The Last Alphas of 2000

𝐗𝐕𝐈𝐈𝐈 Portentous

As they gathered in the castle's meeting room, the five councils awaited the arrival of the alphas. Upon their entrance, the councils, already seated, exchanged pleasantries and welcomed them warmly.

"How's your day, alphas?" Doyoung inquired.

"We've had a great day," Renjun replied, settling into their chairs at Jungwoo's suggestion.

"Now that you've visited the different lands, we hope you've gleaned insight into their unique characteristics and the inhabitants," Jungwoo remarked.

"We trust each of you, but remember, we won't always be by your side," Taeil added, emphasizing the alphas' responsibilities in maintaining Lucullan's peace.

"We appreciate your guidance and will exercise caution in our decisions," Haechan assured.

Concern lingered regarding the alphas' mysterious birth, prompting Johnny to express his uncertainty about the reason behind it.

"Is there a dream you've had, Council Jungwoo, that might provide insight?" Jeno inquired.

"Nothing. After the dream about the prophecy's end, I haven't dreamt about it again," Jungwoo replied.

"We'll strive to fulfill our responsibilities and make thoughtful decisions," Jaemin promised.

Yangyang, however, posed a question that cast a shadow: "Do you think there will be a tragedy?"

A tense silence enveloped the room as the five councils exchanged looks, until the head council finally began to speak.

After a heavy pause, the head council gathered his thoughts before speaking. "I have a feeling that the end of the prophecy might signal impending trouble, though I can't discern if it pertains to the kingdom, the councils, or the alphas."

"What kind of trouble could it be?" Jeno pressed.

"It could involve death," came the sobering response.

"But how? And if it involves one of us alphas or a council member, what then?" Jaemin's voice trembled with unease.

"We're uncertain. Lucullan houses many beings, and the untold stories of this world still elude us," Jaehyun explained.

Their minds whirled, grappling with the possibility of looming darkness and the question of how to confront such a threat.

"Let's remain vigilant. We can't predict what tomorrow holds, so caution is our best course," Doyoung urged.

"But if we face a dire situation, are our abilities sufficient?" Haechan worriedly inquired.

"Your powers surpass ours. While we wield illusions and possess control over elements like water, fire, and wind, your abilities exceed ours. Familiarizing yourselves with your powers will be crucial for readiness," Taeil advised.

"Thank you for the guidance, councils," Jeno acknowledged.

Exiting the meeting room, they encountered Fred standing nearby.

"Good evening, Fred," greeted Yangyang.

"Good evening, alphas," Fred replied respectfully.

"What about you, Fred? What's your ability?" Haechan inquired.

"Haechan, already asking about abilities?" Renjun's voice echoed in their minds.

"Just curious, that's all," Haechan defended.

"And what's your ability, Fred?" they asked.

"I control fire," Fred replied.

"Ah, we're kindred spirits then," Haechan grinned.

"You're definitely more powerful, though," Fred chuckled.

"Time for dinner, everyone. It's ready," Fred announced, diverting the conversation.

Savoring Fred's delicious meal, they relished the flavors before attending to their nightly routines.

After cleaning up, they retreated to their rooms, engaging in conversation until fatigue took its toll. Jeno, feeling particularly drained, decided to call it a night and slipped into much-needed slumber.

Jaemin stirred from his sleep as the door creaked open, catching a glimpse of someone leaving the room. A quick scan revealed Haechan's absence from his bed, prompting Jaemin's curiosity.

Waiting yielded no return, so Jaemin ventured out to find Haechan. He discovered him at the balcony, engrossed in a book despite the dim light.

"It's 2 AM, and you're reading in this low light?" Jaemin remarked.

"I can still make out the text," Haechan shrugged.

"Why are you still awake?" Jaemin inquired.

"I couldn't sleep, so I resorted to my mother's book," Haechan explained.

"What's it about?" Jaemin probed.

"It delves into the eastern conglomerate—details about their history, traditions, and beliefs in the land of rouges," Haechan revealed.

"Why the sudden interest?" Jaemin wondered.

"You're into books, right? Ever come across the old eastern dialect?" Haechan diverted.

"I have. The people used to speak Izarre in the east. Now, not so much. I didn't delve deeper since they no longer use it, but I did study and remember the other Lucullan dialects still in use," Jaemin replied.

Haechan flipped through the pages, revealing the forgotten Izarre letters, showing them to Jaemin. 

"Check this out," he said, displaying the book. "These are Izarre letters, and I'm diving into their study."

"Why study a forgotten dialect?" Jaemin queried.

"Do you recall that diary-like book I found in the councils' library?" Haechan asked.

"Yes."

"Its first page was about Lucullan's heart, but the rest was penned in Izarre. Even the title was in Izarre script. I want to decode it," Haechan explained.

"Why didn't you show me?" Jaemin questioned.

"I did, but you brushed it off as scribbled words," Haechan recalled dismissively.

"Did I say that?" Jaemin wondered aloud.

"Doesn't matter. I'll decipher this and uncover the book's content," Haechan smirked.

"Let's head back. The councils won't be pleased if they catch us here," Jaemin suggested.

"Sure, let's go," Haechan agreed.

Jaemin pondered Haechan's motives. "What's on his mind? Is this an escape from his own troubles?"

"If only I could read minds," Jaemin sighed to himself.