#dragonnamjoon
Curious Creatures 7
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of blood/injuries;
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:4.1~k
Note: Thank you for your patience <3 Feels great to back in Asterios and getting their stories written again! Let me know what you think of the new characters~ I’m excited for them to get the story going!
Tag List: Open- DM me if you want to be added! If I forgot you/your @ isn’t working, please let me know so I can try to fix it <3
Forget Me Not’s swayed peacefully in the cool breeze, blues and pinks dancing elegantly against the forest floor. Amongst the world of gray the little flowers were the only burst of colors around. The only joy hidden in a sea of cold and colorless life. Trees around them lay in torn pieces, uplifted from the ground and tossed away. Beauty amongst destruction.
“Well that covers the entire West side of the Forest. No sign of any Orcs left.”
Even though the area looked awful, the Forgotten Forest appeared as quiet and eerie as it always had. However Felix could feel it in the air. Something happened here. Not the Orcs destroying large areas of the forest, no… something has changed… it has changed. The Forgotten Forest was no longer the same. He could feel it on his skin, sticking to him in an uncomfortable way. Felix’s face scrunched as he gently rubbed his arms.
“I feel it as well.” Hyunjin was eyeing the area. Even though they deemed the area clear, one could not be too careful. “Something happened here. Besides the Orcs.”
Hyunjin could already see the Council getting a field day out of all the events that happened that night: dozens of Orcs destroying the forest, a Human and a Dragon wandering around Asterios, not to mention that there’s something in the air that neither Fae could place their finger on…
Too much has happened to be a coincidence.
What are the odds of all these things happening in one single night? Over the course of a few days, Hyunjin mightbelieve it to be a mere coincidence. But over the span of a few hours at most? Absolutely not. And judging by the way Felix’s eyes, a usually beautiful opal color that shimmered, were clouded with the same thoughts. Perhaps even the same fears plagued his mind as well.
While inspecting the woods the two had a chance to discuss many things. One of which were the conditions of the Humans. Felix pointed out their lack of resources, the diseases he could feel radiate off of them from time to time. The number of survivors were dwindling. It did lead to an argument, one which had Hyunjin accusing Felix of being lazy and uncaring; why hadn’t he contacted the Council?
“I have. Have been trying for the past century. No one responds.”
Hyunjin had never heard anyone mention Felix’s attempts at contact. No one spoke of any issues going on in the lone and foreign land. He had attended every meeting and heard of all the comings and goings in Asterios. Or so he thought. But why hide these problems? The Humans were sent here to survive and thrive away from the possibility of extinction.
At least… that was what they were told.
Felix sighed and turned back to the Gateway, frowning as the portal began to glow brighter. “We got more company.”
Hyunjin stood next to Felix, both Fae standing prepared, ready to face whatever came through. Felix prayed to the Gods that it wasn’t another round of Orcs. If he had to see another one of their ugly, dimwitted faces again-
“Hyunjin! Felix!”
A tall figure stood before them, hair jet black with burgundy streaks with kind, round eyes that were a cool shade of blue. He wore a dark outfit; black pants tucked into black boots with a burgundy overcoat. A brooch pin of a silver compass was clipped to his cloak, matching the silver rings that shone on his fingers, each one with a different color stone that glowed eerily. The magic that radiated off of him was powerful, a force to be reckoned with. Despite the deadly force that was thrumming beneath his veins his voice was cheery and held a tint of worry.
“Yunho!” Felix grinned at the warlock before them, tackling the male into a hug.
The Fae’s heart was leaping in his chest at seeing his friend after all these centuries. The two worked closely together during the Mortal War, Yunho being one of the best Warlocks to work with the Fae. Felix always held guilt for not informing him, and many other good allies, on their plans of saving the Humans. Yunho would have wanted to know and help them with the cause, but at the time it was safer that only a small number knew of this location.
Hyunjin sighed in relief, walking to the pair. “Thank the Gods, I was worried we’d have another Orc attack- Wait. How are you here?” He froze midstep, staring at him. Yunho never knew of the Humans and their survival-
“Thank the Gods you two are alright,” Yunho sighed, patting Felix’s back, giving Hyunjin a soft smile. “The Council informed me, wanted someone with more knowledge on various types of magic to come out here. You made all of us worried.”
Hyunjin nodded his head, running a hand through his jet black hair. “I should have contacted the Council this morning-”
“More like two days ago, no one knew what happened to you or Felix.” Yunho’s voice was clipped and held worry as he eyed the two. Nothing seemed amiss, except that they looked a little tired. “They were worried sick.”
There was a beat of silence.
“I think I misheard you, Yunho. Did you ask for us to inform you of last night’s events before they even happened?” The tone used was accusing, the male on edge as he stepped closer to the Warlock. “Are you stating that you knew this would happen?”
The sun was still out, the last few rays sweeping against the trees, the Human and Dragon having left hours earlier.
“Last night? Hyunjin, you left nearly three days ago.” He looked just as confused as he felt, eyeing the two Fae. “It’s been going on three days since anyone last heard from you. Since you entered the Gateway,”
The two Fae looked at one another, confusion written on each of their faces. Felix’s mind was trying to figure out how one of them lost days of time…
“It’s changed. The magic.” He breathed, looking at Hyunjin. “What we felt, the shift that something wasn’t right. Our magic that created this place has been disturbed.“
“And in doing so it disturbed time itself?” Hyunjin frowned. “Is this even possible?”
“Unfortunately we do not have a concrete answer.” Yunho shifted his feet, staring at the trees with a similar scrunched up face that Felix wore earlier. He felt it too. The magic that clung to him left him uncomfortable. “But I feel it as well, the magic that was used here isn’t of Fae. To be honest… I’ve never felt this type of magic before.”
Yunho had been around for centuries, having even spent time in the Mortal War when he was a young Warlock. He’s been in contact with all the magic that Asterios held to offer. But this? This magic was different. He could sense it. There was something dark within it, but the core was…
“Ancient.” Yunho whispered. “This magic is as old as Asterios itself. I can feel it whisper against me now…” He cocked his head. “But who in Asterios has this type of magic?” Species were listed in his mind, but none held the ability to possess such strong magic.
At least, last time he checked they couldn’t.
“Orcs can’t learn magic, they don’t have the mentality to do such things.” Felix mused. “Everything was fine until last night… Something was with them. Something that was hidden from us as we were worried about those monsters and the Humans.”
“Speaking of, did the Humans see anything?”
It had been hundreds of years since Yunho said the word ‘Human’. Not since the Mortal War, not since they were all declared extinct by the Elven King Juro. He was still in a bit of denial about the whole idea of an entire species being hidden away for this long. Right under their noses. A conversation that happened mere hours earlier…
“I trust you, Yunho. This is a secret that has been held by this Council for the past three hundred years. No one, not even our own people, know of this. We are entrusting you to help us.”
The Warlock had never seen Ji-Yong so stressed. Not since the war at least. Yunho’s skin crawled at the desperate look on his face. A leader as strong and wise as Ji-Yong, as old and skilled, to be desperate to seek out a younger Warlock’s help was a desperate cry indeed. Yunho was one of the top Warlock’s in Asterios, he was no Soojin of course, but he was heavily trusted by his allies here. Especially Ji-Yong.
“My friend, you look ill. What seems to be troubling?” He tried to lighten the Fae with a kind smile and eyes, a small attempt to ease his mind.
No one could have prepared Yunho for this information.
“No, well…” The troubled look between the two only raised his blood pressure. “There were three Humans and a Dragon-”
“Three Humans? And a Dragon?” He looked between the two. “Ji-Yong only spoke of Humans being here? Are you also hiding Dragons as well? What next, you have a Kitsune-”
“Yunho, calm down!” Felix gripped the Warlocks shoulders. “Just Humans here. The Orcs had the Dragon. I think he traveled with them, well, more like was forced to…” He sighed. “It’s a mess. We need to tell the Council all what happened and about the time jump. Who knows how long you’ve been here now…”
Yunho nodded his head. “Agreed. One of you go, speak with Ji-yong about what happened here.”
“I’ll go,” Hyunjin walked towards the Gateway. “If Felix goes they’ll be much talked amongst the people. They’ll wonder where he’s been this entire time.”
“Excellent, be quick and report back. Let us know how much time has passed.” Yunho gave the Fae a small smile. “I’ll remain here to monitor the magic and try to decipher where this power originated, and make sure nothing else passes through with ease.”
Felix knew it was best he remained there. He knew these woods better than most; he’d know if something were to even shift in the slightest. “Don’t forget our little conversation from earlier… May the Gods grant you speed, Hyunjin.”
“And you, strength.”
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
More snow had fallen. The roads were covered in a blanket of cold white, Asterians bundling themselves in layers of clothing and thick boats to protect against the icy element. The night before held an icy wind that bit into your cheeks, dusting them in soft shades of pinks and reds. The brutal winds left your nose runny, face with a small burn, and body feeling weak and agitate.
But you had to keeping moving, the fear of stopping plaguing your mind.
Your hand shook ever so slightly, fingers dancing across the hard scales as Soojin placed more ointment on him.
“He won’t wake.” Your voice shook, eyes darting between the Dragon and Sorceress. Anxiety pranced through your veins like deer in the meadow; jumping and soaring quickly throughout your body.
The bag was weightless across your shoulders, feet moving swiftly and quickly across the old beaten path. Clothes swaying gently in the cool breeze, a small warning to move faster and get to your location faster.
“Draengon is the land of Dragons, where you must go next. This map is magic infused; it will lead and guide you.” Soojin shoved more and more items in the bag. Another magical item; no matter how much you toss in the cloth, it’ll never gain any weight. It’ll remain lightweight and easy to hold. With gentle hands she lifted the sleeping Dragon carefully. “The side pocket inside is where Namjoon will rest.”
Your fingers reached into the bag, gently touching the small head that nestled deep in the pocket. Hidden and safe. His body no longer holds the same intense heat you were accustomed to, adding on to your worry and only making your feet move faster. The snow crunched softly beneath every step.
“It’ll take a few days, but I know you can do it.” Soojin placed the bag over your head, Salem giving off a soft ‘meow’ in agreement. “Follow the map and what you’ve learned, Y/n, and you will save him.”
It was late when you left A Couldron’s Kiss, the sun was setting in the sky as you quickly left Silverwynn. Hood up, head down, steps fast. You didn’t dare stop, didn’t dare rest. There was no time and you wouldn’t be able to sleep a wink with Namjoon being in this grave situation. He needed the magic of his home to rest in, Soojin had explained that every species healed best when they were in their own homeland. The same magic that ran through Namjoon’s veins ran through Draengon.
“He’s been away from his home for far too long. Decades if I’m not mistaken. Pair that and being beaten this bad…” She locked eyes with you, gold eyes reminding you of liquid gold. “He needs the magic of his own kind. My magic can only do so much. He needs his home to fully heal and get better.”
You vowed to yourself that no matter what Namjoon would be home and safe. No matter the cost. You calculated that three days of traveling could easily turn into just over a day if you moved at a steady pace nonstop. When the late afternoon turned to evening you kept moving, kept traveling. Your feet might drag but you’ll get there sooner. And the little Dragon you grew fond of would be healed.
“Where in Draengon do I go? Where do I take Namjoon?” You had just finished dressing in the new outfit from Soojin, she kept the same color scheme of green’s and creams. The clothes were sturdy and laced with a bit of magic from Soojin- shielding your scent and being from others so no one could detect you were Human. Instead they’d assume you were a meek Witch, one with hardly any power. A perfect way to hide in plain sight.
“That’s the beauty of magic from home my dear. Once you cross the border, he’ll start to get better. It’s amazing how drastic the change will happen too. Just keep moving my dear.”
And so you kept moving, kept your head and moved forward. Fingers gripping the bag tightly as if someone would try to snatch the satchel from you. It was odd, having spent a few days with the small creature you found yourself growing rather protective of it. At time you wondered what would happen once you finished this mission…
‘Where will I go once I set you free?’ The snowy woods were quiet as your worries and thoughts grew louder and louder as more time passed. You figured you’d head back home…
Home…
Associating Arcrine with that word made your heart squeeze painfully. The village was never home…
Where was home?
The sun was slowly rising higher in the sky, casting golden orange rays across the frozen ground. Ice and snow turned into sparkling diamonds in the sun’s kiss, your cheeks absorbing the small amount of warmth it offered. The burn from last night still holding it’s sting on your face. The forest was silent, perfect for traveling though nerve wracking. You could easily see yourself making it no time, a small glimmer of hope rising your chest-
“Such a small, fragile girl shouldn’t be traveling alone…”
A voice, raspy and deep, spoke from right behind you. A shiver slithered down your spine as your steps faltered, cloak swaying to a stop as you stared at the ground. Your fingers screamed as you gripped the bag. Slowly you turned, head rising to meet the strangers gaze-
Your heart sank.
Before you stood an Orc, just like the ones that destroyed that Forgotten Forest a few days prior. A wave of panic washed over you as the creature gave you a smile full of rotten teeth.
“Give me the bag and come with me peacefully.”
No, Namjoon-
“Or I’ll use your bones as toothpicks.” The Creature, a male you assumed, stepped closer. “Your choice, little Human.”
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
“So this is the last of the Human race…”
Yunho’s voice was soft and in awe, his green eyes watching the little village wander about. Before them was the village of Arcrine, a place as gray and dreary as the forest that surrounded them. Felix and Yunho remained hidden in the trees, silently watching the mortal beings go about their day. To be honest he thought there would be a large amount of Humans thriving; hundreds, if not, thousands. However Felix informed him of the struggles they had faced: famine, disease, lack of resources, and now the magic in the forest going haywire…
It’s no wonder that species before him were so different from the one he had known.
The difference between the Humans he knew and the Humans he saw before him were startling. The Humans in Asterios were always loving and warm; smiles graced their features and they would always lend a hand to those in need. No matter their background. Their auras radiated with warmth and brightness. It had always amazed Yunho that a species with the shortest lifespan in Asterios could show the most amount of love he’s ever seen.
“We know our days are severely numbered Yunho. That’s why we smile and live each day as if it’s our last!”
He could hear his old friend’s voice in his head. Ruben was always the life of the party, always making those around him laugh. And his laugh, a deep and boisterous noise that caused everyone around to laugh with him.
These couldn’t be the same people.
The Human’s he was watching were staggered, heads down. There was no life in their faces, instead he saw nothing but pale lonely faces. Tired. Worn. It looked as though this land had beaten everything out of them.
But could anyone blame them?
Their ancestors were hunted like animals, slaughtered… They lost their homeland. They lost their heritage. Nothing but a hole remained in their past. Yunho could feel that hole ache for each of them, the soft wondering of if there was more to life than the same routine each day…
“You should have told us.” Yunho whispered. There was a bitter tone to his voice as he watched this Arcrine, Felix informed him of the name the earlier Humans chosen. “We would have helped.”
“So more people could know about them? So they could be hunted once more? No. This was the best choice.” Felix snipped back, not bothering holding back his tone.
“You would rather let them live like animals than try to give them life.” A dry laugh parted Yunho’s lips as he turned to face Felix. “They’re dying, Felix. Look at them. They barely have food, we have to-”
“Yunho.”
He’s never heard Felix sound so tired, so broken, so old before. He had to stare at his friend to ensure it was really him Yunho was talking to.
“When they see us, they will try to kill us. We are creatures to them, monsters if you will. There are generations of differences between them and the Humans we knew.” He leaned against a tree, watching a group farm in the distance. “I’ve sent several messages to the Council. No one ever listens to me when I reach out… It’s as though they stopped caring.”
“Why didn’t you send me a message through the Gateway? Hyunjin?”
“The Gateway only works one way. It sends directly the ones in charge, the Council. I can’t leave this place without fearing the Human’s safety. And whenever I send them a message I get silence.”
“You think… in the Council?”
“That there’s a mole.” Felix nodded his head. “I told Hyunjin this as well.”
“That’s the conversation you spoke of before he left. You warned him.”
“Precisely, while he’s there he will uncover as much as possible as quickly as possible.” Turning his gaze back to the Humans he sighed. “I’m praying that this is the start of something good. Something better for them.”
Yunho watched the village as well. He could only nod, not daring voice his opinions on the matter.
Doubt was the last thing they needed.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
He knew.
He knew and he was going to kill you. Kill Namjoon-
“No.” Your voice rang out before you could think. There was no fear in your words, no hint at the panic that beat down on your lungs. Your words sounded icy, a firm answer to the creature before you. It surprised you, but something deep within you was ready to fight.
For Namjoon.
He scoffed and barked out a laugh. “No? You think you have a choice here-?” A scowl appeared on his face, a thick finger pointing right at you. “Some weakling like you stands no chance against me-”
“How about me then?”
A new voice, one that sounded soft and smooth compared to the Orcs. The two of you jumped a little, the newcomer having appeared out of nowhere to your left. Despite the small frame and average height, the woman stood tall and held a power to her that made even the Orc flinch. Her hair was a deep brown with eyes to match, eyes that seemed sweet were glazed with a coolness that caused a chill in your bones. She nearly blended in with the snow around you; whites and creams were what her outfit consisted of. The only color on her wardrobe was a black brooch pin, the shape reminding you of a jagged heart. Inside was a red stone that was steadily beating like an actual heartbeat.
Her ears came to a sharp point, but you couldn’t tell: was she Fae or Elf?
“The biggest differences between the two species: An Elves ear comes to a harsh point compared to their cousin, Fae, and an Elf cannot lie. They can never lie.”
You tried to remember what Felix and Hyunjins ears looked like but your mind went blank. You never paid much attention to their ears. They did look similar to this female’s ears… Was there a difference between the male and female Fae? You were never taught if there were. Soojin warned you to hide against all the species, especially Elves. The history of Asterios was enough evidence for you to try to stay away.
So if she was an Elf, you needed to leave. Now.
But your feet would not move. You were watching the scene before you with eyes wide, darting with each movement one of the creatures made.
“What’s wrong? Can’t go against a little girl like me?” Her voice held a mocking tone that made the creature growl.
In a moment the Orc took after the female, large arm raised to swipe at her in a bone crushing blow-
Crack!
Your mouth fell open as the creature was suddenly turned to stone. Cracks began to form throughout its form and in seconds it fell apart.
She didn’t even raise a hand at the Orc. Not a single eye was batted as she stepped over the now stoned being. No, her gaze was now fixed on you. Except the coolness was gone and in its place was curiosity.
“Did it hurt you?”
You blinked a couple of times, waiting to see if she would turn you into stone as well. “No… I’m fine.” You swallowed and eyed her up and down. She wore civilian clothing with a cloak much like yours.
'Can I trust you?’
“Orcs don’t usually travel around these parts,” She glanced around the woods. “It’s quite rare to see them here. Was there something he wanted from you?”
'Lie. Lie. Lie.’ “Just money I think.” ’Do better-’ “I didn’t even hear him approach me. Let alone you…”
Changing the subject back to being on her, you studied her, waiting for any indication of any fowl planning. “I apologize. I smelt his scent and wanted to investigate. Many women travel these roads alone, and, well, you know the rest.” She gave you a weak smile and stepped closer. “My name is Siyeon.”
“Call me Seeker,” You answered, offering a polite smile. Names held power, that much you were warned about. “It was a pleasure meeting you…” You turned on your heel to leave.
“W-wait!” Siyeon jumped forward, stepping next to you. “Let me travel with you!”
“I-what?” You frowned, head cocked. “Why?”
“You have weak magic,” She gave you a sad smile. “I fear what else might come for you. I’m also heading down this path. Actually I’m heading to the mountains in the South- Hope’s Height to be exact!”
Soojin spoke briefly of the location, Thunderbird territory. “Oh? Business with the Thunderbirds?”
Siyeon giggled. “Kind of, I’m meeting my sister there for a wedding. What about you? Where are you heading?”
One small truth. “I’m heading to Dreangon, to see the tropical lands and waterfalls.”
“Oh! That sounds wonderful!” Her smile seemed genuine, teeth as dazzling as the snow that surrounded you. “What do you say? Travel with me?”
'No. No. Not with him in my bag. Not while I’m trying to save Namjoon.’
The thought of the dragon resting in your bag only made your heart race even more. You needed to get going. Siyeon was extra baggage, yes, bit she was strong. She might be of help…
’…No.’
Something in your heart whispered weakly. Deep down there was a pull, as if a chain was tugging against your heart. It was so weak…
You had two options- deny the request, look suspicious, and see her down the same path eventually. And knowing your luck you’d run into her quite often.
Or…
'No.’
The whisper in your heart was stern, weak, and pleading. The chain was tightening, pulling desperately.
She could tag along, assist you until you reach Draengon. It was only one more day of traveling and she could help if you ran into more trouble…
'No. Please-’
“Yeah, let’s go.” You mimicked her smile. You ignored your heart, shaking your head a bit with a small laugh. “Fair warning, I’m in a bit of a rush.
You were sleep deprived. It was making your anxiety rise for no reason; if she wanted to harm you she would have done so the same time she killed the Orc. Judging by that move she was powerful, powerful enough to snap you with the snap of her fingers.
Travel with the Asterian, allow her to escort you safely to Dreangon as quickly as possible. No sleeping. No stopping.
Keep moving. It’ll be okay.
Simple.
“Good! I’m in a rush as well, I’m always late to these things!” Linking your arm with hers she grinned. “Let’s go!”
She gently pulled you further down the road, her voice feather light and warm as she spoke. There was even a skip in her step as she giggled about something she said. You smiled back, ignoring the chain that was still tightening around your heart. You didn’t even hear the small words whispered from somewhere within you.
'Y/n… please…’
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
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Curious Creatures 6
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Rating: 18+ for mature themes
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of blood/injuries; brief mentions of enslavement/sexual abuse/torture
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:5.8k
Note: Check out the Schedule to see when the next chapter will be released, as well as my page to see any updates <3 Thank you
Edit: 1/26/22- Towards the end of the chapter you will see **, I edited the areas after this marker
Tag List: Open- DM me if you want to be added!
A sea of white was the first thing your eyes took in. Soft and warm, you awoke in a cocoon of blankets with the morning sunlight gently caressing your cheeks. The coolness of the early morning still lingered in the air and by instinct you shimmied further into the blankets and what you deemed to be a bed made of clouds. The mattress was soft and seemed to embrace you from all over. An invitation to remain in the cocoon forever. However, despite the warmth and fluff surrounding you, there was something off. You felt…. Empty? That wasn’t quite the word you were looking for. Your eyebrows furrowed as you wracked your brain. Something was missing-
“Oof!”
You gasped for air as something large suddenly collided with your chest. Peering down at you were gold cat eyes, staring right back at you with an expectant look. It’s tail swished back and forth lazily behind him as if he didn’t just knock the oxygen out of your lungs. For a brief moment you were shocked, wondering where the cat came from. In fact, where were you- ah yes.
A Cauldron’s Kiss.
“Thank Salem,” You wheezed, sitting up as the cat jumped down. “Nothing like some good suffocating to get you awake in the morning.” You shot the black furball a glance, eyes narrowed.
You got a soft meow in response, Salem’s eyes darting from your to the vanity and screen that laid across the room. An outfit awaited you, as well as a hot bath. The steam from the white porcelain tub rose in swirls, petals of white and red floated at the top of the water. The sweet smelling flowers slowly spread around the room causing you to inhale deeply. Roses and jasmine, soft and sweet scents.
‘Soojin is certainly a welcoming hostess.’ You thought, sliding out of bed. One look around and you were alone once more, Salem having disappeared entirely without a single sound. Not even your door opened, the lock still in place. What would have once caused you alarm now appeared to be normal; magic was all around you. And you were quickly becoming accustomed to it. Whether that was a good thing or not was to be determined.
Sliding out of your nightgown you slid into the hot water and let out a moan.
The bed you slept on was the most comfortable item you had ever rested on. Ever. And the blankets were soft and warm, again the best thing you have ever had the luxury of sleeping in. Even with all the glorious items at your disposal you had a rough night. Sleep came quickly, but throughout the night you tossed and turned. Something not feeling quite right. You couldn’t place your thumb on it all night and not even in the morning… There was something missing.And it bothered you to your core that you couldn’t figure out exactly what it was. The answer was right there, on the tip of your tongue for gods’ sake!
You let out a huff of frustration and sank further into the bath.
A hot bath was what you needed. Feeling the heat loosen your tight muscles and relax your stiff body helps aid your worries. You could lay there all day and stay engulfed in the waters while gentle florals stroked your senses. But as time slowly dragged on, you knew you needed to get up. You couldn’t put off the day forever, try as you might.
You needed to face the Dragon.
A small part of you wanted to see Namjoon as soon as possible; was he alright? Did he get better over night? What if he got worse? Soojin would have awoken you, right? But what if she didn’t, seeing that you would have been of no help… The fear of your Dragon being in worse condition was what made you get out of the bath.
Fully clothed in the outfit Soojin had picked, you found yourself enjoying the clothes that fit your style and appeal. The color choice wasn’t something you had in mind however: green and beige were the color scheme selected for you. The green, you realized, was similar to the color of Namjoon’s eyes. ‘But not as beautiful,’ You thought, hand touching the soft material. Your hand fell as you felt a tug at your heart, remembering how yesterday went.
And the fear of facing him came tumbling on you. Your leather boots tapped against the stone floor as you pace in front of the door. Do you go and see Namjoon? What if he was still upset about yesterday? You doubt you could stand one more day of having the Dragon ignore you like that…
There was also the frustration of knowing you did nothing wrong. It wasn’t like you were some slimy tradeswoman who was using him to make a buck! Supplies were low, and still are- you made a financial decision that would benefit mainly him! If he was still upset about all of it, then the Dragon could have the money for all you care. Besides, didn’t Dragons like treasures and shiny things?
You stopped pacing, jaw set as the anger from yesterday simmered into your gut. All these emotions were making you feel sick. You did take the Dragon to safety, just as Felix wanted you to do. Maybe it was time to go. Unless you wanted to make things worse and cause even more disappointment.
You glanced at the window on the other side of the room, wondering if you were even needed now. In Arcrine you were always the outcast. What made it any different here? You delivered the Dragon to Soojin, you sold a special item that held a lot of meaning and broke his little heart. Perhaps it was best if you silently left-
“Mow.”
“Ah!”
You jumped and gave a high pitched shout. A hand shot up to your heart as you glared at Salem, who stared back at you from the bed. But the swish of his tail indicated that he was pretty entertained at your reaction. Gold eyes peered up at you for a brief moment before sliding to the door.
Time to go.
“Right…” You nodded your head, having a feeling that jumping out the window wasn’t an option. That somehow Soojin had the window locked, leaving you with only one exit. You wouldn’t put it past her.
The door opened with a squeak, Salem leading the way out while you followed slowly. Turning back to the close the door you noticed scratches against the bottom of the door from small claws. You gulped and quickly turned back around, not wanting to know what other little creatures Soojin had wandering in her shop.
The shutters in the shop remain closed, leaving cracks of sunlight to stream through with candles aiding in light. Ahead, on an empty table stood Soojin who was watching the tabletop with interest. She wore a black button up, the sleeves long and made of a sheer material, a maroon skirt, and black boots. Gold eyes never turned in your direction, solely fixed on the creature before her.
Your stomach squeezed as you watched the little lizard stare up at Soojin, eyes narrowed slightly. Once again you felt better at seeing some emotion expressed. A baby step but you’d take it at this point. Hell you’d much rather have him glaring at every one than curled up and staring at nothing with no emotion.
Salem leads you right to the pair before claiming his place on a table next to a window, deciding to take a morning nap. You stood by the table and peered down at the lizard who took no notice of you yet- he seemed rather busy with sending heated glares at the woman before the two of you. Which made you wonder what happened when you fell asleep last night…
“Good morning,” Soojin said, gold eyes still on the Dragon. “Did you sleep well?”
An innocent enough question, but there was something in her tone that made you feel vulnerable. As if she knew something that you didn’t. You dropped your gaze at the floor, feet shuffling. “It was okay… Thank you.”
When you looked up you were shocked to find emerald eyes on you. You expected to get the same look that Soojin got, one that held anger and fire. Instead you found him looking at you with something you couldn’t quite place. An emotion that you couldn’t decipher. And in a second it was gone again. The shell was back and you could swear your heart broke as the Dragon tucked himself back into the satchel. The staring at nothing has returned once more.
You bit your bottom lip, itching to step forward and gently pet his head. You did make a step, hand slowly reaching out but quickly recoil at the memory of what happened last time. Sighing in defeat, you turned to watch Soojin
“I bet it was terrible,” Soojin went on, moving around the table towards a large hearth. “Given the circumstances.” You stepped forward to ask what she was speaking of, but Soojin continued without a pause. “I guess it’s time we formally meet.” Giving a small bow, she smiled. “I’m Soojin, a Sorceress here in Silverwynn. And this is my shop.”
You returned the smile, or at least tried to. “I’m Y/n.” Glancing around you asked. “How do you know Felix?”
“We’re old friends,” She waved her hand, sighing a bit. “He’s a pain in the ass, but he’s a good friend. Which is why he sent you here…” Head cocked, she crossed her arms. “Which gives me many questions.”
“Ask away,” You wanted to answer anything she asked for the sake of Namjoon. You may not be able to lift his mood but you could help get him the healing he needed. “I’ll answer to the best of my abilities.”
“Let’s start with the moody Dragon then,” It was as though she read your mind. You both looked down to see Namjoon still staring at a wall with zero interest. “Sheesh, what happened to him?”
You winced at the question, not liking the way Soojin asked nor the tone that was used. Both indicated that it was out of characters for Dragons. And you honestly didn’t like the idea of recalling the day before. However you needed to.
“He’s been like this ever since yesterday morning,” You sighed. “He refuses to even look at me…”
“Interesting… Did something happen?” Her eyebrows rose curiously. “An argument of sorts?” As she spoke, Soojin was gathering jars of herbs.
You snorted at that. “Hard to argue with a creature who never speaks.” You missed the shocked look on her face. “No, I think it has something to do with me selling a scale I found. You see, I woke up to one of his scales laying on me-”
Crash!
You spun and saw Soojin standing there, staring right at you with her hands still open and a destroyed jar on the wooden floor. Even the commotion didn’t cause Namjoon to move. Instead he remained tucked in your satchel on the table, eyes glazed over as he watched a wall with hardly any interest.
“I, uh, well that would do it.” She sighed and snapped her fingers. A broom and dustpan floated over and you watched in awe as it cleaned up the mess. “Poor thing, he must be feeling miserable…”
“Feeling miserable over a scale that fell off?” You frowned, eyes turning back to the Dragon. “It was just laying there-”
“Dragon scales don’t just fall off.” She cut you off, finger held up in a matter of fact pose. “They can only be removed in two different ways: by a Dragon or death.”
Your eyes widened. “Are you saying that he did this… on purpose?”
“Precisely.” Soojin walked closer to Namjoon, a single finger reaching to try and stroke his head. “He did it,” A low growl bubbled in his throat causing the Sorceress to curl her finger back. “For you. Dragon’s use scales in many different ways. Seems in this case-” The growl grew louder. She huffed. “Well, for now, just know he gave you that scale. And you gave it away. He’s just upset and pouting.”
Despite it not making a lot of sense to you, you at least had sympathy for the creature. Afterall you recall seeing the open wound from where the scale was and how painful it must have been. Slowly you stepped closer to the Dragon, his eyes still trained on Soojin with a low growl aimed at the woman.
You could feel guilt bubbling up in your chest. “I honestly didn’t know. I was washing it in the stream and a woman bought it from me. We had no food or supplies…” Your voice trailed off, but then you remembered how many times you had apologized and then frowned.
You walked around the table and now purposefully stood in front of the Dragon. Squatting at his level you stared right back at him, allowing yourself to feel the same irritation you did yesterday.
“I understand you’re upset about what happened. But keep in mind I did it to make sure we had money for food and supplies, especially for you.” Your voice held no malice, but it was stern. Almost like a mother scolding a child. “The medicine was gone that morning as well as the food. I didn’t want to give the scale away and it crushed me to do so. But I did what I had to do. Foryou.”
Emerald eyes watched you and you could slowly see life come back into his eyes. An emotion washed over you, you could feel it deep inside you: adoration. With a large wave of relief. Slowly Namjoon eased himself out of the stachel and moved closer to you, eyes gauging your reaction. Waiting to see if you were going to scold him some more. When you remained silent and still he inched closer until his forehead rested against yours.
You grinned at the little guy. “I guess this means I’m forgiven then?”
A snort interrupted the two of you as Soojin watched the scene unfold with a gleam in her eyes. “Oh trust me; he forgives you. You could clip the little things’ wings and keep him locked in a cage forever and he’d never have an ounce of hate for you.”
You stood upright, ignoring Namjoon’s huff as he inched as close to you as he could get. “I doubt that. If anyone treated me that way I’d hate them.” You tried not to laugh when the Dragon pressed himself against your stomach, curling against you as best as he could while being on the table. “But I guess I am forgiven for being such a traitor.”
Soojin laughed and walked back to the table, several jars full of herbs laid around as well as a book with a maroon cover. She stood next to you and smiled down at the reptile. “I hate to pull you away little guy, but it’s time for some more salve and this time, we’re adding magic.”
He weakly removed himself and allowed Soojin to place him on her side of the table. You watched as she gently opened the jars and book up, tapping her finger on the table. “Ah, right!” She snapped her fingers and a small cauldron appeared before the two of you. Hot water steamed from the pot and she began to create her salve.
“So, how did this happen exactly?” Soojin asked. “Namjoon here hasn’t been able to tell me.”
‘So he can speak in person… I’ve only ever heard him in my dreams…’ You thought, remembering the dreams with the deep voice that spoke to you. “Some Orcs got a hold of him.” The night where everything for you had changed. Memories of the large creatures chasing you caused you to shiver. “Luckily we got away.”
“Ah, Orcs do love their trade.” Soojin hummed, stirring the little cauldron. Walking to a shelf she plucked a small vile. “Dragon scales are worth a lot. As you probably already know.” Her tone was teasing as she went back to the cauldron and spilled the amber liquid into the water with herbs. “But still, to have a Dragon so close to the black market? I wonder what he was up to…”
The liquid turned a brilliant orange, holding a beautiful shimmer to it. “I honestly don’t know where they found him. Namjoon and I met when I fell down a ravine and went unconscious. It was near my village, that’s where Felix and… Hyunjin, if I’m not mistaken his name, were.”
It seemed as though the world went still for a moment. Soojin stopped her mixing, gold eyes fixed to you. Salem had awoken from his nap and was now interested as well, silently watching you. Namjoon stirred, eyes glancing between the two of you as the silence grew.
“Is everything okay?” You began to worry that you might have said something wrong.
Soojin shook her head. “Yeah, I’m just surprised. Hyunjin never leaves Serentia.” Her tone held no further context on whether that was a good thing or bad thing. “But please continue, the more I know the better we can make Namjoon.”
You nodded your head and told her the events that took place aftward. From the moment you stepped through the gateway to where you stood now. During that time Soojin had applied the salve to Namjoon who seemed to be loving every second of it. The bright orange liquid had taken on a thicker form, a cream of sorts. Your little Dragon was content on being curled up on that table; Soojin massaging the cream on his wounds and any area that seemed even a little off, while your voice drifted throughout the place telling the story of how you all met.
Once you were finished, Soojin sighed and cocked her head. “A gateway that’s periwinkle? I’ve never heard of one that color.”
“It’s the only one I’ve ever seen, the first time I saw it too.” You sighed. “The Forgotten Forest is too dangerous to travel through.” The dark and looming trees still made you shudder. “The fog makes my people go insane… Well, except for me and my friend Jongho. We were able to travel through it without losing our minds.”
She blinked once. Then twice. You could feel the air around her shift: confusion turning to slight irritation. As though your words were no longer valid, holding any truth to them.
“I- Wait where are you from again?” By now the workplace was clean and Namjoon was covered in the bright orange cream. He was watching the exchange curiously, obviously not sensing any harm from the conversation. At least that made you relax a little.
“Arcrine.”
“Ar- what? … That place doesn’t exist.” She frowned, turning to look at you. Her eyes narrowed and looked you up and down. “Are you playing games with me?” Despite her smaller figure you could almost feel the power radiating off of her.
“No! Of course not,” You held up your hands and shook your head. “It’s a real place… just not here, as in here in Asterios.” You wished there was a better way of explaining the situation. But you yourself were equally confused with your location and if you were even in the same world as Arcrine. By the gods, if you weren’t… You dreaded even trying to comprehend it.
“Huh… a Dragon not from Asterios, well, that’s something I’ve never seen nor heard before.” Head cocked to the side, red locks tumbling from the gesture. A finger tapped on her chin as she thought. “Dragons are only known to reign here in Asterios.”
Her knowledge and age held weight, that much you knew. Last night she spoke of not having seen Felix for centuries. She obviously knew her away around these lands like a professional, having seen and heard things you could never dream of. And if she hasn’t heard of Arcrine…
“Namjoon is from Asterios. I, on the other hand, am not.” Wasn’t it obvious to her? You could have sworn it could easily be seen by the way you moved around the shop; all of this was new to you. This whole world was nothing you could dream of. “I’m from another land, I guess…” You trailed off, mind jogging as to where exactly your home was.
Soojin stared at you, eyes scanning your figure with disbelief. There was something not adding up for her. “Wait, you’re notAsterian? I could have sworn… I felt the magic from this land on you-” Her hand shot out and gripped your own, eyebrows furrowed. You flinched slightly and tried to pull away but her grip was like iron. There was no escaping. “You have Dragon magic all over you.” Her gaze looked at Namjoon who had a twinkle in his eye. “You coated her with your magic? Why?” The question was asked curiously with no demand nor ill feelings behind it. You, however, felt even more confused.
“He did what?” You cocked your head at her. You’ve never heard of such a thing, and why would he do that to begin with? You certainly had no use for it, right? “I’m not magical at all-”
“Everyone has magic.” She scoffed and stared at your hand. There was a determination in her gaze, a want to prove you wrong. “Even the weakest of creatures carry a small amount of magic hidden in their veins.”
You narrowed your own eyes on her, snatching your hand back. You knew she meant no harm, but calling you weak wasn’t something you took kindly. “You are extremely incorrect and out of line.” Breathing through your nose you calmed yourself. “You see, I’m Human-”
It was as though the world turned ice cold when the words were spoken. Goosebumps raised on your arms and the warmth from the hearth was completely gone. In its place was a bitter coldness that iced over your heart and froze your veins. Instinctively you inched closer to Namjoon, his small body feeling like a furnace.
She stared at you with lips parted and eyes widened. A gasp escaped and she studied your every movement with fascination and confusion. Namjoon was watching the exchange, mainly the shop owner, with eyes narrowed. There was a long pause of the three of you merely studying one another. Finally she shook her head.
“That’s… that’s not possible.” She whispered, stepping closer to you. “You can’tbe one…”
Your eyebrows furrowed as you watched her. “I am. I am a Human.”
“That’s simply not possible.” She glanced between you and Namjoon, swallowing a lump in her throat. You honestly wanted to hit her with her broom at this point, feeling frustrated. How was it so hard to believe that you were Human? You opened your mouth to voice this but the next few words clamped your mouth shut and almost made your heart stop.
“Asterios killed off the Human race centuries ago. Every last one of them.”
A deep breath in.
Out.
“What?”
Your voice shook, tone light. That can’t be possible… There was no way that was possible. How could an entire species be killed off? Better yet: what could warrant such an outcome? You couldn’t catch your breath, fear crawling under your skin as you watched Soojin for a moment. Where did her loyalties lie? The room suddenly felt too crowded, too tight, too much-
Squeeze.
You glanced down and saw that green tail curled around your wrist, tightening the hold. Namjoon’s gaze was worried as he watched you, as if he could sense what you were feeling, how your brain was short circuiting. The pressure increased slightly, an attempt to anchor you and keep you from spiraling. Lifting your other hand you took a deep breath and placed your hand over his tail, finger gently petting the scales.
“Breathe, Y/n, you’re safe here.” Soojin spoke in a hushed tone. “This place is heavily guarded with centuries of spells, wards, and all the fancy work. No one can enter this place, let alone hear us.”
The racing beats of your heart slowed to a calmer state. You gulped and gave Namjoon a shaky smile as you heard Soojin snap her fingers. The table was suddenly set with plates with food and beverages of all types scattered throughout. A small feast. From another room you could hear the shuffle as two chairs dragged themselves towards you both.
“My mother always told me that stories are best told with good food.” Soojin spoke, her tone softer. She must have picked up on your mood, sensing the spike of fear and panic. “Let’s sit and learn more about one another. I hold much of the history of Asterios. And you, Y/n, hold the history of Humanity. Together we can form a puzzle and work through this together.”
Her words were like honey on a sore throat; sweet and soothing. And so you both sat down, Namjoon shuffling to remain on the table by your side. It was decided that you were to go first as the Sorceress, Dragon, and even Salem watched you with curious eyes.
And so you told them the story of Arcrine. Well, as much as you could since your village had no records or memory. Even though you talked to Namjoon about your mother and Jongho, you only told the Dragon the good memories you had. You never mentioned wandering into the woods to where Felix was, the isolation, and how the people treated one another. But you spoke of every detail you could. When you were finished, the food was long gone.
“Arcrine…” Soojin whispered, tasting the name on her tongue. “A place I’ve never heard of nor seen has been existing for centuries. A place where only Humans live.” She sounded as though she was in a trance, eyes far away, trying to imagine the little area you described to her. A village painted in shades of gray with no hope but to survive each season as best as one could.
“And Felix.”
“And my traitorous friend.” She hummed, making you chuckle a little. “I’m not surprised he never told me. The less that knows of your village the better… until now.” Her fingers tapped against the table. “It’s best I tell you about Asterios. The gods know that you’re going to need to learn about the place you’ve been wandering through. The dangers that dwell here are great, and for a creature of your species paired with a Dragon?” She laughed humorlessly. “The gods certainly love chaos.” Soojin leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes. “There’s so much to explain… Let us start at the very beginning.”
**The room darkened, the candles flames grew suddenly as gold and glittering smoke gently lifted from the flames. You watched in awe as the glittering smoke took many different forms of small beings, roughly the size of the wooden dolls you had as a little girl. You and Namjoon leaned forward, watching with fascination as Soojin began the tale of Asterios.
“Asterios used to be a land of harmony; species of every kind were welcomed here, from far and wide. From the righteous Thunderbirds of the south,” You watched as lean, tall figures stood proudly with large wings fluttering behind them, “to the protective Wolves of the north.” A wolf danced across the store and jumped to morph into a human-like being in the blink of an eye. “Species from all over dwelled amongst one another with ease. No one was restrained on where to go, no species was singled out. Above each species was one leader or in some cases, a council, to rule and dictate their people. These key individuals were good friends, close and trusting of one another. They lead with honor and honesty, setting an example for the people of Asterios.” You watched as many figures gathered around. There were so many unique figures of so many sizes to watch. But eight figures stood out from the rest, standing in the middle of the room to easily gain your attention. “Until three hundred years ago.
“You see… no one truly knows what happened to cause what is now known as the Mortal War. It happened so fast… Peace and tranquility had died in the blink of an eye and in its place was a brutal war, where many died. A war between the Elves and Humans.” A figure with a beautiful gown began to argue with a taller man, both seeming to shout at one another though no words could be heard. “There were rumors of what started the chaos and bloodshed: some spoke of the Human Queen Flora stealing the Elven King Juro’s most prized possession and keeping it hidden from them. Some whispered a tale of love gone wrong, and thus anger and jealousy fueled the flames of the war. Regardless of who was right the war broke out for decades between the two sides and blood was shed all over.” The room grew cold, the golden figures suddenly fighting one another. You leaned forward, unconsciously seeking Namjoon’s warmth as the Dragon curled his tail around your middle. A low growl erupted in his chest at the sense of your discomfort.
“Friend turned on friend, families betrayed one another. I remember those days, for I was a healer…” Her gold eyes dimmed as the memories came back in. “When I was a young Sorceress, my mentor, Petronilla, taught me to never choose a side when friends are fighting. I loved people from both sides dearly but the Humans….” She took a shaky breath. “Their attempts were in vain. Elves are a stronger species: they heal faster, move swiffer, and can easily snap a Human in two.” Just as she said you watched as a tall figure easily snapped a smaller figure’s neck without so much difficulty. You flinched and shivered. “I watched as the numbers of Humans rapidly declined. The Elven King, Juro, saw victory when Queen Flora died on the battlefield. But he refused to stop.”
The figure with the beautiful gown was pierced with a sword by a taller figure, turned into gold dust and fading into the air. Around you more and more of the smaller figures began to turn to dust and soon there were hardly any left. Your throat closed up as you watched the dust fade into nothing.
“He decided to eradicate the entire species, leaving no stone unturned or city untouched. Human villages burned to the ground, many perished at the hands of the Elves. The other leaders began to take in the survivors and try to hide them away. Some of them did it out of love… others did it out of gain. Humans were being sold to others on the market for high prices to be used in any way they deemed fit; working till they collapsed, experiments that always failed, breeding utensils for species dying off, the list could go on forever…”
The remaining figures ran as shadows engulfed them, fading into nothing just as the others did. They ran as fast as they could but you watched as each one was slowly snatched into nothing. Your eyes glossed over as you watched these figures that represented your people become nothing. Just dust that trickled down to the floor. Innocent lives that once had stories to tell, had families to love. Gone.
“Many species tried and failed to save the Humans. The Elven king was too strong and his allies too vast. One day he announced that the Human race was gone forever.” Soojin looked at you as her eyes began to shimmer. “You are the first human to have arrived in Asterios in centuries, Y/n, and with you a Dragon. Two species that have long since been thought to be dead.”
You rubbed your eyes and tried to process what you just learned. Words couldn’t describe the emotions that were trying to drown you. The new knowledge, while granting you some answers, only left you with more questions. “But… How did my ancestors survive? Where did Arcrine come from?”
Soojin shook her head, sighing. “Those answers I do not have. But I bet Felix knows more than what he’s letting on. I do not believe it’s a coincidence that he left the same time the Humans went extinct only for him to be popping back up when a Human finally returns to Asterios.” A frown tugged on her lips as her face looked more troubled. “Felix is a great guy, and fights for those who need help. But I now think he’s bitten off more than he can chew.”
“He seemed to be fine when we left,” You attempted to assure the Sorceress. “Felix appeared to be handling the situation well.”
“I have no doubt that he was doing his best. But from what you’ve told me about the Orcs finding your village… ” Her head cocked to the side. “That Gateway has never been recorded. At least not from my library. Which begs to the question: how did the Orcs discover the Gateway and why was a Fae guarding a village of Humans ?”
“I’ve got more questions than that.” You sighed.
“I think we all do, even Namjoon here seems just as puzzled as the rest of us.”
His eyes were narrowed, focusing on a wall. His tail had gone limp from your waist and his body had moved forward. His mind was wandering a million miles a minute and it was only when you gently brushed a finger down his head that he relaxed. “I wish I knew what was going on in his little mind.”
“Once you take him to his home I guarantee you’ll find more answers to this madness.” Soojin smiled at the two of you, a certain gleam in her eye that you couldn’t quite place.
“He’s not… this isn’t his home?”
You didn’t know how large Asterios was, didn’t know just how many locations this land had. Arcrine was all you have known; the small village with the deadly forest encasing it. To be wandering around in an even larger area had goosebumps forming on your arms. In both fear and excitement.
“Not quite my dear,” Soojin stood, slowly stretching from sitting in the chair for too long. Namjoon made similar movements, the orange salve having dried up by now. A small smile appeared on your face as the Dragon shuffled closer to you, gently laying his head on your arm to watch you. “He still has quite a bit of ways till he gets to his home.”
Walking towards a shelf she pulled out several books and a large, rolled up faded piece of paper. The items were placed on the table, Soojin cracking her knuckles and grinning at you. “Today will be spent studying key areas and races. By the end of today you will know where to go and what to do when you encounter certain species.”
You watched as the rolled up paper unfolded into a one large map. Yellow and brown from being so old, you stared at the vast land before you. To put it simply: Arcrine could easily fit into Silverwynn with plenty of room to spare.
“Wouldn’t it be wise if you did this yourself?” You asked. “Take Namjoon home, that is?”
The Dragon shot his head up, staring at you with disbelief while Soojin scratched the back of her head. Namjoon was quick to shuffle his body forward until he tumbled into your lap, the large tail wrapping around your torso as a huff escaped his nose. The Sorceress barked out a laugh and shook her head.
“I could list a million reasons why but here’s the main two. Firstly being that I am quite strong and powerful in magic; people will talk and want to know where I’m going. I would never be able to travel in peace. And Secondly, you two have a bond. I don’t want to sound dramatic but I’m certain if you leave he won’t last. That bond is what’s keeping him strong; you’re keeping this little Dragon kicking.”
A bond. With a Dragon… But how? Your eyebrows knitted together as you tried to comprehend what she just told you. How could two different species that have never met have a bond? And what all did this bond entitle?
The tail around your torso tightened slightly. Nothing painful, not even close to it. You felt as though Namjoon was trying to tie himself to you, tangling himself into you so that you couldn’t separate easily. You swore you could almost feel his tiny heart beat pick up in pace.
Never once did you stop petting the Dragon, feeling his worries of your leaving basically radiate off of him. In response you gave his tiny claw a squeeze in return, knowing he’d understand what you were saying: I’m staying.
The sun was high in the sky now, it being late morning. Not wanting to waste any time you sat upright. Namjoon perked up at this, looking just as attentive as you did.
“Teach me, oh great Sorceress.”
“It’ll be an honor, Y/n, first Human of Asterios and Seeker of Dragons.”
Despite the chuckle you gave the woman you couldn’t help but feel pride in the title. It did have a nice ring to it.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
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Curious Creatures 5
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of blood/injuries;
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:4k
Note:Thank you so much- I see all the positive feedback and it brings me joy to know many of you are enjoying the story. I honestly didn’t expect this, and it’s so encouraging. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
Tag List: Open- DM me if you want to be added!
“What a beautiful item you have there… Pray tell where you found such a thing?”
Across the small stream, standing a mere few feet away, was an older woman. Long black hair was pulled back into a soft bun with streaks of gray peaking through. Despite the pitch black eyes her face held soft lines and a smile to match. Her ears were pointed and adjourned beautiful jewels that you couldn’t even name. She wore a beige dress, the edges stained from the dirt it gathered with every movement. A simple brown cloak made up the woman’s entire wardrobe. From the looks of it she seemed simple. Plain. But even with the dull outfit you could feel something beneath your skin shudder as you made eye contact.
Your hands froze on the spot, mind racing to think of what to say. “Ah, it’s…”
‘Keep your head low, don’t let anyone close. Especially around the Dragon. Got it?’
Felix’s words echoed in your brain. You recalled them mentioning how rare Dragons were… the woman seemed nice enough but you needed to take caution. “It’s something that I found over in the woods.” You nodded your head down stream, away from where you and your Dragon were camping. “Nearly buried in the dirt.” You thanked the gods that the stream was running clear and held no sign of the small amount of blood that was on the scale.
The woman watched you curiously with a cocked head. “Quite odd to find a Dragon scale all the way out here. However lady luck has smiled upon you today,” Despite the scratch in her voice, her tone was warm and reminded you of that of a mother. It almost seemed to soothe you. “Such scales go for a high price on the market.” Her hand reached into her pocket and gently pulled out a large bag. “I’m willing to make an offer.”
She stepped closer and opened the bag in front of you, revealing colored jewels, diamonds, and gold coins. Your eyes slightly widened at the sight of shimmering stones and metals, having never seen such things in person. The village never needed such items to make trades, not when resources were deemed much more valuable such as meat and herbs. Pieces of precious metals and stones were beautiful to look at, but held no value when starving.
“It may seem like a small sum, but the size of the scale isn’t nearly as large as they usually are.” The woman shook the bag, allowing the coins and jewels to ring in the air. “I hope this will suffice the bargain. It’ll be enough to last quite a while.”
‘Enough to travel with ease.’ You thought to yourself, eyeing the bag. You could gather the supplies needed at the local shops, once you figured out how much each coin and gem were worth, and make this trip less stressful. And even more important, you might be able to find some medicine for the Dragon…
But there was a part of you that recoiled at the idea of trading the scale. Something deep inside wanted to treasure it, keep the beautiful item in your pocket, even wear it as a piece of jewelry to show off. It was odd to think of and even dwell on, but it did make you feel warm on the inside. And even though your heart told you to keep it, the logical side of your brain won the battle. You needed food and the little creature needed medicine.
“I have no use for it,” You finally spoke, the words felt heavy on your tongue. You could have sworn the taste of ash lingered on your tongue as the words tumbled out. “It’ll be a fair trade.”
Your fingers brushed the scale for a second longer, enjoying the smoothness of it before you gently lifted it up in the air. The green shimmered in the sunlight and the woman hummed with delight. When your fingers brushed against hers you heard a sharp inhale as she stared at you, black eyes widening a fraction before returning to normal. “Thank you for this sale, many things come with a cost.”
“Yes, thank you. Safe travels.” The sooner she left the sooner you could leave and get back on the road. Despite the warmth that radiated off of her, you couldn’t help but feel the chill run under your skin once more.
A small nod from her and she was heading into the woods with her head held high. You watched her form disappear, feeling odd at the encounter. The first being from Asterios was… different. But perhaps it was you who was different; you after all were from a completely different world. Maybe you were merely paranoid, traveling with a rare creature and all.
Arriving back to camp you noticed the Dragon still snoring away and the scene made you giggle a little. Who knew such a little creature could make such loud noises? The smile remained on your lips as you sat next to the creature, pulling your bag into your lap. Enough supplies to get you through one more day max. You knew that today was a day for fast traveling. You hoped this Silverwynn place had a store of sorts to purchase goods from. Perhaps Soojin could be of help… whoever this person was. Speaking of strangers…
Namjoon. The name itself has been dancing the back of your mind all morning, sending little sparks of electricity down your spine. The name felt as though it held a lot of weight to it; a strong and sturdy name for someone who bore those traits. But why would your mind grant you such a name?
“Namjoon…” Your voice was barely above a whisper, testing the name on your tongue. You liked the way it rolled off, a little grin on your face as you stared at the trees around you. The second you spoke the Dragon’s eyes snapped open. He blinked up at you, watching you. “Oh good, you’re awake-”
Something gently squeezed your wrist, the Dragon’s tail gently wrapped around your limb. He was staring at you once more, and slowly you found your brain working. You stared right back, head slightly cocked. He stared back, waiting patiently.
“Namjoon? Your name is Namjoon?”
Stumbling a bit the Dragon got up and inched closer to you, blinking up at you. What you deemed to be a smile appeared on his face as his tail squeezed your wrist once more. “Ah, so that is your name. It is very nice to meet you, Namjoon.” You smiled back. “I’m Y/n.”
It felt a little strange to be speaking to a creature like a human. But it didn’t last long, not when you remembered the dreams of the deep voice speaking to you. Was it Namjoon speaking to you? Perhaps he needed help and reached out to the first soul he could. But then why was it you? Why did you see him in your dreams? There were so many questions you had, so many things going on, you prayed that Soojin would be of help in some way.
“You can’t… communicate like before, can you?” You remembered that same deep voice speaking to you in those dreams, a soothing echo in your head. Maybe it only worked in certain situations?
Namjoon sighed deeply, eyes saddening as he gave a soft shake of the head. He still seemed so weak, watching as he tried to stand and stretch his limbs. You knew the cuts were healing properly with zero signs of infection, but deep down you knew there was something else that was wrong.
The sun was slowly getting higher once you got camped packed up. You didn’t have much but wanted to make sure that there was little to no trace of you being in the area. New territory could mean new threats and honestly you were still waiting for those Orcs to come crashing through the trees any second now. A shiver ran down your spine at the memory, deciding the quicker you moved the better. Turning and spotted Namjoon, but he was kicking around the ground with narrowed eyes.
“What’s wrong?” You frowned at the large reptile, watching it scan the ground with an irritated look on his face. When his gaze looked at his arm, or rather underneath, you hummed. “Ah, your scale! I found it when I awoke, poor thing you must have scratched it off in your sleep.” You reached into the satchel and held up the bag the woman gave you. “I was able to trade it for jewels and gold, how lucky are we?”
You expected happiness, perhaps gratitude, maybe even confusion on how you even sold the scale so quickly, but what made you was none of those things. Instead Namjoon stared at you for a solid moment, eyes widening at the sack in your hands. Thinking he was afraid of being rat out, you quickly explained. “I didn’t reveal anything about you! I told this woman I found it in the woods, in the opposite direction of where we’re heading.”
Another moment of silence.
A small noise bubbled in the back of his throat, sounding much like a broken whine. A sound that was downright pitiful, so pitiful that your heart clenched as you watched the little Dragon curl up in the dirt, staring at everything that wasn’t you.
“I- Namjoon…” What should you do? Was he so partial to the scale that losing it was something close to heartbreak? You had no knowledge about Dragons. “I’m so sorry,” You whispered, slowly stepping closer. You were half expecting the little lizard to get angry and try to bite your ankles.
Inching closer you knelt to his level, but those green eyes remained on the ground. You weren’t acknowledged, and judging by the look on his face you were certain he wasn’t going to react to you anytime soon. So gently, you scooped him up and placed him in his bag where he remained still.
‘He’s upset, but he’ll get over it,’ You thought to yourself, making a mental bet with yourself that he would be over this in about an hour.
You were dead wrong.
You were speed walking through the forest now, determined to get to Silverwynn and get the Dragon out of your hair. Ever since you mentioned selling the scale the reptile had been giving you the cold shoulder. You tried to ease the little creature out of his shell, to get him to open up but alas it was no use. Namjoon was ignoring you and chose to stay curled up inside your bag and away from your eyes. It did break your heart to see him act in such a way. And it didn’t make much sense to you either; you did what was best for the two of you. You now have valuable items that can be traded for more supplies. Supplies to help him.
After the first hour of silence, you attempted to talk to Namjoon. You tried to gently ease the Dragon out of his state of sadness but was met with nothing. A cold shoulder at best. Hours passed and what was once empathy turned quickly to a small kindling of anger when you tried to gently pet his head. He loved head pats, something you learned yesterday, but the minute your finger brushed against his head, you were given a glare and low hiss. It wasn’t threatening though, you recall how scary he can truly sound. This noise was more sad… heartbroken. As if he was tired of the world all together.
And for some reason that hurt more than him ignoring you.
Being the stubborn woman you were, you scowled down at the bag he was hiding in. “I can’t wait to get you to Silverwynn,” You grumbled. “Drop you off at this Soojin and let them deal with your moody ass. Then I can leave and go home.”
Your tone was cool as you stared straight ahead, not allowing yourself to look at him or acknowledge him. You would give him the same treatment, it was only fair. But the words you spoke seemed to make the air around you heavy. A dark cloud forming around the two of you.
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It started with a temperature drop.
The once warm air turned crisp, the breeze nipped playfully at your skin. Tugging the cloak closer you scanned the area, noticing the area turning into a different terrain all at once. The tall oaks that shined with the summer sun were replaced with dark green pines that held a promise of cooler temperatures. And the promise was held as the warm air turned even cooler, despite the sun being at high noon now.
The leaves shifted around you as well; behind you there were still the same trees that held vibrant leaves of green. But ahead you could make out the golden leaves of autumn and watch in awe as you walked from one season to another in a matter of minutes. Each footstep led to the crunch of leaves. And green turned into warm colors of autumn; leaves of vibrant orange, shimmer gold, and cool maroon danced around you. The colors were beautiful and hummed with magic, the trees danced around you in a small and smooth sway with the cool breeze.
Despite the anger that still gripped your heart from Namjoon, you found a small smile gracing your features as you walked on, eyes watching the world around you. Little did you know, soft eyes were watching you as well, feeling guilty.
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You could hear Silverwynn before you could see it. So many different tongues speaking and shouting over one another, different tones being raised and lowered. The cobblestone path led you to a large village, easily three times the size of Arcrine. The homes were nicer as well; smooth stone cemented together and encased by the golden trees of autumn as well as a few pine trees. In the distance you could make out snowy mountains and rolling hills of red. The entire village made you stop in your tracks at the entrance and take your surroundings in.
At the entrance there were stalls of all types: wooden tables, wagons, barrels, and much more placed around. Creatures from all over were selling items of all sorts and shouting in different languages. Ladies held up spices and meats from far off lands, men draped fabrics of all types on clothes lines, showing off the colors and beads. Deeper into the village you could make out homes and shops.
This was a village of trade, with crowds of beings, gathered together in large groups as they bargained and traded for resources. Some of those looked human, while many others held significant differences: faces covered in fur, skin with scales, feathers, and so many more differences that you felt like a sore thumb amongst them.
Mundane.
Pulling the cloak hood up, you smoothly walked into the village and began your hunt: Soojin. You wanted to ask, to see if anyone knew who this person was. However you didn’t know how they would respond: would they follow you? Ask questions and corner you? Having been so used to being away from crowds and groups all your life, you felt a nauseating wave of panic trickle over you. Peeking down you saw your bag closed tightly, your only companion making himself as unknown as possible.
‘Lucky bastard.’ You mentally pouted, walking around the stalls and heading deeper into the village. You noticed the crowds thinned out drastically as you headed further in, giving you a small amount of comfort. You didn’t feel as suffocated and could focus a little more, but as time went on you found yourself walking in circles, eyeing every shop in home with hopes of someone stumbling out and seeing you. As if the Fae would have sent a letter or something to warn this person of your arrival.
Two hours passed and you wanted to cry.
The sun was setting now, the sky turning a beautiful shade of pink. Around you everyone was retiring for the night, or heading away from the village to continue on their journey. Your stomach was growling and feet ached, not to mention the temperature dropped even more as the sun set. You shivered and longed to be curled up next to a fireplace. The closest thing you had was Namjoon, a small little furnace at your hip. You wanted to assure yourself that he would be fine- he was a Dragon, he probably had some fire in him. But the worries of him already being sick and the cold air making it worse took over-
“We should have stopped at Soojins while we had the chance, I’m running low on mint.”
You froze midstep, feeling your breathing almost stop. ‘Did they… did they just say-’
“Soojin will be open tomorrow, we’ll just have to go then. It’s not like she’s going to close A Cauldron’s Kiss in the blink of an eye.” Another voice chuckled.
A Cauldron’s Kiss… Your brain wracked to remember where you saw the shop and felt your heart race as you recalled: in the back of the village, ten minutes from where you were standing. Swiftly and quickly you made your way back down the cobblestone pathway, ignoring the cries of your feet as you saw the wooden sign. A single candle was on in the window.
Not hesitating, you ran up to the door and began to knock in a rushed manner, too tired and desperate to care what this person would think. The sun had set, the air was cold, and you were tired and worried about your Dragon. His attitude be damned at the moment. A solid minute of knocking went before the large and heavy wooden door was opened quickly, your fist still raised in mid knock.
Before you stood a young woman your age with raven black hair and wispy bangs. Her eyes were gold and narrowed in on you, arms crossed as she raised an eyebrow.
“The shop closed an hour ago, I’m not doing business at the moment-” He hand reached out to the door, ready to bid you a goodnight and close the piece of wood in your face.
“Felix sent me.” You rushed out. “Please, I need help.”
She blinked once. Then twice. Eyes no longer narrowed in at you with annoyance. You could almost see the gears grinding in her head as she stared at you with confusion at first. Fearing that you got the wrong person, you were about to leave but her eyes widened quickly. No words were said, but she grabbed your arm and pulled you inside the shop.
The door slammed shut and locked in place as you stood at the entrance, wondering what on earth that Fae got you into. Every one of your senses came to life as you took in the shop around you, looking for a way out. But it was too dark to see clearly, the single candle creating a soft glow and doing little to help.
“Felix hasn’t been seen in centuries.” Her voice bounced across the empty store. “No one has been able to get a hold of him. Not even one of his best friends.”
You could detect the slight bitter tone in her voice and knew you found the person you were meant to. She walked around you, black dress sweeping along the stone floor. With a flick of her wrist several things happened at once: candles began to light up, a fireplace burst to life, and the shutters on the windows closed. A quiet and safe place, you thought.
You looked around and saw tables that held different glass jars of items; herbs, bones, stones, and so much more. There were so many items that it would take all night to even get through the jars, let alone the books that lined the shelves all around the walls or even the other rooms. The shop was large and with the candles you could see how comfortable it was, especially when the smell of lavender soothed your soul.
With the light you could see the woman before you properly. She was about your height with a round face and pouty lips. Even in the light her gold eyes were bright, catching the light easily, glowing like the candles around. Her dress was as dark as night, v-cut neckline, with a pair of heeled boots. Classy and elegant came to mind. Despite her young appearance, you could tell she had been around for a while just by looking at her eyes: she had seen things, and seemed to hold knowledge beyond your wildest dreams.
“So I must ask who you are and why has he sent you to me?”
So this was Soojin. Sighing in relief, you felt a little more relaxed. You took down the hood of your cloak. “Felix has been guarding the woods around my home. He sent me here to request help for…” You looked down at your bag. “For my friend.”
‘At least, I hope we’re still friends.’ You shook those thoughts from your head as you carefully lifted the bag up and onto a table that was free of merchandise. Soojin stepped closer, watching your gentle hands open the bag to reveal your Dragon. You were surprised to see him awake, still not willing to look at you.
“Oh gods,” She breathed, looking down at the small creature in your bag. “A Dragon. May the great Kitsune strike me down, it’s a real Dragon.”
You half expected Namjoon to acknowledge her, even show a sliver of life. But the reptile seemed too tired to care, which made you feel even worse. Soojin knelt before him, gold eyes looking at him with awe. She reached one finger up to gently touch his head-
Snap!
“I see.” Soojin had recoiled her finger just in time to not be injured by Namjoon’s bite. You were slightly relieved to see him showing some sort of reaction instead of looking like a figurine. Him showing any sort of emotion gave you a sliver of hope. “I shouldn’t be rude and merely touch others without consent.”
Namjoon huffed at her, eyes narrowing before he glanced at you. You watched with a small amount of hope but it was crushed in an instant. One look at you and he had curled back into a ball and was staring at no one in particular. A shell once more.
“Interesting…” Soojin hummed, tapping her chin in thought. “There’s a lot to unpack here… I can feel how exhausted you are, your soul is quite tired and worried.” Snapping her fingers you heard a scuffle and a small bell ring.
Thump!
A large cat jumped up on the table with long fur that was midnight black, eyes the same gold color as Soojins. “Salem will lead you to your room, just beyond that door is a flight of stairs with bedrooms. Inside is a hot meal and bath for you as well as night clothes. In the morning we will discuss this matter.” Noticing your eyes looking down at the Dragon she chuckled a little. “You can rest easy, everyone is safe here.”
You slowly nodded, feeling the rush and journey from the day catch up to you. Salem let you a small chirp, jumping down and began walking to the back of the shop where a door was. You began to walk but stopped midway, turning back to look at the table once more. Soojin was gathering together herbs, similar to what you had been using, as well as bandages.
“His name is Namjoon,” You spoke up, watching the woman stop and snap her head to look at you properly. “The Dragon, his name is Namjoon…”
You continued to follow the cat, too tired to hear the soft whine and small amount of movement coming from the table. Directed to you. The events of the past two days crashed into your bones and within twenty minutes were fed, scrubbed clean, and wearing clean clothes. The bed was so soft and warm, yet something was missing. The nagging feeling never left, not even when sleep came over you so quickly.
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Tag List: @ggukkieland, @fangirling-all-the-way-tbh,@fangirl125reader,@azucarian,@haechans-sunflower, @cosmicjotun,@namgiaffair,@yaboimagi,@thefirewasfriendly, @tsukispice, @psiioniic-captor,@112067,@afangirl91,@sweetjellyfishland, @strwberry-suga, @magentamoons
Curious Creatures: 4
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of blood/injuries;
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:4.7k
Note: You’re getting a peak inside Joon’s lovely mind~ chapter is truly about what’s going on his little Dragon brain<3 It’s been a rough week for many so I figured this was needed. He is lovesick already lol
Tag list: open- shoot me a DM and I’ll happily add you!
The danger you were walking into never crossed your mind; these people needed your help. Your brain was correcting every logical thought that passed your brain and guided you forward with steps of confidence. Your very soul felt lifted as you crossed the stone arch and you felt so accomplished, eyes darting around at the beautiful glow that surrounded you. Lips parting in awe, you glanced down at yourself.
Ripples of periwinkle slithered along your skin, dancing like small waves in a stream. They glowed and held a sparkle that resembled the stars you loved to gaze at. The shine danced across your skin beautifully, feeling cool and smooth like fine silk. It brought a pleasant shiver down your spine as you felt yourself being wrapped around the periwinkle glow. For the briefest moments you felt as though nothing in the world could stop you; you held the power to conquer anything in your way. You were weightless, powerful, extraordinary, and then suddenly the feeling dropped as you felt the fog around your brain slowly being lifted. And then the panic of your actions set in. You walked into an unknown area, for unknown people…
It was far too late as you were suddenly yanked forward by the ripples and the world around you shifted. Colors danced across your visions in a dizzy frenzy and everything tilted from the left to the right. A bright white light blinded you for a moment and then your body felt it. The weightlessness was gone, gravity now pushing you weighing you down. Your knees shook at the impact, however you remained standing upright. Heavy pants escaped your lips, a dull thud sounded next to you.
Landing not so gracefully into the ground was the Dragon, his face scrunching up from the impact. Swiftly you moved to kneel by him, your hand moving on its own accord to caress the side of its face in a worry manner, trying to gauge if he was injured even more. You could feel the vibrations under your hand, fearing that he was growling, you quickly pulled away.
“Sorry, I….” Your mind came to a blank, not quite understanding your own actions. All you could do was inch away and make sure the creature had enough room. The last thing you wanted was to anger him. Glancing up to survey the area you missed the emerald eyes that looked at you in a sad manner.
All around were trees but you knew this wasn’t the Forgotten Forest. The trees here felt older, you could also feel something hum against your skin. A power of sorts. Everything around you thrummed with a force that was bigger than life; as if each tree and pebble had their own heartbeat. The air smelled better, having a sweetness to it that made you inhale deeply. And the colors… Everything back home held a gray tone to it; miserable and void of any life. However this new land was vibrant and screamed with life. You felt as though you were seeing the world for the first time, as if the sun finally decided to properly shine down on you. A world so vibrant was right at your fingertips. In awe you slowly turned to watch the nature around you for a moment. It wasn’t until you heard a soft grunt that you were pulled out of your trance and were glancing back down at the Dragon.
He could barely stand on his own, his legs wobbled and head drooped down despite his determination. Though your heart ached for the poor creature, you were cautious this time around; you didn’t want him to get annoyed with you. Ever so carefully you reached into your bag and settled back down on the ground and kept a few feet from him as you got to work.
“My mother taught me how to make some of the best salves, this one is made with ginger.” You gently took out a small jar that was cream in color. “It should help ease the pain you’re in, I- oh!”
Your voice came out hushed as something warm was pressed against your thigh. You nearly dropped the jar and glanced down, eyes widening at the sight. The Dragon was now using you as a resting spot. His head laid against your thigh, eyes watching you with a gleam you couldn’t quite place.
Placing some of the salve on your finger, you began to softly treat the creature. You spoke as softly as you worked, telling him about your mother and the herbs she taught you how to use. And you always explained what you were going to do next in a way to not startle him. But something deep inside of you knew that no matter what you did he wouldn’t care too much; he watched you without a care in the world.
“There you go,” You smiled down at him. “I hope it helps, even a little.” Packing up your belongings you wanted to stand but the Dragon huffed, eyes trained on you still. Blinking a couple of times, you gently placed your hands on his head. “Come on big guy, time to get a move on…”
The exact opposite of what you wanted happened. You wanted him to stand and allow the two of you to begin your journey, however he had different plans. With a whine the Dragon had managed to crawl entirely into your lap in mere seconds. You were too shocked to move, a breath being held as you watched him settle against you with a sigh. And you had to admit, he did look quite adorable curling up like a house cat.
‘Can I…’ He was already in your lap… and you were feeling a little braver. Slowly your hand rested on his head, gently moving with his scales. Each stroke was soft and delicate. You watched the scales as the sunlight hit certain ones; black turning into an enchanting green. You could watch the colors shift all day. A minute later the vibrations you felt earlier were back and you jumped, hand freezing above his head. Peering up at you with an eye cracked open, he huffed and looked annoyed. Exactly what you feared.
As swiftly and as carefully as you could, you slid away from him and stood with your bag slung over your shoulder. Hands trembled against the strap as you stepped back a few paces. The Dragon sat on the ground and stared at you with something unreadable on his face. Not wanting to dwell too long on what the creature was thinking, you instead looked around and spotted a dirt path. Eyes following it you could make out a large wooden post with several arrows pointing every which way: a directional sign. Silently cheering for yourself you began to walk towards it only to stop when you heard a soft whine.
‘Ah, stupid Y/n! The poor Dragon…’ You mentally cursed yourself, watching the small creature try to keep up. You had to admit that he held a lot of determination. The salve seemed to help seeing that he was now walking a little better but he was still so weak. Once again your heart felt heavy at seeing him trying to trail after you. In a few long strides you squatted to his level and opened up your bag.
“You’re big enough to fit in here. It’s not ideal, but it’ll do for now.”
No convincing was needed, the Dragon scurried into your bag eagerly and nestled inside quickly. You let out a snort as you watched him make himself comfy, head poking out just a tad to keep an eye on you and the area. And to your surprise he was light, so light that it was a little easier to carry him. It was by no means ideal, knowing that he was going to get cramped and that you weren’t strong enough to carry him the entire way. You just hoped that getting to Silverwynn wouldn’t take too long. The faster you traveled, the sooner you could help this poor Dragon and save Arcrine.
The wooden sign stood tall and proudly in the midst of several different paths. Strangely enough each path was quite different from one another. Some paths had stones of varying colors that were faded, some held different colors of dirt. Some of the names on the sign were far too worn to even read, however there were a few you could make out.
“Alright… Oakenshire is to the east of us. Melancholy Meadows in the south, that sound depressing… ah! Silverwynn is North.” Looking down at the bag you watched as the Dragon looked up at the sign with a cocked head. “Looks like we’re heading North.”
The path to Silverwynn had white cobblestone mixed with a light dirt, the terrain seemed even and easy to walk across. You failed to notice the way the Dragon turned his head in the opposite direction, his head nudging your hand to try to gather your attention.
“It’s going to be fine! We’ll get you healed up at your home and then I’ll get to help my people,” You smiled reassuringly at him.
It was as easy as that… right?
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Time flew by and the sun was slowly setting in the sky. Having followed the sign you traveled amongst the dirt path and admired the new land before you. The area didn’t even have a name for you to call it, yet something about it made your soul sing. It felt like an old home to you. The land you were used to was harsh, unforgiving, and dark a lot of the time. Not to mention the forest that seemed to hold more bad than good. Here it was starkly different: the forest was light and held the promise of a better day. The sun seemed to shine softly down on you, golden rays bringing life to all they touched. And the air smelt sweet and fresh… You wondered if you were in a dream.
And your new traveling companion was the best listener you’ve ever had. Time went quickly because of the Dragon, him listening to everything you said and hanging onto every word. When you told a joke you could swear you heard a snort, and when you sighed in sadness at a fond memory he would nudge your hand in a soothing manner. And then there was the mention of Jongho, which always left the Dragon in a small huff. You figured it was because the poor creature never got the chance to meet him.
“Next time you can meet Jongho, he’s really the best!” You smiled reassuringly down at the Dragon, noticing the slight eye roll. “Come on now, if it weren’t for him, I’d be… not here.” You felt a soft nudge and ignored him. “The sun’s setting, we really need to make camp. Despite the easy traveling we have today I think it’d be safer if we stop and rest up. Besides, you need more salve.”
A few minutes later you found a small clearing off the path. It was hidden and safe for the two of you to rest without too much worry. Not having the best gear you made do with what you had, using your bag for a pillow and gathering fallen leaves as a makeshift bed for the Dragon. The grass was softer than what you were used to and would make due for sleeping arrangements. Sitting on the ground you dumped your bag to do inventory-
“No… oh no…” Your chest tightened at the sight before you. There was gauze, the herbs and salve, and two pieces of flint. However the journal was nowhere to be found. Your satchel sat beside you with nothing left inside. “I must have dropped it when I fell.”
Then your stomach growled.
“No food either…” Fate truly wanted you to suffer. While you were sad about losing the one material thing you held dear to your heart you needed to focus on your needs. Food and water being top of the list. You didn’t know much about Dragons but you knew that in order for him to heal properly he’d need a full belly.
There was a growl behind you, the Dragon waiting for your attention. It wasn’t a harsh growl, at least not the same ones he used on the two Fae from before. You deemed this one to be conversational. His tail thumped twice on the ground, head turning to look into the forest before meeting your eyes once more. You were surprised at how quickly you caught on; standing up and walking in the direction he was looking.
Not too far off you could make out a beautiful stream of crystal clear water. You couldn’t hide the smile as you also spotted some berries growing near the stream: raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Grabbing your satchel you quickly headed down and gathered as many berries as you could stuff in the bag, the Dragon sitting back and watching your every move. You figured he was curious and was wondering what you were up to, however you didn’t see the way his gaze flitted around to survey the area.
Once the satchel was full you returned and began to feast. You feared the Dragon wouldn’t want the fruit but was pleasantly surprised to see him eat as fast as you did; not a single berry was going to waste. You ensured your little companion ate the most and watched satisfied when his eyes seemed to almost droop with sleep. You couldn’t force your hand away even if you tried, finger gently patting the top of his head.
“Let’s get you some more gauze, then you can rest.”
Just as before you gently applied the salve while he curled up in your lap. You hummed an old tune that you used to hear your mother hum, feeling the creature relax entirely in your hold. His heartbeat was steady and seemed to even match your own. When his final cut was properly coated you carefully moved him to his bed and slid a few feet over to curl up on the ground. Your body welcomed the sleep quickly, and though your brain registered a soft whine you were already in a deep sleep.
Once the salve was placed you curled up against the ground, getting much needed rest.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Centuries of being alive can really put a number on a person. So much time had been spent in the shadows that he wasn’t even quite sure how long it had been since he last spoke to an individual, face to face. It didn’t matter at this point anyway, not when he was captured and forced into that cage, locked away for what he believed would be the end of the line. His kind were slaughtered for their skin, the scales being worth so much due to their indestructible nature. The sharpest of swords and fastest of arrows could never break the scale formation; it was laughable to watch many try. There were only two ways of breaking through the scale: another Dragon or being killed. And sitting in the back of that wagon he decided it was time for him to leave this world. Honestly he should have been gone long ago, but alas the gods kept his heart beating strong. And for what?
That night he got his answer.
He could feel it like a little string pulling his soul. The Orcs were forgotten as he felt the pull tighten, strengthening. It didn’t just wrap around his soul, no, this string became chains that entangled his entire being. And he welcomed it, allowing those chains to lock and stay forever just as they should. He has heard stories of this phenomenon but always assumed he would never have the chance to experience it. The pull felt stronger and his instincts were awakening once more, after spending weeks of giving up he felt this chain pull him back to his feet and out of the ditch he had fallen into.
And when he opened his eyes…
You were single handedly the most beautiful creature he had ever laid eyes on. No one in Asterios could ever hold a light to you. His soul burned with the image of you and for a brief moment he felt himself enter a small state of bliss: his mate was finally next to him. He wanted to shout, to cry and thank the gods for giving you to him after all this time. To thank them for keeping him alive and giving him what his soul burned for. But the feeling of the cage being rattled snapped him out of this state and then the Dragon within came to life.
You shouldn’t be here. This wasn’t a safe place for you, not with the Orcs around and him being too weak to defend you. He was trapped on the inside while you were out there, in the open area with no one to ensure your safety. He felt a bit of panic rise but it disappeared just as fast when he noticed the way you shimmered in the moonlight…
The magical bond between the two of you brought you here but not physically. No you were there in spirit, a mere angel in the darkness. The bond was already strong, something that made his chest rumble with pride. Having a strong bond before officially meeting was a beautiful sign, showing that both parties were destined to have a strong relationship from the get-go. His soul was soaring at the fact that you were the one to find him. Your soul had sensed his presence and reached out to him.
His little Seeker.
Watching you disappear only left a flurry of emotions inside him: the man within was glad to see you away from this terrible situation, however the Dragon was not. The beast wanted you by his side, safe, where he can properly watch over you. He assured himself that you were safe and well, he just needed to find you. And that was another journey for his tired being. But the pain and exhaustion were worth it when the bond led him to the Gateway, the glowing portal that he knew would lead to you. And he was right.
The second meeting only made the Dragon more determined. He had no idea where this Gateway led, where he would wind up, or even if it would work but he had to try. Seeing you only cemented the need to travel, to leave Asterios and head into this Gateway that not even he knew of. And he knew all portals that the entire land held. Of course his little Seeker was hidden away from him.
And when he finally got to hold you… He knew it was over. There would be no other life if you weren’t there with him safe and sound. Your heartbeat was music to his ears, a symphony he wanted to hear for the rest of time. You were so tired, so weak and injured he couldn’t rest. Not properly at least. He could feel the monsters running around this strange forest. He thanked the gods for the bond, feeling his own magic had already coated your being and shielding you away from any threats. It was natural for mates to have their magic worn on their partner like a fine perfume. It held scents, power, and a warning to those around.
But he couldn’t understand why you hadn’t done the same for him. His brain racked different reasons as to why; were you upset he allowed harm to come to you? Did he take too long? The intrusive thoughts came to a sudden halt when he smelt your scent. It was calming for him of course, he was already addicted to your scent. It was the undertones that made him stiffen. Every creature has one and yours…. yours was something he hasn’t smelt in a longtime. Not in centuries.
His mate was a Human. A pure bloodedHuman. Not a single trace of magic coursed through your veins. Depending on the species the magic differed in scent, but Humans were unique in the sense that their smell was different.Exotic.The best description would be the smell of possibilities; the potential a Human had to inherit the magic of any other species. Sure they’ll remain Human in their stature, but the magic could be placed within them like color painting a blank canvas.
And he wanted to curse the gods for doing this.
Your home wasn’t safe. Asterios wasn’t safe. Hewasn’t safe. He could almost hear them laughing at the odds; this must have been quite the show for them. Two rare species being fated to each other while the world wanted them dead. Everything around you wanted you harmed, dead, or could lead to such things. The Dragon was running around every scenario that could possibly happen if he chose to stay or take you back with him. There was the option of separating to try and give you a chance but both the man and Dragon snarled at that idea. You were already his most precious treasure. Losing you would be the end of him.
But the deed was done the moment the damned Fae controlled you into the Gateway. Felix.The name was engraved into his brain, the Dragon wanting to hunt him down. Casting you into his land where your species were deemed dead long ago. The Fae was lucky the need to protect was greater than the need to hunt. Where you went, he would trail after.
Forgetting the Fae he instead marveled at the mere fact that he had a mate. He wanted to know every detail about you: your favorite flowers, food, what your hobbies were, did you enjoy reading like he did? He didn’t want to leave any stone unturned. Your voice was soothing to the ears and he latched on to every word. The stories you told him of your home and life were engraved deep into his heart and locked away. He could listen to that beautiful voice of yours forever.
And the contact was nothing short of blissful. Despite their looks, Dragons loved physical contact: head rubs, pats, curling up against one another, they loved it all. Your hands were as soft as clouds and he wanted to melt on the spot. Unfortunately you were always quick to draw back. Which only confused the Dragon. You two shared a bond… surely you could feel it. He knew you could, with the hand reaching out to him on instinct. But you remained distant, a locked door he wanted to venture through. No matter how hard he tried you would always step back and keep your distance. You’re walking on eggshells around your own mate…
‘Humans are quite different… perhaps she doesn’t realize it…’ He mused, eyes watching your sleeping form. Your chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, eyelids fluttering as dreams danced across your mind. He needed to brush up on his Human knowledge once he was fully healed.
The day had been long and he knew you needed rest. He was still trapped, too weak to even try to shift into his human form. If there were any problems he’d be useless in his state: small, weak, injured. And the fact that you met him in this form did take a blow to his ego. However you didn’t seem to mind that he was tiny. You seemed quite unaware of all the things actually…
The idea of you not knowing what he was to you made the beast inside growl. Of course the animal felt threatened that their mate was oblivious and could easily be snatched by anyone else. And all the talk about the other male, Jongho,only added to the Dragons anxiety. You weren’t claimed, the male wasn’t around the entire time the two of you were together… The image of you curled up against another made his skin crawl and his throat close up.
This wasn’t how meetings usually occurred. Mates would meet when they are destined to, yes, however usually it would be beautiful: his parents found each other whilst flying at the break of dawn. He remembers how they would tell their story and how beautiful the sun looked rising in the horizon while they glided amongst the clouds. Meanwhile you found him locked in a cage, weak, and willing to give up. He whined at the image you must have seen, remembering the look of fear on your face. He’d never let that look return to your face. Not ever.
And then there was the itch… the instincts arising from within. Every species courted their mates, each different and unique. Despite destiny intertwining the two souls together it was proper to court, a way of showing respect. And he was sure it’d be a pleasant surprise for you…
A few minutes of pain later and he was curled up against your side with a feeling of pride washing over him. Pressing his head against yours, he decided to use what little magic he had saved up over the past day and connect once more to you, whispering one word into your beautiful mind.
Namjoon.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Warmth was the first thing you felt, feeling the sun’s rays lighting up your face. And then there was the warmth across your chest, a hot breath beating softly against your neck. Becoming more aware of your surroundings you knew it was the Dragon that was curled against your side, his face nuzzled into your neck. It did bring a small smile on your face, hand reaching up to gently move the sleeping creature to the side. He protested a small amount before curling up and falling back to sleep easily.
Namjoon.
You heard the deep voice in your sleep, sounding far away. The name was unknown to you yet it felt so familiar. Furrowing your eyebrows you sat up and stretched only to hear something hard hit the ground. A frown played on your lips as you picked up the item, feeling the warmth that radiated off of it. It was small, the size of an acorn, black, and when you held it to the light it shimmered into an emerald-
A scale.
Panicking you turned towards the Dragon, inspecting his sleeping form for any injuries. Was there a fight while you slept? Did he grow ill? Was this why he decided to sleep against you? Questions with no answers. All you could see, right under his right arm, was a wound where the scale used to be. It looked tender, irritated. You didn’t know anything about Dragons but you did know it must have hurt.
In your bag you were quick to pull out more of the salve and gently apply it to the sleeping beast. He didn’t open a single eye, his soft snores indicating that he was in a deep sleep. You were thankful, wanting him to get as much rest as possible. You hoped that this wasn’t a sign that he was falling ill. The mere thought of him getting worse only made you feel panicked and stressed.
The cool water of the stream did help ease your consciousness. Silverwynn may be closer than you thought and hopefully this Soojin will assist you. You had eaten your fill of berries while enjoying the feeling of the stream running between your fingers. The scale stayed in your hands and you watched as the water ran across the beautiful emerald green. You were so entranced by it, you failed to hear the footsteps. Not until a scratchy voice broke you out of your trance. You were frozen on the spot, eyes still on the scale in your shaky hands.
“What a beautiful item you have there… Pray tell where you found such a thing?”
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
tag list: @ggukkieland, @fangirling-all-the-way-tbh, @fangirl125reader,@azucarian,@haechans-sunflower, @cosmicjotun, @namgiaffair,@yaboimagi,@thefirewasfriendly,@jooahchu,
Curious Creatures: 3
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of blood
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:4.4k
Note: Congratulations on your new Dragon~ and like always, thank you so much for reading! Feedback is always welcomed <3
Tag list: open- shoot me a DM and I’ll happily add you!
You’ve never felt so worn and exhausted in your entire life. It was as though every inch of your body was cemented into the ground. You were weak, too weak to even open an eyelid. When you first came to you could barely hear a single sound, eyes refusing to open no matter how hard you tried. After a moment of struggling you gave up and allowed sleep to overtake you.
The second time you were a little more coherent to the world around you. The same warmth was still wrapped around you like a little blanket. Hot air fanned against your neck in slow beats and it was soothing in a strange way. The heat wasn’t so intense that it could burn you, it was more similar to sitting in front of the fireplace in the winter. You tried to move your limbs but could only manage to twitch them at best, the muscle refusing to cooperate. The warmth tightened around you in a secure way. Almost like a shield against the world. Your body was still too drowsy and refused to move. Sleep came once again.
This time you awoke with a bit more energy. You knew you couldn’t jump up and get going, you didn’t have that much energy yet. You had just enough to slowly pry your eyes open and look around while your brain played catch up. Large boulders surrounded you for the most part with the exception of an opening to your side. Blinking, you slowly remembered the night before…
Heading into the Forgotten Forest to find the creature, being chased by strange monsters, falling, losing Jongho…Jongho.
Your breath quickened at the last memory you had of your best friend: one second he was right in front of you and in the blink of an eye he disappeared. He hadn’t fallen. He didn’t get caught, at least from what you remembered. He vanished into thin air. But how? You may not know the details, but you did piece together that it had to do with this damned forest. It took your friend, the only person you had left in your life. You needed to find him-
A tightness formed around your waist and paused your inner worries. It wasn’t painful at all and a small part of you welcomed the safety it offered. However there was the larger part of you, common sense, that found this worrisome and the warmth couldn’t stop the ice that slowly formed inside your veins. Tilting your head down you saw something thick tucked around your waist… tiny spikes…
The ice that ran through your veins was now painful as you let out a frightened cry, though with your hoarse voice it sounded more like a pitiful gurgle. Your limbs rushed forward and the pain that shot throughout your body was shoved into the back of your mind. The small streams of sunlight from the opening were your saving grace and by the gods were you rushing towards them. In a matter of seconds you were flying out from the overhang and into the rocky earth. A small whimper passed your lips as you forced your body to move as far as it could forward, which was only a few meters.
Walls of rock were on either side of you and panic bubbled up in your chest as you saw no clear escape. Behind you the gravel shifted quickly, your heart racing at the realization that you probably awoke whatever was in there. Every inch of you felt ice cold, especially after evading the warmth that secured you not too long ago. The sound of rocks crunching under steps could be heard and you sucked in a deep breath, ready to meet the beast. Still on your hands and knees you slowly turned and felt the air being sucked from you.
You’ve never seen such a creature before and couldn’t help the way your mouth parted as you watched it. No bigger than a large house cat with injuries were scattered all over its body, some fresh while others seemed to be halfway healed. There were thick, black spikes running along its spine all the way down to the tail. There were wings, pitch black and open for the world to see; twice the size of its body and every bit intimidating. Then there were the scales that took your breath away. The scales were a mesmerizing black at first glance but the beauty they held could truly be seen once they were kissed by the sunlight. Black shifting to a beautiful shade of emerald, deep, beautiful and every bit as mysterious as the creature itself. The emerald shade seemed familiar, and once you saw its face you knew why: those same eyes from your dreams.
The creature was weak but extremely alert. Its eyes shifted over the forest, looking at every tree and rock with suspicion. Minutes passed before it slid its gaze to you, head slightly cocked to the side in a confused manner. You couldn’t move a single inch, not even when it slowly walked closer to you. There was a limp in its step and its eyes held pain for a fraction of a second before steeling over. Face to face you watched with bated breath as the creature slowly lowered its head towards yours own, nostrils flaring a few times. Logic kicked in as you knew its mouth probably held sharp teeth that could tear you limb to limb. And yet there you were, letting it come mere inches from your face. With nowhere to run. Nowhere to hide. Fearing the worst you closed your eyes and waited to feel the sharp pain of teeth digging into skin. You could already feel it, feel the…
Warmth?
Cautiously you opened your eyes and held back a shriek. Looking right back at you were emerald eyes that studied you with such interest you wanted to cower away. Its head was pressed softly against your own, the warmth it held spread across your weary bones. The same warmth you felt all night that made you feel safe and secure. Even though a million questions were forming in your brain, you could feel it calming you down. The panic from before was almost gone. The creature being able to chase away your fears so easily-
The sound of a tree crashing to the ground caused you to jump back against the rock. While your heart raced the being before you looked up and growled deep and low. You followed its gaze and were staring right into yellow eyes. The same monsters from the night before, the ones that chased you throughout these woods without mercy. Reflex kicked in and you found your hand reaching out to the green beast, hand placed on its back. Ever so slowly it moved to stand in front of you, wings raising once more as more growls rippled through its throat. You were trapped, you were-
Falling.
The grass was soft to fall on, much more preferred than the rocks from hours earlier. But your body was still aching all over and now spikes of pain shot in every direction. Your throat was too dry to properly speak and only little noises could be heard coming from you. You could make out the sky above you, the trees swaying in their enchanting way, the beautiful stone arch was off in the distance… and then the scene was obscured. By a face all too familiar despite the time that has passed. From the long blonde locks down to his bare feet, nothing had truly changed. Those feline eyes that shimmered every color of the rainbow studied you with confusion, an eyebrow cocked.
“My little Kelpie?”
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
“Where’s Y/n?”
There’s something quite strange about control; having complete and utter power over an object or living being. To be able to manipulate the lesser beings to do your bidding and accomplish what you wished. From the smallest of tasks to the greatest of missions, it could easily be done with a snap of the fingers. For many, control was a necessity to meeting their goals or reigning over areas. One could easily stir the pot and cause any sort of mayhem. Despite having a love for such things, Felix despised being on the receiving end of it.
The night was nothing short of a disaster for the two Fae. No matter how fast they were, how quickly they maneuvered between the trees, the Orcs were steps ahead. As if they knew the Forgotten Forest like the back of their hands. Felix hated that they were playing in his woods, the land he controlled and watched. The creatures knew every twist and turn, every fallen log was not a mystery to them. They knocked over trees to pave a better way for themselves and kicked up Forget Me Nots as if they were nothing short of garbage. And that only enraged the Fae even more.
How dare they run into his woods and trash the area? The very land he dwelled in for the past three hundred years. He could feel his blood boil with every crash of a tree falling, and every snort of an Orc laughing. Felix wanted the beasts gone and away from his forest at all costs. But never once were he nor Hyunjin able to get close; they were somehow faster and outnumbered the Fae easily. And their movements made no sense: one moment they were rushing towards the Human village and the next they were running around it. All while making large paths and acting as though they were having a party.
It wasn’t until the sun rose that the Orcs retreated deeper into the woods and far away from the village and Gateway, snorting along the way. Their little games seemed to come to an end for now. The Fae weren’t laughing, instead they wore grimm faces and droopy limbs. Much of their magic was used, most of it was to try to combat the Orcs while the rest was used on a ‘rescue’ mission. While Orcs were rampaging around, he found Humans wandering throughout the woods. One would assume it was because of the ruckus but he knew the species better than most: no matter how loud the woods got, how strange the trees seemed to sway, Humans never entered the woods. Especially after the few who did come and lost their sanity.
He and Hyunjin managed to rescue two Humans in the midst of the chaos: a male and a female. The male was running from a group of Orcs and Hyunjin managed to grab him before the beasts could get to him. And then they found the female curled up against a tree, shivering with fright. The two fell unconscious easily, having been fed with too much magic. Their mortal bodies were not equipped to handle the power and instead of giving them fuel it rendered them drained. But as the moon lowered itself in the sky and the sun began to slowly rise, the two Humans rose with it. And that led him to this moment, watching a mere Human try to demand answers from him.
“Where’s Y/n?”
Felix had to be honest; if he heard the male… was it Jongho? He really can’t be bothered to remember. But if this Jongho asked that question one more time Felix feared he would just make the man go insane himself. Actually, he was surprised he hadn’t lost his sanity yet… neither has the other female…odd.
“We don’t know who that is,” Hyunjin spoke coolly, leaning against a tree with his arms crossed. “As we have told you, Human, we rescued all the mortals that were in these woods. There are no other presences in here.”
“You’re both wrong.” Jongho glared at the dark haired man before turning his burning gaze to Felix. “She’s out there, alone. You separated us-”
“There was no other Human with you,” Felix sighed and rubbed his head. “Honestly we don’t want to harm you nor any other mortal. My friend here used magic to track you-”
Jongho stomped towards the male Fae. “Then use your precious magic to track her. Now.”
“For someone with no leverage you sure do seem to demand a lot.” Hyunjin mused. He stood up properly and walked towards the two men arguing. “Now let’s not get too heated, okay? We still have a young lady who’s resting.”
The three watched as the Human girl rested amongst the ground. Jongho recognized her as the baker’s daughter from his village; a quiet girl who mainly kept to herself. She would always give him the best bread and extra for Y/n in secret. In all honesty she was one of the kindest souls he has ever met. He prayed she made it to the village safely and without a single hair out of place.
Felix did entertain the idea that there was another Human running around these woods. Despite his doubts he had to admit that the Human held a lot of determination. The possibility may be small but it’s still a possibility nonetheless. And if it made him go away, well, that would be the cherry on top of it all for Felix. Giving Hyunjin a knowing look, the Fae stepped towards the Human.
“Tell you what, let me look around the woods one last time. In the meantime take the girl to your village.” Felix grunted. He was already exhausted from the night spent hounding Orcs. He just wanted to rest. Fae may not need sleep but damnit he wanted to lounge and regain strength. Noticing Jongho open his mouth, he pointed a finger at him. “No questions. Carry the girl back home.”
His mouth snapped shut, eyes wide as he followed the Fae’s order without hesitation. Hyunjin took note of the confusion in Jongho’s eyes, pitying the poor mortal. The Humans may look the same and speak the same, but they have forgotten the rules of magic. Especially when it comes to Fae.
“Jongho,” Hyunjin’s tone was grave, a last warning to the other male. “Names hold power. Especially to beings such as ourselves. It’ll do you good to remember this.”
The Human nodded his head slowly and realization kicked in. But that didn’t matter now: they knew his name. They could easily control the poor being to do what they needed no matter how tired or reluctant he was. Even if the task seems impossible he will try to accomplish it until he dies. Hyunjin was just thankful that it were he and Felix that were there and not any of the greedy Fae that lurked in Asterios.
As the male left, Felix sighed and rubbed his face. “When you rescued him-”
“He was the only mortal,” Hyunjin’s tone was just as exasperated as Felix was feeling. “I ensured to transport all mortals here. Only magical beings were left.”
Truth be told it wouldn’t have been hard for Hyunjin to screw this up; mortal’s were magicless beings, they emit nothing. To try and summon one using magic was nearly impossible. It would be like shooting an arrow at a bullseye with a blindfold on: pure luck and determination. But even without magic, Humans still radiated a small amount of energy. They could sense the beings but can never pinpoint their exact location. Hyunjin being able to transport Jongho was a miracle.
“Alright, then I’ll just-” Felix froze, feeling a breeze gently sweep over his hair. His head cocked to the side. Goosebumps raised on his arms as a little tingle flew down his spine. He could feel it. Hidden deep in his woods. Old magic.
Hyunjin must have felt it too, his eyes were wider than Felix has ever seen. This magic was old and hardly seen in Asterios. It was also weak, just barely there. Felix could feel the tidbits of emotions hidden deep within: there was a small amount of desperation, a tinge of pain, but mostly he felt how content it was. That despite all the bitterness it was still happy to be where it is.
‘Not for long.’ Felix narrowed his eyes and shot Hyunjin a look. They needed to investigate the matter immediately. He just hoped that it was not a being that would cause great threat; Felix wasn’t sure how much longer he’d be able to stand up right. His body begged for a break, to just sit and relax, but he needed to cleanse his forest. At least let him win oneround.
And win he did.
That Human Jongho was correct about one thing: his friend was running around the forest. But what he failed to mention was the fact that she was with a Dragon; a species so rare Felix was sure they went extinct a century ago. But to make matters even more interesting was the fact that it was you who was back in the Forgotten Forest. The same little girl who had wandered in all those years ago. Oh how the gods loved playing games.
“My little Kelpie?” Felix couldn’t believe his eyes, watching your frail form on the ground. He noticed the cuts and bruises, feeling a tiny bit of guilt. Pain wasn’t something he wished upon just anyone after all. And crash landing into the ground was not something that felt nice.And the Dragon that stayed by your side seemed even worse off. How odd, Felix thought to himself, that a being that should have had plenty of rest to heal itself was still so weak.
“No wonder I couldn’t track her,” Hyunjin’s voice had a bit of awe behind it. “He was using it all on the Human. Shielding her entire being.”
His voice was hushed as the two others slowly got up, Felix staring down at the Human with curiosity. What did the gods have in store for you?
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
You felt as though you were in a dream, the fact that you finally found him…
The same being that helped you out of the forest was now before you, same face and clothes. As though time refused to touch him. And you wanted to speak back, wanted to ask all the questions you had, however there were two problems: one being that your voice was still gone, the second being the commotion happening not too far from you.
Another being stood by the two of you, his eyes as dark as the night and hair that matched with clothes that were airy and flowing like the other males. Except his focus was not on the two of you but rather on the lizard you had found before. The creature who radiates warmth and safety now held an intimidating aura about it. Its eyes were fixed on the two newcomers, eyes glaring at them as growls rippled through its veins.
“This… shouldn’t be possible,” The dark haired man said in a hushed tone. “His species are near extinction, how did he end up here-”
“Must have snuck through with the Orcs. But why did he want to be here?” The two no longer seemed to notice you, instead they were murmuring to one another while watching the lizard with great interest.
“There’s no magic or resources for him to use in this entire region. What other cause could make him want to wander?”
“The Orcs do love their black market trading, it could be possible that they were taking him to be sold. At an extremely high price.”
“But this doesn’t explain how he ended up here, through the gateway. In my forest and near my Humans,” The blonde looked back down at you, his hand suddenly gripping your arm as he tugged you up in an unceremonious way. Small waves of pain shot up, the injuries flaring at the sudden movement and making you wince and whimper.
The growl that had been low raised in pitch and not even a second later was the creature lunging at the two men. The two jumped back, tugging you with them as the large reptile focused on you, or rather the hand that was gripping your arm.
“Anam cara.” Hyunjin breathed in, watching the interaction with amazement. “… Ah, it makes sense now. Felix, release your hold.”
“Did you just say anam- Hold on, you did not just release my name in front of a dragon-”
“I did. Not like he can harm you much in this state anyway,” The dark haired man turned to look at you with a small smile. “I’m Hyunjin,” Turning to the creature, he made a small bow. “I’d like to apologize for our behavior. We Fae can be a little… chaotic at times.”
Felix’s hand released your arm and the creature’s growls lowered but still remained ongoing, his eyes fixed on the three of you. “Hyunjin, what are you-”
“With your permission, we’d like to heal the Human. Is that alright with you?” Ignoring his friend, Hyunjin’s focus was solely on the creature. “She is quite injured and I fear it’ll only worsen the longer she remains in this state.”
A huff escaped his nostrils, the creature eyeing the two with a suspicious gaze. He slowly nodded his head in your direction, eyes trained on you. You knew the creature was allowing you to decide. If they were going to take the stinging pain away then you’d gladly accept. Your head nodded as enthusiastically as you could manage.
“I’ll do it.” Felix gently grabbed your hand and in seconds you felt your body being fueled with a large amount of energy.
You watched in awe as every cut and bruise disappeared as a gold shimmer seemed to dissolve them into nothing. Even your throat was soothed back to normal, allowing you to finally speak. Once the healing was over and the newfound energy was racing through your veins you could think much more clearly and found yourself turning on your heel to stare not at Felix nor Hyunjin, but at the creature before you. He seemed to approve of your healing, head slowly nodding as his eyes studied every inch of you, ensuring you were healed properly.
“This Dragon, little Kelpie… where did you find him?”
His tone wasn’t accusing nor harsh, it was curious. There was something hidden in his words, a deeper meaning that you didn’t know. But you brushed that off as paranoia. Besides, your brain was still trying to process all of the information being given to you.
“I didn’t, he found me…” Gathering from their earlier conversation, it was a male. “You two have lost me, what are Fae, what’s a Gateway, and how is he a dragon?” You remember hearing tales as a little girl of dragons being large, mythical beasts. But this lizard? “He’s so small…” Your voice trailed off, eyeing the creature before you.
You noticed the hurt look in his eyes, the creature seeming to take your words personally. Before you could apologize Felix was quick to answer your questions. “We are Fae, a species that can be found in Asterios and are known for our charming personalities and grand parties.”
“We are one of the many species that have magic running in our blood.” Hyunjin added. “There are many of us, and we are the primary beings who activate, manage, and take charge of Gateways. They are stone arches that radiate with a certain color depending on the location. A way of transport.” Onyx eyes casted over to the green reptile. “He is very much a Dragon, though they haven’t been seen in hundreds of years. Most likely because they take on a smaller size such as his. Last I heard they did this to hide from hunters.”
For the first time in your life you were thankful that your mind worked fast and remained open, readily taking information in as it was given. You had more questions now, but shoved them aside along with your original questions. “Alright… this doesn’t make much sense to me I fear.” Your feet felt fidgety, needing to move to think. Standing still only made you feel antsy.
“It has been a long time since a Human has been welcomed into our world,” Hyunjin’s tone was soft, eyes studying your every move. He seemed to know more than he let on. “Perhaps this is a sign from the gods-”
A roar echoed across the trees and for a split second you were confused, until you remembered just what you were running from to begin with. How could you have foolishly forgotten? The monsters that were chasing you from earlier still lingered in these woods. And by the sounds of it they were coming closer to your location.
“Orcs,” Hyunjin’s eyes narrowed at the trees around him. “We don’t have much time-”
“My little Kelpie, you must do me a favor. If you succeed I will save your village.” Felix turned to stare right into your eyes. There was urgency in his eyes as he spoke. “Take the Dragon back to his home.”
At this Hyunjin whipped his head and stared at Felix while the Dragon let out a deep growl of disapproval. “Felix, are you mad? She can’t possibly-”
“Follow the signs to Silverwynn, ask for Soojin. She will help guide you from there on out.” Felix gripped your hands tightly. “Keep your head low, don’t let anyone close. Especially around the Dragon. Got it?”
Things were moving so fast. Too fast. You wanted to head back to Arcrine to grab Jongho and form a proper plan. The bag you had brought with you was still strapped to your side, but it didn’t hold the materials you needed to survive more than one night. You can’t-
“He needs you, if you don’t do this he will die.” Felix nudged you towards the Gateway. The sound of large feet pounding against the earth only made your heart race even faster. “We’ll stay to protect this area. Now, Y/n, go.”
You knew this was being rushed. You should have headed back to the village, gathered Jongho, and traveled with him. The two of you were a fantastic team and would make this trip look like a mere stroll through the village. But your brain refused to allow any delays, the need to head through the periwinkle glow was urgent now. Every cell in your body needed to go just like your lungs needed air. And so your feet moved forward while your eyes remained focused ahead. Not even the weak yet sharp tugs of the Dragon could cause you to falter. You didn’t even bother sparing the Fae one last glance. You were a woman on a mission. A mission that was doomed from the very start…
You poor soul.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
tag list: @ggukkieland, @fangirling-all-the-way-tbh, @fangirl125reader,@azucarian,@haechans-sunflower, @cosmicjotun, @namgiaffair,@yaboimagi,@thefirewasfriendly,
Curious Creatures 11
Pairing: Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of death;
Summary: Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC: 4.5k
Note: I love a good foreshadow :)
Tag List: Open- DM me if you want to be added! If I forgot you/your @ isn’t working, please let me know so I can try to fix it <3
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A chill krept down your spine the moment you stepped foot into the living space. It was designed similarly to the room you had been staying in with the exception of a square table with cushions on the floor. Sliding doors were opened and showed the snowy landscape; a scene of the sun gently rising up and brushing against mountains in the distance. Even with the doors open the room was perfectly warm and cozy. The chill came from the scene set before you. Felix and Soojin sat side by side. The Sorceress was watching you gently, something hidden in those gold eyes that put you on edge. The Fae was staring at his lap, all the humor from moments ago disappeared entirely, causing a knot to form in your stomach.
“Y/n, Namjoon,” Soojin smiled and gestured across from them. “Have a seat.”
It all felt so familiar despite having never been in this room before; a memory was tugging on your brain as you watched Soojin and Felix for a moment. It wasn’t until you were fully seated that Felix looked up and suddenly you knew why this felt familiar. His eyes were the same eyes your mother held that day; eyes that were full of so many negative emotions, so much darkness…
The same eyes your mother had when she told you your father died.
Heart rate picking up you met his gaze head on as your brain slowly caught up. Felix shouldn’t be there with you. He made a promise before you left. But your brain prayed that Hyunjin decided to stay in the Forgotten Forest to allow Felix to leave. You pushed away the questions your brain was coming up with and stared at the Fae, hoping that you were misunderstanding his presence.
“This meeting will be the first of many,” Soojin was the one to speak up. “We will stay in contact with one another throughout these strange and dark times. Let’s begin with simple answers we have found.” She forced a smile at you and Namjoon.
‘So there’s more complications…’ Your mind was screaming as you forced a smile of your own.
“As you know, you are now in Draengon. This home was abandoned for centuries- we had to take shelter here while you recovered. While you were resting we searched for more answers to what was going on and found some news along the way. Namjoon and I discussed this already,” There was a proud gleam in her eye as she looked at the Dragon.
Namjoon’s back straightened as his eyes widened. “So… it’s true then?”
“Namjoon was the first Dragon to appear in Draengon in centuries.” Soojin was now explaining this to you. “With him being the only one present it means the land is technically his. All of Draengon, the magic within, is his to have. As well as his mates.”
His hand grabbed yours, green eyes meeting yours as he smiled at you. “We’re now the rulers of Draengon… the magic is ours.”
That was a simple solution? What was so simple about it? Your heart was already beating fast from Feix’s reactions. This might give you a heart attack for sure… “Joonie, that’s fantastic!” You meant it too, every word. The smile on your face was one full of many emotions. And you were thankful to have a mate that understood what you were feeling.
Moving your hand up to his lips, he gently kissed the back of your hand, calming your heartbeat. “It’ll make protecting you a bit easier.” He teased lightly, grinning a bit. He knew it was helping ease you, having felt the stress through the bond pulse wildly. Just as you, he was wary of what Felix had to say.
Speaking of…
The Fae cleared his throat, eyes focused on you. There was a bit of regret in his eyes. He didn’t want to ruin this moment for you. But he had no choice. You needed to know everything. With the way the world was playing out before his eyes he didn’t know if there would be another chance. Especially after what happened on that mountain top with Siyeon…
“Y/n, I have answers to many of your questions.” Felix sat up straight, placing his elbows on the table and hands clasped close to his face. He was nervous. You felt your arms lock up as you watched him. Your whole body felt stiff as you were bracing yourself both physically and mentally for what he would say. “You originally came to me to figure out why the Fog was there, why your village even existed, and how these things were happening.” Felix dove straight into detail about how your village was created. No detail left out.
A village of Humans that was originally created to help ensure their survival. A magical fog created to help keep the Humans away from the Gateway due to the amount of enemies that lay beyond the otherside. The people deemed insane for venturing into the woods and talking in tongues were innocent souls; they were not able to handle the magic that seeped into their minds and souls. They were speaking Asterian. The ‘monsters’ you heard them speak of were memories held inside the fog- memories of the Mortal War.
“The war was still fresh in our minds…” Felix whispered, relaying how they created the fog that day. “Perhaps our emotions created a tie to the fog through magic. It’s hard to tell…”
Felix was always there. Watching from afar with each new generation. He knew about the troubles and would send word to help. However he has recently discovered that every message was intersected and dismissed. No one knew of the problems they were facing. The night the Orcs came was when he finally saw a friend of his after centuries. It was then that they also realized that the time between Arkrine and Asterios were different. The Magic bending time itself with no rhyme or reason. A day in Arkrine could be a week in Asterios. Vice Versa.
“There’s a small group of us that now know of the traitor. These are people that we trust and we hope to find the one behind all this.” Felix swallowed, eyes burning into the table. His fist clenched and his voice, once steady, shook as he continued. “They will pay for what has happened.”
There was silence as his words hung around everyone. You shifted in your seat, heart leaping into your throat as you watched him. Deep down you knew this went further than the problems your village was facing. Something happened. You could feel it with every word he spoke. And when you made eye contact with him, eyes the color of opal jewels meeting yours, you felt yourself shake as his eyes mist over. The Fae you had first met and gotten to know, one full of laughter and mischievous, was replaced with a broken soul that look so ashamed.
“I failed Y/n.” He whispered the words, ears having to strain to hear him properly. “We waited until time was aligned once again before we left. It was only a few hours in Asterios but when I got back… a month was gone.” Your breath hitched. Leaning forward you gently took one of Felix’s hands. He shook his head, the tears finally spilling. “I failed my duty… Arkrine is no more.”
You blinked once.
Twice.
“No more?”
The words danced inside your mind but made no connection. How can a place no longer exist? It had been there for a few hundred years. Where did it go? As if reading your thoughts Felix shook his head. “It’s gone, Y/n… burned to ash.”
Burned to ash. ”Burned…?” You dropped Felix’s hand as you stared at him.
“When we arrived there was nothing but ash. And blood in the snow.” His hand gripped the table now. “I looked, we looked everywhere. The footsteps were covered by snow. Not even a trace of magic that could be tracked. Yunho and Hyunjin was-”
His voice sounded muffled with the ringing in your ears. Slowly the words sunk in and you began to understand what had happened. Felix was still talking, guilt written on his face. Soojin was rubbing her old friends back as she watched you, face full of mourning. They were your friends and were speaking to you, perhaps there were words of comfort. You wouldn’t know. All you could do was stare with your mouth slightly opened as your lungs burned-
‘Breathe.’
A deep voice. A steady voice. Only you could hear the whispered words. You took a deep breath in and slowly exhaled as something warm brushed against your side. You tore your eyes away and looked at Namjoon. His eyes were on yours, watching you carefully, reading and feeling every emotion that radiated off of you.
“Wait… you looked everywhere and didn find anything?” Soojin frowned. “Not a single thing?”
“Nothing.” His voice was thick with emotions. “It was all gone-”
“Then they survived.”
Everyone stopped and looked at the Sorceress with confusion. She stared back at each of you, eyebrow raised. “It’s basic knowledge- fire cannot burn bone. Even fire conjured from magic isn’t strong enough to burn bone.”
A small blossom of hope began to grow within you. “So… because Arkrine was empty…”
“I believe they were taken.” Her gaze went to yours. “If they were, then whoever took the Humans needs them alive.”
“Alive for what?”
“That’s the question, isn’t it?” She leaned forward and grinned. “We have more investigating to do.”
The gleam in her eyes only made the hope within grow. If they were alive. If Jongho was alive… you had to know.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Captivating. Mesmerizing. There were many words that could describe each movement. Small and delicate hands moved up in the air. Thin arms formed a perfect bow as little feet turned and turned on the tip of the toes. The sparkling and white dress flared out from the waist, icy winds pulling the fabric in different directions. And the wings-a soft and pale blue, moved with each breath and held a silver sparkle. Like the freshly fallen snow. Each movement was precise and sharp. Each step held intent and meaning; for every flick of the wrist more snow appeared. Every twirl brought about an icier wind. A being that could bring so much power was right before you.
In the palm of your hands.
“Pixies adore attention– it seems like they have a strong liking for you.”
Hot breath ghosted the shell of your ear and you welcomed it; the cold was getting to you and leaving a small chill in your bones. “They move so beautifully, it’s hard to look away.”
Your compliment didn’t go unnoticed as the Pixie in your palm stopped and took a small bow. Standing a mere few inches, the tiny being was all smiles as they watched you for a moment before flying off. You have come to learn that in Asterios it is the Pixies who ultimately dictate the weather along with many things that deal with nature. It was the first time you had seen them, however it’s common for the little beings to stay away. They are busy creating seasons throughout the land. It amazed you that something so small could create things so large. The two of you stood and watched the little being rejoin they’re group before taking off to spread winter elsewhere. Wherever they deemed fit.
“Felix and Soojin are about ready to head out.” Namjoon looked back at the simple home the two of you had been staying in. “Once they leave we’ll make the journey to higher ground.”
The day prior was filled with planning; where each would go, what their goals were, and so much more. Felix would be heading to Serentia where his group of trusted friends dwelled. There they will begin to sniff out the traitor and any accomplice they have. He already had a small list, being at the top was a Fae that missed the meeting but used to be heavily involved with the Council: Jimin. It has been said that the Fae had been skipping out on meetings and absent for quite a while.
Soojin will head back to Silverwynn. The large village see’s beings from all across Asterios; she’ll be able to hear any news quickly from there. The location was perfect due to its distance from all other species. The Sorceress believes that multiple races could be involved in the incident. Plus it’ll look suspicious if she were traveling throughout Asterios with a Fae and a Dragon.
Which left you and Namjoon. A list of things that needed to be done and at the top was finding a journal. Queen Flora, the last Human Queen, was known to record everything daily. Namjoon’s father being a strategist and his mother a commander, the pages might have some answers and clues as to how the war started. If you could learn how this began then you might have insight on how it could end. How to stop all this.
“Time to go back,” Soojin gave you both a sad smile. “Remember if you need anything, I’ll be there in a heartbeat.” Giving Namjoon a grin, she added. “As long as the new leader lets me in.”
“You’ll always have a spot here in Draengon.” Namjoon smiled at the Sorceress. The two shared a quick hug.
“Andyou,” She smiled and handed you a bag. “Take care of yourself. Both of you. Packed some goodies for you.” The wink made you raise an eyebrow but she quickly hugged you as well. Taking a few steps she nodded to Namjoon. “Alright Dragon. Send me home.”
Namjoon chuckled and waved his hand. You watched in awe as a small gateway appeared; a soft green in color and glowing virbantly. On the other side you could see her shop, A Cauldron’s Kiss, looking as peaceful and warm as it was on the night you first entered. A bit of nostalgia swam through you as you watched her walk back into her shop.
“Oh!” You jumped as something brushed against your leg. Salem blinked up at you for a moment, letting out a low purr before following his Sorceress into the Gateway. “Bye Salem!”
It disappeared in seconds.
“Perks of being the new ruler of Draengon,” Namjoon answered your unspoken question. “Much more power. More magic to use on creating things such as quick Gateways.”
“Yeah, lucky you.” Felix sighed, walking to stand across the two of you. “Goes from being a gecko to being a practical king.”
You chuckled and stepped up to Felix. “Thank you Felix. For helping me all those years ago and again now.” You gave him a hug, hands patting his back softly. “And for doing your best. You really did try…”
You knew he still held guilt for Arkrine. Still carried the weight of all that happened and blamed himself for it all. You could see how he would blame himself, but you never held an ounce of anger towards him. Just pity on the Fae that was left alone for centuries.
He froze for a second before his arms wrapped around you. “Of course, Y/n.” His voice was hushed as the memory from all those years ago came through; a little girl lost in the woods surrounded by swirling fog. He could hear your soft cries echoing against the tree’s even now. His arms tightened as the memory came and went. You both drop your arms, his eyes now on Namjoon.
Felix stood before the Dragon, back straight. “Take care of my little Kelpie.” His tone was almost fatherly, nearly making you bark out a laugh. Despite your history with the Fae, you two barely spoke to one another. However it was comical that in a way he did watch you grow up.
“I’ll always take care of my mate.” Namjoon’s voice was tight, eyes on the Fae. The two watched each other before Felix grinned up at him. Namjoon frowned, opening his mouth to ask what he was smiling about but Felix beat him to it.
“You like me.”
“I tolerate you. For Y/n.”
“Uh huh. Sure.” He nearly sang before stepping back. “Now please take me home. I have a mission to do, you know.”
You giggled while Namjoon shook his head and created a Gateway. “Now get out of here.”
Felix did a sarcastic bow and quickly leapt into the Gateway. You saw beautiful flowers of many colors, and marble before it disappeared. A moment of silence as the wind whistled through the trees. It was peaceful. But you two had work to do and another journey to make.
“Alright,” You turned to Namjoon. “Are you going to create a Gateway for us now?”
The Dragon looked down at you and grinned. “And waste having some fun? No way.”
“Fun?” You cocked your head, watching as he took a few steps back. “What do you mean? Are… Are we going to walk?” The idea of walking up any more mountains immediately left you feeling drained and weak. You were fully recovered from your last climb, which almost killed you, but the thought of more walking? You wanted to cry.
His laugh danced across the trees as he continued to step back. Your eyes were locked on his as his grin turned into a smirk. You wondered what he was thinking when his fingers undid his pants-
“Whatare you doing?!” You quickly spun around, face reddening as you heard the material drop to the ground. It didn’t help that he was laughing at your reaction. “Namjoon!”
“Y/n, you’re my mate. You’re allowed to watch, you know.” The tease was heavy in his voice as well as something else. He already had a deep voice, but somehow it was deeper. Indicating more. Much more. Because he wanted you to watch.
For one second you wondered what he would look like. What was hidden behind the fabrics-
‘Turn around and see.’
The words were growled out, you could hear his chest rumbling from behind you. The physical reaction from you was almost too much; you found yourself stiffen as your body began to heat up. Something inside yearned to turn around, to look, to maybe even touch-
You remained frozen, eyes on the ground as your cheeks were aflamed. It only got worse as he chuckled and you could hear more clothes being discarded. “You never told me what you were doing.” There was a slight pout in your voice, knowing that he was easily toying with you as well as offering. Tempting.
“With my people it’s custom for mates to fly together,” The rustling of clothes was gone however you heard him move further back. “The first flight is always the most treasured.”
You could hear it in his tone; he wanted to do this badly. The words were spoken softly, a caress to your ears, and with a hint of vulnerability. It touched your heart to know that he wanted to include you in everything his people did; species be damned.
“I thought we already had our first flight,” You mused aloud, hoping it wouldn’t bring back any bad memories.
“Doesn’t count when you’re unconscious and bleeding out, Y/n.” There was humor and a hint of sadness in his words. The memory was still fresh in his mind. “I’d like our first flight to be, well, the exact opposite.”
You chuckled and nodded. “Okay, fair enough.” There was a moment of silence, not even his footsteps could be heard. Then a wave of heat brushed against your back. The humidity rose for a moment and you wondered if he was okay when you heard a low growl.
Turning you stumbled back and away, looking up at Namjoon in his Dragon form. The tiny Dragon you used to carry around was long gone. Before you stood a mighty beast, one that at first glance you couldn’t recognize. The instinct to back away took over and you stumbled back with wide eyes and breath caught in your throat. The Dragon would have been terrifying if it weren’t for the sad whine it let out, watching you fall.
Namjoon was now over two hundred feet long. The size of him was hard to comprehend, having been used to carrying him around in your bag. As you slowly stood up he approached, each step careful, knowing the power he had in his claws. His head lowered down to meet your face, green eyes watching you carefully. Any sign of fear and he’d transform back without hesitation. The relief he had when you slowly smiled, reaching a hand out.
His scales were much larger, making the one in your pocket look like a pebble. But they were the same color- the dark green that almost appeared black until the sun hit it. Fingers brushed against his head, smiling as he purred under your touch. “Still a handsome Dragon I see.”
Lowering himself completely on the ground, he looked at you expectant and with excitement. The long, spiked tail behind him slapped against the ground. Like a dog. You laughed and carefully walked around him, reaching his side. There was a spot where the spikes didn’t exist, in the middle of his back. You began to carefully climb up, minding the scales and anything that could harm him. Sitting as securely as you could, you patted his side. You were ready. Excited with a small hint of nervousness.
One would think he would carefully take to the sky; going slow. But Namjoon was just as excited as you were. In the blink of an eye he was jumping off the side of the mountain the home was located on. You were free falling.
The scream was lodged in your throat as your body felt weightless- body lifting an inch off of Namjoon as your hands gripped the spikes that lined the spine in front of you. But there was no fear as you watched the two of you free fall for a moment, being surrounded by early morning fog and mist. Perhaps it was the bond that assured you that nothing bad was going to happen. Maybe it was just Namjoon, knowing he would never put you in harm’s way. Regardless of which, you found a grin on your face as felt his wings stretch and give a powerful flap.
You were flying.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Red leaves floated to the ground in a graceful and elegant dance. The white bark on the tree’s was a huge contrast to the reds of the leaves they held. Winter Pixies had yet to touch the area; there was no snow or even flurries. He knew it wouldn’t be too long before winter came this far North in Asterios. He needed to pick up his pace.
The Red Wood was not the best place to be. But there Yunho was, following a trace of magic that could have been linked to the Arkrine incident. At least they were allowing him to walk on their land, for now. One wrong move and he most likely won’t be making it back at all. They were a reclusive bunch who followed the orders of a cold and cruel Emperor. Which was ironic to hear, in Yunho’s eyes: being a cold hearted ruler, yet being a species centered around fire? Irony at its best.
It’s been over a day since Yunho stepped foot into the Forest of Flames, the Red Wood, the Bloody Forest… the list goes on depending on who you ask. The tracking started in Serentia, on the outskirts of the Fae’s personal Gateway. He followed it thoroughly while questioning individuals on the road. No one saw anything suspicious, however it’s only a matter of time before someone sees something. Or slips up.
His footsteps froze and he frowned before a frustrated growl erupted from clenched teeth. Another day wasted. Every minute was precious in trying to find the one behind Arkrine as well as (hopefully) the Humans. Yunho wondered if this was just a goose chase for him; a way of keeping him away from the truth. He almost went back but a twig snapping caused him to freeze in his steps.
“A Warlock around these parts? That’s quite odd.”
Standing a few meters away was a Fae female. She was one of the oldest looking Fae’s he has seen; skin worn and wrinkled from time, short and stout. She had a homey look about it, one that seemed sweet and soft. A grandmotherly look to her, a wicker basket to even complete the look.
“And a Fae is not?” Yunho was curious but knew looks could be deceiving. She might appear sweet but she most likely wasn’t all sugar. “What brings you out here?”
The older woman reached in her basket and revealed a bright red apple. “The Forest of Flames is known for having some of the best red apples- perfect for my treats I make.” She smiled. “What of you, Warlock?”
“Studying magic here. I wish to know as much as I can about all types of magic.” A half truth and half lie. “While walking here, have you noticed anything odd?”
“Besides you?” She grinned at her own joke. “I fear not my dear. Just the quiet woods. Makes me wonder what the Phoenix’s are up to some days.”
“They enjoy their isolation.” Yunho knew this was a dead end- the magic he was tracing had abruptly stopped. He doesn’t believe in coincidences; it basically led to the older woman. “I don’t believe I got your name.” His tone was light and casual, making conversation.
The woman smiled and gave him a nod. “They call me Sweetie. I own a bakery in Serentia.” She walked closer, reaching inside the basket to pull out a roll. “Try this, it’s a new recipe!”
Yunho knew the bakery she was speaking of, having walked by there multiple times himself. The aromas gave off were always tempting him, and he kept promising that one day he would step inside. Carefully he took the break and bit off a small bit.
“Oh gods, this is incredible.” It was soft, warm, and there was almost a sweetness to it- he couldn’t place his finger on. “You are a master at your craft.”
“I can’t take all the credit- I have a young apprentice. She’s talented, especially with bread! Her family has some fantastic recipes.” Sweetie was beaming with authentic pride, Yunho couldn’t help but smile with her.
“You must give her my compliments then.”
“I’ll be sure to! Honey is a wonderful girl, she’s super kind too! Be sure to stop by and pay us a visit!”
Sweetie walked off, humming a soft tune cheerfully. Yunho watched for a moment, sighing, he decided to backtrack and try one more time in following the trail. Something just didn’t seem right in these woods.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
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Curious Creatures 10
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of death; intense makeout scene?; Felix being a cockblock;
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:3.7k
Note: Back at it again with Namjoon fluff. I’m just a simp for this man, I’m not sorry. But you get to know more about him this time around! And more~
Tag List: Open- DM me if you want to be added! If I forgot you/your @ isn’t working, please let me know so I can try to fix it <3
The new story’s poll last day is tomorrow! Vote and see which story of Asterios will be told next! Click here!
Your breath quickened as you looked up, eyes meeting those of a dark brown. They were void of all emotion and stared back into your terrified ones. Long fingers slide on either side of your face, holding your head steady. His face twisted into a smile that held sharp teeth as he watched tears glisten in your eyes. You could feel the pressure of his hand, watching his smile grow wider, wilder. Your breath hitched as his hands jerked violently to the side-
Cold, clammy, and shaking you shot up from the bed, breathing fast and hard as you looked around wildly. The large room, the one where you last remember falling asleep… You fell asleep here. You were no longer on the mountain with those two creatures. You had barely made it out alive…
An arm tightened around your waist, securing you closer to a solid surface of heat. It chased away the chill from the nightmare and settled your shaking bones.
“Y/n,” Namjoon’s voice came from your side. Bringing you closer he tucked your head into his neck. “You’re here. You’re okay.”
His words were soft, soothing to your ears and helped calm your racing heart. Hands stroked the top of your head while the other kept you against him. The tremors that traveled throughout your body disappeared as something softer vibrated through you. Closing your eyes you could feel the soft vibrations coming from Namjoon’s chest.
Like a cat purring.
It helped ground you enough to move yourself out of his grasp, heat spreading from your cheeks and down your neck. It was already embarrassing enough that you begged him to stay with you, and now the poor Dragon had to witness your nightmare? Refusing to make eye contact, you cleared your throat a little and settled on staring at your hands in your lap.
The safest option.
“I-uh… dream was… yeah…” You rambled pathetically, wincing at your own choice of words and just how scratchy your throat was.
There was a chuckle beside you as the Dragon sat up properly, arm wrapping back around you. Despite your attempt at distance he was keen on keeping you glued to his side. Green eyes danced in the early morning light, watching your face with a mix of amusement and adoration. “I’ll explain everything to you once you’ve been taken care of.”
Your eyebrows knit together, wondering what he meant but the growl in your stomach seemed to have answered your question. Your cheeks slightly flushed once more as Namjoon grinned. Fingers danced against your back as he leaned closer, watching your face redden like a tomato with embarrassment as he was mere inches away. He stared for a second, eyes scanning your face as you fidgeted slightly under his intense gaze.
“Cute…” The word spilled from his lips in a whisper, making your eyes widen. A grin was all he gave you as he stood suddenly. “I’ll take care of you.” Standing up, he made his way across the room, turning one last time to you. His eyes danced with amusement as he watched you for a second before he disappeared out of the room.
When the door slid shut you frowned, not knowing how to understand the feelings that were washing over you. All your life you had been used to isolation, independence, and being able to distance yourself with ease. But with Namjoon… it was different. And you found yourself enjoying the feelings that he brought, even if they did frighten you. Feelings you’ve never experienced before, that made you feel almost selfish. Almost.
You didn’t want to leave the peaceful room and found yourself longing to stay locked up in the safe walls, away from the chaos that was waiting outside that sliding door. You enjoyed how quiet and simple it was. But those feelings of want were paired with feelings of guilt. The village of Arcrine was never kind to you and a small part of you wanted to watch the entire place crumble and let whatever happens happen. But a larger part of you knew there were still good souls living in that place.
Good souls such as Jongho, a childhood best friend that stayed true to you. The baker’s daughter who did her best to give Jongho extra bread to take to you, despite the people not wanting you anywhere near them. For fear of the unknown. You could see it through their eyes: a child that can understand the talking’s of the insane was not something to smile upon. Rather it was entirely fearsome, worrisome. You still remember the horror that crossed your mothers face when you announced to the world that you understood them. All because you ventured inside the forest, where Felix found you. A small decision made by childish curiosity led you on the path that you were currently on: going from the village’s outcast to one of the few who could help them. All because you wanted to learn more and grow outside the forest that enclosed you.
And you almost had those answers that riddled you for decades now; all you needed to do was speak to Felix and ask the questions that lingered on Arcrine. Those answers could help guide you to a solution to the problems you faced regarding the fog, land, and disease. There was a sliver of hope that perhaps the magic of Asterios could save Arcrine and you could see Jongho and go home-
Home.
The very word brought images to your mind that before you wouldn’t have even thought about.
Your mind didn’t see your small home where one room fit your entire living space. There were no dark woods that were cursed with a fog. No Humans that spit on your existence and claim you to be cursed. The world of gray that you had known was no longer a place you wanted to be a part of. Wanted to go back. Instead you saw vibrant colors. Mountains as high as the sky, forests that held life and possibility. You wanted to see more, do more, and explore this new world. You could see yourself traveling in peace, learning more of the species around you, sharing knowledge and wisdom with Soojin. You wanted to watch a sunset with your hand being held in another that belonged to a handsome man with green eyes.
Your face fell in your hands, cheeks turning red all over again. ‘Gods, what is wrong with me?’
The door slid open and you peeked up to see the very man of your thoughts walking in, a large tray balanced in his hands. He placed the food before you and took his original seat at your side.
“These items are light on the stomach, easy to digest.” He began, pointing at the bowls before you. “Bone broth, rice, and some bread. There’s a glass of water,” He motioned to a taller glass then a smaller one. “And tea. Mixed together some lovely herbs to help soothe that throat of yours. Oh, and magic, per Soojin.”
You were quick at drinking the water and tea, not wasting a single minute as you gulped the water and sipped the tea. In one minute you had finished the glass and half of the tea. Whatever Soojin placed in the tea had your throat healing faster than you could blink.
“Whoa. Much better, thank you. I do have questions-” You paused, thinking for a moment. “A lot. And I don’t know where to begin honestly…”
“There’s so much to unpack… so much to finally tell you.” A small smile on his face as he looked at his lap. “As Soojin once said, stories are best told with good food. In your case, easy to digest food that is.” The two of you shared a laugh, recalling that day that seemed forever ago. “Looks like this time I’ll do all the talking while you listen.” You grinned as you remembered how you spoke of your family to the Dragon not too long ago. His arm slithered back around your waist while his eyes looked lost in thought for a minute. “We’ll start at the beginning…
“I was born here, in Draegon, 600 years ago. My mother was a general while my father was a strategist, and together served the Dragons of Draengon for centuries. Even when the Mortal War was upon us they served until the end. You see, Draengon fell when the Human’s mainland, Nysa, fell; the two were close allies and shared much military strength together. I was a fledgling at the time, a child who witnessed villages burning and Dragon’s being slaughtered. My mother did not make it, and despite his anguish at losing his wife, my father carried on for my sake.
“We spent my upbringing hiding from the Elves; they had always made Dragon hunting a sport. And once the war was over it only got worse. Magic flows through every creature here on Asterios, it gives each one a special ability. Along with breathing fire and scales that are near impossible to penetrate, we can also shift to different sizes. It allows stealthy travel as well as easier living spaces for those who prefer their Dragon form.
“My father took me high in the mountains of Draengon, a place the war hadn’t touched. We stayed there for a couple of centuries. When I was officially of age, my father passed. I knew his time was coming soon; losing his mate to survive and knowing he’d never hold her again,” The arm around your waist tightened, hand gripping the fabric of your shirt. “It’s a fate worse than death to live your life without the other side of your soul there. He was buried properly amongst his comrades, where my mother was slayed.
“For nearly a century I attempted to find other Dragons. I had hopes of finding a friend, companion, and if the gods allowed, a mate. But I remained alone in the mountains, hiding from the Elves that lurked around and wondering what my purpose was. Life held no meaning for me, I read all the books that were in that old library, searched high and low. My life felt as though it was dragging on. Until around two decades ago.
“Something in me was tugging, urging me to leave the safety of my nest. My Dragon, those instincts, were kickstarting. Although it warmed my insides there was something deep down that sensed trouble… I couldn’t explain it, but I had to go. I followed that feeling all the way until I reached the far Eastern side of Asterios. And then it was gone… I felt as though my heart broke. That the one thing that could bring joy into this life was taken from me. I searched every day and night desperately trying to get that feeling back. Until one night I gave up.
“I’ll be honest, I didn’t want to continue anymore. I was tired, alone, and wandering around aimlessly for 20 years. I was depressed and tired, and then the Orcs found me. Instinctually I tried to fight but honestly I was tired; what’s the point of living without having a purpose? I didn’t have one… And then a purpose found me. Hope found me.” A smile appeared on his face. “You, Y/n. You found me.” He fixed his gaze at you, a mixture of emotions flowing through them. “That night I was ready to die, but then I finally found you. An impossible gift from the gods.”
You can easily recall that night, the dream you had of him in his little form imprisoned. But you had to frown. You? A gift? Not something you were used to being called if you were honest. As if sensing your doubt you felt his weight shift on the bed.
“Y/n. My little Seeker.” His voice was closer, and turning your head you noticed that he had gotten closer. A hand cupped yours, thumb rubbing circles on the back of your hand. “I was searching for you this entire time.” His eyes bore into yours, trying to get you to understand but he was met with confusion. Of course you didn’t know, couldn’t know, what he was talking about. You knew what he was feeling, that much he was sure of, but you’ve never learned of this.
Leaning closer he rested his forehead against yours, just like in Soojin’s shop. The contact grounded him, keeping him from shaking as the memories came flooding back.
“You don’t know how helpless I felt while we traveled.” He whispered, voice shaking slightly. “I couldn’t help you, couldn’t even talk to you.” Fingers threaded through your hair, he closed his eyes. “Each day that passed felt like an eternity. I was worthless, watching you carry the entire journey on your shoulders. And I still couldn’t protect you properly…” His jaw clenched. “That damn Elf. Siyeon,” The name was spat out, face scowling. “Led you to Draengon on the worst path imaginable; weather conditions, weak magic, and steep hills. I don’t know how… maybe the gods took pity on us… but my strength came back just before the bastard…”
“I failed you on that mountain. I failed to avenge you.” Namjoon looked sick, pressing his head harder against yours. His hands shook as he clung to you. “Seeing you there, seeing you suffering and ready to accept your fate for me. I wanted to kill them, I tried to kill them both. But you were fading, your heartbeat was already so weak. I did some damage to them before taking you away. I blindly followed those instincts and prayed to any god that would listen to keep you here. Keep your heart beating.”
“I saw it,” You blinked a few times as you recalled the passing scenes that made no sense to you at the time. “I could feel you…”
“You were clinging to life and I- I couldn’t let you go. I just found you- I did everything to keep you alive.” His lip trembled as new tears spilled as he closed his eyes. “But it wasn’t enough.”
You knew what he was speaking of. You remember hearing him, his scream…
“You died, Y/n. Your heart stopped, I heard it, feltit…” His shoulders quivered. “When your heart stopped I felt as though the world ended. I held you in this room. You were cold, frail, I didn’t see any signs of life-” He swallowed the lump in his throat. Green eyes shimmered with Until I felt you, through the bond. Barely there, you were hanging on… Ourbond saved your life. Your soul threaded with mine and refused to let go.” Namjoon opened his eyes, the whites red from the tears. His face turned into your palm, lips grazing the skin as he shivered. “The magic in our bond gave you the strength you needed. Your heartbeat was music to my ears and still is.”
“Bond…” A shimmering green rope of sorts came to your mind; clinging to it while screaming you were still here- “It’s green and shimmers.” Your voice sounded distant as you remembered. “I had to grab it, I was falling into darkness.” Chills danced across your skin. “It had a heartbeat-”
“My magic, running inside my veins, was bringing you back to me.” His thumbs brushed your cheeks, only now realizing silent tears streamed down your face. “That’s the beauty of our bond. And I never got to tell you…”
With your faces just inches apart you could see the raw emotions that played behind those hooded eyes. So many emotions swimming in shades of green, a color you wanted to drown in. You found yourself leaning closer, transfixed, but large hands kept you still.
“I almost lost you once, I cannot, will not, make that mistake again.” A hand dropped from your face, reaching into his pocket, and pulling out a small item; almost black at first glance, but once the sun shined upon it you saw the green coming through.
“Your scale, I thought I lost it-” You reached for it, fingers almost grasping the item but Namjoon enclosed it in his fist. You frowned and looked up at him. His face set with determination, eyes glued to yours with an unwavering look. Freezing up you thought that perhaps he was still mad about trading it when you first arrived. “Namjoon, I’m sorry-”
“Soojin was right when she first told you about the scale,” He ignored the apology, eyes trained on his fist. “We give it to people we truly care for. Anama Cara as the Fae like to call it. And Y/n, that is what you are to me.” His hands were gentle as he took one of your hands and placed the scale at the center of your palm. “The bond we have is no mere coincidence, nor is it a mistake. Whether it be from the gods or the stars themselves make no difference to me; nothing could change the fact that you, Y/n, are not justmy Human. Our souls are entwined together, predestined and fated. I was made for you, and you, me. Those feelings, the dreams, it was through this bond that we were able to find one another. I was able to find you, Y/n of Acrine, my mate.”
The world felt as though it stopped. In that single moment, nothing else mattered. Your heartbeat was echoing in your ears as you stared at Namjoon. And of course, it made sense. This would have sounded impossible but after being in Asterios, after all that you two have been through, you knewhe was right. The joy, the feeling of freedom, of love, of security, of wonder, of feeling at home…
It all leads back to Namjoon.
“We give our mates a scale, to represent that we will be with them, guard them, protect them, sacrifice for them, and above all else,” His fingers intertwined with yours, the scale being encased between both your hands. “To love them. Y/n, I know I failed at many of these promises. But I swear to you, I will never let you get hurt again. I will never let you be touched by that darkness again.”
Your lip trembled, head shaking slightly as a small laugh escaped you. “Sill Dragon, you can’t promise me those things.” Your voice shook with emotion. Namjoon frowned and you continued. “But you can promise to stand by my side, show me what love truly is, teach me what home feels like and to catch me when I do fall.” Clutching the Dragon scale you leaned forward, pressing a small kiss to his head. “As long as you’re with me, I’m okay.”
Arms wrapped around your waist, pulling you directly into his lap. His face buried in your neck, taking a deep breath as a shudder escaped him. You could feel a few tears stray from his eyes as he slowly rocked you with him. You nuzzled into his chest, listening to his heartbeat and the soft rumble that could easily make you fall asleep again.
Pulling you away gently, he offered a small smile. “You missed…” You frowned, wondering what he meant until he leaned in.
His lips caught yours, soft, careful, and steady. A hand reached up to the back of your head, fingers gently tangled into your hair, tilting your head at the right angle. His other hand remained at your lower back, hand pressing you closer, no space allowed between the two of you. Your hands wandered to his shoulders then up to the base of his neck, pressing yourself impossibly closer, deepening the kiss.
You earned a low growl from him, one that used to make your flight or fight kick in but now it caused a buzz to surge through your body, tingling down to your toes. His hand suddenly gripped your hair, making your lips part in a soft gasp. Taking advantage, Namjoon slid his tongue past your lips, claiming every inch of your mouth.
Heart beating wild, body feeling as though it were on fire, you had to have been in paradise. Pulling away for air, you felt his lips slide to the corner of your mouth, trailing down your throat. Teeth nipping at your skin for brief seconds before his tongue swiped across the area lovingly, almost apologetic. Your body arched towards his, head rolling back to give him better access, a silent plea to continue. Hand trailing down from your hair, pulling the flimsy cloth back to reveal more skin; his lips quite to pounce on the new territory. Your hips unconsciously rolled into his, a soft moan coming from you as he found a weak point. The Dragon was quick to assault the area thoroughly, reveling in the way you moaned with pleasure. You wanted more, your hands were dropping to his shirt, trying to rip it off-
You jolted at the sound of the screen door being pounded on. Followed by a voice you knew too well.
“Now that you two are mates, or whatever, it’s time we spoke about what else has been going on!”
You heard Felix’s footsteps fade, your breath still heavy, skin still warm from the intense contact. Looking at Namjoon, he was glaring at the door, eyes narrowed.
“I’m going to kill him,” He growled, voice still deep from the haze of lust that had taken over. His hands were still glued to you, fingers playing with your shirt.
Feeling yourself turn red at the realization that Felix and Soojin most likely heard and knew, you could only laugh. Keeping your head tucked into Namjoon’s neck you sighed. “He’s right though; we need to head back.”
Sighing he stood, pulling you up with him. “Fine. But then I’ll kill him-”
“No.”
Chuckling he took your hand and took you to the door, leading you down a hallway and towards a main room where a Sorceress and Fae were eagerly awaiting your arrival.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Tag List:@ggukkieland, @fangirling-all-the-way-tbh,@fangirl125reader,@azucarian,@haechans-sunflower, @cosmicjotun,@namgiaffair,@yaboimagi,@thefirewasfriendly, @tsukispice,@psiioniic-captor,@112067,@afangirl91,@sweetjellyfishland, @strwberry-suga,@magentamoons,@chewymoustachio,@lilacdreams-00,@awsome-small-k,@venussdovess,@dvoz-writes@asgoodasitgets,@deepdarkdelights,
Curious Creatures 9
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst;
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of blood/injuries; mentions of death; FLUFF SO MUCH FLUFF
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:3k
Note: Finally, FINALLY, you get to meet Namjoon. Figured after all the excitement we could use a fluffy chapter. So much fluff, protective Joon is here yessirrr and as always please enjoy and let me know what you think.
Here soon there will be a poll made where I’ll take a vote on who’s story should be written next! Itbetween a few candidates(:
Tag List: Open- DM me if you want to be added! If I forgot you/your @ isn’t working, please let me know so I can try to fix it <3
How long have you been like this?
How much time has passed, if any?
Why were you here…
You were drowning in a sea of darkness. Every breath felt like a struggle, as if tons of stone were pressing against your chest. You could feel your heart weakly beating, slowly straining against the weight that was pulling you down into nothingness. You couldn’t move. You couldn’t open your eyes, no matter how hard you tried. You were paralyzed in this dark and lonely void with nothing but your thoughts and your sore body. There were no memories of how you got so beat up, how you felt like you were bathing in ice, and why you were so exhausted. There were no memories, no recollection.
Just you, in pain, being pulled down.
But it seemed the gods pitied you. They gave you brief moments of solace. Where the pain disappeared for a minute or so. Where you could grasp on to a small piece of hope that you weren’t entirely alone.
These moments, fragments of seconds, where you found yourself escaping the void. The darkness would cease to exist and you’d find yourself elsewhere, with new feelings and emotions. Ones you couldn’t quite decipher. It was always when you felt yourself sinking further into the darkness, always when something went wrong. A small price to pay for a moment of painlessness.
The first moment was when you could feel your blood pressure rise suddenly, your heart pounding irregularly in your ears, something warm trickled down your nose with the smell of iron accompanying it…
Snow covered mountains flew by your vision as the ice winds slapped against your face. You felt yourself rushing forward with a need. You could feel the need to move faster rush through your veins, adrenaline spiking out of control. Your arms held something smaller, something still…
The second moment was when your lungs felt like they were burning, you were gasping for air but each intake felt like a small flame. No matter how much you gasped there never seemed to be enough air to breathe…
The sky was pitch black, moon high above illuminating the area. A dark wooden sliding door quickly came to view, you kicked it open without a second thought. Storming through the dark area, you knew where you needed to go. Arms pulling something cold closer to your chest as you stormed deeper into the place.
And the final moment was when your heart stopped…
Vision blurred as colors danced around, you dropped to your knees, you could feel the angry scream ripping out of your lips. You could feel the burn in your throat from the strain of your vocal chords. But the world around you sounded muffled. Your arms shook as you curled in on yourself.
Then you were back once more. Sinking faster into a sea of black, wondering when it will end. How it will all end… you could feel sorrow creep inside you as you realized how you didn’t want it to end. You wanted to open your eyes and break free from the dark prison. There was something out there that you wanted. No… There was someone out there that you needed. You couldn’t give up, you needed…
A shimmer of green caught your eye from above. Right at arms length.
It was a glowing rope; a beautiful shade of green illuminating the darkness around you. It was looks strong and the warmth radiated from it tickled your cheeks in a beautiful way. Every eternal instinct inside screaming to grab onto it, as though your life depended on it. Without hesitation your hand shot out. The rope felt smooth as you entangled your fingers through it, feeling a steady pulse thrumming inside. Every beat pulsing through the rope and through you.
You clung to it, not wanting to fall anymore, not wanting to let go and be swallowed by the darkness that surrounded you. Your tangled fingers refusing to let go as your arms shook under your weight. You pressed your head against the glowing mystery, shaking as you refused to drop anymore. The pulse was beating stronger now and you allowed it to radiate through you as well. Despite the pain that your body was in, despite the ache of your lungs and your heart that has decided to give up you felt something deep inside you scream one phrase:
I’m still here.
I’m still here.
I’m still here.
I’M STILL HERE-
Then there was light. It was a warm light.
You still felt tired but were no longer falling into a void, and there was something soft laying on you. Something that was a little heavy but not too heavy that it was hard to breathe, unlike how it was moments before. And there was a scent in the air that was soft and inviting. It had a soft earthy tone, the smell helping you feel grounded. It made you feel calm and at ease. That is until your memories came flooding back in like a tidal wave. Memories of a snowy mountain, of two creatures, a large Dragon, and you were falling…
Your heart stopped. It had ceased to beat.
In a panic your eyes flew open and felt your body stiffen at the sight before you. Gold eyes that were framed with long black fur stared back at you. Stared into your soul. You didn’t dare move, mind still foggy, worried what it would do when you felt a gentle vibration.
Apurr.
Salem.
You let out a long breath as the cat laid on your chest, watching with a relaxed aura about him. Shakily you lifted up an arm and gently gave the small feline pets, the silky fur and soft purring helping ease your anxious mind. But then you had to wonder- where were you and how did Salem get to you…
“Salem sure has his favorites.”
You jumped a little, Salem letting out a huff of annoyance as he shot the speaker a glare that held no bite. Sitting right next to you was Soojin, dressed in a long black dress with gold accessories that matched her gold eyes. She smiled at you, hand reaching for the one not occupied with Salem.
“Y/n, it’s so good to see you’re finally awake.” She whispered, thumb rubbing soothing circles on your skin. “We were so worried.” Her eyes matched the concern in her voice, gold iris’ boring into yours.
While you had so many questions running around in your head, there was only one that was at the forefront of your mind. Only one that mattered the most to you the most:
“Where’s Namjoon?”
Your voice was hoarse and sounded god awful. Your throat was still swollen and made even swallowing difficult. Every breath you took through your lips, which were somehow bruised and just as swollen, was held a painful bite.
You didn’t miss the way Soojin’s eyes lit up, a small smile gracing her lips. “Your Dragon is well, thanks to you. You saved his life.” Her voice was still soft as if she were speaking to a scared little kitten. “He has been restored back to full health, well, physically he’s all and well. He was worried about you too.”
You were going to ask where he was, your heart sinking at the thought of losing him and never being able to see the Dragon again when foots interrupted the two of you. It made you look around for the first time, realizing that you were in an unknown room that was quite large. The bed was low to the ground, but extremely soft, decorated in sheets of muted colors that were earth tones. Behind Soojin was a wall that was opened to reveal a snowy landscape that was breathtaking. And yet the room was perfectly warm and cozy.
On the other side was a sliding door that was left cracked open, you could make out two silhouettes. They were speaking in hushed tones, until one tried to side step the other, resulting in a deep growl and a raise of tone of the first figure.
A pat on your arm had you snapping your head to see Soojin shaking hers. “I swear, no one listens to me around here. Y/n, dear, give me a second.” She wasted no time in walking towards the sliding door opening it up just enough for you to see past her and into the darker hallway. Your eyes followed and watched as the light illuminated just enough to make out two men.
The one closer to the door was taller than the other male, his hair as brown as the earth and that looked soft, his skin having a soft golden hue to it. You could only see the back of his head, eyes wandering to see the muscles straining against the silk shirt, a color of emerald green. You should have felt shame eyeing the male up and down but you couldn’t tear your eyes away.
Soojin was hissing at the two and you found yourself unable to look away as the first male grumbled something back, still staring the second male down. You sat up, wincing, feeling the need to get up and make yourself known. The pain was pushed to the back of your mind, eyes still watching the trio with curiosity as well as something else. A pull tugging you forward and towards them. Or rather him.
Salem was gently pushed further down the bed, the black cat letting out a whine, clearly displeased at the new seating arrangement. It was hard to pull yourself up to a sitting position but you were determined to get your body moving. You watched as Soojin tried to shoo the two away with her hands and you almost whined as the first male began to leave. His back slowly moving away from the door had you trying to jump up after him, swinging one leg down to the floor-
“Ah-!”
“Mow.”
A soft whimper came from you along with a grumbled response from the cat, who glared at you from ruining his warm spot and lovely head pats. Your legs had given out the moment you applied the minimum amount of weight to them. The floor was warm, thankfully, but not soft in the slightest. You winced, allowing yourself to lay there pitifully with eyes closed and the urge to move forward trying to push you up. Your arms shook as you tried pull yourself up, having no strength left you welcomed the faceplant on the floor-
But hands caught you.
They carefully gripped your upper arms and slowly helped you into a sitting position. You were treated as though you were made of glass; one wrong move and you’d break. The hands were large, warm, and you could feel callouses decorating that skin. Your eyes followed the hands, seeing strong and thick arms, linked to a broad chest, finally up to a face that held your undivided attention.
Mere inches away was a handsome young man, with hair the color of coffee that fell into disheveled pieces and a face that was soft, kind. Full lips were smiling gently at you, dimples appearing and making your heart flutter. And the eyes, hooded and almost intimidating, the color of emeralds.
Eyes you have come to know all too well.
His hands reached up your shoulders and laid gently at the base of your neck, thumbs rubbing small circles on your cheeks with a carefulness you’ve never experienced. His eyes scanned your body and face, looking for signs of injury while you sat frozen to the spot.
The world around the two of you ceased to exist. You were drawn to him like a moth to a flame as your mind connected the dots. This was no stranger. You knew him. Your finger slowly lifted, almost as though you were in a trance, and carefully dragged it from his forehead to the tip of his nose. The same way you had pet your Dragon, as light as a feather. His eyes fluttered, his head tilting closer to you. His lips parted as he was about to speak-
“Oh praise the Kitsune, my little Kelpie is alive!”
The voice shattered your bubble, a voice you recognized from what felt like a lifetime ago. Your froze, cheeks heating up at the realization of your actions all while the young man before you tensed up, a low growl forming in chest. A growl that made you freeze up at the sheer viciousness behind it. You quickly pulled your finger back, hands in your lap as your head ducked down.
“Felix,” Soojin sounded like a whip, gold eyes narrowing at the blonde Fae from where he stood in the doorway. “Get out. Now.” Her tone made the man’s growl before you sound like a puppy’s bark. You flinched at her tone, not wanting to be behind the receiving end of it.
Her words were unheard as the Fae all but threw himself on you, wrapping you tightly in his arms. You nearly fell back, the hands that had secured you were gone and replaced by the Fae’s weight which you couldn’t hold. Arms pinned to your side you winced as his voice was right in your ear. "You’re safe, you’re alive- oof!”
Your head was spinning as you watched the Fae being dragged by the ear out of the room, Soojin seething and hissing at him. She was fast to grab him and get him untangled from you. She threw an apologetic look your way and closed the door shut, Salem following his Sorceress. Her voice was now rising elsewhere before disappearing altogether. Leaving you in complete silence. Leaving you alone with him. Speaking of…
His eyes were trained on the door, his face scowling at the paper. His hands were at his side, forming tight fists. The growl had grown increasingly so and there was a part of you that wanted to flee. Call it your basic instincts coming into play; hearing a growl and wanting to retreat. You felt frozen to your spot, eyes watching him, almost waiting for him to snap at you like a predator-
Green eyes clashed with your eyes and the growling stopped immediately. His hand quickly took your own, fingers threading your hands together. His eyes were pleading as he said. “Never you. I’d never do that to you.”
His voice was deep and soothing. It seemed to erase all your worries away and make you feel safe and sound. The instinct to flee was quickly replaced with a sense of security. You could only slowly nod your head, refusing to look away. As if he’d disappear forever in the blink of an eye. But you weren’t the only one. His eyes wouldn’t leave your face, drinking you in with an emotion that you couldn’t describe.
“Y/n…” His voice was in awe, a whisper. A smile reappeared on his face, dimples on full display. “My Human.”
A pleasurable shiver went down your spine hearing your name roll off his tongue. You smiled softly back at him. “Namjoon, my Dragon.” You’d be a liar to say your face didn’t flush along with his. But you maintained eye contact as a soft smile grew on your face. “Nice to officially meet you.”
Your voice was hoarse still, barely above a whisper, and sounded terrible. It honestly ruined the mood, especially compared to his voice that sounded smooth and sweet. Namjoon froze, eyes widening as he quickly stood up. You frowned for a moment, wondering what he was up to when you were suddenly scooped up in his arms with ease. The arms felt familiar around you, a memory bubbling at the surface of your brain but left just as quickly when you were tucked back in.
Namjoon was quick at securing the blankets around you, eyebrows knit together in concentration as he muttered under his breath. He ran a hand through his hair as he looked towards the door. His body froze, debating something before turning back to you. “I’ll be right back-”
“No, please stay.” You grabbed his hand, voice pleading and weak as you looked up at him. The thought of him leaving the room made your stomach drop as a feeling of sadness washed over you. You couldn’t explain why but you needed Namjoon there. You wanted to chalk it up to anxiety over his well being; the last time you saw him he was weak and barely holding on.
“You need water, food, rest-” He began to ramble off a list of things, but stopped when you squeezed his hand. It was weak and he could hardly feel your fingers gripping his, your hand still on the cool side.
And that cemented it.
No more words were needed as you gave him a small tug. Namjoon crawled over you, mindful of not accidentally hurting you. He laid on top of the thick blankets, one arm wrapping around your waist and pulling you closer, coaxing your head to lay on his chest where his heart was beating steadily. You embraced his warmth, eyes fluttering as you curled into his side, one hand reaching up to grip his shirt gently. Placing his hand over yours, his face dipped down to press his head to yours.
“Sleep my little Seeker. I’ll be here.”
So many parts of you were feeling mixed emotions and wanting different things. On one hand, you wanted to ask so many questions; what happened to Siyeon, where you were and how long has it been, and why was Felix and Soojin with you? Your brain wanted the answers right then and there as worries tried to plague your mind. Then there was another part of you that wanted to pry yourself out of Namjoon’s side; that he was still a stranger, that you shouldn’t be this open and touching to a man you’ve truly just met.
But those thoughts were drowned out by something you can’t describe. You trusted Namjoon entirely, he made you feel safe and secure. The answers could wait and the negative thoughts could burn for all you cared. You were both safe and alive and in that moment that was all that mattered to you.
You pressed yourself closer to his side, eyes fluttering closed as strong hands rubbed up and down your spine soothingly. His hand kept yours secure, thumb rubbing small circles on the back of your hand. His head was kept ducked down, cheek resting against the top of your hair, his heart beat music to your ears as you gradually fell into a deep and peaceful sleep. Your Dragon keeping you safe and warm.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Tag List:@ggukkieland, @fangirling-all-the-way-tbh,@fangirl125reader,@azucarian,@haechans-sunflower, @cosmicjotun,@namgiaffair,@yaboimagi,@thefirewasfriendly, @tsukispice,@psiioniic-captor,@112067,@afangirl91,@sweetjellyfishland, @strwberry-suga,@magentamoons,@chewymoustachio,@lilacdreams-00,@awsome-small-k,@venussdovess,@dvoz-writes@asgoodasitgets
Curious Creatures 8
Pairing:Dragon! Namjoon x Reader
Genre: Fantasy!au; Soulmate!au; Fluff; Eventual Smut; Angst
Warnings: depressing themes; thrilling themes; mentions of blood/injuries;
Summary:Curious as to how your village came to be and having a thirst for knowledge, you venture into the Forgotten Forest in hopes of discovering the truth of your roots. But it seems you have bitten off more than you can chew.
WC:6.8k
Note: It ended up being 18 pages, hehe. Lots of action here, so enjoy reading and let me know what you think! As always, thank you for reading and enjoying the story <3
Tag List: Open- DM me if you want to be added! If I forgot you/your @ isn’t working, please let me know so I can try to fix it <3
The high-noon sunlight streamed through the windows cascading onto the wooden floor. Thin sheets of curtain danced in the cool breeze, a hint of fresh water and leaves flowed along with it. The low tables held books scattered around, some open on random pages while others were left closed. Notes littered the table as well, on them were several different languages that could be found throughout Asterios. It was peaceful. Calm.
Serene.
The only sound that could be heard was the occasional page flipping, strong hands gently holding the leather while green eyes drank in every word, every letter. This was where he belonged, where he felt the most at peace. In a warm room with a cool breeze, surrounded by multiple types of writing that covered every genre one could think of. Tales of times old, documents that held sensitive information, and poems that painted the world in a beautiful light.
He was perched on a wooden bench by the window that overlooked the luscious green garden. Flowers bloomed as far as the eye could see, delicate shades of whites, pinks, and reds with a sweet aroma that flooded the entire area in a heavenly way. The smell was mesmerizing, intoxicating. Each deep breath brought another wave of relaxation onto his body.
A soft smile played on plush lips, dimples displaying as Namjoon read the poems by the author E. E Cummings. He had been a Human poet, creating many poems of the world, of beauty, of wonder, of love…
“I carry your heart with me, I carry it in my heart. I am never without it. Anywhere you go I go, my dear; and whatever is done by only me is done by your doing, my darling.”
A voice with the depth of the ocean softly spoke the poem into existence, the words flowing easily past his lips. His mind wondered what it was like to have love like this? To have someone hold his heart in such a way that he would travel the ends of the world for them? There was a gentle tug at his heart that made him pause for a mere moment.
Eyes that could hold the galaxy watched him worriedly through steel bars…
“I fear no fate, for you are my fate, my sweet. I want no world, for beautiful you are my world, my true. And it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant and a sun will always sing is you.”
Green eyes slowly narrowed, the words echoing against the plain white walls. The serene feeling was slowly fading. He felt alone, as if the words were nudging him to a truth. Those eyes he recalled… it gently scratched against his mind… a memory…
His arms wrapped around a figure, clutching the smaller frame to himself. Unconscious, wounded, but by the gods was he thankful-
“Here is the deepest secret no one knows. Here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows higher than the soul can hope and mind can hide.”
A soft chuckle tickled his ears, fingers brushing against his head in a slow and tender way. Skin that was softer than his scales, but still held calluses from hard work. His tail curled around a small wrist, gently squeezing as always. They’re way of communicating-
“And this is the wonder that is keeping the stars apart. I carry your heart with me. I carry it in my heart.”
Thud!
The book slipped from his fingertips, the thud sounding muffled in his ears as he jumped up. His heart was racing, eyes scanning the room in panic. He was human again… no… he was… eyebrows knitted together as he stormed towards the screen door.
This wasn’t right. He can’t morph yet, he’s still too weak.
‘Where was Y/n? How did I get here-’
Illusion.
An illusion casted on his mind… playing a trick to keep his attention away from the problems.
Away from you.
His lip curled up in a snarl at the realization. Strong magic encased his brain, keeping him trapped in this dreamlike state. It was a simple and strong tactic, keeping him chained in his own head. He didn’t need to know why it was done nor who had done it, the spell was quite a simple thing to do: keeping him in this dreamlike state meant you were on your own. A Human wandering around Asterios without any help-
That was it. A Dragon and Human paired together was a dangerous combination. The two of you were coveted for multiple reasons and many would hunt you both down without a second thought. He remembers being at A Cauldron’s Kiss, remembers feeling weaker and drifting off to sleep. He can recall feeling trapped in a bag, swinging with every fast step you made. How your heart was racing, how he could smell your fear. His heart sank at the way your scent took on bitter notes, making his instincts flare up. But he still couldn’t move, his body nothing more than a pile of bones and meat in your bag.
He smelt herlast.
Bitter. Cold. It was as though ice was being shoved up his nose for a moment. He was still too weak to move and moments later he was falling asleep again. He needed to fight to keep his eyes open but it was no use- he fell asleep again.
Fell asleep here. Where this creature thought he could keep him still and away from you. A deep growl bloomed in his chest, the Dragon inside being awakened as well. He didn’t want to waste any time, large hands gripped the screen and slammed it open. The wood splintered in tiny pieces from impact, rage filling his vision
He blinked-
The world around him shifted.
Gone was the quante room with books, the serene feeling evaporated into one of cold and dark loneliness. Inside this darkness he saw a thick green rope of sorts, shimmering in the blackness that surrounded him. He was standing in a void of sorts… there was nothing but black and inky blues around him, with the exception of the beautiful shimmer of green. It was calling to him…
The mating bond.
The magic that connected him to you, he could see it. Namjoon could always feel it, the tug that was connecting him to you; the bond that could allow him to reach out to you. Despite the bond not being completed, it was remarkably strong and sturdy. There was no need to even tug it to test the strength- he could feel it. The strong connection humming around him, throughhim.
He was entranced at the way it pulsed softly, the way the magic was alive and thrumming with a beat. Long fingers reached out, the tip of his index brushed against the bond only to jump back with a sharp intake of breath. A shiver ran down his spine, his breathing labored and eyes wide as he stared.
Through the bond he felt you. Your heart, your breath, your feelings- it knocked the wind out of him. The feeling of you completely engulfed him, overwhelming his senses so that all he could feel was you. His Dragon purred at the feeling, ready to lunge towards the bond again while the man was trying to steady his rapid beating heart. Following his instincts, he reached out once more-
You were in the woods, snowflakes falling from the sky elegantly. The world had turned into a beautiful winter wonderland all around. No matter how beautiful the world around him was, his eyes were fixed on you, taking in your worn appearance. Dark circles were already appearing under your eyes, body swaying ever so slightly from the lack of sleep. A frown etched on his face, trying to take a step towards you but he couldn’t move. His body frozen in place to watch your tired appearance.
A growl came from his throat, frustration growing stronger as his feet refused to move. The need to pull you close, shield you from the cold, and get you rested. You weren’t safe alone in the woods-
‘No. No. Not with him in my bag. Not while I’m trying to save Namjoon.’
Your lips didn’t move, but he heard you. As always, hearing your melodic voice say his name caused a pleasurable shiver to swim against his spine. Your eyes were focused on a figure beside him, one he hadn’t realized was there. He was too focused on your wellbeing that the rest of the world seemed to fade away.
His heart stopped.
The woman looked young with sharp features. Dressed in whites and creams, he spotted the brooch that was clipped to her cloak-
You were in danger. He had to do something, but his feet wouldn’t move. Hell, he wasn’t even there, not truly; he could see all this through the bond but in reality he was still stuck in his small Dragon form somewhere in that bag of yours. He could feel you consider the options at hand; travel alone or go with her.His heart was racing, body trying to lunge towards you. With cracked lips he tried to find his voice-
“…No.”
He sounded far away, even in his own ears. He was too weak to communicate, too weak to usher you away. But he knew you heard him, watching your pupils dilate ever so slightly. But you were stubborn, Namjoon has learned this so many times. Especially if he was involved. Your eyes flickered across the woman’s face-
“No.” He shouted, trying to engrave the word into your thick skull, voice pleading to reconsider. He couldn’t tell how far you were, but he knew you weren’t too far away. You could make it alone, without help…
Your eyes blinked, eyebrows knitting as you heard him once more, still weak. Namjoon could see the gears in your brain working, could feel you weigh your options; there was fear in traveling with a stranger and traveling alone. An image of an Orc turning into mere ash danced across your mind, reminding you of her power.
“No, please-”
He was roaring, knees falling to the ground. He couldn’t move forward. Not a single inch. Fists clenched, he hit the ground and watched as your arm linked around the woman’s, leading you further away. Further towards trouble. But his voice was ignored, nothing but a ghost of a whisper to you as you headed forward once more.
“Y/n… Please…”
Body shaking, he knew you were going to continue forward and risk your safety to get him home. Namjoon wanted to grab your hand and drag you away, far away from the woman. From the trouble he knew would come. But he was useless- too weak to move, too weak to awaken and shift into his true form.
He could only wait and hope you get to Draengon safely.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Colors exploded from all around, beautiful shades of any color imaginable could be seen. It would be overwhelming for a newcomer, but to Hyunjin this was home. Despite winter approaching and the snow pixies making their rounds across Asterios, Serentia remained as vibrant and warm as ever. As though Spring reigned eternal in that area of the land. It wasn’t common for the Fae’s area to be left out of the seasonal changes, but Hyunjin assumed the pixies were merely slacking off and taking their time with rolling out winter.
His boots clicked against the smooth stone pathway, eyes the color of night darting around and surveying the old building. It was much like a large castle, open areas that allowed people to wander from the outside to the inside with ease. Vines and natural flora decorated much of the walls, creating an enchanting look. Almost like a fairytale. But after conversing with Felix, Hyunjin felt anything but enchanting when walking through the area. His gut twisted at the thought of dirty deeds being done within it’s walls. By his own friends.
“Hyunjin!”
Blinking twice, he watched as an old Fae jogged up to him. Stylish black hair with eyes the color of diamonds, Jay stood before him wearing a silk shirt that was blood red, black trousers and boots to match. Despite the smile on his face, Hyunjin could see the trouble in his eyes.
“Jay, nice to see you.” Hyunjin smiled back.
The other Fae’s glanced around quickly, smile still in place. “Quite fine, thank you. Actually-”
“Ah, Jay, Hyunjin! Perfect timing!”
Soft pink hair, all black attire, and eyes the color of coal. Ji-Yong clasped both Fae on the shoulders, grinning. “Glad you made it back Hyunjin, I assume Yunho is with Felix?”
“Indeed he is,” Hyunjin answered, watching both Fae closely. There was an uneasiness about them, their aura off. Long was the laid back Fae he worked with, the ones who would joke easily. They were tense, eyes scanning the area every chance they got. To an outsider it wouldn’t be noticeable. But working with them for centuries, Hyunjin could read them like a book.
Something was wrong.
“The Council is ready to meet,” Ji-Yong tugged them both towards a set of double doors. “We will be discussing what happened when you left, Hyunjin.”
‘Then why not meet in the actual main room? Why meet in one of the spare rooms they had?’ On the outside he nodded his head, but on the inside he was suspicious. All matters that were important were discussed in a large room where the Council sat in rows with levels. They were the Government of Serentia afterall; leading and guiding the Fae that lived in their borders. There were many members, a few dozen, but there were the main three that were the head of it all: Ji-Yong, Seo, and Taecyeon. The trio were the leaders, guiding them to making the best decisions for Serentia.
Jay frowned however. “With all due respect sir, shouldn’t we wait for Jimin? I was under the impression he was to come to this meeting.”
Jimin had been on the Council for as long as Hyunjin and Jay had- he was there when the Humans were taken and secured away from Asterios. He would want to know what was happening. He needed to know.
“Something has changed- he couldn’t attend.” Ji-Yong’s voice was tight and absolute- he wouldn’t tell them anything else. No room for questions.
The trio opened the door, Hyunjin frowning at the small table that sat a few members in stiff wooden chairs. The only light came from the large windows. Ji-Yong gave them both a shoulder squeeze. He knew the few members that were there: Woojin, Lee Know, Yeonjun, and Mingi. He’d consider each one a close friend of his, closer than any of the others that were seated in the government of Serentia.
The doors behind them clicked shut, the lock in place. No one could go in or out. And with the magic that surrounded the walls and doors, no one could even listen to them speak.
“Let’s have a seat and discuss what happened with the Humans.”
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
“And then there’s my brother, a total dimwit. I swear he has no brain half the time! Thankfully the god’s gave him his good looks or he’d be truly screwed!” Siyeon’s laughter danced across the tree’s. Besides her voice and the footsteps of the two of you, it was quiet. A cold and lonely silence.
You nodded your head, feet dragging along as Siyeon spoke of her life and family. Truth be told, you were only kind of paying attention. She spoke of a place called Crystera, her father being a pain in the ass to have her travel a lot; her brother always causing problems and the golden child; and then of her sisters: how one of them was to be wed to the King of Hope’s Height, while the other was due to travel to Wynteron for small business affairs. It sounded interesting, for sure, but truth be told you were dead on your feet from so much traveling and resting hardly at all.
It had been a full day with the young woman and the pair of you managed to make it to the mountains and you hoped it meant that Dreangon was close. Never once did you open the map since Siyeon brushed it off, claiming to know the way easily. Honestly you were glad to keep your bag closed and safely tucked at your hip; Namjoon may have been hidden safely in your bag but that didn’t mean accidents don’t happen. One glance and Siyeon may easily see him. Or perhaps sense him… So far the young woman made no comment whether she could feel the Dragon amongst the two of you. And thankfully she was all talk and hardly asked questions.
When prompted where you were from, you easily said Sylverwynn and how Soojin was your mentor. You made a whole story for yourself; a poor orphaned witch who Soojin took pity on and decided to help teach you how to use magic. Siyeon was intrigued and decided that she would be your mentor as well. Her tone was cheerful, proclaiming that if you were as weak as a witch that you claimed to be then she would help you as well. One question about the burnette led to her rambling more about her life story and the topic of you was dropped.
“Gods it’s getting worse,” Siyeon sighed, dark eyes glancing up at the snow falling from the sky. Bare branches were all around, Mountains could be seen on either side of you. Arcrine was tiny, a small village that held nothing. You still gaped at the mountains around you, seeing the giant landforms with a bit of awe in your eyes. “Luckily we’re almost there!”
Her optimism was much needed; her cheery voice and endless amount of stories really kept you going. “I sure hope so.” Your voice was raspy and eyes droopy. Lack of sleep, sudden falling temperatures and lack of proper nutrients lead you to this terrible state.
Soojin had given you bitter pieces of a dried fruit called Faeturine; small, round, and pink in color, the fruit tasted terrible compared to its pretty exterior. However one berry was enough to make you feel full for the rest of the day. Something in it shrunk your appetite, and you guessed it was the taste. The Sorceress warned you that it lacked basic nutrients; it was by no means anyway a proper meal. It was meant to help you get to Dreangon quickly.
“I’d give you actual food but I fear it won’t keep with the weather- it’ll go bad far too soon. Besides, that bag isn’t meant to store food.”
You grinned a little at the memory, allowing it to take your mind off of your aching bones and ice cold feet. The clothes Soojin gave you were incredible, but Siyeon did mention that the winter Pixie’s were playing rough around this area. You didn’t question it, knowing that you’d look suspicious if you were asking about something that was common in Asterios. Another question to add to your list.
While Siyeon rambled on about her sisters, hands waving around in the air, you slid your hand into your bag carefully. Fingers brushed the small scaled head, he was feeling warmer despite the snow; you must be close to Dreangon. The contact helped ease your fears and worries, if only for a brief moment.
‘We’re almost there Namjoon,’ You thought to yourself, eyes set forward with determination. ‘You’re almost home.’
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Hyunjin sat back in his chair, watching them with wariness. After discussing every event that had happened so far, the members looked equally as exhausted and fearful as him.
“Someone from the Council must be behind these things.” Ji-Yong stated after a beat of silence, hand ruffling his pink hair. “Despite all of us getting along, it seems that we have some snakes in our ranks.”
“But why now?” Lee Know cocked his head. Dark blue hair fell into his silver eyes, glancing amongst all the people around them. “What could have possibly happened to make them want to destroy everything we’ve built?”
“I don’t think it happened just now, as Hyunjin said, Felix noted diseases years ago as well as a decrease in harvest and wildlife. The forest we picked was one that was prosperous and could easily last a few millennia…” Mingi tapped his fingers on the table, the Aqua colored head fell back against the chair. “Sounds like someone has been planning this for quite some time.”
The two fire redheads nodded in agreement, Woojin speaking first. “They’ve had to plot this just right, most likely interfering with Felix’s communication with us.”
“Thankfully only a handful of members are allowed access to the portal and the communications. As of now they are all guilty.” Yeonjun crossed his arm, eyes narrowed.
“… Yeonjun. You are one of the few people allowed access to communicate with Felix.” Mingi deadpanned.
The younger Fae’s eyes widened, gold shimmering with fear. “Oh my gods, what if it was me-”
“So we start by sniffing around, looking for clues.” Lee Know ignored Yeonjun’s panicked look, his eyes on Ji-Yong and Hyunjin. “Asking innocent questions, seeing who keeps disappearing…”
“Jimin is allowed access,” Woojin frowned. “You don’t think… He wouldn’t allow these things to happen right?”
A beat of silence before Jay spoke up. “Jimin wouldn’t allow it, no. Remember, he was the one who was the most torn up about this situation. He didn’t want to leave the Humans alone out there. He feared their safety.”
“What if this is his way of trying to get them back to Asterios?” Mingi shook his head. “He’s been missing a lot these days…”
“For now we will keep an eye on him,” Ji-Yong decided. “I’ll place the two fire heads to keep an eye on him. Mingi and Lee Know will start sniffing around the council and seeing if anything has come about.” Ji-Yong turned his attention back to Hyunjin and Jay. “Hyunjin, if the time issue is no longer a problem, I’ll need you to bring Felix and Yunho back here. The Humans should be fine for a couple of days, TYunho can watch the Portal for any comings and goings of any species.” Ji-Yong looked out the window with a sigh. “The sooner we figure out who’s behind this the sooner we can put a stop to it all and keep the Humans safe in their home.”
Hyunjin knew it was more complicated than that; the environment itself was no longer suitable for the Humans. The fog was creating problems, magic was leaking everywhere… He sighed and stood up. “Then I’ll get to it. Let me know as soon as anything happens.”
He didn’t wait for a good-bye, already on the move. The sooner he gets back to Felix and Yunho means the sooner they can solve these issues. An entire race was depending on them to fix this mess. And they didn’t even know it.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
The sun was low in the sky by now, the temperature dropping dangerously low. Your teeth chattered as the wind picked up, dusts of snow slapping you in the face. The cold caused physical pain, your toes having gone numb, face broken into a wind rash no matter how many times you ducked your head down. Your legs felt like stone, the snow piling up to your shin now as you tried to make it through the unforgiving landscape.
Beside you, Siyeon quietly walked and struggled as well. With the wind picking up she gave up with conversation and instead the two of you settled with the sound of the howling wind and the creaking of the tree’s. When you stumbled her hand would shoot out and grip your arm tightly, guiding you through the piles of snow and ice.
No matter how much your body begged and face burned you continued forward, all because of the warm little body in your bag. You weren’t sure if it was due to the snow or your location, but Namjoon now felt like a mini fire against your hip. You kept one hand in the bag to warm you as much as possible. You prayed to the gods that everything was going to be okay, that you would be able to bring Namjoon home-
A nudge on your shoulder and you could barely see Siyeon through the raging snow flurries. She tossed a hand to her side and you spotted a valley between the base of two mountains. It was downhill from where you were, the slope not looking too good to travel on. You knew she wanted to go down there to get out of the winter storm that raged around you, but you needed to get Namjoon home. You shook your head and tried to move forward but were stopped. Grabbing your arm she tugged you forward with a fierce determination.
One minute you were standing on two weak legs and the next you were rolling in heaps and heaps of snow.
Ice scratched against your hands face as you tried to brace yourself, snow digging into your clothes and freezing what little body heat you managed to conserve. For a few minutes you kept falling, hard spots of ice bruised your body until you landed face down in the snow.
For a brief moment you could hear nothing but the sound of your jagged breath.TThe wind wasn’t harsh down in this valley, making it easier for you to hear. And slowly the pain began to radiate throughout your body, certain areas feeling worse than others. Even the cold couldn’t numb you as you whimpered and tried to pull yourself up. Exhaustion was taken over and your body was finally winning against your stubborn mind; you had no energy left.
A giggle sounded behind you, Siyeon’s giggle, and you opened your mouth to snap at her but no words came out, only a sharp intake of breath as a hand gripped the back of your head, fingers twisting into your strands. A harsh yank had you crying out, throat swollen and soar. Siyeon continued to giggle from behind as you were yanked to your knees. Your body shook underneath your own weight.
“Good work Siyeon, I knew you’d get her here. In record time too.”
You stilled at the new voice and felt the ice form in your veins.
Siyeon wasn’t your travel partner.
She was there to deliver you to wherever she needed you to go.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Felix leaned against the tree, watching as the leaves fell in huge heaps now. Reds, golds, and oranges flooded the forest floors and the air held a crisp to it. Winter was on its way at long last and coming in a hurry. Yunho sat against the trunk, watching the Portal with high interest, eyes narrowed in thought.
“Stick for your thoughts?” Felix tossed a twig at the wizard, a small smile on his lips.
Yunho chuckled, picking the twig up and twirling it with his fingers. “Just… this magic? The one that we feel? It’s nothing I’ve felt before. I wish there was a way to bottle it up and take it back. Soojin would be of huge help.”
“She already has a lot on her plate, with the Dragon and Human situation.” Felix winced, knowing he’d get an earful later. He didn’t think he’d see the Sorceress anytime soon, however she wasn’t one to forget something like this; he’d suffer for troubling her later. Probably get turned into a frog for the next century.
“There is talk of an up and coming Sorcerer,” Yunho mused, head falling back. “Young one at that. He’s rising in the ranks at a record speed… He might be of help. Goes by the name of Jung-”
The Gateway suddenly shimmered and turned bright, both beings stood up and watched as Hyunjin came through. A smile was plastered on Felix’s face, knowing that time hasn’t changed between the two dimensions: Hyunjin wouldn’t have delayed his arrival and on the Human’s side, it had only been a few hours.
“Ah, it seems time has been restored here.” Yunho grinned happily. “That’s good news, no more missing days between us.”
“So it would seem,” Hyunjin glanced around, double checking the Forgotten Forest one more time. “Ji-Yong wishes for you two to return. We’ll discuss the Humans in Serentia as well as make a plan.”
Felix froze, eyes dancing between the two before him and the forest around him. For several centuries he lived there and did his best to keep an eye on the Humans. Monitoring them, watching young ones grow old and be replaced by a new generation… It felt odd to leave it all behind.
“Felix,” Yunho could see the gears in the Fae’s head turning, the worry that tainted his features. “It’s time to come home. Just for a moment. We’ll travel back as soon as we can. One quick meeting and we all will return.”
The fact that his friend and ally was so willing to stick by his side despite hundreds of years of silence between the two had the Fae jumping at the wizard and grinning. “You do care!”
Hyunjin cracked a smile and shook his head. “Come on you two. The sooner we get this done the sooner we can come back and actually help these people.”
The trio were all smiles as they headed to the Gateway, not even taking one last glance back at the Forgotten Forest. Not realizing that it would be the last time they saw the enchanting forest be that peaceful again.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
This voice was smooth, a male voice. But not one you have heard before. You couldn’t see him, could only feel his warm hand gripping your hair painfully. You winced as his grip didn’t let up.
“Anything for my big brother!” Siyeon giggled, you could hear her footsteps walking your way and soon she stood before you. The brooch on her cloak was now glowing crimson red. “Although I did like this one, are you sure we can’t keep her?” Looking behind you, she was pouting like a child. You watched as she began tossing something in the air. It was small, it was something you’ve seen before-
Namjoon’s Dragon scale.
Catching your eye, Siyeon grinned, holding the scale between two slim fingers. “You really need to be careful who you trust, Seeker.Not everyone in Asterios is as nice as that Sorceress.”
The woman who bought the scale was connected to these two. And they had been watching you from the beginning- everyone twist and turn they watched and waited. They even knew about Soojin-
You hissed as your head was craned back even further, snow flurries almost obscuring your view but you could make out enough; the same brown hair as Siyeon and eyes. Except he held a more powerful aura around him, making your skin crawl. His eyes stared back at you with an eyebrow raised.
“I don’t think father would mind if you were to keep one… but this one? It’s damaged.” He tisked, forcing your head in every direction. “I’m sure we can find a prettier one as well-”
“But I like this one!” Her foot stomped in the snow. Her hand shot out and gripped your face making you cry out. “See, it’s just burns and bruises! I can heal her! I’ve taken care of living things before-”
The man chuckled. “I’ve seen your ‘garden’; you can’t take care of anything. Every flower has wilted into nothing. She’ll die before the week’s over.” His face came closer, inches from your own. “But before we dispose of you tell me, Human, where’s the Dragon?”
Your heart stopped. Siyeon knew. Knew all along and decided to string you along in this weather, knowing it’d make you weaker. More reliable on her and too tired to fight. In fact… Namjoon wasn’t even on your person. The bag was gone completely, no longer hanging over your shoulder. The warmth of your little Dragon was gone. You wanted that to be a good thing but instead you felt your heart sink. Namjoon was too weak to be out in the snow like this…
You stare right back at him. Your lips formed a tight line, eyes narrowed at the figure in front of you. You could buy Namjoon a moment more of life if you gave them silence, refusing to answer. It was all you could do…
He waited before sighing. “Stupid girl, if you tell me where this creature is and I will kill you painlessly. Or do you want me to drag it out until Spring?” His tone got darker, voice deep, hand gripping your head so tightly you felt something warm trickle down the back of your head. Blood. His fingernails were sharp, cutting into your skin. “I don’t have the patience for this. Give me the Dragon.”
You couldn’t speak, lips chapped and bleeding at the cracks of the skin. Your eyes shed a few tears, knowing you had failed Namjoon and didn’t get him home safely. He wasn’t going to survive these creatures, whatever they are. Your heart broke as a few more tears ran loose, stinging your cheeks.
“You choose the Dragon over your own pathetic life?” His voice raised in anger. You could hear Siyeon let out a slow whistle, tisking just like her brother did to you earlier.
‘I’m sorry… I failed you.’ You watched as the male above you snarled, your silence saying enough; you weren’t going to tell him a single thing. The blood on the back of your head trickled down his hand, the white snow behind you speckled red. His other hand reached around your forehead, gripping your head in place. Your heart raced, fear washing over you like a tsunami as every cell in your body became aware that this was how you die. Snapped neck. Body left alone in the snow.
Even away from Arcrine you were fated to die alone without anyone. Your mind danced with memories, eyes flooded with each moment that you held dear: your mother teaching you how to use herbs, Jongho showing you how to hunt, and a little Dragon perched on your lap as you read a book on the world you would die in. The last memory caused more tears to stream down your face, fearing what would happen to your Dragon. You vowed to get him home… you failed him.
You felt his arms tense, ready to end your life in a fraction of a second.
You closed your eyes.
‘I’m so sorry Joon.’
You heard the male growl and you braced yourself, ready to meet whatever the other side had to offer-
Boom!
The sound nearly ruptured your eardrums, the earth vibrating and shaking beneath you. The hands dropped from you and you fell forward, body shaking with the ground. There was no snow around you now… the air rose in temperature, your skin damp as the snow and ice melted all around. A soft cry left your lips as you hit the hard ground, wincing. There was a hot gush of wind above you… no…
You were now facing Siyeon’s brother, his sister at his side. Both of their eyes were enlarged, staring right above you, mouths open wide. You could feel something brush against your back, it was hot, solid. Your eyes slowly looked up, spotting nothing but black…
Until a flash of emerald green caught your eye as he lowered his neck.
You watched in awe as what was once your little Dragon, who was roughly the size of a house cat, was now a creature larger than a house, towering over you. You laid limply at the base of his chest, watching his claws dig into the dirt, feeling the growl deep in his throat. A growl that would have made your heart stop dead in its tracks had you not had one thought repeating like a mantra in the back of your head.
‘He’s going to be okay.’
A small smile appeared on your face as you realized this. You did it. You brought Namjoon home. He was home and regained his power. He was safe…
Slowly your vision began to blur, the roar Namjoon let out sounding muffled by your own heartbeat. The beat was slow… you were tired. There were shouts, you remember seeing Siyeon watch you with wide eyes as her brother gripped her arm before emerald green engulfed your vision and heat radiated off of you. The world around you was hazy, slowly you were losing consciousness…
Something small and hard hit your hand. Your eyesight was blurry but you could make out the small and hard scale that came from Namjoon days prior. Shaky fingers curled around the scale and clutched it like a lifeline. You could no longer feel the pain that you were in. It was as though you were gently sinking into a warm bath. The smile never left your face as you felt yourself fade into darkness.
‘He’s going to be okay.’
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
Snow flurries danced across his vision, the snow piling around the village in large heaps. The entire area was painted in grays and whites, void of any color. But what else was new in Arcrine? The entire village was a colorless sea of despair. And it being the dead of winter was no help; at least in the other months there was some color that could give Arcrine a bit of hope.
“Jongho, the meeting is going to take place soon.”
A soft voice, one that reminded him of honey, came from behind. His dark eyes remained fixed on the Forest before them, trying to see if he could spot any being dwelling within. But as always it was silent, empty, and the fog remained low to the ground.
It had been months… You were still gone.
Jongho allowed her to tug his arm, leading him to the main hut. A large one built for meetings where everyone would cram into the area. Well, they used to cram into the building. Deaths have been on the rise due to disease, starvation, and the winter cold. What used to be a tight fit for everyone now became a loose one; another blow to their population.
The Baker’s daughter, many who called Honey due to her personality and voice, led him to seats in the back where no one else was. A perfect place for them to listen and watch without being in the middle of any fights or arguments. Honey sat stiffly on the old stool, eyes wide and surveying the area. She never liked crowds. Jongho sat close by, arms crossed as he stared at their ‘Leader’. The old man who was fat and round, had enough food to last for weeks… it sickened him to no end. His family never once sacrificed for the people, putting themselves first.
There were lines of stools for the common people while the village Leader and his family sat on nicer chairs on a small stage at the front. Each one looked well fed, all smiles, and were chatting excitedly. The people however looked hollow. Worn from the loss of people, food, and shelter. Hopeless.
The doors slammed shut as they usually did to indicate the start of a meeting, but Jongho heard a different sound.
Click!
The sound of lock being put in place. He frowned, feeling Honey grip his shirt tightly all of a sudden.
“Jongho-”She hissed but was cut off as the leader began to speak loudly.
“My dear subjects of Arcrine, this meeting is one of extreme importance. You see, we have some special guests.” His voice always made Jongho irritate; it was nasally, snobbish. It held a sense of vanity to it as though he were better than everyone else.
As if they all weren’t suffering the same hell together.
Jongho frowned but turned to see what Honey was shaking from, only freezing as he too looked out the window. His mouth hung open as a few more villagers began gasping as well. Where the Forgotten Forest met the village were tall figures making their way to Arcrine, with what appeared to be equipment. To many it looked like tall, bulky men but Jongho knew. Honey knew. They had faced such creatures before.
The Orcs were back.
With wagons and torches.
- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -
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6 pages in and the chapter isn’t even halfway done… There’s still way more to write… This is gonna be one hell of a chapter. 4 of 6 pages were dedicated to the little Dragon <3
Excited to get it done and posted, it’s going to be a wild ride~
