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kaihuntrr · 11 days

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one-year anniversary!

HI. oh my goodness can you believe its been a WHOLE YEAR (and a day, im posting this a day later OOPS-) since i started working on this au? i dont think i started working on the chapters until... the -ber months? but the general brainstorming started now and oh my GOD the amount of changes that has happened while working on this au is insane! im absolutely floored with how much people enjoy this au, and while im too busy to be posting art (im doing some personal work!) i have all the time in the world to talk about how much this means to me.

i've written things in the past, but i havent for the LIFE of me worked on such a long project such as this (we're only halfway through act one of FIVE!) and learning and growing with such wonderful betas and partner (ehehe @mewhoismyself hello there) is just so wonderful <3

SO! in order to make this anniversary special, i've decided to post a little cut/practice scene from act two! this couldnt make the cut with what the plot has in mind, but i figured itd be best to have some nice moments with scott and martyn, eh?

OH! and before i go, the next chapter will be posted a day earlier! <3 im going abroad the day after the original chapter posting date, so i need to rest. i think this back half of the fic is gonna be really something <3

anyway, i wont keep you here for longer. i hope you have a fun time reading this, just as much as my partner and i had fun writing this so many months ago <33

Martyn tried to listen as Scott rambled on about what he’d been up to, how nice it had been to see his friends again. He even tried to let the small twist of jealousy at Scott being so happy over seeing someone else wrench his attention back into the moment, but it didn’t work. The face of Pearl kept flashing in the forefront of his mind, her eyes and jagged scar glowing unnaturally under the moonlight.

“Oh, and…,” Scott continued to ramble on, but Martyn still couldn’t focus. It seemed that Scott had noticed as his voice trailed off and he looked at the blonde with a tilted head. “Martyn…?”

Martyn gave a grumbled response. His mind blocked out the world around him as he pictured brief flashes of the island, the hollow and desolate stares of the people, the wicked laugh coming from Pearl….

Scott sighed. “Martyn….”

Martyn could still feel a slight buzz in his head from where he was hit. How much blood did he lose back there? He didn’t know. All he knew was that he was glad to be alive. Glad that he was here, still breathing, like everyone else. Glad that he was–

“Martyn!”

Martyn jerked as Scott’s face was suddenly inches from his own. Scott’s lips were twisted into a pout and his eyebrows were drawn into a scowl. “Huh- sorry, what?”

Scott sighed, letting his head fall forward, “So you weren’t listening to me….”

“No!” Martyn said quickly, throwing his hands up. Panic leapt in his chest, making his heart beat faster. He didn’t want Scott to think he was ignoring him…! “No, I- I’m… I’m sorry…,” he hung his head. “I’m trying to listen- I’m not meaning to ignore you, I just….” Martyn looked down at the sand beneath him. Guilt welled up in his throat. He’d been so eager to see Scott while he was away, and before he’d gotten back, and now that he was actually here… Martyn was ignoring him. He was making Scott feel ignored.

Martyn shook his head, forcing a huge smile onto his face. “So, you said you saw your friends, right? Did you have fun-? Oh, what am I saying, you just said you had fun- haha…,” Martyn scrubbed the back of his head, then straightened up, rolling to his feet. “Hey, do you wanna go see if we can find your bird friend? I bet it’s missed you too!” He pointed towards a path leading up to the forest, “Bet he lives in there somewhere…!”

“Um- Martyn…,” Scott trailed off looking after him.

Martyn took a few steps backwards, away from Scott, and spread his arms, hoping he’d follow. “Or we can go down to the beach! It’s a nice day, it’ll feel great to splash in the water a little.”

“Martyn.”

“Or- oh, we can go see the decorations they’re setting up for the festival down in the center of town. You said you were excited right, so we can-!”

“Martyn!” Scott snapped.

Martyn stopped.

Scott took the few steps to close the distance between them, laying his hand on Martyn’s arm, then sliding it down to take his hand. He tilted his head, giving Martyn big sad eyes. “Martyn, talk to me…. What’s wrong?”

It was hard for Martyn to not crack under Scott’s gaze. “It’s just…,” he trailed off, trying to put his thoughts into words. He was just engrossed in them a second ago, but now, trying to tell Scott, he couldn’t think of what to say. “I… uh….”

“You’re alright, Martyn,” Scott rubbed his thumb over Martyn’s hand in a small, circular motion. “Take your time.”

A small pause fell over him. Martyn could hear the slow ebbs of the waves before he managed to speak. “I can’t get her out of my mind,” his voice spat with venom. Pearl’s sadistic glee, her manic grin, her ever-looming presence burned in his head. Martyn’s grip unknowingly tightened around Scott until he looked the other in the eye. His grip on Scott lessened as he looked away. “What good can I be to protect you, when I can’t defend myself from one person?”

“Who said I needed protecting?” Scott raised an eyebrow, his tone still soft but with a hint of skepticism as he leaned to the side to catch Martyn’s gaze again. He let out a weak chuckle and moved his other hand to rest on Martyn’s cheek. “Besides, you can’t protect me from everything.”

Martyn leaned into the touch, not caring how warm his cheeks felt as Scott’s delicate hand pressed into his skin, lightly grazing over the scar Pearl caused. He closed his eyes as he let out a sigh and drooped his shoulders. “But I want to…,” he muttered. He looked at Scott, his face scrunched with worry. “I don’t want you getting hurt at all, Scott.”

“There’s going to be times where I get hurt, Martyn,” Scott narrowed his eyes and withdrew his hand from Martyn’s cheek. Martyn was wide-eyed, only for Scott to hold the hunter’s other hand. “When that happens, all I’d ask is for you to help me get back on my feet.”

Martyn could feel his nerves freeze up at Scott’s warm hold. His gentle stare and concern on his face nearly caused Martyn’s heart to explode. A million things swirled in his mind as the breeze wafted over. “I can’t help it,” he lowered his head, biting his lip. “You should be protected, with all the chaos going around–”

“What chaos?” Scott cracked a smile and shook his head. He shrugged, letting go of one of Martyn’s hands as he gestured around. “All there is to see is you, me, and the beach. Nothing to worry about, right?”

Nothing to worry about for now, but so many things could happen in the blink of an eye. Martyn could practically hear the sound of the sea princes’ ringing in his ears, the one from his dreams laughing as its mouth opened wide to swallow Scott as he screamed-....

No. Martyn needed to be prepared for anything, so nothing bad could ever happen to the people he cared for. Nothing. Never again.

“I still want to fight for you,” his voice was barely a whisper in the wind, cracking a bit from the emotions that crawled up the back of his throat. But seeing Scott’s attentive look, with the slight tilt of his head, Martyn knew he could hear him. “Can I at least do that?” he pleaded. He needed to-. He needed to.

“You may,” Scott nodded, giving him a small smile. Then his eyes narrowed as a smirk crept onto his lips. “So- I’d like to see how you fight.”

Martyn opened his mouth to respond- just in time for a woosh of breath to leave him as his back hit the ground. Martyn gasped, blinking for several seconds as he tried to figure out he’d gotten laid flat out on his back… with a certain ginger pinning his shoulders to the sand.

“Yikes…,” Scott teased, his eyebrows rising, complimenting the wide grin on his face.

Martyn sputtered, his face immediately flushing beat red. “I wasn’t ready! Sneak- sneak attack…!”

Scott laid one arm across his chest, propping his other elbow on top of it and laying his cheek in his hand. “Most things will take an opportunity for a sneak attack, when presented with one.” He kicked his feet in the air, as if he was lounging on a couch reading a book.

Martyn flushed all the way to his ears. “Redo!”

Scott leaned his head down, smiling at Martyn in a way that was almost sickeningly sweet. “Are you waiting for a written invitation?”

Martyn grabbed Scott by the shoulders and surged upwards, knocking the ginger off of him. Scott laughed as he slipped his grip, ducking under one of Martyn’s arms to wrap his arms around Martyn’s torso.

Before Martyn’s brain could fully process that, Scott had rolled Martyn over top of him and planted him flat on his back again.

Working on instinct more than pre-thought, Martyn wrapped his arms around Scott’s shoulders and kicked off the sand. He knocked his thigh against Scott’s hip, bumping him off balance just enough to send them rolling over again.

But Scott didn’t end up on his back underneath Martyn.

Somehow, mid flip, he’d slithered around Martyn’s torso, ducking his arm again and getting outside of his hold. Martyn ended up with his face in the sand and a knee pressed between his shoulders, shoving him down further.

Martyn was about to push himself up with his arms, using his strength advantage to throw Scott off of him, but Martyn froze when he felt something sharp curl around his throat.

He couldn’t move. He couldn’t even swallow. He could barely even breathe.

Suddenly the sharp points of crescent bladed scythes were touched against his neck so delicately. Suddenly the sharp claws of a hungry beast wrapped around his throat, pricking the skin above his jugular. One wrong move and she’d slid his throat. One wrong breath and the beast would tear him to ribbons.

A figure above him bent down to whisper in his ear.

“I win!” Scott chirped brightly. He laughed as he withdrew his fingernails from where he’d curled them around Martyn’s throat. “You really do need more practice. Though I’d be happy to oblige…,” his voice turned sing-songy as he plopped back on the sand, his arms holding him up.

Martyn slowly pushed himself upwards, staring down at the sand where his face had been in utter bafflement. Why had that felt-? Why was he-? Why was his heart beating so fast? Why… did he feel like he’d just been hunted…?

“That- that uh…,” Martyn stammered, not really sure what he wanted to say. “You’re a lot better fighter than I thought you’d be.” He turned his head to look at Scott, pushing himself up so he was sitting on his knees.

“I know,” Scott smiled widely, tipping his head back and forth, “Do I impress you, Martyn?” He smiled and hummed teasingly, his eyes narrowed in a joyful satisfaction.

“Always,” he breathed, a lot more genuine and heartfelt than he’d meant to. Scott’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. Martyn felt his face flush and he looked down at the sand. Well, he was in this far. “I think you’re amazing.”

“Thank you…,” Scott said with a shy little smile. A light hint of red dusted his cheeks. He looked… really nice like that.

Martyn shook his head, roughly clearing his throat. “Well um, as- as fun as this was… I was actually referring to- to my gun combat more than my hand-to-hand.”

“Uh huh,” Scott answered with a small smirk, not sounding like he believed him. “Well, maybe I could help you with that as well.”

“You know how to use a gun?” Martyn asked, more than a little shocked. How… how much did he really know about Scott?

Scott opened his mouth, then closed it. He looked to the side, then looked back at Martyn. “Noooo…?” he admitted, grinning sheepishly. He sighed, rolling his eyes a bit, “To be honest I thought you were still flirting, not that that was a serious question. And now, well… I’m just embarrassed.”

“Oh.” Martyn tried to hide his sigh of relief. It was one thing to just not know that Scott was a capable fighter -he was a tavern keeper who dealt with rowdy drunks all the time, Martyn honestly should have expected it- but it was another thing to not know that Scott was a trained gunman. For some reason they felt different. Martyn felt a grin split his face. “Would-... would you like me to teach you…?”

“Teach me what?” Scott’s eyebrows pinched together for a brief moment, then shot up towards his hairline, “How to use a gun?”

“Yeah,” Martyn grinned, “It’ll be like the time I was taught!”

“When were you taught?” Scott tilted his head.

“I think I was… seven? My parents knew I wanted to be a hunter, so they taught me,” Martyn hummed, looking out at the beach. He could remember the eagerness in his voice when he asked his parents to teach him. He only knew of the dangers through them and the people he lived around, but he knew his heart was calling out to the sea more than anything else. “I needed practice, like everyone else, but I’m a natural. A crack shot, they’d told me!” He laughed. Shooting a target from far away was much easier than fighting with swords or his bare hands.

Scott blinked, processing Martyn’s words. He slowly turned his head to Martyn, eyes widening in shock as all sense of his playfulness dropped. “You were a child when you learned how to use those?”

“Yeah…? I wanted to be a hunter, Scott, so I learned early.” Martyn looked at Scott and shrugged, feeling the ginger’s gaze on his skin felt… different. Martyn learned how to use guns to be a hunter, not to– oh. Was Scott thinking Martyn would…? Martyn shook his head and raised his hands up. “But I can’t shoot a person. A sea monster is easy because they’re big and stupid, but a person…?”

Scott had a judgemental look on his face as it scrunched up. He pulled his legs up and wrapped his arms around them, resting his head on it as he sighed. “Ending a person’s life is hard, and I’m happy you haven’t shot anyone, but…,” he trailed off. Martyn leaned closer to Scott as he raised an eyebrow. “Don’t you think it’s a little concerning?”

“What’s concerning?”

“You learned how to shoot things, how to kill things, as a kid,” Scott looked away, gripping his arms tighter as he watched the waves flow in and out. “Every life has a purpose; from you, to me, and even the beasts in the ocean.”

Martyn narrowed his eyes. Exactly what purpose could those monsters serve? Being ocean terrors? An effective way to kill humans and destroy ships? To bring fear in the hearts of children? To kill Ren- Jimmy? Why were there monsters in the ocean? Why should there be?

“They’re monsters, Scott.” Martyn hissed, anger rising in his voice.

“They’re animals,” Scott hissed back, his face pinching into an expression that was almost pained. “They’re just animals….”

“They’re heartless, cruel, and always starving.” Martyn huffed, pulling out his gun to examine it under the sunlight. Horrible beasts. Disgusting monsters. Murderers. “They’re such horrible, unnatural beasts that every mechanic in the world works to develop better guns and weapons to kill them all.”

He didn’t fully notice the way Scott shied away from the gun in his hand. “You’re lucky you don’t need to leave the kingdom to see those ugly things,” Martyn spat.

“Ugly…,” Scott grumbled, turning his head away, like he was offended by the notion. “Well, I’m sure most of them would think the same about you.”

Martyn blinked, giving Scott a double take. Ugly…?

Scott let out a sigh as he stretched and uncurled his legs and arms to stretch out in front of him. He picked up a small handful of sand and watched it fall through his fingers. “Every life is precious, every life is running on limited time. I’m not an idiot. I know things die. But there’s no reason to cut it shorter than it needs to be. ” He smiled wistfully, tossing the rest of the sand forward. “The sea is… scary, but maybe if you had an open mind, you’d see there’s more to it than monsters.”

Martyn followed Scott’s gaze and stared. Was there anything more to them? Surely not. The fondness in Scott’s voice was hard to believe- but the man has never even seen any beast to Martyn’s knowledge. The fond tone that Scott spoke about those- those monsters with… it honestly made Martyn angry. Those monsters took away the people he cared about. The people he loved. People he cherished. Jimmy, Ren… and so many other innocent people lost their lives to the sea, Lizzie’s parents…. The ocean took all of them, and there was nothing to blame but the monsters that infested it.

“They’re monsters, nothing more than that,” he spat, emotions in his chest wrenching into a tight knot that made it hard to breathe. He swung his arm out to the side, bringing his gun up in front of his chest as he rose to his knees, almost looming over Scott. “I know what they are, Scott, and I know I’m doing all that I can to protect you and the rest of the kingdom from the beasts that would just as quickly swallow you whole as they would crush you into pieces!”

“There’s no need for you to be so hostile about it,” Scott snapped at Martyn, his eyes narrowing into a cold glare that felt like icy daggers stabbing into Martyn’s face. Scott stood up and brushed all the sand from his clothes with a sigh. “I understand.” He walked closer to the water, just enough for the waves to lap against his shoes and tightened his fist, as if preventing to lash out.

Martyn blinked. “Was I-?” he muttered to himself.

He looked out at Scott standing in the surf. He looked… sad. The guilty feeling in his chest built up once more.

All of a sudden, Martyn remembered just how happy Scott looked with his birds fluttering around him, with the canary nuzzling his palm. Oh-. Scott was an animal lover…. No wonder he-.

Martyn was messing everything up. First he’d ignored him, and he was pushing Scott away by getting angry. Martyn quickly stood up and ran across the beach towards Scott, “Oh, Scott, I’m sorry–”

Scott turned to look at him, a flat expression on his face.

Martyn felt his heart twist, “I- I’m sorry. I- I didn’t mean to make you feel….”

“Upset?” Scott supplied.

“Yeah…,” Martyn bowed his head. His hand twitched out, reaching for Scott’s but giving up and retreating before he could take it. Martyn turned his head away and bit his lip. “I-... I made you-....”

Scott stepped closer and held out his hand. “No need for that, silly hunter,” he smiled sweetly. Martyn took it almost immediately, surprising them both. Scott let out a chuckle and bumped his shoulder next to Martyn’s. “I’m not mad,” Scott said softly. Martyn believed him. He looked… sad instead.

“I don’t want you to–”

“You’re just fine.” Scott assured him with a smirk. “It takes a lot more than a simple disagreement to make me actually upset. We’re okay, right?”

Martyn bashfully nodded, resulting in a wide smile from Scott. Was he… really okay? Or was he just hiding how he felt? For Martyn’s sake? Martyn hoped it was the former.

Scott put a hand on his chest, giving Martyn’s hand a small squeeze. “Just… try to keep an open mind, alright? The world can be… stranger than you might think.” He smiled a little bashfully, “I might have- a surprise or two… to share, eventually.”

“Like how you can kick my butt in hand to hand?”

Scott’s face split into a wide grin, his eyes lighting up with laughter. “Just like that.”

Martyn felt himself smiling, a laugh escaping him as he squeezed Scott’s hand. Yeah, they were okay.

#the sea prince au #sea prince chapters #limited life smp #limited life #life series #life smp #trafficblr #majorwood #mean gills #coral kids #scottyn #martyn inthelittlewood #martyn itlw #inthelittlewood #scott smajor #smajor1995 #dangthatsalongname #sea prince extras

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yoongisbars · 4 years

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Your Name Here: ____. | JJK

summary: Studying the Fae always seemed like a great idea, and it was-- You just didn’t count on that particular being to be so... Captivating. His face definitely helped his trickster ways. Maybe that’s how you fell for the oldest trick of all: “Give me your name”.

pairing: fae!jjk x elf!reader (named) genre: fantasy au | fae!jungkook | fairy!jungkook | fluff | one shot | strangers to lovers word count: 18k cw: very subtle smut if you can even call it that note: me, the biggest copycat of all but also not !! this was my 2018 XMas gift to @gguktarts, and since i HAVENT HAD THE TIME TO SIT DOWN AND WRITE QOO (i am so sorry life is v hard at the moment) -- so asking for some permish, as an apology for not posting for two weeks straight: here y’all gooooo

The forest was vast, clear, and prospering. Its canopy was dominated by walnut, pine, and cedar; their leaves and branches allowing just enough light to pass down for a flood of mushrooms to claim the branch and twig loaded ground below. Thick vines dangled from every tree, and a range of flowers, which desperately tried to avoid the shadows, were a welcome change in the otherwise brown and green landscape. A variety of noises, mostly belonging to small creatures, brightened up the forest and added to the trickling sounds of a gentle river stream.

You trekked your way throughout it, wary of your steps, but already knowing the path like the back of your hand. It was a long walk from the house to your destination, but it was nothing compared to the travels you made to get to where you are now. And frankly, it was worth it. The discoveries you made over the past few months made your journeys a total success. It all started when you lived in Everwind.

The city home to Elves was forged on the bottom of a mountain. It was erected there due to the healing properties the mountain had, which was of great importance to your people. It was a graceful place. Ceramic rooftops, maple wood walls and a frozen waterfall gave Everwind an enchanting air. It was known for alchemy, carpentering and jewel crafting. For 125 years you grew up there alongside your best friends, Lorelynn and Jackson. Eventually, Lorelynn moved away with her family to Roseshire due to business reasons. It was another elven township, settled at a grotto. Roseshire prided itself with their advances in medicine, alchemy and herbalism. From previous visits, you found it stunning, like Everwind, similar in its architecture and nature, but with a deeper and stronger connection to magic.

You and Jackson were left as a duo who then decided to travel for research and study once you turned 180 and 200 respectively. He stuck by you, though being of noble bloodline and birthright, since he preferred a much calmer life than that of a noble elf. You were drawn to the study of different beings and creatures, and witchcraft, and it was that interest that led you to the village of South Vale. Located on the edge of a glade the village is home to various magical creatures like Dwarves, Elves, Fauns, Witches, Mermaids, etc. The village’s main pride was an ancient water source, which natives believed was the source of their prosperity. Though it was just a village to most, with its oak wood rooftops and walls, and luscious gardens, South Vale’s atmosphere wasn’t like any other. Their main economic rise was due to their blacksmithing. Alchemy and animal training were of their better scholar activities, but their biggest strength is rare herbalism. You took especially to alchemy and herbalism. It was here where you met a much older witch, who was the one to guide you in your witchcraft studies. She was your mentor, and you were very grateful for it.

By the time you were 195 years old, you heard word of Lorelynn’s engagement to a Roseshire Elf named Yoongi who, from what you knew, was a medical student with a thrive for alchemy and herbalism, much like yourself. You had made note of that for when you met him, have something to bond over. It wasn’t usual for Elf folk to get engaged and have weddings, but with Lorelynn’s fascination with the human traditions of marriage, she needed a grandiose event like such, to proclaim their love further.

So, she ended up having a wedding in Everwind, since the waterfall “would make for the perfect ceremonial portrait backdrop”. You and Jackson decided to arrive a few days early to Everwind, in order to catch up and help with what she needed in a timely manner. You met Yoongi and he acclimated well with the temporary reunion of the trio. It wasn’t until after the wedding that you found out that Lorelynn wasn’t living in Roseshire anymore. She had moved about a year prior with Yoongi to Glistening Woods, where he tended to the locals in his medical clinic, and Lorelynn set up her bakery. The move was originally because she had apparently fallen victim to a strange allergy to Fae Dust. The mention of such was a first, and especially the fact that she would be visited by Fae, constantly being pulled tricks on. You envied such contact, but not the allergies, however. Fae were creatures you had yet to encounter, yet to study. They were so rare to find, that it was a small shock to discover the existence of Fae life in Roseshire.

A quarter of a century later, your mentor, well-versed in foretelling paths, insisted that your destiny lay in Glistening Woods, deep within the Silver Forest. It was of great importance that you went there, so she said, and maybe settled there for a period of time in order to progress on your studies. With no other explanation, and not ever once doubting your mentor, you and Jackson set foot once again in travel, heading to Lorelynn’s new home in Glistening Woods. After arriving the first day, you decided to drop by the bakery, as you heard all the way from various travellers that “If you’re heading to Glistening Woods, make time to stop by the Flour Pot”, which of course was the name of your elven friend’s bakery, and it seemed to draw in a lot of clientele. It was there that Lorelynn offered to put you up at her house, to avoid having to pay pesky prices at inns or struggle to find a personal lodging of sorts. So long as you and Jackson helped around the house and the bakery from time to time, of course. Not that either of you minded. A helping hand in exchange for baked goods and shelter? It was a better deal than any lodging could offer.

Of course, you only told Lorelynn that your reason for coming to these areas was for study, which was true, but when you found what your mentor meant by progressing your studies, it far too much to explain to Lorelynn, at least not yet. She would absolutely have you at the stake if she knew what you were up to. If she knew the reason, she had been getting a more sensitive nose was not due to just a dusty house…

Deep within the woods, after months of walking through it, searching for whatever it was that your Elder Witch meant, you found it. A mushroom circle, deep within the forest, where four Fae seemed to gather almost every day. You now spent most of your days coming near the circle, studying them. You were enthralled. By their ways, their personalities, their clothes, their looks. Specifically, the looks of one of the four Fae. They obviously knew you were gawking, studying, but they didn’t see you as a threat, so they let you continue. Even sometimes trying to show off just for the sake of tampering very slightly with your studies.

While you were caught up in the moment staring at the youngest looking Fae, you ended up making eye contact for the first time, something you avoided constantly. He winked at you, sending flutters through your stomach and forcing you to end your studies a bit early. You hastily packed your things, leaving only the small offering of sweets that you have now accustomed to bringing every time you visit, as a thank you for allowing you to study them for hours.

On the way back out of the forest, you felt a… presence. It wasn’t threatening so you paid no mind to it, since your thoughts were elsewhere. Back to that Fae who for a split second you locked eyes with. How dare he wink? How dare you get all red in the face and nervous in the stomach? He was just an attractive Fae, they all were, but… By being lost in your thoughts of him, and only paying attention to your steps below, you failed to look forwards before bumping head first into something. With a step back and a sharp glance up, you noted it wasn't something, but rather someone, and not just any someone… But a Fae… That Fae… You had only ever seen him from a distance, and he was still beautiful, but from this proximity, he was sculpted like a God. He had both soft and sharp facial features, his black hair a playful mess, his expression was about as curious as a rabbit. He had a glow to him, warm and inviting, but his mischievous orbs quickly reminded you of who he was, of what he was. And you couldn’t fall for it. The sly grin spreading on his face meant he knew what you had realized. You felt your face slowly burn at his never-ending stare as he towered over you, and for the first time, you felt small.

“Hello,” He let out slowly, his voice smooth and enticing. “you’re leaving rather early today.” So, they noticed… He noticed and had to come all the way over here to let you know.

“I have some responsibilities to tend to.” You didn’t really know what to say, but you didn’t want to let him know you left because he made you nervous.

“More important than studying me? You hurt my feelings.” He snickered, there was a glint in his eyes you couldn’t place. It made your knees weak. He raises an eyebrow at your silence, you forgot to answer. “I’ll let you get to them then. I look forward to another chance like this. And another of these.” He pulled out a piece of sunflower bread you left behind as offering, took a bite of it, and gave you one more wink before turning into nothing but smoke and Fae dust.

Flustered, you made your way out of the Silver Forest and back to the outskirts of Glistening Woods. The woodland was settled along the banks of modest rivers and is truly an extraordinary marvel. Its elegance is only matched by the backdrop of a majestic Silver Forest which helped shape the city to what it is today. The climate this forest brought was of great importance for its fauna and flora, but it was also influential when it came to architectural designs as most buildings have been built with both materials and stylistic shapes of the forest.

You could see the outline of Lorelynn’s house as you approached it. From the outside the house looked old, but wonderful. It had been built with oak wood with mahogany wooden decorations. Large, octagon windows let in plenty of light and have been added to the house in a very symmetric way. The building is shaped like a circle, partially surrounded by glass overhanging panels on two sides. The roof is high and rounded and is covered with red ceramic tiles. Two small chimneys sit at the side of the house. The house itself is surrounded by a gorgeous garden, including various trees, bushes, flowers and a pond. While about to enter, you are met with Yoongi, dressed and ready to go to his clinic.

“Hey, Yoongi. Off to work?”

“Oh, hey Rowen. Back so…” He stopped mid sentence, and you could hear a sniff. He opened the door behind him and motioned for you to follow him. You didn’t hesitate, but you started to get a bit nervous. Inside, the first floor is equipped with a huge kitchen and two bathrooms, it also has a modest living room, two bedrooms, a roomy dining area, and a study. Yoongi went up the stairs to the newly added second floor. It was a bit smaller than the first, but part of it hangs over the edge of the floor below, creating an overhang on one side and a balcony on the other. This floor has a slightly different style than the floor below, as it only has two bedrooms, one bathroom and a study. Several small windows let in just enough light to the rooms below the roof. Your room, thankfully, owned both the study and balcony. Which is where Yoongi ended up taking you. He stepped in first, but let you go into the study deeper before closing the door behind him.

“You found the Fae.” His words caught you off guard, but you should have expected them. “The ones by the mushroom circle in the forest, correct?”

“Uh…” Before you could begin to formulate any kind of excuse, Yoongi brought his hand up in pause.

“Don’t worry. At least now I know why Lorelynn’s been having allergies lately. Though this is the first time I can smell the dust, were you really close to them?” He spoke, as if already knowing about the many times you went. Which was now obvious.

“Only one got too close, I guess I have residue of his departure.” He nodded with a small ‘hmm’. But a question did arise in you.

“Actually, I thought Lorelynn said that you guys moved here because there were no Fae in these parts… How’d you know about the mushroom circle?” Your question caused him to exhale heavily and put a hand on his neck.

“Well, I lied to Lorelynn about it. Everwind is the only place with no Fae reports whatsoever, but she didn’t want to go back. This was the next best thing, since there are not many here. She doesn’t know that though. So, I simply put up a protection spell to prohibit Fae from entering property grounds, but they never leave the forest from what I’ve gathered. So, it’s okay for her to wander around the city. But now…”

“Oh… I’m sorry. I’ll try to keep the dust at bay even more diligently from now on.” With that, you casted a quick clean up spell to eliminate the specs of Fae dust you have brought in today.

“Thank you, but I do fear that if one got close to you... Nothing, I should get going now then.” He shook his head in dismissal and made his way out of the study, before stopping to add one more thing. “Oh, and Rowen? Be careful with them… Don’t fall into their tricks.”

You gave him a curt nod, if there was anything to know about Fae, is that they are sly tricksters and con artists. “You got it. Have a good shift!” He knocked once on the door and saluted you before leaving.

You put your hands through your curls as you let out a breath. You needed to be more careful with what you were doing. And not only you, but Jackson too. You figured you should shower and change out of your Fae intoxicated clothes. You had already casted the spell, but you can never be too sure.

Now being sure that you were 100% clean, you headed out for the Flour Pot to meet up with Jackson and Lorelynn, you were hoping you were still on time for the surprise today. From the outside the bakery looked cosy, clean and cheerful. Large and small stones and marble details make up most of the building's outer structure. As you enter the bakery through the hardwood door, you're immediately welcomed by the smell of fresh baked pastries. It's as enchanting inside as it is on the outside. The walls were bright and gave a feeling of serenity. Rounded wooden beams support the upper floor and the variety of flowerpots attached to them. The Flour Pot draws in an alarming number of clients from all over, surely based off 50% Lorelynn’s charm and 50% her undeniably delicious pastries, which often leads to exciting stories. When you were first traveling to Glistening Woods, you did hear rumours about this bakery being famous, and judging by the warmth and joy radiating through the bakery, it's probably because of that.

Lorelynn and Jackson were both hard at work on the counter, decorating a batch of cookies. Even though they were busy, they managed to welcome you warmly. The bakery was surprisingly empty, besides an elder human couple, sitting by the window sipping on tea and sharing a lemon cake; and yourself. You sat on a stool in front of the counter, reaching quickly for one of the newly decorated cookies. Often your hand would have been swatted, but miraculously not today.

“What’s the occasion?” You asked as you munched on a classic chocolate chip cookie. Soft baked, her specialty. “You never let me eat them like this.”

“Well,” Lorelynn spoke’s busy hands and eyes never left her cookies. She was a lazy elf… She only turned to magic the moment she realized she could use it to do all the pesky chores she often hated. But when it came to her baking, the only magic allowed was that of her own skills. Jackson moved out of that side of the counter, cookie also in hand, plopping down on the stool next to you.

“Today my ‘sons’ are visiting.” Both you and Jackson nearly choked.

“Say what now? Sons?” You were flabbergasted.

“Since when do you and Yoongi even have kids?” Jackson was in disbelief.

“Calm down. They were at the wedding. And they’re obviously not my sons, it’s just a playful thing. Back in Roseshire, there was this lovely human couple of noble bloodlines, and they had two sons.” You did recall spotting a few humans at the wedding, and a small hazy memory of Lorelynn being hugged by some young boys. “Once I moved away, the couple and their sons would often come over and visit, always stopping by the bakery. I’ve basically watched them grow for almost 50 years,” Her cheerful composure became sombre with what followed next. “but being of this bloodline, they age slower than normal men, but much faster than elves… they don’t look a day over 20.” A soft chuckle escaped her. “Now they travel the world, learning new cultures and broadening their horizons.” That sounded interesting, they sounded interesting. You wondered what places they’ve been to, the things they’ve seen. You had yet to know them and already envied their experiences.

“Oh, right. The kids. Where were they this time?” Jackson spoke what was on your mind.

“That’s a good question. Usually they never know where they’re going until they get there. Free living, I guess. We’ll find out when they get here.” Lorelynn shrugged. What a free-range life…

As if on cue, two good looking young men walk into the shop. You could place them from that one time from seeing them at the wedding. Lorelynn was right, they were men now. “Ah! My boys! Welcome back home!” Lorelynn explained quickly removing her apron to go over and hug both boys warmly. They were quite excited to see her as well, noted in their big smiles and cheers. Lorelynn brought them over, mumbling something about how much older they’ve gotten, they look a few years older than her. She said 20 earlier, but you’d say they look between 24 and 25. You suddenly worried over Lorelynn getting attached to these humans, only to watch them die before her. A thought you put away tight in the back of your mind, never to be reached again.

“These are the boys I was telling you about. Rowen, Jackson. Namjoon, Hoseok.” Lorelynn pointed at each name respectively. The deep dimpled one, Namjoon, smiled and greeted first, Hoseok followed, quickly proclaiming to call him Hobi if you pleased. The cute nickname seemed fitting to his energetic self, so you obliged.

“I knew Lorelynn and Yoongi were tiny, but I didn’t expect to see another small elf.” Hobi cocked his head to the side both in confusion and playfulness. It stung but it was true. The three of you were rather… Short in elf standards. Lorelynn and Namjoon both elbowed Hobi gently, but Namjoon seemed to be holding in a laugh. He may agree. Ignoring this, you started.

“It’s been a while. Lorelynn was telling us about your travels. How were they?” You inquired quickly after all introductions were made. Namjoon was the first to speak, while Hoseok eagerly devoured a cookie Lorelynn offered. His eyes gleamed, perhaps those were his favorite.

“Well, we’re used to going to different places where there is usually a large concentration of only one race or species, this time however, we ended up in a village where a lot of different ones coexist harmoniously, something we hadn’t experienced yet. It was interesting to see how their interpersonal relations developed differently to those in concentrated areas.”

“Oh, sounds a lot like where I’m from. Where was it exactly?” Your interest slowly was deflating. Especially when Hobi confirmed.

“South Vale.” Muffled by cookie crumbs, but still understandable. It was a bit of a letdown. You already knew everything there was to know about South Vale. But now you can place Namjoon’s face from somewhere other than the wedding. You recalled once going to meet the Elder Witch and a man was exiting her dwelling. You wondered what he might be doing there, but that question did not serve purpose right now.

“Oh, yeah. That’s what we’re from!” Jackson exclaimed. He grew to love South Vale and prided it like a native. “Did you visit the Library there? It’s one of the best I’ve been to.”

“Indeed, we did, and I agree. It was greatly vast. I would have spent most of my stay in the library, had I not been eager to discover and experience more in person.”

“I mostly enjoyed the food, it’s really something else. But no matter where we go, nothing beats Lorelynn’s cookies.” Hoseok spoke cheerfully, and you could tell Lorelynn’s heart was swollen.

After a nice chit chat, you understood why Lorelynn loved these boys so much, what wasn’t to love about them? They radiated joy and familiarity, you hoped to get close to them soon, and learn more about their other travels. The boys presented Lorelynn with a South Vale native plant, a pale pink succulent. Succulents were common over there, but you hadn’t seen any here. Lorelynn adored it and quickly set it up nicely on the counter. They had to leave to go put away their things back home and get some rest after their trip. Namjoon said something about wanting to organize his field journal of creature behaviour, and as soon as they set foot outside the bakery, you jumped and followed suit. The thought that he’s probably met Fae before and had note on them invaded your mind, maybe he could lend you some advice.

“Namjoon, wait up.”

“Hm?”

“You mentioned something about a creature journal. Have you encountered Fae?”

“I have. Why?” His expression wrote suspicion, but you made nothing of it.

“I was just curious. I also study different creatures, but I hadn’t been exposed to Fae at all. I wondered if one day I could look at your journal and see your findings?” Your eyes were eager, and he found it amusing.

“Hm, past tense.” Hmm? “Sure, next time we stop by, I’ll make sure to bring it along. However,” His tone shifted to that of a warning. “Be very wary of Fae and their tricks, the ones in these parts… They’re fond of wordplay. Be safe.” Like Yoongi, he seemed to know you’ve encountered Fae.

“You know, I really can’t believe I’ve met three short elves in my lifetime.” He chuckled, and with that he and Hobi marched on with that, not before Hobi waved big and shouted, ‘Nice meeting you, Rowen!’

A few days passed, and you made your way to the mushroom circle with Jackson. He hadn’t gone in a while and said he missed watching them play. You of course didn’t hesitate to let him join you, especially with both Yoongi and Namjoon’s warning still fresh in your head. And maybe if you went accompanied this time, that Fae wouldn’t come near. In your bag you carried your journal, some water, and snacks for both the Fae and Jackson. He gets a tad hungry whenever he must walk such a distance. And jealous that the Fae got more treats than him, so to shut him up for the day, they seemed fitting. Already halfway to the checkpoint, he was complaining about hunger. His snacks were already in danger.

When you reached the bush you fancied, you and Jackson plopped down, ready to set up your study session. After getting comfortable for the long hours to come, you grab your journal and start onlooking. However, only three Fae were present… That Fae wasn’t around. For a moment, you felt disappointed, and even questioned if you wanted to stick around. But you set that thought aside, you were here to study the Fae, not just that one.

“Hm, I wonder where the other one is… It’s not like him to be absent.” Jackson mumbled to himself, he seemed to side eye you, waiting for a reaction. As if he knew what that Fae stirs inside you. An oddly inviting smell of smoke came from behind both of you. And a voice not belonging to either of you spoke.

“I wonder where I am, it really isn’t like me.” You turned around to see that Fae crouched down behind you with his elbows on his knees and his chin resting on his hands. “Hi.” His tone was puckish, your face getting hot, Jackson was spooked. With a hand on his heart he let out an exasperated breath.

“I know you like pulling pranks and playing tricks, but damn it, don’t give me a heart attack, you lil’ pixie!” The Fae enjoyed Jackson’s reaction, but you noted the glint of annoyance at the word ‘pixie’ and pleaded the Gods for this Fae not to give him a heart attack for real this time… The Fae ignored Jackson’s remarks and continued.

“So, this is what you do, day after day? Just sit here and take notes? Tsk, not even a favourable view of us.” He would speak to you, but his eyes and mind were elsewhere.

“It’s a respectful distance, I can see what I need to see from here.” He nodded at your answer and turned to Jackson.

“What about you, boy? I only ever see you come here to eat. Don’t you study us as well?” The Fae’s remark stung Jackson a bit, but in all fairness, he was right. Jackson only came to eat most of the time.

“Hey, that’s not true! I also came here to study…”

“Study what? How to continuously move your jaw up and down?” It was during their bickering that you noted that the Fae kept moving his fingers in an odd way, stealing glances from your journal ever so often. You looked down to discover why he seemed puckish in the first place. He had been tampering with your notes this whole time with Fae magic. Words were replaced, pages were missing and out of order, and a dumb drawing of what apparently seems to be him with his tongue out was now left on the page. You fumbled through the journal infuriated, months of study, altered and ruined.

“WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!” He simply cackled in a way that made your stomach boil. You were supposed to be enraged, but why did this Fae’s mischievous way of laughing sent flutters to your heart instead? The Fae laughed hysterically, rolling on his back and snapping his fingers, only to turn into a puff of dust and smoke. You looked over to the other three Fae, who had been watching the whole scene unfold. They were in on it, by the way they were also laughing. They all turned to smoke and dust one by one, almost simultaneously. Was this their way of getting back at you for leaving early last time? That dumb Fae… You mumbled and grumbled, annoyed as you put away your things.

“Sheesh… What was that all about?” Jackson uttered as he got up and stretched his back. “I didn’t expect them to leave so soon, also didn’t expect that pesky thing to come bother us.” You shot daggers at him, almost instantly, but you quickly composed. Why did his insult to the Fae annoy you? You were already set to go but remembered to leave the sunflower bread behind.

“Really, you’re going to leave them offerings, after that? After they did what they did? You’re getting soft for them, Rowen.” He snickered as he avoided the elbow you threw at him and headed out.

“Don’t leave me behind!”

The following weeks were more of the same. You’d either go study the Fae alone or with Jackson, but often ended up striking conversations with that one Fae, he would now always come to you once you reached the bush. Sometimes now it would just be him at the mushroom circle, waiting for you. Though he was quite impish, you found yourself growing to enjoy his company, dare you say, a friendship was building between you. You still weren’t on speaking terms with the other Fae, but they would wave hello and goodbye whenever they saw you in the woods. You felt lucky. Going from only glancing from a distance, to now being bothered and welcomed by them. That one Fae still made you a bit nervous however, especially when you noticed that Yoongi’s spell wasn’t as strong on the second floor as it seemed to be on the first. Either that or this Fae was just strong… You started to notice that some of your things would be misplaced. That went on for a few days, but you didn’t mind. As long as you always found everything and cast a cleaning spell to remove his dust, it was okay. Sometimes the dust got to Lorelynn before you could get to it, and her allergies had gotten a bit worse. Yoongi would worry, but he knew how much you were taking care of the dust, so he didn’t mind much, if by the end of the day there were no dust laying around, and nobody found out that it was because of that Fae coming here, it was all fine.

One day, however, enough was enough. Your rings and crystals… Not only were they misplaced, but after searching high and low all day you realized, they were missing… Simple tricks were okay, but downright stealing what was most precious and vital to you, that was crossing many lines. You were hunting this Fae down, and getting back what was rightfully yours.

The path to the mushroom circle didn’t seem far this time, your enraged self got there rather quickly. Still a bit at a distance, you could already make out the four Fae. They were playing with your crystals, trying them up with twine and twigs, to make them look like a crown of sorts. They seemed to be playing as Royals due to their exaggerated and fine movements, which led them to laugh at each other. The broad one wore the biggest crown, sitting atop a large rock. Even though it was just for play, he deemed authority, he was clearly the elder of the four. The other three, including that one Fae, were dancing and clapping to please their ‘King’. You almost forgot why you were here, almost forgot you were mad, you were captivated by their youthful and playful essence, clearly ensuring they were as Fae as Fae could get.

“Hey!” You shouted over at them, a bit louder than what you wanted. The young Fae looked over at you, and his expression turned into one of excitement. He disappeared from where he once stood and appeared before you. Taking your hand in his and dragging you over to the rest of the Fae.

“Come, come, we’re having a party of sorts! We have treasures!” Treasures?

“You mean my crystals and rings?” You knew where the crystals were, atop the head of the ‘Fae King’, but your rings… They were nestled on every finger of that Fae. Your heart was a mess again when you realized your hand was in his and he wore all your rings.

The eldest Fae, their ‘King’, was the first to speak. “Thank you for lending us your crystals.” He bowed his head slightly with a snicker. The other two Fae followed suit with their own thanks. The crystals were now the least of your worries, as they looked fantastic in the crowns made for them. Now they really felt magical.

“You’re welcome… So long as I get them back, it’s okay.” You nodded, taking your hand from that Fae’s as you noticed it was still tightly secured in his.

One of the other Fae spoke, his voice deep. “Of course, you will get them back, we were going to send our youngest to put them back where he found them after we were done.”

The smallest Fae out of the four chimed in. “But we can’t promise you anything about your rings… He’s grown too fond of them.” Your eye twitched.

“I need my rings.” You turned your gaze over to the Fae towering over you. His arms crossed and eyes avoiding your stare.

“No, you don’t.”

“Yes, I do.”

“No.

“Yes!” Your shout caught him off guard, his eyes finally meeting yours as he realized you weren’t playing.

“You really aren’t that keen on fun, are you? Here.” He started to take off his rings, with an expression you couldn’t make out, but it stung you a bit. He hesitated a bit before giving you a ring in specific, but he still gave it up. You took this as his preferred ring and decided to… let him have it.

“Keep it. Before I change my mind.” You saw his expression change back to the excited one when you first arrived, he quickly slipped the ring back on his pinkie. It suited him well. You stayed with all four Fae, getting to know them. The smallest Fae stood next to you, giggling.

“For the second time in my life, I’m taller than an Elf.” He burst out into laughter and they all followed suit… You sighed, fully knowing your height was going to be the butt of the joke every chance they got from now on.

As time passed by, you and Jackson bonded with all four Fae whenever you had the chance to. You could now cross reference your notes with their facts, hoping that they weren’t playing tricks on you again. As the time passed, you and that Fae grew closer and closer. You still didn’t quite accept that he made you a nervous wreck, that his eyes caused your knees to weaken. You couldn’t accept that this mere Fae could make you feel so small. One day, as you were leaving the circle, the Fae decided to walk with you to the edge of the forest, a newly found habit of his which you didn’t question. Though he made you tremble, you couldn’t help but enjoy the attention.

You get the feeling that since you are now both aware after months and months of getting to know each other, that you aren’t a threat to one or the other, that it is time to finally know each other’s names.

“So,” you started, a knot already forming in your throat, what if he didn’t feel safe yet? “What’s your name? I feel weird not knowing what to call you besides ‘boy’.” He chuckled softly; poking his tongue on his lip before responding.

“Jungkook. My name is Jungkook, Kook for short.” He smiled, looking forward.

“Jungkook… Kook. Nice.” You nodded.

“Mhm. And I believe it is now time for you to give me your name.” There was a glint in his eyes you didn’t understand.

“Rowen.” You were dumb, you were stupid, and it wasn’t until Jungkook guffawed in disbelief that you realized just how dumb you really were. You gave him your name. You fell for the one thing everyone warned you, wordplay. You were now bound by name to the most mischievous and impulsive Fae you’ve ever met, and you’ve only met four.

“I can’t believe you actually fell for it! YOU WEREN’T SUPPOSED TO GIVE ME YOUR NAME! YOU’RE A WITCH, YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO KNOW THIS!” Those were the last words he managed to get out before fully turning into unstoppable laughter. You weren’t even halfway back to the edge of the forest, and you were now nameless. Because of your dumb self wanting to know his name…

“Phew, I have to go take care of something, have a safe walk back.” He turned into a puff of smoke and dust with one last laugh. You sighed in disbelief… This could only happen to you, for falling for this stupid Fae, stupid Kook…

With shrugged shoulders you made it out of the forest and back to the house, the walk felt longer this time, what with being alone and losing your name and all. Your shoulders fell even more when you saw Lorelynn outside, waiting for you. As you got closer, you realized her eyes were watery and puffy, her nose was red, she was allergy ridden, all due to the letter she had in her fingers, dripping with Fae dust… Oh no…

“So, you met a few Fae… and gave one of them your name?” Was the first thing the stuffy nosed elf said. “I overheard Namjoon giving you advice. He could have warned of anything, but he chose: don’t fall for wordplay; and that’s exactly what you do.” She blew her nose into a tissue.

“I know, I’m dumb…” There was no other way around this, you were just dumb.

“Wow, you really fell hard for a Fae, huh?” She handed you the letter, which was obviously from Jungkook. “Here, it’s a name-binding contract. A warning, really. You’re officially his plaything, though I would dare to go as far as calling you his slave.” She sighed. “Yoongi told me about everything, including the spell.” At least you’re not the only 0ne in trouble. “Apparently, it's only been working on our floor, and now with this new dilemma… Just be wary of the name-binding consequences. And try to keep him at bay…” She motions for you to follow her inside. “Come on, you’re on cleaning duty. That dumb letter has gotten dust everywhere. And I might as well learn about the Fae, so you’re also on teaching duty.” You followed her up to your study, casting a cleaning spell almost every step of the way, can never be too sure anymore.

“Is he cute at least?”

“Shut up.”

It had been a few days since you gave up your name and you hadn’t seen its new owner; however, you’ve noticed he’s been around and fully using your name because lately some of the spells, charms and incantations that you’ve practiced with ease, are now suddenly… not working as they should. You were downstairs in the living room this time, since Jungkook shouldn’t be on the first floor anyways, you felt better off practicing there. You had placed Sage Incense, a Silver Spell Candle, a bowl of Sea Salt and a Chalice filled with water on the coffee table. You drew your circle, then lit the incense and the candle, and meditated for a few minutes while the sage filled the room. You held your hands over the incense and said, “with air I cleanse myself.” You let the smoke twirl around your fingers for a few moments. Feeling the cleansing properties of sage immerse you. Then you held your hands above the candle and said, “with fire I cleanse myself.” Visualizing the flame burning away anything unwanted within you. You took the sea salt and crumbled it between your fingers, gently rubbing it on your hands, and said, “with earth I cleanse myself.” Then dipped your hands in the water, again gently rubbing your hands, and said…

“With water I cleanse myself.” Another voice overlapped yours. Jungkook. He sat Indian style on the Lazy Chair, elbow on one knee, chin in hand, eyes on you. And that fluttering smile. How was he even inside? How did he break through the barrier spell? To your knowledge, the spell didn’t reach the second floor due to it being a new addition and Yoongi forgetting to correct it, but Jungkook had only been around in his diminutive state, from what he had told you. But now he was in full form, on the First floor. The forbidden floor. Oh no…

“What are you doing here?” You quickly blurted out in surprise.

“Well, visiting, of course. Haven’t seen you in a while.” His expression turned confused, as if you didn’t know he was coming over. Which you didn’t. This was completely unannounced, but that wasn’t the point of the question.

“No, I mean, what are you doing here, the First floor?” His smile turned coy.

“Ah, you mean the protection spell? Yeah, that doesn’t apply to me anymore.” Your spine went cold. He stood up, picking at his finger. “You are safe to come into the first floor, I own your name, therefore, I’m safe to come in also.” He gave you a sly wink, and then shrugged. “That, and the fact that Lorelynn has a lot of Fae inviting plants both inside and outside of the house, it’s stupid to be honest with you. The spell gets cancelled out due to the plants and the contract. Had there been no plants, maybe I wouldn’t be allowed in, but who knows. Too late now, anyways.” He walked towards you, with a questionable glint. “Why is there a protection spell against Fae, exactly?” He towered over you, causing panic. He liked having this power over you. Even though he was ten years younger, he asserted dominance over you.

“I’ll explain later, but really you have to…” You stopped mid sentence, already hearing Lorelynn’s steps up the entrance path. “Shit. Follow me.” You grabbed his arm and practically yanked it from its socket as you dragged him up the stairs and into your room. You close the door behind you and usher the Fae boy to stay quiet. Pressing an ear to the floor, you listened to Lorelynn’s movements, what was happening downstairs. You kicked yourself for not doing a quick cleaning spell the moment you heard Lorelynn sneeze, subsequently followed by a ‘Rowen...’ Shit, shit, shit.

“Listen,” You started to whisper to Jungkook. “you need to go, now. Even though Lorelynn already knows of you, she would be absolutely enraged if she found you here, she’s severely allergic to Fae Dust, which you leave around every which way! It could complicate my living arrangement here…” His eyes widened in alarm, he did not know of the allergies prior or what his presence could imply.

“Oh, I’ll leave now…” The both of you looked over to the door after hearing Lorelynn’s steps coming up the stairs.

“No time, you poof, more dust. In the closet.” You quickly shoved him in and closed the closet. He tried his hardest to stay still, quiet and not drop any dust.

Lorelynn knocked and opened the door to your room, looking a mess of confusion and death. “Whose turn was it to clean the house this week? Was it me? Did I forget again? Or did you go play with the Fae?” Her stuffy nose interfered with her pronunciation.

“Nah, it’s mine, and I was out with the Fae. I left some of my spell stuff downstairs but came to get something else, so I could get to it properly.” Truthfully, it was your turn. You had already cleaned the house, though. But forgot to do it again with the presence of the Fae, she just didn’t need to know he was there. She nodded in understanding but waved you off.

“It’s okay then, I’ll do a quick one while I get some medicine.” Yoongi had conjured up some herbal medicine for whenever the allergies took over, for now they were the ones that mostly helped her control the allergies, but it was only a temporary fix. She proceeded to go downstairs, and you closed the door after she left. You waited a few moments before releasing the Fae from the closet. You let out a sigh and dragged him over to your study, casting a cleansing spell in the room behind you.

“Well, I’m starting to understand why the spell to keep her allergies controlled, but it makes no sense with all those plants.” He sat on top of your desk, confusion on his face. At least he was trying to understand.

“If I didn’t know about them, then Lorelynn had a much lesser chance of knowing they’re inviting plants. That spell was put up by her husband because of her allergies to Fae dust, to keep the house at bay from exposure, and to keep Lorelynn away from knowledge that Fae lurk these areas, at least until he found a cure for her allergies.” Explaining this, you heard the bedroom door, meaning Lorelynn was there again. You forced the Fae boy under the desk with a swift motion and sat at it. Causing him to be face to face with your thighs. You didn’t know this, but this proximity was causing a little bit of Fae dust to fall off him, which he was trying desperately to control.

Lorelynn waltzed into the study, feeling better, but still looking much like death.

“So, I meant to ask, if you and Jackson would be willing to help me with a big order. A Dwarven wedding requested cake and an array of cookies, and I need to get on it quickly. The day after tomorrow, please?” She practically begged, but she knew you’d agree. A Dwarven wedding, you got to help in? Definitely.

“Of course! Count us in. Lorelynn,” She started to get a red nose again. “I think you should go rest a bit, wait until the medicine takes full effect before prancing about.”

“You’re right.” She was already stuffy again. As she left, she sneezed on last time, throwing out another cleaning spell as reflex. “Sorry…”

After she was gone, you moved away from the desk, and a blushing red Jungkook crawled out of it. Seeing the situation firsthand, his mischievous ways seeded for a moment, taking into consideration that you need this living arrangement for your research, to be near him. That’s what he understood. He stared at you for a moment, and you noticed a glint in his eyes. What it meant; you had no idea.

“I think I’ll go ahead and leave now, see you soon, Rowen.” Before he turned to smoke and dust, he gave you another signature wink. As a response, you casted a cleaning spell upon his disappearance. In his diminutive form, Jungkook decided to go ahead and scout the area, something he was never interested in doing before. It was a long time since he, or any of the Fae, had been in contact with species besides their own. He had now travelled as far as Lorelynn’s house, where Rowen currently lived at, but knowing he isn’t really supposed to be there, he decided to find where she works. He quickly gathered that it was a bakery, and the famous bakery by that. Once he found the Flour Pot, he was quick to scan if there was any spell like at the house. To his luck, no spell, but plenty of inviting plants. Another plus were the sweets, giving it was a bakery. He found the loophole, and Lorelynn wouldn’t be able to protest if she found him. Having this information, he seems its only fair if he drops by the day of the big order to help out.

It was the day you and Jackson would help Lorelynn with the Dwarven Wedding order. Lorelynn chose to work in the bakery the day it’s usually closed, to be able to concentrate on the order with no distractions from customers. You arrive early, even earlier than Lorelynn, eager to be able to participate in preparing goods for dwarves. You reviewed the list of cookies they wanted, and headed to the kitchen, looking for Lorelynn’s Cookie recipe book to get the ones you needed and prep the kitchen with the ingredients for the first cookie recipe to make. There was a total of 8 kinds of cookies, 125 cookies each, at a total of 1,000 cookies. What an event it should be. While reading over the recipes, you heard a noise in the pantry. Was it a mouse? You went over to the pantry to check, opening its doors and revealing none other than Jungkook. Covered in flour. With a mixing bowl on his head. You resisted the urge to scream. “What in blazing hell are you doing here?”

“I’m here to help with the big order!” You quickly opened your mouth to refute, but he put his hands up and spoke first. “There are a lot of inviting plants here and no spell to say otherwise. There shouldn’t be a problem with me here.” A loophole. He found a loophole. Along with many of the other ones he keeps finding for everything.

“Jungkook, please. I need you to leave. This is a very important day, an important order. I know you want to help, but today is just not that day. So, pleas…” Oh no, not again. Like last time, you didn’t have enough time to make Jungkook leave, before Lorelynn arrived. You heard her and Jackson opening the door. So, without a thought, you pushed the tall Fae, back into the pantry, along with yourself. For who knows, what reason.

“I just thought it would be fine…”

“SHH, us elves have superb hearing, shut up.”

You heard Lorelynn and Jackson made their way into the kitchen, and for your unlucky self, Lorelynn starts sneezing immediately. Her annoyed mutters grew rapid, as now she had to prep the kitchen and deal with food with an unexpected allergy. You both remained quiet, trying not to breathe loudly, to avoid detection. You suddenly were very aware of the fact that Jungkook’s chest was practically pressed on your face. The pantry fit one person fine, but two? The proximity between you started to quicken your heart rate, and by being so close to his chest, you noted that his was going a mile a minute as well. You looked up, only to be met with his eyes. He had been staring for a while, his eyes piercing through your soul. You could have sworn he was leaning into your face, that is until the dark pantry was suddenly filled with light when its doors swung open. Jungkook, for reasons unknown to you, and maybe even to him, blew out flour onto the face of the poor bakery owner.

“SURPRISE!” He shouted. You wanted to die, but probably not more than Lorelynn did. Blinded by the flour, she brought up her hands to wipe it off her face. Only after was when she realized, the Fae in her midst. You were anticipating a scream by the face she pulled, but it quickly turned into a sneeze. You and Jungkook exit the pantry as Lorelynn tries to compose herself, letting out an exasperated breath.

“So… This is that Fae?” She was blowing fumes, even though she spoke calmly. Jungkook didn’t even give you time to explain the situation.

“I am one of the Fae, but yes, I am that Fae. Jungkook. Nice to meet you, Lorelynn.” He quickly shifted his attention and waved his hand over to the other figure. “Hello Jack.” What?

“Hey Kook.” WHAT? Since when were Jackson and Jungkook on a nickname basis? And since when do they even know their names? It stung a bit that he quickly told Lorelynn his name, when you had waited months for it. But that was an irrational moment, put away quickly.

“Why is the Fa- Why’s Jungkook here? Why? Why are you here? Oh, ugh.” In her panicked interrogation, she reached for her nose. “Oh no, I’m already starting to get clogged up.” She casted a quick medicinal spell to be able to breathe, backing away from Jungkook, and casting a cleaning spell while she was at it. And there began her whining. “I never use magic here, this is upsetting… Rowen.” Whining like the stupid child she often was, but she had every right to.

“I am only here to help, I swear.” He put his arms out in defense, by now he had already taken off his mixing bowl hat, so he could be taken a bit more seriously. But Lorelynn wasn’t buying into it.

“No, you’re not, you’re here to play your Fae tricks and mess up my business.” She crossed her arms and plopped down to the floor, lips pouting out. You sighed, Jungkook needed to go.

“Jungkook, please. I was practically begging before they got here, you need to go.” A disconnect could be seen in his eyes, he had an expression you had never seen him do before, and it… Hurt.

“But I’m being honest, I genuinely want to help.” At the end, he scoffed. He couldn’t believe you didn’t believe him. And you still didn’t. Before you could respond. Lorelynn had already gotten up.

“Alright.” It seemed like she heard something you hadn’t. “You can stay. But in the back. No messing with the order. I will let you help in ways that would require your help, other than that, you are to be sat in the corner. Got it?” Her words were directed at Jungkook, but you felt that the consequences would be yours, her stare said it all.

You take Jungkook over to the back, bring a chair along with you and placing it in the corner. You breathe in deeply, looking how to make these instructions clear.

“You heard her. I need you to stay put, at least until the order is done.” You grab his hand, squeezing it firmly, hoping to pass on some understanding to him. “This is a really important order for Lorelynn. You cannot do anything to the goods being baked, or the tools used to make them, and that if you manage at least that, I will have Lorelynn bake your favorite snack.” His tense expression from earlier softened.

“I understand all of this, I wasn’t here to wreak havoc, but okay. I’ll stay still.” It hits you that all this time, he was in fact genuine, and not trying to play Fae tricks. Not knowing what to say, you simply nod and back away. “Thank you, Kook.” Heading back into the main workstation with Lorelynn and Jackson.

“Why’d you change your mind?” You asked Lorelynn, as she pulled her hair back and washed her hands, preparing for the work of a lifetime.

“He reminded me of when Hoseok and Namjoon wanted to help me when they were kids. He spoke with a child’s genuine interest.” Oh. She picked it up before you did… You were never near enough kids, or any to be honest, to know that, let alone that the same logic applied to Fae, or to Jungkook in any case.

For the rest of the evening, everything went about peacefully, as it should. The goods were not tampered with, and neither were the instruments and machines used for their preparation. Occasionally Jungkook would start to play a few tricks but only neither of you were dealing with the goods. He would fling flour, icing and glitter when he had the chance, never missing an opportunity. For the most part, he was calm. Helping in the way Lorelynn required it by bringing him a spoon with batter and having him taste test occasionally. This helped keep him in place and help Lorelynn get accustomed to having a Fae around, which you all realized that would be their new fate. The only problem being whenever Kook liked a sample, he would shake off a little bit of dust. Which is why he was mostly kept to the back of the room. After a busy day. The order, at least the cookie part, is complete. Lorelynn and Jackson left the bakery, leaving you and Kook behind, but not before she prepared some of his favorite sunflower bread, for behaving today. A peace offering.

“Wow, Lorelynn really is a good baker.” Fae dust immediately dropping has he took his first bites. “Remember to cast a cleaning spell after I leave.” He looked over at you with widened eyes and snickered.

“She is, and I will. I always do, or at least try to.” You shrugged. You both stayed quiet, but not an awkward silence. It was enjoyable, especially since you were both having your fill with the sunflower bread and a few of the error cookies left over.

“I’m sorry for today. I didn’t realize you sincerely wanted to help.”

“It’s alright. I’m a Fae, so mistrust is normal.” Mistrust…

“It’s not that I didn’t trust you… This was just important, and I couldn’t risk it.” Your shoulders slumped down. You should have known, should have felt his sincerity. But because of your various encounters and tricks, you couldn’t bring yourself to fully believe him. So, when Lorelynn noted he spoke true and let him stay… It hurt. You were supposed to know, you know him. But just how well do you know him?

He put a hand on your back and let it stay there. “Apology accepted.” He looked over at you with soft eyes and a smile. Your face started to burn again, as it had gotten used to doing whenever moments like these transpired, especially now, when you were practically wrapped under his arm.

“Y’know, I like spending time with you. And I think the rest might start liking it too.”

“Well, I’m glad. I like having you around too.” His soft expression became mischievous in an instant. “I like owning you too.” Your shock caused him to burst into laughter, give you a sly wink, and turn into a puff of smoke and dust. Not even allowing you a defense, or even a goodbye. You scoffed, and chuckled. What a Fae. You cleaned up thoroughly and headed back home.

The next day you and Jackson were asked to man the bakery front while Lorelynn was finishing the wedding cake in the back, just in time for the order to be picked up. You secretly wished for the order to have been a delivery run as well, just to catch a glimpse of the event.

The months to follow were simply just of you and Jackson going to study the Fae, which had now turned to be more of a hangout session rather than studying. Now you knew that the eldest one was named Seokjin, but you all called him Jin for short. Speaking of short, the shortest of the Fae, was Jimin, who constantly mocked your height being an Elf. And the deep voiced Fae, Taehyung. Jungkook hijinks were more prominent now around the house since he was partially allowed to be there, it also helped for him to grow bonds with Lorelynn and Yoongi.

Most days the bakery was visited by Hoseok and Namjoon, where they would vividly tell you about their many travels and experiences and invited you to in the future tag along with them to see what new horizons you may find. Over these months you grew to enjoy everyone you’ve met in your time living here.

Jackson, Lorelynn, Yoongi, Namjoon, Hoseok, Jin, Jimin, Taehyung… and Jungkook. Not all were connected to each other, but you were connected to all, and that filled your chest up with some sort of pride. Hopefully one day, everyone could integrate.

One day, you were sat at the Flour Pot, going over and comparing creature notes with Namjoon. His knowledge on creature and racial study was impressive as it was immersive, and you felt slightly ashamed that your findings were lacking, but you thought not much of it, until he reached your extensive chapter on Fae folk.

“Uh, Rowen… Things here seem a bit out of place.” He raised his eyes towards you, ridden with confusion. Ah, right. You had forgotten what had happened long ago.

“I’m sorry. Jungkook did Fae magic to some pages while on a study trip. He never bothered to fix them.” With a heavy sigh, you flipped through the pages, trying to find anything salvageable. The only thing you came across, was his simple yet characteristic self-portrait. It was quite endearing, no matter how falsely annoyed you may have gotten.

The noble let out a chuckle. “Should have casted a spell on it before you got too close.”

“Yeah… I might have pictures of the notes on my phone, but I highly doubt it. Worth checking though.” Your fingers worked on the screen as you spoke, eyes scanning the gallery in search for any of your pages. Instead, selfies of Jungkook, and pictures of a rather annoyed Rowen, taken by him, flooded the screen. Your cheeked reddened as you kept scrolling, he looked quite stunning in the images. Putting away the phone, you commented on your misfortune, but were quite fond of your new findings.

As three months turned to five, you had taken a job over at Yoongi’s clinic, where the both of you would discuss herbalism and find new mixes for medicine and such, he was mostly interested in the rare herbalism you had picked up in South Vale, and you were eager to unwrap that knowledge and present it to him. Jackson discovered a passion for baking, and while he would still go with you on your ‘studies’, he would mostly find himself working at the bakery. Both of you figured that by helping and working at Lorelynn and Yoongi’s respective businesses, it was a good way to give back to them for having put you up. Especially now with the whole Fae ordeal.

Jungkook would now spend his time in your study, often helping with the herbs you worked with whenever he notes some are lacking, by nourishing them, instead of being out in the woods with the rest of the Fae, and you would spend your free time at the mushroom circle with them. Other days there would be no sort of contact between the two, which left you feeling empty, but it was understandable, he was a busy Fae, and you were a busy Elf witch. Lately though, he’s traded his mischievous hand for a helping one. He takes care of some plants around the house, finds misplaced things, and even helps in the creation of new recipes for Lorelynn’s bakery, which have been getting popular, becoming weekly favourites.

Of course, in order to be spending time in the bakery, Jackson suggested; in a protective and humiliating manner, that Lorelynn make him wear a hazmat suit. Just for allergy prevention purposes. And maybe a chuckle or two for himself, since he was seemingly getting slightly jealous of all the attention the ‘pixie’ took from his best friends. Attention that was once his. Truly, they did get along, but they bickered like an old married couple.

Whenever Jungkook wasn’t helping at the bakery, he made time to play pranks and cause a bit of havoc in the house, but it was mostly rare now. He then since stopped messing with your name, but still very much enjoys pointing out that he owns it and therefore owns you.

One of the days that Jungkook was busily helping Lorelynn, he struck up a curious conversation.

“So, Lorelynn. You’re married to Yoongi, right?” The semi muffled voice came from the suit.

“Well, you’re quite observant.” She responded with sarcasm, a new habit of theirs.

“Funny.” His eyes rolled in time with the dough. “I just want to know; how did it happen? What was the marriage ceremony like? What is the Elf way of union?” He spoke with genuine interest.

“Well, funny you should ask. Yoongi and I had a human wedding for our ceremony.” A soft smile of nostalgia spread across her face, remembering that special day.

“Oh,” This came as a surprise to the Fae. “Why human and not Elf?” Lorelynn snorted at this remark.

“Because Elves don’t have weddings, silly. Our marriages are concealed through the act of sex. And in that case, I think Yoongi and I are pretty solid that we’re married.” The curious Fae reddened up, thankfully hidden in his suit. “I just wanted a big celebration like I’ve seen other races do, and a human-like wedding was the easiest to pull off.”

“So, if your kind doesn’t have a wedding, how do you show off that you’re married? Is it something you announce or...?” If he was interested before, there was no word to describe what he was now.

“Well, with Elves, you can see it in our eyes and hear it in our voice. Depending on how you look at it, it’s convenient, really. Instantly people know that you’re married, and to who.”

From the back of the kitchen, Jackson chimed in. “Well, if you ask me: it’s an inconvenience. What about Fae?”

“Whenever Fae ‘marry’ we get matching marks on our bodies. In a way, it’s like your voice and eye thing, you just know.”

From then on out, the conversation slowly turned into a comparison of Elf and Fae differences, Jungkook giving small thanks as to Lorelynn and Jackson’s easily distracted minds.

One night, he was in your studio, sitting on your desk, watching you work your magic as he was accustomed to now. While caught up chatting the night away, the moonlight peaks into the room, catching your face, causing your usual elven charms to skyrocket for him right then and there. You noticed he stopped talking so you looked up at him, only to catch him staring at you dearly, but instead his eyes ended up catching you. Caught in his gaze, unable to escape, you felt under a microscope, yet you remained still. He started to lean in slowly, like when he did in the pantry long ago, but there wasn’t any flour in this scenario. No sneezing Lorelynn’s to walk in on you. Not to be disrupted in the locked room. Just the two of you. And before you knew it, his lips landed on yours, gentle at first, but slowly becoming greedier, and to your surprise, you met his actions. You were in a daze, and he seemed to be in one too, as the Fae dust would not stop pouring off him. In the time that you knew him, and the other Fae, you had never witnessed so much dust.

Unknowingly to you, it started to seep through the floorboards and reach downstairs to where Lorelynn sat in the living room, enjoying a cooking show. But her enjoyment came to an end, once the dust landed all over her and her allergies kicked into overdrive. You and Kook pulled away from each other as Lorelynn’s sneezes broke the sound barrier, only to begin laughing at what you had caused, both blushing tremendously.

“I don’t think a cleaning spell is going to help her after this one…” Jungkook laughed to himself. “Or the rest to come.” That second part sent shivers down your spine, because you desperately wanted more. “Does this mean we’re dating?” He asked softly in between breaths.

“I think so.” You say, might as well. This is your fate now. He smirked, and his tongue peered out just a bit.

“It’s good to know you’re mine in more ways than one.” In a matter of seconds, you were both consuming each other once again, with a passion neither of you knew you had.

After that, it wasn’t long before the other three Fae found out. And of course, they wanted to celebrate this union. Jungkook had quite the tongue, and you knew it well. You were outside in the garden, helping Lorelynn plant some new flowers she got. She wanted to ‘spruce it up a bit’ now that a Fae was visiting often. She had run inside to get another bag of potting soil, she would have been able to summon it, had it not been for Jungkook hiding it. Speaking of him, he was well on his way leading all the Fae over to Lorelynn’s house, and he took to using the fact that he owned your name, to be able to have his friends pass on to the property. You were in a coughing fit the moment all four Fae popped up at once, because of the amount of dust.

“What are you all doing here?” You asked hurriedly, not knowing when Lorelynn would burst outside.

“They’ve come to celebrate our kiss union!” Jungkook exclaimed as they all gathered in for a group hug. Cheers throughout. Panic started to set in. The Fae were gathered here, screaming at that, when Lorelynn could come out at any given moment. You begged them to at the very least turn into their diminutive selves and fly off. And they did so. The first part at least. You shouted at Lorelynn to not come out when she was nearing the sliding door, because of bees, and she was deathly scared of them. So, she just watched as you chased down these “bees”, shooing them off. After the Fae got their fun, they yielded and went back to the woods. A solution for Lorelynn’s allergies needed to be found before they could just all wander into the property like this…

Over the next few days, you and Yoongi got to work, trying to come up with a cure for Lorelynn’s allergies. After 1 week of testing and inventing, the both of you gave up the medicinal aspect, and opted for something creative. A mask of sorts, to cover her nose and mouth area. This one, however, would have a magic thread, just to fully prevent Lorelynn breathing in any Fae dust. This took another week to perfect, and after finishing it, with what you hope was 100% secure, you decided to bring Lorelynn and Jungkook in to test it out.

You, Yoongi, Jackson, Jungkook and Lorelynn all were gathered in your studio.

“So, I just put it on?” Lorelynn asked, answering herself by putting the mask on.

“Yes. Now, Rowen: cast a cleaning spell.” Yoongi ordered, and you followed. Making sure the room was perfectly clean. “Good. Okay, Jungkook: take off the hazmat suit.” Jungkook did as instructed, and now we waited. There was a little bit of Fae dust, not the amount he usually exudes normally, due to him being nervous.

“Does it work? I mean, I’m not sneezing.” The elf looked at all the faces in the room.

“Hard to say, there’s not enough dust.” You scratched your head, thinking of what to do.

“I’m trying really hard guys, there’s just nothing worth dusting about.” The poor Fae kept straining himself to dust.

“Well, what caused that dust storm the other day? She was practically in a coma.” Jackson questioned, perplexed.

“Really? You want them to start sucking the life out of each other again? We barely got rid of that dust last week!” Lorelynn’s exclaims made the blushing Fae suddenly start to drop some dust. With that, a thought sparked within you.

“I’m going to need you guys to leave for a while.” You started to point them out the door of your study, Yoongi didn’t want to risk his in case the mask didn’t work.

“But what about testing…”

“Just trust me.”

After a vigorous make out session with Jungkook, enough dust was swirling through the room to cause Lorelynn another near death experience. You called over for them to come over. Lorelynn was the first to walk in, with the mask on. Yoongi and Jackson followed suit.

“We were gone for 2 minutes and you managed to pour out all this? Kookie gets rather excited with kisses, eh?” Jackson poked an elbow at the Fae, the two often threw jabs at each other, always with their constant bickering, but you knew it came from a good place. Now, it was time to see if the mask worked.

“Okay, Lorelynn. The room is supposed to be a toxic zone for you right now. Take a few deep breaths to see how you do.” Yoongi spoke, he was quite hopeful this time around.

After five large inhales on Lorelynn’s behalf, there were no allergies. The mask was a success!

“FINALLY! I can breathe!” She screamed overjoyed; she had been liberated from the dust. So long as she wore the mask, she would be fine.

Over the next few days; you supervised party planning. Namjoon and Hoseok were going on another trip earlier than expected, due to family matters. But knowing them, it would probably be extended once they set off, so you all agreed on sending them off properly. Not only that, you all had to celebrate the success of the mask too, which involved inviting all the Fae over, for all to meet. Months ago, you only hoped for this to happen, now it was becoming real. All your friends, together at once.

Hoseok and Namjoon were the first to arrive, curious to see the mask and meet the Fae that they had heard so much about. You knew it was all a bluff now. When you pieced it together, your mentor telling you where to find your destiny, seeing the boys; specifically, Namjoon; in South Vale, the warnings of wordplay, it all made sense now. Your mentor really was an all-knowing Elder Witch.

The boys quickly go over to hug their Elf mother who bore her allergy mask.

“So, this is what’s helping you survive the Fae dust? Outstanding.” Namjoon commented.

“Yeah, and I can see why.” Hoseok started to pat at his arms, already catching dust on his clothes.

“See that? That would have had me in my room, sneezing my insides out.” Lorelynn was very much excited about being able to walk around her house freely again, even if she had to wear a mask most of the time. She says she doesn’t mind since it accentuates her eyes. Whatever works. “And that,” She pointed at Jungkook just walked into the living room with Jackson. “Is the main source.” The Fae rolled his dark orbs at her.

“Hello,” Jungkook spoke at them, but he walked towards you, who was standing near them, and grabbed your hand tightly. “I’m that.”

“Hello, That. I’m Hobi, nice to meet you!” He extended his hand out, and Jungkook shook it with his free one.

“And I’m Namjoon. It’s good to see that now there can be peace between Lorelynn and Fae.”

“It is, only that there’s only peace with me. The rest, that’s another story.”

And as if on cue, three puffs of smoke and dust appear outside the door, and knocks are heard. Since the spell still hasn’t been lifted, they can’t come in unless Jungkook directly invites them, which when he motioned the door opened, the Fae could waltz in freely.

“HELLO!” Jimin, the small Fae cheered, his eyes becoming little crescent moons. A small gasp could be heard from Lorelynn’s mask. You guessed it was because of Jimin’s cuteness.

“Nice to see everyone!” Tae walked in quickly after, going to greet Jungkook and you first.

Lastly, Jin made his entrance. “I forgot what it was like to be surrounded by other species after so long… I missed it. Hello, everyone.” Jin closed the door behind him and quickly acclimated himself to the party. They were all acting particularly civil. This was odd. Until they spotted the owner of the house, she was easy to single out because of her mask, even though she was trying to hide behind Yoongi.

“Wow, I didn’t think after Rowen, we’d ever see another small elf, but there’s two more.” Tae was the first to act.

“Wuah, they really are tiny, but what about that mask, the poor thing can only be around us if she wears it.” Jin teased.

“C’mon, take it easy on her.” Jungkook tried defending, but to no avail.

Jimin sparked up in laughter. “A tiny elf with a Fae allergy? That’s hilarious- wait.” He got really close to Lorelynn, Yoongi stepped in front of her instinctively. “No, don’t worry, I’m not going to do anything. She just seems… Familiar.” Yoongi moves away a little, but still wary. Lorelynn’s eyes are the only thing visible to Jimin, yet they stirred something in him.

“Is your name common among your people?”

“No…” Her eyes darted around.

“Did you live in Roseshire?” Jimin took a step further, in awe. Lorelynn nodded, something in her eyes said that Jimin also seems familiar.

“YOU’RE THE ELF KID WITH THE SOCKS, AREN’T YOU?!” Jimin suddenly hopped and pointed at her, face utterly in shock. Everyone jumped as well, spooked from his actions.

“STOP IT, NO I’M NOT.” Lorelynn practically mimicked him.

“YES, YOU ARE!” Within seconds he was gone and back, sporting one of Lorelynn’s fancy socks on his head, laughing loudly. “Those allergies were never real, don’t you remember?” Lorelynn furrowed her brows and crossed her arms. “I gave them to you for smacking me with a book!”

“I THOUGHT YOU WERE A FLY! HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO KNOW IT WAS YOU? And what do you mean you gave them to me?”

“It was a punishment. It was meant to only be temporary… But you moved away before I could even revert it! And I never found out where you went anyways, but now that we’re here.” Jimin snapped his fingers in front of her face. “There, now you can take off that silly mask.”

You and Yoongi just stared at each other for what felt like an eternity. The allergies… were magic. It took you and Yoongi creating a one of a kind magic mask, to find out that with the presence of the Fae, the allergies could have been cured with one fucking snap. Fantastic.

“You guys went through all that trouble for the longest time, for all your efforts to be undone with a single snap.” Jackson whispered and snickered into your ears. “Yoongi looks so defeated after this.” He did look… Tragic. Well, at least now Lorelynn can breathe as the rest of the world does, but you are never getting those two weeks back.

The rest of the evening went on as planned with no allergies and loads of fun. The Fae would go around playing harmless tricks that caused a laugh every now and then, Lorelynn and Jimin would bicker about the past, Jackson bothered Yoongi over not solving the allergy sooner, Jungkook stayed by you close, holding your hand firmly whenever anyone but Yoongi and Lorelynn got near you. Whenever any guy gets near you, actually…

At the end of the night, Hoseok and Namjoon decided it was officially time to say goodbye. Lorelynn was a mess, even though they reassured her several times they would come back. Yoongi, who looked so small next to them, seemed like a sad father bidding farewell. It was almost comical, but you also grew to like, no, to love theme, so it was a bit sad for you as well, but you were mostly excited for them. You know when they returned, they tell you all about their royal cousin’s wedding and the new places they surely would visit. After the boys had gone, the Fae trio decided it was time for them to leave as well.

“Today was fun, thank you for having us.” Jin started.

“Yeah, thank you. Though we do have one request before we leave…” Tae, followed by Jimin, started to lead on what you were planning on asking.

“The spell… May you remove it?” Jimin directed his gaze at Yoongi, they know who put up the spell. “We’d like to visit, some other time.” His smile spread, and eyes landed on Lorelynn this time. It seems like she will be his target, yet again.

Yoongi sighed, knowing that once he removed it, he’d too fall victim to one of the Fae, and going off by how the night went, it seemed that he was Jin’s victim. Jackson was Taehyung’s plaything the whole night, so it goes without saying that he will also be fully pranked. And, obviously, you had Jungkook. But now, as Yoongi moved his hand with a swift motion, you were all doomed, the four Fae had full invitation to come inside the house.

“Thank you,” Jin bowed his head only slightly. “You will be seeing us quite often.” He winked.

“Better hide those socks, Lorelynn.” Jimin sneered at the Elf girl.

“Stop touching my SOCKS!”

One year later…

Ever since the Farewell party for Hobi and Namjoon took place so long ago, the house has never been more… busy. Yoongi had removed the spell, as requested by the Fae, which caused them to now freely go to the house whenever they wanted. Be it to just hang out and have a nice time, or… wreak havoc. Things started off slow. Jimin would occasionally sneak into Lorelynn’s sock drawer, not doing much, just moving them out of place, mismatching them, poking a few holes in some. Nothing too much. But then it grew into magically placing them where she could not reach. Last week she was dangling from the chandelier in the living room because she used a step stool to try and get it, but then Jimin got rid of the step stool under her and watched as she screamed. She was fine, though, he also magically tied her hands to the chandelier while she was trying to rescue her socks.

At first, Jin would mess with Yoongi using notes. He would leave random start-off jokes in one place for Yoongi to find, and then the punchline somewhere rather inconvenient, like in his sandwiches for example. But that then turned into Jin sneaking into the room in the middle of the night in his diminutive state, whispering a random pun into Yoongi’s ear, and then proceed to laugh like a broken windshield so loudly, even Lorelynn would freak out.

At the beginning, Taehyung would try to set up pranks meant for you, but Jungkook would quickly diffuse them, either by undoing the prank, stopping it, or putting misplaced things back in their place. After seeing how he would not be allowed to prank his Fae brother’s beloved, he moved onto Jackson… Jackson faced the worst of it. Tae would just unplug his phone from charging at first and lock it for a while. But then… He decided that playing with Jackson’s consoles, switching and deleting save files from games, finishing games before Jackson did and then rewriting that save file, was a much better way to spend his time.

Of course, it wasn’t all bad, the Fae’s also had their good times. Seeing as they got attached to each one of them, they not only pranked them on occasion, but mostly helped their elf whenever they deemed it so. Jimin would help Lorelynn with the garden, and her various plants in the house and bakery, and replaced Jungkook as the pastry tester. Jin would keep Yoongi company in the clinic whenever things got too stressful and helped around with menial tasks that would otherwise interfere with Yoongi’s work if it got too busy. Taehyung had a separate Memory Card for Jackson’s console that he didn’t mess with and was used to play games together.

And you, you had Jungkook. He did strike a prank every now and again, but it was rare now. He mostly helped you out by tending to your herbs and protecting you from random pranks from any of the other Fae. His time was spent mostly in your room, cuddling up to you, making you nervous, kissing you, teasing you, etc. You were always doing couple stuff for the most part now. But even after a whole year, you were still putty in his hands. And, he still owned your name.

Eventually Hoseok and Namjoon returned and a Welcome party had awaited them at the bakery. They shared their stories about the weddings and tales of a Vampire town they went to afterwards, you made note to ask more about it later, hoping to visit soon. Hobi and Joon’s arrival now meant that the Fae had another two victims to torment. And sadly, for both the humans, they quickly were invaded by all four Fae almost every week, but they all became buddied up with each other through the hi-jinks.

One day, Jungkook showed up in your room, urging you to come with him. He had a picnic basket filled with different finger foods and pastries that he had requested Lorelynn to make prior. Due to his excitement, you went with whatever it is he had planned. “It’s a really beautiful spot in the woods, you’re going to love it.” Were the words that piqued your interest for this exclusive date.

After all the time you spent wandering in the woods, you would have thought you could never have missed a place quite like the one the Fae took you too. Then again, these lands were his home, not yours, and you were as thankful as ever of having him by your side.

It was an open cave, from where the water from a resounding waterfall fell to connect with a river. Light came from the top, which you guessed has exposed to the continuity of the forest and that dwelled within. Birds swooped in from time to time, nudging their heads against the water and taking away their food for the day.

Near the centre, on a sort of islet surrounded by the streaming water, stood an elder willow, its whip-like arms swaying in the breeze as smaller, glowing creatures danced around it. Jungkook grabbed your hand and led you towards the willow. There he laid down the blanket and basket, motioning for you to sit down, so he could rest his head atop your lap, a habit he picked up a few months ago that caused the right kind of stir within you

Whatever attention you would have normally given to your surroundings vanished much like it always did when he was around, his presence enough to render you dull in seconds even after all this time. His doe eyes grabbed your attention first, like usual, warm and enchanting and speaking so many words left unsaid. His cheeks were your favourite shade of rosy, and his lips quivered by a corner. Your hand stilled the gentle caress it offered his locks when he scrunched his nose your way, mischief glazing over his features.

“You know,” he spoke, voice twice as velvety, “it’s been a year.” You hummed in confirmation, very much aware of how long your relationship had shifted those 12 months ago. A shy smile inched its way into your lips when you remembered the first night you kissed, the hunger behind it after every stroke, and the scalding touch that left you restless the few nights after.

“I'm well aware,” you answered, trying to shoo away unnecessary thoughts in whatever efforts to keep the innocence of it all. Though, he was never one to help in that department.

“One year since you've been all mine.” Before you knew it, his head had left your lap, and your back met the petaled floor, breath hitched and cheeks undoubtedly red.

If you didn't know any better, you'd have guessed he read your thoughts, the resurfaced memories and feelings. But you knew he could read your expression like his favourite book, every detail already engraved into his memory. It was very much the same to you, though the tightening of your stomach didn't quite let you function - neither did the leg he raised to separate yours, nor the now pupil-consumed eyes that practically ate you on their own.

“But have I been yours?” He added, an odd choice of words for the moment you were sharing.

“Well, have you?” You asked, a bit confused really, flustered all the same.

“I thought about that for a long time, but it always led back to you being mine. I’m changing that today.” He reached a hand into the basket that had been left untouched and pulled out what seemed to be a note. “I give you this.” You took it in your hands, unfolding each crease carefully. Inside, only one word was written. ‘Jungkook’. “I give you my name, as I have yours. Bounded by name. Forever.” He spoke softly, throwing in his signature wink that set your heart aflame that one day in the forest.

“Do you plan on keeping me then?” you asked, voice more of a whisper because of the lack of distance between you. His raised eyebrow would have been more prominent to you had your eyes not been too keen on observing his lips. They curled into a lazy smirk, and all you wanted to do was bruise them with your own. He could feel it in your heartbeat, both your nerves and your excitement, when he answered.

“Yes, permanently.” he said, eyes too dark and devastating you dared not doubt him. “You'll never belong to anyone else, but me.” As if to seal the promise, his lips came crashing down on yours, a tug of war between softness and greed. It seeped desperation and ardour, heat spreading everywhere until it became too much, and far too little.

Whenever he pulled back it was with a bite, only to continue with his tongue until he tasted every part of your mouth with his own, grunting against your gasps and trying to blurry the line between where you and he began. You could feel the dust leaving his skin in streams, coating everything it got in its way, though you paid no mind to it.

It was when he shifted to kissing elsewhere that it got too much, his skin too far away from your own to your liking. Sometime along the way, your garments were lost to the water along with his, and nothing stopped you from becoming one for as long as time allowed. Soft, feverish touches turned scalding and heady, sounds drowning out even the rush of the water farther in the cave.

You were thankful to have put up a sound locking spell, as well as a glamour wall around you to keep the privacy - really, the last sane action you committed before losing yourself to him. It wasn't like you minded at all, high on the ecstasy of his strokes and the playful kisses he managed to give during the process. You were absolutely drenched in the dust before you knew it, each shift of his hips sputtering more around your body, your hair, your face.

By the time you came down from the high, your skin glowed the faint lilac light the Fae dust had turned into. What a way to celebrate your first year. He rolled off gently to lay beside you, gazing at you with pure innocence that would betray what had happened just moments ago.

His breath hitched suddenly, and he brought his right wrist to his face. Simultaneously, you felt an odd but pleasant sensation creep up in your left wrist. Mimicking his actions, you saw as a simple dark outline of a crescent moon slowly appeared on your bare wrist. Your eyes went to Jungkook’s wrist, to see the same moon appear on his. He looked at his wrist and yours with a softness in his eyes. But what were these markings?

Finally, his eyes landed on you. A soft smile made its way to his lips as he spoke.

“I’m glad to know we’re bound together in more ways than one, love.” Bounded?

“Oh?” And then you heard it. Your voice. “Oh.” You… We are married. “These markings?”

“Symbols of our union. We’re bound in both the Fae way and the Elven way.” He really brought you here to get married, and your dumbass didn’t even realize you were doing so.

“I mean, it’s beautiful. I simply forgot that Elves got married by… doing that.”

“What?” His content expression shifted a bit.

“No, I mean, I’m glad we’re married! I just forgot, since Lorelynn had a human wedding and all, it slipped my mind.” You reassured him that you were okay with this, and you really were. The only problem now was… How to tell your friends?

“Well, I’m glad we’re married too. Now I need to go to Fae City and speak with the Queen. I just need to report that I’m leaving the group because I married out of race and then we’re good to go wherever we please. You should come with me, of course.” Wow, it was all such a bureaucratic procedure. And going to Fae City… That’s something most people only dream of.

“Then we’ll go to Fae City. But I need at least a week to figure out how to tell everyone we’re married. So, give me one week, no surprises, no showing up unannounced, for one week. And then we’ll meet with everyone and head on to Fae City.”

By your words, excitement spread across his face. “Deal. One week.” You nodded happily. The plan was set. You’d tell your household, you’re tell the rest, and you would go. It would be a simple task, and you could handle it in a day or two. You and Jungkook continued to enjoy your date, finishing off the basket, and cuddling under the elder willow.

You arrive at the house after your apparent wedding at the grotto. Before this, you stopped by a store and bought some very dark spectacles, avoiding eye contact with anyone and not speaking a word. Likewise, you walk into the house with your eyes hidden and mouth sealed. You also got a bracelet to cover up that new mark on your wrist. You really were Jungkook’s wife now, huh?

Unfortunately for you, Jackson, Lorelynn and Yoongi were all in the living room, playing a board game of sorts. Oh no…

“You’re back early, wanna play?” Jackson was the first to notice your arrival. “What’s with the glasses?” You wrote out words in the air. ‘I have a killer migraine. I’m also feeling a little hoarse, so I’m going to rest my throat.’

“Oh, I have a nice herbal blend for that, you’ll be fine in no time after you drink it.” Yoongi suggested and panic went through you. Lorelynn got up quickly in the direction of the kitchen.

“I’ll prepare it and bring it to your room, go lay down or something.” She stopped in front of you, you felt a quick assessment of the situation. She brought a hand up to your forehead, and your panic subsided. “You’re awfully sparkly. No fever.” The first part was a whisper inside your head, a point being made: telepathy, and the suspicion in her eyes raised the hairs at the back of your neck. The second part was discretion. You hoped she didn’t figure it out, but if she did, you knew she’d keep quiet until you talked. You went upstairs, took off the spectacles, and dove right into your bed face first. A few moments later, Lorelynn walked into your room and you heard her put down the cup of tea on your night table and leave the room with a ‘Feel better.’ You needed a week. You would tell them before the week ends. And then you will go to Fae city. You will do it.

The week went on, hiding your eyes and voice, drinking herbal blends that left Yoongi dumbfounded because you were ‘still sick’, and speaking only through magic words that appear in thin air. You spent most of the week hiding in your room, due to the ‘sickness’, avoiding any contact that could reveal you were now a married woman.

Jackson, Lorelynn and Yoongi were all starting to suspect. The latter was absent, when Lorelynn and Jackson were downstairs at the table having breakfast. You figured you could grab a quick bite and come back, giving out another excuse about being sick. So down you went, with your dark spectacles magically secured on your face, to avoid any mishaps. You reached the kitchen and noticed the pair at the table, giving them an acknowledging nod, but speaking nothing whatsoever.

“Feeling any better?” Jackson asked first.

“Or are you going to speak only through magic now?” Lorelynn added. ‘No & No’ appeared behind you as a response.

Meanwhile… Jackson and Lorelynn had their own private conversation.

“She could just be using telepathy if she were actually sick.” Jackson texted Lorelynn. “Actually.” ‘We could be using telepathy; this is much quicker.’

‘Yeah, I know. She’s been hiding her eyes and voice for so long… You don’t think?’ Lorelynn’s eyes widened, matching Jackson’s.

‘No… Really? I’m going to make those spectacles fall off.’ Immediately Jackson looked over to you, and suddenly started to strain. ‘Huh, they’re… not coming off? You try.’

‘What do you mean they’re not,’ At that, Lorelynn tried too, meeting the same fate. ‘I CAN’T REMOVE THEM EITHER, THEY’RE BOUND BY MAGIC. THIS BITCH!’

‘THEN DID SHE ACTUALLY-’ Jackson’s telepathy was interrupted by a sudden puff of smoke and dust.

A Fae figure stood in the middle of the kitchen, bearing with him a huge bouquet of flowers. “GOOD MORNING, DEAR WIFE-O-MINE. ARE YOU READY FOR FAE CITY?!” Jungkook screeched. Your spectacles fell off on their own. You had forgotten you had to tell them, you just kept hiding it, ashamed.

“WIFE?!” Lorelynn and Jackson both shouted at once. Lorelynn was clearly faking, she probably knew and was just letting you do you. You couldn’t even answer anything as they both quickly got up to look at your eyes in awe. Lorelynn was quick to check Jungkook and noticed his wrist so she went to inspect yours to be met with the bracelet. “Really? This too? Y’all got married and didn’t say a damn word.”

“Didn’t Rowen tell you?” Jungkook asked, his excitement quickly deflated at the realization that you had not mentioned your union at all, but was mildly interrupted when the plethora of Fae and Royal blood humans swarmed into the house and kitchen shouting cheers of celebration. Of course… Jungkook took your previous deal literally, as Fae do. One week, and we’ll gather everyone. They caused such a commotion that even Yoongi was awakened from his slumber to join the festivities.

Shamefulness, guilt and regret washed over you like a tidal wave as you laid eyes on the momentarily crushed soul that was Jungkook. Mouthing a small, but sincere ‘I’m sorry’, Jungkook gave you a nod, and the purest smile of understanding before responding ‘It’s okay.’ You’d talk it through with him eventually. It’s not like you weren’t excited for it, anyways. He knew that.

After explaining to everyone that you had been married for a week, and apologizing for not saying anything about it, the celebration went on. Jackson was the one hurt most of all, feign of course.

“I’m your best friend, I could have been your Man of Honour. The disrespect. Our friendship is ultimately over.”

“Really? You wanted to be there, holding my hand, while I had a fucking?” You whispered to him, only with him would you be so crude. His brows furrowed, and his nose crinkled in disgust.

“I forgot that’s how our kind does that… Our friendship is reinstated.” He rested his elbow on your shoulder, a classic move since you were the smallest.

“Hah, same. And I thought so.” You smiled, winning this round of many bickering that have come and gone and have yet to happen between you.

Everyone left after roughly an hour, since it was a workday for most elves and humans, and the Fae had to go man their post at the mushroom circle, lest they completely abandon it and get scolded for it again. You all said your ‘see you soons’ and went your own way for the day.

Jungkook stayed downstairs, while Lorelynn was busy helping you pack your bags upstairs.

“You knew, didn’t you?” You asked, breaking the silence that was overwhelming the room.

“I knew the minute you walked into my house covered in Fae cum.” You almost choked on her words. FAE CUM. “I asked Jungkook a long time ago what happens to Fae Dust when Fae have sex because I noticed a slight change in colour with the dust whenever you guys kissed.” So, it was obvious… dumb.

“Why didn’t you say anything? You let me go on hiding this, thinking I was completely keeping it hidden.” You put away the last few things you needed to pack in a hurry, already nervous again.

“I wanted to see how long you kept it up and how long it took Jackson and Yoongi to figure it out.” She smirked. “It’s about time to go, isn’t it?” She handed you the small travel bag with your essentials. It was indeed about time to go. The two of you were not a hug-and-kiss type of friendship, so goodbyes were always sorted with a quick jab at the other. “The least you can do is not show up in front of the Queen in Fae Jizz, be respectful.” Before you could respond, the Elf dashed out of the room, you could hear her footsteps rushing down the stairs. You left it at that, sighing, and headed downstairs to where your husband awaited, with his own bag, rather small.

Jungkook was gleaming, excited for the next step on your journey together, both your journey to Fae City and your journey in life. He took your hand as you approached him, slightly trembling with excited nerves.

“Are you ready, love?” His eyes darted all over your face as he bit his lip eagerly. This was a moment he longed for.

“As I’ll ever be.” You gave him a small squeeze and nod in confirmation. You were ready. To go to Fae City, face the Queen, and start your life with Jungkook, wherever it took you.

You were back deep within the woods with Jungkook, only this time it was for nothing related to the grotto. Well, technically. You had carefully passed way beyond the mushroom circle, down a hidden path bound to Fae City. Jungkook knew the way like the back of his hand, but for you, like the grotto, this was new territory. You almost doubted why you were going so deep, why you were venturing so out of the way, but you knew that the entrance to Fae City had to be hidden.

Jungkook comes to a stop in quite likely the most ominous spot in all the forest.

“Well, this is it.” He squeezed the hand that was entrapped in his for the entirety of the walk.

“Fae City?” You asked dubiously, there was nothing there. The area looked bleak and depressing, too dark and humid, not like anything you had imagine.

“The entrance, yeah.” His eyes stayed forward and then landed on you. “I have to go in first and wait for you on the other side. It can be overwhelming for non-Fae.”

“Oh, okay.” Your voice betrayed you, nerves hitched.

“Don’t worry. Just wait a few seconds before you follow me in. I’ll be right on the other side, I promise.” He kissed your fingers in assurance. You simply nodded, he had a way of calming you down in ways unknown to you, but fully appreciated. He let go of your hands carefully and walked ahead, giving a small nod back at you before disappearing completely.

As he said, you waited a few seconds before following him. A few seconds that felt eternal in this dark, musky and foggy swamp-like place, but still you took your first step, and then another, and another… Until you saw it.

You advance forward through the glistening portal hidden deep in the forest among a layer of fog. You're immediately met by a vibrant, soothing world that welcomes you. A gentle breeze touches you gently from the lush and thick forests in front of you as the rays of a blueish sun warm your skin. Perfect conditions in a perfect world and a sense of excitement takes hold of you. A barrage of the senses takes over as you begin to take in every element of this world you can.

As promised, Jungkook was standing right there. He chuckled at your awe as you took in Fae City. It was unreal, but it was real. You were there. It felt like a dream. The colors were bright, yet soft. The air was crisp and gentle. The sun… Blue, yet it shone with such brightness that not even your yellow sun could beat. You never would have guessed, never would have imagined, that this was what Fae City would be. You were enthralled. “I told you it could be overwhelming.”

You spent that week in Fae City, getting to know what Jungkook’s life was up until now, the places he went to, his culture. Everything a Fae was about, you learned and kept engraved in your mind forever. The visit to the Queen was short. Jungkook simply had to present you and report that he would now be leaving their group due to marrying out of race. His report was marked with the royal seal and archived, he was now free to roam wherever he wanted, for as long as he wanted. He now belonged to you, and not his Queen.

So far, life has been great. You never imagined that giving up your name to a Fae would change your life the way it did. If you had to do it all over, you wouldn’t change a thing. Months after having gotten married and reported to the Fae Queen, Jungkook and you had settled into Glistening Woods semi permanently. You moved out of Lorelynn and Yoongi’s house and moved into your own that was acquired through your and Jungkook’s savings. With a little help from Lorelynn, Yoongi, Hoseok, Namjoon, Jin, Jimin and Taehyung, you managed to furnish your house entirely, which otherwise would have been a hassle. You had a two floor, three-bedroom house, like Lorelynn’s. You were quick to invite Jackson to live with you and he obviously accepted. Wherever you went, he followed. Destined best friends. The remaining room was a guest room which often became Tae’s since he would visit and stay over quite often. The rooms you and Jackson abandoned in Lorelynn’s house quickly became shared rooms for Hoseok and Namjoon, and Jin and Jimin, whenever they needed to stay. Lorelynn liked to call her home the Hotel because of how many of you had stayed over time.

You were sitting on a bench outside your porch at night, drinking a warm cup of tea before you went to bed. You heard the front door open and close behind you. A kiss landing softly on your forehead revealed who it was. Jungkook took a seat next to you, admiring the night sky. Moments like these, silent and unassuming, were the important ones. They made you realize just how lucky you are.

“So,” Jungkook spoke, a smile toying on his lips. “I think we should try for a kid soon.” These sudden words almost caused you to choke on your tea. Almost. You turned a serious gaze to him, as he waited for a response.

“Elves stop craving sex after children.” The Fae’s eyes opened wide and his jaw dropped slightly to a small ‘o’. After blinking and nodding a bit too quickly, he spoke again.

“Yeah, we should wait a bit more before we have children, we’re still newlyweds and all.”

“Waiting sounds good, yeah.” You nodded in agreement, both of you chuckling at shared inner thoughts.

After finishing your tea, the both of you headed back inside and into the bedroom where once again, you would bind yourselves together in lilac marriage.

-end-

#jungkook fanfic #jungkook fluff #jungkook x reader #bts fanfic #bts imagine #jungkook x oc #jungkook

50 notes · View notes

hardyimagines · 5 years

Text

Savior

Hi loving all the Alfie requests can't wait for the choking kink one😄 just would like to know if you got my request I sent in today about the shy new neighbor to Alfie and he's mean at the start coz he doesn't want her knowing to much coz she lives so close. Then someone attacks her or breaks into her home and Alfie helps her wouldn't mind a bit of smut to.😉 She is a shy quiet kind of girl I was thinking. if you could let me know if your interested that be great. BTW your a Queen🤗

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Dandelions resided in the surrounding vases, perched up on the wooden mantle. You brushed your fingers along the polished surface, smooth beneath your delicate touch. The usual pricks of thin wood that stuck up were removed, leaving you without the threat of getting a splinter. The interior of the room was, for the most part, empty because you’d only recently moved in. A white sofa sat crookedly in the corner of the room, too heavy for you to move on your own. The windows needed to be cleaned and one of them had a tiny crack in the center. It wouldn’t be too hard to find someone to help you fix it, but you already had so much to do. The rolled rug that leant against the wall was bound shut. It was dusty from sitting in storage for a month, but now that it was ready to be unrolled and laid out, you were afraid to do so. Bugs and dust would go every which way the second that you set it out. It had to be done though. Eventually. Hands on your hips, you mosied around the room, envisioning where you would put this and that. The men who’d helped move your furniture into the house hadn’t offered to help situate it and why would they, it wasn’t their job. The trousers you wore were high on your waist, fancy blouse tucked into the hem of them. Adjusting the band, you moved to the window and looked out at the foggy city. Only one man stood outside.

He was tall. He was handsome. His beard was bushy and brown, it coated the entirety of his chin and jaw. The tophat that sat neatly on the top of his head was black and lint-free. He was leant against the side of a car, palm on the rolled down window. He looked angry from the angle you were stood at. His features twisted into a look of disappointment before his muffled shout flooded the silent house you were stood in. You frowned lightly and crossed your fingers in hopes that he didn’t live anywhere near you. The man in the car, sat in the passenger seat, locked eyes with you and Alfie turned to inspect what Ollie was looking at. Your face went hot from embarrassment at being caught. Stepping hurriedly away from the window, you dropped down on the sofa and buried yourself into the cushions.

Alfie squinted toward the figure in the window. It was too murky out for him to actually be able to see you. He looked back to Ollie, shrugging lightly in carelessness. He turned back toward the lad and resumed what he’d been saying. He let out a heavy sigh before stepping away from the car and shaking his head. You lifted your head from the couch and peered over the edge. The man was making his way along the sidewalk and to the house directly next door. Huffing, you let out a muffled groan before hiding your face once more. Great. Now your neighbor thought you were nosy.

Alfie opened his front door before slamming it shut. The floorboards creaked beneath his weight. He held his cane in his right hand, the chipped wood rough in his palm, but he didn’t care. He needed the walking stick to aid his sore, achy muscles. Moving into the kitchen, he eyed the clutter on the dining room table. Scattered papers, empty glasses, messy dishes, crumbs from meals. Cyril followed along behind his wonder, ears flopping. He let out a soft whine. Lately, Alfie had been so stressed — so angry. The mutt was sick of listening to his owner shout and yell over this and that. He laid down under the table, situating his chin on Alfie’s boot. He tried his best to offer some sort of comfort but Alfie nudged him away.

“Right, Cyril, go on, yeah, I’ve got a lot to fucking do.” He pulled out one of the chairs and the second he dropped down on the seat, there was a knock on the door. His head tipped back, annoyance tripling in seconds. He moaned out a string of curses before hitting the table with his palm. Rising, he strode down the hall and toward the door. The whole house seemed to shake beneath the force of his angry steps. Alfie grasped the rusted doorknob and hauled it open, blue eyes icily roaming your form. You stood on the porch, hands in your backpockets and soft eyes trailing innocently over his features. He looked worn and tired. He seemed much older due to the bags under his eyes and his hunched stance. It wasn’t a good first impression to show up and introduce yourself while also apologizing, but.. you could see, as soon as he opened the door, he wouldn’t be kind to you either way. He seemed like the cane in his palm had just been wedged in his ass and he was as grumpy as ever.

“Hello..” Your voice failed you instantly. It was too soft, quiet, almost inaudible. The discreet attempt to clear your throat was far too loud. Alfie lifted a brow. He hadn’t expected you, a small lass, to be stood on his porch.

“What?” He ground out roughly. His fingers lazily traced the door handle that his palm resided on. The wood was wide open so he could stand in the opening but when he heard the sound of Cyril’s jingling collar signaling that the pup was approaching, he shut the door in the slightest to prevent the mastiff from getting out. His eyes flickered along your features, brows lifting when you didn’t speak up instantly. He could see the evident twitch of your lips and then the little tremble. You were nervous. That much was evident. “Have you, yeah, forgotten how to fucking speak?” He grumbled. “I’ve got a lot to do, havent I, right, so you’d best be on your way.” He felt a little twinge of guilt for being so rude right away, but he had a lot of stress sitting on his shoulders and he didn’t want you thinking that he was interested in any company. He liked his space. He went to close the door - half of him expected you to halt him, but you didn’t speak up. Your body felt hot and uncomfortable, stomach churning nervously. You waited until the door was shut completely before you stepped forward and knocked again. Alfie was stood on the other side of the door, brows drawn together in an angry furrow. He yanked the thing open with an uttered complaint. His eyes fell on you once more, cane tapping the floor impatiently. He didn’t speak again, he waited.

“I..” You nibbled your bottom lip before clasping your hands together in front of you. The wooden border that lines his door was suddenly more interesting than his face. “just wanted to come by and introduce myself. I’m moving in next door.” Your thumb ushered toward the house, stood tall. It was rundown, but it was liveable. Alfie looked toward the wreck before looking back down at you. He squinted in the slightest. Why on earth were you moving in there? It had been abandoned for a very long time. That place was nothing but trouble. He shifted his weight before tonguing his cheek.

“Keep it down. I’m a very busy man.” His tone wasn’t as harsh as it had been when he’d previously spoken to you. “I don’t want to hear you and your family..”

“I’m living on my own.” You cut him off. The second you did, a little bubble of nerves filled your tummy, but you didn’t shy away. “I was just coming by to say I’m sorry for earlier.. when I was stood at the window. I wasn’t trying to by snoopy, I was just looking to see who lived beside me.” The tips of your nails grazed your pockets before sinking into them. “My name’s Y/N.” You finished quietly. He was silent for a few moments. His lips rubbed together in contemplation, beard rustling in the slightest as the strands met.

“Alfie.” He grunted. You reached forward to shake his hand. Nimble fingers grazed thick, rough ones, tracing them tenderly before you gripped him securely. His hand locked around your own, shaking it much sweeter than he had been. His nails had dirt pushed under the crevices, embedded in the tight space. You inspected the crown tattoo that resided on his skin, neatly etched in his flesh. Absentmindedly touching the outline with your thumb, your eyes fluttered up to his own, blue orbs scanning your own. He drew his hand away from yours when a shiver of delight raced along his spine. He had been deprived of any sort of affectionate touch for years now and he wasn’t going to allow himself to crumble at the slightest bit of attention. He let out a low murmur before pushing the hand that stung with warmth into his coat pocket. He tipped his head toward you in the slightest before backing up and into his home.

“Nice to meet you.” You politely excused yourself. Backing away, the flats of your shoes tapped the wooden deck lightly as you retreated. He watched you go, staring, long after you had returned to the warmth of your home. He stared at the deck where you’d just been stood with an evident, contagious grin. He slowly shut the door before letting out a puff of air. Turning away from the door, he made his way down the hall and into the bedroom so he could busy himself with the work that had been previously annoying him.

You twisted the lock on your door and looked out the window toward the sun in the distance which was bidding the world goodbye for the next few hours. With no bed to sleep on, that left you with the couch for the night. Lifting your leg over the arm of the sofa, you climbed over the side and collapsed on the cushion. Eyes lifting to the ceiling, you sighed quietly. It had been a busy day. With nothing to do and the weight of the busy day, your eyes grew droopier and droopier until they closed completely. The sun was still setting, so that meant it was only around 8. But that didn’t stop you from falling asleep.

———————————————————————

Two weeks of living in the house had left you with constant visits from the mastiff next door. His owner you didn’t see much of. Not unless you went by and asked for help. He helped as much as he could. He’d fixed a few windows. And he’d planned to help you lay out your rug, but you were waiting for your bed to be delivered first. Alfie was more than willing to help you out — given he would grumble and swear throughout the timeframe he was with you, but you were glad to have him around. All the time you’d been spending with your neighbor, which wasn’t a lot, but it was enough, had made you fancy him a little. He was very handsome. He made you laugh. And, though he denied it, he was kind in his own way. You saw him every two days or so. Whether it be brief conversations, a small hello, or when you’d see him through the window and the pair of you would exchange a wave.

It was late currently. Two days since you’d seen him. A little ball of excitement and hope rested in your belly. You were sure you’d see him tomorrow.

The birds in the trees snuggled up and went to sleep. Creatures buried themselves in warm spaces for the cold nights. People locked their doors and climbed into bed, husband and wives embracing each other, children cradling their stuffed animals. It was a very peaceful night — mostly. The streets were silent, lights illuminating the spaces for cars or people that dared venture out. The remaining broken windows in your home made it easy for anyone to come and go, but you, so naive, didn’t think anyone would want to break into such an old, worthless place. Youd been here long enough to convince yourself that you were safe — it was only kind people in this area. People who kept to themselves. You’d never been so wrong.

The sound of glass shattering woke you. The pieces hit the floor noisily, small and sharp, and coating the floor like the rug was meant to do. You sleepily sat up on the furniture. The sun was gone and the house was dark. Breathing a quiet sigh, you looked around the room to investigate what the sound had been, but you convinced yourself that paranoia and being on your own had merely made you dream up the sound. Lifting your palm to your face, your rubbed it down before swinging your legs to the side. The second your feet sunk into the floor, you stood tiredly. Laying your hand on the wall, you made your way down the hall and toward the kitchen to get a glass of water. You didn’t make it that far though before your bare feet crushed the shards of glass beneath them. Lucky for you, only one tiny, sliver of a piece cut you and it probably would’ve been more if someone hadn’t of hauled you back.

Worry flooded you. There was no relief. No ‘at least I didn’t cut my foot’ because someone was in your home. Your body was roughly thrown to the couch that you’d been asleep on. The urge to cry out was strong, but the minute you were pinned, a pair of piercing green eyes locked on to yours. His hand covered your mouth and his body covered your own to pin you in place.

“Don’t you dare make a sound.” He hissed out. Drops of spit hit you in the face because of how harshly he spoke. You clamped your eyes shut and wiggled beneath him.

“You didn’t say no one was living here!” Another voice spoke up. It came from the left side of the room.

“I didn’t know.” The one on top of you spoke. “But it’s just added fun, ain’t it.” Their accents were out of place. His hand squeezed your cheeks, pinching your lips together. The man in the corner shifted before tearing his gaze away from the two of you. He didn’t care about messing with you. This was where they came because they stashed money in the floor. It would be so much easier to just take it and go. Find a new hideout. But he could tell, as he watched his younger brother, that they weren’t leaving until he’d had a little fun with you. He made his way down the hall and toward the stash. Kneeling down, he pulled the floorboard up and stuck his hand inside to get the money.

You squirmed beneath the man, struggling to get up but it was pointless. He was too strong. You didn’t dare show your fear, you just fought. Fought until your arms ached and your body burned from frustration. You managed to get your leg free after a moment and the second you kicked the back of his thigh, he shouted out in pain. Wincing at the unexpected hit, he let up in the slightest which gave you the advantage. Freeing your arm, you hit him in the face and shoved him off of you. Rising, you sprinted from the room, narrowly avoiding any of the shards on the floor, but you were so full of adrenaline you wouldn’t have even been able to feel the pain. The kitchen window looked directly toward Alfie’s house. You could see him, sitting in what looked like an office. He was hunched over a desk, eyes low as he worked. He wore glasses, that resided in the middle of his nose as he scribbled away, unaware of the men who’d broken into your home. You hit the glass desperately.

“Alfie!” You cried out pleadingly. Even though the two of you hardly knew each other, something told you that he would come to your aid. If only he’d look up. “Alfie- please!” Hitting the glass harder and harder, you lowered your hands to the ledge and hiked the window up.

“What the hell are you doing!” The older of the two growled to his younger brother. “You can’t reveal yourself to her and then let her get away, you fucking idiot.” Rushing from the room, he hurriedly moved down the hell to get to you. He could hear you screaming and because you kept on, he could tell that whomever you were trying to shout for, clearly couldn’t hear you.

The younger brother lifted himself up and off the floor, wiping at the blood that dripped from his nostril. He growled out in annoyance, uttering about how your escape wasn’t his fault. You’d caught him off guard.

“Help!” You screamed as loud as you could, but your next attempt was silenced. The man who hadn’t been messing with you gripped the back of your hair and lugged you back. His hand covered your mouth, silencing you.

“Keep in mind, lass, there’s two of us and one of him. Don’t go calling him over here now, you’re not in any trouble. We just want to have a little fun.” Rotating, he dragged your squirming form back to the main room and shoved you to the filthy floor. Your eyes closed slowly. He hadn’t heard.

Alfie lifted his gaze away from the paper and looked out the window toward your home. He’d heard something muffled. Something quiet. He couldn’t hear it, but he could feel it. The opened window that led to your kitchen made him frown. The wind blew harshly through the opening, blowing the curtains that draped over the glass. He licked his lips slowly. That hadn’t been opened ten minutes ago when he’d looked up. He studied the opening before slowly shifting. Leaning back in his chair, he did his best to ignore the itch of discomfort that formed in his chest. Something didn’t feel right. He figured it was stupid to worry. But at the same time, he couldn’t help but wonder if you were alright. Living all on your own. He bit his upper lip, dragging it down and into his mouth before he let out a groan of annoyance. This was the last thing he needed to worry about. The lass next door? Rising, he folded up his work and removed his glasses before turning on his heel and setting off toward his front door. It wouldn’t hurt to just check on you.

Cyril followed his father out of the house, traipsing alongside him. His ears were perked and his tail was still which instantly made Alfie squint. The pup was usually very excited to go outside, especially to go see you as he tended to do when he got out. Alfie ruffled the mutt’s head before crossing the short distance from his home to yours. Climbing the stairs, he halted on the second step to the top. On the floor, muddy footprints coated your patio. Shards of glass resided on the wood as well beneath the shattered window. Alfie straightened defensively before moving to the side to peer through the opening. His ears strained, listening intently for any sign that you were in trouble. Cyril moved toward Alfie, sniffing loudly.

“Come on, boy.” Alfie whispered. “In.” Patting the sill, his eyes dropped to the dog as he lifted his paws up and on to the side of the ledge. Leaning over with a pained grunt, he helped Cyril jump into the window. The frame was too small for his big, bulky form to fit through so he instead busied himself with trying to unlock the front door. He knew he could do it, but he didn’t want to break in. Not until he heard the sudden barking and growling from his pup and then your desperate plea. Nothing could’ve stopped Alfie from getting inside, especially not the crummy lock that was meant to be protecting you. His strong shoulder and hard rams were enough to break the door in. He’d have to fix that.

“Oi!” He bellowed out. No fear filled him. No hesitation. He didn’t care who he was dealing with. The sound that your lips was enough to make his hair stand on end. Striding toward the sound of Cyril, he set his hand on the wall and turned the corner. It was so dark. “Pet?” He called out quietly. He was alert. Listening for He slightest sound, he shifted his weight from foot to foot. Cyril was in the corner, feet spread apart and head lowered. He was ready to attack. But he didn’t want to accidentally hurt you. You were curled up in the corner, laid on your side with your face pressed against the cold wood. Beaten and bruised, you remained silent, so worn out from what you’d just endured. Alfie remained close to the wall, using it to guide himself around.

“Go!” One of the men shouted. Alfie heard so many footsteps, it sounded like five men opposed to two. Two absolute pussies. They both ran. And they ran fast. But Cyril ran faster. Alfie could hear them retreating and Cyril didn’t hesitate to follow. He’d been raised to be protective and he was quite good at it. When the man was see that he was alone with you, he strode forward, searching for you.

“Pet.” He tried again. This time you whimpered out. It was so quiet, so faint, but it was enough. He found you in seconds. Lowering himself down and on to the floor, he ignored the aches and pains in his body. He was very tender when he touched you. His hand grazed your arm, trying to see if you were alright. You moaned out quietly to let him know that you were semi-okay. There was a bruise on the back of your head from where your hair had been tugged on and fortunately you’d only been hit once by the younger brother. ‘Revenge’ he’d said, because you’d hit him first. They hadn’t had time to do much else before Alfie had come over. Your face was all that hurt, but you’d curled up on the floor out of fright. He wrapped his hand around yours and when he started to pull you up, he was surprised when your small form lifted willingly. You practically crawled into his lap, arms wounding around him desperately. Clutching on to him, your hands fisted in his shirt, gripping on to him desperately. He held you close to him, lips moving to your ear. He contemplated whispering words of comfort, but he didn’t know how to. What should he say? He felt you grip him tighter when his breaths hit your ear. He settled for just resting his lips there. You whimpered out before moving your face to his neck. Your lips grazed his flesh.

“Did you hear me?” Your quiet question made his ears perk up. He hadn’t heard you, but he knew it would bring comfort you if he had.

“Yes.” The lie made him feel guilty. You’d called out for him. His hand traced your back lightly before he pulled back. “Come on, pet. Your door won’t shut, you can come back to mine.” It was impossible for him to stand because you were sat in his lap, so he waited for you to stand before he did as well. He wasn’t surprised at all by the way you stayed close to him, hand curling around his arm as he led you out of the house and toward his own. The sun wouldn’t be up for a long while so when the pair of you got to his house, he was thinking about which room to let you sleep in.

Cyril was on the porch already. Head laying on his paws, his tail wagged at the sight of you and Alfie approaching. His teeth were red from the men he’d attacked, but he hadn’t killed them. He’d just warned them. Alfie cooed quietly to the pup before opening the door and ushering the both of you in. Your movements were slow as you entered. The lighting in his house made you feel self-conscious then. You were sure you looked terrible. A forming bruise was on your cheek, bags under your eyes and cheeks sticky from your tears.

Alfie was actually in awe. Despite what you’d been through and your exhausted form, he found you to be beautiful. His hand brushed your arm, drawing you out of your thoughts.

“Come on, yeah, you can have my guest room.” His hand fell to your own. It brushed it and you didn’t think on your actions, you simply took hold of his palm and gripped on to him. Even inside the safety of his home, you felt unsure. Of course, he would protect you — that was clear, but you didn’t want to be on your own.

“Alfie, I...” you didn’t know how to tell him. But when he looked at you, it was clear that you didn’t need to.

“My room then?” He offered. The relief that washed over your face made his chest puff out. Guiding you toward the stairs, his palm squeezed your own. You felt safe with him and he liked knowing that.

Your head spun as the pair of you walked side by side. Cyril laid on the rug by the fireplace, body dropping to the floor tiredly. Every thought in your head had Alfie in it. What if he wouldn’t have come? What if he hadn’t have heard? Well, he hadn’t, and somehow, he’d still been there. Halting in the middle of the stairs, your stilled form made him pause also. He was a step below you, looking to you in confusion. His curious eyes moved between your own, searching for answers. He didn’t see one, not until you turned to face him. It felt wrong. He saw the appreciation in your stare, the need to thank you properly. But were you thinking clear? After just being attacked. It wasn’t like him to take advantage of a girl. Especially not one so vulnerable. So he tried to step forward, to show you that there was no need for this, but your hand moved to his chest, halting him.

“Wait,” You whispered. “Please.” Leaning into him, your small hand moved from his chest to the side of his neck. Caressing his skin slowly, you leaned toward him and kissed his cheek. You’d intended on kissing his lips, but the shyness that welled inside you, made you avoidant. You frowned softly before wrapping your arms around his shoulders. He couldn’t help the twitch of his lips as they dragged upwards. Wrapping his arm around your waist, he swayed slowly before dragging you forward so that your front pressed against his. He pulled back momentarily, but only so that he could position his face in front of your own once more. He was giving you a do-over. And god you were grateful. Leaning into him, your nose brushed over his lazily before your mouth met his.

Alfie inhaled deeply before stepping up so that the pair of you were stood on the same stair. His shift in position made him tower over you. Hands lifting to cup your sticky cheeks, he kissed you slowly, one palm barely holding on to you because he didn’t want to hurt you any further by touching the forming bruise. You moaned out softly, accidentally, slumping against him as your mouths moved against each other. He was like a big teddy bear, wrapped around you. Stepping back until your back met the wall, you placed your palms on his forearms, stroking his warm skin as your mouth opened, urging him to deepen the kiss. He obliged. His tongue met your own eagerly, actions brave and void of any reluctance. You loved that about him. It made up for the confidence you lacked. You felt as if he were devouring you, little by little, and it was making your legs turn to jello. Pulling back so you could suck in a deep breath, your hands moved to his stomach, resting there.

“I’m not, yeah, taking advantage of you, pet.” Alfie whispered.

“I know.” You licked your lips, savoring the feel and taste of him. “I’m fine, Alfie. I promise.” The bruise on your cheek told him that you weren’t, but he wasn’t going to argue with you. He leaned in and kissed your head, lingering there.

“I believe you.” He whispered against your skin before slowly beginning to lead you toward the bedroom. Down the corridor, at the end of the hall, a tall door stood all on its own. He opened the door and led you inside. The interior wasn’t what you’d expected, but the second you saw it, it reminded you of him. There was no time to admire the room, you wanted to kiss him again and the bed in the center only showed you that the pair of you had a place to lay. You turned around to face him and once he was close enough, you gripped his hand and pulled him forward. You would spend the rest of the night thanking him for coming to your aid. And you’d start by kissing those beautiful, pink, full lips again and again and again.

———————————————————————

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