Bellus Aether (BTS AU X Male Reader/OC)

VI: Tvrdohlavý

Briunza (Forest - Near Pomi's House)

King Hoseok and his mages rested outside the shelter of the old woman. He couldn't shake the thought that such powers were at play amidst the safety of the kingdoms.

"Your Highness, the tents are prepared and your royal quarters are ready for your rest. I will return after performing the recovery spell to restore your energy," offered one of his mages.

"Thank you, Mage Hui, but that's not our immediate concern. What matters most is the spell we intercepted."

"Mage Jihoon and the others are analyzing it, Your Highness. The aura is strong, and it may take a day to trace its origin."

"Indeed. Have there been any updates on the knights Jimin dispatched?"

"I haven't heard anything, My King, but word has it that there's a shortage of knights across all kingdoms."

"This is troubling. I will speak with Jimin about these rumors spreading."

"Is there anything else you require, Your Highness?"

"Has King Jeon responded to our letter regarding this matter?"

"Apologies, my King, but there's been no response from the King of Briunza," he replied with a bow.

"Thank you. You may go rest now. I seek solitude," Hoseok dismissed the mage. He sometimes grew frustrated with Jungkook's behavior, which not only affected his own kingdom but also neighboring lands. As dusk descended upon them, they awaited answers to the predicament they faced.

Librina (Royal Library)

King Namjoon was perplexed by the words inscribed in the book, beyond his understanding. He needed counsel from someone more knowledgeable about the artifact. Fortunately, he knew just the person—the former King of his Kingdom and his late father's brother, whose whereabouts were unknown.

"I will secure the artifact in the Tinkermans' safeguard chest," a disciple announced, bowing and carrying out the task. An Elder of Librina entered the library with a female follower.

"Elder Eunhyuk, what brings you here today?"

"This growing threat among the kingdoms troubles me. I fear it might be the work of the Aetoristocrats."

"Your Holiness and Highness, forgive my ignorance, but what is an 'Aetoristocrat'?" inquired the female follower.

"Sooyeon, my dear, the term speaks for itself. However, I'll explain for your benefit, given your recent scholastic training," the King said, addressing both of them.

"After the Great War, Aetoria lay in ruins along with its king. The most powerful magicians banished them to remain forever in their shattered kingdom. Over the years, followers of the Cursed King of Aetoria and his ideologies persisted, known as Aetoristocrats. They sow chaos among the kingdoms, plotting to seize control. Despite numerous attempts over the years, all have failed. Unfortunately, Clovicka suffers the most damage. They've been striving to claim it for themselves," the Elder explained, raising the King's concern.

"Elder Eunhyuk, although they haven't attacked yet, we can't assume we're safe. We must act swiftly, regardless of whether this is the work of Aetoristocrats."

"King Namjoon, there's no need for haste. I'm merely observing," replied the Elder calmly.

"Your wisdom is appreciated, but we need decisive action, not philosophical discussions."