Archive of Our Own

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The Min Empire reigned over the vast seven seas, stretching across every land underneath the sun. They had no enemy to defy their rule, and no foolish kingdoms brave enough to think they stood a chance against the empire. The Min Empire stood proud as the strongest empire in history with a fleet of thousands of ships, and an army so fierce that their uniform alone brought fear to the people at first glance. There had never been a more renowned and ruthless emperor than the alpha sons of Min. Born with a fiery red gaze they struck terror to other alphas even. A pair of jewel eyes crowned upon birth signifies the excellence of the Min, a power that should never be challenged.

Namjoon, the commander and chief of the royal army, which was the selected handful of alphas powerful enough to watch over the emperor and his empress, stood idly by spaced out in the vast throne room. 

Namjoon’s everyday duty consisted of following the emperor, voicing his input on matters that concerned the safety of his platoon and he acted as the emperor’s advisor on occasion. 

The emperor, Yoongi, considered Namjoon more than a worthy comrade. The emperor viewed Namjoon more as a brother. That was the reason why Namjoon rose to the position he was in today. Set aside all the other alpha soldiers in the Min army, Namjoon had stood out amongst them all with his intelligence along with his brute strength alone. A lot of alpha were nothing but meatheads, confident in their strength, but only that. 

Namjoon was different, he was smarter. An alpha that had a threatening amount of knowledge made him superior, and tactical. It made Namjoon an alpha whom you should stay wary of. 

Namjoon’s background was nothing short of a tragedy, an orphaned alpha who witnessed the horrors of war far too young. His family was lost to hunger, and Namjoon had to bury them himself. After a tragic and traumatizing loss, Namjoon fought to survive every day, cast aside by society, he was determined to prove his worth. He strived for greatness, the alpha would not let himself be swallowed by the darkness of wallow. Namjoon swore to honor his parents who gave their everything to him so he could eat and live to see another day.

At the orphanage, Namjoon would read the old books donated. He clung to the last gift his parents gave him which was the ability to read and write. The alpha was a shy child, who strayed far from danger and others, his nose buried in books. When his stomach growled or his heart hurt from missing his parents, the words on the pages filled his void, a comforting blanket of ink.

Once Namjoon came of age the next logical step was joining the army since he only had the clothing on his back, no proper education or money to his name. Namjoon had his strength as an alpha and his brain which were valuable and honed assets. 

This served him well in the army, brought him far, and made other alphas pale in comparison. Throughout his years of service, Namjoon grew more resilient, after each life he took, he grew colder.

The only reminder of his status was the scar that ran down the right side of his cheek and down to his neck. A ghastly battle scar from the last war, a constant reminder of how he was and what he would always be: a warmongering alpha. His once soft innocence now bleeds into a stoic facade. 

One he built to protect and preserve himself. He wears it like his armor, Namjoon's insides have grown hardened, and devoid of any emotion. All results of watching his closest comrades lose their lives at his feet, watching the enemies bleed out and blown to bits.  

Emotions got him nowhere and led him astray. Namjoon had emptied his heart and mind, gotten rid of what remnants of his former self, that starving pup sitting alone in a dirty orphanage had been put to rest.

-

There isn't much the alpha can do when summoned by the emperor. Mostly he works to engage in conversation, meaningful and altering plans of action. However, sometimes, the topics of discussion went wry, heading in a completely other direction. It made Namjoons brain go quiet, eyes mindlessly staring into the air of the throne room. 

‘’Namjoon, are you with us?’’ Yoongi calls and beckons him close to where he sits with his omega on his lap. Namjoon refocused his gaze once he heard the Emperor call his name. 

‘’Yes, your grace.’’ Namjoon walks close enough that he hears their conversation fully. 

The empress is talking animatedly about a new performance in town. Seokjin was the omega empress of Min, a gorgeous sight to behold. His beauty was well known across the nation as the fair flower adored by the emperor who never sought out another concubine after they mated. That was usually unheard of, other rulers took as many concubines as they pleased but Yoongi’s eyes were only on one. 

‘’Join us, Joonie! It is said to be a performance out of this world, ‘The Beauty of Hope’.’’ Seokjin exclaims, giddy in his tone as he reads over the pamphlet.

Namjoon watches closely, uninterested but he knows better than to voice his true opinion if it doesn't align with the empress. 

‘’But he's not more beautiful than me, right alpha?’’ Seokjin huffs air into his cheeks, turning towards his alpha, who instinctively nods. The omega sought after the alpha praise at every chance he got, Namjoon found it comical that Seokjin would even need to ask, but he could understand the need to feel reassurance. 

‘’Nothing compares to your beauty, omega.’’ Yoongi’s voice is fueled with a fondness only reserved for his omega. The omega coos in glee, pinching the alpha's reddening cheeks as a smile blossoms on his face, Seokjin’s eyes swimming with love.

Namjoon fights against a roll of his eyes, but he stills his face, showing no sign of disrespect to his emperor and empress. Namjoon has grown accustomed to the open display of affection between the two, they were nothing but loud with their adoration. It should not bother him since he had grown used to it by now, but a part of his heart, a shallow deep corner, ached every time.  

Love, being mated, and finding the person that brings joy to your life was something Namjoon had convinced himself God had rebuked from him. The blood that stained his hands could never hold something as precious as that of a lover, Namjoon only knew destruction. He had spent most of his ruts alone, in solitude, with his thoughts to accompany him. The voices, distraught screams of despair as their life faded from their eyes burned at the back of his head.

Omegas and betas along with a few alphas have tried, with their tempting scents, and molten gaze dripping with lust to make an advance at him. Namjoon was a tall, handsome alpha of high status, his scent rich with petrichor and sandalwood drove most omega-crazed, yet Namjoon could see right through them. 

Only greedy and hungry for power, to possess him and use Namjoon’s status to elevate their own. He had made his mind up long ago, Namjoon knew there was no one destined for him, and if there were, the ugly scar and uniform he wore would send them away in horror.

The empty ache that hollows his core harbors envy of what the emperor and empress share. A bond unbreakable, a bond of promise and prosperity. Although the emperor was a ruthless, frigid, and reserved alpha in contrast to the empress who was flashy, strong-willed, and extravagant omega, they resemble oil and water. A mixture that did not dissolve, yet they made it work. 

Namjoon looks over the pamphlet Seokjin hands him, eyes reading over the words. ‘’A dance performance, huh?’’ He sighed deeply, knowing he had no real choice whether or not he wanted to attend, it was his duty to accompany the emperor and fulfill the will of the empress. ‘’I guess it wouldn't hurt, I am a lover of all arts,’’ Namjoon states, giving in freely as Seokjin clasps his hands excitedly. The empress lets out a hooray and the corners of Yoongi’s lips twitch upwards. 

‘’You'll enjoy it! Perhaps they'll put on a show just for the royal court?’’ Seokjin turns towards Yoongi who thumbs the apple of Seokjin’s cheekbone tenderly. ‘’If you want that it shall be arranged, my omega.’’

A deep blush spreads across the omega's face and Namjoon swallows a groan itching to the surface. ‘’Oh, you spoil me so, alpha.’’ Seokjin squeals, hugging his mate close, burying his face in the crook of Yoongi’s neck, nosing along the deep bite mark.

Namjoon takes that as his cue to exit once Yoongi’s hands disappear under the loose robes Seokjin is scantily clad in leaving before the moans grow louder. 

-

On the day of the performance, the whole Empire buzzed with life, the streets were full of excitement.

Namjoon had been taken aback, quite surprised at how he underestimated the show. Word travels fast among the Empire, and the tales that spoke about ‘The Beauty of Hope’ had everyone seated in the packed theaters. The theater is lit up this night with a thousand brilliant beams, yet the brightest lights of all are inside, awaiting the curtain rises.

The empress had his private view of the performance and the best seat in the house. Sadly the emperor was not able to attend at the last minute due to royal obligations he was unable to bend. It had made the empress quite upset, a few nasty words exchanged between the two and Namjoon had to stand in the middle of the lover’s spat. He had done his best to calm the empress down and quickly hurried the omega out not wanting to be late for the performance. 

Namjoon stood over Seokjin who wore a permanent pout on his face, even though he had reassured the omega countless times that the emperor wished dearly that he could be here, it fell on deaf ears. Seokjin's mood had been soured for the evening, and Namjoon hoped the show could get him in higher spirits.

Soon, the lights dimmed, a collective hush fell over the crowd underneath them and the music began playing. Namjoon was always interested in indulging in the arts such as music, lyrical composition, museums with various paintings, sculptures, and so forth. Dancing, however,  was something he wasn't particularly familiar with, yet he knew of ballet. 

Ballet is an art form in itself, gracefully delicate limbs that swayed intact with the orchestra that played beautifully in the background had Namjoon intrigued. Dancing was something new to be discovered, a new world to explore and Namjoon had the perfect view from where he stood.

Once the red curtains pulled back, the music came to a halt, and everyone's attention was drawn to the sole ballet dancer on the stage. From what Namjoon could see, his body was lean, slim yet strong. The material of his outfits hugged every defined curve, a deep slit of his white flowy shirt left Namjoon’s mouth agape. 

His hair was midnight black swept back from his forehead. Namjoon felt hot under his collar as he soaked up the sight, eyes immediately drawn to the gorgeous features of the dancer. The delicate slope of his nose and plush cherry-colored lips glossed with unblemished and smooth skin. But those eyes, doe and dripping with honeysuckle and sparkles, so much emotion behind them. The dancer stood out amongst all others the alpha had ever seen before, his beauty unmatched. Namjoon felt his skin turn warm, his senses on high alert. 

What spell had this dancer put him under?

The orchestra music began playing and the dancer moved like he was floating, like water. His body turned, twisting, twirling like he was one with the music. He compelled excellence and drew you in, holding your attention hostage under his graceful moves. Namjoon's heart leaped out of his chest and he fell onto the stage, the dancer had him weak in his knees. 

Namjoon had never believed in angels or heavenly beings before this night. But, now it felt like heaven above parted the clouds to shed light upon their fellow angelic being. With otherworldly beauty mixed with unmatched talent, Namjoon was at a loss for words. He could only stare, eyes glued on the dancer who Namjoon swore flew across the stage. 

The music had taken a dramatic turn, in which backup dancers clad in dark clothing began to swarm the dancers, a part of the show. Yet Namjoon had to steel himself from giving in to his alpha who raged inside of him to jump down and protect the dancer from harm. 

The alpha had never felt this way about another, never harboring the instinct to protect or give up everything to someone he did not even know.

Namjoon wondered if the heavens had clipped the dancer's wings, that had to be the only explanation. The dancer compelled the stage and owned it like it had his name written on it. The background dancers moved intact with him, moving around him bringing out different props that symbolize the struggle of what Namjoon believes to be war. 

The background dancers were the soldiers, and the ballet dancer was the sole survivor trying to overcome all odds. A flower trying to withstand the harsh howling winter to live long enough to see spring. 

Just like him, the alpha thought to himself as Namjoon felt his heart begin to pick up speed. His nostrils flared, skin damp on his forehead. Adrenaline surged in his veins, a rush Namjoon had only felt in war. 

The rush that kept him alive from his enemies, drove him to victory. How could a simple dance performance awaken such emotions from him? How could one person rattle his sense of self? Namjoon was dumbfounded, for once in his life, at a loss of reason.

The crowd was equally invested as Namjoon, they cheered and reacted to everything happening on stage. The dancer had everyone on the edge of their seat, pulling on their heartstrings with a slight change in his expression. 

The thing that baffled Namjoon was how easily it all seemed, he was flawless. It felt like second nature to him, but Namjoon could see the burning passion that seeped out from the dancer's body. It was prevalent with every leap and twirl executed effortlessly, there was something underneath the way he moved. 

As if there was a pleasure to give, something that made the audience tongue-tied, dry in the throat. And, the ballet dancer was the oasis, the only thing that could quench the thirst.

Namjoon learned quickly that a ballet dancer is a giver, for it is learned early to deal with pain in a way that makes the art better, to channel it into a new form of energy, for in that transformation the dancer is transformed into true art. Namjoon knew from this performance alone how much the dancer might've trained endlessly to be where he stood, how calloused his feet must be, and how much blood had he shed. 

Dancers were warriors like himself, they might seem delicate and sweet, but they were strong. Their resolve had made them who they are today, a resolve not that different from Namjoon’s. Everyone on the stage has endured hardship for the sake of their art. A newfound respect had grown for the dancing, and Namjoon’s heart doubled in size. His lungs struggled to compete with his heart. 

Everything had become about the dancer, an itch unable to stretch, his teeth aching at the thought of mating. An animalistic yearning that Namjoon believed never would happen to him, to become bewitched by another and long for them. It did not matter if the dancer was an omega or beta, Namjoon had found his mate. 

-

After the performance was over, Seokjin’s mood had taken a complete turn. The empress stood up to applaud, yelling louder than anyone else in the packed theater. There was a standing ovation, everyone screaming for an encore as the dancers were brought out and bowed. Roses and flower petals were thrown onto the stage.

Namjoon cleared his throat, he had not thought of getting any flowers for the performance. He had heavily doubted that it would be a necessity, yet here the empress was buzzing with excitement and pulling him backstage to meet the dancers.

Namjoon fished for anything in his pockets but came up empty-handed. He then quickly used the pamphlet Seokjin had handed him, twisting the paper into a makeshift flower. The alpha was never the crafty type, but he was resourceful and quick-witted in dire situations. If Namjoon had the pleasure of meeting the pretty dancer, he would regret not giving him anything for the amazing performance that they displayed.

Seokjin commanded attendance for all the dancers, they quickly whipped into place as the empress entered the backstage lounge. They greeted the director, a small beta with a set of gray balding hair and a short posture. He was sweating bullets, pupils nervously moving around trying to show utmost respect to appease the empress and not make a bad move.

The dancers who made the mistake of eye contact with Namjoon hurriedly looked away, terror in their faces, pale as the snow. Namjoon had grown accustomed to how others perceived him, it did not bother him, yet the alpha hoped that the pretty ballet dancer would at least not bear that much of a grim expression. 

‘’This is our star, ‘’ the director, Mr. Yul, beckoned the dancer closer. A short stubby hand of Mr. Yul pressed against the dancer's small back, ushering him forward. ‘’Hope or Hoseok, our best dancer.’’ He introduced them, and the pretty dancer, Hoseok, bowed politely.

Namjoon swallowed thickly, such a pretty name befitting the pretty dancer. An irate throb made Namjoon temporarily see red, if the older bald director kept his sweaty paws on the pretty dancer, he'd be compelled to draw blood.

Seokjin's whole face lit up, ‘’You are such a talented dancer! And quite the looker too, ain't he Joonie?’’ The empress smiled widely, and Namjoon felt his world freeze. Everything around him faded into the background once Hoseok’s honey-brown eyes met his.

Omega.

A sweet-smelling omega, vanilla, and ripe peaches. So tantalizing and sweet, Namjoon's gum ached, and his mouth began watering. A new sensation of hunger swept over the alpha. Namjoon blinked slowly, his brain struggling to comprehend the ethereal beauty that stood before him. His breath threatened to escape him as Namjoon soaked in the sight fully, up close and personal.

Hoseok was otherworldly, a beauty that no one the alpha has seen before can be compared to. Beauty in every sense of the word, a pure beauty that made you stare in awe. His midnight locks were sweaty and swept back from his face curling at the edges framing his delicate face. Namjoon’s gaze flitted from the plumpness of his cherry lips to the mole resting on the cupid's bow tantalizingly inviting. Long lashes fluttering across high cheekbones, an elegant slope of his nose, skin unblemished and golden like the sun had kissed it gently. Namjoon wondered if the heavens left the gates unlocked and let an angel slip through on accident.

Unlike others, the omega held his gaze, with something behind those dazzling, shining doe eyes. A hint of curiosity, not dismissal, nor terror. Hoseok’s eyelashes fluttered as the omega appeared equally infatuated. Like there was a tug on them both, a red string that pulled them closer. Like there was something to be discovered, something that could lead to something more. 

‘’Joonie?’’ Seokjin’s voice cut through him, making Namjoon snap out of the trance, pulling him back into reality. 

‘’Yes.’’ Namjoon manages to breathe out, heart restricted in his tight chest. The blush across Hoseok’s face deepens, the omega visibly affected by the alpha’s deep voice.

‘’The honor is all mine, Your Majesty and Sir…?’’ Hoseok asks hesitantly, his eyes drifting between the two. The Empress was well known and adored by the public but Namjoon on the other hand operated mostly in the shadows. The omega shifts his gaze towards Namjoon, wanting to address the alpha appropriately. There is a nervous smile etched on his face, and the delicate curve of his lips makes Namjoon wet his lips in anticipation.

‘’Kim Namjoon, commander and chief of the Royal Army.’’ The alpha introduces himself, and the gusto of his speech dies rapidly as Hoseok’s eyes widen in pure shock. Namjoon’s title is intended to have that effect on people. It was supposed to strike fear, to make suspecting threats around them not even bother to try anything while in his presence. To strike fear, and wither at the thought of defying his wrath. He was appointed the alpha in charge of the Empire’s army after all—one of the highest, and most honorable roles in the Royal court.

Hoseok bows once more, ‘’Sir commander and chief. It is a pleasure to be in both of your presence. ‘’

Seokjin’s smile spreads across his face as he clasps his hands together, and all attention returns to him. ‘’Now, I loved the performance. I’d like to inquire about a more intimate show, just for the royal court. My husband could not be here, unfortunately, so I want to put on a show for him soon.’’

Mr. Yul nods frantically, eyes lighting up. ‘’Why, yes, of course, Your Majesty, it would be an honor! Please follow me, I would like to introduce you to the staff.’’ The instructor accompanies the empress to discuss his request and leads him a few steps into the lounge room where the staff all stand lined up, scared to step out of line with the empress present. 

Hoseok’s eyes are still trained on Namjoon who watches the empress from afar. He highly doubts any harm would befall the omega in this proximity and focuses his attention on the dancer. Hoseok blinks as Namjoon catches him staring, and the alpha clears his throat. 

The bewitching gaze makes Namjoon’s chest tighten, but then he remembers the flower. He quickly searches through his pockets for the makeshift paper flower. Nerves are wrecking through the alpha, ice poling in his veins. Namjoon had been to war, he had slain plentiful soldiers, but handing the pretty omega a fake flower seemed to be an equally difficult task. 

Hoseok’s face is neutral, but there's a glint dancing in those doe eyes. He silently watches the commander fret over something in his jacket.

‘’This is for you,’’ Namjoon's face is warm, the heat spreads down his face into his neck, tips of his ears burn. His gloved fingers tremble as he hands the flower over to the pretty omega whose mouth widens in an O-shape. 

Hoseok accepts the flower, a small smile toying at the corner of his lips. ‘’Thank you, sir.’’

Namjoon’s wolf is pleased, wagging his tail. He rubs the back of his neck sheepishly, ‘’I had not thought to buy a real flower even though I know that dancers receive bouquets for their extravagant performances, but I didn't think to bring one but here-’’ A nervous rambling escapes Namjoon and Hoseok watches amused by the charming alpha. Namjoon cannot help but let his own scent slip, a delicate mixture of petrichor and sandalwood. A little taste of the first dewdrops in a forgotten forest.

‘’I know it is not a real flower, but I hope you like it.’’ Namjoon stops himself, his tongue feels heavy in his mouth, embarrassment seeping into his bones.

Hoseok brushes a lock behind his ear, twirling the flower in his hand. A heart-shaped smile meets the alpha whose heart skips a beat, blood rushing down south. ‘’Thank you kindly, your grace. I'll cherish it as a placeholder until you bring me a real one.’’ The omega practically purrs before a voice calls for him and he sadly excuses himself.

Namjoon swears he hears church bells ring in the distance, he desperately tries to calm his beating heart. His wolf howls at the omega's departure, clawing to get closer, to bathe in the dancer's scent. It is hard to will himself to stand still and not chase after the omega, Namjoon clenches his fits until he leaves deep crescents.

The commander doesn't realize the empress next to him, who waves a hand in his face. ‘’Earth to Joonie?’’ 

Namjoon shakes his head, forcing himself to tear his eyes off Hoseok’s delicate frame. ‘’Yes, Your Highness?’’

Seokjin’s face is unreadable as he hums. ‘’Oh, nothing. My business is done here. I’m ready to leave.’’ 

Namjoon escorts the empress out of the backstage lounge, casting one last hopeful glance back but there's nobody there.

-

A few days have passed since the performance, and the dancer has not once left Namjoon’s mind. Over and over again it replays in Namjoon like broken vinyl, and the dancer's soft features glow in his memories. Namjoon’s heart never fails to seize up as the omega runs wild in his mind. His warm smile is burnt behind the alpha eyelids, and his low voice echoes as Namjoon cannot seem to forget even a single moment from their brief encounter. 

There has never been a person who has shaken him like this, left him dazed like a lost pup. Namjoon feels heat rise to his skin as he reminisces on the omega’s slim build, and how the loose silk clothing hugged his frame. His mouth waters, drool threatening to pool from the seams of his thick lips. 

There was a hunger that festered in his core, a deep desire to keep the dancer for himself. A possessive need to be the only one that the dancer keeps his eyes trained on, to be his one and only. Namjoon felt his breath hitch at the thought, sinking his canine teeth into the tender flesh of the omega, claiming him.  

He quickly shook his head, that line of thinking was bad, and if acted upon would lead to even worse things.

‘’I heard you found something interesting behind the curtains,’’ the Emperor told him, looking up to the commander who visually had his thoughts elsewhere. It was uncharacteristic of the alpha to be daydreaming, and not paying attention to the importance of his duties but the emperor mused. He decided to poke fun at the stoic alpha, finding his reactions entertaining enough. Yoongi enjoyed watching how Namjoon would squirm, how his whole demeanor changed as if had been caught red-handed.  

Namjoon cleared his throat and fixed his collar. ‘’And who told you that?’’ His voice was accusatory, sighing as he knew exactly who by the way the corner of the emperor’s mouth twisted upwards into a grin.

‘’My omega.’’

There was no denying it now, Namjoon smacked his lips together, uncertain of how to respond. He was infatuated, there was no other way to describe how the dancer had ignited a fire in him that flared every time the omega crossed his mind. 

Yet there was no possibility that he could pursue the dancer. He was committed to his duty, after all, there was no resting for the likes of him who bore too much responsibility to the royal crown. ‘’Right, I just accompanied the empress backstage. The dancers were amazing, and surely deserved the praise and flowers.’’

The emperor's gaze cuts through his words, he doesn't look convinced at all. ‘’Who would've thought the ever so stoic commander would throw roses? And to think we had to practically drag you to go…’’ Yoongi is purposely dragging out his words, the syllabus rolling on his tongue, eyes swimming with amusement watching Namjoon sweat. The heat had risen to the commander's collar, his uniform feeling restricting and all too tight at the moment. 

‘’Was there anyone in particular who piqued the eye of the warmongering alpha?’’ The emperor flat out asked, done teasing and beating around the bushes. 

Namjoon looked away, not meeting the emperor's crimson gaze. ‘’No…’’

Yoongi snickers at his obvious attempt at lying, ‘’Liars get executed along with treasonous.’’ 

A warm blush colors Namjoon’s cheek with a tint of peach. ‘’Well, yes but we only spoke briefly.’’

‘’And you gave him a flower from your pockets?’’

‘’Who told you that?’’ Namjoon groans embarrassed, head in his palms.

‘’My omega.’’ The emperor reiterated and Namjoon sighed.

‘’Well it won't be going anywhere, he was terrified, saw the scars, and feared for his life.’’ This was not an accurate retelling of the events but Namjoon had to believe his insecure, fragile heart. He knew there was no chance with the pretty dancer, he shouldn't start having hope for something not attainable. 

Namjoon chuckles dryly, a dark cloud hanging over his head. ‘’These blood-stained hands shouldn't be near let alone touch anything of such beauty.’’  

The emperor has a somber look in his eyes but Namjoon’s gaze is glued to the floor. He doesn't need his pity, and before the emperor can utter more words Namjoon excuses himself. ‘’I'll have to go over the patrolling with the troops.’’ The alpha quickly bows before he leaves the throne room his heart feeling barren and sunken.

-

‘’Are you sure this is a good idea, Tae?’’ Jimin whispers harshly as the two royal guards walk down the street. They pass by drunken onlookers tripping over their feet, smog heavy in the air along with trash piled at every corner. The stench makes Jimin scrunch his nose, disgust plastered on his face as he is quick on Taehyung’s heel. They were clad in normal clothing, coats made of rich fur, and top hats. Their royal uniforms were left at the palace as Jimin somehow let Taehyung talk him into accompanying him on his escapade.

‘’Yes, his majesty requested this,’’ Taehyung replied as he looked for the one particular building, hotel Menagerie, where travelers of any importance would often stay during their visit to the empire.

A street informant, a young beta with the initials J.K., had told them all they needed to know about the whereabouts of the dancers who were instructed to stay longer due to the empress's request. He ruffled Jimin’s feathers when he rolled his doe eyes at the badge they had flashed him. J.K. did not seem impressed in the slightest by them when he was told they were acting on official royal business. A glint lit up in his eyes as he simply asked for more compensation for his time. Taehyung admired the pizzazz and the air of confidence that the younger possessed. They paid the informant handsomely for the information and he had pointed them in the correct direction with a sly smile playing on his lips. Taehyung had to admit that thought the beta was quite the looker as well, and Jimin seethed as he wanted to sock him in his perfect face as they parted.

Jimin groans, ‘’Yeah but Tae… Snooping on an omega seems unruly.’’ It left a sour taste in the alpha's mouth, he was a man who prided himself on his rigid morals and everything about this screamed wrong.

‘’I know it sounds bad, Chimchim, but this omega might be Joon-hyung’s future mate!’’ Taehyung exclaimed as they made their way deeper into the heart of the empire. ‘’We owe it to him to at least try, for the sake of true love.’’ 

Taehyung's words seem to convince Jimin, he mulls it over and he cannot see himself standing in the way of love. He adored and idolized the commander ever since he joined the military. Jimin looked up at him as a god who walked amongst men with his imposing stature and unshakable soul. He should have a proper opportunity for love and Jimin was honored to play a helping part in it.

" …Alright."

Once they stood at the gate of the Menagerie Hotel, they noticed all the drunken commotion and liveliness. The pair were taken aback, the festivities hadn't died down this late into the night. 

They entered and were met with no greetings, dancers were sprawled across the lounge which stank of cigarette smoke and rancid alcohol. Everyone seemed equally inebriated and on the verge of falling over, stumbling around like a fawn on ice.

What grinds Jimin’s gears is how tactless and rude some of the patrons were behaving, like animals groping and smacking the dancer with no care. Their ugly, withered faces gleamed as they showed no sign of stopping the blatant disrespect and crass acts towards the performers who simply endured it. The dancers all harbored a mixture of pain and helplessness, their eyes dull and empty as they were shoved around and screamed at. They treated them like toys, and Jimin was a few seconds away from pulling his handgun tucked underneath his belt buckle. 

Taehyung halted him before he could make any moves, with a snarl Jimin stood back arms crossed.

Taehyung looked around until he caught the eye of a short round man who seemed like he was in charge. 

''Excuse me, sir."

He only stared at the two, faces a deep wine red like he had been drinking since dawn. "Yes, whaddya want?" His words slurred as he burped and Jimin felt his eye twitch.

"We would like to enquire about the dancers, are they available to meet?"

The man blinked slowly at them before his face twisted into a sinister grin, and he let out a rumbling laugh. "Oh, I see now. You boys are looking for some fun aren't ya?"

They stare in confusion as the man continues his drunken rambling. "You heard we got some dancers that love to entertain, just slip some money my way and you'll be granted access to have your fill gentlemen." The balding man proceeded to rub his chubby hairy hands together like an overgrown rat.

Taehyung gulped as he and Jimin exchanged a look of equal grave worry. 

"What about the star of the play?" Taehyung asked hesitantly, dreading the answer to come. 

The man shook his head, "The top dancers don't get touched, they're too valuable to us." 

The pair let out a sigh of relief internally. 

The man gives them a long stare, "Ah… I'm guessing you want a show with Hope? That'll cost extra. "

"How much to buy all his time, until the last day?"

The man's small bug eyes grow wide in astonishment, scratching the top of his scalp. "All of it? Well, we are extending our stay on the empress's request, so we'll be here for five more days than originally planned." The man mumbles counting on his fingers, "It'll be a hundred thousand rubies." He says flashing the two a yellow crooked smile, all rotten. The man simply grins while he is defrauding them boldly.

Jimin almost choked on his spit, fist balled up to land one square in the man's pudgy face for his show of utter disrespect but Taehyung sighed, "I'll pay."

Jimin's mouth gaped, blinking rapidly as he was stunned. Taehyung would do anything for his commander which the other alpha respected highly, but coughing up a sum like that was preposterous. Jimin gave Taehyung a concerned glance but Taehyung only fished out his wallet. 

'I better be reimbursed,' the alpha thinks to himself emptying his bank. 

-

Taehyung and Jimin are led up the flight of stairs by the man who introduced himself later as Director Yul. Since the royal guards paid quite a large sum of rubies, they were able to rent out the penthouse suite where Hope would be awaiting them. 

Two large alphas, bodyguards Jimin presumed, stood outside of the doors on each side. "Just a safety precaution, some of the men who stop by get a bit rowdy. '' Yul informed them. Jimin scoffed at him, biting his tongue. There were plenty of the same rowdy men just downstairs having a blast without being reprimanded.

The doors open and Taehyung steps inside first, the room is extravagant and vast with golden tapestry, velvet curtains, and foreign-looking furniture. Despite everything lavish the room has to offer, Taehyung’s gaze zeros in on the dancer who is probably the most breathtaking person the guard has laid his eyes on.

He was clad in a white flowy dress shirt with tight black trousers and sat by the edge of a queen-sized bed awaiting them. Long black locks fell to his shoulders, one side tucked behind his ear. His face is neutral, a thin smile stretches on his lips. 

Taehyung feels the world come to a slow stop as the dancer stands up to greet them with a bow. 

"Hello, gentlemen. My name is Hope, it is a pleasure to meet you both." The dancer’s voice is sultry sweet, it tingles a part of Taehyung’s brain. The guard is gobsmacked, he heard the empress mention how attractive he found the dancer. Getting a compliment from the empress himself was no easy feat since he was coined the most beautiful omega in the whole of the empire. 

Taehyung's mouth feels dry as if he had swallowed cotton. He cannot tear his eyes from the dancer's face. His beauty differs from the empress's. The dancer’s eyes were expressive, little freckles of stardust swam in the pools of warmth. His skin was flawless, smooth, and dewy, like a flower that just bloomed under the spring sun. Everything about the dancer seemed delicate from his features to his build. However, his stance was straight, muscles lean underneath his clothing.

The closer Taehyung stepped, the more he fell into a trance. It was almost magnetic, the way the dancer lured you in with his enchanting allure. 

Somehow, he managed to find the right words. ‘’We are not here for a show, sadly. We are on official business.’’ Taehyung uttered, his voice steady despite his heart beating against his ribcage and heat rising to his face. He pulled out the Royal insignia from his pockets. 

Hope’s eyes lit up, ‘’Oh. Who sent you?’’ His voice was hopeful and curious. 

Jimin stepped next to Taehyung, clearing his throat. ‘’Commander and chief of the royal army, Kim Namjoon.’’ Taehyung had almost forgotten his comrade who seemed equally entranced judging by the blush spread across Jimin’s cheeks and the upwards curve of the alpha’s plumb lips. 

‘’Ah, I see. Is he here as well?’’ 

‘’No, he isn't but he'll visit soon enough,’’ Taehyung told him and Hope’s demeanor changed like a deflated balloon, a triangle pout adorning his lips. The alpha felt his heart sting, fighting a coo. 

A moment of silence passed as they exchanged looks, Hope tilted his head towards them. ‘’Are you sure you do not want a show? You spend a fortune, or so I was told.’’ Hope asked with his neatly plucked brows drawn in a line.

Taehyung shook his head, he did not think he and Jimin would survive it if they got a private dance from the commander's future mate. Although he would love nothing more than to watch the omega dance up close and personal, Taehyng feared for his life and had no death wish.

Jimin crossed his arms, ‘’Tell us. Do you usually greet alphas like this?’’ 

‘’Only the rich ones can afford time with me, nothing intimate but they tend to get touchy,’’ Hope says, shifting his weight around on his heels. 

‘’Well, you have nothing to worry about. We, uhm, kinda bought all your time.’’

Hope clutched his hand bringing it to his chest, ‘’Thank you. You should not have…’’ His voice is small but Taehyung flashes him a kind smile. ‘’It was no big ordeal, it is for our commander after all. He is positively enamored with you, and I can see why.’’

A faint blush heats Hope’s face, he ducks his head bashfully. 

Jimin jabs Taehyung in his side, ‘’Do not flirt with him.’’ Jimin mouths at him angrily while the other alpha sticks his tongue out in retaliation. 

Hope has taken a seat on the edge of the bed again, a hand lost in his hair. ‘’The commander is awfully shy, but I do want to see him again.’’ A vibrant smile has taken over the dancer’s features, lighting up his face and Taehyung swears his heart skips a beat. 

‘’Gorgeous,’’ Taehyung whispers, and Jimin glares at him.

‘’That's just one side to him. On the battlefield, he's a pure fiend.’’ Jimin boasts proudly, recalling how Namjoon slaughters any enemy soldiers in his path without breaking a sweat, stained in the blood of his foe. 

Hope anxiously swallows, shoulders dropping.

‘’You are scaring him Chim,’’ Taehyung scolds the alpha who gives an apologetic smile.’’Listen we won't take up much of your time but please know that Namjoon-hyungnim cannot wait to meet with you.’’ Taehyung tells the dancer his words are sincere and truthful as both Taehyung and Jimin have observed their commander lost in deep thought ever since the performance. It was apparent in the way Namjoon’s face seemed to color in a deep shade of pink now and then, all flustered and embarrassed by getting caught daydreaming.

‘’Okay, I’ll wait for him then,’’ Hope says, bidding the guards farewell. 

-

‘’You did what?!’’ 

Namjoon’s loud voice shakes the whole room, bouncing off the walls and Taehyung and Jimin both cower down on their knees. The pair had to relay the information to the commander, who they thought would react differently. 

‘’Sir, we were only acting on his highness empress’s orders…’’ Jimin says, voice barely above a whisper. He does not dare to meet Namjoon’s eyes, glowing red in his quiet rage. 

‘’I should've known. I need those two to stop meddling in my relationships, or lack thereof.’’ The alpha grunts, dragging a palm down his face. 

Taehyung clears his throat, looking up towards the commander. ‘’But, we did meet with Hope. He is very pretty and sweet.’’ Taehyung said wistfully honestly, not trying to get under Namjoon’s skin but it worked nonetheless. The commander gave him a nasty glare, fingers itching to clamp down on the younger alpha's throat.

‘’He wants to meet with you, sir. He said so himself!’’ Taehyung quickly blurs out and Jimin nods in agreement, ‘’He is awaiting you.’’

Namjoon sighed deeply, deciding to believe the two. He knew deep down that they truly only wished him well, he could trust them with his own life on the battlefield. He could trust them with a weapon in their hands. He had no other choice but to trust their words as well

Namjoon felt his chest tighten, and the longing he had tried to suppress fully flooded to the surface. Clawing at his skin, surging throughout his body.

He wants to see Hoseok.

He needs to see Hoseok.

Hoseok has a hold on him, a grip so tight snaking around him squeezing air out of his lungs. He could hardly breathe at times. It was flowing through his very being, an unadulterated desire burning in his veins, nestled deep in every fiber of his being. The image of the dancer had been burned behind his eyelids, he couldn't go a minute without thinking about Hoseok. As a logical man, the alpha turned to reason above all. Yet, when it came to the omega, his chest tightened. It felt like his heart called out the dancer’s name desperately. 

Hoseok made his brain struggle to comprehend the trance his heart had succumbed to. It made Namjoon’s frozen heart crack, to let the sunlight pool in. The alpha thought emotion was a futile desire, not something so utterly contiguous it had riddled him immobile and shaken his sense of self to the core.

And, it was all Hoseok’s fault. 

Namjoon had to see him once more, to sate his bleeding yearning. 

‘’Show me the way, now.’’ He gives in, and Taehyung and Jimin quickly spring into action making arrangements for their commander.

-

The guards had sent word to the Menagerie Hotel that the commander himself was planning to grace them with his presence, and the news sent the dance troupe into a whirlwind of panic. The royal palace’s visit had come far sooner than anyone had anticipated, and the air was thick with nervous energy. The dancers scrambled, the staff fretted, and the entire establishment seemed to hold its breath in anticipation of the commander’s arrival.

Namjoon, the formidable alpha, and commander of the royal army, stood tall and imposing, his presence enough to make even the bravest souls quiver. He had donned his finest uniform, the deep black fabric of his long coat accentuating his broad shoulders and commanding stature. His polished dress shoes gleamed under the dim light, and his hair was swept back in a manner that was both stylish and effortlessly regal. Yet, beneath his composed exterior, a wave of unease churned within him. His veins pulsed with a strange mix of anticipation and nerves, a feeling he hadn’t experienced in years. Determined to make the right impression, he had insisted on a pit stop at a flower shop. There, he had chosen a bouquet of sunflowers—vivid, golden, and radiant, much like the person he was about to see.

As they arrived at the hotel in the early evening, Namjoon was greeted by the dance troupe’s directors, their words dripping with forced pleasantries and thinly veiled anxiety.

“It’s an honor, Your Excellency,” one of them stammered, bowing deeply. “We certainly weren’t expecting an audience with the great commander so soon.”

Namjoon’s sharp eyes scanned the room, taking in the row of dancers lined up like porcelain dolls, their faces painted with grim expressions. They trembled under his gaze, their fear palpable. The alpha’s towering height—nearly two meters—and the weight of his authority seemed to fill the room, his very presence suffocating. His black coat brushed against the doorframe as he stepped inside, his hat casting a shadow over his intense features.

“I have important business to attend to with your dancer, Hope,” Namjoon declared, his voice low and commanding. He had no patience for the directors’ hollow flattery. He was here for one reason, and one reason only.

The director’s face paled, a bead of sweat trickling down his temple. “Well, you see, Hope has been quite popular, and I’m afraid his time has already been acquired by another—”

Namjoon’s eyes flashed crimson, his jaw tightening as a blood vessel pulsed dangerously on his forehead. The air grew thick with the alpha’s pheromones, a venomous cloud of rage that made the temperature in the room plummet. “By who?” he snarled, his voice a guttural growl that sent shivers down the spines of everyone present.

The director clacked his teeth, his small eyes widening in terror. Another staff member quickly intervened, tapping the director on the shoulder. “Sir, Hope had been reserved for the commander!”

Relief washed over Namjoon, and the tension in the room eased ever so slightly. The director bowed repeatedly, his voice trembling. “Right! I was wrong, please forgive my foolishness, Your Excellency.”

“Where is he?” Namjoon demanded, shoving the director aside. The lounge reeked of alcohol, cigars, and the mingling scents of desperate pheromones. Namjoon’s nose wrinkled in disgust. This was the air Hoseok had to breathe? The thought made his blood boil. He was done with the pleasantries. He wanted Hoseok, and he wanted him now.

“We’ll have someone get him for you,” the director squeaked, scrambling to obey.

Hoseok’s heart raced as he heard the commotion downstairs. The commander had come for him. The realization sent a thrill through his veins, his chest tightening with a mix of excitement and nervousness. He felt underdressed, and unprepared, but there was no time to waste. The omega didn’t want to keep the alpha waiting.

He quickly slipped into a lavender, flowy blouse that draped elegantly over his frame and a pair of skin-tight light blue trousers that hugged the curves of his thighs and the swell of his backside perfectly. A light touch of makeup concealed any imperfections, and a red lip stain added a bold pop of color to his lips. He powdered his cheeks, his hands trembling slightly as he worked. The commander had seen him in far worse states—drenched in sweat, makeup running, and yet, the alpha had struggled to look away. The memory made Hoseok’s pride swell.

Without another moment’s hesitation, Hoseok hurried downstairs, his heart pounding in his chest. There, standing in the center of the room, was Namjoon. The alpha’s presence was magnetic, his aura commanding the attention of everyone in the room. His guards stood stoically behind him, their presence only adding to the air of authority that surrounded him. It should have been intimidating, overwhelming even, but Hoseok felt none of that. Instead, he was drawn to the alpha like a moth to a flame.

“Commander,” Hoseok greeted, a wide, radiant smile blooming on his face as he descended the staircase.

Namjoon’s eyes lit up as if someone had ignited a spark of pure sunlight within him. His lips curved into a coy smile, two deep dimples appearing on his cheeks. Hoseok felt as though an arrow had pierced his chest, his breath catching in his throat. How could the commander be so breathtakingly beautiful? The omega approached him with light, graceful steps, his heart fluttering with every movement.

Namjoon took Hoseok’s hand in his own, pressing a chaste kiss to the back of it. The gesture sent a deep blush spreading across Hoseok’s face, his cheeks warming under the alpha’s gaze.

“These are for you,” Namjoon said, handing him the bouquet of sunflowers. His voice was soft, almost shy, a stark contrast to the commanding tone he had used moments earlier.

Hoseok’s grin widened as he accepted the flowers. “Thank you, they’re beautiful! Not quite the same as the flower made of paper, though,” he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Namjoon sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. Hoseok beckoned one of the dancers, a young man named Sungwoo, and handed him the bouquet. “Please put these in water for me, Sungwoo-ah. Thank you.”

Sungwoo nodded, offering Hoseok a brief smile before his face crumbled under Namjoon’s icy glare. The alpha’s expression was devoid of emotion, his eyes cold and piercing. Hoseok turned back to Namjoon, and the alpha’s face softened instantly, his gaze warm and tender.

“Shall we head out?” Namjoon asked, offering Hoseok his arm. The alpha didn’t want to stay in this place a moment longer.

“Lead the way, commander,” Hoseok replied, his voice breathless with admiration. He wrapped his arm around Namjoon’s thick biceps, giving the taut muscles a light squeeze. The alpha’s warmth seeped into him, a comforting presence that made his heart swell.

As they walked out together, the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in a bubble of quiet intimacy. The tension that had filled the room earlier was replaced by a soft, fluttering warmth, a promise of something more. And at that moment, Hoseok knew that this date was just the beginning of something extraordinary.

-

Namjoon had arranged a private carriage for their evening, its polished wood gleaming under the soft glow of the street lamps. He opened the door with a gentleman’s grace, his large hands settling gently on Hoseok’s hips as he helped the omega step inside. The touch was both sensual and tender, sending a shiver of warmth through Hoseok’s body. The alpha’s hands felt like they belonged there as if they had been crafted solely to hold him. Hoseok’s breath hitched, his heart fluttering as he settled into the plush seat, the scent of leather and Namjoon’s rich, earthy pheromones enveloping him.

Namjoon slid in beside him, his imposing frame filling the space. The carriage was spacious, yet Hoseok felt deliciously caged, pressed between the alpha’s broad shoulders and the wall of the carriage. Namjoon’s thick arms, rivaling the size of Hoseok’s thighs, brushed against him, and the omega felt a hot rod of desire ignite deep within him. The alpha’s pheromones were intoxicating, wrapping around Hoseok like a velvet blanket, making his head swim with a dizzying mix of lust and comfort. He didn’t mind being trapped like this, not when it was Namjoon who held him captive. It felt like Hoseok’s favorite time of day, at the dusk of dawn.

“I want to share with you my favorite place,” Namjoon said, his voice brimming with candid excitement. His eyes sparkled with a boyish enthusiasm that made Hoseok’s chest tighten. The alpha’s eagerness was endearing, and Hoseok couldn’t help but smile softly in response.

“I’d be honored,” Hoseok replied, his voice a whisper, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush.

The carriage came to a halt in front of the grand Museum of Arts, its towering columns and intricate carvings a testament to its opulence. Hoseok’s eyes widened as he took in the sight, his heart pounding with a mix of awe and disbelief. He had never had the luxury of exploring such places, his life consumed by the relentless demands of dance. The cost of admission alone was more than what his troupe could afford, and leisure was a luxury he could scarcely imagine. His world had always been one of discipline and sacrifice, but tonight, Namjoon was offering him a glimpse of something more.

Namjoon helped him down from the carriage, his hand lingering on Hoseok’s waist as they ascended the steps to the museum’s entrance. Inside, Hoseok was met with a breathtaking expanse of art and history, the air thick with the scent of aged wood and polished marble. To his surprise, the museum was empty, devoid of the usual crowds.

“Are we alone?” Hoseok asked, his voice tinged with wonder as he glanced up at Namjoon.

The alpha smiled, his dimples appearing as if on cue. “I made some arrangements and rented the museum out for just our viewing.”

Hoseok’s breath caught in his throat. The thought of Namjoon going to such lengths just for him sent a wave of warmth through his chest. The alpha’s possessiveness, though subtle, was undeniable. He didn’t want anyone else to steal Hoseok’s attention, and the omega found himself both flattered and overwhelmed by the gesture.

As they wandered through the halls, Namjoon’s deep voice filled the silence, weaving tales of history and artistry that brought the exhibits to life. Hoseok listened with rapt attention, his eyes wide with fascination. He leaned in close, his body instinctively drawn to the alpha’s warmth, and Namjoon’s heart swelled with pride. He had feared he might bore the omega with his ramblings, but Hoseok’s genuine interest and thoughtful questions only deepened his admiration.

Namjoon had seen countless masterpieces in his lifetime, but none compared to the beauty of the man beside him. Hoseok’s presence outshone every painting, every sculpture, every artifact in the museum. The omega was a living work of art, and Namjoon was utterly captivated.

After their tour, Hoseok’s stomach let out a soft growl, and he flushed with embarrassment. Namjoon chuckled, the sound warm and rich, and suggested they head to dinner. He chose a restaurant with a panoramic view of the city, its lights twinkling like stars against the night sky. Hoseok’s eyes sparkled with wonder as he took in the sight, and Namjoon felt his chest tighten. The omega’s joy was infectious, and the alpha vowed to himself that he would do everything in his power to keep that light in Hoseok’s eyes.

The evening ended with a stroll through the city park, the cool night breeze brushing against their skin. Namjoon draped his coat over Hoseok’s shoulders, the heavy fabric enveloping the omega in the alpha’s scent. They walked in comfortable silence, their hands occasionally brushing until Hoseok finally spoke.

“I don’t want this day to be over,” he admitted, his voice tinged with melancholy. The thought of returning to the hotel, of being separated from Namjoon, was almost too much to bear.

“I’ll see you soon,” Namjoon reassured him, though the ache in his chest mirrored Hoseok’s. The idea of leaving the omega behind was unbearable.

Hoseok gripped the fur coat tighter, his voice soft and vulnerable. “You’ve given me so much. And I can repay you with only my company.”

“That is more than enough,” Namjoon replied, his voice firm yet tender. He spotted a bench and guided Hoseok to it, reaching out his gloved hand for the omega to hold. Hoseok’s eyes were glossy, his cheeks flushed from the cold, and Namjoon’s heart ached with the need to protect him.

Hoseok hesitated for a moment before leaning in, his lips brushing against Namjoon’s cheek in a tender kiss. The alpha’s entire body stiffened, his breath catching in his throat. He had never felt the warmth of an omega like this, and the sensation was overwhelming. Hoseok’s lips were softer than he had imagined, pillowy and lush, and Namjoon’s heart raced as blood rushed to his ears.

“Am I to your liking? Do I appease you, my commander?” Hoseok teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief as their knees bumped together.

“Now you’re teasing me,” Namjoon murmured, his voice low and rough.

“I cannot help it. Your reaction is cute,” Hoseok giggled, the sound like music to Namjoon’s ears. The alpha’s dimpled smile made Hoseok’s heart seize, and he felt as though he might drown in the depth of his feelings.

Hoseok’s gaze fell to their hands, his fingers tracing the edge of Namjoon’s glove. “Your hands… may I touch them?” he asked, his voice hesitant.

Namjoon froze, his rough, scarred hands a stark contrast to Hoseok’s delicate ones. But the omega’s eyes were filled with such sincerity that he couldn’t refuse. Slowly, he removed his glove, revealing the calloused skin beneath. Hoseok took his hand, their skin meeting in a moment of electric intimacy. The omega brought Namjoon’s palm to his cheek, his eyelids fluttering shut as the alpha’s fingers traced the contours of his face.

“These are your hands, holding me so carefully, as if I’m made of glass,” Hoseok whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.

“I have to be. You’re the most precious jewel I’ve ever seen,” Namjoon replied, his voice thick with desire. He leaned in closer, his breath mingling with Hoseok’s, the world around them fading into insignificance.

“I wish we could stay like this forever,” Hoseok sighed, his heart aching with the weight of his longing.

And in that moment, under the starlit sky, Namjoon vowed to make that wish come true. To make Hoseok his.

-

The days that followed were a torment for Namjoon. Each moment was consumed by the memory of Hoseok’s lips brushing against his cheek, a fleeting touch that had set his soul ablaze. The omega’s presence lingered in his mind like a haunting melody, soft and sweet yet impossible to shake. A profound longing had taken root in Namjoon’s heart, a yearning so deep it ached. He felt as though Hoseok had chipped away at his hardened edges, leaving him raw and vulnerable. The alpha was utterly captivated, his every thought consumed by the omega who had so effortlessly claimed him.

But the peace of his reverie was shattered when Taehyung and Jimin came to him, their faces grim and their voices heavy with the weight of what they had witnessed. The horrors they described at the Menagerie Hotel made Namjoon’s blood run cold. The mistreatment of the dancers, the cruelty inflicted upon them—it was a nightmare that Taehyung and Jimin could no longer keep silent about. They knew the consequences of revealing the truth, but their consciences would not allow them to stay quiet any longer.

Namjoon listened, his jaw tightening with each word. His stomach churned, a sickening feeling settling deep within him. And then it clicked. Hoseok’s parting words, the fear in his eyes when Namjoon had left him at the hotel, the way his body had cowered as the doors closed behind him—it all made sense now. The omega had been hiding his pain, his suffering, and Namjoon had been blind to it.

The rage that consumed Namjoon was unlike anything he had ever felt. It burned through him, a wildfire that could not be contained. He stormed into the Menagerie Hotel, his presence a tempest of fury. The director, oblivious to the storm that was about to descend upon him, approached with a carefree smile, his pudgy face a mask of ignorance.

“Everyone, get on your fucking knees now,” Namjoon commanded, his alpha voice booming through the room like thunder.

The dancers froze, confusion and fear etched on their faces. The director, foolishly, tried to reason with the alpha. “Commander, what is the meaning of this—”

Namjoon’s hand struck like a viper, the force of his backhand sending the director sprawling to the ground. Blood and teeth spilled from the man’s split lip, his face a grotesque mask of pain. “Do not speak to me, you vermin,” Namjoon snarled, his voice low and deadly. “I am not repeating myself. On your knees.”

The room fell into a suffocating silence as the dancers and staff obeyed, their trembling bodies huddled together in the corner. Namjoon’s sharp eyes scanned the room, taking in the bruises and marks that marred their skin. His heart clenched with a mixture of fury and guilt. How had he let this happen? How had he failed to see the signs?

His mind raced as he stormed up the stairs, his heart pounding in his throat. He searched for Hoseok’s room, only to find it empty. Panic clawed at his chest until he remembered—the omega would be practicing, pushing himself to the limit as always. Namjoon followed the sound of heavy breathing and the rhythmic squeak of shoes against the floor, his steps quickening as he approached.

He found Hoseok in an empty room, hunched over with his hands on his knees, his chest heaving with exertion. The omega turned at the sound of Namjoon’s entrance, and the alpha’s heart shattered at the sight of the bruise on his cheek and the cut on his lip.

“Namjoon?” Hoseok’s voice was soft, laced with surprise and a hint of fear. “What are you doing here? The performance isn’t for two more days.”

Namjoon crossed the room in three strides, his hands cradling Hoseok’s face with a gentleness that belied the storm raging within him. His heart hammered in his chest, his knees threatening to buckle under the weight of his guilt and rage. How could he have let this happen? How could he have failed to protect the one person who meant everything to him?

“Who did this to you?” Namjoon’s voice was calm, but the undercurrent of fury was unmistakable.

Hoseok hesitated, his eyes darting away. “I—it was an accident. We were rehearsing, and I slipped—”

“Who did this to you?” Namjoon repeated, his tone softer but no less commanding. He would not let Hoseok lie to him, not about this.

The omega’s shoulders slumped, his defenses crumbling under the weight of Namjoon’s gaze. “It doesn’t matter,” he whispered, his voice trembling. “I’ll heal.”

Namjoon’s grip tightened for a moment before he released Hoseok, his hands shaking with the effort to control his anger. He turned on his heel and stormed back down the stairs, his eyes locking on the director and staff still cowering on their knees.

“Put your hands out,” Namjoon commanded, his voice cold and unyielding. “I’m cutting off one finger at a time until I find the culprit who thought it was a good idea to hurt my omega.”

The room erupted into panicked pleas, but the director, desperate to save himself, was quick to confess. “The spoiled brat should’ve been beaten! He needs discipline! Only because he got bought out—”

Namjoon’s gun was in his hand before the man could finish his sentence. A single shot rang out, the bullet tearing through the director’s chest. Blood pooled onto the marble floor as the man crumpled to the ground, his cries of pain echoing through the room.

“Say that again, I dare you,” Namjoon growled, his voice a low, menacing rumble. He stepped on the director’s hand, his boot grinding into the man’s fingers before delivering a brutal kick to his face. Another shot followed, aimed at the director’s kneecaps, and then another. Namjoon took his time, his rage a living, breathing thing that demanded retribution.

Hoseok watched from the top of the staircase, frozen in shock. His heart ached for the pain Namjoon was inflicting, but a part of him couldn’t help but feel a twisted sense of relief. The alpha’s fury was terrifying, but it was also a testament to how much he cared.

When it was over, Namjoon returned to Hoseok, his face streaked with blood and his uniform stained. “You’ll come with me,” he said, his voice firm but gentle. “Did they hurt you anywhere else?”

Hoseok hesitated before lifting his shirt, revealing the dark bruises that marred his ribcage. Namjoon’s breath hitched, his hands trembling as he reached out to trace the edges of the bruises. “I’ll skin them alive,” he seethed, his voice trembling with barely restrained fury. “Tear them limb from limb, pull their teeth one by one, break their fingers, cut their tongues until they beg for your forgiveness.”

“You don’t have to,” Hoseok whispered, his voice soft but firm. “I’m fine. I’ll heal. They knew I was valuable—they never wanted to deal with damaged goods.”

“You are more than just that, Hoseok,” Namjoon said, his voice breaking with emotion. “You’re brilliant. You’re everything to me. They are the scum who should rot in the depths of hell.”

Hoseok’s eyes filled with tears as he reached out to touch Namjoon’s face. “The dancers are innocent,” he pleaded. “Don’t hurt them.”

Namjoon nodded, his heart aching at the omega’s selflessness. He gathered Hoseok and the dancers, leading them out of the hotel and back to the safety of the palace. As they left the Menagerie behind, Namjoon vowed to himself that he would never let harm come to Hoseok again. The omega was his to protect, his to cherish, and Namjoon would move heaven and earth to keep him safe.

-

The throne room was a cavern of shadows and flickering torchlight, the air thick with the weight of authority and unspoken threats. Emperor Yoongi sat upon his gilded throne, his posture relaxed yet exuding an undeniable aura of power. His legs were spread, one elbow resting on his thigh, his chin propped lazily on his palm. But there was nothing casual about the sharpness in his blood-red eyes, which glinted like shards of glass in the dim light. His brows were knitted together, a faint curl of displeasure twisting his lips. The tension in the room was palpable, a storm brewing beneath the surface of the emperor’s calm exterior.

Namjoon stood before the throne, his posture rigid, his heart pounding in his chest. He could feel the weight of Yoongi’s gaze, piercing and unrelenting, as it bore into him. The emperor’s displeasure was evident, and Namjoon knew he was treading on thin ice. The air was thick with the scent of alpha dominance, a suffocating reminder of the power imbalance between them.

“Explain yourself,” Yoongi’s voice cut through the silence, low and dangerous. “You slaughtered half of the staff.”

Namjoon swallowed hard, his jaw tightening as he met the emperor’s gaze. “Your Majesty, they deserved it. They were scum—treating the dancers horribly and selling them to the highest bidder.” His voice was steady, but the anger simmering beneath the surface threatened to spill over. He had to stay composed, even as the memory of Hoseok’s bruised face flashed in his mind.

Yoongi arched an eyebrow, his head tilting slightly as he studied Namjoon. “And I fail to see how that’s your responsibility,” he drawled, his tone dripping with disdain. The emperor’s crimson eyes gleamed with a cold, calculating light, and Namjoon felt a shiver run down his spine.

For a moment, Namjoon dared to challenge the emperor’s gaze, his own eyes blazing with defiance. “I let my anger get the best of me,” he admitted, his voice firm. “But I do not regret my actions.”

Yoongi’s lips curled into a faint, mocking smile. “Right. And you do know—and are well aware—that my omega is expecting a show from them?” His tone was deceptively light, but the underlying threat was unmistakable.

Namjoon’s stomach churned, a bead of sweat trickling down the back of his neck. He knew that at that moment, Yoongi was not his friend or brother. He was the ruler of the empire, a man who answered only to his empress and his own will. “I am aware, yes,” Namjoon replied, his voice tight.

Yoongi leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing. “And how do you propose setting the show up now that half of them are dead?” he asked, his tone laced with sarcasm. “I will not be the bearer of bad news to my omega. I act solely on his wishes.”

Namjoon’s fists clenched at his sides, his nails digging into his palms. He could feel the heat rising to his collar, the weight of Yoongi’s disappointment pressing down on him like a physical force. “I know this is just a minor hiccup,” he began, choosing his words carefully. “The lead dancer, Hoseok, was left unharmed. I will speak with him—”

Yoongi’s grin widened, his sharp canine teeth glinting in the dim light. A wicked, almost predatory gleam flashed in his eyes, and Namjoon felt a lump form in his throat. “Ah, that omega dancer who caught your fancy?” the emperor interrupted, his voice dripping with mockery. “He will be set in charge. And if he fails to uphold my omega’s standards, I shall have him executed—while you watch.”

The words hung in the air like a death sentence, and Namjoon’s blood ran cold. He straightened his back, his jaw clenched as he fought to keep his composure. “Yes, Your Majesty,” he replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

Yoongi leaned back on his throne, his expression unreadable once more. “You’re dismissed,” he said, his tone final. “Do not disappoint me, Namjoon. You already get enough leeway as it is. Do not think you are above your actions.”

Namjoon bowed deeply, his movements stiff and mechanical, before turning on his heel and striding out of the throne room. The moment the heavy doors closed behind him, he let out a shaky breath, his hands trembling with barely restrained fury. His blood burned like molten lava in his veins, and the image of Hoseok’s bruised face and Yoongi’s cold, calculating gaze seared into his mind.

As he walked away, his thoughts raced. He would not let Hoseok fall victim to the emperor’s wrath. He would protect the omega, no matter the cost. But the weight of Yoongi’s threat lingered, a dark cloud hanging over him. Namjoon knew he was walking a dangerous line, one misstep away from disaster. And yet, as he thought of Hoseok—his smile, his resilience, his unwavering spirit—he knew he would do it all over again. For Hoseok, he would defy an empire.

-

The room was bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, the air thick with the scent of healing herbs and the faint, lingering sweetness of Hoseok’s omega pheromones. Namjoon stood at the door, his heart pounding in his chest as he hesitated for a moment before knocking. The sound echoed softly, and when he entered, his breath caught at the sight of Hoseok lying on the bed, his face pale but his eyes bright with warmth.

“Namjoon. Hi,” Hoseok greeted, his voice soft but filled with a quiet joy that made Namjoon’s chest ache. The omega’s smile was like a beacon, cutting through the shadows of the room and lighting up the darkest corners of Namjoon’s soul.

“How are you feeling?” Namjoon asked, his voice low and tender as he took a seat on the small wooden stool beside the bed. His eyes scanned Hoseok’s face, lingering on the bruise that marred his cheek, and a concerned furrow creased his brow.

“I’m well,” Hoseok replied, his tone reassuring. “They never hurt our legs or arms too badly.” He paused, his gaze softening as he noticed the tension in Namjoon’s shoulders. “I see,” the alpha murmured, blinking back the stray tears that threatened to spill. The thought of anything happening to Hoseok had filled him with helplessness he hadn’t known he was capable of feeling. He should have whisked the omega away the moment he stepped into that wretched hotel, a place so unworthy of someone as pure and gracious as Hoseok.

Namjoon reached for Hoseok’s hand, his fingers trembling as he squeezed it gently as if to reassure himself that the omega was truly there, safe and alive. “Your feet,” he said, his voice rough with emotion as he glanced at where they were propped up on a pillow. “They seem sore.”

Hoseok chuckled softly, though the sound was tinged with pain as he winced at the throb in his cheek. “That’s what dancing for sixteen hours nonstop does to you,” he said, his tone light despite the exhaustion etched into his features.

Namjoon’s heart clenched at the words, and without hesitation, he called for a servant to fetch a soothing salve. Hoseok tried to protest, not wanting to burden the royal staff further, but Namjoon insisted, his voice firm yet gentle. When the servant arrived with the salve, they bowed and made a swift exit, leaving the two alone once more.

Namjoon poured a generous amount of the salve into his hands, the cool scent of mint and lavender filling the air. He began to massage Hoseok’s feet, his touch careful and deliberate, his fingers working over the blisters and rough skin with a tenderness that made the omega’s breath hitch. Hoseok’s face turned bright red, a soft squeak escaping his lips as he squirmed under the sensual touch.

“Sir—you don’t have to,” Hoseok stammered, his voice trembling as a whirlpool of emotions flared within him. The alpha’s hands on him were both soothing and electrifying, sending shivers of pleasure up his spine.

“Let me, please,” Namjoon urged, his voice a low murmur as he continued to knead the swollen flesh. He found the delicate bones of Hoseok’s ankles incredibly tantalizing, like every other part of the omega—beautiful, fragile, and utterly captivating.

When Namjoon finally finished, Hoseok was on the verge of tears. “Thank you,” he whispered, his voice wet with emotion. “I owe you my life. You saved us from that hell.”

Namjoon shook his head, his expression earnest. “I did what was right,” he said firmly. “The doctor said you only had light bruising, and it should heal quickly with some rest.”

Hoseok’s eyes filled with guilt as he glanced away. “I am lucky. They always went easy on me, but the others…” His voice trailed off, and Namjoon gently caressed his hand, his touch a silent promise.

“They are getting proper attention and care,” Namjoon assured him. “Do not worry.”

Hoseok’s tears spilled over, his voice impossibly small as he stared at Namjoon like he was a hero, a savior. “I feel at a loss for words. Is there anything I can do to properly convey my gratitude?”

Namjoon held his gaze for a moment, his heart swelling with emotions he could barely contain. “You could just stay,” he said, his voice soft but filled with longing. “It is a selfish request, but I would like for you to stay by my side as long as you wish.”

Hoseok’s breath hitched, and before Namjoon could react, the omega threw himself into the alpha’s arms, forgetting about his injuries in his haste. “Yes!” he exclaimed, his voice trembling with joy. “I’ll stay for as long as you’ll have me.”

Namjoon’s arms wrapped around Hoseok’s slender frame, engulfing him in a warmth that felt like home. “Are you prepared to spend an eternity with me, then?” he asked, his voice tinged with laughter but also a hopeful sincerity.

Hoseok pulled back slightly, his eyes shining with determination. “If it was any other alpha, then no,” he said firmly. “But for you, Commander and Chief Namjoon, yes.”

They basked in the moment, their joy a silent promise of a future filled with love and prosperity. But as Namjoon recalled the emperor’s warning, his face fell, the weight of the threat pressing down on him once more. Hoseok noticed the subtle change in his demeanor, the way his scent turned bitter with unease.

“What’s wrong?” Hoseok asked, his voice soft but filled with concern.

Namjoon hesitated, his grip on Hoseok tightening as he let out a deep exhale. “I have dreadful news,” he admitted, his voice heavy. “The empress is still expecting a performance, a grand one for the royal court. He has invited every one of importance, and his majesty has high expectations.”

Hoseok’s eyes widened, but before he could speak, Namjoon continued. “The emperor has put you in charge to torment me. I fear if it doesn’t please his omega, then—” He cut himself off, unable to utter the words that filled him with dread.

Namjoon’s gaze was heartfelt, his devotion and honesty shining through. “If anything were to happen to you,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion, “I’d slaughter the emperor myself in front of his omega and then pierce my heart. I could not see myself living in a world without you, Hoseok. I just couldn’t.”

His chest swelled with emotions, his body shaking as he fought to keep his composure. He would not let anything happen to Hoseok again. He would lay down his life if it meant keeping the omega safe.

Hoseok’s eyes softened, a gentle smile spreading across his face. “Namjoon,” he began, his voice filled with warmth, “the fact that we just met last week, and you’re already conspiring to commit treason if I were to get hurt… I do not know what I have done to deserve such devotion. You amaze me every time we speak.”

He released his pheromones into the air, the sweet aroma wrapping around Namjoon like a comforting blanket, easing the alpha’s unease. “But I want to put your worries to rest,” Hoseok continued, his voice steady and confident. “I hate seeing you with this fear in your pretty eyes. I am not the best of the best just because. I shall put on the greatest show, one the empress will brag about for years to come. Now that the dancers are finally getting the care they need, they shall dance until their feet bleed. I promise you, you have nothing to fear, Namjoon.”

Namjoon’s eyes watered, his heart swelling with a love he had never known was possible. “Hoseok,” he whispered, his voice breaking, “you are so bright. I feel unworthy to stay in your light.”

Hoseok reached up, his fingers gently tapping the taut muscle of Namjoon’s jaw, causing the alpha to meet his gaze once more. “I wouldn’t want you anywhere else but right here, Namjoon,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “I always feared the royal guards, thinking they were ruthless beasts. But you proved me wrong. You are nothing like that. In the short moments we’ve spent together, you’ve shown me more respect, kindness, and compassion than any alpha ever has.”

Namjoon’s breath hitched, his heart pounding in his chest as Hoseok’s words washed over him. “Your past might be dark,” the omega continued, his eyes shining with sincerity, “and you might have grown used to the cold of war. But that doesn’t take away from who you are, and how strong my feelings for you have become.”

The alpha was stunned, a feverish blush rising to his cheeks. He had never thought he would be the recipient of such tender, heartfelt words. His heart beat harder, faster, and Hoseok’s smile unraveled a flurry of emotions within him. Namjoon found himself utterly enamored, his feelings for the omega intense and all-consuming.

A steady stream of tears fell down Namjoon’s cheeks, and he let out a shaky laugh. “Ah, here I am, the feared commander, crying…” he hiccuped, his voice filled with both embarrassment and relief.

Hoseok was quick to gently wipe away his tears, his touch soft and comforting. “You are beautiful, Namjoon,” he said, his voice filled with warmth. “I think I will fall for you a thousand times over if you continue this.”

Namjoon’s winter had finally melted, the barren tundra of his heart giving way to the warmth of Hoseok’s light. The omega was like a shining sun, descending from the heavens above, igniting life within him and giving him a reason to believe he was enough. Enough to be desired, loved, and cared for. His past no longer defined him, and he would not let his actions haunt him anymore. In Hoseok’s light, Namjoon had found solace and acceptance.

And he swore to protect the omega with his life in return.

-

The stage lights dimmed, casting long shadows across the polished floor as Hoseok took his final bow. His chest heaved, each breath a struggle against the burning ache in his muscles, but he refused to let it show. Instead, he flashed the roaring audience a million-watt smile, his eyes sparkling with a mix of exhaustion and triumph. The applause was deafening, a thunderous wave of admiration that washed over him as he swiftly exited the stage, the heat of the lights fading behind him.

Backstage, the air was electric with excitement. The dance troupe erupted into cheers, their voices a cacophony of praise and relief. They surrounded Hoseok, clapping him on the back and showering him with congratulations. “You did it, Hoseok!” one of them exclaimed, their voice filled with awe. “Your ideas—they elevated the performance to something extraordinary!”

Hoseok’s heart swelled with pride, though he tried to remain humble. The past directors had never valued his input, but now, as the showrunner, he had finally been able to showcase his vision. The performance had been a resounding success, and the joy in his fellow dancers’ eyes was a reward in itself.

In the audience, the empress Seokjin was practically glowing with delight. His hands clapped together with unbridled enthusiasm, his eyes shining like stars as he turned to his alpha, Emperor Yoongi. “This was excellent, my love!” Seokjin exclaimed, his voice bubbling with excitement. “This was just perfect!” Without waiting for a response, the omega threw himself into Yoongi’s arms, pressing a flurry of kisses along the alpha’s slender neckline.

Yoongi let out a content sigh, his hand instinctively moving to caress the bare, exposed back of Seokjin’s gown. “If you were pleased, then so am I, omega,” he murmured, his voice low and warm. A small smile played on his lips as he watched Seokjin’s face bloom into a delicate shade of pink.

Seokjin’s long lashes fluttered as he jutted out his bottom lip in a playful pout. “Can we keep them? As my personal dance troupe?” he asked, his tone sweet and pleading.

Yoongi chuckled, the sound deep and rich. “Yes, anything for you, omega,” he replied, his voice filled with affection. The emperor’s crimson eyes softened as he gazed at his mate, his heart swelling with love for the omega who had captured his soul.

Backstage, Namjoon waited patiently for Hoseok, his heart pounding with anticipation. When the omega finally appeared, his face flushed from the performance and his chest still rising and falling with exertion, Namjoon’s breath caught in his throat. Hoseok’s eyes lit up at the sight of the alpha, and without a second thought, he excused himself from the conversation and practically leaped into Namjoon’s arms.

The alpha’s eyes widened in shock before he caught Hoseok effortlessly, his strong arms wrapping around the omega’s slender frame. Hoseok’s arms tightened around Namjoon’s neck, and the alpha buried his face in the juncture between the omega’s neck and shoulder. He inhaled deeply, the intoxicating scent of Hoseok filling his senses, and gently nipped at the swollen scent gland there. A low moan escaped Hoseok’s lips, his fingertips digging into the nape of Namjoon’s neck as he melted into the embrace.

Namjoon’s hands settled around Hoseok’s waist, pulling him closer until there was no space left between them. For a moment, the world faded away, leaving only the two of them in a bubble of warmth and affection.

Reluctantly, they pulled apart, though their bodies still leaned toward each other as if drawn by an invisible force. Namjoon reached behind him and produced a bouquet of roses, neatly wrapped in a bow. “This time, I brought you proper flowers after a performance,” he said, his voice soft but filled with meaning. “A bouquet of roses. My goal is to bring you every single flower under the sun.” Namjoon reveals with a tint of pink dusting across his face.

Hoseok’s eyes widened, a blush spreading across his cheeks as he accepted the flowers. He brought them to his nose, inhaling their sweet fragrance before setting them aside on a nearby table. “All of them?” he teased, his voice light and playful. “That might take you a long time…”

Namjoon’s lips curved into a wistful smile. “I count on it,” he replied, his voice filled with a quiet determination. Before Hoseok could respond, the alpha tilted the omega’s face upward, his fingertips brushing against the silky black locks that curled around Hoseok’s neck. Their lips met in a passionate kiss, a promise sealed in the heat of the moment.

Hoseok’s lips were warm and inviting, and the small, breathless noises that escaped him drove Namjoon to the brink of madness. The alpha’s hands tightened around Hoseok’s waist, pulling him closer as he deepened the kiss, letting the primal hunger within him take over. In that fleeting touch of lips, a promise was made—a promise of a future filled with love, devotion, and endless possibilities.

The sound of wolf whistles and teasing cheers broke through the haze, and Hoseok pulled away, his face flushed with embarrassment. Namjoon recognized the loudest voices as belonging to Taehyung and Jimin, and he shot them a glare before turning his attention back to Hoseok. Without warning, he scooped the omega into his arms, carrying him bridal-style as if he weighed nothing.

Hoseok let out a yelp of surprise, his arms instinctively wrapping around Namjoon’s neck. “Namjoon!” he exclaimed, though there was no real protest in his voice. The alpha’s strength and confidence sent a thrill through him, and he couldn’t help but laugh as Namjoon carried him away from the prying eyes of their comrades.

The cheers and teasing faded into the distance as the pair made their way deeper into the palace grounds, their hearts beating in sync. In that moment, nothing else mattered—not the performance, not the audience, not the world outside. There was only the two of them, wrapped in each other’s arms, their love a beacon of light in the darkness.

-

In the hushed sanctuary of Namjoon’s bedchamber, the air was thick with tension, a heady mix of desire and vulnerability that seemed to pulse between them. Hoseok’s cheeks burned with a delicate flush, his heart racing as he clung to the alpha, his fingers trembling against the broad expanse of Namjoon’s chest. The alpha’s scent, warm, commanding, and intoxicating wrapped around him like a cocoon, and Hoseok’s own pheromones spiked in response, sweet and inviting, drawing a low growl from Namjoon’s throat. The alpha’s arms tightened possessively around Hoseok’s slender frame, his steps purposeful as he carried him toward the bed, each stride radiating a quiet confidence that made Hoseok’s breath hitch.

Namjoon’s voice, deep and velvety, broke the silence as he gently lowered Hoseok onto the plush sheets. “Rest your pretty feet, angel,” he murmured, his tone dripping with adoration and something darker, more primal. “You did so well today.” His words were a caress, tender yet laced with an undercurrent of desire that sent shivers down Hoseok’s spine. Namjoon sank to his knees, his piercing gaze locked onto Hoseok’s, and at that moment, the omega felt utterly exposed, his bottom lip caught between his teeth, his cheeks painted a soft pink. His fingers twisted nervously in the sheets, the fabric cool against his heated skin.

For an alpha like Namjoon—a royal guard who had only ever knelt before the emperor—to bow before an omega was a gesture of profound significance. It was a silent declaration, a promise of devotion and submission that spoke louder than words. Namjoon’s hands moved with deliberate care, his fingers tracing the delicate curve of Hoseok’s calves, massaging the tension from his sore muscles. The omega winced as Namjoon slipped off his shoes, revealing raw, blistered feet—a testament to the passion and dedication Hoseok had poured into his dance. Namjoon’s touch was reverent, his ministrations gentle as he worked to soothe the aches, his hands radiating warmth and comfort.

Hoseok’s breath hitched as Namjoon’s fingers brushed higher, tugging at the waistband of his pants. The alpha’s movements were slow, deliberate as if savoring every moment, and Hoseok felt a rush of vulnerability as the cool air kissed his bare skin. He was left clad only in his dress shirt, the fabric clinging to his frame, and the intensity of Namjoon’s gaze made him feel both exposed and cherished. “Ngh—” Hoseok moaned softly, his voice trembling as Namjoon’s hands explored the firm muscles of his thighs, his touch igniting a fire that spread through Hoseok’s entire being.

“My omega is so strong,” Namjoon whispered, his voice a low, sultry rumble that sent a thrill through Hoseok. “So beautiful.” His words were a balm, soothing yet electrifying, and Hoseok keened at the praise, his fingers clutching at Namjoon’s uniform. “Alpha,” he breathed, his voice trembling with need. “I want to see you.”

Namjoon obeyed without hesitation, his movements swift yet controlled as he stripped off his uniform, revealing the sculpted planes of his body. Hoseok’s eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat as he took in the alpha’s impressive form—broad shoulders, a chest carved from years of discipline, and arms that spoke of strength and protection. There were scars littered across his chest, abdomen and neck. Hoseok felt a pang of remorse of all the hurt the alpha had endured. All the battles and wars he fought and persevered. Namjoon was gorgeous, every inch of him was perfection, and Hoseok felt a surge of desire so potent it left him dizzy. Hossok needed to make the alpha realize just how breathtaking he found him. 

With a newfound boldness, Hoseok placed a foot on Namjoon’s shoulder, pressing down gently, his lips curling into a seductive smile. He dragged his foot slowly down the alpha’s chest, reveling in the way Namjoon’s muscles tensed beneath his touch. “All these muscles, so handsome alpha…” Hoseok purred, his voice dripping with admiration, “And they are just for me to see, right?” Namjoon’s response was a low, affirmative hum, his eyes dark with desire as he watched Hoseok with rapt attention.

Hoseok’s foot traveled lower, his toes brushing against the prominent bulge in Namjoon’s pants, and the alpha’s sharp intake of breath was music to his ears. “Such a good alpha,” Hoseok teased, his voice a sultry whisper. “So responsive.” He pressed down with deliberate slowness, feeling the twitch of Namjoon’s arousal beneath his foot, and the alpha’s restraint was palpable, his chest heaving as he fought to remain still.

Hoseok’s own body was betraying him, slick pooling beneath him as his desire spiraled out of control. The scent of it filled the room, and Namjoon’s nostrils flared, his jaw tightening as he struggled to maintain his composure. “Alpha,” Hoseok whined, his voice trembling with need. “Undress for me.”

Namjoon obeyed, his movements fluid as he shed the last of his clothing, revealing the full extent of his arousal. Hoseok’s breath caught at the sight, his mouth watering as he took in the sheer size of him—thick, girthy, and crowned with a blunt leaking tip, Hoseok’s eyes zeroed in on the heavy reddening knot forming at the base. The omega’s desire burned hotter, his body aching to be filled, to be claimed by the alpha who knelt before him.

Namjoon returned to his place at Hoseok’s feet, his face pressed against the omega’s thick thighs, his lips trailing kisses along the smooth skin. Hoseok’s fingers tangled in Namjoon’s hair, his breath coming in shallow gasps as the alpha’s touch set his nerves alight. “Namjoon,” he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion. “You’re mine.”

The alpha’s response was a low growl, his lips capturing Hoseok’s in a searing kiss that spoke of promises and passion. At that moment, the world outside ceased to exist, and all that remained was the two of them—bound by desire, devotion, and a love that burned brighter than the stars. Hoseok felt Namjoon’s teeth nibble at his bottom lip, gently prying them open so he could slide his tongue against Hoseok’s, exploring every inch with a hunger that left Hoseok breathless. The wet, sensual sounds of their kiss filled the room, each one sending a jolt of pleasure through Hoseok’s body. He whimpered softly, his breath catching in his throat as Namjoon’s touch set every nerve alight, sending sparks of electricity shooting up his spine.

Hoseok was lost in the sensation, his mind hazy with desire, when he felt Namjoon’s strong arms lifting him effortlessly. The omega barely had time to register the movement before he was gently laid down on the bed, the soft sheets cool against his heated skin. A thin string of saliva broke between their swollen lips as Namjoon pulled back, his dark eyes blazing with an intensity that made Hoseok’s heart race. He gasped as the alpha’s weight settled over him, crushing yet comforting, suffocating yet exhilarating. Hoseok felt utterly consumed, and yet, he had never felt safer.

Namjoon’s lips found Hoseok’s slender neck, trailing a path of fiery kisses that left the omega trembling. His sharp canines grazed the sensitive skin of Hoseok’s scent gland, lapping at the essence that seeped through, coating his tongue with the thick, heady taste of the omega’s pheromones. Hoseok’s fingers tightened in Namjoon’s hair, his body arching instinctively as pleasure coursed through him.

The alpha’s hands slid down to Hoseok’s thighs, his touch firm yet tender as he spread them wide, making space for himself between them. Namjoon’s hips rutted against Hoseok’s, the delicious friction drawing a low groan from the alpha’s throat. The sensation was intoxicating, a perfect blend of need and relief that left them both trembling with anticipation.

Hoseok’s breath came in ragged gasps, his chest rising and falling as he gazed up at Namjoon, his eyes filled with a mixture of adoration and desire. “Namjoon,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m ready, take me alpha, make me yours forever...”

The alpha’s response was a deep, possessive growl, his lips crashing against Hoseok’s once more as he poured every ounce of his love, his passion, into the kiss. One of Namjoon’s found his, interlocking their fingers before squeezing tight. Hoseok's heart toppled over, beating erratically in his chest. Namjoon’s sweet and sloppy kisses drew out another side of him, whining and panting like he was desperate for more. Hoseok's cunt throbbed an ache that only his knot could satisfy.

“Namjoon, alpha, please touch me!” Hoseok begged, his face flushed deeply, hair plastered on his sweaty forehead. 

Namjoon obliged, his unoccupied hand snaking down Hoseok’s frame. Namjoon’s hand roamed over Hoseok’s body with a reverence that left the omega trembling, his touch both possessive and tender. His fingers traced the delicate curve of Hoseok’s waist, the dip of his hips, and the softness of his inner thighs, mapping every inch of him as though committing it to memory. Hoseok’s skin burned under the alpha’s touch, every caress sending waves of heat coursing through him, pooling low in his belly. Hoseok arched into Namjoon’s hand when the alpha made contact with his wet pulsating heat. Namjoon experimentally rubbed along Hoseok's cunt. Fingers dragging up and down with slow strokes, gauging Hoseok’s reaction. 

“Good omega?” Namjoon asks, rubbing the pad of his thumb against Hoseok's clit, the sensitive bundle of pleasure point throbbing.   

Hoseok’s brain is zapped, his toes curling, skin on Fire. He can only nod, back arching once Namjoon slips inside, the wetness granting easy access. Namjoon feels his fingers get sucked in, velvety soft walls clamping down. The sweet slick dripping down, glistening folds beckoned him close looking like his next meal.

''You’re so beautiful,” Namjoon murmured against Hoseok’s skin, his voice rough with desire. His teeth grazed the omega’s pulse point, nipping lightly before soothing the spot with his tongue. Hoseok gasped, his fingers tightening in Namjoon’s hair as a shudder ran through him. The alpha’s words, so raw and filled with adoration, made his heart swell, and he felt a surge of emotion that threatened to overwhelm him.

Hoseok was writhing beneath him, his breaths coming in ragged gasps. “Namjoon, please,” Hoseok begged, his voice trembling with need. His hands slid down to grip the alpha’s broad shoulders, his nails digging into the taut muscles as he tried to pull him closer. “I need you. I need all of you.”

Namjoon’s growl was loud and possessive, vibrating through Hoseok’s body as he finally relented, his hands sliding beneath the omega to lift his hips. Their eyes locked, and in that moment, the world seemed to fall away. There was only the two of them, their connection a tangible force that bound them together, heart and soul.

Namjoon let his animalistic instinct take the reins, trusting that his alpha knew how to please his omega. Namjoon slowly eased the thick, blunt head of his arousal, nudging against Hoseok’s entrance. The omega’s breath hitched, his body instinctively tensing before relaxing, trusting his alpha completely. Namjoon paused, his forehead resting against Hoseok’s as he whispered, “Look at me, love. Just look at me.”

Hoseok’s eyes fluttered open, meeting Namjoon’s intense gaze. The alpha’s eyes were dark with desire, but there was something else there too—something soft, something infinitely tender. It was that look, more than anything, that made Hoseok’s heart ache with love. He reached up to cup Namjoon’s face, his thumb brushing over the alpha’s cheekbone as he whispered, “I’m yours. Always.”

Namjoon’s lips crashed against his in an instant. The kiss bled into something so reverent and tender, a perfect reflection of all the emotions swirling between them. Taking Hoseok's mind away from the intrusion, Namjoon licked into his mouth while pushing himself inside. Once he was fully sheathed, only the throbbing knot bumping against Hoseok stretched out pussy, Namjoon let out a quivering breath.

He could get addicted to this. He probably already was. Hoseok's wet, tight, and perfect cunt welcomed him with a grip so coiling it made stars appear in his peripheral vision. Like the omega's body spread itself to accommodate his size, greedily clinging onto him with a wanton desire.

Hoseok’s breath caught a soft whimper escaping his lips as he adjusted to the sensation, the fullness, the heat. It burned in all the best ways. He had never experienced such fullness. Namjoon stilled, his muscles trembling with the effort of holding back, his forehead pressed against Hoseok’s as he whispered, “Are you okay? Tell me if it’s too much.”

Hoseok shook his head, his hands sliding down to grip Namjoon’s back, his fingers digging into the taut flesh. “No,” he breathed, his voice shaky but firm. “It’s perfect. You’re perfect. Please, don’t stop.”

Namjoon let out a high-pitched sound, something akin to a wail. His hips began to roll in a slow, deliberate rhythm that had Hoseok crying out. Hoseok felt Namjoon’s cock moving inside, the impossible size dragging along his sensitive walls. So much slick leaked from his cunt, dripping down onto the bed sheets. The alpha’s movements were unhurried, each one designed to draw out every ounce of pleasure, to make Hoseok feel cherished, adored, and loved. Hoseok’s legs wrapped around Namjoon’s waist, pulling him closer.

The room was filled with the sounds of their passion—soft moans, ragged breaths, the slick slide of skin against skin. Namjoon’s lips found Hoseok’s once more, their kisses growing increasingly desperate as their bodies moved together in perfect harmony. Hoseok’s fingers tangled in Namjoon’s hair, his nails scraping lightly against the alpha’s scalp as he clung to him, his world narrowing to the man above him, inside him, surrounding him.

“Namjoon,” Hoseok gasped, his voice breaking as pleasure coiled tighter and tighter within him. “I’m close. I’m so close.”

Namjoon took it as a command, to hurry up and bring heaven to his omega. To wrought out all the pleasure imaginable. His knot now threatened to slip inside, lock together. He wants to pump Hoseok full, to keep him full. To breed his omega. He would look gorgeous barefoot and pregnant. To give his omega a whole litter of pups.

A molten craving burns in Namjoon’s dilated pupils, his mouth watering at the thought. He grabs Hoseok’s hips, fingers brushing against the bones as he thrusts into his omega with a profound tremor. His alpha howling, elongating his sharp canines, drool poolish from his mouth. Hoseok's scent glands just millimeters away from his reach. 

“Gonna breed you omega, keep you swollen with my seed.” Namjoon groaned, at the edge of himself, grinding into Hoseok like it was his only reason for breathing.

Hoseoks let out a pathetic sob, nodding his head. A succulent mixture of vanilla and ripe peached blooms from Hoseok’s scent glands, drive Namjoon to piston hips with a radical speed.

Once Hoseok's cunt loosened enough to allow Namjoon’s big knot to finally slip inside, the omega began seizing. Arching his back, eyes rolling back. His mouth went slack, losing the vice grip on Namjoon’s shoulders and hair. Waves of pleasure over him with an intensity that left him breathless. It stings, a little pitchfork dipped in lava tingling along his nerves. A coiling sensation snapped in his stomach, causing the omega to cry out. 

Namjoon followed soon after, his movements growing erratic as he buried himself deep inside Hoseok, his release spilling hot and thick. His knot does a good job at plugging the omega, pumping him full, and making sure his seed is secure in that sloppy heat.

Namjoon lets out a deep grunt before he collapses onto the omega, his body trembling as he presses his face into the crook of Hoseok’s neck, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Hoseok’s arms wrapped around him, holding him close as they both drifted in the aftermath, their hearts beating in sync.

For a long moment, neither of them spoke, the silence broken only by the sound of their breathing. As they lay tangled together, their bodies still humming with the echoes of their passion, Hoseok knew that he had found his home in Namjoon’s arms, in his heart, in his enchanting soul. 

“I love you.” He confessed only to be met with the same three words tying their minds, bodies and souls forever.

The end.

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