'Inyeon' A taekook tale

In a split second , before anyone could react , Taehyn signalled one of his guards , who immediately drew out his sword, piercing through Jungkook 's stomach, penetrating his liver, twirling the sharp blade inside the wound with a sneer on his ugly face ,showing how much he enjoyed it. An influx of excruciating pain plunged Jungkook 's weak, bruised body ,gushing out a squeaky snort.

" JUNGKOOOOOOOOOOOK' Taehyung sniveled , violently tugging the guards who held him captive.Using all his remaining strength and wrath he shove them away and managed to escape dashing to his love just as Jimin, Yoongi and Hoseok stormed in when learning of the situation.

" Father what have you done?" Jimin squearled at Taehyn, who simply ignored him . The sight broke their hearts. Jungkook was laying on the floor, in a pool of blood in Taehyung 's embrace. The weeping man was cradling him , caressing his wet scruffy hair, not knowing what to do.His teary eyes fixed on the younger. Through his experience in the battlefield he knew his love was going to die at any moment.

" H- hyungie..."

" Don't ...speak love... I'm here... you'll be...fine..." he whispered as tears wouldn't stop brimming down his pale face.

" You...a-re...a terrible ...liar...I am... dying... hyungie...." he coughed , vomitting thick blood , scaring the man. His lungs were bleeding from the fatal wound. It was a matter of seconds before the internal bleeding would send him to death. Jungkook blinked his heavy eyes, gripping on the older 's ,soaked in blood, hanbok." It's...ok... hyungie...It ... doesn't...hurt ... anymore..." A faint smile tinted his red , from blood, lips. " I ...love ...you...I always...will... please... remember...me ....our ...love... sorry...we ... couldn't...be ... together...be ... happy...my ...love.... maybe...in....another...life...we could....b..." Panting heavily, a bright, serene light embraced his body , drawing him.Calling him. The end was near. He shut his eyes taking his last breath in his love 's strong arms. Taehyung froze. Mind blank. Jungkook 's lifeless body engolfed in his quivering arms.

" NO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! PLEASE BABY OPEN YOUR EYES! OPEN THEM... DON'T LEAVE ME...PLEASE COME BACK TO ME...YOU CAN'T DIE! PLEAAAAAAASE! HOW WILL I LIVE WITHOUT YOU? I LOVE YOU...I LOVE YOU...." He was rocking him, shaking his dead body not accepting his love was gone. The thought of never seeing the glow in his gorgeous eyes, never hearing his cute giggles, kissing his plump lips, touching his soft skin ,was too much to bear. What was life without him? Empty...void... unworthy.An earsplitting roar vented his quivering mouth as he lifted his head up. He had failed to notice Bogum and his soldiers had circled them offering protection." Please baby come back to me....open your eyes...your hyungie will take you away...far away from them...our farm is waiting...your parents...I will hold you in ...my arms...kiss you...make you mine...grow old together...until the day we...meet our maker...please love...please... don't leave me...." His constant crying, begging caused everyone's sorrow. Even the elders were feeling pity for them. Taehyung slanted to his baby's ear, kissing his bloody lips, whispering." I am coming love...I will fulfil my promise my darling...we will be together in life and death...I swear I will find you in another life ... and make you mine..."

He kissed his soft lips passionately, carefully taking out a small silver dagger, hidden inside his right boot. Without any hesitation he pressed the iron object in his stomach, refusing to make any sound, feeling no pain, only relief. Blood was oozing out of the freshly made wound and holding Jungkook 's hand tight , he laid on top of him, smiling." I...am... coming...to ..you... princess...wait ...for...me..." he muttered while his soul was leaving his body with only one image before him...his smiling Jungkook ,extending his hand through the mist, calling for him...

Jimin screamed in horror and run to them, kneeling down." TAEHYUNG WHAT HAVE YOU DONE? WHY? WHY? BROTHER... JUNGKOOK...WHY?" He shook their bodies, sobbing hysterically and for a moment he thought he heard his brother 's faint voice whispering " The ... Kim's...will...come..go ... with...them..."

He didn't know of it had actually happened or he had imagined it. Then nothing. Deafening silence.Not even breathing was heard.

The Kim's turned their backs to the sight, prancing to their room, holding hands as If nothing had occurred. Their dark, stiff faces betrayed no remorse or pain for their son 's death. " Get rid of the bodies. Burn them. Separately." Taehyn instructed his guards and vanished.

However they were unable to execute his orders because Bogum and his soldiers managed to resist and forming a shield, carried their bodies inside the woods to Taehyung 's secret cabin.

Hours later, somewhere deep, inside the woods.

Jimin was still crying uncontrollably in Yoongi 's arms, grieving for the couple, blaming himself for their death, while Hoseok was shrunk into a dark corner shaking from the unbearable pain of losing his cousin and dear friend.

_____

The isolated, wooden cabin was heavily guarded by soldiers ,spread to every corner of the area. Dark tree trunks, odd shadows forming on the squeaky ground, overhanging limbs across the narrow paths. The decaying air and stifling atmosphere provided the perfect abide for those who worshipped the gloomy darkness, keeping intruders away. Heavy , steady footsteps echoed through the vastness as two, tall, dim figures, covered in long, black cloaks made their way into the front gate, before two guards blocked their way.

" Stop! Who are you?" the first soldier asked but received no response.

" You sre trespassing.This is private property. Go back!" the second one warned them, gripping on his sword.

The slim figure raised his right hand, slinging both of them ,as their bodies tweaked away.The door cracked open, entering the blink corridor, reaching the main room,where two lifeless bodies were laid peacefully together on a flat, wooden table. Bogum impelled the intruders,swaying his sword towards them.

" Who are you? How did you escape the guards?"

The two strangers ignored the fierce commander,while marching to the table with grace. The nine people present in the room,were astonished when the men removed their cloak hoodies, revealing their stunning facial features. Soothe foreheads. Glistening, bright eyes. Symmetric, slim noses. Full, luscious lips. Sharp jawlines, resembling mystical forest fairies rather than humans. The younger male leaned, fondled and kissed Jungkook 's forehead first then repeated the action on Taehyung.

" My baby...my precious boy...Papa is here..." he lisped, reaching out to hold his companion 's hand, who did the same.

" Excuse me..." Jimin intervened." Who are you? How did you come here?"

" Jungkook 's parents." the man disclosed in a shaky ,yet calm voice." I am Kim Seokjin... that's my husband Kim Namjoon."

The Kim's.

Just like his brother had told him.

They were finally here. In the flesh.

Kim Namjoon. A valiant, fearless warrior. An intellectual scholar graced with an acute mind and impeccable patience.

Kim Seokjin. A powerful, spiritual healer. Gifted with exuberant abilities and a profound knowledge of ancient sorcery. They both lived in a secluded village near the Chinese - Russian borders in Pangu Estuary Shangdao. Leaders of a secretive society consisted of people of different origins, cultures, beliefs. Exempted of prejudices and taboos.

Seokjin reached inside his cloak and took out a small, ornate, leather book whereas Namjoon tied a silk, red thread in Jungkook and Taehyung 's pinky fingers ,connecting them.Seokjin opened the book, reciting ancient words, incomprehensible to the rest. When they finished , he hid it inside his cloak again as they both kissed the dead couple 's foreheads, holding hands.

" We'll take them with us.." Seokjin announced only to meet Jimin 's resistance.

" You can't! They belong here with their family!"

" To be defiled? Designated by the same people who led them to death? I refuse to allow your family to violate their bodies the same way they did to their love. They will be safe amongst us." Seokjin replied calmly. Trying to suppress his heartening sorrow was strenuous enough. Trying not to break or burst into tears was tormenting his soul. Guilt was consuming him because he was the one who sent him to Taehyung. His dreams, premonitions drove his only son to his destiny.

" Take us with you." Yoongi asserted stepping forward." Living like outcasts, hiding our true identity,forced to comply with society out of fear is more than we can bear. Accept us and we'll forever be grateful for your kindness, healer."

The Kim's were staggered by the man's perspicacity but reluctant to agree as their acceptance could trigger Taehyn 's wrath. Losing both sons would be a fatal blow to his ego and the perfect excuse to hunt them down and kill them.

Jimin held Yoongi 's hand tight, his heart was panting. " Please...take us with you... I want to be with them...I don't wish to spend another day under my father's ruling."

Bogum and the four guards present, stepped closer in sheer determination." Allow us to escort you to safety. We are General Kim and young master's loyal servants. We go where they go!"

Seokjin was pleased his son had such loyal friends. It offered him comfort to think how he was loved when alive. Their loyalty was unique.He gazed at his husband , waiting for his approval,who simply nodded." We leave in an hour."

An hour later they departured. The couple 's bodies were placed in a long carriage driven by Bogum himself, while the others rode their horses. Galloping in high speed, they crossed the Korean borders, entering the Chinese. Reaching a dense forest pathway, they were led to an isolated , hidden meadow, where they camped for the night.

Seokjin asked Jimin's help to prepare the bodies for the cremation . They washed, dried them, removing all the moist , covered them with aromatic oils then wrapped them in fine , white linen and burnt them to ensure they would remain together in their next lives. Their ashes were placed in an urn carved with their initials. At dawn, they embarked on their long journey to their new home.

Jungkook 's golden pendant was secure, around Jimin's neck, to remind him of his loved ones. After weeks, they reached their destination. The villagers welcomed them with open arms ,in spite of their grief for Jungkook 's death, embraced them into their society where everyone was equal and free.

Jimin became an excellent healer ,working with Jin. Yoongi and Bogum created a fierce army worthy of their late General. Hobi, trained by Namjoon ,became a scholar. A skillful teacher for the children, as life flew like water in a stream. Nobody heard of the Kim's ever again.

End of flashback.

Jungkook dried his tears, closed the window and indulged himself in a warm bath, for quite some time, then put on a pair of white pyjamas and huddled in bed under the covers. A bitter chuckle left his mouth.In a twist of fate he was now on the other side... experiencing a forbidden , one sided love with a married man. Alone and cursed...having scarce hopes for the future.

In that specific day Jungkook was tortured by terrible nightmares, keeping him awake till dawn, twisting and turning in bed. After two strong cups of coffee he managed to function. Taehyung was at the company, Duri was enjoying the morning sun out in the patio, while he and Tata were were playing board games in the living room. The rest were doing their chores.

The atmosphere was peaceful and pleasant until Duri decided to stir the peace. He rudely ordered Jungkook to go out and buy her fashion magazines, butter croissant from a specific bakery across town and get her outfits from the dry cleaner's. The younger strongly protested." I am sure Kai will be more suitable to run your errands Mrs Kim. I'm here to take care of your son."

She raised her hand to shut him up." Your job is to obey my commands not to argue. You'll do as I say before I get you fired." she warned him scoffing. She then forcefully gripped Tata 's arm, dragging him out in the cool air without his jacket, despite his screams.

" NO...I DON'T WANT TO GO...I WANT TO PLAY WITH KOOKIE!" he yelled pulling his hand to escape her grip but was ignored. Jungkook followed them out.

" Please it's cold ... he'll get sick."

" I am his mother. I know what's best for him. A little sun won't harm him.Stop interfering in how I raise my SON!" she pointed , showing him exactly what his place was." Go get my things."

" Mrs Kim please ...at least let me bring his jacket." Jungkook begged her once again. Duri obstinate behaviour was irritating him. If she wanted to enjoy the cold ,she had every right. Tata was an entirely different story.

" He needs discipline to stop acting like a weak, spoilt brat. Leave us...NOW!" she growled, forcing crying Tata to play football on the grassy lawn.

The younger left with a heavy heart, she forbid the staff to exit the kitchen, issuing threats as usual and send Kai as far away as possible. JungTae, bitting his lips was kicking the ball, running next to the pool, trembling from the cold air. The boy was panting ,hoping his Kookie would return soon and accidentally his kick threw the ball inside the pool. JungTae munched his lower lip.

" My ball..."

" Brat! You can't do anything tight. Always causing trouble. Go get it out!" Duri instructed him , flipping through her magazine unbothered.

" Tata doesn't know how to swim." the boy replied pouting and huffing.

" Then it's time to learn."

" Tata is cold..." His small body was shivering from the breeze. The woman puffed in annoyance, flipping her shiny , long hair back." Constantly whining...seeking attention... complaining... My ears sre hurting!"

" But my ball...get my ball.."

" GO GET YOUR GODDAMN BALL AND STOP PESTERING ME!" She arose, tossed the magazine, proceeded to her son,hooked his arm, squeezed it using all her strength.No doubt she was furious!" Your father has created a rascal! If you want it go get it yourself!" She jammed his body in the cold water and a thirst of twisted gratification bloomed inside her. The poor boy 's yelps and shrills , his loud cries shook the entire mansion. He was struggling to float,remain on surface. His arms frailed as he sought to maintain balance, while gulping amounts of water.

" H-E-L-P...K-O-O-K-I-E!" Until he was totally submerged to the bottom of the pool. The staff ,witnessing the scene, ignoring the consequences, stormed out heading to the garden facing s grisly sight.

" OH MY LORD! JUNGTAE! " EunJin screamed petrified,shutting her mouth with her hands, watching with numbed horror.

Duri was peacefully snugging on a luxurious,beige swing, browsing through her magazine , enjoying her herbal tea like nothing had happened." What's all this fuss? The boy is pretending....go back inside...nothing to worry about."

Just as EunJin was ready to jump in, Jungkook like a Godsend gift, entered the house with Kai, heard the loud disturbance , noticed the staff gathered beside the pool and stormed out.

Observing a familiar figure at the bottom of the pool and without stalling he dived in , pulled the boy out placing him on the cold tiles.Checking his pulse with jittery hands and a panting heart ready to erupt from worry, he mummbled to himself." Too weak....too damn weak..."

Performing cpr, his hands compressed the bread bone ,pushed down approximately 50cm, released the pressure and repeated thirty times counting. Then he tilted Tata 's head , lifted his chin and gave him two effective breaths. No response. He repeated the action one more time. Still no change. No pulse.

Jungkook 's persistence didn't belittled." Please bun open your eyes... breathe... don't scare me... don't leave me.." he bellowed continuing giving cpr." YOU WON'T DIE...NOT YOU TOO...I WON'T LOSE YOU...DO YOU HEAR ME?" he kept pressing and giving breaths." I WON'T GIVE UP!" After what it seemed as an eternity he finally managed to get a weak pulse." Thank God! "

The boy coughed ,water spuring out of his mouth but fainted. Jungkook picked him up, hugged his cold body,rushed inside, grabbed the blanket from the couch, wrapping it around Tata ,shouting.

" CALL MR KIM! TELL HIM TO MEET US AT THE HOSPITAL! They got in the car, EunJin sat next to them in the back seat , Kai driving them to hospital. Jungkook was whispering sweat words, caressing his wet hair, battling to hide his tears. Look strong. Not lose hope.

Back at the mansion, Duri suddenly perceived the implicit threat she was facing. If the staff or that boy disclosed Tae the truth, she would have to affront his wrath, risking her position and marriage. Acting quickly and methodically, she drove to the hospital in an attempt to control the events, minimise the damage or figure out a way to take advantage of the incident . This opportunity could be her last resort to achieve her goal and win Taehyung for ever.

The atmosphere in the waiting room was stifling. Jungkook was aggressively pacing, occasionally tapping his foot on the floor, running his hands through his wet hair, trying to control his rapid heartbeat and heavy breathing. They paged Jimin but were unable to reach him so they contacted Yoongi. The younger's body was experiencing profound shaking from being exposed to cold water and air but couldn't care less. All that mattered was JungTae.

EunJin and Kai were supportive and Duri stranded in her own scheming world, plotting to put it mildy.

" You are shivering Jungkook. I'll send Kai home to bring you clothes." the woman offered, whispering to his ear.

" I'm fine... don't need anything."

" Please you'll get sick."

" Who cares? All I need to hear is, Tata is well."

" At least let's us get you some coffee."she insisted and Jungkook nodded. As soon as Kai left, Duri caught a glimpse of Taehyung slogging through the corridor,so she snatched a white handkerchief from her expensive handbag, initiating her heartbreaking performance as a weeping mother. A set of hot tears exuded her eyes, shutting her mouth with the white linen to muffle her fake cries. An uptight, distressed man advanced towards them with restless, weary eyes.

" What happened? Where is my son? What the hell did you do?" he demanded for an answer and their reluctance aggravated him more." I am expecting an answer! Why is my son in the hospital? Speak before I lose my temper and send you all to hell!" he barked, overlooking the annoyed gazes of the surrounding crowd in the room. The doctor, appeared in the worst possible moment when EunJin had found the courage to reveal the truth.

" Kim JungTae 's parents?" he asked removing his mask.

" We are." Taehyung replied." What's wrong with our son? What's his condition? Is he awake? Will he be all right?"

" Mr.Kim I understand your concern but I would advice you to keep calm. Your son remained under water for a substantial amount of time without oxygen.That might have affected several organs including the brain and heart. He is unconscious for the moment but as soon as he wakes up we'll conduct certain test to determine his condition. The next 48 hours are crucial, so it is too soon to form an opinion." the doctor explained calmly. Duri squeezed Tae's hand,leaning on his shoulder ,wipping her tears. What a hypocrite!

" Does that mean he might have a heart condition... permanent brain damage?" Taehyung 's voice cracked breaking the younger 's heart, knowing his love and weakness for the boy.

" Please let's not jump to conclusions before he wakes up...who gave cpr to the boy?"

Jungkook 's words clogged in his throat when Duri answered first.

" I did...I gave him cpr when I pulled him out of the pool." Her angular , snooty gaze warned Jungkook to keep his mouth shut and when EunJin attempted to correct the misunderstanding and reveal her plotting the younger compressed her arm, shaking his head as no.

" Congratulations Mrs.Kim! You saved your son's life. He would have died if you hadn't!"

Taehyung 's jaw dropped, eyes widen in amazement as if a sudden jot of electricity had coursed through his veins leaving him dumbfounded. What an altruistic act on her behalf!He was now certain his wife loved their son!

" When can we see our baby doctor?" her honey-sweet voice made EunJin roll her eyes in disgust.Taking credit for someone else 's heroic act was low even for her.

" As soon as we transfer him to a room a nurse will escort you. We'll talk later."

The doctor 's departure offered Taehyung the opportunity to start his interogation.

" Explain how it happened. How my son ended up in hospital fighting for his life! NOW!" He got no reply." Answer me Goddamn it! How did you let this happen? Speak!" he barked , trying to bridle his worst instincts and not kill them.He took steady , deep breaths inhaling air.

" Darling I'll tell you what happened. That boy " he raised her hand pointing at Jungkook " was outside by the pool , talking and giggling on the phone with God knows who ,so he neglected paying attention to our baby, who playing with a ball fell inside the water... It was horrible...I rushed out, dived in ,pulled him out and gave him cpr...he was hardly breathing Tae...his little body was stiff and cold...I got so scared I'd lose him...my beautiful boy..." Crying in her husband 's arms, trembling as an aspen sapling in a snowstorm, giving a spectacular performance!!" I can't lose our son...you and him...are my life...the reason I am ..." She broke down completely, fainting in his arms.

Tae held her tight, carried her to a nearby seat, rubbing her hands and cheeks." Baby? Baby don't scare me!" She slowly opened her eyes ,blinking ,stared at Jungkook , pointing him" You...you... it's your fault... It's all because of you...You put my son in danger...fooling around...not doing your job..." Her menace had only one recipient.She continued throwing accusations, shouting, crying, blabbering to ensure Tae would throw tantrums in the most savage way.

" Baby please calm down... don't cry...our son will be fine..." He engolfed her in a tight hug,resting her head on his shoulder ,kissing her forehead while Duri sneered mischievously. Her goal was achieved.

Each gesture,word ,a sharp stab in the younger 's feeble heart. Vicious lies. Blantant schemes. Despicable plots. Taking credit for saving Tata.Accusing him of negligence, insinuating he actually tried to ...His nails pierced his thighs so deep it numbed his body. Tae's fast strides led him in front of Jungkook almost pinning him against the wall. Punching the sides, trapping the boy between his arms he leaned closer. Anger is an emotion easily expressed with eyes. Sharp and blant. Snapping and glaring at its pray. Pupils constricted,lips retracted,teeth clenched and his neck veins distended. The younger sadly concluded his hyungie hated him. His presence in the house was about to end.

" I accepted a total stranger in my house. Trusted him with my son 's safety.Tolerated his presence impelled by my son 's fondness, despite my objections and hunch he would cause trouble. You had one job. One fucken job. To look after him and you failed miserably. Your recklessness, negligence brought him here ,fighting for his life. It should have been you in that bed... instead of my boy... You are fired. I don't want to see your monstrous face ever again! I hate you! You disgust me! I wish I could kill you with my bare hands! Strangle you...watch you die!" His hot breath was smashing the younger 's face. The rage was profound towards him." If anything happens to my son I'll hold you accountable. Make you pay. Make sure your family, friends, lovers suffer a long , painful death!" he grinded his teeth and his once bright eyes were dim ,full of menace. Duri was enjoying the scene with a demonic leer smeared on her lips.

" Taehyung please..." EunJin interrupted him, to prevent her boss from unleashing his anguish on the wrong person, saying things he would later regret.

" STAY OUT OF THIS!" he warned her." YOU! GET OUT OF MY SIGHT! LEAVE BEFORE I FORGET MY GOOD MANNERS AND CRASH YOU ...PATHETIC PITIFUL BOY! GET THE FUCK OUT!!" he barked, clobbering both hands on the wall, making Jungkook blanch hard.

His words couldn't hurt him as much as his eyes. Irreparably broken down. Hurt being accused and sentenced without the chance to explain or defend himself. The person, once swore to protect him was now unbridling dreadful threats, curses wishing his death.

He stared deep inside those raving, ocean eyes searching for rependance and found hate. He smiled bitterly, warts stinging his chest. Inhaling sharply he replied calmly.

" You are absolutely right. It's my fault your son is hurt. I have proven unworthy of your trust and intolerance. Tata..."

" DON'T SAY HIS NAME!" he growled smashing the wall again.

"I should have been more careful...not to expose him to danger. Rest assure I will leave...you won't have to see me ever again.. I am truly sorry for your pain. If revenging me, my family will satisfy you please do so." Tae released his grip, setting bhim free with a slight sense of quilt, stepping back " Although It's impossible to kill someone who is already dead Mr.Kim." Taehyung watched him fading away with a heavy heart. He was doubting his actions? Feeling remorse for accusing him? No... definitely not.

" Shame on you Tae! You will regret it...mark my words!" EunJin reprimanded him , running after Jungkook. At the elevator he managed to block his way, snatching his arm." Why did you keep quiet? Why didn't you tell him the truth? She pushed him...her own son and you let her take credit for saving him...why?" The woman was furious by everyone 's behaviour.

" What was the point? He is not ready to see or hear the truth. It will crash his world. His love for her...he was already prejudice against me. Ready to condemn me. The last thing he wants is to face the fact his wife and mother of his son is evil." He pressed the button ,waiting for the door to open.

" One more reason to tell him." she insisted." He is a big boy. He can handle it. I am sick of his behaviour, acting like a spoilt brat, avoiding to see her true colours. Let's go back and tell him. I will back you up. Confirm you. Please Jungkook."

" No. I am done fighting. Hoping. Expecting. He is blinded by his love for her... I am going home."

" Please Jungkook... I beg you."

" Let me go home..."

The door opened ,the younger got in" I'll call every day to learn about Tata. Promise me... not a word to anyone. Especially him. Knowing won't make any difference. My presence creates more problems than it solves... Promise me!" he implored her with teary eyes.

The woman huffed and reluctantly agrred." You have my word. He won't learn it from me." She chose her words carefully. They hugged ,said goodbye, the door closed and Jungkook disappeared. His presence in that house was a huge mistake. Trying to break up a family was unforgivable. It didn't matter If they were past lovers, sharing a unique bond for three lives. In this one , they were strangers...Total strangers.