The Wolf's Heart

39

The morning after the attempted breach near his mother’s quarters, Taehyung convened a council meeting. His generals, advisors, and a select group of trusted nobles gathered in the palace's war room. A map of the palace and surrounding areas was laid out, showing markers where suspicious activity had been reported.

General Hwan began his report. "The attackers were skilled, Your Majesty. They avoided detection for most of their approach and had detailed knowledge of the palace layout. It’s likely they had inside help."

Taehyung’s gaze darkened. "Inside help? Do we have any suspects?"

Lady Mi-Sook, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "We’ve detained two servants who were seen near the gates at odd hours. They claim innocence, but their fear speaks volumes. I recommend interrogation under truth-binding spells to ensure their honesty."

Taehyung nodded. "Proceed carefully. We need answers, but I don’t want innocent blood on my hands. Focus on uncovering the masterminds behind this."

Jungkook, seated beside Taehyung, had been silent until now. "The Shadow Consortium won’t stop with one failed attempt," he said, his voice calm but resolute. "They’re after the royal pin, but more than that—they want to destabilize us. We can’t let them divide us."

Taehyung glanced at Jungkook, pride swelling in his chest at the omega’s courage. "You’re right. We need to stay united. General Hwan, increase patrols around the palace, especially near the royal quarters. Mi-Sook, interrogate the suspects discreetly. I’ll personally review security measures."

As the council dispersed, Taehyung and Jungkook remained behind.

"Jungkook," Taehyung began, turning to face him fully. "You’ve been strong through all of this. I’m proud of you."

Jungkook smiled faintly, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and worry. "I just want to protect the people I care about. This pin... it’s more than just a symbol. It’s a responsibility I can’t ignore."

Taehyung reached out, taking Jungkook’s hands in his. "You’re not alone in this. Whatever comes our way, we’ll face it together. But I need to ask—are you ready for what might happen if the Consortium escalates their attacks? They won’t stop until they get what they want."

Jungkook nodded firmly. "I’m ready. But I worry about you, Taehyung. You carry so much on your shoulders already. Please, don’t shut me out. Let me help you."

Taehyung’s gaze softened, his usual stoicism giving way to vulnerability. "I promise. No more walls between us. From now on, we face everything as partners."

Unbeknownst to the couple, the Shadow Consortium had already moved to their next phase. Master Liang, their enigmatic leader, stood before a group of cloaked figures in a hidden chamber deep within the mountains.

"The breach was a test," Liang declared, his voice cold and commanding. "The royal family’s defenses are formidable, but not impenetrable. Our spies have confirmed that the pin remains with Jungkook. We must act quickly before their defenses strengthen further."

One of the figures stepped forward, a woman with piercing eyes and a scar across her cheek. "What of the inside help? Can we trust them to deliver?"

Liang’s lips curved into a sinister smile. "They’ve proven useful thus far. But loyalty is fleeting. If they fail, they’ll meet the same fate as Dae kyun."

Later that evening, Jungkook sat in his quarters, flipping through the ancient journal he had hidden. His thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock at the door.

"Come in," he called, expecting Taehyung.

Instead, a palace servant entered, bowing low. "Your Highness, there’s someone here to see you. They claim to have information about the Shadow Consortium."

Jungkook’s heart skipped a beat. "Who is it?"

"A former associate of Daek Kyun, Your Highness. They wish to remain anonymous but insist the information is urgent."

Jungkook hesitated. This could be a trap, but it might also be an opportunity to uncover the Consortium’s plans. "Bring them to the east garden. I’ll meet them there."

As the moonlight bathed the garden in silver, Jungkook waited, his pulse quickening with each passing moment. The figure that approached him was shrouded in a cloak, their face obscured by shadows.

"You claim to have information about the Consortium," Jungkook said, his voice steady. "Speak."

The figure pulled back their hood, revealing a young man with haunted eyes. "I was one of Daek Kyun’s informants," he admitted. "I helped him gain access to forbidden texts about the pin. But I didn’t know how far he was willing to go. When I tried to leave, they threatened my family."

"Why come to me now?" Jungkook asked warily.

"Because I know their next move," the man replied. "They’re planning a full-scale attack on the palace. Their goal isn’t just the pin—they want to eliminate anyone who stands in their way."

Jungkook’s blood ran cold. "When?"

"Within three days," the man said. "They’ve been gathering mercenaries and dark magic practitioners. If you don’t act fast, they’ll overrun the palace."

Jungkook relayed the information to Taehyung immediately. Together, they worked through the night, mobilizing the royal guard and fortifying the palace’s defenses.

"We’ll set traps for them," Taehyung said, his strategic mind racing. "If they’re expecting an easy infiltration, we’ll give them a fight they’ll never forget."

Jungkook stood by his side, determination shining in his eyes. "And we’ll do it together."

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To Be Continued…

Maybe 9-10 Chapter left