Ebonmoon

Chapter 6

Jungkook's eyes fluttered open, greeted by the dim glow of oil lamps casting gentle shadows across the pavilion. His mind swirled with confusion, the memories of time traveling and the unfamiliar faces he had encountered still fresh. He sat up slowly, the light blanket slipping off his shoulders as he scanned the small room. The simplicity of the place-wooden beams, a single window allowing a sliver of moonlight to seep in-contrasted sharply with the chaos in his mind.

Where am I? His thoughts raced, trying to piece together the fragmented events. The last thing he remembered was the glowing book, the field, and... the man on the black horse. The image of that man lingered in his mind-powerful and distant, yet somehow familiar.

Before he could delve further into his thoughts, the soft sound of fabric swishing caught his attention. The pavilion's cloth door parted, and a tall figure stepped inside. Jin entered after knocking with serene grace, carrying a tray of food. The aroma of warm bread and broth filled the room, momentarily grounding Jungkook in the present.

"Good evening," Jin's voice was soothing, almost motherly, as he approached. "I brought you something to eat. You must be hungry."

Jungkook blinked, momentarily forgetting his confusion as he took in Jin's presence. There was something comforting about him-the way he moved with quiet confidence, his eyes filled with gentle concern. Jin set the tray down beside Jungkook and smiled, the kind of smile that could ease even the most troubled soul.

"Thank you," Jungkook mumbled, realizing just how hungry he was. He reached for the food, his hands slightly trembling. As he ate, Jin sat nearby, watching him with calm patience, as if he had all the time in the world.

The meal was simple, but it tasted like the best thing Jungkook had ever had. It grounded him, allowing his racing thoughts to slow, if only for a moment. When he finished, Jin took the tray and set it aside, his expression never losing its warmth.

Before Jungkook could say anything, the door rustled again, and a taller figure entered. Namjoon stepped inside, his presence commanding yet respectful. There was an air of authority around him, but it was tempered by the way he looked at Jungkook-not with suspicion, but with curiosity and a hint of concern.

"Good evening, Jungkook," Namjoon greeted, his voice deep and measured. He spoke with a formality that felt ancient, each word carefully chosen. "I am Kim Ramjoon. I hope you are feeling better."

Jungkook nodded, though his confusion hadn't entirely lifted. "I... I think so."

Namjoon took a step closer, his gaze steady but not intimidating. "I need to ask you some questions for the safety of our kingdom. But please, know that you are not in danger here."

Jungkook's heart pounded in his chest, but he nodded again, trying to focus. "I understand."

The questions were gentle, probing yet respectful, as if Namjoon was more interested in understanding Jungkook than interrogating him. Throughout the exchange, Namjoon's tone remained calm, his words almost lyrical in their formality, like a king addressing a guest.

After a while, Namjoon stepped back, seemingly satisfied. "Thank you, Jungkook. You've been through much, and you need to rest now. We will ensure that you are safe."

Jungkook hesitated, something nagging at the back of his mind. "Was there... someone outside?"

Jin and Namjoon exchanged a glance before Jin spoke, his voice soft but with a hint of pride. "Yes, it was our kingdom's alpha, the almighty royal alpha, Kim Taehyung."

The name sent a shiver down Jungkook's spine. *Kim Taehyung?* His mind raced, trying to piece together what this meant. He felt an inexplicable pull, a need to meet this alpha, but before he could voice it, Jin spoke again.