wrinkles marring his face, the hollows of his cheeks and the constant tremble of his limbs. He appears at the porch, standing out and watching the General. “Who-”
“Min Yoongi. General of the Front Line Troops.” He immediately drops down onto his knees, and he bends his back, bowing to the dirt. His hands shake uncontrollably as he holds back his tears and lifts your helmet high to the sky. “Your daughter, my lieutenant, has brought honour to the country. She has single handedly brought the nation victory with her sacrifices.”
Yoongi’s voice quivers in hurt. Water drips from his eyes to his chin. Your last letter and wooden plaque that’s engraved with your name is put by his side. “I promise that her tale will never die.”
Your father collapses and chokes out sobs. His wrinkled hands grasp around your helmet. Your father has never for a moment, stopped being proud that you were his daughter.
“I can assure you…” Yoongi never ceases to honour your name. “...she has fulfilled her filial duty.”
[Epilogue]
Decades have slipped away. When he opened his eyes and looked into the mirror, his face had so many wrinkles that he couldn’t distinguish who it was anymore. He has creases in his hands and was slow in his movements; a striking difference to the time of his youth, when he was young and strong, agile and nimble. Back then he could carry ten sandbags on his shoulders but now couldn’t even manage a basket.
He was stubborn about his sore back until Hoseok chuckled at him and forced him to use a cane. Now he had to wobble wherever he went. He could barely even keep up with Namjoon’s children. Wasn’t it yesterday that he was meeting the new recruiters and watching their failed attempts? When did he become so old? Yoongi isn't sure.
“Hello! Sir?” A young boy with a boxy grin stands on his tiptoes and looks over the food stand. The retired general stops in his tracks, watching the child. “Have you seen my younger sister and the neighborhood boy?”
“No. I can’t say that I have.” The man shakes his head, “Why?”
“We’re going to see the play! It’s called A Piece of the Moonlight!” The boy’s eyes are glowing of mirth, and he wears a blazing smile, magnetizing people from his energy and chirpy laughter. “But I haven’t seen them at all! We’re going to be late!”
It’s then that two other kids come running, giggling and unrestrained from worries. The boy with cinnamon hued irises and coal coloured locks is being led by a girl, joyful from her bright smile. Their hands are interlaced, palm clasped and small fingers knitted together.
“We’re here!”
“C’mon, hurry up you two before we miss it!” The older child nags and takes off running.
“Hey!” The girl shouts out loud before she laughs, turning around to her companion. “Let’s go.”
Yoongi watches as the three children bearing strong resemblances to the people he once knew disappears. He can’t help but smile to himself, feeling some sort of relief within his being.
The tale is told in front of thousands, a tragedy of love and war that trickles tears from those who lend their ears and eyes. The boy’s hand tightens around the girl’s as they listen.
Énouement
Ship: Captain!Jungkook | Soldier!Reader
Description: Mulan!AU | War is Hell, but it’s what you had to do to take your brother’s place. Of course, between the days of Hell are little slices of Heaven you’d call your Captain, Jeon Jungkook.
Warning: Dom!Kook, Character Death, Gore, Angst, Choking, Intercourse, Fingering, Dirty Talk, Punishment, Oral, Hair Pulling, Public Nudism
Word Count: 19,554
A/N: This is the longest thing I ever fucking wrote but it was so worth it. Mulan is one of my favorite movies of all time, and there were some such iconic scenes that I found so great I had to include them here as well, because I love simply describing the most heart-leaping scenes in my own words.
“Oh, dear, make the waist tinier! Tie it tighter!” Mother fretted, making the maids and workers tie the ribbon around your waist so tight that you thought your eyes would pop out of your skull. You could hardly breathe, but when your mother gave a gasp of delight, the maids tied the bow at the back, making it stay that way. “Oh, darling, you look beautiful,” your mother went on, stepping forward to lightly cup your face in her hands, careful not to touch the makeup of your pale face or ruby lips.
“Thank you mother,” you mumbled, trying not to think about the way you had to puff up your chest or suck in your stomach.
Tonight was a very special night. You’d be meeting the matchmaker to seal your fate for who’d become your future husband, and to carry the family honor. It was what your late father had wished for you to do, and now that you were of age, you were glad to fulfill his last wish regarding you and uphold the honor carried to your surname. He was a brilliant man, who was a war hero- just like your brother, Yoongi- but died because his injury eventually caught up with him.
When he died, your brother, Yoongi, decided to honor him by joining the army himself in the midst of a still-raging war. While your father was able to retire for his great work in the war, his overworked muscles and straining himself during his younger years eventually wore into his age, and he died before he could even hit the age of fifty, where Yoongi took his place and also became a great hero to serve during the end of the war.
However, no matter how much you had prayed to your ancestors, Yoongi returned injured and on the near brink of death. You were but twelve at the time when you were busy praying to the ancestors, your forehead pressed against the cold floor of the family shrine when your grandmother, old and frail as she may be, still strong, rushed to you, shaking your small body so violently where you fell to the floor, your head knocking against the stone slab of Great Grandfather Min. Her voice was hoarse, and her eyes filled with a mixture of delight and worry as she screamed at the top of her lungs, letting it echo against the walls. “Your brother! My grandson, my dear, Yoongi! Get your ass up girl, your brother is home!”
She wailed on as you rushed to see him, flying down the steps of the lands your father won, your dress clutched in your hands as you went to meet him, your heart beating frantically to see your brother, who was but four years older than you. Oh, it had been two years, you missed him! And you hadn’t seen him since he was a boy, and now you’d see your dear (though often times nauseating), brother return from the war that was now, at long last, dying!
What you didn’t expect was your mother to be crying over his form, her forehead pressed against his pale, veiny hand.
Your first thought was that he was dead.
But then you saw his faint, gummy smile as he used his strength to push himself into a sitting position, ignoring your mother’s worrisome and fretting hands to push him back down to rest. He smiled at you, and you studied the bruises and scrapes on his face and the bandages that concealed some of the wounds on his body.
“Miss me, sis?” was all he said.
You threw your arms around him, tears streaming down your face, and you two were finally reunited. You tended to his wounds from then on, nursing him back to health whenever your grandmother and mother weren’t nagging you to carry on with chores. Yoongi healed complete over time, save for the limp in his leg that would never heal. He’d never be able to do any serious work without getting injured. Still, you were glad to see him again, the brother who supported you throughout everything.
One night, in particular, you were staring up at where you kept your father’s armor, the same armor Yoongi himself wore into battle. It was coated in dust now, but no one dared to touch it except to clean it, which you reminded yourself to do tomorrow. In the age before guns that could go ‘pew pew’ protection and weapons were less advanced.
You yearned desperately to honor your family, to make them proud of you the same way Yoongi made them proud. While you were always cast in your elder brother’s shadow, you simply wanted to make your mother and grandmother equally proud, though you knew that’d be impossible.
“Looking at father’s armor again?” a voice said behind you. You turned around to see your brother leaning on his cane, a single candle illuminating his face in the darkness, save for the moonlight that crept through your windows.
“Oppa, what was it like on the battlefield?” you asked, hesitant to ask the question your brother always seemed to avoid. It had been years since he returned, and yet he wasn’t quite the same feeble boy who exited your home to go to the war.
“A nightmare,” the boy spoke grimly, shuffling forward, his staff making the clacking sound against the wood that you loved. He reached out, cane still in hand, and touched the sword that was once- and in a way, still- his. Dragging his finger slowly down the metal and over the engravings, he wiped away a single stripe of the thick coat of dust that had formed. “I see how you look at this, and how you seem to yearn to have been in my position. But Y/N, you must know that it isn’t pleasant at all. You have to work rigorously, to push yourself to your limits, because if you don’t, you’re dead. And on the battlefield, any second can be your last.”
“What did it feel like?” you pushed on. “During training, on the battlefield, what was it all like?”
“During training, Father’s armor and sword made me feel invincible and untouchable,” Yoongi smiled bitterly. “But on the battlefield, I felt vulnerable and scared, and all I wanted was to get out alive.”
You nodded slowly, continuing to admire the armor.
“You’re lucky you don’t have to go,” Yoongi spoke. “I still have nightmares. And my leg still aches, though not as much as it did before. Since Shownu.”
You were aware of the story of Shownu. He was known to be invincible, practically, and legends from his country would spread about him. Poems and riddles were released, but it is said that he traveled to another country altogether when he was but a small boy for his fortune. He traveled far, and some speculate he went to an Oracle, and this was the poem she told.
You’ll grow brave and strong, with your own clan,
Who can only be defeated by one more than just a man
In your efforts, you may steal an empire as your own
Or from a dragon of stone, you shall be overthrown
The poem was famous, and many knew it by heart. It was a great mystery to all, and no one knew if it was true or simply an old tale. Shownu had started the war, who your own father fought against. Shownu was but in his early twenties, as your father was an older man who fought bravely against him. Brilliant as your father was, he managed to stab Shownu in the shoulder, thus removing him from the war for a while. When your father left and died, however, the war seemed to pick up better than ever, with Shownu fully recovered and ready to try to take over your country again. This time Yoongi happened to one of the many to take a swipe at Shownu, who was now in his early twenties, though one of the few to survive. Yoongi managed to badly injure Shownu, as rumors spread, by stabbing the man’s cloak to keep him in place, and then pushing him off the cliff the battle was taking place on. But right as Shownu was pushed, he managed to give one last hit, stabbing your brother in the leg, and leaving him crippled forever.
Some speculated that your family had the one who was more than a man that the poem was about, but when Shownu hadn’t returned, they all assumed that was the end of it. Besides, there was no third male in your family to be the man to defeat Shownu, because you had scarcely any cousins of such, and most suspected Shownu to be long dead before you produced an heir. Others simply speculated some of the others who fought against Shownu, because certainly, your family wasn’t that special to be the only ones to mark the legend and monster, or perhaps you were simply liars about your grand brother being the one to kill Shownu. Besides, who ever heard of a dragon of stone?
But still, Yoongi was given some credit, though for some odd reason the most he really got was a medal and a ride back home. You yourself speculated it was because there was no body to prove Shownu was dead, and some still speculated he was out there, lurking, waiting for the moment when the country was least suspecting to strike. The war seemed to have been on break since the attacks have been few to overthrow your country, but no surrender and no announcement of the dead leader, nor of another taking over.
But it seemed as though the war was on break for the past few years. Though it hadn’t been officially announced, boys were no longer being drafted to go into the army, and life seemed to go back to the mundane type, where instead of worrying about whether or not your boys would come back from the war, you had to worry about which one to marry.
Yoongi held something out in front of your face, making you stop from staring up at the armor to stare at the silver pen in front of you.
What was this?
As though reading your mind, Yoongi started to explain. “It’s a ‘pen’. You write with it. It’s nothing like the paintbrushes we use for writing, but I got it from a foreigner when we were traveling to battle. I was planning on giving it to you since you always seem to have your mind on the war, though it ended now. But the foreigner said it was far ahead of the time, and you don’t have to repeatedly dip your paintbrush in ink to write with this. They aren’t supposed to be made yet, and he said he made the very first one. An odd fellow, really. He had light hair and funny goggles and such, and pale skin. Anyways, he translated this phrase for me into Korean, saying 'The pen is mightier than the sword’.”
“You can’t kill someone with this,” you remark, looking at the weird object in your hand.
“You shouldn’t want to kill, Y/N,” Yoongi frowns. “Besides, that’s not the point. You can use your words instead of a sword to affect someone. Words are powerful you know, and violence doesn’t fix everything.”
“Well, what’s it supposed to mean, exactly? The pen is mightier than the sword?” you asked him quizzically. “I don’t get it.”
Yoongi frowned, thinking to himself thoughtfully. “I think it means brains beat brawn, essentially.”
“Hm,” you hummed. “Hey, oppa, do I have brains?”
“With your noodle arms?” Yoongi laughed. “Brains is all you have, though you don’t really seem to have much since you want to go to the war or have some action or something. You’re a girl, I hate to say it, and why you want to go out and get yourself killed is beyond me.”
You pouted. “I dunno… I just want to honor our family, like you.”
Yoongi patted your head. “I know, kiddo. But the only way you can do that is to marry a man who’ll add on to the family name. That’s the only way you can honor us. That’s how you’ll make Father proud. And I know my baby sister will find a great husband. You just need to have a little less spirit; men don’t like girls with more passion than they do. It makes them feel insecure in comparison. You’re too independent, you know, and guys like to know they’re relied on.”
You sighed to yourself, staring down at the pen in your hand. You toyed with it, your thumb pressing down on the button on top, for a small tip to appear at the bottom of the cool metal… pen. Carefully pushing your long sleeve up to your elbow, you dragged it across your skin, surprised to see a small, black line tracing along. This was useful, why wasn’t this created dynasties before? Yoongi’s words rang in your head, and you nodded.
“I’ll to it,” you promised. “To honor the family. To make Father proud.”
And that’s exactly what you did, seeing that you were now dressed beautiful enough to look like a bride, one to be envied, and one that looked so delicate and fragile you might as well have been made of porcelain and ivory.
Yoongi stepped past the curtains as the maids- who were hired specifically to help you into your outfit for that day- put on the last and final touches. You smiled timidly at your brother, who leaned on his cane and studied you with absolute admiration.
“I’ll have to beat off the suitors with my own cane,” he grinned at last. “Until we find the perfect man for you. The matchmaker will do a fine job, I’m sure. But until then I’ll slap every boy upside the head.”
“Why she’s a prize!” your mother gushed, wrapping her arms around her son’s, looping their arms together to stare at you. “My, she’s beautiful, and with a war hero brother and father, every eligible man will be rushing to her.”
“Father would be proud,” Yoongi nodded, looking up at you in approval.
“Thank you,” you said in response, trying your best not to think about the shoes that made your feet ache or of how tight your hair was. Fuck, you wanted nothing more than to scream curse words at the top of your lungs, or to slip out of the tight dress to escape on your beloved horse and go out for a ride.
But no, you knew what your position was. This is what you had to do.
“Let me walk you to the matchmaker’s,” Yoongi offered, glowing with pride over his sister. “I meant what I said, I’ll beat them off with a stick.”
You giggled but caught yourself. No more of that. A perfect wife here was demure and quiet, unfortunately, the two things you were rather terrible at. Looping your arm in your brother’s, you both set out to head to the matchmaker’s, your mother waving goodbye, your grandmother looking over and beaming a proud smile to you.
You two weren’t far from the matchmaker’s- which was a short walk from the preparation maids- when you heard the sound of the city gong being rung overhead.
“What could that be?” you piped, surprised. That usually meant a grand official was coming to visit the city, typically the town square, where you were now, but ten feet from the matchmaker’s. In came horses and the dirt roads blew puffs of dirt to billow out. Crowds formed, worrisome and curious as they speculated to the horses that showed up in their square, or more importantly, the soldiers and officials on them.
A man in a blue robe sat on top of one horse, a tall hat and a prestigious scowl that told anyone nearby he wasn’t one to be messed with. His face was grim though as he made his announcement.
“Shownu is alive!” he cried out, eliciting shocks from the crowd. Your eyes darted to Yoongi, who kept his stare trained on the official, not so much as daring to lock gazes with your worried one. “He is alive and is planning to take over Korea! A draft is being sent out for one male of every family to join the army to serve the emperor!”
One of the soldiers next to him handed him a scroll, which he unraveled as he began reading the surnames of the families that would spare a son for the emperor. You clutched tightly onto your own hands, and you noticed Yoongi’s eyes drift down to them, as though he was wondering why you weren’t clutching onto him, your dear brother, who you depended on, instead.
And then you heard it.
“The Min family!”
Your face was pale, and Yoongi shoved his cane in your hand, knocking what little breath you had in you out momentarily, as you stared warily at your brother, accepting his form.
“Wait!” you cried out from impulse. Pushing every small voice in your head that begged you to stop, you rushed towards him, blocking him from accepting the letter. “Please, sir, my brother has fought against Shownu already, he’s a war hero! Why he’s the one who pushed Shownu off the cliff, and he cannot fight again!”
“Stand aside. You’re a bride to be, learn to keep your mouth shut! You should be on your way to be sold off to a man, shouldn’t you? Besides, maybe next time your brother will succeed at killing Shownu, which he miserably failed at, now that we already have blood spilled and Shownu in our borders,” the official glared, snapping at you.
You flinched, looking at your brother with a pleading look. “Please, Yoongi, tell them! This is stupid, you’re injured!”
Yoongi grimaced at your words, scowling at once and accepting the form. He turns to you, his face full of disdain and red with either anger or embarrassment. “Don’t embarrass me further just because I can do what you can’t, Y/N,” he spat, pushing past you. You were hushed, your eyes trained solely on the limp your brother bore, as he did his best to shuffle away from you. The crowd around you seemed to have hushed whispers and judging murmurs, and your cheeks flushed red, thankfully masked by the heavy, pale makeup you wore.
You ran out, and your brother was nowhere to be seen. He could handle himself, you knew that. Besides, he’d only be further embarrassed if you ran to him, worried about him without his cane. Instead, you rushed to your home, going to the stables with tears running down your cheeks and your makeup dripping down onto your silk dress. You didn’t care though, running to the stables to your horse, sobbing as you saddled and mounted him quickly, letting him carry you far and to the lake, which was the only place you’d be able to cry in peace.
And there you stayed, not even going to the matchmaker. You had wiped off the last of your makeup on your silk sleeves, ruining the expensive fabric that had been imported from China. You huffed, ripping the tight ribbon around your waist off to throw into the water, noting that your dress was now covered in dirt and makeup. You kicked off the tight shoes, letting your feet stretch and breathe.
Your horse was faithful, staying by your side as you laid in the grass under one of the blossom trees that hung over the lake. You stared into the reflection that was dimly illuminated by the moonlight that appeared after hours of sobbing and staying by the water’s side. Your rippling reflection was small, showed barely through some of the flowers and petals that had fallen into the lake.
God, why was your brother such an idiot?
“Why are you crying? You’re not the one going to war,” a voice piped behind you. You sniffled, turning around to see your brother, a pained expression as he leaned against the blossom tree, one of your horses by his side.
“Oppa, you can’t go,” you said quietly, reaching for the cane you had put by your side, holding it out to him for him to take. “You know you can’t. You’re injured. In fact, I have your cane here, you need it. God, do you want to injure yourself further? You-”
“God, do you ever shut up?” Yoongi snapped, making you retract. He swiped the cane from your clutches, leaning against it. “For God’s sake, you’ve gotten your makeup ruined and your dress in shambles! You didn’t even go to the matchmaker, did you? You had one job, and you couldn’t even do that. Father would be ashamed to have you as a daughter if he were here right now.”
You felt yourself starting to cry again, tears slipping down your cheeks. “Yoongi, don’t be such an idiot! You almost got yourself killed last time, you’re going to die this time! Accept the fact you aren’t as strong as you used to be, you can’t just fight in this war, this is ridiculous! You don’t mean a word you say, you’re just embarrassed because I hurt your so precious ego!”
“I mean every word I say!” Yoongi snapped, though you heard his raspy voice beginning to shake. He didn’t mean it, you saw past every lie he told, and this was one of them. “I thought you’d mature by now. You want to uphold the family honor so badly? You couldn’t even do the one thing you’re supposed to do! Face it, the only thing you can do is get married and have kids, and that’s all you’ll ever do!”
“Better than what you can do, going around and trying to act stronger than you are! You live behind a lie, and you’re trying to act like a man, but in reality, you’re simply acting like nothing more than a pussy!”
“Watch your mouth!” Yoongi spat, his fire-like gaze burning into your own. “I’m done with this conversation. I’ve got to go to camp tomorrow, and I’m not losing sleep over my bratty sister’s jealousy that I’m something she’s not.”
With that he spun around, hobbling away angrily on his cane, leaving you with fat, hot tears to roll down your cheeks.
Father would be ashamed to have you as a daughter if he were here right now.
You’re brother sure knew how to be an asshole when he wanted to.
But you knew you still loved him. You knew he still loved you. This was one of the worst fights you two have had in years, since before Father died, since before Yoongi stopped being such a scared little kid and started turning into a man. But perhaps so much time after the war and hidden away in your care made him think nothing could touch him anymore, and now he was acting just like the hot-tempered scaredy-cat you grew up with.
You knew you couldn’t stand aside though. Not when your mother and grandmother were spending that night clutched in each other’s arms, shaking and sobbing uncontrollably, not letting Yoongi out of their sight because they knew it’d be the last time. You didn’t miss when Yoongi hobbled up to the shrine, praying and crying to the ancestors for either a quick death or survival.
And you knew you had to do something. It wasn’t about proving yourself, it wasn’t about proving that girls could do whatever boys could do; it was about doing what was right.
That night you took the pen Yoongi gave you, placing it by his bed as you stole the scroll. The boy didn’t make a sound, deep in his sleep and unaware of what you were doing.
You, too, visited the shrine that night. Your family always had a tradition when it came to guardians, one slightly different. While most would have the ancestors pick a guardian to watch over them, your family picked your own, as though it was to symbolize the choice of putting your fate in your own hands, though assistance would surely be needed.
Your father chose the Monkey, who was the wisest. It was to help him think his way through the army to keep him from harm’s way he could avoid. Your brother Yoongi, however, chose the Rabbit, who was the swiftest. If you can run fast enough, he put it, sometimes you can evidently run from your problems long enough to think of a solution.
You chose neither, instead praying and choosing the Dragon, who helps in strength, power, and luck. You lit a few candles under the statue of who you’d hope would be your protector, letting the herbs you sprinkled on the ground give the scent and desired feel to please the ancestors on letting you have this one as your guardian. When you choose your guardian, you become one with it. It is believed the spirit of the guardian inhabits your soul for when it is needed, and so you would be the dragon for the time being. At least, your willpower would.
You’d need all on your side tonight, and you knew that even as you prayed.
And so you went to your Father’s armor, freshly cleaned from a few days ago out of impulse. You grabbed the sword, the blade still as sharp as it was during the days of battle. Your long hair was tightly gripped in your hand, and while holding your breath and saying your prayers, you chopped it off with a single slice, letting it fall around you to reveal new, shoulder-length hair. Tying it into a tight bun, you leave it in a ribbon, quickly dressing in the armor. A sword by your side, you ran to the stables, kicking off to the camps.
You knew that your brother wouldn’t dare reveal your secret, in risk of dishonoring the family further, and in risk of your own life.
You came to the camp, putting in your form for which family you came from, and went out and about to meet the other fellow soldiers, all of them bonding, a few throwing punches, and some seeming so disgusting you were tempted to gag. You kept in mind to show some of the boyish traits Yoongi would tease you about when you were younger, as well as the ones he showed from time to time. You had to be a man, and you had no idea for how long.
You accidentally bumped into one man, and he growled, shoving you back as well and growling. “Watch where you’re going, huh punk?” he snapped, baring his teeth as he gave you a menacing look. His cheeks were slightly red in anger, and your eyes spotted how toned and buff he was underneath his sleeves.
You gulped nervously as he stepped forward, but arms wrapped around him to pull him into a tight hug, a pair of lips singing a soft lullaby in his ear. “Now, Jiminie… control your temper,” the taller man said in a motherly voice, swaying with the boy in his arms. “Repeat after me… Maybe I-I can never fly~!”
Jimin’s lids drooped slightly, his red face going back to its natural color, and a sleepy tone taking making his voice soft has he reluctantly repeated after his friend. “Maybe I… I… can never… fly,” he hummed, and the man stopped rocking him, and Jimin waved his hands at you in annoyance. “Agh, you’re not worth the trouble.”
You nodded, and a man behind you started laughing. “Ah, Jin-hyung, this kid’s lucky you’re here,” the man laughed, and you supposed the motherly one was Jin.
“Taehyung, it’s rude to laugh like that,” Jin scolded, though he nodded in agreement. “Though it is lucky for this fellow I suppose.”
You laughed awkwardly, trying to give that deep, throaty chuckle you remember your Father had. You turned around to walk away, but not before you heard, “You know what? I change my mind.”
You turned around, seeing Jimin’s fist flying towards you. You shrieked, ducking down, which resulted in Jimin punching the other boy in the throat. Taehyung coughed and sputtered, falling to the floor as Jimin gave him an apologetic, angel-like smile. “Sorry, Tae,” he apologized.
Taehyung scrambled up, his fists flying to you in fury rather quickly, and you jumped to the side, hearing the thwack as Taehyung hit someone nearby. Before long, a brawl had started, and everyone was punching everyone, and you definitely had to throw a few hands to defend yourself in the chaos erupting.
“ENOUGH!” someone bellowed, the loud shout causing everyone to look up. General Kim Namjoon, followed by another boy. The general’s face was stern, and he nudged the other boy, looking to him. “Well, Jungkook? This is your troupe, little brother. You’re in charge now.”
Jungkook- who was apparently in charge- narrowed his eyes and furrowed his brows. “LISTEN UP!” he shouted, his voice gruff and commanding. You all stiffened under his glare, and he immediately shouted, “LINE UP!”
You all scrambled from the floor and each other’s clutches to line up single file, and after some confusions and a few gruff shouts, you were all lined up. Jungkook and the general walked along the line, inspecting the face of each soldier, and you prayed you just got enough scrapes and cuts to where any feminine features you possessed were concealed.
Your mind recalled something Yoongi told you, about General Kim Namjoon having a half brother by the name of Jeon Jungkook, who was born later but was also working in the army to lead troupes in the army.
“Good job,” Namjoon nodded to the younger. “You’ll make a fine captain, you know. I’m lucky you’re younger than me because I’d be overshadowed by you quicker than I’d be able to so much as pick up a sword.” The two shared a good-hearted chuckle, and you found yourself wishing your relationship with Yoongi was more like that. Well, it was at times, but from how things were left, it’s natural for you to wish it was like that more often.
“Thanks,” Jungkook chuckled, but quickly wiped it off, as though remembering where he was and who he was. He continued walking down the row, and his eyes landed on you.
Your heart skipped a beat. Oh shit, he saw right past you! And he’s hot! Shit.
“What family are you from?” Jungkook questioned, quirking a brow at the question.
“Min,” you spoke, doing your best to keep your cool.
“Min? As in the same family as Min Yoongi, and his father?” Namjoon asked, impressed.
“No, no!” you hastily replied. “A different Min. I’m… I’m adopted, yes… so I’m from the Min family. They don’t talk of me often.”
Jungkook eyed his elder brother, “Not one 'more than a man’, technically. Besides, the riddle is rubbish, you and I both know that.” He looked back to you. “What is your name, soldier?”
“Er… Sonyeon,” you blurted, eliciting odd stares from the men around you. (The joke here is that 'Sonyeon’ is the romanized version for 'boy’ in Korean.)
Jungkook narrowed his eyes. “Sonyeon?”
“Min was a great soldier,” Namjoon said wistfully. “Though perhaps not the best when it comes to names…”
Jungkook shrugged.
Namjoon’s eyes raked down your comparably scrawny figure. “Just remember, brother. This one might be scrawny, but even the smallest grain of rice can tip the scale.”
“Of course,” Jungkook agreed, and you let out a breath of relief.
“When your army is ready, meet us at the front,” Namjoon ordered. “I ought to get going. I’ll see you soon, Captain.”
Jungkook gave a grim nod, “See you soon, General.”
Namjoon grinned, walking away to his horse, riding out of the camp. Glares were sent your way, particularly from Taehyung, Jimin, and Jin. Jungkook simply gave you a bored stare before addressing the rest of the troupe. His glare intensified, and he stared down the men, his chest puffed out and chin held up high.
“Now, listen here,” he called out in a stern voice. “There will be no fights breaking out in the troupe. The only one you’re supposed to fight is Shownu and his army, and we won’t get anything done if you’re fighting each other like children. My job is to transform you puny boys into men, and it’s going to be a long journey to get to that point, as I can already see by your bad behavior. Tomorrow we will begin training, but for now, you are to clean this camp and build your own camps. And tomorrow, the real work begins.”
Grumbles were shared as your captain walked away, and glares were definitely being sent to you directly. That night you dealt with the shoves and jeers, mainly from the three you met earlier. You set up your own tent, a small one, and you weren’t to have any roommates like the others. Partly because no one wanted to room with you, and the other part was because you were sure awful things would happen in your sleep had that happened.
The next morning the soldiers lined up, right as the sun was rising over the camp. Everyone was tired, and you were being greeted with taunting jeers and threats. Your captain stepped out from his tent, which was set much farther from the other tents in the camp, and your eyes widened at his glory as he slipped off his shirt. You might be pretending to be a boy, but you it slipped your mind your captain had an undoubtedly impressive physique… although more than likely you weren’t the only one impressed.
“Oh, lookie, tough guy,” Jimin snickered to Tae, rolling his eyes.
Jungkook wasn’t even looking Jimin’s way, but you swore you saw a smirk quirk the man’s lips up as he grabbed a bow and arrow, pointing directly at Jimin. “Jimin,” he said, eliciting a shocked and surprised look from the other man. Last minute, Jungkook pointed the arrow at the pole, shooting it off where it landed perfectly towards the top. “Thank you for so graciously offering to retrieve the arrow.”
Jimin was stunned momentarily, and Taehyung and Jin were trying to hide their snickers. You yourself even let a smile slip onto your lips, but Jimin greeted you with his death glare. “With pleasure,” Jimin growled, stomping off to the pole.
“Wait!” Jungkook stopped him, holding a box in his hand. “You can’t do this on your own.” He opened the box, revealing medals of gold. Wrapping one around each of Jimin’s wrists, he held them up in example. “Strength,” he raised the other hand, “and discipline. You will need both to reach the arrow.”
Wow, such a metaphor.
Jimin grumbled to himself, dragging the weights along as he gripped around the pole, trying to drag himself up, only to fall down in misery.
You all had a lot of work ahead of you.
You’d like to say that your training for the next few months was easy, and you were a natural at it, but in reality, you were perhaps the worst soldier in history. You were tossed around like a rag doll in hand to hand combat, and you repeatedly fell down on your head as you tried to retrieve the arrows. The boys didn’t make it easier either, because at some point Taehyung stuck a scorpion down your shirt, which caused you to swat everyone around you with your staff, squirming around and shrieking as you hit everyone in your way. Jungkook was by your side within seconds, but only after you knocked everyone down, and he yanked you by the collar of your shirt, glaring at you as you winced at his words of 'encouragement’.
Hell, he might be hot, but this was the army. One mistake and you’re dead.
Swiping for fish only resulted in you swiping at other men, dunking them in the water. Balance was something you frankly sucked at, and as you ran across the pegs sticking out of the river, you’d fall and slip into the river’s current, only resulting in your captain retrieving you because everyone else was busy laughing. You hit your head against stones and sticks, and you were surprised you didn’t have a concussion already.
Occasionally on one of your major screw ups, Jungkook would insist it was because you didn’t believe in yourself. You yourself thought it was because you were too weak, no match for the bulkier, stronger men surrounding you, who’s lives you endangered with your constant screw ups.
It was after a hike on a mountain, where you carried water in buckets with sticks across your back, that Jungkook decided enough was enough. You were falling behind, and Jungkook had to take your load himself, looking at you in disappointment. It had been six months, and even you knew that had you not dragged everyone behind, they’d be ready to fight with the others. With his brother.
That night Jungkook took your horse, carrying a small sack full of food, and tossing it to you as he dragged you from your tent.
“You’re through,” Jungkook said, his voice dismal and stern. “You can’t complete the training, and you’re dragging everyone behind. Mistakes can cost your own life, and others as well. Go back to your family. It’s too bad that not even their adopted son could accomplish what they could. I wanted to believe in you, but we don’t have all the time in the world. Shownu is coming, and I can’t make you into a man. I guess I was fullish to think you could be anything more than a boy. Go home, you’re through. How could I succeed with you?”
You were broken, staring at him in shock as he walked away to retreat to his tent, leaving you to return home in shame, with your family honor broken.
But you wouldn’t give up.
You refused to believe a word of what he said, the words echoing in your ears even as you snuck into the weaponry and training supply tent, getting the medals. You dragged them behind you, the moonlight reflecting them dimly as you strained to hold them up. You stared up at that arrow, gritting your teeth and trying to climb up the pole, only to fall down time and time again. Others tried climbing up there even without the weights, but it was impossible.
You stared down at the weights in absolute frustration. How the hell were you supposed to do this? This was impossible! But staring up at the arrow, an idea sparked in your mind. You swung both medals around the pole, your arms wrapping around the wood. They clinked together, locking in place as they twisted with one another. Your eyes were wide in amazement, and you tugged against them, making sure they’d stay in place. You started climbing up, hugging onto the pole, the weights supporting you and your feet kicking up. You were about halfway up the pole when the sun started rising over the camp, the golden light meeting your small frame.
Men were getting out of their tents, staring up at you, Sonyeon, who was closer to the arrow than any of them were able to. They cheered you on, and you got to the top, sitting atop the pole and yanking the arrow from it’s taunting throne, victory having a sweet taste on your lips as you smiled, the men below giving hollers and whoops of encouragement and joy. The captain stepped from his tent far below, and even his broad shoulders and tall frame seemed so tiny from all the way up there. You were light-headed, either from the lack of air or from the giddiness you felt at the moment for finding a resourceful solution.
When Jungkook walked closer to the pole, you threw the arrow as accurately as you could, landing at his feet. You didn’t even have to be up close to tell his smile was matching your own.
From that moment on, you believed in yourself. You were equal to these men, their taunting jeers turning into shouts of encouragement and you leaped ahead, catching bountiful fish, progressing further and further instead of stumbling behind. You were running ahead, getting swifter and stronger than ever before, and once even beat the great captain himself in hand to hand combat, though he grinned in pride at your improvement.
Within the next five months, you were one of the star soldiers, where instead of using just brute strength and brawn, you used your resourcefulness and quick thinking. Instead of knocking you down, your fellow soldiers helped you up, seeing you more as an equal than a burden. You even got a bit closer to Jungkook, admittedly, where his compliments to your hard work made your heart flutter, and you hid from the others any sign of your blushing cheeks. There was no room for a crush in the army, and you did your best to suppress it.
One of the few 'feminine’ habits you still kept was hygiene, and it was late at night when you were finally able to wash up in the lake, letting the fresh water replenish your battered skin, your calloused fingers running over your skin to rub off dirt. Sure, you were risking your secret being discovered, but your horse was nearby with a towel draped over his back for coverage, and you did this so many times you were surprised you weren’t discovered yet.
But then you heard the hollers.
You quickly his behind a rock, your eyes wide as saucers as you saw three men strip down of their clothes, jumping into the lake with cheers of joy. Shit, you recognized those cheers. Taehyung, Jimin, and Jin!
“Hey, Sonyeon!” Taehyung called out, swimming towards you. Your eyes were wide, and you had no doubt in your mind he was completely bare beneath the water. “How are you doing, bud?”
“Oh, hi Taehyung-ah,” you coughed, using the deeper voice you had to use around the boys nowadays. “Well, you guys can have the lake to yourself, I’m about to head out. Bye!”
Just as you were about to swim away, Taehyung grabbed your arm, grinning. “Wait, wait! Look, we were awful before, and we’re sorry. We were idiots, but what about a fresh start? Hi, I’m Tae.” He stuck out his hand for you to shake, a boxy grin on his face as you shook his hand nervously.
“Hi, Tae,” you smiled nervously, pulling your hand back, only for it to smack flat against Jin’s chest.
“And I’m Jin,” the older man smiled at you.
“Hi, Jin,” you laughed.
You heard the sound of wet feet stepping onto the rock, and you looked up in horror to see a naked Jimin- while his glory was… glorious- with his hands on his hips and a smug grin as he stared down at you and the boys. “And I’m Jimin!” he crowed haughtily, water dripping down his body as you tried to avert your eyes, your cheeks flushed. “King of all you pussies!”
“Oh yeah?” Tae grinned, “Sonyeon and I can whoop your ass.”
“How about we not,” you laughed. “We could just… leave? Or close our eyes, play some Marco-Polo or whatever?”
“Don’t be a wimp, let’s fight him!” Taehyung encouraged, grabbing onto your arm to try and drag you away. “We’re together, Sonyeon-ssi, we can do anything! Beat anyone! As long as we’re a team, we can kick who ever’s ass we want. And I say we kick this so-called 'king’!”
“Kids, don’t roughhouse too much,” Jin said in a quiet tone, though you could tell from his mischevious grin that he wasn’t going to stop anything. Taehyung stood on the rock, trying to drag you up as well to fight with Jimin.
You tried to think quickly, and you shouted at the top of your lungs, “SNAKE!” Splashing wildly, you heard the men around you scream in fear, Taehyung letting go of you and jumping up closer to Jimin on the rock, and Jin scrambled up as well, the splashing concealing your lie. You dived under, swimming to the shore and to your house, hiding behind him and getting the towel, wrapping it around your body.
“Ugh, never again,” you groaned to yourself, running to your tent.
Later that night, disaster struck. The sounds of shrieks and yells are what alerted you at once, and you ran outside your tent to see your camp being attacked. They found you! Quickly, you got dressed in your father’s armor, his sword in your hand, and you joined in on the fight.
You tried to recall everything Jungkook had taught you because the time had finally come for you to fight. Your sword clashed with another’s, the metal hitting metal. You yelled a warrior cry, breaking away and trying to hit again, the blades pressing against each other. You two pushed against one another, both gritting your teeth and trying to push the other down. You spun around, bringing your foot up to kick the enemy in the face, the jaw more than likely being dislocated as they fell to the floor. You grabbed their sword, looking down as you stabbed your attacker in the heart.
Tossing the blood-stained sword to the ground, you turned around, seeing another attacker. You swiped, clashing swords and kicking at each other. You fell to the floor, kicking his feet out from under him and bringing out your sword, the tip sinking down into the belly. Blood splashed that night, and you took numerous more lives, until you heard your captain’s mighty cry, on his horse as it ran past the fights breaking out, and he did his best to attack while he was on the animal, more bloodshed being spread on the dirt and grass.
“Captain!” you cried out, seeing an archer aiming directly at Jungkook. You ran towards the archer, tackling him as you immediately brought your sword down on his neck, the blood spilling everywhere. Your captain looked to you, and you nodded on, pointing to another enemy approaching him. You were panting hard, and you heard the sound of hooves repeatedly beating against the ground, and turned around to see a large figure on a dark horse, getting nearer and nearer, a jagged sword held out to his side.
You knew who it was immediately from the tales that both your brother and father told. The huge figure was none other than Shownu, from his enormous size, long, flowing hair he kept in a ponytail, and from the faithful sword, he never let leave his side. Your heart was leaping out of your chest, fear coursing through your veins as you started running in the opposite direction, but Shownu was gaining on you.
He was so close you could see the malicious grin he bore, and you turned around, your sword clashing against his so hard sparks seemed to fly. His horse kicked in the air, it’s front hooves waving in the air as you fell, rolling away to scamper off. You were scared to death, your heavy sword shaking in your hands, and you were trembling in your blood stained armor.
Shownu’s expression turned dark, and you could only hear the one word he seemed to growl out. “Min!” he shouted out, recognizing either your armor or your frightened expression, perhaps the same one your brother wore. He made a swipe so quick you didn’t have time to react, and he cut into your stomach, causing you to gasp out in pain and fall to the floor.
You heard someone shout out, “SONYEON!” and without another word, Shownu ran off, the rest of his army following shortly after. You had no idea why Shownu left you without killing you, but as you saw his army finally disappear, and the dead bodies scattered on the field, you shakily stood up on your legs.
Your sword was heavy in your hand, and you felt light-headed. All you could smell was blood right now, and the slight smell of urine, undoubtedly from the men who peed from fright or others, and you wouldn’t be surprised if it was running down your own leg. Your limbs felt numb and cold, and there was a certain weight as you stared down at how you were covered in blood from the numerous lives you probably took and your sword that was stained with the blood of many. Lives were taken because of you, and the thought made you go dizzy. You pressed your palm against your stomach, bringing it in front of your face to reveal it soaked in blood.
“SONYEON!” the same voice shouted out, and your captain’s horse approached. He leaped off as you staggered back, eyes wide as he tried to get a hold of you, stabilizing you by gripping onto the sides of your arms. “Soldier, are you alright? Can you hear me, boy?”
“Jungkook…” you whispered, the first and probably only time you- or any of the soldiers- called him by his actual name instead of captain. You collapsed in his arms, the shock that was keeping you awake wearing off at last, and your vision faded as Jungkook shook your shoulders, trying to wake you.
“Ugh…” you groaned, blinking up. This wasn’t home. This wasn’t your tent either. Yours was much smaller than this one, and rather shabby in comparison, to be frank. “Where am I?”
You heard a small sound, and you tried to sit up, seeing Jungkook running his blade across a stick, making the end pointed. You glanced down, the blanket covering you slipping down to reveal bandages around your wound, and your breasts were briefly revealed. You gasped, using the blanket to cover yourself again. You looked up to your captain in absolute fear, “I-I can explain!”
A slow smirk spread on Jungkook’s face, and he didn’t meet your eyes, his eyes still trained on the small knife and the pointy stick. You gulped, and he looked back to you.
“You know, you never did seem quite the same as your comrades,” he mused, his eyes mischevious. “There was always something off. Sure, you fell behind in the beginning, and it was rather impressive when you started to excel. I had suspicions, but none of them were like this.”
“I did it for my brother,” you whimpered, looking down in shame. “He was injured because of Shownu last time, and our father has been dead for years. Had I let Yoongi go, he would’ve died instantly.”
“So, you impersonated a soldier, and pretended to be a man?” Jungkook stopped, quirking a brow at you. “I must say, I’m impressed.”
“I understand if I must meet the death penalty, sir, but I’m so sorry- wait, what?” you looked up at him in shock.
Jungkook smiled. “That’s right, I’m impressed. You rose above your peers, and had I known, it would’ve made a lot more sense why you were so lacking in the beginning. But the fact that you usurped grown men, fought and trained alongside them- and for almost a year! Why I had no idea. How did you do it?”
“Aren’t you going to kill me?” you asked feebly. “I committed a crime, and the penalty is death. W-Why are you…”
“Sonyeon,” Jungkook paused. “Alright, not Sonyeon, sorry, it slipped my mind for calling you that for so long. Man, you couldn’t come up with a better name?” He laughed. “That should’ve been a red flag to me or something, it’s funny now that I look back. But look, you’re a hero, girl or not. You even went face to face with Shownu, and you survived. That’s rare, and it’s just like your father and brother. Sure, sort of like that old riddle, but everyone knows that’s bullshit. No matter though, the point is, I’m not revealing your secret. You’re one of my best soldiers, and I’m not pompous enough to throw you away because your physique is… different.”
You blinked in surprise. “I’m… Thank you, Captain.”
“Might I ask your real name?” Jungkook asked you, putting down the objects in his hand to face you completely.
“Y/N,” you spoke.
He smiled. “Yes, Y/N. I think I spoke to your brother about you, before. He was a good man, spoke very fondly of you, in fact.”
“Well, I doubt he’d do that now,” you sighed, shaking your head.
“And why is that?”
You hesitated. But he knew your most dangerous secret, and it’s not like you could afford to keep more secrets from him or get on his bad side. “The day we were ordered to send a man from our family here, I was supposed to go to the matchmaker. But I was so upset with the situation, and my brother and I got into a nasty fight.”
“And you still chose to take his place?”
“He’s my brother,” you countered. “Wouldn’t you do the same for yours?”
“In a heartbeat,” Jungkook admitted. “You’re brave, Y/N. Not just as a soldier, but also as a person.”
“What happened after…” You trailed off, not wanting to think of the horrific acts you saw and performed.
Jungkook’s mouth went small. “You fainted in my arms, and your friends, those three goofballs, I’m sure you know, were insisting on taking care of you. Several of our medics were killed, unfortunately, and they were going out tending to the others, trying to find survivors. I knew enough to treat wounds like your own, so I decided to treat you myself. But once I saw you weren’t exactly a… boy, I immediately rushed you to my tent to finish tending to your wounds and to hide you from the others. I didn’t know if they’d react the same as me.”
“Oh,” you breathed, feeling slightly uncomfortable about the fact that Jungkook saw your goods.
Jungkook’s cheeks seemed to turn slightly pink, and it was evident that he was thinking of the same thing you were. Though, never in all the months of him training you had you seen the man blush. “I mean, I didn’t mean-”
“No, it’s fine, you saved my life,” you interrupted. “Don’t worry about it.”
“We’re going to be joining my brother,” Jungkook mentioned. “We can’t stay at this camp, and seeing you all fight yesterday, it’s evident you’re ready by now. The messenger, Hoseok, sent me a letter from my brother this morning, in fact, saying that he needs backup at the front immediately.”
“Yes sir,” you nodded. “I’ll pack immediately, Captain.” Jungkook shifted at your words, something making him slightly uncomfortable. You looked at him in surprise. “Is there something wrong, Captain?”
“Hm?” he hummed absentmindedly. “What? Oh, no. I’ve just never heard a girl call me Captain. But I suppose we’ll have to still call each other by the honoraries and such, right?”
“I suppose so.”
“What about this, Y/N,” Jungkook began. “What if we just called each other by our real names when we’re alone. It’s exhausting having to act so… stern and official every day, and it’d be good for someone close to you- or, for you to be comfortable with the only one who knows your name. Or that’s just me, I just feel like I’m going crazy not being able to talk with anyone one on one.”
His suggestion- request, more accurately- was innocent, and you could sense the slight pleading tone he used. You smiled, nodding. “I’d like that very much, Jungkook.”
He grinned, and his eyes wandered to the outside of the camp. “You ought to get back to your tent to pack before anyone sees you. We’ll talk later.”
You nodded, taking the blanket with you as well as the armor he laid at the side. You bowed goodbye, and the moment you slipped out of the tent you resumed your role as a soldier. Your wound ached, but you were more than capable of moving around enough, so long as you don’t reopen the wound. But you couldn’t deny your heart was beating faster than ever.
It was a weary journey, walking over to the front through the snowy mountains. It had been two weeks of stopping and walking the great distance, mainly because you lacked a trusting map and there were many obstacles through the mountains, and because you brought your horse, you were one of the few who got to travel that way. You kept close to the three boys, a little behind Jungkook, mainly because the boys were actually quite friendly once you got to know them better, and they became your main source for entertainment. Despite the lives they’ve taken, and the atrocities they’ve seen, not to mention the noticeable shrinkage of your troupe since the battle, they were still able to joke around.
The topic they were on- ironic and shocking as it was- was women.
“She has to be at least shorter than I am!” Jimin insisted.
Jin laughed, imitating the sound of a squeaky toy or other. “Oh please, that’s just because you know you’re short!”
“Yah, I’m not!”
Taehyung laughed, “Jiminie-ah, you’re so short, you’re an acorn.”
“Why I oughta-”
“Not right behind the captain,” you warned, though you secretly wanted to see what would happen. The general’s army was in a small village, guarding them by the front because it was one of the main ways to get to the main road. You had spoken to Jungkook a bit about it during your night talks, and he was more than happy to explain to you.
“You’re just saying that cause you’re his new favorite,” Taehyung hissed teasingly to you.
You wore a flabbergasted expression on your face. “What? You’re being ridiculous. Do you not remember in the beginning, how he’d yell at me every other day?”
“Well something’s different,” Jin mentioned. “You two talk often it seems. And you exchange these looks. Do you two know something that we don’t?”
“Oh, we plan on sending you three back home,” you teased, grinning. “Sorry to break it to you.”
Jimin scoffed, “Sure, sure. Just you wait, once we get home, we’ll be heartthrobs! I’ll get myself a nice gal, one who admires my scars and thinks I have no faults.”
“Like she exists,” Taehyung scoffed. “I just want a girl who laughs at my jokes.”
“Your jokes suck!” Jin remarked, snickering.
“Not as much as your dad jokes,” Taehyung fired back.
“They’re not that bad,” Jimin muttered, though it was barely heard over Jin’s squawks of offense.
You rolled your eyes. “Not again,” you mumbled under your breath.
“Well, while you two care for unrealistic things, I just want a girl who will cook with me,” Jin mentioned. “Mm, I can smell the chicken already. I’m getting hungry…”
“Hey, Sonyeon-ssi, what’s your ideal gal?” Jimin asked. “I’d say you were probably a charmer, but seeing you when you first got here, you probably made gals run away.”
You rolled your eyes again, thinking of the irony. “I dunno, I guess someone athletic… to help me around… someone with a brain who speaks their mind… and perhaps can take charge…”
“Boring!” Taehyung yawned. “Gee, Sonyeon, your gal sounds like a man!”
“And she’d be twice the man of any of you,” you hissed back, making the boys guffaw and sputter, about to start another argument. Jimin gathered and packed a pretty good snowball with the snow you were all trudging through, and you were about to block it when he stopped, gasping and dropping it to the ground before him. The boys’ eyes were wide and horrified, and you looked forward in confusion, only to see all you needed to.
It was frames of houses and rags of cloth, the remains of a village that was burned to the ground. You rode closer to Jungkook, your eyes wide and heart pounding in shocked thuds.
Jungkook looked to you in horror, and you knew at once his mind crossed to his brother, who was supposed to be here. “Namjoon should be here,” he murmured to you. You didn’t know what to say, and he turned around, addressing the army. “Search for survivors!”
Soldiers searched through the burned down village, some disappearing down into the valley deeper below. You rode on, unsure of what to expect. There seemed to be no sign of life, and Shownu most certainly didn’t show any mercy. “I… Oh God,” you shuddered. Your stomach dropped down, thinking of the innocent lives of men, women, and children that were taken.
“Captain!” Jin’s voice rang out. You and Jungkook watched in horror as he came up, holding the golden helmet of Jungkook’s brother between his palms. Jungkook took it, examining it, his face pale. You couldn’t read anything in his blank stare, and rode forward, gasping out as you saw hundreds of dead bodies down below in the valley.
“Oh my God,” you breathed out, absolutely horrified at what you saw. It was absolutely heart wrenching, and to think that somewhere down there was even Jungkook’s brother, the general. There were even dead horses in the mix, and some were even the bodies of civilians, undoubtedly a few of children.
Jungkook was by your side, his eyes glassy as he struggled to suppress everything in front of his soldiers. He slipped off his horse, unsheathing his sword to stab it into the ground, placing his brother’s helmet on top in memory of him. A grave.
“Jungkook,” you whispered. “I’m so, so sorry.”
Jungkook didn’t say anything, but as the wind started making his red cloak drift behind him, and tears cascaded his cheeks as he looked at the hoards of dead bodies below, he looked at you with pure agony and misery etched into his handsome features. “It should’ve been me.”
While you wanted to argue with him, you knew it’d be best if you didn’t cause a dispute during his time of grief.
“Jungkook,” you said again. “I just want you to know, that if there’s anything I can do to help, to make you feel better, I’ll do it. And I mean anything.”
“I wouldn’t make you do anything you didn’t want to, Y/N,” Jungkook said back, shuddering in the frigid air as you two viewed the bodies being inspected.
“Jungkook, I care deeply for you. I’d do literally anything, and I want to help,” you insisted quietly. “I mean it. You’re more than just a friend to me.” You didn’t mean to blurt out the last part, you wanted it to mean you cared for him deeply in a way you’d risk your life for him, but as the words slipped your lips, they sounded very different than what you intended, though it was true either way.
Jungkook froze, and you were about to address the awkward statement you just made when you heard shouts from below. Figures moved fast, and within a second you realized your enemies had arrived.
“Captain!” you cried out, “Get on your horse, Shownu’s men are here!”
Jungkook glanced up from the grave to see that your words are true, and at once he mounted his steed, and the two of you descended into the battlefield. You fought hard, blood being spilled and mixing into the old blood that had already sunk into the snow. Scrapes and cuts were still torn into your sleeves and small ones along your arms and legs, but it wasn’t anything fatal or what could slow you down. Energy coursed through you, and you kept your focus, killing the second set.
Oddly enough, it wasn’t as morally wounding as it was the first time. Guilt didn’t course through you as much as you stabbed man after man, using slices and cuts to tear into the flesh as bodies hit the floor. No, now that you saw that they’d murder innocents, that they dared to harm even the children of your country, you wanted vengeance and to defend the ones who were lost. To defend those who couldn’t protect themselves, who stood no chance.
You were angry and in focus, letting the energy drive you to kill yet another murderer. Kill one, you’re a murderer. Kill a murderer, you’re a hero. A sickening thing that balanced out, and yet, it was the truth. Your warrior cry echoed through the valley, and you weren’t sure if it was your own blood or someone else’s that you tasted on your tongue. Your blade sliced through armor and flesh, and you made a mental note to get it repaired and sharpened again if you were to survive.
You heard a familiar cry and turned to see Shownu towering over a soldier, his blade quickly piercing the young man. Shownu wore a malevolent grin, licking his lips as the young boy fell to the ground.
Taehyung.
You were paralyzed for but a second, staring in shock as your friend toppled to the floor and didn’t move a muscle. Shownu turned, his galloping horse heading straight for one person in particular. Jungkook.
You couldn’t lose two friends, not tonight. You kicked at your horse beneath you as it jolted forward, and you intercepted Shownu to stop him, right in front of Jungkook. “Captain, go!” you encouraged, yelling at the top of your lungs as Jungkook’s blade cut into a man’s skull. Jungkook looked back just as you bared your teeth, your blade colliding with Shownu’s jagged one.
You went on, clashing them together as you neared closer. You did something completely crazy, gripping onto your horse’s mane and partially standing on the saddle before leaping onto Shownu’s horse, that was so close it was but inches from you. You landed on Shownu’s backside and quickly stabbing your blade into his side before he could process what you did or what you were to do, and you fell onto the ground behind the horse as it started running off, it’s owner’s body going limp before sliding right off. The animal rode off into the distance, and you scrambled up from the snow, getting up to run towards Shownu’s body.
“Sonyeon!” someone shouted. You turned to see Jimin running towards you, his sword in hand, and he was definitely in bad shape, either the shock keeping him conscious or the fear that pumped through his veins. This was Hell. “Sonyeon, where’s Tae?!”
You didn’t want to meet his eyes, though, because you knew the moment your gazes locked you’d see his- yours as well- friend’s lifeless body flopping down and sinking into the snow.
Besides, you still needed to finish the job and kill Shownu. You ran closer to the spot where he landed, turning from Jimin to the dead body that was responsible for this Hell.
It was gone.
You looked at the place where you were sure that his body had landed here, but it wasn’t there anymore. Nothing was there, except for the vague shape of a body in the blood-stained snow. Jimin caught up with you, gripping onto your arm, his eyes wide. “Where’s Tae? He was here but a few minu-”
“Soldiers!” Jungkook shouted, pointing his sword one way. “Retreat!”
You called to your horse, mounting it immediately and helping Jimin up, trying to ignore his pleading questions, and half hoping that the tears would freeze into ice for you to simply toss aside and forget about.
“Did you see it happen?” Jin asked you quietly. You were busy washing your blood stained armor in a nearby lake since your troupe traveled down the mountain to someplace closer to the warmer regions. You knew within a second that he was talking about Tae, and you gulped.
“Yes,” you admitted, sighing to yourself as you took a break from scrubbing the blood off. “I saw it. Shownu stabbed the boy without a second thought. Taehyung… he didn’t stand a chance.”
Jin sighed, staring into the rippling water. “Taehyung was like a little brother to me. He was even closer to Jimin since they were both constantly there for each other. I know you weren’t as close to him as we were, and hell, maybe you still secretly hold a grudge for how we treated you in the beginning, but I think that his death affected you too.”
You hadn’t even thought back to the moments in the beginning of training, and you had forgiven everyone who mistreated you a long time ago. You knew Jimin was in his new tent, still sobbing his eyes out, broken, and though it had been weeks since the battle, gloom still hung over everyone.
“Of course it did,” you admit. “He was a fine young man and a great soldier. But more than that, he was a good friend.”
“He always tried to make us laugh,” Jin says wistfully. “Jimin always tries to make us happy, but he only shows it when he’s in private, and I’d always make sure that they were cared for and fed. It balanced out. Now, I don’t know what to do. I’ve never dealt with death before.”
“I have,” you nod. “And trust me, it’s never quite easy. When my father died, it took forever to even get stable.”
“That’s right, you were adopted by the great soldier Min,” Jin recalls the lie. “How did you cope?”
“I fought with my brother a little less and started trying to make my mother’s life a bit easier,” you shrug. “Mainly distracting myself from it all with work, and trying to avoid causing conflict in the house.”
“Did it work?”
“For a while,” you mention. “But eventually I faced it, and I learned to move on. I miss him, but I was able to go on and have my life progress, even though he was no longer in it.”
“I’m sure your father would be proud of what a brave young man you’ve become,” Jin assures. “I mean, everyone back at camp was talking of the first time, how you got injured by him and lived, like your family. And now they won’t stop going on about how you saved the captain and injured him, some saw.”
“I couldn’t find his body though,” you confess. “I was trying to find Shownu to finish the job, for the innocents, for Tae, and he was gone. He’s probably not dead, I wouldn’t doubt if he’s waiting to strike.”
“Well maybe this time we can prepare and be ready to finally get rid of them,” Jin says. “Third time’s a charm. Just remember, no matter what, you’re a hero Sonyeon.”
“Yeah,” you mumble wistfully. But there was always a thin line between traitor and hero, depending on who’s side you were on. You were on your countries side, but your gender determined whether or not you were a hero or a traitor, unfortunately. “In some ways, I suppose.”
Jin left you soon after, and it was deeper in the night when your armor was clean and all the men seemed to be asleep, that another presence was beside your own.
“Captain,” you greeted, looking over to him. “What can I do for you this beautiful night?”
Jungkook was silent, simply enjoying basking beside you in the moonlight of the bright, crescent moon. You understood, and he noted he didn’t seem as worn out as he was earlier. After a few minutes filled with silence, Jungkook finally said something. “Y/N,” he said softly. “When you said those weeks ago that you thought of me as more than a friend…”
This wasn’t your captain speaking. It was Jungkook. It wasn’t quite the confident, stern man who’d still yell at you when you screwed up, but instead, the man who is broken by the loss of his brother, who was willing to do anything it seemed to mend his heart.
“I care for you deeply, Jungkook. I’d risk my life for you, and-”
“Are you attracted to me, Y/N?”
You paused. “Yes. I’m sorry if it makes you uncomfortable or anything, and I have been since the beginning, admittedly. But I understand it’s inappropriate, especially with our positions and such, which is why-”
“I’m attracted to you too, Y/N.”
You froze in shock, surprised. You didn’t notice any signs that Jungkook felt the same way to you as you did to him, but evidently, he did. It was more than likely after he found out you were a girl. Now that you thought about it, there were small moments, like how when you first called him Captain after your secret was revealed he shifted in his seat a certain way, or how his cheeks flushed red at the memory of your breasts, and perhaps some other instances you tried to ignore during your late night talks.
“Oh,” you breathed. “I didn’t know that.”
“And, you know when you offered to make me feel better-”
“I meant anything, Jungkook,” you stared him in the eye. “I trust you not to use me in a way I’m not comfortable with, and I’m not planning on using you anytime soon if you’re thinking the same thing I’m thinking.”
Jungkook’s Adam’s apple bobbed up and down. “I don’t want you to feel pressured because I’m your Captain or because you feel sorry for me. You must understand that.”
“I know,” you whispered. “I just want to help you, Jungkook. I know how grief is, I lost my father, and I went so long thinking my brother might as well be dead. If it helps you forget for two seconds or just helps you in any way, I’m willing to do anything. You’re more than a friend, and you do mean a lot to me. You helped me grow to defend myself and protected my secret, I owe you my life.”
“Well, it’s not like you didn’t save mine,” Jungkook sighed. “Are you sure about this, though? I just-”
You shut him up quickly by wrapping your arms around his neck and pulling him in to crash his lips against your own, letting him know it was perfectly okay. He was coming to you about this because you made it perfectly clear you wanted to help him, even if it’s through his grief. Neither one of you was preying on each other, and you were taking it in your hands to help mend back together your broken Captain.
And when you said anything, you did mean anything. And that night, when everyone was asleep and the two of you were in a tent much farther from the others, you found yourself forgetting your own heartaches and pressures as well.
“Sonyeon,” Jungkook spoke, calling you forward. Your troupe was traveling to a new space where they were sure you’d all meet Shownu’s army again, and this time, you were all armed with cannons and swords sharper than ever. You steered your horse closer to your captain’s direction, riding next to him.
While there was definitely something a bit deeper coursing in the connection the two of you had, both of you made sure to suppress it, not wanting to risk getting too attached to each other when one of you could easily not live to see tomorrow. Your relationship was a lot of things: sexual, a deep friendship from telling each other things you hadn’t told anyone else, but you would never admit it was romantic, no matter how much your own heart yearned for it to be.
And outside the tent or each other’s arms, you were simply a trusted soldier who saved his life, and he was your captain, who’s every order you had to obey. After days of traveling again, though, you were itching to drop the facade and jump into his arms, knowing that after the three months of this relationship slipped into the night between days of horror, he had learned your body as you learned his, and each time you knew it was more than worth the effort and secrets.
“Yes, Captain?” Your face showed no emotion, and neither did his. Both of you were masters at concealing and sexual tension for any suspecting soldiers.
“How far are we from the field?” he asked.
You whipped out the map, and because you were out of the mountains, this one was far trustier. “Five miles, sir,” you spoke. “We should be there after the sun sets.”
“Very well,” Jungkook nodded.
In the distance, you saw a horse galloping towards your traveling troupe, and immediately soldiers drew out their swords and aimed their arrows, in case it was an intruder or enemy.
“Put down your sword and arrows,” Jungkook ordered, holding a hand up to them. “It’s a messenger.”
True enough, it was a messenger that neared, until he was in front of your captain. “Captain Jeon,” the messenger huffed, a scroll held tightly in his hand. “Urgent news from the Emperor.”
You glanced at your Captain, who quirked an eyebrow at the messenger. “What is it, Hoseok-hyung?”
“Report to the palace,” Hoseok panted, handing over the scroll. “I believe they’re holding a ceremony for the fallen soldiers, and you’re to be upgraded to General officially. Plus, the Emperor would like to discuss your plan for defeating Shownu.”
Jungkook stiffened, and you gripped tightly onto your horse’s reigns to restrict any urge to comfort your captain. Jungkook nodded, “It will be at least a day’s journey to get to the palace.”
“I understand,” Hoseok nodded. “You just have to report there within three days for the ceremony. Now, I must go, I have more news to deliver to neighboring villages.” The messenger didn’t say so much as another word as he turned around and went off.
Jungkook looked to the army, calling out. “We have a long journey ahead of us, so we must rest. Set up your tents, and get ready to call it a night. Rice will be made soon, and make sure to get plenty of rest.”
The soldiers obliged, and each got set on building their tents. The night was spent with eating your rations and finishing up with building and such, but at some point, your old clumsiness had returned for but a second when you were lost in thought, and you fell into a tent that held four soldiers. Your captain returned just as the soldiers were grumbling curses at you, and he gave you a glare of disappointment. “Do you want to be punished, Sonyeon?” he asked, though his tone was laced with something else than pure anger. “I thought we got over your clumsy days.”
You saw from the corner of your eye Jimin and Jin approach, seeing you get scolded. Both winced in concern, but you remained stoic. “Sorry, sir,” you bowed. “I was distracted. It won’t happen again.”
“I expect you in my tent later on,” Jungkook warned. “Need I remind you of what happens when you weren’t focused.”
Eyes were either purposely averted or fully trained on the scene, and everyone seemed to sympathize with you, not wanting to be anywhere near when you were to be punished. You remember back when you first started training, how often you’d have to get a good scolding or worse punishments of the most vigorous chores whenever you screwed up, so no one would suspect anything when Jungkook was asking you into his tent.
Your cheeks flushed, and those around you mistook it as embarrassment. “Yes, captain.”
Jungkook gave you a stern look, his eyes flickering to the fallen tent. “You’ll help repair the tent, and then we’ll see about your punishment.” You nodded in response, turning to see the others, who all gave you looks of sympathy, a few knowing first hand how harsh your captain could be.
“Captain?” you spoke, waiting outside the tent. Everyone was asleep, none suspecting anything. You were in your sleepwear, waiting patiently to enter.
“Come in,” Jungkook called, permitting you to enter the tent. You stepped in, puffing your chest out and holding your arms stiffly at your sides. Jungkook looked over to you, also in his sleepwear, and stood to meet you. “Ah, Y/N. I trust everyone’s asleep?”
“I double checked,” you nodded, “They’re out like lights, sir.”
“Good,” Jungkook huffed, and you didn’t fail to notice Jungkook’s eyes raking over your body, his pupils blown out. “Now, to discuss your punishment.”
“Yes, sir,” you looked at the ground, wondering exactly what would take place tonight.
“Are you sorry for what you did earlier today?” Jungkook questioned. “Those men must’ve spent a long time setting up their tent, and then you crashed into it. I thought you were past those days.”
“I’m sorry, sir, it won’t happen again,” you spoke. You knew better than to get personal with Jungkook when he was in Captain mode. He might call you by your real name, but you didn’t call him by his.
“I haven’t even begun to make you sorry yet,” Jungkook mentioned, “And I think you know this punishment will be very different from the ones months before…”
“Yes, Captain,” you nodded. “I understand.”
“So you’re okay with being punished this way?” he quirked a brow.
“Anything to learn my lesson, sir,” you spoke, meeting his eyes. “To be a better soldier, sir.”
“Good,” Jungkook breathed, his hands coming up to cup your face in his large hands, bringing you in for your lips to collide against his own. You had become accustomed to the likes and dislikes he had, and exactly how he wanted it, and you knew this night would be a bit more severe than the others you shared. He was pent up with stress and energy, ready to unleash it all on you. You could tell from how stiff his figure was all day, and how tense his shoulders were, his jaw clenched. And he himself knew you were more than eager to let him use it on you.
You kissed back fervently, squeezing your eyes shut as he nipped and tugged at your lips, his tongue tracing over the opening of your lips to get them to part for him. You obliged happily, letting his tongue sweep into your cavern to twirl around your own. It ended too soon, though, because he pulled back, and in a breathy voice he commanded, “Lay down.”
Every soldier had a thick blanket to use as a mattress and a pillow, and you laid down on his straightaway. You knew what would happen next and eagerly tugged off your pants and underwear, discarding them to the ground as Jungkook stalked towards you.
“I’ve been thinking a lot about what to do to you,” he whispered lowly, getting on all fours as he slowly crawled on top of you, his face close to yours, and he hitched either of your legs around his hips, but being careful not to make any contact with you where you needed him most. He was teasing you, not letting your core rub against him, and his breath soft and warm against your mouth because he was so near. You stared at his intimate and intimidating stare as he spoke. “Perhaps I won’t let you cum, perhaps I’d get your hopes up and punish you the same way I did in the very beginning, making you do rigorous work until you were a tired, wrecked mess from helping do everything to learn your lesson. But luckily for you, that’s not what I settled on.”
“What did you settle on then, sir?” you asked hesitantly, wanting for him to so desperately touch you. As though he was reading your mind, his hand slithered between your bodies, and his thumb rubbed deftly at your clit, making you arch slightly into his touch because you felt so sensitive.
“I’m going to fuck you harder than ever before,” Jungkook assured. “And you won’t be able to make a single sound. Am I clear?”
“Yes, Captain,” you panted in a breathy whimper. He looked down at your cunt, slipping in two fingers to push past your entrance and dive into your wetness. His thumb stopped pressing against your clit, and he instead grinded his palm against it as he fingered you, using scissoring motions and curling them to stretch you enough to accommodate his size.
“Not one sound,” Jungkook mentioned when your lips were about to part to let out a small mewl. He stopped fingering you after a while, instead stuffing the fingers in your mouth to muffle any noises you were going to make. “You’re wet enough, I can slide right in.”
It was true, and you watched as Jungkook lowered his pants to hang around his knees, standing up as he slipped his fingers from your mouth. He leaned against the makeshift table he had set up earlier, one that was quick to set up and stable, and quite easy to take down. One of the few pieces that he kept in his luggage whenever you all had to travel. Evidently, your eyes spotted the characters he was writing on the scroll, but your eyes were averted once Jungkook looked to you, and in a single breath, commanded you. “Jump.”
You knew what to do and immediately jumped into his arms where he caught you easily. You clutched onto his shoulders, hooking your legs around his waist. His arms slipped off you, and you realized he wasn’t going to be providing any support for you. You’d be fine, you assured yourself.
“Sit on my dick,” he ordered. You grinded against him, trying to find out how to position yourself. You hooked one arm around his shoulder and neck to support yourself, your other hand finding his member and directing it to your entrance, sinking yourself down on him until you were full, sitting on the base. Your hand went back to clutch onto his shoulders, nails digging into his shoulders, forming crescents and scratches that would be concealed or mistook for perhaps intricate marks from battle.
Once you were fully stable, Jungkook fully leaned back on the table, gripping onto it until both of you were completely still and supported. Without warning, he started thrusting into you, singular, and individual thrusts that left you bouncing on his dick, your legs hooked around his hips preventing you from jumping off of him or letting him slip out of you. You sank your teeth into his shoulder, trying desperately to muffle your moans, and Jungkook hissed quietly in your ear at the pain, though he knew it was in place of your moans to show how good he was making you feel. “Ah, fuck,” he groaned quietly. “Mmm, you take my dick so well, Y/N. Shit, you’re so tight. God, can you take it?”
You nodded desperately as he pounded deeper into you. “Good,” he panted. “Because I’m when I’m done with you, your cunt will be practically broken. But that’s what you want, right? You want me to break this pretty little cunt.”
It was as though each time you slept with Jungkook he found your g-spot quicker, and this time was no exception because within a few thrusts he hit the spot that made you light-headed and dizzy. Jungkook muttered quietly in your ear as you clenched down on his cock that was plowing through you repeatedly. “That’s right, take my cock. Fucking take it. You’re a soldier, you can take it. Take it all,” he murmured, which made the pressure in your lower stomach all the more attentive.
His arms wrapped around you, and he stopped for a moment, his hands burying themselves in your hips were you were sure there’d be bruises mixing into the old. His thrusts were slower, harder, and it left you with your eyes rolling back each time until he let you go, letting you stand before him, though your legs were shaking so badly you had to lean into his arms for support.
“We aren’t done yet,” he growled, his hand wrapping around the column of your throat as you stumbled back, tripping over your own feet to fall to the floor, your head dropping against the pillow thankfully. You found out yourself you were quite into choking a little after a month of sleeping with your captain, and it seemed as though it awakened something in him too whenever you delved into it. Something about the lack of air and the feeling of being light-headed, and your lungs feeling as though they were on fire, all while you shook through an orgasm, was perhaps one of the best things you could indulge in your newly created sex life.
Your eyes seem to roll back, and you felt him slide back into you, pounding relentlessly. “Shit, you’re so tight, even after all the times I fucked you, how are you this tight?”
The sound of skin repeatedly slapping against skin, and the smell of musk in the air, it all made you go dizzy. That, and the lack of oxygen, of course. He was going harder than before, and each deliberate thrust seemed to be laced with pure anger that he was unleashing on you. You knew it wasn’t caused by you specifically, but something else pent up. You felt like you were seeing stars, and Jungkook’s other hand quickly shoved your shirt up to reveal your breasts, and he squeezed and tugged at one, palming and rolling it in one hand roughly as he plowed into you.
“Fuck, fuck, fuck,” Jungkook cursed out, and you felt your high approaching. Your hand crept down quickly to rub vigorously at your own clit, the coil in your lower belly being stretched at tugged and unwinded until it finally snapped, and Jungkook had to quickly let go of your throat to shove his fingers down your throat, muffling your screams as tears streamed down your cheeks from being fucked so roughly. You panted, shaking as oxygen slammed back into you, and Jungkook relentlessly slapped himself into you a few more times until you came down from your high, and he pulled out quickly.
You were quickly flipped over, his hands shoving your head down to bury into the pillow, and his hips snapped wildly against your own from behind, your ass sticking in the air in full display to him. “Shit, just like that, ass higher,” he grunted as you complied, his hand roughly yanking on your hair as his other hand pinned it down. You enjoyed the feeling of him solely pulling at your hair, mixing pain into your sex life. Perhaps pain had become some sort of weird, masochistic thing you started to enjoy, like how you’d secretly relish in kicks in the chest that knocked you breathless in training, or even when someone gave you a good punch to the jaw. Just knowing you could take just as much pain, if not more, than the grown and trained men around you made you feel somewhat stronger. Your screams were muffled through the pillow, and Jungkook pressed your face harder into the pillow, grunts and quiet whimpers of pleasure leaving his mouth as you started to whine desperately from overstimulation. Jungkook must’ve known you couldn’t take any more of it, because he stopped, pulling out of you.
He stood, and you eagerly got on your knees, staring at his red and angry cock, that was practically begging to dive into your mouth. Jungkook’s hands tugged and yanked at your hair, maneuvering your head until you finally sunk down on him. You were awful your first few times, you remembered, gagging repeatedly and having to stop giving head to catch your breath. Now you did very well, letting him hit the back of your throat after being so used to having his dick in your mouth in these stowaway nights.
He sunk you down on him until your nose nuzzled into his fine, dark hair, and you squeezed your eyes shut, enjoying the sensation of your lungs begging for air once again. It was addicting, and you seemed to relish in the feeling a bit more each time. Jungkook started slamming his length into your mouth, his high that was already approaching coming faster than ever.
“Take it all,” he grunted. “God, shit, your mouth feels so good around my cock. Keep going, ah.”
He was relentless, sporadically letting his hips snap into your face as you squeezed onto his thighs, trying desperately to stay still for him until he finally shot his load into your mouth, the bitter and salty taste overwhelming your taste buds as he finally pulled out.
“Swallow it, every last drop,” Jungkook spoke, his tone breathy as you did as you were told. These nights always ended with him cumming in your mouth since both of you were careful not to let you get pregnant. The warm liquid slid down your throat, and you wiped any spare drops from your chin or cheeks to swallow instantly.
You both panted, staring at each other as you both caught your breath. You fucked your Captain, your superior, only for the umpteenth time. You grabbed your pants and underwear, slipping them on quickly as you looked at the boy, who was hitching his pants back up as his dick started to go back to flaccid.
“Hey, I’ve been meaning to ask, but when Hoseok mentioned the ceremony and everything… is that what upset you?” you pondered. This was normal. As part of your weird relationship with Jungkook, who he was now instead of your Captain, you’d discuss things that happened earlier that day or concerns.
“I don’t know,” Jungkook huffed, running a hand through his hair. “I just… When I was little, I’d always be so mad that Namjoon was older, and that in the end, he’d get to be general. And now I’m going to be general, and I don’t feel like I deserve it. He was supposed to be General, he was supposed to still be alive. I just don’t feel good having to take his place.”
You sympathized with him, getting up to rub his arm comfortingly, any sexual tension evaporating once you started consoling me. “Jungkook, you’re a fantastic Captain. You’re a great soldier, and I’m sure you’ll make a stupendous General.”
“You really think so?” Jungkook asked, staring up at you.
“Take it from me as both a soldier and a friend,” you grinned. “You deserve all good things that are going to come your way.”
“We haven’t even defeated Shownu yet,” Jungkook sighed. “This war isn’t over until his life finally ends, once and for all. You’ve faced him, twice in fact. How’d you do it?”
“The first time was luck,” you spoke. “The second time was stupidity.”
“It seemed to work for you though,” Jungkook pointed out.
You shrugged in response. “If it did, he’d be dead already.” You gritted your teeth at the memory of when his sword pierced into your friend, and your blood boiled. “Nothing really works out for me, though.”
“You know, I’m sure your father would be proud of you,” Jungkook mentions. “And trust me, whatever happens, I’m here for you. 'Til the end.”
You grinned. “Ah, but I have a guardian for that.”
“Oh, and which one is that?”
“The stone dragon in my family’s shrine,” you countered.
“Well, my little dragon, your guardian will have to fight for the position,” Jungkook laughed, pulling you in closer by wrapping his arm around your waist. “Because like I said, 'til the end.”
You smiled at the thought, but it made your heart sink. For the two of you, the end could be tomorrow or years from now. But you ignored the new type of tension simmering between the two of you, instead pecking his cheek and leaving the tent, making a vow in your heart that you’d do your best to protect Jungkook until the very end. Whether that be tomorrow or years from today.
“Sonyeon, the punishment wasn’t too bad, was it?” Jimin asked, concerned, though he tried to mask it with snickering and disinterest. Jimin might’ve been the brute out of all your friends, always eager for a fight, ever since Tae’s death he’s been softer, secretly more concerned than ever for all of you. While he tried to seem as though he hardened up in result, you could see through his rouse and saw how broken and vulnerable the man was. It was early morning, and you were all traveling once again. You were thankful you could ride on your horse instead because you were sure you’d end up walking funny.
“It’s been worse,” you shrugged. “I mean, believe me, it sucked, but it’s been worse.”
“What’d he make you do?” Jin asks, purely curious.
You tugged your collar down slightly to reveal a small section of the bruises his hand made around your neck. “Well, I had to do some chores and ended up getting injured pretty badly. He saw, and decided that was enough, frankly, and let me go early.”
“Oh, man, that looks like it hurts,” Jin hisses out in sympathy. “I hope you don’t screw up again.”
“It was just an accident,” you muttered. “But no, it won’t happen again.”
“Yeah,” Jimin nodded. “You might be close to him, but it’s good he doesn’t make special exceptions or treat you differently.”
If only you knew, thought to yourself.
The palace’s walls were magnificent, and though the crowd cheered for the heroes still fighting in the war, and for Jungkook to be appointed General, something was off for you. Your hand was always on your sword just in case, even as you walked behind your Captain, just as he was walking up the steps to the Emperor during the ceremony. It was late at night, yet the lanterns lit up the palace, and the crowd added a certain life. The vibrant colors and cheers overwhelmed you, and you couldn’t help but have the feeling of your hairs raising on the back of your neck, though you knew you were being paranoid. What if someone saw past your act and knew you were a girl? Or what if Shownu showed up from nowhere? Thousands of scenarios popped up in your head, and you didn’t like a single one of them.
But the only one you could tell about your worries was the man ahead of you, who was about to get promoted by the Emperor himself. You were directly behind him for being one of the best soldiers under his training, and you could spot just over his shoulder the Emperor, who’s brilliant and vividly colored robe made him the center of attention.
You and the other soldiers who accompanied Jungkook up the palace steps each bowed and stood on your knees, a sign of respect as you trained your eyes no the floor, giving the Emperor all of the attention and respect he deserved.
“Captain Jeon Jungkook,” the Emperor’s voice rang out. “Brother of the late General Kim Namjoon. It is an honor to have you with us today, in the midst of the war against Shownu. You and your army have all fought fiercely against his men, and it is only right that I appoint you as the new general for Korea’s armies.”
“I am honored, your Majesty,” your captain spoke, his eyes trained down on the floor.
“Now-” the Emperor began, but suddenly the palace doors seemed to open unexpectedly, and out ran none other than the messenger, Hoseok. He was frightened, running down frantically.
“Your Majesty! Shownu-” He couldn’t finish, though, for between the parted doors an arrow flew, shooting into Hoseok’s back, piercing his heart. The boy shuddered, his mouth gaping open before his eyes rolled back, and he fell forward, and onto the palace steps.
Large men from Shownu’s army waved in, and the crowd screamed in horror over none other than Shownu on his great steed coming in. He was bandaged heavily but seemed to be in well enough shape as he raised his jagged sword, and his soldiers went out to attack the other soldiers present, as well as the innocents in the crowd.
You scrambled up, unsheathing your sword and running straight for the Emperor. Two enemies were already making their way to him, and you pushed His Majesty to the floor, your sword quickly swinging up to smash against another, and you kicked your opponent squarely in the chest, running quickly to stab him in the chest while he was down. You swung again at another opponent nearing the Emperor. Your sword was quickly buried in the man’s neck, and you yanked your sword away, shoving your enemy’s limp body to the floor as he bled out, his sword clattering to the ground.
You quickly helped His Majesty up, taking him elsewhere, where he’d surely be much safer. You spotted your Captain, who quickly killed another opponent. “Captain!” you called out, averting Jungkook’s attention to you and the Emperor by your side. Jungkook ran quickly, and your eyes were wide. “You’ve got to get His Majesty out, he won’t be safe with anyone else. I’m looking for Shownu, he’s in the palace!”
Jungkook nodded, quickly sweeping up the Emperor in one arm, half carrying him. “Are you sure you’ll find him, soldier?” your Captain asks.
“We have to keep the Emperor alive, it doesn’t matter if I die trying to find Shownu. Go!” you yelled. “You still need to become a general. This is for my father, my brother, and my country. It was good serving you, Captain.”
His eyes widened quickly but narrowed as he took the Emperor, dashing away to get him to safety. You ran through the palace doors, sword in hand as you frantically searched through the large and magnificent building for the country’s nemesis.
You heard noises and screams from above, and made your way through, ignoring the dead bodies or screaming maids who pointed in the direction of the culprit. Somehow, you found yourself on the top floor, right at one of the balconies on the top level of the palace. You could’ve sworn you heard someone run up here when you were chasing someone up the stairs, but now that you were at the very edge, leaning over the balcony to see if the battle was still going on below, you weren’t so sure.
Until you felt a steely hand grip around your neck, and suddenly your feet weren’t touching the floor anymore, and oxygen stopped flowing to your lungs. You gasped out, choking for air as your face quickly turned purple, your hand gripping at the large hand wrapped around the column of your throat, and your other hand still holding your sword. You swung it wildly behind you and heard a cry of pain as you were promptly dropped to the floor, your body slamming against the floor and your breath slamming back into you.
You turned, quickly, scrambling up as you heaved for more air, seeing none other than Shownu, a bloody gash from his brow, down his eye, and to the ear on the other side of his face. His large hand was plastered over his eye, and you knew it was a gruesome sight. You gulped, shakily standing and pointing your sword at the man, but he swung his own sword in the hand that wasn’t cupping his face, and it collided with yours.
“Are you the one from the prophecy?” he hissed. “More than a man, and a stone dragon? I knew you were a Min the moment I saw you. You and your blasted guardians I’m sure, kudos to whoever you chose. Who was it?”
“My guardian?” you breathed out, confused. It clicked within a second, washing over you with realization. “The dragon in the shrine…”
Shownu took the second you were distracted to swing at you, and your delayed response was barely quick enough to knock your sword against his, but the blow knocked you to the ground. Shownu grinned, staggering up, his hand moving from his eye to the sword. You winced at the chunks of flesh and torn eye that was splitting in the socket, blood dribbling down the side of his face.
“Well, Stone Dragon, I think it’s about time I take what’s mine,” Shownu declares, letting out a mighty cry as he swung his sword down. You moved yours to block it, and the blow from the sword pummeling down on your own had your blade split in half, shards of metal breaking and flying everywhere, giving you cuts and embedding into your armor.
Quickly enough, you scooted back frantically, holding what was half of your father’s sword, and the bits and pieces scattered around you. You looked up terrified at Shownu, who gave a tremulous laugh, closing his eyes and knocking his head back at your sheer unluckiness.
You took the opportunity, jumping up and swinging your fist directly into his exposed throat, making him cough and sputter back as you gripped his own hand and plunged the sword into his chest, simultaneously giving him another blow into his damaged eye, receiving a howl from the man. He fell to the ground, and you yanked the sword from his chest, repeatedly diving the heavy weapon back into him until he was no more than a bloody pulp, his limp body no longer jerking around or making a single move as you buried his own sword in himself one last time.
Your armor was covered in blood, the blood splattered all over your armor and some even on your face. Your hands were ones of a killer, and that was exactly what you were. But you felt no remorse, finally getting rid of the monster.
It was over.
After making your way through the palace back to the front doors, Shownu’s heavy sword covered in his blood dragging behind you, you were face to face with the crowd. Shownu’s soldiers saw you, all recognizing what was in your hand at once. In their moments of distraction they were either killed or already running away, knowing what had become of their leader, and before long Jungkook and the Emperor reappeared, a soldier having sent for them to tell them the news of the dreaded Shownu being killed by none other than Sonyeon.
Jungkook gave you a stunned look, and you staggered to him, giving him the sword and holding it out. “Shownu is dead. Our country is safe once again, and the war is over,” you stated, and his own hand wrapped around your own, holding the sword with you.
“Marvelous my boy!” the Emperor exclaimed, absolutely stunned. “I cannot believe you. My, we must have you upgraded. What shall we call you, my young man? Who is your guardian.”
“The Dragon,” you stated. “And I do not wish to be upgraded, with all due respect, Your Majesty.”
“My, but I must give you something. You saved not only my life but the lives of countless in Korea!” the Emperor beamed. Jungkook beamed as well, patting your shoulder, his eyes swelling with both disbelief and pride.
“You did well, soldier,” he whispered quietly to you. “The other Mins would be proud, both your father and your brother, I’m sure.”
“You’re a Min?” the Emperor asked. “My, no wonder. You… why, the prophecy! One more than a man, the Stone Dragon. My dear boy, I am honored to meet your acquaintance. To show my gratitude, I shall have you engaged to one of my daughters. You yourself will be a prince.”
Your eyes widened, and you immediately looked to Jungkook, who’s face paled.
“I’m sorry, Your Majesty, but I cannot marry your daughter.”
The two wore shocked expressions. You dare turn down an offer from His Majesty himself? Absurd!
“You dare disrespect me this way, lad?” the Emperor exclaims. “Why, that itself might even be a crime. Is a princess not enough for you, boy?”
“The fact is, Your Majesty,” you coughed, letting your voice go back up to it’s natural, higher pitch instead of the deeper, more monotonous one you picked up to blend in better with the men around you. “I’m not a boy.”
“What?”
Jungkook’s eyes were bugging out into the size of golf balls as you began taking off your armor, pulling and tugging at your shirt enough to reveal past the bandages and bruises the breasts you bore. The soldiers and people nearby gave you slacked jaws, and wide eyes were drawn to you, even though your back was turned to the crowd.
“Oh,” the Emperor breathed out. “I see.”
You covered yourself again and bowed to him in apology. “I’m sorry, Your Majesty, but I don’t think I’d make the best prince. If you want to kill me for treason for impersonating a soldier and deceiving or dishonoring the army, know that I only wanted to serve you and my country, as well as replace my brother who was unable to fight due to his injury from his own encounter with Shownu.”
“I… see,” the Emperor repeated. He regained his composure, “While you have committed fraud and serious crimes, considering the fact you saved us all, it does not matter what gender you are, and know you will always have my blessing. I owe you my life, as does the rest of Korea.”
You looked up at him in surprise, and he simply smiled down at you, nodding in confirmation that he wasn’t going to kill you, but was instead giving you respect. He bowed slightly, if holy for a second, and it was more than enough. The crowd shifted and inclined their heads, and never before were you so overwhelmed with the respect and thanks you were receiving, and Jungkook himself getting on his knees to bow to you.
And for the first time in perhaps your whole life, you felt as though you finally found and fulfilled your purpose in life.
About a year ago, you would’ve never seen yourself in this position. You were a naive girl, who simply wanted to please her family in the only way she was taught how. You yearned to be someone important, to be someone as great as the legacies your brother and father were, and yet you were reminded again and again, sometimes by your own family.
And here you were, a warrior, underneath the same cherry blossom tree, near the same lake, that you hadn’t been even a mile within since you went off to war. You hadn’t even entered your house yet, and yet, you weren’t sure exactly what would happen. Part of you wanted to stay in this position, where anything was possible and nothing was determined. Another part of you wanted to just get it over with.
If you met your old self, you’d tell her not to listen to what others said, because you’d do great things within your lifetime. It was bittersweet, and you wished to tell your old self she wasn’t just a pawn for others to place to their own advantages. You wanted to tell her she’d make others proud, and that she wasn’t useless, and that she bloom into something more magnificent than she had ever imagined. You wanted to tell her she wasn’t weak, that she wouldn’t always spend her nights wishing she was someone else, and that one day she would feel content, and it wouldn’t be because of someone else. Rather, it’d be because of her own accomplishments.
You turned from someone so frightened of being shunned by her family to someone who’d go down in history, one of the jewels of your own nation. It was simply a pity you couldn’t turn back time to tell yourself that.
“Y/N?”
You turned, seeing your brother by the house, staring at you as though you were a stranger. Perhaps you were, from your more so muscular frame, and the certain look of experience and confidence that loomed around you more often than not nowadays. He was leaning on a cane, his eyes wide. He hadn’t changed much since last time you saw him, except he seemed to be a bit more tired, wasn’t as happy or as lively as he once was.
“Hello, brother,” you greeted, walking closer to him. You were nervous, but you weren’t so scared as you would’ve been. No matter what happened, you’d get through it. After facing countless soldiers and difficulties, seeing your brother once again after a year didn’t seem as terrifying as it would’ve in the past. “Miss me?”
“You came back,” Yoongi breathed in surprise.
You nodded. “I did. The war is over, Shownu is dead.”
His eyes widened. “We haven’t gotten much news here. Who killed him?”
You unsheathed the jagged sword, revealing how polished it was now, though it was used for horrors and monstrosities you didn’t dare think of. “I had to get Father’s sword replaced because I broke the old one,” you say in lieu of an answer.
Yoongi’s eyes were wide and his jaw practically hit the floor, taking the sword from your hands to feel the weight of it in his own. “You…?”
“They call me the Stone Dragon in some places,” you smiled softly. “I impersonated a boy and named myself Sonyeon, and I killed him in the Emperor’s own palace. And after they found out I was a woman, the crowd outside bowed to me.”
“Was this all an attempt to one-up me at last?” Yoongi asks. You break out into a grin, seeing how his eyes glowed and for the first time in so, so long, you heard him tell you a joke.
“I believe I won,” you laughed. Yoongi tossed the sword to the ground, wrapping his arms around you to embrace you in a tight hug.
“My baby sister isn’t such a baby anymore,” Yoongi mutters into your shoulder. “She’s instead the greatest warrior in all of Korea. Father would be so proud of you. You’re the greatest honor of our family.”
Tears were starting to spill from your eyes, and you buried your face in Yoongi’s shoulder, glad to be home at long last.
“Ahem, I’m sorry to interrupt…”
The two of you looked up to see General Jungkook, his steed held by the reigns as he smiled at you apologetically. “Hello, Y/N. Hello, Yoongi-hyung.”
“Ah, the new General…” Yoongi looked to Jungkook. “I’m sorry for what happened to your brother. He was an excellent leader, and it was an honor serving with him.”
“He’d be happy to hear that,” Jungkook nods.
“Well, might I ask what you’re doing here, General?” Yoongi asks politely.
“I’ve come to ask for your sister’s hand in marriage, actually,” Jungkook says, doing his best to speak calmly and smoothly, looking over at you. You wore a shocked expression, but your hands flew up to your mouth to hide your grin. Wait, he was actually going to act on the sexual and romantic tension that had been simmering between the two of you during your stowaway nights? While you were sure that he was also feeling the sparks that seemed to shoot between the two of you, never before had you considered the fact he ’d actually want to make you his wife. “Unless she wants to take up the Emperor’s request to still marry his daughter?”
“Wait, what?!” Yoongi exclaims turning to you. “You’ve been a bit occupied with things other than the war, so it seems. Wait, engaged to a princess? What else am I not aware of?”
“Oppa, I think it’s best you don’t know,” you chuckled nervously.
Yoongi narrowed his eyes, glancing over to Jungkook. “General, you tell me what else I’m not aware of and as head of my household, I’ll allow you to marry my sister.”
“She flashed the Emperor,” Jungkook blurted, laughing out loud once Yoongi’s face burned red immediately.
“JUNGKOOK!” you exclaimed, but you couldn’t help but laugh hard at how Yoongi looked like he was about to either faint or explode, and Jungkook’s commanding General-self evaporated into the boy you’d spend nights talking to after sex, perhaps talking about your day, or your worries, or even crack a joke or two. And by God, though you’d perhaps need a bit more time after his proposal, you couldn’t wait to marry him, because deep in your heart, you knew he was the one.
After all, deep down you perhaps made a better lover than a fighter.
And you were sure even your past self would’ve been ecstatic to marry a man like Jungkook, and how you once again wished to tell her how even in the darkest of times, things will always step back into the light. Even after the death of your friend, Taehyung, or your father, or hell, even after witnessing an arrow pierce through the messenger boy, or your own hands carry the deaths of many, you were still standing, stronger than ever.
And you were sure your father would agree, seeing his little girl happy at last, and after many trials of torment. You were finally home.
👀 But may we get some some of those Ver/Cath Mulan AU hcs?
👌👀👌👀👌👀👌👀👌👀 good shit go౦ԁ sHit👌 thats ✔ some good👌👌shit right👌👌there👌👌👌
ALRIGHT, HEADCANON TIME.
Mundus has invaded territory with his demon army
Sparda, the general and king, is all “w tf have you just done u lil bitch???”
Eva stays in the palace to make sure everything is going ok
A man of age from every family has to fight by his side to protect the kingdom
Daniyal is hurt ever since the last war and can’t fight properly but his son isn’t of age yet so he must go
Catheryn is just “no u fuckin don’t???”
She knows he will die in battle and that CAN NOT happen??? He has a teenager son and a baby girl to raise?? Her parents must stay alive, wtf
So, once they fall asleep, she steals her father’s armor and her mom’s sword and just gets on top of a horse and is like “bye fuckers”
Her ancestors are just like “this bitch”
They send this fire fox spirit to bring her back
Maawiya, however, is just “hum no she has potential imma help her out”
Sparda assigns Vergil as Captain and tells him to train potential new soldiers
Dante is jelly, but oh well, okay i guess?? asshole
Catheryn and Dante end up having…a little brawl before Vergil comes out and finds them almost clawing each other’s face off
Dante just “he started”
Catheryn has to hold herself to don’t kick him in the stomach
“What’s your name??” “Uuuuuh” “My brother asked you a question” “your brother? oh yes i noticed the similarity. you both look like someone spit in your fucking food”
She ends up saying her name is Hideo because ‘splendid man’ sounds good and she is out of ideas
Vergil is Tired ™ and dismisses them but promises Hideo/Cathy he will keep an eye on ‘him’
Next day comes and Cathy runs to the training camp with this huge ass sword and everyone is all “um buddy just how much does that weight??” “i dunno man, like, 3 full grown men?” “WHAT”
Dante rolls his eyes once his brother starts talking like a captain and telling them to behave
“Ohhh, tough guy” “Brother, thank you for volunteering” “COME ON”
Everyone tries to climb the damn tree trunk, everyone falls (Cathy goes a lil further than everyone but falls on her butt)
“It’s gonna be a looong day…”
LETS GET DOWN TO BUSINESS INTENSIFIES
During hand to hand combat training Cathy kicks Vergil’s ass
“wow ok stay still my beating heart”
As training progresses, Dante and Catheryn actually tolerate each other
One night Catheryn hears Sparda’s counselor, Agares, who’s a major asshole sometimes, telling Vergil the tropes aren’t ready
Maawiyaand Cathy just “no u fucking dont we worked HARD for this”
“i hold him, you punch him” “not necessary, but i appreciate it”
Genuine smile from the Captain?? wow??? WOW?
“You liiiike him” “shut up maawiya” “you doooo” “ok fine he’s cute, judge me” “uh uh tO YOUR TENT young lady”
Sneaky fox writes a message for Agares saying Sparda needs them as backup because fuck Agares and his notes
Marching sucks, it really does
The whole ally army is found defeated together with a village
Dante and Vergil are absolutely livid and trying to swallow down the pain as they set their father’s helmet near a cliff together with his sword
Basically Mundus’ army soon appears before them
“oh shit we’re fucked”
Catheryn, the super extra soldier: welp guess im gonna blow up a mountain lol
“also imma save the hot ass captain while this all goes to shit”
“oh fuck i got hurt”
“aaaand now they know im a woman. great.”
Vergil refuses to kill her because “wtf she may be a woman but she was the best soldier i’ve ever seen??? no, she’s still coming with us. stop yelling Agares u bitch”
Mundus basically tries to kidnap Eva and take over the palace after popping out of the snow like a daisy together with a few allies
Catheryn watches as the strong alpha males try to take the thickass, hugeass doors down with a statue….smfh
“there’s…pilars here we can climb”
“oh”
Eva is basically doing the equivalent of double middle fingers at Mundus for killing her mf husband
Badass brother duo ft. tall lady burst open the fucking doors behind Eva and Mundus
“why hello king of assholes”
Catheryn basically pulls Vergil back after Dante gets Eva tf outta there because “oh no this asshole is mine”
they…basically blow up the fuckin palace’s wall and part of the ceiling, smh
Eva: u fucking destroyed everything
Eva: but u also killed that fucker and saved us all so u cool
Catheryn just “neat can i go home now”
Dante basically hugs her good bye and whispers something about Vergil
Meanwhile the captain is just “uuuuh you fight good. see ya.”
Dante and Eva, probably: u fight good??? that woman just fucking saved us. go marry her.
Back at Cathy’s home, probs:
Lukah: she brought a sword, could’ve brought a gf…bf…smth
I have an idea for you. You know that scene in Mulan when 'her' gender gets exposed and 'she's' outed? (Y/N) as Mulan and Jackson as the captain (?).
You gave a groan as you slowly sat up in your bed, acutely aware of the surging pain in your head as well as your chest which, as you were beginning to remember, was stabbed on the battlefield; when you heard a throat clearing, you looked up to see General Wang sitting across from you, arms folded and you suddenly remembered your disguise, shooting up in a panic, trying to cover your chest, but looking down to see that it had already been bandaged, which could only mean that they already knew your identity.
“Jackson, I...I can explain it...” you began, coughing heavily as you strained to speak, but the General simply held out a hand to stop you from continuing and then stood up, shaking his head as another chief adviser walked in and gasped, saying “A woman? This is treason! I will have none of this disobedience in my army!” as he grabbed your wrist and forced you out of the tent; “Please, you have to believe me!” you exclaimed, saying that you had only taken up the position to save your father and that you couldn’t just stand by and do nothing.
“General, you know the law,” the adviser stated, ignoring you and thrusting a sword into Jackson’s hands, and as you pleaded for your life, Jackson took up the sword and walked over to you, slowly as if to seal you fate, causing you to look down at the ground in defeat; as you waited for the sword to fall, it never did, and instead, clanged on the ground before you, and as you looked up, you saw Jackson looking down at you and saying, “A life for a life. My debt is repaid,” before walking away and barking at the men to move out, and you felt your eyes begin to water as he said that the men would take you to the next town, but no farther.
Give me a pairing, an AU, and I will write a three-sentence fic~
