Duties of The Crown||Jinkook✔

26. Lethal Secrets

The air in the Royal chamber was thick with tension and the scent of medicinal herbs. Jungkook lay on the bed, pale and still, as the healers worked tirelessly to treat his wound. Seokjin sat by his side, his hand clutching Jungkook's, his face a mask of worry and exhaustion. His own arm was being bandaged, the gash from the explosion throbbing dully, but his focus remained entirely on his mate.

Hoseok paced the room, his steps quick and erratic. "What if they come back? What if they try again?" he asked, his voice edged with panic. "We must increase security immediately."

Yoongi stood near the window, his eyes scanning the darkness outside. "We will, Hoseok," he replied calmly, though his mind was racing. "But we must also find out who is behind this attack. There are too many questions and too few answers."

One of the healers, an elderly man with wise eyes, approached Seokjin and bowed respectfully. "Your Highness," he said gently. "The dagger that was used had poison on it. However, we have administered the necessary antidote. His Majesty will recover, but he will need time to rest and heal."

Seokjin's grip tightened on Jungkook's hand, his eyes filling with tears of relief and lingering fear. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice trembling. "Thank you for saving him."

The healer nodded, his expression compassionate. "We are doing everything we can, Your Highness," he reassured the Omega. "But you must also take care of yourself. Your wound needs attention as well."

Seokjin nodded absently, his focus never wavering from Jungkook's face. "I will be fine," he said quietly. "Just... please, do everything to ensure he recovers."

The room fell silent for a moment, the only sounds the soft murmurs of the healers and the occasional rustle of fabric as they moved about. The atmosphere was heavy with unspoken fears and the weight of responsibility.

Seokjin's eyes never left Jungkook's face. He leaned closer, pressing a gentle kiss to his mate's forehead. "You have to wake up, my love," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "Our people need you. I need you."

Jungkook's breathing was shallow but steady, his face peaceful despite the turmoil around him. Seokjin's heart ached at the sight, torn between relief that he was alive and fear for what the future might hold.

Hoseok approached the bed, his eyes filled with concern. "Your Highness, you shall rest," he said gently. "You are injured as well."

Seokjin shook his head, his resolve unwavering. "I will not leave his side," he said firmly. "Not until I know he is out of danger."

He leaned back in his chair, his hand still clasping Jungkook's. His eyes were heavy with exhaustion, but his heart was filled with a fierce, unyielding love. He would stay by Jungkook's side, through every trial and danger, until his mate was safe and well once more.

He then looked up at Hoseok. "Ensure that the injured locals and noblemen are being tended to with utmost care," he said, his voice firm yet gentle. "They must receive proper treatment, and we cannot afford any oversight."

Hoseok, bowing deeply, replied, "Yes, Your Highness." With a final glance at Jungkook, he turned and left the chamber, his mind already racing with tasks.

Yoongi, who had been standing silently by the window, his sharp eyes taking in every detail, approached Seokjin. He hesitated for a moment, his expression unreadable, before speaking. "Your Highness," he began carefully, "I must ask - where is your family ring?"

Seokjin's brow furrowed in confusion. "My ring?" he repeated, his gaze shifting to the side table. He pointed to it, the gesture tired but precise. "It is there. It has become too tight for my fingers of late."