A HEART FOR AN EYE.

CHAPTER 4: SAINTLY MIRAGE, GHASTLY SHADOW.

28 YEARS LATER,

The handsome and majestic Crown Prince Park Jimin, now a dignified interim ruler of his kingdom, walked through the bustling streets with an air of serene grace. His presence was met with cheers and chants of "Long live the Prince!" and "Hail Prince Jimin!" from the people he passed, their admiration palpable in the way they bowed respectfully or called out greetings.

Jimin's reign had been marked by a deep-seated love for his people, a commitment to justice, and a keen intelligence that guided his every decision. Under his rule, the kingdom flourished, with advancements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure benefiting all. His kindness was renowned, not just in grand gestures but in the everyday interactions where he took time to listen to his subjects' concerns and extend a helping hand wherever possible.

His best friend and chief of security, Kim Taehyung, walked proudly beside him, his regiment of guards loyal and firm in their allegiance.

As they continued their leisurely stroll, Jimin and Taehyung exchanged more friendly banter, their guards joining in with equal enthusiasm.

"Your Highness, the people adore you," Taehyung remarked with a warm smile, glancing at the crowds that lined the streets. "It's a testament to your leadership."

Jimin nodded gratefully, his heart swelling with pride at the genuine affection of his subjects. "I'm fortunate to have such loyal friends and dedicated guards," he replied softly, his gaze sweeping over the faces of his people with genuine fondness.

Taehyung, always ready with a jest, teased, "So, the majestic prince it is now, huh? The clown is on temporary leave."

Jimin chuckled, pretending to look wounded. "Coming from the guy who once tried to go full combat on a rogue squirrel."

Taehyung laughed, playfully defending himself. "Hey, it was a tactical maneuver to catch it off guard!"

Jimin grinned mischievously. "Sure, sure. The majestic squirrel tamer."

The other guards chuckled at their friendly banter, adding their own quips. Yoongi, a veteran in the group, couldn't resist chiming in, "At least he didn't mistake it for an enemy spy like you did that one time, Jimin."

Jimin feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart dramatically. "I was conducting an undercover operation! That squirrel had suspiciously shifty eyes."

Taehyung and the guards burst into laughter, their camaraderie echoing through the quiet palace gardens. Jimin relished these moments, feeling grateful for the genuine friendships that grounded him amidst the weight of his responsibilities.

"You know," Jimin said with a grin, "being a Crown Prince come interim king isn't all thrones and decrees. It's about having friends who keep you humble, even if it means mocking you endlessly."

Taehyung clapped a hand on Jimin's shoulder, his smile warm. "That's what we're here for, Your Majesty. To keep your feet on the ground and your jokes on point."

Jimin nodded appreciatively, his heart swelling with pride at the genuine affection of his friends and dedicated guards.

As Jimin and his guards continued their leisurely stroll, they passed by a group of children playing in a nearby square. The laughter of the children filled the air, bringing a smile to Jimin's face. Unable to resist their infectious joy, he paused and joined in, ruffling their hair affectionately. "Keep smiling, little ones," he encouraged them with a warm smile. "You are the future of our kingdom."

The children beamed up at him, their eyes shining with admiration for their beloved prince. Jimin felt his heart swell with pride and affection for these innocent souls who represented hope and promise for the future. But amidst the joyful scene, he suddenly felt a piercing gaze boring into him, a stark contrast to the warmth of the children's eyes.