Bound by Fate

Chapter 38: The Cycle of Tragedy

The atmosphere was heavy with tension as they gathered around Jin's unconscious body. Namjoon, Jungkook, and Taehyung exchanged glances, each feeling the weight of the moment. "We need to take him back to the palace," Namjoon finally said, determination etched on his face. "The elders must know what's happening."

"Jungkook, we need to bind him," Taehyung said, urgency clear in his voice. "We can't risk him waking up and attacking again."

Jungkook nodded, summoning his dark energy to wrap around Jin's wrists and ankles. The binding felt strange, almost painful to him, as he focused on suppressing the immense power within Jin. Taehyung stood guard beside him, his own abilities flaring to create an additional layer of security. Namjoon positioned himself in front of them, his bright energy shimmering like a protective barrier.

"I'll shield us while you bind him," Namjoon said, determination coursing through him. "We can't let anything happen to Jin or the rest of us."

As they worked, Taehyung summoned his elemental powers, creating an aura of air around Jin that would not only bind him but also protect against any potential outburst. The air crackled with energy, forming a visible shield that surrounded Jin's body.

"Let's move quickly," Jungkook urged. "We have to get to the palace before he awakens."

With Jin securely bound and shielded, they set off through the dark forest. The path was laden with fear; the echoes of battle still lingered in the air, the scent of smoke and destruction hanging heavy. They hurried along, feeling the weight of uncertainty pressing down on them.

With each step, Namjoon's heart raced, dread tightening in his chest. What if Jin awakens? What if he's still angry? But he forced the thoughts away, focusing instead on the bond they shared. He had to believe that the Jin he knew would return.

With a flash of light, Namjoon activated his teleportation ability, propelling them through the dark woods. The scenery blurred around them as they sped towards the palace, the energy of their powers mixing in a dazzling display of light and shadows. The journey felt like mere minutes as the familiar silhouette of the palace emerged from the mist.

Within minutes, they found themselves drawing nearer to the palace, the stone walls towering before them, standing resilient against the night. The kingdom was a stark contrast to the turmoil they had just faced. The air was filled with the scent of fresh earth and the soft sounds of nature, but they knew the reality that lay behind those walls was far more precarious.

As they reached the gates of the palace, Namjoon whispered a silent prayer. "Please, let him be okay." With a final push, they entered the courtyard, Jin's body still secured within the protective energies of Jungkook and Taehyung.

The moment they arrived, they were met with a gathering of elders, including Namjoon's grandfather, who wore a grave expression as he awaited their return. Jimin and Y/N stood among the group, their faces pale with concern. The sight of Jin's unconscious body sent a wave of panic rippling through the gathered crowd.

"Quickly! Lay him down!" Namjoon commanded, his voice filled with urgency. They carefully placed Jin on the cold stone floor, surrounding him as concern etched into every face.

Yoongi moved swiftly, his instincts kicking in. "Y/N, come with me," he urged, beckoning for the others to follow. "We need to get you and Jimin out of here." He guided them to the other side of the palace, away from the chaos gathering around Jin.

"Why are we moving?" Jimin asked, concern etched on his face. "What's happening?"

Yoongi turned to him, his expression serious. "We can't let anyone get hurt. We don't know how powerful Jin's awakening is, and if he lashes out again... it's safer for you two away from the elders' discussions."