Archive of Our Own

He kneels to the ground at the sight, watching as the harshness of the rope bruises the honey-toned skin of his arms. His eyes are shut and his breath is light, barely even there. 

Jungkook swallows, confused. He remembers shooting down a dragon, not an angel! So how this man ended up here, Jungkook has no clue. Unless…

‘Are you a shapeshifter?’ he thinks inwardly. Jungkook has only heard stories of such beings. But in a world where dragons exist, shapeshifting beings shouldn't surprise Jungkook. 

He treads closer and as if sensing his presence, the man groans. It is now that Jungkook notices his arm tucked under his body. Mustering up all the courage in his body, Jungkook reaches forward, hoping to touch the man, maybe roll him over and possibly examine his injury. But Jungkook’s wary. He’s a shapeshifter. He’s just as dangerous as a real dragon. He has heard tales of shapeshifters being overcome by their inner beasts, letting them control take over and reigning terror over civilization. Which was why they were hunted and killed. Jungkook has reason to believe that this man might be the last of his kind, whose ancestors had somehow survived the massacre that took place centuries ago.

When Jungkook gently rolls the man over, he whimpers ever so lightly. Jungkook’s breath hitches when his eyes land on his hand. But it’s not the injury that surprises him. It’s the obsidian scales of his wounded arm. Other parts of his body too, like his back and waist flaunt the majestic scales. He was unable to shift back completely due to his injury, or that’s what Jungkook deduces. 

He’s in pain and he’s scared. His body trembles every time Jungkook’s fingers touch him. Guilt fills Jungkook’s heart, he feels remorse for shooting him down. He wants to help him. But should he? His father is the head of a village tormented by dragons. For centuries, they have been at war with dragons. Saving this man would be equivalent to treason. His father was a man of principle and wouldn't spare his son if it comes to it. More so, the reason why Jungkook, being the wimp that he was, shot down a dragon in the first place, was to prove to his father that he was no useless medic. Like his peers, he too could take down a rapacious dragon, all by himself. 

But all that determination and confidence fades when he hears the man pule oh so weakly. Jungkook gulps, eyes moving over his body and finally to his face. He’s startled by pleading eyes open and staring at him. His gaze is intense and it’s weighing in on Jungkook’s conscience. 

His heart is beating out of his chest, ringing in his ears as those eyes bore into him, anxious. The man is unsure as he watches Jungkook’s grip on his dagger tighten. 

Jungkook’s chest is heaving with tension and his mind is in shambles as he decides the fate of this man. He raises his dagger, wrapping both his hands around the hilt. 

‘One stab to the chest and it’ll be over…’

He inhales and locks eyes with the man once again. He looks at him, like he has accepted his fate, and closes his eyes in defeat. Jungkook shudders, breath erratic as he musters up the will to finish the job. 

But he couldn't. He twists his wrists and begins slicing into the ropes wrapped around the man’s body. He looks around for signs of another human as his hands work rapidly. Within no time, the ropes are loosened. And Jungkook regrets it immediately. 

The man, rather, the dragon, breaks free and pins him to the ground, reptilian eyes glowering at Jungkook. His paw is on Jungkook’s chest, a curved claw ready to dig into his chest and rip out his heart. His nostrils flare and flaming hot breath reaches Jungkook’s face and he shivers, too stunned to react. 

It is only now that Jungkook registers the dragon’s glorious appearance. Onyx scales cover the expanse of his massive body, enabling him to disappear into the night sky, earning him the name Night Fury, the devil of the night. His majestic wings have a span of 45 feet and his sleek, jet-like body enables him to move at supersonic speeds, making an escape from him impossible. No one has ever survived a Night Fury attack. 

Jungkook realizes the circumstances he’s in. Chances of survival are bleak. Judging by the deathly aura the dragon is emanating, those chances are declining rapidly. 

Knowing his death is soon, Jungkook feels a sense of achievement. Of fulfillment. He has the honor to be in the presence of such a gloriously terrifying dragon and even die at the hands of one. The dragon leans forth, gaze threatening as its claw digs into his chest. 

Eyes wide and unmoving, Jungkook waits. For the dragon to devour him, put an end to him. But it doesn't. 

It sniffs him and pulls back. But not before roaring right into his face and scaring the bejesus out of Jungkook, rendering him catatonic as it limps away and disappears into the trees. 

Gathering his thoughts and releasing his breath he doesn't remember holding, Jungkook stands up weakly, ears following the dragon’s roars in the distance. 

As he takes a step forward, he falls to the ground, legs having no energy left in them whatsoever. 

Jungkook...just survived a Night Fury attack.

°•°

It seems to Jungkook that he has no sense of self-preservation. Because why else would he be back in the forest? At the sight of the crash? Searching for the dragon?

After sprinting away with a newfound respect for his life, Jungkook couldn't stop thinking about the shapeshifter he had laid his eyes on. The majestic creature had captivated him beyond comparison. But more than the dragon itself, Jungkook was enchanted by the man under those scales. Coal-black hair paired well with hazel eyes and sharp features. Even as a human, the man looked dangerously breathtaking. But that was all Jungkook remembers. 

Even with an immense threat to his life, Jungkook remembers. And he wants to see him again. 

The dragon was wounded, the man’s arm and shoulder were injured and so it makes flight almost impossible. So it is highly likely that the dragon resides somewhere within the forest, healing. 

With a deep inhale, Jungkook makes his way through the dense forest. Even if were to survive an attack by the wolves and panthers and find the dragon, he doubted the Night Fury would spare him a second time. After all, every Dragon manual to have ever existed, despite having no real knowledge of the Night Fury, stated one thing: ‘Extremely Dangerous. Kill on sight’

And Jungkook has conveniently ignored both the warnings as he makes his way farther into the forest, following the damage done to the trees by the massive creature. And surprisingly, it leads him straight to him. 

After thanking the Gods for preventing his death at the hands of wild animals, Jungkook pushes past the branches and arrives at a cove. It’s a lake, surrounded by land and enclosed by colossal rocks. A perfect place for a dragon to hide. 

But instead of recklessly walking into the paws of a devilishly clever dragon, Jungkook ducks behind a rock at the sight of it. 

He’s facing a wall, stance firm, as if ready to fly. He spreads his wings and with a push to the ground, he launches into the air. It looks like he’ll make it but with his injured wing, unable to fly, he falls back to the ground with a loud thud. A sound loud enough to elicit a rather loud yelp out of Jungkook’s mouth. The beast snaps his neck in the direction of the sound and Jungkook hides behind the rock, a hand clasping his mouth shut. 

It seems to Jungkook that he trusts this dragon a little too much. He isn't even carrying a knife with him. Really, what is wrong with him?!

He breathes, waiting in terror as the growls of the animal subside. After a beat, Jungkook swallows and peeps into the cove but there are no signs of the dragon. As a rational being, Jungkook’s first move should be to run back to the safety of the Village. But instead, he stands up, eyes searching for signs of movement. 

He’s a big dragon. Pitch black at that too. So hiding in an enclosed cove and the broad daylight was out of the question. 

‘Wait. Did he escape?!’

Panicking, Jungkook emerges from the safety of the rock and stands on it, expanding his view. And that’s when he hears him. Low, guttural growls behind him raise the hair on his body and he regrets walking into his death. With a soft and slow turn of heels, he comes face to face with the terrifying creature, perched on the wall behind him, lying in wait to devour him. 

“Um hello-- AHHHHHHHHHHHH”

Before Jungkook can react, the dragon pounces upon him. His digits wrap around his arms and it dives into the space of the cove, gliding through the air as Jungkook screams. He struggles, not to get out of his hold, but to hold onto him and prevent a horrible crash into the land. He still doesn't know why he trusts this dragon this much! Especially when he’s being held like prey!

Once over the lake, the dragon looks down into his paws and what feels like a smirk plastered on his face, he drops Jungkook into the water. 

With a loud scream and flapping arms, Jungkook splashes into the water. 

And that’s how his second encounter with the Dragon goes. 

But hey! He survived not one but two Night Fury attacks!

°•°

“Hyung. Uh, what do you know about Shapeshifters?” Jungkook asks, tending to a patient. Namjoon turns to him from where he’s seated, surprised. “What piqued your curiosity, Jungkook?” he inquires, taking note of the patient’s symptoms. 

“Ah, nothing. I was just wondering,” he trails off, gaze avoiding Namjoon’s. Namjoon hums, “Ah well, you’ve come to the right place. I happen to know a lot about dragons and shapeshifters”

Jungkook’s ears perk and he whips his head towards Namjoon, eyes shimmering with glee, urging Namjoon to continue. With a smile on his face, Namjoon speaks, “First, came the dragons. Followed by Humans and the two being on top of the food chain, quickly became enemies. But then evolved a third being, a shapeshifter. They were humans that could transform into dragons. Naturally, they had amicable relations with both humans and dragons. They were messengers and translators, helping dragons and humans establish boundaries,”

“So they were good?” Jungkook chimed in. 

“Not for long though. The world descended into chaos when Shapeshifters sided with the dragons and attacked Human civilizations, drowning them in tears and blood. Some say that the shapeshifters considered themselves superior beings and didn't want to serve the humans. Some say, due to a threat to their species, they sided with the dragons to eliminate competition. Naturally, after everything that happened, humans developed a deep hatred for them. And annihilated that species of beings by hunting and killing them. So as far as we know, shapeshifters are extinct,”

Jungkook nods, deep in thought,” What if some survived?”

“What do you mean?”

“As in, what if shapeshifters still exist? Did humans kill all the shapeshifters? Someone must've escaped, right?” 

“Hm, there’s a possibility, yes. That’s what makes his world a more dangerous place for us,” 

Jungkook doesn't respond. And it makes Namjoon turn to see his conflicted expression. 

“Jungkook.”

“Yeah?”

“Did you come across a shapeshifter?”

Jungkook panics, eyes growing as he quickly denies it, “No! N. no! How could I?” 

Namjoon laughs, “Hahaha. Just a thought. Don't panic. It’s just that, your father hates anything remotely dragon,” Jungkook’s stomach dips. His father truly loathes dragons. In the past, he has shown them no mercy. And his anger is justified. Because his wife and Jungkook’s mother had been killed by one.

“Thanks for talking to me, Hyung. I-I have to go,” Jungkook stands up and marches to the door. 

“Jungkook!”

“Yeah?”

“If you ever come across a shapeshifter, or a dragon, just run, okay? Those creatures cannot be trusted. They will kill you,” he warns, and Jungkook swallows. With a curt nod, he dashes out of the clinic. 

°•°

‘Then why didn't this one?’ Jungkook finds himself back at the cove, spying on the dragon. 

This time, he came prepared. A fish in hand and his dagger strapped to his waist, Jungkook cleared his throat to make his presence known to the dragon. 

He whips his head around to watch Jungkook make his way down the rocks and surprisingly, does not attack him. He just growls and goes back to resting, hiding his body under his wings.

Disappointed by the lack of enthusiasm in the dragon, Jungkook clears his throat again. He isn't asking him to rip out his organs. He just wants him to look at him. But then again, knowing that he has barely eaten anything, Jungkook understands his lethargy. 

So he whips out the fish from his bag and treads closer to the creature, hesitant. Picking up on the scent, the dragon finally turns to face Jungkook, eyeing the fish suspiciously. 

He extends his hand, hoping he would take the fish. But the Dragon growls at him, bearing his teeth as it glares at Jungkook. 

“Huh, what” Jungkook follows his gaze aimed at the object on his waist. 

“You want me to get rid of it?” the dragon nods. Jungkook never thought he would see a dragon respond to him. 

“I will. Only if you promise not to kill me,” and the dragon dares to roll his eyes at him. 

“Are you rolling your eyes at me? Is that even possible? You’re a sassy one, aren't you?” he retorts, grabbing the dagger and tossing it to the side. 

With indifferent eyes, the dragon gestures to him to kick the dagger into the lake and Jungkook obliges. And now that that's out of the way, the dragon finally lowers his guard and observes the fish in Jungkook’s hand. 

It walks closer to him, sniffing the fish as Jungkook extends his hand further. He opens his mouth, ready to take the fish when Jungkook notices something, “Huh? I could swear you had--” razor-sharp teeth emerge from his gums and snatch the fish from his grasp, “--teeth”

‘Retractable teeth’ Jungkook makes a mental note to himself. The Dragon manual had no information about the Night Fury. Jungkook wants to fill up that book with whatever he finds out about the creature. 

As the Dragon finishes eating the fish, he turns to Jungkook, crawling to him in search of more. Startled, Jungkook stumbles back, falling to the ground as the dragon corners him to a rock, “I don't have anymore” he informs as the dragon sniffs him again. Confirming his suspicions, he pulls back and Jungkook lets out a relieved sigh. 

Suddenly, with a growl, the dragon regurgitates the head of the fish and places it in front of Jungkook.

“Were you not hungry? Why did you get it out?” he asks and the dragon pushes the fish closer. Jungkook frowns, confused. The dragon’s eyes shift from the fish to him. And then he gulps. 

That’s when Jungkook realizes that the dragon wants Jungkook to eat the fish. 

His stomach churns at the touch of it and for a moment, hopes that the dragon has a weird sense of humor and is pranking Jungkook but from the looks of it, he was waiting for Jungkook to take a bite.  

Jungkook swallows nervously, taking the fish in his hands. 

‘If this is what I have to do to gain your trust then..’ he opens his mouth to take a bite when a tail whips the fish out of his hand and straight into the jaws of the dragon. 

Jungkook slumps, glaring at the dragon, “HA. HA. Very funny!” he scolds as the dragon smirks. Can dragons even do that???

After finishing his meal, the dragonflies a short distance away from Jungkook. He breathes fire into the ground and puts it out with his feet, finally nestling into the warmth of the earth and closing his eyes. 

He’s just about asleep when he notices Jungkook’s presence near him again. When he looks at Jungkook, he smiles awkwardly. Tired of the human’s advances, the dragon flies to a tree, swings his tail on a branch, and falls asleep upside down, wrapped in his wings like a bat. 

The sunsets over the horizon but Jungkook isn't willing to leave. He came here to befriend the dragon and he was going to just that, no matter how long it takes him. His father was away on a voyage to hunt dragons and he doesn't have any friends that would care about his whereabouts. Might as well spend the night here. 

He sits upon a rock, absent-mindedly sketching the portrait of the beautiful creature on the ground when a deep, velvety voice speaks up from behind him, “It looks good”

Startled, Jungkook snaps his head around to face the man but alas, he had morphed back into the dragon again. 

“Are you teasing me!?” he questions and the dragon huffs, looking away. Jungkook shakes his head, settling back in his seat to finish the drawing. 

‘So that’s...what he sounds like, huh?’ Jungkook’s heart races at the remembrance of his voice. Deep and soothing. Betraying his rather delicate appearance. His heart rings in his ear as the Dragon watches him scribble lines into the ground, the drawing finally taking the shape of the dragon. 

As time passes, Jungkook adds more details to the drawing and the dragon beside him purrs, delighted. After a beat, he walks away and to Jungkook’s surprise, breaks a small tree and uses it as a tool to draw on the ground. The branches hit Jungkook a few times as the dragon crosses over him, sketching something over the expanse of the land. And by the time he’s done, Jungkook’s startled. It looks crude but the figure resembles Jungkook. Especially the large eyes and the...bunny teeth. Jungkook smiles, appreciating the feature. He stands up, to walk and examine the sketch further. Careful not to step on the lines the dragon had drawn, he moves around, watching as intricate lines meet to form his facial features. He’s happy, elated but when he walks back into a heavy presence behind him, he freezes. 

He’s a heartbeat away from the beast and it’s the closest he has gotten to him since he found him in the forest. He gasps, feeling the flaming breath on his head, and slowly turns around, coming face to face with him. Unlike their previous encounter, the dragon had no bad intentions. He looked at Jungkook, equally enchanted. 

Jungkook inhales and exhales, enamored by his beauty. For a second, he doesn't feel afraid. He trusts the dragon. With his life.  

He steps back and raises his palm towards the creature. The dragon stares at the hand, a little confused. Jungkook breathes in and looks away, moving closer, inches away from the dragon's snout. He wants to close the distance, he wants to touch him. But he’s reluctant. He’s scared he will fly away. So he stays, arm raised, unmoving. It was up to the Dragon to decide. And he waits. 

And in a moment, tough dragon skin meets the soft flesh of his palm, and Jungkook shudders, losing the strength in his legs as he lets out a shaky breath at the feeling. As he turns to face the dragon, rough skin morphs into a soft one, like Jungkook’s and he gasps.

As the delicate hue of the setting sun blinds him for a moment, from the light emerges the man. Jungkook’s hand rests on his cheek and he nestles into it, eyes shut. He seems to like the feeling, so much that his handholds Jungkook’s in place. 

He looks gorgeous. His jet black hair is messy yet soft and pairs well with his honey-toned skin. Judging by the absence of a frown, he looks relaxed. Jungkook takes a moment to admire the beauty in front of him. Almond eyes and long, fluttering eyelashes grab Jungkook’s attention first. His eyes trail to the perfect nose bridge and then to his plump lips, pink and full. He notices a few moles adorning his skin. On his nose, under his eyes, and on his slender neck and stunning collarbones. He’s about Jungkook’s height but their build is different.

He nuzzles into the curve of Jungkook’s palm as if purring and opens his eyes feeling Jungkook’s gaze on him. 

“I-I’m Jungkook,” he chokes out, astonished by his sculpted features.  

He smiles and Jungkook could swear there were dragons in his gut, flying around, tingling him inside out.

Their eyes lock for a second before the man’s lips part and Jungkook finally gets to hear his voice again. 

Low and comforting, seeping into his bones. 

“I’m Taehyung,”

°•°

Jungkook makes his way to the cove, supplies in hand. Raw fish, cooked chicken, and some medicines. It has been a few weeks since Taehyung and Jungkook became...friends. Or so Jungkook thinks. Taehyung’s still a little apprehensive about Jungkook but he’s warming up to him. And Taehyung seems nothing like the shapeshifters Namjoon Hyung had described. He’s sassy, sure. One time, when Jungkook brought him an eel, he hissed at him ungratefully. Although, later he realized dragons don't like eels but that’s not the point! Anyway, Taehyung’s a sweet man and has a way with his words. Or maybe it’s just Jungkook panicking over his deep as heck voice. Either way, Jungkook’s heart does things when he’s with Taehyung. He doesn't understand why though. 

Over the past few weeks, Jungkook has been treating Taehyung’s injury. He had slightly dislocated his shoulder and arm, which renders his flight. Dislocation is a pretty serious thing but since he’s part dragon, Taehyung doesn't feel much pain. Because he walks around and pounces onto Jungkook just fine. Now that he thinks about it, Taehyung reminds him of a big cat. 

He’s indifferent but chases Jungkook when he walks away. Dealing with Taehyung, as a human and a dragon, requires patience and Jungkook is all about that. 

“Taehyung! I’ve brought--AHHHHH” the moment he steps into the cove, he’s lifted into the air and tackled to the ground by Taehyung. Even in his dragon form, Jungkook can tell Taehyung’s grinning innocently, excited to see him and the food. 

“I told you not to surprise me like that!” Jungkook scolds and Taehyung whimpers, getting off. 

‘Patience. Yeah, right’

Jungkook sighs, “Sorry. I’ve been a little stressed. WHat would you like? Chicken or fish? I've both,” he says, crossing his legs and settling on the ground beneath him. 

Taehyung transforms, “Chicken!” having forgotten that he was just scolded. Jungkook smiles, handing him the package. Taehyung quickly unravels it and takes a bite, eyes rolling to the back of his head as he groans, “Did you make this?! This is so good, Kookie!” 

Yeah. Taehyung had been calling Jungkook Kookie and it was only making it harder for Jungkook to not combust on sight. 

“Thanks, Tae,” Jungkook grinned, taking out his own package, watching Taehyung enjoy his meal. 

Jungkook had learned quite a few things about dragons thanks to Taehyung. It’s much easier to fill the Dragon Manual if he just asks Taehyung things but Jungkook has come to realize that he’s very unaware of his Dragon form. For instance, until a few days back, Taehyung didn't know he loved tall grass. 

Since Jungkook has been treating Taehyung, he has also been monitoring his flight which is still very unstable. Sometimes, he even joins Taehyung on his back. Taehyung doesn't know but every time Jungkook gets on his back, he squeals on the inside because HE’S PROBABLY THE FIRST ONE TO EVER RIDE A DRAGON???

Anyway, this one time, Taehyung lost balance and accidentally crashed into land with some tall grass. And Jungkook couldn't believe his eyes. The Dragon that once posed a threat to humans was squirming on the ground and purring to its heart’s content. Like a cat! That day, he dared to take some grass back to the dragons held captive in the village, and to his surprise, he put them to sleep using it. In secret, of course. No one is supposed to know Jungkook is tending to a shapeshifter in the woods. Especially his Dad. He was a merciless man. 

Snapping out of these thoughts, Jungkook looks at Taehyung again. Just watching him eat his food so deliciously fills Jungkook’s stomach. And then, his eyes drift lower, landing on the expanse of skin escaping the robes he had gotten Taehyung weeks ago. They’re Jungkook’s so they’re a little loose for Taehyung.  

He has also learned that Taehyung, as a human, is also very unaware of himself. 

Jungkook averts his gaze, warmth rushing to his cheeks as he continues munching on his lunch. He wants to tell Taehyung but won't Taehyung ask him why he was looking there in the first place? Or did Taehyung even care about it? They're boys. They shouldn't care about such things. Boys at their age have seen each others’ dicks so chest-- Jungkook puts an end to his thoughts by landing a slap on his cheek. 

It alarms Taehyung, “What’s wrong?”

“Hahaha, it’s nothing,” Jungkook sulks. Taehyung doesn't question it and they eat in comfortable silence. 

It was his first time meeting a shapeshifter so naturally, he had a lot of questions for Taehyung. And Taehyung was more than willing to answer. 

Shapeshifters, like Namjoon, said, sided with the dragons and wiped out entire human civilizations. But it seems that the shapeshifters were not entirely conscious. They had no clue why they attacked humans or how they lost control of their bodies. But they knew they wouldn't be forgiven for what they did. So they chose to isolate themselves. Even so, humans found them and put an end to them. 

“So...are you the last of your kind?” Jungkook asked as he adjusted Taehyung’s robes. 

Taehyung didn't answer, only bit his lip as he looked up at Jungkook hesitantly, “I-I’d rather not say…”

Understanding his apprehension, Jungkook didn't bother him about it anymore. But he had been dying to ask him one question and he did. 

“Why..why didn't you kill me that day, Taehyung?” 

Taehyung stared at him, hazel eyes boring holes into his body. But his answer was simple. 

“Why didn't you?”

It was this synergy between him and Taehyung that drew Jungkook to him. And possibly, drew Taehyung to Jungkook. 

“AH! That was so, so good! Thanks for the food Kookie!” Taehyung falls back onto the ground, rubbing his belly delightfully. 

“No problem. Now, morph,” Taehyung rolls to the other side, back facing Jungkook. 

“Taehyung,” Jungkook coaxes, “We need to work on your flight. If you can't fly away you...you’ll be stuck here forever,” Jungkook’s tongue felt bitter saying those words. Because...what was so bad...about being stuck here?

Ah, right. 

Taehyung...probably has a family to get back to. 

Taehyung had told him that he grew up as a human for the most part but when people of his village began suspecting his family, they had to move away. On the way though, they got into a scuffle with other dragons and Taehyung separated from his family. Ever since then, since 7 years, he has been on his own. 

Jungkook doubts that before him, Taehyung was probably very lonely. And missed his family very much. So wishing for Taehyung to stay here, by his side, for his selfish reasons, is not justified. Some day, Taehyung is going to leave. And judging by the rate of his recovery, that day is not far. 

At his words, Taehyung rolls back to face Jungkook, expression unreadable. He observes Jungkook’s features in silence before quietly standing up and morphing. 

“Thank you,” Jungkook says as he gets on top of Taehyung. He leans forward and pets his head, “Let’s go, Tae,” and Taehyung launches into the air. 

And the feeling is exhilarating. They're not far from the cove but they're still in the sky, soaring together and Jungkook’s heart brims with thrill. 

“WHOOOOOOO!” he exclaims and Taehyung growls happily. When they're in the sky, for a moment, they can forget all their worries. 

Jungkook raises his arms, spreading them as Taehyung glides through the open sky. 

Jungkook loves this feeling. He feels like...he belongs. 

And he doesn't want to forget this feeling. Ever.

He leans forth, wrapping his arms around Taehyung’s neck, resting his head on his as Taehyung’s purrs. The wind blows through his blonde hair as if passing right through him. 

He knows that’s too much to ask for. 

So he settles for enjoying the moment. 

Just him and Taehyung, alone in the sky. 

°•°

“That was great, Taehyung! We made it past the creek today!” Jungkook exclaims happily as they arrive at the cove. Taehyung shakes his head, growling heartily in response as he touches the ground. 

Jungkook gets off and flashes Taehyung his bunny smile, patting his head. 

“You did well today!” he says and Taehyung huffs excitedly, like a dog, wagging his ginormous tail about like a puppy. 

He decides to indulge him and gets to work, scratching all over him. Taehyung purrs lowly, eyes closing as Jungkook’s fingers get closer to his neck. And when they hook under his neck, Taehyung lets out a surprised growl and drops to the ground, morphing into a human. 

“You--you said you wouldn't do that anymore!” Taehyung blushes, lying on the ground as Jungkook laughs, getting over him. 

“I don't remember making any such promise,” he says, fingers attacking his waist, and Taehyung bursts out into laughter, holding onto Jungkook. 

“You swindler--ahahahaha” he squirms and writhes, tears forming in his eyes as Jungkook continues tormenting him.

“Please--ahahaha please!” Taehyung pleads and Jungkook stops. Taehyung takes the chance to attack Jungkook but fails because Jungkook’s reflexes are surprisingly faster than Taehyung’s and he pins his hands to the ground. 

Taehyung cackles in defeat, throwing his head back as Jungkook pants, lips quirked up victoriously. 

“You got me, ahaha. The Dragon has been defeated!” Taehyung exclaims and Jungkook chuckles, catching his breath. 

Their giggles die down and their gazes lock. 

Something in Taehyung’s gaze shifts and he licks his lips. A small gasp escapes Jungkook’s lips and he knows his eyes are blown. He doesn't know if it's gravity pulling him down or Taehyung’s stare but he finds himself lowering, strands of hair draping over the side of his face as Taehyung’s chest heaves. Jungkook’s grip on Taehyung’s wrist loosens as he leans closer to the man, eyes fluttering shut when Taehyung’s fingers slip into his. 

“Kookie” Taehyung breathes. His breath is hot, Jungkook is sure his is too.

“S-Shut up” he whispers as their noses brush, fingers locking.   

When their foreheads touch, Jungkook realizes how warm Taehyung is.

Jungkook’s never felt like this before. 

Do friends do this? Are they...friends?

He opens his eyes to see Taehyung’s shut, lips parted. Jungkook gasps inwardly. 

‘He’s so pretty’ Jungkook leans in. 

“JUNGKOOK! JUNGKOOK-AH!” Namjoon’s voice booms somewhere in the distance and the two jump away. Jungkook gathers all his belongings as Taehyung scurries behind the rocks as Namjoon emerges from the distance. 

“Hyung?! What’s wrong?!” Jungkook shoots Taehyung a glance before jogging to Namjoon who looks rather worried. 

“Jungkook-ah,” he pants, “your Father is back.”

°•°

“Son, where have you been?” his Father, Dowon, enquires when he notices Jungkook’s presence behind him. 

“Nowhere. How was your journey, Dad?” he deflects but he knows his Father will pick up on it. Even if does, he doesn't bring it up and chooses to answer the question instead. 

“Fruitless. It was a cold trail. We lost track of those dragons midway so we turned around,” he says, pouring himself a glass of alcohol. Jungkook nods, trying his best to seem empathetic. But he couldn't. One thing he’d learned after meeting Taehyung was that Dragons were not as vicious as they seem. Like humans, they're doing what they can to survive.

They're also gentle and kind, like Taehyung.  

“I see. So what now?” his father turns to him, eyes boring into him questioningly. But Jungkook doesn't budge. 

“I will go on another voyage and try to navigate my way to the Dragon Island. Once there, I will kill them all,” he speaks with confidence and determination. Jungkook knows he will keep up his word and not stop till the last dragon is killed.

“I leave tomorrow so I’ll go to bed now. You should too,” 

“Yes, Dad,” Jungkook says and his father leaves the room. Jungkooks releases the breath he doesn't remember holding and the tension in his body dissipates. 

The Dragon Island. 

His father believes that all Dragons reside on one island and that by destroying that island, they could put an end to the DRagons. 

Jungkook hasn't heard anything about any island from Taehyung. He doesn't want to make any assumptions based on inconclusive evidence. 

But if his father says he will find it, Jungkook believes he will.

And the thought terrifies him.

°•°

“Kookie you don't have to buy me anything! I can just wear your clothes!” Taehyung whines as Jungkook drags him through the forest, hand holding his wrist. 

“I have to, Tae. You can't keep wearing my clothes forever!”

“Why not?” Taehyung pouts and Jungkook chooses not to answer. What was he going to say? Seeing you in my clothes does things to me? He sounds like such a pervert!

But the real reason why Jungkook was taking Taehyung to the village was to treat his injury. It had healed for the most part but Taehyung still found it difficult to fly for extended periods and maintain his dragon forms. If he doesn't heal completely, he will be helpless in dangerous situations. Namjoon isn't going to be in the clinic today so Jungkook can use all the facilities he can on Taehyung without anyone noticing. The faster his injuries heal, the faster he can… the faster he can get to safety. 

“Because I don't have anything to wear! Plus, they're not your size, Taehyung!” Jungkook chides and Taehyung pushes his bottom lip out, sulking.

“But I like it,” he says and Jungkook knows his ears are burning but he doesn't say anything. They continue their way through the forest silently. 

As they reach the edge of the Village, the hustle-bustle of civilization becomes evident. Jungkook surveys the surroundings and then turns to Taehyung, “Ok. It’s clear. Let’s go--” but he stops when his eyes land on Taehyung. 

His eyes grow watching as Taehyung stands still, catatonic. His fists are clenched by his side, eyes downcast as his lip quivers ever so lightly. Within a blink, Jungkook’s by his side, cupping his cheeks.

“Taehyung, are you okay? Are you hurt? Is it your injury?” Jungkook’s worried. He’s never seen Taehyung like this. Afraid, trembling. 

“N-No. I-I’m just nervous. Humans…” he chokes out and Jungkook gasps.

That’s right. All experiences he has had with humans ever have been violent and deadly. His hesitation, his fear makes sense.  

Looking back at the empty street, Jungkook sighs, “Alright. I’ll drop you back at the cove. I’ll get you some clothes, yeah?” Jungkook ruffles his hair, smiling at him reassuringly as he turns to the forest but Taehyung stops him yet again. 

“Wait! N-No. I want to go. I’m just scared so--”

“Taehyung--”

“I'll go if...if you take my hand,”

One beat.

Two beats.

Three beats.

“Alright,” Jungkook agrees without any further questions and takes Taehyung’s wrist in his hand. 

“Let’s go--”

“No. I...like this,” Taehyung frees his wrist and interlaces his fingers with Jungkook, tightening his grip as Jungkook’s breath hitches.

“I-I see. Let's go!” Jungkook announces, fearing he would embarrass himself if he spoke any longer and Taehyung quietly follows him into the Village, the two more aware of each other’s touch than ever. 

Ever since that almost ...kiss at the cove, there has been heavy tension lingering in the air between them. They have not brought it up again but they had been walking on eggshells around each other ever since.

Now, as they walked into the Village hand in hand, Jungkook couldn't help but feel like he would combust on site. Taehyung’s hand feels warm and Jungkook wonders if he feels grossed out by how much he’s sweating. 

As they approach the Market, the density of the population increases. The stares on the pair intensify. They look at Taehyung first, having never seen him. And then they look at their linked hands. Jungkook’s cheeks burn as murmurs surround them. 

Jungkook’s a rather oddball around here. Other than his Father’s status, Jungkook has nothing to cling to. Another reason why people are wary of him is his hair. 

It’s white in a land of brunettes. 

Taehyung never said anything about it, neither did Namjoon or his Father. But the rumor that Jungkook is nothing but a bad omen is common here. That’s the reason why he has been ostracized. It’s his pearly white hair. 

That isn’t it. Taehyung’s hair is jet black, another freakish sight to behold. Paired with Jungkook’s white hair, the monochrome duo tread carefully under heavy gazes.  

As people pass by them, Taehyung trembles lightly, holding onto Jungkook harder. 

Jungkook’s a blonde man walking through the street with another man clinging to his arm. Just how odder can he get? Everything about Jungkook screams strange. But that didn’t matter right now. His priority was to get Taehyung to the clinic. 

The gazes linger and Jungkook’s nervousness grows but the moment they enter the market, his anxiety subdues. In a crowd of people, the peculiarity surrounding him and Taehyung diminish. No one cares enough to take a proper look at them and Taehyung finally relaxes. 

He’s let go of Jungkook’s hand, his fingers barely touching his palms and Jungkook walks ahead. His touch is so soft Jungkook doesn't realize it’s no longer there when he makes it past the market. 

Panic sets in as he deliriously twirls around to spot Taehyung. For a moment, he imagines the worst. His stomach dips. He wants to yell but he shouldn't. Eyes wide and palms sweaty, Jungkook pushes into the crowd of people. But when his eyes settle on a pitch black-head near the scent shop, his panic subsides into anger. He rushes to the man, yanking him back from the stall he had stopped at, “How could you just let go--” but he shuts up at the sight. 

“Sorry, Kookie. I couldn't resist,” Taehyung blinks at Jungkook as the latter attempts to register the sight in front of him. 

“Y-You...that..”

“Hm?”

“Why are your lips pink?” 

Taehyung’s lips were pink. Tantalizingly pink. So much that Jungkook wants to touch his lips, play with them. 

Jungkook’s too taken back to realize Taehyung has smeared some of the mixtures on his lips too. 

“Taehyung what--” Jungkook attempts to wipe the pigment away with his sleeve when Taehyung stops him, “You’re gonna dirty your sleeve, Kookie!”

Jungkook stares and Taehyung smiles, “Kookie, your cheeks are the color of your lips now, hehe,” 

More heat rushes to Jungkook’s cheeks and his brain explodes, too weak to handle Taehyung’s charms. 

“Ma’am, can I have this one?” Taehyung turns back to the shopkeeper. And though her gaze questions why a pair of boys were interested in the vial of lip pigment, she doesn't say anything and quietly accepts the money Taehyung takes from Jungkook’s pocket and gives her. 

“Thank you!” Taehyung chimes and this time, he holds onto Jungkook’s hand. 

“What were you saying?” Taehyung asks, smacking his lips together as Jungkook sighs, watching their interlaced fingers, “Nothing. Just don't leave me like that again, okay?”

“Hehe okay! Anyway, how do my lips look?” Taehyung pouts and all the neurons in Jungkook’s brain crash. 

Taehyung, you're going to be the death of me. 

°•°

“Are you sure it’s okay? I’m healing gradually anyway. We didn't have to risk coming here, y’know?” Taehyung says as he settles on the bed, watching Jungkook rummage through the drawers and retrieving vials and whatnot. 

“You can always heal faster y’know. I don't want you to be in constant pain, Taehyung,”

“But I’m not--” Jungkook raises a brow at him and Taehyung slumps, “Alright,”

Jungkook chuckles as he climbs onto the bed behind Taehyung, resting his hands on his shoulders. His fingers undo the buttons of Taehyung’s shirt and the fabric slides off his shoulder, exposing the smooth skin underneath as well as the partially healed laceration. 

Jungkook pop opens a vial and the treatment begins. Taehyung has to admit, a mattress feels much better than the gravelly ground back at the cove. Jungkook’s experienced hands work their magic and Taehyung’s eyes flutter shut, his breath reduced to a low hum. 

“Does it hurt?” his eyes shoot open at the sound of Jungkook’s voice in his ear, “No. I’m fine. This is nothing, haha” Taehyung jokes and Jungkook’s eyes wander down to the flesh at his waist. 

The scars on Taehyung’s body never fail to surprise him. It’s almost as if every time Jungkook treats Taehyung, new ones seem to appear everywhere. A Dragon’s body was fireproof on the outside but blades and spears always got through the thick flesh. Under all, that barrage of tough scales was Taehyung, surprisingly fragile. 

Taehyung yelps when Jungkook’s hand unconsciously traces the ridges of the scars, heart beating out of his chest. He clears his throat, feeling the way Jungkook touches him. 

Like always, a new one catches Jungkook’s eye. And it’s located in a surprisingly open area that Jungkook wonders how he missed it.   

His knuckles trace against the lesion hidden under the mess of Taehyung’s hair at his nape and the latter gasps. 

“How did you get this?” Jungkook questions and Taehyung swallows, words failing to come out of his mouth. 

Taehyung ponders what it’s about this situation that raises the hair on his body. Is it the walls of the clinic or Jungkook’s low voice ringing in his ears?

“Ah, it’s a wound from another dragon. Her claw missed me by a hair,” 

“Why did she attack you?” 

“She didn’t. I did,”

Taehyung? Attacking someone unprovoked? It surprised Jungkook. 

“Why?”

“She was abducting a child. He was barely five when she grabbed him and attempted to fly away. I interfered and well, haha,” 

“Did the child survive?” 

“Of course he did. I was the one that protected him after all,” Taehyung huffs, proud. But Jungkook doesn't budge, eyes trained on the scar tucked into the safety of his nape. 

From the moment he met Taehyung, Jungkook never truly feared him. His actions were a manifestation of society’s expectations and his father’s words. Jungkook never wanted to hurt a dragon. He didn't want to hurt Taehyung. And he regretted having added another scar on Taehyung’s skin. 

With Taehyung, something inside him is complete. All these years of emptiness and something has finally filled the void in Jungkook’s being. 

He doesn't register Taehyung’s voice asking him what’s wrong. He doesn't register the way Taehyung’s body twists a little to look back at Jungkook.

Without a thought in mind, Jungkook leans and presses his lips into the curve of his neck, right onto the scar. The scar that represents Taehyung for who he is. 

The press of his lips is feather-light, barely even there but it weighs heavily on Taehyung who tenses at the feel of it, eyes wide and posture linear.  

His lips linger for a while as his brain registers what he had just done. When reality sets in, Jungkook pulls back to meet Taehyung’s rosy cheeks and bewildered eyes. 

“T-Taehyung I--”

The moment is interrupted when the door swings open to reveal his Father. 

“Dad!” Jungkook jumps away from Taehyung as the latter swiftly adjusts his clothes. His Father eyes them suspiciously before taking hefty steps towards them. Jungkook moves, coming to stand in front of Taehyung, facing his Father. 

“Son, who’s this?” he raises a brow, and Jungkook gulps, “He’s Namjoon Hyung’s cousin. He’s visiting and needed treatment for a wound he acquired on his way here”

Jungkook hopes his story seems plausible. That his Father will walk away or ignore Taehyung’s existence altogether. But of course, he doesn't. 

“A wound? Let me see,” he pushes past a hapless Jungkook and locks eyes with Taehyung. 

Taehyung seems calm in the face of his curious Father, eyes indifferent. 

“Show me your wound, boy,” His father narrows his eyes at Taehyung, Taehyung retorts. When Taehyung doesn't budge, he raises his hand. 

“Dad--” Taehyung stops it, fingers wrapping around his Father’s weighty wrist. 

“I’d rather no one touches me,” Taehyung’s glare intensifies and it’s enough to make Jungkook’s father back down. 

He huffs, clicking his tongue, “How’d you get the wound?”

Before Taehyung can answer, Jungkook does, “Dragon!” and then he realizes how big a mistake he just made. 

“Dragon, huh? I’m surprised you didn't get mauled to death by it, boy,”

Taehyung narrows his eyes at his Father’s tone, “Well it was not its fault. I was the one that happened upon it and it merely defended itself,”

His father turns to him again, chest out and nostrils blaring at the fact that Taehyung had just defended the actions of a dragon. 

“I fear that was not the case. And why are you defending pests that torment us continuously?”

“Are we the only ones being tormented? Aren't dragons being mercilessly killed for their teeth and claws?” 

“Know your place, boy. I’ve battled many beasts and killed many more. I know better than anyone how heartless they are. They...ruined my family,” he glances at Jungkook, “My hatred for those creatures will never subdue, no matter how many of you empathetic brats come and go. Now, I don’t know you but I must tell you that you are no longer welcome in this Village. After Jungkook treats you, I suggest you go back to where you came from,”

With that said, his father turns to Jungkook, “Tell Namjoon to send him his way. I do not want to see him around anymore,” 

Jungkook shivers, nodding and he exits the room, without sparing Taehyung another glance. 

Neither of them speak for a while, choosing to ferment in the awkward silence as Jungkook builds up the courage to speak. 

“Tae--”

“Do you know why that boy was on the outskirts of the Village, Jungkook?”

Jungkook’s brain races back to the story Taehyung had told him about the scar on his neck. 

“N-No…”

“His father had abandoned him, a 5-year-old child because he was disabled,”

Jungkook’s heart sinks and dread fills him as Taehyung covers himself. 

“Let’s go,” he says, voice low and eyes downcast as he walks past Jungkook. 

Dragons are ruthless. But so are humans. 

°•°

Once they were out of sight of the villagers, as the sky turned orange, Jungkook and Taehyung set off into the sky over the vast ocean. 

The silence was heavy, almost unbearable for Jungkook. 

Taehyung wasn't checking up on him or purring like he usually did and it was beginning to worry Jungkook. 

“Taehyung?”

No answer. 

“Taehyung, I have something to say. Will you listen?”

No answer yet again. 

“It’s not like you cant listen so I’ll talk anyway,”

Taehyung huffs at that and Jungkook pats his head. 

“Did you realize something? My Dad and I don't have the same hair color. Nor is anyone in the entire Village blonde. I got my hair from my Mother who’s no more now,”

Taehyung growls lowly, signaling to Jungkook that he’s listening. 

“According to village folk, my Mother was a rare beauty. She, like me, had pearly white hair and was kind of an oddball. She wasn't from here though. My Dad found her, wounded, in the middle of the forest infested by dragons and brought her to safety. He nursed her to full health and I guess, that’s how they fell in love. Tch, yeah. It’s hard to digest that my Dad could love someone. But that explains why his hatred for dragons amplified,”

Taehyung purrs as they fly across the sky, the wind tickling Jungkook’s hair. Jungkook leans forth, resting his head on Taehyung’s, wrapping his arms around him. 

“My Dad said that...my mom was attacked and taken...by a dragon one night. He hasn't been the same ever since. And for some reason, the dad whose shoulders I grew up on, lost all his affection for me,”

Jungkook’s sure his heartbeat is resonating into Taehyung, seeping into his body past the scales. Maybe that’s why Taehyung purrs louder, comforting Jungkook. 

“I never blamed him. Rather myself. So I wanted to become a son he could be proud of. That's why i...shot you down. And well, you know the rest,” Jungkook fights back the urge to cry but a tear escapes and falls onto Taehyung’s ear anyway. 

“But when I found you, I just couldn't bring myself to kill you. I didn't understand why I didn't carry the same hatred that others did for dragons. Is there something different about me? Inherently? And now, being with you, drifting through the clouds, even if it’s for a second, I want to forget all the burdens and responsibilities. I-I wish...I could soar off into the sky with you and leave everything behind,”

Taehyung growls. 

“B-But I want to tell people that Dragons aren't any different from humans. That when treated right, with affection, they can be our friends,” Jungkook sniffles, “L-Like you are mine,”

Taehyung growls louder at that and before Jungkook can continue, with a strong whip of his wings, he launches into the sky, straight up into the clouds as Jungkook struggles to hold on. 

“Taehyung what--” and Taehyung doesn’t stop, shooting through the clouds above them. 

And then, everything around them shifts. It slows down, comes to a standstill. 

All of a sudden, the weight under Jungkook disappears, the dragon morphs into a human as Jungkook panics, holding onto him. 

“TAEHYUNG WE’RE GONNA FAL--” 

But he stops, noticing that they weren't free-falling to the Earth below them. 

“We’re fine, Kookie,” he hears Taehyung and turns to him. Jungkook knows that Taehyung knows they won't fall. But he’s holding onto him like he might do. He doesn't let go, wrapping his arms around Jungkook’s waist.

“We call this area the Calm. It’s right above the clouds and for some reason, you don't fall to your death here. It’s vast, quiet, and tranquil. Dragons come here to rest,” Taehyung explains and Jungkook buries himself in Taehyung’s chest. 

His hold on Taehyung tightens. Taehyung chuckles and Jungkook pulls back to face him.

“You won't fall, I won't let you,” Taehyung wipes a tear away from his cheek, smiling. 

Against the backdrop of the setting sun, Taehyung shines brighter. The light colors his skin a light orange, highlighting all his perfect features. Especially his blinding smile. 

Jungkook’s bewitched. 

His mind is swimming and his heart is uneasy, threatening to rip out of his chest. 

But everything about this moment feels right, just right. 

“I...I already have,” he says, eyes not leaving Taehyung’s face. 

“What?”

“I’ve fallen, Taehyung,” 

Taehyung’s eyes grow as they float above the clouds, drifting through the vast sky. 

“Jungkook--”

“I don't know why. But here, with you, I belong, Taehyung. Never in my 20 years of life have I felt such a thing, such a belonging. I just--”

Taehyung shushes him, pulling him closer as Jungkook hangs onto his shoulders. 

“You belong with me, Jungkook. And I, with you,”

Jungkook’s spellbound, starstruck at his words. 

And then, he leans in. On cue, Taehyung moves too, eyes fluttering shut. 

They move with ease, without hesitation as silence surrounds them. 

Their lips meet after what feels like an eternity as the sun sets upon them, coloring the clouds below them a warm orange. 

They kiss as they sail through the evening sky. 

They kiss as the stars watch upon them. 

They kiss as their hearts become one. 

They kiss and it feels just right. 

Jungkook belongs. 

And so does Taehyung. 

°•°

Taehyung’s heart has been uneasy since yesterday. Fluttering with the memory of their kiss, Taehyung’s heart downright refuses to calm down. 

He lay on the ground, staring at the sun above, reminiscing the feeling of their kiss. A giggle escapes his lips remembering the kiss they had shared after flying back to the cove. 

Jungkook was a blushing mess, reduced to nervous giggles as Taehyung placed small, soft kisses on his face.

‘What are we now? Lovers? He hasn't said anything about it but friends don't kiss, right? It has to be! We’re lovers, aren't we!?’ 

Taehyung turns, burying his face in the grass as he swings his feet nervously, unable to contain his excitement. 

Jungkook is gonna be here soon and Taehyung can't wait to kiss him all over again. 

So he waits, anticipation growing. 

He waits. And waits. 

But Jungkook doesn't come.

Not for a few hours. 

Taehyung’s thrill changes to worry. But it’s highly unlikely that Jungkook is in trouble. Highly. Or so Taehyung convinces himself. 

The concern is overpowering him, crushing his will to lay low. Jungkook had warned him not to do anything reckless. And Taehyung wants to uphold his promise. So he stays, but he morphs into the Dragon first. Just in case. 

Sulking, he puts his head down onto his paws and closes his eyes. 

Time passes by and the afternoon sun glares upon his obsidian scales. Taehyung’s not asleep, not completely. He’s anxious, on edge. Jungkook’s taking too long. 

Just as Taehyung gets up to morph back into his human form, a screech and a roar reach his ears. They perk at the sound and something in his heart tells him Jungkook’s in trouble. 

Taehyung’s on his feet as the commotion gets louder, the roars murderous. And he darts towards the walls of the cove. Without Jungkook’s help, he has never been able to fly over the walls. The pain in his shoulder is blaring but that doesn't stop Taehyung from clawing his way up the walls. His movements are desperate, clumsy even as he finally makes his way up. He launches into the air, half-running, half-flying through the thick forest as the screams amplify when he reaches the edge of the Village. The pain doesn't bother him, he doesn’t let it get in his way. 

The adrenaline pumping through his veins makes him numb to the discomfort in his shoulder and all he can think about right now is getting to Jungkook as soon as possible. 

His vision is blurry and his movements are erratic as he launches into the sky yet again, surveying the Village. Some catch a glimpse of him, others are barely able to register him due to his speed. Either way, chaos ensues but that doesn't stop Taehyung. His heart is beating out of his chest.

He’s a Night Fury and his appearance is a disadvantage in the broad daylight, but now is not the time for stealth. Once he hears a particularly loud scream from Jungkook, Taehyung’s brain powers into override and he has lost all inhibitions as he follows the noise. He hears thrashing, clashing, and thuds when he approaches a rather large cage, inside which he spots Jungkook, between the claws of a Murderous Monstrous Nightmare. Its jaws are open, about to burn Jungkook to death. And Taehyung’s delirious from dread when his eyes meet Jungkook’s. Jungkook’s eyes grow, trained on him and away from impending death, as if urging Taehyung to leave but he doesn't. He finally divebombs, firing a powerful concussive blast at the Metal cage enclosing the battle arena, melting the bars as smoke engulfs them. 

“NIGHT FURY!”

“GET DOWN!”

His presence is loud and everyone has seen him. But it does not hinder him from firing another blast at the red dragon. 

Promptly, he has his teeth and claws dug into the flesh of the Monstrous Nightmare and her claws are finally off Jungkook. Taehyung attacks her ruthlessly, prying her away from Jungkook.  But she’s relentless, coming at Taehyung with her wicked claws. 

His moves are far from calculated and there’s urgency in his actions as he slashes the beast that’s easily twice his size. For a moment, the red beast gets the upper hand and tackles Taehyung to the ground, pouncing onto Jungkook but Taehyung’s between them in the blink of an eye, stopping it from mauling Jungkook to death. 

Taehyung roars louder than he ever has in his entire life, bearing his teeth as he prepares for another blast, holding his ground. The beast slashes again but this time, Taehyung gains the upper hand and pushes the beast to the other side of the arena. 

And she’s down, whimpering as she cowers away from Taehyung, crawling back to the safety of its cage. 

Jungkook’s at his side, pushing Taehyung, “Please, I’m safe. Go, Taehyung, Go!”

But Taehyung doesn't leave his side, growling as people hop into the cage with their weapons, charging at the deadly Night Fury. But Taehyung’s eyes are trained on Jungkook’s father, approaching him with a hand-ax.

“DAD! NO! HE WON’T HURT YOU!”

With a strong whip of his tail and several kicks, Taehyung puts people down, making his way towards Jungkook’s father ferociously, fueled by animosity from their previous encounter. He can hear Jungkook screaming in the back, asking him to leave but Taehyung doesn't register it as the hefty man lands a punch on him. He retaliates, losing self-control as he swiftly pins the man to the ground. 

He opens his mouth, preparing to shoot a blast at the man when he hears him, “THAT’S MY FATHER! TAEHYUNG! STOP!”

Jungkook’s screams are strangely filled with anguish. Filled with concern for his father who never seemed to love him. And so, Taehyung stops, retracting his teeth as he glances back at Jungkook. 

Their eyes lock for a second and a tear escapes Jungkook's eye as people jump onto Taehyung and over-power him, pinning him to the ground with all their might. 

“KILL HIM!”

All this while, Taehyung doesn't look away from the weeping boy, watching helplessly as Jungkook falls to his knees. But he’s glad. There’s not a single scratch on his being. 

A sudden pain pierces through his body, intensifying at his wing, and Taehyung gasps. 

He helplessly morphs back into his human form, buried under the pile of warriors. 

“WAIT! GET OFF!” he hears Jungkook’s father and the weight on him disappears. He curls into himself as the sunlight touches him.

“DAD WAIT!” But Jungkook’s father grabs him by the hair and yanks him up, exposing his form to everybody present in the arena. 

And he smirks like he’s been waiting to get his hands on Taehyung, to hurt him. He slaps a hand to his shoulder. Taehyung screams at the pain eliciting from his wound but maintains his composure, staring daggers at the man.  

“DAD STOP!” Jungkook runs towards Taehyung but a man holds him back. Namjoon.

“Hyung, Taehyung--”

“I knew there was something odd about you, boy,” his father’s eyes gleam with arrogance and pride that Taehyung had previously hurt. 

“Cage him,” he says, narrowing his eyes at Taehyung and people grab him, taking him away from a yelling Jungkook. 

“Please! Please don't hurt him!” he pleads as people laugh maniacally, euphoric from the fact that they had just caught a Night Fury. A shapeshifter at that!

They laugh at their victory and at Jungkook, mocking the sympathy he holds for a dragon. 

That’s when a great ache elicited from both their hearts.  

To watch with your own eyes your beloved plead and be ridiculed, yet be unable to do anything, is the greatest suffering in the world. 

°•°

Taehyung’s thrown into a cage as Jungkook’s father enters, followed by Jungkook clinging to his arm, “Dad! Don’t hurt him!” he says to no avail. He pushes Jungkook to the side and Taehyung groans, jumping to his feet and launching himself at the man, only to be stopped midway by his powerful arm and pushed back. 

“How dare you seduce my Son, you shapeshifter!” the man throws the hand ax to the ground and the sound resonates within the hollow walls of the cage. Taehyung doesn’t flinch as Jungkook get’s back to his feet. 

“No wonder Jungkook had gone crazy. Attempting to embarrass me in front of the entire village by telling them about how dragons are good? By throwing away his sword and reaching out to it? To what? Pet it? RIDICULOUS! THIS IS ALL BECAUSE OF YOU, YOU BRAT!” he roars. 

Taehyung put two and two together. 

Jungkook had attempted to prove to all the Village-folk that dragons were kind. And very similar to humans. Which was why he was unarmed when Taehyung spotted him in the claws of the Monstrous Nightmare. Taehyung was sure the beast had come under Jungkook’s spell, that like Taehyung, it had seen his kindness. But some noise must've broken it out of its trance and it attacked Jungkook. 

“For all the damage that you have caused, you must pay!” he grabs Taehyung again. 

“Dad stop!” 

“Step away from me, Jungkook! I am very disappointed in you! To think that you would associate yourself with such scum. Lowlifes and traitors! How dare you--”

“Why wouldn't he associate himself with the likes of me, huh?” Taehyung speaks up for the first time in a while. And Jungkook’s father turns to him, brow raised. 

“You dare talk back to me! You--”

“I know where the Nest of Dragons is! You've been looking, haven't you?” Dowon freezes. 

“Taehyung, don't--”

“Speak, boy,” Dowon leers at Taehyung. 

Jungkook’s confused, watching helplessly as Dowon kneels to Taehyung’s side. 

“There is a nest of Dragons on an Island not far from here. It’s where all dragons take their loot to. They don't eat the sheep and people they kidnap. They give it to the mother Dragon that rests on the Island. She controls them all,”

This was brand new information for both Jungkook and Dowon. 

“So...if there’s a dragon that controls them...does that mean that all those centuries ago, when shapeshifters betrayed humans, they were under the control of a powerful Dragon?” Jungkook asks and Taehyung bites his lip. 

“S-So...it was not the fault of shapeshifters...it was that Dragon…” Jungkook realizes and Taehyung nods. 

“That Evil Dragon was a murderous one and wanted to bring ruin upon civilization. Which was why it forced dragons and shapeshifters to attack humans…”

So all they know about History...is wrong. That Dragons are indeed--

“It doesn't matter!” Dowon’s words stop Jungkook’s train of thought, “Bring me to the nest. I will destroy them all!” 

“Dad no! It’s not their fault! The Dragons, they're innocent!”

“I do not care for them for they are mere savage beasts. I will put an end to them, even if it means sacrificing my life,”

Chills run down Jungkook’s spine. Then...Taehyung...

Taehyung spits, “I’ll take you to the nest--”

“GREAT!”

“--on one condition!” 

Dowon gawps at Taehyung, “state your terms”

“I will come with you when you tell Jungkook the truth,”

Dowon stumbles back, gasping, “You--”

“Did you think I didn’t realize?” Taehyung smirks and an angry groan leaves Dowon’s lips. 

It seems to Jungkook that the two had an understanding of sorts. Though the subject of the conversation was him, Jungkook was clueless. 

“W-What’s going on?” 

“No. I will not. If you take me to the nest, I will grant you freedom. But this, I will not do,” Dowon huffs, eyes wide. 

“My freedom isn't more important than the truth! If it means that I have to spend the rest of my life in a cage or burning in the depths of hell, I will gladly do it as long as you tell Jungkook everything!” 

Dowon is startled, taken aback at the words of a mere 20-year-old. Jungkook is far too scared of the consequences of getting to know the truth. 

“How bold,” Dowon speaks up after marveling at the determination in Taehyung’s gaze, “Very well, then. Prepare to spend your life in a cage, brat,”

“Taehyung no--”

“Kookie,” his voice is tender, devoid of the hostility it carried while speaking to Dowon, “It’s okay. I’ll be okay. But you need to know…”

“Please, don't do this to yourself Taehyung,” Jungkook drops to his knees, cupping Taehyung’s face, “I don't have to know if it endangers you. Nothing, nothing is more important to me than you,” he presses his forehead to his, tears escaping his eyes at Taehyung’s fate. 

Taehyung chuckles in a whisper, booping Jungkook’s nose, “I love you,” 

Jungkook whimpers, closing his eyes as tears gush out.

They hadn't gotten a chance to say those words to each other yesterday. But Taehyung wasn't gonna let this opportunity pass. 

“Taehyung--”

“That's enough! PREPARE FOR TRAVEL!” Dowon pulls Jungkook away from Taehyung, alerting his men. 

“NO!”

“What’s the guarantee you’ll tell him?” Taehyung’s voice stops Dowon. He turns to him, “I’m a man of my word,” 

And with that, before he could utter those words to Taehyung, Jungkook’s pulled out as an iron curtain separates them. 

That was probably the last time he would lay his eyes on Taehyung. 

°•°

It’s after several hours that Namjoon finds Jungkook locked up in a room. 

When he frantically kneels to his side, Jungkook asks only one question, “Are they gone?”

With a solemn heart, Namjoon answers, “yes,”

Jungkook doesn't react, nodding as his fazed eyes look everywhere but at him. Jungkook looks exhausted from crying Namjoon figures. 

Namjoon helps him up and it’s after water and food enter Jungkook that he finally speaks up. 

And he tells him. How he met Taehyung and what not.

Namjoon’s surprised of course as he follows Jungkook to the cliff of the island, the younger staring into the distance as if looking for the ships that carried Taehyung and his Father. But alas, they were too far away, beyond his reach. 

The color has returned to his face but Jungkook doesn't say anything. He’s quiet as if contemplating something. 

Namjoon wants to give him space, allow him to let fresh hair cleanse his heart of all the ache and dust it had gathered in that dingy room. 

But he’s worried. 

They stand in silence. 

“Namjoon Hyung,”

“Yeah, Kook?”

“There’s one thing I’m not sure about. How do I become sure?”

“Ah well, by trying it, I suppose,”

Jungkook hums and Namjoon watches as the setting sun paints him orange. 

“Hyung,”

“Yeah?”

“There’s one thing I haven't told you yet,” he murmurs and Namjoon frowns. 

“Huh? What--”

“Forgive me for scaring the wits out of you but I have to do it,” Namjoon’s stomach churns, a feeling of worry engulfing him. 

“Jungkook don't--” Namjoon takes a step closer to him. But Jungkook’s out of his reach and Namjoon doesn't want to spook him. 

“The thing I haven't told you yet—”

“...”

“Well, let’s hope you see for yourself,” Jungkook turns to him and smiles. 

“Jungkook, what are you doing?!” 

“I’m trying, Hyung,”

Before Namjoon can blink, Jungkook’s on the move, sprinting towards the edge of the cliff. And Namjoon’s too far away as he watches Jungkook jump. But he’s running nonetheless as Jungkook disappears from his sight, eyes wide and breath erratic once he reaches the edge.

“JUNGKOOK!”

And just as he looks over, a white being soars up, making Namjoon trip and fall on his butt. 

He stares in disbelief as it spreads its pearly wings and roars. 

Namjoon’s face to face with a dragon. 

“JUNGKOOK?!”

°•°

Dread and despair fill him and Jungkook screams, freeing himself from his Father’s grasp and pushing him away. His Father, surprisingly, does not retaliate. 

“You! How dare you! All my life I have worked hard to prove myself to you! To gain your attention! To have you look at me with the adoration you once harbored for me! But all my life, you have neglected me! Treated me like some sort of a pest! And the one person that finally looked at me, met me eye to eye, cherished me, you've sentenced to a life of misery! WHAT THE HELL DO YOU WANT FROM ME, FATHER?!” Jungkook wails, rage consuming him. 

Dowon doesn't speak up, eyes downcast. Jungkook wonders if that’s remorse painting his features. If he’s sorry at all for everything that he has done. 

“Son,” he begins, “I gave my word to that boy and I have to go through with it. Will you hear me out?” 

Jungkook calms down a little, chest heaving and eyes red as his Father guides him to a room nearby.

“I--”

“There is something I have not yet told you. I wasn't planning on it, either. But now, I have to,” he begins. Jungkook listens for his Father speaks tenderly and something about it takes him back to his childhood. 

“I...You...When I met your mother in the forest that night, she was fleeing something. Someone. She was wounded, barely able to walk when I happened upon her. When I helped her, a mob of humans emerged from the bushes, in pursuit of a...dragon. But instead, they found your mother and me. Assuming that your mother was a victim of the dragon that had evaded them, they left her in my care and went their way. After that, I nursed your Mother back to health and we...well, we fell in love. A-And it was then that I realized that...even before I had found her, she was pregnant. With you,”

Jungkook thinks he’s hearing things. Because that can't be right. No. 

Dowon continues, “Jungkook...you’re not my son,” he chokes out and Jungkook’s mind spirals into an abyss. 

“And the dragon the Villagers were pursuing was...your mother,”

Jungkook’s heartaches and he clutches it, unable to breathe, “I-I don't understand,”

“Your mother was a shapeshifter, Jungkook. She separated from her herd and got attacked by the Villagers. She was carrying and couldn't fight back. She...she couldn't risk it. So she...transformed into a human and..”

“Dad, this can't be--”

“You’re a shapeshifter, Jungkook. Have been, all your life,”

And it dawns upon Jungkook. 

The sense of belonging he feels with Taehyung.

The security he feels when he’s in the sky. 

The bonding he has with dragons.

It all makes sense. 

“Then…why...do you hate dragons and...mom...where...how…”

That’s when the Dowon’s features contort and he huffs defeatedly, “Your Mom was...taken by Dragons. A-And I couldn't take it. I blamed the Dragons for taking everything from me. And..and I couldn't stand that a part of you was...dragon too…”

Jungkook stands up. His feet are wobbly and his vision blurs as he attempts to run away, leave the room, and away from this revelation. But he falls to the ground. 

“Dragons. I despise those creatures. Which is why I need to put an end to them. Which is why Taehyung and I will be going to that Island,” Jungkook doesn't respond, far too dazed with the information he had just received. 

“WE ARE READY!” someone shouts from outside. 

His dad doesn't help him up. Jungkook figures it’s his way of giving Jungkook space. He walks past him. 

“I...am sorry for how I’ve been, Son. But I cannot forgive what dragons have done to me and countless others. Even if it means that this might be the last time you will be seeing me or your friend,” 

Jungkook gasps at that and springs to his feet, running for the exit.

“I’m sorry,” Dowon says and shuts him in. 

Darkness surrounds Jungkook. 

And that’s when he screams. 

°•°

As the ship sails through the fog, Dowon narrows his eyes. 

“Is this the right path?” he asks, glancing at the dragon chained behind him. 

He growls and Dowon takes it as an affirmation. 

He steals another glance at the creature, looking away before it meets his eyes. 

“How do I know you won’t break free?” Dowon questions. 

“You can chain my legs. The size doesn't change much when I transform--”

“Right--”

“--and like you, I’m a man of my word”

Dowon doesn't want to admit but Taehyung’s integrity and ego rival his own. It’s rather impressive. 

Glancing one last time at the locket around his chest, Dowon orders the crew to set sail. 

Hours pass and Dowon begins to think Taehyung has tricked them. He groans loudly, whipping his head around to yell at the boy but stops. 

Taehyung’s growling, eyes hazy as he stares in a certain direction. Like he’s under control. 

“Follow his gaze!” Dowon answers and the ship tilts in the direction of Taehyung’s sight. 

As they sail, Taehyung grows antsy, thrashing about. And soon, they hit land. 

“WE’VE HIT LAND!’

The fog clears up and the barren island stands before them, ashy and tall. 

“Where are the dragons?” someone asks and Dowon turns to Taehyung who’s growling at the huge mountain. 

“GET THE CATAPULTS READY!” Dowon announces as he gets off the ship and the men get to work. He surveys the site. 

“SHOOT!” he yells and the boulders are launched into the air, striking the side of the mountain. The Mountain rumbles and with more blows, they successfully create a hole in the wall. Dowon grabs his hand ax and daringly walks up to the entrance. 

“FIRE!” he shouts and another catapult is launched, this one lit on fire. As the ball of fire crosses down into the tunnel, the sides light up, exposing the swarm of dragons perched on the inner walls. The sight is breathtaking but it doesn't scare Dowon. 

With a battle cry, he charges in, hand raised as the spooked dragons finally move, rushing towards the entrance. Dowon raises his ax, slashing a few as they fly by and into the air, his men doing the same. 

And at once, the tunnel is empty, all the dragons having fled it. 

Dowon turns, watching as the dragons, instead of attacking them, flee and scatter into the sky.

While he stands confused, his men burst into a loud cheer. 

“THEY'RE GONE!”

“NO MORE DRAGONS!”

“VICTORY!”

Dowon’s gut tells him something is wrong. It can't be this easy. It shouldn't. 

For a second, his eyes find a chained Taehyung trembling as he watches the dragons escape. 

‘No. Something’s not right. The Mother Dragon--”

The Mountain, as if coming to life suddenly grumbles and the cheers turn to screams as the ground beneath them shakes. 

“WHAT IS THAT?”

“WHAT IN GOD’S NAME IS THAT MONSTROSITY?”

From the volcano, emerges a massive creature. It’s gigantic and gray, covered in red spots. With coral-like spikes and frills covering her body, she sported 6 eyes and a club-like tail. Its nostrils blare as it surveys the pests that had infected its home. It bellows.  

The fearless Night Fury quivers in his place. 

Chaos ensues as Dowon’s men launch Catapults at it, boulders barely leaving a mark on the creature as tall as a Mountain. With its flat, broad feet armed with claws, it stomps on the ground, making the earth beneath them shake. 

“TO THE BOATS!”

“RETREAT!”

“NO!” Dowon yells but it’s too late. Watching the men flee to the boats, the dragon opens its jaws and spits fires, setting their only means of escape ablaze. 

Men scream and yell as they catch on fire or get trampled upon by the Dragon.

“JOOWON! GET EVERYONE TO THE FAR SIDE OF THE ISLAND! I’LL DISTRACT IT!” Dowon yells and his subordinate gets to work, escorting the injured and the terrified away from the dragon. 

Dowon grabs a spear and aims it at the beast's puny eye, gaining its attention. 

“HERE YOU UGLY MOTHERFUCKER!” he shouts, sprinting to the other side as the dragon chases him with its hefty body. Its heavy tail thrashes at him, missing him by a hair but lands on the catapults, destroying them. As they fall, they fall onto the ships, destroying them in the process and sinking them.

Dowon’s eyes land on Taehyung amidst the flames, watching as his boat sinks. 

“TAEHY--”

The tail strikes the ground beside him and Dowon flies into the air due to the force and collapses on the ground, helpless under the gaze of the ginormous beast. 

As it looms over him, his life flashes before his eyes as he registers its size. 

His parents, his wife, Jungkook..Taehyung..everyone. He sees everyone as the beast opens its jaws. He sees his death coming at him in the form of the fire glowing at the back of the dragon’s throat. 

“I’m sorry, Jungkook,” he closes his eyes and waits for the fire to consume him. 

But the heat never arrives. 

Instead, he hears a high pitched whistling piercing through the air. 

“NIGHT FURY!”

“GET DOWN!”

But Night Fury’s chained?!

A plasma blast lands on the beast’s neck and it’s distracted long enough for Dowon to scramble away to safety. 

From behind its thick body emerges a dragon, as quick as the Night Fury, shooting plasma blasts at the Beast. There’s no smoke anywhere but for a second, Dowon loses sight of the dragon before it appears on the other side and shoots at the beast again like it had teleported. 

Before Dowon can even register what’s happening, he’s picked by an unseen force, white claws holding onto his arms as they carry him away and place him on a rock as a group of some other dragons distract the Beast. 

It’s when he’s on his feet that Dowon registers the Dragon that had helped him. 

Sky-blue eyes stared at him as the glittery texture of his scales shone. A build similar to Taehyung’s, this Dragon looked majestic. Royal and Pristine. 

Dowon kneels at the sight, “Jungkook…”

Jungkook growls in response before launching into the sky again upon noticing the smaller dragons battle the bigger one. 

Dowon doesn't have time to think and darts towards the ships. He dives in without hesitation, the hot water almost burns his skin but he has to find Taehyung. Swimming deeper and deeper as the sounds of battle tune out, he finds Taehyung, still chained. Thanks to his ability to breathe underwater, he’s safe.  When Taehyung registers Dowon’s presence, he frowns. Dowon doesn't waste time and goes for the shackles at his feet, prying them open with brute force. 

Taehyung growls, confused when Dowon comes to face him. And in a moment of understanding, Taehyung grabs him and pierces through the water, finally emerging above with a roar. 

Dowon collapses to the ground as Taehyung morphs back into his human form, kneeling to his side. 

“Sir, are you ok--”

“Taehyung, Jungkook he--” 

Taehyung’s tackled to the ground by an unseen force and he gasps when he comes face to face with the white Dragon. 

His eyes grow but realization hits him. He jumps to his feet and locks his arms around the being who feels like home. 

“Jungkook!” he cries as Jungkook nuzzles into him, enjoying his embrace for a minute before pulling away when a loud screech reaches them. 

They whip their heads around to watch as their Dragon comrades fight a losing battle. 

“We have to go!” Taehyung says, maneuvering himself over Jungkook when Dowon grabs his hand. 

“Taehyung I...I’m sorry,” Dowon croaks out. Taehyung gasps and Dowon goes to caress his son’s snout, “I’m sorry, Jungkook. And...I’m proud of you, Son,”

Taehyung smiles and Jungkook purrs, leaning into his Father’s touch. It’s then that he catches a glimpse of the contents of the locket around his neck. 

It is a portrait. Of Jungkook. And his Father, Dowon, looking proud.

He glances at his father and his locket, watching as a smile paints his features. 

“You have to go,” Dowon says.

Jungkook nods, leaning to press his forehead to Dowon’s. With a last glance, Jungkook shoots into the air with Taehyung on his back. 

As they approach the Dragon, Taehyung jumps, morphing into Night Fury as he lands a plasma blast on the Beast. Jungkook mirrors him, Camouflaging as he shoots a blast at him. 

‘WOW! You can camouflage!’

‘You can too! At night of course. Wait. What! You can hear me?’

‘Telepathy!’ he says as he dodges the swing of the Beast’s tail. 

‘How come!’

‘We’re the same species, dummy! Light Fury, Night Fury!’ Jungkook unfurls his wings and dive-bombs, landing multiple shots on the beast. 

‘I’m a Light Fury? That’s so cool!’

‘I know! We’re matching!’

‘ We are! But what’s this ugly one called?’ Jungkook asks in reference to the monstrosity tormenting them. 

‘Red Death,’ Taehyung says as he swirls through the air, dodging another attack. 

‘Red Death huh? Let’s see if this thing can use its wings!’ Jungkook shoots a blast at Red Death, catching its attention. He launches into the air, upwards and Taehyung follows.

As expected, the Red Death unfolds its dusty wings and follows them. Jungkook’s surprised at how those wings were able to support such a massive body but that is not his concern right now. 

Out here, in the evening sky, the Red Death was entering Taehyung’s territory. And now, his. 

They soar above the volcanic ash and clouds, Red Death hot on their tails. 

‘Now!’ 

At once, they disappear and the Dragon loses sight of them. It maneuvers its massive body around, puny eyes searching for the agile dragons. 

From behind it, a strong Plasma blast hits it and it turns, only to be hit by another from an unknown direction. 

Taehyung and Jungkook continue their stealthy attacks, gradually weakening the dragon. 

They didn’t know if the Dragon was frustrated or if its moves were calculated but it roars, fire accompanying the sound and setting the sky ablaze. Taehyung and Jungkook are forced out of their camouflage, black and white distinct on a fiery sky. 

‘What now?’ Jungkook asks as he strenuously dodges a tail attack. 

Taehyung doesn't reply for a while, evading the beast masterfully. But Jungkook notices the strain on his face. 

‘Taehyung your injury--’

‘I’m fine! I’m worried about you!’

‘Taehyung--’

‘You know how Dragons are fireproof on the outside?’ Taehyung spits fire into his eyes, taking away his sight. 

‘Yeah?’

‘We’re not so fireproof on the inside,’

At once, Jungkook understands. 

‘Got it!’ 

Together, they unfurl their wings and pierce through the sky past the dragon, forcing it to turn around and follow them as they head to the land. 

Taehyung growls in pain but soars through anyway, determined. 

‘Just a little longer,’ Jungkook assures, glancing at the beast approaching them. 

‘I’m fine!’ he says as he looks at the Dragon at their tails. 

Its jaws open as it prepares to shoot them down with a powerful blaze of fire. 

‘NOW!’ 

At Taehyung’s command, the two twirl, coming to face the dragon as they fall to the ground. And before it could react, Taehyung and Jungkook shoot plasma blasts into the cavity of its jaws and its mouth explodes. 

The dragon bellows as its wings, unable to support its weight, tear. Taehyung and Jungkook dodge the falling Dragon, making their way through the coral ridges of its back as the Dragon explodes from head to toe. 

And it all happens within a heartbeat. 

The Beast crashes onto the ground, like a meteorite hitting the Earth and its entire body catches on fire. The monochrome duo masterfully albeit hastily dodge the explosions. But the tail, the fucking tail, comes crashing into them. 

The two split, overpowered by the blow, back in their human forms. 

In a moment of weakness, Taehyung’s overcome by the pain in his shoulder. But when his gaze lands on the silhouette of Jungkook, unconscious, falling into the flames, he panics. 

He twists his body, hand reaching out to grab the boy below him as they near the flames.

He’s close, so close to catching Jungkook when the flames finally surround them. 

“JUNGKOOK!” 

°•°

As the dust settles, in the aftermath of the crash, Dowon rummages through the debris, looking for his Son. 

“Jungkook! Taehyung!” he calls out helplessly, tears filling his eyes. His subordinates watch as Dowon searches for the body of his Son. 

It’s when the smoke clears out when a black body becomes visible in the distance. 

“Taehyung,” Dowon whimpers, “Taehyung!” he runs to his side, watching as the dragon breathes slowly, eyes closed. Upon hearing his name, Taehyung opens his eyes weakly. 

Dowon falls to his knees, seeing no sign of his son. And then, he cries. 

“My son. Jungkook…” he wails as people watch silently. 

Taehyung purrs, urging Dowon to look up. 

He opens his wings to show Jungkook’s limp body held securely between his arms. 

Frantic, Dowon takes him, pushing his ear to his chest. 

One. 

Two.

Three. 

Three heartbeats later Dowon cries.

“HE’S ALIVE!” 

He hugs his unconscious son as the crowd cheers. 

With moist eyes and trembling hands, Dowon pulls the dragon closer, pressing his forehead to his snout. 

“Thank you, for bringing back my son,”

Taehyung purrs again, closing his eyes as energy drains him. 

Jungkook’s safe. And that’s all that matters. 

Taehyung closes his eyes. 

°•°

2 months later—

“Jungkook! Jungkook!” Dowon calls, searching for his son as he makes his way through the Village. 

“Namjoon-ah, have you seen Jungkook anywhere?” he asks the Doctor as he scrambles to get his pet dragon under control. 

“Ah no, I haven't, sir. He’s probably gone to the cliff?” he says, catching hold of the dragon and lifting him in his arms. 

“Oh, right,” he says as he passes by Joowon and his Zippleback. 

“Sohyun-ah, how’s your Grunckle? Are you able to ride him yet?” Dowon asks and she whines, “He’s not cooperating, Uncle”

He laughs, “give him some fish. Not eel, okay? I think you've been giving him eel,” and she gasps, “Oh! You’re right! Thanks for asking, Uncle!”

“Anytime,” he says as he looks upon the village from the high ground, dragons, and humans living together and working together. 

“Isn't this what you had wanted all along, Jungkook?” he smiles to himself. 

On the cliff, Jungkook sits over the edge, observing the serene sea. Deep in thought, he doesn’t register the movement behind him. 

“Kookie,” Taehyung says and his voice alone paints a smile on Jungkook’s features. 

“Hey, Tae,” Taehyung settles beside him, taking his hand.

“Your Dad’s been looking for you,” he chimes, interlacing their fingers. 

“You mean our Dad,” Jungkook corrects and Taehyung turns a shade of bright crimson. He buries his face in Jungkook’s shoulder. 

“I’m still not used to that, Kookie!” he whines and Jungkook laughs heartily. 

Taehyung pulls back to look at Jungkook. He slides a strand of hair off his face, “What are you thinking about?”

Jungkook hums, turning to Taehyung, “you,”

“and?” Taehyung chuckles.

“And how much I love you,” 

Taehyung giggles and the sound resonates deep within Jungkook. 

“You ready?” Taehyung asks after a moment of silence. 

Jungkook smiles again, tightening his grip on Taehyung, “Ready,”

Taehyung mirrors his smile and places a kiss on his lips, “Let’s go,” he stands up. Jungkook follows. 

He kisses Taehyung again, feeling his lips curl into a smile. 

And as they kiss, they move, stepping off a cliff, hand in hand. 

And from below, soar two dragons into the sky, black and white. 

They dance in the sky, moving like silk and velvet, one always near the other. 

‘I love you’ Jungkook says

Taehyung purrs, twirling in the air around Jungkook excitedly, ‘I love you too’ 

The brightness of Jungkook’s scales rivals the sun, captivating Taehyung as he follows him. 

Intertwined, they rise into the sky, with a vow to be together forever. 

Forever. 

Together.