𝕊𝕒𝕕𝕖 [𝕆𝕋𝟟 𝔹𝕋𝕊]

Ｃｈａｐｔｅｒ Ｆｉｖｅ

Kim Namjoon.

A name that sent shivers down the spines of those who dared to utter it. Once, before the drought and the great unification of the clans, he was known as the Wise One—a man revered for his immense knowledge and sagacity. Leaders and common folk alike would seek his counsel, though it came at a price. Namjoon led a solitary life, his kind being isolated beings who preferred solitude. This suited him just fine until he experienced the profound feeling of brotherhood.

When the drought struck and the clans decided to unite for survival, they sought to elect a leader through a grand tournament. The rules were simple: to participate, one had to belong to a pack. Packs were formed not just by blood but also by the bonds of friendship.

A young warrior with doe eyes approached Namjoon, offering him a place in his pack. Namjoon, seeking to alleviate his boredom, agreed without expecting much. Yet, despite his wisdom, he did not foresee the deep bonds he would form. It was remarkable how well they all meshed, each member complementing the others despite their differences. It was as if an invisible force was driving them, holding them together.

Their bonds only grew stronger through the trials they faced in the tournament. Each round tested their strength, loyalty, trust, and determination. When they emerged victorious, it was unanimously decided that Namjoon would be the Pack Alpha, the figurehead of their newly formed alliance.

In the past, he would have balked at such a responsibility, perhaps even scoffed at it. But now, he could not imagine abandoning his pack. He had come to care for them deeply, and they for him. So when one of his pack members, Yoongi, failed to return as promised, Namjoon's concern was palpable.

He knew Yoongi's capabilities well; the cat was reliable and always kept his word. Yet, ten days had passed since Yoongi was supposed to return, and the celebration of the upcoming bonfire with the younger pack members loomed. Something had gone wrong.

"Jimin," Namjoon called out, his voice deep and calm as he entered the room without knocking. He was greeted by the sight of a large white lion resting on sheets of golden silk.

The lion, magnificent and serene, grumbled in response to the intrusion.

Namjoon approached and sat beside the lion's head, gently petting his mane, his long fingers smoothing through the thick fur. "I need you to do something," he began. Jimin raised his head, yawning widely, his razor-sharp teeth gleaming—teeth that had brought swift ends to many foes. His golden eyes locked onto Namjoon, fully attentive.

"Yoongi has yet to return," Namjoon said, meeting Jimin's gaze. "I'm certain he is well. The mundanes have little power over him," he reassured, preempting any concerns Jimin might have.

Namjoon stood, clasping his hands behind his back, his dark eyes focused ahead. "I want you to track him down and see what's holding him up," he instructed. "If there's one thing about Yoongi, it's that he never breaks a promise unless it's of utmost importance."