Echoes of Destiny | Twice x Reader

ED 5

Author's POV:

In the heart of a dense forest, nestled amidst towering trees and concealed by shadows, lay the bandit hideout - a labyrinth of dimly lit tunnels and caverns carved into the earth. The air hung heavy with the scent of damp soil and decay, and the faint sound of dripping water echoed through the corridors.

Inside the hideout, a bandit hurried through the winding passages, his footsteps echoing against the stone walls. He made his way to a dimly lit chamber at the heart of the hideout, where his boss awaited.

In a series of cramped, dimly lit cells, the bandits kept their captives - a motley crew of elf men, women, and children, bound by chains and shackles, their faces etched with exhaustion and fear.

Some slaves bore the marks of their torment - bruises and scars that spoke of beatings and abuse at the hands of their captors. Others remained silent, their spirits broken by the relentless cruelty of their existence.

"Boss," the bandit spoke, his voice hushed but urgent. "We've got trouble. Those idiots Leo and the others have been captured by the palace."

The boss's brow furrowed in concern as he listened to the bandit's report. His grip tightened on the hilt of his dagger, a silent sign of his frustration.

As the bandit continued his report, he noted the unusual circumstances surrounding the capture. "There might be a formidable magic user," he explained, his voice tinged with apprehension. "The ice around the palace that was used on Leo and the others has been around for a day and so on. It's like nothing I've ever seen before."

The boss's expression darkened at the mention of magic. He knew that dealing with a skilled mage would complicate their plans even further.

"Those freaking idiots! They couldn't even capture one measly weakened elf girl?!?" He yelled through gritted teeth. The look on his face made the bandit shiver.

At his anger, one of the elf captives raised her head. "Momo... Escaped.. Thank God.." She managed to let out before falling and landing on the cold stone ground, exhausted.

"And that said magic user is heading straight into this cave at this very moment." The bandit added, grinning. It seemed he received a report just about earlier. "Along with her is Her Highness, Im Nayeon and the Head of the Palace Guards, Choi Soobin."

The growing resentment caused the part of the boss' seat to shatter. An annoyed smirk was visible on his face. "Very great news, Oban..."

Outside the hideout, the forest remained shrouded in darkness, concealing its secrets from the prying eyes of the world. But within the depths of the bandit hideout, a new threat loomed - one that would test their strength and cunning to the limit.