#but then remembered morian exists

[jorrated]

[herwonderland7]

CHAPTER 20 ― NEO'S PAST

“....What had happened to Sungchan and Shotaro, it wasn’t your fault. It wasn’t anyone’s fault.”

SUMMARY ― In the middle of an unexpected war, the Neo Brothers were torn into two, not wanting to remember their tragic past that reminded them of their two brothers that were killed by the same enemy that is currently in Aerina’s palace.

CHARACTERS ― Princess Riana Aera/Princess Diana, Queen Aerina (White Queen), Grandma Kim, Zen Alberto, Lim Jaebeom, Mark Tuan, Jackson Wang, Neo Brothers

WARNINGS/AUTHOR’S NOTE ― Slight Angst, Mention of Blood and Swords, Prince Jaehyun being selfish and not thinking what the others felt, he was worried for his other brothers. Prince Jisung getting pierced on the chest by a sword.

GENRE ― fantasy, got7!as!princes, got7!royalty, nct!prince, nct!royalty, nct!as!vampires, nct!as!wolves

WORDS ― 2920

I don’t even know where the heck my brothers are.

All I know is that I am struggling to fight these hard-headed dark knights.

I was basically taking a nap while the others had their own classes, till I was awakened with a sudden earthquake - and as soon as I opened the door, I was already being attacked by unknown knights.

Then figuring out these guards aren’t just normal knights.

Remembering the history classes I had, Professor Violeta words came into my mind.

“Knights that shielded their heads, holding onto long spears. They are called Dark Knights.”

“Well.. They existed during Ancient Age where magic and sorceries exist rather openly compared to now. These knights hold onto dark power, dark energy that people could see dark hues surrounding them.”

“Those who fight them with their own magic or powers will eventually get weaker, since these Dark Knights will absorb powers. So that’s why King Morian fought them using his iconic sword.”

I could only frown while trying to fight these dark knights on my own, not knowing that more would come.

These dark knights somehow grew stronger, I could feel it.

And one of them clashed onto my sword roughly, causing it to fly away.

And not looking to where I am stepping as I tried to defend, I stumbled backwards and this is where I am mentally screaming for help.

Somehow, when one of the dark knights was about to lay the sharp spear onto me, an arrow landed onto one of the knights - and surprisingly and like magic, the knight started to turn into ashes when the arrows hit the knights back.

More arrows appeared every second as it perfectly hit onto all of the dark knights and once they were cleared, my head snapped to where it came from to see a figure running towards me.

I could only frown at what I saw.

Princess Dia— Princess Aera?!

I thought I was seeing things but I know I see it with my own eyes.

I just saw Diana turning into Princess Aera.

“Jeno! Are you alright?!” Diana's voice showed concern while helping me to stand up and I was certainly not hearing what she said, my eyes turning towards the bow she was carrying and analyzing the arrows on her back - seeing the familiar reddish-pink at the end of the arrow.

Turning towards her eyes while frowning slightly, I can’t help but to ask her.

“....All along it was you, Princess Aera?” I muttered softly, and the corners of her lips curled upwards - revealing herself, her true identity.

I couldn't help but have my mouth widened slightly.

How could we have not known or noticed?

I was having my own moment and realisation when heavy footsteps were heard clearly, causing me and Princess Aera to look towards where they came from.

Princess Aera quickly grabbed onto my hand.

“..Close that mouth of yours and we have to go! C’mon! I’ll explain more along the way!”

I couldn’t even say a word as Princess Aera already pulled me along as we ran out of the palace, towards the gardens.

Is it weird of me that I feel a slight happiness at the same time confusion, after seeing Princess Aera right in front of me.. More to revealing her true self?

“Jaehyun.. What is this?” Johnny muttered, his voice sounded terrified at the same shaky.

“..War..” Yuta whispered to himself, standing right next to Jaehyun.

Guards were lined up in front of the palace.

The White Queen’s warriors, which were the amazons, were too lined up right next to the guards, seeing more black portals appearing right outside the palace - a few meters away.

Johnny, Taeyong, Yuta, Ten, Jaehyun, Jungwoo and Jisung were trying to clear the royal household who was still in the palace, and once the coast was clear, they were distracted with what was happening on the outside.

Jaehyun left to look at the throne room, then to see the elderly.

“Grandma Kim!”

Jaehyun appeared beside the elderly who was standing at the throne room balcony, her hands raised up - facing towards the barrier seeing that it was slowly closing.

The elderly were trying to make the barrier stay closed, by trying to control it while war was happening outside.

“Gather your brothers out of here, Prince Jaehyun. Bring them back to Neo Kingdom.” Grandma Kim instructed, eyes still looking forward causing Jaehyun to frown towards the elderly.

“What?! Why, Grandma?”

“Because history could repeat itself, just like what happened to Prince Sungchan and Prince Shotaro.”

Jaehyun could feel his body grow tense as soon as he heard Sungchan and Shotaro’s names being spoken.

He didn’t even answer the elderly back, as he disappeared right through the open throne room.

‘Johnny said Jaehyun wants us all back at the garden. I don’t even know if I want to go back.’

Wait, what?

Am I hearing what Ten is saying through our minds right now?

‘Huh..? What? Why? We are in the middle of a war. Why does he want us to go back? And back where?’

I was trying to find the young ones. I was specifically looking for Chenle.

I promised the kid that we would meet back at the ground level.

‘Back to Neo Kingdom. I don’t know, Kun. I think he is worried for us. He didn’t want the same thing to happen.. You know, with what happened to Sungchan and Shotaro.’

With their names mentioned, my legs stopped suddenly.

I immediately sigh, looking around in annoyance and frustration.

We have talked about this - among the older ones, that no one is at fault and it seems the crowned prince is still blaming himself for what happened.

‘...We have talked about this. This isn’t his fault at all.’

“Kun!”

A familiar voice called from a far, and I immediately rushed towards him.

“Wha—

“Where have you been!?! I thought we promised to meet here!!” I hissed quietly at the same time hugging the young one a little tighter, causing him to curse slightly while trying to push me.

“Relax, oldie… I was just helping Jisung.. He is with Jungwoo currently…” Chenle answered, looking around as we were hiding at the same time.

“By the way, I received a message from Xiaojun that Jaehyun wants us back at the garden…. I actually wanted to stay..” Chenle muttered at the back, his eyes avoiding my gaze.

I could only soften my gaze, couldn’t help but ruffle the young one’s hair.

As expected, my biological brother.

“...Me too… But… I do not know who to listen to.. I mean, our parents are friends with Queen Aerina and she has helped us when we are in need. So why retreat when our parents’ friends are in need of help?” I elaborated towards Chenle, seeing him blinking at the same time looking around.

Chenle slowly smirks and I sigh, knowing what he is going to say.

“Well welcome to the ‘rebelling team’, my older brother. C’mon! Let’s help the others!”

And with that, Chenle grabbed my arm as we went towards the front.

“Dude! You’re crazy! Go back!? In the middle of a fucking war?!” Johnny yelled out, at the same time Mark is pulling the giant out, while Taeyong is trying to calm the tall one.

“I have no choice, Johnny. I don’t want history to repeat!”

“Oh- Not this history about to repeat bullshit again! I think we all know that, Prince Yoonoh.” Johnny exclaimed in sarcasm, head tilting while looking at Jaehyun as if he was out of his mind.

They were arguing for about 10 minutes now and the others can’t even stop them.

“.....The young ones are still out there, just saying. They don’t want to go back.” Ten added, putting his hands up while looking at Johnny who was glaring his eyes out towards Jaehyun - who could only sigh in annoyance.

“Gather them back, Ten. Please.” Jaehyun pleaded towards Ten.

He can’t help but turn towards Yuta, who could only have his head turned downcast.

That was a sign for Ten to go as he could only nod towards the others, they could only return the nod as a sign for him to go too.

“...Jaehyun, we can’t back out. Aerina is out-numbered. We have to help them.” Doyoung reasoned out and Jaehyun quickly snapped towards him with a deep frown.

“NO!” Jaehyun shouted out of a sudden direction towards Doyoung - everyone was shocked as they saw Jaehyun’s sudden outburst, silence suddenly filled the air.

Disappointment and frustration could be sensed by the others - especially Doyoung.

He was very disappointed in Jaehyun and the fact that he can’t even fight the crowned prince hurts even more.

Doyoung could only look at Jaehyun, with that cold gaze which everyone recognizes, and everyone knows that he is truly unhappy.

With that simple, cold gaze, Doyoung out of nowhere vanished - leaving the others in silence.

Before one by one they decided to disappear, only leaving Taeyong and Jaehyun.

“I—

Before Jaehyun could even mutter the next word, sobs decided to add into his words which lead him unable to utter words.

He was in a rush wanting to save his brothers, but instead, he split them apart.

“Jaehyun.” Taeyong called, going to his side as he patted his shoulder.

Taeyong understands him, really.

He understands how it feels like, but he wouldn’t handle it like how Jaehyun did.

“Yoonoh, look at me.” Taeyong’s voice turned serious, making Jaehyun's eyes turn towards him.

“....What had happened to Sungchan and Shotaro, it wasn’t your fault. It wasn’t anyone’s fault.” Taeyong assured but Jaehyun shook his head as more sobs came out from his mouth, by now his tears were just flowing onto his cheeks as Taeyong kept mentioning their names.

“Jaehyun! You can’t keep on being like this! It. isn't. your. fault. Why…” Taeyong’s words slowly trail off, as he himself gets emotional. Jaehyun glanced towards Taeyong as he himself was wiping his own tears.

“Listen, it isn’t your fault. You didn’t get to see the big picture. They were trying to protect you, us. The only person to blame here is that General. So please Jaehyun. Stop blaming yourself.”

Jaehyun was about to answer him when they could hear a loud explosion, causing the ground to shake.

At the same time, hearing a few voices in his mind.

“No, no, no!”

“No! Jisung!”

“NO!”

Jaehyun didn’t have the time to even tell Taeyong, grabbing his arm as they ran towards where the life size statue was located.

“Why can’t you just show yourself? I mean everyone here loves you.”

Turning towards Jeno, I can’t help but smile slightly.

He is too innocent for this, the young Neo Brothers are too innocent to be born in this cruel world.

“..You sounded like Jaemin.” I muttered and Jeno’s eyes went downcast, hiding his reddened cheeks as we were basically going to the hidden passage.

“Should I just reveal myself?”

“Yes, princess. It's easier than having to switch back. You might not notice if you are in disguise or not.” Jeno reasoned out and I turned towards him, looking at him in amazement.

“As expected, all Neo Brothers’ are smart.”

“Except for Haechan.”

“...He can hear you, you know.”

Jeno could only giggle and I shook my head while jokingly glaring at him.

Suddenly, the ground started to shake and I immediately grabbed Jeno by the hand, pushing him into my arms just in case anything happened.

Sounds of swords clashing and voices in my head were heard at the same time.

Jeno apparently heard it too.

“No, no, NO!”

“No! Jisung!”

“NO!”

Before Aera could move, Jeno had already run towards where the swords were clashing, to hear the same exact words from Jeno.

“JISUNG! NO!”

Aggressive yells and shouts of ‘no’ were heard from the Neo Brothers, making all of them gather in the horrified scene.

They swore that they would protect each other but one nearly was added to the victims of General Mourax but Aera was just in time, as she tried to stop the tip of the sword from going deep into Jisung’s chest.

The red hues were illuminating her fingers as she tried her best to get the sword off his body, causing her to groan as she turned her head slowly.

Once she got the sword of his body, a loud scream was heard from Jisung and Area quickly flicked her fingers as she threw General Mourax - at the same time destroying the life size statue.

Getting the biggest stone, she moves the stone, throwing layers and layers of stone on top of the man.

Her focus then turned towards Jisung, laying on the ground.

Red hues were surrounded on Jisung as Aera quickly moved him towards her, and he was already in her arms.

The other Neo Brothers’ ran towards Aera.

Aera glanced towards Jisung’s face, noticing that he was quietly sobbing.

Her eyes turned towards the huge opened wound, causing her to clench her jaw - knowing it’s going to hurt Jisung.

“..Jisung.. Hold on.. I’m going to stitch you up, okay? But it’s going to…” Aera’s words trailed off, after feeling the ground shake.

Jisung could only nod, and Aera's fingers already lit up with red hues - going towards the opened wound.

As she was stitching his wounds, the ground began to shake rather aggressively and Aera was cursing openly knowing she has to do this fast at the same time, trying not to hurt Jisung more.

“Princess Aera, we can hold him off! Please take care of our Jisung!”

“...He is too strong for you to take him, Prince Johnny.” Aera yelled, while glancing towards Johnny, Yuta, Taeyong, Mark, Lucas and Hendery who were shielding at the front.

Jaehyun, Taeil and the rest of the Neo Brothers’ were shielding Aera and Jisung.

Chenle and Haechan were holding onto the younger one’s hands while trying not to shed any tears, while the others were glancing towards Aera and her fingers - when something caught Taeil’s eyes.

‘....The bruise on her arm… It looks familiar.. Someone has the same bruise as her.. But who could it be?’

‘.....I believe Diana has the same bruise as her..’

Doyoung answered Taeil’s thoughts, as they caught each other’s eye contact.

‘Which that means… But it couldn’t be…’ Taeil thought.

‘...But there is a possibility… Diana wasn't present when this war started, even in other events... She wasn't there…’

Jisung started to whimper rather loudly, causing the others to ask him to hold on as Aera tries her best to make it too painful for the young one.

He was sweating furiously despite how cold the atmosphere was.

Aera too didn’t realize that she had a nosebleed.

“Princess! Your nose..” Jaehyun called out, he didn’t even hesitate to wipe her nose causing Aera to look towards Jaehyun.

He could only blink at her confusingly, also not minding the others who were scoffing slightly, complaining that even the prince had to flirt in the middle of a war.

But all that small interaction was cut off when the small group were being thrown by rocks, some of them were being hit by the head and body.

Aera was busy shielding Jisung as she had him being pushed towards Jaehyun’s arms, and the crowned prince was fast enough to grab the young one in his arms.

Aera on the other hand rolled her way in the middle, at the same time shielding herself.

As she tried to stand, she decided to play around with the dust, as making the air turned cloudy and hazy - at the same time, telling the other Neo Brothers to keep it down and stay still through her mind.

A deep, evil laughter surrounded the area as Aera was walking around.

“..... Stop disguising yourself as someone you are not, Aera…. Or Diana.”

“..... Stop disguising yourself as someone you are not, Aera…. Or Diana.”

“Did you hear that?!” Jackson exclaimed, turning towards Jinyoung as they turned back to a different direction.

They decided to go to the front of the palace but the sight they were seeing was horrible and a mess.

Jinyoung was cursing himself, knowing what the sentence meant.

All this while, Diana was actually Aera.

How could I be so dumb not to noticed?

Their feet were brought to the back garden and Jinyoung noticed the atmosphere that he had to stop Jackson from entering the hazy and cloudy garden.

“What’s with the haze? Since when Aerina has haze here?” Jackson whispered as he was getting rid of the hazy air.

“That’s the problem, Jackson. Since when does Aerina has haze here?” Jinyoung muttered, pulling Jackson with him - following where the haze is.

Unlike Jackson, Jinyoung memorized Aerina’s palace and he realized that they were in the area where the life size statue of Aera is located.

“Well—

Jackson was being covered by the mouth while being shoved to the ground by Jinyoung, both of them slide towards the side.

In coincidence, the haze that somehow changed colors to red mist, slowly started to disappear as it cleared itself.

That’s when a figure reveals herself, seeing her eyes glowed in red followed by her hands.

Followed by random rocks and trees being thrown towards the enemy.

It hurts Jinyoung and Jackson that they had to watch what was happening.

But watching how she was fighting, Jinyoung’s head turned slightly while pulling onto Jackson’s hand.

“....Isn’t that… Prince Riana Aera… our childhood friend...?”

𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 ⤄ 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓

𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

[herwonderland7]

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟕   》  Forever and Always

summary  》 Aera turned into petals, as it blew through the wind, showing that she passed away as days after her passing, Jaebeom’s pack were being given scrolls that was written by Aera.

characters  》  Gae Aera, Grandma Kim, The White Queen (Aerina), Lim Jaebeom, Mark Tuan, Jackson Wang, Park Jinyoung, Choi Youngjae, Bambam, Kim Yugyeom

warnings/author’s note  》 a long post!, angst all the way :(, i’m afraid this is the end…. maybe….

genre  》  fantasy, got7!as!werewolves, got7!as!prince

      “I wish we had more time together. But what I believe is that, in the gardens of memory, in a palace of dreams, that's where you and I will meet. You will forever and always be my number one, Aera.”

       2 days.

It took 2 days for Aera’s body to be completely paralyzed. 

Unfortunately, the moment when she was writing the last scroll, her fingers slowly went numb, as she realized what was happening -  she had little energy left hence she used it to enchant a spell on her everyday fountain pen, as it writes by itself according to Aera’s words of thoughts.

Time passed by and the news of the princess' health was known to all of the royal castle workers, and unfortunately, words had spread to other neighboring kingdoms.

Every royal servant and workers who visited the princess tended to shed tears, seeing her unusual pale face, laying on the bed as her eyes were mostly closed.

The White Queen and Grandma Kim had always stood by the princess’s side, accompanying other kingdom’s royal family to visit her. 

The Queen could tell that her daughter was loved by everyone due to her kindness and companion that even the NCT clan and X clan came - unknown to the princess, both clans cried as soon as they saw the state of the princess of Aerina and Morian’s Kingdom.

Jaebeom’s pack were busy than usual, going to different parts of the island to get help - finding any way to cure their princess. 

They didn’t get to have a rest as they ran across kingdoms to kingdoms. 

But one day, one by one of Jaebeom’s pack, they started to feel a throbbing pain on their chest during one of the full moon - as the pack made their way back to Aerina’s Kingdom, to find the sight of the princess’s hair color that had been darkest, shiniest brown has slowly faded to white.

A way to tell that she is slowly dying.

“Oh no.” Jaebeom muttered to himself, his mind slowly breaking into pieces.

“Why.. does it look like my room is full of people?” Aera muttered under her breath, in which she could hear more quiet sobs and sniffs - definitely knowing that there are people in the room.

It was scary for her. 

Her senses are weakening, as well as her body movements. 

Aera knew that she wouldn’t make it tomorrow, not even today. 

“..That’s because everyone’s here, Aera. We all are here for you, my love.” The White Queen softly replied. Aera could only turn her head slightly, towards where the voice came from. 

Yugyeom, who was the nearest to Aera, held onto Aera’s fragile hands. “Aera.. It’s me… Please stay a little longer, please,” Yugyeom pleaded, his voice shaking. 

He couldn’t hold onto his feelings anymore as he decided to let it out, making the others feel vulnerable too since their youngest is crying.

 All of them knew Yugyeom was the type to try his best to hold onto his tears, no matter what situation he faces - but this, this situation was something Yugyeom had to let go of his feelings.

Bambam who was at the opposite of Yugyeom, couldn’t help but sob quietly as his head went downwards, his hands gripping onto Aera’s dress slightly - a sign to show her that he was there. 

He has been quietly watching Aera every night. 

He wouldn’t miss a day to check onto Aera - who would just lay on the bed and as night arrives, Bambam would let his tears out silently, alone. He knew she wouldn’t make it one day.

Thinking of Aera leaving him, Bambam let out his tears, making some of the older ones go towards his side - which was Mark and Jackson.

Aside from Bambam, Mark and Jackson were also the ones who would regularly visit Aera, in secret - because Jackson didn’t want Jaebeom to know that he would skip some days to go hunting, to see the princess.

So Jackson would invite Mark along, knowing the older one wants to come alone although he was being silent about it. 

Whenever there is Jackson, the day would always end up with laughter - and for the first time, Aera would laugh softly and weakly to hear Jackson rambling about his day and Mark would always have to ask Jackson to slow down.

“Rest well, Aera. I’m happy that you came back to us - even if you and I didn’t get to spend more time together,” whispered Jinyoung, while caressing her side hair, making Aera hum while smiling.

As much as Jinyoung wants Aera to live longer, seeing her like this, in a condition where she couldn’t even more freely and seeing her weakening, it hurts him so bad that he just wanted her back to her usual self.

Even if she has to die. Thinking of the word ‘die’ makes Jinyoung tear up automatically, not knowing that tears already flow down his cheeks.

“Grandma Kim, how long—

“Not for long. She is trying her best to hold on now,” answered Grandma Kim to Youngjae - as she gazed towards Aera, who was silently looking at Jinyoung.

Youngjae could only gulp down the lump on her throat, knowing that flowers or plants couldn’t save her. He has tried all sorts of medicines, but none could make Aera come back to life - according to Grandma Kim.

There was so much he wanted to say to her, but he couldn’t let out any words - even if he wanted to say a word, instead he let out a sob, causing Jaebeom to hold onto Youngjae’s hands tightly.

If Jaebeom could go crazy, he would any moment now - but for the sake of his friends and the princess who is dying at her bed, he decided to get himself together, even if it is slowly killing him inside.

Seeing Aera becoming weaker, he would always blame himself - if he knew about her condition, he wouldn't have said those mean words to her. 

All this while she had been keeping this to herself, why didn’t she say anything about this?

A part of him was mad at her but at the same time, maybe she didn’t want to look weak for her people and he gets her - the both of them have similar personalities.

‘Aera.. why didn’t you tell me?’ Jaebeom questioned in his voice of thoughts, staring towards Aera with a slight frown - to see Aera smiling slightly, as she slowly turned towards Jaebeom with her droopy eyes.

‘....No matter how much I wanted to change the future, destiny already wrote down my fate, Jaebeom. It’s the only way,’ answered Aera and that’s when everyone’s eyes fell towards Jaebeom - hearing her voice, Youngjae and Yugyeom automatically broke down. 

Her response made Grandma Kim go towards Aera, putting her wrinkly hand onto Aera’s forehead - a deep frown and a soft sigh came from the elderly as she turned towards the White Queen who was in the corner shedding her own tears.

“Aerina, it’s time.” 

Feeling all eyes turned towards Grandma Kim, the elderly looked towards the boys. 

“I’m afraid you have to say your last words to her. Aerina and I will be outside,” stated Grandma Kim before guiding the weeping White Queen as they exited the room, leaving only Aera the 7 guys alone.

“I’m running out of time, am I?” questioned Aera softly, which she could feel a throbbing pain in her chest, causing her to let out an expression that caused the 7 guys to go closer to her.

Everyone in the room is running out of time.

Staring at Aera with tears flowing down their cheeks, Mark decided to speak first. “Thank you for everything, Aera. You have done so much to restore our home. Rest well,” 

Though Mark’s words were simple, the way he said his words - everyone could tell he really meant it, hearing how hard he is trying not to let out a shaky voice.

She meant so much to him - although they did not interact that much, but the way they look at each other, the way she offers to comb his fur when he would always reject her, the times when Aera would approach him when he had trouble with situation regarding Morian, Mark knows Aera does care for him. 

“Mark, you have to kiss her, on the cheeks of course,” Jackson urged, a tradition for the wolves that if one of their pack is dying, they have to give them a goodbye kiss on their face.

Although Aera wasn’t fully in their pack still, everyone somehow considered as one of Jaebeom’s.

“I don’t know..” Mark muttered, his eyes turning towards Jaebeom who was avoiding his gaze - at the same time giving Mark the green light. The oldest knew the alpha, who was rejected, still had romantic feelings for her, although his feelings for her are starting to fade.

Mark went nearer towards her face, remembering each feature of her face before giving her a quick peck on the cheek.

He then glanced towards Jackson and Yugyeom who were just near him, urging them to talk it out - afraid that it might be too late if they delay their time. 

Yugyeom let out a shaky voice, his hand reaching out for Aera’s hands.

“I’m going to miss you….. Just so you know that family isn't blood. You're my family, Aera.” Yugyeom sniffled as he slightly gripped onto her soft hands, while giving a quick peck on the opposite side of where Mark had given his kiss.

There was so much love as the youngest stared into Aera’s pale face, the colors of her face were fading as well as life, making Yugyeom to start weeping out.

He couldn’t bear to see the princess suffer and eventually die. 

Yugyeom thought she would stay forever this time, but of course, ‘forever’ doesn’t exist in this world.

There was so much Yugyeom wanted to do with her - going to the Dragon’s Village together with Grandma Kim, pranking Jaebeom and Jackson till they went insane, and disturbing naughty wolf cubs.

Knowing that she will pass on, Yugyeom has no one to turn to - causing him to sob out his feelings.

Mark had to advise him to come out of the room - with Mark accompanying him. Knowing it would be the last time he would see Aera, Mark turned towards Aera with a small smile that showed sadness, as he left the room with the weeping Yugyeom.

“Princess, I hope you can hear me. I don’t know… I thought you would stay a little longer. I wanted to show you what the others and I had planned for Morian. But it seems you had to go, and I understand. Just like what Mark said, you have done so much for both of your kingdoms and.. I’m proud to have someone - a friend, a tutor, a princess to my kingdom, our kingdom, by our side. We love you, Princess Aera.” confessed Bambam, his voice began to quave in sorrow. 

He couldn’t help but to let out the tears that he had tried to hold onto, he finally let it out as the room filled with his weeps. 

Bambam really loves Aera - he treats her as his own sister, they would always help each other out even if at the end of the day they had to be reprimanded by others.

Bambam couldn’t believe this at all. 

‘Surely this is just a sick nightmare, right? If the princess is dead, who is going to look over Morian Kingdom?’ 

“Bambam,” A voice called, making Bambam look towards who called him, to see Jinyoung gesturing towards Aera who had her eyes closed, realizing he was openly day-dreaming as he finally stood up while leaning against Aera’s face.

“Rest well, our princess,” muttered Bambam before giving a peck on the outer corner of her eyes, as he immediately walked away, not even once looking back. 

The older ones turned towards Youngjae, seeing that he had his eyes downcast - not knowing what to say, as he too couldn’t believe that their princess is on the point of death. 

He knew. He was there in the mirror dimension with Jinyoung and Aera herself.

He didn’t know the day would come too soon.

With a shaky sigh, Youngjae crouches down while holding onto Aera’s weak yet soft hands. “Aera… Princess Aera..” Youngjae softly called out, waiting for her response but instead, silence and the quiet sobs from the older ones were the only response he got.

Youngjae’s bottom lip quivered, as tears rolled down on his cheeks, as he started to accept the reality that Aera is slowly dying. Staring at her pale yet beautiful face, Youngjae let out a slight choke then a scoff. 

“Even if you are slowly passing on, you still look lovely…. Thank you for everything, Aera.” Youngjae whispered before pecking a kiss on the corner of her forehead. As he was leaving, Youngjae stole a few glances towards her as he finally let out a few sobs, before exiting the room.

Which now left with Jaebeom, Jinyoung and Jackson.

The 3 of them were running out of time, the colors on Aera’s hair were almost draining, an obvious sign that she is slowly passing on in Aerina’s kingdom. 

Jinyoung’s eyes began to water seeing the drastic change.

“I hope this is all just a bad dream. Gosh, princess. We’re going to miss you and your rebellious times, and most importantly, you have stuck to the word of a ‘princess’. I am proud that you are my best friend, a star, also a princess to a kingdom where I was born. Till then, become a star and do visit us in our dreams. We love you, Princess Aera.” Jinyoung managed to say his words, though he was trying so hard not to break down - afraid that he wouldn't be able to speak.

Jinyoung didn’t hesitate to give her a kiss on the opposite eye where Bambam had kissed her. His thumb lightly caressed his cheek as he studied her features very carefully, not knowing that his tears were already rolling down his own cheeks.

Jinyoung looked towards Jaebeom and Jackson as their heads were downwards, not wanting to meet his own eyes - knowing they would break down. Wordlessly, Jinyoung took a last look towards Aera, before turning his back towards her.

Jaebeom and Jackson knew he exited the door, hearing slight sobs from outside.

The room was filled with complete silence.

“Do you want to talk to her first?” Jaebeom offered, his eyes slightly gazing towards Jackson, seeing his eyes red and puffy, knowing the man was crying. 

Jackson nodded slightly, crouching down beside the princess, holding onto her hand firmly - as he started sobbing as it slowly turned to blubbers where he was letting out words that weren’t clear.

This made Jaebeom to crouch down beside him, his hands wrapping onto Jackson’s side, hugging the very heartbroken man.

“Jackson, you have to speak. Aera doesn’t understand what you are saying.” Jaebeom softly told him, as he was quietly sobbing - his hand didn’t even let go of Aera’s.

“I don’t know what to say, Jaebeom. It hurts very bad and I really don’t know how and what to say at all. All I really know is that I like her more than I should! I didn’t even have the chance to say it to her!” Jackson whimpered, his confession caused Jaebeom to rub his back, his way of showing that he understands him.

“....Me too….” Jaebeom whispered, eyes still towards Aera. 

Soon, Jackson’s sobs slowly softens, letting go from Jaebeom’s side.

He went nearer towards Aera’s face.

“I wish we had more time together. But what I believe is that, in the gardens of memory, in a palace of dreams, that's where you and I will meet. You will forever and always be my number one, Aera.” said Jackson, trying his best not to let out any sobs, as he gazed into Aera’s face in adoration.

‘I love you, Aera. I will always love you, forever and always.’

Jackson thought to himself, before standing up, giving her a peck on top of her head. His hand caressing her hair, as his finger slowly left at the tip of her hair.

“I’ll join the others outside. You deserve a moment with her.” Jackson told Jaebeom, as the alpha quietly nodded.

“Thanks.” Jaebeom muttered towards Jackson, as he smiled sadly, his eyes moving towards the princess for a moment before turning his back towards her.

After Jackson left, Jaebeom turned towards Aera.

“First of all, I would like to apologize for what I said. I know you are sad, it’s obvious and I regretted not talking to you after that day. I’m starting to regret it now and I’m afraid it will stick to me. I’m going to miss you, Aera - and yes, I do still love you although your heart belongs to Jackson.” Jaebeom said softly, his hands holding onto Aera’s, already feeling that her hands were starting to get cold.

“..You know, I will never regret loving you. That’s a promise and… thank you for loving me, even when I don't feel lovable.” continued Jaebeom, as his fingers landed to Aera’s cheeks, as he slowly caressed it.

Jaebeom leans against Aera’s face, unknowing that he was quietly sobbing, not wanting others to hear - as he went nearer towards her forehead, giving her a peck on the forehead as he closed his eyes, letting his tears flow.

Just then, Jaebeom felt his hand that was holding onto Aera’s, as it felt light weight. 

Jaebeom immediately opened his eyes, and he immediately backed away - in front of him was Aera, her body slowly turning into flower petals, flowing through the air.

He didn’t even realized that a ring had fallen from Aera’s body.

His shock might have caused the others to feel him, as the rest who were standing outside quickly went into the room - as they see the same thing as what Jaebeom is seeing.

Aera’s body, from her toes to her head, turns into flower petals, and once the top of her head had been transformed, the wind blew the petals as they blew out of the open window of the room.

“She’s gone.” said Grandma Kim, as the silence filled with sorrow.

It’s been 3 days after the princess’s death, and news has spread drastically that the crown princess of Aerina and Morian Kingdom has passed away - and the citizens have been mourning still, with pictures and flowers being placed at the front of the castle entrance of Aerina’s Kingdom mostly.

The castle has been quiet, as the royal workers were mourning too.

But not exactly for Grandma Kim and the White Queen, as they were holding onto scrolls that were on both of their arms. They entered the meeting room, to see Jaebeom’s pack.

As soon as they saw the elderly and the Queen, all of them immediately stood up and bowed to both of them.

“Your majesty, what is with the scrolls?” Jaebeom questioned curiously, seeing more than 10 scrolls were on each of their hands. He was surprised that they could carry all of that.

“These.. are from Aera, written personally from her.” The Queen stated, and immediately as Aera’s name was being heard, their eyes widened slightly.

“All of it?” asked Jinyoung and the Queen nodded with a small smile. 

Both Grandma Kim and the Queen began to distribute the scrolls according to the names. 

Some of them could see that the scrolls had the names of neighboring kingdom names and the names that they knew too, which were NCT and X Clan.

They were even more surprised that Zen’s name was there too, though he is still a child.

Each one of them got a hold of one scroll but Jaebeom receives 2 scrolls, each given by the older ones, but Grandma Kim holds onto one of the ends.

“Aera said that this was for all of you. Since you’re the alpha, you have to read it aloud.” told Grandma Kim, as she looked at Jaebeom with a face that had never been serious as ever.

Jaebeom can’t help but feel anxious, knowing this must be related to her death.

Looking at his friends, Jaebeom untied the string as the paper unrolled itself - to reveal the most neatest, yet elegant handwriting as he reads the letter out loud.

“Dear my 7 beloved friends,

I know that if you are reading this, I must have passed on and I’ve known because it’s been stated in the book of prophecies. I had destroyed it, and I would like to apologize to Jinyoung for enchanting a spell on him from the day we had a talk in the mirror dimension.

I had to, so that everything would come out with me, having the blood of the gods, as I am demi-god and me having the ability to enchant spells. Now, they say demi-gods are supposed to live longer, but in my case, my body is trapped somewhere hence it couldn’t last long, and this is the consequence. 

As you read this out loud, all spells that I casted will vanish and you don’t have to worry, Youngjae. Your favorite flowers are still blooming, I knew you would be sad if it died one day.

Jinyoung, I’ve thinked about the words you said to me and I guessed I realized that I had been selfish… but not heartless. I have always cared for my people since day 1. So, I had written to each one of you as you will be given each a scroll that my will would be split into 7. You will receive on behalf of my inheritance. I had asked Mother and Grandma Kim for their permission and they are lovely to support me.

You will get everything you will need, a room, gold, swords, anything. 

Oh, and not forgetting our little Zen. He too will be given a share of my inheritance. He would need it as soon as he turns 20.

Since I am not there, Morian is in need of rulers. The White Queen has to stay in Aerina, since that is her hometown and her own castle while Grandma Kim had vowed to be by the Queen's side.

So in exchange, I need the 7 of you to rule the Morian Kingdom. 

I need a helping hand.

Attached to this letter is a letter from King Morian. There is proof, as he, King Morian, stated that his throne would be passed to the 7 of you and you do not need to worry on how or if it is possible if a pack of young wolves could rule a kingdom.

It is possible.

The White Queen, along with Grandma Kim would guide you along, but all the matter will pass in your hands. In the end you will decide what to do with the Kingdom - whether you would like it to be a harmonious kingdom or a kingdom that is only for wolves.

It is all up to the 7 of you. I believe you can do it. Each one of you has your own abilities, your own strengths, so use it.

I just want the 7 of you to live comfortably, happily in your own castle and hometown. I hope one day it will come true, not now as I know  everyone would be saddened with my passing.

But as for me, I can’t wait on how both of the kingdoms would progress as years passed.

The night sky will always be dark blue,

Just like how the stars would always be there,

Think of me as a star, I will always watch all of you.

With lots of love and your forever princess, 

Riana Aera.”

As Jaebeom was reading the scroll, the 7 of them quickly untied their own individual scroll, to reveal handwritten will and signatures from the Queen, the generals and Aera herself.

“Oh, Aera.” Jinyoung muttered to himself, as in his eyes, the day where he was trapped in the mirror dimension, the scene was running through his eyes, causing him to have teary eyes.

What Aera said was true, she did uncast the spell.

He felt guilty, he felt like he had caused Aera to feel like she was selfish and heartless, when in the first place, she was thinking of everyone she loves.

“..It isn’t your fault, Jinyoung. The princess might have seen this coming.” Jackson, who was beside him, patted his back as he gave his friend a side hug.

“..I would sincerely like to help the princess.” Bambam commented, causing the Queen to turn towards the younger one with a smile.

“Me too! She needs our help!” Yugyeom added.

“..If this is what she wants, we have to.” Youngjae muttered, eyes still locked onto his own scroll.

He couldn’t believe that Aera was a demi-god, which explains her superhuman strengths and abilities that he,himself and the others didn’t have.

Mark on the other hand was trying to recall his moments with Aera, when all of a sudden he remembered her words.

“Are you ready for the day where I would be gone and leave it to your hands to take care of the others and the kingdom of Morian?” Mark whispered to himself, causing the others to turn towards him.

“What?” Jaebeom repeated and Mark’s eyes went downcast.

“..She had hinted to us before. All of us, but it seems we were too positive to think she would never leave.” Mark explained, earning a slow nod from Jinyoung.

“..She gave me a book titled ‘Ways of A Wolf Pack to Rule A Kingdom’. I thought she gave me for more information purposes but she had another intention that I couldn’t figure out.” Jinyoung muttered, as everyone went silent.

They were blind, or it seems Aera had her own ways.

“..I think we shouldn’t think that way. Aera wants us to be happy, so… I think we should try to be happy for her sake.” Jackson commented, sounding a little positive.

Jaebeom’s eyes gazed towards the scroll, his hands slightly gripped onto his own scroll.

‘...What exactly are you, Aera?’

𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓  ⇿  𝒆𝒑𝒊𝒍𝒐𝒈𝒖𝒆  

𝒎𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕