Just One Last Dance.| J.JK

11.

Hoseok's Pov

It's been a few hours since we've returned to our assigned room at the staff's chamber and Aera has been quiet since then, just the sound of her sniffing once in a while.

I have disinfected and bandaged her wrists as well as mine. The wound is hurting like a bitch and I'm sure it is even worse for her.

She is sitting near the window with me by her side as she places the ice pack on my bruised cheek and busted lips. I have a dull ache on the side of my stomach but I try to hide it, not to worry her anymore.

I know she feels guilty for what happened as she's not even looking me in the eyes even when I'm assuring her that it's not her fault.

If it was another day, I would have enjoyed the spectacular view this place has to offer. But now, the feeling of dread isn't leaving my body.

There is a dark side in this place from which I want to protect Aera but after today's incidents, I'm not sure if we're safe here.

5 hours ago

"I'm so ready for some sizzling fun." The lady had a deranged look in her eyes as she started laughing like a psychopath.

I immediately grabbed Aera's hand and sprinted towards the gate to getaway. But luck was not on our side this time as we saw a very bulky man blocking it.

That guy was at least 7 feet with a ghastly appearance and so built that he could crush us with his bare hands.

"Tsk tsk, I wouldn't do that if I were you. If you weren't summoned by the king himself, I would have buried you two 6 feet under the ground for the stunt you just pulled." The evil lady warned, not a bit of amusement left in her eyes.

I looked around to find any other possible exits but I knew that we could not escape this hell hole.

I felt Aera trembling behind me at the sight of the now burning rod in Paul's hand.

"Kang, bring the girl here." Blood drained from my face as she motioned the buff guy to bring Aera towards the furnace.

He immediately nodded and moved towards us and grabbed her hands roughly, dragging her towards the furnace. 

"Hands off her, you asshole," I yelled as I tried to pry him away from her but he was much stronger than me as he left her hand and landed a hard punch on my face.

I landed straight on the ground as he moved towards me and kicked me on the side of my stomach making me cough and wince at the pain.

As I was bracing myself for another blow, I watched as Aera wiped some tears and went towards the furnace and sat on the chair.

"Don't hurt him. I'm right here." She yelled.

The guy looked towards the evil bitch for approval and she waved her hand, dismissing him. He retreated his foot and stood next to me.

"No, don't." I voiced out with tear-filled eyes as Paul brought the branding iron towards her wrist.

A moment later, I heard a blood curdling scream which made me close my eyes, and I tried to cover my ears.

I was picked up next by the guy and I had no will to fight anymore as I watched her tiny figure crouched on the side, weeping loudly.

Paul brought the gleaming red iron to my wrist which made me wince but I tried to suppress the scream as not to scare her anymore.