Forbidden Longings | Seulrene AU

Chapter XXXI (✓)

The night air was heavy with anticipation as Seulgi, Seungwan, and Moonbyul arrived at the designated meeting spot. The shadows cast by the trees danced eerily under the moonlight, but the trio's focus was unwavering. They spotted a figure ahead, moving toward them with the calm confidence that only someone of great power possessed. It was Grandmother Park, a trusted ally in their mission.

"Thank you for meeting us, Ms. Park.", Seulgi greeted, bowing her head respectfully as they closed the distance. The old woman smiled gently, her eyes twinkling with wisdom and warmth.

"It's no problem at all. I'm glad to help you girls.", Grandmother Park assured the trio expressed their gratitude before Seungwan motioned toward the nearby van.

"We have Bogum and his father in the back. We figured it was best to bring them both.", Seungwan informed and Grandmother Park raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the unexpected addition.

"His father as well? I suppose the more the merrier.", Grandmother Park said and Moonbyul nodded.

"Something like that.", Moonbyul commented. Understanding the situation, Grandmother Park nodded.

"Very well. Let us begin.", Grandmother Park stated.

Following her lead, the trio opened the van doors and dragged Bogum and his unconscious father out into the clearing. The night was still, save for the rustle of leaves and the distant call of nocturnal creatures. With practiced ease, they arranged the bodies in the center and formed a circle around them, linking hands.

"Close your eyes. Focus on the energy within and around you.", Grandmother Park instructed, her voice steady and soothing.

The trio obeyed, shutting their eyes and allowing the world to disappear. They listened to Grandmother Park's voice as it began to chant, a melody of ancient words that wrapped around them like a protective cloak.

As the incantation grew in intensity, they felt a shift— a subtle change in the air, as if the very fabric of reality was bending to Grandmother Park's will. The sensation was both exhilarating and terrifying, a testament to the power they wielded as a united front.

Time seemed to stretch and contract as they stood there, the world around them transforming in response to the ritual. When Grandmother Park's voice finally crescendoed, the energy surged, and they felt themselves being pulled through the ether.

"We're here.", Grandmother Park informed and they let go of each other's hands.

Slowly, they opened their eyes, blinking against the sudden brightness. They found themselves back in the boardroom, the familiar surroundings a stark contrast to the mystical realm they had just occupied. Grandmother Park stood beside them, her expression serene and knowing.

"If you'll excuse me, I have some of my own matters to tend to here.", Grandmother Park said softly and the vampire trio nodded as they bowed and thanked her one more time before she disappeared.

As Seulgi, Seungwan, and Moonbyul regained their bearings in the opulent surroundings of the palace, they noticed the cloaked figures of the board members standing before them. The black velvet robes they wore concealed their identities, adding an air of mystery and authority to their presence.