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borathae · 2 days ago

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↳ Index [Chapter 05 - The Wandering Market]

Genre: Fluff, Romance, "friends with benefits"

Warnings: this is a date change my mind, they wouldn't call it a date though obviously ;), idk this is just so nice and comforting and lovely and there is so much plot and lore and i just really really love this universe and these characters :(, there is obviously also so much tension grrrrrr i'm losing it, and so much touching like those two can't stay away from each other, but again! this is obviously not a date ;), i'm going insane, ALSO! ah! besties we are getting new characters ohoohoh

Wordcount: 14.3k

a/n: what if i want to live in this universe? omfg i just love them <3 this might be fave chapter as of now, the tension and the lore and just the vibes are so aaaaah!

Bang!

You sit up straight at the sound.

“Urgh”, you groan, rubbing your dizzy head. This woke you up and you weren’t ready yet.

Bang!

It sounds as if someone is dropping things outside. You are suddenly wide awake. The two Hunters must have managed to break in.

“Jungkook, wake up. Quick. I think the Hunters are in our house”, you say and turn to shake him awake. Except that his side is empty.

Bang!

What is he doing? You decide to get out of bed to check.

The scent of fresh air greets you because the front door is open. The floor is covered in his trophies. Your stomach twists at the view of them. So many dragon hybrids and other monsters lost their lives for these trophies…

“Oh, hey. Good morrow. What are you already doing up?” Jungkook greets you, coming back inside.

“Your banging woke me. Why are those things in the living room?”

“I’m cleaning out my study. It’s about time that I sell them. All they do is collect dust.”

“You are selling your trophies?”

“Yes”, he says and gives you a sweet smile before disappearing outside with one of the dragon trophies under his arm.

It takes you a while to make sense of what is happening. He appears and disappears three times until you can actually react.

“Are you actually selling them?”

“Yes. There is a wandering market in the forest today. Hunting trophies sell so well at those.”

“But they’re your trophies.”

“Not anymore.”

He disappears again. You stay at the same spot, following him with your eyes when he reappears.

“Take your time getting ready. Maybe you could wear something nicer today.”

“What? I’m going to this market too?”

“Sure. You’ll like it.”

“I will? Is it even safe for me to go out in public?”

“Yes and yes.”

“How are you so sure?”

“The market’s different. The laws of the kingdom don’t count there. You’ll be safe.”

“Okay. If you say so.”

“I made porridge. Eat whenever you’re ready. I’ll be here cleaning.”

You cannot move. You are frozen in disbelief.

He appears again.

“What do you mean that they’re not your trophies anymore?” you ask him.

He hoists an especially big trophy onto his shoulder.

“They’re not me anymore”, he says and disappears again.

You use the time to get breakfast, but your confusion remains. He gives you more answers on his return, speaking as he gathers more trophies.

“Truth be told, the two fucktards complimented my collection and called me their brother and it made me want to skin myself just to get rid of the disgust I felt. I can’t have them in our house anymore.”

“I see.”

He disappears again.

This makes a lot of sense and in a way, moves you. He really meant it when he said that he has changed.

“Do you like the porridge?”

“Yes, it’s delicious. Thank you for cooking.”

“Of course”, he says almost cutely and disappears again.

The porridge is sweetened with honey and spiced with nutmeg. He sprinkled fresh berries from the garden over it which are still a little sour. It is a nice contrast to the sweet honey and makes this a very good breakfast.

“Should I help you?” you offer.

“Not at all, I’m almost done anyway.”

He disappears outside for quite a while because he probably has to load his cart. You decide to use the time after breakfast to tidy the kitchen and bedroom. You wash up in a bowl and put on a simple dress over your shift.

Jungkook is loading the cart as expected when you come outside.

“It’s going well, it seems.”

He looks over his shoulder at you, “I promise I’m almost done.”

“Take your time, I’m in the back doing my, you know.”

Jungkook understands, scoffing in amusement.

“Thanks for letting me know. Don’t forget to cover it in sawdust.”

It is a strange thing how comfortable you became with each other. Two months ago, you would have never insinuated something as private as this and Jungkook never would have reacted with amusement. Neither would you have felt so comfortable existing in his proximity nor willingly looked for him after washing your hands in the washing bowl by the privy.

“Jungkook, where are you?”

“Upstairs! Almost done!”

He rummages about loudly, banging and clanging with stuff before his quick footsteps finally appear. He is in nothing but a towel, sending heat straight to your face.

“Found it. I swear I need to organise upstairs, it was a nightmare to look through my stuff.”

“What did you get?”

“Our special clothes. For me and for you.”

“Oh, wait. Really?”

“Yes, try it on if you want to.”

“Alright, alright”, you give in, hurrying to the bedroom.

Jungkook finishes dressing up before you, waiting for a little while before growing impatient. He knocks on the bedroom door.

“Is everything al-”

You open the door. His eyes widen in starstruck disbelief.

“Gods, wow-” he clears his throat, “you look…presentable”, he says, lowering his eyes bashfully.

“Oh. Uhm, thank you”, you say, giving him a little curtsy. You feel beautiful and the dress is very soft on your skin.

He retorts your curtsy, doing so hastily and almost clumsily. You wonder why he seems so nervous all of a sudden. You study him, which makes him seem even antsier.

“I, uh, I have this for you. I think it’s best if you wore it”, he offers.

“A scarf?”

“You never know. People might see your scales and…” He touches the side of his neck. “This is awkward.”

“No, I understand. Thank you.”

You take the scarf and put it on in front of the bedroom mirror. It isn’t a long, warm scarf one would wear in winter. Instead, it is a thin strip of fine cotton which you can tie into a bow at the front. The edges are adorned with the most delicate lace.

You cannot stop looking at yourself in the mirror. The dress is white with colourful flower stitching at the sleeve hems and collar. A comfortable satin belt accentuates your waist and matches with the red hair cloth. The delicate scarf truly rounds up the look, making you feel feminine and worthy of attention.

“This is beautiful.”

“It belonged to my mother. She wore it to praying hour.”

“Your mother wore this scarf?”

“Yes.”

“But I can’t wear that. This is too precious.”

“No, please wear it. If it rots away in a box somewhere, it would make me even sadder.”

“Gods, this is a lot of pressure. Truly.”

“But it fits you very well. You know, each holy day when we went to the praying house, she wore it. She always loved showing it off. I took it with me when I left the village.”

“Just like you took your sister’s rabbit?”

He touches his chest where he keeps the wooden toy in his breast pocket.

“Yes.”

“I see. I shall take very great care of it for the day and show it off just like she did.”

He smiles softly, nodding his head in agreement.

“Thank you.”

“Don’t.” You turn to face him. “So, ready?”

“Yes, ready.”

You share the front of the cart, sitting side by side as Calla pulls you through the forest. Jungkook has the reins while you enjoy the view. It is a sunny day and warm. You like the feeling of it.

“Did you take something from your father as well?” you ask, hoping that conversation can pass the time.

Jungkook instinctively reaches for the dagger on his belt.

“His dagger. He always used it to hunt.”

“I see.” You hug his arm, leaning your chin on his shoulder. “I’m glad to know that you have them with you.”

He looks at you. His eyes show that your affection confuses him, but that deep down he really enjoys it. A small smile curls his lips.

“Thank you.”

You retort the smile and straighten up.

“So, this market. Tell me about it.”

“As I said before, it is a wandering market, but it is so much more. There will be food and music and magic shows.”

“Proper magic shows?”

“Yes and there will be acrobats doing tricks.”

“So it’s like a travelling circus but with market stands?”

“Exactly.”

“Where are they from? I never heard of this market before.”

“From everywhere, really. I don’t know the detailed history of it, but I know that these people are not from this land, which protects them from Foltest’s laws. They travel from land to land, trade and entertain and then move on.”

“That’s wonderful. So how come you see them each year?”

“I think that they’re making rounds. My theory is that they rest in the homeland during winter and then travel in the warmer months.”

“So a life of travel and adventure.” You look up at the canopies. “What a dream.”

Jungkook doesn’t say anything to that. His travels were never nice. He knows, however, that you dream of it. So he stays quiet for your sake.

The market is around three hours by horse cart when pulled at walking speed. A small lake separates you from the market. Even from here, you can hear the lively music of the bards and smell the food from the stands. The tents are unlike anything you have ever seen before. They seem to be made of very strong, red and purpur fabric which is stretched over an octagon shaped base. The area is fenced off with wagons and natural scrubs and people come and go constantly.

One of the river’s side arms flows into the lake. You take the bridge over it, passing by a few people who are on their way to the market on foot. They follow you with their eyes, discussing the trophies on the cart loudly. Some talk about Jungkook as well, calling him this area’s Hunter, and then wonder who you might be.

The stares and whispers stop when you are on the market grounds. It is way too busy here and the streams of merchants coming and going masks your arrival.

Jungkook stops the cart in front of a black tent. It is a little further away from the main attractions and gives you a bad feeling. He jumps off and walks to the back to begin unloading the trophies.

You join his side, “is this the trophy merchant?”

“Yes. Salazar. He is a practitioner of dark magic and needs these things for his rituals and shit.”

“The energy around here is unsettling.”

“I know. You shouldn’t go in there. I’ll go on my own.”

“And I?”

“You can look around the market if you want to.”

“Is it safe?”

“It’s safer than Salazar’s tent. The laws of this land don’t apply here. You should be safe.”

“Understood. Then we’ll meet up on the main plaza?”

“Yes. And ___?”

“Mhm?”

“Don’t take off your scarf.”

“I won’t.”

“And maybe don’t tell strangers your name. Again.”

“Urgh, you’re never gonna let me down for this one, are you?”

He chuckles, “never.”

He disappears in the tent soon after and you make your way through the market.

You always knew that you still have a lot to learn about the continent and its cultures, but you didn’t know just how very little you actually saw. There are fabrics and metals you have never heard of before and spices you have never smelled. Smiths showcase weapons you didn’t know existed and alchemists offer cosmetics made of flowers unfamiliar to you. You wander aimlessly, taking in every scent, view and sound. There is so much to look at that you have to go a second round just so you wouldn’t miss anything.

“You seem to be a lady of great taste, can I interest you in this necklace?” a dwarven jewellery smith calls your attention.

“It’s very beautiful. Everything is beautiful”, you say.

The jewellery is sturdy and geometric, made of silver. Gemstones of all colours and sizes sit in the metal, reflecting the light beautifully.

“Is this silver?”

“This is mythril, my lady. It is lighter yet stronger than silver. It is said that it captures moonlight. My family owns a mine in the Silver Mountains. Which is quite an ironic name for mountains which only offer mythril.”

“I see. It’s so beautiful. If only I had the coin.”

You bid your goodbye, which he retorts with a smile. Mythril, what an interesting metal.

“Young lady! Young lady! Spices of the eastern sea! Can I interested you in spices of the eastern sea?” a human merchant calls your attention next.

“The eastern sea? This is so far away.”

“Indeed it is. These spices travelled by camels and ships. Try them, it is free of charge.”

The spice smells sweet and warm. The merchant mixes it into warm milk.

“This tastes amazing. Gods, what is this?”

“Vanilla, fair lady. A rare and wonderful spice one can only harvest twice a year from the vanilla orchid.”

“It smells so good and tastes even better.”

“Indeed and it is very versatile. Show me your wrists.”

She massages oil onto your skin. It smells just as sweet and warm as the milk, perhaps even stronger.

“Gods, this smells amazing.”

“Yes, it is a very versatile spice. Now this, you will love this. May I?”

“Yes.”

She massages another oil behind your ears. A flowery scent tells you stories of far away warm countries and peaceful days.

“This smells so good.”

“Yes. Ylang-ylang. A plant from my home. It is said that her scent has aphrodisiac properties.”

“Aphrodisiac?”

She whispers as if she was sharing a secret, “your lover will desire you most ardently.”

“Oh”, your cheeks heat up, “I understand.”

You and she share a giggle.

“You can use my oils on them as well. Tell me, are they a man or a woman?”

“Oh, uhm. A man, I guess, but we aren’t really-”

“Wonderful. He will love these oils. Rub them on his skin and yours and bask in the magic of these spices.”

“I, I would love to but I have no coin.”

“Well.” She purses her lips then clicks her tongue, “tell you what? Take this and see for yourself and if it works? Come back and get more.”

And so it happens that you leave with two very small bottles of oil. Vanilla and ylang-ylang. What peculiar names and most importantly, what wonderful scents. You store your presents in the leather bag you carry with you at all times. The merchant’s words haunt you as you travel the market streets. Lovers. Massages. Aphrodisiacs. Lovers. You and Jungkook? Lovers? This is insanity. Utter insanity.

The sounds of the market lapse into silence. A cold shiver runs down your spine.

“___”, a whisper penetrates your skull and reverbs in it.

You whip around, “who’s there?”

Nobody.

Just a tent.

Dark blue with golden trimming. The curtains are drawn closed, showing a symbol of the moon in gold stitching.

“Tent? Did you just talk to me?”

“Come closer and find out.”

You shudder.

“Well, this is definitely not frightening at all”, you mumble.

“Come closer, ___.”

Part of you wants to leave, but the moon looks so welcoming. So welcoming. Yes, so…welcoming. Perhaps if you merely took a peek, it wouldn’t matter. Perhaps. Yes…perhaps. Just a little closer.

The curtains are soft, opening on their own as you brush your hand over them. Clarity returns.

“Oh!” you jump back, but too late. The inside of the tent is visible and in return you are visible to the figure inside.

The smell of incense sticks and myrrh fills your nose. Golden magic dances on the smoke and sticks to the ceiling like stars. Crystals in all shapes and sizes fill out the tent and candles light the way to one lonely desk. Sitting behind the desk, surrounded by books and more crystals, a hooded dark elf studies you with her black eyes.

“I-I am so sorry. I didn’t mean to intrude. I am already, already leaving”, you stutter, bowing multiple times as you inch back.

“Please. Come closer.”

The dark elf doesn’t use her mouth to speak. It feels as if she is whispering the words right against your neck. Shivers run through you.

You enter the tent. You cannot explain why you did, you just did. The curtains close within a second, making you jump and let out a small yelp.

“Sorry.” You stare at her with widened eyes, “I, I am not looking for trouble.”

“Oh, I know.” She points at the chair opposite of her. “Sit. I know that you are seeking answers.”

She has a crystal ball in front of her. It sparkles as if a small galaxy was trapped in it. Beside the crystal, a set of fate reading cards are stacked neatly and on the other side, a can of tea is brewing over a small flame.

“You are a seer, aren’t you?” you ask her.

“Indeed I am. As much as I have predicted your arrival, I can help you find your future.”

“How are you doing this? Why do I hear your voice in my head?”

“Magic. If I use my real voice, I risk speaking a future into existence.”

“I see. So futures aren’t carved in stone?”

“No. You are the stonemason and your choices are the tools made to carve it.”

You sit down, leaning your elbows on the table.

“This is interesting.”

“However the paths which you will carve are already decided”, she says and grabs your hands.

You gasp. Her touch is cold. You cannot pull back.

“Ashnak val dul bulduk”, she begins chanting in a language unknown to you. It is hypnotising and melodic as much as it is ancient and full of history. You know not to speak, staring at the woman in awe. The galaxy inside the crystal dances and swirls. This is fascinating.

You have never seen a dark elf before. The dark elves gained their names because of their origins. Unlike, their cousins the Elves, who grew up in sunlight and under luscious trees, the dark elves had their homes in lands with no sun. They worship the moon and the stars and easily burn in the light. Their black eyes are made to see in darkness perfectly and their skins are thin in order to absorb what little nourishment the moon provides. Their hair, although all textures are represented, are solely silver and more often than not, their ears hang down like those of bunnies.

They became rare these days. With the rise of Sunbringers, trained magicians specialised in sun magic, the lands of absolute darkness became rare and with it, the dark elves. You always felt a connection to them as a fellow hunted species.

The dark-elvish woman before you seems to have survived many centuries. Her long spindly fingers fit around your hands weakly and her long nails are painted blue and are brittle at parts.

“Iraldin hal bakdala”, she finishes the spell and looks at you. She smiles.

“Is it done? Did you see my future?”

“Indeed I did”, her voice in your head sounds closer and louder with a faint echo at the end.

“And? What did you see?”

“I saw coin, lots of coin.”

“Yes, I have a bounty on my head because of my blood.”

“I saw marked arms, those of a Hunter, holding you tight against his chest.”

Jungkook. Your heart flutters. He will hug you.

“Yes. He is my…uhm, he is…”

“I know what he is to you and you will know it too. Very soon.”

You scoot closer, “can you tell me more? Will we be successful? Where will I go? What will happen to him?”

“You will-” Her eyes turn white. She gasps. The candles spit angry flames. “Alaksan! Oht! Yvdabil!”

“What is happening? Mistress fate reader, are you alright?”

“Ropes around your wrists”, her voice in your head sounds tortured.

“What?”

“A curse in your stomach.”

“What?!”

“You will fight.”

“What do you mean?”

“The king. He wants you dead.”

“No. No, what do you mean?”

She opens her mouth and speaks.

“He will get hurt for you.”

“Jungkook? Do you mean him?”

“Jungkook, his name. Argh, he will, argh.”

“Will he be alright? Why will he get hurt? Will our plan be unsuccessful?”

“Your plan will not work how you wish it to work, but he will be happy with the result.”

You fall back in the chair, touching your own forehead.

“I don’t understand. Will he betray me?”

“He will…stay a name in your mind and a weight on your heart.”

“But, so, how…so he will betray me?”

“There are others out there who want your harm.”

You stand up, stumbling back.

“I, I have to leave.”

She closes her mouth. Her eyes return to black.

“You will regret your decision, but it will be too late.”

You leave without biding her goodbye. Your chest feels tight, your head hurts a little. What did all of this mean? Will Jungkook betray you? She spoke of curses and ropes and the king wanting you dead. Will Jungkook claim his coin? Will he stay in your head because he will betray you? But why would he get hurt for you if he will betray you? What does all of this mean?

Heat.

Burning, burning heat.

You yelp and jump back, escaping the flame of a dragon by a hair’s width.

“Gods”, you gasp, looking up into the sky where colourful flames dance in swirls.

They stop. The dragon, a man perhaps two years older than you, looks down at you. He seems displeased.

“You’re a dragon. You can spit fire”, you say, voice filled with childlike wonder.

“You’re blocking the view right now, kid.”

“What?” You look around. Lost in thought, you stumbled right in front of this dragon’s podium. The crowd, who has gathered to watch his fire show, look at you in a mixture of confusion and distaste for blocking the view.

“I am so sorry. I was lost in thought and, and, uhm, I am sorry. I am just going to…go.”

You hurry into the crowd, trying so hard to hide away in embarrassment. The looks follow you at first but jump away with another trick of the dragon. You watch it as well. Fire, flames, so beautiful. So hot. So colourful and alive. You have never seen dragon fire in real life. Sometimes, in your dreams, you can produce flames of your own, but they never come close to the real experience. This fire is truly alive, it is personal and strong, just as much as it beautiful. This is freedom. Right here on the market’s plaza, you watch a dragon show his fire and it isn’t dangerous. He can live as who he is. This is freedom.

Somebody taps your shoulder. You turn, coming face to face with Jungkook.

“Hello.”

“You’re back. How did it go?”

“Good, really good.” He smiles. “Enjoying the show?”

You look at the dragon. He is using his fire breath to knock over bottles. His assistant, another dragon but younger, puts them up on some rocks. The crowd cheers and hollers as the performer easily finishes his trick.

“Yeah, I’m enjoying the show”, you say.

“That’s good”, Jungkook says and for just a second brushes his pinkie against yours.

You glance at him. He is watching the show. So you watch it as well. He doesn’t touch you again, but his presence beside you is felt. In the kind of way which raises your pulse and you cannot explain what this means.

The dragon ends his show with a deep bow, basking in the applause. The crowd dissolves afterwards, but you stay behind.

“Hey, so”, Jungkook begins only to get cut off by you storming away to the dragons. He chuckles fondly.

The performer is sitting down on a bench just out of reach of the sunlight. His assistant hands him a jug of water. Their conversation becomes clear to you as you inch closer. You cannot understand what they are saying because their language is unfamiliar to you.

Their eyes shift to you.

“The great Namjoon will give his signature in an hour, please understand”, the assistant tells you.

“No, I’m not here for that. I just. I’m sorry, I never saw dragon fire before.”

“As I said, please understand.”

“It is alright, Jimin dear”, the dragon stands up, placing his clawed hand on his assistant’s shoulder. He steps into the sunlight, towering over you by at least two heads. His ears are pointy, his black scales cover them as well as his neck and his temples. His pupils are two black slits against golden irises. There seem to be flames burning inside the gold.

“Please excuse my friend. I am Namjoon of Exiloth.” He bows deeply. Sharp, pointy scales cover his spine, shifting with his movements.

You curtsey, “I, I am ___ of…honestly I don’t really have a home. I am just ___.”

He straightens up and repeats your name.

“It is a pleasure to meet you.”

“No, it’s all mine. You are a real dragon, aren’t you?”

“Indeed I am.”

“Gods, I never thought to see this day. I-I’m a dragon too.” You pull down the scarf to show your scales. “But I’m not real like you and I’m not human either. Gods. I’m neither human nor dragon. What even am I? Forgive me, I am rambling”, you say, fixing the scarf.

Namjoon places his clawed finger under your chin and tilts your head up. Compassion looks back at you.

“You are dragon enough.”

“I can’t even produce flames.”

“Yes, you can. You let fear hold you back.”

“I am. All my life, I was punished for my origin. I am scared that it will happen again.”

You thought that he would show compassion but instead anger flares up in his eyes. He looks behind you, showing his fangs in a deep snarl. Jimin appears next to him, showing his own fangs. He is a little smaller than Namjoon but still so much taller than you. His scales are silver with a hint of blue and his eyes are glimmering white and silver like falling snow.

“We are not bound by the laws of your lands. Leave before I melt the flesh from your bones”, Namjoon spits, chest glowing as he prepares to spit fire.

You finally look behind yourself. Jungkook stares at the two dragons with widened, nervous eyes.

“No, he is my friend”, you say and claim his side, “he keeps me safe from the king.”

“He is a Hunter. The murderer of our children.”

“He isn’t like this anymore. Please don’t hurt him. We’ll even leave.”

“No”, Jungkook interrupts you.

“What?”

“No, I will leave. This is your chance to learn about your people.” He caresses your throat tenderly. “To learn about your fire breath.�� He caresses your scales. “I’ll just leave.”

“But.”

“It’s alright. Just find me in the tavern tent. I heard the ale’s good here.”

“Are you sure? We’re here together and I-”

“I’m very sure. Just find me when it’s time.”

“Alright”, you murmur, just a little unsure but he gives you a reassuring smile. Then he turns to the dragons.

He bows before them.

“I will spend the rest of my life repenting for my sins. Please forgive me for what I did to your people.”

Namjoon and Jimin relax, but stay on alert.

“Your humility saved you, Hunter. Now stand up and leave. Our patience is thin.”

Jungkook leaves with his head lowered in respect.

“Does he keep you against your will?” Jimin asks.

“No, I stay willingly. He is…”

“Your friend. We heard. He touched you like a lover would, however.”

“What? Oh gods no, we are just friends. Not even that, I think. He will save me from the bounty on my head and then we will be strangers again.”

“I see.”

You step closer to them, “I am sorry. Should I leave too?”

Their faces soften.

“No please, you can stay. Forgive our manners, we do not trust his kind.”

“I understand. I didn’t either before I met him, well, I still don’t but Jungkook isn’t like this anymore. I am so happy. You are like me, wow. Can you both breathe fire?”

“I cannot”, Jimin says, “I breathe ice, cold and sharp.”

“An ice dragon”, you whisper, “gods, this is the most amazing day of my life. Do you know a lot of other dragons? Is it true that we aren’t hated in other lands?”

They tell you many tales that day, sitting under the sahfe of a tent and sipping on water. They tell you stories of distant lands where dragons are still considered gods and that life in these lands are prosperous and good. They tell you stories of riches and comfort, stories of adventure and friendship and stories of good lives.

“And is it true that humans pray to us?”

“Indeed they do. Many are even too scared to look at us in fear of being disrespectful, while others treat us as equal.”

“And can you live in their cities?”

“Of course. Although our houses must be taller than those of humans”, Namjoon jokes, making you laugh.

“I can imagine. You are so tall, both of you. I was blessed by my mother’s height so it seems. My mother was human and my father was a dragon but he left her to fend on her own.”

“What was your father’s name?”

“I don’t know. Truth be told, I know nothing of my parents. My mother died because of me and the nuns who raised me were cruel.”

Jimin reaches out but doesn’t touch you, “my little dragon, may I hug you?”

“Oh? Uhm. Sure.”

He gives you a hug. Your face gets buried in his chest. He is so much bigger than you. It is comforting to be held by him because his spirit gives off a kind energy.

“You have lived through great grievances. I hurt for you”, he says.

“Yes, my life has been pretty bad.”

Jimin pats your head and gives you one last squeeze before he steps back.

“You can come with us if you wish.”

“What?”

“Exiloth has warm summers and fields of wine. The rivers are clean and the trees healthy. The houses are safe and the people kind. War and hatred do not dare to cross our borders. You could find a home there, away from the hatred of these lands.”

“I, I don’t know what to say.”

“We mean it”, Namjoon says, “your life doesn’t have to be cruel. You have a home in Exiloth.”

“Gods, this is more than I thought I would receive from you. I, I don’t know. This is a big decision and I didn’t tell Jungkook.”

“Worry not, you have until tomorrow. We are gathering people like you here, by the lake. You can join us if you wish. We will leave by noon.”

People begin queuing behind you. The signature event. You don’t have time anymore.

“I will think about it.”

They nod, giving you kind smiles. You bow.

“Thank you. I am so happy to have met you.”

“The pleasure is all ours.”

“Hey, lady. Don’t hold up the queue, we wanna meet him too”, a man calls behind you. Rude.

“I will go. Thank you for everything.”

The queue begins moving quickly once you left and the two dragons become busy. Jimin gives you one last wave, which you eagerly return and then you make your way to the tavern tent.

Said tent is on the opposite side of the plaza. The fabric is red with golden trimming and the curtains are drawn open with thick rope. Music and chatter meets your ears just as the scent of grilled meat fills your nose. People don’t acknowledge you as you enter the tent, they are too busy eating and drinking. In the left corner of the spacious tent, a small stage is built. A band of bards plays on it and in front of it, couples and single people dance to the music. On the opposite side of the entrance, a wooden bar is built. Ten bartenders hurry around behind it, serving their patrons. On the right corner of the tent, a big orc in chef attire cooks and grills on open fire. Every now and then, he calls out an order and one of the many foot personnel picks it up to carry it to one of the countless tables. There are a few dragons and dragon bloods in the midst of the staff. There are elves, humans, dwarves and halflings existing together with them. This could be your life. Being part of a community. Having a place to call home.

Your eyes fall on Jungkook. He is by one of the tables, drinking ale all alone. You could have a home, so why does your chest tighten when you think of leaving?

He meets your eyes. His face once stoic, lights up. He gets to his feet, waving with both arms. He seems so, so excited to see you and it is weird because your chest tightens even more from it.

You make your way to him. He rounds the table and pulls the bench out for you, grunting as he does because it is heavier than he thought at first.

“You didn’t have to”, you say, snickering.

“It’s alright. How are you? Did you learn a lot?”

You sit down, watching him sit down as well.

“It was amazing. There are dragons who are free. Can you imagine? They are able to live without worry, they are welcome in villages and people do not spit at them when they pass them.”

“It sounds as if you had a good time.”

“Oh, I did. I really did. They were so kind and so welcoming. One of them even gave me a hug.”

“What? A hug. Why is he giving you a hug?” he asks and, it sounds unbelievable, pouts.

“Uhm…”

“I mean, you don’t know them. It’s weird that strangers hug you, don’t you agree?” he says, cheeks flushed in embarrassment.

“I…honestly couldn’t tell you”, you murmur.

Is he jealous? This is awkward. For both of you.

“Welcome. What can I get you?”

Thankfully one of the servants interrupts the moment.

“Uhm. Ale please and something to eat.”

“Great. We have pork ribs, venison in a spiced wine sauce, chicken curry and for our vegetarians we have a roasted roots platter on leafy greens and a savoury pepper sauce.”

“Gods, this sounds delicious. I’ll take this.”

“And for you, Sir?”

“I’ll take the chicken curry.”

“Wonderful. Coming right up. Hey, Grog! We need the CC and the RP at table twenty!” she is screaming at the orc as she leaves to which he gives her a thumbs up and goes straight to work.

“What the hell is a vegetarian?” you ask Jungkook.

“No idea. What the hell is a curry?”

“No idea.”

You exchange a look and break into snickers.

“I feel like our sense of adventure will be our downfall”, you say.

“Right. Hopefully it will be good. I hate nothing more than when you order something and it tastes bad.”

“I agree. I thought I could order it because no animal needed to die for it.”

“I knew you would, the moment I heard what’s in it. I thought I needed to try new things, now that we are here.”

“I really thought that you would take the pork.”

“I wanted to, but changed my mind last second.”

You and he snicker again.

“Oh gods”, Jungkook lets out in a content sigh. He studies your face, eyes softening and lips curling into a faint smile. He reaches over the table, placing his hands over yours. His thumbs draw little circles on your skin.

“What’s the matter?” you ask him, heart racing uncontrollably.

“Nothing. I’m in a good mood”, he says and, believe it or not, his eyes become even softer.

“Hah”, you let out, shifting your eyes to the table in coyness.

He retreats his hands, looking into his ale. He feels things in his chest, which he is familiar with, but knows he shouldn’t when it comes to you. He cannot stop it even if he tried.

“Hey, so”, he begins in hopes that changing the topic will also get rid of the tension.

“Yes?”

“Look how much coin the trophies brought”, he says and holds up two big bags of coins.

“By the gods, this is a lot.”

“It is. Here”, he says and puts the bags in front of you.

“What do you mean?”

“They are yours.”

“Huh? No, they are not?” you push them closer to him.

“Take them.” He pushes them back. “I want you to have them.”

“Why?”

“Because…see it as my apology to your kind. I did a lot of bad things to them and I did a lot of bad things to you. I want you to have the coin I made at the cost of your people.”

You eye the bags.

“But this is so much.”

“Good, you can use it. It wouldn’t feel right for me to own it. I don’t deserve it. A dragon deserves it as compensation. I want you to have it.”

“Are you sure?”

“I am.”

You finally take them. The purses are heavy. You hide them in your bag instantly.

“I don’t know how to react, so I’ll just…”, you squeeze his hands, “thank you.”

His eyes soften. He smiles, “of course. Don’t feel shy now, yes?”

“That is easier said than done when you practically handed me wealth.”

He laughs, “well, perhaps you can spend some of it here. Have you visited the market stands already?”

“I have. I saw a necklace made of mythril.”

“Mythril? This is a rare metal. You can buy it now that you are rich.”

“Maybe. I don’t know. Maybe I’ll safe it for better times.”

“Yes, maybe.”

Your ale arrives. You clink jugs with him and take a healthy gulp. You set it down with a sigh.

“And I saw a fate speaker. She was kind of scary.”

“I never really believed in those. We are the makers of our destiny and it can change at any time.”

“I hope so. She said things about you.”

“Me? Why would she mention me?” he asks, tugging a strand of hair behind his ear.

“She said that you will get hurt and that…” You think back at how he knelt before the dragons, you think of the heavy coin in your bag because he sold his trophies, you think of how he hid you from the two Hunters. And you see how he looks at you right now.

“Nevermind, you’re right. The future isn’t carved in stone”, you say, shaking your head.

Jungkook gives you a sympathetic smile, “it won’t happen. Whatever she said, it won’t happen.”

“I hope so.”

Food arrives seconds later and attention shifts with it. You and he ooh and aah at the view before taking a bite each.

“By the gods, this is good”, you gush, “how is yours?”

“Only the best thing ever”, he says with his mouth full. He chews and swallows, “want to try?”

“Sure. You can try mine too.”

“Gods, yours is very delicious.”

“Yours is amazing. Curry is amazing.”

It is needless to say that late lunch – or early dinner how one might look at it – in this cozy market tavern is very successful. Being adventurous definitely paid off for both of you. The ale is just as delicious as the food, cooling you off because the tent saves quite a lot of heat.

“So this fate reader, did she say anything else about me?” Jungkook asks. You have almost finished lunch by now.

“I thought you said that you don’t believe in this kind of stuff.”

“Yes, well”, he shrugs his shoulders, “I can still be curious. Even if it is just to call it a scam.”

“Well, she said that you will become violently gassy and pop like a bubble.”

“Haha, very funny”, he says and flicks your forehead gently which makes you laugh.

“No but seriously, she said that you will hug me.”

“I see. What a vague thing to predict.”

“But then, she did only predict a hug and didn’t mention you, perhaps she spoke of Jimin.”

“Jimin?”

“The dragon who hugged me.”

“Ah.” Jungkook tongues his cheek. “Either way, future speaking is all just a pile of bull crap”, he says and stabs the last piece of chicken especially roughly.

You have to fight the urge to snicker. Who would have thought that this could get him riled up.

You stay in the tent after lunch, digesting the food and watching people dance. The music is lively and encourages clapping. Jungkook watches you. You are smiling and laughing so much. It is almost as if you are experiencing life for the first time and in a weird way, it helps him see life in a new light as well. Perhaps it isn’t as dark and depressing as he thought it is. Perhaps life is bright and exciting and full of laughter.

“Hear thee, hear thee! The flower dance calls!” The bard screams and people begin cheering and hollering. They jump up from their seats just to get a spot on the dance floor.

You laugh and squeak as you try to follow each of them with your eyes.

“What’s happening?” you giggle, bouncing on the bench in excitement.

Jungkook jumps up and rounds the table. He takes your hands.

“Come on.”

“Wait. What? Where are we going?”

“You heard the bard. The flower dance calls.”

“But I can’t dance.”

“That’s alright, just follow the others”, Jungkook says and drags you into the circle of dancing people.

The flower dance is an unofficial tradition at festivals and markets. When the bards call out, the patrons need to get to the dance floor as quickly as possible. What follows are minutes of pure, unfiltered joy. The bards play a lively and motivating tune while the people dance in a circle. The flower dance is a group dance which doesn’t really have any rules, but which somehow always ends up working out perfectly.

Jungkook partook in this unofficial tradition quite a few times already, while you glow as if this was your first time. It is your first time. People normally go the other way when you appear or refuse you entrance. So this is totally new to you and you fear that you might burst in joy.

The group separates into two circles. One stays outside, jumping clockwise. The other jumps closer to the middle to meet there and clap hands. You and Jungkook are part of this circle, meeting in the middle and holding hands more than you clap them.

“And? What do you think of it?”

“I’m having so much fun!”

The circle breaks apart as your group exchanges spots with the other group. You link arms with two strangers and begin jumping in a clockwise direction.

Truly, you believe that this is what life is about. You finally know. Existing together with other people, having fun with them and not caring about their origin. To think that this is the reality other lands experience. It is unbelievable to you.

The dance changes into its third and final phase. The bards play their hearts out on stage, the mood in the tent has reached its peak. Now it is each person for themselves. The circle formation remains, but you break up so each person can jump to the music. It happens naturally that the outer circle and the inner circle melt together as either closes the distance in rhythmic jumps. You meet your partner for the next part. A halfling woman who smiles up at you with bright eyes. You hold hands and twirl, jumping at the same time. Laughter is splendid. You change partners again, using the moment of the jump and twirl. Human, elf, dragon and dwarf. Pale, tan or dark skin. Young or old. Tall or small, thin or thick. It truly doesn’t matter how one looks right now, what flows through their veins or how much coin they own. You hold hands and dance with each other and equality exists. For just a short moment complete equality exists.

The hands you hold next are familiar to you. They touched you, held you, caressed you in countless ways already and this current connection is sparkling.

His cheeks are flushed by now and his eyes sparkle as if entire galaxies were in them. He intertwines his fingers with you and begins to twirl with you.

You squeal loudly, throwing your head back as the world around you blurs. You can hear his laughter as well. He sounds so young and carefree. And for just a short moment in time, you feel invincible.

The dance comes to an end. As tradition demands it, the bards sing the ending acapella while the patrons scream the words back at them enthusiastically.

“Hoi!” the tent ends the dance with a happy yelp, following it up with laughter and applause as everyone agrees that this was the most fun in years. Naturally, the dance floor empties itself again.

The song changes to something slow. This should be your cue to go as well, but Jungkook keeps you on the dance floor. You are face to face, his left hand is on your waist, his right holds your hand.

“What’s this?”

“Dancing.”

Dancing. You have been dancing for three songs already and yet this doesn’t feel like it did before. It is just you and him. No other people, no moments of distance, no feeling of community. Just you. Just him. Face to face and eyes unable to break connection.

His face softens when he smiles at you. He runs his hand up and down your back. You swear that you will be able to recall this touch forever.

“Was this your first time?” he asks.

“It was.”

“How was it?”

“Wonderful. I still feel giddy. I’m out of breath”, you say, having to laugh as you speak.

He chuckles, eyes sparkling playfully, “good to know that I get this reaction out of you twice.”

“What?”

He smirks.

“No, you.” You slap his chest gently. “You are gross. I didn’t mean it like that.”

He laughs, “I had to.”

“No, you didn’t, you could have stayed quiet. You are inappropriate.”

Jungkook genuinely has to fight the urge to squeal, masking his joy by squeezing your waist and grinning brightly. This kind of banter sets his heart aflame.

“I’m glad that you decided to join me”, he confesses.

“To be fair, you kind of said that I should go.”

He laughs, “you could have said no, but you didn’t.” He smiles with his eyes. “Thank you.”

“Hah”, you laugh nervously, looking to the side. What the fuck is he doing and why is it making your heart feel so funny?

“Yes well, you probably would have found good company here as well”, you say, hoping that he can’t see your nervousness.

He doesn’t say anything to that, he just keeps looking at you.

“No”, he finally says and before you can react, twirls you.

The dance naturally asks of you to change partners, but your eyes keep lingering on him. What does he mean with that? He meets your gaze, dancing with a woman without touching her. You shift your eyes away. Now that you think about it, your current dance partner isn’t touching you either.

“Are you enjoying the market, kind lady?” he makes conversation.

“I am. And you?”

“Yes, yes it is a good opportunity to get out of the house for once. Gods know we need our small moments of respite in these trying times.”

“Indeed. War has been cruel to us all.”

“Yes, yes very cruel. Damn the king.”

“Yes, damn him.”

You swirl and change partners again. Further away from Jungkook. Your back is turned to him, making it impossible to look at him. Your new partner doesn’t touch you. He is an old man barely able to stand, but who seems in a good mood despite it.

“G’day, young lady.”

“Good day, sir.”

“Me ol’ bones are slow, I hope ye don’ mind.”

“Not at all”, you assure him to which he gives you a smile, showing you his missing front teeth. You retort the smile, feeling warm in your chest. This market is healing you. To have strangers smile at you fixes a lot of cracks on your heart.

You twirl and fall into the arms of your new partner. His touch seeps into your skin, drawing your eyes to his face.

“Hey, there.”

“We aren’t supposed to touch.”

Jungkook laughs softly, “so why is your hand on my shoulder gripping me as if you needed it?”

You pull your hand back, “shut up. You’re not all that.”

He laughs and leans in to whisper.

“Don’t pretend. I know you like it with me.”

“Urgh, you’re such an ass”, you hiss and try to flee in embarrassment. He pulls you back, twirls you once and catches you. His hold on you is even tighter afterwards.

“Fuck the rules, am I right?” he coos.

You huff out air.

“Don’t pout”, he chuckles as he speaks, “I’m sorry that you’re so fun to tease. I wasn’t serious.”

“Whatever. You’re still an ass.”

He chuckles, squeezing your waist. He leans closer, letting his voice tickle your ear as he talks.

“You’re doing this on purpose, aren’t you?”

“What do you mean?”

“Being sweet and drawing me in. You smell so good. You didn’t smell this way when we left”, he says and brushes his nose against the spot behind your ear. Next he guides your wrist to his nose, meeting your eyes afterwards.

“What did you do? You’re trying to seduce me, aren’t you?”

“No?” You chuckle nervously. “There is this merchant. She sells spices and she gave me perfume oil made of ylang-ylang and vanilla. I simply tried it because I was curious.”

“Whatever it is, you smell wonderful”, he says and brushes his nose against your neck a second time. He pulls you closer, hand slipping to the lowest part of your back before his touch would become indecent. “My head’s fucking foggy because of you.”

Your stomach tingles. The merchant was right.

“People are staring”, you whisper.

“Of course they are. You’re beautiful.”

“What?” You step back, eyes widened in shock.

He seems flabbergasted at first before he masks it with a chuckle.

“I’m fucking drunk. The ale’s strong”, he lies, but the damage was done. Your heart races and he feels warm in the face.

“Right, I’m drunk too”, you lie. “We should probably take a walk to, uhm, sober up”, you say, playing with the sleeves of your dress nervously.

“Right. I haven’t seen the booths yet.”

“You haven’t.”

The sun is beginning to set behind the forest, but the market is still busy with life. The two dragons Namjoon and Jimin perform on the plaza, too busy to spot you as you pass them. A group of sword dancers show off their skills under a sycamore tree. Little children watch the show with big, sparkling eyes and no worries in their hearts, all while their parents enjoy the moment of peace to relax under the setting sun.

“You! Hey, you!”

You and Jungkook stop in front of a tent. A young man calls you over with a wave.

“You two seem like good throwers. Why don’t you try your luck at the game and win one of my exclusive prizes?”

“No, thank you”, Jungkook dismisses him.

“But kind sir, you can win rare items.”

“Thank you, we are happy.”

The man gives up, calling over other people instead. They accept, chatting in the background.

“Why did you dismiss him?”

“These booths are nothing but coin grabs. He promises you victory but the games are rigged. Come on, let’s go somewhere else.”

You stay by the booth, watching with sparkling eyes as people try their luck at the throwing game. Jungkook calls your name, but you don’t hear him.

It seems that the player needs to throw a small ball into buckets around four meters away from them. It seems easy, however, the booth owner moves various wooden shields in front of the bucket by turning a lever as quickly as possible. The mechanism seems highly complicated and outerworldly.

“Hey”, Jungkook finally calls your attention with a gentle touch to your waist.

“What?” You look at him.

“I asked you if you were coming.”

“Oh. Uhm, yeah sure”, you mumble, eyes drifting to the game.

“You want to play, don’t you?”

You nod your head.

“Forget about it, it’s a fraud.”

“I haven’t played at carnival booths, they wouldn’t let me”, you say in a whisper, eyes carrying a hint of a beg.

Jungkook melts in defeat.

“Alright fine, one game. Whoever wins gets a favour from the loser.”

“Yes okay”, you giggle, bouncing in happiness as Jungkook leads you back to the booth with his hand on your lower back. He doesn’t regret it. Not when he can make you smile this fucking wide.

“You are back”, the booth owner greets you.

“The fair lady wants to try her luck”, Jungkook says, sliding over two coins.

“If that is so, good luck my lady. The rules are simple, get the balls into the bucket and win. The more balls the higher the price. Good luck”, the booth owner says and places six small balls on the table in front of you.

“Remember, if you lose you owe me a favour”, Jungkook tells you, stepping aside.

“So this is a competition? You are going to play too?”

“Naturally.”

“I’m really good at throwing things.”

“We’ll see”, he says, eyes gleaming mischievously.

You scoff, “alright then, bring it on.”

The ball is made of a sturdy fabric and judging by the weight and feel of it, is filled with sand. You lift your arm, readying yourself for the throw.

Pinch.

“Eek!” You squeak and escape with a giggle as Jungkook playfully pinches your side to tickle you. “Hey! This is cheating!”

He snickers, lifting his hands.

“Stay. Away”, you warn with a glare. He thinks that it is adorable, watching as you ready yourself for the first throw. It bounces off the shield.

“Bad start. Doesn’t look good for you”, he teases.

“Shut up. It’s because you distracted me”, you mumble, throwing the second ball. It bounces off and lands in the bucket. “Yes! Did you see that?”

“Total luck. You won’t be able to do it again.”

You ready yourself for the third throw. Jungkook pushes you to the side gently, making you mess up.

“Jungkook”, you hiss, shoving at his chest, “this isn’t fair. This is against the rules!”

“I never said anything about rules.”

“Urgh, you are so aggravating”, you grumble, stomping your foot before you return to the task ahead. You only have three balls left and you need to make them count. You need to prove it to him.

The fourth one lands in the bucket. The fifth one bounces off the shield, making you curse and Jungkook tease you.

This is your last try. Jungkook inches closer to you, placing his hand on your lower back.

“Don’t mess up now”, he whispers against your ear. Shivers run down your spine.

“Shut up”, you get out through gritted teeth, trying not to let his touch distract you.

You lift your arm.

“Careful now.”

“Be quiet.”

“Ah-ah are you sure that you want to throw it like this?”

You lower your arm again, facing him.

“Step away. Stop trying to distract me.”

Jungkook smiles the kind of smile he never showed you before, looking at your lips. It makes your heart flutter.

“Forgive me”, he isn’t serious. He steps back. “Go ahead.”

“Tch”, you scoff and pick up the ball again. You have to prove it to him - and yourself - that his antics aren’t distracting, that this means nothing to you. You aim, prepare and throw.

The ball bounces off the shield, falls against the edge of the bucket and….scores.

“Yes!”

Jungkook claps into his hands, “lucky. You were lucky.”

“No, I wasn’t lucky. I’m skilled”, you throw back cockily, nudging his chest, “so suck it. I got three balls into the bucket.”

Jungkook smiles brightly, staring at your face. He seems obsessed.

“I, uhm…” his teeth are so nice. What? Why are you looking at his mouth?

“Congratulations, fair lady. Here is your prize.”

Yes, right. The prize. The reason why you are supposed to play this game. You clear your throat and look at what you won. A small doll made of cloth.

“Oh, this is pretty. Thank you”, you say, cradling her in your hands. “Look, I won a doll.”

“It’s wonderful. My turn, sir”, Jungkook says, placing two coins down on the table. He has his serious face on, staring the bucket down as if he was trying to hunt it.

You decide to enact revenge. You stuff the doll into your neckline so it was facing him.

“Are you confident that you can beat me?”

“Very. I’m better than you.”

“I doubt it. After all, you say these things are frauds and now look at me. I got a doll.”

Jungkook hums and prepares to throw.

“Hey, sir! Why don’t you crank up the speed?” he tells the booth owner.

“Wow, look at you trying to show off”, you tease in a coo but Jungkook is locked in.

With a serious face he lifts his arm. You instantly pinch his side. No reaction. So you shove him, barely moving him.

He cracks up, lowering his arm.

“Seriously?” his eyes gleam in amusement, running over your face.

“If you can do it, I can.”

“It’s not going to work on me, so keep trying.”

He manages to throw the first ball despite your vigorous attempts of throwing him off balance. The ball lands in the bucket with ease.

“Hah!” He laughs victoriously. “See? Try all you want, you will still lose.”

“Yeah?” You pick up his second ball and throw it on the floor behind the booth so he automatically loses it.

“Hey!”

“That was for making me drop mine.”

“No, that was cheating, you cheated.”

“You cheated first.”

“Urgh, you”, he gets out through a big smile, grasping your waist just once to tug you closer. “You’re making me mad, you”, he rasps, inches away from stealing a kiss. You can smell his sweetened breath, feel the memory of his lips.

“There’s people”, you stop him before he can have you, heart pounding uncontrollably.

“Fuck”, he whispers and breaks away, tugging at the collar of his shirt. “Stop trying to make me mess up. I’m not going to lose.”

You collect yourself as well, trying to act normal.

“Are you sure?” you challenge and shove another ball down on the ground.

Jungkook gasps your name. You snicker, fluttering your lashes innocently.

“Fine. You are asking for it”, he says and picks up his fourth ball. He has to get in all of them to win. His eyes flicker black for just a second. You can count to three and then everything is already over. He scored.

“What just happened?” The booth owner gasps, staring at the dented bucket Jungkook’s aggressive throw caused.

“You cheated. I saw your eyes”, you whine, eyes widened in shock.

“You saw nothing. Sir, my price.”

“Go, take your price. Bloody Hunter, ruins my good bucket”, he grumbles and shoves Jungkook his price over the table. A bigger doll.

“Ha! Mine is bigger than yours.”

“Whatever. You didn’t win fair. You used your powers, I saw it.”

“Aw, are you a sore loser?” he coos, leading you away from the booth by holding your waist and walking backwards.

“No? You just didn’t win fair”, you complain with a chuckle, letting him tug you away.

“Oh and you would have? You threw two of my balls.”

“You tickled me and shoved me.”

Jungkook laughs, “I know, gods I know”, he does a twirl so he is beside you and drapes his arm over your shoulders, pulling you into him, “gods, you. I’m sorry it’s too fun to tease you.”

You let him hold you like this. You have no explanation as to why. Perhaps your guards are already lowered after the dance you shared. Perhaps the “no laws apply here” rule also applies to the laws you and he set for each other. Somehow it feels natural to be held by him.

You give up with a soft chuckle, draping your arm around his waist. It feels natural to hold him like this.

“Whatever. It was just a stupid game.”

“Yeah, right”, he teases and gives you a glance. “But how was it for you? Did you have fun?” he asks, wandering the market streets with a slight bounce in his steps. He is visibly happy.

“I did. I think we should do this more often.”

“What? Get knocked off at carnival booths?”

“No. Have fun like this. You know, dance and play fraudulent carnival games and have stupid competitions. It’s fun.”

You meet his eyes briefly.

“Whatever you want, just tell me. I can provide”, he says in a soft voice, eyes carrying That emotion.

What if you kissed him? Here in public in front of hundreds of people? At a time when the sun is barely beginning to set and night hasn’t come yet? What if you just broke every single rule and kissed him?

You step a little closer. Jungkook reciprocates, eyes flitting to your lips.

You shouldn’t. This is taking it too far.

“So, uhm”, you step out of the hug, scales feeling hot. “Where to next?”

Jungkook takes a deep breath. By the gods, his heart might be the end of him.

“I don’t know, uhm, maybe over there?” he gets out.

“Sounds good. Lead the way.”

You and he walk side by side awkwardly. The previous moment built so much tension between you and him that you can feel it drag after you with each step you take.

“Do I actually owe you a favour?” you ask, hoping that conversation will lighten the mood.

“Hm? Ah that. Obviously. A deal’s a deal”, he says, instantly jumping into teasing mode. It worked.

“What if I refuse to fulfill it?”

“Then, I’m going to take it anyway.”

“Now, I’m scared what the favour will be.”

“Mhm I do not know yet. Maybe I’ll ask you to buy me a nice, new sword. I need stuff to display in my study anyway.”

“A sword? That’s expensive. That’s at least twenty coins.”

“Mh-hm or maybe I’ll ask you to…” He twirls so he is walking in front of you, facing you with playful grin. “...run around naked and serve me breakfast on your chest”, he teases, wiggling his brows.

“Shut up”, you laugh, hitting his chest, “you’re seriously not funny.”

“I’m not? Then why are you laughing? Mhm?”

“I said; shut up. I’m laughing because you are foolish.”

Jungkook snickers and returns to his previous position, giving your back a soft rub.

“Don’t worry, I am not going to ask for something you do not want to do.” You look to the side, trying your very hardest to get your scales to stop flushing. You hate your own mind because it is currently torturing you with thoughts of Jungkook eating breakfast off your chest.

The tent of the herb merchant is closest to the game booths. You have to pass by a group of mimes who currently act out a sword fight. People laugh until their bellies ache, cheering for the two clumsy fighters.

“This is where I got the perfume from”, you tell Jungkook.

“Let’s go in.”

The merchant is currently busy, chatting with other customers. You drag Jungkook to the oil table. He follows with his eyes trying to be everywhere at the same time.

“You have to smell all of these things.”

“Alright. Let me see”, he says, keeping his hand on your lower back.

You test a jasmine oil together. It is floral and feminine. The oil labelled “patchouli” is musky and masculine in contrast. Next you test rose oil.

“This is nice”, Jungkook says, moving his head so he is facing you. His eyes flit up and down your face. “It would smell nice on you.”

You move your head. His lips are so close to yours. By the bloody gods, why do you want to kiss him all the time today? What is wrong with you? What the hells was in this ale?

“Hah”, you let out and break the moment by looking at the oils again. “Maybe, uhm, I should get it.”

Jungkook clears his throat, looking at the oils as well. Thankfully the tent is dark enough that nobody can see his heated cheeks.

“You should”, he says and picks up an oil labelled sandalwood. “This is good.”

“Let me smell too.”

“It’s nice, don’t you think?”

“I do. Gods, this is very nice.” You glance at him. “You should get it.”

“Yes? Would you like it on me?”

“Me? Why me?” You chuckle nervously, tugging on your earlobe to calm yourself.

“Uh…”

Jungkook thankfully gets saved by the merchant. Quite frankly, he had no good excuse.

“I see that you have returned.”

You and he face her.

“I have.”

“And I see that you have brought your lover as well.” She nudges your arm. “Did I promise too much?”

“He isn’t my lover!” “No, we aren’t lovers!”

You and Jungkook call out at the same time, breaking apart.

The merchant studies you, cocking a brow. Soon, she clicks her tongue.

“My deepest apologies then. I must have misunderstood the situation. How may I help you?”

You end up purchasing the rose and sandalwood oils and for some inexplicable reason, the merchant manages to sell you a big bottle of massage oil as well.

Truth be told, you cannot look at Jungkook once you leave the tent, face feeling on fire. He seems to be feeling the same.

Awkwardly, you walk side by side, looking at the market stands without actually looking. The sun sets in the time you do, but the market stays bright. Lanterns, candles and strings of lights illuminate the streets.

You stop at an especially bright string of lights.

“What’s this? How are there so many candles burning at once? And how are they so small?”

“Those are actually called fae lights.”

“Fae lights?”

“Yes. They’re named after the Fae because they invented them. Small pieces of illumite are strung on rope and then hung.”

“Illumite? The glowing mineral?”

“Exactly.”

“I heard of it. It charges with sunlight and glows the entire night. Gods, I never thought that it actually works. This is so beautiful.”

“It is, isn’t it? I saw them here for the first time, a few years ago. I remember that it was the hottest summer day and that I talked…” He glances at you. “Nevermind.”

“It’s alright. We aren’t lovers. You can talk to other women.”

“Yes I guess I can, but it’s not that easy is it?”

“What do you mean?”

He looks at your lips.

“Nothing. I don’t know. It doesn’t matter”, he says and walks off.

You follow him, wanting to hold his arm but deciding not to.

“We are still nothing, aren’t we?” you ask.

“Yes, of course we are.”

“Alright. Well then, where to next?”

Jungkook stops. You stop. A drink stand. Something alcoholic.

“Do you want to have a drink?”

“Fire mead, yes. You should try”, Jungkook says.

“What’s fire mead?”

“Only the best drink ever. It’s sweet and spicy and you cannot taste the alcohol.”

You order a jug each, walking a few meters before finally taking a sip. Jungkook didn’t lie. The drink is sweet and just spiced enough to heat up your insides and most of all, it is delicious.

“And? What do you think?”

“This is amazing, by the gods.”

“Isn’t it? I am glad that you agree.”

“I kind of wish to drink it somewhere we can sit if I’m being honest. My feet are killing me.”

“I have the perfect spot. We have to cross the bridge.”

“You know this market well, don’t you?”

“I do. I love it. This year more than others. I feel so light, as if I’m my own person and not someone following a voice.”

“Maybe because you don’t hate dragons anymore.”

“Yeah, definitely because of this. In the past, I hated that I met free dragons here. I thought how dare they enjoy life when their kind ruined mine. But I don’t think like this anymore. I was a hateful fool.”

“You had your reasons, but it’s good that you realised most of us aren’t how those dragons were.”

He nods his head, “I just hope that one day this little voice in the very back of my head stops telling me to keep killing.”

“So your curse is still present?”

“Sometimes, whenever I see a new dragon or dragonborn.”

“Do you hear them with me?”

“No, only when you make me angry. It says that it told me so, that I finally needed to wake up and fulfill my destiny.”

“Well, that’s comforting.”

“Forgive me”, he says, eyes sad and honest, “I would never listen to it. I don’t know how to shut it up.”

“Oh Jungkook, I want to help you but I don’t know how”, you say, reaching for him.

He meets you in the middle, thumb instinctively rubbing your skin as his fingers close around your hand.

“Just don’t get me angry”, he jokes.

“Haha, very funny”, you say, rolling your eyes. You find yourself laughing a second later, sending him an annoyed look fondly.

He chuckles, “forgive me. You are so easy to tease.”

“Shut up”, you murmur, cheeks and scales feeling heated up.

Jungkook draws just a little closer to you.

The night quiets down as you cross the bridge. The songs of crickets and frogs are louder and the moon becomes your only source of light.

“We are here.”

“Here?”

“Yes. Sit down”, he says and takes off his coat so you can sit on it.

“Thank you.”

The forest is quiet behind you. The market is just opposite side of the lake. Its lights dance in the water together with the stars. High grasses are on each side of the very small dirt bay Jungkook chose to sit by. It is tranquil here. Even the air seems clearer and colder than at the market. Which makes sense because you are so far away from other people.

“Yes, this is nice”, Jungkook says, stretching out his legs.

“It is”, you agree, doing the same.

Very rarely, you hear people leave the market. Some walk silently, while others sing or lull drunkenly and others talk to each other. The reeds hide you from them. The anonymity is nice after living such a busy day.

“This is truly so nice”, you say, enjoying the taste of the mead together with the silence.

“I like that you can really hear the crickets here.”

“Right. I think their songs are wonderful.”

“Yes. Although it can get pretty loud when I’m trying to sleep.”

You chuckle, “right. Although, I like it. When the crickets sing, I know that everything around me is safe. When I lived in the forest, I always used their song to relax. It helped me fall asleep many times.”

“Well, then we can be glad that they exist. Did you like living in the forest?”

“Gods no”, you say and scoff, “it’s scary. I had to look out for wild predators, for monsters and for Hunters. I was constantly exposed to the elements and the amount of times I woke up because massive insects and snakes were crawling up my clothes is criminal.”

“I see. Forgive my question.”

“That’s alright. I look back on it fondly because it made me resilient. It sucked that it happened, but I’m still here. Stronger.”

“You are.”

You and he take a sip of the mead.

“So if you had to rank them. Would you say that the forest is low or high on your list?”

“Maybe in the middle? Your house is definitely first and the convent is definitely last. I hated the streets as well because people spat on me and kicked me all the time and I was only a child. I think the cave was better than the forest though. So maybe it’s third place? Yes, third place.”

“How do you do that?”

“Do what?”

“Talk so casually about what happened to you? I didn’t know that people spat on you and kicked you. Yet you talk about it as if it is something normal.”

“Because it is normalised in these lands. I’m dragonborn. My blood, my history, my looks decided that I have to just accept it. If I don’t talk about it casually, I would go insane.”

“I am so sorry.”

“I know. I have known for a while now.” You kiss his cheek. “Thank you for changing.”

“I would do it again. I, I was such a fool, so stupid.” He furrows his brows. “Before I met you, I never talked to your people. I hated all of you and did so much harm. If only I had tried to talk sooner, I could have prevented so much.”

“Plaguing yourself with the what ifs will only drive you mad. You cannot change your past but you can learn from it. And you do. You are learning and bettering yourself, so don’t be too harsh on yourself.”

He nods his head in understanding.

“Besides, I am going to break my own rule here, what if you talked sooner? We never would have met and I would have fallen into the hands of someone truly evil. I would already be the King’s prisoner, tortured and raped or perhaps even dead.”

He scoots closer instinctively, “the king won’t get you.”

“I know”, you say and smile.

He looks at it. You might be really drunk already, but you have started to notice something unfamiliar in his eyes. An emotion you cannot name, which seems to be growing each time he looks at you. This phenomenon has only begun today and it is unexplainable to you. You think that it is a good emotion. One which is honest and which comes very deep from within him.

“I think you still would have changed them”, he says.

“The king?”

“No, the other Hunter.”

“Why do you think so?” you ask in a chuckle.

“Because…that’s what you do. You change people.”

“Oh.” You lower your head. “I see.”

You meet his eyes again. This emotion. It is so strong, glowing brighter than the moonlight. You cup his cheek. His breath hitches because of it and trembles slightly when you run your thumb under his eye.

“Your eyes seem so different today.”

“Different?”

“I think that I can see the curse, but in a good way. There is something so deep and heartfelt glowing in them.”

“Ah”, he lets out and turns his head away. He laughs nervously, rubbing the side of his neck. “No, that’s just the alcohol. I get, like, weird eyes when I’m drunk.”

“I see. You must be really drunk already.”

“I am.”

“Maybe we should stop drinking then. What if you wake up with a headache tomorrow?”

“I’m going to be alright”, he assures you and forces a smile to his lips, “but what about you? How did you like the market?” he asks.

“It was amazing. I didn’t even know that so much magic still exists and all these cultures I had no knowledge about.”

“Yes, the world can still be pretty magical if you think about it.” He relaxes back on his palms. “I go to this market whenever it comes to the forest. It was nice having company this year.”

Your heart does that weird fluttering thing again. You don’t know what it means.

“I’ve never been to this market before. I’m glad that I was.”

“Me too.”

“I liked that there were others like me and that they were free. Do you think that I can be like them one day?”

“I do.”

“I really hope that you’re right. I’m tired of running and hiding and being hated for my blood”, you say and remove the scarf to reveal your scales. The golden edges of them reflect the moonlight in a silvery gleam.

Jungkook thinks that it looks like pure starlight.

“You will be free. I promise.”

You nod your head, before you chuckle.

“What’s so funny?”

“It’s just funny to me that you of all people say that to me. I remember when you kept me tied up and drugged and now you’re the one who will free me.”

“I feel a lot of shame for my past.”

“Don’t be too harsh on yourself. It was just a light-hearted comment of mine”, you say and rest your head on his shoulder.

He puts his arm around your waist and rests his head on yours.

“Maybe, once we freed me of the bounty, I can join the market. Wander through the lands with them, be free. I’m pretty good at making baskets.”

Jungkook chuckles, “you are”, he says, trying his very hardest to ignore the weird feeling of emptiness in his stomach your words brought forth.

“You know, Namjoon and Jimin actually offered me a place in their home.”

“What?”

“Yes, Exiloth. Apparently there is no war there and we aren’t hated and there are supposed to be lots of vineyards and kind people. They said that I could live there.”

“Oh. I see.”

“They are gathering others like me and then we’ll leave by noon tomorrow.”

“What? Tomorrow?”

“Yes. I haven’t decided yet whether to join them or not.”

“Then don’t.”

“What?” You meet his eyes.

“I, I just meant that we still have to free you of the bounty. You can’t just flee. It means that you could never return home.”

“Well, these lands have never been my home anyway so if I could never return, so be it.”

Jungkook seems taken aback, but masks it. He drinks and looks at the lake.

“I see”, he murmurs quietly and for quite some time he is silent.

“Well? Do you think that it’s a bad idea?”

“Of course I do. We didn’t try so hard all these months just for you to become an outlaw. Besides, you don’t even know them and now they are offering you a home? It sounds untrustworthy to me.”

“No, I trust them.”

“Just as you trusted me and then you ended up getting kidnapped.”

“You’re an ass”, you say and turn your shoulder to him.

“You asked for my opinion.”

“Well, you can keep it if it’s only going to be negative. This is my first real chance at freedom and you are shitting on it.”

“I’m not shitting on it. It’s just going so fast and you know nothing of them.”

“And? I knew nothing of you either and look at us now. Friends.”

“Friends?”

“I meant…whatever, you know what I meant. Strangers and acquaintances of forced proximity or whatever.”

“Right.”

You glance over your shoulder, meeting his eyes. The moon illuminates his features.

Friends.

“I don’t want to fight”, you confess.

“Me neither, not tonight. Lets just…think about it more.”

“Fine, we’ll think about it more. But only if I have your word that you will respect my decision once I make it. No matter what it is.”

Jungkook sighs in defeat, “fine, I guess I have to.”

You turn to him, giving him a coy smile. He retorts it just a little hesitantly, eyes glued to your lips.

Friends. The word haunts the silence. Friends.

“I have something I want to tell you”, he says and sits up.

“Tell me”, you say, stomach tight in nervousness.

“Xenia knows a lot about our history and so I asked her about your mother.”

This is not what you had thought – hoped – he would say.

“My mother?” you ask.

“Well, not directly, I simply asked. Alright listen. It isn’t your fault that she died.”

“What?”

“Human women do not have to die giving birth to dragon babies. Your heritage didn’t kill her, an unsafe birth did.”

“What do you mean?”

“I asked her if your mother died because you are half dragon, but it wasn’t because of this. The nuns merely didn’t help her enough.”

“I…didn’t kill my mother?”

“Are those happy tears?”

“I don’t know. This isn’t what I expected you to say and now it is suddenly a lot to handle.”

“I understand. You’re alright”, he says and cups your cheek to wipe your tears.

“Hold me”, you choke out and sob, falling into his chest.

“Hey there, hey. Shit, I feel like I just did more damage than good.”

“No, I’m so relieved. And sad. And happy. And, and angry. At the nuns and my father. They killed my mother.”

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry”, Jungkook whispers, holding you safely.

“And at you. Why would you tell me this?”

“I’m sorry I thought that you should know.”

“Well”, you sniffle, “I thought that you would say something else.”

“What did you want me to say?”

“Doesn’t matter”, you say and hug him tighter, burying your face in the crook of his neck.

Jungkook allows it to happen, closing his eyes.

“I didn’t kill my mother”, you get out and laugh as much as you sob, “I didn’t kill her.”

“You didn’t”, he whispers, holding you safely as you have this very emotional moment. And perhaps he holds you a little longer than he needs to, basking in the scent of you and the pressure of your hug.

He definitely holds you longer than he needs to.

“Jungkook?” you murmur, having long stopped crying.

“Yes?”

“Will you hold me all night?”

“If you wish me to.”

“No, I meant”, you snicker, “you can let go now.”

“Oh. Forgive me.”

“It’s alright.”

You stay close to him, studying his face while he studies yours. Your arm brushes against him every now and then.

“Thank you.”

“Of course. I hope that it can give you peace.”

“It does.”

He lowers his eyes, laughing breathily.

“What’s so funny?”

“Nothing. Just. I’m really drunk.” He meets your eyes. There it is again, this emotion. “Would you push me away if I kissed you?”

You shake your head. Jungkook cups your cheek and meets you in the middle. He went into this kiss blindly, while you closed your eyes the moment your lips touched. Seeing how easy it was for him to find you, somehow makes this kiss so sweet.

It is night already, so this is allowed.

And it lasts way too short for your taste. He is the one to break it, holding you under your chin and looking at your lips.

“Do you have to go with them? Can’t we talk about it more? What if you found another way to leave? Later?” he asks.

“Do you not like this idea?”

“It’s so soon. What if they are dangerous? Just because they are your people, doesn’t mean that they are good people.”

“Is this what bothers you?”

“It’s so soon. You know nothing of them.”

You sit back, forcing his hand to slip from your face. You inhale and exhale deeply.

“I think I need more fire mead if we are having this conversation.”

“Of course. I will get it.” He stands up. “You’ll still be here when I return?”

“Of course. I’m not leaving this place, it’s so beautiful. Although give me a warning when you come back, there is the possibility that I will relieve myself in the reeds. My bladder is killing me.”

“I really didn’t need to know that”, he laughs.

“Well, now you do”, you laugh.

“Gods, you.”

He leaves the little bay with a hearty chuckle on his lips.

The walk back to the mead booth is peaceful. Jungkook can feel the night air on his skin and can take in the beauty of fireflies as they fly past him. The summer is especially nice this year, he thinks, that even he is able to notice the little things.

He feels like greeting strangers when he passes them and smiles at the person who prepares the mead for him. He cannot wait to return to the lake and to you.

His steps are quicker on his way back. He has been gone for a while because he walked slowly and he doesn’t want to keep you waiting any longer. There is a little, exciting thought circulating in his head ever since the merchant sold you the massage oil. He could kiss you hidden in the reeds until your body begs for more.

Jungkook smiles, chest beginning to tighten in excitement when he reaches the small bay. His coat is still there but you are gone. So you are really peeing. Just like you had said.

“___, this is my warning. I am back”, he says.

You give him no answer.

“___, hey I’m back.”

Nothing. Not even the sound of peeing.

“Answer me at least, you tease.”

Silence. Jungkook furrows his brow. This feels weird.

“___, hey”, he tries and rounds the grasses even at the risk of disturbing you. The spot behind them is empty.

“___!?” he calls out, twisting and turning in search of you.

The lake is empty. The forest is empty as well. Jungkook tries not to panic, but panics.

“Fucking hells. ___, where are you?!”

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