"I thought we had it all-the sunsets, the kisses, the nights that felt perfect."
"We 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 happy."
"Then one morning, I wake up, and all I want is for it to end... to jump, to stop the pain."
"To make everything go away."
"Then do it."
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Taehyung shifts on his feet, glancing around the bustling heart of the Al-Hajir Market Square, where vendors call out in melodic tones, and the scent of spices, dried fruits, and freshly baked bread fills the air.
Despite his nerves, his eyes sparkle with curiosity, drawn to the intricately woven carpets, polished brassware, and bright fabrics hanging in a dazzling array. Jimin stands beside him, equally captivated yet keeping an eye on the disguised merchant—a man with a dusty scarf and a worn tunic—who speaks in low tones with an older merchant stationed at the border post, holding their documents.
"What's taking so long?" Taehyung mutters, voice low but tinged with impatience as he fidgets. His heart beats a little faster, his gaze narrowing suspiciously as he notices the old merchant eyeing them both. The old man’s gaze lingers, and Taehyung scowls, leaning closer to Jimin. "Is he… checking us out?"
"Shh." Jimin hushes, though he shares Taehyung’s concern. "Do you think he suspects anything?"
Their merchant finally returns, scroll in hand, face smug with satisfaction. "Got it," he says in a low voice, nodding to the two of them. "Now, we need to make it to the palace before sunset."
They slip through the square and head toward the outskirts, where two horses are waiting for them, tied to a wooden post. Both mares are impressive—their coats a rich chestnut, eyes sharp and bright, a testament to their strength and endurance.
Taehyung runs his fingers over the sleek mane of his horse, feeling a small thrill as he readies himself to mount. He tightens the scarf around his face as Jimin suggested, making sure it won’t slip, and climbs onto the horse’s back, adjusting to its solid, warm form beneath him.
The journey begins, their small procession moving out of the market’s lively chaos. The clattering of hooves echoes as they navigate the narrow, cobbled paths, passing rows of tents and woven baskets piled with herbs, incense, and jewels. Taehyung observes the intricate details around him—the warm, earthy colors of the market, the soft calls of vendors, and the hum of life that permeates every corner of Al-Hajir. It’s vibrant yet traditional, a place rooted in culture, where every glance reveals something new.
As they leave the square, the landscape begins to open up, wide stretches of golden sands and low hills guiding them towards the looming silhouette of the palace in the distance. Their merchant explains in a low voice, "The palace controls the lands. It’s said to hold the future of this city, with all its wealth flowing into the community."
Taehyung nods, gaze fixed on the palace in the distance, the reality of their mission settling heavily on his shoulders. Yet, despite the tension, he takes in the landscape with awe, the desert and city blurring together in a beautiful, timeless tapestry. He will adapt; he has to.
