Chapter Text
Everyone knew about the demon from the mountains. It was a story told to children to keep them from wandering off, a name riddled with malice and fear. Some say the demon has as many forms as it does names but most can agree on at least one: Seokjin.
The evil being the dwells on the edge of the kingdom, known for it's ruthless attitude and murderous habits. A tyrant for generations and decades. It's not like the people from the Southern Kingdom haven't tried to defeat it before; legends tell of the brave heroes who sacrificed themselves to try and destroy the embodiment of evil, but none have succeeded so far. Not even an army of over a thousand men were able to defeat it.
Jungkook is expected to do it alone.
*****
It is mandatory in the Southern Kingdom that when an able-bodied boy turns eighteen he is to train the military for three years, in case there is ever an attack from the Seokjin. Jungkook was pleased to go, leaving his small village behind.
He wanted to travel, to see the city.
He didn't want to die.
Jungkook is twenty one when the spies return from the mountains pale, shaking and screaming of an impending war. The Royal Court is thrown into shambles, troops are readied and prepared. However, the new king is young and clever unlike his predecessors and decides on a new tactic. Instead of sending an army of men to their predictable deaths, why not send one? One, outstanding soldier. Someone young and able, not too high or low in the ranks. Someone who is willing and loyal, unpredictable. The Seokjin will be expecting an army, not a boy with a hidden dagger and sneaky tricks.
Jungkook regrets a lot of things as he kneels in front of the Court. Many noble men and Court officials sit around the edges, their gazes piercing through his armour like no arrow or sword ever could. Some are pitying, some seem pleased, perhaps a hint of jealousy radiates from the knights and general's bench. The King stands from his throne positioned high above everyone else, demanding respect and attention at all times.
"Jeon Jungkook." His voice fits his face, powerful and young, not much older than Jungkook himself.
"Yes, your Highness." Jungkook's voice is just young.
"You were recommended for this job by several of your officials," He regrets putting so much effort into his training, so much time and energy into learning. He had hoped he would earn respect that way and the trust of those he protected. It seems he definitely earnt himself something but not what he wanted. "Your abilities exceed those of your peers, despite your young age. You are the perfect candidate for the job." Jungkook gulps and feels his chest tighten.
This is really happening.
"You are honoured, I'm sure. Tomorrow you will be briefed and the day after you will carry out your mission."
"Yes, your Highness." His voice quivers but he tries his hardest to supress and fear that leaks through his void exterior.
"I needn't have to remind you that if you fail to succeed, many will die at the hands of the Mountain Daemon."
"No, your Highness."
I don't want to die.
*****
Jungkook feels oddly calm for someone who is awaiting the most feared being known to mankind. He is currently standing in a clearing, sheep's blood spread around him in disgusting splatters of colour. They told him it's to draw in the beast, maybe it will even distract it.
The hidden daggers up his sleeves burn coldly into his skin.
They want him to kill the Seokjin, by himself. If he fails, hundreds and thousands of people will die.
There's a burning, crushing feeling in his chest. He will kill the Seokjin, or die trying. The fear of failure and the expectations of his kingdom outweigh any fear he could hold towards his impending fight. He's scared, but the adrenaline will make him move faster, act quicker.
He's been stood in the stupid little clearing for hours now. Flies flit about, birds still sing. The sun beats down and Jungkook yearns to rest in the shade. But, that would leave him vulnerable and exposed to attacks. If he wants to live through this, he'll need every chance and upper hand he can get.
He hears it first.
It's not the beating of leathery wings or the ferocious snarls of an undead monster that he was warned to listen for. Instead it's a soft shimmery sound, not unlike the sound of wind through leaves in the summer or a quiet waterfall. It's still unnatural and growing steadily closer, whatever it is. Jungkook shakes out his limbs and prepares for the fight of his life.
The fight for his life.
The Seokjin enters his vision, looming over him from the sky before coming to a stop in front of him.
This is it.