#Kpop pirate au

[illumins]

════ஓ๑ ᴄʜᴘ.8 ๑ஓ════

As Lena's footsteps reverberated through the dimly lit corridor, a palpable aura of simmering emotions clung to her like a shroud. Anger and sadness intertwined in a silent waltz, one moment smoldering with rage, the next weighed down by the gravity of sorrow. The world around her seemed to blur, her vision clouded by the turmoil that raged within.

With determined steps, she marched towards the small jail, where she’d been only visited weeks ago. But as her path converged with the guards that barred the way, her heart pounded in her chest. She met their silence with an incendiary glare, and her voice erupted like a tempest held back too long. The words tore from her, a tumult of frustration and pent-up despair.

“Let me pass!” Her voice quivered with an edge of defiance. “Where else would I go? I'm trapped! If you want, follow me!”

Her outburst hung heavy in the air, a challenge to the guards who had become reluctant participants in her ongoing tragedy. They exchanged furtive glances but offered no verbal resistance. And so, Lena, as if given silent permission by their reticence, huffed and pushed her way through, her determination echoing in the hollow confines of the corridor.

With the guards in tow, like shadows clinging to the edge of her existence, Lena retraced her steps back to the small jail. She could feel their presence like a relentless shadow, but she refused to glance back.

Lena's presence hung heavy in the small, dimly lit jail as she approached the backmost cell, the one where Haechan had endured days of suffering. The gated door creaked as she pulled it open, revealing the small space where he had been confined. Kneeling down, she traced her fingers over the ground, imagining the torment he must have endured in this cold, unforgiving corner. The walls and floor, once stained with blood, had been scrubbed clean, yet,  it was as though the memories of his suffering permeated the very stones themselves.

The chill seemed to seep into her very bones, and she shivered, unable to fathom the depths of his pain. Her mind wandered, conjuring images of his torment, wondering if he had cried in this desolate cell, if they had broken him. What thoughts had tormented him during those long days and endless weeks? What fragments of his spirit had he clung to, while the world outside moved on, ignorant of the pain he endured?

Amid her silent reflection, a glint of light caught her attention. The sun's rays, filtering through a barred window, danced upon something on the ground. She inched closer on her knees, the fabric of her dress dragging behind her. There, in the dusty shadows, she found one of Haechan's rings. It was a simple, yet beautifully crafted piece, its gleam a stark contrast to the desolation that surrounded her. She held it in her palm for a fleeting moment, a memory of him, adorned with those rings, flooded her mind—the sound they made as they clinked against each other while he sat on the deck, the laughter that accompanied them.

She held the ring for a moment, her grip tightening as if it connected her to him in some ethereal way. Gently, she tucked it into her corset, close to her heart, a silent promise to carry a piece of him with her.

Beside her, as she shifted her weight, a small worn letter nestled in the crevices of the cobblestone wall caught her eye. Lena peered at it, and her fingers, nails scraping gently at the stone, managed to extract the fragile paper. She carefully unfolded it, her heart racing with anticipation, wondering what Haechan would have left to say to her. There were moments where she wondered how he hadn't grown to hate her by now. I ruined him.

Lena unfolded the worn letter, the paper whispering as it unfurled in her trembling hands. The handwriting at first was neat and familiar, and she imagined Haechan sitting in his cell, determined to craft this message to her. Yet, as her eyes moved further down the page, the script began to waver, slurring in places, and Lena couldn't help but picture him, weakened and in pain, enduring every word.

Tears welled in her eyes as she read his words, her vision momentarily blurring. She looked away for a brief second, sniffled, and then turned back to the letter, her heart aching for him.

The words spilled onto the page, forming a poignant message filled with the essence of the man she had known. She read his words with an ache in her heart, imagining his voice as he had spoken them.

My Dearest Lena,

If you're reading this, I suppose you've found my humble offering. I can't help but recall the moments when you would leave my side, a playful charm about you as we bantered. Oh, the days of laughter, the thrill of your stubbornness. Your desire to be free, and yet, little did you know, you already were.

Stay with us, Lena. Sail the vast oceans with me. Let me show you the world, teach you to be strong so that it may match that brave spirit of yours. If this is what love is, then I'd like to believe I've found it in you.

I know this note is cryptic, but I secured this moment with the exchange of one of my jewels, and kept one hidden just for you. Shame buries me, but the will to live bought me my freedom.

 You once asked if I saw you as a woman or as treasure. I answer that you're both, Lena. While I'm away on the sea as a privateer, I'll be doing what I do best: guarding my treasure. And when the time is right, in the myriad of our seas, I’ll find you, always.

Yours forever,

Haechan

Her tears flowed freely now, dotting the letter's paper. Haechan's words painted a vivid picture in her mind, his humor and charm shining through, even in the darkest of times. She clutched the letter to her chest, her heart heavy with longing, her resolve stronger than ever.

“Quite the heartbreak.”

The unexpected voice caught Lena off guard, and she swiftly folded the letter, tucking it close to her heart, a secret she guarded fiercely. She rose from the cold floor, her movements composed and purposeful, masking the pain that throbbed within her chest. Turning slightly, she was met with the sight of a pirate in the adjacent cell, a vision of nonchalant weariness.

This pirate seemed to wear his exhaustion like a badge of honor. His knees were drawn up, arms resting casually upon them, while his hat was tilted rakishly, a crimson feather spilling languidly over the brim. His attire was a reflection of the life he had led - a loose-fitting shirt, weathered and battered, hinting at the numerous adventures and battles it had witnessed.

Lena regarded him with a raised brow, a semblance of her spirit flickering despite the turmoil within. She was used to the audacious charm of pirates, and though she longed for Haechan's genuine charm, she remained unyielding. “And you are?” she inquired, her voice poised but laced with a thread of curiosity. The man across from her seemed to exude an air of mystery and experience, an intriguing figure in this bleak setting.

When she asked who he was, he replied with a nonchalant wave and the simple declaration, “A pirate.” It was a straightforward answer, and Lena's retort mirrored the weariness she felt. “That much I can tell,” she responded, her tone tinged with a hint of sarcasm.

Leaving Haechan's cell, Lena approached the new prisoner, keeping a safe distance. He raised a hand and removed his hat, revealing his features. Dirty blonde hair, matted and disheveled, fell over his brow. With a cheeky smile that hinted at a devil-may-care attitude; his features were strong, defined by prominent cheekbones and thick brows, portraying a rugged handsomeness that had been shaped by the trials of the sea.

With a final flourish, he got up, shaking off the stiffness that came with long hours of confinement, before approaching the cell bars. He placed his hat on his chest and then executed a bow, introducing himself with a sense of theatricality. “Captain Hongjoong, madam,” he declared, his voice reflecting the cadence of one who was comfortable with such introductions, a charismatic aura radiating from his presence.

Lena's intrigued smile danced upon her lips as she responded, "And what is a fine pirate like yourself stuck here?" She gestured toward the cell, a sense of déjà vu washing over her as she recalled her own time in captivity aboard Haechan's ship, and how he would visit her.

Captain Hongjoong leaned back with a hint of amused confusion.  “A fan?” he questioned.

“One would say a sympathizer,” Lena replied, her eyes never leaving him. She watched as he moved closer to the cell bars, holding his hat beside him, his forehead resting on one of the iron bars as he peered down at her through them.

“Nah-ah, another pirate was in those cells,” he mused, his tone conspiratorial. “And how you cried seems to me you're quite more than a sympathizer.” He accentuated the word 'sympathizer,' and Lena's features shifted from intrigue to a more stern expression.

Captain Hongjoong clicked his tongue and pointed at her. “There it is,” he continued. “Let me guess, a lover? A lady of wealth falling for the rugged? A tale quite old as time, one would say.” His voice was filled with mockery, a playful yet knowing tone that suggested he had seen his fair share of such situations in the life of a pirate.

Lena, growing a bit annoyed with Captain Hongjoong's teasing, decided to shift the conversation. “What about you?” she inquired. “Where's your crew? Who's here to save you?”

Hongjoong let out a weary sigh. “Still looking for them.”

Her curiosity piqued, Lena asked, “You lost your crew?”

Hongjoong shook his head slowly. “No, I'm still waiting for the right ones.”

Lena's brow furrowed for a moment, but then understanding dawned on her. She couldn't help but release a breathy laugh. “You don't have a crew, do you?”

He rolled his eyes playfully, yet not entirely denying her assumption. “Yes, I do. They're out there somewhere, just waiting for me to scoop them up from their miserable lives.”

Lena, a hint of mockery in her tone, leaned against the wall and looked at him. “So, to whom are you a captain? Of what ship?”

Captain Hongjoong remained silent, his tongue pressed firmly against the inside of his cheek. After a brief pause, he responded with a teasing glint in his eyes. “For a lady of your class, you seem to really care.”

Lena grinned, her eyes dancing with amusement. “A sympathizer, remember?”

As their banter continued, Captain Hongjoong noticed Lena's gaze shift toward Haechan's cell, and he lazily pointed in its direction. “So what? He's dead?” he asked, his tone bordering on indifference.

Lena, her voice stiff, muttered, “Will be…” She watched as Hongjoong slowly nodded, his attention still drawn to the empty cell opposite.

Without moving his head, he cast a sidelong glance at her. “I can save him for you,” he offered, the words carrying a hint of seriousness.

Lena laughed bitterly, her fists clenching. She began walking past Hongjoong, who remained unflinching. “Don't,” she snapped.

Unmoved, Hongjoong retorted, “I'm not mocking, darling.”

She turned to him with anger in her eyes, warning him not to push further. “Don't.”

Hongjoong stepped away from the cell bars, putting his hat back on. “A pirate's promise, only ever done with another pirate,” he explained, emphasizing his sincerity.

Lena disagreed, insisting, “I'm not a pirate.”

But Hongjoong countered, “But you are.” He left her to contemplate his words, trying to find a way to challenge his statement.

She fell into a momentary silence, grappling with how to challenge his assertion. Hongjoong put both his hands behind his back, looking down for a moment before meeting her eyes again. “This is the promise: I save your lover's life for future service.”

Lena looked away, disbelief in her expression. “What kind of promise is that?”

He shrugged nonchalantly. “One that benefits you now and will benefit me later.”

Slowly, she approached him, their steps echoing in the corridor. She reached the bars and held them, watching him closely. “Why not ask for your freedom?” she questioned. 

Hongjoong, his cheeky smile still in place, leaned closer to the bars. “Because my freedom is already promised,” he replied cryptically. “So what do you say? A deal, Miss...?” He paused, silently asking for her name.

Lena cocked her head, her curiosity piqued, but she didn't press the matter further. Instead, Hongjoong extended a hand and traced his fingertips over Lena's curled ones.

With a swift movement, Lena snatched her hand away, her eyes narrowing. “Lena. And yes,” she agreed.

Hongjoong reveled in her acceptance and leaned away, still wearing a triumphant smile. “Great, then I promise to save him.”

Lena couldn't help but glance at the lock on the cell door and muttered to herself, “Now to get you out.” However, before she could proceed, Hongjoong stepped back, tossing his hat on the floor lightly. He brushed himself off while calmly saying, “That's the easy part, a little fool's act should do.” Lena looked at him in bewilderment. “What?” she inquired, not entirely sure of his plan.

Hongjoong gestured toward the entrance of the jail with a nod. “Go call your guards,” he instructed, offering a wry smile. Lena's mouth was left slightly ajar as she contemplated his request. She was about to follow his instructions when Hongjoong spoke again, “Also, Lena. No hard feelings.”

She furrowed her brows, puzzled by his statement, but she called out for the guards as he had advised. She watched anxiously as the guards came running down to the jail, a rush of anxiety surging through her. The situation was eerily reminiscent of when they had taken her from Haechan. She was about to ask Hongjoong what they should do next when she felt a searing pain in her side and her face throbbed as he pulled her harshly against the cell bars.

Lena cursed under her breath and tried to break free, yelling at Hongjoong to let go. However, he remained unyielding, keeping her pinned against the bars until the guards arrived and approached them. They yelled at Hongjoong to back away, and Lena jolted back, watching as Hongjoong eyed the keys and their holder. Suddenly, realization dawned on her. 

Hongjoong, taking advantage of the opportunity, assumed his charming Captain persona. He began apologizing profusely, trying to divert the guards' attention. But his act was cut short when one of the guards struck him across the face. Lena jumped at the sound of the impact, her heart pounding. She observed Hongjoong stumble forward, his eyes locked onto the keys hanging from the jailer's waist. Slowly, with catlike precision, he extended his hands and snaked the keys away from the unsuspecting jailer.

The guards, agitated by Hongjoong's carefree attitude and laughter, pushed him with enough force to make him collide with the cold brick wall. He winced as the impact sent a jolt of pain through his body, but to everyone's surprise, a chuckle slipped from his lips. The guards, perplexed by his nonchalant response, attempted to instigate him further, but their efforts were cut short by Lena's commanding voice.

“Guards!” Lena shouted, her tone conveying a thinly veiled annoyance. The guards turned their attention to her, and she feigned a yawn. “I would like to be escorted back to the Marquess.”

The guards nodded dutifully, acknowledging her request. However, just before they left the cell, Lena couldn't help but watch in shock as Hongjoong swiftly took them out. He moved with a graceful agility that left her almost in disbelief. She realized that he was incredibly skilled, and her perception of him shifted from a mere pirate to a capable and resourceful individual.

Hongjoong managed to disarm both guards with remarkable speed and precision, leaving them incapacitated on the ground. His actions were so fluid and swift that Lena couldn't help but be taken aback. He began to drag their unconscious bodies towards a corner of the cell. However, he suddenly halted, his attention shifting to Lena, who stood there with a mixture of shock and amusement.

He raised an eyebrow and, in his cheeky yet respectful tone, asked, “Are you going to help or not?”

Stunned for a moment, Lena blinked rapidly before recovering her wits. Without a moment's hesitation, she rushed to assist him. With silent but intense cooperation, Lena and Hongjoong managed to position the unconscious guards in the corner of the cell. It was as if they had found an unspoken rhythm between them, despite their differences in status and background. Once the guards were hidden from view, Lena turned to Hongjoong, her curiosity piqued.

“You're quite skilled,” she admitted, her voice laced with genuine surprise and admiration.

Hongjoong chuckled softly, brushing off the compliment with a self-assured shrug. “Small tricks, large consequences.”

The distant echoes of voices and footsteps outside the jail reminded Lena of the urgency of their situation. She couldn't afford to be caught helping a pirate escape, but there was no turning back now. Her mind raced as she contemplated their next moves.

As they made their way up the steps, the narrow and dimly lit passageway leading them out of the small jail, Hongjoong suddenly halted, causing Lena to stop in her tracks. His voice low and filled with urgency as he asked, “Where are they keeping the pirate you want me to save?”

Lena turned to him, her expression firm, and corrected him, “His name is Captain Canary.”

Hongjoong hesitated for a moment, his eyes narrowing as he took in her words. A sense of anticipation lingered between them as they stood there in the dimly lit corridor. Then, she continued, her voice laced with a sense of hesitancy, “He's not exactly being held. He... he gave his life to being a privateer.”

Hongjoong paused for a moment, processing her words. His eyes widened as comprehension dawned on him, and he leaned in closer to her, almost as if he couldn't believe what he was hearing. He hissed incredulously, “What!”

Lena held her index finger to his chest, trying to sound stern as she emphasized, “You already promised me his life.” Her words were punctuated with a hushed intensity, reflecting her determination and commitment to their agreement. She awaited his response, her eyes locked onto his, her heart racing with anticipation and hope.

Hongjoong's eyes bore into hers for a moment as they stood there on the stone steps, engaged in a silent battle of determination and secrets. The weight of their agreement hung heavily in the air between them, and Lena could feel the intensity of the promise they had struck.

Hongjoong pulled back slightly, his face a cocktail of emotions. He seemed to understand the gravity of his promise and the complicated circumstances surrounding it. In a low voice, he responded, “A pirate for a pirate, I suppose.”

Lena's impatience got the better of her, and she gently nudged Hongjoong's shoulder, her curiosity bubbling up. “So,” she began, her voice a mix of impatience and determination, “how do you plan to save Captain Canary?”

Hongjoong turned his head, his mind racing with possible strategies and contingencies, but he offered her only a partial answer. “Part of the plan, my dear, is for me to figure out,” he replied with a sly grin.

Lena was about to protest, her stubbornness creeping into her expression, but before she could utter a word, Hongjoong cut her off. “I don't entertain disagreements,” he declared, his tone firm but not unkind. “Our promise is built on trust, so have some.”

Frustration welled up inside Lena, but she knew that she had little choice but to trust him. Reluctantly, she nodded, her irritation palpable. Their alliance was founded on necessity, not camaraderie, and they would have to navigate it together.

As Lena led Hongjoong through the elegant yet eerily quiet corridors of the Marquess's residence, she felt a strange mix of trepidation and determination. The walls were adorned with magnificent paintings and intricate tapestries, telling stories of a lavish and privileged lifestyle that seemed a world away from her own. The marble floors beneath their feet gleamed in the soft, filtered sunlight, and the atmosphere exuded an air of silent opulence.

Lena turned to glance back at Hongjoong, her eyes searching his for assurance. “This promise is incredibly important to me,” she confessed, her voice laced with sincerity. It was a risk she was taking, trusting this pirate, but she couldn't deny the desperation that clung to her like a shadow.

Hongjoong stood for a moment in thought, then his lips curled into a sly smirk. “Are you quite sure you're not a pirate?” he quipped, his eyes dancing with amusement.

Lena rolled her eyes and continued forward. Despite her frustration with the rogueish captain, she had to admit that his audacity and charm were, at times, oddly comforting in this bizarre situation.

As Lena and Hongjoong stood pressed against the cold, opulent hallway, their hearts pounded in unison at the sound of approaching footsteps. The guards appeared just around the corner, and Lena's hastened steps caused her to bump into Hongjoong's chest. He let out a huff of annoyance as their breaths seemed to synchronize.

Lena glanced back at him, and Hongjoong discreetly mouthed 'foot' while nodding toward the ground. She looked down to find her heel resting on his foot and quietly muttered an apology as she gingerly moved away, her cheeks faintly flushed.

They remained frozen in place, eavesdropping on the guards' conversation. The first guard said, “Did you hear about the new Privateer Captain being sent north?”

The other guard leaned in, curious. “I heard. Must be important. The Marquess is desperate to have someone new in charge, but not just any new Captain. I heard it's someone close to the Marquesa herself.”

Lena's eyes widened, and she whispered to herself, “Haechan,” finally realizing they were talking about him.

The guards continued their idle gossip, one of them saying, “It's more like a punishment, you know. Nobody ever makes it out of the north. It's a place where captains go to disappear, they say.”

Lena's concern and worry were written all over her face as she turned toward Hongjoong, but to her surprise, she found his eyes widened with excitement. He muttered, “Now I know where my target is,” and before Lena could question him further, he grabbed her by the arm and pulled her close, their bodies almost touching.

They moved swiftly, emerging from the shadows to stand in front of the confused and alert guards. Lena's aggressive silence was palpable, and her eyes questioned Hongjoong's audacious actions. She could feel herself trembling from the tension of the moment, her heartbeat echoing in her ears.

However, her confusion deepened as Hongjoong's mischievous smile returned. In an unsettlingly casual tone, he addressed the guards. “Scream, and I'll slit her throat,” he said, placing a small blade at Lena's neck. The sensation sent a shiver down her spine. 

In response, the guards froze, their faces painted with a mix of shock and confusion, just as Lena's was. The threat had silenced them temporarily, and it was evident that they were trying to calculate their next move.

Through gritted teeth and with a sense of urgency, she whispered, “What are you doing?”

Hongjoong maintained a cheeky grin and whispered back, his voice dripping with playfulness, “Shh, my dear. Don't worry; I have everything under control. I don't believe the Marquess would be too thrilled to be married to a head, do you?”

Hongjoong was seemingly in control of the situation. He inquired, “Tell me where the garden is,” and the guards, still wary, pointed down a nearby corridor. His nod was curt, and he addressed the guards, “Good.” Hongjoong released Lena just enough for her to move. With her still in tow, he turned and began walking in the direction they had indicated.

The guards watched them with a mixture of anger and confusion. One of them shouted, “What are you doing with her?”

Hongjoong chuckled and called back over his shoulder, “Just taking her to the gardens for some... security measures, until I've safely left this charming little palace.”

Lena couldn't help but mutter under her breath, “Really?” She had allowed Hongjoong to hold her as a captive, trusting his audacious plan, and now it seemed to have worked, but not without consequences. The guards were alerted, and their pursuit loomed ominously in the distance.

Hongjoong couldn't help but give a faint laugh in response. “It worked, didn't it? Besides, we weren't going to be able to pass them without being caught.”

However, Lena abruptly stopped, causing Hongjoong to bump into her, and in retaliation, she stepped on his foot while simultaneously pushing his arm away from her. The blade was no longer dangerously close to her throat. His eyes flickered with a mix of pain and amusement as he winced and groaned, “Fair, fair.”

But Lena wasn't in the mood for banter at that moment. She raised an eyebrow at him and whispered harshly, “Yet now we have a whole brigade of guards after us. After you!” Her voice dripped with irritation and urgency. “I needed you to go out quietly and save him, not bring more chaos to him!" She emphasized her point with a hissed tone.

Hongjoong began walking with a slight limp, his injured foot causing him discomfort, but he nodded urgently for Lena to continue leading the way. “Good, that's what I want.”

As Lena followed Hongjoong, her face was etched with anger, and her voice carried the weight of her frustration as she questioned him, “How can that possibly be what you want?” She was determined to express her concerns, to make him understand that their hasty actions might have jeopardized the entire mission to save Haechan. But before he could answer her, their ears picked up the hurried steps of approaching maids. Without hesitation, Hongjoong pulled Lena with him into a hidden corner tucked away in the palace's vast labyrinthine corridors.

This concealed alcove was dimly lit, its walls adorned with faded tapestries and ornate decorations from a bygone era. It was a compact space, just enough for the two of them to press themselves against the wall, their breaths shallow and hearts pounding as they strained to listen to the passing footsteps.

Lena barely had room to breathe as they huddled together in the tight space. Hongjoong, his irritation palpable, hissed at her, "Lena! Seriously, think about it. The Marquess is desperate. I've only seen Canary twice, and both times he was at the brink of death. That means they're losing the war. If it wasn't for the Marquess's desperation, your Captain would have been long gone. You don't become a Privateer because you're liked; you have something of value. Other than that, we're rats of the sea to the crown and its high-maintenance children."

In the dimly lit alcove, Lena tried to wrap her head around Hongjoong's explanation. Her eyes held a glimmer of understanding, but something gnawed at her, leading her to question, “But why bring me with you? I could have distracted the guards for you while you escaped.” Her voice held a trace of frustration; she was still grappling with the unanticipated turn of events.

Hongjoong continued to tilt his head to check if it was safe to proceed. “Because I have a plan, which requires you,” he stated, turning his focus back to her. He met her eyes with a determined expression. “But for it to work, we need to make it to the sea. And worse, I need a ship and a crew.”

Lena frowned, still pointedly annoyed. “Which you don't have,” she retorted.

Hongjoong looked back at her, his expression impatient, and his words were hissed through gritted teeth. “Yes, I'm aware, Lena.” Their conversation fell into a strained silence as they contemplated their next move.

It was then that Lena's thoughts drifted towards a potential solution. Her eyes sparkled with an idea as she spoke up, “I know of a crew in need of a Captain. They have a great ship, ready to sail.”

In the safety of the concealed alcove, Hongjoong checked one last time to ensure they were not being pursued by any guards. With a nod of assurance, he declared that it was time for them to make their escape.

As they ventured into the outdoor garden, the stark contrast between the fresh air now and the stifling confinement she had grown accustomed to was palpable. The garden lay before them, bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight. It was a sanctuary of vibrant colors, with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The gentle rustling of leaves and the subtle fragrance of the flora set an entirely different tone from Lena's previous visits with the Marquess.

Hongjoong turned to Lena, asking, “Where do we go from here?” She recollected a conversation she'd had with the gardeners who mentioned that children occasionally sneaked into the garden through one of the broken spots in the wrought-iron gates. She pointed in the direction they should head.

Nodding in agreement, Hongjoong led the way, and Lena followed closely behind, weaving between the strategically placed trees and concealing themselves behind bushes as they went. They were on the lookout for the rumored broken spot in the gates, and soon, Hongjoong let out a small 'aha' when he found it.

Just as they located the weak point in the garden's boundary, they heard the rapid approach of numerous guards converging on the garden. Time was of the essence. They swiftly navigated the broken section in the gate, and Lena, struggling with her cumbersome day gown, was noticeably hindered. Hongjoong muttered under his breath about the need to dispose of the dress, and then he extended his assistance, helping her through the opening with a touch of urgency.

With a sense of urgency still pressing upon them, Lena and Hongjoong managed to distance themselves from the palace, finding a secluded spot where they could pause for a moment to catch their breath. The tension from their escape lingered, and they both recognized that they were far from being in the clear.

Hongjoong, ever resourceful, took off his coat and offered it to Lena, recognizing that her day gown would make her stand out conspicuously on the city streets. He said, “You'll draw too much attention in that dress. This will at least provide some cover.” She accepted the coat gratefully and draped it over herself, though her gown still peeked out from underneath in places.

As they continued through the winding streets of the city, Hongjoong glanced at Lena and remarked, “Now, to meet that crew of yours.” Lena couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope, knowing that reuniting with the crew could provide a ray of light. That’s if they held no resentment towards her.

~

Lena guided Hongjoong through the labyrinthine streets of the city, her steps retracing the path she had once walked with Haechan. The familiarity of the route brought both nostalgia and sorrow. Her heart ached as she recalled how different everything felt back then, a time when the world was full of unknown adventures and the horizon stretched infinitely before her.

The sense of foreboding and predetermined fate gnawed at her as she walked beside Hongjoong. Uncertainty loomed, and while the unknown terrified her, the alternative, which had been imposed upon her, frightened her even more.

As she walked, she couldn't help but drift into the vivid memories of Haechan – his radiant smile, his voice filled with charm and mischief. She missed his infectious charisma and the warmth that always seemed to radiate from him. Each thought of him, the touch of his hand, his laughter, felt like a fading ember in her heart.

As they neared the pier where she remembered the ship being anchored, Lena's thoughts slowly returned to the present. The scene that unfolded around them was a vibrant spectacle of colors and sounds. Crowds of people bustled along the bustling promenade, mingling with vendors selling an array of street food, from steaming dumplings to fragrant roasted chestnuts. The salty scent of the sea drifted on the breeze, mixed with the tantalizing aroma of grilled fish.

Stalls selling exotic wares and trinkets lined the cobblestone streets, tempting tourists with their displays of intricate jewelry and vibrant fabrics. The waterfront was abuzz with activity, and Lena led Hongjoong through the vibrant crowd as they approached the pier. The large, imposing hull of the ship awaited them, the  masts rising tall against the blue sky.

Her eyes fell on Renjun, a familiar and reassuring sight. He sat on a small crate, leaning against a wooden pillar, his black hat tilted just enough to shield his eyes from the sun's harsh glare. The memories of their first encounter played in her mind, and she couldn't help but use their humorous exchange once again.

“Do you mind sharing a word with a whore?” Lena playfully quipped, a mischievous smile on her face. She knew their interactions were often brief and curt, Renjun's responses limited to grunts or piercing glances. Yet despite their seemingly frosty relationship, there was an unspoken familiarity between them that brought her a sense of comfort.

Renjun responded with a small, knowing grin, fully aware of the jest, but he had an edge to his tone as he replied, “No, but with a dirty noble? Yes.”

Lena noticed the shift in his demeanor as his smile waned, and he turned away to walk toward the ship. Hongjoong chuckled softly behind her, and Lena glanced back at him, rolling her eyes. She followed Renjun as he led the way, her eyes occasionally darting to the ship, hoping to catch a glimpse of any familiar faces among the crew.

She called out to Renjun, her voice filled with genuine remorse, “I'm sorry, alright! I didn't know I was going to bring this much trouble. Allow me to at least—” She was about to continue her plea when he interrupted her with a shout, still striding toward the ship, “I said no. But I'm sure Mark won't deny you the audience.”

The mention of Mark stirred a whirlwind of emotions within Lena. She quickened her pace to catch up with Renjun, her footsteps echoing on the wooden plank as they climbed aboard the ship, her eyes searching for Mark among the familiar faces of the crew.

As Hongjoong followed Lena onto the ship, he couldn't help but whistle in evident appreciation of the impressive vessel. The ship was a work of art, a testament to the craftsmanship of the crew who maintained and sailed it. Its grandeur and history were palpable, and it elicited admiration from anyone who beheld it.

However, as Lena and Hongjoong stepped further onto the ship, they were met with a stark change in atmosphere. The crew, once a close-knit and jovial group, had stopped their activities and gathered around them, creating a circle that closed them in. Lena could feel the intense gazes from all directions, their eyes burning with a mixture of curiosity, suspicion, and something she couldn't quite define.

She followed Renjun as he made his way into the crowd, but it became evident that she wasn't welcome to venture any further into the heart of the ship. It was as if an invisible boundary had been set, one that she was not permitted to cross. She felt the weight of their collective stare, and despite having been picked at by them before with these same crew members when she had posed as their cabin boy, the current looks they directed at her felt vastly different.

Chenle's voice cut through the silence, offering a glimpse into the crew's sentiment. “Don't bother explaining, Jeno told us the story.”

Feeling exposed and vulnerable, Lena tightened Hongjoong's coat around her for comfort, her fingers clutching the fabric as she tried to combat the nervousness and uncertainty that threatened to overtake her. She stood frozen, acutely aware that her presence on the ship was met with an entirely different reception than before.

Feeling exposed and vulnerable, Lena tightened Hongjoong's coat around her for comfort, her fingers clutching the fabric as she tried to combat the nervousness and uncertainty that threatened to overtake her. She stood frozen, acutely aware that her presence on the ship was met with an entirely different reception than before.

As the crew continued to cast judgmental and mistrustful glances upon her, Hongjoong, ever the charismatic and confident pirate captain, seemed unfazed. He stood by Lena's side, providing a buffer against the sea of scrutiny. A sense of encouragement emanated from him, and though his presence couldn't entirely alleviate her discomfort, it provided a measure of reassurance in this unfamiliar and unwelcoming environment.

In this tense and charged atmosphere, Hongjoong decided to step slightly closer to Lena. As he did, she felt the gentle brush of his leg behind hers, a discreet and subtle show of solidarity. His proximity was a reminder that they were in this together, facing the crew's collective disapproval as a united front.

With a voice just above a whisper, he addressed her, his words carrying a blend of support and pragmatism. “They can hate you, darling. But at least make it count.” The advice was a mixture of defiance and wisdom, reminding Lena that her presence had ruffled feathers but that she could still command respect through her actions.

As the crew stared her down with a mix of skepticism and distrust, Lena maintained her composure. She gripped the coat more firmly, a metaphorical shield in the face of their disapproving scrutiny. When she called for Mark, she couldn't help but feel the tension in the air grow more palpable. It was evident that her presence had caused quite a stir among the crew, and they seemed to relish watching her discomfort.

Mark's slow and deliberate approach signaled his dominance within the group. As he appeared, his arms crossed over his chest, and Lena met his gaze with a sense of resolve. The memories of their interactions came flooding back – his earlier discouragement about her efforts to win over Captain Canary, contrasted with his moments of gentleness when she'd been injured.

Their silence, however, was fleeting as Mark's gaze shifted to the newcomer, Hongjoong, who stood beside Lena with an air of nonchalance. His casual demeanor was striking and seemingly impervious to the hostile atmosphere.

Mark's voice cut through the tension. “Who's this?” he inquired. Lena observed as Mark's gaze bore down on Hongjoong, and from the corner of her eye, she noticed the nod that Mark gave the newcomer. Her heart quickened as she wondered what would transpire next.

Lena stepped aside and gestured toward Hongjoong, making her intention clear. “I came to make a proposition.”

Mark's laughter washed over her, and his reply carried a sense of authority mixed with amusement. “You owe us a Captain, remember?”

Undeterred, Lena allowed a hint of a smile to play on her lips. “I brought you one.”

Mark scrutinized the man Lena had brought forward, sizing him up. Meanwhile, Hongjoong adopted a playful and charismatic demeanor, twirling slowly and posing for the crew, a striking contrast to the palpable tension that hung in the air. Lena was awed by his composure, his ability to turn almost any situation to his advantage.

Mark, however, returned his attention to Lena, his tone laced with skepticism. “I meant our Captain. The one you got thrown in jail.”

With unwavering confidence, Hongjoong moved closer to Mark, addressing the matter directly. “You see, the thing is, that I will be your Captain. Because I plan to save yours.”

Mark's gaze remained fixed on Lena, his skepticism evident.

Jaemin interjected from the edge of the group, munching on a bowl of berries. “We don't need you.”

But Hongjoong, ever the cunning orator, was quick to respond. “But you do,” he began, undeterred. “Or else you would have had another Captain by now. I mean, you're not sailess. You clearly have quite the ship and crew to man it. So my assumptions are either this.” He paused, then walked past Mark, his words carrying him to the center of the crew. “One, you all have terrible attachment issues with this Captain Canary of yours. Maybe as charming as the Prince of Veros since he clearly has a noble lady and a crew trying to save him from death. Or, the better one I like to envision, you all couldn't decide who to follow. Quite the fun to watch all the chaos unfold, I must say.”

With his inquisitive demeanor, Hongjoong captured the attention of the crew and Mark. He didn't shy away from challenging the crew's dynamics and the underlying reasons for their current predicament. It was an audacious move, but one that showed his determination to become their leader.

Mark, after listening to Hongjoong, turned his attention back to Lena, his expression still expectant. “What's in it for her?”

Hongjoong was quick to respond, acknowledging the role Lena played. “Her and I made a promise, a deal of sorts,” he said with a nod toward Lena. He smiled, a genuine expression of their shared understanding. “But she's here to play bait.”

The tension in the air was palpable as Lena confronted Hongjoong. She refused the idea of becoming bait, worried about the consequences it might bring. Her voice was firm as she declared, “What? No.”

Hongjoong, with an exasperated sigh and a hint of sarcasm, replied, “Bait. Yes.”

Lena's frustration grew, and she tried to make him see the consequences. “If you take me with you, you'll have the guards and privateers after you—”

He cut her off with a dismissive tone, “Which, who is one now?”

Lena's realization hit her like a sudden wave. “Haechan…”

Lena blinked, absorbing the complexity of his plan. “So you're bringing him to us?”

Hongjoong nodded, his eyes gleaming with a cunning scheme. He then turned to Mark, delivering the harsh truth. “But the only casualty to this mess is you. He'll be forced to bring down his own ship, arrest, and perhaps kill his own crew.” He shifted his gaze back to Lena, his voice lowered to a whisper. “Quite the irony, isn't it? His freedom and all, for your life and the death of what he's known. But I'll be generous and save you from being captured, disappear with him if you want.”

The conversation had turned into a complicated web of strategy, promises, and personal stakes. Hongjoong's wild eyes and wicked smirk suggested that he relished the intricacies of the plan he had devised.

Hongjoong looked away from Lena, his gaze focused on the crew as he laid out their options. “Or you know, let him live with his decision and fight amongst yourselves about who gets to be Captain of this stunning vessel. Or I'll do you one better, adopt me as your Captain. As you can see, I'm quite good at what I do,” he glanced down at Lena again, “And an honorable man at that. Well, honorable as a pirate can be.”

Silence descended upon the crew as they grappled with the choices that lay ahead. Lena stepped away from Hongjoong, feeling numbed by the weight of it all. Her gaze swept across the faces of the crew, wearied and apprehensive. When her eyes met Mark's stern look at Hongjoong, and Renjun's nonchalant demeanor, the gravity of their situation became abundantly clear.

Lena noticed that the sun had started to lower on the horizon, casting the sky in a warm golden hue. Memories of Haechan and their moments at the beach crossed her mind, and she realized the profound significance of this crew to him. Haechan had always shown loyalty to the crew, even risking his life as a child to protect Chenle. With a sense of distress, she turned her gaze to Hongjoong, who stood there patiently, waiting.

“You trapped us,” Lena said, her voice filled with the weight of their predicament.

Hongjoong shook his head and began walking towards the wooden bridge, passing by Mark as he spoke. “I didn't. I just laid out the truth for all of you. As hard as it was to get to this point, we can easily unravel this matter neatly. Lena,” he addressed her, “you can go back to your life with the Marquess, say the pirate who took you left you alone on the streets. And I'll go on my merry way, leaving this crew to figure out their problems. We can all act as if this never happened, as if Captain Canary was a ghost.”

Jaemin, previously silent, finally spoke up, “But you know that won't happen.”

Hongjoong leaned against the railing with a cunning smile, acknowledging Jaemin's point. "Exactly."

Lena watched, troubled and perplexed, as Hongjoong continued. “Oh, stop the moping,” he admonished. “I said he'd have to do those things; it doesn't mean that they will happen. You're all pirates; steal your captain back before things get worse.”

The options laid before them seemed like a labyrinth of choices, each with its own consequences. The crew was faced with the challenge of saving their Captain while grappling with the uninvited intrusion of a new pirate, Hongjoong.

“So, where's the Captain's Quarters? I'd like to see where I'll be lodging,” Hongjoong asked casually.

As Hongjoong directed his question to Mark, the crew fell into an anticipatory silence, waiting for their quartermaster's response. The air was thick with tension, and all eyes were on Mark as if he held the key to their next steps. Jaemin's footsteps creaked as he walked to the center of the scene, giving a piercing glare at Hongjoong.

“Over my body,” Jaemin declared coldly, his gaze unwavering on the new intruder. “You'll be staying with the crew.”

Then he turned his gaze to Lena, and the bitterness in his tone was evident. “You'll be staying in the Captain's Quarters. I'm sure he'd want that,” he said, his words sharp and deliberate. Jaemin didn't seem pleased with any of this.

Jaemin addressed the crew, his demeanor firm. “Let's set sail for the north then. We've been in this damn town long enough.”

Lena glanced over at Hongjoong, who seemed amused by the situation. He wore a subtle smile, stood straight, and then walked towards the two quartermasters, making a comment on their dual roles, "Two quartermasters… I can see why the choice is hard." With that, he proceeded below deck, leaving Lena, Mark, and Jaemin standing in his wake.

When she turned to face the two quartermasters, they both had their arms crossed and narrow glares fixed upon her.

Lena, her voice breathy and laden with regret, sighed, “Boys…”

Mark's tone remained serious as he asserted, “This doesn't excuse anything.”

Jaemin, after eyeing her up and down, chuckled mirthlessly, “I don't see what the Captain is so in love with.” With that comment, he turned and walked away, leaving Lena and Mark standing there.

Lena attempted to apologize, “Sorry—”

But she was cut short by Mark rolling his eyes, his irritation palpable, and he followed Jaemin, leaving Lena to contemplate the complex web of circumstances that had brought her here.

~

Lena gradually stirred from her slumber, the soft warmth of morning sunlight trickling through the small window. She was still nestled on Haechan's bed, the sheets enveloping her like a cocoon. As her senses awakened, the first thing she noticed was the lingering scent of him on the sheets, a blend of the sea, his cologne, and something indefinably comforting. The room had its own distinct fragrance, too, a mix of salt, wood, and adventure, and she couldn't help but smile as she recalled the time she'd gifted some of Gus's cookies to Haechan. He had been truly surprised by the gesture, and she remembered the way his eyes had softened in gratitude. It was then she wondered when he had started falling for her, the thought tucked away in her mind like a secret.

With a sense of curiosity, she reached beneath her corset and retrieved the folded letter and the ring. The ring slipped onto her finger comfortably, and she held the paper with both hands, her fingers gently caressing the folded edges. She studied the two symbols of their connection and wondered how he felt, recalling his words from the letter: ‘If this is what love is, then I'd like to believe I've found it in you.’ As Lena's gaze wandered, she pondered when exactly Haechan had begun falling for her.

With a thoughtful sigh, Lena contemplated when she herself had fallen for Haechan. Her love, she realized, had grown gradually, like a delicate bud blossoming into a vibrant flower, and she suspected his journey had been just as intricate.

Pushing herself to sit up, Lena's eyes met her reflection in the mirror. Her hair had become unruly, with loose strands framing her face, free from the careful arrangement of the maids. Her once-pristine gown had now accumulated smudges, dirt, and grass stains from her adventures across Canoga. It dragged at the hem, bearing the signs of being dragged through the city.

Like a well-practiced routine, she placed the letter on the bed, her hands working to unfasten her corset. She felt the fabric's grip on her loosen, and the skirt's weight began to ease. With practiced motions, she slipped out of the dress, revealing her undergarments. The garments hung slightly loose, a contrast to the snug fit of her corset. She scanned the room, her eyes settling on a chest that contained some of Haechan's clothing.

As she rummaged through the chest, she retrieved a pair of breeches and a linen shirt, both a little oversized since they were men's clothes. Dressing in them was slightly awkward, but she felt a sense of closeness to Haechan in these garments, as if he were embracing her from afar. The breeches hung loose around her hips, and the shirt draped over her frame, leaving a lingering sense of his presence. Lastly, tucking her blue pendant beneath the blouse. She quickly donned the attire and felt a strange mix of emotions. The clothes carried the comforting scent of Haechan, evoking both giddiness and a hint of teariness. The feeling of his presence in these clothes was a bittersweet reminder of his absence.

Lena attempted to comb through her hair with her fingers but soon gave up, realizing it was a futile endeavor. She sighed and decided to leave her hair as it was, accepting that perfection in appearance was the least of her concerns at the moment.

As Lena stepped out onto the main deck, the brightness of the sun momentarily blinded her. The wooden planks beneath her feet reverberated with the lively activity of the crew. The distinct scent of saltwater, mingling with the musky aroma of the ship, hung in the air. The ship seemed like a living entity, a bustling community with its own rules and rhythms.

The crew members were scattered throughout the deck, hard at work. Some were raising sails high into the azure sky, while others were scrubbing the wooden planks, their backs glistening with sweat. The atmosphere was a blend of focused dedication and the harmony of working together toward a common goal. The distinct creaking of the ship's structure and the occasional call of the seagulls completed the symphony of the seas.

As Lena made her way towards Hongjoong, she passed Jeno, who seemed to be lost in his own thoughts. She attempted a friendly smile, but Jeno walked past her with a hint of annoyance, as if he couldn't be bothered.

Straightening herself, Lena ascended the steps that led to the elevated part of the ship, her attention focused on Hongjoong and the man beside him. Jisung held onto the ship's wheel with determination, his eyes locked on the vast expanse of the sea, seemingly trying to ignore the man beside him.

Hongjoong, ever the charming captain, immediately greeted her with a half-eaten plate of food. “Lena! Wonderful to see you. I got you breakfast,” he announced with a bright smile.

Lena inspected the food, her brow furrowing. “More like saved what was left,” she muttered, scrunching her nose in response to the meal's rather unappetizing appearance.

As she turned her attention to Jisung, she found him chuckling. She faced him, addressing the question that hung in the air, “Are you mad at me too?”

He glanced down at her with a hint of amusement in his eyes, which softened the stern facade he had initially presented. “Mad at you? Nah, not really,” he replied, his voice gruff but not unkind.

Lena let out a sigh of relief. She had a peculiar fondness for Jisung, the man with the silent strength and a steadfast presence on the ship. Knowing he harbored no ill feelings towards her brought a sense of comfort.

On the other hand, Hongjoong, the charismatic captain, flashed her a charming grin, unfazed by her less-than-enthusiastic reaction to the half-eaten meal. “Don't mind the presentation; it's the flavor that counts,” he assured her with a wink.

Lena's lips curved into a small smile in response to his playful nature. She might not fully trust him yet, but there was something about Hongjoong's demeanor that was infectious. He radiated confidence and a magnetic charisma that was hard to resist.

Lena's lips curved into a small smile in response to his playful nature. She might not fully trust him yet, but there was something about Hongjoong's demeanor that was infectious. He radiated confidence and a magnetic charisma that was hard to resist.

Lena took a bite from the half-eaten meal, her eyes fixed on Hongjoong as he stood there with his easy charm and playful demeanor. It was a strange contrast to the tense atmosphere that had surrounded her ever since she set foot on the pirate ship. Hongjoong responded with a slight bow and a grin, clearly unfazed by her reluctance to eat. The bite turned out to be surprisingly flavorful, which brought a small, surprised smile to Lena's face.

With a mouthful of food, she mustered the words to ask the question that had been nagging at her since the morning. “Why not wait for Captain Canary to catch up with us at the harbor?” Her tone carried a hint of curiosity as she sought to understand their strategy better.

Hongjoong glanced at her, the sunlight catching in his eyes, making them twinkle. He leaned against the ship's railing, considering her question. “At sea, we have an advantage,” he explained, his voice low and measured. “On land, we'd be outnumbered and overwhelmed by soldiers sent to capture us. Trust me; this is the safer option.”

Lena nodded, processing his answer. It made sense. She followed up with another question, her curiosity getting the better of her. “Then why sail north? We could have gone anywhere, yet you've chosen to sail toward the war zone.”

Hongjoong exhaled, looking weary for the first time. “It puts more pressure on the Marquess to come for us,” he said, frustration creeping into his tone. “I doubt he'd want his wife in the middle of a war zone. It's a gambit, you see.”

She handed him the plate, realization dawning on her. “You're sailing us into the war zone?”

Hongjoong stepped away from the helm, shaking his head, a hint of irritation in his eyes. He began descending the steps to the main deck, and Lena followed him, her tone incredulous. “You're insane! What kind of a plan is that?”

But before she could finish her protest, Hongjoong raised both hands and cut her off. “Not exactly, but close enough to give the illusion,” he said, turning to face her with a wry smile. “Sometimes, it takes a little bit of madness to outwit the cunning.”

Lena was about to retaliate against Hongjoong's daring plan, ready to voice her concerns with all the frustration that had built up since her arrival on the pirate ship. But before she could utter a word, Jisung's voice cut through the tense atmosphere, a scream of warning about a Navy ship approaching. The sudden announcement sent a shiver down Lena's spine, and the entire crew seemed to freeze momentarily.

Mark quickly took charge and ordered the crew to execute their plan, and at that moment, Lena's disbelief gave way to fear. She whipped her head around to look at Hongjoong with wide, horrified eyes, her voice trembling as she stuttered, “What... What's going to happen now?”

Hongjoong, on the other hand, shared a look of excitement with her, and his hands clapped together once as he declared, “Right on time.” He turned to walk toward one of the crates tucked beside the walls of the Captain's quarters, retrieving a length of rope as he did so. With the rope in hand, he raised his voice to address the crew. “Alright, everyone, perky and angry, please! Give them a show!”

Still bewildered, Lena began to step back as Hongjoong slowly approached her. She watched the chaos unfolding around her, unable to fully comprehend the situation, and she continued to move away from Hongjoong, asking him what he was doing. He simply responded, “Playing my part.”

As he drew closer, Lena continued to retreat, her heart pounding as she realized her back was now against the main mast. Panic began to set in, and her eyes flicked toward the coiled rope.

“No, absolutely not,” Lena protested, her voice laced with defiance. “I won't be tied to the ship. What if something goes wrong?”

Hongjoong gave an exasperated huff and rolled his eyes. “Please, Lena,” he retorted, shaking his head, “they're all risking their lives. I don't see why you can't comply with this.”

“Because if something happens, I'm strapped to the damn ship! That's why!” Lena exclaimed, her voice trembling with fear and frustration. She met Hongjoong's gaze with a stern and determined expression, making her resistance clear.

Hongjoong let out a dismissive sound and shrugged his shoulders. “Trust me, you're the safest one here,” he assured her as he began to untangle the rope. “Just play the damsel in distress; the rest of us have taken care of the more difficult parts.”

Lena uttered his name in a low, menacing tone, but ultimately, she remained in place, glaring at him with resentment and worry. As Hongjoong continued to tie her to the mast, Lena couldn't help but dwell on the unpredictability of their situation, and the reality of her playing a role in this high-stakes pirate charade sunk in.

Lena found herself tethered to the main mast, her back pressed against the weathered wood, as Hongjoong loomed over her. His presence was inescapable, and his arm rested above her head as the other rested on his hip. He leaned closer, his face mere inches from hers, and she could feel the warmth of his breath brushing against her forehead.

“Tell me,” Hongjoong began, his voice low and tinged with intrigue, “are you sure you're still not a pirate, Lena?”

Their proximity was almost suffocating, and Lena's heart raced as she looked up at him. Irritated and perplexed by his persistence, she asked, “Why do you keep asking me that?”

Hongjoong's gaze remained locked onto her, and his fingers traced a path over her cheek. His touch sent shivers down her spine, and his words resonated deep within her. “Because no one chooses to be a pirate,” he explained, his voice low and filled with a strange kind of wisdom. “It happens like a calling, good or bad measures will always drift you back to the sea.”

Lena remained silent, absorbing his words as they settled into her thoughts. She gazed up at him through her lashes, allowing the gravity of his words to wash over her. His fingers continued their journey, grazing the corner and bottom of her lip, and he chuckled. “It's a damn shame you're infatuated with him,” he remarked. “It would have been fun to recruit you onto my crew.”

As Hongjoong leaned away from Lena, she was left bound to the mast, her thoughts in turmoil. His cryptic words hung in the air like a lingering promise of adventure. The entire ship buzzed with activity, the crew going about their roles with fervor as they prepared for the impending confrontation with the Navy ship.

As the minutes passed, the commotion on the ship grew louder. The crew had done an impressive job of transforming the atmosphere, becoming rowdy and animated, their voices echoing across the sea. Lena couldn't see the approaching Navy ship from her tied position, but she could sense the rising tension and excitement in the air.

Lena's gaze remained fixed on the horizon. She couldn't help but wonder about the consequences of her choices and the unpredictable future that lay ahead. The scent of salt and brine, the feel of the wind against her skin, and the sound of the waves crashing against the ship's hull were now tainted by the sense of danger that had infiltrated her life.

She felt the ship shift slightly as it adjusted its course. The creaking of wood, the tautness of the ropes, and the rhythmic thud of footsteps all contributed to the cacophony of a pirate's life. Despite her current predicament, there was a part of Lena that felt strangely at home among this raucous crew.

The tension in the air was palpable as the approaching Navy ship became more distinct with each passing moment. Lena strained against her restraints, desperation taking over as her heart pounded in her chest. She didn't want violence; she didn't want anyone to get hurt.

Beside her, Hongjoong remained strangely calm, his gaze locked on the distant ship. He spoke quietly, almost to himself, saying, “There she is.” Lena strained to catch a glimpse of the ship but couldn't turn her head enough to see. Instead, she faced the empty sea before her, her heart heavy with anxiety.

As the sound of the Navy ship drew nearer, the crew's stillness became more pronounced. Lena could sense the fear in their eyes and the trepidation in the air. Her desperation grew with every passing second. She didn't want anyone to die, especially not for her sake. She just wanted to save Haechan and bring him back safely.

In a moment of despair, Lena turned her gaze to Hongjoong, who stood beside her, facing the other way. She called out to him, her voice trembling with fear and urgency. "Please, don't let them die." She knew she couldn't bear the weight of knowing that her choices had led to tragedy.

Hongjoong didn't move, but he turned to look at her, a smile on his lips. With a calm, almost dismissive demeanor, Hongjoong replied, “I'm not the person you should be praying that to.” His words hung heavy in the tense air, and Lena felt a shiver of dread run down her spine as she awaited the impending confrontation with the Navy ship, hoping for a way to save Haechan and her newfound pirate companions.

Lena's heart was pounding like a drum, and she could feel the beads of sweat forming on her forehead. The tension in the air was almost suffocating as Hongjoong faced the approaching Navy ship, addressing the famous Captain Canary. Her tied position left her straining to see and hear every word exchanged between the two captains.

Hongjoong's voice sounded both respectful and playful as he greeted Haechan, his words dripping with charm. “If it isn't the famous man himself. Captain Canary,” he said, inclining his head ever so slightly, “it's a pleasure to meet you in better circumstances than last time.” The seconds felt like minutes as Lena awaited Haechan's response.

The moments felt like an eternity as Lena strained to hear Haechan's response to Hongjoong's address. She was tied to the mast, unable to move, with a growing sense of unease as she waited for his voice to break the silence. And then, there it was, Haechan's voice, a familiar yet distant sound that made her heart flutter.

Finally, his voice rang out over the deck, making Lena gulp quietly. “Where is she?” Haechan's voice was sharp and to the point.

Hongjoong leaned away from the mast, his silhouette coming into view as he took a few steps back, positioning himself in front of Lena. He raised a mocking eyebrow and moved closer to her, letting his fingers trace the curve of her chin. “Oh, the Marquessa?” Hongjoong's tone was smug, as he teased, “Quite the exquisite piece.”

Haechan's voice was unwavering as he continued to assert, “Hand her over, and we'll let you go.”

Hongjoong seemed to consider the proposal but ultimately shook his head. He began to untie the ropes binding Lena, and as they dropped to the deck, he grabbed her by the arm and swiftly turned her so her back was against his chest. He wrapped his hand around her neck, and Lena felt a mix of fear and anger as she was used as a pawn in the negotiation.

His voice conveyed a dark and daring proposal as he addressed Haechan, “You see, I wish I could do that, but I made a promise to my new crew. You for their loyalty. So I'll make you this deal…” With her back still against Hongjoong's chest, Lena gazed out toward the approaching Navy ship. It was close now, and she could see Haechan standing as a Captain, surrounded by his soldiers.

The scene unfolded before her in vivid detail. The Navy ship, soldiers in their uniforms, the flags fluttering in the wind. It was a surreal moment, and Lena's heart ached with the complexity of emotions. Her gaze met Haechan's, and she searched for any sign of softness in his expression, but it remained cold and resolute.

She clung to Hongjoong, hoping that his plan would unfold as he had promised, and that they would find a way to rescue Haechan without bloodshed.

As Hongjoong gently grazed her neck with his fingers and positioned his face beside her neck, he posed the question to Haechan, his voice filled with a mix of challenge and intrigue. “So, what do you say, Captain Canary? How much do you value your life, for hers?”

Lena watched Haechan with bated breath, her gaze unwavering, searching for a sign, any sign, that would give away his answer. Her hope was for those soft eyes she had grown accustomed to, to be focused on her, but they remained cold and stern. Haechan shifted his gaze from Hongjoong to the rest of the crew, and he spoke with determination, ensuring his words reached every ear. “I was your Captain, and I know you all the best. Would you really play killers to an innocent and then die for it? If you want my head, you'll have to rip every limb from me, and even then, I'd fight. That's if you can even get past them.” He nodded toward the uniformed men standing behind him.

Lena and the entire crew watched in tense silence, and she couldn't help but wonder how they were interpreting his words. Did they feel disgust at his defiance, or did they believe in his unwavering resolve? Lena herself chose to believe that under the veneer of authority, there was a man who was chained by fear.

Haechan's gaze shifted from the horizon to Hongjoong and the crew, and he inhaled deeply. Lena watched the rise and fall of his chest, her heart pounding with anticipation. When he finally spoke, his voice remained cold and resolute, “I'm not here to play cat and mouse, and I'd rather not be given the role of executioner for you. So, hand her over, before I make a move.”

The tingling of fear washed over Lena, and her mind began to race. Haechan's words were convincing, and she could feel the crew's hesitation. But deep down, her intuition told her not to believe everything he was saying. She had learned to tread carefully around Haechan's actions and words, and her instincts were guiding her to a different truth.

Lena looked up at Hongjoong, who suddenly burst into laughter, his body shaking with hers. She felt the grip of his fingers on her jaw and cheeks, and he placed a soft kiss on her temple. In a hushed whisper, he reassured her, “Don't be afraid.” Lena's heart raced as he let out a long, sharp whistle, and a thunderous bang echoed through the air, causing the ship to shudder. She almost lost her balance, clinging to Hongjoong for support, her eyes widening in realization that he had signaled for the cannons to fire.

The chaos that followed was like a storm, cannons blasting, smoke and debris filling the air, and the world around them descending into chaos. Lena held on tightly to Hongjoong, a whirlwind of emotions and actions unfolding before her, all hinging on the dangerous gamble they had just played.

The deafening chaos engulfed them as Lena clung to the mast for dear life, her voice lost amidst the thunderous roar of cannon fire, the shouts of the crew, and the piercing shots of pistols. Her fear escalated as she called out to Hongjoong, her voice laced with desperation and anger, “What have you done! We'll both die! This isn't a rescue but a suicide, Hongjoong!”

Hongjoong's grip on her remained firm, his expertise helping her find a more secure hold on the swaying mast as he made space between them, his eyes darting to a saber that had landed beside their feet. He swiftly picked it up, his voice filled with a reckless sense of excitement, “Oh, this is just the fun part of the rescue. Don't be such a pessimist.”

Lena glared at him, her grip on the mast tightening as she fought against the rocking ship. Gunfire and chaos surrounded them, and she yelped every time a pistol went off. Her eyes darted to the scene unfolding before her, the intensity of the battle playing out in vivid detail.

The deck was a frenzy of motion, with pirates and soldiers clashing in fierce combat. The familiar faces of the crew had transformed into warriors, their movements quick and precise. Jeno exhibited his exceptional swordsmanship as he parried blows and countered with precision. His face was a mask of determination, sweat-soaked, and hair disheveled. A force to be reckoned with as his saber danced through the air as he engaged in a fierce duel with a soldier. Mark, who had been stern and unyielding, was battling two soldiers at once, his determination shining through as he parried and struck with practiced skill.

Chenle, the young man she’d danced with just a few weeks ago, displayed a surprising ferocity as he fended off an opponent much larger than him, his agility and determination on full display. Lena's gaze shifted to Renjun, the crew member who had been cold and indifferent to her, but now he fought with an intensity that bordered on ruthless. His eyes were like ice as he dispatched a soldier with a quick, deadly strike. Jaemin's sharpshooting skills were evident, as he fired his pistol with uncanny precision.

The air was filled with the acrid smell of gunpowder, the loud cracks of firearms, and the clash of steel against steel. The deck was slick with spilled blood and saltwater, making every step treacherous. The sea raged around them, adding to the pandemonium of battle, its waves rocking the ship violently.

Lena clung to the mast, her heart pounding, her eyes darting from one figure to the next, hoping to see signs of victory and survival amidst the fray. The stakes were high, and their fate hung in the balance, as the fight raged on, painting the deck with blood and saltwater.

The battle raged on, the deafening clamor and chaos of combat engulfing the ship. Lena's heart pounded as she clung to the mast, her wide eyes taking in the brutal scenes before her. As she watched the crew, her heart ached with fear and a growing sense of dread. The once familiar faces now bore expressions of determination and ferocity, each crew member locked in a life-and-death struggle against the soldiers of the Navy.

In the midst of the chaotic battle, with the deafening sounds of combat ringing in their ears, Lena strained to hear the conversation between Hongjoong and Haechan as the two captains faced each other. Her heart raced, and fear coursed through her veins as she clung to the mast, helpless to influence the outcome of this dire situation.

Haechan's voice was cold and unwavering as he confronted Hongjoong, “You'll regret this. Surrender now, and perhaps we can end this without more bloodshed.”

Hongjoong, on the other hand, was playing his part with a sly smile and a hint of amusement in his tone. “Oh, Captain Canary, how caring you are for a pirate. You see, I can’t stop as I’ve made a promise. I'm here for a trade. Her life for your freedom.”

Lena's heart skipped a beat at Hongjoong's words. She realized that he was intentionally provoking Haechan, pushing him into a corner and creating a dangerous standoff. She couldn't help but feel a mix of anger and desperation, fearing the consequences of Hongjoong's actions.

Haechan's voice remained icy, but he didn't back down. “A trade?” he brought down his sword, for the first time, his gaze finding Lena’s for a moment. “No. I made my choice to save myself. Take her and my men out of here. Give her the freedom she deserves.”

It was a moment of profound clarity, the gravity of his sacrifice washing over her. Haechan was willing to give up his own freedom to ensure the safety of his crew and, more importantly, her own. Lena was torn between gratitude for his selflessness and anguish over the separation that loomed ahead.

Hongjoong, however, showed no inclination to accept Haechan's offer. Instead, he shook his head with a wicked glint in his eyes and lunged at Haechan, the two captains locked in a fierce duel. The clang of their swords reverberated through the chaos of the battle, adding to the intensity of the scene.

Haechan, in the midst of their struggle, tried to reason with Hongjoong. He spoke of the Marquess's relentless pursuit, the futility of the trade, and the danger it posed to all involved. But Hongjoong only fought back with a playful cruelty, a stark contrast to the seriousness of their situation.

As the skirmish intensified, Hongjoong's strategy pushed Haechan to the edge. With the railing at his back and nowhere to retreat, Haechan remained resolute, his gaze darting for an escape route. Holding his sword defensively, he sought to keep his footing, even as his breath grew labored.

It was at that moment that Hongjoong, his sword pointed at Haechan, remarked with chilling finality, “That's why I have to kill you.” The words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of their implications. Lena's heart pounded as she saw the confrontation reach its climax.

Lena's heart seized in her chest, and without a second thought, she attempted to rush towards them, her voice shouting a desperate "No!" But her efforts were thwarted as Jaemin suddenly appeared, pistol in hand, aiming at Haechan.

“Captain.”

 Lena watched in shock as the gunshot reverberated through the air, making her jump and clutch her ears.

The deafening sound of the gunshot had barely begun to echo in Lena's ears when she watched Haechan yelp in pain and clutch his side, blood seeping through his fingers. Her scream mingled with the chaos of battle, and she called out to him with frantic desperation. She needed to reach him, to hold him, to reassure herself that he was alright. But before her trembling hands could find their way to him, the scene turned even darker.

Her world seemed to shatter into fragments. With a swift, unexpected motion, Hongjoong kicked Haechan overboard. Time seemed to slow down as Haechan tumbled through the air, his confused and pained eyes haunting Lena. The chilling splash that followed signaled his plunge into the turbulent sea.

Hongjoong nodded at Jaemin, “Finish this,” and the quartermaster hurried back to the chaos.

Without a second thought, Lena scrambled to climb over the railing and leaped into the water, her heart racing and adrenaline coursing through her veins. As she plummeted into the sea, she was overwhelmed by a sense of déjà vu, remembering her first fall into the ocean when she had been captured by Haechan's crew. In that harrowing moment, she had nearly drowned, but he had come to her rescue.

As she sank beneath the surface, the memories flooded back, and she could almost feel his strong arms pulling her to safety, his voice soothing her fears. But now, it was her turn to save him. Lena's frantic gaze searched the murky water, and her heart pounded in her chest. She knew she had to find him quickly.

Finally, her desperate eyes locked onto Haechan's motionless form. He was floating just beneath the surface, unconscious and helpless. Lena swam towards him, her limbs aching with every stroke. She reached him and, despite the weight of her saturated clothing, managed to pull his limp body above water. Haechan's condition was dire, and Lena struggled to keep his head above the surface, her own strength waning with each passing moment.

Lena struggled to keep Haechan's limp body afloat, her arms aching with the effort of supporting him. With each stroke she made through the water, she felt her strength waning, her breathing growing heavy and labored. Desperation fueled her as she looked up toward the ship, praying for someone to appear over the ledge and offer assistance. She repeated the words ‘I trust you’ to herself through ragged pants, desperately clinging to the belief that Hongjoong's actions were part of a larger plan, no matter how cruel they seemed.

Amidst her pleas and exhaustion, she heard her name being whispered from above. Lena's gaze snapped in that direction, and to her immense relief, she saw Jisung descending a rowboat towards her. A wave of emotion overcame her, and she managed a trembling smile through her tears. Her heart leaped with gratitude, and she felt a glimmer of hope.

Jisung reached her and, with careful and synchronized efforts, they managed to push Haechan's unconscious form onto the boat. Lena, exhausted and shivering from the cold sea water, followed, toppling onto the boat's floor as she struggled to catch her breath. She lay there, water droplets dripping from her drenched body and hair, her lips trembling from a combination of fear and the cold.

As Lena finally turned her attention to Haechan, she could hardly bear to look at his condition. His face was pallid and his chest barely rose and fell with shallow breaths. His clothes clung to him, darkened by the seawater, and the wound on his side oozed blood, a vivid contrast against his pale skin. Lena's trembling hand reached out to touch his face gently, her fingers tracing the familiar contours she had come to cherish. She whispered his name with a shaky voice, her tears mixing with the water that dripped down onto his motionless form.

Desperation etched in Lena's eyes, she turned to Jisung, her voice pleading as she begged for help. Her lips trembled as she sought answers, but Jisung could only offer a sorry look. Through the weight of his words, he confessed his inability to assist them in this dire moment. They had no choice but to wait, to rely on the decision of those aboard the ship. Mark was their best chance to save Haechan, and Lena's heart sank as she realized they were at the mercy of the ongoing battle.

Lena whipped her head back up, her gaze fixed on the ledge of the ship above, waiting with bated breath for any sign, for a moment of silence, for someone to call out that it was safe. But the sounds of the ongoing battle continued, and the agonizing minutes passed without respite. Every second felt like an eternity.

With her forehead pressed against Haechan's, Lena whispered to him in a desperate plea, her voice filled with longing and anguish. “You promised me the world, remember? That’s a pirate's promise.” For a moment, she remembered Hongjoong’s word, ‘Because no one chooses to be a pirate…It happens like a calling, good or bad measures will always drift you back to the sea.’

Tears streamed down her cheeks as she placed a soft, lingering kiss on his lips, as if trying to breathe life into him with her own. Her eyes searched his for any sign of life, any indication that he was still fighting, still holding on, refusing to let go.

Lena, with her head nestled against Haechan's chest, gently placed her hand over his wound, her fingers trembling as she tried to stop the bleeding. Her eyes closed in an attempt to calm herself, and she took a deep, shuddering breath. With a wavering voice and a heart heavy with fear, she began to sing one of the sea shanties she had heard the crew sing on the beach. It was a song that usually brimmed with upbeat energy, but her tired voice and her exhausted body gave it a haunting, melancholic quality.

"Oh, the rolling waves,

 they crash and churn,

 As the salty sea, she calls us home, 

We'll sail through storms, 

through night and day,

 For the life we lead, the price we pay.

From beside her, Jisung sang along with her, matching the mellow tone she’d set.

A sailor's heart, 

so wild and free, 

Upon the open sea, 

we find our glee, 

But here I stand, in the darkest hour, 

With you by my side,

 I find the power.”

The melody of the sea shanty filled the rowboat, carried away by the gentle rocking of the vessel. Lena sang in a mellow tone, her voice carrying a deep sense of longing and desperation. The relentless waves tugged at the boat, causing it to sway and unsettling her already frayed nerves. Yet, despite the unease of the sea, she remained focused on her song, hoping that it would somehow reach Haechan and coax him back from the brink of darkness.

Whenever the thought of him dying began to break her, she’d sneak into the memory of dancing with Chenle at the beach. Captain Canary’s crew singing away at the night.

As she continued to sing, her voice carried a haunting beauty that wove through the crashing waves and the tension in the air. With her head resting on his chest, she could feel the faint rise and fall of his breath. It was a fragile sign of life that filled her with both hope and dread.

As the minutes stretched on, Lena's heart ached with every note. She sang not only to comfort Haechan but to steel herself against the gnawing dread that clung to her like a persistent shadow. With her eyes squeezed shut and her hand resting over his wound, she pressed her forehead against his chest as if seeking solace from the heartbeat beneath.

As Lena continued to sing the haunting sea shanty, her hand resting on Haechan's chest, she suddenly felt a strange sensation. Her fingers began to tingle, and she could sense a warm, blue glow emanating from beneath her shirt, near her heart. Her eyes widened with astonishment and realization. It was the pendant he’d helped her get, a memory that she now cherished. The pendant, which had been concealed beneath her clothing, had come to life with an ethereal light.

Confusion gnawed at her as she leaned slightly upward to get a better look at what was happening. The pendant seemed to respond to the wounds, emitting a gentle, otherworldly glow that bathed the area in its azure light. A faint clang sound reached her ears, and she couldn't help but wonder if the pendant was somehow responsible for this inexplicable phenomenon.

Determined to understand what was happening, she leaned over Haechan's unconscious form and lifted his navy uniform, exposing the spot where she had seen the wound earlier. To her astonishment, the fabric lay against a bare and unblemished expanse of skin. There was no wound, no scar, no sign of injury, only the smudge of dried blood as evidence of what had occurred.

Just as Lena tried to comprehend this miraculous turn of events, she heard a soft cough, and her gaze snapped to Haechan. His eyes began to flutter open, and his breathing slowly steadied. Her heart swelled with relief and joy, and she couldn't believe her eyes. Haechan, whom she had feared was slipping away, was showing signs of life.

Lena's eyes remained fixed on Haechan as his eyelids fluttered open, revealing the brilliant, brown eyes she had come to know and cherish. His gaze was unfocused at first, a sign of his returning consciousness, and then he slowly blinked and looked up at her. A weak, yet warm smile graced his lips, and it was a sight that brought tears of relief to Lena's eyes.

For a moment, neither of them spoke. They simply gazed into each other's eyes, communicating a thousand unspoken words. Almost too afraid to move.

Haechan's hand, weakened and trembling, lifted and brushed against Lena's cheek. It was a gentle, affectionate touch that sent shivers down her spine. She leaned down to press her lips to his, a tender, lingering kiss filled with all the pent up emotions they had experienced in their time together.

As their lips parted, Haechan finally managed to speak, his voice raspy and fragile. “Lena,” he whispered, his eyes never leaving hers. “You saved me.”

Lena had gazed at him in utter disbelief, uncertain if she could truly categorize her actions as being under her control. Nonetheless, she found herself drawing him into her embrace, disregarding his pained grunts as she refused to release him. Her laughter, intermingled with tremors of disbelief, seemed to disavow the events of the entire day. Clinging to him with a steadfast grip, she reflected on the improbable journey that had brought her from the confines of a manor just a few months prior to her current position on a rowboat, tightly gripping a pirate she loves.

The words escaped her lips, seemingly beyond her power to restrain, as they slipped into his receptive ears, "I just want you."

In response, she felt the gentle caress of his fingers entwining themselves in the damp strands of her hair, his lips gracing her cheek, and his embrace mirroring the intensity of her own.

Beside them, Jisung stirred, causing the boat to sway ever so slightly. “It's quiet now,” he remarked.

The world around them slowly shifted from the vividly colored chaos of battle to a quieter, more serene moment. The battle cries and clashing swords had quieted, and the shouts of the crew members on the ship seemed to dissipate. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, the sea became a calm expanse.

Lena and Haechan, their moment of intense emotions still fresh in their hearts, turned their attention toward the ship's railing. They saw Mark's head appearing above, his forehead marked with a streak of blood, but his face bore an expression of relief. The setting sun's waning light reflected off his sweaty skin, making the blood appear almost ethereal.

Mark called out through raspy breaths, “It's safe now. We've dealt with the Navy ship. Come up.”

The crew members surrounding the railing immediately sprang into action, reaching down to help hoist the rowboat back onto the ship. Jisung offered his assistance as well, knowing that Haechan was still in a weakened state.

As the rowboat was secured back on the deck, Mark extended a hand to help Haechan climb out, and Jisung did the same for Lena. The two lovers emerged onto the ship's deck, their presence greeted with a mixture of relief and curious glances from the crew.

Lena's voice was soft, carrying a sense of gratefulness as she said, “Thank you, Mark.”

Mark, still catching his breath, gave her a reassuring nod and wiped the blood from his forehead with the back of his hand. “I’ll take this as you paying us back.”

Jisung, who had been silently watching the exchange, chimed in, “We need to get Haechan below deck. He needs medical attention.”

Lena's eyes filled with worry, but she nodded, realizing that Haechan's well-being should be the top priority.

As they descended into the depths of the ship, Lena hesitated, her gaze darting between Haechan, who was being carefully assisted by two crew members, and the chaos that remained on deck. She understood the urgency of getting Haechan medical attention, but a deep sense of unease gnawed at her. She turned to them, her voice trembling but determined, “Go ahead without me. I'll be down in a second.”

Haechan, his eyes reflecting concern, hesitated for a moment, as if torn between his own needs  and the desire to stay by Lena's side. After a brief pause, he nodded and allowed the crew members to guide him below deck. The momentary relief of Haechan's safety was swiftly replaced by worry for Hongjoong and the remaining crew members still on deck.

Lena hurried back up the stairs to the main deck, which bore the remnants of the intense battle. She scanned the area, realizing that the Navy ship had disappeared over the horizon. Her search for Hongjoong led her to a chilling sight — he was crouched beside a dead Navy soldier.

“Hongjoong,” Lena called out, her voice wavering.

Hongjoong turned toward her, his eyes meeting hers with a strange mix of exhaustion and playfulness. His lips curved into a sardonic grin. “Lena, good to see you. We won, in case you were wondering.”

Lena stepped closer to him, noting the battered state he was in, with dirt-streaked skin and a bloodied cut on his cheek. His appearance starkly contrasted the mischievous gleam in his eyes. “Are you alright?”

He waved her concern away with a dismissive gesture. “Just a scratch. It's all part of the fun.”

The two of them sat together amidst the remnants of the chaotic battle, the ship's worn and torn appearance mirroring the crewmates who attempted to find humor amid their pain. The night had begun to envelop them in its cold embrace, making Lena shiver in her wet clothes and hair. She turned her gaze toward Hongjoong, who was attempting to stand despite the obvious discomfort he was in.

“You kept your promise,” Lena remarked, her gaze shifting from the worn planks of the ship to the man beside her. Her wet hair clung to her cheeks, and the shivers ran down her spine as the cold night settled in.

Hongjoong nodded, his expression wistful as he continued to survey the deck and his crewmates. “Plus your freedom.”

Lena, shivering as she braced against the cold, looked up at him with a thoughtful expression. “But why? You could have found a way to save everyone, honor our deal, and I'd go right back to the Marquess.”

Hongjoong let out a scoff, reaching out a hand to help her stand. “Because,” he said as he pulled her up, “when the time is right. I'd rather not go through soldiers looking for my end of the deal.”

Lena burst into laughter at his response, the sound genuine and hearty. She couldn't help but appreciate his quick thinking and the audacity with which he had played his part in the grand scheme. “Right,” she replied, still chuckling, “I should have known better.”

      ~

The coastline of Pearl Reef glistened under the warm moonlight  as Lena peered out from the ship. Time had passed since the daring rescue and the chaotic battle that had ensued. The crew had settled into their roles, adjusting to life on the high seas with the presence of Hongjoong onboard. The tension that had initially lingered due to his involvement had begun to subside as the crew witnessed his skills and audacious personality.

Haechan, once burdened by guilt over becoming a privateer and injuring some of his own crew members, was slowly regaining his footing as their fearless captain. There was a sense of camaraderie and relief as he found his confidence once more.

Lena couldn't help but find entertainment in watching Hongjoong try to get under Haechan's skin. He had a talent for pushing the boundaries, often using flirtatious banter with Lena as his chosen method. The sly smiles and witty exchanges between the two men were enough to amuse the entire crew. Haechan's mock irritation, accompanied by thinly veiled amusement, was visible to anyone who cared to look.

In one of the quiet moments they could steal, Lena and Haechan had a private conversation about the pendant's unique ability. They had decided that it was best to keep it a secret, not wanting to reveal the extent of its powers to the crew just yet. It was a delicate matter, and they couldn't risk any information falling into the wrong hands. They had to be cautious, especially after everything that had transpired.

The amusement reached its peak when Mark and Jaemin confronted Haechan about the battle that had transpired during the rescue mission. The crewmates were baffled, staring at Haechan with furrowed brows and disbelief etched on their faces. They had expected him to return with injuries, yet there wasn't a scratch on him.

Haechan, ever the charmer, tried to convince Jaemin, their best sharpshooter, that he had somehow missed his shots. The argument that followed was both humorous and endearing. Lena had watched with a smile as their friendly bickering continued, a testament to the strong bond that held their crew together even in the face of danger and deception.

As the night sky blanketed Pearl Reef in a velvety darkness, the city came alive with a different kind of beauty. A myriad of lanterns adorned the streets and buildings, casting a warm, golden glow that danced upon the water's surface. The faint sound of distant laughter and music drifted on the salty breeze, mingling with the soothing lull of the ocean waves. The stars above were like shimmering jewels, decorating the celestial canvas, and the moon's reflection painted a silvery path on the water.

Lena turned her attention from the breathtaking cityscape to the enigmatic figure beside her. Hongjoong leaned casually against the ship's railing, his gaze fixed upon the panorama before them.

“Quiet the adventure, Miss Lena,” he mused, his eyes still locked on the city. The corners of his lips curled upwards, a hint of mischief in his voice.

Lena agreed with a subtle hum. “Are you planning to have more?” she inquired, her curiosity piqued. She turned to face him, studying his features as he continued to stare at the cityscape with a contented smile.

Hongjoong's reply was filled with ambition and promise. “Bigger ones,” he stated, his voice carrying a sense of determination and excitement. Lena couldn't help but smile in response to his enthusiasm.

“Then I hope you find your crew, Captain Hongjoong,” Lena said, her voice laced with sincerity and well-wishing. She extended her hand towards him, offering her hand in a friendly farewell.

Hongjoong, ever the charismatic figure, straightened up and accepted her hand. As he shook it, he leaned in slightly, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I shall be seeing you, Lena. As per the agreement,”  he declared, his tone playful and confident.

Lena seized the opportunity to deliver a friendly parting shot, squeezing his hand with a bit more force than expected, causing Hongjoong to yelp and release her hand. They shared a brief laugh, their moment of camaraderie sealing the unusual friendship that had formed.

A playful chuckle escaped Hongjoong's lips as he retreated towards the rope ladder leading to a small rowboat swaying below. “So, are you a pirate?” he inquired with genuine interest.

Lena nodded, her eyes wandering from the crew to Haechan, who stood with a hint of affectionate amusement in his gaze. When she redirected her gaze back to Captain Hongjoong, she motioned towards the boat and the open sea beyond. “Yes,” she replied, a sense of freedom enveloping her words.

Hongjoong laughed at her response. “Doesn't it feel easier to breathe now?” he mused, his smile warm and knowing.

Lena glanced at the life she had embraced, taking in the endless possibilities. With a nod towards the rope ladder, she said, “Goodbye, Captain.”

He nodded in understanding, but before disappearing below, he called out to her with a promise that echoed with the sea breeze. “I'll be back for you, Lena.”

With those words echoing in her ears, Lena watched him descend into the darkness of the ship, her heart filled with the thrilling uncertainty of the future and the adventures yet to come.

A soft breeze ruffled her hair, carrying the faint scent of salt and adventure. The ocean whispered secrets and dreams, inviting her to embrace the freedom that had become her new reality.

Lena thought of the unconventional friends she'd made, the daring escapes, the open sea that stretched infinitely before her. She thought of Haechan, the charismatic captain who had changed her world. And she thought of Captain Hongjoong, whose boldness had ignited her spirit.

As the night embraced her, she couldn't help but smile, her heart full of the thrill of her newfound life, the taste of salt on her lips, and the promise of the endless adventures yet to unfold on the open sea.

𔘓⁩ ᵗⁱᵖʲᵃʳ

[ethereal-choi]

~aye, captain!

© ethereal-choi 2023–2024.

[hyalinemin]

[lilacmingi]

RUNAWAY

My works are 14+ ONLY. If you’re under 14 DO NOT interact with me or any of my works

Pairing: Pirate!Hongjoong x pirate!fem reader

Word count: 8,270

Note: This is an imagine from April 2022 from my Wattpad. The pirate Ateez imagines are definitely some of my most popular ones and I’m SO excited to share them here! I wanted to do something to celebrate 200 followers but I don’t have any new stuff ready so I’ve decided to post my Ateez pirate imagines! 🏴‍☠️ Pirate AUs for the other members are linked at the end of the imagine!

The moon hung high in the clear night sky, the bright beam reflecting onto the peaceful waters below. The view of the dark horizon was tranquil and the complete opposite of the pandemonium that was taking place just a few feet behind you.

Singing, hollers of celebration, and the clanking of stein glasses became mere background noise as you gazed at the midnight sky above. The myriad of stars dotting the heavens were almost like fireflies in the forest, giving some light to the otherwise dark sky.

Hongjoong's crew was celebrating another successful day of pillaging—it was exhausting. You'd become rather numb to these so-called celebrations. It's just a bunch of men acting like drunken fools to you.

The crew belted out sea shanties in their intoxicated states, the sour notes coming out slurred and garbled. You cringed. You didn't know how much more of this you could take.

The sound of heavy boots stumbling towards you caught your attention. An arm was slung haphazardly over your shoulder, the force making you jerk forward a bit.

"Y/n." Hongjoong slurred slightly, his breath smelling of rum. "What are you doing all the way over here?"

"Watching the moon." You answered.

"Come join us. You're missing out."

"No thank you."

He frowned. "What's wrong?"

"I just don't care for celebrations."

"But you've always enjoyed our celebrations."

"Yeah, but it's becoming a bit... how do I put this? Lackluster."

Hongjoong scoffed. "Lackluster?"

"Yeah. I just don't enjoy it much anymore."

"Let me change your mind."

You glanced over to see Hongjoong's hand extended towards you, his many gold rings glimmering under the lit torches.

You started to deny him, but stopped, pressing your lips together in thought.

"C'mon." That all too familiar charming smirk of his spread across his soft-looking lips. "You wouldn't refuse a dance with me, would you?"

"I might." You teased, a playful grin threatening to break out onto your features.

He made a face at you in return.

"Alright." You caved, clasping his extended hand. "I'll dance with you."

"I knew you couldn't resist." He simpered, leading you towards the middle of the main deck.

The drunken singing of the crew was much louder now that you were right in the middle of it. Hongjoong's cheeks were stained pink from the alcohol, no doubt, as he grinned brightly, taking your other hand. The two of you began spinning and skipping to the stomp of the crew's boots against the wooden boards of the ship. Neither of you ever really learned how to properly dance, but when you're a pirate, that doesn't matter much.

As you bounded in circles, you found yourself enjoying it more and more. The two of you danced in no particular rhythm, stomping your feet and bouncing around like fools. Your hands stayed clasped together as you swung them around, your joint laughter filling the air.

Once the chanting and off-key singing of the crew died down, you and Hongjoong ceased your dancing.

"See? That was fun, wasn't it?" He grinned.

"It was." You agreed, fixing the errant strands of his scruffy mullet.

"You always enjoy dancing with me."

"I do." You admitted.

"C'mon. Have something to drink." He pulled you towards one of the barrels set up and took it upon himself to fill up a stein.

He handed it to you with a smile. You reluctantly took it, taking a sip of the dark liquid.

"Next time we dock, I'll try and get some nice wine. How about that?" Hongjoong suggested.

"That would be wonderful. I'm starting to tire of rum."

"Hey, if you won't drink it, I will." Hongjoong reached out to grab the glass from you.

"Wait." You pulled it away. "Are you sure you should have any more?"

"Of course! You can never have enough alcohol."

"How many of these have you had?" You questioned, referring to the large stein in your hand.

"Three."

You pressed your lips together, hesitant to hand over the drink. Then again, Hongjoong is as stubborn as a mule. If you don't give it to him, he'll just make himself another glass.

"Very well, then." You gave in, handing over the glass.

"Thanks, lovely." He winked, taking the beverage from you.

You watched as he sauntered off, joining his crew to clink steins with them. One of the crew members began singing yet another drunken shanty, causing everyone to start dancing again. Hongjoong held his wooden stein up in the air, alcohol sloshing onto the deck as his crew cheered him on.

"Say my name!" He shouted.

"Captain Hongjoong! Captain Hongjoong! Captain Hongjoong!" They chanted, fueling his ego.

You could tell he loved that. He loved being the captain. It was his dream, after all.

A yawn spilled from your lips, catching you off guard. You hadn't realized how tired you were.

You stepped away from the railing of the ship and began to head towards the captain's cabin to turn in for the night.

You and Hongjoong shared a room, exactly the way he wanted. You were the only female on the ship and Hongjoong's dearest friend, as well as his right hand woman, so he wanted to make sure you stayed close, which is why you got the best room on the ship.

On the way to your shared room, you noticed someone sitting on the steps leading to the quarterdeck. He was hunched over, a head of soft, brown hair resting on the top of his knees. You were curious as to who was crouched on the steps alone. You had been on the ship for years and were familiar with every crew member, but you weren't sure who this was.

"Excuse me. Are you okay?" You asked, approaching the male.

He lifted his head, large, brown eyes looking up at you.

"Oh, Minho." You smiled, warmly. "I thought you'd be over there with everyone else." You spoke, gesturing to the celebration taking place a few feet behind you.

"No." He shook his head. "I'm not one for celebrations. They've become too hectic for me. To be honest, I thought you'd be over there. You're always with Hongjoong."

"Yeah, well, I've had my fill of celebrations for the night." You told him. "Hongjoong is on his own tonight. I've decided to turn in for the night."

"Well, I don't want to keep you out here. Sleep tight." He smiled.

"Thanks, Minho."

You stepped into your room, closing the door behind you.

Hongjoong's bed was unmade, as usual and his desk was an absolute mess. He was never one to clean up after himself. Apparently, he "has other things to worry about." You let out a sigh as you walked over to his desk where papers and books were scattered over the surface. The entire tabletop was in disarray. As much as you wanted to clean it up, you knew everything was more than likely left in place for a reason. So, you did the least you could possibly do, which was throw away any wadded pieces of paper as well as collect all of the pens and pencils scattered across the desk, placing them all into a cup.

You told yourself you'd stop and go to bed after that, but you didn't. You ended up stacking all the papers strewn across Hongjoong's desk, putting them in one, neat pile. Upon doing so, you discovered a large map spread across the tabletop. Your head tilted to the side when you noticed a red dot on the map. Normally, a red dot indicated that the town was going to be raided for supplies. You tried to read the name of the town, unable

to see well in the dimply lit room. Your eyes squinted as you leaned towards the map, until you heard a commotion just outside the cabin, which caused you to scurry away from Hongjoong's desk.

You made yourself busy, pulling back the covers on your bed, only to find that it was just a false alarm. The noises you heard were merely drunken crew mates making a ruckus.

You glanced back towards Hongjoong's desk sitting on the other side of the room, tempted to go back and look at the map, but you decided against it, choosing to get ready for bed.

You turned the knob on the oil lamp, dimming the light so you'd be able to rest. You wanted Hongjoong to be able to see when he finally came to bed, so you didn't put it out all the way.

As you laid in bed, your mind began to drift towards the map, your curiosity getting the best of you. Your head lifted from the pillow, your eyes staring across the room at Hongjoong's desk. Then, without thinking you flung the covers off of you and grabbed the oil lamp, moving across the room to the map spread on the table.

The dim glow of the low-burning flame illuminated the chart enough to where you could finally read the name of the town. You blinked a few times, getting a second look at it, wondering if you misread it.

"That can't be right." You murmured.

Worried about getting caught, you scurried back to bed and attempted to go to sleep. Instead of worrying about what you saw on that map, you just chose to confront Hongjoong about it the next day.

The sea breeze blew through your hair as you stood by Hongjoong's side on the forecastle deck.

"There's a town close by that we're going to pillage." He informed you as he steered the gigantic vessel.

"Was that the town you had marked in red on your map?"

"How did you know that?"

"I saw it on your desk last night. That town isn't a bad town. There's good people living there. Why would you plan to pillage it?"

"We need supplies. Plus, they're nearby."

"That's your reasoning?" You questioned.

"Yeah."

"Hongjoong, that town is well known for giving things to those in need. You should find another town to get supplies from."

"If that's true, then looting the town should be easy." He shrugged.

You were appalled, unable to believe what he just said.

"It makes more sense to go there because it's closer. We don't have enough supplies to last long enough to make it to the next town."

"Then ration our provisions."

"I can't do that."

"Yes you can. I'm not asking for much. Ration until we reach the next town."

You could tell Hongjoong was getting agitated, but you wouldn't have him pillage a town that didn't deserve it.

"What I say goes, and I say we're raiding that town."

"I want you to wait and raid another town."

"Well, you're not the captain, are you, Y/n?"

"No, but I am your friend." You responded, harshly, stepping forward to grab the wheel.

"Hey!" Hongjoong shouted. "What are you doing?"

"Steering us away from that town."

You began to fight with him, the wheel being pulled back and forth like a tug of war.

"Why don't you listen to me?" You asked.

"I'm the captain!" He snapped. "Not you!"

Hongjoong shoved you away, causing you to stumble back and fall onto the deck. A hiss left you as pain shot up your hip and elbow. You thought maybe your friend would feel some sort of remorse, but he only stared down at you, looking only mildly surprised at his actions.

You clenched your jaw and pushed yourself up off the deck, knowing you lost this fight.

"Forget it. I'm tired of this."

You stormed off the forecastle deck, getting as far away from Hongjoong as you could. You were absolutely fuming, wanting to unleash the burning anger inside. Hongjoong only raids towns that steal from the poor. Never has he even considered looting a town so generous—until now, apparently.

The way he simply brushed off the fact that he was about to pillage a small town that didn't deserve it made your blood boil. Truthfully, you don't think he understands the weight of his actions. He'll leave that town with hardly anything. They won't have anything left.

The sound of boots hitting the deck pulled your from your thoughts. Turning your head, you spotted Minho approaching you.

"You alright?" He asked.

Your lips pressed together as you briefly contemplated lying to him.

"No."

"I heard a commotion on the forecastle deck and wanted to check on you. I assume you and Captain got in a fight?"

"It's the first fight we've ever had. He wants to raid a town because it's nearby. I tired to talk him out of it because the town provides for others."

"That doesn't seem right." Minho responded.

"It's not. I tried to make him change his mind, but he just kept saying we don't have enough supplies and we have to dock there. I suggested rationing what we have and he completely shot down the idea."

Minho frowned in distaste. "Why is it so difficult to ration?"

"I don't know." You sighed, shaking your head. "He's never acted like this before. I don't know what's happening to him."

"I'm sorry he's being such a jerk."

"Me too. Sorry for dumping all of this onto you. I should have just lied and said I was okay."

"No." Minho shook his head. "I'm glad you were honest. It's not good to bottle things up. If you ever need to talk, I'm here. Okay?"

You nodded, giving him a weak smile.

The day went on and you tried your hardest to keep your distance, avoiding Hongjoong by any and all means. Much your dismay, Hongjoong had announced to the crew his plans of looting the poor town. You were set to dock in just a couple days.

When night settled over the sky, you began making your way towards the captain's quarters, only to stop in your tracks. Did you even want to sleep in the same room as Hongjoong?

You turned on your heel, redirecting your route to the crew's sleeping quarters, heading directly to one room in particular.

Your knuckles knocked lightly on the bedroom door, waiting for an answer. It creaked open just a few seconds later.

"Oh, Y/n. What are you doing here? Is everything alright?" Minho asked.

"Yeah. This might sound like a weird question, but is it alright if I stay with you tonight?"

His large eyes widened in surprise.

"Hongjoong and I aren't on good terms at the moment, which you already know, and I don't really want to share a room with him now."

"I understand." He nodded, stepping aside. "Come on in."

You volunteered to sleep on the floor, but Minho wouldn't allow it, offering you his bed. So, that's where you slept.

The ocean was rather choppy today, much like the situation you were currently in. The white-capped waves dominated the majority of the waters' surface, the ship lurching with each forceful push of the sea below, sending a spray of salt water up the side of the vessel.

"Alright men, all hands on deck!" Hongjoong instructed. "There's a storm coming in from the north."

"Yes, Captain." The crew responded.

You wanted to ask Hongjoong if he needed your help with anything, but the two of you were not on speaking terms at the moment, so you held your tongue.

"Man the sails!" Hongjoong shouted more commands, sternly.

He's absolutely deserving of being captain. Despite his small stature, he carried a very powerful and commanding presence, his aura almost threatening at times. However, at the end of the day, he was still the sweet Hongjoong you grew up with—well, up until recently. You said you would follow him to the ends of the earth. He was your best friend, after all. Now, you're not sure who he is.

Years ago, when the two of you had just recently turned 18, Hongjoong had this grand idea to escape.

"We're gonna get out of here." He told you.

"And go where?" You inquired.

"Anywhere. Everywhere." He answered, his eyes twinkling. "Sail the seas."

"You want to be a pirate?" You questioned.

"Yes! It would be so much fun. No rules, no nothing." He turned to you with a smile. "Will you join me?"

The excited gleam in his eye let you know how serious he was about this unattainable dream. Despite that, the idea of sailing the seas and living a rule-free pirate life thrilled you.

"Yes."

Look where that got you.

A loud boom of thunder rumbled in the ominous sky above, dark, menacing clouds swirled over the ocean. You stepped away from the railing, watching as the crew scurried across the deck, preparing for the storm brewing in the atmosphere.

Hongjoong was busying himself by barking orders at crew mates, rushing them along. He was unusually snappy today, no doubt because of your little fight yesterday.

"What are you doing?" He shouted, angrily. "Furl the mainsail! The storm is approaching!"

Truthfully, you were surprised he hadn't said anything to you about not sleeping in your own bed last night. Then again, maybe he didn't care.

A raindrop hit the top of your head, catching your attention. It didn't take long for the stray drops to turn into a torrential downpour. The rain came down in sheets, pounding on the deck, making puddles almost instantly.

You noticed Minho struggling with one of the masts, hurrying over to assist him.

"Thanks." He breathed.

A gust of wind blew by, whipping your hair in every direction.

"We should get inside!" Minho yelled over the howling winds.

You nodded in agreement as his hand found yours, leading you towards the crew's sleeping quarters to get out of the harsh winds and piercing rain.

Little did you know, Hongjoong was watching, his sharp eyes trained on yours and Minho's intertwined hands.

The ship made it out of the storm unscathed and went on its way to the small, unsuspecting town. Part of you had hoped the storm would somehow get the ship off-route and Hongjoong would be forced to ration supplies and hold off on the raid until you made it to the next town.

The pillaging went on as planned. Like all raids, the looting took place at night. Hongjoong always said it was better to do these things under the cover of darkness.

You stayed on the ship, of course, unable to join in on the raiding. Your conscience wouldn't let you. To your surprise, Minho stayed behind too. Like you, he couldn't bear to be a part of the merciless thievery that was taking place.

It didn't take long for the two of you to hear multiple pairs of booted feet thudding hurriedly against the main deck, followed by the sounds of heavy objects being set down. Your heart sank, knowing the raid was over and the town was left without many of their supplies. For the first time since stepping foot on this ship, you felt sick.

It didn't take long for the music and rhythmic stomping of feet to begin, letting you know the celebrations had already kicked off.

Minho's top lip curled in distaste as he stared in the direction of the main deck.

"I can't sit here and let them celebrate this heinous act." You muttered, pushing yourself to your feet.

You stormed up onto the main deck where Hongjoong was standing up on a cluster of crates, barrels, and burlap sacks dancing and celebrating.

"So you ended up raiding that town?" You inquired with crossed arms.

"Of course I did." He responded before turning to the crew. "And it was a raging success!"

The crew cheered with him, which only fueled your anger.

"I wouldn't call it a raging success if you're stealing from people who do good."

"It's not like we killed anyone." He rolled his eyes.

"No, but you left that town to suffer. The attack was unprovoked."

"Don't get your trousers in a wad, Y/n. We're pirates. We pillage and plunder, it's what we do." Hongjoong responded casually.

Your fists unconsciously clenched as you tried your hardest to bite back rage. Instead of opening your mouth and allowing your scathing words to escape, you whirled around and returned to Minho's room.

The door slammed shut behind you as the brown-haired male lifted his gaze, waiting for you to speak.

"Minho, can you keep a secret?"

In the dead of night while everyone was asleep and/or passed out from alcohol consumption, you snuck out onto the main deck with a small bag of your belongings, heading for the rowboat. You planned to escape the godforsaken ship that once felt like home. Minho, who knew about your plan of action, promised not to breathe a word of your whereabouts. He even offered to assist you.

Said pirate followed you outside and helped lower you into the water once you were inside the boat.

"Are you sure you wanna do this?" He questioned.

"I'm sure. Being captain has gotten to Hongjoong's head and after that little stunt he pulled earlier tonight, I can no longer stand by his side."

Minho nodded, somberly. "I understand. Good luck."

"Thank you."

The boat was lowered the rest of the way into the water and you began making your way towards the town. Equipped with just the necessities, you started your journey, using just a compass and a messy, hand-drawn copy of Hongjoong's map.

You didn't feel the slightest bit of remorse as you rowed further from the ship, watching as it got smaller and smaller. You didn't really care if Hongjoong knew you left. He made it very clear that he was the captain and what he says goes. It was painfully evident that he didn't need you anymore; if anything, you were doing him a favor. On the off chance that he did freak out in wake of your disappearance, you'd never know, nor would you care.

"Serves him right." You muttered.

To your surprise, it only took you the entirety of the night to arrive at the marauded town. Your arms were throbbing and you were in need of sleep, but were happy to have arrived at your destination. You used an old rope to tie your row boat to the dock before stepping out onto the landing.

The first thing you noticed about your surroundings was the stacks of crates and barrels that had been emptied and toppled over. The remnants of last night's pillaging was obvious and heartbreaking. You slowly made your way off the dock and into the town where you were met with more wreckage—it was horrible. The more you saw, the angrier you became, wanting nothing more than to curse Hongjoong up one side and down the other. Being on a pirate ship for so long, you managed to learn some insults you didn't even know existed and you wanted to use every single one on Kim Hongjoong.

People were trying to clean up the aftermath of the pillaging from the previous night, doing their best to put the town back together. You spotted a nearby hostel, a middle-aged woman crouched on the ground outside, attempting to tidy up the small flowerbed that looked as if it had been trampled on.

"Excuse me." You called out, gently.

The woman lifted her head. "Oh, hello. Can I help you?"

"I was wondering if you had any vacancies."

"As a matter of fact, I do." She smiled, softly, dusting her hands off on her apron. "You look like you need a good night's rest. Have you traveled far?"

"All night." You responded.

"I'll get you checked in right away. Follow me." You trailed behind the woman as she entered the house, going behind the front counter. "Sorry. We're a little short-staffed. There was a pirate pillaging last night. All but one of my employees quit—and he can't quit because he's my son. That sort of thing just doesn't happen here, so it really scared the workers."

"If you need help, I'd be happy to lend a hand." You told her.

"No, dear. You need rest."

"It's fine." You brushed it off. "It's daytime anyway. It's best I stay up."

"Are you sure, dear?"

"Of course. It seems like you could really use the extra help."

"If you insist. I won't turn down someone who's so willing to lend a helping hand. I'll show you to your room and bring you some working clothes."

"Great." You smiled, following her to the room you'd be staying in.

It was small, cozy, and equipped with only the necessities.

"So, what's your name?" She asked as you looked around the room.

"Y/n." You answered.

"That's a lovely name. You can call me Mrs. Park."

"Well, Mrs. Park, I'd like to stay here for a few days. How much do I owe you for it?" You asked, turning to her.

"Free of charge."

"I can pay for it. It's fine." You insisted.

Mrs. Park held her hand up to stop you.

"You're doing me a huge favor by offering to help me out. It's the least I can do."

"Well, thank you. I appreciate it."

"Like I said, it's the least I can do. We have running water. If you'd like, you can go wash up and I'll bring you a change of clothes and an apron. Then, we can get started on the work."

You didn't bring a lot with you, so getting settled wasn't a problem at all. You did take advantage of the running water Mrs. Park told you about. Being at sea, you haven't had access to clean water, therefore you've not been able to properly bathe. The closest you got to a bath was a quick dip in the ocean with a bar of soap. Shampoo, conditioner, and soap was provided for you, which you were immensely thankful for.

You felt rejuvenated after your bath. In fact, you felt like a whole new new person.

After stepping out of the bathroom, you spotted a neatly folded stack of clothes on your bed.

Normally, you'd wear a large, cream-colored shirt with ruffled sleeves tucked into a pair or trousers and black boots. The clothes Mrs. Park had provided you with contrasted greatly with your usual attire. In your hands was a long, navy-colored dress that laced up in the back, the garment made with thick material, as well as an apron to wear over the dress. As a pirate, you never wore dresses. They weren't really your thing, anyway. However, you were trying to start a new life, and that new life required you to wear the dress in your hands, so you put it on.

You were surprised by your reflection, hardly recognizing the person staring back. Your hair, which had started to dry, was fluffy and bouncy. The outfit was different, but you didn't hate it. You would have preferred pants, but you were willing to compromise since you had a place to stay.

Not wanting to waste too much time, you headed to the lobby.

"Mrs. Park, I'm ready to get started."

"Y/n?" Hongjoong called out.

He hadn't seen you all day. He was still a bit upset with you for the way you reacted the other day as well as last night, but when he didn't see you, not even with Minho, he began to worry.

"Y/n!" He called out again much louder, hurrying across the deck. "Has anyone seen Y/n?"

No answer.

In a panic, he peered over the side of the ship, noticing the row boat was gone. His head snapped towards the sails where Minho was standing.

"Minho!" He shouted, stomping over to the man. "Where is she?"

Minho didn't even spare a glance at Hongjoong and continued straightening out the rigging.

"I'm sure she's around here somewhere." He responded, nonchalantly.

"Don't make me ask again."

"I don't know where she is."

"Stop lying. I know the two of you have been spending time together. Where is she?"

"Away from you." Minho responded, his tone becoming snappy.

Hongjoong reached for his cutlass, pulling it from its sheath and pointing it at Minho's neck.

"Tell me where Y/n is." He demanded.

"You're the captain, you're smart. Why don't you figure it out?"

Hongjoong's jaw clenched, his patience being pushed to its limits. Then, suddenly, it clicked. You had to have gone to that town.

Hongjoong put his cutlass back in its sheath and turned around on his heel.

"We're changing course!" He announced. "I know where Y/n is. We're going to get her."

Working at the small hostel was wonderful. You found that you enjoyed it very much. Unlike life on Hongjoong's ship where you did the same thing every day, you did something different each day here. It was a nice change.

The day you arrived at the town, you were introduced to Mrs. Park's son, Seonghwa. He normally took care of washing the sheets and putting the beds back together. Sometimes he helped out in the kitchen and cooked meals for the residents. Now that all of the staff members had quit, he had to take up most of the slack. The two of you got along well and it made working at the hostel a lot more fun.

Mrs. Park had sent you and Seonghwa to the market to get some things she had run out of. She rushed the two of you out the door, going on about how dire it was that she get these items. She wanted to make a cake for you, which she had mentioned was her specialty, so getting the ingredients was very important.

"Alright. Eggs, flour, and sugar." You read off the list. "We got the sugar. Just a couple more things and we're good to go."

You picked up a small sack of flour and put it into the basket Seonghwa had tossed over his arm. That was the system. You grabbed the groceries, Seonghwa carried them.

"My mom really appreciates your help. When those pirates came though and everyone quit, she was really scared. She didn't know how she'd be able to take care of the place."

"Seems like I showed up at the right time."

"You did." He nodded with a smile. "I know it's only been a week, but things are starting to get back to normal, I think. Everyone seems to have recovered. I just hope it doesn't happen again."

"Me too." You responded, picking up a carton of eggs.

Unbeknownst go you, Hongjoong's ship had just docked at the town and the captain was making his way down the wharf.

You had just paid the cashier for the groceries and were headed back to the hostel when suddenly your wrist was grabbed and you were pulled away from Seonghwa into a small alley between two buildings. You jerked in the person's grip, trying to break free until you saw their face.

"What are you doing here?" You spat.

"What are you doing here?" Hongjoong turned the question back to you. "And what in the seven seas are you wearing?"

"I'm helping, and if you must know, this is the uniform I was given."

"Uniform?" He repeated, his face twisted in distaste.

"I'm working at a small hostel. Did you know all of the staff quit after your little rampage?"

You could see Hongjoong's eyes soften for a moment before he quickly covered it up.

"Why did you even come looking for me?" You questioned, harshly.

"You're part of my crew."

"Is that all I am to you? Just a crew member?"

"No."

"Well, that's what it feels like. Now if you'll excuse me, I have somewhere to be."

You started to walk away when Hongjoong grabbed you again.

"No you don't. You're coming back with me."

"I'm staying here."

"You don't have a choice, Y/n."

You jerked your arm away. "I do, and I choose to stay. You obviously don't need me back on that ship. You wasted your time coming back for me."

"You're wrong. I need you."

"You don't. You're the captain, remember? You make the decisions yourself. You don't need me to tell you what to do because in the end, you'll do what you want."

He opened his mouth to speak, but you continued.

"This whole captain thing has gone to your head. What happened to the Hongjoong I used to know?"

"I'm still the same Hongjoong."

"No, you're not. You've changed."

That's the last thing you said before walking back to Seonghwa, who was standing in the middle of the street with his mouth hanging open, his face as white as a sheet.

"Let's go." You grabbed his arm, pulling him in the direction of the hostel.

"D-do you know him?" Seonghwa asked, his head turned to stare at Hongjoong.

"I used to."

"He's the captain of the pirate crew that looted our town."

"I know."

"What?"

"It's a long story."

"If you're with him, then—"

"I'm not with him. I ran away. He wanted to pillage your town and I told him not to because this town is so selfless, but he didn't listen, so I left the ship."

"You're a pirate?" Seonghwa gaped.

"Yes."

"Is he going to take you back?"

"He's trying to."

Once you got back to the hostel, you gave Mrs. Park the items she asked for and hurried to your room, Seonghwa following behind.

"What are you going to do?" He asked.

"I don't know." You muttered, pacing back and forth. "I didn't know he'd come looking for me."

Just then, a loud thump came from the somewhere downstairs. You and Seonghwa shared a wide-eyed look before hurrying to the door. You peered over the shallow staircase and spotted Hongjoong at the front desk.

"You wouldn't happen to how a Y/n, would you?" He asked.

"No." Mrs. Park lied.

"I know she's here." Hongjoong spat.c"Where's her room?"

"Crap." You whispered, retreating to your bedroom where you frantically began packing your things.

"What are you doing? Where are you going?" Seonghwa questioned.

"I don't know. Away from here."

The dress you wore was restricting you immensely, making it hard for you to move around.

"I hate this thing." You grumbled.

"I have an idea. I'll go distract him while you change and make your escape."

You gave him a nod and gathered the clothes you arrived in, which had so generously been washed by Mrs. Park.

While Seonghwa was downstairs stalling, you quickly stripped off the confining dress, changing into your comfortable pirate attire. Not wanting to leave things in a mess, you hastily folded the dress and apron, lying it on the bed before you snuck out the window.

"You!" Hongjoong pointed when Seonghwa appeared downstairs. "Tell me where Y/n is."

"She's not here."

"Yes she is. Where are you hiding her?" He pressed.

"I already told you. She's not here."

Hongjoong's lip curled into a snarl as realization struck him. He then rushed out the front entrance, turning the corner to catch you just as your feet landed on the ground.

You were relived, feeling like you had successfully made your escape.

"You didn't think you could get away from me that easily, did you?"

Your heart sank.

Hongjoong grabbed you, pulling you out into the streets, yanking you towards the docks. You jerked and writhed in his grip, shouting at him to let go, but he wouldn't listen. Your heels dug into the dirt as you tried to stop Hongjoong, but it didn't work. His grip on you was too strong.

Seonghwa, who rushed out after Hongjoong, spotted him as he pulled you through town.

No one dared to help. It was obvious the townspeople recognized Hongjoong from the pillaging a week prior. They wouldn't dare try and stand up to him.

"I hate you!" You spat.

"I could care less about your feelings towards me."

"Clearly you do. If you didn't care that I was mad at you, you wouldn't have come looking for me."

His hand tightened around your wrist, which let you know you struck a nerve.

"Let go of me." You hissed.

"Not until we're back on the ship."

"Hey!" Someone cut in.

Hongjoong stopped in his tracks, turning to see who had shouted at him. You turned as well, gasping when you saw Seonghwa standing on the dock a few feet behind you.

"Let her go."

"And who do you think you are?"

"Her friend."

Hongjoong scoffed. "You've only known her for a week. You're not her friend. I'm her friend."

"Really? It doesn't look like it."

Hongjoong used his free hand to pull out his pistol, pointing it at Seonghwa.

"Stay out of our business before I put a bullet in your head."

"Hongjoong!" You snapped, pushing the barrel down. "What is wrong with you?"

He gave you a sharp glare before you turned to the man attempting to save you.

"Seonghwa." You placed your free hand on his shoulder. "I need to go."

"What?" He asked in disbelief. "You're going back?"

"I have to. There's things that need to be dealt with."

Seonghwa gave Hongjoong a skeptical look.

"It's not what you want, though."

"It's what needs to be done. Tell your mom I'm glad I could help her out, but that I needed to go. Good luck with your business."

Seonghwa gave you a sad look, but nodded in understanding.

As soon as Hongjoong had you back on the ship, he let you go, beginning to bark orders at the crew.

"Let's get out of here!"

While he was distracted, you hurried off, searching for Minho. You hadn't seen him on the deck, so you thought he was in his room.

You burst into his bedroom, but he was nowhere to be seen. After searching different areas of the ship, you found him in the galley, cleaning the tables.

"Minho!"

"Y/n. You're back." He responded, seeming surprised.

"Not by choice."

"Well, just because you're being forced to stay on this ship, doesn't mean you should be forced to be around Hongjoong. You can stay in my room if you want to."

"Thank you. What are you doing down here?"

"Hongjoong put me on kitchen duty when I refused to tell him where you were."

"I'm so sorry."

"It's fine. I don't mind cleaning up down here."

"Well, I appreciate that you kept my secret and tried to protect me." You smiled, giving him a light hug.

Just then, Hongjoong burst into the galley.

"I look away for two seconds and you've run off again. Now I find you hanging all over him."

He stormed over, grabbing your upper arm.

"Come here. We have some talking to do."

"Let go of her." Minho snapped. "You've forced her back on this ship. That should be enough."

"I'll deal with you later." Hongjoong pointed, pulling you out of the room.

You shouted at him as he dragged you all the way to the captain's quarters, calling him every name you could think of. Even when he released your arm, you continued ranting and raving.

"I can't even explain how angry I am right now!"

The door was then locked shut, causing you to spin around, abruptly. Hongjoong stood a few feet from you, his eyes dark as they stared into yours.

"Don't look at me like that. You have no right to be acting this w—"

You were cut off as Hongjoong pressed you against the door, his arms trapping you.

"I have every right to be acting this way. You're mine, remember?"

"I'm no one's."

You had barely gotten the sentence out of your mouth when his lips pressed harshly against yours. You had no time to react and were left frozen in place, your mind scrambling to make sense of what was going on.

Your eyes unconsciously fluttered closed as you allowed yourself to give in momentarily.

Hongjoong kissed you hungrily, letting out small growls that vibrated against your lips. You wanted so desperately to push him away. Your mind screamed at you to do so, but you couldn't. He had your mind in such a fog you couldn't seem to care what was wrong and what was right. Hongjoong's head tilted to the side, allowing his mouth to fit more closely with yours.

This is not right. This is not right.

Your senses finally kicked in and you pulled away, your hand making contact with Hongjoong's cheek as a resounding smack filled the air.

"What's wrong with you?"

Hongjoong placed a hand on his stinging cheek as he took a step back, a mildly shocked expression on his face.

"You got mad that I ran away, chased me down, acted like the biggest jerk ever, then all of a sudden you just kiss me?" You questioned. "What did you think that was gonna do?"

"I..." He trailed off.

"If you thought I would confess my love to you and forgive you, you're wrong. I don't love you. I love the old Hongjoong. The one who isn't this." You said, gesturing to him. "Just so you know, I'm sleeping in Minho's room tonight. If you need me, that's where I'll be." You told him, turning to leave.

"Wait." Hongjoong took hold of your wrist, this time much more softly, almost pleading. "Don't go."

You gave him an expectant look, waiting to see what he had to say. Though he was being a pompous jerk, he was still your friend and you were willing to hear him out.

"I'm sorry. I don't know what's gotten into me lately. You're right. This whole captain thing has gotten to my head. Being a pirate and being in charge of everyone made me feel like I could take whatever I wanted, that included you."

He paused, collecting his thoughts before continuing.

"The truth is, I love you—yes, I said love. Before you and I started this journey together I liked you, but over the years that turned into something more. My feelings for you combined with my sudden superiority complex made me think you belonged to me. In reality, I just couldn't stand the thought of not seeing you again. It made my chest hurt."

Your gaze softened a bit.

Truthfully, you'd held some feelings for Hongjoong. Though, you tried to bury them, they were slowly resurfacing after his heartfelt confession.

"I had no reason to go after you like that. I should have just let you stay. You were right. You don't belong to me." He added.

That's all it took.

You grabbed his collar, pulling him forward and swiftly placing your lips on his. Hongjoong's words meant a lot to you and you were more than willing to forgive him.

He was stiff at first, not expecting you to initiate the kiss. Then, once he registered what was happening he started to reciprocate, kissing you with just as much hunger and ferocity as he was minutes earlier. There was so much passion and desperation in the kiss that it left you breathless. One of his hands made it's way to your waist while the other rested on your upper back, pulling you closer to him. His lips fully encased yours a few times before taking your bottom lips between his teeth. You were blown away by his kissing skills, your mind and body turning to mush.

When he parted ways, you found yourself gasping for breath, your chest heaving up and down. You didn't get a lot of time to relax as Hongjoong began leaving open-mouth kisses down your neck. Your breath caught in your throat as your fingers tangled themselves in Hongjoong's tousled mullet, grabbing at the long strands. Small gasps left you when his teeth grazed your skin. You never thought he would be so bold, but you weren't complaining at all.

Hongjoong pulled away, his eyes glazed over as he stared into your own. His lips were puffy from the intense makeout session and his cheeks were flushed—and this time it wasn't from alcohol.

"Don't ever run away from me again." He murmured hoarsely, his thumb running over your bottom lip.

"Don't do anything stupid and I won't."

He let out a short chuckle. "I promise. I also wanna say that I'm sorry for looting that town. I should have listened to you. I'll do whatever it takes to make it up to you."

"Whatever it takes?" You questioned.

He nodded.

"Well, there is one thing."

Hongjoong returned the stolen items to the small town, apologizing for his actions. He continuously said he wasn't the type of person to do such horrible things and that he hopes the townspeople could forgive him.

Being the selfless people they were, the citizens forgave Hongjoong and even allowed him to keep some of the things he and the crew had looted. It was just enough supplies to last everyone until they got to another town. Mrs. Park and Seonghwa were happy to see you and understood that, while you had a good time staying in the town, your true home was at sea with Hongjoong. Mrs. Park even gave you her specialty cake as a parting gift.

"I baked it after you left." She told you.

"Don't you want to save some of this for yourself?"

"No." She shook her head. "You take it. Share it with the crew and that headstrong captain of yours."

You chuckled at her choice of adjective.

"He wasn't always so headstrong." You commented, glancing across the way at Hongjoong as he chatted with one of the townspeople. "That's why I'm here to be his voice of reason."

"Good." Mrs. Park smiled. "A man like him needs a strong woman by his side to keep him in check."

You chuckled lightly in response.

"Hey." Hongjoong cut in as he approached, snaking an arm around your waist. "We should get going."

You gave Seonghwa and Mrs. Park a bittersweet smile. "Thank you both for all the fond memories and giving me somewhat of a vacation."

"You're welcome." Seonghwa grinned.

"Come back anytime, dear." Mrs. Park smiled warmly.

With that, everyone boarded the ship and set sail once again.

"Mrs. Park gave me a cake." You smiled, showing Hongjoong. "It's her specialty."

"Looks good. Why don't we try it out?"

"It's to share with the crew." You told him, pulling it away.

"I'll share." Hongjoong responded with pleading eyes.

"I'll make sure you do."

"Hey." He piped up. "You know what goes good with cake?"

"What?"

"A party!"

For the first time in months, a party actually sounded fun.

Sour notes traveled through the night air as the crew sang out of tune. The celebration had just kicked off, so you knew the unpleasant singing wasn't from alcohol, though you expected it to get worse as the night went on.

Even Minho joined in on the celebrating, singing along with the crew and dancing around.

You sat alone on the forecastle deck watching the stars, the garbled singing once again becoming background noise.

The gentle thump of boots approaching caught you attention. You turned your head just as Hongjoong sat down next to you.

"What are you doing up here all alone? The party's not boring, is it?"

"No. I just wanted to watch the stars."

"Well, I brought you a slice of cake."

"Ah. Thank you." You smiled, taking the small plate from him. "What about you?"

"I thought we could share it." He responded, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips.

You tried to hold back a grin as he took the fork, getting a small bite of cake, bringing it to your lips.

You allowed Hongjoong to feed you, your eyes widening once you tasted the sweet treat.

"Mrs. Park was right. This is definitely her specialty." You commented.

"Wait." Hongjoong reached out, his fingers delicately holding your chin, turning you towards him. "You have something on you."

You didn't have time to respond as Hongjoong leaned in, pressing his lips to yours, his tongue swiping over your bottom lip, sending a rush of heat across your face.

He parted ways, letting out a chuckle as he licked his lips. "Got it."

You playfully smacked his shoulder, turning away in embarrassment.

"I can't believe you did that."

"But you liked it."

"A little." You responded, shyly.

"Oh. I almost forgot." He muttered, getting to his feet. "Wait here."

Hongjoong hurried off, returning moments later.

"Look what I got." He held up a bottle. "I told you I'd get us some fine wine."

"Where'd you get it?"

"Someone in that town gave it to me. He said it's meant to be shared with someone you love and then gestured to you." He chuckled. "I don't know how he knew we were together, but I have wine because of it."

"What are you waiting for? Let's open it."

"You don't have to tell me twice."

He popped the cork on the bottle, handing it to you. "M'lady." He offered.

You gladly took the bottle, taking a sip and humming in approval before handing it to him.

Your head rested on his shoulder as he took a large gulp of alcohol, setting the bottle on the deck.

"I love you, Hongjoong."

The words unconsciously slipped out, but you didn't care. Hongjoong's head rested on top of yours as he responded.

"I love you too, Y/n."

Seonghwa ⟡ Yunho ⟡ Yeosang ⟡ San ⟡ Mingi ⟡ Wooyoung ⟡ Jongho

Masterlist ᝰ — enjoyed this imagine? reblogs & comments are very much appreciated!

DO NOT steal, plagiarize, copy, repost, alter, or translate my works in any way

🏷 @h3arteyes4mingi

[pocket-hwa]

𝕾𝖎𝖗𝖊𝖓 ✨💙

⭐️Idol: Park Seonghwa from Ateez

⭐️Time taken: 9hrs

[ja3hwa]

Day 27 : Hybrid - Yeosang

「Title」 : My Heart Is With The Sea

「Word count」 : 2.76k

-> Genre: Fantasy Au. Smut. Fluff. Angst. Comedy.

Paring: Pirate!Yeosang x Hybrid!Reader

[Warnings] : Warlock Hybrid Yeosang. Swearing. Gross drunk men. Mention of harassment. Hero Yeosang. Powers. Fire blades. Mention of a saloon. Old-timey words. Pet names. Saliva kink. Big dick Yeo. Sub reader. Dom Yeosang. Dirty talk. Details of the reader's body fitting into a curvy plus stature. Begging. Unprotected sex. Cumming inside. Slight breeding kink. Fingering. Yeosang is a cocky bitch. Mention of a Woosan relationship. Poly relationship mentioned. Let me know if I missed anything.

Note: I made the reader Plus size since I've been feeling really shit about my body image so yee. Also, I wanted to write more but I've run out of time so if this gets good attention and people want more. I'll be more than happy to turn this into a min series. And I was making this a JongSan fic but again since I ran out of time I could do Jongho's scenes.

February Filth Fest Event Day Calendar.

It was like any other day. The air was riddled with the smell of the salty sea that was just over the bend of the hill. Loud men filled your ears with drunken nonsense in between slurps of their ale. It wasn't even midday, but yet, at least twenty men were already on the floor. But you guess it's happy hour somewhere beyond the big blue.

You sigh, picking up three glasses before putting them on your tray and moving towards the bar in a swift motion in order to avoid creepy men's hands. Most didn't mean to play rough, but most men just have sticky fingers. You knew you'd get harassed because this is the type of job you got. And most of the time, it didn't phase you, but you knew it annoyed others more than you.

"You lay a hand on her again, and you will lose those fingers." Yeosang barked, picking up the drunk guy that was hunched on his chair by the shirt collar. Yeosang's free hand was held behind him but not out of the men's view. The whole table saw out a blade made of fire magically appeared in the shaggy-haired male. They were nothing but shitting their pants, feeling anxious about angering the warlock.

"We are sorry about our friend Sir Kang. Please forgive his foolish actions." One of the less drunken men at the table slurred. It was as if they all suddenly sobered up, feeling a tension simmer through the whole saloon.

"How about I punish you anyway. Just to prove a point." Yeo smirked, loving to see fear consume such pitiful excuses of humankind. They all jumped to their friends' defence, making the bar roar with loud shouting. You sighed, having lost the fun while watching the interaction. So you whistled loudly, getting everyone's attention, including your brooding Vaelock lover.

"Alright, ladies. You've had your fun. Now fuck off before I send word to the knights." And just like that, all the men from the table piled out through the front door in a hurry. They were like puppies running away with their tails between their legs. But you knew when the sun set by the next few hours, they'd be back. They always came back.

Yeosang dropped his power, fixing his jacket slightly before waltzing over to you with a sly smirk. It always made him feel power when he got to hurt or scare men, but it made him feel even more powerful when it was that he was protecting you. He leaned against the large dark oak bar while he watched you behind it, placing the empty and half-empty tall pint glasses into the wash-up tub. He just stood there for a moment, watching you with abortion in his eyes. He watched how your hair would fall in front of your face when you bent down for something. Or how you had tucked your shirt into your pants today. It sat nicely on your plump figure. And he can't let his eyes wander too much as they land on your lips. Your very kissable lips. The lips he loves so much, especially when they are wrapped around his co—

"You got such a staring problem." You mumbled with a small smile, making him suddenly look away with a blush painting his features.

"I do not." He feels slight embarrassment from his dirty thoughts only moments ago. At least you couldn't read minds. "I'll be off by the coming hour." He changed the subject.

"Off on another adventure." You sigh softly, feeling a little lump in your throat form. You knew his life was on the sea, but it always made you nervous when he left. The waves can be large and unforgiving. Just as the weather can be cruel. His life can easily be taken away, and it kept you up at night whenever he felt for the docks.

"Yes. Captain said he found some news on Atlantis city. If we find it, we will finally be able to be done with these wanted posters and outlaw crap." Yeosang spoke with only a small amount of distance in his tone. Like he was off in his own world. They had been looking for this cromer thing for months with the idea that they could get redemption from the kingdom of East Valley. And how did they disrespect the kingdom, you may ask...well, that was a very long story. But in the shortest way to put it, they angered the king.

And why might a king be mad at a group of immature pirates? Simple. They are pirates, and royalty just has something against the lower class, especially those who bend the rules and live out on the sea. And because San and Wooyoung slept with the Princess....at the same time...

They went to East Valley on a job. To find a cromer for this warlock, but in toe, figured out that the King was the one who had it stolen from the old wizard years and years ago. So they needed to get into the castle, grab it, and leave. Like they weren't ever there. But the Princess saw San and Wooyoung and when Seonghwa told them to keep her distracted, he didn't think they would fuck her...

"Wait... You are looking for Atlantis city?!" Your voice came out strained and uneasy. This caught Yeosangs attention, tilting his head in concern.

"Yes. I thought I told you months ago?"

"You said you were looking for a hidden kingdom. I couldn't have guessed Atlantis." You were worried. Anyone who goes looking for such a place nine out of ten turn up dead or go missing. Worry clouded your mind, feeling your breath quicken. Yeosang suddenly jumps the bar so he can stand next to you. His body heat melted your cold, anxious thoughts. He leant his head on top of yours, holding you tightly in his arms. He knew of your worry and how to beg for him to stay. And he felt guilty every time he left. But he loves the sea and wouldn't see a life without it. But he also couldn't see a life without you. He was stuck at a crossroads.

"I'll be safe. You know I will. Hwa is an excellent navigator. And the captain would never put us in danger for anything. We come first." His words made you feel better, slightly. He pulled away from you so he could look you in the eyes. They were filled with tears, just waiting to be let out. You didn't want to cry. But your emotions seemed to have other plans.

"Just promise me. Promise none of you will get hurt ..."

He had to chuckle at the fact you referenced everyone. You had grown close to his crew since the day you met. Yeosang obviously tried to keep you for himself for a while, but alas, the others also found interest in you. Little did they know you were actually bedded with Yeosang already.

"None of us will be in danger. I promise." He gave you a small kiss on your forehead. It was a moment of peace in his arms. Like the world had stopped. You were the first to pull away, putting down the bar rag and moving things around to keep your hands occupied. Yeosang chuckled at your flustered state, suddenly recalling the dirty thoughts he had prior. And then a new thought came to mind.

"You know..." He hooked his fingers in the belt loops of your pants before pulling your body back into his. Your back flushed against his chest he leaned down so his face could sit nicely in your neck. "I could go for a parting gift. Something for me to remember while out at sea."

Your face flushed red and you looked around the large opened room, thanking the gods that the only customers that were still in the bar were either passed out of too far to hear your lover's filth idea.

"I..." You were going to decline out of embarrassment, but then the idea simmered in your mind making your thigh clench at the thought. "My shift finishes in ten minutes."

He chuckled darkly at you, giving your neck a few kisses for saying. "You know where to find me." Leaving, you flustered while he walked out of the bar as if nothing just happened.

-

"Yeosang!!" You moaned feeling a slight burn at the twisted position you were in. Your legs were hung over his shoulders while he practically bent you in half as he pounded into you. His teeth grazed against your neck as his muscles tensed from the exertion. Your hands fly to find something to hold onto, gasping out moans as his hands find yours. His fingers lace with yours before pinning them to the mattress.

“I’ll make sure to fill your cup. So you are nice and full while I’m gone.” Yeosang grunted, feeling sweat beads form against his hairline.

You whine in response, his words weren't fully registering in your pleasured-filled mind. You were so lost in the grunts and pants he spilled into your ears as he pressed so deep, fucking into the perfect spot that had your thighs quivering on either side of his head. Your plump legs were dropped to a more comfortable position on his waist as he gripped your cheeks with his fingers. Your mouth opened instinctively as he pursed his lips, gathering saliva before spitting it in your mouth and smothering your lips with his in a sloppy kiss. Teeth clanking together from the punishing thrusts as his hips rutted yours.

“My pretty Darling. Mine… All of this is mine.” A sick smile curled his lips, goosebumps lining his skin when your shaky hands found their way up his chest and to his shaggy black hair. Fingers tangling in it as you blubbered incoherent words, a shift in his hips tensing your body and making your hands tug the sweat-dampened strands. He’s strained from the angle of his head being pulled back. The column of his neck looked as if it was begging to be marked up as you pulled him down to you, latching your lips to his pulse point and sucking harshly on the skin. His vulgar sounds vibrated against your mouth as his warm right hand slipped between your slick bodies to toy with your clit. Your back arches painfully at the overwhelming feeling.

“Fuck Yeo... Please FUccckk.” You scream throwing your head back feeling Yeosang press sloppy circles to your sensitive bud while his thrusts suddenly lose their rhythm. He suddenly wanted to see your face, so, picking up his hand slightly he waved a finger in the air, making your hands tug off his hair within a second. You try to move your hands away from either side of your face but alas, his power that bands an invisible cuff around them made it impossible.

“Come on baby, whose cock is this, hmm?”

You mumble inaudibly over the wet sounds of skin slapping. His lips brushed over yours mixing his breath with yours. His hips snap forward, his thick cock ramming into a spot that got you seeing stars. His hand leaves leave your clit, one gripping your hip, bruising the soft curves while the other grabs a hand full of your large bust. “I asked you a question, Doll..”

 “Mine- mine, all mine-“ you finally cried out, words slurring together from the seemingly permanent fog that had settled over your mind. He finally let your hands free from his hold in a silent gesture for his next move.

“Prove it then.”

“I can’t- I- Yeo, please-“ you cry, tears pooling in your eyes while your fingers slip down to dig your nails into the skin of his shoulders. The stinging sensation only urged him to keep going while a shaky moan escapes his lips.

“You can do it, Darling. Take what’s yours.” He demanded, jaw clenched tight and pace faltering. Your ankles hooked together at the base of his back, heels digging into the spot to pull him impossibly deeper as you frantically rocked your hips against him along with his thrusts. Yeosang grunts in a pleased response, head dipping down to bite a mark to your shoulder as his cock twitched in your velvety walls. Your orgasm tore through you like a wildfire. Stealing the breath from your lungs and making your body convulse. His guttural moan was almost barely heard over the roaring in your ears as hot spurts of his cum filled you.

Your body was worn out when he slipped from between your shaking thighs. A soft whine pulled from your throat when you felt his middle and ring finger against your cunt, pressing the seed that had seeped from you back into your walls. Your overstimulated cunt already clenched around the digits and body fully reacting to the shocks of pleasure as he finger fucks you.

“Best parting gift ever,”

-

Yeosang ran over the dock as fast as his legs to take him. The ship was in sight, and his heartbeat finally could rest easy, knowing his captain wasn’t just going to up and leave him like he had been threatened in the past. His feet land on the familiar oak beauty. He spots his friends scattered around the deck, one in particular―a like blonde―shaking his head in annoyance.

“Next time we leave you.” The blonde shouts heading up to the stern deck where the wheel is. Yeosang just huffed out in response, turning his attention to the redhead and his feline-featured lover.

“So how was it?” Wooyoung giggled.

Yeosang choked looking dumbfounded. “What?!”

“You know. How was she? Or he. Or both. I don’t judge.”

“Shut up Wooyoung.” Jongho suddenly appeared from the captain's quarters fixing his overcoat slightly. “Don’t you have a kitchen to stock?”

Wooyoung went to reply with a snarky remark but San pulled him away with a small smile telling him to drop it. Yeosang shook his head slightly glancing over at the younger male. The ravened hair man waltzed over slowly, keeping his unreadable expression until he stood only centimetres away from him.

“She okay?” He spoke softly knowing exactly where he had been for the past couple of hours. Yeo had to chuckle at his words as sudden flashes of your fucked out expression and blissful moans echoed in his mind.

“Uh yeah. Last time I checked.” he couldn’t hide the smug smirk on his face.

“Last time you checked uh-huh.” Jongho smirked lightly hitting his shoulder while nodding.

Yeo just bit his lip, watching Jongho walk away.

-

“Cap, what's the plan?” Yunho tilted his head until he heard a crack. Seonghwa was pacing around the large map on the big oak table. “Do we travel west?”

“If he cut through this roar he can make it to the caving island before the storm hits,” Mingi spoke up an idea, making the captain nod slowly, leaning into his chair ever so slightly.

“Do it. Three days will be added to our trip, but we'll make it happen.” Hongjoong waved his hand, standing up before turning to look out the window, seeing the dark clouds approaching east. The rest of the crew gear up for the sudden travel. Heading west to a small island riddled with caves big enough to hold a ship until the storm blows over.

-

“This storm is getting bad out there. They should be okay right…” You stood by the water's edge as your friend Livera played with a stick in the sand making random scribbles.

“I’m sure they are fine. Besides the storm is probably not that bad.” The red hair knelt down finding a crab suddenly emerging from under the sand. She bit her lip in excitement, eyes widening with sparkle inside them.

“I just… What if―Bubs if you are so worried, why don’t you go find out?” Her big soft ears that were perched on the top of her head twitch while her tail bright red tail wags slowly.

You turn your attention away from the sweet fox, noticing how the waves crash against the bank as if the ocean calls for you to join it. “Maybe I will.”

And you run straight into the water before diving in deep.

- Part Two -

-

Ateez Masterlist

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© 𝐉𝐚𝟑𝐡𝐰𝐚. Do not steal, plagiarise, translate, repost, or use my work in any way, shape, or form.

𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐑 : 𝑇𝐻𝐼𝑆 𝐼𝑆 𝐼𝑁 𝑁𝑂 𝑊𝐴𝑌 𝐴 𝑇𝑅𝑈𝐸 𝐷𝐸𝑃𝐼𝐶𝑇𝐼𝑂𝑁 𝑂𝐹 𝑇𝐻𝐸 𝐴𝑇𝐸𝐸𝑍 𝑀𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐸𝑅𝑆. 𝑇𝐻𝐼𝑆 𝐼𝑆 𝑃𝑈𝑅𝐸 𝐹𝐼𝐶𝑇𝐼𝑂𝑁 𝐴𝑁𝐷 𝐼𝑆 𝑁𝑂𝑇 𝑇𝑂 𝐵𝐸 𝑇𝐴𝐾𝐸𝑁 𝑆𝐸𝑅𝐼𝑂𝑈𝑆𝐿𝑌.

[kikitulips]

ꢐ Yeosang ꒰ ꒰ ateez ꒱ ꒱ lockscreens ♡

[raylawrites]

𝓘𝓷𝓿𝓲𝓭𝓲𝓪 ~khj~

Hi guys I’m kinda new to posting on tumblr but I really want to show people my story! If you have the time please to give it a read on AO3. It is an ongoing story but I try to update frequently.

Read Here

Relationships: Kim Hongjoong/fem!oc

Genre: enemies to lovers, pirate ateez ensemble, adventures, SLOOOOWWWBURN

Warnings: graphic depictions of violence, injury, cursing, general pirate activities

Word count: 9k and counting

Summary:

"If I was given my wish, you'd be dead before your head hit the ground, filth."

Maeve Bloodborne hates pirates.

They make her skin crawl, make her stomach turn. Filthy Sea Rats she calls them, along with most of the population of Solaris. Aspiring to command a Navy vessel, she trains to harness the power of a ship, trains so that one day she might personally be the demise of an unfortunate pirate ship, blown to pieces by her very own artillery. How exhilarating it would be.

unfortunately, being kidnapped and dragged onto the only pirate ship she is certain she could never take down, was not on her summer itinerary.

(Or: Maeve hates pirates, and Kim Hongjoong captains the most brutal pirate crew seen in generations.)

[cobymeppocean]

My kpop au

kpop not jpop because I am following the things specific to kpop (bias for example)

The straw hats are an idol group and Koby is a 'Keel' He is trying to get Helmeppo into the group but does not know that Helmeppo is also a fan, he just hides it.

They debuted 5 years prior to the current depictions of them, here are all the STR4W H4T members and staff ages from youngest to oldest: (not really based on canon other than the order of who is oldest)

Chopper - 19 (14 debut)

Luffy - 23 (18 debut)

Usopp - 24 (19 debut)

Nami - 26 (21 debut)

Zoro - 27 (22 debut)

Sanii - 27 (22 debut)

Robin - 29 (24 debut)

Franky - 30 (25 debut)

Jinbe - 45 (40 when first working with SH)

Brook - 52 (47 when first working with SH)

Koby is 19 (14 when he became a fan) and Helmeppo is 20 (17 when he became a fan)

[n0v4t33z]

The Piece of Eight - Masterlist

Pairings: Capt. Hongjoong X Female Reader, Crew mate San X Female Reader, Ateez X Female Reader

Genre: Pirate AU, Romance, historical-ish (nothing is historically accurate though), Action, Angst, Non-Idol AU

Tags/Warnings: For Mature Audiences, Violence, Language, mentions of blood and gore, Very DARK themes like traumatic situations will be discussed, Highly Suggestive at times (This is a warning for the whole story overall)

Summary: When a village girl trained by her veteran grandfather is asked to join a group of well known pirates it's up to her to protect her Captain from the royals and the governments who seemingly want to put an end to her Captain's Robin Hood deeds. It is up to her to bond with her crew mates and change her tune on friendship and what it means to be a friend, while also finding a way to take down the man who terrorized her village who initially ignited the deadly spark in her to fight her hardest. Will she survive what life at sea has in store for her and her crew? Love, betrayal, and the demons that seemingly cannot stop following her or will she succumb to them all?

Minors Do Not Interact!!

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Chapters:

Chapter of Eledonia

Assimilate and Assault

Chapter of Provia

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If I catch anyone plagiarizing my work just be warned I don't play with that kind of stuff so don't try me.

[illumins]

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Lena was escorted through a labyrinthine maze of opulent corridors and grand hallways, her steps echoing against marble floors as she was guided deeper into the heart of the Marquess's sprawling estate. The walls were adorned with priceless tapestries depicting scenes from ancient battles, their vibrant colors and intricate details a testament to the wealth and prestige of the Li'Pold family.

The guards led her to a set of towering double doors, ornately carved from dark mahogany. These imposing doors swung open with a soft, almost imperceptible creak, revealing the inner sanctum of the Marquess's chambers. Lena's breath caught as she stepped into the room.

The chamber was a symphony of luxury and extravagance. Gilded accents adorned every surface, from the elaborate crown molding on the high ceilings to the intricate patterns on the velvet draperies that framed tall, arched windows. Sunlight streamed through those windows, casting a warm, golden glow on the room's sumptuous furnishings.

A massive, intricately carved desk dominated the center of the room, its surface cluttered with parchment, quills, and various documents. Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with leather-bound tomes and ancient scrolls, a testament to the Marquess's erudition.

The room's focal point was a massive portrait that hung above an ornate fireplace. It depicted the Marquess in his younger days, resplendent in noble attire, his steely gaze exuding an air of authority and self-assuredness.

Near the fireplace, a chaise lounge upholstered in rich crimson velvet beckoned, while a small table with an intricately carved chess board stood at its side. Lena noticed a scattering of chess pieces, evidence of a strategic mind at work.

As Lena took in her surroundings, she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the opulence and grandeur of the Marquess's private quarters. It was a world of privilege and power, a stark contrast to the life she had gotten used to with the pirates. Yet not so far from her life a month or so ago. 

The Marquess, resplendent in his formal attire, stood before Lena, his stern countenance revealing a mixture of anger and humiliation. His eyes bore into hers as he began to speak, his voice laced with a cold intensity.

“Lena,” he began, his tone measured but forceful, “I cannot fathom why you would willingly choose a life of piracy over the honor and privilege of being my bride. You were promised to me, and our union was to solidify the bonds between our families.”

Lena, although feeling the weight of his words, tried to muster her courage. “Marquess, it's not what you think. Captain Canary—”

He cut her off with a dismissive wave of his hand, his anger flaring. “Captain Canary, as you call him, is a criminal and a thief. He kidnapped you, and I had to send my guards to rescue you. You have brought disgrace upon our families, Lena.”

She stammered, desperately trying to make him understand. “No, Marquess, it wasn't like that. I went with him by choice. I was not kidnapped. I needed to escape, to find my own path.”

The Marquess's face contorted with fury, and he took a step closer, his voice dropping to an icy whisper. “You chose a pirate over me? You dare to defy our families and our betrothal?”

Lena could see that her attempts to reason with him were futile, and she decided to change tactics. “Please, Marquess, you have Captain Canary in custody. I beg you to release him. He saved my life more than once. He is not a common criminal. I owe him a debt I cannot repay.”

The Marquess's expression remained unyielding. “You expect me to release a pirate? To show leniency to a man who has taken you from me? I will not allow it, Lena.”

Desperation welled up inside her as she realized the gravity of the situation. The Marquess was not only furious but also unwilling to listen to reason. She knew she needed to find a way to convince him, but in this lavish and imposing chamber, surrounded by the symbols of his power and wealth, the odds were stacked against her.

She cleared her throat, trying to maintain her composure in the face of the Marquess's anger. “Marquess, I understand your anger and disappointment. But please, listen to me. Captain Canary is not what he seems. He has a code of honor, and he saved my life on more than one occasion. If you just hear his side of the story—”

The Marquess's expression remained implacable. “I have no interest in hearing the tales of a pirate, Lena. My decision is final.”

With a heavy heart, Lena realized that her pleas were falling on deaf ears. The Marquess was determined to proceed with their arranged marriage and to punish Captain Canary for what he saw as a betrayal.

As the Marquess signaled for his guards to take her away, Lena cast one final, pleading glance in his direction. “Marquess, I implore you to reconsider. Captain Canary deserves a fair trial. I beg you to show mercy.”

The guards escorted Lena through a series of luxurious corridors, adorned with intricate tapestries and grandiose paintings, until they arrived at a set of double doors. As they pushed them open, Lena stepped into what she could only assume was her new chamber.

The room was nothing short of opulent. Plush carpets covered the marble floor, and the walls were adorned with gilded frames holding portraits of past Marquesses and their brides. A large four-poster bed with rich, embroidered drapes stood at the center of the room, and a vanity table laden with cosmetics and jewelry gleamed in the soft, golden light streaming in from the tall windows.

The guards left Lena alone in the chamber, and as the doors closed behind her, she heard the distinct click of a lock. Panic welled up within her, but before she could react, the double doors on the opposite side of the room swung open, revealing a group of maids.

They greeted Lena with a combination of courtesy and restraint, their expressions marked by a cold understanding of her predicament. In their hands, they carried a variety of clothes, towels, and sanitary supplies. Lena hesitated for a moment before surrendering to their ministrations, realizing she had little choice in the matter.

One by one, they carefully undressed her, their movements efficient and practiced. Lena's heart raced as they attempted to remove the blue pendant from her neck, and she instinctively clutched it, refusing to let it go. She explained that it was a gift from her mother, a keepsake of great sentimental value. Reluctantly, the head maid decided to let her keep it for now, though her eyes held a trace of suspicion.

With the pendant secured around her neck, Lena was led into a lavish bathing chamber. The room was awash in warm, soft light, and the large, ornate bathtub was filled with steaming water. Lena watched in mild astonishment as the maids meticulously prepared the bath, adding fragrant oils and flower petals that created a fragrant and inviting aroma.

As she was guided into the bath, Lena couldn't help but feel a strange mix of emotions. The water was warm and soothing, and the maids were gentle but efficient in their task. Lena watched as they worked, scrubbing her skin and hair with luxurious soaps and shampoos. It was an odd sensation, being pampered in such a manner, and yet it felt strangely familiar—like a distant memory from a past life she had almost forgotten.

After the bath, they dried her meticulously and led her back into the bedroom. There, the maids went to work, selecting a gown of opulent silk and lace, carefully styling her hair, and adorning her with jewelry fit for a Marquessa. The transformation was remarkable, and as Lena looked at herself in the mirror, she couldn't help but marvel at how they had turned her into the picture of nobility.

As the maids worked, a thought suddenly struck Lena, and she couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. "How did the Marquess and everyone here know who I am?" she asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

The head maid, while continuing to adjust Lena's hair, responded with a detached calmness. “The first gift the Marquess received from your father was a portrait of you, per your father's request. He has long been aware of your existence, my lady.”

Lena listened to the head maid's explanation, her mind racing with the implications of her father's actions. The portrait, a gift from her father, had introduced her existence to the Marquess long before she had even set foot in Canoga. She couldn't help but feel like a pawn in a grand, calculated game.

As the maids worked meticulously to transform her into the Marquessa she was meant to be, Lena's thoughts drifted back to the month she had spent at sea as a cabin boy. It had been a stark contrast to the opulence and luxury surrounding her now.

She remembered the salty sea air, the creaking of the ship's timbers, and the endless expanse of the ocean stretching out in all directions. Life on the pirate ship had been rough and demanding, but it had also been liberating in its own way. She had been free from the constraints of her noble upbringing, free to be herself and prove her worth through her actions rather than her title.

Now, in this lavishly adorned chamber, surrounded by opulent furnishings and adorned like a prized jewel, Lena couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu. It was a return to the life she had known before, a life of privilege and expectation.

She glanced at her reflection in the ornate mirror, her eyes lingering on the blue pendant that hung from her neck. Her thoughts drifted to him, to the pool and waterfall, and to when they plummeted below its surface. To how close he was to her, a breath away.

As the maids continued their work, arranging her hair and adjusting her gown, Lena couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped once more. The gilded cage she had escaped from in her manor now seemed to have reappeared in a different form, one where she was expected to play a role she had never truly wanted.

~

Three days had passed since Lena's arrival at the Marquess's grand estate, and her attempts to inquire about Captain Canary had been met with cold indifference. Whenever she had a moment alone with the Marquess during his busy schedule, she would cautiously bring up the topic of the Captain, her voice trembling with anxiety and desperation. But the Marquess treated her with an icy detachment that sent chills down her spine.

Their conversations had become increasingly strained, with Lena's questions about the Captain falling on deaf ears. The Marquess would simply divert the topic or dismiss her inquiries with a wave of his hand. It was as though he had chosen to forget the pirate's existence entirely, and it filled Lena with a growing sense of dread.

Most of her days were spent locked in her chamber, a beautifully gilded prison that felt more suffocating with each passing hour. She was allowed limited access to the rest of the estate, but always under the watchful eye of guards who followed her every move. Even when she ventured out for dinner with the Marquess, she was never truly alone. The guards remained vigilant, their presence a constant reminder of her captivity.

Locked away for most of the day, Lena found solace only in the blue pendant that rested against her skin. It was a tangible connection to her past, a reminder of who she used to be before this twisted fate had woven her into a new role. She would clasp it in her hands and lose herself in memories of the sea, the camaraderie with the crew, and the sense of freedom that seemed so distant now.

The days were marked by a turbulent torrent of emotions, swinging from fear and anger to desperation and sadness. The confines of her room began to feel suffocating, the gilded luxury a mocking reminder of her predicament. She would often sit by the window, watching the world outside, yearning for the salty breeze and the vastness of the ocean.

As Lena sat by the grand window, the soft, diffused light of the sun gently streaming in, she gazed out at the world beyond the palace walls, her mind drifting in a sea of uncertainty. It was in this contemplative moment that the door to her chamber creaked open, and the head maid, followed by three other attendants, entered with a sense of purpose.

“Lady Lena,” the head maid began with a polite curtsy, “we bring news from His Grace, the Marquess.”

Lena turned her gaze away from the window to acknowledge their presence. The head maid continued, “You are to be formally introduced to the nobility of Canoga at a grand soirée tonight. It is a significant event, and you will need to be prepared accordingly.”

Lena's heart sank at the prospect of an elaborate gathering designed to showcase her as the Marquess's betrothed. She had grown weary at the thought of these formalities, the elaborate charades that masked her true desires. Her thoughts returned to Captain Canary and her crew, imprisoned or worse, and the weight of her helplessness pressed upon her.

The head maid cleared her throat, bringing Lena back to the present. “We shall begin your preparations immediately.”

With mechanical compliance, Lena stood from her seat by the window, her movements sluggish and devoid of enthusiasm. The attendants began their task, carefully undressing her and assisting her into the bath. The warm water was a brief comfort, a fleeting reminder of simpler times when such rituals were soothing rather than daunting.

Then, they began to disrobe her, her previous attire of elegance and restraint discarded in favor of the attire befitting the Marquessa of Canoga. The dress they selected was a masterpiece of splendor. It was a rich sapphire blue, adorned with intricate lace and delicate embroidery that seemed to shimmer in the light. The bodice was elegantly cinched, accentuating Lena's slender figure, while the skirt cascaded in a gentle A-line silhouette, pooling around her feet. As they fastened it with meticulous care, the gown's luxurious fabric whispered against her skin.

Next came her hair, a complex task undertaken by skilled hands. They coaxed her chestnut tresses into intricate braids and curls, weaving in delicate pearls and sapphires that matched the gown's hue. The result was a breathtaking arrangement that framed her face with effortless grace.

The transformation was almost complete when they began to apply makeup, enhancing her features with a delicate touch. Her eyes were lined with kohl to make them appear larger, and her lips were painted a deep shade of crimson. The mirror reflected a woman she scarcely recognized—a porcelain doll, adorned with jewels and finery, but devoid of the spirit that had once defined her.

Lena tolerated their ministrations until she could bear it no longer. With a firm tone, she dismissed them. “Thank you, but I can manage on my own from here.”

The head maid hesitated, a hint of concern in her eyes. “Miss, we are here to assist you. It is our duty.”

Lena's gaze turned icy, a reflection of her inner turmoil. “I said, I can manage.”

The head maid hesitated for a moment, clearly unused to such defiance, but Lena's unyielding gaze silenced any further protest. With a reluctant nod, they withdrew, leaving Lena alone in the ornate bathroom.

In the ensuing silence, loneliness enveloped her, and the emotional numbness that had been slowly seeping into her heart became more pronounced. She fought to hold back a distressed cry, the tears threatening to spill over. Her world had become a prison, and hope seemed like a distant, fading memory.

Then, her gaze fell upon the blue pendant that hung around her neck. It glittered in the soft light, a beacon of memories and promises. Her heart ached as she thought of Captain Canary locked away in the darkness of his captivity. Fear gnawed at her as she considered the possibility that the Captain could be dead, and she would be none the wiser.

She thought of his words to her, ‘You seek freedom, and I can give it.’ The distress that had been simmering beneath the surface erupted into a torrent of anguish. She clutched the pendant tightly, her knuckles turning white, and a sob escaped her lips, echoing in the ornate chamber. She felt utterly helpless, trapped in a world that bore no resemblance to the life she had once known.

As Lena grappled with her distress, the soft knock on the bathroom door pulled her back to the present. It was the head maid, her voice gentle but insistent as she informed Lena that it was time for her to make her grand entrance at the soirée. “The Marquess awaits you,” she reminded.

Lena's grip on the pendant tightened briefly as she took a steadying breath. She couldn't afford to break down now, not in the midst of this carefully orchestrated charade. With deliberate movements, she wiped away the traces of tears that had threatened to mar her makeup, her fingers recalling the lessons she had learned from the maids back in her family's manor.

She nodded to herself, mustering a semblance of courage. Standing up, she left behind the vulnerability of the bathroom and entered the bedroom. The guards who had been standing by the door stepped forward, forming a silent escort for her.

As she moved through the lavish corridors of the palace, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The party was already in full swing, the soft hum of conversations and the strains of a chamber orchestra floating through the air. Lena could hear the tinkling of crystal glasses and the clinking of silverware from the grand hall ahead.

The doors to the grand hall swung open before her, revealing a breathtaking scene of lavishness. The chamber was adorned with gilded accents, crystal chandeliers that cast shimmering light, and sprawling tapestries depicting grandiose scenes of history. Guests in elaborate gowns and tailored suits mingled, their laughter and chatter filling the space.

Lena stepped into the room, her entrance drawing the collective gaze of the assembled nobility. Her heart hammered in her chest as she scanned the sea of faces, searching for the Marquess.

And then, she saw him. Marquess Li'Pold, clad in resplendent attire, stood near the center of the room. His eyes met hers, and he offered an amused smile, as if relishing the spectacle that her arrival had become. With a quick nod of acknowledgment, he began to make his way toward her.

Meeting him halfway, Lena extended her arm, looping it through his as was customary. She summoned a smile, but it was a mask—a veneer of politeness that concealed the turmoil beneath. Her gaze remained cold, her eyes betraying no hint of warmth or affection. The Marquess, seemingly unperturbed by her demeanor, returned the smile with a degree of amusement. With her at his side, they continued to move through the grand hall, a couple in appearance only, navigating the intricacies of an aristocratic soirée where appearances were everything.

Lena, her smile painted on like a mask, navigated the maze of aristocrats who approached with congratulations and inquisitive glances. Each noble's words washed over her like a tide of politeness and flattery, their remarks well-rehearsed and dripping with insincerity.

One noblewoman, adorned in an intricate lace gown, leaned in with an air of curiosity. “My dear, you and the Marquess have taken quite some time to make your union official. Pray, what has caused this delay?”

Before Lena could even muster a response, the Marquess interjected with an affable tone. “Ah, Lady Lydia, you are quite perceptive. Our union was indeed delayed due to unfortunate circumstances. Lena here fell quite ill, and it was during her convalescence that she was abducted by pirates, who sought to hold her for ransom.”

Lena felt a wave of disgust rise within her at the concocted story, but she kept her composure, nodding as if the tale were gospel truth. Lady Lydia gasped in disbelief, her eyes filled with sympathy. “How dreadful! You poor dear, to have endured such a harrowing experience.”

Another nobleman, resplendent in a velvet jacket, chimed in, his eyes appraising Lena with a calculating look. “Marquess Li'Pold, you have chosen a rare beauty as your bride. It's a testament to your discerning taste.”

Lena forced herself to play the part, acknowledging the compliment with a gracious nod. But with each word, she felt like a prized possession rather than a human being.

The Marquess, sensing the need to maintain appearances, turned to Lena with a practiced charm. “My dear, would you do me the honor of a dance?”

She agreed with a distaste she couldn't hide, and he led her onto the polished dance floor. The opulent chandeliers above cast a warm, golden glow, and the chamber orchestra's melodies enveloped them.

With a gentle touch, he adjusted her position, their bodies aligning to the rhythm and pace of the waltz. The Marquess guided her with practiced grace, their movements seamless and choreographed to perfection. His eyes bore into hers, and for a fleeting moment, Lena felt as though she were a pawn in an intricate game, a player in a charade she never wished to join.

As they glided across the dance floor, the Marquess maintained a facade of charm and poise, his grip on Lena both delicate and firm. His voice, a silky whisper, brushed against her ear as he spoke in hushed tones.

“You're doing splendidly, my dear Lena,” he murmured, his breath sending shivers down her spine. “Remember, this is all for appearances. We must play our roles convincingly.”

Lena nodded subtly, her forced smile never wavering. She felt like a marionette, manipulated by the strings of society's expectations, dancing to a tune she had no control over. The room, filled with lavish decorations and adorned guests, seemed to close in on her, suffocating her with its grandeur and artifice.

Their steps became a blur, the music swirling around them like a whirlwind of pretense and deception. Lena's gaze swept across the faces of the nobility, each one wearing a mask of congeniality. She couldn't help but feel like a prisoner, her every move scrutinized by those who attended the lavish event.

The Marquess, with his polished facade, guided Lena through the intricate patterns of the dance. With each step, she yearned for freedom, for a return to the life she had known before her abduction. But she also knew that escape wouldn't be easy, not with the Marquess's watchful eye and the guards ever-present.

The Marquess's voice, laced with a hint of satisfaction, caressed Lena's ear as he leaned down, his lips barely grazing her skin. “My dear Lena,” he murmured, his tone soft yet commanding, “prepare to be happily surprised.”

He continued in his hushed tone, “Captain Canary is still alive, my sweet Lena. After our dance, the guards will escort you to him.”

Lena's heart leaped in her chest as she tried to conceal her emotions. Her lips curved into a feigned, surprised smile, her eyes glistening with tears that she refused to let fall. Inside, a mix of hope and fear churned within her, a tumultuous storm of conflicting emotions.

“Why now?” she couldn't help but ask, her voice quivering with emotion. “Why allow me to see him?”

The Marquess's gloved hand gently traced her cheekbone, his thumb wiping away an errant tear that threatened to escape. “I thought it was time you had a glimpse of your former life before you embark on your new journey as my wife.”

His explanation held a certain cruel kindness, a twisted form of generosity that was as unsettling as it was unexpected. But Lena's astonishment deepened as he pressed his lips to her cheek, the sensation sending shivers down her spine.

“This,” he murmured, his voice barely audible above the music and the chatter of the guests, “is my gift to you, my dear Lena, for our impending marriage.”

His kiss lingered for a moment, and Lena could feel the world closing in around her. She realized, with chilling clarity, just how thoroughly trapped she was. The Marquess's power and control over her life had never been more evident, and any illusion of agency she had held onto shattered like glass.

As they continued to dance, Lena felt a profound sense of despair settle over her like a heavy cloak. The promise of seeing Captain Canary again was both a ray of hope and a reminder of the gilded cage she now inhabited, where even her most personal emotions were scrutinized and manipulated.

She forced herself to smile and pretend, to dance gracefully in the arms of a man she had no love for, all the while yearning for a way out of the elaborate web of deception that had become her life.

As the music came to a gentle halt, the Marquess released Lena, pressing a last, lingering kiss to her delicate hand. He bowed with an air of practiced gallantry, his eyes holding a dark knowing, leaving Lena with a chilling sensation of being exposed and utterly vulnerable. She forced a gracious smile, her heart pounding wildly in her chest.

“Thank you for the dance,” he murmured, the words seemingly benign but laden with a sinister undercurrent.

Lena managed a polite curtsy, her gaze downcast, her mind racing with a tumult of thoughts and emotions. She needed to stay composed, to gather herself before the guards escorted her to where Captain Canary was being held.

The guards flanked her on either side, their imposing presence haunting as ever. Together, they descended through a dimly lit corridor, the flickering torches casting eerie, dancing shadows on the stone walls. The air grew cooler and damper as they descended further, and the distant sound of music and laughter from the ballroom above faded into oblivion.

Finally, they reached a lower level of the estate, where the opulence of the ballroom had given way to a stark, unforgiving reality. They stood before a heavy iron door, and Lena's heart sank as the guards gestured for her to proceed.

As the door creaked open, Lena stepped into a small, dimly lit jail. The cold stone walls closed in around her, and she couldn't help but shiver. At the far end of the corridor, they stopped before a sturdy iron-barred cell. The guards gestured for her to approach, their expressions inscrutable. Lena took a deep breath, her heart hammering in her chest, and stepped closer. 

The sight that greeted Lena as she approached was heart-wrenching. Inside the cell, the flickering light revealed a battered and bloodied figure. Captain Canary was hunched against the cold stone wall, his crimson hair matted with sweat and blood, his breaths ragged and pained. The bloodstains almost seemed to merge with the fiery hue of his hair, an unsettling sight that sent shivers down Lena's spine.

She approached the bars, her hand trembling as she reached out to touch the cold metal. “Haechan…” she choked out, her voice barely above a whisper.

His weary eyes met hers, a flicker of recognition and relief in them despite the pain. “Lena,” he rasped, his voice barely above a hoarse whisper. He attempted a weak smile, but it faltered as pain shot through him.

Tears welled up in Lena's eyes as she took in the sight of the man who had shown her kindness and understanding in the midst of a cruel world. “We'll get you out of here,” she whispered, her voice trembling with resolve. “I'll find a way.”

Captain Canary tried to maintain a sense of optimism, despite his battered state. He spoke, his voice barely above a whisper, “Lena, it's not as bad as it looks. I...I already got myself out.”

Her eyes widened in disbelief. She couldn't fathom how he had managed to escape this grim cell, especially in his wounded state. “You... you got out?” she stammered, her voice filled with a mix of shock and hope.

He nodded, though the motion clearly pained him. “Yes, but it came at a price,” he admitted with hesitation.

Lena's heart raced as she awaited his explanation, her mind racing with all the possibilities. She couldn't help but fear the worst, for what could he have possibly agreed to in exchange for his freedom? “What did you do?” she asked, her voice laced with a hint of horror.

He hesitated for a moment, his eyes avoiding hers. Finally, he admitted with reluctance, “I agreed to become a privateer.”

“You...you had no choice,” Lena stammered, grappling with the reality of the situation. “You did what you had to do to survive.”

Captain Canary met her gaze, his eyes reflecting a mixture of pain and resignation. “Right.”

Lena's heart ached for him, for the impossible choice he had been forced to make. She realized why the Marquess had allowed her to see him – or else he’d met a grimmer fate. The silence that followed was heavy with unspoken words, their implications hanging in the air like a storm cloud.

Lena's heart ached with guilt as she extended her trembling hand through the iron bars, tears streaming down her face. “I'm so sorry, Haechan,” she whispered, her voice laced with an overwhelming sense of culpability. Her hand shook as she reached out to touch his, to offer some small comfort in this dismal place.

The Captain glanced at her hand, his own battered and bruised. With what little strength he had left, he began to crawl toward her, wincing with each agonizing movement. Lena watched in horror and disbelief as he pushed himself forward, every inch a testament to his resilience and determination. Each inch closer seemed like an eternity, and Lena's heart shattered with every wince and pained breath that escaped him.

Her free hand cupped her mouth, stifling her cries as silent tears streamed down her cheeks. She couldn't stop apologizing, her voice filled with torment and self-blame. “It's my fault, all my fault,” she repeated.

When he finally rested against the bars, his breaths shallow and labored, Lena's breath caught in her throat as she saw the full extent of his injuries. His face was battered and bruised, with one eye swollen shut and blood crusted along his hairline. Bruises marred his skin, and a cut across his forehead oozed blood. His clothing was torn and stained with dried blood, and his limbs bore the signs of harsh mistreatment. It was a heartbreaking sight, and she struggled to keep herself composed.

His trembling hand reaching out to hold Lena's with a tight, reassuring grip. Despite the pain that etched across his face, he mustered a weak smile. “Hey now,” he managed to joke weakly, his voice strained but filled with his usual charm. “Do I look that bad?”

Lena's tearful laughter mixed with her sobs as she leaned closer to him, their hands joined through the bars. “You look...terrible,” she replied, her voice trembling. “But you're still...you.” His jokes, no matter how feeble, were a lifeline in this sea of despair, a reminder of the resilient spirit that had drawn her to him in the first place. His fingers squeezed hers gently, providing a small source of comfort in their dire circumstances.

Lena's world was a blur of emotions as the guards approached, their cold and unfeeling demeanor in stark contrast to the turmoil inside her. She shook her head vehemently, tears streaming down her face as she clung desperately to the bars of Captain Canary's cell. Lena's heart plummeted, the hollow thud echoing in her ears as her grip on Haechan tightened, her knuckles nearly white against the cruel iron bars that separated them. Her voice, hoarse from crying and shouting, was filled with defiance as she repeated the word ‘no’ like a mantra.

Haechan, despite his battered state, did his best to calm her. He whispered reassurances, urging her to let go and promising that he would be fine. His words were a lifeline in the storm of her despair, but she couldn't bring herself to release her grip on him.

Her eyes, wide with pleading, locked onto his, and she cried out a resounding ‘no’ that seemed to echo through the cold, dimly lit corridor. It was as if she were trying to anchor herself to him, refusing to be torn away from the one person who had shown her kindness and understanding in a world filled with cruelty.

As the guards approached her with increasing aggression, she fought back, like a cornered animal with nothing left to lose. Her cries were a symphony of despair, echoing through the dim corridors as they dragged her away from Haechan. She pulled against them, her cries turning into screams of protest, but their grip on her remained unyielding. With a cruel force, they hoisted her away from the cell, leaving behind the only source of solace she had known in this bleak place.

As they dragged her out of the small, nightmarish jail, Lena's desperate cries continued to pierce the air. She screamed for Haechan, her voice raw with anguish and despair. The torment of being forcibly separated from him was a pain unlike any other, a feeling of being ripped apart from a part of herself.

When they emerged from the oppressive underground chamber into the dimly lit corridor above, Lena's head maid stood there with a numb expression, her presence a chilling reminder of her captivity. With an air of cold authority, the head maid commanded the guards to take Lena to her room, ignoring her pleas and pleas for leniency.

~

Two weeks had passed since that agonizing moment when Lena was torn away from Haechan's cell, and in that time, her life had become a relentless whirlwind of transformation. She was no longer the same person who had stepped off that pirate ship, with her unkempt hair and torn clothing. The Marquess and his staff had taken it upon themselves to mold her into the image of a noblewoman, the future Marquessa Li'Pold.

Each day brought a new regimen of training and lessons. The head maid, who had initially treated her with cold detachment, had taken on the role of tutor, drilling her in the intricate protocols of noble society. Lena was taught how to walk with poise, how to curtsy gracefully, and how to engage in polite conversation. She met with other noblewomen, their conversations a dizzying whirl of compliments, gossip, and veiled insults. Lena had to learn to navigate this web of intrigue, all while maintaining a façade of composure and grace.

These encounters with the aristocracy were suffocating, their empty compliments and superficial pleasantries leaving Lena feeling hollow. She could sense the judgmental gazes that lingered upon her, as if they could see through her carefully constructed mask. Yet, she persevered, numb to the emptiness of it all, keeping up the act for the sake of survival.

The Marquess, in his twisted desire to make her his, played the role of the doting suitor. He showered her with gifts – elegant gowns adorned with intricate lace, exquisite jewels that sparkled with a cruel splendor, and fine silks that whispered against her skin. Each gift was a shackle, a reminder of the life she had been thrust into.

He would often accompany her on these shopping excursions, their interactions fraught with tension. He would hold her arm as they strolled through the boutiques and small shops, his touch possessive. He would whisper sweet words in her ear, attempting to charm her with flattery and empty promises. But Lena remained resolute, her emotions locked away, her spirit unbroken.

It was two weeks of relentless manipulation, but Lena played her part. She allowed herself to be adorned like a prized possession, let herself be molded into the Marquessa she was meant to be. But behind her mask of compliance, she remained fiercely determined to find a way back to him and repay the life he’d lost due to her.

The bustling square of Canoga enveloped Lena as she walked alongside the Marquess, her demeanor still and quiet, a contrast to the vibrant surroundings that enveloped her. The square teemed with activity, a sensory overload that sent waves of sights, sounds, and scents washing over her.

Visually, the square was a tapestry of colors and textures. Stalls and market booths lined the cobblestone streets, their wooden structures painted in various shades of reds and blues. Vibrant fabrics hung like banners, forming a kaleidoscope of hues overhead. Market-goers moved in a kaleidoscope of their own, each person a splash of color against the backdrop of the city. Vendors, in their elaborately decorated stalls, showcased their wares with pride, their fingers deftly folding fabrics, arranging jewels, and stacking spices.

The air was thick with the mingling of fragrances. Spices from the open-air food stalls wafted on the breeze, intermingling with the earthy scent of freshly harvested vegetables. Lena could detect the warm aroma of freshly baked bread, which beckoned from a nearby bakery, and the sharp tang of spices from a vendor grilling meat over an open flame. The symphony of scents was at once comforting and overwhelming, a reminder of the world she had known before. Her heart reminding her of Gus and Vincent.

Intricate textures surrounded her—the rough, weathered fabric of market stalls, the smooth feel of polished gemstones on display, and the cool touch of the breeze on her skin. The crowd pressed around her, a living, breathing entity of its own. It seemed as if the square itself pulsed with life, each step unveiling a new scene—children playing tag, artisans crafting intricate wares, and couples lost in whispered conversations.

As Lena walked, her senses heightened by the stimulation around her, her olfactory senses were suddenly caught by a scent that sent a jolt of recognition through her. It was the aroma of a dish she had shared with Haechan moments before their capture—a dish from his favorite eatery. Memories of their time together at that small, hidden gem on the streets of Canoga flooded her mind—the laughter, the conversation, the stolen moments of normalcy before the chaos.

The scent of grilled meat grew stronger, and it led her to a small vendor tucked away in a bustling alley. The air was infused with the mouthwatering aroma of spices and charred meats. The vendor was working a sizzling grill, the flames leaping and dancing, painting the evening with an orange glow. Skewers of marinated meat sizzled tantalizingly, sending up plumes of savory smoke that teased her senses.

It was a simple setup, a culinary oasis in the midst of the bustling market. The vendor greeted them with a warm smile, inviting Lena to taste their offerings. Her heart flickered with a pang of nostalgia, the memory of sharing a simple meal with Haechan washing over her like a gentle wave. The Marquess noticed her brief spark of interest and, perhaps out of a momentary kindness, urged her to indulge.

Lena hesitated, glancing at the guards who stood a few steps behind. Their stern expressions were a haunting reminder as always. Yet, a glimmer of rebellion surged within her. Here, amidst the lively market, she felt a tinge of freedom, a fleeting connection to the past. Swallowing her fear, she ventured closer to the vendor, her eyes fixed on the skewers that sizzled and crackled on the grill.

She couldn't help but remark on the mouthwatering scent that filled the air. “Your cooking smells absolutely divine,” she complimented the vendor, her words laced with genuine appreciation.

The vendor beamed at her praise, a twinkle in his eye revealing the pride he took in his craft. “Thank you, my lady. It's the secret blend of spices that gives it that unique flavor.”

She inquired about the cost, turning her eyes briefly to the Marquess. However, before the vendor could reply, he took a look behind her towards the Marquess and stated that it was on the house. She looked at him, and the Marquess gave her a small practice smile. Lena's brows furrowed slightly, her gratitude tempered with suspicion. She stole another glance at him, catching that veneer of kindness that didn't quite reach his eyes. Still, she nodded, then thanked the vendor before taking a bite, her taste buds instantly greeted by the explosion of flavors.

The Marquess, ever the puppeteer, redirected their path toward a clothing shop, suggesting they explore her options. Lena nodded in acquiescence, the taste of meat still lingering on her tongue. As they weaved through the vibrant crowd, she sensed eyes upon her—curious gazes, awestruck glances, and inquisitive stares from both children and adults. She felt like an exhibit, an enigma amidst the familiar yet foreign world of Canoga.

It was as they passed a modest, open tavern nestled between two shops that Lena's attention was captured by a familiar face. Seated at a rickety table with a drink in hand, Jeno's presence in that moment was an unexpected jolt to her senses. His eyes, previously half-lidded and disinterested, widened with recognition when they landed on her. Yet, as quickly as the surprise registered, a flash of something else crossed his gaze—an emotion that she could only interpret as anger.

Caught off guard, Lena hesitated, her heart picking up its pace as a flicker of recognition sparked between them. She averted her gaze quickly, her pulse echoing in her ears. The unexpected encounter with Jeno sent a tremor of unease through her, his reaction raising questions that she had no immediate answers to. Fear gnawed at her, yet she masked it behind a facade of indifference, carrying on as the Marquess guided her towards the clothing shop.

The doorbell chimed as Lena and the Marquess stepped into the shop, a quaint and quiet refuge from the lively square outside. The air was infused with the scent of fresh fabrics and perfumes, and the ambiance exuded an air of sophistication. The interior was a delight to the senses—soft lighting cast a warm glow, revealing racks adorned with dresses of various styles, colors, and textures. Elaborate accessories—glittering earrings, delicate lace gloves, and strands of pearls—beckoned from glass displays, enticing anyone seeking a touch of opulence.

Lena's eyes darted around, taking in the intricate details of each dress—silk cascading like waterfalls, lace delicate as morning dew, and colors that resembled an artist's palette.

The shop owner, a middle-aged woman with a welcoming smile, approached them. She was dressed in somewhat of an elegant attire, her demeanor reflecting years of expertise in fashion. Her voice was soft and refined as she greeted them. “Welcome, Marquessa. How may I assist you today?”

The title made Lena bristle inwardly, a reminder of the identity she was forced to wear like a cloak. She had become accustomed to the deferential treatment she received as the Marquess's betrothed, but it still unsettled her. To her surprise, she noticed a flicker of approval in the Marquess's eyes at the shop owner's address.

The Marquess, his tone affable but laced with an unspoken warning, addressed Lena. “My dear, I have some matters to attend to momentarily. The guards will remain outside the shop, ensuring your safety, of course.” His words sounded like a reassuring gesture, but Lena understood the implicit threat they carried—that any attempt to escape would be met with swift and dire consequences. It was a gesture meant to give an illusion of freedom, yet its undertone was one of confinement and control.

The delicate chimes of the doorbell heralded the arrival of another couple into the shop. Lena continued to feign interest in the gowns, her eyes locked on a particular dress that beckoned her with a sense of familiarity. It reminded her of the dresses she had once worn back in her manor in Lillon, a life that felt like a distant memory. She couldn't help but think of Mr. Freed, the kind head butler who had raised her alongside the servants. How she missed the simplicity of those days, when the confines of her upbringing were the only cages she knew.

As she traced her fingers over the fabric, an unsettling realization washed over her. Despite the comfort and luxury she had known in her early years, she had felt like a captive within those walls. The expectations and constraints of noble society had suffocated her spirit, much like the current situation she found herself in. It was a cycle of being trapped in one cage after another.

Her mind then wandered to her time on the ship with Captain Canary and his crew. She recalled the days of toil and hardship as a cabin boy. Although her chores were demanding and the consequences for any misstep were severe, there was a sense of freedom in those moments. She could speak her mind, even if it angered the crew, and she had a taste of camaraderie that was genuine, unshackled by titles and expectations.

Lost in these reflections, she didn't immediately register the jolt that came when she was abruptly pulled to the back of the shop. Fear surged through her as she found herself pinned against the wall. It was Jeno, his grip tightening around her throat and arm, his eyes burning with anger and betrayal.

Lena's heart raced as she instinctively reached for the hand that was tightly wrapped around her throat. It was Jeno, and despite the anger she could see in his eyes, an overwhelming sense of relief and joy washed over her. Tears welled up in her eyes as a smile tugged at her lips, and she whispered his name in a hushed voice, almost unable to believe that he was standing before her.

“Jeno…”

Jeno's expression momentarily softened at the sight of her tears and her trembling smile, though he quickly regained his composure. He tightened his grip on her arm and his voice took on a stern edge as he demanded to know what had happened to the Captain. Lena's head shook slightly in response, her lips pursed as emotions threatened to overwhelm her.

Lena's lips pursed as the magnitude of the situation weighed heavily on her. Words caught in her throat as the reality of her predicament overwhelmed her. Jeno's sternness and anger seemed too much, too soon, and she struggled to find the right words to convey what had transpired.

He warned her, his voice laced with a hint of frustration and desperation. “I don't care about your status, Lena. If I have to, I'll beat it out of you.” Lena couldn't help but chuckle softly, her laughter tinged with a mixture of emotions.

Tears  began streaming down her face as she continued to speak with trembling lips, recounting the events at the tavern and how the Marquess had taken them both. She explained who she really was, how she had tried to evade the marriage, and how it had all gone horribly wrong. “I'm sorry, Jeno,” she kept whispering in between her explanation, her lips trembling with the weight of her guilt and the fear of his judgment.

As she spoke, Jeno's grip on her throat gradually loosened, though he maintained a firm hold on her arm. He looked at her with an intensity that spoke of his worry and frustration. When she finished, he shook his head, dismissing her excuses about her identity and the arranged marriage.

“That's not what I care about, Lena,” he said firmly, his eyes narrowing with concern. “I need to know where Captain Canary is. The crew waited for him for three days, and when he didn't arrive, they started searching.”

Lena was on the brink of revealing more about Haechan's predicament when their conversation was abruptly cut short. The shop owner's voice called out for her, causing Jeno to release his grip and swiftly disappear into the labyrinth of dresses and aisles. Lena instinctively reached out for him, but he had vanished before she could even touch him.

Alone again, she felt a profound sense of loss and longing. The shop owner, noticing the sadness that clouded her expression, approached Lena with concern in her eyes. She inquired, “Is everything alright, my lady?”

Lena fought to regain her composure, forcing a strained smile. She nodded, her voice sounding more composed than she felt. “Yes, I'm quite alright. Just lost in thought for a moment, that's all.”

Lena, still concealing her inner turmoil, turned to the shop owner and said, “Thank you for your assistance. I'll be leaving for now, but I might return later for one of those gowns.”

The shop owner, ever polite and accommodating, offered a gracious smile. “Of course, my lady. You're welcome here anytime.”

As Lena stepped out of the boutique, she was met by the imposing figures of the guards, who blocked her path with stern expressions. Without missing a beat, she met their gaze with a feigned look of discomfort, one hand delicately touching her forehead. Her voice was convincing as she spoke, “I don't feel well. I'd like to return home and rest, if you don't mind.”

The guards nodded in understanding and, without a word, fell into position on either side of her as they escorted her back through the bustling Canoga streets. Lena couldn't help herself from stealing a quick glance back towards the direction of the shop, hoping to catch even the slightest glimpse of Jeno amidst the crowd.

~

Lena sat by the expansive window, her gaze fixed on the lively city below. She absentmindedly stroked the blue amulet in her hand, her thoughts drifting to Captain Canary. In her mind's eye, she saw the moments they had shared—fragments of stolen kisses in his tent, the embrace of the ocean as he selflessly leaped into its depths to save her.She remembered how her initial desperation had melted away in his embrace, replaced by a yearning to feel those moments once more. Her fingertips unconsciously brushed her lips, reliving the sensation of his touch.

With the amulet cradled in her hand, she recalled the soft melody it had sung to her before, a song that resonated with the depths of her soul. She hummed, her voice barely a whisper, seeking solace in the memory of that sweet tune. But the amulet remained silent, refusing to echo the song back to her.

Tears welled up in her eyes, and she couldn't hold back the sobs that escaped her. Her voice quivered as she begged the amulet to sing to her like it had before, to provide her with the comfort she so desperately needed. But there was no response, and the silence only deepened her despair.

Unable to contain herself, tears streamed down her face. She clasped the amulet tighter, her grip almost desperate. She placed it against her lips, feeling its cool surface against her skin. In an act of pure yearning, she kissed it, whispering the haunting melody through her sobs. Her tears fell on the cold, lifeless surface of the pendant as she poured her heart and soul into the tune.

As if touched by her tears and longing, the amulet finally responded, the melody weaving its way through the air, a gentle caress to her grieving soul. A bittersweet symphony, reminiscent of those times, wrapped around her like a comforting embrace. The tears kept falling, mingling with the tune, a fusion of sorrow and hope that embraced her like a delicate lullaby.

Lena's discovery had filled her with a newfound sense of urgency. If her tears had the power to awaken the amulet's song, then she needed to confirm her theory and unlock its hidden potential. With a mixture of trepidation and anticipation, she dashed to the restroom, where she remembered seeing an open jar filled with water sitting beside the basin. The amulet dangled from her trembling fingers as she prepared to test her hypothesis.

Gently, she submerged the amulet into the water, her heart pounding in her chest. As it touched the surface, the amulet's song swelled, resonating like a choir in a grand cathedral. The ethereal notes grew louder, resonating within the small room, and she couldn't help but wonder if anyone outside could hear this enchanting melody.

However, her recollection of previous moments brought her reassurance. No one aboard the ship had ever shown signs of hearing the amulet's enchanting tune, and when she had pursued its sound on Lavista, she had been the sole follower of its song.

Curiosity piqued, Lena hummed the tune back to the amulet. The reaction was immediate—the amulet glowed with a newfound intensity, its light shimmering and pulsating in harmony with her melody. As the jar vibrated, the vibrations grew stronger and the glass gave way, shards scattering across the countertop and floor. The amulet now lay amidst the remnants of shattered glass, a bed of broken fragments.

Surprise and awe mingled within Lena as she observed the aftermath of the amulet's response. Yet, in the midst of the wreckage, there lay the amulet, still pulsing with a soft glow.

With a sense of awe and reverence, Lena gingerly picked up the amulet from the bed of broken glass, making sure not to touch a single shard. She stared at it with wide, marveling eyes, once again overwhelmed by the power it held. Carefully, she fastened the amulet around her neck, letting the familiar sensation of its cool surface against her skin anchor her.

As the enchanting melody of the amulet swirled around her, Lena didn't notice the entrance of her head maid and the other maids. They watched in shock as they saw Lena near the shattered glass, their concern etched on their faces. They moved forward cautiously, intent on helping her step away from the perilous shards, asking her with urgency what had happened.

Lena, however, was still in a daze, the amulet's song resonating deeply within her. She couldn't find the words to explain the miraculous event that had just transpired. Her head spun with the implications, the threads of hope that were being woven through her life once more.

The head maid recognized Lena's dazed state and urged the other maids to hasten their efforts, for there was much to be done to prepare her. Lena slowly blinked back to reality, looking at the head maid with a sense of confusion, not immediately comprehending the situation. She inquired about the day's plans, attempting to regain her bearings.

The head maid, still with a look of concern, explained that the Marquess had requested her presence. Despite her turmoil, Lena knew she had no choice but to comply. They began to dress her in a stunning gown, its intricate lace and silk draping her form, making her appear every bit the Marquessa she’s supposed to be. The maids styled her hair into an elegant updo, and her face was meticulously made up to enhance her beauty.

However, as the head maid attempted to remove the amulet from Lena's neck to replace it with a more suitable accessory, Lena's grip tightened. She held the head maid's wrist firmly, her eyes fixed on their reflection in the mirror. This gesture of resistance didn't go unnoticed. 

Slowly she leaned down, stopping beside Lena’s face. In a hushed whisper, she said, “Miss Lena, remember that while you may lack certain freedoms, you possess the safety, wealth, and status that many can only dream of. There are many reasons to live.”

Lena met her gaze with a mixture of confusion and understanding. She had no intentions of ending her life, but the head maid had apparently misinterpreted her hesitance.

“I wasn't…” she began, but the head maid had already clapped her hands, signaling the other maids to leave the room. She swiftly called for the guards, announcing that Lena was ready to be taken to the Marquess.

Lena was led through a labyrinthine corridor, her footsteps echoing on the polished marble floors. Guards in finely embroidered uniforms flanked her on either side, their armor gleaming under the grand chandeliers that hung low from the high, ornate ceiling. As they approached the Marquess's office, she couldn't help but be impressed by the room's grandeur.

The door creaked open, revealing a lavishly furnished space adorned with heavy drapes and oil paintings of landscapes from across the empire. An impressive mahogany desk stood at the center, adorned with quills, inkwells, and intricately designed stationery. Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with volumes of knowledge and history, while a large, ornate mirror reflected the room's opulence back at her.

The Marquess, sitting behind his desk, stood up as she entered. His eyes lingered on her, and he couldn't help but smile at the sight. “Lena, my dear,”  he began, “you look positively radiant today.”

Lena managed a half-hearted ‘Thank you’ in response as she glanced around the room, her mind still lingering on the events of the day.

The Marquess leaned back in his large, upholstered chair and set down his quill, his piercing gaze fixed on Lena. He raised a finger, pointing directly at her. “You love him, don't you?” he said, referring to Captain Canary.

Lena's jaw tensed as her heart raced. The question lingered in the air, and she struggled to form a response. She'd often questioned her own feelings toward Haechan. Was it love, or was it the guilt of the consequences he faced because of her? Silence hung in the room as she grappled with her emotions and memories of their time together on the pirate ship.

The Marquess let out a sigh, a charismatic smile playing at his lips. “You know, Lena, I've learned that a woman only suffers in silence if it's either out of love or because of injustice,” he mused. The intrigue in his eyes grew as he continued to study her, waiting for her response.

As Lena was about to speak, there came a series of knocks at the door. The Marquess's eyes lit up with excitement, and he gestured for Lena to come and stand next to him. “Ah, right on time,” he said as he rose from his seat, anticipation in his voice.

The door slowly swung open, revealing a figure standing in the hallway beyond. The Marquess's voice oozed with charm as he spoke, “Lena, allow me to introduce you to someone special.”

In the doorway stood Captain Canary, transformed from the carefree pirate she knew into a disciplined privateer. His new uniform, tailored to fit his form, seemed like a cage constraining his natural grace. The dark navy coat and trousers were adorned with golden trimmings, a stark departure from his former attire that was a canvas of freedom, adorned with the colorful remnants of his adventures. The coat hung stiffly on his shoulders, devoid of the fluidity it once had, and his red hair, though still vibrant, was now swept back, revealing his furrowed brow and the remnants of bruises on his face.

The sight of him in this unfamiliar role tugged at her heart. She longed for the charismatic and charming pirate who had shown her a world beyond her gilded cage. But now, he stood before her, and she searched for some glimmer of his former charm. Haechan's gaze briefly met hers, but it didn't linger. Instead, he looked past her, his eyes distant. The Captain who had once laughed and lived his life without a care in the world was replaced by a cold, distant figure. For a moment, she wished to reach out, to hold him as she had once, to feel that connection they had forged during their days at sea.

The Marquess's voice broke through her thoughts as he gestured for Haechan to step forward. “Allow me to introduce you to my new Privateer, a man who will fight in my honor,” he announced. Haechan complied, taking a step closer and bowing his head. His movement was measured, deliberate, but Lena couldn't help but notice the subtle signs of pain. He kneeled with a noticeable twitch, and she winced, realizing that she had yet to see the full extent of his injuries. The ache in her heart deepened, and she wished she could shield him from the cruelty of his new reality.

As her eyes welled with tears, the Marquess, ever observant, noticed. He instructed her to wipe away her tears, reminding her that she should be proud to witness a lowly man rise to such a prestigious position. However, the pride he expected from her was eclipsed by her worry and sadness for the man who stood before her, irrevocably changed.

As the Marquess nonchalantly revealed Haechan's impending departure to fight in distant lands, Lena felt her heart plummet. It was as if her world had been upended, and for the first time since he'd entered the room, she moved—stepping away from the Marquess in disbelief. Her eyes darted from the callous nobleman to Haechan, who remained on one knee, head still bowed in obedience. The Marquess, however, demanded he rise, and Haechan complied, holding onto his posture with unwavering determination.

The Marquess stood up from his grand chair, pushing it back, and turned to Lena, granting her the opportunity to say her goodbyes. In that moment, Lena could barely contain the flood of emotions threatening to consume her. It was as if the weight of the world was bearing down on her, and she struggled to comprehend the reality of what was transpiring.

She didn't hesitate, rushing to Haechan's side and wrapping her arms tightly around his neck. She clung to Haechan, feeling the contours of his form, the familiar warmth, the beating of his heart. In that embrace, she poured her heart out, all her worries, fears, and love, holding on as if she could defy the cruel fate that had befallen them.

From behind her, she heard the Marquess's mocking words, “Go ahead, play lovers for a minute or two.” The bitterness of his tone only fueled her determination to make this brief moment count. Haechan, after a moment's hesitation, enveloped her in a warm embrace. She could feel him drawing in her scent, his breath falling in sync with hers. It was a bittersweet, stolen moment amidst the miserable circumstances.

Then, Haechan's voice whispered in her ear, a soft and intimate murmur that almost seemed to drown out the world. He told her that he had left her a letter in his cell, his breath warm against her skin. His lips pressed gently to her cheek in a fleeting kiss, a tender farewell. As he pushed her away to stand with the poise of a soldier, Lena felt a chasm open in her chest, the weight of their parting becoming inescapable.

Lena staggered back from the parting embrace, the sensation of Haechan's touch still lingering on her skin, a bittersweet memory etched into her heart. She turned away from the newly transformed Captain Canary, who stood with a rigid formality that felt alien to her. The Marquess watched the scene with a self-satisfied smirk, enjoying the display of their emotions.

The room seemed to close in around Lena as she grappled with the reality of the situation. She had longed to escape her arranged marriage, but the cost of her newfound freedom was the captivity of the man she had grown to care for.

Haechan's hushed words were etched into her mind, a promise of a letter that would serve as his last thoughts to her if this were to be their last time. She bit her lip, tasting the metallic tang of her own blood, a reminder of the bitter truth she faced. The guards beckoned, reminding her that the sands of time were slipping away, and she had no choice but to follow its unyielding current.

𔘓⁩ ᵗⁱᵖʲᵃʳ

[twisted-tales-of-all]

The Enemy of My Enemy

Summary: When your home port suddenly claims a ban on pirates docking there, you and your rival are forced to join forces. Characters: Kim Hongjoong + Gender Ambiguous Reader; ft. ATEEZ members Genre: Fantasy Short Series (part 1) with a bit of Angst (and possible fluff in later parts) Tropes: pirate!AU, enemies to friends (to lovers in a later part), working together against a mutual enemy Word Count: 2.9K Contains: pirate-related violence (explosions, knives, injury, blood, etc), betrayal, cursing, mention of death and loss of limbs, homoromantic undertones for certain characters (nothing explicit or confirmed), use of 'sir' as honorific without gendered undertones

A/N: support banner by @cafekitsune ; pirate divider by @firefly-graphics 🤍

You aren't new to discrimination, not by any means. However, that didn't stop you from getting blindsided as you tied your ship to its usual post at the port.

"This ship and its crew are unwelcome in this port." A stern, deep voice booms from behind you, loud enough to gather the attention of everyone nearby - all but yours, at least.

As you finish tying the knot and stand up, you feel the figure looming directly behind you. You hadn't the slightest thought that they were speaking of your wondrous Moon Raider, not after the past three years of ensuring that your crew respected the port and its customs.

Turning, you ask the man, "What ship is unwelcome, exactly?"

Although you wanted to hide your irritation, your crew noticed. The man also must've noticed since he clears his throat harshly before responding with a tone rivaling that of an automated robot.

"Any and all pirate ships have been banned from docking on our port. Leave immediately or face the consequences."

Your irritation morphs into booming laughter, "We always pay any fines you assign us. What's with the extra formality this time around?"

As you mimic his stature, you notice another officer walking past your boat's position. You watch him announce the same rehearsed statement to the captain there as he hops out to anchor his ship to its post. However, rather than offering him a chance to leave, he grabs his arm, locking him into constraints instantly. At this point, you realize the gravity of the situation, but it's all too late. As you're focused on the Sun Howler, the officer in front of you approaches and places restraints on you. You call out to your crew, reminding them to stay calm and follow all the rules.

Dragging your rival, the other officer follows behind as you walk with your officer silently. Trying to remain calm, you attempt to calculate why this may happen. Although you may not follow all the rules perfectly, everything worked out up until now. And, although you may not enjoy competing with him, you know Captain Hongjoong plays fair just like you. For the harbor police to arrest you both, there's really only one option: new port ownership. Although this was your first time back to the dock in months, you hadn't expected such a drastic change.

Reaching the prison, the officers shove you both into a cell together. Through the bars, they remove your cuffs.

"You sure we won't kill each other in here?" You joke, screaming at their backs as they leave, entirely unfazed by your comment.

"I think they'd prefer it," Hongjoong scoffs as he taps on the sheath on his hip, "Otherwise, they'd at least remove our obvious weapons."

Cursing, you sit down with your back against the cold brick wall. Fidgeting with the frayed fabric on the thigh of your pants, you wonder if the situation could get any worse.

"What'd you do, Raider?" He prompts, using your boat as your name, somewhat of a custom between you.

"Nothing here. Not in a long time. We've been gone for three months time. What of you, Howler?"

You look up to see him leaning against the opposite wall, arms crossed and one foot laid over the other. He shakes his head, and - although his hat covers his face - you can imagine how hard the cogs turn in his head to analyze the situation.

"It wasn't like this when I left either. We've only been gone about seven weeks. How'd something happen so quickly?"

After a long period of silence, you hear footsteps approaching. Even simply seeing their shoes, everything clicks for you. You can tell Hongjoong understands as well, as you can sense him tense up.

"Hongjoong.Y/N. What an amazing situation for us to reunite."

The callous tone pricks at your skin, leaving goosebumps in its stead, but you refuse to give them the satisfaction of a reaction. Your cellmate, however, is far too quick to anger to stop himself. He leans against the bars as he curses at the person who once sailed the seas opposite you both.

"The fuck is going on, Wooyoung?! Why in hell's name are you standing there high and mighty while we're stuck in a damned cage in this cellar?!"

Hands up by his head, Wooyoung stifles a laugh, "Quite aggressive now, aren't we? I know we were rivals on the sea years ago, but it looks like I won out."

"Sell out. Traitor. Fucking turncoat."

This time, he allows his laugh to echo through the prison. Cockily, he steps closer to Hongjoong, leaning in just barely out of reach.

"Does it matter what I did if I won? You look pathetic, Captain."

With this comment, you interject, "This is why you never had a loyal crew, you know. Your ego got in the way and Topaz Shields lost out because of it. Such a gorgeous ship, too. So sad. How's the leg?"

Knowing he wanted to hit below the belt, you remind him of his greatest tragedy by asking about his leg. Due to his ego, he drove his ship directly into the sirens' call and barely escaped with his life. He lost his loyal-to-a-fault first mate that day two years ago, all because he couldn't stand the thought of the other two crews finding a sacred treasure before him.

"Don't you dare mention Shields, Raider. The leg was the least of my troubles, and you know that much."

"Right, right. Pardon my impertinence. How could I forget that you lost your boyfriend as well?"

Trying to hold his composure, he reminds you that San was only ever his first mate, nothing more. Despite what everyone knows to be true thanks to their actions and Wooyoung's immediate reaction to the man's untimely death, he has denied his feelings since the incident - something to hide behind to lessen his feelings of guilt for causing his death.

"Well, whatever the case, I've come here to alert you that we'll be charging you for crimes against the city through your illegal market dealings and disregard for the laws of the area."

Hearing a former pirate captain charge someone for essentially being a pirate feels laughable, but you simply ask for the price point of said charges.

"Oh, no price for this one, Y/N. You both have been sentenced to time in jail equal to that of your career length. For you, that's three years; Hongjoong, you have 4."

Quick to react once again, Hongjoong unsheaths his dagger and swings it through the bars. It cuts Wooyoung on the lower part of his cheek, but the sound is far more intimidating than the actual damage.

Bringing his hand up to his face, Wooyoung smirks as he sees his red-stained fingertips. You keep a hand on your weapon, worried he might lash out against you both, but he simply turns to walk out.

"Enjoy your years. Once you return, there will be no Sun Howler. No Moon Raider. No pirates." He doubles down with his irritating remarks by waving his hand nonchalantly as he turns the corner.

As soon as the click of his footsteps fades to silence, Hongjoong drops into a squat. He curses Wooyoung and grumbles about the ridiculous sentencing. Seeing him freak out like this makes you giggle. He's usually light and free, the shining sun amongst a hoard of disheveled and mangled captains. You share that commonality with him - you've never quite been one for abandoning health and presentation, even if that's what many people picture when imagining pirates. The crews from this port rarely saw those kinds of pirates, not when the three captains who called this place home were you, Hongjoong, and Wooyoung. So, seeing one of these captains falling apart on the floor while cursing and swinging at someone makes you wonder how quickly you could also fall apart.

Shaking your head to rid yourself of those thoughts, you break the silence, "What's the plan, Howler?"

He looks at you dumbfounded, "Plan?"

"The escape plan? Ain't no way I'm letting that one-legged chicken act all high and mighty like that. We aren't gonna sit here and accept years of punishment for things he once did with us."

Suddenly recognizing escape as an option, Hongjoong stands up straight. You see a fire burning in his eyes and tricks within his crooked smile. He twirls the dagger around carelessly as he paces in the small box of a cell. With his newfound joy, he examines the bars, the lock, and every crevice that might be used to thwart Wooyoung's scheme and escape from the prison.

"I think this calls for a good old-fashioned bust out. Unless you think you can pick the lock from in here."

You approach the bars, trying to find the perfect angle to see what you need on the lock. However, you can't find the necessary parts to allow you to pick it from awkward angles. Turning to your cellmate, you shake your head.

"Bust out it is. Not as quiet, but it gets the job done all the same." He reaches into the inner pocket of his coat and pulls out a small trinket about the size and shape of a pocketwatch, which confuses you. He must be able to read the confusion on your face, because he explains, "My first mate loves to tinker, and he's made some marvelous contraptions. Stand back at the bars and watch."

Listening to his advice, you stand flush against the metal bars, the cold bleeding through your clothing to leave your skin feeling fresh. He stands next to you, flips the gadget open and closed quickly, and tosses it to the opposite side of the cell. When it connects with the wall, you hear a clicking noise and instinctively close your eyes. In that short moment, you feel Hongjoong move from beside you to in front of you. With the cold on your back and the warmth from his body closely in front of you, you barely process the explosion. When you open your eyes, you see the captain boxing himself around you, framed by the outside light streaming in. You assume it's around midday from how strongly it enters the room, and you try to look anywhere that isn't directly at Hongjoong's face.

He clears his throat as he steps back, "Sorry. I didn't want debris flying into your chest or anything."

Noticing him fiddling with his shoulder, you quickly thank him before asking if he's injured. Although he blows it off, he refuses to turn around, so you know debris likely lodged itself into his upper back. You decide not to fight it until you reach the docks, so you simply make your way over the rubble and out into the sunlight, letting him follow behind to hide his injuries.

Despite the explosion, nobody seems interested when you walk past. The only looks passed your way feel like those typical for known pirates walking around. As you reach the docks again, your crew quickly catches sight of you and rushes off the ship. You're glad that they make it to you long before his crew can see you.

"Mingi, can you tend to him? We blew our way out of jail, and he got hit with debris. He's acting like he's fine, but drag him aboard anyway."

Hongjoong tries to argue, but Mingi ends up behind him and sees the injury. With your first mate yelling at him for hiding it, he can't help but walk onto the Moon Raider for medical help. As he passes you, you sneak a glance at his back and see the top left corner of his otherwise tan shirt torn and stained dark red already. Trying to figure out the trajectory of the rubble, you place your hand on your right shoulder and vow to find Hongjoong a new shirt as thanks for blocking it from hitting you.

After reassuring your crew that everything will be okay and joking that you may be fined for the massive hole in the prison wall, you make your way past your prized ship. Approaching Sun Howler, you receive a much colder reception. Bowing before the ship, you address the first mate.

"Quartermaster of Sun Howler, I wish to inform you that your captain is currently aboard the Moon Raider receiving medical care from my crew. He protected me during an explosion of his creation, so I took it as my role to aid him with our supplies. He will be fine, and we will send him to you once his wound is properly dressed."

As you raise your head, you notice an exceptionally pretty man standing about ten feet in front of you. He nods as you acknowledge him before thanking you for taking care of his captain. You weren't expecting someone who could shine in his own respect to be Hongjoong's right hand, but hearing him speak makes you understand exactly why he would be in such a position. A voice that rivals one of a siren, the grace in his speech patterns, and his subtly decorated uniform all suggest a royal background. You begin to wonder whether he was a runaway or kidnapped and assimilated.

"Stop gawking at Seonghwa, Raider. Don't go stealing someone else's first mate." Hongjoong struts up to you, shirtless other than the bandages circling his chest, back, and shoulder blade.

Although Seonghwa laughs at the comment and explains the situation, Hongjoong doesn't back down in his jests, pointing out Seonghwa's obvious beauty.

"Sometimes, even I swear you're a siren. Even royals don't typically look and sound as good as you. You sparkle, Hwa." He reaches the boy as he talks, placing a hand on his shoulder to emphasize his final sentence.

"Captain, stop with the flattery. A first mate is never as wonderful as the captain, and yet you forbid us from saying those types of comments towards you."

Feeling out of place in the interaction, you quietly excuse yourself and begin walking back to your ship, but Hongjoong calls after you, "Y/N, let's find a new port together."

You try not to react, but the comment makes you trip over the air by your feet. You hope that they don't notice while you continue walking, making your way to your ship to break the news to your crew that you need to find a new home base and likely won't be able to return. Some crew members are quick to show their anger towards Wooyoung, but you reassure everyone with one simple claim.

"If we've done everything we can and they still don't want us here, we shouldn't want to stay either."

You explain how there likely isn't any time for goodbyes since the police likely won't waste time chasing you down again, so you work towards setting sail immediately. Luckily, your crew instinctively filled up on supplies while you were stuck in the cell, so there isn't much left to do.

"Cap'n, there's someone requesting to talk to you. Should we allow him aboard?" A member screams across the ship.

"Who is it?"

"Captain Hongjoong of Sun Howler, sir."

"Let him board."

As your new companion faces you, you address him properly and lead him into your chambers. Motioning to the nearest chair at your desk, you drop the formalities in the privacy of the room. Dragging out another chair to sit in front of him, you ask about the plan. As he recounts the pirates and their known home ports, you deduce that the safest plan would be to sail north, up the coast to the city rivaling this one.

"Won't they shun us away?"

"Didn't you and I once shun each other away and brace this port together regardless? Or what of Wooyoung taking over this city to shun us away from here?"

Nodding in acknowledgment, Hongjoong confirms, "So, we head north? Stop at each port we come across?"

"We might end up too close if we do that. Does your crew have the supplies to sail safely for a week before finding a port? I don't want to taunt Shields too soon; I want to be ready to fight back."

Uncertain of Wooyoung's response to your escape, the captain agrees to meet again in a week's time. After the seventh sunrise, they will look for the closest port. In case of landing at different ports, you agree on a plan to find one another via smoke signals and a trail of coded notes. To stay one step ahead of potential enemies, you assign each other new aliases to use in the notes, basing the initials on the boats' names and their respective quartermasters: Sea Heist Sails and Mightly Reel Mast.

After agreeing on the specifics, you shake Hongjoong's hand and wish him luck on his journey. Leaving you with a quick show of comradery in smiling and claiming that he'll see you in a week, he heads back to the Sun Howler to untie her and set sail. Following his lead, you untie Moon Raider and instruct Mingi to head north, staying near the coastline if possible.

As you drift out of the port, you hear a commotion behind you. Eyes drawn towards the ruckus, you see Wooyoung red-faced and angrily yelling at his guards. As he flails his arms in the direction of your ship, he makes direct eye contact with you. With a smug smile on your face, you remove your hat in a mocking salute, signaling to the man that you've won this round without breaking a sweat.

Tags: @yourfatherlucifer @pyeonghongrie

[hyalinemin]

[lilacmingi]

BEACHED

My works are 14+ ONLY. If you’re under 14 DO NOT interact with me or any of my works

Pairing: Pirate!Mingi x fem reader

Word count: 8,000

Coughs racked your whole body, something rough and abrasive scratching your face as your body jerked with each wheeze.

"Hey, lady." An unfamiliar voice called.

You groaned, your eyes screwing shut as a bright light nearly blinded you.

You managed to lift your head as your eyes peeled open, squinting in the harsh sunlight. A dull ache became present near the back of your skull as you glanced around, taking in your surroundings. You quickly came to the realization that you were on a beach, but you weren't sure how you got there.

"Lady?"

There's that voice again.

A pair of scuffed, black leather boots were planted in the sand nearby. Your eyes followed up the person's body to their face. A man was standing over you, his thick brows knit together as he stared down at you.

"Thank goodness. Are you alright?" He asked.

"I..." You trailed off. "I think so."

Your throat burned, the words scratching your windpipe like broken shells. Your hair was frizzy and stuck together, the tangled strands hanging in your face as you stared off in the distance. Your skin felt sticky and gross. Grains of sand were stuck all over you, including on your clothes which were rubbing harshly against your flesh whenever you moved.

"What's going on over there?" A new voice called, catching your attention.

A tall, slim man walked over, his long coat flapping behind him as he approached.

"I found this girl passed out here." The man answered.

The tall one glanced down at you before crouching in the sand.

"What's your name?" He asked, his caring and gentle, brown eyes gazing at you with concern.

"Y/n." You answered, wincing when you felt a burning sensation in your throat.

"Do you know how you got here?"

You shook your head.

"Are you hurt anywhere?"

The man's voice was deep, but his tone was so incredibly warm and comforting. It gave you a sense of trust, even though you didn't know him.

"I don't think so, but my head hurts." You internally cringed at the sound of your own voice. It sounded so weak and scratchy.

"Let me see. Can you sit up?"

You nodded, pushing yourself into a sitting position and allowing the man to examine your head.

"Oh."

That doesn't sound good.

"You've got a pretty big bump on the back of your head. Do you remember what happened?"

"No. I don't."

"Well, that's common for people with head injuries."

"Captain." The man who found you spoke up. "What do we do?"

"We're going to bring her with us. We can't just leave her here."

The man previously referred to as captain, turned to you with those same gentle eyes.

"Will you come with us?"

You nodded your head. Seeing as you didn't know any places to go, this seemed like the best option.

"Come on, then. I'll help you up."

The man placed his hands under your arms and hoisted you to your feet.

"My name is Mingi, by the way. Captain Mingi."

"Are you a pirate?" is what you wanted to ask but thanks to your voice giving out slightly, it came out like, "You pirate?"

"I am. You should keep the talking to a minimum until we get back on the ship. Sounds like your throat is pretty dry."

Mingi and his crew mate helped get you onto the ship where you were taken to the sick bay.

"This is Yeonjun. He's the doctor on the ship."

The young male gave a friendly smile.

"She's got a bump on her head. I need you to take care of that and get her cleaned up." Mingi told him.

"Yes, captain."

"Oh, and get her some water."

"Will do, captain."

"Yeonjun will take good care of you. I'll be back later to check in. Will you be alright?"

You trusted the kind captain, nodding your head in understanding. The doctor led you to a small cot, guiding you to sit down.

"Let me get you that water." He moved over to a cabinet, retrieving a large bottle and a small bowl, pouring some of the bottled contents into it.

"Here you go. Drink that."

You took the bowl from him, sniffing the liquid.

"It's water. There's a little rum and lime in it to keep it fresh. It'll hydrate you."

You took a couple small sips, allowing the liquid to slide down your dry throat and refresh it. After that, you downed the rest of it, setting the empty bowl aside.

"Do you feel better?" Yeonjun questioned.

You nodded.

"Good. Now, let me check out your head."

You allowed him to move your hair around and feel over your scalp.

"Oh. That's quite a bump. It seems like you cut your head as well."

"It hurts."

"I know." He frowned. "But you'll be alright. I just need to clean the wound."

Your eyes followed him as he moved busily around the small room, gathering bottles of liquids and pieces of cloth. He set the items aside and opened up one of the bottles, getting some of the clear liquid on a cloth.

"This is alcohol. It should disinfect the wound. I should warn you, though. It might hurt."

You nodded, sitting still as he pressed the cloth against the back of your head. A hiss immediately left your mouth as the alcohol-soaked rag made contact with your injury.

"I'm so sorry. Just hang in there." Yeonjun apologized.

You bit your lip, trying to bear the pain, just waiting for it to be over.

"What's your name?" He asked, trying to distract you.

"Y/n."

"Ah. Y/n. That's a nice name."

"Thank you." You said through gritted teeth.

"You're lucky captain found you. He's a very compassionate person."

"He seems like it."

The burning on the back of your head lasted for a few seconds before subsiding.

"Alright. Done." Yeonjun announced. "You did really good."

He grabbed a jar of an unknown substance and a small square of white fabric, as well as some sort of wrapping. You sat still as he got to work, opening the jar.

"This is a healing ointment I made with herbs. It should heal that cut in a few days." Yeonjun told you as he applied the ointment.

He grabbed the square of fabric and placed it on the back of your head before wrapping a strip of linen around your head.

"Sorry if that's uncomfortable. I have to do that so pressure is applied to that cut."

"It's okay. I trust that you know what you're doing."

Yeonjun gave you a warm smile. "I'm glad you feel that way."

Your eyes followed him as he carried the bottles of liquid and other medicines back to the cabinet they came from.

"I'll need to monitor you for 3 hours and make sure you don't have any other symptoms." He mentioned.

Mingi returned to the sick bay a short time later to check on you.

"Feeling better?"

You nodded. "Yeonjun took good care of me."

"Good."

"I'm gonna need to keep a check on her for 3 hours. Make sure she doesn't fall asleep." Yeonjun told the captain.

"Will do." He then turned to you. "Would you like to go out on the deck and walk around for a little while?"

You nodded, getting to your feet. Yeonjun stood close by to make sure you didn't wobble or fall over as you stood up and made your way to Mingi.

"I got it from here." He assured the medic.

Your bare feet hit the wooden deck that had been warmed by the midday sun. It felt pleasant, unlike that unbearably hot sand you woke up on. Just then, a scruffy-looking three-legged dog ran past you, causing you to let out a yelp.

"Beast!" You shrieked leaping into Mingi's arms.

The pirate captain did his best to catch you, confused by your reaction.

"Beast?" He repeated with furrowed brows.

Yeonjun, who was walking by, chuckled at your reaction.

"That's just Lucky." He mentioned. "He won't hurt you."

"Lucky?" You questioned.

"He's our dog." Mingi added. "There's nothing to worry about. He's just a pet."

"A pet?" You inquired softly as you got back on your feet.

"Yeah. An animal you keep for company."

"So, he's not dangerous?" You asked.

"No. Look." He crouched down and held his hand out to the animal.

You watched warily as the dog approached him, giving his hand a couple licks. Mingi then started petting the dog's head, scratching behind his ears a few times.

"You try." He urged you, gently.

You hesitantly crouched down, reaching your hand out to the dog, allowing him to sniff it. You then started running your hand over the top of the animal's head, continuing for a few moments before pulling away.

"See? He's friendly." Mingi smiled, his eyes crinkling.

You returned the smile, nodding.

"Come on. Let me show you to your room." Mingi beckoned.

You followed him into the ship and down a hallway lined with many doors. He stopped at one of them, twisting the knob. Inside was a bed and some small pieces of furniture. The room was compact, but cozy.

"Thank you." You told Mingi.

"Of course. You're welcome to spend some time in here if you ever get bored hanging out on the deck all day, though I think that's impossible. Me and my crew are rather entertaining." He grinned. "You can even take a nap if you want to, but not for 3 hours. I have to get the okay from Yeonjun before you can go to sleep."

"Right." You nodded.

"In the meantime, I can give you a tour of the ship."

"I'd like that."

"Alright. Follow me."

You maneuvered out of the sleeping quarters and down a set of steps, moving further into the ship. Once at the bottom of the stairs, you were met with a vast room full of tables and chairs.

"This is the galley. We have all our meals here."

"What do you eat?"

"Different things. It all depends on what we got from the towns we docked at. Usually we eat fish and some type of bread if we have it or soup. If we're lucky, we get meat. That's our favorite. Fruit is another common thing we get, but we have to eat it quickly or else it goes bad. Same goes for vegetables."

"How many meals to you eat a day?"

"Three, but some of us come in here to snack, if we have enough rations, of course."

On the way to the next room, you passed by the sick bay where you were first taken to.

"You've already seen the sick bay." Mingi commented.

"Do you have to use it very often?"

"Not often, but if someone ends up getting sick or injured, we do. I think me and my crew are lucky. Everyone has managed to stay in decent health and keep themselves safe during any battles."

"Battles?"

He nodded. "Sometimes we have enemy ships that come and attack us."

You frowned slightly at that.

Mingi seemed so nice. How could anyone want to hurt him or attack his ship?

The captain seemed to notice your expression. He smiled, lightly resting his hand on top of your head, careful not to hurt you.

"Don't look so sad. It's not often that we get attacked." He assured you.

"Why?"

"Why?" He repeated.

"Why do other people attack you?"

"Because they can. That's how piracy works. Sometimes pirates steal from pirates if they can't get the things they need from pillaging towns. Me and my crew try to barter and trade with merchants and fisherman when we dock. I try not to steal from people unless they deserve it."

"How do you determine if someone deserves to be stolen from?" You inquired.

"Lots of things. If they're cruel to the less fortunate, greedy with their money, or just bad people in general."

You found that admirable and maybe even a little heroic. Giving bad people what they deserve.

The next place Mingi took you to was the cargo hold. He explained that's where nonperishable or long-lasting items are kept, including weapons, rope, or other supplies that might be needed on the ship. You were surprised at how well-stocked it was, wondering how many stops it took to accumulate this much stuff.

After Mingi showed you around, you were taken back onto the main deck of the ship where his crew was hard at work, bustling about the deck.

"What do you use these for?" You asked, pointing to a stack of black spheres.

"Those are cannonballs. We put them into the cannons and shoot them at enemy ships."

You thought back to what Mingi said about sometimes being attacked.

"Don't they just end up at the bottom of the ocean?"

"Ah." He paused for a moment. "They do. I never really thought about that."

There was a brief silence before Mingi spoke up again.

"Hey, you wanna see the view from the forecastle deck?"

You nodded, excitedly, allowing the captain to lead you across the expanse of wooden boards and up a shallow set of steps that led to a slightly higher deck, a steering wheel situated right in the middle.

Mingi approached the helm, standing in front of it as he cast his eyes upon the horizon, the bright midday sun reflecting off the water's surface.

"This is my view." He smiled to himself. "Come here. I want to show you something."

He moved to the furthest point of the forecastle deck, right at the head of the ship. You rested your hands on the rails, leaning forward and peering over the edge to watch the bow of the ship cut through the waters. The salty smell of the ocean was comforting and the feeling of the strong sea breeze blowing through your hair was refreshing and invigorating. You were glad you ended up on this ship. If Mingi hadn't found you, you weren't sure what would have happened.

"Captain."

Mingi turned to see who'd called for him, spotting his cook standing at the top of the steps.

"Yes?"

"It's nearing the evening. Should I start preparing dinner?" The man asked.

"That's a good idea. Our guest Y/n hasn't had anything to eat since coming onto the ship. Make sure you prepare something delicious."

"Yes, captain." He gave a nod, turning on his heel and moving back down the stairs.

"I hope you're hungry." Mingi faced you.

"I am."

"I'm glad to hear that. You know, not every ship is lucky enough to have a cook like ours. He's good at what he does."

"His cooking isn't bad, I presume?"

"Not in the slightest. The food served on pirate ships is usually satisfactory, but the food served here is on another level."

Later that day, the dinner bell rang, beckoning the crew to the galley.

Mingi excitedly pulled you into the large room, helping to fix your plate as he spoke quietly to himself about how hungry he was and how amazing the soup looked.

He led you over to a table, pulling a chair out for you before sitting down next to you.

"This smells amazing." He commented before digging in.

You grabbed the small piece of bread that was served with the soup and took a few bites. It was really good. You hadn't realized how hungry you were until that moment.

You glanced down at the utensils next to your bowl of soup, your thoughts muddled and jumbled. Blinking a few times, you tried to remember how to use them, your mind going blank. Your eyes moved around the room at the other pirates, scanning over to Mingi who had one of the utensils in his hand, his cheeks stuffed with bread. He gave you a cute smile, his eyes crinkled in the most adorable way.

You returned the smile, moving to pick up the utensil he had, using it to spoon some of the soup out of the bowl, pausing to look down at it, wondering if you were doing it correctly.

"Don't worry." Mingi assured you. "It's not as bad as you think it is. Remember I told you our cook is really good at what he does."

You nodded, thinking back on what he said earlier.

Mingi watched as you daintily slurped the soup from the spoon, finding it utterly endearing. His heart did front flips in his chest any time you did, well, anything. You were so undeniably adorable and he wanted nothing more than to keep you safe and happy.

The sun was soon replaced by the pearly crescent moon as night took the place of day. After getting a decent meal on your stomach, you'd begun to feel drowsy, opting to sit on the deck and rest against one of the crates sitting around. Mingi made sure to linger nearby, walking around the deck, checking on his crew while also keeping an eye on you.

Yeonjun was headed back to the sick bay when the captain stopped him.

"Have you checked on Y/n?" He asked.

The medic paused, glancing across the deck to where you sat.

"I've been watching her throughout the day. She's alright."

"Can you check on her one more time? It looks like she's getting tired." Mingi mentioned, seeming worried.

"She's had a rough day. I'm sure she's ready to go to bed, but I'll go check on her."

Yeonjun headed across the deck, crouching down beside you.

"How are you feeling?"

"Not bad. My head is a little sore where I bumped it, but besides that I'm feeling alright."

"That's good to hear. You seem sleepy."

"I am." You nodded, letting out a yawn. "It's been a long day."

"Well, you're free to rest whenever you want."

"That's great news." You smiled, sleepily.

"If you get to feeling bad, come get me."

You nodded, your eyelids drooping further.

The medic stood up and went to deliver the news to Mingi who was immensely relieved.

"I should probably get her to bed."

"That's a good idea. She said it's been a long day." Yeonjun mentioned.

You were beginning to doze off, your body starting to slump over as you slipped closer to sleep. Before you could tip any further, Mingi caught you, startling you awake.

"Hey."

"Hi." You murmured.

"You should probably go to bed."

You nodded with closed eyes as he pulled you to your feet, escorting you down into the ship where the crew's sleeping quarters was located.

Mingi had a brief internal battle with himself as he accompanied you to your bedroom, not wanting to leave you alone. He wanted to keep you close so he could watch over you, but he pushed that need away, opening the door.

You blinked sleepily as you shuffled towards your bed, which Mingi helped you in, pulling the thin covers up over you.

The pirate hesitated for a moment, standing by the bed, gazing down at you as you nuzzled your face into the pillow. A few moments passed before Mingi slowly began to step away, pausing as he stood in the doorway for a second to get one last look at you before he finally closed the door.

It had been four days since you first boarded the ship and you were feeling a bit useless just wandering around with Mingi and following him like a lost puppy, so you offered to help out. If you were going to be staying on this ship, you wanted to be of some assistance. Mingi gave you small, easy tasks here and there to keep you occupied, which you appreciated greatly. It was nice to feel like you were doing something. He would ask you to grab maps for him, bring an extra candle over to his desk, and even fetch him a cup of tea or a glass of water from the galley when he was up late writing in his journals.

It was a quiet day on the ship and you were spending it on the forecastle deck, leaned over the railing watching the water below as the giant sea vessel sailed forward.

"Y/n?" Mingi called.

You lifted your head, glancing over your shoulder. "Yes?"

He jerked his head, gesturing for you to come over. You listened, walking over to the captain.

"Would you like to steer?" He offered.

"Me?"

"Yes."

Your eyes moved to the massive wheel as you chewed the inside of your cheek in thought.

"There's no need to worry. You have the whole ocean to yourself." He gestured to the vast expanse of water before you. "Plus, I'll be right here."

It was then that you nodded your head, ultimately agreeing to steer the ship for a few moments.

"Put your hands here like this." Mingi showed you what he was doing before stepping away so you could do the same.

Stepping forward, you placed your hands on the wheel just as he did, your fingers immediately gripping the wood once you felt the slight force of the wheel trying to turn on its own.

"It's okay." Mingi assured you, coming to stand behind you, his hands hovering over your own, ready to step in. "Just keep it steady."

You nodded, readjusting your footing and tightening your arms, making sure to keep a firm grip on the wheel.

"Good." Mingi praised, making sure to continue standing behind you in case he needed to step in and assist.

At some point, your arms began to get a bit shaky thanks to you not having much energy. That's when Mingi placed his hands on yours, his fingers curling around your own as his chest pressed against your back. The feeling sent a rush of heat to your cheeks.

"It's okay. I got it." He assured you, his voice low, breath fanning your ear as he spoke.

You suppressed the shiver that threatened to go down your spine in an attempt to ground yourself.

"Just keep it steady." He instructed, his voice once again so close to your ear.

Your fingers tightened around the wheel in response to him practically whispering in your ear.

You cleared your throat, pulling your hands away from the wheel, causing Mingi to back off.

"That was fun." You gave him a smile, trying to hide the fact that you were flustered beyond belief, stepping off to the side so Mingi could steer the ship on his own again.

Just then, Yeonjun stepped onto the forecastle deck, letting out an "Ah!" when he spotted you, pausing to greet his captain.

"Afternoon."

Mingi gave a nod in response.

"Y/n, I was looking for you." Yeonjun stepped forward. "It's been a few days since you were brought here. I was just wondering if your memories have come back yet."

You shook your head, giving him a half smile.

"Well, I'm sure they'll come back soon enough. In some cases, amnesia can last weeks. Sometimes months."

Your eyebrows creased with worry upon hearing that, to which Yeonjun hurried to console you, backpedaling.

"There's no need to worry." He assured you. "The chances of your amnesia lasting a month or more is very slim."

"Stop freaking her out, Yeonjun." Mingi said sternly. "She has enough going on."

"Apologies, captain. I didn't mean to."

"So, when do you think they'll return?" You question, anxiously tugging at the sleeves of your shirt.

"There's really no way to tell, but I would assume within the next week."

You nodded. "I hope so."

The medic gave you a small smile, patting your shoulder before exiting the area.

Mingi was watching from the helm, noticing the way you became flooded with anxiety, your arms wrapping around your form as you stared off, your eyes wide with worry. Seeing you like that made his insides twist uncomfortably. Not having your memories was stressful enough, the last thing you needed was to worry about them not returning for an extended period of time. He needed to provide a distraction.

Luck was on his side because right at that moment, an opportunity made itself available as the pirate captain spotted something in the water.

"Y/n, look!" Mingi pointed, leaning over the railing at the side of the ship, so much so that it looked like he was about to go overboard.

You followed his finger, spotting a small pod of dolphins swimming close to the water's surface, popping above the waves ever so often.

"Dolphins." You beamed.

"Aren't they amazing?" Mingi marveled.

"They are."

The most adorable giggles escaped the pirate's beautiful lips as he watched the aquatic creatures below. The sound makes your heart leap in your chest, a warm feeling bubbling up inside you.

"I'm usually busy steering the ship or doing other things, so it's a rare occurrence for me to see dolphins." He mentioned. "Oh! I've been practicing my dolphin impression. Would you like to hear it?"

You nodded, enthusiastically.

He cleared his throat, straightening his posture before placing one of his fingers on his ear and letting out a high-pitched noise that only vaguely resembled the nautical mammal.

Laughter erupted from you, shaking your body and making you clutch your stomach. You watched as the dolphins moved fluidly through the water, not paying attention to his lackluster, but funny, impersonation.

"Let me try!" You hopped excitedly in place.

You proceeded to do your best impersonation of the dolphins, making high-pitched noises akin to his, but higher, accompanied with clicking sounds. You watched as a few of them jumped gracefully out of the water in response, a few clicks resounding in the air.

Mingi turned to you with wide, childlike eyes glimmering in astonishment and adoration.

"Wow! You're really good!" He beamed.

You rubbed the back of your neck, feeling a bit shy at his praises.

You didn't even realize all your worries had dissipated, your mind now more focused on the bubbly and charming dolphins, watching them until they descended deeper into the water where you couldn't see them anymore.

Mingi couldn't help but smile seeing the way your face lit up with exuberance.

"You know, dolphins aren't the only aquatic creatures I've come across while sailing this ship." He mentioned.

"Really?"

"Of course. I've seen sea turtles, manta rays, and sharks, just to name a few."

You let out a quiet gasp. "Sharks?"

He nodded.

"It's amazing how you can see so many wonderful sea creatures. It must be fun sailing the seas and living life however you want." You commented.

"It is. I'd much rather be at sea than be on land. I wouldn't trade this life for anything."

As he spoke, you could see the way his eyes gleamed with both excitement and admiration. Not only did he enjoy being a pirate, but you could tell he belonged here at sea, on this ship with his crew.

The moonlight streamed in through the small porthole in your room, the beam so bright it illuminated the compact space of your sleeping quarters. You were restless and unable to go to sleep, too busy thinking about, well, everything. Your memories, or lack thereof, Mingi, not knowing what happened to you or how you ended up on the beach. It was driving you mad.

Did you wreck on a ship? Were you a prisoner tossed overboard? Or did you make a daring escape by jumping into the water? Were you a bad person? There were so many possibilities, so many scenarios swirling around in your mind.

Abruptly sitting up in bed, you swung your legs off the side, your bare feet hitting the floor as you stood up and silently exited your sleeping quarters, slipping down the corridor.

The ship was eerily quiet, only the soft creaking of the vessel could be heard as you tiptoed up the steps and out onto the deck, the cool night air greeting you by caressing your face and blowing gently through your hair.

The luminous stars glimmered above you as you sat on the forecastle deck, your legs resting comfortably between the wooden posts as your feet dangled over the side of the ship. The half moon shone down on the dark waters, reflecting off the surface and highlighting the shallow crests of the waves. Your eyes moved to the incandescent stars above as you hummed a tune to yourself, looking for patterns in the space above, sometimes being able to spot a line of stars.

The soft shuffling of boots against the deck caught your attention, putting your humming to an abrupt stop. When you turned around you saw Mingi with a distant look on his face.

"Mingi? What are you doing up?"

He blinked a couple times, glancing over at you. "I was sorting maps. What are you doing up?"

"Couldn't sleep."

"Me either. That's why I was sorting maps. I figured if I wasn't able to sleep, why not be productive?"

You chuckled lightly. "Would you like to join me?"

"I'd love to. I could use a break."

He walked over, grunting as he took a seat beside you, leaning back to rest on his elbows.

"The stars are pretty tonight."

You hummed in response.

"The sky is nice and clear." He added, waiting for you to comment.

When he didn't receive one, he turned to look at you for a moment, noticing the way you were staring distantly at the dark waters, your muddled mind drifting far away.

"You feeling alright?" He asked, cutting through the silence.

You blinked out of your daze before answering. "Yeah, I'm fine. I just have a lot on my mind."

Mingi nodded knowingly.

"It's driving me crazy not knowing what happened to me." You continued.

"Can I make a suggestion?"

"I'll take any advice or suggestions you can give."

"Take it one day at a time and try to stop thinking so hard about all this. The more you think about it, the more you'll stress and that's the last thing you need."

The way he spoke to you made your heart swell. He said it with such sincerity and emotion.

"You really care for me, don't you?"

Mingi's brows raised, the expression on his face dropping in surprise.

"Well..." He chuckled nervously. "Yes. I just don't like seeing you so wound up and tense. It's bad enough what happened to you, there's no need for any more stress. I want you to enjoy your time here on my ship and take it easy."

Hearing that somehow took a weight off your shoulders you didn't know you were carrying. It was reassuring and something you needed to hear. He was right. Why keep worrying when you can just have a good time and let everything happen when it happens?

Mingi sat up and turned to look at you, his usually sharp and narrow eyes were round and soft, sparkling in the moonlight, looking almost childlike. The endearing sight made your heart thump a bit faster. Your gaze moved down to his narrow nose that came to a delicate point that you could see when he was facing the side, then down to his lips that were full and plump, begging you to kiss them and drawing you in.

His eyes were trained on you as well, taking in every detail of your face. You were beautiful, so alluring but so innocent and sweet. Before he could catch himself, he was leaning in, slowly moving closer to you, the space between your lips diminishing until you could feel his breath fanning against your face. Your eyelids began to flutter as you prepared for the kiss only for Mingi to place his lips on your forehead.

"You should probably go try to get some sleep." He murmured.

Though you would have preferred a kiss on the lips, one on the forehead was enough to set your cheeks aflame. All you could do was nod, your mind having been turned to mush by a simple forehead kiss.

Standing up, you blinked a few times, murmuring a goodnight to Mingi as you went back to your sleeping quarters, your mind reeling.

The awkward tension lingering in the atmosphere was thick the following day, that kiss still hanging over your mind like a thick fog. You could hardly look Mingi in the eye without getting flustered. However, you did your best to push all that aside, making an attempt to go on with your day like normal.

Said captain was trying to do the same, unable to wipe the image of himself kissing your forehead from his mind.

I shouldn't have done that. He thought to himself.

In the moment, he though it was a good idea, but now that he's thinking back on it, replaying the scene over and over, regret is washing over him in waves. He shouldn't have done anything at all.

The aim was to kiss you on the lips, but he changed his mind at the last second after it dawned on him that you could possibly have a boyfriend and not remember. Mingi wanted so desperately to place his lips on yours, but he couldn't. He couldn't allow himself to be selfish like that. Forcing himself to stop thinking about himself and his own needs, he tried to cover up his flub by placing a kiss on your forehead.

Your reaction continued to flash in his mind, making his heart clench and his stomach twist.  You were surprised, your eyes wide, clearly not expecting him to do that. It was hard for him to tell if his actions weirded you out or not.

You'd been awkward all morning, but to be fair, so was he.

You were petting Lucky when you saw Mingi approach the railing of the ship, feeling around his coat pocket for his telescope. This made you stand up and walk over.

"There's a storm coming." He stated as he gazed out at the expanse of dark clouds looming over the ocean.

"Scary." You mumbled, watching the ominous mass of bleak clouds.

"It can be, but I've got a ruthless crew who knows what to do during storms like these. I've ridden out many storms on this ship, so there's nothing to worry about."

You nodded, hoping he was right.

Your nerves began to build as the clouds got thicker and darker, the ship seemingly moving closer to them. You knew the best thing to do was to look away and focus on something else, but your gaze kept drifting to the stormy cluster of baleful clouds, an uneasy feeling settling in the pit of your stomach.

"Alright, men!" Mingi called out. "We're gonna do what we always do, keep to the the right side of the storm if we can. If not, I'll need all hands on deck. We've been through this before, so I know you all are aware of what has to be done if that were to happen."

"Yes, captain!" They chorused.

You had never seen him so serious before. His tone was stern, his voice deep and commanding, echoing across the deck. His usual soft and gentle eyes were sharp and laser focused, ensuring his crew was doing everything to prepare for this storm.

The pirate crew moved expeditiously around the expanse of the ship adjusting the sails and tying things down hastily. All you could do was watch, your nerves building. Based on the way your body was reacting to this impending weather, you assumed you had a fear of storms. Of course, you didn't know that for a fact.

It wasn't long before the winds picked up, howling as they whipped viciously around you. You knew immediately that the storm was going to escalate at a rapid rate, which only heightened your uneasiness. Raindrops started pitter-pattering on the deck, the drizzle only lasting for a few brief moments before they started to fall at a faster rate, multiplying quickly and hitting you like sharp bullets

"Hurry!" Mingi shouted over the roar of the rain, hurrying to the helm to steer the ship away from the storm. "Quickly, quickly!"

The ship lurched, creaking loudly each time the tumultuous waters pushed it, rocking it from side to side. The unsteady flooring beneath your feet caused you to wobble, grabbing onto the nearest object which just so happened to be the main mast. Inexplicable fear rushed through your veins making your whole body run cold, the feeling of being caught in a bad storm feeling all too familiar.

You blinked, brief flashes of memories making themselves known as you watched the violent waves and the sheets of rain that pounded the deck.

Your body being tossed around under the waves as you flailed your arms wildly, trying to fight back against the forceful waters that even you weren't strong enough to swim through.

Your hand unconsciously came up to touch the back of your head where the healing gash was, a phantom ache present.

You were feeling disoriented, unable to focus as your memories resurface, rushing in like a tidal wave and leaving you in a daze.

In these ephemeral flashes of memories you saw a deep blue tail in the turbulent waters. Your tail.

A horrified gasp escaped you, your hands trembling as they clamped over your mouth, your eyes darting rapidly around. You unconsciously started to back up, wanting to run away and hide somewhere.

You shouldn't be here.

In the midst of your freak out, Mingi grabs you and pulls you in to his quarters, startling you out of your stupor.

You don't even hear him say, "Come on. What are you doing out here?"

It was when he sat you down on his bed that you let out a shrill scream, scrambling away from him in a panic.

"Hey. I'm sorry. I'm sorry." He apologized profusely, holding his hands up in a placating manner. "I didn't mean to startle you."

Your eyes began to water as you curled in on yourself, these memories flooding in and making you realize how dire your situation is.

"You're safe." He assured you. "It's just a storm. Nothing to worry about."

Your body was trembling. Mingi, who was ignorant to the fact that your memories had returned, merely thought you were acting this way because of the storm.

"Come here." He beckoned softly, holding his hand out as he took a seat on the bed.

You were slowly starting to get your bearings, calming down from your little panic spell.

Mingi is safe. You reminded yourself.

He's been nothing but kind to you since the day you met him. Pirate or not, there's no reason to be afraid of him.

Once he saw your guard was let down, Mingi neared you, taking your hand and pulling you closer. You allowed him to do so as he brought you to him, drawing you into his embrace. Your body relaxed immediately as you allowed your body to go slack, letting Mingi hold you, rubbing soothing circles on your back.

"It's okay." He cooed, his deep voice rumbling in his chest when he spoke. "It'll be over soon."

Your fingers wrapped around the collar of his coat, your eyes squeezing shut as you recalled the events prior to your accident.

You were a siren, one that was swimming too close to the shore when a bad storm hit. Your body was thrust around under the waves, being tossed around like a rag doll. The undertow mixed with the winds making the waters more violent, you ended up bumping your head on a rock that essentially knocked you unconscious. That's the last thing you remembered before waking up on the shore, and in clothes, no less.

You weren't sure how that happened, but whatever siren magic was at work, you were thankful for.

You remembered being with Mingi on the forecastle deck the previous night. You were humming when he came to you and he had that distant and dazed look on his face.

A new wave of horror washed over you as you realized you could have put him in danger.

You couldn't stay here.

"Mingi." You spoke up, your voice almost being drowned out by the racket from the storm outside.

"Yes?"

You weren't sure what it was that made you comfortable enough to tell him this, but you did.

"I got my memories back." Your voice trembled when you spoke, causing Mingi to be confused.

"That's great news. Shouldn't you be happy?"

"I remember what I am."

His head tilted, waiting for you to elaborate.

"I'm a siren."

Mingi's jaw goes slack, his eyes widening.

"I got caught in a storm and hit my head. That's how I ended up on the beach. This weather must have triggered my memories." You continued.

It all made sense to him. You weren't scared of the storm, you were overwhelmed by the rush of your memories returning all at once. Well, and the fact that you're a siren on a ship full of pirates.

You were on the verge of tears, feeling scared of your fate, but even more so what Mingi would think. It didn't help that he hadn't uttered a word since your confession.

"I..." You trailed off, unsure if you could even speak the words. "I need to go."

"No." Mingi stopped you immediately, speaking up so abruptly it made you flinch. "I want you here."

What?

You couldn't believe what he was saying. Was he insane?

"I don't belong here." You told him. "It's dangerous. Plus, I'm sure your crew won't take kindly to a siren being aboard the ship."

"The crew isn't in charge, are they?"

He made a valid point.

You paused in thought, considering the options available to you.

"If I stay, I want you to tell them the truth." You finally spoke.

"Deal."

The following day, Mingi gathered his entire crew on the main deck to address them.

"You brought a siren onto the ship?!" One of the crew mates exploded upon hearing the news.

"I didn't know!" Mingi defended.

"You put the whole crew in danger!"

"Not on purpose. I would never do that."

You chewed the inside of your cheek nervously as you looked around, taking in the mix of expressions on everyone's faces. Your gaze landed on Yeonjun who seemed uneasy. It was obvious he was trying to figure out how he felt about this situation.

"I know some, if not most of you, are upset about this, but it's not her fault. She lost her memories temporarily due to her injury. She only just got them back yesterday."

"She's still a siren." The same disgruntled crew mate spoke up.

"Does she appear to be a threat?" Mingi countered, pointing to you and your trembling frame.

"She's in a disguise!" The man argued. "How do you not see her for what she truly is."

"I do. It's you who doesn't see her for who she truly is."

The crew mate had had enough. There was no getting through to his captain. He knew he needed to do something.

"There's only one way to fix this." He reached for his weapon.

All you did was blink and Mingi had a pistol pressed against the man's head, his actions so fast you couldn't even process them. The usually bright and sometimes childlike captain's eyes darkened, their usual soft shape now taking on a much sharper and narrow one as he stared into the panicked eyes of his crew mate.

"Don't touch her." He demanded threateningly, cocking the gun. "That's an order."

The crew mate gulped, his hands held up in surrender.

"If you can't respect your captain, you'll be swimming with the sharks."

"Sorry, captain." The man spoke so quietly you could hardly hear him.

When Mingi withdrew his weapon, the crew mate scrambled back, his eyes lingering on the gun.

The atmosphere became eerily quiet, everyone clearly on edge after what just happened.

"I think she should be able to stay." Yeonjun spoke up, stepping forward.

You were surprised at this, not expecting him to take your side.

"If she wants to." He added, quietly.

"I do." You nodded.

"I want her to stay as well." Mingi spoke up. "If none of you agree with that, I'll be more than happy to drop you off at the nearest port."

His crew shared glances before they all nodded, ultimately agreeing to you staying on board.

"We're under attack!" The ship's battle master shouted.

"Load the cannons!" Mingi ordered sternly. "I want all hands on deck!"

"Yes, captain!" The crew chorused.

The men in charge of the cannons began loading them and pouring gunpowder inside. Without warning, a loud boom resounded in the air as a cannonball was propelled into the air, landing near the stern of the approaching enemy ship.

"Keep going!" Mingi urged.

He needed to slow the ship down and perhaps even sink it before it could get too close.

The cannonballs were only able to hold off the oncoming vessel for so long. If this ship got close enough, the crew over there could invade and start attacking.

"Captain, they're closing in!" The lookout up in the crow's nest called.

"We don't have any other choice." Mingi muttered to himself. "Y/n! Come on out!"

The men on board dug around in their pockets, retrieving the earplugs they fashioned, shoving them into their ears as you stepped out onto the deck.

This was the first time you'd be doing this in battle and to say you were nervous would be an understatement. Despite your fears, your drive to help Mingi and his crew was much stronger, pushing you to do the best you could.

Once Mingi gave you the okay, you started singing a haunting melody that caught the attention of the opposing crew.

They were close enough for you to see that they had stopped moving about the deck, being stuck in place.

Mingi gave a signal to the men at the cannons. They moved quickly, loading them up with gunpowder and cannonballs, firing them at the enemy ship. Some of the men were startled out of their daze, unable to do much as their ship began to sink.

Mingi gave a signal to the crew, indicating that it was time to hightail it out of there.

Once the ship had safely retreated, the crew was able to take a breather.

"You're incredible." Mingi beamed, pulling you in for a hug.

"It's nothing, really." You grinned shyly.

"I'm serious." He cupped your cheek.

Your eyes moved down to his lips momentarily, which he took notice of.

His thumb ran gently over your bottom lip as he closed the space between your faces.

When his lips made contact with yours, fireworks exploded. His embrace was warm and his kisses were full of passion. It was nothing like you've ever experienced.

"Captain's kissing Y/n again." One of the crew mates commented, causing a few others to groan.

Mingi pulled away long enough to scold his crew, telling them to let him have his moment.

A month had passed since it was agreed that you would stay on the ship. During that time, you and Mingi started dating. He thought you two were the coolest couple in the seven seas. A siren and a pirate.

Honestly, life couldn't be any better for you. Looking back, you were glad Mingi asked you to stay on the ship. If you had let your panic and fear control you and jumped ship like a coward, you wouldn't be here right now with the man you love.

"This calls for a celebration!" Mingi shouted. "How about I have the chef cook up something special for us tonight?"

The crew cheered in response.

"And how about you, my love?" He turned to you with a grin.

"Sounds like a perfect way to celebrate."

Hongjoong ⟡ Seonghwa ⟡ Yunho ⟡ Yeosang ⟡ San ⟡ Wooyoung ⟡ Jongho

Note 2.0: I wanted to put “siren!fem reader” in the pairing but couldn’t because I wanted to keep it a surprise. Though I think it was pretty obvious about halfway through 😅

Masterlist ᝰ — enjoyed this imagine? reblogs & comments are very much appreciated!

DO NOT steal, plagiarize, copy, repost, alter, or translate my works in any way

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[bberryuniverse]

THANKS GOD I POSTPONED MY ATEEZ AS PIRATES SERIES CUZ OMFG ?????!!??!!? THEIR MAWAZINE OUTFITS JUST GAVE ME MORE IDEAS 😵‍💫😵‍💫 ATEEZ MY LIFE IS YOURS🫵🫵🫵🫵EVERYBODY SAY THANK YOU ATEEZ

[ja3hwa]

Pretty Pirate | Seonghwa

「Synopsis」 : Pretty Pirate goes messing with things she shouldn't.

「Word count」 : 1.26k

-> Genre: Suggestive, Angst. 

Paring: Siren!Seonghwa x Pirate!Reader

[Warnings] : Swearing. Pirate talk. Making out. Nudity (non-sexual and sexual). Neck kissing. Mommy!Seonghwa. Mommy kink. Plot twist. Manipulation. Triggering scenes. Let me know If I missed anything.

Note: This is for @whatudowhennooneseesyou Event! Called Mommy!May. Make sure to check out the other fics from other amazing writers ♡♡

Masterlist | Navigation | Mommy!May Event

Being on the sea was freeing, like time stops when you take your first inhale of the salty air. The damp wood under your palms and the light chirps of seagulls. The leather clutches your figure and the faint smell of liquor on your breath. People told you, yelled that wouldn’t survive on the open water.―it’s no life for a person like you―they would repeat that to you over and over. You never like your family anyway.

“Hey Peach! We are docking soon. Tell cap we hit ground in five.” One of your crew mates, Yunho, called out, making you shake away your blurred and rambled thoughts. You nodded to the taller male, skipping over to the heavy oak door, before banging on it, hard.

“Cap’n we are about to hit ground.” You hear a loud grunt from beyond the door, you roll your eyes before walking away to look out to the island ahead. Your heart skips a beat thinking, remembering the touch from a special secret someone. The night you met him felt like magic, like a dream you never wanted to wake from. But sadly when sun rose and your crew members' voices echoed through the dim cave system. You knew the myth, the man that stole your heart, was gone.

-

“Yeah I hear ya, I do but at the same time I don’t care.” you shrugged your shoulders jumping from the deck onto one of the small boats that are hooked on the side of the ship before you hopped over the side, onto the soft sand below. Wooyoung's shocked expression made you laugh waving him goodbye before you heard him screaming on the top of his lungs;

“You are going to get in trouble. Cap doesn’t like us running off without his knowin’.” He slammed his fist on the dark railing shaking his head as he watched your figure slowly disappear from his view. You were going to be the death of him, literally.

Entering a sizeable open-face cave you stare in awe house the setting sun hits the wet structure's wall's so beautifully, watching the light reflect and dance on the calm water pools. You hoped, prayed you might see your lover, curious if he got word from the birds that you were travelling over his home. And as you crossed passed a large rock formation and spotted a lilac blue tail with a white blend. his hair was as white as sea foam and his skin was pale, soft, and porcelain. He was the definition of perfection.

“Hwa!!” You called getting the merman's attention. He gazed in your direction and his smile grew wide. You could see him whispering before a soft glow danced around his body, transforming his tail into two long, elegant legs.

“Hello, my love.” He spoke softly, taking a wobbly step so he could take up next to you. Even though he was not born with a tail, his legs are surprisingly long, meaning he towers over you, making you feel so small, but in the best way.

“I missed you.” your eyes never left his, almost ignoring the fact that the man before you was naked. His hand cupped your cheek, wiping his thumb against your skin. His heart was racing, wanting nothing more than to ravish you with desire. You were a perfect little plaything in his eyes, a toy for his own pleasure, and your obedience was also a plus. In a way, he was deeply infatuated with you.

“I missed you to Peaches.” His words made butterflies dance in your tummy. You had spent hours, days with this man and he still made you feel like it was the first time being with him. You couldn’t explain the pure dizziness and happiness you felt when he was around. But it’s always as if you were floating on a cloud and Seonghwa's voice lifted you higher and higher. “Let me show you how much I missed you…”

His breath tickled your ear, feeling his wet tongue lick the shell of your ear before he bit down lightly. Your hands fly to his shoulders, nails digging into his damp skin. His lisp travelled from your ear to your jaw, neck, and collarbone, leaving bite marks―not hickeys―but actual bite marks from his sharp teeth. He needed to taste you, taste the pleasure and excitement spilling out of you.

“Remember what I taught you last time Peach?” His voice became deep, hypnotizing. You nodded with a whimper, silently begging he would continue what he started. His eyes faded into a darker colouring, looking at you with complete lust and curiosity. “Say it…”

“Please take me, Mommy.”

Seonghwa’s eyes rolled back slightly, while he took a breath in. His hand, still against your cheek, moved down to your hip where the other sat. Pulling your body closer so you could feel his erection against your tummy. “God, you are so good... Such a great listener for Mommy.”

You were under his complete control, wanting to do whatever he pleased and he was living for it. His lips formed a smirk, staring down with sadistic, yet soft eyes. Hands clawed at your clothing, his long nails dug and ripped the fabric, letting the tattered pieces fall onto the sand that tangled between your feet. You watched him closely, as his snaked pupils dilated, tongue darting out of his mouth breathy almost looking at you like his prey.

“Pretty pirate getting soaked right in front of me.” His hushful voice danced in your ears making you feel like you were floating. He wasted no more seconds, latching his lips against your jugular, sucking a harsh, bright, and dark mark. Lapping over the mark, his tongue racked down your bare body. His hands grope your breast, pulling your body closer. You whine, raising your hands to rake them through his damp hair. “My pretty pirate.” He tugs you closer, making you almost step on your own feet.

“M-Mommy…” You begged for it, for his touch, his love. Fingers dancing over one another’s bodies, feeling hot flesh under your tips. His sharp shark-like teeth graze over your skin, creating goosebumps in their path. He could smell your arousal mixing with the salty sea air. It’s intoxicating.

“Don’t worry. Let me take care of you.” And with that he sealed his promise with a kiss, one filled with lust, hiding a small amount of passion underneath. Teeth clashed and moans were swallowed. A chuckle grew in his chest, slowly walking you towards him. Your eyes were closed, taking in his scent, the texture of his skin, the sound of his heartbeat. You were swimming. Swimming?

“H-Hwa?” You pulled away noticing your body from your waist was underwater. When did you walk into the water? Looking up at your lover you take in his gaze. It was cold, but your head felt like it was spinning, so the coldness didn’t alert you. The softness of his hands, the faint smile. He was pulling you more profoundly, but you felt no fear. His faint praises guided you, feeling your body begin to relax.

“Pretty, pretty pirate. You did so well. My perfect little pirate.” His words melted your heart, feeling the cold water surround you. His eyes weakened for a moment, feeling guilty. But as he watched you slowly submerge fully under the salt ocean, taking your last breath. He knew this was the only way. Cause, in the end, he was a siren and he can’t go against his nature.

- ♡