Chapter Text
Loud chatter accompanies Jungkook all throughout the hallways. He strides faster, the sound of his boots clearing the path for him. He draws a firm breath of air in to calm his nerves, the intensity of his peers whispers steadily increasing the further he marches towards his destination. Hallways are usually just as crowded on Monday mornings. The chaos however was thanks to their result being declared. The scores were put up on the notice board after semester exams, causing all the fuzz in the university corridors.
His mind disregards every excited congratulation sent his way, dodging people to finally stand before the result displayed. He holds his breath as his eyes flit to the top, praying the first name he’d read would be his own. A wide smile blooms on his face when the Jeon Jungkook written in bold meets his eyes, he sighs in content. He’s surprised to find Kim Taehyung right below him, though. But it doesn’t say second place. He rolls his eyes when he realises they tied again, how frustrating. Well, frustration is still much better than the anger and disappointment he’d feel when placed below Taehyung.
Speak of the devil, and he shall appear. When Jungkook turns to face the only person who was on par with him, his face morphs into a frown. “Staring at my face won’t change the result, idiot.” Taehyung mutters without sparing a glance to Jungkook, who looks away, rolling his eyes. “Oh but I’ll make sure it changes with just me on the top, prepare well.” He retorts, turning towards the crowd and merging in, he’s got a class to get to anyway.
Thankfully, it’s one of his favourite subjects. Kim Taehyung and Jeon Jungkook have been rivals for sometime now. Ever since they first met, in a debate club on the opposite teams, they’ve always argued against each other. Before they stumbled upon the other, they had been sure there’s no one as knowledgeable as them in their fields of interest. They were proved wrong, but they hated the feeling.
Everything had become a competition. If there’s a debate contest, uncaring of whether they’re in the same team or different, they wouldn’t let anyone else speak. It was just two dorks growling at each other while trying to prove a point. Their rivalry extended beyond the debate club, to the only subject they shared, literature. They’d argue so much to the point that on-lookers seemed to question how vast the field must be, if these two young mens’ knowledge alone was this elaborate.
Grades mattered just as much. There was competition in each and every test, be it a pop quiz or an important test or a fun one that carried nothing. Everything was a competition to the pair. This fact was known to all of the university by now, teachers too. It was fun to watch for some people, while others were glad they didn’t have to listen to the teacher. One way or another, the university was familiar with the rivalry between the top students.
At this point, all the hard work and studying was done to beat the other rather than their own interest. As much as they love the subject, they dislike their rival, and who could stand seeing their rival touch heights of glory that’s supposed to be theirs?
Literature. It's one of his favourite classes, one that doesn't make him sleepy at all. Apart from their cool teacher who makes every story interesting, the remaining credit goes to Taehyung. The one who somehow always interprets the poem in a way completely opposite to Jungkook, and it always results in an argument between the two. The poet probably never dwelled over as many variations as it occurred to these rivals. When it comes to prose, however, their only common ground was romance novels, which both of them held a soft spot for, and begrudgingly agree that they were thinking of the same thing.
The clock strikes six when Jungkook makes his way to the library, almost everyone has left the university. He finds the librarian moving around frantically upon stepping in. “Sorry Jungkook, closing it today, I have places to be at and I'm running short of time,” she voiced, brows furrowed in concentration and eyes casted downwards at a book. “It’s okay, take care.” he whispers, walking out immediately, not wanting to disturb the kind woman. He contemplates going to the city library or the abandoned one he had grown fond of. He did not consider going back to the dorms, neither did he want to go back and strain himself with games or bore himself with his assignments.
He chose to head to the old, abandoned library. It isn’t what most people would choose or enjoy which explains why it’s abandoned. Why choose the old rusty one when there’s a fully furnished and organised one accessible by everyone? They have good service and let you borrow books for a long time and always have extra copies too, why choose the one that doesn’t offer anything? This question was thrown at Jungkook by a lot of people, but he would simply shrug. Only a few people enjoy the raw, rusty smell of old books, withering papers that hold beautiful writing. Only a few would understand and appreciate ancient books because they hold a depth most people can’t uncover.
It was a library that held books ranging from the 1700s to the 2000s. Although the number of new books could be less, it was a significant number. It was just a matter of preference and Jungkook strongly tilted towards the older library. It was a ten minute walk from school, usually at this hour the library would be void of people, so he’s fairly surprised when he spots a few sketchy people walk past him and out of the library. Shrugging it off, he greets the librarian appointed by the government to supervise the deteriorating library. Unlike the usual grumpy nod Jungkook receives a pleased grin, he watches with questions in his eyes as the old man stands in front of him.
“I need your help, son,” the man voiced, in his gruff tones, “I have to head to your school for some work, could you look after the library in my absence?” Jungkook agrees, not minding it at all as he usually stays here until dinner time. “Thank you,” he receives yet another pleased grin, “just stay away from hard-bounded old books and the ones that just arrived. I will be leaving now.” he warns and sets off with the help of his walking stick right after.
Jungkook closes the door behind the man, intending to keep the cold air out. His combat boots create small squeaks as he walks towards the literature section, the name alone enough to make him smile, which falls as he spots a familiar figure hunched over a huge book, a slender hand pushing the glasses that kept sliding down. Thanks to his squeaky entry the man looks up, eyes widening in horror which sooned turned to exasperation the moment they recognised him. Jungkook wonders why life keeps bringing him back to the one and only person he despises.
“Followed me all the way here, loser?” Those eyes that hold challenges every time he meets them annoys Jungkook to no end. “Yes, of course I'll follow Mr. Kim all the way to an abandoned library. Don’t you get tired of flattering yourself all the time?” he retorted, voice dripping with sarcasm and fueling yet another argument. It lasted a good five minutes, the pitch of their banter gradually increasing, until Taehyung was fed up. He stands up, paying no mind to the loud thud of the book that slipped off his folded legs as he swiftly walks away to the aisle far more inside the library.
Jungkook is frustrated, it’s obvious by the way he aggressively picks up the fallen book and shoves it in its place before stomping away to his favorite aisle. Gritting his teeth as he mulls over how Taehyung manages to ruin everything for him. He spends a good ten minutes browsing through interesting covers, then picks up one he hasn’t read before and heads towards the direction the elder ran off to. As much as he wanted to stay at the opposite end of wherever Taehyung was, he was asked to supervise, and he doesn’t want any trouble finding him when the librarian comes back.
He finds Taehyung engrossed in a green coloured hard bound book, the small movements of his lips hints he is trying to pronounce whatever is written. Jungkook’s lips part to ask taehyung to close the book when his words die on his tongue. He freezes completely, so does Taehyung when they see a bright green amber float above the book. Jungkook stumbles towards Taehyung who remains frozen, staring at the amber in disbelief until Jungkook’s comment snaps him out of it.
“W-what’s that? How did that appear?” Jungkook whispers, their shoulders brush as they stand next to each other gazing at the light green glow forming a small arc before them. “I just,” Taehyung swallows, his heart threatening to beat out of his chest, “read a line from that book out loud,” he points at the exact line. Jungkook bends down to see for himself, there are a few sentences around the image of a ship which looks mighty, an instruction to read everything out loud capable of drawing any reader’s attention.
“The librarian asked us not to read hard bounded old books,” Jungkook whispers, curious eyes flickering between the green particles and the book, “Why didn’t you mention that earlier you asshole.” Taehyung smacks Jungkook on the head, hands reaching for the book right after, trying to close it. But the book doesn’t budge, the pages don’t flap either. Taehyung’s panicked eyes meet Jungkook’s who pats his back, “This is exactly why he would’ve said that. Why doesn’t he want us to read it though?” Jungkook mutters.
“Why? This could be dangerous, we don’t have any idea of what it holds or what it could do, Jungkook. We should keep it back-”
Jungkook’s eyes don’t waver, “No,” he shakes his head, “why is it in a damn library then?” The answer was unknown to both of them but it ends up encouraging Jungkook's train of thoughts. “We won’t get such opportunities again, why not complete this and see what happens?” Silence engulfs them for a long time, Taehyung looks doubtful, but he won’t lie, the archeologist in him is begging him to continue and see what happens. He’s interested in a variety of things, archeology and history top the list. Maybe completing this could answer so many unanswered questions about the 1700s he buried? All caution is thrown out the moment their eyes meet, easily agreeing on the same.
They step forward, fighting the fear that tries to consume them with intrigue, barely resisting the urge to uncover the mystery that lies within the book. As more words that sound like spells fall past their lips, more glowing green dust rises from the book and completes the circle, which eventually evolves into a familiar pattern. A symbol harbouring history that was better left unsaid, but it was too late.
Once the symbol was completely developed, silence engulfed the room, it was awfully still. Taehyung and Jungkook shuffle closer unconsciously, eyes flitting around the place when they realise they had nothing else to read. A loud thunder startles them, the depth of the situation they found themselves in beginning to settle. Before either of them could think, a noisy and powerful breeze surrounds them, their hands linking as they shuffle impossibly closer as fear finally creeps onto their skin.
Their hands clutch the other’s tightly when they face each other, panic finding their chest as they levitate. A powerful natural force that no human could escape pulls them towards the symbol, which grows larger by the second. When they’re close enough, the symbol is just their size, the intensity doubles as they grow even closer to the now open portal. The blinding light radiating from the portal does not allow the boys to guess what awaits them. Jungkook feels a weight on his shoulder, his eyes snapping down to see Taehyung pass out, clutching the material of Jungkook’s shirt on his back. Seconds before he passes out himself, he feels them getting sucked into the portal, he now regrets opening.
-
A painful sting on Taehyung's shoulder makes his eyes flutter open slightly, confusion painting his mind until memories flash by causing him to jerk up. The first thing his now wide open eyes meet is a muzzle of a gun. A muscular man clad in a vest over his white shirt, puffy pants, sophisticated boot-tops and an odd hat points the blunderbuss at taehyung, hostility and question in his eyes. “How did you end up here? Who are you? What intentions do you and your companion have?” The only thing taehyung’s racing mind registers is a companion.
His eyes begin searching right away, it doesn't take long before his eyes land on a limp body laying beside him, his breath stutters as he takes him in. The usual dark baggy clothes or the mop of fluffy brown hair that reached his ears are nowhere to be found. Instead he stares at the dark purple locks all the way down to his neck, highlighting the alluring beauty. His gaze travels lower to the black silk shirt tucked inside slacks, worn out boots that Taehyung knows were common in the 1700s well fitted on the man. The oddly familiar attire evokes a harsh tug in his stomach. One of his hands reached forward on their own accord, gripping the sleeping man’s shoulder and shaking him awake. He fails to notice the harsh glare thrown his way by his captor when he watches Jungkook stir, their eyes locking right after Jungkook drops to the same headspace as Taehyung.
They fail to notice the armed man walk away swiftly as their eyes hold each other. Jungkook wonders if he’s dreaming, he could recognise Taehyung anywhere, but the striking blonde strands that adorned his face are now black locks, the curls almost hiding his pretty orbs as his glowing eyes flit around Jungkook's face. Jungkook continues to wonder as his eyes trace the loose white shirt tucked in black slacks, the waist wrapped in a dirty red cloth. Jungkook did not understand why the same taehyung he thirsted over when he entered the halloween party as a pirate is staring back at him with a worried gaze.
Wait, pirate? The frantic turning of his head as his eyes grasp everything comes to a momentary halt when his eyes land on the small window. It was then that he felt the periodic swishing beneath him causing his mouth to run dry. Standing up with shaky feet he stumbles towards the window, gulping as his eyes meet the endless depths of the sea or ocean, he doesn’t know, all he can see is water and all he can feel is the gentle up and down due to the waves.
The grip on his bicep makes him tilt his head slightly, locking gazes with eyes that mirror his comprehension. The unanswered questions clogging their mind, uncertainty, fear or themselves? What do they focus on? They aren’t allowed to dwell any further when a swarm of people surround them, a tall figure standing out and before them. Weapons clutched tightly in rough hands as scarred faces regard them. Before either of them had begun to take in their surroundings or process the situation they brought upon themselves, multiple sets of guns and knives were shoved to their faces.
Silence envelops the crew, eyes trained on their imposters. They face forward to find one of the men staring at them intently, his eyes sweep over both of them, lingering on a few places and move back up and hold their gazes for a while. One of his hands raised above his head, capturing the attention of each and everyone, a swift jerk of his hands caused the armed men to disperse out of the room. Taehyung and Jungkook are left with five others who stand before them, tall, confident and powerful. The dangerous yet playful glint in their eyes enhance their handsome features. Two of them make their way closer, each sliding down on both sides and fiddling with their weapons, the other two stride together with the one in the middle, stopping a few feet behind and pulling out their weapons.
The man that towers over them all scrutinizes them with a piercing gaze, “Who are you? Who sent you here? You talk now or greet the water with tied hands.” Their mouths run dry, despite trying their hardest to piece their thoughts together and try to get something out, neither of them could do that. They barely understand their situation themselves, having to explain to dangerous people now? What do they say? Time travel? Is that what happened in the first place? Would anyone understand or believe them?
But the pirates aren’t patient, far from it. In one swift motion the man who stood beside Jungkook hauls him up and drags him towards the door, Taehyung’s skin crawls with panic and he blurts the first thing that comes to his mind, not being able to watch Jungkook struggle in a daze any longer, “No stop! We mean no harm, please stop,” the gun pointed at him prevents him from moving but he’s grateful the man pauses to hear him out even if his hands are still gripping Jungkook’s collar, “we aren’t here to harm anyone, we just got lost a-and ended up here, yeah.” Jungkook breaks free from the tight hold on him, raising his hands up in peace, having no choice but to support Taehyung in whatever he says if he wishes to stay alive.
A chorus of mocking laughter makes both of them shiver, dread pooling in their stomachs. The smile on their faces contrasts the dark look in their eyes as the tall man steps towards Taehyung, “Then why do I see clothes worn by us, pirates, on both of you?” Taehyung trembles, eyes immediately finding his rival’s only to find him not paying attention and backing away with raised hands from the same man who dragged him away. Taehyung panics yet again, even if he hates Jungkook, even if he hoped he’d get rid of the younger, in a situation like this, he’d hold onto him, he wouldn’t want Jungkook hurt.
“We stole it from an unconscious or dead pirate we don’t know.” He laughs nervously, eyes moving around to look at each one of them frantically, until Jungkook speaks up, his gaze still directed at the two men cornering him, “Yeah, he’s right, besides, would a pirate really run away from you? And carry no weapons? And not put up a fight? Or tremble under your gun?” Jungkook's words were enough to make them all pause and think, which most pirates wouldn’t.
He rushes towards Taehyung immediately, standing firm next to the elder, a reassuring nod slightly easing the knots in Taehyung's stomach. Most of the pirates seem to be softening, seeing no threat in the boys, but the suspicious and hostile eyes of one of them is enough to keep both of them on their toes. One of them steps forward, eyes friendly yet cautious, “Why did you have to steal clothes and how did you end up here?” Taehyung can’t seem to come up with anything anymore, he nudges Jungkook slightly, he hasn’t used his set of excuses anyway. Jungkook’s eyes remain glued to the only suspicious and harsh gaze, intending to melt that with his answer but he’s not sure if he can come up with anything witty.
He turns towards Taehyung, hoping to find answers in his profound orbs, his tongue moves on it’s own accord, words that leave his lips making him want to dig his own grave, “We like men,” a deafening silence occupies the room, “So we thought we’d do crimes.” He nervously rambles on, embarrassment and fear scratching its way into him. The feeling is broken off abruptly when the cabinet fills with loud laughter, he looks around in surprise to find everyone, including the one that did not trust them, embracing genuine laughter, his eyes trail back to Taehyung, the only one not laughing.
They hold each other’s gaze for a few moments, Jungkook stares at the way Taehyung goes through many strange emotions. Their eyes focus back to the group when the laughter seems to have died down, all of them make their way closer, surrounding the two again. Although this time it’s more welcoming.
The tallest among them all steps slightly forward, “I'm Namjoon, captain of Black Storm and this is my crew.” Taehyung's mouth runs dry and Jungkook's face evidently falls. If they were scared before, they are terrified now. “Black Storm?” Taehyung mumbles, “You mean the most powerful and durable pirate ship that never got caught?” Jungkook completes. The smug expression on all of their faces makes a shiver run down the both of their spines, what did they get themselves into?
“Both of you stay here, cause any ruckus and I won't be nice.” Namjoon instructs, heading out of the cabin and the others follow without a word. Before Jungkook could take a few moments to think back, a rough shove startled him. He turns to find a glare directed at him, “The fuck did you mean we like men? Really? Couldn’t think of anything else?” Taehyung questioned.
“Why? Are you not gay?” The question would seem genuine to everyone else, not when they see the teasing glint in Jungkook's eyes.
“You know that’s not the point. There was a high chance these people wouldn’t get your stupid pun and slit your throat instead.”
“But that didn’t happen, chill. Anyway, what was your excuse? That we got lost? You did not think it through at all.”
“I was working under stress! I had to save your dumb ass. You had the time of your life to answer yet spouted shit that could’ve killed us.”
“Hey! I clearly gave a great excuse. See? Now we’re left alone.”
“At what cost? They’re probably thinking of a way to get rid of us.”
“You clearly don’t know how to read the room, you cannot be this dumb-”
They were cut off by the sudden chorus of shouts, constant chatter that did not cease flowing amongst the pirates. It felt like a reminder, their life isn’t a game they don’t think about minutes after losing. Trying to go back to the constant bickering would do them no good, but who could blame them? Thrown into a completely different timezone and the only one who resonates with you is the one you simply can’t stand. Jungkook turns, facing Taehyung, “Can we focus on our crisis? I don’t think we’ll get much time after they come back.”
Jungkook keeps a relaxed posture, not wanting his stuttering heart to reflect on his face. Taehyung and Jungkook had mastered the art of masking their true emotions. While everyone struggled to read them, they were an open book to each other. The fact further fueled the rivalry. “Drop that face you’re trying so hard to make you look like a fucking idiot.” Jungkook's defenses come up immediately, body now rigid as he returns Taehyung’s harsh glare, “So, we accidentally opened a portal which has thrown us to the time where pirates existed, that’s clear.”
“Yeah no shit, you were interested in this? The era must be mentioned?”
“Black Storm were never found, but they were believed to exist from the 1700s.” Excitement takes over Taehyung’s face, “Wait, the most mysterious ship? Nobody could find them after one point, they no longer lurked in the sea. Till date, nobody knows what happened to them.”
“So that could mean, we would be the first ones from the future who’ll know what happens?”
“It doesn’t end at knowing, we’ll live through it.”
Silence engulfs them, the racing of their hearts this time out of excitement, “I don’t want to stay here for long though, Tae, what if they drowned or something worse happened?”
“We won’t stay for long, we’ll find a way to go back and once we know how the legacy ends we’ll go back.”
Before more discussion could unfold, the door bursts open yet again, the five pirates stepping in. The nonchalance paired with the confidence oozing from them was intriguing to pair from the future. “We have decided to let you join our crew,” Before either of them could show any reluctance he added, “It’s not a choice. We can’t let you go and risk someone finding us and we’d appreciate more workers so we decided not to kill you.”
Jungkook bites back a sarcastic remark when a shorter man straightens up, coming to stand beside Namjoon. “The crew has voted in your favour, today you will look at everything that happens and understand how things work. Tomorrow we officially take you in and work will be given to you based on your capability.”
“Work?” Taehyung's accidental slip of a whine causes the man to smile, “Yeah kid, you aren’t staying anywhere for free.”
“Right, now follow us, it’s time you meet the whole crew.” Namjoon orders as he exits the cabin once again, the rest of the boys filing out after him. Taehyung and Jungkook had come up with a lot of images and possibilities but nothing could prepare them for this.
Their wide eyes take in the huge ship they stand on, the soft sea breeze ruffling their hair as their eyes wander around the pitch black ship. Whether it was the foggy atmosphere with piercing gazes or the mighty black ship fenced with huge equipments that caused a shiver we won’t know. They stood before a crowd of people who regarded them with fierce gazes, the sheer power and fearlessness they held caused an increase in their already rapid heartbeat. Rough hands held sharp weapons, clothing similar to their own, the bigger weapons and looted money behind the crew fueling the majestic and powerful look. When Namjoon, and the remaining four stood before the crew facing Jungkook and Taehyung, the sketch was complete. The glint in each of their eyes as they stood strong and together facing the two, they saw what legacy truly meant.
“Welcome to Black Storm again, I'm the captain, Namjoon. You may refer to me by ‘captain’ until I say otherwise.” Namjoon, who was the captain of a ship, was much more majestic and powerful than any king the pair had seen. Despite not saying much, they could see the acuity oozing from him.
Namjoon steps aside, encouraging his crew to come forward and introduce themselves.
The shorter man among the five who accompanied their leader steps forward first, “I’m Yoongi, quartermaster for Black Storm.” Taehyung's gasp interrupts him again, “Gloss?” He whispers, drawing a smirk from the man, “Or, yes, gloss. The one who most people who escaped complain about.” Yoongi's hand travels back, pulling out a sword swiftly. He flicks his wrist slightly while he is yet to draw it out completely, momentarily blinding the younger boys who immediately cover their eyes. They stumble back when they find Yoongi much closer when they reopen their eyes. He looks at them with a teasing glint in his eyes, putting his weight on one of his legs while his fingers caress the shining sword. “And that’s where the name comes from.” he answers, the genuine smile making the pair realise how pretty he actually is.
“That’s enough bragging. Give others some time too, gloss” a red-haired man around the same height as Yoongi sneers, unlike taehyung’s whisper of awe, the pirate’s voice held a mocking tone. Yoongi merely shrugs, gesturing to the group of men looking at them with a relaxed posture, “They work under me. We have a lot of responsibilities and I lead them.” he adds and moves back, joining the captain after they share a smile.
“Welcome on board, I’m Seokjin. The sailing master of Black Storm.” their eyes snap back to the tall, beautiful man before them whose respectful posture and kind smile caught their eye. He gestures to the people behind him, each of their attention shifts between the pair and the papers in their hands every few seconds, “and these are the people under me.” Taehyung and Jungkook nod, smiling at the friendly crew member.
They stiffen after Seokjin steps aside and the next member who regarded them with suspicious eyes that kept them on their toes in the cabin faces them. “I’m Jimin, master gunner of Black Storm.” He brushes his red strands out of his blank eyes, “and my team, we work the huge weapons.” he completes, leaving without another glance and standing beside Yoongi.
Although Jimin wasn't as suspicious as before, he wasn’t very welcoming either. But neither Jungkook nor Taehyung minded, they didn’t expect any pirate to be friendly or welcome random people so easily. They were content with Jimin welcoming them regardless of any doubts.
The next and last member who stepped forward had a comforting yet authoritative persona, from what they could see. “Welcome, I’m Hoseok, the first mate as well as boatswain of Black Storm.” His smile contrasted the all black fit he adorned, “and my team here, although relatively smaller, are just as vital.” he concludes before joining the remaining head members.
“Introduce yourselves,” Namjoon commanded with a smile directed at them, “you’re now a part of our crew.”
“Jungkook.”
“Taehyung.”
Small murmurs follow their introductions, the crew regarding them yet again. The pair failed to notice most of them were endeared. The crew couldn't help but notice their eyes that held curiosity and friendliness even when they were in a dangerous territory. “Alright let me brief you on what each one is responsible for and you can tell me what you’re interested in or your plus side.” Namjoon says.
“Not here or now.” Jimin remarks.
“He’s right. Let’s discuss in our cabin instead, Joon.” Yoongi’s agreement along with Hoseok and Seokjin's subtle nods convince Namjoon.
“Hearties! You all may get back to work,” Namjoon announces, resulting in all the crew members walking back to duties or friends, “Hoseok, arrange food and allot a place for them to sleep. And you,” he points at Jungkook and Taehyung, “follow me.” The pair along with the head crew members make their way to the biggest cabin on board, shared by the five of them.
Once they all shuffle in and sit comfortably on the deck, forming a weird circle that somehow glues Taehyung to Jungkook and makes the pair face the pirates. “This is how each new member is introduced to their roles.” Namjoon starts, and points at Yoongi, “Our quartermaster, Yoongi, is the second in command after me, he’s the one who punishes crew members for not obeying commands and is also in charge of food and water. His job is mostly split with the team, but he’s the authority of sorts.”
“Seokjin, our sailing master, is in charge of navigation and plotting. It requires a lot of skill and the job's hard.” Namjoon flashes a grateful smile at Seokjin, who smiles back.
“And next we have Jimin, he’s the master gunner, and his team work the canons and huge weapons. It takes four to six people to fire each time, and Jimin here is the master of that as well as aiming.”
“Lastly, Hoseok. The one who’s the most busy among us. He’s our boatswain as well as the first mate. His team are responsible for the safety and security of the ship, training in safety, the crew’s welfare, firefighting search and rescue. The one who supervises all activities.”
Jungkook and Taehyung listen attentively the whole time, shining eyes absorbing all information thrown their way. They weren’t among the misguided people who believed pirates weren’t organised or hardworking, Jungkook had read numerous novels that went into the depths of piracy while taehyung had his fair share of research. They weren’t amazed at the duties being explained to them, their shock was due to the sheer unity and chemistry between the members which was rare among pirates.
“It must be a lot for you to take in, but you aren’t on a trip. Although being a pirate is fun, it has its own work and hardships.” Namjoon reminds them. “We just left a port after fighting off a few traitors, you must’ve gotten in the mess.” He didn’t utter an apology but the apologetic tone was detectable. “There are a few ground rules we’ll brief you on, Yoongi will make sure you’re punished if you disobey.”
“Yes teacher, we’ll do the homework.” Just like that, the captain’s composure crumpled, “Be quiet, they’re new, let them fear me for a day at least.” The cabin fills with short laughter, “Loosen up, Joon, we don’t wanna scare them away.”
“Well they’re doing great as attentive students now let us be.” Then they’re all back to being ‘professional’. It takes the pair a few moments to grasp the exchange and the ridiculousness of the crew members. Hoseok chooses this moment to return, strutting over and taking his seat beside Seokjin after a quick glance towards the captain.
“You must’ve noticed by now, we aren’t even close to any other pirate ship you come across. Which is why we’re untouchable, but coming back to the initial topic, these ground rules need to be followed at any cost. The crew trusts you now, don’t let us down.”
“Firstly, you will not betray us. If the authorities do get a hold of you, hang in there and wait for help or accept death, any betrayal on your part,” Namjoon’s eyes darken, fear resurfacing among the pair, “death wouldn’t be able to save you.”
“Secondly, respect every woman and people of every other gender working here. The women of our crew are warriors not servants, any complaints from them about you, Yoongi won’t be nice.”
“Thirdly, you cannot try to steal. You cannot take important decisions without my consent either. The money we loot will be used for us all, trust the captain and remember, we are a crew. The crew comes before you.” Namjoon raises a brow when Seokjin gestures to him to stop, “Since you’re new, until the crew trusts you, you would need permission for major decisions. Apart from that, everything is decided based on voting, all crew members come together to decide so please be honest all the time.” He informs them politely, Namjoon smiling at him as a thank you. Although all of the head members are pirates, and look like they’ve been surfing in the sea for a while now, their demeanour and language is not very pirate like. Well, from what they have understood from history, this ship is different in a lot of things.
“Fourthly, you get minimal hours of sleep here. Half the crew sleeps when the sun sets for seven hours, the others, the ones who stayed up, sleep immediately after the members wake up, for another seven hours until sunrise. The rest of the time you stay awake, only exception when you’re injured.”
“And lastly, when we stop by any port or island, we stock as many resources as possible. Stay on high alert in the ports, show no mercy and trust no one. You will be focused on these tasks only, if you’re seen loitering or talking to strangers suspiciously, you won’t be welcomed in the ship again.”
“Clear?” Namjoon receives a nod in response from both the boys, “Now come on, see what you wanna do here” and just like that, he’s back to being friendly, gesturing to them to follow him.
-
It takes a while, but soon the pair are familiar with the roles of each crew member and their duties. They've taken a liking to some of the duties too. It's only after the nice tour when they're back with the five main crewmen.
"So, we've decided you both will be sleeping with the first batch, so you wake up somewhere in the night and you're back to duty. That clear?" Namjoon receives a nod in response, the pair not having much problem with their leader's suggestion.
Rest of the day goes by in a blur, we wouldn't call them uneventful yet the exhaustion wearing the boys down reduces their ability to grasp at their surroundings. When enquired about their interests and strengths, the seeping consciousness returns in a jiffy. They're settled comfortably on the wood, forming a circle with the members and the discussion begins.
"Taehyung?" The man looks up to the red haired pirate and returns his blank stare, "What piqued your interest? What do you want to do for the crew? Does that do justice to your assets?"
"Well, the sailing master and his team have had me wrapped around their fingers from the very beginning. It is one of my strongholds as well. So if I were to choose, I would like to work under Seokjin.'' The boy was confident in his words and intentions, which the members seemed to have picked up on as well, judging by their small smiles. Before Taehyung could register the surprise swirling in Jimin's gaze that held a hint of softness too, an excited Seokjin drew his attention. "That's fantastic!" The happiness in the elder's voice is noticeable. Yet, the sense of responsibility surrounding the sailing master seems to leave a mark on Taehyung. "We don't have many people joining us, the job's tough and not everyone is capable of handling such responsibility or reaching the level of knowledge to understand the ocean. They all lack in some places and somehow end up unfit for the job."
Taehyung was aware of that, he was also confident in his abilities and was sure he would not only do justice to the task, but enjoy doing that as well. "You're right, you'll start learning under Seokjin tomorrow. Depending on your performance we'll see if you're good to stay or better of elsewhere.'' Namjoon's gentle commands render Taehyung with a strong urge to ace his task. The captain's eyes now wander to the silent man seated beside Taehyung, to find him engaged in watching a tiny spider spew make its web.
"Jungkook?" The mention of his name has Jungkook springing back to face the group, most of whom were watching with amusement while his rival looked unimpressed. Well, if you happen to catch your rival spending his time observing little insects during recess everyday, would you be surprised? Not at all. Jungkook had expected Taehyung to use this opportunity to tease him, but all he did was sigh, shake his head and walk away. Jungkook was surprised, sure, but he knew the elder simply didn't care. "What was our topic of discussion Jungkook?"
"Um, Taehyung was choosing to work under Seokjin I guess?"
"Not bad, what would you like to do?"
"I want to work under Jimin, as a gunner. If that's okay?"
They all seem surprised but carry a smile. Yoongi leans forward, titling his head, “Why?” he asked with genuine curiosity.
"It's the one that stuck with me most and I deem myself capable enough to handle the job.'' Jungkook doesn't look at them as he continues, "Yes, I know it's a tough job and demands a lot of labour. But I'm willing to do it. I’ll work hard."
"That's fair enough, you'll be working under Jimin for sometime just like your friend here and we'll be the judges to your capability." Namjoon smiles, a glint of happiness constant in his eyes.
Jungkook's eyes meet the familiar blank stare at the mention of his name, trying to decipher if the man feels anything at all about this. He doesn’t dwell over the twitch in Jimin’s lips before he looks away, dragging Yoongi out for reasons no one else seems to understand.
The crew soon retire to their own cabins, Jungkook and Taehyung wait for Hoseok to lead them to theirs. He leads them inside with a gentle smile. While it took Jungkook a few hours to step into his sea legs, Taehyung hadn’t stopped stumbling around. Despite knowing why Taehyung trails a little behind them Jungkook couldn’t pass up the opportunity to tease him, “Sloths would laugh at you Tae, will you make it to us today?”
A satisfied laugh rumbles his chest when a series of curses are thrown at him followed by a loud thud. “Oh no, someone help the baby giraffe.” He mocks again, fastening his footsteps and walking side by side with Hoseok, who does nothing but grin in amusement.
“Surprise! You will be sharing a bunker! Most crew members chose their cabin mates, but it’s alright since you both are very good friends.”
“Ew he’s not my friend.” Jungkook remarks right when Taehyung bellows, “Oh hell no, I’m not sharing with this dumbass.”
“Real mature Kim.”
“Says the one who ‘ewed’ at being friends.”
“Alright alright, have fun and get some rest. You have the whole day to bicker tomorrow, go now.” They’re shooed into the cabin before Hoseok sprints away to his own cabin. It’s pretty big, considering they’re on a ship. A bunker bed occupies most of the space, a few racks to keep things, a chair and thick blankets scattered around the cabin.
They take a small break from bickering to take in their new stay place, relieved that they don’t have to share a bed. “I’ll take the top-” Jungkook is cut off when Taehyung stumbles into him with a yelp, catching both of them off guard. Thankfully, Jungkook’s reflexes act right on time for him to take a step back, balancing them both with two steady hands on Taehyung’s waist.
He looks at Taehyung, whose eyes remain wide as saucers, clutching onto the fabric of Jungkook’s shirt for dear life. His eyes shine so prettily when they lock with Jungkook’s. The small furrow between his brows makes Jungkook’s hand itch to straighten it. Taehyung looks cute with the frown, sure. But something in Jungkook prompts him to erase it.
So he, might I add, very stupidly acts on instinct. What does the whipped boy do? He tickles. He tickles Taehyung where his hand rested, the startled man gasping before trashing around in Jungkook’s hold and eventually giggling. Jungkook doesn’t notice his fingers halting gradually, he’s too busy admiring the beauty of his supposed rival and how heavenly his giggles sound. What he does notice is a teary Taehyung’s questioning gaze.
“What was that?” He feels a swat on his arm, but doesn’t let his eyes leave Taehyung’s. “What was what?” He sing songs innocently, dropping his hands and whistling away further into the cabin, exploring its contents. He hears a sigh and watches Taehyung make his way to the bucker carefully with outstretched hands from the corner of his eyes, smiling when he lands with an relieved smile. A candle that seemed to be lit barely sometime ago, is their only source of light, the darkness of the night had begun settling, “Are you sleepy?” Taehyung whispers, receiving a “Not at all.” in response.
“But we still gotta sleep, Tae.” Jungkook adds, heading towards the top bunker and pulling himself up, “We have to go back after a few hours, remember?” He does remember, but he’s afraid sleep wouldn’t come to him, especially not in the current situation. Complete darkness and silence had enveloped after he blew the candle off, the faint sound of the ocean reaching his ears. He heaved a heavy sigh after long minutes of silence, one of his hands playing with his soft curls. “Not asleep yet?” A whisper enquires, drawing a long hum from Taehyung. “Something on your mind?” Jungkook continues, “Sort of.” he confirms.
“Tell me about it.” He laughs at Jungkook’s request, surprised they’re holding their first civil conversation in so long, “Are you sure you won’t fall asleep mid-way?” he teases, “Nah, I’m not very sleepy either.” Silence follows again, after Taehyung’s hum. Neither of them are keen on breaking it, rather believe it’s their brain finally taking time to process this fever dream. They wonder how their lives would be, how would they adapt to this time? Will they ever go back? Is there a way out at all? What happens to the Taehyung and Jungkook in the future? Their families? When they think about it, this is so far from reality, something they’ve never dreamed about. But the universe proved them wrong.
“Isn’t it strange?” Taehyung breaks the spiral of not Jungkook’s mind but his own too, “What is?” Jungkook hums attentively, “How easily we were accepted into this crew? How they just laughed when they learnt we’re, uhm, that our attraction is not limited to women? How they trust us enough to just lend us a place here?” Jungkook mulls over them, the same questions that had surfaced in his mind earlier, “Well, yeah. It is strange. I just brushed it off as my personal trust issues problem.” It draws a laugh out of Taehyung, the soft amused one. “No, I find it very strange, but my gut tells me I can trust these people, I don’t know why.”
“Yeah, I understand.” Jungkook agrees, turning around to lay on his stomach, “Their second rule was to respect women and other genders, it supports our instinct. This is the era when women still had no rights and were confined to home, yet this crew treats women as equals and respects them like they deserve to be.” Jungkook makes a valid point, Taehyung nods. He’d read enough about how life was for women in this time period, how hard they struggled. Although they had started fighting back, the uproar wasn’t prominent until the 1900s. It’s scary to just think of society then, how women had absolutely no one but themselves to lean on when they were wronged. How they were subdued to the point reading about it alone was enough to tear up. It’s also why he decided to join the feminist organisation in his university, finding Jungkook there too.
“Exactly.” Taehyung agrees, “Although it’s basic in our time, it’s still a huge deal in this period. Also the way they added other genders, it’s almost unreal. This ship is really different, the members and their mindset too. Almost as if they’re from our time itself.” They knew very well how the non-binary concept was non-existent to people. Well, to some people. The larger part of the population was hell bent on ignoring it. The tabos are frustrating and people cruel enough to resort to extreme means to ensure their definition of what’s acceptable prevails. “That’s unlikely. I think a lot of people did have an open mind, but they just wouldn’t show it. Besides, did you also notice how this crew barely uses any pirate lingo?” Jungkook wonders sleepily, yawning while forcing his eyes open. “Yeah,” He hears Taehyung mumble, “Guess we were more tired than we thought.” They laugh, soon mumbling a small ‘good night’ and drifting off to sleep, questions still answered.