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"Feathers are the bridge between heaven and hell, light and dark."

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The elder’s eyes were fixed on Jimin, his gaze both sharp and soft, as though he could see something that others couldn’t.

He reached up slowly, removing a small feather from his headdress with care. His movements were deliberate, as if each action held meaning. Stepping closer, he held the feather in both hands and spoke in a deep, gentle voice, his words flowing like a prayer.

“Hlan’iro nai thal. Kai’ron nai’rak ithara.”

Seojun, standing nearby, translated with a slight smile. “He says, ‘This is our welcoming gift for this beautiful boy.’”

Jungkook’s jaw tightened. His dark eyes bore into Jimin, who sat comfortably perched on his hips, grinning brightly as if he owned the moment.

“For me?” Jimin’s voice brimmed with excitement as his fingers reached out, grazing the delicate edges of the feather.

“Wait.” Jungkook’s voice cut through, low and firm, halting Jimin mid-motion.

Startled, Jimin looked up at Jungkook, his eyes wide with surprise. His head tilted slightly, his arms still loosely draped around Jungkook’s neck. “What? He’s giving it to me!” he protested, his tone a mix of innocence and impatience.

The elder chuckled softly, the sound deep and amused. He stepped closer again, holding the feather out with a reassuring nod, his calm gaze fixed on Jungkook.

“Hyung?” Jimin whispered, searching Jungkook’s eyes as if seeking permission. He gave a gentle tug on Jungkook’s collar, his lips forming a small pout that seemed impossible to resist.

Jungkook hesitated, his grip on Jimin’s thighs tightening instinctively. After a tense moment, he exhaled and gave a curt nod. “Fine. Take it.”

Jimin’s face lit up with joy. His small hand wrapped around the feather as though it were the most precious gift he’d ever received. Turning it gently in his fingers, he admired the intricate patterns with sparkling eyes.

“Thank you!” Jimin exclaimed, bowing his head toward the elder, his voice filled with heartfelt gratitude.

The elder’s smile deepened, and he spoke again, his words flowing with warmth and reverence. “Ka’reth lani’ro seiyah. Nai’thala kai’ron il’shara anai.”

Seojun translated steadily, his tone carrying the weight of the elder’s sentiment. “He says, ‘You honor us with your presence. May this feather protect you.’”

Jungkook’s attention remained on Jimin. His emotions swirled, a mix of irritation and something he couldn’t quite name. Why did the elder’s words carry such gravity? And why did the villagers seem to regard Jimin with such awe?

The glow of the temple lights, the elder’s gesture, and how effortlessly Jimin seemed to belong here—it all felt like pieces of a puzzle Jungkook couldn’t yet solve.

Instinctively, he pulled Jimin closer, his hold tightening. Jimin rested his head against Jungkook’s shoulder, clutching the feather protectively in his hand, as though it was a lifeline.

Though Jungkook didn’t yet understand its significance, he felt a shift inside him—a force stirring, as though something ancient was beginning to awaken.

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Taehyung stood awkwardly outside the grand tribal hall, Ace nestled securely against his chest. The baby let out a tiny gurgle, blissfully unaware of the tension surrounding them.

Hyungie plaything {Jikook} 🔞Where stories live. Discover now