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"Kim Taehyung!"

The said male turns his head at the hushed hiss behind him only to meet the glare and anger that flashes past the pair of eyes staring back at him— and he looked hella upset too.

"What do you want, Jeon Jungkook?" Taehyung replies in a hushed whisper, equally glaring back, his sharp eyes flash a hint of amber— because now was not the time for an idle conversation— they were on a mission.

The two had gone to assist the raid with another team, but their team— popularly known and nicknamed as Bangtan— was composed of seven members, collectively gathered together for their skill and abilities. They were the cream of the crop, so to say, and were often called when they needed the big guns.

"How many times have I told you not to go alone?" Jungkook grits his teeth and sees the other male do the same, flashing his canines at him.

"Not the time, Jungkookie." Taehyung hisses back before turning back to face the eerily quiet motel in front of them from behind their hiding spot behind some shrubs. "Stop being such a worry-wart."

"I have the right to be worried!" Jungkook counters, sighing in frustration as he settles behind the other male, sticking his back against the trunk of a tree nearby, gazing ahead to see a group of their fellow officers carrying a battering ram, quietly making their way closer to the target's motel door.

"And I have the right to remain silent," Taehyung retorts.

Jungkook nudges him, "Don't you use the Miranda rights on me—"

"Ssh!" Taehyung brings his finger up and presses it against Jungkook's lips, his heightened hearing catching onto the suspicious shuffling inside the targeted motel room. Jungkook watches as Taehyung's dark brown eyes shine that amber shade again— sharpening like a tiger's— because, in truth, Taehyung was a tiger.

Kim Taehyung was a Shifter.

Therianthropy or the ability to shapeshift into animals was a rare gift, a desired ability passed down in a person's bloodline— the stronger the bloodline, the stronger the ability. Some families had a specific type of animal passed down in their blood— a totem of some sort. However, over time, most bloodlines have faded or have been reduced to evolutionary adaptations being inherited by the descendants rather than having the ability to completely transform into the animal of their bloodline.

Being able to physically transform one's human form to another creature and inherently possessing abilities of that creature poses strength and authority within the society. It became a rare legend. It became an image of power, a status symbol— a deemed sacred gift by the generations that followed— a symbol of what evolution is capable of.

Many people, if not all, desire it. But not all are blessed with it.

Because of this rare ability, Shifters— as what these rare people have come to be known in modern society— are often given high-ranking occupations or places in society; whereas those who lack this gift to transform, Non-shifters— are still wholly admired because of the retained inherited abilities.

The discrimination, however, fell onto those who had no such bloodline in the first place. The people completely detached from the evolutionary circle with no innate ability of any animal left in their blood— the Shiftless— essentially, the normal humans of society.

A divide was made between the three classes.

Most of the people were Non-shifters, very few were Shifters and even fewer were Shiftless, which makes things worse for one Jeon Jungkook.

You see, Jeon Jungkook did not possess such a sacred bloodline. He is a Shiftless and, as the generations pass by, deemed useless and looked down upon. He isn't bitter about it, per se, just frustrated of having to be compared to others blessed by their blood. It irks him to see his hard work dusted off under the table by his superiors because of his pathetic bloodline. He knows it's not the Shifters or the Non-shifters fault. They didn't choose to be born with this gift— they simply had it, handed down to them in a silver platter whether they liked it or not. It's what society has become that bothers him— the obvious discrimination between the three classes— the prejudice against one another. It irritates him.

And yet here he is, a member of Seoul's Special Operations Unit (SOU), the city's specialized unit for dangerous missions and counter-terrorism— had earned his way to this line of job out of sheer talent, determination and moxy. Jeon Jungkook learned at an early age that if he was going to change how society has come to see Shiftless people like himself, then he was going to have to prove his worth. It didn't matter how many times he was looked down upon or how many times he was cheated or thrown aside because of who he was— he was going to prove it—

That the Shiftless were just as great as society's beloved Shifters.

But proving it may take a bit more time— especially when he's partnered by a member of one of Seoul's esteemed pure-blooded Shifter families.

Kim Taehyung— an officer two years older than him, a direct descendant of the honored Kim bloodline whose designated animal was the Siberian tiger— an animal of personal strength and spirit, aggressive and unpredictable with a strong will and yearning for adventure. It was a beautiful and strong animal and Jungkook has more than once seen the elder shift into the beast himself— and it always blows Jungkook away with how beautiful the animal was—

"Come out with your hands up!" Came a thick voice as soon as the battering ram slams the flimsy door open. Immediately, a flash grenade detonates and shouts could be heard— it sounded like the usual break down until—

Gunshots echoed and a clamor of shouting catches the two behind the shrubs.

"That's our cue, Jungkookie—" Taehyung almost sing-songs in glee as he breaks free from the bushes. Jungkook jumps to his feet and runs after him, his M4 carbine assault rifle up to position.

Then, before they could breach the premises of the motel room, two officers were pushed back and thrown out of the room like rag dolls before a giant Grizzly bear breaks past the door, its eyes falling onto the two young officers.

Jungkook aims at the bear and fires, knowing all to well that a Shifter left wild is the worst enemy to encounter— but the bear roars, seemingly ignoring the gunfire aimed at him. It charges straight for Jungkook, who ducks and rolls quickly away from its claws.

"Damn—" Jungkook gasps as the bear lunges for him again only for a flash of rusty gold to jump in front of him. A wild roar cuts through the night and Taehyung— Kim Taehyung— faces the assailant, now shifted into a tiger.

Rusty yellow fur with black transverse stripes covered the animal's pelage, covering the lithesome, strong body it possesses. Taehyung, in his tiger form, has hind legs longer than those in the front, allowing him to jump and charge powerfully. His claws sharpened and ready for the kill and his canines bared, a guttural growl rumbling from deep his throat. A pair of amber feline eyes standing out among the rest, undeniably beautiful and sharp.

It was truly a sight to see.

The bear makes another roar before lunging for the tiger but is too slow for the agile predator. Taehyung takes the opportunity to sink his canine teeth into the bear's thick coat and skin, earning him a roar of pain.

Jungkook aims his rifle again and fires a few more shots. The bear roars and attempts to grab at the tiger's body to throw him off but Taehyung has clawed and latched on, now burying his sharp feline claws into his skin.

The bear raises one heavy paw to strike once more at the tiger but Jungkook aims at the open paw and fires a bullet straight through the limb. The bear wails and takes a step back— at this point, Taehyung jumps back, landing on his hind legs before crouching down in front of Jungkook, protectively growling back at the assailant.

The bear staggers before he falls back— moments later, the bear slowly morphs back into a stoic man, bleeding from the injuries he had sustained from the confrontation. Their fugitive— a criminal Shifter— was caught.

Jungkook sighs as the job comes to a close with no further casualties. Still kneeling on the ground, he wipes the sweat off his brow before looking up to an open hand. Taehyung had shifted back into his human form, his black SOU uniform unscathed as always, grinning down at him— his eyes still shining amber like the tiger from earlier.

"You okay?"

Jungkook chuckles, shaking his head in disbelief before taking the hand offered to him. Pulling up to a stand, he huffs and grins back. "Yeah."

"Good work, you two." Namjoon, their senior and team commander acknowledges the two as they return to the station.

Namjoon came from a family of Non-shifters and they carried the blood inheriting the intimidating Black Bear's abilities. Despite being unable to shift, he is still known for his presence, strength and undeniable intelligence. Namjoon's innate and inherited forethought and self-awareness helps him become sensitive to detail, making him a very efficient leader in their line of work.

"Thank you, hyung." Jungkook gives a salute and nudges Taehyung to do the same. Taehyung rolls his eyes playfully before doing so. Namjoon chuckles fondly before patting both heads.

"All right, off you go. The others are chilling around somewhere." He waves them off and while they pass by, adds, "By the way, don't forget your reports for this raid!"

"Ugh," Taehyung makes a face as he shivers at the mention of paperwork.

The two walk towards their team room where three other members of their team were lounging around.

"Oh, that was quick." Seokjin lifts his head at the sound of the door opening to welcome the two officers. The eldest member moves to the table in the middle of the room where there were some take out boxes left, "We saved some for you two to eat. Come on, sit down—"

The two smile as they remove their gear, dressed down till they were in their commando shirt, chest harness and combat pants and boots before sitting down, taking the take out boxes from the eldest member. Seokjin, another Non-shifter, has a Gray Wolf bloodline, openly expressing his sociability, territorial tendencies and protectiveness for his self-proclaimed 'pups'.

"Eat up, pups." Seokjin smiles down at them, happy to see his dongsaengs munching happily at their bulgogi kimbap, tteokbokki and buchimgae.

"Good work, Kookie, Tae," Jimin places his hands on both their shoulders, "I heard the fugitive was a Shifter and was a bear too—"

"Hmph," Taehyung huffs, "He was nothing like Namjoon-hyung even though hyung is a Non-shifter."

Jimin smiles before patting Taehyung's shoulder again. He then turns to Jungkook, "Are you all right, Jungkook?"

Jungkook gives a nod with his puffy cheeks filled with food.

Jimin chuckles fondly, "Okay, good. I was worried Taehyung wasn't watching you properly—"

"Hey!" Taehyung pouts.

Jungkook swallows the food in his mouth and pouts himself, "Hyung, I can take care of myself even though I'm a... you know what I am."

The elder raises his hands in defense, "Hey, no— That's not what I mean, Kookie—"

"It's precisely because you're a Shiftless that we worry, Kook." Another voice pipes up and Jungkook turns toward the corner of the room where Yoongi looks up from his laptop, sharp feline eyes scrutinizing him. "You don't possess the abilities we have, so you're more prone to getting hurt."

Jimin is another Non-shifter of the group who has the bloodline of a cunning snake— a King Cobra, specifically. Known for their sublime perception, sensitivity to earth-borne vibration and instinct-based intelligence, Jimin is ideal for covert missions along with another member of the group— Yoongi, who is also a Non-shifter of another cat species much like Taehyung but that of a Black panther, who possesses heightened senses much like Taehyung does.

Bangtan was made up of six members with sought after bloodlines, though five of which were Non-shifters— and one Shiftless.

Jungkook huffs, "I know but I'm not that weak compared to you guys—"

"What's going on?" The last member of the team, Hoseok, comes into the room, a towel around his shoulders looking like he just came from working out. Hoseok was also a Non-shifter who possessed the bloodline of a horse; his agility, speed and amazing balance make him an excellent front line agent.

"Nothing," Jungkook huffs, feeling frustrated at being babied again because he didn't have their special bloodlines— because he was just human.

Jimin frowns, "Kookie, I—"

Suddenly, Taehyung lets out a growl, almost resembling that of a tiger's preparing to charge at his prey. His eyes turn bright amber and his sharp canines flash dangerously towards Jimin who has his hands up in defense. The others in the room also shoot up in high alert.

"Whoa, whoa— calm down, Tae—" Jimin backs away, shocked.

"Taehyung, easy—" Seokjin adds, raising a hand and exuding the instinctive energy of his inner wolf blood when faced with another apex predator. "Jimin and Yoongi didn't mean anything by that."

Jungkook grabs hold of Taehyung's arm, "That's enough, Tae—"

Taehyung relaxes and his amber eyes turn dark brown again. He faces the youngest with a concerned gaze, "But you were upset. I could smell it off you."

Jungkook blushes, "Okay— not really appreciating you openly smelling me like that but I'm fine. It's not so bad."

Taehyung doesn't look convinced and instead shifts his attention towards Yoongi who was still seated on his little corner, busy typing away in his laptop again. "Hyung! Don't make Kookie upset!"

Yoongi waves him off saying, "I didn't mean to make him upset. All I did was state the facts. We're all just worried about him just as much as you are, Tae."

"But—" Taehyung is close to growling again but Jungkook stands up from his chair and sighs.

"You know what? This is all really unnecessary right now. I know you're all concerned but I'm perfectly capable of protecting myself. I didn't become a part of the SOU to be babied." Jungkook says before turning on his heels to leave the room.

"Where are you going, Kookie?" Taehyung jumps to his feet as well.

"Make my report." Was all he says in return.

Jungkook should've known that his hyungs would still be wary around him. It's not very common for a Shiftless to be assigned to the SOU, hell, he's probably the only Shiftless around; all because of the disadvantage they have compared against the Shifters and Non-shifters. Shifters, well, they have their pure blood to help them and Non-shifters, while unable to fully change to the animal, possess heightened senses and instincts that still set them far apart from people like Jungkook. The SOU operates to fulfill dangerous missions and most of these missions involve rebellious Shifters, Non-shifters or terrorists. Clearly, you'd want to fight fire with fire by sending off people with abilities just as equal as the enemy's.

And Jungkook— well, he has to work harder than most to compensate for his poor blood.

"... Hey. Isn't he a Shiftless?"

Jungkook overhears a few officers nearby in the hallway, whispering amongst themselves. He's been subjected to this kind of treatment since he was a trainee, so he sucks it up and walks ahead. It's nothing new. Still, it doesn't stop the gossip.

"Yeah— heard he's partners with Kim, you know, the Kim Taehyung."

"What? No way— why would Kim want to partner with a Shiftless?"

To see an admired Shifter partnered with a Shiftless often turned many heads and caused several hushed whispers around them. Still— to everyone's surprise, the two worked exceptionally well together— as if they were just two sides of the same coin.

It doesn't mean it raises some skeptical eyebrows one way or another.

"Who knows?" The same officer snickers, "Must be a real snack for a wild tiger."

Jungkook turns around, glaring at the two officers who flinch in return. They looked familiar— probably part of another squad. He was about to scold them for what they had said when his breath gets stuck in his throat.

Dangerous amber eyes glower behind them.

Oh shit.

"Tae—"

"Say that again to my face," Taehyung rumbles threateningly and the two officers, Non-shfiters now that Jungkook remembers them, turn to look at the predator behind them. He bares his canines and if Jungkook doesn't stop now, he's going to have a literal tiger in the middle of the station's hallway—

"Stop it, Tae—"

"What did you call him?" Taehyung isn't listening— god dammit Kim Taehyung!— as he takes a step closer towards the pair shaking in their boots. "Answer me. What did you just call him?"

"W-We were only joking—"

Taehyung's fist lands at the concrete wall and with his innate tiger blood boiling, the strength causes a crack to form. This causes the two officers to flinch and scurry off in fear, passing by Jungkook with disbelieving looks on their faces.

Jungkook breaks free from ogling back at them to step towards Taehyung, stopping him from lunging towards the two officers. "Stop, Tae! Calm down!"

Taehyung lets out a huff mixed with a growl, "Jungkook—"

"You're seriously riled up," Jungkook places his hands on Taehyung's chest, keeping him in place. "Calm down, okay?"

Seconds later, Taehyung's eyes turn back to their normal shade and, funnily enough, almost wilts in his place, like a cub getting scolded by the mother tiger. "But I heard them— they were saying bad things about you—"

"And that's not your problem." Jungkook intrudes before giving him a grin, "Okay? Sheesh, you wild cat."

Taehyung juts out his bottom lip, "But I don't like them talking bad things about you." His brow creases and his frown deepens, "Why do people talk like that about you? It's all because you're a Shiftless, right? Well, I think you're amazing, Kookie."

And Jungkook tries to will the flush of his cheeks away at the unexpected compliment— because he rarely gets compliments, being a Shiftless and all. "I'm not amazing. I'm just—"

"You are." Taehyung looks back to him, a determined gaze that renders Jungkook speechless.

He didn't expect the highly popular and beloved Kim Taehyung, pure-blooded Shifter of an apex predator to praise him so openly like this. So he doesn't know how to make of it. Clearing his throat, he turns around and begins walking again.

"Um... well," He mumbles, "W-Want to work on that report with me?" He asks, scratching his ear, a habit he's come to develop when he's embarrassed.

Taehyung brightens and walks to his side, "Okay," He says with a grin, flashing those dangerous canines again— and yet Jungkook oddly feels safe.

He feels very safe with Taehyung around.

The Tiger Wrangler. Tamer of the Wild Cat. The Tiger's Prey.

Jungkook has many rumored nicknames ever since he was partnered with Taehyung and came out all in one piece, scratch-free and not bleeding. Taehyung has gotten quite a reputation for not just being a pureblood but for being erratic. Sometimes he'd be aggressive and fierce, particularly when out in the field where the adrenaline just does something else to him. Other times he'd be silent, quietly observing his surroundings and the people around him like a predator stalking his prey— and sometimes, he'd be very docile and attached, whining for tactile affection but most of the times, if not always, it's only when he's with Jungkook.

Like right now, in one of the station's empty meeting rooms where Jungkook had decided to work on his report for Namjoon, Taehyung had demanded he work on the two-person couch at the corner. Jungkook thought it was very impractical considering there was a large mahogany table in the middle of the room for them to use but the elder insisted he work there. So Jungkook begrudgingly brought out the clipboard, pen and paper and sat on the couch— only to have the tiger Shifter lay his head on his lap.

"Taehyung, what the hell?" Jungkook whines.

"Better." The elder hums, almost purring as he gets comfortable, rubbing his cheek affectionately on Jungkook's leg.

Jungkook hides a blush behind the clipboard, "You're being ridiculous." He heaves a sigh, "And I thought you were going to help me write the report!"

"I will, I will— I promise." Taehyung lets out a yawn, almost mimicking that of a tiger's, "After I take a nap."

"Taehyung—"

"Thirty minutes, Kookie." Taehyung purrs, "Mm, you smell really nice."

Jungkook flushes brighter. "S-Stop— Stop smelling me."

Taehyung is quiet in response, eyes closed and body lax. Jungkook peeks from his clipboard and looks down at the Shifter on his lap, who only ever lets down his guard whenever he's alone with Jungkook in private. Jungkook sets the clipboard on the arm of the couch and fondly looks down at him with a smile, reaching a tentative hand towards the elder's hair before carefully patting and running his fingers through the soft strands, straightening out a few twisted strands here and there.

"Mmrgh," Taehyung shifts a little and Jungkook pulls his hand back in surprise but the elder makes no further move and resumes his sleep.

Jungkook chuckles, resuming his petting. "Your hair is really soft after you wash it." He mumbles to himself, sure that Taehyung can hear him because of his advanced hearing. To prove his point, a small smile creeps up the elder's face in return and Jungkook rolls his eyes.

Once the elder male is completely settled, Jungkook reaches over to his clipboard and starts writing out his report in the peaceful silence.

Now left to wander into his own mind with his hands instinctively doing work, Jungkook can't help but think back to what those two officers said— a snack for the tiger— that's what they said about him. That he was some prey for Taehyung to play with. But he isn't about to let the fact that Taehyung is a Shifter get to him— he'll prove his worth as a Shiftless or whatever society calls him. He'll just have to work harder and harder and harder.

He shakes his head, ridding the negativity of his thoughts and focuses on his work. Moments later, he hums a melody that has been stuck with him since he was little— a song his mother used to sing to him to cheer him up whenever he was bullied by other kids because he was a Shiftless. Euphoria, she had aptly called the song and every time he hears or sings it, it does make him happy again.

You are the sunlight that rose again in my life
A reincarnation of my childhood dreams

He sings the song softly, so as to not wake up the elder sleeping serenely on his lap.

I don’t know what this emotion is
If this place is also inside a dream

He continues humming the song, a small smile now on his face at the warmth this song gives him.

I hear the far-away ocean
Across the dream, over the horizon
I’m going to the place that’s getting clearer
Take my hands now
You are the cause of my euphoria

Jungkook doesn't see the the way Taehyung smiles warmly, listening to his melodic voice from his lap and in his sleep.

His voice.

It was his voice that caught him first.

A couple of years back, Taehyung was heading to the SOU station for the welcoming of new recruits. It was mostly Shifters and Non-shifters because the SOU takes in the best of the best from the different academies. But, god— how he hated having to wear the stuffy police uniform— the feel of the black tie around his neck and button-up like a collar, trapping a wild animal and caging him in. He hates these kind of formalities. Maybe it's the wild cat inside of him but he can't help it— he just wants this to be done and over with.

He had arrived early, surprising for him really, and already noted the way people's eyes darted to ogle at him by the entrance— a Kim from the pureblooded tiger bloodline. A powerful family.

He tries to control his face, making sure he doesn't intentionally flash his canines at the crowd for staring and acting like he's some kind of spectacle. He needs to get out of this stuffy place and this stuffy uniform.

"Excuse me," He taps at another police officer's shoulder nearby and quickly reads the nameplate when he turns to face him.

Park Jimin.

Oh, a son of the Park family— snake Shifters if I remember correctly. Taehyung thinks as he gives him a polite smile, "Do you happen to know if there's a restroom nearby?"

Jimin flashes him a kind smile in return, "Oh, Kim Taehyung-sshi, right?" He clarifies, giving him a handshake. "I think there's one over there at the end of the hall."

"Thanks," Taehyung pauses, "And you can call me Taehyung."

"Then you can call me Jimin," He chuckles. "See you around, Taehyung."

"See you, Jimin." Taehyung gives a wave and heads for the bathroom but something suddenly distracts him. His heightened sense of hearing picks up something— something very beautiful.

A beautiful, soft melody echoes and Taehyung— Taehyung walks toward it as if in a trance. He walks slowly past the bathroom and turns around the corner where a fire exit was. The song was coming from behind it—

Opening the door quietly, Taehyung squints his eyes at the flash of sunlight before his eyes adjust and he sees a young, black haired male in his own police uniform, sitting on a bench straight ahead and singing.

He was singing.

Who was he?

Taehyung walks closer until he accidentally steps on a crumpled leaf on the ground, causing the younger male to jolt and turn back, eyes widening in shock before standing up.

"Wh-What are you—?! How did you—"

Taehyung brings his hands up, "Hey, you were here first—"

"I—"

"Okay, listen—" Taehyung shifts his eyes around before huffing, "I heard something and I was wondering where it was coming from. I didn't know you were the one singing it."

Suddenly, the young male flushes bright red, taking a step back. "Y-You were listening?!"

"I'm— Look, I have really sensitive hearing, okay? I can't help hearing it—"

The younger male then flinches and his eyes dart towards his nameplate and Taehyung resists the urge to roll his eyes because now, he's going to find out who he is and will distance himself—

"Kim Taehyung-sshi?" He croaks, a mixture of horror, shock and awe flash across his face in an instant.

Taehyung sighs, dropping his hands to his sides, "Yeah, that's me."

The black haired male swallows and shifts uncomfortably in place. "Oh— R-Right. I see."

Taehyung gazes to the name on his uniform and blinks.

"Jeon Jungkook?"

The male flinches in his place.

"I've never heard of that name before," Taehyung hums, tilting his head in thought. "What do you shift into?"

The younger male, Jungkook, ducks his head and fists his hands.

"I-I'm not a Shifter."

"Oh," Taehyung claps his hands in acknowledgement, "So a Non-shifter, then—"

"No—" Jungkook huffs, voice strained. "I— I'm not—"

"What?"

Jungkook then looks straight into his eyes with some indescribable emotions in them.

"I'm neither of them." He says before he straightens his back and lifts his chin up, proud. "I'm... I'm a Shiftless."

And Taehyung— Taehyung suddenly feels small in his shoes. The black haired male continues to look directly at him— sharing eye contact with no hesitation. Suddenly, Taehyung feels something different, something else— he can't help but feel a grin cross his face because finally— finally— someone is in front of him and he can't smell an ounce of fear from him.

Thirty minutes later, Taehyung makes a muffled noise and lets out another yawn before stretching on the two-person couch. He opens his eyes sleepily and pushes himself off of Jungkook's lap. He didn't think he'd dream about their first meeting like that again. Beside him, the younger male can't help but laugh at the elder's lazy state.

"You're very endearing when you're half-asleep, Tae." Jungkook snickers.

Taehyung gives him a grin, "You're comfy." He says before scooting closer to hug him, wrapping his arms around his shoulders. It effectively brings Jungkook to a screeching halt, frozen in his arms with eyes wide and mouth agape. "You're my new pillow now."

"I-I'm a— I— what?" Jungkook stammers, cheeks slowly reddening.

"Mhmm," Taehyung nods, nuzzling against Jungkook's cheek. "I'm tired."

"Th-That's because you just woke up," Jungkook weakly says, reaching over to pull at his arms, but they wouldn't budge. "Come on, Tae— let go of me— we have to get work done."

"Cuddle with me, Jungkookie." Taehyung pouts, dragging the younger male with him as he falls back on the couch. Jungkook lands with a huff on him, his head on the elder's chest as his strong arms hold him tighter, one hand reaching over to pet at Jungkook's black hair in return.

"Taehyung—"

"Hm?" Taehyung hums, satisfied with having the younger male in his arms.

"W-We should get back to work." Jungkook weakly croaks, cheeks reddening at being in this sort of position.

"I don't care," Taehyung says and Jungkook should've known that this was all part of his plan all along, "I'm not letting you get up until I know that you're one hundred percent better again."

Jungkook flinches in Taehyung's arms and moments later, turns his head to gaze up at the elder's face. Taehyung looks back, dark brown eyes warmly looking back at him with no prejudice whatsoever.

Jungkook feels weird all of a sudden. He can't explain it. But his heart is beating really hard against his chest and he feels a little out of breath—

Taehyung snickers, "That's quite a pulse you got there, Kookie."

Jungkook makes a strangled noise at the back of his throat and buries his head on the elder's chest again, embarrassed and downright horrified because hello, Taehyung is a Shifter with very, very good senses. He can practically hear and smell Jungkook's flustered state which makes everything ten times worse.

Taehyung laughs wholeheartedly, petting his hair again. "You know, I was thinking about something—"

".... What?" Came Jungkook's muffled voice.

"That if you were a Shifter like me, I think you'd be a rabbit."

Jungkook shoots his head up again, this time, a little insulted. "What? Wh-Why a rabbit? Why not some carnivore or predator? Like— I don't know— a wolf like Seokjin-hyung or a maybe a leopard—"

Taehyung tilts his head, "Mhm, you don't strike me as a predator, Kookie."

Jungkook frowns further but the elder simply smiles back at him.

"Hear me out," Taehyung adds, "You don't want to be seen as a predator all the time, Kookie— believe me." He says quietly, dark brown eyes looking downcast.

Jungkook relaxes in his arms a little, "Tae?"

"Predators are feared— it's instinct, deeply engraved in our kind. If you take away the predator, you take away the fear." Taehyung sighs, "Sure, we of the Kim family are respected because of our bloodline but sometimes, it's just too tiring— it's too burdensome having to sense everyone's vigilance around you all the time— wondering what you're going to do next, careful of their every move not to insult us, you know— those little things."

Taehyung squeezes Jungkook a little tighter.

Jungkook remains silent.

"That's why I thought that if you were ever a Shifter, you'd be a rabbit— they're warm and approachable, quick on their feet and agile. Everyone wouldn't fear you which means everyone won't distance themselves from you. Oh and also," Taehyung reaches a hand to flick the underside of Jungkook's chin, eyes shining, "They're cute like you."

Jungkook turns red again, huffing. All this time, he thought that Shifters like Taehyung were idolized and worshipped and maybe they were, but that admiration probably comes from the innate fear they had of him. "... A rabbit, huh?"

"Yep," Taehyung grins, popping the 'p' at the end, "A cute, little bun."

Jungkook whines in his arms.

"But don't get me wrong, I'm happy that you're not a Shifter, Jungkook." Taehyung adds quickly, "I'm happy that you're a Shiftless. When I first heard that I was partnered with you, Kookie, I was— I was happy." Taehyung smiles back at Jungkook, who returns the smile back.

"You weren't born with this gift and you don't have any heightened senses either. You were just you and you didn't let that bother you at all." The elder laughs shyly, "I was impressed by you."

Hearing the elder's words completely humbled Jungkook. He never thought Taehyung thought of him that way. After all, Kim Taehyung was a man at the top of the pyramid and the food chain. As far as society was concerned, Jungkook has nothing to do with Taehyung, should never even be seen with him if possible. Yet, here is— laying on the elder's chest, wrapped in his arms tenderly and resting on a two-person couch. Jungkook feels a little light-headed all of a sudden.

"I— um," Jungkook stammers.

"Hm?" Taehyung hums, petting his hair again.

"Can I— Can I hold your hand?"

Taehyung's eyes widen as he looks back at Jungkook who was blushing back at him, his hand slowly creeping out to shyly reach over Taehyung's, hesitant and unsure. Taehyung is achingly fond.

"Sure." The elder says, moving the hand that was petting Jungkook's hair and holding the younger's hand instead. Slowly and carefully, as if testing waters, their fingers met one another's until they intertwined, carefully finding each place of their own.

Jungkook looks at their hands held together and thinks that the world would've been a better place without the society's discrimination between him and Taehyung. He sighs, resting his head on Taehyung's chest.

If only.

Dinner time and Jungkook is sitting in his corner, away from most of the crowd to avoid unnecessary confrontations because of his status. He may have gotten in the SOU because of his own perseverance and hard work but that doesn't mean the others had recognized him for it. Taehyung had been dragged by Namjoon by the ear for having not done his report yet and Jungkook chuckled behind his hand as he left the commander's office, a whining Taehyung begging for him to stay behind the last thing he saw as he closed the door behind him.

He's eating the cafeteria's menu for the night— a bowl of fresh white rice, a small plate of vinegary dongchimi with steaming hot samgaetang and a plate of japchae. One of the good things about the SOU is their very generous consideration for having decent menus to eat everyday.

He was having a decent meal by himself when suddenly, he sees a tray come into his view across him and upon looking up, sees a grinning Yugyeom. Yugyeom was a Non-shifter with wolf bloodline, like Seokjin but unlike the rest of the people in the station, he and the rest of his team have openly accepted Jungkook despite him being a Shiftless. Yugyeom, along with another member BamBam, are Jungkook's closest friends outside his team.

"What's up, Kookie monster?" Yugyeom greets, sitting down across him before digging into his dinner.

Jungkook smiles back, happy to have some company. "Hey, Gyeomie— nothing much. Taehyung and I did a take down earlier which went well."

Yugyeom nods silently, chewing his kimchi before swallowing and tilting his chin up a little— almost as if he was scenting the air before he looks back to the male across him, "Kim, huh? I'm surprised he's not here eating with you."

Jungkook raises an eyebrow, his chopsticks midway from his mouth, a piece of kimchi in between them. "What do you mean?"

Yugyeom innocently shrugs, "I mean, he's always hanging around you, right? Aren't you our little Tiger Master?"

"Shut up," Jungkook scoffs, resuming his meal. "I'm no Tiger Master. Stop making things up."

Yugyeom hums, "I just never thought the higher-ups would partner you with the Shifter Kim Taehyung. Don't you find it odd, Kookie?"

Jungkook takes his time chewing, deep in thought. "It... is a little odd."

Yugyeom nods slowly before moments later, shrugging off the topic like it was a leaf that had landed on his head. "Oh well— personally I'm happy you two are doing well together. We need someone who can tame that wild cat, you know?"

Jungkook pouts, "Taehyung isn't a wild cat— well, technically he is— but not like that. You know what I mean."

Yugyeom grins, "Of course, of course— We both know that he's just a domesticated kitty when he's around you. I'm sorry for having offended you." He stifles a teasing laugh, "Must be nice to have a partner like that."

Jungkook makes a face, "I don't like the way you said the word partner. What are you implying, Yugyeom?"

Yugyeom blinks innocently back at the black haired male and tilts his head, "Well— aren't you two dating?"

Jungkook comically drops his chopsticks and hangs his mouth open before he slams his hands on the table, "What?!" He immediately hushes his voice as he sees a couple of officers turn their heads nearby. He turns back to glare daggers at Yugyeom, "I— What— Where on earth did you get that idea?!"

The other male grins, "I mean, he's so clingy to you and very protective too." He tilts his head up again, "You think maybe he's establishing his territory or something?"

"Yugyeom!"

"I mean, haven't you ever thought of that, Kookie? Is it a trait among Shiftless to be this dense?" Jungkook throws a piece of kimchi at him which he catches easily due to his canine bloodline. "Well, if you haven't noticed— Taehyung is super protective of you, visibly worries a lot and tends to get jealous. Also, if I'm not mistaken, he's started to actually— you know—"

"W-What?" Jungkook is trying his very darn best to control the heat of his cheeks. Remain calm. Don't let your emotions throw your control off. You are surrounded by sensitive officers, so calm the hell down!

Yugyeom shifts his eyes from either side before leaning forward. Jungkook does the same and turns his head a little so that the other male could whisper by his ear—

"I think he's started scenting you."

Jungkook's eyes grow wider than he thought they could as he jolts back, gaping at the other male like a deer caught in the headlights. Scenting? Kim Taehyung is scenting him? But— scenting is a very intimate act done by Shifters because of their strong animal bloodline, particularly those of mammalian origin. In the animal world, these creatures used personal scents, particularly their urine to mark their territory. However, as Shifters were born from the amalgamation of both animal and human blood, scenting something or someone was modified to transferring their own scent to their target by close physical contact, particularly around the Shifters' neck area—

In terms of communication, smell is used to convey territory ownership and readiness and availability to mate. And if what Jungkook knows from reading a bit about Shifters and their bloodlines— it has been said that Tigers are very territorial, and will mark their territory by means of their scent.

If what Yugyeom says is true—

"And—" Yugyeom watches on as Jungkook remains frozen in his seat before gobbling and swallowing the rest of his food in an instant— must be nice to have an almost limitless appetite. "This is my cue to leave."

"What?" Jungkook ogles back at him as he suddenly stands up and winks, leaving the stunned Jungkook alone— "Wait a minute! Come back here, Kim Yugyeom!"

Jungkook is all but in a daze as he walks back to the team room, carrying a take out box from the cafeteria for Taehyung filled with bulgogi and sundaekkochi— meat dishes suitable for the carnivore. He feels a little light-headed, moving mechanically and almost on instinct as he heads straight down the hallway, almost bumping once or twice with a few officers along the way.

Pull yourself together, Jeon! The black haired male thinks with a grimace, shaking his head. Yugyeom was just making fun of you— there's no way Taehyung is s-scenting—

"Oh, Jungkook,"

Jungkook flinches in surprise as he bumps into Jaebum, Yugyeom's team leader, a Non-shifter also of a wolf bloodline— the large Valley wolf specifically— catching him by the shoulders so he wouldn't topple back over.

"Whoa, there— you okay?" Jaebum tilts his head, concerned. "You look like your head's up in the clouds back there."

"I— Y-Yeah, thanks hyung." Jungkook sighs, shaking his head free from the thoughts rushing in his head. Stupid Gyeomie!

"Hm," Jaebum tuts, a little skeptical but he knows when not to push. "You heading back to your team room? I heard about what happened at the raid earlier, great job by the way."

Jungkook blushes and nervously fiddles with his ear, his go-to action when embarrassed, "Yeah, I'm just bringing all these meat for Tae—" And he shouldn't have said anything more because his cheeks have flooded in red now.

"Jungkook?"

The younger male darts his eyes towards the elder and steps closer, eyes pleading for an answer, "Hyung! H-Have you— Have you noticed anything different with me?"

Jaebum is a little taken aback by the question and raises a questioning eyebrow, "Wh-What?"

"Like—" Jungkook is a little panicking now and Jaebum is a little alarmed, "Like m-my scent or something?"

"Oh," Jaebum blinks before smiling, tilting his head to the side. "Mm, your scent is a little different from usual— and if I'm not mistaken, it reminds me of Taehyung's."

That's it. Jaebum is another wolf species and he's sure the elder's sense of smell is just as accurate as a pureblooded Shifter's. So it's true then? Has Taehyung been secretly scenting him?

Why?

Jungkook squeaks out a quick thank you and a bow before speed-walking past the relatively confused elder to head for his team room. He needs answers— and he needs them now.

"Kookie!" Taehyung greets him, his canines visible as he grins back at the youngest. "Are you finished eating dinner?"

"I—" Jungkook croaks, suddenly thrown off his footing upon seeing the older male. Now that he's in front of him, what should he say? Hey— I know this may sound a little weird but you haven't been rubbing your scent on my neck lately, have you? God, no— It's basic knowledge that scenting is intimate and that means a very private matter and affair between two people. "I— Y-Yeah, Tae."

"Kookie?" Taehyung tilts his head, eyes scrutinizing him, "Is everything okay? You smell—"

"I'm fine!" Jungkook pipes up, interrupting the male before he could say another word. He is starting to develop a strange defensive reflex at the sound of the word 'smell'. He walks up to the elder and hands him the take out box. "Here, I brought you some meat for dinner."

It successfully distracts the Shifter whose eyes glimmer amber, canines sharp and ready to eat.

"Thank you, Kookie!" Taehyung takes the box and hugs the younger male quickly, pressing a chaste kiss on his cheek out of sheer excitement. Needless to say, Jungkook is once again left frozen in his spot.

While Taehyung happily eats away the deliciously marinated meat, Jungkook is close to having a mental breakdown.

What is happening?

"Pup, are you okay?" Seokjin's voice breaks his train of thought and Jungkook turns to see the elder by his side, worry on his face. "Maybe you should rest."

"I-I'm fine, hyung." Jungkook rubs at his forehead, sighing. "I'm just a little tired."

Seokjin makes a strained noise at the back of his throat, "Well, we can't have that. Come on, sit down. I'll have some tea ready for you."

Jungkook smiles in thanks, "I will and you don't have to, hyung."

"I will if I want to, maknae. Just go ahead and rest." Seokjin gently pushes Jungkook towards the couch, where Yoongi was as well. Jungkook settles down but not completely, especially when the panther Shifter was looking at him from the side with very sharp eyes.

"Er—" Jungkook stammers, glancing to the side to give the elder a nervous smile, "Y-Yes, hyung?"

"..." Yoongi remains quiet before looking back down in his laptop. "Nothing."

Well that makes Jungkook even more uncomfortable than he already is. Does Yoongi perhaps sense a difference in Jungkook? Can he pick up the scent? The elder is naturally sharp and sensitive, it didn't help that these senses were further strengthened by his bloodline. What if all of the other members of the team already know about his scent change? If so, why aren't they saying anything about it?

A light growl breaks the apparent peace in the team room and Jungkook shoots his head up to gape at Taehyung, glaring at Yoongi's direction.

"What's the matter, Tae?" Seokjin asks, ready to intervene again. Jungkook gulps. Bad move apparently.

"Jungkook smells off—" Taehyung grumbles under his breath and if he was in his tiger form, he'd be crouching down ready to pounce at the other feline in the room. "Anxious— Stressed— What did you say to him, Yoongi-hyung?"

Yoongi's eyes shift to bright emerald green— his Panther form's eye color— as he almost bristles back at Taehyung, "Watch your tone, Taehyung."

"Did you bring up him being a Shiftless again?" Taehyung growls and Jungkook can't help but feel a little bit more fear creeping up in his belly at the tension in the air.

Yoongi puts aside the laptop and jumps to his feet, emerald eyes glazing angrily back at the younger Shifter. "You need to calm down, Kim Taehyung."

"Hyung—"

"That's enough!" Seokjin all but barks, his blue canine eyes glowing as well. "You two stand back—"

"But Jungkook—"

Overprotective. Worried. Jealous.

Jungkook chokes out a gasp, standing up and looking frantically at Taehyung, "I'm fine! I—" He takes a gulp as those amber eyes glare back at him. "Just— Just stop, Taehyung! Calm down! Yoongi-hyung didn't do anything, he didn't say anything either! Why are you so— why are you so on edge?"

Taehyung takes a step back and nervously darts his eyes around the room, his stance slowly weakening which in turn causes Yoongi to relax a little; still, his eyes were still emerald green and glaring at the young Shifter warily.

Seokjin approaches Taehyung and places a hand on his shoulder, "Taehyung, take a deep breath, please— you're stressing yourself—"

"..." Taehyung takes a deep breath through his nostrils and lets out a heavy sigh. His amber eyes return to their dark brown shade and almost instantly, the room is rid of the tense air. The elders' eyes are back to normal now much to Jungkook's relief. "I— I'm sorry, hyungs."

"..." Yoongi gives one last stern towards the younger male before shaking his head, "Whatever. It's not like we went at it anyway. As long as you've calmed down now, it's all good."

Taehyung hung his head low before slowly peeking through his fringe to look at Jungkook. "I'm sorry for scaring you, Jungkookie."

Jungkook huffs, crossing his arms defensively, "I-I wasn't scared." Damn stutter!

Taehyung gives a small smile before heading for the door.

"Where are you going?" Seokjin asks.

"Need some fresh air." Taehyung says before leaving the room.

Now without Taehyung in the room, Yoongi grabs Jungkook's arm earning him the younger male's attention.

"So," He says, "What exactly happened between the two of you?"

"What?" Jungkook croaks, suddenly feeling very exposed.

"Your scent, Jungkook." Yoongi's nose flares a little before his eyes sharpened again. "Since when were you scented by Taehyung?"

Seokjin makes a shocked noise at the back of his throat, "Yoongi—"

"No, hyung—" Yoongi dismisses the elder, "We need to get this sorted out now. I know you suggested we talk this as a whole group when the time was right but when is that? You saw what just happened. I just looked at Jungkook for a second and Taehyung suddenly claims I did something to make him upset."

Jungkook whimpers a little, "Y-You all knew?"

Yoongi looks back to the younger male, "That your scent has changed? Yes— been a while actually. But at first, it wasn't that obvious. I think Taehyung gradually introduced it so as to not shock you."

Jungkook feels a little dizzy and Seokjin must've realized this as he walks over to settle a hand at the back of his nape.

"Oh, Jungkook." Seokjin coos, offering him some comforting pheromones. As a Shiftless, it just more or less feels like a very reassuring presence— something he could lean on.

"I— I just don't understand, hyung." Jungkook confesses, "I only knew about it today because Yugyeom mentioned it, otherwise, I wouldn't have realized that my scent had changed. I honestly don't feel any different."

"The scents taken up by us Shifters and Non-shifters are too light for Shiftless to smell alone," Yoongi explains, releasing Jungkook's arm and cross his arms together. "Which would explain why you never realized Taehyung gradually transferring his scent on you."

"But—" Jungkook rubs at his temple, "Why would he do that?"

"Taehyung cares about you very much, Jungkook." Seokjin adds, "He's very protective of you— and probably, unconsciously, thinks of you as a suitable— for lack of a better term— mate."

Mate? Me? Jungkook gapes at the two elders with him and falls back on the sofa, weak with legs that feel and weigh like lead. "Th-That's— That can't be, hyung— W-We've never— I mean, I don't think Taehyung has ever, you know, looked at me that way!"

Seokjin gives him an apprehensive smile, "Maybe you're just not looking hard enough, Jungkook."

And that— that throws Jungkook off the loop. He looks down at his feet, staring blankly as his thoughts churn like a tornado in his head.

Taehyung thinks of him as a mate? His mate? Since when? And why hasn't Taehyung talked with him about this—

"We're asking this now, Jungkook, because it's making Taehyung incredibly unstable." Yoongi speaks up and Jungkook lifts his head up to the elder.

"U-Unstable? What do you mean, hyung?"

"Think of him courting you, normally the other party would initiate a response by now but in your case Jungkook, you haven't shown any signs of interest or returning the favor to Taehyung." Yoongi explains, "It's like he's being left hanging— and for an alpha predator and pureblooded Shifter like himself, it's practically in him to have some sense of superiority. You're a Shiftless but also a suitable mate. He's torn between respecting your decision but also showing you your place in society's hierarchy."

"Taehyung isn't like that—"

Seokjin takes his hand in his own and squeezes gently, "Yes, we know. Taehyung isn't like most Shifters— it's just the natural way of things, Jungkook. But Taehyung is trying desperately to control that part of him, especially since he's already shared his scent with you."

"But I never knew he would." Jungkook weakly retorts.

"And that's not your fault either." Seokjin adds, "Taehyung was just probably afraid— or he did what he thought was the safest way to make sure you were safe."

"Safe?" Jungkook blinks.

"Skilled or not, you're a Shiftless and are at a disadvantage when it comes to our line of work," Yoongi holds a hand up to stop the younger from countering his statement, "I know you're skilled, Jungkook. You're far capable of doing things most of the other officers around here are able to do with or without their bloodline. But, it's the truth and deep down, I think Taehyung has a deep-seated fear of you getting hurt one way or the other— and I don't mean just with regards to our missions, but also within our own walls."

Jungkook keeps silent as the elder continues, the image of the two officers verbally attacking him earlier flashing in his mind.

"He probably thought that by scenting you, it'd give you some form of protection— that the scent of the highly esteemed Kim bloodline rests on your shoulders as well." Yoongi sighs, "I don't think he thought far enough to consider the side effects on him though."

Jungkook gulps, "Wh-What will happen to him? I-If this keeps up, I mean—"

Seokjin looks hesitant to answer for a moment before adding softly, "His emotions and thought process will become unstable. Taehyung, instinctively, sees you as his mate now, Jungkook. It's hard for him to control emotions around that fact."

Jungkook's head aches.

"The real question is if he did this intentionally." Yoongi adds, "I know I said that he thought scenting you would keep you safe, but it could just have been an innocent thought at first. The problem with Shifters and Non-shifters is that we are very susceptible to the natural instinct of the animal bloodline we possess. Taehyung may have unknowingly passed his scent to you without his knowledge because he thought of it— an unconscious act, if you will, governed by the animal inside him."

That— That makes a whole lot more sense if Jungkook thought about it. After all, it seemed that Taehyung didn't know what was happening to him— suddenly getting angry and protective out of the blue like that— He didn't seem like he was himself.

"I-I should talk to him." Jungkook whispers solemly and Seokjin squeezes his hand again.

"It may be for the best, Jungkookie." Seokjin adds with a smile. "For the both of you."

Taehyung had gone out to the empty space behind the building, where he and Jungkook first met. He needed some fresh air to clear his head. It's been really stuffy lately, like it was full of cotton wool or something— and it only ever gets really fuzzy whenever Jungkook was involved.

He sniffs the air and calms down some more. Blinking up at the sky, he thinks— when did he start being so sensitive to Jungkook's scent? It's as if whenever Jungkook enters a room, it's all he smells. It's never happened before—

"There you are."

Taehyung turns around to see Namjoon walking towards him. The elder has his dimpled smile on and the younger male knows he's about to get the philosophical bullshit of a lifetime thrown at him.

"Not now, hyung." Taehyung sits with a thump on the bench, the same spot Jungkook was sitting on when he sung the song Euphoria. Taehyung shakes his head— it's another thing he's noticed recently— his thoughts just seem to go straight for Jungkook. All about Jungkook.

"It's quite unlike you to be out here by yourself," Namjoon says before motioning for the empty space beside him, "May I?"

Taehyung gives a nonchalant nod and waits for the elder to sit down comfortably beside him. After a few silent moments, he sighs, "I just— I needed to be alone for a moment."

"I see," Namjoon says.

Silence.

The thing about their leader is that he's infinitely patient. Perhaps its his animal's pragmatism and patience showing but it sometimes irks Taehyung senseless— it's as if he's tempting him to spill, to break down and confess— the thing is, Taehyung doesn't really know what to say—

"I thought you'd be with Jungkook," Namjoon hums in thought, innocently bringing up the rather big elephant in the room. Taehyung internally bristles.

"I—" He clears his throat, "I was but then I sort of— you know, lost control."

"Lost control?" Namjoon glances at him through the corner of his eyes. His brown to black strong gaze making Taehyung shrug uncertainly.

"I don't know, I can't explain it. It just happened so suddenly. I was eating the dinner Kookie brought and suddenly, I smelled something— something different and I didn't like it. It made me mad. I got mad at Yoongi-hyung because I thought he had said something to Jungkook again to make him upset—"

"And?" Namjoon calmly asks.

"And Yoongi-hyung and Seokjin-hyung intervened before I got out of hand. Thankfully, I managed to reign in my emotions quickly but it was mostly because I heard Jungkook tell me to stop—" Taehyung scratches his head, confused. "It's weird, hyung, my head feel so stuffy lately because of Kookie but at the same time, it clears out when I hear his voice. It's— It's strange—"

Namjoon purses his lips before leaning back on the bench. "Taehyung,"

"What?"

"You said you smelled something different from Jungkook that triggered you to act like that,"

"That's right," Taehyung says, "I-I've been... very sensitive to his scent lately, hyung."

"I see," Namjoon nods, "What else have you been feeling lately?" The elder asks and Taehyung tilts his head, confused.

"What else? I— what do you mean, hyung?"

"Taehyung," Namjoon finally looks at him, "I don't know if you've noticed this but Jungkook's scent has drastically changed,"

Taehyung's eyes widen.

"And we think it's because of you."

The Shifter feels something clog his throat all of a sudden as he tries to swallow it down. His throat and mouth suddenly feel so dry. His hands feel numb. He blinks and lets out a shaky breath, "Wh-What do you mean, Namjoon-hyung?"

"You're not aware of his scent change?" Namjoon asks, seriousness etched on his scrutinizing gaze. Taehyung quickly shakes his head. "We don't know when it had started, really; at first it was a very subtle scent change— perhaps it was Seokjin-hyung who had picked it up first because of his wolf lineage, but he thought nothing of it considering, well, he's always around a lot of Shifters and Non-shifters like us. But then the scent started to change and along with it, we noticed something else begin to change as well—"

Taehyung feels like a collar had suddenly formed around his neck—

"Your demeanor around him— Taehyung, you've been very..." Namjoon glances a little around, thinking of a suitable word to say.

"I've been what?" Taehyung says flatly, not caring for the niceties. He just wanted to get this over with. His throat felt like he had swallowed sandpaper twice over.

"You've been very protective of him, territorial, even." Namjoon explains. "What you just said proves that point. You said you smelled something different from Jungkook and that triggered a violent reaction from you— almost as if—"

Taehyung's eyes widen, suddenly connecting the dots.

"No," Taehyung croaks, shaking his head. "No, no, no. I— I can't have— that's impossible, hyung! I never scented him! I-I never—"

Namjoon raises a hand and places it comfortingly on his shoulder, keeping him grounded on the bench. "Taehyung,"

"I swear, hyung, I never intended for this to happen— I—" Taehyung swallows dryly, "I don't know how my scent passed onto him. I don't know how it happened— fuck, you're right— you're absolutely right, hyung. This would explain my behavior and what I've been thinking lately—"

"What you've been thinking?"

"It's all Jungkook," Taehyung scratches at his head, "Everyday, every moment, every second— everything I see I just, for some strange reason, associate it to him. I don't know when it started. Fuck— this is all my fault—"

"Calm down, Tae." Namjoon squeezes his shoulder again which sort of wakes him from his rambling. "So, you mean to tell me this was all unintentional? You had scented him unconsciously?"

"I— Yes, hyung." Taehyung says, looking straight into his eyes, "I swear to you I never intended to do this. I don't know how I did but—"

"All right," Namjoon gives him a dimpled smile, "Well, perhaps it had all stemmed back to your compatibility with Jungkook."

"My what?"

Namjoon pulls back and sighs, leaning back on the bench again, "We, as animals by nature, have a relentless yearning to attach and connect, to love and be loved. This kind of yearning— this hunger— is the fiercest longing of the soul."

"I don't understand, hyung."

"I think," Namjoon glances to Taehyung with a small smile, "That it was the Taehyung deep inside that yearned for this connection— not Taehyung the Shifter nor the Taehyung of the SOU. But you— your soul. I think your soul found a home in Jungkook, whether you were aware of it or not."

Taehyung gapes at the elder rambling his philosophical speech and yet, somehow, it gives him the kind of epiphany that he needs at the moment. "But Jungkook—"

Namjoon smiles back at him, patting his leg in reassurance and comfort. "You know, Taehyung— as a Non-shifter, I was really curious about the deeply instilled instincts of our bloodlines and how far we are in tune with it as compared to the Shiftless. I read a lot of material on that. Our basic instinct— Hunger, I discovered, is very much a matter of mind— hungry for food, for sex, for relations— and sometimes that leads us to place it before reason. The Shiftless however don't possess that deep a connection but instead place their emotions first to survive. Their emotions have become an essential part of their lives— spite to establish someone's reputation as someone to be feared, shame and pride to motivate them in society... It's hard for us to comprehend that because we live off the belief of basic instincts."

Taehyung listens intently as he observes the elder's smile falter a little.

"That being said, perhaps the Shiftless are truly the ones we should be looking up to— for them to understand the concept of emotions, that's something we need to learn from them."

"Emotions," Taehyung whispers quietly under his breath. The elder was right. It may have just been the tiger inside him, yearning for a mate all this time, but he has never really thought hard and deep enough as to what that entails. Historically, mates are just partners for the bloodline to carry on— which is why anything beyond that was completely alien to Taehyung.

But with Jungkook—

Jungkook made him feel different— from the very moment they first met, when this ordinary human stared into his own eyes, strong and proud of who he was despite what society says otherwise— Taehyung had felt a sort of longing bubble deep inside him. Taehyung desired for him to be his mate but also to be more than that. What does that make them then?

Namjoon turns to look behind him at the sound of the door opening, smiling at the appearance of the black haired male. He stands up and motions for him to take his place, quietly looking back to Taehyung before leaving the two alone.

Taehyung ducks his head as he feels— smells— Jungkook's scent waft nearby and oh, now that he's made aware of it, of what it means— it smells achingly sweet and beautiful.

His mate.

"Taehyung," Jungkook softly calls out and who is Taehyung to reject his call? Hesitantly, he turns to look back at the equally nervous male.

"Jungkook," He replies quietly.

The black haired male chuckles nervously, fiddling with his fingers on his lap. "I'm guessing— Namjoon-hyung gave you some kind of talk, right?"

"Mm," Taehyung nods, pausing for a moment before licking his lips, "He told me your scent changed."

Jungkook didn't move a muscle.

"And that it's because of me," Taehyung stops again and sucks in a breath, "I'm so sorry, Jungkook."

Jungkook turns to look at him with wide eyes, "S-Sorry?"

"I—I didn't mean to," Taehyung lowers his head a little, "I don't know how it happened— I promise you, it wasn't my intention to share my scent with you. Namjoon-hyung told me it was because my soul had found a home in you or something like that— I-I can't really explain it."

"So, you didn't know about this too?" Jungkook clarifies and Taehyung shakes his head.

"I was wondering why you were always in my mind," He confesses and Jungkook couldn't stop a blush from creeping up his neck and his cheeks, "Every little thing around me made me think of you. It was so weird— and then your scent. It became a lot sweeter and I became more sensitive to it."

"I-I see," Jungkook nods, "Well, that would explain why those two officers said I was like some kind of snack for you earlier."

Taehyung growls under his breath, "Jungkook—"

He raises his hands in defense, "I-I didn't mean to upset you. It just sort of connected the dots for me. I actually heard about it from Yugyeom earlier in dinner. He told me my scent changed and that it was probably because of you— from then on, I couldn't stop thinking about it. That's why I was so anxious earlier and it may have set you off too. I'm sorry."

Taehyung shakes his head, laughing in disbelief. "We were just responding to each other all along."

"Mm," Jungkook nods shyly before fiddling with his hands again, "So—"

Taehyung looks back at him, curious.

Jungkook clears his throat, "You said— You said it wasn't intentional, that it was as if your soul found a home in me. Wh-What does that mean, Tae?"

Taehyung sighs, closing his eyes for a moment before reaching out to take one warm hand in his own. With his heightened senses, he can feel the rapid pulse, the tense hand and the little goosebumps that form on Jungkook's skin. He smiles, fond.

"I'm not too sure, but maybe— just maybe— it's my way of telling myself that I'm finding what I'm missing in you Jungkook." Taehyung says, looking warmly into brown, doe eyes. "I don't think you're just my mate— you're also my soulmate."

Jungkook lets out a giggle which surprises them both. "A soulmate, huh?"

Taehyung grins, "Yeah," And then he brings Jungkook's hand close to where his heart is and sighs, content, "My one and true soulmate."

Jungkook smiles softly before his eyes look downcast, "But—" He sighs and Taehyung looks up at him in alarm, his inner senses ringing inside telling him your mate is upset upset upset, "— I'm a Shiftless, Tae. I'm proud I am but I don't want to be a cause of any burden on your part, because other people don't think the way we do—"

Taehyung scoffs, "Other people can think however they want." He holds Jungkook's hand tighter, "You wanna know what I think, Jungkookie?"

The younger male nods.

"I think having a mate— a soulmate, even— is having someone who views life differently from you to complement your own view, not to compromise it." Taehyung grins, toothy and boxy as always.

Jungkook blinks a little, surprised to hear such words from the older male. He breaks out into a fit of giggles a few moments later, earning him a confused look from the elder, "Did you steal Joonie-hyung's brain or what? That sounds like something he'd say!"

"Hey! That's rude!" Taehyung pouts and Jungkook laughs harder. But the inner tiger, the animal inside Taehyung preens in delight seeing his mate happy. "Come here—" He gently tugs at Jungkook's hand but the younger male pulls back teasingly.

Taehyung laughs along before pretending to growl threateningly, "Oh— does the bunny think he can win against a tiger?"

Jungkook scrunches up his nose, "I'm not a bunny!"

Taehyung pulls him once more, this time successfully tugging him into his arms. Jungkook lands with a playful chuckle, bunny-like teeth peeking from his smile. Having Jungkook so close to him makes him feel complete and comfortable, a sort of calm that washes over him. Is this what it feels like to have his mate by his side? The tiger inside him purrs affectionately—

Oh, wait. That was Taehyung himself.

Jungkook giggles as he reaches over to run his hand through the elder's hair, petting him. "You're really like a cat, Tae."

"Well, I am a tiger."

Jungkook giggles again, stroking Taehyung's head before his hand lingers down on his cheek then at his jaw, giving the elder a soft smile.

It must be his instincts triggering— as what Namjoon had said— a hunger that needs to be satisifed that leads him to press his forehead against Jungkook's before kissing the younger male's slightly chapped lips gently.

Jungkook's entire body freezes for a second and that brings Taehyung back, pulling away from the kiss to whisper in a panic, "I'm sorry, are you—" and he gets a kiss back in return, shutting him up to a stunned silence.

"Naughty tiger," Jungkook mumbles shyly before pulling back.

Taehyung whines, clinging onto Jungkook's hand, much to the younger male's disbelief. For that small pout to disappear, Jungkook entertains him again and leans back into his arms, resting his head on the elder's shoulder.

Taehyung purrs once more.

"Do you like this?" Jungkook asks.

"I like anything as long as it's you." Taehyung says, nuzzling the younger male's black hair, purring away. "Mine."

Jungkook's heartbeat quickens and Taehyung hears it loud and clear.

"You like that?"

Jungkook whines, "Not fair, Tae! This is not fair!"

Taehyung laughs, carefree— the fuzzy fog from his mind clear and gone and the beast inside of him, finally tamed.

"Taehyung!"

The tiger turns his head, sharp feline eyes honing in on the person who had called him— Jeon Jungkook, a Shiftless, his soulmate and now his beloved mate is walking towards him out in the training field with a purpose in his step. It was their daily training schedule and because he's a Shifter, Taehyung's regimen consisted of a program suited for him. As of the moment, he was being tested on his biting capacity. His last record was a whopping 1,000 psi— maybe he can break that record again today.

Jungkook huffs as he stops in front of the wild cat, who was looking up at him with amber eyes, dilated and curious. The younger male chuckles before reaching over to pet the predator like an owner of a domesticated cat, "You've been training for a while. Aren't you hungry? I hear there's some delicious gopchang and manduguk in the menu today."

Taehyung purrs contentedly at the gentle petting before padding over around Jungkook in a circle till he, more or less, is coiled around the younger male, head tilted upward for more petting and tail affectionately wrapped around the younger male's leg.

Needless to say, the appearance of a Shiftless petting the great Shifter had turned many heads and caused several whispers around them at the training grounds. They'd learn to ignore them— but if any one says something bad about Jungkook, then Taehyung's sure to really test his biting strength with an actual prey this time.

"Come on, I'm hungry." Jungkook adds, rubbing under the tiger's chin playfully. "You can have my share of gobchang. I just want the manduguk."

The tiger lets out another loving purr before releasing the younger male from his hold, slowly making his way out the training ground.

Jungkook follows, tilting his head, "Are you going out like that?"

The tiger yawns in response.

"You're going to dirty your fur when you eat—"

The tiger nudges him by the side and Jungkook nearly topples over; luckily, the carnivore catches him with his back. The younger male playfully pinches the tiger who simply licks his canines in response.

"Fine, I'm not going to help wash out the oil from your fur later." Jungkook huffs, straightening himself up before resuming his walk, a Siberian tiger sticking by his side. From the distance, he sees his best friend Yugyeom entering the grounds.

"Oh, there you are Kookie mon— whoa!" Yugyeom gasps and steps aside, seeing the Kim Taehyung in his tiger form walking towards him— his amber eyes zoning in on him. "My bad, didn't mean to block your way—"

"Shut up, Gyeomie." Jungkook shakes his head. "What's up?"

"Nothing much, I was going to invite you for lunch—" The tiger lets out a low rumble of a growl and Yugyeom raises his hands, "But I see you're already taken. Don't mind me; carry on, carry on—"

Jungkook smiles, "Maybe next time." He waves a friendly goodbye, his other hand giving reassuring pets to the tiger's head.

"Must be hard being a tiger's mate," Yugyeom teases.

Jungkook turns around, smiling back at his best friend, "No, not really," He looks back to the tiger's amber eyes and sees Taehyung— his Taehyung underneath those sharp feline eyes. "A cat is still a cat." He chuckles as he pets the tiger's nose, earning him a soft lick at the hand.

Jeon Jungkook wanted to prove his worth as a Shiftless to society— that the Shiftless were just as great as society's beloved Shifters. But as it turns out, he realizes that he didn't have to do it alone.

If society refused to turn their heads to see his worth, then maybe now— the roar of a tiger will.