Chapter 1: The Beginning
Chapter Text
Hunter’s Moon
It was early afternoon when Kim Taehyung went to do his almost-daily chore of chopping firewood. He had gone hunting earlier and done well, bringing back a deer and several rabbits. He dropped the deer off at the kitchen and took a few of the rabbits for his sister.
The weather was decent for mid-Autumn, sun shining, a cool breeze blowing. The Full Moon celebration was still a day off, but they needed plenty of wood for the bonfire they always had as well as for the pack kitchens and huts.
He greeted the alpha, Hyoshin, who was hauling the wood in to be chopped.
“Did you hear?”
“About what? I was out hunting earlier and then I had to clean up.”
“Minho.”
“What about him?”
“He tried to kidnap the Rose Moon omega and got his ass kicked. He’s come back to lick his wounds so he can try again.”
“He has an omega. Why get another one? And why the Rose Moon omega? They are the biggest pack around. He got a death wish?”
“Quite possibly. He went by himself. The omega apparently was the one to beat him up.” Hyoshin smirked. Most people didn’t like Minho but as the son of the pack alpha, there was little anyone could do about it.
“The omega is trained to fight?” Taehyung was shocked. Black Moon omegas did not know how to fight at all. He tried to picture any of them fighting and couldn’t.
“Guess so. Rose Moon is more progressive than we are. Omegas fight and alphas cook. I’ve thought before about seeing if they have room for an old wolf like me,” he said. Hyoshin was only a few years older than Taehyung. He had mated but his omega died in childbirth, along with their child. “And as for the why, he probably thought kidnapping the omega would give him a bartering piece with the pack alpha. Thought he could take over that pack, maybe. Fool’s errand, that. The pack alpha is tough, and his alpha heir is a regular chip off the old block.”
Taehyung didn’t know that information about Rose Moon. He filed it away for when Jiyoung was a year older, though he wanted out of this pack sooner than that. Maybe in the spring they would leave, find a new home. Jiyoung would love a pack where she wasn’t limited in what she could do.
Taehyung waited for Hyoshin to finish unloading the cart, then picked up the axe. As he did so, they heard giggles from the trees.
“Sounds like your fan club is here,” Hyoshin laughed.
Taehyung rolled his eyes. “They only like my appearance. And only when I am doing some kind of physical activity. Otherwise, they can’t stand me.”
Hyoshin smirked. “Well then, give them a show.” He clapped Taehyung on the shoulder. “I’ll see you at dinner.”
The pile of wood slowly dwindled into neatly stacked cut logs as Taehyung worked steadily. He knew he could probably find someone to help him stack the logs, but he liked working alone. He had been in this pack his entire life, but after his parents died when he was thirteen, he felt out of place. Thank the goddess for his sister and grandmother. After his grandmother died, he felt the call to leave, but Jiyoung was too young. But that call kept getting stronger, like something—or someone—was beckoning him.
He took a break when he was almost done, getting a drink from his pouch.
Just then, Moonbyul approached him. She was Minho’s to-be mate, but that didn’t stop her from trying to flirt with Taehyung. Minho already hated Taehyung. His omega throwing herself at him didn’t help.
“Hello, Tae,” she simpered.
“Taehyung,” he corrected. Tae was for his sister and maybe his own future omega, but not her. “What do you need, Moonbyul?”
Moonbyul knew she was pretty, with her petite frame, long black hair, and big dark eyes. She tossed her hair over her shoulder as she giggled. “You’ve been working so hard, Tae. I brought you some water.” She held up a pouch.
“Still Taehyung and I have my own. You know Minho doesn’t like you talking to me.”
She scoffed. “Please. Like he can tell me who to talk to, especially when he tried to kidnap another omega to bring here. Who knows? I might be single soon if he is successful.” She stepped forward and touched Taehyung’s bicep. He quickly took a step back.
“Well, you are not, and I still have the rest of the wood to chop. You’ll want to move out of the way so I can finish.” He hefted the axe in his hand again.
Moonbyul looked appraisingly at him. “All right. I’ll see you at dinner.”
She flounced off, and by the sound, the rest of her flock followed.
Taehyung made short work of the rest of the wood, cleaning up and putting the axe away safely in the tool shed.
He was heading back to his hut to clean up for dinner when Minho stepped into his path, flanked by two of his fellow idiot alpha friends.
“Minho, to what do I owe this pleasure?” Taehyung sighed.
Minho was almost the same height as Taehyung, but slimmer and lither than the other. He was sporting a black eye and a few other bruises, apparently courtesy of the Rose Moon omega.
Taehyung knew, if properly challenged, he could take the pack alpha’s son, but Minho was a sneaky, sly asshole.
“I thought I told you to stay away from Moonbyul.” He said, trying to look tough.
“I was chopping the wood. She came up to offer water. That’s all. I didn’t take it as I had my own.” Taehyung knew Minho was easy to anger, especially when it came to him, so he always spoke as calmly as possible. He wasn’t going to be blamed for escalating anything.
“I don’t believe you. I’ve seen how you look at her. I know you want her.”
Taehyung thought maybe the fight with the omega left Minho’s brain rattled. He had never looked at Moonbyul with anything other than disdain.
“You need to stay away from all our omegas. Stop putting on a show for them. Doyun told me how you were showing off today.”
That was the last straw for Taehyung. He had just been trying to get his chore done. He certainly wasn’t putting on a show for anyone, especially stuck-up omegas who didn’t care about the trouble they caused for other people.
“I can’t help if your omega likes how I look.” He smirked.
Minho hauled off and punched him in the mouth, sending him back. “Hold him,” he snarled to one of his friends. The other grabbed Taehyung by the arms just in time for Minho to punch him in the stomach. He hit him in the face once more and Taehyung sagged. The alpha punched him again in the stomach and Taehyung fell, where the alpha proceeded to kick him in the ribs, the legs, and wherever else he could reach.
“No one, except maybe your sister, will care if you died.” he growled, stepping on his arm, as he bent over Taehyung and held his head up. Then the alpha shrugged and dropped Taehyung’s head back in the dirt, kicking him twice more for good measure.
In the distance, Taehyung heard screaming, then the last thing he heard was “Take him to the cells.”
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“They have dungeons? Are you kidding me?”
Taehyung slowly came to, realizing he was lying on the dirt floor. His head hurt. His body hurt. Taking a breath, he realized that asshole had probably cracked a rib and broken a few bones. He could hardly focus. Staying conscious was difficult. He had no idea how much time had passed and where his sister was. He couldn’t leave her alone.
“Let’s go check them out, then go back and raise the pack alpha from the dead so I can kill him again.”
He heard voices in the distance that didn’t sound like they belonged to pack members. Flickering lights accompanied them. Sounds of dismay were heard as wolf after wolf was found. Omegas. Betas. Alphas. It didn’t matter.
Taehyung tried to hold on until they got to him, trying to speak, to say anything, but his mouth was full of sawdust. He had enough energy to scuttle back a little as he heard his door being opened.
A soothing voice came out of the darkness. “Hey, little wolf. It’s okay. I’m Namjoon from Rose Moon. This is my mate, Seokjin. We’re here to help.”
Two wolves stood over him as Taehyung looked up weakly. For some reason, probably the calming pheromones they were both releasing, he felt like he was safe. And that allowed him to go back under again. He would be taken care of.
As they watched the badly beaten wolf lose consciousness, Namjoon looked at Seokjin. “He’s so close to death. Look at all those wounds and bruises. He’s lost a lot of blood. Should we help him?”
Seokjin looked affronted. “I am a healer. I will not allow someone to die without trying to save them.”
A commotion caught their attention as a young girl came flying into the cell.
“Taehyung! Taehyung!” she sobbed uncontrollably. She dropped to the ground next to him, grabbing onto his arm. “Tae Tae, can you hear me? You can’t leave me here. You’re all I have.”
Seokjin gazed at the girl—who looked all of eight—and then at Namjoon, Namjoon nodded and went back out to find help in getting the wolf named Taehyung out of the cell safely. Seokjin bent down and touched the young girl lightly on the arm, who started.
Her upturned face was streaked with tears. Seokjin’s heart went out to her.
“Hey sweetie. I’m Seokjin from the Rose Moon pack. We’re here to rescue you and your brother. Are you okay to come with me?”
She nodded.
Seokjin took her by the hand as Namjoon came back in with Yoongi and Hoseok, a stretcher in between them. They silently loaded Taehyung onto it, as whimpers of pain came from the unconscious wolf.
“Gently,” Seokjin scolded. Once Taehyung was on and they were carrying him out, he turned to the little girl.
“Will he be all right?” she asked.
Seokjin looked kindly at her. “I don’t know but I will do my best to make sure he is. Shall we go get your belongings?”
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Taehyung opened his eyes. Blue skies with puffy white clouds greeted him. The day was a perfect one – the kind where the sun is shining, and the wind is blowing gently, and it is just the right temperature. The kind of day that makes you feel glad you’re alive.
He rolled over and discovered he had shifted at some point during his nap.
That was interesting, he thought. He rarely shifted involuntarily.
He stood up on his four legs and looked around.
He was in a meadow he had never seen before, surrounded by trees. He caught a glimpse of a small pond in one corner.
Flowers were everywhere in a riot of color. Pink phlox. Yellow sansuyu and brassica. Purple azalea. Blue and white japonica. Purple and white fawnlily. White star jasmine. Cherry blossoms blooming on the trees. There was even more than Taehyung could recognize.
Where was he? This was nowhere near his pack.
Am I dreaming, he thought.
He heard a noise and turned. Off in the distance stood four wolves. Two black. One brown. One gray. Just like his parents and grandparents looked. But it couldn’t be them. They were dead.
Was he dead? If so, what would happen to Jiyoung?
The four wolves raced over to him, yipping joyously as they surrounded him. They were so happy to see him, scenting him. The gray one who looked like his mom groomed him.
The five wolves ran and chased each other for hours until dusk.
The four wolves turned to leave, after scenting him one last time. He tried to follow, but the black one he recognized as his father put a paw on his chest, shaking his furry head.
Your path is not with us, son. You must go back.
Taehyung sat down and watched his family leave him.
When they disappeared, he turned his snout to the sky and howled in the most hauntingly beautiful, heartbroken way.
Chapter 2: Jungkook
Chapter Text
Jungkook awoke with a start, not sure why. He felt groggy. He had stayed behind with Namjoon and Seojoon in Black Moon’s area while Seokjin headed the crew taking the wounded wolves back first. They had gotten back late the night before.
They had been appalled at the state of the pack grounds. The members seemed to live in small huts with few amenities. The pack seemed to be behind the times and as Namjoon put it, it was a blessing they were able to save so many, even if almost every alpha had been killed in the fight. Jungkook had dealt the killing blow to the alpha who had the audacity to attempt to kidnap him. His eyes were wide when he realized that an omega had been the one standing over him.
The fight had been over quickly. Black Moon wasn’t a large pack anymore and their alphas were woefully out of shape at fighting and ill-prepared to deal with such a large threat. The pack had kept to themselves, rarely attending council meetings.
After cleaning himself up and getting breakfast with his mother, Jungkook walked into the infirmary, greeting Hyejin, the beta who checked everyone in and kept the files updated, just as Seokjin exited a room.
“Oh Kookie, you’re back. How was it?”
Jungkook grimaced. “We salvaged what we could and left the rest. Found a few pack members who had hidden and brought them with us. One was an alpha who told me he wasn’t stupid enough to fight against Rose Moon, so at least one of them had some sense. How many have we got here?”
“Six from Black Moon that were really bad. Two omegas, three betas, and one alpha. The rest all had minor injuries. C’mon. I’ll get you up to speed. You can help out now that you’re back.”
Seokjin took him to each room. The infirmary was a large building at the edge of the main pack area. Out of the way, but still close. Each wolf was allowed their own room to recover.
Four of the wolves were awake, laid up by injuries serious enough to require bed rest. All were cheerful despite their circumstances, glad to be out of the cells and in a pack that took care of them. Seokjin said he anticipated at least three of them to move out within the week.
One wolf was still asleep. She had a broken leg that had gotten infected.
“Yoongi set her leg in a way it will heal but we can also treat it.” Seokjin informed him as they closed the door and headed to the last room at the end of the hallway.
As they stepped in, Jungkook saw that the wolf was sleeping. “Who is he?”
Seokjin sighed. “Oh, he’s the worst one of all. He and the others were in jail cells, but it was a dungeon really. You didn’t see it and I know they all look so much better now that they rested, got cleaned up and had some food to eat, but all of them were in horrible shape, and Kookie, he was practically left for dead. We almost put him out of his misery. Except for—” Seokjin trailed off, gazing at the blanket-covered form cuddled up beside the alpha.
Jungkook had missed the fact that there was another person over there. “Who is that next to him?”
“Jiyoung. Taehyung’s—that’s his name—sister. She’s ten and Taehyung is her only family,” Seokjin acted like it was nothing, but Jungkook knew he was already fussing over the little girl. “She has been here since last night. I should get her to clean up and eat.”
He went over to the child and shook her gently.
“Jiyoung? Let’s go eat, sweetheart.”
Her small face appeared over the blanket, Jungkook internally cooing at the sight of the sleepy girl. He could understand Seokjin’s need to nurture her. She was adorable. “But,” she said groggily. “I can’t leave him alone.”
“He won’t be alone. You see that pretty omega over there?” Seokjin asked, pointing to Jungkook, who waved. “That’s Jungkook. He will keep Taehyung company until you come back.”
“He will?”
“Yes,” Jungkook answered this time. “I work here with Jin a lot. I’ll be able to take care of your brother in your stead.”
Jiyoung allowed Seokjin to help her up and then she turned to tuck the blanket back around the unconscious alpha.
As he steered her out the door, she looked at Jungkook again. “You are pretty. My brother will like you.”
Jungkook flushed as they left.
He pulled a chair up next to the bed.
“Hello, Taehyung. I’m Jungkook. I’m here to stay with you while Jiyoung takes care of herself. She needs to eat. Seokjin—that’s our healer—is with her and he will make sure she is fine. Between you and me, I think he’s already adopted her as his own. Which means he will probably adopt you too. And if Seokjin thinks you are family, you are golden.”
Jungkook took a breath as he looked at the alpha, who lay silent on the bed. He had been cleaned up from when he was first brought to the pack, but his face and body were still purple with bruises and green with Seokjin’s miraculous healing herbs. His hair was long and black, probably in dire need of a cut, and he looked tall and fit.
“You’re a regular sleeping beauty, aren’t you?” Jungkook muttered to himself. There was something about the alpha. Jungkook really hoped he would wake up soon.
“So anyway, I don’t know if you can hear me, but Seokjin says we should always talk to people who are unconscious. He says you are lost and need help finding your way back. I hope I can help you. So, you are in the Rose Moon pack. Apparently, it was your pack alpha’s son who tried to kidnap me when I was at the river with Jimin. He wasn’t very smart because he came alone and Jimin and I fought him off. My dad didn’t like that, so he sent our warriors after him. Um, I hate to tell you this, but we did kill all the alphas who fought back. And your pack alpha and his son. We brought about twenty or thirty of your pack members, including you and your sister, to join our pack. A few alphas, but mostly omegas and betas and a few children. Didn’t seem like there were many of those.”
Taehyung’s face contorted in a grimace. “Oh, are you in pain? I think I may be able to give you something.” Jungkook emitted some calming pheromones, his jasmine scent wrapping softly around the alpha, as he stood up to get medicine. Then, he noticed Taehyung’s face relaxing and a deep breath being released.
“Huh. My scent relaxes him?” Jungkook sat back down and sent more of his scent to Taehyung, who seemed to be sinking into a calmer sleep. “Interesting.”
Jungkook leaned back into his chair. “Let me tell you about the Rose Moon pack.”
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Taehyung woke up again in the meadow. He got up and explored, drinking water from the pond. Tasting a few wildflowers. Chasing rabbits that ran by him. He even caught one.
This time when he heard a noise, he turned, expecting his parents and grandparents. But it was a little gray wolf with black streaks.
Jiyoung!
He raced over to his little sister and inspected her all over, to her dismay.
I’m fine. I’m fine. I miss you. Come back to me.
Taehyung tried to tell her that he didn’t know how. He only woke up in this meadow and he didn’t know how to leave.
But she seemed to understand.
Instead she challenged him to a race and they spent the day gamboling in the meadow.
At twilight, she had to go.
I’ll be back. I will find a way to bring you home.
Again, Taehyung watched his family walk away and sent up his mournful howl.
Chapter 3: The First Month
Chapter Text
Seokjin had taken in Jiyoung as if she was his own and made up a room for her in the house he shared with Namjoon. He made sure she got enough to eat and slept a few hours each day. She still preferred to sleep next to her brother as much as she could.
There were several wolves visiting the infirmary—the ones from Black Moon but also their own pack members who had gotten injured in the fight—though none as severe as Taehyung or just needed medical care so Seokjin and Jungkook were kept very busy. Several wolves were pulled from their regular duties to help take care of the less-serious issues.
Taehyung’s injuries were so severe his body had basically gone into hibernation to heal him. Wolves, especially alphas, could heal incredibly quickly, but in the odd case that they couldn’t, the wolf was suspended in a coma like sleep. Seokjin had trained with master healers so he had many cures to help Taehyung heal faster, but he couldn’t make the wolf wake up any sooner.
Jungkook quickly fell into a routine. He would start by helping Hyejin update files and check on the other patients while Hoseok and Yoongi came in to clean Taehyung, get a slurry mix of nutrients in him, and change his sheets. Seokjin would generally take Jiyoung back to the house at that time so she could take care of herself. Once the two alphas were done, Jungkook would sit with Taehyung each day to keep him company until Jiyoung came back. Seokjin always wanted someone with him, even if he was still unconscious. Sometimes he talked about life in the pack. Sometimes he read a book out loud. When Jiyoung came back—she wanted to be away from her brother as little as possible—she would regale Jungkook with stories about Taehyung back in Black Moon pack. She definitely hero worshipped her brother, who had been her only family since their grandmother had died a few years back. She couldn’t really remember their parents as they had died when she was a baby.
The bruises and wounds finally healed, even though Taehyung slept on. Seokjin tried different things to bring him back to consciousness, communicating with healers in other packs. Nothing was working, but Jungkook noticed that Taehyung breathed easier when he let his scent out.
One by one, the other wolves improved enough to leave the infirmary until only Taehyung was left. Seokjin knew at some point he would have to make some tough decisions if Taehyung was unconscious for much longer.
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Taehyung spent every day in the meadow. Sometimes Jiyoung was there. Sometimes she wasn’t. Sometimes the wind would blow the scent of jasmine and cover the entire meadow in a sweet, floral smell. When that happened, he swore he heard a low voice talking to him. Try as he might, he never understood the words, just enjoyed the calm, dulcet tones.
One of the days when he was in the meadow, a white wolf appeared. An omega, from the looks of it.
The other wolf approached him slowly. Taehyung could pick up the scent of the lovely wolf—jasmine like the scent he smelled when he heard the voice. Somehow he knew they were the same wolf, but Taehyung had never met anyone like this omega. Why would he appear in his dream?
The white wolf nudged him playfully and Taehyung decided to stop overthinking and enjoy his company. He nipped at the omega and took off, the omega yipping at him before he followed.
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Jungkook was sitting next to Taehyung, reading him a book, when a black-haired omega came wailing into the infirmary.
“Oh, Taehyung,” she cried dramatically. “I didn’t know you’d made it.” She stood in the doorway, a hand covering her face.
Jungkook started. Who was this girl? Taehyung had been here for almost a month and she was just coming in?
“Who are you?”
She seemed surprised to see someone else in the room. Then she smiled. “Moonbyul.” She simpered. “Taehyung’s omega.”
Jungkook looked skeptically at both their necks. No mating marks. He had also spent enough time with Jiyoung to know Taehyung did not have an omega. She had expressed her disdain for many of the members of the Black Moon pack and he knew that Seokjin timed her visits to the kitchen when most of them weren’t around. Everyone, including to-be Lunas and pack alpha’s sons, pulled their weight so all the new people were put to work in various ways, or given the option to leave. As Rose Moon was a large, prosperous pack, all of them chose to stay, at least for the winter.
Moonbyul sashayed past Jungkook to get closer.
“I’m so sorry, my dear. No one told me anything.”
That should have been your first clue, Jungkook thought.
She leaned over his bed. “Ew. What is this scent on you? No, that won’t do.” She said, letting her camphor scent out, before glancing back at Jungkook. “You can leave now.”
Jungkook laughed. “No, I really can’t. I’m in charge of Taehyung’s care. He has to always have a healer near him.”
Moonbyul frowned, not liking that. She allowed more of her scent to cover Taehyung. Jungkook hated it.
Then Taehyung started to grimace and writhe like he was in pain.
Jungkook was there in an instant. “Please move. I need to check what is going on.”
Moonbyul reluctantly stepped back, while Jungkook inspected the alpha.
“What are you doing here?” Jiyoung’s voice shouted out angrily.
“Oh, I am here to see my alpha. Tell this nice healer we are together, I don’t know why you never told me he was here.” Moonbyul simpered.
“He’s your alpha? Like hell he is,” the young girl exploded. “Your alpha was the pack alpha’s son. You’re the reason Taehyung is in this condition. He was beaten almost to death because you wouldn’t leave him alone while your alpha was trying to kidnap an omega from this pack.”
Seokjin came in behind her and went immediately to Taehyung, inspecting him briefly. He was still shifting uncomfortably.
“This isn’t good for him. I will ask you to leave.”
Moonbyul looked at Seokjin in his simple healer’s garb.
“Who are you to tell me to leave?”
Seokjin drew himself up to his tallest height.
“I am the main healer for this pack. You are new so you don’t know everyone, but you will not talk back to me when it concerns a patient.”
Moonbyul started to say something.
“You might want to stop while I am only asking you to leave.”
Jungkook chimed in, “Jin is not only our healer, but also our Luna-to-be.”
The girl went pale and bowed with a stricken look. “I’m so sorry.” Then she turned and meekly walked out.
“I hate her. I hate her. She had an alpha and was always bothering Tae. I wasn’t lying. She was flirting when her alpha came back from his failed kidnapping attempt. He was already mad, then saw that, and blamed Tae.” She looked at Seokjin. “But you are mated. Why would he try to kidnap a mated omega?”
Seokjin laughed. “I’m the next Luna, not the Rose Moon omega.”
She looked confused. Jungkook raised his hand.
“Yeah, that would be me. He tried but Jimin and I were able to fight him off. Yoongi trains us and no one in the pack can take us.”
Jiyoung, recovering quickly from all the information, smirked. “My brother could. He was the strongest alpha back home.”
“Why is he not mated?”
“He didn’t really like any of the omegas and while they liked flirting with him, none of them wanted his baggage,” she said softly, then looked at them both with tears in her eyes. “Me. We come together. And none of them wanted that.”
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Everyday Taehyung was in the meadow, he had company. Jiyoung or the nameless omega. There was a time when they were all three together. Jiyoung played with the omega as much as she played with Taehyung. She was just a pup and made him laugh with her antics.
The nicest moment came when they had tired themselves out and lay together, Jiyoung cuddled between the two older wolves.
Taehyung looked at the other wolf, who was gazing steadily back.
“You need to come back. To Jiyoung. And to me.”
Jiyoung and Jungkook were sitting together next to Taehyung a day later, when Jiyoung asked, “Do you think I have ruined my brother’s chances at getting mated? Maybe the omega he really wanted didn’t want me?”
Jungkook had grown close to the little girl in the short time he had known and had come to love her like she was his little sister. He took her in his arms and said, “No. Any omega worth Taehyung’s time would love you like their own. The right one would never ask Taehyung to separate from you. They would understand.”
“What if he never wakes up? What will I do? He’s my only family.” She started crying and he hugged her tighter.
“First, don’t think like that. He will wake up when he’s ready. His body is still healing. Second, we may not be related by blood, but you have become part of our family and you will always be welcome here. Sometimes I think you have to be careful or Jin is going to whisk you away to stay with him and Joon forever.”
She laughed weakly through her tears. “He does ‘mother’ me a lot. It’s nice.”
Jungkook wiped her tears away. “It is, isn’t it?”
They sat there, Jungkook’s jasmine scent encompassing them both, lulling Jiyoung to sleep. They were still cuddled up when Seokjin came in to check on them an hour later.
“Poor girl,” he muttered. “Let me lay her down on the bed next to Taehyung.”
Together, they maneuvered her beside Taehyung, then Seokjin tucked her in.
He motioned to Jungkook for them to leave the room.
“I feel so bad for her. She isn’t getting enough sleep.”
“Jin, he’s been unconscious for so long. His body has healed but he still won’t wake up. What can we do?”
“I heard from Jieun. She may have something for me, but I can’t leave to go get it. I talked to Joon about him going and he might want to take you and Yoongi.”
“Okay.”
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Sometimes Jungkook would come to check on them and find Jiyoung babbling in her sleep, talking to Taehyung and yipping like her wolf counterpart.
He asked her about it one day. “I dream about him almost every night. We’re wolves and we’re playing in a meadow. Sometimes a white wolf joins us and we all have so much fun.”
Jungkook was startled. “A white wolf?”
“Yes. I don’t know who it is, but they always play with me.”
Jungkook was a little taken aback. He had been having dreams about a black wolf in a meadow and sometimes there was a small wolf with them. Were they sharing dreams?
Chapter Text
Mourning Moon
Taehyung felt something was different when he woke up. This time, the sky was gray. There was no sign of his sister or the white wolf. No scent of jasmine. No voice talking to him. The wind was brisk and cold.
He spent three days wondering where everyone was. Was he dying? Was he still dreaming?
Taehyung didn’t like this. He was ready to leave. He really wanted to wake up, if this was a dream.
“JIN JIN! Tae’s awake!” Jiyoung shouted one evening as Taehyung’s eyes opened.
Two incredibly handsome men came rushing in.
“Well, Taehyung, hello.” The taller one—mated omega, Taehyung could smell—inspected Taehyung, who made an attempt to swallow. “Get him some water, Hoseok, please.”
The other, an alpha, handed him the glass and helped him maneuver Taehyung into sitting up. Then, they helped him have a drink.
“Where…am…I?” he rasped out, his voice coarse from the lack of use.
“Rose Moon pack. They saved your life.” Jiyoung said from behind. She was moving around, as if itching to throw herself onto her brother, but was refraining from doing so.
“Jiyoung? You’re…okay?” he motioned for more water.
“Better now that you’re awake.”
“Taehyung, I’m Seokjin and this is Hoseok. We’ve been taking care of you since we brought you here about a month ago. You had a lot of severe injuries, but they’ve all healed. We’ve just been waiting for you to wake up.”
Taehyung nodded, still confused. He looked at his sister and slowly opened his arms. She glanced towards Seokjin, who nodded, and then she carefully came forward to get on the bed and nestle beside him.
“I’m going to go get you something to eat.” Seokjin said, motioning Hoseok to come with him. He knew the siblings needed time together.
Taehyung held his little sister close, burying his face in her hair, enjoying her sweet pup scent, while she babbled about Jin and Kookie and Minnie and Yoongi and all these other names Taehyung didn’t recognize. She was laughing and crying as she told him all about the Rose Moon pack, things Taehyung shouldn’t know but felt like he did.
Seokjin brought back a clear soup—chicken broth, he was told—and helped him eat.
“We need to start you on liquids and then build you up to regular food. It’ll be bland for a while until your body acclimates itself.” Seokjin handed him a cup of water and motioned for him to drink it.
Taehyung felt weak and unable to even lift a cup, Seokjin having to hold it to his mouth.
Hoseok came back shortly after to help Taehyung to the bathroom. He was a cheerful wolf whose wiry build made him seem not as strong as he really was.
“You up to a visitor?” he asked, after getting Taehyung cleaned and changed. “I have someone who really wants to see you.”
Taehyung nodded, still confused. Who in this pack wanted to see him?
He was surprised when Hyoshin walked in, a look of joy on his face to match Taehyung’s shocked one.
“Taehyung! It is so good to see you awake! You finally came back to us!” The older wolf had tears in his eyes. Taehyung weakly reached out a hand and Hyoshin came forward to give him a hug. “Don’t give us such a scare like that again.”
Taehyung nodded mutely and yawned. Seokjin took the hint and ushered Hyoshin out, telling him he could come back the next day. He tried with Jiyoung but she refused.
“He’s had a rough day and needs me here.” She argued. Seokjin gave in easily but persuaded her to go eat first.
Hoseok took her to the dining hall while Seokjin did a more intensive check-up.
After he was done, he smiled. “You’ll feel weak for a while. You were in a coma for almost a month, subsisting on sugar water and fluids. We kept you pretty clean so bed sores shouldn’t be an issue.” At Taehyung’s confused look, he explained, “Lying on your back for a long time can cause skin issues. I studied medicine with master healers, but we didn’t want to move you any more than we had to, so I used our pack medicines plus what I needed from other packs. Once you are feeling up to it, Hoseok will work to get you back on your feet. Your little sister has been feeling lost without you, so I’m glad you finally woke up.”
Taehyung nodded as they heard his sister coming back. “Look, Tae! Hobi got me ice cream! He said you might be able to stomach a bite.” Her face beamed as she put a tray down and put a spoonful of a white substance near his mouth. He opened his mouth and she slid the cold concoction in. It was delicious. He vaguely remembering having it when his parents were alive.
“When will Kookie be back, Jin?” She asked, eating most of the ice cream, but giving a couple more spoonfuls to her brother. “He will be so happy to see Tae awake.”
“He’s supposed to be back in a few days, though the reason he left isn’t as vital anymore. I’ll send a messenger tonight to let him and Joon know they can come back.”
Right as he finished speaking, Jimin came in, holding a letter. He looked concerned.
“So I just heard back from Yoongi,” he started to say, then realized that Taehyung was awake and looking at him. “Oh, he’s awake! Hello! I’m Jimin! It is so good to see you awake.”
Taehyung nodded to Jimin as Jiyoung grabbed his hair. He weakly managed to disengage her. “What are you doing?” he asked her.
“Your hair needs to be brushed. You need a haircut.” She said simply. He shook his head.
“Not now, Ji.”
“What did Yoongi say? You need to reply and tell them to come home.” Seokjin said to Jimin.
“They can’t. Hence the letter. Kookie was out hunting—shifted, you know him—and he hurt his leg. He also got stuck outside in the snow so he has developed pneumonia. Jieun is keeping him there until he is well enough to travel. At least a week, she told Yoongi. Yoong is staying but Joonie is coming home.”
“We need to go tell Luna, unless you already told her.”
Jimin shook his head. “I came straight here.”
“Okay. Let me get Taehyung and Jiyoung squared away, then we will go. Hoseok,” he said, turning to the alpha.
“I already know. I will stay with them tonight. That alpha who was here, Hyoshin, he has also offered to stay with him if needed.”
Seokjin sighed. “If Kook is going to be gone another week, we will definitely need it, but no unmated omegas will be allowed to stay. Hyejin and Jimin are the only non-alphas approved for now. Pull some from the night shift if you have to.” He bent over to talk to Jiyoung, who was still cuddling happily with her brother, talking to him in low tones. “Ji, I have to go for the evening but Hoseok will be here with you if you need anything. Same goes for you, Taehyung.”
Jiyoung nodded and Taehyung looked over at Hoseok, who was making himself comfortable on a small couch against the wall.
“But Jin, when is Kookie coming back? I want him to see Tae is awake.”
“He got sick and will need to stay at Wind Moon pack for a little while longer. But he is under the care of their pack healer, Jieun, so he is in good hands. He will be back soon, I promise.”
He bid them all goodbye and walked out with Jimin. “If I know Dahee like I think I do, she’ll be demanding that Wooshik take her immediately to Wind Moon.”
Jimin laughed, knowing it was true.
Their voices trailed off and silence fell upon the small room.
“Do you need anything, Taehyung?”
“Water please.” He said roughly, still feeling parched. Hoseok got up and poured water from a pitcher into a glass. He then held it to Taehyung’s mouth. Taehyung tried to gulp it, but Hoseok moved it back. “Slowly. You’ll make yourself sick.”
When Taehyung had enough, he nodded and sat back.
Hoseok put the glass down.
“Are you tired? Do you want to sleep?”
Taehyung nodded then shook his head. He was tired but he wasn’t sleepy. He had been sleeping long enough.
“I have the book that Kookie has been reading to you if you want me to continue. I think Jiyoung was enjoying the story too.” He said with a nod to the little girl, who giggled.
“You have to do the voices though.” She instructed.
“Of course,” Hoseok opened the book that had been beside the bed. He found where Jungkook had stopped and began reading again.
It was only a few minutes before both siblings had fallen asleep. Hoseok closed the book and laid back on the couch, lost in thought. He knew that Taehyung still had a long way to go to be back in good health. He mentally started working on a physical therapy plan. His body had shut down for a long enough time that it might take a few weeks before his accelerated healing started up again. He could probably stay in the infirmary until then, but they would have to figure out where he and his sister could live after that.
Notes:
He's awake!
Chapter 5: First Couple of Days
Chapter Text
Taehyung woke up early the next morning, Jiyoung was cuddled next to him on the bed and Hoseok was asleep on the couch. He really needed to go to the bathroom so he tried to ease himself out of the bed without waking his sister.
Hoseok must have been a light sleeper because he was awake as soon as Taehyung put his feet on the floor and sat up.
“Do you need something, Taehyung?” he asked a little sleepily. Taehyung felt bad disturbing him, but the call of nature was insistent.
“Bathroom,” he croaked, voice still hoarse from a month of disuse.
Hoseok sprang up and maneuvered Taehyung up. There was a small bathroom in the corner, to Taehyung’s amazement.
“Did you not have indoor bathrooms at Black Moon?” Hoseok asked, helping him inside. He looked around. There was a toilet, a sink, and a small shower.
“Not like this,” was all he said, not wanting to admit how backwards his pack was. Most huts had outhouses and there was a communal shower. Or the river.
He took care of business, then knocked on the door for Hoseok to come help him again. Walking the short distance wore him out.
Seokjin walked in shortly after, Jimin following with a tray that had a bowl and a cup.
“I got you bone broth today,” he announced as Taehyung was helped back into bed. “How are you feeling?”
“A little winded,” he admitted, reaching out for the bowl. He noticed he had a little more strength in his arms and was able to hold the bowl and drink from it.
Seokjin gently shook Jiyoung awake. Taehyung noticed how soft he was with her.
“Ji, sweetie, you need to go eat.”
She was a little groggy as she nodded and stood up. She turned to face her brother, and a smile lit up her entire face when she realized he was awake.
“It wasn’t a dream? You’re really awake!” She held herself back from jumping on the bed.
“Yes. Go eat. Maybe change your clothes since you slept in them.” Taehyung’s voice was recovering thanks to the warm broth.
“Are you saying I smell?” Jiyoung’s eyes narrowed. The others watched in amusement.
“Well,” Taehyung smirked. “I didn’t want to say anything but…”
“You’re lucky you just woke up from a coma or else you would get it.” She sputtered. They all laughed at the little spitfire.
“Jimin, will you stay with him? I need to talk to Seokjin.” Hoseok asked.
Jimin nodded. Hoseok followed Seokjin and Jiyoung out the door.
Taehyung looked Jimin over. He was on the shorter side, with a slim build, short black hair and black eyes. His scent was light and citrusy, like a mandarin, definitely an omega, but layered with a deeper, evergreen note, so probably mated. It was nice but not what Taehyung wanted. He had a memory of a floral scent wafting over him at times. And a meadow and a white wolf.
He shook his head, not sure where those memories were coming from.
“Tea?” Jimin asked, holding out a cup. “Also, do you think I can get you to move to the couch? Your bed is due to be changed.”
He nodded as Jimin set the cup down and helped him out of bed, Jimin being stronger than he looked. Once he was settled on the couch, Jimin handed the cup to him and turned to strip the sheets. He set them outside the door, saying, “If Hyejin doesn’t grab them, I’ll take them when I leave.”
He headed over to a small cupboard in the room for a new set of bed linen. He chatted away while he remade the bed, but Taehyung wasn’t really listening. He was too focused on the tea. He had never had this kind before and it was just the right temperature, feeling good on his sore throat, but lightly sweet.
“What kind of tea is this?” he interrupted Jimin’s rambling.
“Huh? Oh, it’s green tea. We sweeten it with a little sugar. Do you not like it? Did you want some water instead?”
“No, I like it. I just haven’t had it before. It’s very different from what we had in our pack.”
Jimin looked at him kindly. He had been to the Black Moon pack grounds. He knew what Taehyung was not saying.
“All right, you have clean sheets. Do you think you would be up for a bath? We could fill the tub and you could sit in that. Then we could get you some new clothes as well.”
Taehyung thought about it. A bath did sound nice. The last bath he remembered taking had been in the river.
“How did I get clean when I was in a coma?” he wondered.
“Sponge baths,” Jimin replied cheerfully. “Yoongi—that’s my mate—and Hoseok came in every day to take care of you—cleaning, feeding you the nutrient mix, changing sheets. You could wait for Hobi to come back if you would rather, but it’s not a problem for me to help now. How about I get that bath drawn?”
Taehyung nodded and Jimin bustled off to the bathroom. While he was there, a pretty brown-haired beta stuck her head in.
“Jimin?” she said, then saw Taehyung on the couch. “Hello there! I’m Hyejin. I work here with Seokjin. I was just seeing if Jimin needed anything.”
Jimin came out at that point. “Yes. I changed the sheets, but Taehyung needs new clothes. Could you get Hoseok to bring us something? I’m making a bath for him. We also need towels.”
Hyejin nodded her head. “He’s out there talking to Jin, so I’ll go tell him. I think we have some clothes somewhere. Do you need help getting him in the bath?”
Jimin shook his head. “I don’t think so. He’s lost some muscle tone, and I can lift heavy things.”
Taehyung had tuned them out—his ability to not focus on anything for too long was somewhat worrying—but that caught his attention.
“You? Help me? You’re an omega.” Panic tinged the edges of his pine scent.
Jimin scoffed. “So? You don’t think I can lift you?”
“No. You’re mated. What will your alpha think? You can’t do this.” Taehyung babbled, the scent getting smokier. Hyejin fled the room to get Hoseok and Seokjin.
Jimin then remembered what they had told him, about the omega who had flirted with Taehyung and gotten him beaten almost to death. He did his best to keep his scent from turning bitter.
“Taehyung,” he said as calmly as he could muster with his heart breaking. This poor alpha must be terrified that Yoongi would do the same thing if he found out. He backed up to create space. “Yoongi is not like any alphas from your pack. He is aware that I would need to help you in the same ways he did. He is okay with it, I promise.”
Taehyung still looked panicked as Hoseok burst into the room. He rushed over to Taehyung and grasped his hands in an attempt to ground him, letting out some of his scent out. He smelled like cloves and spice.
“Taehyung, Taehyung, you’re okay. I hear you wanted a bath. How about I take you there?” Hoseok looked at Jimin, who was almost crying. “Minnie, why don’t you run to Jin’s house? I believe he has some unscented clothes for Taehyung. I’ll get him settled and stay with him.”
Seokjin held his hand out to Jimin. “Come on, Jiminie. We can check on Ji at the same time.”
Hoseok carefully led Taehyung to the bathroom. Jimin had filled the tub with warm water and added a sachet of dried flowers. Taehyung almost sobbed at the smell. That was the scent he had been looking for, that star jasmine that had wafted through his dreams.
“You’re okay, Taehyung,” Hoseok muttered as he helped the alpha undress and into the tub. “You just lay here for a while. The heat will be good for you.”
Once settled, the scent of jasmine relaxing him more than the warmth of the water, Taehyung asked Hoseok, “His mate won’t come after me because Jimin was going to help me, will he?”
Hoseok understood immediately what had happened and consoled him, saying, “No. We don’t act like that here. Jimin was here to help, and Yoongi understands that. I daresay Jimin would beat his ass if he tried anything like that. He’s small, but fierce. Took down at least three alphas at Black Moon all by himself. Now, enjoy that bath. The soap is rose-scented I believe. We hand make it here with different flowers. I’ll be right outside if you need me.”
Hoseok left Taehyung in the bathtub, taking the alpha’s clothes with him. He turned to check on him before walking out of the room. Taehyung had leaned back and was currently holding the jasmine sachet to his nose, taking deep breaths, his own red pine scent settling down. Looked like Jiyoung wasn’t the only Kim missing the Rose Moon omega.
Seokjin came back about ten minutes later. Hoseok had straightened up and aired out the room and handed the soiled clothes off to Hyejin, who took them to be cleaned with the sheets. Taehyung was still soaking in the tub, Hoseok checking on him every few minutes.
“What happened, Hobi?” He asked, placing the new clothes on the bed. “I didn’t know how it would be coming in here, so I had Jimin show Jiyoung the school.”
“He panicked. He thought Yoongi would treat him like that asshole alpha who beat him up.”
Seokjin gasped, tears springing up in his eyes. “Oh, that poor baby.”
Hoseok laughed. “He’s twenty-three, Jin. Not a baby.”
“Nonsense. He is my baby. I haven’t been working my fingers to the bone, making cures and pastes for him not to be.”
“So you’ve adopted both of them?”
Seokjin nodded. “Yes. They have no other family, and it seems like life was hell for them in that pack. I never thought one of our mated omegas would be a problem. I guess, for now, no omegas should be in here. Find that alpha who said he would stay and ask him to come tonight. Joon should be back in a day or so. He can come help too.” He mused as Hoseok knocked on the bathroom door.
“You might want to reconsider that no omega rule when Kook comes back,” he said, opening the door wider to show Seokjin a drowsy Taehyung, who was still clutching the sachet, the scent of jasmine and red pine light in the air.
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
Later, after Taehyung woke up from his impromptu nap, Jiyoung came back with Hoseok and a tray. Someone—probably Seokjin—had given her a new dress and arranged her hair in braids
“They have a school here, Taetae!” She announced as she bounced on the bed.
“Jiyoung, why don’t we help Taehyung to the couch?” Hoseok placed the tray on a small table next to the furniture.
She nodded and moved out of Taehyung’s way. He felt much better after his bath and nap and was fairly famished. He drank two bowls of broth. At that, Hoseok gave him a third bowl, but this had a vegetable beef soup that was delicious.
“Your appetite seems to be coming back. Maybe today we can practice walking in the hallway. I did notice you were a little winded this morning.” Hoseok told him. “I’ll talk to Jin about maybe something with more substance for tomorrow. Maybe you could handle a little rice porridge.”
Jiyoung had been sitting quietly, letting her brother eat and talk with Hoseok about the plan to get him up and running again. Then, she couldn’t contain herself any longer.
“They have a school! Minnie said I could start tomorrow, if that is all right with you. So is it?” She bounced up and down as she spoke, too excited at the prospect of being with other children.
Taehyung laughed and Hoseok spoke up, “She’s been with you here since we brought you back. Getting out and meeting other pups might be good for her.”
“Well, what kind of brother would I be if I didn’t let my little sister go to school when she wants? Yes, Ji, you can start school tomorrow.”
The little girl cheered. She had always enjoyed learning back in the old pack, but the school hadn’t been the best. Taehyung and their grandmother taught her at home as well. She jumped forward to hug Taehyung. “Thank you! Thank you! I’m gonna go tell Minnie! He’s out front!”
The two alphas both smiled at her enthusiasm as she ran from the room. Hoseok loaded everything back up on the tray., “Why don’t we go together to take this to the front? Be good practice for you.”
He helped Taehyung up and held onto him with one arm, while carrying the tray with the other.
“How are you feeling, Taehyung? Your body went through a lot.” He asked.
As they took slow steps, Taehyung getting the feel of walking again, he thought about it. “I do get winded doing too much, but I don’t really feel that sore. I guess I expected to feel like I haven’t moved in over a month, and my body locked up, but I don’t. My throat is a little sore from not talking but I don’t feel nearly as bad as I thought I would.”
“Jin can explain it so much better, but your body went into like this hibernation, this stasis, while it healed itself. Your injuries had all healed two weeks ago but you were still under. But I mean, we still did physical therapy on you, even when you were in the coma.”
“What do you mean?” They had passed the door and started walking down the hall.
“Jin or Kook worked your arms and legs daily, like doing moving exercises with them. Sometimes it was me or Yoongi doing it. Your sister tried to help but she really couldn’t do more than lift an arm.”
“Who is Kook?”
“Jungkook. Our pack alpha’s youngest son. He helped Jin take care of you and Jiyoung while you were out.”
Jungkook? Was that his voice that he heard in his dreams? Was he the owner of the jasmine scent?”
“Can I meet him? To thank him?”
“Not yet. He went to another pack to get some treatment that was supposed to help you wake up but fell and hurt his leg while hunting. He also caught pneumonia. His mother left this morning to be with him until he is well enough to travel.” Hoseok stopped. “Look at you. You made it all the way to the lobby!”
Taehyung looked around. Hyejin was sitting behind a desk, working, and Jiyoung was excitedly telling her about going to school. Seokjin walked out of another room, hands dirty like he had been making medicines.
“You’re looking better, Taehyung,” he said as he wiped his hands on a towel attached to his waist.
“Yeah, not feeling so much like the living dead anymore.” He paused, breathing hard. “Still a little winded though.”
Hoseok handed the tray off to Hyejin, then led Taehyung to a chair so he could rest. Seokjin came to give him a once-over.
“He had two bowls of broth and one of soup, Jin. Maybe tomorrow he can have some porridge?”
“We can try it. I’ll ask Wheein to make some. I would do it myself, but if a certain someone is going to school tomorrow, I need to make sure she is ready.”
Jiyoung had been pirouetting about the big room, but she stopped in front of Seokjin. “I can still sleep here tonight with Taetae, right?”
Seokjin didn’t want to say no, but Taehyung stepped in as her parental figure.
“No, Ji. You need a good night’s rest. I’m sure Seokjin has a bed you can sleep in. Maybe you can bring me breakfast tomorrow before school and of course, come see me immediately after. I want to hear all about it.” She pouted, trying to get her way, but Taehyung looked at her sternly.
“All right, Taetae.” Then, she was gone again.
“You certainly sound better than yesterday. Hopefully, this is a sign your wolf is awake and activating your healing. Do you want to go back to your room or sit out here for a while?”
Taehyung looked around the large lobby. There were three hallways leading off from it and a set of stairs leading to a second floor. “Could I stay here for a bit longer?”
Seokjin nodded. “It’s fine by me. Easier to keep an eye on you.”
“Well then, I will go take care of some things and be back with dinner in a few hours.” Hoseok said, standing up and taking his leave. “Don’t try anything too strenuous until I get back, all right?”
“And I need to go work on finishing up the medicines. Jiyoung, Hyejin, keep an eye on Taehyung, mmkay?”
Jiyoung gave the healer a thumbs up. “Let me go get the book so we can read out here.” She took off for Taehyung’s room, returning a minute later with the book Jungkook had been reading to them. She handed it to her brother and then curled up in the chair next to him.
He opened to the bookmarked page and began reading slowly, Jiyoung helping him out. They passed the afternoon reading together. It was a slow afternoon in the infirmary, only a few wolves coming in for minor complaints or medicines.
Hoseok returned a few hours later, Hyoshin behind him, carrying a tray. They greeted Taehyung and then helped him back to his room.
“Jin wants you to have broth one more evening, just to make sure. But Wheein is on board for making rice porridge in the morning. She’s our head cook. Hyoshin will stay with you tonight, in case you need any help.”
Seokjin and Jiyoung followed them. The little girl tried to get back on the bed with Taehyung, who stopped her. “Don’t you need to go eat your own dinner? And get ready for school tomorrow?”
“I can’t even eat with you? Not fair!” She pouted, crossing her arms.
“And make Hoseok carry two trays? Go eat dinner and maybe Seokjin will let you come back to say good night.” He told his sister, looking at Seokjin.
“Yes, we can come back after you eat. I hear they have ice cream again. This time it’s chocolate.” Seokjin agreed.
“Can I have two scoops?” she bargained.
“Yes. Now come give me a hug and go.”
At that, she jumped on the bed and wrapped her arms around her brother. “I love you, Taetae.” He told her the same as he hugged her back and then gently pushed her off the bed.
Seokjin held out his hand and Jiyoung took it, chattering about ice cream.
“I need to go too. I will leave you in Hyoshin’s capable hands. Thank you so much for this,” Hoseok told the older alpha. “Our night patrol will be around if you need me or Jin.”
Hyoshin nodded and then Hoseok was gone.
“OK, now drink your broth and tell me how you are feeling.” He ordered Taehyung, who held up the bowl and made a show of taking a big sip.
“I’ve been asleep for a month. Why don’t you tell me what I have missed.”
Hyoshin nodded and launched into a monologue of everything that had happened, including Moonbyul and her flock being in the pack, to Taehyung’s dismay, and the shy, widowed omega he had met while in the dining hall. He also told him how different the two packs actually were and the new skills he had picked up, as pack chores were not divided by sub-gender.
“The hunting here is wonderful though. So much big game. And no bathing in the river. I’m staying in temporary housing, but come spring, I could build a house. Maybe court that omega I told you about.”
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Jiyoung came in excitedly after her first day of school. She told Taehyung all about it, talking about the other children in her class and how they were so nice to her, how wonderful and pretty her teacher was- but not as pretty as Kookie, of course, and the games they played.
“Did you do any actual learning” he asked. Jiyoung swatted him on the arm.
“Of course, Taetae but that wasn’t fun. OH! Tonight is the full moon ritual! Can we go? Kookie told me how special it is. They have a bonfire and a special meal and there is music and dancing. Then, there is a hunt for the adults and the pups get to shift and run around. Please?”
Seokjin heard the tail end of her monologue.
“Sweetie, your brother isn’t ready to be out there but if you want, we can go for dinner and the bonfire. Then you can come back and spend that time with Taehyung. With our Luna over at Wind Moon with Kookie and it being as cold as it has been, most pups won’t be out anyway.”
Jiyoung looked disappointed. “I wanted to shift.”
“Jiyoung, you can shift another time,” Taehyung told her. “And I will be able to be there, but Seokjin is right. I did some more exercises today, but I still need to rest. I’m not ready to be out there in the cold. Maybe you can stay with me tonight after you eat.”
“Yes, you can do that.” Seokjin smiled at Taehyung. “Tell you what, we can make a special plate for Taehyung. He did well with the porridge today and full moons are a special occasion. You can even make it for him.”
Jiyoung nodded enthusiastically. “Yes. I know all his favorites!”
To Taehyung, Seokjin said, “I have a few alphas taking turns to come check on you. They’re on night patrol tonight, but they will celebrate with us first. Mingyu, Seojoon, and Soobin are all very trustworthy. We’ll be back in a few hours, though I will have someone run your plate to you sooner. Wheein likes to go all out when it comes to full and new moon celebrations.”
True to his word, about thirty minutes later, a young, handsome alpha showed up with a tray and covered plates. He introduced himself as Soobin and told him, “Your sister made sure to get all your favorites.”
He stayed with Taehyung for about an hour and told him more about the pack and the sweet omega he was planning to court when spring came. Then, when the second alpha, Seojoon, showed up, Soobin left, taking the now empty plate with him. Taehyung had eaten every bit of the japchae and bibimpap his sister had picked for him.
Seojoon was an older alpha, mated by the smell of it, and he talked up the training field the pack had, telling Taehyung that he wanted to see him out there as soon as he was able.
Mingyu was the last alpha and apparently the one tasked to stay all night. They had just gotten Taehyung back into bed when Seokjin came in with Jiyoung, who was too excited to sleep, he could already tell.
She chattered about the celebration, only stopping as she got herself ready for bed, curling up with her brother and telling him everything that had happened.
“I have a little sister about your age,” Mingyu said when a yawn cut off her monologue. “I don’t know if you have met her. Eunchae.”
Jiyoung hadn’t met her yet, but Mingyu promised to introduce them as she yawned again and slowly fell asleep.
Chapter 6: New Place to Live
Chapter Text
The rest of the week flew by and on Saturday, Hoseok burst into the room, startling Taehyung, who had managed to get to the bathroom and bathe on his own, then get himself dressed. They had brought some of his clothes when they left the pack, and Seokjin had gotten them laundered and repaired. He felt a little more like himself wearing his own clothes, as worn as they were.
“Morning, Taehyung! The weather is so nice for November. Let’s take a walk outside. You’ve been doing so well; it’s time to walk a little farther than the lobby. I was thinking we could get breakfast in the dining hall. The main rush is over, but Wheein will make something fresh if we ask nicely.”
Taehyung stared at this animated Hoseok and slowly agreed. Hoseok found his shoes and helped him put them on, then they walked outside.
The infirmary stood at the edge of a large area, circular in shape, but a square in the middle, with roads spiraling out. It was sunny and not too cold, despite it being late autumn. Hoseok handed him a coat that Taehyung didn’t recognize.
“It’s one of Joon’s old coats. Jin thought it looked like it was your size. He couldn’t find a coat when he packed your belongings.” Hoseok explained as he put it on.
The coat was thick and almost too warm. There was a slight jasmine smell to it and he commented on it.
“Oh, Kookie must have worn it last. He sometimes wears his brother’s clothes. Speaking of Kook, he and our Luna are supposed to be back today. He’ll still be laid up for a while because of the broken leg and he is also recovering from pneumonia, and if I know our Luna the way I do, he won’t be allowed out of the house until the Cold Moon.”
“Will he be at the infirmary?”
“Oh goddess no, Luna is too protective. She’ll keep him in his room so she can take care of him. You would think he is five with the way she is about him. C’mon, the dining hall is straight ahead.”
As they walked what turned out to be a shorter distance than Taehyung had expected, Hoseok pointed out other places of interest. There was a general store, a tailor and seamstress, a blacksmith, a carpenter, a library, and a few other places. Hoseok told him the school was on another road.
It was like a small town, not that Taehyung had seen one in the past ten years, not since his parents died and they stopped going to council meetings.
The dining room was large, easily holding a few hundred people, and laid out with several tables where a few people sat, enjoying their meals. There were several side tables that held vestiges of the morning meal.
“Kitchen is open from 7 am to 8 pm. We do it in this style called buffet. Everything is laid out and people help themselves. The cooks will do special meals for those who need it, like our elderly wolves or injured wolves like you.”
“Taetae!” Jiyoung called from one of the tables, where she sat with Seokjin and a tall, built man, who appeared to be an alpha. They made their way over right as a brown-haired older beta walked over, wearing an apron.
“You’re late,” she scolded Hoseok, who shrugged.
“Sorry, Wheein. I wanted to bring Taehyung when it wasn’t so crowded. Taehyung, meet our head cook and the best one we have, Jung Wheein. Wheein, this is Kim Taehyung.”
“Hmm our injured alpha? Good to see you up and out. Jiyoung is your sister, right?”
Taehyung nodded.
“She’s helped me in the kitchen when it was time to make your meals. She has the makings of a good cook.” Jiyoung beamed at the praise. “Now, sit down and I’m going to get you something better than the porridge you’ve been eating.” She turned and went through doors that led to the kitchen.
“Taehyung, I want you to meet my mate and also our alpha-to-be whenever Alpha Wooshik decides he is ready to step down, Kim Namjoon, or Joon, as you have heard us call him.”
Namjoon was an incredibly handsome alpha, built like a tree, and his handshake was strong, but gentle.
“Good to meet you finally. Sorry I haven’t been able to stop by, but with my mom and brother at Wind Moon, I’ve had a lot more to do lately. I have been helping out with this pup though,” Namjoon motioned to Jiyoung, “but I know she’s happy to finally be with her brother.”
“Thank you for taking us in. I really appreciate it,” Taehyung said, taking a seat next to Jiyoung. She curled up next to him and put her head on his shoulder, arms clasped around his arm.
“Relax, baby girl, no one is taking your Taetae from you,” Seokjin laughed.
Wheein appeared from out of nowhere and dropped off a plate that smelled heavenly. “I expect you to eat all of it.” She ordered before giving plates to everyone else at the table. “We have coffee and juice. I’ll be back with it.”
Taehyung looked appreciatively at the plate. There were eggs and some kind of ham, with buttered toast with what looked like strawberry jam and roasted potatoes. It was the kind of meal his mother had made for him almost every day before she died. He stopped suddenly, remembering his dream of his family in the meadow.
“So, Taehyung, I had Hobi bring you here for two reasons. One to get you out of the infirmary and two to talk to you about living arrangements. You’ve gotten much better so you can’t stay in the infirmary any longer, and as much as I love having Ji stay with us, you two really need to be together.” Seokjin set his chopsticks down and looked at him.
Taehyung nodded. As his health had improved, he had wondered where he and his sister would go.
“Unfortunately, we don’t have room for you both in our house, but we do have a solution.”
At that point, Hoseok chimed in, “I have plenty of room in my house, as I am not mated—I have my own place due to my position in the pack. We have dormitories for unmated alphas, but as you have a child with you, those aren’t suitable. We were thinking you and Jiyoung could stay with me for the winter. Then, when spring comes, we could help you build a house for the two of you.”
Taehyung was already emotional from remembering his mom and now their offer, to make sure he and his sister stayed together. The kindness of this pack was about to make him cry.
“What do you say?” they all looked at him, even Jiyoung, who was chewing on a piece of toast, a streak of jam on her face. He picked up a napkin and wiped it off, using the action as a way to gather himself.
“Yes. Oh yes, thank you so much. I can’t tell you how much it means to me all you have done for the two of us. We’re not even your pack and you have taken us in as if we were your own. You have basically adopted my sister and. . ”
“And you,” Seokjin said quietly.
“And taken such great care of her. When I think she could have been left all alone in that pack. I know Hyoshin would have stepped up, but it’s just not the same,” Tears welled up in Taehyung’s eyes at the thought of Jiyoung losing everyone who loved her.
Seokjin wiped his eyes surreptitiously and Hoseok patted Taehyung on the shoulder.
“We’re happy to have you here, both of you.”
After eating, they headed back to the infirmary to pack up what Taehyung had there. Seokjin informed him that they could stop by and get Jiyoung’s stuff on the way to Hoseok’s. They all lived close to the pack alpha’s house.
Hoseok’s house was on the other side of the main square. The pack alpha’s house backed up to the river and there were three houses near it.
“That’s Joon and Jin’s. Over there is where Yoongi and Jimin live. You’ll see all of us a lot. We work together, but we are also like family.”
Hoseok’s house was two stories with an enclosed porch running around the front and sides. The inside was charming and Hoseok took them on a quick tour. His bedroom was downstairs and upstairs were three more bedrooms.
“I grew up in this house. My sister married into Wind Moon—Jieun the healer there, and my parents decided to go with her. They left me this house because I didn’t want to leave, and it would be suitable for whenever I find a mate. But I’m only twenty-four and not ready yet. I thought you could have these two rooms. They do share a bathroom.”
“My own room? I can have my own room?” Jiyoung started squealing. Then she turned and buried her face in Taehyung’s stomach. Hoseok looked questioningly at her.
“We had to live with my grandmother in a small hut after my parents died. We’ve been sharing a room since she was a baby.”
Hoseok nodded and took his leave, so Taehyung could take care of his sister.
Once he was gone, Taehyung sat down and held his little sister, wrapping her in his red pine scent.
“Taetae, we’re going to stay here, aren’t we?” she asked plaintively. “I don’t want to leave.”
“Yes, baby, we’re staying. Come spring, we can build our own house. Maybe you can help me design it?”
She smiled through her tears as she nodded.
“Now, I’m a little tired. Do you want to take a nap with me?” He looked longingly at the bed that looked big enough to hold them both.
Chapter 7: Jungkook is ill
Chapter Text
Jungkook hated lying in bed. He hated being stuck and unable to move around.
“You’re mean,” he told Jieun, the healer in charge of Wind Moon. She laughed, having known the dramatic omega since he was a child.
“I sent the messenger to let Jin know what happened. I bet your mom will come as soon as she hears.”
Jungkook groaned. He loved his mom, he did, but she was so overprotective of him. He grabbed his pillow from behind him and put it over his face. “Kill me now, please. I’m not going to be allowed up until Winter Solstice.” Then, he started coughing.
“Knock knock,” his brother Namjoon stood at the door, with a cup of tea and another alpha—Eunwoo, Jieun’s mate. His father had hoped that Jungkook would marry the to-be-pack alpha, but he saw Jieun at a council meeting and it was all over. Love at first sight, he said. Eunwoo swore up and down they were fated mates.
Jungkook didn’t believe in fated mates, but he didn’t not believe in them either. He certainly hadn’t met his that he knew of.
Seeing Eunwoo and Jieun together and remembering how they met one day always made him remember his own experience when he was a child.
Council meetings weren’t just meetings. They were held twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, and while the pack alphas did meet and discuss everything that they needed to, the rest of the event was a festival. There was a large meadow between packs that was kept for this purpose. Booths sprung up and wolves showed off their wares—clothes, building supplies, fruits, vegetables, jewelry, etc. Everyone brought things from their own packs to trade with others. Children ran around, shifted or not, and there was always a dance to end the week-long event. It was to celebrate pack and community, but also for unmated wolves to meet someone if they hadn’t at any other time that week. There was also a big feast and a hunt where anyone who wanted could join in. A special safe hunt was held for the children, going after rabbits and small game.
Jungkook’s dad, Wooshik, had a friendly alliance with the Wind Moon alpha—they were two of the biggest packs in Korea, separated by Black Moon, which was sandwiched in a thin sliver between them. He had tried to convince Jungkook to be interested in Eunwoo, but neither wolf felt anything romantic towards the other.
Jungkook had been talking with Eunwoo at the dance when all of a sudden, the other stopped and breathed out, “Who is that?”
Jungkook turned and saw Hoseok’s sister, Jieun, who had also stopped and was staring at Eunwoo. And that was it for both of them. They started courting immediately and six months later, they were mated.
Jungkook hated the dances because alphas, betas, and even omegas tried to court him. They had been ever since he presented at sixteen. His mother had made his father promise to not arrange a marriage for him, which he knew his dad hated. He wanted to mate him off to another pack alpha’s son, to forge new alliances. Unfortunately, being the Rose Moon omega, he had to attend every council meeting.
Even as a child, he had had to attend. In those days, it was fun though. He wasn’t the Rose Moon Omega, he was just Kookie. He spent a good portion of the time shifted. There was a little black wolf that he would play with every year they went, until he turned eleven. They were best friends but only in wolf form. They never saw each other in their human form. Jungkook didn’t even know his name. But one year, he never came back. Jungkook spent the entire visit, moping about the place. He did the same the next few years, until the black wolf had become a fond memory. He never admitted to himself that he was waiting for him to come back. That every year could be the year he returned.
His mom arrived the next day and Namjoon returned home, Yoongi staying to keep an eye on them both. She took over Jungkook’s care, only letting Jieun and Yoongi help. No one else was allowed in. She had some healer knowledge so she and Jieun would make cures for his leg and his illness, while Yoongi would keep him company. They spent the hours planning out Yoongi’s training for the new wolves, as well as a rehabilitation plan for when Jungkook was allowed to start training again.
About a week later, Dahee felt he was well enough to travel but warned him he wasn’t going anywhere but to bed when he got back home.
Rose Moon was half a day’s travel from Wind Moon, on horseback, or as a shifted wolf, but they knew it would take longer, with an injured omega. Jieun recommended not shifting for at least another month, to make sure the broken bone set correctly. Four of their wolves showed up the day before Dahee planned to leave and Eunwoo volunteered their most trusted hunters to accompany them.
Jungkook was loaded onto the wagon his mom had come over in, his leg tied down to hold it stable. His mother and the driver stayed in the wagon, while everyone else rode horses or shifted and led the way.
“I’ve made you as comfortable as I can,” Jieun told him, “But you will still get rattled from going over the trail.”
“The way is pretty clear. We haven’t had much rain lately,” Soobin said. He was a good friend of Jungkook’s, along with the omega Soobin planned to court in spring. “We should be able to make good time and not jostle you too much.”
With that, they said their goodbyes and thanks and then were off.
The ride wasn’t too bad, just incredibly boring for Jungkook. He had always liked exploring the forest that surrounded them but not this way. Jieun had packed him in pretty tightly so his leg wasn’t joggled a lot.
They stopped about halfway, near Black Moon’s former territory, for lunch, but didn’t loiter too long. Everyone was ready to get back home.
It was past dusk when the troop reached Rose Moon’s borders. Another hour and they were pulling up in front of the pack alpha’s house. Seokjin, Jimin, and Namjoon had been waiting for some time, along with Wooshik.
Everyone made short work of getting Jungkook out and up to his room, Namjoon carrying him up while Jimin hung onto his mate that he hadn’t seen in over a week.
Soobin took the wagon to the stable and the visiting alphas to the dining hall to eat and then get them settled for the night.
Dahee was true to her word and after letting Wooshik scent his son, shooed everyone out of the room but Seokjin, who checked him over. She left to go make something for Jungkook to eat.
“Hmm, I don’t like the sound of that cough, and your breathing is a little rough. I’ll get you some peppermint and fenugreek tea. You need lots of liquids and I hate to say it, but you need to stay in bed for at least another week,” he told the younger omega.
Jungkook groaned, then coughed. “I’m so bored. Can’t you let me stay in the infirmary so I can at least go sit next to Taehyung?”
“That's right, you don’t know that Taehyung woke up. Same day we heard about you being ill. Hoseok has been working with him all week so he was able to leave the infirmary today. He and Jiyoung are going to stay with Hobi for the winter.”
“He woke up? When can I meet him?”
Dahee walked back in with a cup of tea and a bowl of water, both steaming, Namjoon following behind with another bowl. She took it from him and then pushed him out the room, saying, “I love you, Joonie, but go away.”
“Love you too, mom. Glad to have you home, little brother,” he replied, laughing as he closed the door behind him.
“You’re not going anywhere for a while, I’m afraid.” Seokjin looked at what Dahee had brought. “That has eucalyptus in it? Good. Now breathe in,” he instructed Jungkook, putting the bowl in front of him. He held it there and led him through a series of several breaths, knowing the scented steam would help.
“We also have tea and some bone broth,” Dahee commented. “And after that, maybe a warm bath and then bed.”
Seokjin and Dahee got everything prepared, helped Jungkook to the bathroom, where he thought he looked silly with one leg hanging over the tub, but he had to admit the warm water felt amazing.
They redressed him and by this time, he was a little groggy. Seokjin helped him back into bed and Dahee tucked him in. She leaned over to scent her son and then motioned Seokjin to follow her.
“Is Taehyung the comatose alpha?” she asked as they walked toward the door.
“Yes. He is also Jiyoung’s brother.” At that, Dahee smiled. Jiyoung had so far won the heart of everyone in the pack she had met, Dahee and Wooshik being no exception.
“That’s wonderful. I will have to come meet this Taehyung, make sure he is okay to be around my son.”
Seokjin laughed. “Give him some time to get acclimated before he is accosted by the Luna. He just moved out of the infirmary. And judging by how he has been taking care of Jiyoung since she was a baby after their parents died, I think he’ll be okay.”
“Taehyung you said? I wonder if his last name is Kim. Black Moon had a pack alpha and luna who died years ago, and I remember they left behind two children.” Dahee looked back at her youngest son before closing the door and heading downstairs with Seokjin.
In his bed, Jungkook had fallen into a deep sleep, dreaming of a black wolf in a flower-filled meadow.
Chapter Text
Cold Moon (Seokjin’s birthday)
Jungkook had a setback with his health the day after returning home, due to the ride back. Dahee got even more protective of her youngest child, even though he was twenty-one. Seokjin and Jimin stopped by every day to help out, but no one else was allowed in, not even his father.
To Jiyoung’s dismay, she was also included in the list of who could not enter. Taehyung knew she went to the pack alpha’s house every day after school to see if that had changed and always returned to Hoseok’s house, dejected. Seokjin made time for Jiyoung, to help soften the blow of not seeing her Kookie. Wheein also requested her help in the kitchen, teaching her how to make pastry.
Mingyu had kept his promise of introducing his little sister, Eunchae, to Jiyoung. The two girls were the same age and in the same class so immediately became best friends. But even that was not enough to make her stop wanting to see Kookie. She always took a present to the house, late autumn flowers, some sweet she had made with Wheein, or just a drawing. Dahee always took everything with a smile and told her how much Jungkook appreciated her little gifts.
“Look at her, courting an omega before her older brother,” Hyoshin joked one day to Taehyung, who just rolled his eyes. They had just finished up in the laundry, Jiyoung passing them with a quick hug of her brother and a small container, heading to see if today was the day.
Over the past few weeks since moving into Hoseok’s house, Taehyung had worked in several different areas, like carpentry, the kitchen, and the laundry. He had not been able to hunt though. Hoseok put him on a strict training regimen with Yoongi and Seojoon to help regain lost muscle and stamina, telling him he could hunt again when Yoongi was satisfied with his results.
Taehyung rolled his eyes and punched Hyoshin lightly in the arm. “And you? How is your courting going?”
The older alpha’s face lit up. “I haven’t officially asked. But things are going well.” Hyoshin was still talking to the omega he had met earlier but hadn’t introduced Taehyung to her yet.
Taehyung had been keeping to himself, only talking to those he needed to. He was still getting used to everything. It helped that while everyone learned every chore and job, they were still separated, with a few exceptions, by gender and sub-gender. They also were placed in a group of five-ten wolves to work with. Meals and celebrations were the only time anyone really mingled. He had been adopted into Seokjin’s friend group, but he was in a work group with Yoongi, Hoseok, Hyoshin, Seojoon, Mingyu, and Soobin, along with two other alphas, Hyungsik and Yeonjun.
It was a mixture of mated and unmated, older and younger that worked well together, even with the addition of the Black Moon alphas. Most wolves worked only one or two jobs after they found what they were best at, but with the influx of new members, the pack switched to a floating schedule so the Black Moon wolves could try everything.
There were even omegas who trained and hunted, Yoongi telling Taehyung that his omega was one of the best trackers.
“Tomorrow is the Cold Moon ritual. Maybe you can meet Yongsun then. You’re coming, right?” he questioned.
“Yes. Seokjin has cleared me finally for all activities and Yoongi told me earlier that he’ll put us on the hunting rotation next week. Not to mention, Ji would have a conniption fit if I couldn’t go to another moon gathering. She didn’t like that I had to miss the new moon one as well.”
They reached the road where their paths split, Taehyung heading straight and Hyoshin to the left where the dormitories for unmated alphas were located. He had already started scoping out a location for a house to be built come spring and working on a blueprint. At twenty-seven, he really didn’t want to stay in a dorm that was filled with younger alphas. He told Taehyung that Namjoon had approved his request to have his own house. And maybe, just maybe, there would be a sweet omega to live there with him in the future.
It was about a ten-minute walk from the town square to reach where Hoseok lived and Taehyung had just reached the porch when he heard an excited scream. Hoseok, who was walking up the path, and Taehyung turned to find the source.
Jiyoung, her long braids flying behind her, came running at full speed, while still yelling.
They could barely understand the little girl, she was talking so fast.
She jumped up and down around Taehyung until he managed to grab and stop her.
“Deep breaths, Ji. Slow down. What is this all about?”
Her brown eyes sparkled as she followed his instructions.
“KOOKIE IS GOING TO THE COLD MOON CELEBRATION TOMORROW!” She screeched, causing both alphas to wince.
“Normal volume, Ji.”
She tried again. “Luna told me that Kookie can go to the celebration tomorrow. I still couldn’t see him today, but I can tomorrow! Isn’t that exciting? I have to go tell Eunchae!”
With that, she sprinted away and off to where Eunchae lived.
“How did she get so attached to him that she is this excited?” Taehyung still had not even seen the omega to understand.
Hoseok explained, “Kook was the one who sat with you the most as the rest of us had other duties. She was in there almost all the time so he kept her company as well. They bonded just like she did with Jin. He would read to you both and listen to her tell stories from your old pack.”
Taehyung remembered a voice and a floral scent from when he was in the coma. He also remembered how the absence of said voice caused him to wake up and that the scent of jasmine had calmed him down when he had panicked.
Did that scent and voice belong to Kookie? Why did he respond to it so strongly?
“So, Yoon told me we’re hunting next week?” Hoseok clapped him on the shoulder as they entered the house.
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
The next day, Jiyoung was so excited she was buzzing. Her big brother was finally going to a moon celebration. She was going to get to shift. And Kookie would be there. She was so animated that Taehyung thought she would take off and fly.
“You ready? We have a bit of a walk to the clearing and the bonfire won’t be lit until the moon rises, but they always do the children’s hunt early,” Hoseok called up to them.
“Children’s hunt?” Taehyung questioned as he and Jiyoung walked downstairs. They were both wearing clothes they didn’t mind getting dirty or torn when they shifted.
“Yeah. Yoongi and Jimin lead them in a small hunt. They don’t go too far and only search out small game, like rabbits. It’s mainly an excuse to let them shift and run around. There are a lot of chaperones so no one gets lost.” Hoseok explained. They walked out the door and he shut it behind them.
“When will Kookie be there?” Jiyoung asked, looking longingly at the pack alpha’s house.
“Not for a while. This is his first time being outside since he got sick, so his father wanted to do something big to celebrate that and it’s Jin’s birthday.”
They had known the last piece of information, having met Seokjin for a small, private birthday celebration earlier that day. Jiyoung had drawn a picture and gave that to him, along with a small bouquet of wildflowers. Seokjin proclaimed them the best presents he had ever received. To her dismay, Jungkook had not been there. His first time out of the house in a month would be at the celebration.
Coming to the path that would take them into the main square, Hoseok led them to the left. A few families were also walking the same way.
He told them about how it was set up, the children’s hunt, then the bonfire being lit, Wooshik would address the pack and then everyone would eat. Everyone brought something to share, if they could, but the kitchen had been working on the meal all day.
At the end, anyone who wanted to shift could and would join in on a pack run. “If you want to do that, I suggest making sure someone is watching Ji and you go with one of us because it can be easy to get lost if you don’t know the woods.” He ended as they reached the celebration grounds.
Taehyung stopped and stared in awe. Full Moon celebrations back in Black Moon were a lot smaller in comparison.
The clearing was at least twice, if not three times, as large as Black Moon’s, who held theirs in the center of the pack ground, near the main area. This one was tucked in a corner of Rose Moon’s territory and well taken care of.
It was a large meadow, with what would be the bonfire in the middle, surrounded by a ring of stones. Several wolves were still building it up. Not far was a small stage with a table on it.
“That’s where the pack alpha and his family will sit tonight,” Hoseok noticed where he was looking. “Joon, Jin, and Kook will light the bonfire. It’s tradition that the children, once presented, do that.”
On the right side of where they entered were several tables arranged in orderly rows laden with all sorts of covered dishes. More wolves were working there, setting everything up. He thought he saw Wheein over at what looked like a small fire with something over it, covered in pots and pans.
“Over there is where they put all the food. Wheein and her crew have a grill they use to cook anything that needs to be hot. The last few tables are where people can leave anything they brought to share. I hope you brought your appetite because full moon meals are the best.” Hoseok kept pointing things out to him.
There were large tree trunks, scraped clean of small branches, scattered throughout but mostly on the left side, all arranged in small groups or laid out in rows.
“That’s where a lot of people sit to eat. This is our main time to mingle with everyone. Most people stay with their work crew or families. Unmated wolves look for a mate here. Maybe you’ll find an omega for yourself,” Hoseok nudged Taehyung, with a knowing look. He had never said anything to the alpha, but he hadn’t forgotten the effect Jungkook’s scent had on the other.
The scale surprised Taehyung. He knew Rose Moon was one of the largest packs, but having grown up in a pack that had less than 75 wolves, this was almost too much for him. He hadn’t seen this many wolves together since his parents were alive, before the plague took out half of his pack, and Minho’s father took over. He kept them isolated from everyone else. Taehyung really should have left with his sister after their grandmother died.
“What were your moon gatherings like?” Hoseok asked, paying attention to the awestruck look on Taehyung’s face.
“Nothing like this. We never did anything on the new moon. Full Moon was a much smaller bonfire. Everyone brought their own food and gave something to the pack alpha. It was more about how lucky we were that he was there.” Taehyung admitted. Hoseok gave him a strange look.
“How lucky you were for him? No thanking the Moon goddess? Wooshik always tells us how lucky he is that we chose to be a part of his pack. He always lets people choose and if they want to go to another pack, like my parents and sister, he wishes them well.”
“From what I’ve seen, he is a much better pack alpha than Minhyuk was. And his son was an entitled prick. They only got to be in charge because the plague swept through and killed so many people, including my parents.”
Hoseok nodded. He knew how lucky they were to have Wooshik as their pack alpha. He and the alpha from Wind Moon were known as two of the best alphas around.
Over in a corner, they saw Yoongi and Jimin, surrounded by about forty kids ranging from three to twelve. Adults and some teenagers milled around.
“Our teenage wolves are able to run with their parents, but we do make them help with the pups,” Hoseok told him right as a young girl with long black hair, slightly taller than Jiyoung, ran over to them when she saw them, followed by Mingyu.
“JI!” she called. “You’re here! Hi, Hobi. Hi, Taetae.”
“Eunchae!” Jiyoung hugged her best friend.
“Can I take her to Yoongi? He is telling us the rules.” Eunchae asked for permission, both girls holding hands and dancing in place, they were so excited.
The alphas laughed at the little girls and told them they could go.
“We’ll just wait here. They don’t go too far into the forest, and there are wolves all through the course. You’ll have to do it sometime. It’s fun to watch them bumble their way through, especially the little ones who just learned to shift.”
Taehyung remembered teaching Ji to shift when she was three and he was sixteen, right before he presented. She was a little bundle of fur and fell on her face a lot. She was adorable and she would always try to growl at anyone who approached them.
A minute later, a small grey and black wolf ran up to them, her tongue hanging out as she nosed Taehyung.
“Is that Ji?” Hoseok couldn’t believe how little the wolf was. She turned and nosed at Hoseok after the question. “She’s so cute.”
Another wolf ran over and nudged Jiyoung. They turned and ran back to Jimin, who was guiding them all into the woods.
The three alphas went to help with the building of the bonfire while they waited for the pups to come back.
“Are you going to join in the run tonight, Taehyung?” Mingyu asked as they picked up a stack of firewood and carried it over, handing their loads to one of the wolves who was arranging all the logs.
“I’m not sure. I need to see how Ji is feeling. You?”
“Oh, yes. It’s a lot of fun. And did you hear, the Rose Moon omega will be here tonight? Have you met him yet?”
“No, but I’ve been told he helped take care of me when I was in the coma.”
“Aren’t you the lucky one? I think everyone is a little bit in love with him, regardless of being mated or not. I’ve heard even other omegas have tried to court him.”
Hearing how popular the omega was made Taehyung’s chest twinge.
“Have you tried?” he asked, unsure why he was feeling the way he was.
“I did, a few years ago.” Mingyu admitted.
“What happened?” Taehyung wondered. Hoseok, listening in, started laughing.
“He kicked my ass and told me to never bother him again in that regard.” Mingyu said sheepishly. “Thankfully it didn’t ruin our friendship.”
Dusk had fallen and the place had filled up more when Jimin and Yoongi led the junior wolves back from their run. Most of the children shifted back and after hugging Jimin, they went to find their parents.
Eunchae came back to her brother, followed by the grey wolf.
“Ji, are you going to shift back?” The little wolf shook her head. Taehyung knew she hadn’t shifted in a while and was enjoying being in her wolf form.
“She told me she’ll shift for dinner,” Eunchae told him.
“Go find mom, ok Chae? I need to see if Chaewon is here. We’re not yet courting,” he mentioned to Taehyung. “I”ll officially ask her next year.”
“Oh wow, congratulations.” Taehyung was surprised. Mingyu seemed to be younger than him.
“We’ve been interested in each other for a while now, but she didn’t want to be courted until she is twenty-two and she is twenty-one now. Plus, the house I am building isn’t anywhere close to being finished. I’ll meet you later, okay?”
Mingyu walked off and left Taehyung there, with a small wolf standing guard. Hoseok had moved a few feet away, having a conversation with Soobin, who was standing holding hands with a brown-haired boy, an omega by the look of his delicate features. He was introduced to Taehyung as Beomgyu.
“So you’re Taehyung, huh? I’ve heard a lot about you,” he said before he knelt to pet Jiyoung. “And who is this cutie? Aren’t you adorable?” Jiyoung preened at the attention.
“That’s my sister, Jiyoung. What do you mean you’ve heard a lot about me?”
“I’ve had to help with the Black Moon omegas and well, some of them have very loose lips. And wandering eyes. I’ve had to warn a few off of my Soobin. But they have mentioned you a few times. Waiting for you to get well.”
Jiyoung started to growl softly at his words.
“Ugh.” Taehyung muttered. “I’d rather that lot forget about me. They made my life hell back there. Moonbyul is the reason I was in a coma.” He explained the story in a few words.
“I had heard that too,” Beomgyu told him. “Not a lot of loyalty with them. But they all stick together anyway.” He looked Taehyung up and down. “Do you have an omega?”
Taehyung shook his head and was about to elaborate when cheering started.
They all turned to see the pack alpha and his mate entering the clearing. Behind them was Namjoon escorting his mate, Seokjin, who was wearing a white flower crown. Then, behind them stood the loveliest creature Taehyung had ever had the pleasure of seeing.
The moon had risen above the clearing and its light streamed down on the vision, as if putting him in a spotlight. He was wrapped in a black fur coat that went past his hide-covered legs. His face was pale, glowing in the twilight, his eyes round and doe-like. His lips were rosy and on his black hair was a white flower crown. He looked to be almost as tall as Taehyung.
Hoseok leaned over and whispered, “Close your mouth, Taehyung, ‘else you’ll catch flies.”
“Who is that?” he whispered back, unable to take his eyes off the ethereal creature as the five wolves moved closer to the bonfire.
“That is Jungkook. The Rose Moon Omega.”
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
Jungkook was so happy about finally getting out of the house. His leg had healed within two weeks, but that cough had taken its own sweet time in leaving. Dahee had kept him in bed and only this past week had let him out. He wasn’t yet able to leave the house, spending every day doing breathing treatments with the eucalyptus scented water. He was going stir-crazy. Jimin had come over a lot, which helped a bit, but he wasn’t allowed to see anyone else.
“Jiyoung was here again today,” Dahee said, coming into his room with a small present. “I think you have an admirer,” she giggled.
“Mom!” Jungkook whined. “I just helped her while Taehyung was comatose.”
“I have yet to meet this Taehyung. Maybe tomorrow night at the bonfire?”
“I would like to meet him too. I’ve only ever seen him when he was asleep.” Jungkook wanted to see how handsome he was when he was actually awake, considering how good he looked while recovering.
“No shifting tomorrow. You can do the bonfire and dinner, then we will bring you straight home.”
“Mom,” Jungkook whined again. “It’ll be good for me. My fur will keep me warm. I haven’t shifted in forever.”
“No,” she said sternly. He huffed as he opened the small box. It was full of chocolate chip cookies. He bit into one angrily and then stopped to savor it. It was so delicious.
“Don’t eat all of those. You’ll spoil your dinner. You know we are doing Jinnie’s birthday dinner with the family tonight.”
The next day Jungkook dressed in the clothes his mother had laid out. She came in to inspect him.
“You’re so handsome,” she told him, handing him a flower crown. “This will look lovely on your hair.”
The family met up downstairs and then left for the bonfire. They walked slowly for Jungkook’s sake.
Jungkook was enjoying being out in the crisp, December night. The weather had held off and the temperature was bearable. His mother had made him wear his coat, made from a bear his father had caught, and it had been scented by his family. He loved how their scents all smelled so good together, his father’s juniper, his mother’s gardenia, Joon’s fir, and Jin’s bergamot mingled with his jasmine. He felt comforted. He knew one day a new scent would be added, but he wasn’t in any hurry.
Wolves moved out of the way as they made their way to the clearing, Jungkook catching sight of that omega who had tried to claim Taehyung when he was ill. Her eyes were wide when she saw Jungkook. She hadn’t known who he was that day in the infirmary, but now she did. Hopefully she understood even more what a faux pas her entire visit had been. He also hoped she hadn’t found Taehyung now that he was well. She turned and muttered something to the omegas next to her, who all gasped and stared at him as he walked by.
They finally entered the meadow, and everyone started cheering at the sight of them. The pack alpha and Luna were accessible to anyone in the pack and their children all worked the same as anyone else, but on their official gatherings for holidays and moon phases, they were treated differently.
“Hello, everyone! Thank you so much for coming tonight!” Wooshik’s loud voice boomed out once he had his family on the small stage near the bonfire. “We have Seokjin’s birthday today!”
“I was told there would be cake!” Seokjin yelled out, making everyone laugh.
Jungkook kept looking around as his father spoke, welcoming the Black Moon members officially to Rose Moon.
“And let’s not forget that our Luna and our Omega are here with us. Jungkook has recovered from a long illness.” Everyone cheered at that, making Jungkook blush. He hated a lot of attention.
His mother then led them all in a short invocation, thanking the moon goddess for all she had blessed them with this year.
“Amen, aho, and so it is!” She called out, the pack repeating each word after she did. It felt very powerful. Jungkook always loved the invocations his mother would create for each moon ritual as well as the holidays. It kept their connection to the moon goddess as well as to each other alive, the energy flowing down from the moon through them all.
Wooshik waited for a moment, then mentioned they would also have a gathering on the New Moon and a larger celebration on the Winter Solstice, provided the weather was good.
“Let’s light the bonfire and celebrate all the goddess has blessed us with!”
Namjoon, Seokjin, and Jungkook were all handed torches. They stepped down off the stage and moved around the pile of wood, standing in a rough triangle. At the count of three, they thrust their torches forward. It was quiet, everyone waiting for the fire to catch.
When the flames started, the entire crowd cheered loudly. After the three had made it back to the stage, Wooshik stepped forward once more.
“Let’s eat!”
For as many people were there, the lines for food were orderly. The tables groaned with japchae, bibimbap, galbi, seollantang, and many kinds of meat, as well as potatoes, rice, noodles, and squash.
The pack alpha’s family did not have to go through the lines as Wheein made their meals for them.
Yoongi and Jimin had joined Hoseok, Taehyung and Jiyoung, who had finally shifted back, Jimin telling Taehyung how well Ji had done in the children’s hunt. She tracked a rabbit but couldn’t catch it.
“With some training, she could be one of our best trackers,” Jimin said.
Taehyung helped her load up their plates as they went through the line. Once they had their meals, Yoongi led them over to a spot not far from the stage.
Taehyung had been so busy getting food for him and his sister that he hadn’t been able to look at the omega again.
As he sat down and handed Jiyoung her plate, he glanced at Jungkook, who was still so beautiful. He could see why everyone wanted to court him and why Minho had been foolish enough to attempt a kidnapping. The omega was talking quietly with Seokjin while they ate.
He looked so regal in his flower crown and black coat. Taehyung felt his heart leave him. His red pine scent, a little anxious around all these new-to-him wolves, mellowed out.
“OH, it’s Kookie!” Jiyoung had finally seen him. “He’s so pretty. Can we go say hi?”
Taehyung didn’t know what was allowed here. Could anyone just walk up to them?
“After dinner we can. I know he is looking forward to seeing you,” Jimin told her.
Jungkook tried to surreptitiously look around. He would say he was looking for Jiyoung, but he didn’t want to admit he was also looking for Taehyung. He didn’t know why he was so eager to see the alpha. He just was.
Namjoon and Wooshik were deep in conversation, Dahee and Seokjin as well, Seokjin trying to include Jungkook. He responded at times when he wasn't searching the crowd.
“He’s with Yoongi, Hobi, and Jimin,” Seokjin whispered to him with a knowing smile. The healer was the only one who knew Jungkook was wanting to see Taehyung.
He looked at Seokjin, then looked for his friends. They were not far away from where he was. They were eating and talking and laughing. Yoongi sitting quietly, as close to his mate as he could, Jimin and Hoseok talking animatedly. Then he saw him.
And he was looking at Jungkook.
His breath hitched and his scent spiked a little, causing his family to look at him sideways. Seokjin pulled the coat a little tighter around the younger, releasing a little of his own scent to help counter it.
Jungkook looked back at the alpha, who had turned to help his sister. That gave him the chance to study Taehyung, who was even more handsome than he remembered.
His black hair was still a little shaggy, but his skin was the color of honey and his hands were large. He was seated, but he looked fit and tall. He was dressed in deer hide, his clothes looking a little worn. His little sister was next to him, and he was helping her eat her meal.
Then Taehyung looked at him again and Jungkook was a goner.
Dahee spoke to Jungkook and drew his attention away from the alpha. She was fussing over him because he wasn’t eating much.
“He’s busy enjoying the view, Luna,” Seokjin laughed. His words held a deeper meaning than just enjoying being outside for the first time in a month.
“He still needs to eat.”
“Mom, can I shift tonight? It’s not that cold.” Jungkook asked hopefully. Maybe Taehyung was going to shift as well.
“No, I really want you to build your stamina up first. It’s still a long walk back tonight.”
Jungkook angrily stuck a piece of meat in his mouth. His mom may look soft and sweet, but she had a spine made out of iron. He knew there was no getting his way with her right now.
He looked around again as he ate some rice. Most of the wolves were finishing up their meals and chatting. The bonfire blazed merrily, lending its light and warmth to the gathering. Jungkook wanted to take off his coat, but knew his mother would give him the stink-eye if he did.
Once Wooshik had finished his own meal, he waved to Wheein, who brought over a small cake. He called for everyone’s attention again and they all wished Seokjin a happy birthday.
Namjoon fed him the first bite, and he proclaimed it delicious. Jungkook hadn’t seen the cooks had laid out more cake on the tables until he saw everyone heading over there. He was given his own piece, which he devoured.
Hoseok and Yoongi had gone over to grab slices for their small group. Jiyoung’s eyes lit up when she saw the sweet treat.
“I was told you helped with this particular cake, Ji,” Hoseok told her, handing her a plate.
She nodded enthusiastically. “Yes, Wheein let me make one of the cakes.” As she took a bite, she closed her eyes in appreciation. “It’s soooo good.”
Taehyung took a bite of his own piece and hummed around the fork. “You did a great job, pup!”
His little sister preened and then all of a sudden broke into a big yawn.
“Worn out, little one?” Jimin asked her. She shook her head, trying to look awake.
“I don’t want to leave. I want to see Kookie.” She protested.
“How about we go see Kookie, then your brother can take you home?” Jimin suggested.
“But Taetae didn’t get to shift. He should get to run too.”
He patted her on the head. “I’m good, little one. I get to hunt next week. I can shift then.”
“C’mon, then.” Jimin handed his plate to Yoongi and held a hand out to Jiyoung.
“You coming too, Taehyung? I believe you said you wanted to thank him for all his help,” Hoseok said, snickering.
“Yes, you need to come,” Jiyoung attempted to pull her brother up. He stood up and followed Jimin.
They had to wait for a few minutes as several wolves were also over there to talk to the pack alpha’s family briefly. As they stood there, Taehyung looked around. He saw Hyoshin sitting with a petite, brown-haired omega. Mingyu, with his omega, was with his family, Eunchae looking as sleepy as Jiyoung. That run had really worn them out, as he saw other families with dozing children. Many had started packing up, helping to clean their areas. He even recognized several wolves from Black Moon scattered throughout the meadow, Moonbyul and her cohorts being some of them. He was glad he had not run into her again.
Jimin nudged him as they approached the pack alpha and Luna.
“Wooshik, I wanted to introduce two of our newest members, Kim Taehyung and Kim Jiyoung from Black Moon.”
Wooshik stood up to shake Taehyung’s hand. “Pleased to meet you. Welcome to Rose Moon. This is my mate, Dahee.”
“Thank you, sir, for all Rose Moon’s hospitality and taking us in after what happened with our former pack alpha’s son.” He bowed his head.
“And we of course know this little sweetheart,” Dahee smiled warmly at Jiyoung, who was looking up at everyone a little sleepily. She looked at her husband and said, “Taehyung was the alpha that was in a coma for so long. The one Jin and Kookie were watching over.”
Wooshik studied Taehyung a little more. “Ah, well I am glad to see you in good health. Your last name is Kim? Are your parents here?”
“No, sir. My parents died when the plague swept through Black Moon ten years ago.” Everyone was familiar with what had happened. All packs had been hit, but Black Moon had had the highest number of deaths.
Wooshik and Dahee looked thoughtful. “What were your parents’ names, Taehyung?” the pack alpha asked.
“My father was Taeyoung and my mother was Jiyeon.”
Dahee’s eyes filled with tears, and she moved forward to clasp their hands. “Your parents were the Black Moon pack alpha and luna, weren’t they?”
Taehyung nodded, feeling a little emotional.
“We were told that your entire family was wiped out. Minhyuk wouldn’t let anyone in to pay our respects,” Dahee started to cry. “Had we known, we would have come and brought you here a long time ago. What about your grandmother?”
Taehyung couldn’t stop tears welling up in his eyes, Jiyoung moving closer to her brother, not sure what was going on. “She died a few years ago. Natural causes. I’ve been wanting to leave the pack for a long time, but I thought Jiyoung was too little to move.”
“May I hug you?” Dahee asked and Taehyung nodded again. She stepped off the stage and embraced the siblings. “I am so glad to know you are still alive and you are here with us. Thank you, moon goddess.”
Taehyung did not want to break down any more than he already had so he did his best to hold it in as he put one arm around Dahee and the other around his sister and hugged her back.
Then he released his hold and took a step back, gathering himself.
“Thank you, Luna. It is nice to meet someone who knew them. Maybe we can talk about them another time. But I have a pup who is dying to talk to your youngest son and she’s fighting sleep to do so,” he replied.
“Oh yes! This sweet girl has been a constant visitor to the house.” She wiped her eyes and turned around. “Kookie, someone wants to see you.”
The ethereal being that was Kookie looked over from where he was talking with Jimin and Yoongi.
His eyes met Taehyung’s and once again he was taken aback at the omega’s beauty. Stars shone in his eyes and his nose scrunched when he broke into a smile.
“Ji! I have missed you,” he cried, starting to walk over. Jiyoung decided she didn’t want to wait and bounded over the few feet separating them. Jungkook held out his arms and she flew into them, hugging him as hard as she could.
“Kookie! I have missed you so much. Are you feeling better?” She questioned.
“I am. Thank you for all the gifts that you brought me. They were what helped me recover.”
Taehyung watched how natural Jungkook seemed with Ji. Like he wasn’t talking to her in a way to catch her brother’s attention. It wasn’t forced like he would see from the omegas from his old pack. He seemed to truly like her.
She nestled herself in his hold and then turned to her brother. “Taetae, come meet Kookie.”
“Hi, Taetae,” Jungkook said in those sweet, dulcet tones he remembered from his coma dreams.
“Hello, Kookie,” he bantered back. Jungkook’s laugh rang out, a blush staining his cheeks. Or was it just the firelight reflecting off his face? Taehyung didn’t know.
He bowed again. “Hello, I am Kim Taehyung, formerly of Black Moon pack. It’s an honor to finally meet you.”
Jungkook giggled at the formality. “I am Jeon Jungkook, the Rose Moon Omega. Pleased to make your acquaintance.” He held out his hand.
Taehyung didn’t know what to do but he wanted to hear those giggles again, so he took Jungkook’s hand in his own and leaned forward to kiss it.
Both Jungkook and Jiyoung broke out in laughter, but Jungkook did not pull his hand out of Taehyung’s. His hand fit perfectly. Taehyung looked up at him and their eyes caught. They stared, getting lost in each other’s eyes.
Hoseok broke the spell they were under when he called out Taehyung’s name.
Jungkook shyly took his hand back and bent down to whisper to Jiyoung as Taehyung turned to see what Hoseok wanted.
“Did you want to do the run? Hey Kook, you running tonight?”
Jungkook shook his head and glanced at his mother. “Not tonight. Our Luna says no. But I am cleared to go back to training next week. She also put me on the infirmary rotation. Says it’s less strenuous than the other ones.” He rolled his eyes at that. “But Taehyung should definitely go on the run. It’s so much fun.”
“I’ve been thinking about it,” he admitted right as Jiyoung broke out in a wide yawn, “but it seems this little one has other plans for me. I need to take her back home and put her to bed. Maybe at the next celebration.”
He reached out for his little sister and Jungkook helped him pick her up, their hands brushing again. Jungkook looked up at him with those starry eyes and those blush-stained cheeks. Taehyung lost his breath.
Jiyoung wrapped her legs and arms around her brother, resting her face on his shoulder.
“Can I come see her tomorrow?” the omega asked shyly.
“Yes,” he stammered out where they were living.
Jungkook leaned forward to place a small kiss on Jiyoung’s cheeks. “Bye, pup. Sweet dreams.”
Jiyoung murmured out “’Night, Kookie.”
“It was nice to officially meet you, Kim Taehyung.” Jungkook straightened up and smiled at him. Yep, there was no doubt. Kim Taehyung had officially lost his heart to the Rose Moon omega.
Notes:
They finally met!
Chapter 9: The Next Day
Chapter Text
Taehyung woke up early the next morning. He dressed and then checked in on a still-sleeping Jiyoung, who had twisted her sheets all around her in the night and made his way downstairs.
Hoseok was also still asleep, it seemed, as the house was quiet.
He put his shoes on and went outside on the porch. The sun had just risen and other than melodious birdsong and a gurgling river babbling behind the house, it was silent.
Hoseok had told him the pack alpha had deliberately picked the homestead to be further away from the center of town and backed up against the river. Namjoon’s house was on the other side of the house, while Yoongi and Hoseok lived on this side. Both of their parents had had positions of power in the pack, but while Hoseok’s parents had moved to be with their daughter, Yoongi’s parents were still around but had relinquished their positions once Yoongi was old enough to take over. They had moved to a small house closer to town and ran the general store.
Wooshik and Namjoon had an office in the town where they conducted all pack business, from communicating with other packs to listening to—and hopefully solving—member complaints.
Hoseok’s house was closest to the forest and Taehyung stood on the porch, looking at the beautiful scenery, unable to believe that after ten long years in a pack that was out of date and controlled, this was his life.
The sunlight sparkled on a piece of rock that made up the road in front of the houses and he thought back to the beautiful omega he had finally met last night. He had left, wanting to talk to him more and get to know him, and when the time was right, ask to court him. He was hooked from one glance and one giggle.
Yoongi came up the path, carrying a basket, a moment later. When they’d been getting their food the night before, Taehyung had admitted he was a little nervous to shift after over two months without having done so. The older alpha had offered to work with him the next day.
Being on the same work crew as Yoongi had given Taehyung time to get to know the taciturn alpha. The first day they’d worked together, Yoongi had taken him aside and reiterated that he would not have been angry at Taehyung over Jimin helping him. They had forged a quiet friendship since then and Taehyung felt more comfortable confiding in him.
“Ready?” Yoongi called out. Taehyung nodded and stepped off the porch.
They walked in silence until they reached the edge of the forest that surrounded the Rose Moon territory on three sides.
There was a small bench and cupboard next to the path that continued into the woods.
“Sit,” Yoongi motioned to the bench and placed his basket on the ground, opening it. “Jimin was convinced Hobi would have nothing in his house," he added, pulling out two boxes and two cups. “He’s bringing a meal over for your sister later.”
Taehyung looked confused as he accepted both offerings.
“Everything is closed the day after a celebration. The dining hall doesn’t even open until 3 and closes at 6 to let those wolves rest. There is a cleanup at the clearing around 10, but that is all the work we do. This is a time for family and rest.”
“I’m sorry you’re spending your morning with me,” Taehyung apologized, opening the box. There were scrambled eggs with sausage and two pieces of toast with strawberry jam on top.
Yoongi scoffed. “You heard me say family, right? Plus, I offered. Jimin will go be with Jin and Kook anyway. Now eat.”
The two finished their food quickly and Yoongi packed everything away, placing the basket in the cupboard, but leaving it open.
“We’ll put our clothes here after we shift. Keeps them safe. We have these at every entrance for anyone who doesn’t shift at their house. Now, why don’t you try shifting?” he said.
Taehyung looked around and found a tree to go behind. He never liked shifting out in the open and was usually one of those wolves who would shift near his hut. He quickly disrobed and inspected his body. He looked to be in good shape, the training every day having helped him pack on more muscle.
He thought for a moment of the feeling of being a wolf and suddenly his viewpoint changed. He was on four feet and his eyesight was sharper.
He picked up his clothes in his mouth and padded out from the tree and Yoongi, who had not shifted yet, startled.
“You’re a big boy, aren’t you?” he said in admiration.
Taehyung was tall in both wolf and human form. He stood close to Yoongi’s shoulders.
Yoongi walked around the big, black wolf, whose fur gleamed in the light. “I bet you’re an excellent hunter,” he murmured, patting Taehyung on the back. “The other wolves see you this way and you’ll be beating them all off with a stick.”
Taehyung huffed at that and shook his head. He didn’t want them.
Yoongi laughed. “OK, let me shift. Your clothes go in the cupboard.”
Taehyung walked over and placed his clothes in the open closet while Yoongi shifted. He wasn’t nearly as tall as Taehyung and his reddish fur stood out.
Can you hear me, Taehyung?
Yes, Yoongi.
OK, stay close. We’ll just do a tour of the forest. Get your bearings.
The two wolves entered the forest, which was loud with the sound of birds and other animals. Taehyung could hear rabbits and squirrels.
This isn’t one of our hunting areas. Too close to the grounds. But you need to learn all of the forest. Did you hunt a lot at Black Moon?
Yes, I was one of the best, but we only had a small area we could hunt. You know we were bound by Rose Moon on one side and the river on the other. We did a lot of fishing.
They explored the forest for over an hour, going around the entire territory, Yoongi pointing out the way to Wind Moon, Black Moon, and the path they took going to council meetings or to visit other packs.
Taehyung had never ventured this far into the forest and he was amazed at how immense it was.
We should head back. I told Seojoon I would help with the cleanup. You should come too. We can stop by and pick up Hobi.
What about Ji?
She can come. A lot of children come to help clean up as well. Teaches them responsibility and community.
Does the pack alpha’s family come to help?
Taehyung could feel Yoongi looking at him.
Not usually.
They made it back to their point of entry, changed, and headed back to Hoseok’s. The alpha was outside on his porch, dressed, with a cup of coffee.
“Have a good time?” he asked as they walked up to join him.
“The territory is amazing. I have never explored the forest that much,” Taehyung admitted.
“It is. I love to shift and just go running there at dawn sometimes. It’s so peaceful. We ready to go clean up?”
“Where is Ji?” Taehyung asked.
“Jimin brought breakfast so she is finishing that. Did you want to bring her with us?”
Taehyung nodded. He agreed with Yoongi that it was good to teach her the responsibility of being part of a pack. He had never really done that in their old pack. They had just existed.
He opened the door and called for his little sister, who came eagerly.
“C’mon, Ji. We’re going to do cleanup.”
“But Kookie is supposed to come see me. He said he would.” She stamped her little foot.
Hoseok laughed at her. “Kookie said he would come see you this afternoon, so you’ll be back by then.”
That mollified the little girl and she put on her shoes as Yoongi came inside to grab the dishes and basket Jimin had brought.
“We’ll drop this off on our way,” he said.
After letting Jimin know where they were going and thanking him for the meals, they headed back to the celebration grounds.
Quite a few wolves were there when they got there.
The bonfire had burned itself out and Seojoon put them to work clearing up the ashes. Other wolves were straightening tables, cleaning them off, and loading small carts with things to take back.
Children picked up anything that had been left behind. With everyone pitching in, they were done in an hour and headed back to their houses.
Taehyung was still amazed at how many people willingly showed up on their day off and said as much to Hoseok and Yoongi as they walked back, Jiyoung skipping ahead of them, but still in his eyesight. He knew there was no danger here, but he was a protective older brother.
“This would have never happened in my old pack,” he commented. “We didn’t have a special place for gatherings, just a section by the main hall.”
Yoongi looked pained. “I’ve heard things for years about how closed off and controlling Minhyuk was, but unless we wanted to start a war, there was nothing any packs could do. He wouldn’t let us in and would barely communicate with the council. I think he only ever traded with Wind Moon just because there were things they had that Black Moon didn’t. Honestly, Minho finally going to council meetings and trying to court Kook was the best thing that could have happened for you guys.”
Taehyung stopped. This was news to him. “Wait, Minho tried to court him? I thought he just attempted kidnapping.”
“Yeah, they finally attended a council meeting when it was held in September. He was apparently entranced by Kook and wouldn’t leave him alone. Kook hated him and would refuse anything he tried to offer. But even if Kook had liked him, the offer would have been rejected by Wooshik. He couldn’t stand Minhyuk or his son. I guess Kook’s rejection is what spurred the failed kidnapping to happen. Would have loved to see his face when the killing blow was done by the very omega he tried to steal,” Yoongi snorted.
“Jungkook was the one to kill Minho?” Taehyung was stunned.
“Yes, our little sunshine may be sweet, but he is a strong hunter. No one here ever tries to mess with him. Surprised Minho didn’t do better research.”
This time, Taehyung snorted, “Minho didn’t have two brain cells to rub together. He was stupid. He thought all he ever had to do was show up and things would be given to him because his dad was the pack alpha. He always hated me because until the plague took them, my parents were in charge of Black Moon and I was the heir. His dad was horrible, but he was worse. Good riddance.” He spat on the ground, like he was spitting on the long dead alpha.
“Your dad was Kim Taeyoung?” Hoseok asked, shocked. “You could take over the Black Moon pack if you wanted.”
“I’d rather not. I’m not really meant to be pack alpha. Unless this is your way of getting rid of me?”
Yoongi laughed and clapped him on the back. “Never. You’re ours now.”
Both the big Kim and the little Kim were disappointed when they got back and found Jimin on the porch rather than Jungkook.
“I come bearing lunch and then this pup and I are going to meet Kookie at the farm,” he said, holding up a basket.
“Farm?” Taehyung just kept learning more and more about this pack.
“Yes. We cleared out a large section, fenced it off, and we raise chickens, goats, sheep, pigs, and even some cows. We also have horses. Ten of our families stay out there full-time, but it’s one of the work rotations, especially when the children are out of school. We also have a large area where we plant fruit and vegetables. Even have an orchard of fruit trees. The whole pack helps with planting and harvest. Everything is made here and we trade for specialty items, like spices and other ingredients we can’t get here. But honestly, Rose Moon is self-sufficient.”
“Why do you have animals? Don’t you just hunt everything?”
“We do, but we get milk and eggs from our farm animals. And if times get hard and it’s hard to hunt, we still have a meat source.” Hoseok said.
The small group sat down to eat the delicious meal Jimin had prepared and once it was done, he took Jiyoung with him, leaving the alphas to clean up.
Taehyung went upstairs and cleaned both his and Jiyoung’s rooms. Extra sheets had been given so he changed theirs and took the others down. Hoseok had a hamper to take weekly to the laundry service. He inspected Jiyoung’s clothing, finding a couple of rips. He had no skill with a needle, but when he brought them down to leave them, Hoseok took them and mended the rips quickly.
“Everyone learns how to sew here,” he shrugged when Taehyung looked surprised. “You should see about taking her for some new clothes. Make sure she is prepared for winter.”
They shared a lazy afternoon on the porch, Hoseok with a book, and Taehyung lightly dozing. It was a nice day, but winter was obviously on the way.
Jiyoung came back, full of excitement from seeing all the animals, many she had never seen before.
“And they said I can go back in the spring when there are lots of babies and that I can help plant strawberries and feed the babies,” she babbled as she threw herself onto her brother. The three omegas, Seokjin, Jimin, and Jungkook, stood on the path, laughing.
He moved Jiyoung off to the side and stood up, leaving the porch to speak to them.
He addressed Seokjin, but his eyes never left Jungkook, who blushed and shyly looked down.
“Hoseok was mentioning taking Ji to get some new clothes. Is that something you could help me with? I have no idea what she needs,” he said.
Seokjin looked thoughtful. “I had gotten her some clothes that Eunchae and a couple of other girls had outgrown, but yes, her wardrobe is horribly lacking,” he replied, looking in the direction Taehyung kept looking. “Jungkook,” he said suddenly, “You would be able to help her, wouldn’t you?”
Jungkook started and looked up, his starry eyes surprised. “Um, yes, I would love to help her. I could take her to Chaewon tomorrow after my shift. She’s made most of Eunchae’s clothes.”
Taehyung barely recognized the name of Mingyu’s omega, he was so lost in Jungkook’s eyes.
Jimin nudged him. “Does that sound good to you, Taehyung?” He gave a knowing smile to Seokjin.
“Yes, thank you. I appreciate it.”
Seokjin looked him over. “You might need some new clothes too. Those pants are a little short. Jungkook, while you’re at it, take him to Sihyuk.”
Jungkook nodded. Taehyung flushed. He was painfully aware of the state of his clothes. New clothes were hard to come by in his old pack and he had been wearing a lot of Hyoshin’s or his father’s hand-me-downs.
“I’ll come find you tomorrow after I finish at the infirmary,” Jungkook said softly before the three omegas took their leave.
Chapter 10: Clothes Shopping
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Jungkook took his lunch break at one o’clock, after Hyejin came back. He planned to grab something and go visit Jimin, who was over in the general store, helping out as Yoongi’s mother had gotten a small cold. Jungkook had just helped her out that morning. As he walked in the dining hall, he saw there were a few people lingering over their lunch.
There was a group of omegas, but they didn’t seem to see Jungkook. He heard his title as he walked by.
“So I finally saw the Rose Moon Omega. Jeonkoo was it? He’s nothing special, is he?”
Jungkook looked side-eyed at them. Of course, it was Moonbyul saying something.
Her little court seemed to agree with her but he saw Beomgyu and Chaewon with them.
Chaewon broke out into laughter. “Jungkook. You know what his name is. You’re just sour because your alpha tried to kidnap him. And he’s only the prettiest omega in all of Korea. One of the nicest as well. Everyone loves him.”
Moonbyul tossed her hair. “Well now I am here. I was the prettiest in Black Moon.”
Beomgyu laughed this time. “That was like what? 75 wolves? Now you’re a little fish in a big pond. You’re not even top ten here. There’s Kook, Jimin, Jin, Wonnie, me, Sunnie, Eunha, Yerin, I can keep going,” he said as he ticked names off his fingers.
Jungkook decided to have a little fun and walked over.
“Hey Gyu, Wonnie,” he said, startling all but the two he mentioned. Moonbyul flushed guiltily.
“Hey Kook, lunch time? Where are you this week?”
“Infirmary. You?”
“Seamstress.” Chaewon told him as Beomgyu said, “Kitchen.” The other omegas were quiet, looking anywhere but at him.
He turned to them. “Black Moon, right? I’m Jungkook, the pack alpha’s son. Welcome to Rose Moon. I hope you are liking it here.”
“Oh yes,” one smaller omega gushed. “It’s so much nicer than our old pack. The food alone is fantastic. Thank you so much for taking us in,” He started to quiver under Moonbyul’s eyes as she glared at him.
“I’m glad to hear that. I will see you around,” he started to walk off then thought of something. “Oh, Wonnie, I’ll be bringing Jiyoung to see you later. She needs new clothes.”
Chaewon nodded. “See you then.”
Jungkook didn’t stay to see the reaction to him mentioning Taehyung’s sister. He grabbed a to-go box and loaded it with his lunch, then headed off to spend the rest of it with Jimin.
Jiyoung apparently couldn’t wait to get new clothes—or see Jungkook—because as soon as school was over, she arrived at the infirmary. Eunchae in tow.
“Hey girls,” he greeted them as he walked out of the medicine room. It had been a busy morning, but a slow afternoon, so he and Seokjin had taken the time to refill their medicines. Seokjin had recipes for all sorts of pastes and powders. His medicinal knowledge of the plants that surrounded them rivaled many of the master healers known throughout the country. He loved nothing more than to tinker with new remedies.
“Taetae told me you’re taking me to get new clothes!” Jiyoung said, jumping up and down in excitement. “I never got new clothes before. Grandmother would get hand-me-downs from other wolves or remake Tae’s clothes to fit me. And then Seokjin got me some of Eunnie’s old clothes to wear here.”
Every time Jungkook heard something about how bad it was in the old pack, his heart hurt. Hoseok had told them about how the little girl had reacted to getting her own room and now here she was, so excited about new clothes.
“Don’t worry, Ji,” Eunchae spoke up. “Even if you have to wear hand-me-downs here, Wonnie will make them look brand new. She is my brother’s omega and she is the best at fashion. Like my dress? It was one of Soyoon’s but Wonnie redid it and Soyoon didn’t even recognize it when she saw me.”
Jiyoung nodded and then turned back to Jungkook. “When can we go? Will Taetae meet us there?”
He shrugged, “I don’t know about Taehyung. I know he is hunting today, but I have a few things to do here before I am done. Do you girls want to help us clean up?”
They both nodded enthusiastically, so he handed them over to Hyejin, while he went back to the medicine room to finish there.
About thirty minutes later, they were finished. Both girls had a bag to be taken to the laundry and they waved bye to Hyejin, who would stay there for a bit longer while Seokjin finished up his current project. He poked his head out to say goodbye and told Jiyoung he would see her at dinner.
Jungkook and the two girls walked out the door and before they could go any further, they caught sight of eight wolves walking by, carrying the results of their hunts. A very tall black wolf was dragging a deer behind him; a few rabbits and birds strung around his neck.
That was the wolf from his dreams! Who was that? He was trying to figure out why he would dream of this wolf. He knew he had never seen it before.
Beside him, Jiyoung started squealing, “Taetae! That’s Taetae!” She pointed to the black wolf, who looked at them as he walked by. “Where are they going?” she asked Jungkook.
“The processing hut. That red wolf at the front is Yoongi, the light brown one right behind him is Hobi. The others are the rest of the work crew. Taehyung will have to take care of what he hunted, so why don’t we go ahead to see Chaewon and he can meet us there.”
They waited for the wolves to pass. By the looks of it, they had had a great day hunting. Every wolf was dragging a deer or a boar. They all had a string of small game like Taehyung around their necks. Jungkook was impressed. That was one of the best hauls the hunting crew had made in a while.
At the seamstress, Jiyoung was amazed to see racks upon racks of clothes. The building was one of the larger ones on the square. It was divided into sections, children’s, women’s, and men’s.
Chaewon was near the back, hanging up several items on a tall rack. They looked like they were clothes she had picked out to show Jiyoung.
“Hey!” she greeted them as Eunchae ran over and hugged her, turning to introduce her to Jiyoung. “Ready for some new clothes?”
Jiyoung nodded excitedly. Eunchae took her by the hand and led her off to look at everything.
“Is Sihyuk here?”
“He’s not, but Taemin and Kayee are and Eunha is here with me. We’re excited because Dahee approved us getting off of the rotation. She thinks the Black Moon wolves have had time to find what they like, so she’ll be setting more permanent crews now. I know Mingyu really hopes he gets to stay on hunting.”
“They brought in a really large haul today so they keep it up, he may get his wish.” Jungkook told her. “Taehyung needs new clothes as well.”
“Okay, let me go get everyone. They’re working on alterations, but Eunha and I have been picking out outfits for Jiyoung all day. Some of the wolves have outgrown some really cute things I think may fit her with little altering.”
Jungkook looked to make sure the little girl was not in earshot and saw her giggling over headbands and bows with her friend. “Wonnie, she told me she has never had new clothes before, always having to have hand-me-downs, including things from her brother. Do you have anything you can use to make a completely new dress or outfit for her?”
Chaewon looked sad at the thought of the pup never having anything new, then brightened. “Yes. We have some lovely floral cloth we got from Wind Moon a while back that will make a wonderful dress. I know Eunnie is going to want a matching one. She adores Jiyoung. Plus, I think I still have some material to make a coat for her, if she doesn’t have one.”
Jungkook smiled as Chaewon went to get the other workers.
Eunha came out first. She and Chaewon were two of the best seamstresses in the pack, having learned all their skills from Chaewon’s omega mother, who was still in charge of the clothes shop. Yerin had had weekend classes for years, so the entire pack knew how to at least mend their own small rips, but only a few really showed a talent for design and alterations. She handpicked her crew and only the influx of new members would make her change them around.
“Kookie!” the tiny omega cheered. “So good to see you. Dinner hasn’t been as lively without you.”
“Thanks, I’ve missed you too. How about we meet tonight? You can tell me all the gossip I have missed.”
“Sounds great. So I hear we are dressing a cute little pup?”
“Oh, she’s precious,” Chaewon chimed in, walking back out with the two men. “She and Eunnie are inseparable. Her brother is the alpha that was in a coma for a month. We’re going to get them both new clothes.”
“He should be here soon,” Jungkook said. “He just came back from hunting so had to go to processing.”
Just then, the door opened and several wolves stumbled in.
“Taetae!” Jiyoung ran over to her brother, who was accompanied by Mingyu, Yeonjun, and Hoseok.
“That is the new alpha?” Taemin muttered. Jungkook glanced at the beta. “He’s gonna be fun to dress.”
Kayee laughed, nodding. “No one is going to be able to stay away once we’re done with him.” Jungkook turned away to scowl.
Taehyung walked over, with his sister hanging on him.
“Hi,” he said softly to Jungkook, then he turned to the others. “Hello, I’m Taehyung.”
“Hi,” they all chorused, then Chaewon took the lead.
“You alphas,” she pointed at the three hunters. “Are you here to help or hinder?”
Mingyu came up to kiss her on the cheek. “I just came to see if we were still on for dinner.”
Yeonjun did the same to Eunha. The two omegas blushed and pushed them away.
“Yes. Jungkook is coming too. Taehyung, I’m Eunha. You should join us.”
The tall alpha smiled. “Thank you. I have to take care of this little rascal, but—”
“I’m eating with Jinnie and Joonie!” she informed him.
Eunha laughed. “It’s usually a big group anyway so she’ll be fine.”
Hoseok had been looking at some shoes, then he walked over. “I’m here to help.”
“Good,” Chaewon clapped. “If you two aren’t staying, we’ll see you at dinner. Leave Jiyoung with me and Eunha. The rest of you go to that side and get Taehyung sorted. And Taehyung, at some point, we will want to come pick up all your other clothes to either alter or keep.”
Taehyung had been looking at Jungkook out of the corner of his eyes. He was so pretty in his tan pants and blue sweater, his long hair pulled back into a tiny ponytail. Chaewon’s words drew his attention.
“What do you mean?” he asked her.
“No one has told you how we work here? You can get new clothes here, but you can also get clothes that have been donated. We clean them and inspect them. If they can be altered for another wolf, that is what we do first. If they can’t, we remake them into clothes for our pups or cleaning rags. So all wolves come here and look through the clothes that are still good. Then we alter them and make them new again.” She looked over Taehyung, who was wearing a worn black shirt and too-short brown pants. “So once we get your new clothes, we’ll come get the rest. You might have some things that just need a little love to make them work for you again.” Eunha answered instead.
“I do need to know what you want for Jiyoung,” Chaewon had a notepad with her.
Taehyung looked a bit flustered, not knowing what to say. Hoseok stepped up, “I think she needs a whole new wardrobe. Other than the few things that Seokjin got for her, she really doesn’t have much.”
“Got it. Okay, girls, let’s go shopping!” she said excitedly, reaching out for Jiyoung from Taehyung. They disappeared shortly into the racks.
“I’m Kayee. This is Taemin.” The taller beta stepped up. He gave a measuring glance at Taehyung. “I think you also need a little bit of everything, don’t you?”
“You’re in good hands with these two,” Mingyu said. “We’ll see you at dinner.” He and Yeonjun went to stay goodbye to their omegas before they left the store.
Kayee led the small group to the men’s side. “Okay, you look through and see what you like. We’ll do the same.”
“You can make clothes out of deer hide, right?” Taehyung asked. “I brought a deer back today.”
“Yes, but you can’t only wear deer hide. We’ll make you some other things. First, do you have a coat?”
“Um, I was given one from Seokjin. He didn’t say it was a loan. It’s back at the house.”
“It was probably one of Joon’s old coats. You should be able to keep it.” Jungkook spoke up.
Kayee nodded. “If it was Joon’s, it might be a little big. We’ll look at it another day. Let me take your measurements first. Kook, go look for clothes for him.”
Kayee took him into a small, enclosed area and pulled out a long tape. Taehyung vaguely remembered his grandmother pulling one out before she would make clothes for his family. The beta expertly wrapped it around different parts of his body, calling out numbers for the other beta to write down. They asked Taehyung questions about what he liked to wear, what was comfortable, what materials he liked. Once they were done, they went back out where Jungkook and Hoseok had picked out several things.
Kayee went through the pile, muttering as he held things up to Taehyung, and sorting them into two piles.
When he was done, he turned to Jungkook, “Put those back.” He showed the other pile to Taehyung, “See what you like from here. We’ll have to make some clothes for you, but these are good for a start.”
Taehyung was amazed at the amount of clothes. There were shirts made out of soft material in various colors, some with buttons and some without. The pants were also in different materials, but most were black or brown. Once he had picked out what he liked, Taemin took him back to the small room and made him try them all on. As he did, Taemin made small marks on the clothes.
“I’m marking for where I need to take in or other alterations,” he said when Taehyung asked.
When they came back out, Kayee had found several shoes and boots for him to try on.
“You know, we can make a deer hide duster for you. That would look good on you. Bring the deer hide when you get it tanned and we’ll see what we can do.”
Taehyung ended up with several shirts and pants and four pairs of shoes and two pairs of boots.
“You can take the shoes with you, but the rest do need to be altered to fit you. We should have them done in a couple of days. Sihyuk and Sunghwan will be able to help as well. Where are you staying so we can drop it off when we’re done?”
“He’s with me,” Hoseok answered. “Just let me know when you’re ready to come out.”
The two tailors packed everything away and walked them over to the other section.
Chaewon was walking out from the back with a piece of purple material with white flowers on it.
“You finished?” she questioned. “We’re almost done. I just wanted to show Jiyoung this to see if she wanted a dress from it.” She vanished back to where the other wolves were.
Kayee handed Taehyung his shoes in a cloth bag. “It was good meeting you. I’m so glad we could help.”
A squeal sounded from wherever Jiyoung was.
“I think she liked the material,” Jungkook giggled. Taehyung hadn’t had the opportunity to really talk to the omega during the hustle and bustle of getting new clothes.
“She’s never had new clothes before,” he told him, not knowing that Jiyoung had already shared that with Jungkook. “My grandmother would get hand-me-downs from other wolves. She also remade some of my parents’ clothes for her. I still have some of my dad’s clothes as well. They are pretty old though.”
“You could make them into a quilt,” Jungkook suggested. “Anything that you want to save or can’t be donated.”
Taehyung locked eyes with him, getting lost in the starry depths. “I don’t know how to make a quilt,” he admitted. “I can’t sew.”
Jungkook took a small step towards the alpha. “I can help you, if you want.”
Before he could answer that yes he would very much like to have Jungkook help him with the quilt , Jiyoung came running up.
“Taetae! I am getting a new dress. It’s gonna be so pretty! Eunnie is getting one too!” The little girl danced around her brother.
Chaewon followed behind her, with Eunchae and Eunha. “We got her lots of new outfits. I think she has everything she needs. I found her a couple of things that fit perfectly but will get the other items to you within the week. We also need to make her a coat. Nothing we have fits her, but I did find a jacket she can wear for now.”
“I caught a white rabbit today and asked for the fur. Could you use that?” he asked, holding onto his sister.
“Yes. I have some material that would work perfectly with that. Bring it to me as soon as you can, okay?” Chaewon told him.
“I can do that. Thank you so much. This really means a lot to us.” Taehyung was a little choked up. He certainly didn’t expect to get an entire wardrobe for both him and his sister, including items made expressly for them.
“You’re pack now.” Jungkook said simply. He wanted to reach out to give comfort to Taehyung, but he was too shy. Hoseok did it for him, putting his arm around the taller alpha.
“You’re ours now, Taehyung. Both of you. Pack takes care of pack. Now, I’m starving and I’m sure you are too.” Hoseok spoke.
“Yes. Let me pack this up and lock up. We can all go.” Eunha added.
Chaewon directed the girls to help clean up all the things they decided against while Eunha took Jiyoung’s things to the back room.
Once everything was straightened, Taehyung and Hoseok picked up the bags and Chaewon ushered everyone out, including the two tailors.
Mingyu and Yeonjun were standing outside along with Soobin and Beomgyu. The two omegas went to join their alphas, and everyone strolled along the path to the dining hall.
When they walked in, they saw that Seokjin and Jimin were sitting at a large table.
“Finally!” Jimin called out. Jiyoung ran over to hug him and Seokjin as the rest made their way over, claiming seats, Jungkook made sure he sat next to Taehyung.
Jiyoung made Seokjin move so she could sit between him and Jungkook.
“What about me, Ji?” Jimin cried out plaintively. Jiyoung just giggled at the overdramatic omega.
“Next time, you can sit by me.” She decided.
“Yes ma’am,” Jimin laughed.
Eunchae was nestled between her brother and Chaewon, looking thrilled to be sitting with the grownups.
“Where are Joon and Yoongi?” Jungkook asked, looking around. It was about six in the evening and the place was fairly full.
“Joon is finishing up with Wooshik. He and Dahee are going to eat at home. He should be here shortly.” Seokjin said.
“Yoongi was finalizing some things at the processing hut. Apparently, the hunters brought in a lot and almost overloaded the workers there.”
Mingyu, Soobin, and Yeonjun all perked up, looking very proud of themselves.
“We had a really good team out there today,” Mingyu said. “This guy took down like three deer by himself.” He pointed to Taehyung, who turned red when everyone looked at him.
“It was two. But Soobin and Yeonjun took down a deer and a boar together.” He replied, trying to get the attention off of him.
“That is impressive,” Seokjin said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Wooshik makes your crew the main hunters.”
Namjoon and Yoongi walked up at the end of his remarks, followed by Seojoon, Hyungsik, and Hyoshin. “Oh, Wooshik was really pleased. Today’s haul was enough to feed us for a month.”
As he sat down and gave Jimin a kiss on the cheek, he asked, “Seo, Sik, you staying? We got plenty of room. Hyoshin, sit down.”
“I would love to, but Sohee has been home all day with our little ones. I was just going to pick up some food to take home.” Seojoon told them. He patted Taehyung on the shoulder. “Great work today. See you on the training field at nine tomorrow.”
Hyungsik also took his leave, mentioning his pregnant omega at home. Hyoshin was still standing looking around.
“Who are you looking for?” Seokjin asked, an impish smile on his handsome face.
“Oh, I was just seeing if Yongsun was here,” he answered. The omegas at the table all nodded knowingly. Yongsun was a very sweet omega who had been widowed a few years ago. “I haven’t been able to speak to her today.”
Jimin stood up to look around too.
“Oh there she is,” he pointed. “She’s in line. Go see if she wants to join us. We should go get food too, now that everyone is here.”
At his words, the entire table all stood up and headed over to the buffet lines.
Jiyoung reached for Taehyung’s hand and with her other, she grabbed Jungkook’s hand. They both looked at the little girl, who was swinging their arms back and forth, and then looked at each other shyly.
“Kookie, will you make me a plate?” she asked. The omega smiled and nodded.
“I need my hand though,” he laughed. Taehyung just marveled at how well his sister and Jungkook got along. At no point did anything he do seem engineered to get Taehyung’s attention.
Jiyoung let go of their hands when they got to the table. She directed Jungkook on what she liked as he loaded up plates for them. When they got to the end, he realized he couldn’t get drinks for them.
“Let me,” Taehyung said. “Ji, you need to carry the drinks.” He helped her get three cups of water and followed her back to the table, carrying one cup and his own plate.
The hour passed amicably as everyone ate and got to know the new pack additions. Jungkook and Jimin exchanged glances as they watched how Hyoshin treated Yongsun. She looked so thrilled at the attention from the handsome alpha and the omegas were so happy for her.
After dinner, they all parted, the alphas leaving to escort their omegas home, Mingyu also having to get his sister home. The last seven, who all lived near each other, walked slowly back to the pack alpha’s house. Jiyoung again made her brother and Jungkook hold her hands.
She chattered about school and her friends and her new clothes, not letting the two wolves get a word in edgewise. They just shared shy glances. Hoseok walked ahead of everyone while the two mated couples talked quietly to each other.
The moon was two days past full and it had barely risen, but there was enough light to see by as they walked the stretch of road with no lights.
When they reached Jungkook’s house, Jiyoung reluctantly let go, but made him give her a hug. Seokjin and Namjoon also made their goodbyes to her, as they went the other way.
Taehyung stopped Jungkook before he went up his path.
“I wanted to thank you again for all you have been doing for Jiyoung. I really do appreciate it.” He said softly.
“You don’t have to thank me. I want to help her. And you,” the omega said shyly. Taehyung noticed how he was only a few centimeters shorter. “You’re both pack now and I’m happy you’re here.”
“And uh, yes.” Taehyung said, remembering the quilt.
“Yes?” Jungkook asked, puzzled.
“Yes, I would like help with the quilt. Maybe after we get our new clothes?”
Jungkook’s confused face cleared. “Yes. I will help you. Let me know when you’re ready. It would be a great gift for Jiyoung for Winter Solstice.”
Jiyoung came back over from where she had been giving hugs to Seokjin and Namjoon.
“Taetae, can we go? I want to put up my new outfit. I want to wear it to school tomorrow.”
“Yes. It is almost bath and bedtime, isn’t it?” he mused. “Say goodnight to Jungkook.”
“Night, Kookie.” She gave him another hug. “Thank you for getting me new clothes.”
“You’re welcome, pup. Sweet dreams.” He kissed her on the cheek before standing up and looking at Taehyung. “You too, alpha.”
Then he fled, giggling, into his house.
Taehyung stood there, completely flustered at that alpha .
Jimin burst out laughing. Taehyung had completely forgotten the other three were waiting on him and Jiyoung.
“Come on, alpha,” Hoseok teased, pushing Taehyung from behind.
“He’s a goner all right,” Yoongi said to Jimin, who was still laughing.
“I think they both are.” He said so quietly. “I’ll help Kook. You help Taehyung.”
Notes:
They are smitten kittens, aren't they?
Chapter 11: Visiting the Past
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The next morning, Taehyung took Jiyoung, in her new outfit of a cute pink sweater and blue jeans, a material neither had been familiar with before, to breakfast and then to school before heading out to the training field to meet up with his work crew for a little practice before hunting.
It was far away from the main square and was a wide spot where the wolves practiced fighting skills. Sessions were held for different sub-genders three times a week, but it was always open if anyone wanted to practice on their own. Yoongi told him there wasn’t too much danger as most packs got along well, but they believed in being prepared, something his old pack did not. Taehyung remembered his father teaching him how to fight up until he got sick and every morning, he would get up early to stay in practice.
When he got there, he saw his work crew minus Seojoon and Hyungsik attaching horses to carts.
“What are we doing today?” he asked in lieu of a greeting. Hoseok looked up from where he was checking the harness on a beautiful brown horse.
“Change of plans. Since we basically got a week’s worth of a hunt in one day, Wooshik wants us to head over to Black Moon. We’ve been checking it once a month to make sure we didn’t miss anything, or anyone. This will probably be our last trip before winter sets in. He hasn’t quite decided what to do with the territory,” Yoongi answered instead.
“How far is it?” Taehyung had never traveled from one pack to the other. He hadn’t even left once his parents died, though he remembered going to council meetings as a child. He loved those weeks. He would spend the entire time shifted and playing with other pups. Then once Minhyuk took over, he never went again. He wondered if he could get a chance to go again.
“A couple of hours. You can get there and back in a day, but we’re taking provisions just in case there’s a lot we need to do.”
Taehyung turned to Yoongi. “We may stay overnight? What about Jiyoung?” His scent came out a bit burned.
“Calm down, Taehyung. Luna and Jungkook will watch over her if we’re not back by dinnertime. But this will give you a chance to make sure we got everything you wanted that we may have left behind. A few other pack members should be going as well. We let them all know. Most went last time but some said they needed to go back. Now, come help me load this cart.”
Taehyung nodded and followed Yoongi.
They finished loading everything as a few wolves he recognized from Black Moon straggled in. They were older wolves that he only knew by face, but Hyoshin was there as well.
“Everyone ready? OK, stay behind the carts. I’ll be leading. We are not shifting because we need the horses to stay calm. It’s about a two-hour walk so let’s go.”
Yoongi led the horse and cart out, Hoseok and Taehyung following. There was an entrance to the forest not far from the field and they went along a well-worn path.
The two times he had been in the forest ever since joining Rose Moon, he had noticed the path made throughout the forest for easy traveling. The wheels of the cart went over the road easily. There were still places where wolves could run through the trees.
“We come out and fix the roads once a season,” Hoseok noticed him looking down. “Some of the packs use something called concrete to make their paths, but we haven’t wanted to use it yet. Not in the forest, at least, but Wooshik and Namjoon are planning to pave the roads around the main part of town next summer. It gets pretty muddy when it rains a lot. We have to put down planks to be able to walk anywhere.”
Taehyung just nodded in response as they kept walking. He had enjoyed his Sunday run around the forest, but it was different to check it out as a person. It was idyllic almost. Lots of different types of trees, the sun filtered through the leaves. It was loud with the sound of many birds and small animals rustling through the woods.
Most of the wolves moved in silence, just enjoying the brisk, late-autumn morning.
It was about midmorning when they entered Black Moon territory and about thirty minutes later, they reached the dining hall, which was the heart of the small area.
Taehyung didn’t know what he had been expecting, but it wasn’t the neatness of the area. He looked around, noticing how small it seemed in comparison to Rose Moon. All the buildings—and there weren’t many—seemed dilapidated and rundown, like they would all fall in a high wind. He was amazed they lived like this, when there were obviously better options.
“What, um, what did they do with those who were killed in the fight?” He asked Hoseok, who looked at him kindly.
“They built a pyre and burned them all. Then a team came back and spread the ashes in the forest on the new moon.” He gave Taehyung a moment, knowing these were people he knew. He may not have liked them, as some of those killed were alphas who had tormented him, but he still knew them. “Where did you live?”
Taehyung pointed in the direction of his hut.
The small hut he’d shared with his grandmother and sister was set back from the rest. It consisted of one room, a bed big enough for two people, a rocking chair, and one closet.
Taehyung looked around at his home for the past ten years and sighed.
“You want to be alone?” Hoseok asked kindly. He could see the tears in Taehyung’s eyes.
The alpha looked at him with red-rimmed eyes. “No, I think I would like a friend here. Being here makes it all too real that I am letting go of my parents and grandparents.”
“You never really let go of them. They are with you,” Hoseok pointed to his heart, “and they will always be here.”
Taehyung remembered the dream in his coma of seeing the wolves who looked like his family. He knew Hoseok was telling the truth.
“I didn’t know them, but I know they would be proud of you for how well you have grown and how well you have taken care of Jiyoung. They would also be how proud of well she is growing up. You both bring honor to them.”
Hoseok’s kind words were too much for the younger alpha, who couldn’t control himself. Hoseok wrapped his arms around him and let him cry for a few minutes.
“Everything okay in here?” Yoongi stepped in as the sobs were dying down.
“We are. Just a bit much being in his old home,” Hoseok told him. Yoongi came closer and patted Taehyung on the shoulder. The shorter alpha had come to really like the new addition to their pack.
“You want anything from here? We’re cleaning out as much as we can before the animals take over.” Yoongi told him.
Taehyung wiped his eyes and dried his hands on his shirt as he took a look around. “Yeah, there’s not really much but some things have sentimental value.” He picked up a well-worn stuffed white rabbit that had fallen on the floor. “Like Hunny Bunny. It was mine and then Jiyoung’s. My grandmother made it for me when I was born. Whatever clothes we can find. Jungkook said he would help me make a quilt for Ji out of anything not able to be worn anymore.”
With Yoongi and Hoseok, Taehyung was able to pack up everything he still wanted, clothes, sheets, a few trinkets Jiyoung had saved, the rocking chair his grandfather had made, and a wooden chest his dad had made for his mom. They cleaned the small room and threw out anything that was broken or not able to be reused. Yoongi told him they would bury anything that could be broken down by nature and the rest would be taken back to the pack to be burned or repurposed in another way. Taehyung was still amazed at how Rose Moon was able to find use for almost everything and dispose of anything else without harming the forest.
When they had filled the cart with his belongings, Yoongi and Hoseok went ahead and took it back to the dining hall, giving Taehyung a last chance to say goodbye to his home.
He sat down on the floor and looked around. This hadn’t been the home of his childhood, but this had seen him and Jiyoung grow the past ten years. This was where his grandmother took her last breath. This was where Jiyoung learned to walk and to shift and to talk.
He knew this would probably be the last time he walked through the doors. The hut probably wouldn’t last the winter if there was no one working on it. At this point, it was only good as firewood.
He looked up at the ceiling and spoke, “I hope you are proud of me, and I know this is just a place, but it’s a place I spent with you. I miss you every day and I know Ji does as well. I wish I had left sooner. Had taken grandmother and moved as soon as I presented. I know now Rose Moon would have taken us in and from what I have been told, Wind Moon would have also. You should see how happy Ji is in Rose Moon. She gets to go to school. She has a best friend. She has an omega she would court if she was old enough, but she’ll have to settle for me courting him and making him her second brother instead. That is if he says yes. You should see him. He’s the son of the pack alpha Wooshik, who knew all of you. His name is Jungkook and he is incredibly beautiful and kind and so sweet to Ji. I have found friends too. They are almost like a family. We’re taken care of and the pack is so wonderful. Ji won’t be limited because she is a girl and if she presents as an omega. I just wish you were there to see it.” He broke down in tears again.
The door suddenly opened and caught his attention. No one was there but a gentle wind came through, ruffling his hair. It felt like a hand was touching his cheek and he swore he heard a light whisper that said we are, and then it was still again.
Taehyung wiped his eyes again and stood up. His heart felt a little lighter and he didn’t hate saying goodbye to his little hut as much as before. He walked to the door and took one last look before stepping outside and shutting the door behind him.
He walked back to the dining hall, along with other people who were stepping out of huts with clothing and other items. He stopped to help a few with their load.
By late afternoon, they had cleaned out as much as they could carry.
“If the weather holds, we’ll come back for another sweep,” Yoongi told them. “If no one has any objections, I’d like to tear down some of these huts for firewood and fix a few to have a safe place if anyone gets lost in bad weather. But I think we did all we could today. Is there anything else that anyone really needs today? We have a little room left on the carts.”
“Have we checked everywhere?” one of the Black Moon betas asked.
“Dining hall and pack alpha house have been checked each time we come. We also loaded up all the firewood that was stacked.” Taehyung laughed to himself. That was probably all the logs he cut before everything went to hell. “Any other places you can think of?”
“No,” the same beta replied. “We really didn’t have much. Honestly, just take a match to it all. Not sure there are any building worth salvaging.”
The other former Black Moon members murmured in agreement. Having seen how life was in Rose Moon had opened their eyes to how poorly Minhyuk had led them.
Yoongi laughed. “While I appreciate the sentiment, we don’t want a forest fire. And honestly, a few hours pulling everything down will give us a lot of firewood for the winter. Everyone ready? We should make it home just in time for dinner.”
The group set off behind Yoongi and Hoseok walked over to Taehyung, slinging his arm around the alpha. “You okay now?”
Taehyung smiled. “Yeah. I think I’m okay now.”
“Good. Let’s go home.” Hoseok said, propelling him forward.
“Yes. Home.” Taehyung repeated.
Notes:
I made myself cry several times through this story and that scene where he talks to his parents and grandparents was one of them.
Chapter 12: An Adventure
Chapter Text
A few days later, Chaewon, accompanied by Mingyu and Kayee, brought the new clothes to Hoseok’s house.
“You were fast,” he told her, taking the parcels and setting them down.
“When we have large orders, we get our stay-at-home members to help out. Anyone who is pregnant or has pups under three or otherwise unable to work on a rotation, but they can all sew. Now, there might be a slight scent. We do use scent blockers when working with clothes, but well, sometimes it doesn’t work. Is this a good time to look through the clothes you already had?”
"
Taehyung nodded, taking them both upstairs. “I did find one of my mom’s old coats that you could maybe use for her coat?” Chaewon disappeared into Jiyoung’s room and Kayee came in with Taehyung. The siblings had gone through everything as soon as he got back from Black Moon, Taehyung putting some of his parents’ and grandmother’s clothes aside for the quilt.
Kayee made short work of the clothes, further dividing them into items that could be altered for Taehyung, what could be donated, and turned into rags.
“Some of this is really good quality. Whoever made it knew what they were doing,” Kayee said as he went through the clothes.
“That would be my mom or my grandmother. They made most of what I had.”
“Well, they were good. We can use a lot of this, especially to make clothes for the pups.” He packed everything up and they went back downstairs where Mingyu and Hoseok were talking. Chaewon came down a few minutes later, a pile in her arms that Mingyu immediately came over to take.
“Kayee, did you see the quality of some of these? Their stitches are so tiny!” She gushed.
“Yes, that was Taehyung’s mom and grandmother. They were so good. I wonder if Yerin knew them. She had mentioned at one point that she learned from a wolf who didn’t live in our pack. What was the name?” Kayee replied as he folded the clothes to take with him.
“Hyunji, I believe.”
Taehyung looked up. “Hyunji was my grandmother’s name. Lee Hyunji.”
“Really? I’ll check with my mom to see if that’s who it was.” Chaewon took the clothes back from Mingyu to pack them into a cloth bag. “Some of these will still fit Jiyoung, and they aren’t that worn, so I will fix those up for her. The rest will make such lovely baby clothes for our pregnant omegas. I think I can even make some garments for all the toddlers in the pack. Don’t forget to bring me the rabbit fur when you get it.”
They took their leave and Taehyung headed upstairs to put away all the new clothes. Jiyoung would be so excited when she got home.
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
Seokjin swept in when Taehyung opened the door later that evening.
“Where’s my pup?” he demanded.
“You mean my pup?” Taehyung asked. Seokjin waved his hand dismissively. “She’s upstairs, putting away all her new clothes. Why?”
“Omega and pup sleepover. Minnie, Kook, and I are staying at the main house while you…” he trailed off.
“Come out for a drink with us,” Hoseok finished.
Seokjin went upstairs and came back down with a small bag and an overly excited small girl.
They pushed Taehyung out where Namjoon and Yoongi were waiting.
“Don’t let him drink too much,” the to-be-Luna admonished as he left with Jiyoung.
“Drink too much?” Taehyung was so confused.
“Taehyung,” Yoongi grinned, “have you ever had alcohol?”
The alphas took Taehyung to a small building at the back of the dining hall, greeting the alpha who sat at the door. He waved them in.
“What is this?” he asked. He had been at Rose Moon for two months and every day he found something new.
“The Rose. Our bar.” Namjoon said with pride.
“Bar?” Taehyung had never heard of such a thing. He looked around.
“We come here to drink alcohol and hang out. Friday nights are for male alphas and betas. Saturday nights are for omegas and our female betas and alphas. All have to be over twenty-one to come in. It is open only a few times each month.”
Taehyung was startled. “Omegas get to come here?” Did Jungkook come here?
Yoongi clapped him on the shoulder. “Yes. Haven’t you realized Rose Moon doesn’t limit anyone just because of their sub-gender? It is funny to see all their mates waiting outside though to escort them home.”
“You do it too. Don’t even pretend you don’t,” Hoseok laughed.
The room was small but full of alphas and betas. There was a long table along the side, with chairs spaced out, filled with people. Four alphas stood behind the table, handing over bottles to the wolves. Scattered around the room were tables of different sizes, most of them occupied. There was soft music playing overhead, something Taehyung remembered from his childhood, and the quiet din of multiple conversations.
“C’mon, we already have a table.” Hoseok led them through the crowd to a large corner table. Their work crew, plus Kayee and Taemin, were already there. Namjoon stopped every few tables to greet the wolves sitting there.
“I’m going to make a wild guess that you have never had alcohol before so we will limit you,” Yoongi said as they greeted everyone at the table. “Hey Seo, Sik, your mates let you out?”
Taehyung slid into a seat next to Seojoon, who grinned. “I get two drinks as a reward for one, catching three deer this week and two, taking care of the pups so Sohee could go out and refresh herself.”
Hyungsik nodded. “Aera was so impressed that we did so well in one day and that I got to be at home tackling my honey-do list for three days, I also got to come out with you.”
Soobin walked over with a tray of bottles. “I got soju for everyone. You want beer, you go and get it.”
Mingyu took the cap of one bottle and handed it to Taehyung. “Have a sip. This is soju, our finest liquor. We make it here. We get makgeolli from Pink Moon and beer from Buck Moon.”
Taehyung took it and held it to his nose. He couldn’t smell much but it was a little bitter. He looked at the bottle and then took a small sip. This soju tasted clean but slightly sweet.
The other alphas were watching him and Hyoshin to see their reactions.
“You look confused,” Yeonjun said, smiling.
“I can’t decide if I like it,” Taehyung admitted. They all laughed.
“You don’t have to like it. You just have to drink it,” Soobin said, taking a pull from his own bottle.
Taehyung shrugged and took another drink. Maybe it would grow on him as the others seemed to enjoy it.
“Alcohol does have an effect on the body so you two can only have one bottle of soju and one bottle of beer tonight.” Namjoon said to both alphas. “And a glass of water in between.”
Taehyung enjoyed getting to know his work crew in a not-work environment. They spent about two hours just chatting, Seojoon talked about his three-year-old twins, Hyungsik about Aera’s pregnancy, Soobin and Yeonjun mentioned their courting plans for the spring, while Mingyu updated them on the progress of his house, getting them all to agree to come one day to help winterize it before the weather turned. They grilled Hyoshin about how he had been spending time with Yongsun and what his plans were. Kayee was mated to Wheein, it turned out, and Taemin was interested in one of the Black Moon betas.
“How about you, Taetae ?” Mingyu asked teasingly. “Any omegas catch your eye?”
Yoongi spluttered. “Oh, I think so.”
“He’s got his eye on the Rose Moon omega, didn’t you know?” Hoseok snorted. The rest of the table exploded in laughter.
Taehyung had finished his two allowed drinks—liking the soju more than the beer—and was feeling pleasantly loose. Even being teased about his interest didn’t bother him.
“You got your work cut out for you with that one, but I think you made the right choice. Kook is a spitfire and a formidable hunter, but he’s a good one,” Seojoon said.
“He’s so pretty,” was all Taehyung said. The table burst into laughter again.
“I think that is our cue to leave,” The crew stood up taking a few minutes to help clean up the table, the two youngest alphas taking all the bottles back to the bar. Then they left, Taehyung and Hyoshin being a little wobbly, much to everyone’s amusement.
“We can get Taehyung home. Who is heading Hyoshin’s way?” Namjoon asked.
“He’s at the dorms with us, so we’ll get him there safe and sound,” Soobin volunteered.
Everyone bade their goodbyes and went their separate ways home.
When they got to the house, Taehyung looked at Hoseok, “Where’s Ji?” He slurred his words a little.
“She is with your pretty omega. She’ll be back tomorrow.” He poured two glasses of water and mixed some powder into both, then handed one to Taehyung. “Drink this before bed.”
Taehyung took a whiff. “Ergh that smells awful. What is it?”
“One of Jin’s miraculous healing remedies. Makes you feel all right the day after a night of drinking. Come on.” Hoseok drank his water and made Taehyung drink his.
Then he helped him up to his room where Taehyung fell onto the bed, declaring he was going to sleep right now.
Hoseok laughed and turned out the light, going back to his own room.
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
The next morning Taehyung woke up, wondering why he was still in his clothes. Then he remembered what he had done the night before. He got up and checked Jiyoung’s room, finding she wasn’t back yet.
His mouth was dry, and he thought he smelled a little funky, so he took a quick shower, the hot water feeling so good on his body. Another thing he was amazed that Rose Moon was able to do. Almost every pack had what they called electricity and running water in their houses. No one used the river to wash themselves or clothes or an outhouse for a bathroom here. He wondered why Black Moon didn’t have the same amenities and resolved to ask the pack alpha if he had a chance. Knowing that he and the Luna knew his parents made them feel a little closer to him.
Once showered, shaved, and dressed, he felt more alive and headed downstairs. Breakfast sounded really good. He was so hungry he could eat a horse.
He heard Jiyoung’s sweet voice before he even made it down the stairs. Who she was chatting with a mystery until he made it to the kitchen and found a beautiful omega in there at the stove, cooking something that smelled amazing.
“Taetae!” Jiyoung screeched, jumping off the stool she was perched on and running to hug her brother.
“Have a good time last night?” Jungkook asked impishly as he turned around to greet him.
Taehyung was taken aback at how perfect the younger looked in the kitchen, how at home he seemed. He wore a pink apron tied around a tiny waist and he was dressed in a light purple sweater with blue jeans. His long hair was tied back in a small ponytail. Jungkook looked like a dream Taehyung wished he could make reality.
“Those some of your new clothes?” Jungkook asked. “Wonnie told me she dropped them off. That color looks good on you.” He said, turning back to check on whatever he was cooking.
Taehyung looked down at the blue button-down shirt he was wearing loose with his jeans.
“Thanks, and good morning to you. What are you making?” He tried to take a peek but Jiyoung was holding onto him.
“Fried eggs, toast, and bacon. A little fairy told me you would want pancakes, but we didn’t have the ingredients.” Jungkook said, smiling. “Maybe next time.”
“Oh, does this little fairy have a name?” He laughed as Jiyoung pulled on his hand.
“Taetae, it’s me! I have wings too! And look! Jimin painted my nails because little fairies need pretty purple nails. They match Kookie’s sweater. See?” Once she had his attention on her, she wasn’t going to let it go. He looked at her nails that she thrust in his face and then noticed she did have a pair of gossamer wings on her back and was wearing one of her new dresses—the purple one made just for her.
“Oh those are pretty. Did you have fun last night?”
That started a spiel of all the fun she had with her Minnie, Jinnie, and Kookie. All the food they ate, how they painted her nails and made her hands soft, how late they stayed up and how she got to cuddle with Kookie all night long . And when they got up, Kookie agreed with her that they needed to make Taetae breakfast.
Taehyung actually felt jealous of his little sister.
“That sounds like you had a great time. But they are going to spoil you.”
“And you will let us, Kim Taehyung,” Jungkook admonished. “She deserves it. You do too.” He threw a cute grin as he looked over his shoulder.
Taehyung was a little flustered and didn’t know what to say. At that moment, Hoseok walked in.
“Hey Kook! You came to make us breakfast!”
“Yep. I figured you needed to soak up all the alcohol. Did you enjoy your night, Taehyung?”
“Tae. You can call me Tae.” He stuttered out. Jungkook’s cheeks grew pink and his smile shy. “And yes, it was a good evening. Not sure how I feel about the alcohol, but I had a good time getting to know everyone better.”
Jungkook plated up everything and wrangled Jiyoung into helping him set the table.
They sat down and enjoyed the meal. “Kook, you are such a good cook. Seriously, you are so good at everything.” Hoseok mumbled around a mouthful of eggs and bacon.
“Thanks, Hobi. How do you like it, Tae? ”
Taehyung had just taken a bite and almost choked on it, hearing his nickname in those dulcet tones. “Delicious. So good.”
Jungkook preened. They ate the rest of the meal listening to Jiyoung retell Hoseok about her sleepover and some things she had learned in school. She had a captive audience, and she was going to enjoy every minute of it.
After breakfast, Hoseok and Taehyung took over the dish washing while Jiyoung dragged Jungkook upstairs to see her room and new clothes. Taehyung went to find them after he was done.
He grabbed the bag of old clothes out of his room right as Jungkook came out of Jiyoung’s.
“I have the um stuff,” he said quietly. He wanted this to be a surprise for Jiyoung. He checked to see she was playing in her room with Hunny Bunny and some old toys Seokjin had found for her. “for the quilt.”
“Oh yes, I can take it with me. I need to go back home anyway. Mom has things she wants my help with. I already told Ji.”
They stood just outside Taehyung’s room. Jungkook tucked some stray strands of hair behind his ear as he took the bag from Taehyung, their hands brushing. Sparks flew, jolting both of them.
“Oh, my parents wanted to invite you for dinner tomorrow night. You and your sister.”
“Sounds good.” Taehyung’s mouth was dry.
“Seven?”
“Okay.”
“Okay. I’ll see you later,” Jungkook smiled at him, scrunching his nose, making him look absolutely adorable. Then, he skipped down the stairs. “Bye, Hobi!” he yelled as he ran out the door.
Hoseok stood at the bottom of the stairs as Taehyung stood there, still speechless. He shook his head and laughed. “You are so smitten.”
Chapter 13: Dinner with the Pack Alpha and his Luna
Chapter Text
Taehyung and Jiyoung approached the pack alpha’s house with trepidation the next evening. Jiyoung had wanted to wear her new purple dress again and she tried to wear the wings, but Taehyung made her leave them at home. She did find some wildflowers she made into a bouquet.
The house was larger than Hoseok’s, with a second story and a wraparound enclosed porch. There were large bay windows on both sides of the door. Taehyung marveled at the sight. But it also made him sad that Black Moon lived so primitively when there were all these wonderful inventions they could have had.
The Luna opened the door, looking beautiful in a long red dress, her long black hair swept off to one side, her doe eyes, the same as her son’s, sparkling.
“Hello, you two! I’m so glad you were able to come tonight. Please come in,” she said graciously.
“These are for you,” Jiyoung presented the bouquet to her. Dahee acted like it was the most priceless gift she had ever gotten.
“For me? Oh, I love wildflowers. These are beautiful. We will put them in some water,” she replied, leaning down to hug the little girl, who beamed.
“Where’s Kookie?” she asked.
“He’s in the kitchen.” Dahee had barely answered before Jiyoung had taken off.
“Ji, no running!” Taehyung called after her.
Dahee held up the bouquet. “Your sister is awfully good at this. You might want to take some pointers. She was here every day with a gift for my son when he was ill.”
He looked askance at the Luna, who just smiled sweetly and ushered him further into the house into a sitting room, where the pack alpha sat, talking quietly with Namjoon. The two alphas looked up when they entered.
“Here he is! Kim Taehyung, good to see you,” Wooshik stood up and offered his hand. They shook hands and he pointed to a seat next to Namjoon. “We’ll relax here until Dahee lets us know dinner is ready.”
“I thought Rose Moon was progressive, but the omegas are doing the cooking?” Taehyung wondered.
Namjoon started laughing. “It has nothing to do with equality, but everything to do with the fact dad and I are banned from the kitchen. We can do a lot of things, but cooking is not one of them. Wheein won’t ever put me on the kitchen rotation. I am too likely to break something or add sugar instead of salt.”
Wooshik chortled in agreement. “We won’t make that mistake again. So you are really Taeyoung’s son? He was such a good friend of mine. I remember when he met your mom at the council dance. She was from Wind Moon and he just fell in love at first sight.”
“I’ve heard the story. Mom would tell me and then grandmother when she would reminisce. He just looked up and there she was, in a pink dress, her long hair flowing in the wind, and he just knew it was fate.”
Wooshik smiled. “Yes. He was so smitten and she wasn’t sure about this alpha from a small pack, but he courted her for a year until she finally said yes. We got mated shortly before they did and had Joon here pretty quickly. I remember when you were born. Your dad was so proud of you.”
Taehyung’s eyes grew moist. His dad had told him every day that he loved him and how proud he was of him but hearing it from a third person hit him hard. He tried to wipe his eyes unseen as he cleared his throat, both alphas looking at him kindly.
“Sir, I was wondering why Black Moon didn’t have all these advances. We lived in huts. No lights except candles and firewood. No running water. Why would we live like that if this was all available?” he asked.
“Your dad was always the most traditional of us. Our packs embraced all the new things, like electricity or bathrooms, but Taeyoung, well, he romanticized living like our ancestors. Black Moon had always lived like that, and he didn’t want to change. We would trade or drop things off that he would take, but once Minhyuk took over, he closed the entire pack off. Now, he really wanted to live like our ancestors, who believed alphas were superior. He only traded with Wind Moon, but we would still leave useful items. Mostly foodstuff or materials for clothes.”
Taehyung sat silently, digesting all that when Dahee came in to announce dinner was ready.
They followed her to the dining room where the table was laid with plates full of food.
“It’s not much, but we tend to keep it simple on Sundays. Please sit,” she said. He sat down, not knowing what else to do. Wooshik sat at the head and Namjoon sat across from Taehyung.
Jungkook and Seokjin came into the room, carrying trays, Jiyoung following them with a pitcher of water.
“We like to say a small prayer to the moon goddess when we gather like this. Jinnie, would you like to lead us?”
The wolves at the table held hands and looked at Jiyoung and Taehyung, who was next to Jungkook. He gingerly took the omega’s hand and could barely focus on what Seokjin was saying. Jungkook’s hand was warm and soft and fit perfectly into Taehyung’s. He felt a jolt of electricity as Jungkook lightly squeezed his hand, letting him know Seokjin had finished.
The mates across the table exchanged knowing glances.
“Are you enjoying being at Rose Moon?” Wooshik asked as he picked up his chopsticks.
“Yes!” Jiyoung shouted. The adults all laughed at her enthusiasm.
Taehyung swallowed the food in his mouth, then said, “Yes sir. It’s different from our old pack, but we both really like being here. We are so appreciative of you taking us in. I only wish we had made it here sooner.”
“We do too. We had been told that the entire Kim family had perished and Minhyuk wouldn’t let us in to see or pay our respects. If we had known, we would have come and gotten you. Now that I see you in a better light, you are the spitting image of Taeyoung and this young girl is Jiyeon’s clone. Oh you were so cute when you were her age,” Dahee mused, looking at Taehyung.
“You knew me when I was ten?” Taehyung was confused. Why didn’t he remember them?
Wooshik started laughing. “I completely forgot about that. What a little hellion you were.”
Taehyung looked puzzled as did Jungkook and Seokjin. Namjoon had a small smile on his face.
Dahee took it upon herself to explain, “Your parents would bring you to council meetings. You must have forgotten that it was like a week-long party. Alphas would have meetings, but packs would bring items to trade and unmated wolves used it as a way to find a mate if they didn’t have options in their own packs. That’s where your parents met. Children were welcomed. You and Kookie would spend the entire time shifted and play together all week long. It was so cute, you two little fuzzballs just running all over the camp, but your favorite spot was the edge of the meadow where we hold the meetings. We would also find you there, napping or chasing each other around. You were such good friends. We even joked maybe you two would get mated one day.”
Seokjin and Namjoon started giggling, knowing Dahee had no idea she had just thrown gasoline on a simmering fire.
Jungkook and Taehyung looked at each other, both thinking, “ Was he the wolf I dreamt of?”
Chapter 14: Days Leading to the Winter Solstice
Chapter Text
Jungkook didn’t believe in fated mates, but he didn’t not believe in fated mates. The news about Taehyung being the wolf he remembered from council meetings when he was a child, the wolf he was disappointed to not see again, the wolf he expected to see each year, the wolf he possibly dreamt about when Taehyung was in a coma, shook him.
He felt antsy and couldn’t sit still the day after his mom dropped the bombshell. He had spent all day, lost in a haze, and was so useless in the infirmary, that Seokjin finally kicked him out and sent him home.
Being at home wasn’t much better until he found the bag of clothes Taehyung had given him. It gave him something to focus on as he went through everything, matching colors and patterns and planning out the quilt. He found he had enough for two quilts, one for Jiyoung and a larger one for Taehyung, which would make a great courting gift.
He was hard at work when Seokjin came to the house with Jimin to check on him.
“Kookie, what are you working on?”
He explained to his friends about the quilts and his plans for it.
“You can’t court him, Kookie,” Jimin said, dashing his dreams.
“Why can’t I court him?”
“Kookie, Black Moon was very much an alpha-led pack. Omegas and betas did all the basic chores and alphas were superior. I’ve heard some stories from the omegas who are here. They are all struggling a bit with the fact that we are pretty equal here. I think an omega asking to court him might be too much for him.” Seokjin told him kindly.
“Can I still bring him gifts?”
Jimin sighed. “Yes. Just don’t call them courting gifts.”
“And don’t make it too obvious. At least not yet. Give him a chance to get his bearings and maybe next spring, he’ll ask you.” Seokjin said.
“Fine.” Jungkook replied, going back to his project.
“Speaking of your alpha, apparently he took down a lot of game today. Dad took them off hunting because the crew got so much and they will help in processing before heading back to Black Moon in a few days. Between this week and last, we’re set until Solstice at least.”
“Yoongi is really impressed with him and Hyoshin. Says they solidify this crew and make it better.” Jimin added.
Jungkook nodded to show he was listening as he smoothed his hands over the material. “Did they get any rabbits, and do you think I could get the fur? That would make this really soft for Ji.”
The two older omegas laughed and patted Jungkook on the head.
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Taehyung did his required work in the processing building the next day. With all the extra hands, they were able to process all the game brought in within a day.
He was surprised, but not really, to discover they had what they called a root cellar that was underneath the kitchen, the entrance next to the entrance for the bar. They took everything they had processed down and Wheein directed them what shelves to use. Taehyung saw all the jars with handwritten labels.
Wheein noticed him looking around. “Pretty impressive, right?” she sounded proud. “My family has been the head cooks for Rose Moon for 3 generations. We’ve been canning, drying, and preserving our crops and hunts ever since I can remember. All pups learn how to prepare the fruits and vegetables. It’s like a big party around harvest time.”
Taehyung ran his hand over the jars, a pang of sadness he never got to experience that growing up, but he was glad his little sister would.
“It’s just so incredible.” He admitted.
They finished storing everything by late afternoon, close to sunset. After talking to Mingyu, Taehyung headed back to the processing hut for the rabbit fur he had requested. The beta there gave him a big cloth sack full of fur, and he headed toward the clothes shop.
On his way, he ran into Jungkook, who was leaving the laundry with a large basket. “Hello, Tae!” he called out, slowing down. “Heading back to Hobi’s?”
Taehyung was once again struck by how attractive Jungkook was. Today he was dressed in a black shirt, tucked to accentuate his tiny waist and black pants that showed off his long, trim legs. His shoulder-length hair was down today, and his face had a smudge of something from working in the infirmary.
“Hey, I’m actually on my way to see Chaewon. I finally got the rabbit fur for Ji’s coat,” he replied, holding up the bag.
“Oooh I wanted some for her quilt if there is any left over. Where is she anyway? She didn’t come see me after school,” he said, a small pout on his face.
“I knew I would be late today, so I had her stay with Eunchae. Mingyu went to get them both for dinner. The fur for her coat is a surprise.” Taehyung really wanted to ask if he could wipe away the smudge but settled for, “How was your day? Were you making medicine”
“Yes. Seokjin had me making cold powders, so we’re prepared for the winter illnesses. How did you know?” Jungkook asked.
Taehyung motioned to the omega. “You got a little on your face. Can I?” Jungkook nodded as Taehyung gingerly reached up and cleaned his cheek. “All good now.”
Jungkook’s face reddened. “Thank you. Can I walk with you?”
“I would like that. Let me just stop in here,” he said as they reached the seamstress.
Chaewon greeted them both happily. She took the sack and looked through it. “Oh, this is more than enough. Her coat will look beautiful with a white fur collar and cuffs.”
“I’m making a quilt for her out of some of their old clothes. Do you think I can have some when you’re done?” Jungkook asked.
Chaewon gave him a knowing look and smiled, “Sure. Let me measure the amount I need and then you can take it with you.”
She went to the storage room and a minute later, came back. “Here you go.”
Jungkook took the sack gratefully, laying it on top of the freshly laundered and folded clothes.
“Are you headed home?” Taehyung asked as they left the small shop, gesturing to the laundry in his hands.
Jungkook looked down and laughed. “I’m meeting Jimin for dinner, but the laundromat will be closed by the time we’re done. I can just take it with me.”
“Could I carry it for you?” The alpha offered, stepping close and holding out his hands. He noticed he was about a centimeter or two taller than the omega and could just faintly smell his jasmine scent thanks to how bundled up he was. “Since we’re going to the same place and all.”
Jungkook looked at his hands, then up through his lashes at Taehyung. He hesitated for a second, then handed the basket over. “Thank you,” he said shyly, smiling.
They headed across the square to the dining hall, reaching the door just as Mingyu arrived with the little girls.
“KOOKIE!” they both screamed, letting go of Mingyu’s hands and racing over to their favorite person. Although Eunchae was taller than Jiyoung, they both still came up to about Jungkook’s ribs, so when they hugged him, their arms went around his waist.
Once again, Taehyung was incredibly jealous of his sister. He shook his head at Mingyu as he held open the heavy door for everyone to walk through. Jungkook graced him with a whispered, “Thank you” and a shy smile.
Inside, Jimin and Yoongi were already sitting at a table in the corner. Taehyung walked Jungkook over and deposited the basket in an empty seat, greeting the mates. “Would you like to join us?” Jungkook offered, still holding onto Jiyoung. Eunchae had sadly been pulled away by her brother as they went to eat with family members.
Jiyoung enthusiastically nodded as she went around the table to hug Jimin, but Taehyung said, “We would love to, but we’re having a sibling date. A little catch up just the two of us. Not that I am complaining, but it does feel like we haven’t spent much time together the past few weeks.”
Jiyoung attached herself to her brother. “Taetae and Jiji time!” she beamed. The two omegas cooed at the little girl and Jungkook felt his heart squeeze. Taehyung was such a devoted older brother that the omega couldn’t help but like him even more. He had even seen how the two siblings’ relationship had affected Mingyu and Eunchae for the better, the two getting closer since she had met Jiyoung. He knew enough from what he had heard that back in Black Moon, they hadn’t really had a choice in spending a lot of time together, but it was sweet to learn that for Taehyung, now that he was in a pack where he did have more options, that he didn’t see Jiyoung as an obligation. He truly cared for his little sister. And Jiyoung absolutely adored her older brother so any time she had his attention solely on her was a good thing.
“Well, Taetae and Jiji time sounds amazing.” He kneeled down to be level with the little girl who was making Taehyung twirl her. “I hear there is ice cream on the menu.”
Jiyoung squealed at that and pulled on Taehyung’s hand. “Ice cream, Taetae! Let’s go.”
Taehyung nodded and started to walk off with her, but Yoongi spoke up. “We’re going back to Black Moon tomorrow to stock one of the huts with provisions in case a wolf gets lost and to tear a few others. We will probably be gone overnight.”
Taehyung turned around. “So I need to find someone to watch Ji?”
Jimin scoffed. “I can’t believe you would even think you ever need to ask. That little girl has an open invitation with me, Kook, and Jin. Jin still has her room set up, from when you were in a coma.”
“But what if she wants to stay with her friend?” He teased.
“Eunchae’s mom doesn’t do sleepovers on school nights,” Jungkook replied.
Taehyung knew when he had been beaten and bowed his head. “Thank you. Again, I am so appreciative of how much you do for the two of us.”
With that, he let his little sister pull him away and left Jungkook staring fondly after him, to Jimin’s amusement.
“You are so smitten,” he laughed.
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The rest of the week leading to the New Moon on Friday was quiet. The expedition to Black Moon had been successful, Yoongi’s crew fixing up two huts, leaving food, blankets, and a map to both Rose Moon and Wind Moon, in case someone got lost over the winter. They also pulled down a few that were in bad shape, bringing the wood back home.
The temperature had dropped drastically by Friday, and the Luna said she smelled snow in the forecast. Since Winter Solstice was the following Sunday and they always had big celebrations for the change of seasons, Wooshik had decided to have a small ritual in the main square for the New Moon.
Everyone who wanted to brave the freezing temperatures came out to see their pack alpha and Luna, who gave another invocation and had everyone think of intentions they wanted to set, even while reminding them this was a time to rest. Then dinner was laid out in the dining hall for everyone to eat and gather.
Before the evening ended, Wooshik asked everyone to contribute food or labor for the Winter Solstice.
Chapter 15: Winter Solstice
Chapter Text
Winter Solstice
The morning of the first day of winter dawned clear, the air crisp and scented with the smoke of many fireplaces.
Wolves had been setting up for it out at the celebration grounds all weekend. Taehyung’s work crew was out there most of the time, stacking all the logs to be burned in the bonfire.
Jimin and Seokjin had led the omegas in making the golden candles that would be added to lanterns for the processional to the grounds while Jungkook and his mother had showed the pups over the age of eight how to prepare the herbs that would be thrown in the fire—sage, mistletoe, frankincense, and evergreens.
The last bit of preparations happened that morning and then those who helped returned to their own houses.
“Winter Solstice is when the day and night are equal,” Jiyoung told her brother. Black Moon hadn’t really celebrated the seasons, so this was new to them. Jiyoung had been taught all about it at school. “So we will all meet at the main path and carry lanterns to the grounds. The pack alpha’s family will lead us. Once there, we’ll put the lanterns around the circle and the pack Alpha and the Luna will speak to us, Joonie, Jinnie, and Kookie will light the fire. We have lots of fun things to throw in and then we get to eat. Just like Full Moon, there is a run after.”
“No children’s hunt?” he asked her. Taehyung loved seeing how she was taking to school. There hadn’t been a lot of children in the old pack her age, so her teaching had mainly come from him and his grandmother, who had taught her to read and write a little.
“No,” she sounded disappointed. “Because it gets dark too early. They don’t let us run again until spring. We can dress up through. I want to wear my purple dress but with my black boots.”
Chaewon had brought over the coat earlier and Taehyung had hid it from his sister. As she got dressed, he took it out. The black coat had been made from a coat that had been his mother’s, but Chaewon had used a silver thread to make it glitter, which made it look brand-new. The white fur on the collar and cuffs matched the thread perfectly and the coat flared out, so that it was almost like a cloak. Taehyung hadn’t known that Chaewon had added a hood, also lined with white fur. There was even a pair of fur-lined matching black gloves to go with it.
Before he could give it to her, there was a knock on the door. He walked over, coat in hand, and opened it.
To find an omega clad all in white, except for the black fur coat, standing there, holding two parcels.
“Jungkook? What are you doing here?” He asked, surprised. They had made plans to walk over together, but that wasn’t for another hour.
“Can I come in?” Jungkook smiled.
Taehyung opened the door wider and moved out of the way.
Jungkook looked down, seemingly very shy all of a sudden. He tucked a stray lock of hair behind his ear and glanced up at Taehyung through his lashes.
“I brought presents.” He held out the parcels. “One is for you, and the other is for Ji.”
Taehyung, still questioning, went to the stairs to call his sister down. She bounded down in her dress, but no shoes, one braid clumsily done, the rest flying behind her, a brush and hairtie in one hand.
“Kookie!” she squealed, running to the omega. He hugged her with one arm as he looked her over critically.
“Hi sweetie. Can I fix your hair?” She nodded enthusiastically. As he handed off the parcels to Taehyung and quickly redid her first braid, he spoke, “I brought you presents.”
Jiyoung giggled in excitement, trying to keep very still while Jungkook brushed the other side and braided it. She turned around once he was done and looked expectantly at her.
“This is yours and this is yours,” He took one package back to give to the little girl. They were wrapped in green paper, tied with a red ribbon. “I hope you like them.”
Jiyoung ripped the paper off to find a beautiful quilt lined with rabbit fur. “Is this for me?”
“Yes,” Jungkook smiled. “Your brother gave me some of your old clothes that you couldn’t wear anymore, and I made a special quilt with them.”
“I LOVE IT!” She shouted, grabbing onto Jungkook and hugging him. “Look, Taetae! My own quilt!”
Taehyung laughed, still holding onto his own. “It’s so beautiful. Did you say thank you?”
Jiyoung turned to Jungkook and said, very primly, “Thank you, Kookie.”
Jungkook giggled, the sound going straight to Taehyung’s heart. “You’re welcome.”
“Open yours, Taetae!” Jiyoung commanded. Taehyung obliged his little sister and pulled the ribbon loose.
Inside was a quilt similar to the one that Jiyoung had, but with material he recognized as mostly being his father’s clothes, and his father’s old fur coat that had always been too big for him. A light jasmine wafted up from them both. Taehyung wanted to bury his nose in the coat.
Jungkook watched him carefully. “That coat was still in really good condition so I’m not sure why you gave it to me for the quilt, but I was able to alter it to fit you. And I wanted you to have a special quilt too.”
Taehyung was at a loss for words. This was one of the nicest things anyone had ever done for him, and he didn’t know how to verbalize it without breaking down.
Jiyoung had grabbed the coat and put it on, laughing when it touched the floor on her.
Taehyung wiped his hand over his eyes and found his voice. “Thank you, Jungkook. Really. I thought that coat was no good anymore. And I didn’t expect my own quilt.”
The omega moved a little closer, cloaked in the scent of his family and touched Taehyung’s hand tentatively, speaking softly, “I told you you need to let us spoil you as much as we spoil her. You deserve all the things, Tae.” He let out a little of his scent, remembering how it had calmed the alpha down in his coma.
Taehyung took a deep breath, almost inhaling the jasmine that had started to permeate the air. He immediately felt relaxed. He turned his hand up so he was briefly holding Jungkook’s hand, squeezed it, then let go, smiling.
“Jiyoung,” he said, “That is my coat, not yours. But I have something better for you.”
He held up the coat he had placed on a chair before opening his gift.
Jiyoung squealed again. “Is that for me?” She gingerly took the coat and inspected it. “It’s so pretty!”
She put it on and twirled. “How do I look?”
“Like a vision. You will be the most fashionable there.” Jungkook told her. “OK, I have to get back to finish getting things ready, but I will see you two in an hour. You get to walk with the pack alpha’s family and friends. It’s quite an honor,” he laughed.
“We are very honored,” Taehyung said in a haughty manner, before bowing low, which made both Jungkook and Jiyoung giggle. Taehyung decided he would do what he could to hear those giggles again.
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Clad in their new coats, Taehyung and Jiyoung followed Hoseok to the pack alpha’s house. Jimin and Yoongi were already there, handing out golden candles to everyone who was waiting.
A few minutes later, Wooshik and Dahee came out from the house, followed by their children, all clad in white clothes under their fur coats.
Wooshik held up his own candle and lit it, eliciting a cheer from the crowd. His mate and children each touched their own candles to his and then turned to take the flames to everyone else.
Taehyung watched as Jungkook moved smoothly through the crowd, a quiet word and a small smile to everyone he lit candles for. Jiyoung bounced up and down in place, waiting for Jungkook to make his way to them.
When the omega came over, he smiled widely and lifted his candle.
“Want a light?” he asked, lighting both of their candles. “You ready to come with us?”
Taehyung nodded. “Yes. We’re both looking forward to it. We never did anything like this back in our old pack.”
“You’re in for a treat then.”
Once the candles had been lit for all those who were there, Wooshik called for attention. Jungkook motioned for the brother-sister duo to follow him closer to the front.
The pack alpha took his Luna’s hand, both holding a candle in their other hands and started walking.
The processional was solemn as everyone walked slowly and silently.
Every few meters, Wooshik would stop to light lanterns that hung on poles.
“It’s to light the way for everyone who will come later,” Jungkook whispered to Taehyung.
The walk took a little longer due to that but once they arrived there, Jungkook went around with his family to light candles for all who had been waiting.
“Greetings! Thank you all for coming to celebrate the turn of the wheel of the year with us. We have been working hard to present you with a feast. My mate and I are so grateful you continue to stay with our pack and we are grateful for all you do to help keep Rose Moon successful. You have worked hard. It is time to rest.” Wooshil welcomed everyone in his booming voice.
Dahee led everyone in a short prayer, thanking the Goddess for all she had provided them with, with how well everyone did their part, and asked for a good rest period to help them prepare for next spring.
After she was done, Namjoon, Seokjin, and Jungkook lit the bonfire. The whole pack cheered when the flames caught.
Jimin took Jiyoung close to the fire and handed her a clump of herbs, directing her to throw them in the fire. Most of the other children were doing the same. The smell of the herbs took over the clearing and smelled very wintery and fresh.
“Let’s eat!” Wooshik commanded and everyone went to help themselves with all the food that had been made after finding places to secure their lit candles.
Jungkook brought Jiyoung back to Taehyung and directed them to one of the lines.
“Enjoying yourselves?” he asked while they waited to get food.
“Don’t you eat with your family?” Taehyung questioned.
“I don’t have to. Plus, I wanted to be with you two on your first Solstice celebration.”
After getting food, he led them over to a log near where his parents were sitting. They sat down and enjoyed their meal, Jiyoung telling Jungkook everything she had learned at school about this holiday and the other three.
“Did they tell you we also meet on the cross-quarters as well? We will celebrate the New Year, the full and new moons each month, and then our next big celebration is Imbolc, which is in mid-winter. Then we come to Ostara, which is when we change from winter to spring. That one is pretty special. And shortly after that, some of the pack goes to council meeting.”
Jiyoung’s eyes grew wide at all the celebrations as Jungkook turned to Taehyung. “You should take Jiyoung to council. She would love it. It was some of the most fun I ever had when I was little. I enjoyed it more as a child than I ever have as an adult.”
They hadn’t discussed the fact they had been playmates as a child so Taehyung cleared his throat before saying, “I think I forgot for a while about those times at council or thought that little white wolf was from a dream. I’m guessing that was you.”
Jungkook nodded, “Yes. I remember a black wolf. I always looked forward to that week, knowing I would see my wolf friend. And then one year, you weren’t there and the same every year after,” he said softly. “And I never knew why.” He kept it to himself that even after presenting, he looked for that black wolf to show up.
“That was the year my parents died and Minhyuk took over. I was thirteen and my entire life had changed. My grandmother and baby sister were the only family I had anymore. I couldn’t even grieve properly because I had to take care of Ji and the pack was in upheaval. We had lost at least half of the members.” Taehyung played with his chopsticks, looking down at his plate.
Jungkook’s heart hurt, seeing the alpha so forlorn, smelling a burnt tinge to the red pine. He reached over and put his hand on Taehyung’s. “I’m sorry for your loss. I know it was hard for you.”
Taehyung looked at the hand that rested on his and looked at the omega. “Thank you. That means a lot to me.”
Jiyoung, who was very attuned to her older brother, snuggled close to him. He glanced down at her and smiled. He had his sister and the omega he hoped would be his. They sat in silence while they finished their food, Jiyoung running to get dessert and bringing it back.
About an hour later, as plates had been cleared, candles had burned down, and the bonfire had died down somewhat, Wooshik stood up, commanding everyone’s attention. “If everyone is finished, we ask you to help clean up so we can let the run commence.”
The pack members quickly cleaned up, loading carts with anything needing to go back, taken by those not staying for the run. There were lanterns for the candles that had not extinguished themselves or new candles as there was no moon.
Jiyoung was going with Eunchae for her very first sleepover with a friend. The two little girls were absolutely excited to leave with Eunchae’s mother. The school was closed for a week due to the holiday.
“See you tomorrow, Taetae! Nine am!! Don’t be late. I was told there might be pancakes!” She ordered her brother before giving him a hug goodbye.
“Nine am. Yes, ma’am. You got it.”
Chaewon held onto both girls’ hands. “We got them. You go enjoy your run.”
Namjoon took over, calling all wolves who would shift to follow him. Wooshik and Dahee directed the wolves who were leaving.
“Because there is no moon, we’re just going to do an organized run. Everyone will stay together so no one gets lost.”
The members changed behind trees or out in the open.
Taehyung went behind a tree to shift and when he came back out, he found the scent of jasmine was stronger. He followed it to where it started—a beautiful tall, snow-white wolf.
The one from his dreams.
The other wolf seemed pleased to see him.
I’ve dreamt of you.
Hi, Taehyung.
Jungkook?
His white fur gleamed in the firelight, and he looked to be about a hand shorter than Taehyung. Jungkook’s wolf was beautiful, regal in stature, and his color complemented Taehyung’s black fur.
Ready? he asked through the mindlink.
Suddenly a brown wolf at the edge of the forest howled, Taehyung recognizing him as Namjoon, interrupting them. The large wolf corralled everyone with Yoongi and Hoseok bringing up the rear.
The forest was quiet as the fifty or sixty wolves stalked through it, punctuated only by their howls or chuffs or leaves crunching under their paws. Taehyung saw Hyoshin’s cream colored-wolf walking along with a small reddish wolf he guessed was Yongsun. Somewhere in the back he had seen Moonbyul and her crew. She had taken one look at how he and Jungkook had not strayed far from each other and moved herself away. Jimin and Seokjin were with their mates. Most of his work crew were there as well.
Namjoon led the wolves through a long, winding path that ended in an open meadow that Taehyung knew would be beautiful on a summer’s night under a full moon. He looked carefully, remembering his dream, but this meadow was not it. That one had a pond, where this one was against the river, where they all slaked their thirst. He wanted to ask Jungkook if he remembered the dreams as well, but was too self-conscious, especially with the wolf mindlink.
Jungkook brushed up against him before they took off again, this time heading for home, having been in the forest for over an hour. Taehyung caught a whiff of his jasmine scent and inhaled it.
He tried on the way home, but it was too noisy as they walked home in a large crowd.
He was envious of all the couples he saw, hoping that soon that would include himself and Jungkook.
People peeled off the main path, until it was just the seven wolves left, heading to the pack alpha house.
“Did you enjoy your first pack run, Tae?” Jungkook asked once they were alone.
“Yes. I hadn’t been in that section of the forest before. How big is this territory anyway?” he asked.
Namjoon heard the question and answered, “Rose Moon is one of the largest packs in Korea. I think only Wind Moon is bigger, but now that we have taken over Black Moon, we might be the same size.”
As they passed the pack house, Jungkook stopped.
“I’m glad you ran tonight. Your wolf is stunning.”
“So is yours.” He wanted to say more, but didn’t know what to say.
“I hope your new quilt keeps you warm,” the omega paused, looked around to see the others studiously ignoring them as they talked amongst themselves, and then brushed his hand against Taehyung’s arm. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Taehyung was stunned at how that light touch set flames under his skin and stammered out a good night. He blindly followed Hoseok back to the house.
And if he dreamed of two wolves running through a jasmine-scented meadow, that was between him and his quilt.
Chapter 16: Snow Day
Chapter Text
A few days later, Taehyung woke up to blinding sunlight through his window and Hoseok’s cries of “No shifting inside the house, Kim Jiyoung!”
He bolted out of bed and down the steps to find a tiny grey and black wolf pawing at the front door, an exasperated Hoseok behind her.
“What the hell is going on?” Taehyung yelled.
The pup turned around and sat back on her haunches, her tongue lolling, not a trace of guilt in her frame.
“We got at least a meter of snow last night and this one got too excited,” Hoseok explained. “I told her she would have to wait for you to get up and well…”
Taehyung laughed then and shook his head. Jiyoung loved the snow, and this was the first snowfall since they had come to Rose Moon. He couldn’t blame her for being excited, but even back home she knew not to shift inside.
The tiny wolf pawed at him. He knelt down to pet her, something she loved.
“You know better, Ji,” he told her. “You should have come and woken me up.” He looked over at Hoseok. “Did she eat?”
“No,” was the answer. “Just saw the snow and shifted.”
“Ji, shift back and we’ll eat. Then I’ll change and we’ll play.”
The wolf’s tail drooped at his words, then lifted and started wagging at the end.
She went into the living room around the corner and came back a little girl still in her pajamas.
“I had already made something. Dining hall will be closed until we get a path cleared.” Hoseok brought a platter of toast, eggs, and bacon to the table. “Tea is in the kitchen.”
Jiyoung sheepishly went and got the pot, carrying it carefully. The three sat down and ate.
“How does everyone get around when it snows this much?” Taehyung asked as he slathered his buttered toast with strawberry jam. That had been a delightful surprise as he loved strawberries but had only ever eaten them as fruit. He had been informed by an impishly smiling Jungkook that they made strawberries into many things, even wine.
“Our farm families bring the horses, dragging a plow behind them. We also have shovels to help. This afternoon, you’ll see most of the pack shoveling paths. But first, playtime,” Hoseok grinned.
Right as they had finished cleaning and changed, a knock sounded at the door.
A grinning Seokjin stood at the door, a snow-white wolf beside him and three other wolves in the yard.
“Kookie wants to know if Hobi, Taetae, and Jiji can come out to play.”
The little grey and black wolf streaked past the adults and onto the porch.
Outside was at least two meters deep of fluffy white snow as far as the eye could see.
As Jiyoung flung herself off the steps, she miscalculated and fell face first into the snow, causing the three humans to burst into laughter. The three wolves in the yard also shook with amusement.
The white wolf glared at all of them as he jumped off the porch to help the little pup, whose fur was now coated with white.
She shook herself off and Jungkook sniffed over her to make sure she was all right.
I’m fine, Kookie. Let’s play, she said to him as three more wolves joined them.
What followed was a delightful few hours as seven wolves and one pup chased each other up and down the area in front of the four houses, Jungkook and Jiyoung teaming up most of the time to chase after Taehyung, who willingly let them catch him. The way the omega was with the pup warmed Taehyung’s heart a million times over. Back in Black Moon, she had often been ignored by any omega who showed interest in Taehyung. And when they found out how much he adored his little sister, they didn’t like that.
Jungkook wasn’t just beautiful on the outside, he was the same on the inside. He was kind and caring, with a bit of a brat tendency. His white fur gleamed in the sunshine, making him sparkle.
Namjoon, horses are coming, an unfamiliar voice sounded in their heads as a light brown wolf ran up to them.
Namjoon herded the wolves away from the main road.
The horses like us in human form but get skittish if there are too many wolves. They have gotten used to their owners being shifted, but not anyone else. He explained as they went behind the houses.
Taehyung had not yet explored the area and was surprised to see how much space there was between the river and the houses. There was a gentle slope leading to the river and a wide expanse of meadow, all covered with snow.
You need to see this in the spring. My mom has a garden back here and we spend a lot of time there. You can watch the sunrise here. Jungkook told him, stopping next to him.
It’s beautiful, he replied. Jiyoung yipped at the sight and took off, Jungkook immediately following, outpacing the little girl, who face planted a few times trying to keep up.
He’s just a pup himself, Seokjin laughed. I don’t care if he is twenty-one.
With the river not that far off, Taehyung spent more time watching his sister, who did end up getting too close, Jungkook barking gruffly at her.
Don’t go that close again. You could fall.
They romped around until the Luna appeared on her back porch, calling out, “Lunchtime!”
Everyone separated to shift back and then reconvened at the pack alpha’s house where Dahee had made a hearty lunch of ginseng chicken soup, rice, and hotteok for dessert.
Jiyoung regaled the pack alpha and his mate with her retelling of the morning but shared she was sad to miss the horses.
“I’ll take you in the spring and teach you how to ride,” Jungkook said without thinking. He realized what he said, “If it’s okay with you, Tae.”
Taehyung looked at his little sister with her pleading eyes. “Sure. Will you teach me too?”
He had been asking an honest question, but the way Jungkook flushed when he asked made him smile.
“Yes, if you want.”
After lunch, they all headed out to help shovel paths to town. A bit of hilarity ensued when Taehyung, having just been introduced to the act of shoveling, went to empty his shovel and managed to throw it onto Jungkook, who was walking by with his own shovel.
Jungkook squeaked at the cold snow that landed on his face and down his coat. Jimin turned and started laughing at the snow-covered omega.
“You look just like your wolf counterpart, Kookie,” he said, causing everyone else to turn and burst into laughter as well.
“I am so sorry, Jungkook. I wasn’t paying attention.” Taehyung was mortified. This was not how he wanted to start courting the boy who had captured his heart. He put the shovel down and tried to help Jungkook, who was brushing the snow off himself.
Jungkook looked at him with narrowed eyes, then proceeded to shake furiously, flinging snow in all directions and on Taehyung.
“I’ll get you back,” he swore before picking up his own shovel and moving a few feet away.
“You’ve done it now,” Yoongi chortled. “Kook has been taught by Jiminie in the art of revenge. Sleep with one eye open.”
Revenge didn’t take long to come. When Taehyung was working on a patch, Jungkook casually walked by and pretended to trip, knocking the alpha into a drift of snow. As he struggled to get up, Jungkook threw a snowball at him.
“Good one, Kook!” Seokjin snickered.
Taehyung had a look of shock on his face. Namjoon stopped to help him out.
“This isn’t over,” the alpha called out, Jungkook laughing over his shoulder as he sauntered away. Jimin appeared with a snowball of his own and handed it to Taehyung.
“Go on, get him back,” Jimin whispered.
Taehyung took aim and let go, the snowball landing directly on Jungkook’s fur-covered back.
“Oof,” he shrieked, not even waiting to scoop up another clump of snow and hurtling it at Taehyung.
“Snowball fight!” Hoseok yelled out, throwing his own at Yoongi. Namjoon and Seokjin had taken Jiyoung off to the side and were instructing her in the art of snowball making.
For several minutes, the wolves threw snowballs at one another, Taehyung finally getting close enough to pick up Jungkook around the waist as he was making an arsenal.
“Haha got you! I am the victor!” he yelled. “I have your omega as hostage.”
“You can keep him,” called out Seokjin right as he aimed a snowball at the duo. Namjoon also had one and both of them got the pair right on their face.
They high-fived one another as Jungkook and Taehyung sputtered. Jiyoung thought it was the funniest thing and decided to throw snowballs at them as well.
“JI! I have been betrayed by my own sister!” Taehyung dropped Jungkook before he then fell to the ground as if his sister had wounded him.
Namjoon picked up Jiyoung and held her high. “Here is your victor! Kim Jiyoung, queen of the snowball fight!”
Everyone else laughed and agreed.
The rest of the day was uneventful as they shoveled the rest of the path and then had a warm dinner, before all going their own way home.
Taehyung carried his little sister home as she was falling asleep at the dinner table. He put her to bed and then followed her example a few minutes later.
Chapter 17: Winter
Chapter Text
Wolf Moon
January came in with a bluster, dumping even more snow over the pack territory. The Full Moon celebration was just a dinner for any who wanted to brave the snow and cold. Taehyung’s work crew spent a lot of time clearing paths.
Evenings were spent in front of fireplaces, helping Jiyoung with her schoolwork. Sometimes there was a pretty omega keeping them company, sometimes it was a different fireplace with more wolves, and sometimes it was just himself, Jiyoung, and Hoseok.
The weather finally calmed down just after the New Moon, but Wheein had commandeered the crew to get to work cleaning and organizing the storeroom, doing all the heavy lifting, as she put it. Seokjin stopped in, carrying a small crate, during the early afternoon, after they had finished lunch.
“Yoongi, can I ask you to take this to Byeol when you can? She was feeling poorly yesterday so I wanted to send her a few things.”
Wheein perked up. “Byeol is sick? Let me make her a care package.” She ran off and came back a few minutes later with a basket full of containers. She went up and down the shelves filling a second one. Then she placed everything in front of Yoongi. “Go now.”
The alpha surveyed the baskets and crate. “Fine. But I’m taking Taehyung. Let’s go.”
Taehyung walked over, confused.
“Pick up the baskets,” Yoongi commanded. “I know Wheein loaded them up.”
“Of course I did. It was time to stock her kitchen up anyway.”
Taehyung did as directed, then asked “Who is Byeol?”
Wheein just grinned as she pushed them out the door.
Yoongi led Taehyung to a road he hadn’t explored before. It went behind the general store a kilometer before opening up to a small neighborhood. As they walked, Yoongi explained that Byeol was one of their eldest members. She was originally from Rose Moon but had mated a wolf from Wind Moon, where she lived until she lost her family to the plague. She then moved back to Rose Moon.
“She lives in her own house, but near the other elderly wolves. It’s almost like a pack within a pack. The former pack alpha and Luna lead their own celebrations unless they want to join the main one. They have their own dining hall, and meals are sent ‘round to anyone who doesn’t want to leave. We dispatch crews daily—mostly omegas—to help with daily chores and cleaning. Also to provide company. It’s a more popular chore than you would think so Dahee has to schedule all the crews. Alpha and beta crews like to come out as well. We respect our elders here in Rose Moon. They never want for anything.”
Taehyung thought back to his own pack, who had lost most of their elders to the plague, His grandmother had never been treated with respect by most of the members.
They came upon a small cottage so covered with ivy that it almost blended into the forest behind it. There was a garden full of winter flowers in front, carved by a cobblestone path that led to a porch with a rocking chair and swing on it.
“Ji would love this house,” he commented. Yoongi smiled proudly.
“Byeol and I designed it when she moved back. One of my first. Then the entire pack pitched in, and we had it built in a week.”
He pointed out the two houses on the left. “My designs as well. Wooshik’s parents live there and Dahee’s parents there. My grandparents are across the road.”
They knocked on the door and were surprised when Jungkook opened the door.
“What are you two doing here?” he asked, sounding just as surprised.
Yoongi lifted up the crate. “Medicine from Jin. And he’s the pack mule from Wheein.”
Jungkook stood aside to let them in.
The inside appeared to be as charming as the outside, the door opening to a small foyer with a doorway on either side. The smell of chicken and spices permeated the air.
“I didn’t know it was your day to be here, Kook,” Yoongi said as they went through the left door to the kitchen. “House is kind of cold.”
Jungkook rolled his eyes. “Apparently a new crew came out yesterday and were useless. The only good thing they did was tell mom Byeol wasn’t feeling well. I can’t wait to go back and let her know all that wasn’t done. Jimin went to get some firewood because she was out.”
“I can help get firewood. That was my main chore back in Black Moon,” Taehyung offered.
“There’s really nothing out here. We usually bring it in. But I can show you where we get it for another time.” Yoongi told him.
“Byeol has electricity but she is old-fashioned and likes heating her house with firewood.” Jungkook was putting everything they had brought away as he spoke.
“Where is she?”
“In the living room. I made her warm and comfy in her nest.” He turned to stir the soup that was bubbling away on the stove.
“Come meet her,” Yoongi motioned for Taehyung to follow him. “Fair warning. She is a firecracker.”
They crossed the foyer into the living room, which smelled of jasmine. In front of the not-lit fireplace was a bundle of blankets, a clicking sound coming from within.
“Byeol?” Yoongi called out.
“Yoongi, is that you?” a thin, reedy voice creaked.
“Yes, Byeol. I heard you weren’t feeling well.” The amount of tenderness in his voice caught Taehyung’s attention. Yoongi never sounded that soft, not even talking to his mate. And he was whipped for Jimin. “I came to check on you and bring you a new friend.”
Yoongi gestured for Taehyung around to the front of the nest. In the mountain of blankets, sat a slight, elderly gray-haired wolf. She looked to be in her seventies or eighties. The clicking was the rapid-fire movement of her needles as she knitted something out of baby blue yarn.
“New friend? I hope they aren’t like the new ‘friends’ yesterday. Most useless omegas I have ever met. And that one Moon whatever her name was was the worst. Refused to do anything. ‘Why do we have to help old people?’ she said. Like it’s so horrible to be old. Just means we have lived a long life. She should be so lucky to live as long as me. No one will want her with that attitude.” She ranted as Yoongi started cleaning out the fireplace.
Taehyung laughed inwardly. That sounded like Moonbyul, who would make the other omegas do her chores. She thought being the mate of the pack alpha’s son meant she never had to lift a finger. She was getting a rude awakening as to life in the new pack.
“My babies came today to take care of me. I’m so glad Jiminie is your omega. Now if only we could find an alpha worthy of Kookie,” she fixed her eyes on Taehyung. “Who are you and why do you look like Kim Jiho?”
Taehyung had been just standing there during the old wolf’s rant and was taken aback by the mention of his grandfather.
“This is Kim Taehyung, an alpha we rescued from Black Moon, along with his sister, Jiyoung.” Yoongi introduced him.
“Kim Jiho was my grandfather,” he stuttered.
Byeol’s wizened face lit up. “Your grandmother was my best friend back in Wind Moon. Our daughters grew up together. Then shortly after your mother mated your father, Hyunji moved to be with her in Black Moon.” She looked confused. “I thought the plague took out the Kims.”
“We all thought that. Turns out Minhyuk lied.”
“It was just me, my grandmother, and my sister who survived. Grandmother died three years ago.”
“Oh, I am so sorry to hear that. She was such a wonderful woman. Let me have a better look at you.”
Taehyung shyly stepped closer.
“Oh you are Jiho’s grandson. He was such a handsome alpha, but you are even more handsome. Are you kind and a hard worker like he was?”
“Yes, he is. Tae’s been a welcome addition to the pack. And his little sister is too adorable.”
“You must bring her to me. I love children.” She gave him one last look before closing his eyes. “I approve.”
Yoongi laughed. “Approve for what?”
“A mate for Jungkookie. He’ll do. Now, let me nap.”
Taehyung stood there, speechless, while Yoongi guffawed and clapped him on the shoulder.
He was about to speak when Jimin and Mingyu walked in, both carrying a handful of logs.
Jimin happily greeted his mate as he handed off the firewood, Mingyu placing his in the firewood holder next to the fireplace.
Within a few minutes, a roaring fire was blazing merrily along, quickly warming the small room.
The wolves went back to the kitchen, which was so small there wasn’t much room for them all.
“I definitely need to have a talk with my mom,” Jungkook said to Jimin and Yoongi. “This is not the first time I’ve heard a complaint about that crew. Not sure why she is letting all the omegas from Black Moon work together, but I think that will change.”
Jimin nodded in agreement.
“Jimin, you heading back now?” Yoongi asked as he got the crates they had brought with them.
“No, Kook and I are staying here to make sure everything is done and then check on our grandparents as well.”
“I haven’t spent much time lately with either of mine so I am going to make them all have dinner with me. I’ll bring Byeol as well.” Jungkook said before turning to Taehyung. “You should bring Jiyoung for dinner. My grandparents would love to meet you both.”
“He’s already made an impression on Byeol,” Yoongi snickered. Taehyung shot a pleading look at him to not say anything more. “She knew his grandmother well.”
“Well then you definitely have to come.” And the way he spoke, Taehyung knew it would happen. He would come back this evening with his sister and they would have dinner. “Five-thirty pm. Just meet me here.”
Taehyung nodded. The alphas bid the omegas goodbye and headed back to the storeroom, where they worked for a little longer.
Around four-thirty, Yoongi handed Taehyung a small basket. “You should not meet the former pack alpha and Luna without a small offering. They enjoy wine and I also included some bottles of soju for Wonshik and Byungwoo. Do you remember the way there?”
“I think so.”
Yoongi pulled out a piece of paper. “I figured. Here’s a map just in case. Now go get your sister and go get cleaned up.”
Taehyung went off to the infirmary and found his sister hard at work making powders until Seokjin’s watchful eye.
“Ready to go, sis? We have dinner plans, and we need to go change.” He asked.
“Dinner plans? With who?” Seokjin asked, curious.
“The grandparents? Jungkook told me to bring Jiyoung to meet them and Byeol.”
“Oh,” Seokjin smirked. “Well, go now. Do you have something to bring them?”
He held up the basket Yoongi had packed. Seokjin looked it over and nodded.
“Just don’t try to drink with either of the alphas. They can drink anyone under the table.”
Taehyung laughed. “I’ve got Ji to watch out for, so no drinks for me.”
He and his sister quickly made their way back home. Jiyoung decided she needed to wear her nicest dress and Taehyung changed into a pair of black pants and a blue button-down shirt. He ran his fingers through his hair, thinking he needed to ask how he could get a hair cut.
Jiyoung’s hair was a little tangled and he made her cry when he pulled the comb through, but presently her hair was smooth and long, falling to her waist. She put her coat on and picked up the basket. Taehyung lit the lantern to carry with them as the sun was setting soon. Most of the town had street lights but he felt better with their own source of illumination.
“Where are we going again, Taetae?” she questioned as they went back to the town square.
“To meet some elders of the pack. Byeol, who knew our grandmother. And we are also meeting Jungkook’s grandparents on both sides. One is the former pack alpha so be on your best behavior” he admonished.
The little girl stuck her tongue out at him. “I’m always on my best behavior.”
She skipped alongside him on the twenty-minute walk, swinging the small basket, chattering about her friends and pointing out various things she found interesting until they reached Byeol’s house. Taehyung enjoyed seeing her like this, a child who was curious about the world around her.
Jiyoung gushed over how adorable the cottage was, telling Taehyung how she wanted their house to be like this. Taehyung just nodded as he knocked on the door.
Jungkook opened the door a few seconds later, clad in his own coat, with a frail Byeol on his arm.
“Byeol, this is Kim Jiyoung,” he introduced the little girl to the elderly woman.
“Aish, you are adorable,” Byeol cooed. “Are you coming to dinner with us?”
Jiyoung nodded, wide-eyed. “Yes, ma’am.”
Jungkook ushered her out and shut the door. He led them slowly to the house next door, which was larger than Byeol’s and lit up welcomingly.
They walked up the path and before they could knock, the door was thrown open, a wolf in her sixties standing there.
“Kookie!” she stepped out and threw her arms around the omega.
“Hi, Halmeoni,” he said, hugging her back.
Byeol slapped the wolf on her arm. “Hug him when you get inside. It’s cold out here and we have a child with us.”
Halmeoni stepped back and looked around her grandson, her eyes going wide. “Am I seeing things? You look like Kim Jiho.”
“It’s his grandchild. Now let us in, Seoyeon.”
“Come in, come in. I’m Kim Seoyeon, the former Luna of Rose Moon. Welcome.” She ushered them inside.
“Thank you, ma’am. I am Kim Taehyung and this is my sister, Jiyoung.” He motioned to the little girl, who had gone shy and hiding behind him. “Yes, my grandfather was Kim Jiho.”
Once inside, he could see more clearly the beauty that Seoyeon had possessed. Her eyes were the same as Jungkook’s and she stood tall. Although gray, her hair was long and piled on the top of her head. She wore a beautiful dress that brushed the floor as she walked.
“This is for you,” he took the basket from Jiyoung, who was still hiding and handed it off.
Seoyeon took a peek inside. “Oh wine, soju, and some cheese, meat, and dried fruit. Min Yoongi helped you with this, I bet. He knows what we like.”
Taehyung flushed. “Yes, ma’am. He did indeed.”
Seoyeon directed them all to take off their coats and shoes in the foyer, then led them to the first room on the right. A fire blazed in the fireplace as two men were chatting, sitting in chairs. Another woman walked in from what appeared to be a dining room. The house was warm and welcoming.
“Gentlemen, we have visitors,” Seoyeon warned. The two older wolves turned and stood up once they saw everyone. The other woman looked at them, like she was seeing a ghost.
“This is my husband, Wonshik, former pack alpha. That is Byungwoo and his mate, Haeun. They are Dahee’s parents. Everyone, this is Kim Taehyung and Kim Jiyoung,” Seoyeon made the introductions.
Byungwoo was Namjoon’s double while Wonshik looked like an older version of his son, Wooshik. Haeun was beautiful as well and he could see a strong resemblance to Dahee.
Taehyung bowed to the elder wolves.
“He’s Kim Jiho’s grandson.” Byeol crowed, having moved next to Haeun.
“Oh my, you look just like your grandfather.” Haeun breathed. “It’s uncanny.”
Jungkook laughed. “You say that knowing that Joonie is the spitting image of your mate.”
Wonshik walked over, hand outstretched. He straightened Taehyung up, looked him over, and then engulfed him in a hug.
“Your grandfather and grandmother were very loved and respected. We are so glad to have you here.” Then he let go and stood back.
Taehyung blinked rapidly. He wasn’t prepared for all this. He felt a small hand take his as he looked down, catching his breath, and another hand on his arm. He glanced over to see that Jungkook had moved next to him, as if to help steady him. Jiyoung was watching him as she had finally come to stand next to him.
The four wolves gasped when they saw the little girl.
“She looks just like Jiyeon did when she was the same age.” Haeun put her arms around Byeol, who had started to cry a little.
“She’s as adorable as Jinnie has been telling me she is.” Seoyeon clapped her hands. “Hello, Jiyoung. You can call me Halmeoni, just like Jungkookie does, okay?”
Jiyoung nodded shyly, unsure of all the attention. She hid her face in Taehyung’s arm, clutching onto him.
“Halmeoni, she just met you. Give her some space before you try to steal her away.” Jungkook swatted at his grandmother. “I’m hungry. Is dinner ready?”
Seoyeon looked back at her grandson and smiled. “Yes, darling. I made your favorite. Thankfully I had all the ingredients when you so sweetly demanded we all eat together tonight.”
Jungkook pretended to be offended. “I did not demand. I merely suggested because last time I saw you, you complained I didn’t come for dinner enough!”
“Oh shush,” the older wolf laughed and led them all into the dining room, where platters of bimbimpap were placed on the table.
Dinner passed quickly enough, the older wolves trading stories of when they were young and reminiscing about the siblings’ grandparents. Byeol and Haeun even had stories about their mother when she was a child.
When it was time to go, the omegas made Taehyung promise he would visit often and bring Jiyoung as much as he could.
“We’re your grandparents now,” Byeol whispered as she hugged him when they dropped her back off at her own cottage. She also hugged Jiyoung and told her she was welcome anytime. A very sleepy Jiyoung agreed.
Taehyung lifted her up to carry her back home, while Jungkook carried the lantern.
“Did you enjoy tonight?” he asked as they wended their way back home. It was only about 8 pm but there was no moon. The night was quiet, only the crunch of fallen leaves under their feet as they trod upon the packed snow.
The stars were shining brightly and Jungkook seemed to shimmer like they did in the light of the lantern. He walked close to Taehyung, lantern in one hand, and the other quivering as if it wanted to reach out to touch the alpha.
“I did. Wasn’t expecting everyone to know my family so well, but I liked hearing all the stories. And I wasn’t expecting them to basically adopt Ji,” he adjusted the sleeping girl on his shoulder. She had dozed off as soon as they had started walking.
“They adopted both of you. I knew they would love you,” Jungkook said smugly as they sauntered along, enjoying the crisp air of the night, redolent with the scent of fires burning in the houses they passed. If he tried, Taehyung could smell Jungkook’s star jasmine and he released a little of his pine to help keep Jiyoung comfortable, but also because he really liked how their combined scents smelled.
Jungkook sighed and moved a little closer.
“Your family has always been here?” Taehyung asked, wanting to keep the conversation going.
“Yes. My great-great-grandfather staked his claim here a hundred years ago and started this pack.”
“Why call it Rose Moon?”
“It’s when he saw his mate for the very first time. Love at first sight for the both of them. And look at us now. One of the largest, most successful packs. Each subsequent pack alpha has grown the pack more than it was before. Dad has really done a lot to make it prosperous, peaceful, and strong.”
“May I ask something personal?” Taehyung was so curious.
Jungkook glanced at him. “Sure.”
“How are you not mated already?”
“My dad wanted to marry me off to join packs, but my mom told him she would leave him if he sent me off. She’s the real pack alpha we all know. She is the only person besides Joon that my dad listens to. But then Jin got involved, and well that was that. My dad knew he was beat. Jin or Jimin approve or disapprove of any alphas who try to talk to me. Mated alphas are okay. Sometimes I have to work with alphas, but Joon, Hobi, and Yoongi are either there or vet them beforehand.”
“I’m neither mated nor one you work with.” Taehyung pointed out.
Jungkook hummed knowingly, giving him a sidelong glance. “Hmm, I wonder why you’re okay then. My turn. Why are you not mated?”
“Didn’t really see anyone I liked. Not a lot of omegas near my age in the pack. And the ones that were were either already mated or really didn’t want to deal with a child in the house. And well, if you don’t accept that my sister is the most important thing in my life, well I can’t accept you. I was waiting for Ji to get a little older and we would have set out for a different pack.” He nudged Jungkook on the shoulder. “Maybe we would have come here.”
Jungkook stopped walking, a dreamy smile on his face. “I’m glad you did find your way here.”
Taehyung stopped as well and turned to face the omega.
“Me too,” Taehyung whispered, staring into those doe eyes.
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
Snow Moon
The rest of the winter passed uneventfully except for the amount of snow that fell. Taehyung and Jiyoung started making weekly visits to Byeol, bringing her things or having dinner with her. Taehyung always made sure her firewood rack was full, both the one in the living room and another one on the back porch.
Jiyoung really bloomed under the attention of the older wolf. Taehyung had never really stopped to consider how the loss of their grandmother had affected his little sister, who had been seven at the time. She would cuddle with Byeol in her nest while Byeol tried to teach her how to knit. Taehyung proudly wore the blue sweater she made. It was a bit misshapen in places, but as he said, his little sister made it for him, and it was perfect.
Byeol’s favorite thing to do was to make little comments about Jungkook and how he wasn’t mated yet and when was Taehyung going to do something. Taehyung would blush and laugh and just shake his head before changing the subject.
He had finally been introduced to the hair salon where he and Jiyoung got much needed haircuts. His hair was now shorter and easier to deal with when working.
Due to the freezing temperatures, their mid-winter celebration, Imbolc, was held in the dining hall, Jungkook being missing the only notable thing.
When asked, Jimin said it was his heat keeping him at home.
“What do people do for their heats or ruts here?” Taehyung asked.
“We have heat and rut huts for unmated wolves on opposite sides of the pack. Most people spend it with their mate or a willing wolf. Jungkook spends his at home under Dahee’s watchful eye. Seokjin is there while she is here to lead the ritual.”
“When is your rut due,” Yoongi asked. “What do you do for it?”
“I haven’t had my rut in three years.”
Jimin and Yoongi exchanged glances. “You should go see Jin at the infirmary.”
Seokjin listened when Taehyung told him how it had been since his last rut. “What happened three years ago?” he questioned.
“My grandmother died.” He said simply.
“And before that? How did your rut present itself?”
Taehyung laughed. “I would spend it in my hut, being territorial over Ji and my grandmother. Hyoshin was the only one who could get close to leave us anything.”
Seokjin made some notes on his paper and then spoke carefully, “You went through a lot in the past ten years. Your wolf didn’t want anything else to happen to your family. I would guess after your grandmother died, your wolf stopped having ruts because he didn’t want to leave Jiyoung alone for that amount of time. But good news is, you are perfectly healthy and now that you are in a better place, your wolf will start to feel safe and allow you to have a rut again. Hobi does have a rut room and you know Ji is always welcome to stay with Joonie and me.”
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
Life settled into a nice routine, comfortable for Taehyung and Jiyoung. He worked with his crew wherever they were assigned and Jiyoung went to school. The evenings in front of fireplaces now included a visit to Byeol or the other wolves.
Taehyung made sure to give thanks at the New Year celebration that was more extensive than he had seen back in Black Moon. He vaguely remembered doing some of the traditions when his parents were alive. This time the entire pack came together, even the elderly wolves.
All younger members bowed deeply to the elder members of the pack, even the Black Moon omegas, who had been harshly reprimanded for their behavior to Byeol and separated to work on other crews. Most of them had settled into life at Rose Moon, but a few still struggled.
Jungkook was back from his heat, but as the Rose Moon Omega, he had many responsibilities during the celebrations and unfortunately, wasn’t able to spend much time with the Kim siblings.
Jiyoung was so busy with all the festivities she didn’t miss him too much, but Taehyung just stared from far away, hoping to see him soon.
Worm Moon
And February angrily gave way to March, dumping snow on the territory for a week straight.
Then one morning, Taehyung came outside to start his day and saw that the maehwa tree had bloomed, the first sign that it was now spring.
Chapter 18: Ostara
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Ostara (First Day of Spring)
Taehyung wasn’t prepared for how fast life started to get once signs of spring appeared.
There was a new energy around the pack as the temperatures slowly got warmer and the snow finally melted.
Several crews were sent out to the celebration grounds to prepare for the dual New Moon and Ostara celebrations.
The weekend before the first day of spring, Jungkook kept his promise and took Jiyoung and Taehyung out to the farms. They were an hour walk away from the pack square, past the celebration grounds.
Jiyoung was entertained the entire walk by all the early spring flowers that were blooming. She skipped ahead of Jungkook and Taehyung, who strolled along, neither in a hurry to reach their destination.
“So, tell me about the farms,” Taehyung just wanted to hear those dulcet tones of the omega.
“We have about 12,000 square meters of farmland. There is a place where the forest thins out and the soil is arable, so my granddad planted all sorts of vegetables and fruits at first. Then, my father added animals. There are several families who have been out there for years, taking care of everything. They are part of the pack but spend most of their time out here, mostly just joining us for celebrations. The younger wolves get to choose to stay out here or move to the dorms, but most stay here. They may be with the pack mainly to find their mate, then come back out here. Once the frost danger has passed, almost the entire pack comes out here to help plant the year’s crops,” Jungkook told him as they walked along the pack. “Mom will set up rotations to come out every week until June to plant everything, then start harvesting things in July until October. Harvest Moon celebration is held out here usually and it’s a big celebration. You will have so much fun. Everyone does something, even the children.”
The land around started to flatten.
“We’re getting close. Oh, they have the horses out!” Jungkook saw a group of horses grazing in the pastures.
Jiyoung squealed and ran over to climb on a fence. Unlike Taehyung, who had seen them in December, she had never seen them outside of a book. They hadn’t been out when she came the first time to the farm. Jungkook went to stand with her, talking softly and pointing to the horses, who just ignored the two wolves.
Taehyung had to stop and take in the view. They were surrounded by fenced, green pastures, brown, black, and gray horses milling around, neighing softly, and eating grass. The day was warm for mid-March, sunny with fluffy white clouds floating lazily by. There was a slight breeze that wrapped them up in the scent of grass. Jiyoung wore a comfortable dress that she loved and black boots, with her hair in two long plaits, hanging on the fence, Jungkook next to her in jeans and a black shirt, his hair having been recently trimmed so it wasn’t touching his shoulders anymore.
Something about the scene reminded him of his coma dreams, the ones where Jiyoung and Jungkook were both there in wolf form, the same peaceful feeling he had then.
At a word from Jungkook, Jiyoung jumped down off the fence and raced over to her brother.
“Look at the horses, Taetae!”
“I see them. They’re beautiful.”
“C’mon, let’s head to the farms. I think there are a few horses still at the barn,” Jungkook urged them on.
They spent a fun afternoon at the farms. The alpha who ran everything took them on a tour and showed Taehyung around everywhere. Jiyoung was in heaven because she got to meet all the animals and was even allowed to feed one of the lambs that had just been born.
Jungkook arranged times for him to bring Jiyoung back out to learn to ride on one of the ponies they had.
The first day of Spring dawned bright and sunny, mild weather gracing the pack. It was busy as everyone was preparing for the celebration, wagons going back and forth between the grounds and the dining hall.
Hoseok took Taehyung and Jiyoung out early so Jiyoung could do the children’s run, which Jimin strong-armed Taehyung into chaperoning. He and Hoseok scored a spot on the path in the forest and had fun watching all the little wolves follow Jimin. A few toddlers tumbled about, being watched carefully by their own parents.
“I told you this was fun,” Hoseok commented to Taehyung as the run wrapped up.
Taehyung laughed as they walked behind a very tired Seojoon and his still very energetic twins. “Yes, you’re right. They are so cute. I miss when Ji was that little. I was just a kid myself so I didn’t appreciate it as much as I should have.”
Hoseok snorted. “Well, when you find your omega, you’ll get to live that over again. You know, Jungkook wants pups.”
“You too? Byeol won’t ever stop saying anything about him.”
“What is holding you back? Kookie always has heart eyes when he sees you. And you can barely stop staring at him. Do you even plan to ask him?” Hoseok didn’t beat around the bush.
Taehyung sighed. “I want to, but right now what do I have to offer him? He’s the Rose Moon omega and I am just me.”
Hoseok stopped, turning to Taehyung. “And just you is enough. But you are one of the best hunters we have and having you on our crew has solidified and made it better. Kookie doesn’t care about all that extra stuff anyway. He likes you .”
Taehyung shrugged.
“When you’re ready, we’ll help you out.”
They made it back to the clearing and Jiyoung ran up to them, having shifted back and dressed. She chattered about all the things she’d seen and smelled on the run.
“And Minnie wouldn’t let me run after the rabbit, but he said he would take me hunting another time, if you said okay. Can I go?”
“We’ll talk about it later, okay?”
Jiyoung nodded, looking a little dejected.
They had moved near the entrance, not because Taehyung wanted to see Jungkook as soon as he walked in, of course.
He fortunately didn’t have long to wait.
The pack alpha and his family arrived shortly, all clad in spring colors. The pack alpha and Luna in light green, Namjoon and Seokjin in blue and pink, and Jungkook in lavender, a flower crown of lilacs and violets on his head. He looked stunning.
They made their way to the stage, greeting people as they walked by. Jungkook beamed when he saw Taehyung and Jiyoung, giving them a little wave as he passed.
“Greetings, Rose Moon!” Wooshik’s voice boomed throughout the area.
The large number of wolves present all called out their own greeting.
“Welcome to our Ostara and New Moon celebration. We have a lot of amazing food. Thank you to our crews who got everything ready for tonight. We will have a run after dinner for all those interested. But first, I want to remind everyone that the council meeting is coming up. Anyone wanting to go needs to talk to Namjoon. All interested vendors, we’ll meet next week on Monday to discuss logistics. Black Moon wolves, we love having you as part of Rose Moon, but council meeting is a great place to find a mate, if you want, or check out other packs, if you do want to move. You should go at least once anyway. That being said, I will turn it over to our lovely Luna.”
Dahee thanked her mate and turned to the waiting crowd.
“We are so thankful that you are here with us to celebrate the turning of the wheel to Spring, to the element of Air. Together, we will shed the warm comforts of winter and prepare for new growth.” She stepped forward, almost glowing. “We shed our cold, winter skin and activate our sanctity, burning away what no longer serves us, We emerge from our hibernation. We awaken our dormant energy and blossom with spring. Amen, a’ho, so it is.”
The crowd echoed the last line as the three children took their places around the bonfire. On the Luna’s command, they lit their torches and then put them to the logs. Everyone cheered when the fire caught.
“Enjoy dinner! There is soju and wine, but drink wisely!” Wooshik called out. “Please don’t shift if you have more than one glass. And make sure everyone gets home safe.”
Notes:
Invocations and "Amen, Aho, and So It Is" credited to Sage Goddess
Chapter 19: Pink Moon and Going to Council Meetings
Chapter Text
Pink Moon
It was a two-day ride to the location of the council meeting. The week before was a flurry of activity as Taehyung was pulled this way and that to help Namjoon and Yoongi prepare for departure. There were crates to pack full of supplies, vendors to help get their things ready, and luggage to pack.
About seventy-five wolves were going, which Yoongi informed him was a bit more than usual. Several of the Black Moon omegas had taken Wooshik up on his suggestion, including Moonbyul and a few of her friends. The rest of the omegas and all of the betas had decided to stay in Rose Moon. They were happy with life in the pack and were content to remain there.
Mingyu and his family were going, including Eunchae. Hyoshin was attending just to see what it was like.
Taehyung was going mainly because Wooshik said as the former pack alpha’s son, he had to officially turn the territory over to the Rose Moon in front of the council. He had been encouraged to bring Jiyoung, Jungkook reminding him how much fun they had as children.
The rest of the work crew were staying back, Seojoon and Hyungsik because of their mates, Soobin and Yeonjun to help guard the pack under Wonshik, who always took over pack alpha duties while Wooshik was gone.
The entourage left early in the morning one April day after the Full Moon.
Jiyoung and Eunchae, along with a few other unpresented pups and two betas to watch over them, were given space on a large cart, so everyone else could shift for the journey.
Taehyung loved feeling the cool air on his fur as he loped along, following the path set out for them, birdsong accompanying them. He could hear the rustle of the trees and animals as they made their way through the underbrush. The wolves went through the forest for a few hours and then came out onto a flat terrain. In the distance, he saw mountains, which he vaguely remembered seeing before as a child.
Most of the wolves were silent throughout the journey, the only sounds being the exclamations of the pups and the Black Moon omegas whenever they saw something new.
When Wooshik finally decided to stop for the day, the wolves shifted and several quickly set up camp. Wheein hadn’t come, but her second-in-command, Myung had, and the beta directed her small crew in making a fire and cooking a meal for everyone. It was simple fare, but delicious.
While the meal was being cooked, Yoongi and Namjoon showed people how to set up the tents they would be sleeping in if they didn’t want to spend the night outside as a wolf.
Once everyone was gathered for dinner, Jungkook, who had been busy helping Myung, brought plates of meat and rice for Jiyoung and Taehyung, who were sitting on a log, Jiyoung telling her brother about all the amazing things she had seen that day.
“Thank you, Kook,” Taehyung said as he took the plates. “Where’s yours?”
Jungkook smiled and pointed back to the makeshift kitchen. “I wanted to make sure you had food. I’ll go get it now.”
Taehyung handed his plate to Jungkook and sprang up. “I’ll get it.”
The conversation with Hoseok had bolstered the alpha’s confidence and he had started thinking more seriously about asking Jungkook to court him. He wanted to start doing things for the omega and possibly start gifting him small items. Getting his dinner was a good place to start.
Jungkook had taken his seat next to Jiyoung when Taehyung came back, with a plate and three water pouches. Taehyung smiled when he saw how comfortable the two looked and decided to sit on the ground in front of them.
“Here’s your dinner,” he said, trading plates with Jungkook.
The entire group was eating, most eating in silence, famished after such a long day. Once everyone finished, quiet conversations rose around the fire.
“We made good time today. Good job to all of you,” Wooshik addressed them. “We should be able to make it there by noon tomorrow, provided we leave early. We do need all hands on deck tomorrow afternoon and the next day to help get our little campsite set up and our vendors ready for trading. After that, your time is mostly your own. You are also responsible for taking care of your tent, but we ask you to take shifts to help in the kitchen and in the vendor tents. Seokjin and Jimin will arrange a schedule. Namjoon and I will mostly be in meetings every day, but Yoongi and Hoseok are available if you need them. If you find a potential mate, please set up a time so we can meet them. I want to make sure all wolves under my protection are safe if they go elsewhere.”
The Black Moon omegas murmured among each other at that. Taehyung knew the omegas hadn’t always been treated well at his old pack so to have a pack leader wanting to keep them safe was new.
“All right, enjoy your evening.” The pack alpha sat back down and resumed his conversation with his son.
A light dessert of dasik was set out on the tables, Jiyoung running off as soon as she saw it. She brought back a small plate to share with her two favorite people.
“So, tell me more about council meetings,” Taehyung said, munching on the tea cookies.
Jungkook swallowed the bite he had just taken. “Well, it’s generally a big party. There is a large meadow where the borders of Pink Moon, Buck Moon, and Scarlet Moon packs meet. When we left the forest, we entered the outskirts of the Corn Moon pack’s territory. They leave it uninhabited so other packs can cross through. Tomorrow we will pass through Scarlet Moon, who does the same. It’s our own trading path, but those two packs maintain it.”
He stopped to take another bite and moaned. “Myung makes the best cookies. Anyway, all the Korean packs meet there twice a year. We bring our own homemade goods to trade. Rose Moon brings wine, soju, soaps, and candles. The vendors always have a day where they trade amongst each other, then it opens up to everyone getting to try anything they want. There’s probably a few hundred wolves there, which you think would be hard to handle, but it usually goes well. Each pack helps to keep it safe. There are all sorts of foods to try and children running around and music to listen to. New people to meet, if you want.”
“That sounds like a lot,” Taehyung admitted. He wasn’t sure how he felt about so many people being around.
“It can be, but I’ll be with you,” Jungkook leaned forward, then caught himself. “And so will the others. But it is a lot of fun. Many wolves go to find a mate, if that is something you’re interested in.” The omega looked shyly at Taehyung
Taehyung glanced at Jungkook, then looked away. “Not so much. I mean, I got Jiyoung to consider, and I feel like I am still learning my way around Rose Moon. I will court an omega when I am ready.”
“Have you,” Jungkook gulped, “got your eye on anyone?”
Taehyung took a better look at the blushing boy, who was looking down, twisting his fingers together. Maybe Hoseok wasn’t wrong.
“Maybe,” he drawled, smiling, placing his hand on Jungkook’s to stop the nervous twisting. “I just hope he has his eye on me as well.”
At that, Jungkook’s head shot up and he looked Taehyung in the eye. “Oh, I’m sure he does. Why wouldn’t he? You’re incredible,” he breathed.
Taehyung grinned and started to say something when Jiyoung yawned loudly, catching both of their attention.
“Hmm, looks like I need to take this one to bed. May I walk you to your tent?” he asked, standing and picking up the drowsy girl.
Jungkook shook his head. “I’ll help clean up before I go to bed.”
He stood up as well. “Night, Tae. Night, Ji. See you tomorrow.”
The wolves made good time the next day and reached the meeting grounds shortly after lunchtime. Several other packs had already reached and the noise and bustle were more than Taehyung had expected. There was also an abundance of scents that made him wince a bit.
Wooshik led them to the clearing reserved for Rose Moon. It was a large flat area on the edge of the forest with an area for a campfire in the middle.
Everyone shifted back and after a quick lunch, Namjoon and Yoongi led them all in setting up the tents and kitchen area.
“We rough it out here during the week,” Hoseok told Taehyung as they arranged their tent and unpacked a few things. “The river is just through the forest. There was talk about running electricity out here but decided against since no one is out here most of the year. The nearest pack is still a day’s run away.”
Taehyung laughed. “Did you forget where I’m from? Bathing in the river and peeing in the forest was the norm.”
Hoseok snorted. “At least we have outhouses here so no peeing in the forest, unless you really want to. I won’t judge.”
Within a few hours, the campsite was set up, the various tents peppered throughout the clearing. Then, they turned their attention to getting the vendors’ supplies unpacked and organized.
“Tomorrow, we’ll head to the market and set up. Thanks for all your hard work today. The river is just through the forest, the path laid out. We’ll have dinner ready in about an hour so enjoy your time until then,” Wooshik told everyone.
Jungkook and Taehyung had been working in different areas all afternoon. The omega finally was ready to approach the other when an alpha strode into the clearing, followed by betas carrying baskets.
Taehyung glanced at Jungkook, who looked visibly annoyed. All the wolves in the vicinity looked on with interest, including a curious Moonbyul, who was staring at the new alpha, before Hoseok and Jimin quietly motioned for them to leave.
“Jungkook!” he called as he walked up to him. He was as tall as Taehyung, with short black hair and a slim build, dressed in deer hide shirt and pants. He was emitting confident pheromones, but he smelled of gingko, which wasn’t the most pleasant smell.
“Yugyeom,” Jungkook said through gritted teeth. “To what do I owe the pleasure? What was so important you had to come today when we just got here?”
Yugyeom grinned. “Surely you know. I am here to ask if I can court you.”
“You ask every year and I say no every year. When will you stop?” he asked.
Yugyeom never lost his grin, just stepped closer, his voice low. “C’mon, Jungkook, we’ve been friends for years. We would make good mates. Why won’t you say yes?”
“I have parents who dote on me, family and friends that love me, freedom to live my life how I want, and it’s a wonderful life. Why would I give that up to mate someone I am just friends with?” the omega said. “So no. I will not accept your courting.”
With that, he turned and walked off, leaving Yugyeom standing there.
“Ugh,” Jungkook said as he entered his tent, where his dad was talking with Namjoon and Seokjin.
“Was that Yugyeom?” Seokjin asked.
“Yes.”
“Did you turn him down again?”
“Yes. I’m not accepting any courting offers this week. You know that. Especially not his.” He walked over and snuggled next to Seokjin. “Do you need me for anything?”
Wooshik looked fondly at his youngest son. As much as he hoped for a good match for him, he still wasn’t ready to let him go.
“Does Myung need you in the kitchen?” he asked.
“Nope. She is putting the new omegas to work tonight. I’m on schedule for tomorrow morning.”
“Then no. Were you planning to do something?”
Jungkook sat up, hints of jasmine sweetening the air as he smiled. “I wanted to show Tae and Ji where we used to play when we were little. Figured this was the best time.”
Wooshik gave him the go-ahead and Jungkook raced out of the tent, leaving three wolves with knowing smiles behind him.
He went to the kitchen and was wheedling a picnic basket out of Myung when Moonbyul shyly approached him.
“Rose Moon Omega, could I ask you a question?” the brunette questioned. Jungkook looked curiously at her. She never talked to him at all. Their paths almost never crossed.
Myung stepped back to put the basket together.
“Sure,” he said simply.
“Who was that alpha earlier? Is he courting you?”
Jungkook understood what this was. He couldn’t blame her. Yugyeom was handsome enough, but not his type.
“That was Kim Yugyeom from Buck Moon. We are definitely not courting and I have no plans to ever accept his courting.”
“Oh,” Moonbyul tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.
“Would you like me to introduce you? He’s a good alpha, comes from a good pack.” Jungkook left out that his father was the pack alpha, but Yugyeom was the third son. “If you’re interested, I mean.”
“Um, can I get back to you on that? I may see how the week goes first.”
“Definitely. You should enjoy the week without worrying about finding a mate. As my mom always says, the right one will find you.”
The shorter omega smiled and bowed. “Thank you, Rose Moon Omega.”
“Please call me Jungkook,” he said right as Myung came back with his packed basket. Moonbyul nodded and followed the head cook back into the kitchen.
Jungkook found Taehyung and Jiyoung sitting near their tent, both looking a little down and lost.
Jiyoung visibly perked up when she saw Jungkook. “Kookie!” she cried, running over to him. “You’re not going to accept that alpha, are you?” she burst out.
Jungkook laughed. “No,” he replied simply, looking over her head to Taehyung. “I am not interested in accepting his courting.” The siblings smiled at that. “But I am interested in showing you both a special place. I have a picnic dinner if you will follow me.”
Taehyung stood up and walked closer to Jungkook, his hand out for the basket, which the omega handed over. Jiyoung took their hands and together, they left the camp.
“So who was he?” Taehyung asked as they walked along the path, Jiyoung having gotten more interested in exploring ahead of them.
“Yugyeom? We became friends before we presented, after you stopped showing up here. Then we presented and he had it in his head we should mate, even though I always told him no. He just keeps asking at every council. I guess hoping I’ll say yes.”
“Well, Jiyoung is very happy you didn’t accept. She doesn’t want you to leave.”
“Like I would leave,” he scoffed. “Any alpha who wants to mate me will have to move to Rose Moon. But um is she the only one?” he looked at Taehyung through his lashes.
The alpha blushed with the force of that glance. “No,” he admitted quietly.
Jungkook looked forward with a smug smile. “Oh, we’re here.”
Here was a corner of the meeting grounds. A small meadow surrounded by trees, a small pond in the north end. Flowers were everywhere in a riot of color. Yellow daffodils and forsythia. White and red plum blossoms. Purple azaleas. Pink hibiscus and cherry blossoms blooming on the trees. There was even more than Taehyung could recognize.
“Is this?” he asked, surprised.
“It is.” Jungkook affirmed.
Jiyoung stopped, staring. Then she turned to her brother. “Taetae, I dreamt of this place. I was a wolf here with you when you were in a coma. How did I dream of this place?”
“I dreamt of this place too, Ji. I think you came to visit me there.”
“There was a white wolf there too. Kookie, was that you?”
Jungkook approached the little girl. “When your brother and I were little, we would play here during the council week. It was our favorite place. We spent all of our time shifted and playing here. We were best friends, like you and Eunchae. But we only ever saw each other here.”
“Is that how you went to visit Tae in his dreams? Because you were best friends?”
Jungkook smiled, “Yes. I think so. We may have forgotten but the moon remembered for us. Now, shall we explore and then eat?”
A second later, there was a small grey and black wolf standing where the little girl had been previously. She looked at the two adults with a twinkle in her eye, huffed at them, and then took off running.
Jungkook and Taehyung looked at each other, laughing, their combined scents pine and jasmine wafting on the air, full of happiness.
“Shall we join her?” Taehyung invited.
The three wolves enjoyed an hour of gamboling in the meadow before they shifted back and sat down to eat, famished.
Jungkook told them more of what to expect over the next week and all the goods that he knew would be there.
When the sun started to set, they made their way back to the campsite, Taehyung dropping Jiyoung off at their tent before walking Jungkook back to his.
“Thank you for taking us there. I still can’t believe we all dreamt about that meadow. What do you think it means?” he wondered.
Jungkook shook his head. “I’m not sure,” he replied slowly. He wasn’t if fated mates existed or if he believed in them, so he was shy about bringing that possibility to the alpha. What if he laughed about it? “But I’m glad you liked it. See you tomorrow, Tae.”
The omega slipped into his tent with a wave, leaving a very happy Taehyung behind him.
As he wandered back to his tent, he made a very important decision. He was going to ask the Rose Moon Omega if he could court him.
But he needed a plan first.
And Jiyoung’s approval.
Chapter 20: FINALLY!
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The next morning, Taehyung sprang out of bed. He wanted to talk to his sister as soon as he could, so he could start planning everything. He was sure she would be fine with his asking Jungkook if he could court him, but he wanted to be sure.
She was still asleep so he stole out of the tent quietly and went to where they had a light breakfast set up. He grabbed two trays and headed back.
Once he got back, he set them down and gently shook the little girl awake.
“Morning, glory,” he smiled as she groggily sat up. “I brought breakfast.”
“G’morning, Taetae.” She grabbed a piece of buttered toast and took a big bite.
“Hey sis, can I talk to you?” he asked as he ate his own toast, smothered with strawberry jam. He just knew Jungkook had made sure to pack the delicious spread for him.
Jiyoung nodded as she reached for another piece of toast. “What about?"
“Um, you like living in Rose Moon? And you don’t want to live anywhere else or go back to Black Moon?”
“I LOVE living in Rose Moon. I don’t want to live anywhere else. Are we leaving?” She asked, suddenly tearing up. Taehyung moved to sit next to her and put his arm around her.
“No, sweetie. I love being in Rose Moon as well. And I know you love your Kookie and couldn’t bear to be apart from him.”
“Kookie is the best. I don’t ever want to leave him.” She replied.
“Well, you know, I like Kookie too and I was thinking of asking to court him.”
Jiyoung looked at him with wide eyes. “You can’t. I was going to ask him when I presented.”
Taehyung laughed as he hugged her close. “Sweetheart, that’s not for at least another six years. Jungkook will more than likely be mated by then. But if I ask to court him, and he says yes, he would come live with the two of us. In our own house.”
Jiyoung’s mouth dropped open. “Both of us? I won’t have to live with someone else once you get mated?”
“Who told you that?” Taehyung asked, shocked.
“One of the omegas back in Black Moon. She said she would mate you as long as I was gone.” Jiyoung was crying now.
Taehyung picked her up and nestled her on his lap. “Jiji, it’s always been you and me and it will always be you and me. If any omega can’t accept that, they are not the one for us.”
The little girl nodded as she cried into Taehyung’s chest. He just stroked her back and rested his face in her hair, murmuring sweet words. His heart was heavy as he had never realized she was carrying that burden around. He knew omegas didn’t want to mate him because of her but to actually consider making her live elsewhere?
When she was all cried out, she sat up and looked at her brother. She wiped her tears away and sighed. “I guess if I can’t court Kookie, you’re the next best option. So yes.”
“Yes?” Taehyung smiled.
“Yes, go court Kookie.”
Taehyung’s laughter rang out in the tent as he stood up and swung her around. “Thanks, pup.”
Hoseok walked in right at that moment. “What is going on here?”
Jiyoung, giggling from being twirled around, held her hand out to Hoseok. “Taetae is courting Kookie.”
At Hoseok’s confused expression, Taehyung explained. “I’m going to ask to court Jungkook and this little pup just gave me her approval to go ahead.”
“Finally!” Hoseok grinned. “You got a plan yet?”
“Nope. Just decided to ask last night.”
“Well, first you need to ask his dad if you can ask him. Also, I came to get you because Wooshik needs to talk to you anyway so this will be a great time to ask. And you, miss,” he looked at Jiyoung. “need to go meet up with the other children. I think there are a lot of fun things planned for you today.”
Jiyoung hugged her brother and then leapt out of his arms. She went to change in the corner area they had sectioned off for her privacy.
“Ji?” Taehyung asked as she got ready.
“Yes, Taetae?” Her head popped around the corner of the curtain.
“Not a word to anyone, okay? I want this to be a surprise for Kookie.”
She slipped out of the area and held up her pinky. “I swear.” They locked pinkies and then she let go and took off.
Hoseok and Taehyung followed behind her at a slower pace. They went to Wooshik’s tent where he was enjoying a cup of coffee outside with Namjoon.
“Oh, Taehyung. Perfect. I needed to talk to you about Black Moon.”
“Yes sir but I needed to ask you something first.”
“You look solemn. This must be serious. Let’s go inside.”
The tent for the pack alpha was much larger than Hoseok’s. There was a large opening in the middle and it seemed to be separated into three sleeping areas.
Namjoon looked on with interest.
“Where is Jungkook?” Taehyung asked. He didn’t want the omega around.
“Kitchen duty. Did you need to talk to him?”
“No sir. It is about him.” Taehyung’s pine scent raised a little, tinged with nervousness.
The older alpha smiled, waiting patiently. He released a little of his own pheromones, intending to calm the young man. “Yes?”
“Sir, I would like…” Taehyung stopped to take a deep breath. This was nerve-wracking. Not only was Wooshik Jungkook’s father. He was the pack alpha. If he said no, what would happen? Would they have to leave? Hoseok patted him on the shoulder. “I wouldliketoaskifIcancourtJungkook.” The words came out in a rush.
The three alphas laughed softly. They could all tell how anxious Taehyung was.
Taehyung took another deep breath, stood up straight, and tried again, “I would like to ask if I can court Jungkook.”
He looked at the ground, bowing his head slightly, not looking up until he heard actual laughter.
“Finally,” Wooshik shouted. “The elders and my mate won’t stop asking when you are going to court Kook.”
“Jin and Jimin too.” Namjoon added. “He won’t admit it but I think Yoongi has been waiting for this as well.”
Wooshik addressed Taehyung again. “You asking me was not necessary, but I appreciate it. I learned long ago Jungkook will accept the alpha he wants with or without my approval. However, you do have it. I would be honored to have you as my son’s mate and part of my family.”
Taehyung sighed and a boxy smile broke out. That sounded like Jungkook. “Thank you, sir. I want to plan the best way to ask and get courting gifts so please don’t say anything.”
“I won’t,” Wooshik told him. “At least not to Kook. My mate on the other hand? She’ll kick me out if she finds out I knew and never told her.”
The four men laughed at that, knowing how Dahee was really the one in charge.
“Now, as to Black Moon, you will have to hand it over to Rose Moon officially at a council meeting this week. Has that changed?”
“No, sir. I still want to do that. Just let me know when.”
Wooshik clapped him on the shoulder. “All right, son. I will do that. I believe we are all setting up our vendors today so go find Yoongi. He’ll tell you where to go.”
Taehyung walked out on shaky legs. He couldn’t believe his luck. Now he had to plan the best courting offer. He didn’t know how but he knew when.
The Rose Moon . The night Jungkook’s great-great-grandparents met. It was a little over a month away. That would give him plenty of time to find courting gifts and maybe get started on a little house that could be a home for the three of them.
Most of the wolves spent the day setting up the ten vendors who had stalls.
Jungkook was helping Chaewon and Kayee set up the racks and tables of clothes they were offering for trade, along with their alteration services, when yet another omega stopped by the tent for a look. They had been coming by in twos and threes all afternoon, just strolling by, their scents a little cloying.
He placed the clothes he had just folded down and turned to Chaewon.
“Who are all these omegas and why do they keep stopping by? Everyone knows stalls aren’t open today,” he said exasperatedly.
Kayee laughed as he walked by, holding a stack of pants. “Must be our new helper,” he pointed with his head to the corner where Taehyung was making sure the tentpoles were secure.
He was dressed in blue jeans that fit him just right and a tight black shirt, his black hair waving in the light breeze. He looked up then and met Jungkook’s eyes. The alpha gave him a heartstopping boxy smile before returning to his task.
Jungkook smiled back and then lost it when he turned back around. “Hmmph. They better not try anything.”
Chaewon and Kayee burst into giggles at Jungkook’s face.
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“I can’t believe I had to find out from Hobi that you are going to ask to court Kook!” Seokjin said dramatically as he burst into Taehyung’s tent later that day, followed closely by Jimin.
Taehyung looked around frantically. “Shh. It’s supposed to be a secret.”
“Aish, Kookie isn’t here. He got caught up helping Chaewon.” Jimin informed him.
“We should have been told first,” Seokjin stated.
Taehyung just stared at him. “I’m so sorry,” he started sarcastically, “but I had my own family member I needed to ask first.”
Seokjin’s expression immediately softened. “How is she?”
“Sad she can’t court him herself, but ecstatic that I will.” He replied.
“Who says she can’t court him?” Jimin asked. “You two are a package deal so why can’t she give him her own gifts?”
The black-haired alpha grinned. “She would absolutely love that.”
“Do you know when?” Seokjin questioned.
“Rose Moon.” The two omegas nodded approvingly,
“Do you have gifts?” Jimin asked.
“I just decided to ask so no.”
“We’ll help you,” Seokjin decided.
“Shouldn’t I do that myself?” Taehyung wondered.
Seokjin and Jimin started laughing.
“You will be. We’re just picking out your options. Like a curated selection. Yoongi’s parents have a courting gifts section in the store so I help alphas all the time with picking out gifts. Granted, handmade is better but there are just some things we can’t make ourselves. I have to go look for inventory anyway while we are here. Jinnie and I can find items for you and Mingyu at the same time. He’s going to officially ask Chaewon at Flower Moon,” Jimin told him.
“Hmm, you need to start making your interest known. Not so subtle. Fixing plates, helping him with things, maybe some flowers or pretty rocks—Kookie loves crystals.” Seokjin pondered. “I know some vendors who also have some beautiful things like combs and jewelry.”
“Do you think he’ll say yes?” Taehyung asked the question that has been on his mind all day.
The two omegas looked at him kindly. “Yes. I shouldn’t tell you this,” Seokjin said conspiratorially, “but he never gave up hope that that black wolf, his best friend for years, would show up again. He has never been interested in any of the alphas that try to court him. He looked for you every year we came here, never knowing how close you actually were.”
Taehyung was stunned. He had never really forgotten about his childhood best friend, but the white wolf had been regulated to a back part of his memory due to grief and being responsible for a baby. But to find out Jungkook kept looking for him? He wasn’t expecting that. His parents had believed they were fated mates, but he had never been sure if he believed in the concept. Maybe he needed to rethink that.
“Tomorrow, Jin and I will take a look around to find some gifts.” Jimin told him. “Now, let’s go eat.”
The three men walked out of the tent and over to the dining area, where Jiyoung and Eunchae were helping with the younger pups under the watchful eye of Mingyu’s mother. The beta couple that had been brought to watch over the children were sitting nearby, enjoying their dinner and child-free conversation.
Taehyung looked around for Jungkook, who he found coming out of the kitchen with trays in hand.
Jimin nudged Taehyung. “Be a great opportunity to start. Go help him.”
Taehyung stumbled a bit forward, almost tripping over his own feet in his haste to get to Jungkook.
“Hey, Jungkook,” he asked, his pine scent tinged with a bit of nervousness. The omega glanced up, smiling and his eyes lighting up when he saw who it was.
“Hi, Tae!”
“Need a hand?” Taehyung held his hands out for one of the trays.
Jungkook kept smiling as he willingly let Taehyung take one. They hadn’t finished the afternoon together as he had stayed with Chaewon and Kayee while Taehyung had been put to work getting all the boxes to the vendor section once the tents and tables had been set up.
He led Taehyung to the long trestle table where they were laying out all the food for the wolves to help themselves. There was rice, dried meats, vegetables, and cups of water.
“We eat pretty simply when we are here. But the hosting pack always does a big dinner for the last night. This year it is Wind Moon. And I saw Salmon Moon and Sturgeon Moon are both already here. That means fresh and dried fish!” He said happily, as he placed down his tray and motioned for Taehyung to do the same. They headed back to the kitchen for more trays.
Taehyung was confused. “But we can get carp and bass in our river.”
“I know. But they get salmon and sturgeon, hence their names. Plus, they are closer to the sea so sometimes they bring clams or oysters. They also trade with some of the sailors that come to our shores and bring the goods here.”
“Sea?” Taehyung queried.
Jungkook giggled. “All the rivers in Korea flow to the sea, which is a wide expanse of water. People build these things called boats and then go across the sea to other places.”
Taehyung stopped walking, trying to wrap his head around the new things he had just learned.
Jungkook turned around to see the dumbstruck alpha. He walked back to him and stood close, his light jasmine scent tickling the other’s nose. “One day, we’ll have to take you and Ji to the beach. You’ll love it. It’s one of my favorite places to go, but I haven’t been in a few years.”
Taehyung nodded as he breathed in the scent of the omega. At that moment, he would agree to go anywhere that he asked him to.
After dinner, where Taehyung had made sure to make a plate for Jungkook and kept it filled, Jiyoung begged the two to go back to the meadow. Neither wolf had the heart to tell her so they went for an hour to enjoy shifting and playing.
The little girl presented Jungkook with a bouquet of wildflowers. She had been enthusiastic about helping Taehyung court the omega and already planned out little gifts, like flowers, and baked goods when they went back home.
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The next day passed quickly as the vendors all met up to trade with each other, Seokjin and Jimin having gone as well.
When they got back, they told Taehyung to meet at his tent after dinner. After ensuring Jiyoung was taken care of, he went there and found Hoseok and Yoongi sitting outside, enjoying a bottle of soju. Jimin and Seokjin walked up a minute later.
“I think we got a pretty good haul. Let’s go inside.” Jimin said, holding up a satchel.
The wolves followed Jimin and he proudly displayed his wares once inside. There were several pieces of jewelry, musical instruments, powders, combs, and gemstones.
Yoongi picked up a wooden comb and snorted. “I could do better,” he said before putting it down.
Taehyung took the comb and inspected it, a memory coming back to him. “My dad taught me to whittle. I think his tools might still be in the chest I have.” He remembered sitting with his dad as a child, knife in hand, learning to carve the wood into shapes. The remembrance didn’t hurt as much as it had in the past.
“You want to whittle him a comb?” Hoseok asked.
Taehyung nodded. “I’ll need help though, if you can help me, Yoongi. Maybe we could whittle a rose or something on the top.”
“Be glad to help, kid.” Yoongi told him. “I’ve got some walnut and maple back home that would be great for this.”
“OK, that is one gift squared away. Do you see anything else?”
Taehyung ran his hand over the items, stopping on two stones that had been carved into the shape of a wolf howling, one pink and one white flecked with black. “What are these?”
“Rose quartz. Signifies love.” Jimin pointed to the pink one. “Rainbow moonstone the other. New beginnings. Aren’t they beautiful?”
Taehyung nodded. They felt electric to his touch. “I like them.”
He also picked out a windchime that had a moon as the windcatcher attached to the center string and something that Seokjin told him was rose incense.
“I don’t see anything else though.” He said.
“It’s ok. Mingyu still has to pick a few things out and the rest will be put in the store. They are all good gifts, Just not for you. I knew you would love those wolves, though.” Jimin’s eyes twinkled as he motioned to Seokjin to hand him the satchel he was holding, “I did find these. And I really think I outdid myself here.”
Three boxes of varying lengths were placed in front of Taehyung.
“I went to Jungjoo from Flower Moon—he’s the best jewelry maker—and told him it was for an important courting. He gave me those.”
Jimin motioned for him to open them.
The longest box was opened first. It held a necklace, a silver chain with a rainbow moonstone pendant carved in the shape of a rose.
The second box held a bracelet made of moonstone and rose quartz beads, with a moonstone rose in the center.
In the last box was a ring, made of silver carved into two hands holding a moonstone.
They were all stunning.
“He said he made them for the Rose Moon omega years ago and kept them safe all this time. He had a dream and said the Moon Goddess told him to bring them this year.”
Taehyung felt a thrill as he inspected the three pieces. They were perfect. And he knew the order he would give them in, the ring being the last.
“Thank you,” he said.
Jimin beamed before packing his chosen gifts into one satchel and the rest into another. “Do you want to keep them?”
“Can you hold onto them for me? I don’t want Ji seeing them just yet.”
“Sure.”
Notes:
He is finally going to ask! Just wait a little longer, okay?
And my sweet Ji, thinking her Taetae would ever abandon her!
Chapter Text
“Morning, Tae. Want to go explore the vendors with me?” Jungkook asked when they met up at breakfast the next morning.
“Morning, Kook. I need to check with Yoongi if there is anything for me today.” Taehyung took three plates and started filling them up.
“You don’t have anything. I already checked,” the omega said impishly as he took the plate Taehyung had made for him.
Taehyung motioned him to follow where Jiyoung was waiting.
“What are you up to today, Ji?” Jungkook asked, sitting next to the little girl.
“We get to shift and explore the forest between here and the river!” She said, grabbing a piece of toast off the plate Taehyung held for her.
“All of you?” he questioned. “Who is watching all of you?”
“Bora and Chanwoo of course, but Eunchae’s mom is going with us too.” Jiyoung referenced the beta couple that was watching all the children—there were only about five unpresented pups but from Taehyung’s experience, he knew they could all be a handful.
“All right. You be careful though.” He leaned over and tickled the little girl, who giggled.
“I will. Can we go to the meadow after dinner again?”
“Maybe. So, Tae, now that Ji is squared away, will you go to the market with me?” Jungkook asked, looking at the alpha, who flushed with the directness of that gaze.
He nodded and stuffed his toast in his mouth, lest he say something stupid.
The market was a collection of tents near the hall for the council meetings. Taehyung had only seen his pack’s section and was surprised at how large it actually was. There were easily a hundred tents set up.
“Most wolves spend the whole week just exploring the market or hanging out. They have events for unmated wolves to meet and then starting tonight, the packs that make alcohol host an event and let everyone sample the drinks. We’re the third night so we’ll all be here,” Jungkook informed him.
As they walked, Jungkook noticed all the omegas looking their way. Taehyung was very handsome so he understood their attention but that didn’t mean he liked it.
He found the tent he was looking for and pulled Taehyung towards it.
“This is Oak Moon. They polish and carve gemstones. I almost always get something here,” he explained.
Trays of tumbled crystals were laid out on a table, arranged in a rainbow of colors. Another table held crystals that had been carved into animals, flowers, and shapes.
“Oh,” Jungkook squealed, picking up a black stone that was in the shape of a rose. “This is black moonstone. Wouldn’t this be perfect for Ji? Honor her old pack while recognizing her new one.”
He held it out for Taehyung to admire. The blackish-gray crystal gleamed in the sunlight. It had lighter striations of a peach color crossing every which way. There was even a chatoyance, or silvery flash, when Jungkook moved it this way and that.
“It’s beautiful,” Taehyung replied.
“When is her birthday?”
“June 13.”
Jungkook hummed and held onto the stone as he looked around some more.
They spent almost an hour in the small tent as Jungkook inspected any stone that caught his eye. He ended up with a small stash of crystals, some tumbled and some carved.
“Do we just take things?” Taehyung whispered. He saw a beautiful purple stone Jungkook called amethyst that had been carved into a scene of a small pup curled up next to a larger one. He wanted it for Jiyoung.
“I’ll give a card to the seller and they can redeem it at one of our tents. Do you want that?” He asked. “It’s precious. Is it for Ji?”
“Yes. Something representing me and her.” Taehyung wrapped his large hand around it, almost making it disappear. Jungkook tore his eyes away.
“She’ll love it. I think I’m done here. I saw Nayeon in the corner, so we’ll go talk to her.” At Taehyung’s questioning look, he explained, “She runs this tent. I told you I come here every council meeting and almost always find something. She is the reason I love crystals and gemstones so much.”
The older wolf was indeed in the corner. Her face lit up when she saw Jungkook.
“Jungkook! I thought I would see you yesterday! Why would you make an old wolf wait?” She held her arms out and Jungkook went into them for a quick hug.
“I wanted to, but my dad needed me to help him and Joon prepare for the meetings. I also wanted to bring one of our new members to see your items. This is Kim Taehyung, formerly of Black Moon.”
“Kim Taeyoung’s son?” she perked up. “I knew your parents. But,” she turned to Jungkook, her face falling. “I thought all the Kims died in the plague.”
“That’s what we were told.”
“Just my parents. My grandmother, sister, and I survived.” Taehyung added.
Nayeon’s eyes filled with tears. “It was such a blow to everyone. Your parents were so respected. They still are.”
They stood silently for a moment, Nayeon obviously lost in a memory. Then she shook herself and said, “Let me see what you found.”
Jungkook handed everything to her to go through.
“These are all wonderful choices.” She told them.
“This one is for Tae’s little sister,” Jungkook reached for Taehyung’s hand to grab the wolf carving. The touch was so quick that he couldn’t even enjoy the sensation.
Nayeon cooed. “This is one of my favorites. How old is she?”
“Ten,” Taehyung still had not gotten used to people knowing his parents and remembering them so fondly.
“Oh, this is perfect then. You take this as my gift, okay?” She put it back into his hand and closed his fingers around it.
“I can’t do that,” he stuttered.
“Yes you can. Goddess knows I get enough from Rose Moon just from this one here. I hope you brought the rose scented soaps again.”
“I made sure they packed a crate just for you.” Jungkook grinned.
While they talked, Nayeon had wrapped everything up and handed it all back to Jungkook, who put his treasures into his satchel.
“Thank you,” she said as they prepared to take their leave.
They had almost made it to the opening when she called out, “Jungkook?”
He looked back at the wolf. “Yes?”
“I approve,” she grinned deviously as Jungkook flushed and hurried a very confused Taehyung out.
They spent the morning wandering among the stalls, stopping at anything that looked interesting. Jungkook found a few things he wanted to take home, oils and lotions, hairpins, and a beautiful scarf.
Lunch was held at the Salmon Moon’s tent. They had installed several tables to sit at and a handwritten menu. Jungkook got to witness Taehyung trying salmon for the first time.
“What do you think?”
Taehyung mulled it over. “It’s not too bad. Probably not something I would want to eat all the time though. Ji might like it. Do kids come to the market?”
“Everyone comes to the market. We could bring her maybe tomorrow. Or after you speak at council. She’d want to be with you at the meeting anyway.”
After lunch, they explored another section of the market, this one being mostly clothes and shoes. The two stopped in to see Chaewon and Kayee who were incredibly busy with a tent full of people shopping. A few omegas were stationed in the back working on alterations and repairs that had already been dropped off.
“Kook, when is your day to help? We need you.” Kayee implored as he whisked by with a pile of clothes.
“Tomorrow.” Jungkook told him before he led Taehyung back out.
“You would think our wine and soju would be our most important things to trade,” he said, “but no, it’s our clothes and soaps. People love our alterations. Sometimes we have so much, we have to take bundles home and send them back later. Chaewon’s final day sewing lessons are always full too.”
Taehyung found a sturdy pair of black boots in another stall and a few pairs of shoes that would fit his sister.
The afternoon passed quickly and as they were heading back to camp, a beautiful, willowy blonde omega walked up to them.
“Hello, Rose Moon omega,” she said to Jungkook, bowing her head slightly.
“Pink Moon omega,” he said as formally, a neutral expression on his face.
Then she turned to Taehyung. “Kim Taehyung? I am Hayun, from Pink Moon. I hear you accepted my pack’s courting and I am pleased to know you will be my mate. With me by your side, we will be able to bring Black Moon back to prominence.”
“My mate?”
“His mate?”
They spoke at the same time.
“Yes. Our courting gift was dropped off and the little girl thanked us kindly.” Hayun said, a smug smile on her face. She stood straight.
Jungkook stared daggers at her and then at Taehyung.
“You left a courting gift with an unpresented pup?” he asked, his jasmine scent starting to burn around the edges, as he began to walk forward.
Taehyung grasped his arm and stopped him, facing Hayun.
“Yes, she said she was your sister.” The blonde omega still looked pleased with herself.
“That little girl is ten and comes from a pack where the alpha does the courting, not the omega. She likes to give presents and thought you were doing the same. I’ll have the gifts returned to you as she has no power to accept anything on my behalf. I also have no intention of accepting a courting offer from an omega I do not know nor do I have an interest in reviving a dead pack. That is now Rose Moon territory.” He said, bowing to the shocked blonde and steering Jungkook around her. “Kook, let’s go see what else Ji accepted on my behalf.”
“Who is stupid enough to leave a courting gift with a child?” Jungkook whispered as they walked quickly away.
“Fortunately, that was the only thing left with her,” Seokjin told them when they got back, “but at least three other offers were given to Wooshik today at meetings. They all seem to think they will be resuscitating Black Moon and that their omegas will be the pack Luna.”
Taehyung explained to Jiyoung what the gifts signified and she cried and apologized. She had heard them say Taehyung’s name and told them he was her brother. The wolves had asked if they could leave something with her and she agreed.
“I’ll take it back, but you need to tell Wooshik if he can refuse any offers on your behalf.” Seokjin stated.
Jungkook soothed a crying Jiyoung while Seokjin directed the removal of the gifts and Taehyung went to find the pack alpha.
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“I won’t make Hayun’s mistake. I’ll ask him directly,” Jungkook heard someone say.
He looked up from his alterations to see two omegas talking as they looked through the clothing racks.
“So far he’s always with the Rose Moon omega. What makes you think you have a chance? Oh, this shirt is lovely. I think red is my color.” The second speaker held a shirt up to his chest.
“I’m just as attractive as him,” the omega insisted.
Jungkook looked closely. He was tall and could be considered attractive in a thin, frail sort of way, but compared to Rose Moon omegas, even Moonbyul and her little pack of followers were prettier.
“We can lead Black Moon to stellar heights. But that little sister can stay in Rose Moon. I don’t need any pups that aren’t mine.”
At that, Jungkook stood up, dropping the clothes in his hands on his stool. He cleared his throat so the two omegas saw him. The one wanting to court Taehyung went pale.
“First of all, Taehyung turned Black Moon over to my dad so no making it stellar again. Second of all, his little sister is adorable and you should be so lucky to know her. Third of all,” Jungkook looked the omega up and down, “You don’t hold a candle to any of our omegas.”
After that condemnation was done in a quiet voice so as to not attract attention, Jungkook picked his alterations up and sat back down, like the two omegas weren’t even there. He didn’t even pay attention to them leaving.
Jimin waited a few minutes and then asked, “You okay, Kookie?”
“No,” he muttered. “Too many omegas want my alpha. Why can’t I ask to court him?” He stuck himself with the needle. “Ow.”
Jimin laughed and went back to his own alterations.
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“Kim Taehyung,” an older alpha called out.
Taehyung was at the council meeting. Jiyoung, Jungkook and the rest of his friends were there as well.
Kayee had dressed him all in black, which complemented his honey skin, and styled his black hair, bangs swept off his face. He looked solemn as he stood up and took the podium.
An alpha elder from Wind Moon was the one to question him.
“Name and pack.”
“Kim Taehyung, son of Kim Taeyoung, formerly of Black Moon, now of Rose Moon.”
“Are you here today to accept leadership of Black Moon?” the elder asked as a swell of murmurs swept through the crowd, mostly from omegas. Council meetings, while always open to the public, were never well attended, but this day, it was packed.
“No,” he replied curtly. “I am here to turn the territory over to Rose Moon, who rightfully conquered it after the then-pack alpha’s son tried to kidnap their omega. I would like to declare Black Moon as no more.”
The crowd grew louder at that. The Wind Moon alpha quieted them all with a gesture.
“You do this of your own free will?”
“Yes.”
“All right. All of Black Moon territory now belongs to Rose Moon and will no longer be recognized as its own pack but instead placed in the annuals of history. On a personal note, I knew your parents and grandparents and I am glad the stories of the entire Kim line being gone were false.”
Taehyung bowed his head. “Thank you, elder. May I say something else?”
“You may,” the elder acquiesced.
“I am grateful for all the courting offers that have been sent my way this week. However, I reject them all. I have lost enough in my life and I refuse to lose the chance to choose my own omega to court.”
Jungkook swore Taehyung’s eyes flickered towards him before looking forward again.
“ That’s why you can’t ask to court him, Kookie,” Jimin whispered to the omega.
“He better ask me soon then. Else I might just say yes to Yugyeom.”
Jimin snorted. “No, you won’t but give it a little more time. You haven’t even known each other six months.”
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“ However I reject them all,” Mingyu did his best impression of Taehyung later that night when they were working at the tent making up cups of soju and wine later that evening. Hoseok and Yoongi burst into laughter.
“That was great,” Yoongi told him as he put the cups on trays to be passed out.
“When are you going to wolf up and ask Kook? The heart eyes you give him are killing me,” Mingyu started working on another tray.
Taehyung realized he hadn’t said anything to the other alpha and looked around quickly before leaning forward and whispering, “Rose Moon.”
Mingyu’s head snapped up and he almost spilled the bottle he was pouring from as he gasped, “Seriously?” He put the bottle down and hugged Taehyung, pulling him away from the others in the back of the tent. “So proud of you! You got gifts yet?”
“Shhh he doesn’t know. And yes, I have several. Jimin and Jin helped me out.”
“They are the best. Jimin showed me some items he found for me to give to Wonnie, in addition to some handmade items I am working on. And the house I am building, of course.”
“You can gift a house?” Taehyung asked, surprised. He really needed to get started on building his then.
“You can, but knowing Kook, he already has ideas and the place picked out. Wonnie and I may not be officially courting yet, but she’s still had a lot of input on the design. I’m asking her on Flower Moon. Lots of wolves ask at that time and we have a hunt at the celebration. Does our pack alpha know?”
Taehyung stopped. “Yes. He gave me his approval. I want to ask on Rose Moon because of his great-great-grandparents but can I participate in the hunt as well?”
“Oh, Kook will love that you incorporate his history. You can totally participate. It is mainly for those who asked officially but it is also used as a way to show interest.”
“Hey, Moonbyul,” Jungkook called out from the front of the tent. The brunette had just walked in to take her turn serving the drinks to the wolves who came to sample.
“Hi, Jungkook,” she said softly. She looked really pretty with her hair down and her long blue dress.
“So, how is the week going? Any interesting wolves?”
Moonbyul blushed. “Not really. Except that one who came to camp the first day. I have seen him a few times but we haven’t talked.”
Jungkook nodded knowingly, a devious smile on his face right as Chaewon came up to him with a full tray of drinks.
“Well you’re in luck. Yugyeom happens to be here at a table in the back. Wonnie, can you let Moonbyul take that tray to him?”
Chaewon saw the gleam in Jungkook’s eye and grinned. “Certainly. Here you go,” she handed the tray to the speechless girl. “Knock ‘im dead.”
The two omegas watched the petite girl take it and weave her way to where Yugyeom sat with his friends and two older brothers. They saw her shyly offer the cups to the wolves and most of them took one with a nod of thanks, but they saw Yugyeom look at Moonbyul with a stunned expression.
He spoke to her briefly and she responded before bowing slightly and heading back to the front.
“How did it go?” they asked eagerly, Chaewon taking the tray and handing it off to another omega who was walking by.
“He asked my name and if it was my first time at council. Then he asked if I was going to the dance.”
Jungkook and Chaewon whooped. “Oh we will make you the belle of the ball,” Chaewon told her. “I always bring some fancy clothes for the dance. Now, let’s go pass out more alcohol.”
She looped her arm through the other girl’s and dragged her off.
Jungkook felt happy for Moonbyul. He realized her life had been turned upside down and he hoped that this would turn out to be good for her. Yugyeom was a great alpha, just not his alpha.
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The last day of the council meetings dawned bright and cool. The previous day had been taking all the stalls down and setting up rows and rows of tables. Wind Moon was the pack in charge of the last night’s dinner and Jieun, who had come with Eunwoo, recruited the Rose Moon wolves to help out with the hunting and preparing of the meals. She and Hoseok had spent a lot of time together, along with their parents, during the week.
The pack alpha gave a short speech, thanking everyone for making the council week another rousing success, then he invited Eunwoo and Jieun to the stage.
“I wanted to let everyone know that Eunwoo and Jieun, our future Wind Moon pack alpha and Luna, are expecting their first pup in October. Please join me in congratulating them!”
All the wolves cheered and clapped. Chaewon and Kayee immediately started making plans for baby clothes, shoes, and blankets to be sent as a gift.
Hoseok was over the moon with the knowledge that he would be an uncle. The happy couple had shared the news with him earlier in the week.
Most wolves rested on the last day before the dance, which was mainly for unmated wolves, but all were welcome. Those who chose not to go usually helped get everything set up.
Jungkook and Chaewon took it upon themselves to get Moonbyul and four other unmated omegas ready for the evening. They were also going, but they had a mission of getting Moonbyul noticed even more by Yugyeom.
“This is the night to really dress up if you are looking for a mate. I found this one and I think it might be perfect for you,” Chaewon held up a pale pink dress with beading on the bodice and a flared skirt with a tulle overlay.
She helped Moonbyul put it on and then stood back to look at her.
The omega’s hair was kept down, but parted on the side and her bangs swept to the side of her face.
“You look like a princess,” she breathed, Moonbyul blushing.
Jungkook walked back in with one of the male omegas, who he had dressed in an all-black ensemble that made the omega look even more delicate. The other girls were wearing fancy dresses that Kayee had brought in.
“You’re all stunning. Everyone is going to go gaga for you.” Jungkook told them.
“We have to compete with you though,” one of the girls said.
Jungkook laughed. He was dressed simply in a blue satin shirt and black slacks.
“I’m just going because it’s fun. I don’t want any attention.”
Jimin stuck his head in at that moment. “You ready?”
Outside were the pack alpha to be and his Luna to be, Yoongi, Hoseok, Mingyu, and Kayee.
Jungkook looked around. “Where is Tae?”
Hoseok laughed. “Making sure Ji is taken care of.”
Just then, Taehyung walked up and Seokjin let out a low whistle.
Jungkook turned and felt his mouth go dry.
Taehyung was also dressed casually but he was in a white button-down shirt tucked into gray slacks. The shirt was open at the collar and his bangs were parted on the side, a sliver of forehead showing. His expression when he saw Jungkook mirrored the one that Jungkook was sure was on his face.
He moved to stand next to the alpha. “You look very handsome,” he murmured softly.
Taehyung smiled. “You as well.”
“Will you save a dance for me?” Jungkook touched his arm lightly.
“I’ll save all of them for you,” Taehyung replied. Then his boxy smile got wider. “But I don’t know how to dance.”
Jungkook’s laugh rang out in the clear evening.
“No worries, alpha. I’ll show you,”
The group headed off the short distance to the market area, which had been transformed into an area with glowing lanterns everywhere, long tables laid out with drinks and snacks, and a stage where a band of wolves played musical instruments. Some other wolves were already dancing on a makeshift dance floor.
The Black Moon wolves all looked around with open mouths and wide eyes. They had never seen anything like this, even Taehyung. His parents had never taken him to the dances in the past.
“All right, everyone go have fun!” Jungkook pushed the omegas forward so they could be seen by everyone, then he took Taehyung’s hand and led him to the tables where they got a drink.
Taehyung grabbed a plate and loaded it up with snacks before handing it to Jungkook. “You all right with sharing?”
He nodded as they went to the section Jimin had blocked off for their group. He had found the best spot to people watch. The two sat down and shared the food on the plate while they kept an eye on the omegas. Everyone had become invested in helping them find a mate.
Side by side, shoulders touching, they glanced at one another every so often.
“Did you enjoy your first council meeting as a presented wolf?” Jungkook asked.
Taehyung looked around at all the wolves mingling or dancing and thought over the past week. A lot had happened. He had decided to court Jungkook. He revisited places from the past. He found people who knew his parents. He got courting offers and he officially joined a new pack.
“Yeah, I did. But I kind of miss just running around as a kid like you and I did. How about you? Did you have a good time?”
Jungkook smiled, his eyes sparkling and his nose scrunching up. “Best council I’ve been to in a long time. And it’s all because you and Ji were here.”
Taehyung stared into those starry eyes and smiled widely. He couldn’t wait to make this omega his.
The spell was broken when Chaewon ran over. “Kook! Yugyeom just asked Moonbyul to dance!”
The small group sitting down all turned to look and sure enough, Yugyeom and Moonbyul were on the dance floor. The music playing was slower than previously and Yugyeom was obviously showing Moonbyul how to move to it.
Jungkook squeed and then looked around to find the other omegas also dancing with alphas.
Mingyu put his arm around Chaewon’s waist. “Why don’t we go dance as well? C’mon, Taehyung, you and Kook come too.”
Out on the dance floor, Taehyung felt awkward until Jungkook showed him where to put his arms as Jungkook placed his own around Taehyung’s neck. They slowly moved to the music, getting lost in their own world.
A few dances later, Yugyeom came over to interrupt. “I’m so sorry but could I speak to Jungkook briefly?” he said after introducing himself to Taehyung, who nodded.
“Is it something that needs to be said in private?” Jungkook asked as he stepped a short distance away with Yugyeom.
“Not really, but I wanted to ask if it is okay if I ask to court Moonbyul? I know we just met but I really feel a pull to her and would like to get to know her better.” He turned to look at Moonbyul, who waved shyly.
“That’s really a question for my dad. He’ll make you come to Rose Moon for a month or so, you know.” Jungkook couldn’t resist the chance to tease the lovestruck alpha. “What happened to wanting to court me though?”
Yugyeom laughed. “You were right. We are better as friends. Plus, it looks like you already have your own alpha.” He gave a knowing smile, looking behind Jungkook to Taehyung, who was waiting patiently.
“Not yet, but hopefully soon.” Jungkook crossed his fingers. “Come talk to my dad before we leave tomorrow. But be prepared to come spend the next month with my pack.”
“I will. I need to get back to Moon now. Good luck with yours too.”
He walked over to where Moonbyul stood and Jungkook turned back to Taehyung.
“Success! He wants to court her but he needs to talk to my dad. Now, shall we dance some more?”
At the end of the evening, a large group walked back to the Rose Moon campsite. Two more of the omegas had found interested alphas, Namjoon predicting several visits from pack leaders in the morning.
As the wolves packed up the camp the next morning, Namjoon’s prediction came true, with three pack leaders and their alpha sons showing up to speak with Wooshik. The omegas were asked for their consent in getting to know the alphas before accepting and all three alphas were invited to come spend the next month at Rose Moon.
Then the pack started the two-day trek home with carts laden down with new materials and supplies, Everyone was tired but eager to return home.
Chapter 22: Flower Moon and Beltane
Chapter Text
Flower Moon
Beltane
“Taetae, wake up!”
Taehyung groggily opened his eyes to see his sister with her face very close to his.
“Ji, what are you doing?” he asked.
“It’s time to get up. We have a lot to do today.” She informed him.
“Oh really?” he raised one eyebrow at her. She was bouncing on the bed next to him.
“Yes, really. Today is two celebrations in one and I wanted to go help Kookie.”
The past two weeks since they returned home had been busy.
The siblings had started their very subtle ways of courting Jungkook. One—or both—would wait for him each morning to walk into town, Jiyoung always having flowers for him.
When they were able to eat together, Taehyung would always make his plate and sit next to him. He liked the flustered expression the omega would make anytime he sat close.
Yoongi had kept to his word and brought some maple over for the comb. Taehyung found his father’s whittling tools in the chest, along with some of his mother’s items he wanted to save for Jiyoung when she was older. The two wolves would carve out time to work on the comb and it was coming along nicely.
Byeol and Dahee had been let in on the secret and they were both overjoyed, Byeol saying she knew they were perfect for each other.
Then a week after getting back, the alphas interested in courting the former Black Moon omegas showed up for their visit. Yugyeom especially had brought a small entourage, a few wolves of each subgender, some hoping to find a mate.
The omegas immediately trying to latch onto Taehyung did not sit well with Jungkook, who gave Yugyeom a piece of his mind. The alpha promised to keep them away.
The visiting alphas had to be chaperoned with their potential mates and they also had to learn the ways of Rose Moon in case they decided to stay. One such alpha came from Wind Moon, which he told Taehyung was run very similarly.
At the end of the visit, if all were still interested, each omega would visit the alpha’s pack with chaperones, usually mated alphas. It allowed each couple to find the pack that worked best for them.
But now it was the celebration of the Flower Moon as well as the cross-quarters day of Beltane—the day halfway between Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice, the two celestial events being three days apart, but held at the same time this year because of the courting rituals being observed. Taehyung’s work crew, along with Yugyeom and Sungmin, the alpha from Wind Moon, had to be out at the grounds to set everything up.
“So how does this work tonight?” Sungmin asked as they stacked wood for the bonfire.
“Well, we eat and party, then those who want to court, or show interest, go for a hunt. They bring their kill back to give to the omega of their choice. The omega can then choose to accept or not.” Yoongi told them. Taehyung listened in interest.
“Is this an official offer of courting?” he questioned.
“It can be. It can also be to show they are interested and want to work towards that. Now, for Mingyu, Yeonjun, and Soobin, it is their official request as they have been with their omegas for a while.”
“See,” Hoseok said, throwing wood onto the pile, “Most couples have discussed it beforehand and asking at Beltane is a formality and a pack tradition. We usually have four or five official courting offers.”
“I’ll be one,” Hyoshin said nervously. Taehyung dropped the log he held and gathered his friend in his arms. He knew how devastated the alpha had been to lose his mate and child and to see him trying again almost made him want to cry. The two alphas held onto each other for a minute, both emotional.
When they separated, Hyoshin wiping his eyes, the rest of the work crew congratulated him. They had all become fond of the alpha and they knew Yongsun was a good match for him.
“So tonight, we let Mingyu, Yeonjun, Soobin, and Hyoshin go for the big game. If you just want to show interest, you get something smaller, so as not to overshadow the real offers.” Yoongi told them. “Have either of you decided if you will be making the real offer tonight?”
Yugyeom blushed. “I think Moonbyul would say yes so I want to ask, but we also still have my pack to visit. Not sure if she would still want to after seeing that.”
Mingyu snorted. “According to Wonnie, she is gone for you so I think it would be pretty certain she would. And if she doesn’t like your pack, you just come live here.”
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The celebration grounds were full by the time Taehyung, Hoseok, and Jiyoung arrived. The children’s run had been held the day before, which meant Jungkook came to help out. Jimin had convinced him to shift and help lead the run, Jiyoung making sure she stayed by him as much as possible.
They hadn't been allowed to walk with the pack alpha and his family to the gathering, which disappointed the siblings. But a pleasant surprise in the form of Byeol and the other grandparents almost made up for it.
“What are you doing here?” Taehyung asked as he hugged the elderly wolf.
“We always come to celebrations once the weather warms up. Plus, it’s always fun to see all the courting proposals.”
“Speaking of proposals,” Seoyeon walked up. “When are you asking our Kookie?”
Taehyung turned to Byeol, who had a twinkle in her eye. “You didn’t think I was keeping that juicy piece of gossip to myself, did you?”
He sighed, knowing it was no use trying to contain her. “I wanted to do it on the night of the Rose Moon, but Jimin convinced me to do it the night before. I’m trying to work it all out right now, but it’s been a little busy since coming back from council meeting.”
“Oh, that is so romantic. You know that is when Wonshik’s great-grandparents met.” Haeun came over, unable to resist joining the conversation.
“Kook told me.”
At that moment, Wooshik and Dahee walked in, followed by Namjoon, Seokjin, and Jungkook, who looked ethereal in a red shirt and pants set.
Byeol laughed at the expression on Taehyung’s face as he stared at the handsome omega. “Well, I expect you for dinner next week so we can have a proper planning session. Kookie loves romance.”
She walked off with the two other women, all whispering to each other.
The evening was in full swing by the time Taehyung was able to make his way over to Jungkook. Dahee had spoken her invocation, the fire had been lit, and everyone was eating.
Taehyung knew that Wheein was always in charge of setting up the pack alpha’s family plates at celebrations, so he waylaid her beforehand and convinced her to let him create Jungkook’s. She gave him a knowing smile when she handed the carefully crafted plate to Jungkook.
“Attention everyone. If I could get your attention,” Wooshik called out when most of the food was gone and most of the pack were sitting around, talking. They all quieted and looked towards their pack alpha.
“We are fortunate to have a full moon and a high holiday on the same day. The goddess looks down on us as we partake of a much beloved tradition of alphas hunting for their hopeful mates. Tonight, we have several alphas participating. I ask now for all of them to join me here.”
Dammit , Taehyung thought. He wanted to say hi to Jungkook and had barely managed a smile when Wooshik spoke to the pack.
At his words, Taehyung turned and joined Mingyu, Soobin, Yeonjun, Yugyeom, Sungmin, and Hyoshin, along with a few other alphas.
“All right, alphas. You have one hour to hunt. Bring whatever you kill back here and present it to the one you have chosen.” Wooshik told them. The alphas all looked at each other and then out at the wolves they hoped to mate one day.
Taehyung met Jungkook’s eyes, a look of surprise on his face, while Seokjin sat next to him, smug and smiling. He nodded and turned, following the other alphas.
At Wooshik’s word, they all shifted and took off in a group, but quickly separating when they got far enough out.
Taehyung knew he wasn’t looking for anything big tonight, just maybe a hare or some birds, something to show his interest.
The forest was alive with the sounds of nature, birds chirping, leaves rustling from the slight breeze or animals running away from the predator in their midst. The moon shone brightly, leaving the night to look like the day.
Taehyung enjoyed the feel of the dark soil on his feet and the cool breeze on his fur. He walked for a few minutes getting his bearings.
A ray of moonlight lit up a path he didn’t remember seeing before. The hunting crew spent a lot of time out here and in the past few months, he had gotten pretty good at knowing his way around, but this area didn’t look familiar.
But the way the light sparkled like little orbs floating on air caught his attention so he took a detour and stepped onto the path. He followed the orbs that swirled around him through the silver birch trees until they ended and he came out into a small meadow, enclosed by trees all around.
Night-blooming moonflowers and jasmine were all around, perfuming the air with their sweet scents. He could tell there were more flowers that would bloom during the day.
A fallen log provided a small place to sit.
Taehyung turned around and around, taking everything in. He would need to come back, but he felt this was the place. The place where he would bring Jungkook and ask to court him.
As soon as he made that decision, a white rabbit ran across the meadow, pulling his hunter tendencies to the forefront again. He took off quickly and after a short run, he had his gift for the omega he had fallen for.
He gave a small thanks for the moon goddess and took one last look around, memorizing the location. He took the path through the birch trees, rabbit hanging from his mouth, and headed back to the celebration grounds.
Sounds of amazement caught his ears as he padded his way through the pack. He knew exactly where he was going—the sweet star jasmine leading him.
Taehyung the wolf found Jungkook the human and dropped his present at his feet, sitting back on his haunches, tongue lolling, pride in his whole stature.
Jungkook gasped softly as Taehyung looked at him.
“Is this a courting gift?” he asked, looking at the beautiful black wolf, who shook his head, then nodded.
“Are you proclaiming your interest?” Jungkook questioned. He couldn’t believe it.
Taehyung nodded again, then stretched out next to Jungkook.
The omega reached down to pet the wolf, who chuffed and nuzzled him back. Then, he stood up and walked off to where he could shift back.
As he was dressing, Mingyu and Soobin came back, dragging large bucks behind them. They both headed towards their own intendeds and left the offerings at their feet, before going to shift, Yeonjun coming back with his own deer while they were changing.
“Kim Chaewon,” Mingyu strode back in and spoke loudly. “Will you accept my gift and allow me to court you to make you mine?”
Chaewon started crying as she nodded and said “yes” over and over. Mingyu put his arms around her and swung her around.
“Choi Beomgyu, will you accept my gift and let me court you?” Soobin called out.
Beomgyu ran towards Soobin and jumped in his arms. “Yes! Finally!”
“Jung Eunha, I have loved you since we were little. Will you accept my offering to court you?” Yeonjun said to the petite omega, who was beaming as she proudly said yes.
The crowd celebrated the three newly courting couples and then waited for the other alphas, who slowly started straggling in.
Jungkook invited Taehyung and Jiyoung to sit on the stage with them, Taehyung sitting next to him while Jiyoung sprawled on the stage itself. Jungkook held his rabbit in his lap like it was a precious gift.
A few other courting proposals were made and accepted. Yugyeom proclaimed his interest in Moonbyul and asked if she was still interested in getting to know him. The shy omega accepted and Wooshik told him to meet him the next day to discuss her visit to Buck Moon. The same happened with Sangmin and Jaewoo, the male omega from Black Moon.
“I think everyone is back now so let’s congratulate all the happy couples!” Wooshik called out.
Taehyung looked around as he hadn’t seen Hyoshin come back. He could see Yongsun across the way doing the same thing.
“Who are you looking for?” Jungkook whispered.
“Hyoshin isn’t back yet.” He told him.
Jungkook quickly got up and spoke to his father.
“Ah, looks like we are waiting on one more alpha. If he’s not back soon, we’ll go after him.”
The crowd wasn’t especially ready to leave as the kitchen crew had passed out cups of soju and wine in celebration so they all sat back down to continue socializing.
Yongsun walked up to Taehyung. “Do you think he is okay?” she asked nervously.
Taehyung comforted her. “I’m sure he is. Hyoshin doesn’t do anything by half so he is out there hunting the biggest game he can find.”
After about ten minutes of waiting, they heard something crashing through the forest. A large gray wolf came through the trees, dragging a lynx behind him. It was the largest offering of the night.
He laid the animal at Yongsun’s feet, a gleam in his eye.
She gasped and looked at the wolf, who ran off to shift back.
When he came back, he took her hands and said, “Sunnie, you have brought a light back to my life that I thought was gone forever. The moon goddess brought you to me to give us both a new chance at love, something I thought would never happen. Will you please let me court you officially? Start work on a house for us?”
Yongsun was crying now. Many in the crowd were as well, including Jungkook, Jimin, and Seokjin. They all knew how she had lost her mate not long after they had gotten together and that she was sure she would never find love again.
She sobbed out a yes and Hyoshin took her in his arms, both crying.
Dahee walked over to congratulate them both, encircling them in a hug.
Wooshik spoke, choked up sounding. “I think that was the best way to end this night. Thank you moon goddess for all the blessings you have given us today. We are thankful and so so happy for all these wolves.”
Chapter 23: (Day Before) Rose Moon
Chapter Text
(day before) Rose Moon
Taehyung hung another lantern on one of the trees at the meadow he had found on Flower Moon. He stood back to admire his handiwork.
“Looking good, Tae,” Yoongi said from behind him.
It had been a whirlwind of a month getting everything set up and finalized in between hunting and a week-long shift out at the farms, learning to plant fruits and vegetables. Yiseo, the head omega at the farm, promised him her choicest strawberries for the proposal.
Byeol made him visit and plan everything with the help of her and the grandmothers. When he told them about the spot he had found, they had insisted on a field trip to see it, Jimin and Seokjin tagging along.
Somehow Taehyung had found the one spot that Jungkook had called his as a child—and still sometimes visited, according to Jimin.
“I don’t know if you believe in fated mates, but you might want to start,” Seokjin had said.
The gift giving had continued, but Taehyung had elevated it. After the rabbit, a week later, he presented Jungkook with the comb. Jungkook was in raptures especially after finding out that Taehyung had made it.
That was before he left for his week on the farm, Jungkook being scheduled the week after because as Dahee put it, someone needed to stay with Jiyoung. Jungkook had not been happy with his mother and let her know. Taehyung wasn’t about to tell him it was really because they needed time without the omega around to get things together. But before Jungkook had left, he had been given the moonstone wolf to take with him.
And now the day was here. Jungkook had gotten back from the farm the day before and Dahee was keeping him busy while Taehyung and his work crew were at the meadow, arranging everything under a watchful Jimin and Byeol.
Hyungsik, finally back from spending the past several weeks with his mate and newborn girl, was dispatched to the farm to get the promised strawberries. Yoongi raided the bar for a bottle of strawberry wine and Jiyoung was working with Wheein and Seokjin to create the perfect picnic dinner. She had wanted to be at the proposal but Taehyung had wanted the omega to himself, just in case he said no. Which absolutely no one expected to happen.
The grandparents and Byeol were going to stay at the spot while Taehyung went to get Jungkook. Someone needed to be there to light the lanterns and protect the food and gift. A signal had been prearranged so that they could slip off unnoticed.
Taehyung practiced going to that path that led to the meadow until he could find it with his eyes shut. He had been right. The meadow was full of day-blooming flowers, like red, red roses that smelled heavenly, forsythia, hibiscus trees interspersed with the silver birch, azaleas, and many others.
It was truly a magical place, now even more so that a small table and pillows to sit on had been set up and lanterns strung all around. Jimin had woven a flower crown of jasmine, roses, and moonflowers for Jungkook to wear.
It was about an hour before sunset when Seoyeon and Wonshik came to the meadow spot.
“It’s time to go get him, Tae,” the elderly omega told him. “Byungwoo and Haeun are bringing the picnic basket.”
Wonshik clapped him on the shoulder. “Happy to welcome you to our family, son.”
Taehyung was a little emotional. They were all so sure Jungkook would say yes and they all wanted him in their family.
Byeol looked at him with a sneaky grin. “Bark when you get close so we can leave. But just know we’ll all be in the celebration grounds, waiting for you two.”
“So, no pressure, eh?” Taehyung laughed. “Thank you everyone for all your help. I really appreciate all you have done. I would have chickened out for sure without you.”
“Go get your omega,” Yoongi shooed him.
Taehyung handed the gift box to Byeol and smiled. “Off I go.”
His plan was simple. Convince Jungkook to go for a run and then lead him to the meadow. They hadn’t truly ever run together, only playing in snow, or on organized runs at New Moons.
He headed back to the house to clean up and change before he went to get Jungkook. He looked at his reflection in the mirror. He thought he looked good with his honey skin tanned from being in the fields and his hair grown out a little.
“You got this,” Taehyung whispered to himself, flashing a boxy smile at his reflection. “I do believe in fated mates now and I know he is mine.”
Knocking on the pack alpha’s door, Taehyung was greeted by a grinning Dahee.
“Everything ready?” she asked in a lowered voice. Taehyung nodded. “Kookie,” she raised her voice. “You have a visitor.”
“Who is it, mom? You know I was going to go find Tae—Oh,” Jungkook said as he ran down the stairs and saw just who his visitor was. He blushed charmingly when his eyes met the alpha’s.
“Surprise,” Taehyung laughed. “I’ve come up to ask you to go on a ramble with me in the twilight.”
Jungkook’s face lit up and he broke out into the most beautiful smile that scrunched his nose and showcased the stars in his eyes.
“I was just coming to ask you the same thing. And I brought you something from the farms,” he said shyly, holding up a small box.
Dahee gently pushed her son out the door. “Have fun,” she said before closing the door and leaving the two alone on the porch.
Taehyung stepped closer to the omega. He always liked noticing their slight difference in height. Several months of good food and lots of activity had given him a bigger build that almost allowed him to tower over him. He relished in seeing Jungkook look up and gulp at how close he stood.
“You brought me something?” he asked in a husky voice, reaching out to tuck a stray hair behind Jungkook’s ear, the omega shivering as his hand brushed his cheek.
“Ye-ye-yes. I told Yiseo you liked strawberries and she sent me with some newly ripened ones.”
Yiseo, that little devil. She knew what she was doing.
Taehyung grinned. “I do like strawberries. But I was hoping we could shift for our ramble. We haven’t really run together before.” He took the box from Jungkook, his fingers lightly touching the other’s, and put it in a bag that he had with him.
“That sounds like fun. The moon rises in an hour I think so we’ll have plenty of light once the sun sets.” Jungkook said, still flustered at Taehyung’s proximity. He wasn’t sure where this flirtatious Taehyung had come from, but he would be lying if he said he didn’t like it.
“Excellent.” He picked his bag up, slung it across his back, and then held his hand out to Jungkook, who looked at it and then back up at Taehyung, before timidly taking it.
Taehyung clasped their hands together and smiled at Jungkook. “Shall we go?”
Jungkook thought he heard a giggle behind the door and he somehow knew if he turned around, he would see the curtains on the windows next to the door fluttering.
“Yes,” he said, choosing to ignore the butterflies that had suddenly taken flight in his stomach. He was going for a run with the wolf he was falling for and all was right in his world for the moment.
Taehyung led him to the closest entry point, where they both went behind trees to shift, Taehyung waiting for Jungkook to finish so he could put his clothes in the bag as well. He had figured out a way to carry it while he ran, almost like a little backpack.
Once shifted, Jungkook grew a little bolder and padded over close to Taehyung, rubbing his chin on the taller wolf’s shoulder. The jasmine scent wafted through the air, sweet and innocent.
Ready?
Yes.
Taehyung took off running, chuffing as he left Jungkook behind. The omega didn’t like that and sprinted to catch up with the mischievous wolf, who had the route to the meadow all planned out.
The last vestiges of daylight were slowly fading to dark as they raced around trees, causing small animals to scurry further into the forest and birds to fly up in droves from the branches they sat on.
They didn’t speak much as they chased each other through the forest until Taehyung suddenly stopped.
Tae? Why did you stop?
The alpha sat on his haunches and barked three times. Then he stood back up and started walking, turning right about a minute later.
Jungkook was in amazement as he followed Taehyung through a small path lined with silver birch trees. A path his feet had worn into the soil over many years. How did the alpha ever find this place?
Jungkook had wanted to be the one to take him here and show him his special meadow. Who showed Taehyung the way?
The path spilled out into a place of pure magic. This was his meadow but now its beauty was enhanced.
Lit lanterns hung from the trees, encasing the night in a gentle glow. The scent of myriad flowers hung in the air, rose being the most prominent. Jungkook knew as the moon rose, the moonflowers and jasmine would begin to bloom and lend their own scents to the atmosphere.
A small table, with a picnic basket on top, was in the center, with two pillows, one on either side.
Jungkook turned around and around, taking everything in. He was so mesmerized he didn’t see Taehyung slip behind trees to shift and dress.
“Will you shift please?” he asked, holding out the bag that held his clothes.
Jungkook took it in his mouth and went to another section where he quickly shifted back and put his clothes on.
He was still surprised when he came back out.
Taehyung had moved to the table, where he was laying out the containers of food.
“How? What? Why?” he was speechless, unable to form words.
“Who? When? Where?” Taehyung laughed.
That gentle teasing broke the ice and Jungkook could function again.
“How did you find my special place? Did you know it was mine?” he tried again.
“Night of the Flower Moon. I was out hunting and the path to here was lit up. Like I was supposed to find it.” Taehyung told him as he opened the bottle of wine and started to pour a glass. “I thought a picnic here would be nice. Just you and me. We haven’t seen each other in a while. Wine?”
Jungkook looked around. “Did you set this up all by yourself?”
The alpha laughed. “No, I had a little help. Do you like it?” he looked eager to hear Jungkook’s answer.
“Yes. I first found this place when I was little and always thought it was magic, but tonight it really is.”
Taehyung walked over to him with the glass.
“Hi,” he said, standing close to the omega again.
“Hi,” Jungkook breathed, taking the glass.
“I missed you the past two weeks,” Taehyung admitted.
“Me too,” the younger replied, blushing.
“Shall we eat?”
Taehyung took Jungkook by the hand and led him over to the table. There were different kinds of gimbap laid out as well as fresh fruit and dessert. Taehyung picked up the flower crown and looked at Jungkook, “May I?”
Jungkook nodded and Taehyung gently laid it on his hair.
“You look like one of the fairies from Ji’s books,” he smiled. Jungkook preened. “All you need are wings.”
“Who says I don’t have them? You sit. Let me make a plate for you, alpha ,” Jungkook winked.
Taehyung groaned. This omega was out to get him.
After handing him the plate, Jungkook looked at the pillows on either side. “This won’t do,” he muttered as he pulled the other one and placed it next to Taehyung. He sat down and moved close to the alpha, so their sides were pressed against each other.
They ate as they talked about their experiences at the farm, Taehyung having gotten to experience riding a horse and learning to plant crops.
Once they finished eating, they sat for a few moments in companionable silence, drinking a second glass of wine, Taehyung needing the extra time to work up his courage.
Finally he spoke. “I have an ulterior motive for bringing you out here and having a picnic.” He said sheepishly.
Jungkook took a sip of wine and met Taehyung’s eyes. Was it happening?
“Oh really? What is it?”
Taehyung smiled his boxy smile and took the glass from Jungkook, setting it down on the table.
He took the omega’s hands and gazed at him fondly.
“Jungkook, I never thought I would meet someone like you. Someone so kind, so independent, so caring, someone who challenges me, and adores my sister like she’s his own. You are so beautiful inside and out. I can’t wait any longer to ask this question.” He paused.
Jungkook could barely breathe. “What question?”
“May I court you?” Taehyung asked fervently.
Jungkook squeezed his hands and laughed.
“Silly alpha.”
“Why silly alpha? Me? May I court you?”
“I’ve been courting you for months,” Jungkook giggled. “But Jimin and Jin wouldn’t let me ask you.”
Taehyung thought back to all the flowers he brought him when he was in the healer’s hut, the quilts, the food prepared for him, the small random things gifted to him and groaned.
“I’m an idiot,” which only made Jungkook giggle harder.
“But you’re my idiot.”
Taehyung looked at him sternly. “You didn’t answer my question, Koo.”
“Which is?”
“May I court you?”
Jungkook nodded, which made Taehyung frown.
“I need words,” he said sternly.
“Yes, alpha.” Jungkook swallowed. “You may court me.”
“Good omega.” Jungkook’s breath hitched and his scent heightened at those two words.
Taehyung gazed at the beautiful omega, with his flower crown and rosy cheeks. This amazing man who had just accepted his courting proposal.
“May I kiss—”
The words were cut off by the softest pair of lips touching his briefly then pulling away with a soft giggle.
“About time for that too,” Jungkook murmured.
Taehyung laughed, already drunk on the yes, the giggles, and the chaste kiss.
Jungkook sighed as he laid his head on Taehyung’s shoulder. “This is real, right? I’m not dreaming? You asked me to court?”
“And you said yes,” Taehyung bopped him on the nose. “It’s real.”
Then, he picked up a long, thin box that was on the table.
“Courting requires gifts. This is your first official courting gift. I hope you like it.”
Jungkook glanced at Taehyung, who seemed nervous.
“You’ve given me such lovely gifts already. The comb, the wolf, the rabbit you caught for me on Beltane.” He said, opening the lid to find the most delicate moonstone rose pendant on a silver chain. He was in awe. “But this tops them all. This is stunning, Tae. Put it on me. Put it on me now.”
Taehyung gently lifted the necklace and placed it around his omega’s neck, clasping it and feeling called to lay a kiss on the nape of his neck as he did so. Jungkook shuddered underneath his touch.
The moon had risen and was peeking over the tops of the trees. Jungkook pulled Taehyung back to lie on the ground looking up at the night sky.
“After you stopped showing up at council, I would lie here on nights like this, wishing to see you again. I would wish on the moon and the stars and the trees and anything I could. I’m so happy that wish finally came true.”
He nestled his head on Taehyung’s shoulder and entwined their hands together.
“I’m glad, too,” Taehyung whispered, dropping a kiss on the top of his head.
“How does Ji feel about this? I assume you asked her?”
“She told me no at first because she wanted to court you when she presented but I made her realize this is better. That she gets to have you in her life sooner. She has been courting you to be her brother as well.” He stopped and sat up, looking serious. He remembered the conversation he had had with her.” You do know she is the most important person in my life and she isn’t going anywhere?” Taehyung asked solemnly.
Jungkook sat up as well, affronted. “Of course I know that. She is so important to me too. Will she ask me? I want to accept her too.”
Taehyung laughed before he pulled the omega back down. “Yes, she will. But right now this is my time with my omega. I can’t believe you said yes.”
“I can’t believe you finally asked. I’ve been waiting for ages.” Jungkook giggled.
“Ages, huh?”
“Yes.” Jungkook tilted his head to look at him. “I think I’ve been waiting since I was a pup. I think I always knew you were it for me. That we were fated mates. S’why I never forgot you and always waited for you.”
At that, Taehyung couldn’t resist. “Fated mates, huh?”
Jungkook nodded solemnly.
Taehyung leaned closer. “I happen to believe we’re fated mates as well.” he whispered right before he kissed Jungkook again.
This kiss was a proper kiss, not just a quick meeting of two pairs of lips. If asked, neither would be able to describe it perfectly. This kiss felt like flying, but it felt grounding. Fireworks went off, sparks flew, and jasmine bloomed all around them. It was still a chaste kiss, but it held the promise of more.
Their scents burst forth and blended, wafting through the air in a mix of crisp pine and sweet jasmine.
When they finally separated eons later, Taehyung said apologetically, “I would love to stay here longer, but…”
“Let me guess. Everyone is waiting for us at the celebration grounds”
Taehyung smiled sheepishly. “It was the cost of them helping me. We need to pack up before we leave.”
“Can we leave the lanterns? This was my spot for years, but now I want it to be ours.” Jungkook’s eyes searched Taehyung’s.
“We can leave everything. The table is actually hollow inside to store the pillows. We just have to take the picnic basket.” He stood up and held a hand out to help Jungkook up.
They quickly repacked the picnic basket and looked at each other then went around to extinguish all the candles..
“Can I have one more kiss before we go?” Jungkook asked, gazing up through his lashes.
Taehyung grinned, then pulled the other to him, wrapping one arm around his waist to pull him closer and placing one hand on his cheek. His eyes met Jungkook’s and they both leaned in.
This time, the kiss was a little more insistent. Taehyung’s tongue poked at Jungkook’s lips, which parted enough for Taehyung to slip his tongue in. They stood there, wrapped up in each other, kissing and exploring until Jungkook let out a breathy moan and his scent heightened.
Taehyung pulled back and laughed nervously. “I think that means we need to go.”
Jungkook shyly nodded, embarrassed at the sounds he had made. He had never kissed anyone before and had no idea how enjoyable it could be.
As they started to leave the meadow, bag and picnic basket in tow, Taehyung said offhandedly as he took Jungkook’s hand, “You are the first person I have ever kissed.”
Jungkook gasped. “That was my first kiss too.” He squeezed Taehyung’s hand, even happier that they both will be each other’s firsts in everything.
They walked the distance to the celebration grounds, which really wasn’t as far as Taehyung had originally thought.
Laughter and light spilled out between the trees as they neared.
Jungkook stopped walking and pulled on Taehyung’s hands. “Just how many people are waiting for us? The whole pack?”
Taehyung chuckled. “Not the whole pack. Just your parents, your grandparents, Byeol, Joon, Jin, Yoongi and Jimin. Hobi. Ji. My work crew and possibly their mates. Possibly Wheein and Kayee. I told you I had help in getting this all together and well, they all wanted to share the moment with us. Not a single person thought you would say no.”
Jungkook smiled and then said with a tiny pout. “Of course I wouldn’t say no. I’ve been wanting to ask you for way too long.”
Taehyung had to kiss the pout off his face.
“Okay, you ready?” he asked when he pulled away.
“Let’s go.”
Together, they stepped out of the trees, holding hands. They stood there silently for a moment, watching their immediate and extended family all having a good time, socializing.
Jiyoung and Eunchae were chasing Seojoon’s toddlers, who had shifted and were tumbling around.
The grandparents were sitting down, glasses of what looked like wine or soju in their hands, chatting with Wooshik and Dahee.
Yoongi and Jimin were cuddling each other while they talked with Namjoon and Seokjin. Hoseok was walking around with a bottle, offering to refill glasses.
Taehyung’s work crew were sitting on logs, their mates or to-be mates all conversing with each other. Wheein and Kayee were also there.
Hoseok was the first one to see them and he almost dropped his bottle.
“You’re here!” he shouted, causing everyone to stop talking and turn.
They took in the sight of the two, holding hands, their cheeks red, their hair mussed, and their lips swollen.
“He said yes?” Dahee asked loudly.
“He said yes,” Taehyung shouted, causing a large roar of cheers from the group.
Jungkook’s parents were the first to reach them, Dahee throwing her arms around them both. Seokjin and Jimin were next, declaring their happiness.
Yoongi and Hoseok came to offer congratulations as well. They loved Jungkook like he was their brother and both had come to love and respect Taehyung as well. Yoongi, ever the reticent alpha, offered a hand while Hoseok pulled Taehyung into a hug.
Jiyoung pushed her way to the front and stood there, looking at her brother and his to-be mate.
“Hey, Ji,” Jungkook offered her his free hand and kneeling to look her in the eye. “I hear you have something to ask me.”
The little girl stared at him, openmouthed. Then Dahee nudged her, handing her a small item.
She took his hand and smiled. “Kookie, since you agreed to be Tae’s mate, will you also be my brother?”
Jungkook said honestly, “Yes. I would love nothing more than to call you my sister.”
Crying, Jiyoung almost knocked him over with how she flew at him. He let go of Taehyung’s hand to wrap her in his embrace. Taehyung kneeled to take them both in his arms.
There were no sounds for a few minutes except Jiyoung’s happy sobs, which caused many to shed a tear.
When she quieted down, she let go and then gave Jungkook the rose quartz wolf. When she had seen both crystal wolves, she decided she wanted to give Jungkook one when she asked him. Taehyung had quietly given her the amethyst carving of the two wolves earlier in the day, to let her know they would be together, no matter what.
“Come over here and let this old wolf see her new family members,” Byeol called out.
Taehyung picked Jiyoung up and walked over with Jungkook.
“Your parents and grandparents would be so proud of you and I believe that your family is here with us, celebrating as well.” She told them, causing tears to flow again.
The large group spent another hour at the grounds, celebrating. Everyone got their chance to speak to the new couple and congratulate them.
“All right, thank you all for coming to celebrate with Taehyung and Jungkook, but tomorrow is the Full Moon and I know we have a busy day ahead,” Wooshik told them when the fire had burned down and the moon was high in the sky. “Let’s call it a night.”
The mood was still high as they all walked back home, everyone going the same way until they reached the road that led directly to the town square.
Jimin and Seokjin grabbed Jungkook away from his alpha as they strolled the last bit home.
“We told you to wait and it would be worth it. Didn’t we?” Seokjin said smugly.
Jungkook, playing with his new pendant, looked in front of him at Taehyung, who was in conversation with Namjoon and Wooshik, and Jiyoung, who was asleep in Hoseok’s arms.
“Totally worth it. Did you see my new necklace? And my new rose quartz wolf? I didn’t have one of those.”
“They are beautiful. He did a wonderful job,” Jimin said, not letting on that he actually had found everything.
“Like you didn’t help him at all,” Jungkook scoffed. Jimin shrugged.
“But it was so romantic. A picnic in my meadow that smelled so sweet, under the Rose Moon. He asked me so sweetly and then he asked if he could kiss me.”
“Kookie got his first kiss?” Jimin squealed.
“Yes. And it was perfect,” Jungkook sighed, lost in the memory.
“Does this mean now we get to have the sex talk with you?” Seokjin asked, laughing.
“Not so loud.” Jungkook shushed him. “And no, mom had the talk with me when I first presented. That was embarrassing.”
The three omegas burst into laughter.
“You know Wooshik will announce this tomorrow night, right?” Seokjin asked.
You know mom will burst at the seams to announce it herself.” Jungkook responded. They laughed again, knowing it was true.
Notes:
HE SAID YES!
I mean, we all knew he would. Not a soul was surprised.
Chapter 24: Summer
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Summer
Time seemed to speed up after the Rose Moon proposal. Dahee did not let Wooshik have the privilege of sharing her son’s acceptance of Taehyung’s courting proposal, announcing it as soon as they walked into the gathering the next night. This time, Taehyung and Jiyoung had been allowed to walk with the family.
While there might have been a few hearts bruised, the majority of the pack were happy their Rose Moon omega had found his mate. Those who had interacted with Taehyung felt he was a good match for the feisty and independent Jungkook.
Jiyoung’s 11th birthday fell two weeks later and they celebrated by taking her and Taehyung on a boat down the river for the first time, Jungkook giving her the moonstone rose he had gotten back in April. The very next day Dahee sent the two siblings and Jungkook back to the farm for another week’s work since it was summer vacation for the students. Eunchae was allowed to go as well, which worked perfectly for Taehyung. There was enough to keep the two girls occupied that he was able to steal Jungkook away for some alone time, where they practiced their kissing techniques.
Yiseo was thrilled and held a congratulatory luncheon for the new couple with all the farm families attending. Most had known Jungkook since he was a baby so they were overjoyed he had found his mate.
Jungkook got to see Taehyung on a horse for the first time, looking so handsome that Jungkook could barely contain himself. Despite being exhausted due to planting all day, they would still find time to go for a ride, just to spend more time together.
The trio came back just in time for Summer Solstice, where Dahee celebrated all the new couples yet again, because she wanted to and because she could. It also was a send-off party for the omegas who were being courted by alphas from the other packs. A couple of the omegas from Yugyeom’s pack had been fortunate enough to find Rose Moon alphas who were interested. The entourage returning to Buck Moon was larger than had come.
Two alpha couples were going with each of the omegas, as a protector and chaperone of sorts. Wooshik was serious in wanting the best situations for all his members. If the omegas changed their minds when they got to the other packs, there was someone from Rose Moon to help them. It also worked well if the couple decided they wanted to move to Rose Moon permanently.
To Jungkook’s surprise, Eunwoo and Jieun had made the half day trip in spite of Jieun’s pregnancy. They had come to accompany Sungmin and Jaewoo back to Wind Moon for the omega’s stay. Because the two packs were so close and had several mated couples between them, only Hoseok was going with them. He wanted to spend some time with his parents and help with Jieun’s pregnancy.
They were thrilled when they found out about Jungkook accepting Taehyung’s courting offer. Jieun actually remembered seeing the two as children at the council meetings.
“He’s so handsome,” she whispered when hugging Jungkook. “You did well. I just knew the two of you were meant to be.”
Jungkook blushed as he went back to Taehyung, who was talking with Eunwoo and being invited for a visit sometime. He looked curiously at the omega who nestled himself under his arm.
“You okay?” He asked quietly.
Jungkook nodded, his head on Taehyung’s shoulder. “Just wanted to be next to you.”
Taehyung’s hand slipped down to rest at Jungkook’s tiny waist and squeezed, amazed and thrilled he could be affectionate with him in public now. “I like you being next to me as well.”
The Solstice celebration lasted late into the night for the younger pack members. Hwayeon had taken Eunchae and Jiyoung home earlier and Wooshik and Dahee accompanied the grandparents home, also taking Eunwoo and Jieun with them, leaving the gathering to Namjoon and Seokjin to watch over.
At one point, when Jungkook was off talking to Jieun, Moonbyul and Jaewoo approached Taehyung. Both were glowing.
“Hey Taehyung,” Moonbyul said. He nodded at them, wondering what they were up to. “Can you believe how all our lives have changed in less than a year?”
“Yeah it’s kind of crazy right?” Jaewoo spoke up. “This time last year, you and I were single and Moonbyul was with Minho. Hyoshin was a widower. And now we’re all courting or in the process of. We are in much better health. We’ve been brought into the modern times.”
Taehyung nodded again. He looked at Moonbyul. “Do you ever miss Minho? The pack?”
Moonbyul thought for a moment, then answered honestly. “No. I did at first but what I really missed was my way of life, where I didn’t have to do anything. I was never in love with Minho. I’m not sorry he’s dead either. He deserved that. It took me a while, but I finally realized, even with all the work I have to do, we are all in a much better place. I can’t believe we lived so backwards for so long.”
“Yes, Rose Moon is so much better. I’ve heard Wind Moon is very similar.” Jaewoo chimed in. “And Taehyung, you have looked so much happier these past months.”
“I am,” he said simply. “Jiyoung and I are treated so much better here and we have a family now. I’ve got people who knew my parents and my grandparents and they have taken us in, made a place for us in their hearts.”
Moonbyul looked stricken. “Taehyung, I have to apologize for how I treated you. I was horrible and self-absorbed. I hope you can one day forgive me.”
Taehyung nodded a third time, not sure what to say other than, “Thank you. I hope you find what you are looking for with Yugyeom, whether it is here or there. Same to you, Jaewoo. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’d like to go spend some more time with my omega.”
He stood up and walked over to Jungkook, who had been surreptitiously watching the exchange, along with Hyoshin and Yongsun.
Taehyung put his arms around the younger and pulled him close, burying his face in his jasmine-scented hair.
“Now it’s my time to ask. Everything okay?” Jungkook murmured.
“It will be. Just laying some ghosts to rest and getting an apology that had been a long time coming.”
It was close to two in the morning when Namjoon and Seokjin called it a night and started shepherding everyone out after they had cleaned up the area as much as they could.
The waxing crescent moon was high in the sky as they walked home.
Yoongi walked with Taehyung. “Let me know when you’re ready to start working on your house. If I’m not mistaken, Kookie already has a location staked out.”
“I do,” said a very sleepy Jungkook. “On the other side of Joonie’s house. I also have ideas on what I want it to be like.”
The two alphas laughed. “Of course you do,” Yoongi smiled. “Well, get all your notes together and we’ll have a planning session before I start working on the blueprints. I bet Ji has some thoughts as well.”
“She loves Byeol’s cottage and Jungkook’s parents’ house so her thoughts are all over the place. She’ll want whatever Kook wants anyway,” Taehyung told them.
“You’re about to be a minority of one,” Yoongi chuckled. “Those two will gang up on you and get their way all the time.”
“Probably,” Taehyung agreed as he pulled Jungkook a little closer. “As long as she remembers that Kook and I are the ones in charge. She’s been so spoiled here by all of you though.”
“You are not saying mean things about my sweet Jiji,” Jimin stepped up next to Yoongi. “She’s not been spoiled at all. She deserves everything we give her.”
They reached Namjoon and Seokjin’s house, saying goodnight as the couple went up the path to their house.
Next was dropping off Jungkook.
“This is me,” he said with a yawn.
“Yeah. I’ll see you tomorrow, ok?”
“It is tomorrow,” Jungkook laughed as he looked up at Taehyung with innocent eyes.
“Even better,” Taehyung murmured, looking around. The other wolves were all talking amongst themselves.
He leaned down and pressed a small kiss onto Jungkook’s lips. When he stood up, the omega pouted.
“Is that all I get?” he whined softly.
“For tonight. You’re about to fall asleep right here and I am not having a makeout session with you in front of our friends.” He kissed him once more, connecting their lips for a few seconds longer this time. “Sleep well.”
“You too, Tae. We’re done so you can stop pretending you weren’t watching us,” he said louder, bringing laughter from the others.
Hoseok took Taehyung’s arm and dragged him off. “Night, Kook.”
They made sure the omega made it into his house and then started walking to their own houses.
“I can’t believe our little Taetae is all grown up and courting an omega,” Hoseok ruffled the alpha’s hair. “I’m so proud of you.”
Taehyung shot him a dirty look.
“But no having sex in my house.” He said as he strode ahead, leaving a shocked Taehyung behind him while Yoongi and Jimin laughed all the way to their front door.
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
Buck Moon
July
Once Summer fully hit, life in the pack got exponentially busier. Wooshik got the paving the pack roads project started right after the Solstice. Every able-bodied wolf participated, working on different sections and they had most of the roads done shortly after the Full Moon.
Then there was a three-week period where the pack came together to build or finish the houses for the couples who had officially started courting at Flower Moon. Those were more like parties as food was brought by those not participating and children ran around. Mingyu had already been working on his house and Hyoshin, Yeonjun, and Soobin all found lots near him. The proximity of the four houses made it even easier to get them all finished in a short time. In total, the wolves had eight houses built in twenty-one days.
Hyungsik and Aera brought their three-month-old daughter, Nari, out one day for an official welcome to the pack meeting. Jungkook was one of the first to hold the baby and Taehyung was enthralled with how natural he looked with the little girl in his arms.
“Makes you want your own, doesn’t it?” Namjoon asked knowingly. “I know the feeling.”
Taehyung looked at him and blushed. “We have time.”
“We do. But Jin and I are hoping for sooner rather than later. I think Yoongi and Jimin might be trying too.” he said as they watched the three omegas fuss over the child.
Evenings were spent out at the meadow, Jiyoung with them occasionally, visiting Byeol and the other grandparents, or working with Yoongi on the plans for their new house. Having seen how well the pack worked together on the houses, Taehyung knew they would be able to build it well.
“We’ll have to rebuild our supplies, which are now heavily depleted. You’re not in a rush for the house, are you?” Yoongi asked.
Taehyung and Jungkook looked at each other, then shook their heads. “We’ve talked about it and we want to take this year to court and actually mate next year at Rose Moon.” Jungkook told him. “So we have plenty of time.” The decision was made to continue to work on the blueprints and in April of the following year, they would start building the house.
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Sturgeon Moon / Lammas
August
The Full Moon for August was shortly after Lammas, the midpoint of Summer. The majority of the pack met for the celebration out at the farms, where they worked on the first main harvest of the year. Some wolves were on their week-long rotations, where others came out just for two or three days. It was a sight to see several tents springing up in one of the pastures.
The harvest was bountiful, with plenty of summer vegetables, such as zucchini and snow peas, and rice, corn, and soybeans. Taehyung was also introduced to different melons.
“We’ll hold a few more celebrations out here this summer, allowing everyone to harvest all we can.” Jungkook told him and Jiyoung as he showed them how to find the ripest fruits.
They came back to finish working on the projects that had been started in June. The roads around the towns and neighborhoods were finally paved. They even started paving the road to the celebration grounds as well as the farm. Repairs that needed to be done were and the houses built in July were completed and time was spent to furnish them, envoys being sent to other packs to get furniture or other items needed. Several of the couples had decided to mate by Harvest Moon.
August was hot and a little rainy at times, making everyone glad they had worked so hard on getting the roads paved. But it faded into September without a care, bringing them to the month of both Jungkook’s and Namjoon’s birthdays.
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Corn Moon
Taehyung had asked Jimin when Jungkook’s birthday was. He was informed it was September first and that Dahee always had some large party for him.
“You should either do something earlier in the day or even the day before,” Jimin suggested. “She’ll do his party that night and then a couple of days later we have Corn Moon where we go back out to the farms for more harvesting.”
Taehyung got a picnic lunch from Wheein and convinced Jungkook to go to their meadow with him. They had both been so busy they hadn’t spent a lot of alone time together.
At the meadow, the first thing Taehyung did was take his omega in his arms and kiss him soundly, one arm around his waist and the other hand cradling his cheek. He probed at Jungkook’s mouth with his tongue and the younger opened willingly, allowing Taehyung in. The alpha loved how pliant the omega became when they kissed and the breathy sounds he made as they kissed deeply aroused him. He knew he wasn’t ready to go any further than the kisses, but he longed for the day when he was able to touch and kiss his to-be mate everywhere.
The first moans from Jungkook were always a sign for them to slow down. The air was thick with their pheromones, both scents tinged with arousal, almost drowning out the scents of the flowers blooming all around them.
Jungkook was breathing heavily when they separated.
“Happy birthday,” Taehyung whispered, still holding him close and looking him in the eye.
Jungkook smiled, his eyes lighting up. “Happy birthday to me indeed,” he giggled.
Taehyung shook his head fondly and led the omega over to the table where he placed the picnic basket.
“I know your mom will have your party tonight but I needed you all to myself for a while.” He took out the containers as he spoke. “Gimbap?”
Jungkook sat down and took the proffered dish. “This might be my best birthday yet,” he said, popping one roll into his mouth. He took another and held it to Taehyung’s mouth. The alpha opened his lips and took the roll gingerly, his tongue briefly caressing the fingers in front of him. Jungkook shuddered.
Taehyung followed his example and fed Jungkook the next piece. They finished their meal, eyes locked, as they fed one another.
The tension was high when they were done, but Taehyung collected himself enough to get the box that had been at the bottom of the basket.
“I have another courting but also birthday gift for you,” he said, handing the box to Jungkook.
The omega opened it and stared openmouthed before taking out the matching bracelet to his pendant that he only removed when he shifted.
“Tae,” he breathed. “This is beautiful. Moonstone and rose quartz. Like my wolves. It matches my necklace!”
He held it out along with his wrist for Taehyung to put on him. Once it was clasped around his wrist, he held it up, admiring it in the sunlight, the moonstone catching the light with a silvery flash.
“Thank you, Tae. I am so lucky to have you as my alpha,” Jungkook threw his arms around Taehyung and hugged him.
Taehyung looked at him and remarked, “I’m the lucky one,” right before he laid back and pulled the omega with him.
Jungkook gazed down at Taehyung before he leaned down and kissed him. Taehyung’s arms tightened around as he swiftly flipped them while their mouths were still connected.
Taehyung took his time kissing the man he was falling in love with, hell, was already in love with. He moved one hand to trail down Jungkook’s side, causing him to mewl and shudder beneath him. His hand stopped at the omega’s waist, where his shirt had ridden up a bit, exposing him. He spread his hand out as he caressed the omega’s soft skin.
Jungkook’s mewls turned into moans as his scent got even thicker and sweeter as they kissed, tongues clashing, both breathing heavily. He ran his hand down Taehyung’s back, which made the alpha moan into his mouth. The two wolves writhed against each other. Taehyung felt a wet spot on his pants, which brought him back to earth.
With herculean effort, he pulled himself away and sat up.
“Wow,” he said. Jungkook, still lying on the grass, giggled.
“Wow,” he echoed. Then he sat up. “Why did you stop?”
Taehyung looked at Jungkook, with his messy hair and kiss-swollen lips. He looked wanton and all Taehyung wanted to do was to keep going, but he knew this wasn’t the time or place.
He leaned over and pecked Jungkook’s lips. “I’m not ready for more right now.” he replied sheepishly. “Is that okay?”
Jungkook smiled beautifully at him. “That is more than okay. To be honest, I don’t know if I am either.”
Taehyung stood and helped Jungkook up. They silently packed up and headed out, trusting the breeze to help their heightened scents dissipate before they made it back to town.
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Jungkook’s birthday party that night was more low-key than Taehyung expected. They held it in the dining hall instead of the celebration grounds but everyone still had a good time.
“Rose Moon loves to celebrate,” Namjoon told Taehyung as they stood off to the side, watching Jungkook, Jimin, and Seokjin dance with Jiyoung and Eunchae. The little girls were giggling as they were twirled from one omega to the other. “We’ve got Corn Moon in two days where we’ll be back at the farms, then my birthday, then New Moon, Mabon, and Harvest Moon, all at the farms. We’ve been fortunate enough to have a lot to harvest this year, but we have to get all we can before it dies on the vine.”
Taehyung gazed at his omega-to-be and his little sister having fun. There was nothing but love on Jungkook’s face for Jiyoung and she was absolutely thrilled to be the center of his attention. Taehyung was still in awe with how she had bloomed here. She was never shy or quiet in Black Moon, but she also didn’t have a community around her like she did now. She had spent most of her time alone or with her brother. And now, especially during the summer vacation, he might not see her from breakfast until dinner, but he knew she was safe somewhere. That many people were watching out for her. She was getting to explore her interests and spend time with friends and people who loved her.
And Jungkook. How could he even describe how perfect Jungkook was? How lucky he was to be able to court him and kiss and hug him? Some days he couldn’t believe that the omega had said yes to him and would mate him in less than a year.
Thinking of Jungkook made him remember the afternoon makeout session. He knew he was inexperienced but thankfully Jungkook was as well. They were discovering all their firsts together. But he still had questions.
“Joon?” he said, still looking at Jungkook.
“What, Tae?” The older alpha replied, taking a sip from the glass that Yoongi had just refilled.
“How do you have sex with a male omega?”
Both Namjoon and Yoongi spit out their drinks.
The next day, Taehyung met up with the two older alphas for a very awkward conversation, Yoongi leading most of it as Namjoon really didn’t want to think of his little brother in that way. He learned all about ways to prepare and pleasure his omega. Then Yoongi handed him a bottle of oil, telling him, “Even though omegas produce slick, you still don’t want to hurt him. This will help.”
He left, still not feeling ready for all they had told him about, but at least willing to see if Jungkook wanted to go a little further next time.
However, the last few weeks of summer were incredibly busy as most of the pack was out at the farms, getting all but the late harvest fruits and vegetables. The rest were back in town, canning and preserving everything for the winter. The children had gone back to school, but would get a few days off at Mabon and Harvest Moon to help out at the farm.
The forest was full of game so the hunters were out several times a week and then working in the processing hut, curing the meat and tanning hides.
Hoseok was still in Wind Moon as he had decided to stay for Jieun to give birth so Taehyung was given his work to do as well.
Taehyung and Jungkook were lucky to see each other for dinner on most days. Dahee also had Jungkook out at the farm most of the time.
A week before Mabon, the hot temperatures began to fall and the wind blew a little harder. Geese started flying south overhead. Everyone knew autumn was just around the corner.
Notes:
Poor Namgi having to have that conversation with Taehyung. I like imagine they went home and had a beer or two after.
This is my first time writing smut so please be kind.
Chapter 25: Mabon / First Day of Autumn
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Mabon
First Day of Autumn
There was almost a festive feeling on the first day of autumn out at the farm, despite how hard everyone was working. They were harvesting plenty of vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, rice, soybeans, and several types of mushrooms, all being sent back to the kitchens to be canned and preserved. Many flowers were also picked, to be taken for use in the alcohol and soaps the pack was known for. Those had been harvested since early May and dried or boiled down into fragrant oils. It was a year-round process to make all the products.
But today almost the entire pack was out at the farm. Those who stayed behind for the day held their own celebration with Wonshik and Soyeon presiding.
When dusk fell, everyone stopped working. The holiday fell in between the New and Full Moons so the moonlight wasn’t as plentiful as it would be next week when they would come back out.
The harvest had so far been plentiful but there were still many early autumn vegetables and fruits to be harvested. The pack would be busy until mid-October.
The party had been set up in one of the pastures, tables groaning with all the food that had been prepared.
Dahee welcomed everyone in and went through a small invocation as the pack celebrated the turn of the Wheel.
Wooshik thanked everyone for their labor and they all thanked the moon goddess for granting them such abundance.
There was no big bonfire set up, but enough lanterns had been strung up on poles that the pasture was lit up enough and also a waxing moon rising in the sky.
Taehyung found his omega listening to Jiyoung’s recitation of her horse ride that afternoon. He stepped up behind him and slid his arms around Jungkook’s waist, who startled for a moment, then relaxed against him.
He turned his head to look at the alpha. “Hi,” he whispered as Jiyoung decided to attach herself to her brother’s legs. She acted like she hadn’t seen him in weeks, despite the fact they’d walked to the farms together. His omega, however, was a different story. They hadn’t seen one another in three days.
Taehyung nuzzled his face in Jungkook’s hair, emitting happy pine-scented pheromones. Jungkook’s jasmine became more prominent as he sighed and ran his hands up and down Taehyung’s arms.
“I’ve missed you,” Taehyung murmured, placing butterfly kisses on his beloved. “Feels like your mom did this to torture me.”
Jungkook giggled. “Silly alpha. This is my usual schedule in September.” He turned in Taehyung’s embrace and threaded his arms around his neck. Looking up at him, he smiled, his starry eyes shining.
Taehyung decided he didn’t care if they were in public, and didn't care that his little sister was still hugging his legs. He pulled the omega closer so that he could show him exactly how much he missed him. The kiss was deep and satisfying.
Until something hit him.
“Save that for your alone time,” Jimin laughed. He had some tangerines in his hands and had obviously just thrown one at them.
Jiyoung laughed like it was the funniest thing and did her part by pushing the two away from each other.
“Jimin!” Jungkook screeched, taking off after the shorter omega, while Taehyung looked at the traitor next to him.
“Oh you think your brother getting hit by fruit is funny, do you?” He reached down to start tickling her, which made her laugh even harder. They watched Jimin and Jungkook racing around the area until Jungkook finally caught his friend. They collapsed in a heap, laughing until both Yoongi and Taehyung walked over to help them up.
Taehyung made plates for both Jungkook and Jiyoung, sitting with them on a spot on the ground not far from Mingyu and Chaewon, who had shown up with matching mating marks. Soobin and Beomgyu and Yeonjun and Eunha had also taken the plunge and mated before the celebration.
“Your turn next, Hyoshin,” he told the older alpha, who blushed. Yongsun was off talking to one of her friends.
“We’re planning to mate next week actually,” he admitted. The pair congratulated him, excited for the two.
The evening wore down early as everyone was tired and had either a long walk back or a long day in the fields the next day.
Taehyung wanted to stay overnight but he was needed in town the next day, so he pulled Jungkook, who was staying longer, aside to give him a goodbye kiss before he and Jiyoung headed back.
“I’ll be back in two days, okay?” Jungkook whispered through the kiss.
“You better,” he whispered back. “‘Else I’m coming to get you. And you are mine the minute you come back.”
“I’m already yours,” the younger said impishly. “I will come find you as soon as I can.”
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Two days later, around twilight, true to his word, Jungkook showed up at Hoseok’s house. He had stopped at home to unpack and clean up, enjoying a nice, long, hot shower. He loved being at the farms, but with the crowd of people that were usually there at harvest time, hot water didn’t last long. But he had been out there with Jimin, which was wonderful. Except Jimin had spent the last day talking about all that he wanted with his mate as soon as he got back. Ever since Jungkook has said yes to Taehyung, Jimin was much more open about the bedroom antics he and Yoongi got up to than before. Jungkook got more of an education through that than the talk his mom had given him when he’d first presented as an omega.
If he was being honest with himself, while he wasn’t ready for the main thing, he wouldn’t mind if they went a little farther the next time.
With that in mind, he persuaded Seokjin to take Jiyoung to dinner so he could be with his alpha alone. Seokjin was delighted to spend time with the little girl so it wasn’t really that hard to convince him.
Once she was taken care of, Jungkook dressed in a pair of pants he knew made his ass look good and one of his shirts that was a little tight on him and exposed his stomach with any little movement. He left his hair down and put a little balm on his rosy lips.
Then he headed to Hoseok’s to see the man he was in love with. He had never been in love before but the time away from Taehyung had made him realize how deeply he felt for the alpha. He hoped it was the same for the other.
He walked up the steps and knocked loudly on the door. A couple of seconds later, it was flung open by Taehyung, who saw the omega and just stared.
He knew he looked delicious and he thought he saw a hunger in Taehyung’s eye. He did not mistake the sudden rise of his pine scent that was slightly tinged with arousal.
“Kook,” he said huskily. “Aren’t you a sight for sore eyes?”
Jungkook grinned. “Do you like it? I dressed up for you.”
Taehyung gulped. “I like it very much.” He reached out and pulled him closer. “I’m so glad you’re back. I was miserable here without you. So was Jiyoung. She should be back soon. I know she was looking forward to seeing you.”
“She’s going to spend the evening with Jinnie and Joon. So it’s just you and me for now.”
Taehyung’s eyes darkened and his scent heightened when he heard that. He pulled the omega flush against him and threaded one hand through his hair as he leaned in to kiss him even deeper than he had two nights prior.
Jungkook wrapped his arms around him and kissed back.
Taehyung’s tongue pried Jungkook’s mouth open and he spent several minutes exploring every crevice as Jungkook shivered in his hold. One hand was still in his hair and the other was resting on his waist where the shirt had ridden up, just as Jungkook wanted.
The bare skin made Taehyung stop and pull back, looking at the omega with desire in his eyes.
“You wore this shirt on purpose, didn’t you?” he asked. Jungkook just smiled.
Taehyung couldn’t resist. He tugged him into the house so he could shut the door. Then he wrapped his arms around him again for more kisses.
“You okay to go upstairs to my room?” he asked in between light kisses. Jungkook nodded, starry-eyed.
Taehyung started walking him forward, kissing him more until they reached the stairs.
“After you,” he said. Jungkook turned and walked slowly up the stairs, making sure Taehyung got a good look at his ass in the jeans. He could hear him groaning at the sight.
“Hurry up, omega,” he said gruffly. They both moved a little faster to Taehyung’s bedroom.
He opened the door and gently pushed the omega in, shutting the door behind them.
Jungkook took a look around the room. It was still decorated sparsely but the open closet was full of clothes and shoes. There was a chest in the corner and the quilt he had made him was folded at the end of the bed. It looked homey.
He turned to see Taehyung standing with his back to the door, eyes running up and down his body.
“Tae?”
“You are so beautiful,” Taehyung murmured. “I can’t believe you are mine.”
Jungkook flushed at his words.
“I am, you know. Yours. And you’re mine.”
Taehyung looked like a predator with his dark eyes and the arousal coming off him in waves. “Yes, I am. All yours,” he said as he moved forward. He got closer to Jungkook and walked him backwards until the back of his legs hit the bed.
Jungkook was not prepared for Taehyung to maneuver him to where he was lying on the bed. Then the alpha stretched himself out to cover the omega’s body with his own.
He stared down at Jungkook once more. Jungkook, suddenly dry-mouthed, licked his lips. At the sight of that pink tongue coming out and swiping at the rosy lips, Taehyung groaned, unable to resist any longer.
He kissed Jungkook but it was unlike any previous kisses. It was deeper and hungrier than he had ever kissed him before. Like he was devouring him.
One hand trailed down his side until it reached the edge of his shirt. His hand was so warm on Jungkook’s skin that it made him gasp and shudder. Taehyung paused, then slid his hand under his shirt, moving up and down on the bare skin.
Jungkook felt his pants get tight and himself harden at Taehyung’s ministrations. He had only experienced anything like this during his heat but it wasn’t nearly as pleasurable.
He could feel how aroused Taehyung was and moaned as he writhed underneath him. Taehyung smiled through the kiss. “Enjoying this, omega?” his hand still caressing his skin, moving closer to his chest
“Yes, alpha.” he breathed.
“You like me touching you here?” Taehyung’s fingers found one of his nipples and tugged at it. Jungkook gasped into the kiss.
“Yes, oh yes,” he moaned.
Taehyung started trailing kisses down Jungkook’s neck, stopping and mouthing at his scent glands. The room was full of jasmine and pine, thicker and sweeter than usual.
Jungkook was squirming under his touch, breathy moans coming from him as Taehyung took his time with the kisses and the teasing of his nipple.
“May I take this off?” he asked, pulling at his shirt. “Or are we moving too fast?” He stopped what he was doing and looked at the omega.
Jungkook opened his eyes and met Taehyung’s.
“I’m still not ready to go all the way,” he said softly, “but I don’t want to stop just yet.”
Taehyung moved so that they could both sit up.
“Maybe just shirts off? That okay with you?”
“Oh sweetheart, that is more than okay with me. I am happy with whatever you want to give me,” Taehyung assured him.
They both shyly took off their shirts, Taehyung standing up briefly to take both and put them on top of the chest in the corner.
Jungkook admired the view. Taehyung had been leaner when he’d first come to the pack but several months of good food, hard work, and training had caused him to pack on muscle. His chest was broad and his abs defined. Jungkook salivated at the thought of kissing those muscles at some later point.
Jungkook, being an omega, didn’t have as much muscle tone as an alpha, but he was still in phenomenal shape, although his tummy was a little softer than Taehyung’s.
The desire in Taehyung’s eyes told him that Taehyung found him attractive no matter what. The alpha lowered himself back down on top of the omega.
“Now where were we?” he murmured as he placed his mouth on Jungkook’s neck again, licking his scent glands once more and taking his nipple back into his fingers.
Jungkook mewled under Taehyung’s touch.
Taehyung wasn’t content with that as he moved his mouth lower, tongue laving over his clavicles and kissing all along his chest until he reached the other nipple that was currently being neglected.
He took the hardened nipple in his mouth, running his tongue over it and sucking on it. Jungkook’s back arched as he keened loudly.
His body was no longer under his control as he writhed and squirmed on the bed, hips thrusting up as he attempted to find something to rut on.
Taehyung laughed as he continued to tease the omega with his tongue and fingers.
“If you’re this sensitive just from this, how are you going to be when we finally have sex?”
Jungkook couldn’t answer as he was too out of breath and too focused on all the sensations racing through his body.
Taehyung ran his fingers up and down Jungkook’s torso, getting dangerously close each time to the top of his pants. At one point, a finger slipped underneath his clothes and Jungkook jolted as though electrocuted.
“Tae, nggh, feels so good,” he moaned as Taehyung kept sucking on his nipple, his fingers now teasing lower.
“You’re so good for me, Koo. You’re the best omega,” he said, feeling Jungkook rut against him. He switched to the other nipple to suck on it as well, his own body betraying him as he started to grind on Jungkook’s leg.
Jungkook bucked as he moaned, his hips thrusting faster. Taehyung’s hand slid down, over his pants, to his erection. He palmed the omega’s cock.
“Tae, I’m gonna come,” Jungkook breathed, rutting against Taehyung’s hand.
“I want you to come for me,” the alpha told him, pressing down on Jungkook.
Jungkook started grinding faster as he moaned and writhed under Taehyung, who trailed kisses back up and captured his mouth in his, swallowing all of his mewls and moans.
“Come,” he commanded the omega, who then shuddered and moaned as he went through his first real orgasm, Taehyung continuing to grind until he came as well with a shout.
He collapsed on Jungkook as they lay there, breathing heavily, both surprised they had gone that far.
“That was..” he started.
“Amazing,” Jungkook finished. He looked at the alpha and reached a hand up to caress his face. “You are amazing.”
Taehyung caught the hand and kissed it. He looked fondly at the man he was going to mate. “I love you,” he said, then looked shocked.
Jungkook sat up. “You love me?” he asked. He was definitely not expecting that.
Taehyung sat up as well. “Yeah. I think I’ve been in love with you for a long time.”
The smile that lit up Jungkook’s face could rival the sun. “I love you too, Kim Taehyung.”
Taehyung, who had looked very nervous, breathed deeply and leaned forward to kiss his love.
“I’m so glad but we should probably air out this room before Ji comes home,” he muttered. Jungkook laughed and nodded.
“Have you eaten?” he asked. His plan had been to make dinner for his alpha and then maybe make out a little.
“Not yet. We should clean up,” he said, feeling the uncomfortable wetness in his pants. “Do you want to borrow something to change into?”
Jungkook laughed wryly, trying not to shift too much. “Yes, please.”
Taehyung stood up and helped him up. He went to his closet and pulled out some clothes for Jungkook, then pointed to another door. “Bathroom is through there.”
Jungkook took the clothes and stood there, face upturned, expectant. Taehyung looked at him and then laughed. “Waiting for something?”
“A kiss.”
Taehyung smiled widely and leaned forward to gently kiss his omega. “You’re too cute. Go change.”
Jungkook dimpled, then said cheekily, “Yes, alpha.”
After opening the windows in his room, Taehyung took his own clothes and went to Hoseok’s bathroom downstairs to change and freshen up. Then he went into the kitchen to see if they had anything they could eat. He knew the dining hall was still open if they needed it, but Seokjin was constantly bringing food over to make sure “his” pups had enough to eat. Sure enough, he found enough to put together for a light meal, which he had set out on the table by the time Jungkook came down.
The sight of the omega in his clothes stopped his heart for a second. He had thought that Jungkook had looked delectable in the outfit earlier, but this was downright shameless how he looked wearing clothes that belonged to Taehyung.
“Did-did-did you want to go into town to eat,” he stuttered, eyes roaming over Jungkook’s body.
Jungkook blushed under the force of Taehyung’s gaze and looked at the repast that had been laid out for him, then he looked directly at the alpha, with bold eyes.
“I think this is enough, don’t you?” He led Taehyung to a chair and then proceeded to sit on his lap. Taehyung shifted a little underneath.
“Very much so,” he stammered out.
“Good,” Jungkook said impishly as he proceeded to pick up the chopsticks and feed Taehyung part of the meal. He shifted to get comfortable and Taehyung’s hands flew to his waist.
“Now, sweetheart, we can’t have a repeat of earlier. Not just yet,” he said sternly. Jungkook stopped moving and nodded, looking down, feeling shy suddenly. Taehyung moved his hand to his chin and tilted Jungkook’s face up so he could look him in the eyes. “Now let me feed you a little too, okay?”
They ate their dinner, then retired to the porch, leaving a few windows open to make sure the air carried away the evidence of their intimate moments.
Jungkook talked about the farm and the plans for the next week while Taehyung worked on a wood carving he was making for Jiyoung.
That’s where they were when Seokjin and Namjoon brought Jiyoung home. The little girl had been excited to go to dinner with them. Seokjin had dragged the evening out, just in case.
“Kookie!” Jiyoung cried when she saw him, letting go of Seokjin’s and Namjoon’s hands and racing up the stairs. She threw herself on him.”I missed you so much!”
“Hey Ji,” he said softly, embracing her as he grinned at Taehyung.
“What are we? Chopped liver?” Seokjin protested.
“Yes,” Jungkook giggled.
“Fine,” he said haughtily. “You staying a little longer, Kook, or walking home with us?”
He looked down at the little girl who had made herself comfortable in his hold and then at Taehyung, who watched them both.
“I think I’ll stay a bit longer. If that’s okay with you, Tae.”
Taehyung smiled. “Why wouldn’t it be? You can help me put that one to bed.”
At that, Seokjin and Namjoon bid everyone good-bye, Jiyoung getting up long enough to hug them both before returning to her spot next to Jungkook.
She then started to tell him all he had missed by being at the farm and how the new school year was. Her story started being punctuated by yawns so Taehyung decided it was bedtime for her.
He came to pick up the little girl and carry her inside, Jungkook behind him.
“Could you go run her a bath, Kook?” he asked as they went up the stairs. “She likes the jasmine soap and sachets.”
Jungkook nodded, heading into the bathroom where he turned the bathtub on and let the water run to a warm temperature. He looked around until he found the sachets in a bin, the soap already next to the tub.
He felt a little thrill at the thought that one day he and Taehyung would be doing this in their own house, with their own pups. Jiyoung was already eleven so at some point, she wouldn’t want them to do this for her. He just hoped it was way down the road as he had come to think of the little girl as his own.
“Ji, you don’t need to wash your hair tonight,” Taehyung told her as he looked into the bathroom. “Kook has your bath ready. We’ll be downstairs when you’re done, all right?”
She nodded sleepily as she and Jungkook exchanged places. They shut the door and went downstairs.
Taehyung pulled Jungkook down on the sofa to cuddle with him.
“This all feels very domestic, doesn’t it?” he whispered into Jungkook’s hair. “You, me, our pup upstairs?”
Jungkook nodded, “I was just thinking that. And it will be even better when we are in our own house. Think Ji will still let us take care of her like this when we’re mated?”
Taehyung snorted, “Definitely. Even after she has presented. Even when we have pups. As much as she’ll want to take care of them, she’ll want us to do that for her.”
Jungkook sat up and looked at the alpha. “You want pups?” he asked breathlessly.
“Very much so. There’s so much I missed about Ji growing up because I was just a kid myself. I would love to relive it with my own children. How about you?”
Jungkook’s eyes turned glassy and he broke out into his nose-scrunching smile that Jiyoung told him made him look like a rabbit. “Yes. I want two or three.”
“Well, we have one already, but I could go for two or three more,” he hugged Jungkook closer, putting his chin on his shoulder. “I guess we need to make sure our house is going to have enough rooms.”
They sat like that in comfortable silence, both dreaming of days far off in the future when they had all their pups around them, until Jiyoung came down, all clean and ready for bed.
“Can Kookie put me to bed?” she asked sleepily.
“Not Kookie and Taetae?” Taehyung teased her.
She thought about it, then nodded. The two wolves stood up and Jungkook held his arms out to her. The little girl ran to him and he picked her up easily.
The three walked up the stairs and into her bedroom. Jungkook had never been there. It was cheerfully decorated with a twin bed made up with colorful sheets and the quilt Jungkook had made her. There was also a small desk, a chest of drawers, and a rocking chair that Jungkook knew to be the one her grandfather had made. Drawings she had obviously made covered the walls and a collection of small toys sat in the rocking chair.
He lay her down on her bed and Taehyung came to tuck her in. They both leaned down to kiss her on her forehead.
“Night, pup,” Jungkook told her.
She looked up at her brother and his omega, then smiled. “Will you still do this in our new house?”
Taehyung and Jungkook smiled back. “Any time you want.” Jungkook assured her.
“Even when you grow up and find your own wolf to mate, I’ll still come tuck you in if you want.” Taehyung added, which made her giggle.
“Silly Taetae.” she said as she yawned. “Night, Kookie. Night, Taetae. Love you.”
“Love you too, pup. Sleep well,” they whispered before turning to leave the room. Taehyung turned off the light and closed the door behind him.
Once outside the room, they looked at each other until Jungkook broke out into his own yawn.
“I think it’s time for me to go home,” he giggled. “Wish I didn’t have to.”
“One day you won’t.” Taehyung stepped back into his room to get Jungkook’s clothes. Then, he walked him downstairs to the door. “I’d walk you home, but I don’t want to leave Ji by herself.”
Jungkook nodded. “No, I understand. It’s not like I’m walking too far anyway. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Taehyung took the omega in his arms and kissed him thoroughly one more time, wishing he felt brave enough to ask if he could scent him before he left.
Jungkook looked a little dazed when they separated. He shook his head to clear it and then smiled widely at Taehyung, his doe eyes shining.
“You will definitely see me. Don’t leave your house until I come for you, okay?” he told him as Jungkook stepped outside. “Oh and Kook?”
“Yes, Tae?” He looked back at the alpha.
“I love you,” Taehyung stated simply.
Jungkook took a step forward to kiss Taehyung once more, then pulled back, saying “I love you, too.”
Notes:
Whoo, fans self. They went a little further and said the l word earlier than I expected!
Chapter Text
Chuseok / Harvest Moon
“Chuseok is when we give thanks and celebrate our ancestors, but it’s also the time of the Harvest Moon, when we have the most light to finish harvesting crops,” Jiyoung informed Taehyung over breakfast in the dining hall a few days later.
Taehyung nodded as he ate, remembering that while his old pack never really celebrated Chuseok, his grandmother never failed to do so. She would make songpyeon and while they didn’t have a grave to visit, she would still show Taehyung how to honor their departed family members. He wondered how different it was here in Rose Moon.
“We will go out to the farms again and have a big meal there, bigger than Mabon. I’m helping Wheein make the songpyeon. Do you remember when Grandmother would make it?” she asked.
“I do, but I didn’t think you did,” he said honestly.
“I don’t remember a lot but I remember that. And when she would sit with me and teach me or tell me stories. I miss her,” Jiyoung stated very matter-of-factly.
“Me too, pup. I like to think she is watching over us though. I think she helped Rose Moon find us, even if it took a while.” Taehyung’s eyes grew moist.
“I think so too. She’s an angel like mommy and daddy. I wish I had known them.” She took a bite of her toast like she hadn’t just broken her brother’s heart. He wished every day his parents had made it so that this little girl could have grown up with all the love they could shower on her.
“I wish that too. They were wonderful. I know they are so proud of you though.” Taehyung wiped his eyes with his shirt. It was too early in the morning for this, he thought.
Just then, Jungkook walked up to them with two plates in his hand. He stared at Taehyung for a minute as he set them down. “You okay?” he asked gently.
Taehyung laughed a little nervously. “Yeah, just remembering our family today.”
Jungkook pulled up his chair and slipped his arm around the alpha, holding him for a moment, not saying anything.
“We’ll set up something for them at our Chuseok table, okay?” he told the siblings. “Does that sound good?”
Jiyoung nodded while Taehyung wiped his eyes some more. He had the kindest omega anyone could ask for.
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The pack headed out to the farm the day before Harvest Moon. There wasn’t a big celebration like other times because the time was to actually work and harvest every single fruit, grain, and vegetable they could while the moon was bright. The day after the full moon, they would hold their Chuseok ceremony with a special meal for the ancestors. To the Rose Moon pack, harvesting and taking care of the pack’s food supply was another way to honor their ancestors. They felt this showed they were keeping the pack alive and strong.
Spirits were high as they worked all day and until late at night, bringing everything in. Wolves worked to harvest or they packed and loaded carts to be taken back the next day.
Everyone was exhausted when Wooshik called it a night. They had picked almost everything they could, knowing there were still a few crops to be harvested in October, but they could go back to their regular rotations, which were always April through the middle of November, as the fields had to be put to bed to prepare for the next year. There were a small amount of winter crops to be harvested, but the families who maintained the farms were able to handle it on their own.
“Thank you for all your hard work! Rest up and tomorrow we will feast in honor of our ancestors!” Wooshik told them all. He had been out there, alongside his mate, to harvest crops. He was a pack alpha who wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty and felt no job was too small for him to help out on, a trait he had passed down to both of his sons.
Taehyung picked up his little sister, who was swaying on her feet, as he looked across the way and locked eyes with his omega, who had been standing with his parents.
Jungkook made his way over to the pair. “You staying tonight?” he asked hopefully.
“Yes. I am exhausted and I don’t think this one could make the walk home. I just need to figure out where we are staying.”
Jungkook brushed his hair out of his face. “You didn’t bring Hobi’s tent?”
Taehyung laughed sheepishly. “I forgot about it until we got here. We don’t even have sleeping bags.”
“Oh, I should have reminded you. Let me check with Dad, but I think we have enough room in our tent. Jinnie and Joon have their own this time. And I think we have an extra sleeping bag. C’mon,” he took Taehyung’s hand and dragged him over to his parents, who were talking to a few pack members.
He waited for them to finish and then got his dad’s attention. “Dad, do we have room for Tae and Ji in our tent? They don’t have one.”
Dahee walked over to hear the tail end of his question. “Of course we do. We have that extra room since Joon has his own. You and Ji can sleep there.”
“See? All squared away. Let’s go get her settled.”
Jungkook led them to where the tents were set up, Wooshik’s being near the front. It was still as large as Taehyung remembered from asking to court Jungkook.
Once inside, Jungkook took them to one of the rooms. “This is where Joon usually sleeps during council. I’m right beside it. Mom and dad are across the living area.” He peeked in. “I was right. There is a sleeping bag. You two can share, right?”
Taehyung nodded. He stepped in after Jungkook, who was unrolling the sleeping bag to set it up. “I think I have a pillow I can spare.”
Taehyung caught his hand as he turned to leave. “Thank you, Kook.”
Jungkook dimpled. “Of course. I can’t have my alpha and pup sleeping outdoors, now, can I?”
He helped Taehyung put Jiyoung down and arrange her in the bed. She had fallen asleep on the short walk and didn’t wake up even when they jostled her a little bit. Jungkook cooed at how adorable she was when she was sleeping.
“Let’s go get a pillow,” Jungkook whispered, leading Taehyung to his room. He took one off his own sleeping bag, leaving him with two.
At Taehyung’s questioning look, he flushed. “I like to cuddle something when I sleep.”
Taehyung’s eyes darkened and he took the pillow with one hand and the omega with the other. “I’m jealous of that pillow then. One day, you won’t need it.”
Jungkook’s blush deepened and his breath hitched. He pushed Taehyung away.
“Bad alpha,” he giggled. “No riling me up here. Now kiss me goodnight and go take care of my pup.”
“Your wish is my command,” Taehyung murmured as he dropped the pillow and embraced the omega. “Love you,” he whispered as he placed his lips on Jungkook’s for a brief second. He knew he was staying in the pack alpha’s tent so he had to control himself.
“Love you too, Tae,” Jungkook said dreamily.
Taehyung let him go and then picked up the pillow.
“Sweet dreams, love.” Then he was gone. Jungkook collapsed on his own sleeping bag, sighing with happiness.
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It was a large procession that made it back to the main part of the territory. Even the farm families had joined them.
Taehyung looked around at all the wolves milling around, socializing, congratulating each other on a successful harvest and a job well done. He had never seen so many, not even at the council meeting. During the harvesting he had been focused on his section of the crops and never really got a good look at who was there.
“Is this the entire pack?” he asked as he walked with Jungkook, each holding one of Jiyoung’s hands as she walked between them.
“Just about,” Jungkook replied. “I know Wheein and some others stayed behind to work on the meal for today. Our elderly wolves don’t always go. Those with children under three also tend to stay at home. Seojoon and Hyungsik just came out for a short amount of time, not wanting to leave their mates alone for too long with the kids. Anyone who stays back works on Chuseok preparations. We rarely get to celebrate as a full pack. This is one of the times we do. Everything will be held in the main square so food can be set up in the dining hall.”
The walk back was festive but slow, as they were bringing back loaded carts. When they got back to the main square, many people helped to unload everything, Myung directing them where to put all the produce. Then almost everyone who had been at the farms went back to their houses to clean up and change while the farm families took the chance to stock up with needed supplies.
Jungkook had given both Taehyung and Jiyoung a package when they dropped him off at his house, instructing them to wear what was in it.
Once they had cleaned up, they opened the package and found hanboks in their sizes, Jiyoung’s a beautiful blue dress with a pink jacket, Taehyung’s black pants and a jacket in the same blue, both embroidered with small flowers. There was a pink headband to hold back Jiyoung’s long, black hair.
She clapped her hands when she saw everything. “I wanted my own hanbok since Chae showed me the one Wonnie made her.”
Taehyung had vague memories of wearing one as a child but that ended after his parents died.
They helped each other put everything on and then headed back to pick up Jungkook, who was wearing a hanbok with black pants as well, but his jacket was the same pink as Jiyoung’s. The three outfits had obviously been made to match.
“Oh, you both look so good. Just a second though,” Jungkook quickly fixed their ties, then stood back to admire his handiwork. “I did pretty well on these, don’t you think?”
“You made these?” Taehyung asked, surprised.
Jungkook beamed. “Yes. It was so hard to keep it a secret though. That embroidery took me forever.”
“It’s beautiful,” Jiyoung breathed, liking her hanbok even more.
“Think of it as a courting gift from me to the both of you,” he giggled.
Taehyung leaned in to kiss the omega as thanks and Jiyoung hugged his legs.
“If we haven’t said it before, we’ll say it now. Yes, we accept,” he laughed.
They walked back to the main square, Jiyoung twirling all the way there as she liked how her hanbok swirled when she did so.
Chuseok was a somber affair. There was a long table set up with candles and plates of food for the ancestors. Everyone stopped by to bow and give thanks to their ancestors for the successful harvest. Then, they went through the buffet tables for their own meals, mostly rice, japchae, and songpyeon for dessert.
When most were seated and eating, Wooshik came to address them all.
“I said this last night, but I will say it again. It is thanks to all of you that Rose Moon is as successful as it is. Our ancestors look down on us with pride for all we have accomplished and all we will accomplish in the future. I am proud to be your pack alpha and honestly, I am so lucky to be your pack alpha. We also want to take a moment to remember all those we have lost. Please join me in a moment of silence.”
All noise stopped as the wolves followed his directions.
Taehyung held on to his little sister, knowing they were both thinking of their parents and grandparents. He hugged her tightly while Jungkook patted him comfortingly on the back.
When it was over, Wooshik said, “Enjoy the wonderful food cooked by so many pack members, using our own harvests and enjoy the fellowship of being with your pack!”
Everyone cheered and then went back to eating and talking.
Taehyung stood up and wiped his eyes. Jungkook hugged him and then Jiyoung, not saying anything.
They took their plates and went to sit with their friends.
“You look so lovely in your hanbok,” Seokjin told Jiyoung. She twirled again, preening.
“Kookie made it for me. It’s a courting gift,” she informed him.
“Oh it is, is it? Did you say yes?” Jimin asked mischievously.
She looked at him seriously and nodded. “Of course I did,” not quite understanding why all the adults chuckled.
“I got a message from Hobi today,” Namjoon told them.
“When is he coming back?” Taehyung questioned, settling Jiyoung and getting her to eat.
“Jieun is almost due, so it’ll be a few weeks. He did mention that Jaewoo has decided to stay in Wind Moon. I have also heard from our chaperones we sent with the other omegas. Looks like they are all choosing to stay with their alpha’s pack, including the omegas from Buck Moon, who will return here. They are all sending gifts to the council meeting so I need to send back a list of the goods we want or need.”
“Buck Moon can just send us beer.” Yoongi chimed in.
“And their cider,” Jimin added. “Especially the apple cider.”
“I need Wind Moon’s candles and some more incense. Preferably rose, jasmine, or pine scents.” Jungkook said.
“Pine huh?” Seokjin gave him a knowing look.
“Got it.” Namjoon noted everything down. He didn’t tell them but he had already put everything they asked for on the list. They were fairly predictable.
“Do you have to go to the council meeting, Kook?” Taehyung whispered, holding up a bite of japchae for the younger to eat.
“No,” he took the bite that Taehyung offered. After swallowing, he said, “I told Dad since I am being courted, I don’t need to go this year. I shouldn’t be away from my alpha. And he agreed.”
The evening wore down and when it was over, everyone pitched in to help clean up. The farm families thanked the pack for their help in harvest and let them all know that they were welcome out at the farms anytime, then loaded their carts back up with their supplies and left.
“I think that is our cue,” Jungkook said as their group started to find their own way home. Jiyoung had decided to walk with Seokjin and Namjoon so the two were walking slowly behind them hand-in-hand.
The walk was pleasant enough and the moon had finally risen, not as full as the night before, but still illuminating the newly paved road. The concrete they used had reflective properties so it seemed to sparkle under the moonlight.
Taehyung stopped Jungkook to let the others get further ahead.
When Jungkook looked at him questioningly, he murmured, “I haven’t had enough time with my omega alone lately it seems. Let me take longer tonight to get you home.”
He took Jungkook in his arms, a hint of his pine scent coming through. “Is it too much to ask if I can scent you?”
Jungkook laughed. “No. I don’t think you have ever purposely scented me. I mean, there was that one night we were at Hobi’s, but…” he trailed off as Taehyung suddenly placed his mouth on Jungkook’s scent gland, causing the jasmine to rise as well.
He went limp in the other’s hold, thankful for how strong his alpha was as Taehyung trailed open-mouthed kisses all over his neck. He wasn’t ready for when Taehyung ran his nose along his scent glands, alternating that with more kisses, thoroughly covering the omega in his scent. Jungkook was a mewling, quivering mess by the time Taehyung was through.
“Goddess, you are so beautiful like this,” Taehyung muttered when he pulled away and saw how destroyed his omega looked just after being scented. He couldn’t wait until he could see this more often.
Jungkook had a dazed expression on his face. “If that is what scenting is like, I need more of it.” he said dreamily.
Taehyung laughed as he held the other up. “Let me kiss you good night and then get you home.”
After a deep kiss that lasted at least an hour, or so it felt, Taehyung escorted Jungkook home. Jiyoung was waiting for them with Seokjin and Namjoon, both with a knowing look on their faces.
“'Bout time. Whew, I can smell you from here,” Seokjin called out. “Give me the omega, Tae, and you take this pup home. She’s worn out.”
Taehyung gave Jungkook one last kiss and then took his little sister home. The last thing he saw was Seokjin helping Jungkook inside the house, pleased he had such an effect on his to-be mate.
The rest of October passed quietly. Green leaves turned to gold, red, yellow, and orange, falling softly to the ground, offering their crunch to those who wanted to enjoy it. The days grew shorter and the air cooler. Northern winds blew in and picked up leaves, sending them swirling through the air. Wooshik and Namjoon set off for the council meeting, taking a smaller group this time. They returned a week later with all the gifts from other packs because of the omegas mating their alphas.
Days for Taehyung were mostly for hunting, working on building up as much meat to be preserved as they could before the winter came. He enjoyed running through the forest, kicking up leaves, as he chased his prey. Jungkook helped out in the infirmary and the clothes shop while Jiyoung went to school.
Evenings were quiet times at Hoseok’s primarily, as the alpha still hadn’t returned. They got a missive mid-October of Jieun’s baby being born—a girl they named Aesun and of Hoseok’s return beginning of November. Jungkook worked on clothing projects while Taehyung helped Jiyoung with her homework.
They spent the week the two alphas were gone with Dahee and Seokjin, to keep them company, and also still made their weekly visits to Byeol and the grandparents. Which didn’t give the couple as much alone time as they wanted. It didn’t help that in the last part of October, Jungkook’s heat came and he was sequestered at home. That was brutal for Taehyung, knowing that his omega needed him and he wasn’t allowed to be there. Jimin would come by frequently to get scented items for Jungkook’s nest. He would also pass along messages.
“I was told to tell you that Jungkook loves you,” he said one time, handing Taehyung a shirt that the omega had scented for him to have as well. “I can’t believe you two have already exchanged the L word and this is how I had to find out!”
Taehyung grinned as he brought out the bag of his own scented clothes, Jiyoung insisting she had something in there, even if her scent had not yet developed. Her something was her beloved Hunny Bunny toy.
“As long as that is all you know about,” he laughed at the shocked look on Jimin’s face.
“WHAT? There’s more? Oh, that omega is going to hear an earful from me. He better tell me!” Jimin scoffed.
“Jimin, can I ask a question? Is this normal? I mean, Kook hasn’t had a heat since February.” Taehyung asked shyly. He really didn’t know anything about heats.
“For an unmated omega? Yes. They have one or two heats a year until they get mated or at least scented regularly by the courting alpha. You haven’t had your rut yet, have you? Did you talk to Seokjin?”
“Yes, he told me that my wolf wasn’t feeling safe and afraid of losing any more family members so I wouldn’t have them. He said it was just a matter of time now that we were here.”
True to Seokjin’s words, the day after Jungkook’s heat ended and he got to spend an evening with his alpha and pup, Taehyung’s rut was brought on by the fading heat pheromones of his omega.
Yoongi and Hyoshin, who had finally mated Yongsun, had to come in and get him taken care of, leaving him in the rut room in Hoseok’s house. They took the task of bringing Jungkook’s scented items to him, making sure he ate regularly and drank enough water, and letting him know every day Jiyoung was safe and cared for. The little girl didn’t quite understand why she couldn’t stay at Hoseok’s, but she thoroughly enjoyed being spoiled by Dahee and the other three omegas.
For Taehyung, whose previous ruts had all brought out his territorial side, this type of sexual rut was a new experience. He spent most of his days seeking release as he rutted and grinded against the bed. The jasmine on Jungkook’s clothes aroused him over and over as he imagined doing to Jungkook what he was doing to the sheets.
On the fifth day when he finally came back to himself, he left the room to find Yoongi waiting for him.
“You feeling better now?” he asked with a little wink, handing Taehyung a plate and a glass of water.
“I could use a shower for sure. Still a little out of it, honestly.” He took several bites of the meal, astonished at how good it tasted. While he had eaten a little during the rut, it hadn’t been enough and he was famished. “Have you been here the entire time?”
“No. The whole work crew took shifts to keep an eye on you. Jungkook stopped by daily to make sure we were taking care of you and that you had his scent. You’ll want to wash all of that before you give it back to him,” Yoongi smirked.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” he asked, finishing the water.
Yoongi laughed. “The walls aren’t sound-proof.”
Taehyung flushed, understanding his implications.
“Don’t worry about it. We’ve all been there. Hopefully next time your rut comes, you’ll be mated. Now, you go shower. I’m going to get this place aired out and tomorrow you can see your omega and your sister. Both of them have been missing you something awful.”
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It had turned to November while Taehyung was in his rut and the weather had gotten cooler, he noticed as he went over to the pack alpha’s house early the next morning. He missed his omega and his sister as much as they had missed him. He knocked on the door and waited, not expecting Hoseok to answer it.
“Tae! We were just sitting down to breakfast.” Hoseok greeted in, motioning him inside the house.
“When did you get back?” Taehyung asked, bewildered. Why didn’t Hoseok stay at his own house?
“Two days ago. I’ve been staying with Jin and Joon. Didn’t really want to disturb you.” He laughed as they walked towards the dining room.
Taehyung ran his fingers through his hair, a little self-conscious. “I’m sorry,” he apologized.
“No, don’t be.” Hoseok waved his hand at him, leading him into the dining room, where everyone was getting ready to sit down.
“Taetae!” Jiyoung yelled joyously, running over to her brother and jumping in his arms. He picked her up and she clasped her hands around his neck, holding on tight. “I missed you! Don’t do that again.”
The adults all laughed at the little girl as Taehyung looked at her solemnly and said, “I’ll try.”
Jungkook walked over and put his arms around both Jiyoung and Taehyung, who leaned over to give the younger one a kiss.
“I missed you too,” he whispered.
“Come sit. Taehyung, it is so good to see you, but I had so much fun having this one stay with me,” Dahee said as she placed a platter of pancakes on the table.
Taehyung put his sister down on a chair and then helped Jungkook to one before he took his own. He was finally able to see who else was there.
It was a small group, just the pack alpha and his Luna, Jiyoung, Jungkook, Hoseok, and across from him was a beautiful, petite black-haired omega smiling kindly at him.
He must have had a surprised look on his face because Hoseok immediately sat down next to her and said, “Tae, I want you to meet Areum. My fated mate.”
Chapter 27: Autumn Turns to Winter Turns to Spring
Chapter Text
Frost Moon
Taehyung had been shocked to say the least, as Hoseok and Areum explained how they met in Wind Moon when she came to help Jieun one day and they just knew. But the longer she was around, the more he could see how well she fit in with the pack.
She was staying in the pack alpha’s house until she and Hoseok were ready to mate, which Hoseok stressed wouldn’t be for a while. They were still getting to know each other.
Taehyung had still been in the infirmary in November so he had missed out on all the pack did to get the territory ready for the winter. They had been lucky last year that the weather held for so long, but they knew they couldn’t count on that every year.
He got sent out to the farm for one week to learn how to put the fields to bed and take care of the animals. When he came back, Jimin and Seokjin had decided he and Jungkook needed to be chaperoned when spending time together and so dragged their friend group into helping. On one hand, it was nice because he got to get to enjoy the fellowship of his friends and their mates. On the other hand, it was annoying because all he wanted to do was be with his omega alone.
It did allow them plenty of time to get their house design finished and Yoongi to start figuring out what supplies they would need and where to get everything.
Winter decided to get an early start on the season and dumped meters of snow and ice on the territory in late November. The pack was thankful for the paved roads, which made getting around easier as it was much easier to shovel and for the horses to pull carts over.
December was a dreary month, full of freezing temperatures and storms. Most of the pack went out only as necessary, but Taehyung’s work crew and a few others were out almost every day, checking on members, helping to deliver meals as the kitchen was still open, doing repairs or attempting to hunt. Thankfully, they were more lucky than not.
January was a little more mild and wolves ventured out more, but Jimin’s chaperone decree did not change. He had gotten Dahee on his side and when he did that, Jungkook knew it was no use arguing any more.
In February, Imbolc and Seollal were close together so they held a small celebration for Imbolc and a much larger one for Seollal. Even though the day was gloomy and the air smelled of snow, the entire pack came out to celebrate.
The weather started to get better in early March, but it rained the last three weeks of the month.
After the council meeting in April, where Yoongi and Taehyung went so they could get what they needed, the entire community came together to build the two-story dream house that Jungkook wanted over a three-week period, interspersed with trips to the farms.
It was on a lot right next to Namjoon’s and modeled a little after the pack alpha’s house, especially with the wraparound porch, but Jungkook had added more bedrooms, after their discussion about how many pups they wanted. Dahee started planning a garden and Byeol, Seoyeon, and Haeun came out daily to help plant it.
When Jungkook tried to protest, Byeol told him, “This is good for our old bones. Helps to keep us spry.”
Seokjin, Jimin, and Areum had taken control of decorating the inside. They had had discussions with Jungkook on what they wanted and then wouldn’t let him come back in until they were finished.
By mid-May, everything was done inside and out.
And they turned to planning the mating ceremony. While it would be held privately between the two, Dahee still wanted to celebrate and host a meal. Once again, they decided on the day before the Rose Moon so Dahee could have her celebration at the pack celebration.
Jiyoung’s twelfth birthday was celebrated on June 13th. Taehyung and Jungkook took her out to their meadow spot for lunch so they could spend time with her alone before the mating and then took her back for a birthday party with friends and family.
Two days to go until the mating, Seokjin and Jimin took their younger omega to The Rose, where a little party was thrown for him with all their friends attending.
The next day was Taehyung’s turn. He drank a little too much and spent the evening talking about how pretty Jungkook was. The other alphas just patted him on the shoulder and congratulated him.
Then, the day of their planned mating, Jungkook and Taehyung moved into their new house. Neither had really been in it since it was furnished, but everything was decorated perfectly to the omega’s satisfaction, Taehyung being happy if Jungkook was happy.
Seokjin and Jimin had moved Jiyoung’s belongings in as well, but Taehyung had to have a long talk with her about why she needed to stay with Jinnie for a few days. She was sad about not getting to be in her new home yet, but Dahee came to the rescue and promised a sleepover with the other omegas at her house.
After they moved everything in, Jungkook was taken back to his house and Taehyung to Hoseok’s so the house could be set up for their mating. A meal was laid out and many candles were lit to set the mood.
Taehyung was brought back first and told to stand on the porch. Seokjin and Jimin had dressed up Jungkook in a beautiful white hanbok and given him a flower crown and a bouquet.
Wooshik escorted him to the house and shook Taehyung’s hand as he prepared to give his youngest son to him. Dahee hugged her son and Taehyung while crying tears of joy. She had wanted her son to mate for love and not only was he doing so, he was mating his fated mate, his first love. If she squinted, Dahee could see the little wolves they had been, the two who had been inseparable. She wished they could have continued to grow up together, but the Moon Goddess got them where they needed to be in the end.
Jungkook turned to the people he loved most in the world and smiled his nose scrunching starry-eyed smile.
“Thank you,” he told them. Taehyung echoed the sentiment.
Sniffles were heard from Seokjin and Jimin. Areum, although still new, was emotional as well. She had grown to love this group of people almost as much as she loved Hoseok.
They wished the couple well and went over to Dahee’s to commiserate or celebrate or both. As everyone left, Jiyoung broke away and came running to her brother and his mate. She hugged them as hard as she could.
“We’ll see you tomorrow, okay Ji? At the celebration and maybe before,” Jungkook consoled her. “Then, you get to come live here with us in your new home.”
Taehyung held her, his face buried in her hair. “I love you, pup. And I am not leaving you behind, okay? I just need this night with Kookie alone.”
He set her down and wiped her eyes. “You’re our pup so don’t forget that.”
She nodded through her tears and they held her hands and walked her back to the group who had stopped to wait on her. Right before they let go, they kissed her on the cheeks at the same time.
“Love you, my pup,” Jungkook whispered, then gave her hand to Jimin, Taehyung doing the same with Seokjin.
The two watched everyone wave and continue to walk off.
When the group had reached the pack alpha’s house, Taehyung turned to his beautiful omega.
“Ready?” he queried.
“As I’ll ever be,” Jungkook answered.
Together, hand in hand, they strolled back to their home.
Chapter 28: What You Have Been Waiting For
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
(day before) Rose Moon
Taehyung opened the door to their new home, then looked back at Jungkook. He smirked and bent down to pick up the omega, carrying him bridal style.
“What are you doing, Tae? Put me down,” he shrieked.
“In a minute,” Taehyung said as he stepped across the threshold with his to-be mate in his arms. “I just wanted to walk through the door holding you.”
Once inside, he set Jungkook down and closed the door, locking it behind him.
“Hi,” he breathed, looking at the vision that Jungkook was. He was exquisitely dressed in a beautiful white hanbok with a pink jacket. Roses and jasmine decorated the flower crown that was laid on his chin-length black hair. The rosy tint on his cheeks and lips made him look utterly breathtaking and he had stars sparkling in his eyes.
“Hi,” Jungkook smiled, leaning forward a bit.
Taehyung fortunately took the hint and joined their lips for a very sweet, chaste kiss.
When they separated, Jungkook had a very dreamy look on his face. “I have been wanting that kiss forever.”
“Forever, huh?’ Jungkook nodded. “Did I tell you how beautiful you look tonight?”
The omega shook his head. “No.”
Taehyung kissed him again and then told him, “You look so beautiful tonight.”
Jungkook dimpled as he took Taehyung’s appearance in. He was dressed casually in blue jeans and a black shirt, his hair having been cut short, to Jungkook’s dismay, even if he did look good with it that length.
“You are so handsome too,” he murmured, waiting for one more kiss.
Taehyung obliged and took his hand. “What do you want to do first? Eat? Tour our house? Mate?” He had a devilish grin on his face.
Jungkook thought for a moment before he answered, “Eat. Jiyoung helped make this meal and I don’t want to disappoint her by not enjoying it.”
“How did I get so lucky?” Taehyung mused as he followed Jungkook to their new dining room that was on the right side of the house, before the kitchen. The foyer opened to a wider space that had doors to both the dining room and the living room, with stairs to the second floor in the middle. There was a hallway to the right of the stairs that led directly to the kitchen.
“Hmm?” Jungkook questioned. Taehyung pulled him to him and looked him in the eye.
“I asked how did I get so lucky to find the one omega who loves my sister almost as much as he loves me?” he replied, planting soft kisses on Jungkook’s face.
“More than you. Get it right. I love her more than I love you,” Jungkook teased him. “And how can I not? She’s so easy to love and she’s a part of you.”
In the dining room, a large round table with seating for six was set with covered dishes and plates. A bottle of wine was chilled in a bucket full of ice and lit tapers were on top of the sideboard.
“We have japchae and bibimbap,” Taehyung lifted the lids off the dishes to see what was underneath.
“Japchae sounds wonderful,” Jungkook said. Taehyung directed him to a seat and held out his chair for him, pushing him back to the table once he had sat. He handed him the plate and took the other dish for himself.
Taehyung poured them both a glass of wine before he sat down next to him to eat.
The first few bites were eaten in a companionable silence, as they were both hungry and the food was incredibly good. Once his hunger had been satiated somewhat, Taehyung leaned back, wine glass in his hand.
“So, my love, how are you feeling about tonight?” he asked, placing his hand on Jungkook’s thigh and rubbing it gently.
Jungkook swallowed the food he had just eaten. “Nervous. We haven’t been alone in a long time, thanks to Jimin. I’ve never gone any farther than we did that one night.”
Taehyung smiled, “I’m in the same boat. Hell, my last rut was the first time I had any kind of those desires. Previously, I just curled up around Jiyoung and wouldn’t let anyone except my grandmother near her. But,” he took a drink from his glass, “I had a really educating discussion with Yoongi and Namjoon. I feel a bit more prepared.”
“Did they give you the sex talk?” Jungkook giggled. Taehyung nodded.
“Well mostly Yoongi. All about how to keep my omega satisfied and happy and safe.”
Jungkook kept giggling. “My mom gave me that talk when I presented but once we started courting, Jimin decided it was time to share details from what he and Yoongi get up to in the bedroom, so let’s just say I know way more than I want to.”
Taehyung looked at the remains of their meals. “You finished?” At Jungkook’s nod, he stood up and carried the plates to the kitchen. “Let’s clean up before we get too preoccupied with other matters.”
Together, they made short work of packing up leftovers and washing the dishes. The bottle of wine was corked and put in the fridge. Candles were blown out and the table cleaned. They traded light kisses as they went around each other, reveling in the domesticity of it all.
This was the first night of the rest of their lives and the first night in their own house. They couldn’t wait to make it a home, full of love and laughter and the sound of pups running through the halls. They also knew they wanted to grow old together in the house. Jungkook could almost see their future selves on their porch in the back, watching their pups play and grow and take their own mates, the two wolves together through it all and loving each other more and more each day. But first he had to mate the love of his life so that their happily ever after could begin.
Once everything had been put away and cleaned, Taehyung refilled their glasses and held his hand out to Jungkook.
“Let’s go check out the house. We haven’t gotten to see it since it was built.”
The kitchen was fairly large, with new appliances and a door that opened to the porch in the back. They stepped outside and admired the garden that had been set up for them. It had paved areas with boxes full of flowers, such as roses, jasmine, and moonflower. On both sides were borders made up of what looked to be pine, silver birch, hibiscus, and cherry blossom trees. In the middle of the garden was a small table with two chairs, perfect for watching the sunrise or pups running around in the open space between the garden and the river. They hadn’t realized that a fence had been built so that exploring children couldn’t reach the river on their own.
They oohed and aahed over everything and then went back inside. The kitchen backed up to the living room, with a door leading there. The living room took up the entire left side of the house and was furnished in a way that divided the room into two, which made sense as one half could be used as a playroom for pups. It also had a door leading to the back porch. A half-bath was set underneath the staircase.
Standing in the middle of the living room, Jungkook looked around at how well it was decorated. The furniture looked comfortable. He could see his family spending a lot of time here, gathered around the fireplace when it was cold outside. There were even bay windows complete with window seats.
“I love this. It is even better than I imagined,” he told Taehyung, who was watching him more than looking around the room.
“Let’s go upstairs,” he said. Holding hands, they walked up the switchback staircase. It opened up into a small area that could be used as a playroom or a place for Jiyoung to have friends over. At the front of the house were two bedrooms, each with their own bathroom. One had been set up as a guestroom for now, the other was Jiyoung’s room. It had been decorated in pastel colors of pink and purple. Her bed had been upgraded from a twin to a full-size, with her quilt from Jungkook folded at the end. Lacy curtains hung at the bay windows that were at the front and side of the room. Taehyung’s grandmother’s rocking chair held a place of honor, next to the chest his father had made for his mother. A chest of drawers was nestled in the corner next to the closet. One door led to the bathroom. It looked to be the perfect room for a preteen and she was far enough away from the master bedroom to be afforded privacy.
On the other side of the staircase was a long hallway. On one side were two doors that opened into vacant rooms to be decorated one day for children. There was a shared bathroom between them.
Jungkook and Taehyung looked at each other. There was one door left and they knew where that led. To the master bedroom. Their bedroom.
Taehyung stepped across the hallway and opened the door for Jungkook to walk in first.
The omega gasped once he stepped in. The room was beautiful. A king-sized bed was against the far wall, large windows on either side. It had been made with purple sheets and a floral bedspread, a box resting on top. There was a rocking chair in one corner, next to another window. The closet took up the side of the wall that backed into the middle of the house. There was also a large window that overlooked the garden in the back of the house. This one had a window seat similar to the one downstairs.
There was a door that opened into the bathroom, which spanned most of the back wall. The bathroom had a skylight and windows, offering a lot of natural light. There were two sinks on one side, complete with a toilet, a bathtub, and a separate shower. All of Jungkook’s favorite scented soaps and lotions had been stocked in a small cabinet and fresh towels were hanging next to the bathtub.
Jungkook turned around and around, taking everything in.
“This is really my dream house,” he breathed, tearing up. His visions of the future came back, seeing their future pups cuddling up to them on the bed on lazy Sundays. Sitting on the window seat, having heart-to-hearts with Ji as she grew up. Rocking a baby in the rocking chair. Speaking of the rocking chair, it wasn’t one he recognized. He walked over to it and found roses carved into the top and jasmine carved on the arms. He looked surprised.
Taehyung gazed at him fondly. Then, he took a box out of his pocket and walked over to him.
Putting his arms around his omega from the back, he whispered, “I have two more gifts for you. One is that rocking chair. Yoongi and I made it for you, in hopes one day you will sit there with our pups. And this,” he held the box up for Jungkook to take.
Jungkook turned to look at his alpha. “You made the rocking chair? It is beautiful! Thank you,” he kissed Taehyung on the cheek as Taehyung held the box up in front of his face.
“You’re welcome. But I really want you to see this.”
Jungkook took the box and opened it. Inside was the silver ring, two hands holding a moonstone rose. The tears that had been threatening finally fell and he turned completely around in Taehyung’s arms.
“This is stunning. And it matches my necklace and bracelet.”
“It was made specially for you, the Rose Moon omega ,” he said, taking the ring from the box. “Give me your hand.”
Jungkook held his left hand up, barely breathing.
“Jungkook, I have told you before how lucky I am to have found you. I know we are fated mates and the Moon Goddess couldn’t have found anyone else for me. You are perfect. Tonight, will you please become my mate?”
The omega was a sobbing mess as he said yes several times while Taehyung slipped the ring on his finger. Then, their lips joined in a passionate kiss as Jungkook slid his arms around Taehyung’s neck and Taehyung’s hands settled on his waist.
When they separated an eternity later, Jungkook was crying and blushing.
He held up his ring to admire it on his hand. “You’re wrong though. I am the lucky one to have found you and Ji. You make my life perfect. I am thrilled to be your mate and can’t wait much longer. But,” he giggled, “I would like to take a shower in my new bathroom first.”
Taehyung pretended to look offended as he laughed, tickling Jungkook a little.
“That’s a good idea. I could use some freshening up myself. You go in our bathroom and I will use the one across the hall.”
With one last kiss, he pulled himself away and sent Jungkook into the bathroom while he went to the other one. The bedrooms were not furnished, but thankfully someone had made sure the bathroom was stocked with soap and towels.
Both were so eager for the mating to happen that they took short showers, both vowing to enjoy longer ones at another time. Taehyung hoped that there would be one he could share with Jungkook at some point.
Taehyung knocked on the door before just opening it.
A very sweet, breathy “Come in” answered him so he opened the door and stopped to stare.
In front of him was the loveliest creature he had ever seen. He was dressed in a diaphanous gown over a cropped top and matching pajama shorts. His tiny waist was exposed and his legs were long and lean. His face was pale, glowing, his eyes round and doe-like. His lips were rosy and the flower crown from earlier rested on his chin-length hair. He was absolutely stunning.
“Close your mouth, Tae,” the ethereal vision murmured huskily, “‘Else you catch flies.”
Taehyung could feel himself harden at the sight and sound of his omega so scantily clad. He couldn’t speak but he crossed the few steps between them and pulled Jungkook flush against him, kissed him hungrily, his hands sliding down his torso to cover that bare waist.
Jungkook wrapped his arms around his alpha and kissed back just as hungrily. Taehyung’s tongue pried his mouth open and explored inside as his hands squeezed his waist.
The kiss wasn’t enough for Taehyung, who moved his mouth to Jungkook’s scent glands as his hand trailed down to those round cheeks that had been tormenting him and grabbed a fistful.
Jungkook went almost limp in Taehyung’s hold as he gave into the pleasure that he was being given, his cock filling quickly, trapped as it was between them.
“You are gorgeous,” he murmured against Jungkook’s flushed skin, alternating between kissing and licking his neck, then he rubbed his nose along his scent glands, covering the omega in arousal-tinged pine, a richer, almost burning scent. “And all mine.”
“Yes, Tae. All yours.”
Taehyung picked up Jungkook like he weighed nothing and moved him over the bed, where he laid him gently.
Jungkook already looked wrecked just from some kissing, fondling, and scenting. Taehyung couldn’t wait to ruin him.
“I’m going to undress you now,” he informed him as he put enough room between them to get Jungkook’s robe and top off. Taehyung quickly discarded his shirt as well.
Then he went back to where he was, kissing his neck, but started to move his mouth down, paying attention to both nipples as his hands wandered south, teasing Jungkook by slipping underneath his shorts, getting closer and closer to his cock each time.
Jungkook was gasping as he moaned and squirmed. Taehyung’s mouth and hands felt so good. Then he felt cool air on his thighs and his member springing up as suddenly his shorts were pulled off, leaving him completely naked.
Taehyung stood up, wanting to admire Jungkook in all his glory.
“Even down here you are gorgeous,” he gasped, looking at Jungkook’s large, especially for an omega, cock. “I can’t wait to make you my mine.”
“Then don’t,” Jungkook told him. “Make me yours now.”
Taehyung leaned in to kiss him, “I would love to do it right now, but I need to get you ready, love.”
With that, he took his sweet time exploring Jungkook’s torso with his hands and tongue. As he got closer to the omega’s member, Jungkook writhed even more, driven crazy by the alpha’s teasing.
“Tae,” he pleaded. Taehyung grinned against his stomach, where he was currently licking and kissing all over.
“Patience, my love,” he murmured, slowly making his way down.
The next thing Jungkook felt was wetness on his cock. He looked down through hazy eyes to see Taehyung had taken it in his mouth and was sucking on it, looking up at Jungkook.
“Feel good?”
“Yeeesssssssssss.”
“I haven’t even started,” he mumbled around the cock in his mouth. As he continued to suck and lick and move his mouth up and down, he slipped a finger down near Jungkook’s hole, which was leaking slick.
He traced his finger around the rim, enjoying how it made Jungkook shiver. He pulled off the cock long enough to put the finger in his mouth and suck the juices off.
“You taste so good.”
Taehyung put his finger back on Jungkook’s hole and after teasing him a few more minutes, slid it in, causing Jungkook to jerk at the sensation. “Have you never had anything down here, love?”
“Just my fingers during my heat, but it never felt like that.”
Taehyung kept thrusting the one finger in and out, watching his love squirm. Then he put a second finger in, which made Jungkook writhe even more. He scissored his fingers as he started to open the omega up.
“I’m putting a third in, all right?” he asked.
“Yes, please,” Jungkook begged.
Taehyung was fascinated with how his hole sucked his fingers in and how warm it felt inside. He could only imagine how his cock would look being swallowed up by Jungkook’s heat.
“You feel so good,” he said, slipping a fourth finger in. Jungkook cried out. The stretch was a little more than he was used to. “You okay?”
“Nnnngh yes. Don’t stop please don’t stop.” Jungkook rode his fingers as he plunged all four in and out.
Taehyung couldn’t wait any longer to be inside the younger and pulled his fingers out.
“Tae, so empty. Why?”
Taehyung stood up and kissed Jungkook on the lips. “Shh,” he said through the kiss. He positioned himself so that the tip of his leaking cock was lined up with Jungkook’s hole and pushed in slowly, Jungkook’s eyes going wide as he felt Taehyung enter him.
He started babbling through Taehyung sinking all the way into him. “So full. Tae. Love you. Tae, Tae. Mine. Yours. Mate. Nggghh”
Taehyung bottomed out, his balls flush against Jungkook’s ass. He had to stop to enjoy the feeling as being inside Jungkook felt so warm and slick and velvety. He looked at Jungkook, who was still babbling and gasping underneath him, his hands fisting the bedspread.
Taehyung leaned over to kiss Jungkook again, whispering “You okay for me to move?” He wrapped the omega’s legs around his waist.
“Yes, oh yes. Please Tae. Please Please.”
Taehyung grinned as he pulled all the way out, except for the tip. Then he rammed back in as Jungkook cried out.
“Yes, yes, please please please. Fuck me fuck me fuck me.”
“Your wish is my command,” Taehyung muttered as he could barely contain himself from pounding Jungkook into the mattress. All these sensations were new to him but he didn’t want to stop.
So he gave in to them. He started thrusting faster and faster in Jungkook’s warm heat, egged on in his desire by the omega’s cries.
“I’m close, Tae,” Jungkook suddenly gasped out.
Taehyung had felt the fire burning brighter and brighter and he knew it was time.
He slowed down his thrusting briefly. “I’m close too. I want to bite you when we come. You ready?”
“YES! YES! YES!” Jungkook yelled.
Taehyung reached between them with one hand and started pumping Jungkook’s cock while he started railing the omega faster and faster.
Right at the moment he was about to come, he leaned over and bit him on the scent glands. Jungkook screamed and came, ropes of white splashing on his chest.
“Bite me, love.” Taehyung bared his neck.
As Jungkook shuddered through his orgasm, his fangs extended and he bit down on the alpha’s scent glands. His walls clenched around Taehyung, who wasn’t able to control it any longer, and he came inside Jungkook, painting his walls white.
He pulled out quickly, not wanting to knot his omega yet, cum and slick trickling out of Jungkook’s puffy hole, and slumped on top of the other. He licked the bite marks on Jungkook’s neck to help them heal faster.
Jungkook did the same for him as he wrapped his arms around his mate. They were mates now.
The bond was singing through their blood and would take a few hours to completely settle.
They felt spent, but connected.
“I love you, my mate,” he whispered.
“I love you too,” Taehyung said sleepily, falling off Jungkook and lying next to him, looking up at the ceiling. “That was amazing. We should do it again sometime.”
Jungkook laughed. “Oh, honey, we’ll be doing that a lot.”
Notes:
THEY ARE MATED!
Chapter 29: The End?
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Taehyung woke up when a ray of early morning sunlight hit his face, disoriented for a moment until the memory of the previous night hit him. He was mated. He had mated Jungkook, his love.
He turned his head to see his mate– his mate–sleeping curled up next to him, arm across his chest, head nestled on his shoulder, breathing steadily. He lay there and admired his mate–his mate– for a few minutes.
The omega was still naked and his new mating mark had almost healed completely. There were marks from their passionate night where they had come together two or three more times after losing their virginity to each other.
Just remembering what they had done the night before made Taehyung start to harden as he kept staring at Jungkook.
Jungkook must have felt the weight of his gaze because a few seconds later, he blinked his eyes open. He stretched fully before looking at Taehyung, who could tell the moment it registered for the omega.
“Tae,” he breathed. “Last night wasn’t a dream..”
“No, love, it wasn’t. We’re mated,” he leaned forward so he could kiss his mate– his mate .
Jungkook melted into the sweet good morning kiss, his hand trailing down Taehyung’s torso. He stopped when he reached Taehyung’s cock that was standing proudly erect.
“Oh? Someone’s happy to see me? Ready for more?” he giggled through the kiss as his own scent started to rise in the room.
“Always,” Taehyung growled as he pulled the omega on top of him.
Jungkook straddled him as he sat up, gazing down at him. He lifted up enough to reach behind himself and grab hold of Taehyung. Jungkook positioned himself on top of his cock and then slowly sank down, engulfing Taehyung in that tight heat.
“My omega has become wanton after one night?” Taehyung muttered.
“Just for you, Tae, just for you,” he joined their mouths together in an explosive kiss. Then he sat up and began to lift himself up and down on top of Taehyung, who bent his knees so he had a better angle to thrust up into his omega.
Jungkook’s screams of pleasure took over Taehyung’s mind and after a few minutes of being ridden, he grabbed ahold of the other and flipped them, so he was now on top and continued to pound into him, fucking him until they came at the same time. It was so intense Taehyung felt like he almost passed out as his vision went hazy. Jungkook was limp beneath him, gasping heavily.
They lay there, spent, entwined for several moments while their heartbeats slowed and their breathing went back to normal.
“Morning, my love,” Taehyung said, kissing Jungkook softly.
“Morning,” Jungkook laughed. “What a way to wake up.”
Taehyung snorted as he pulled out of the omega and lay beside him. “How are you feeling? Do you want anything? Food? Water? A bath?”
“All of the above,” Jungkook replied. “They all sound so good.”
“How about we start with a bath and then go make breakfast?”
“Wonderful, but sleep more first,” Jungkook mumbled drowsily as he turned and curled against his alpha. And who was Taehyung to argue with that?
The sun was higher in the sky the next time they stirred to consciousness.
“Do we have to get up?” Taehyung murmured against Jungkook’s neck, kissing his new mating mark. They had entwined their arms and legs during their nap and were flush against each other.
“I guess not,” Jungkook said, huskily. Taehyung could listen to that morning voice the rest of his life. “But I need to pee. And that bath sounds really good. I’m feeling sore from last night.”
Taehyung smirked as he untangled himself from the omega. “I did well then. Yoongi would be so proud.”
“Do not mention our friends to me when we are both naked in bed,” Jungkook groaned as he slowly sat up. He turned to look at Taehyung who was sprawled across the bed, hands behind his head. “Want to join me in our new bathtub?”
The alpha sat up so fast that Jungkook couldn’t help but laugh at how eager he was. “Yes. You go get the bath ready and I’ll clean up in here.”
Jungkook nodded as he moved to stand up. His body was so sore from the lovemaking so he had to go slowly, grimacing as he did so.
“You okay, love?” Taehyung rasped, his own voice deep and hoarse, a grin on his face, feeling pretty proud of himself.
Jungkook glared at him as he walked gingerly towards the bathroom. He disappeared into the room and a second later, Taehyung could hear the water running. That was his cue to get up and strip the bed.
He looked around for a laundry basket and ended up finding it in the bathroom, where Jungkook was adding fragrant oils and sachets to the water. There was a cute hamper in the corner labeled laundry and next to it was a cabinet that had a note tacked up that said “Extra sheets here.”
He stopped to give his new mate a kiss before going back out to the bedroom where he quickly remade the bed, new bedspread included.
“Bath’s ready, Tae,” Jungkook’s voice floated out from the bathroom.
Taehyung walked back just in time to see his naked omega step into the tub. The air was fragrant with the scent of rose as Taehyung crossed the short distance and joined Jungkook.
The bath was the perfect temperature for soothing muscles made sore by their activity earlier. He groaned as he leaned back, luxuriating in the warm water.
“Let me take care of you, alpha,” Jungkook purred as he took the soap in his hands. He lathered them up and with the help of a washcloth, proceeded to clean the alpha up, who enjoyed the feel of Jungkook’s hands touching him everywhere.
He started to feel a little aroused as Jungkook finished and then handed the soap to him. “My turn,” he told him.
Taehyung did the same motions as Jungkook, paying special attention to his lower back, massaging him.
Jungkook’s moans turned him on even more, causing his cock to harden.
“Koo, you need to stop making those sounds or else I’m not responsible for what will happen,” he growled in his ear, his hands still grasping Jungkook’s round globes.
With a twinkle in his eye, Jungkook let out the loudest, longest moan he could muster. And that is how he ended up bent over the edge of the bathtub, Taehyung on his knees, fucking him from behind. He came with a cry and Taehyung kept thrusting deep into him through his orgasm, before succumbing to his own with a loud grunt.
Once Taehyung slipped out and sat back down, Jungkook smiled. “Now, we have to start all over with the bath.”
Taehyung laughed and they filled the tub with fresh, warm water.
Once they made it downstairs, after dressing and Jungkook insisting they leave the sheets to soak, it was lunchtime. The two thanked their past selves for cleaning up the night before and putting away all the food so that they could pull out the leftovers now to eat.
They had overlooked the breakfast nook the night before and decided to eat at the small table rather than in the dining room. Taehyung kept staring at Jungkook, unable to believe this was real. Not only had he lost his virginity and taken his omega several times, but he was also mated to said omega. If he had been told two years ago that this would be his life, he would have scoffed and said that was a lie. He had been in Rose Moon for a year and a half and it had changed his life for the better in so many ways. He had close friends and new family members, his relationship with his sister was so much better now that they weren’t excluded from the rest of the pack, and he had the omega of his dreams.
He sighed, causing Jungkook to look at him. “You okay, Tae?” he asked.
“More than,” he replied. “Just thinking how much my life has changed in the last eighteen months and how happy I am.”
Jungkook leaned over to kiss his mate. “Just as happy as I am.”
They finished eating and then shared the chore of cleaning up, still reveling in their new domestic life.
Jungkook groaned a few times with how sore he was. “Will you carry me tonight to the celebration grounds? It hurts to walk. And it’s all your fault.”
Taehyung smirked. He was proud of the effect he had on his mate. He took his hand and kissed it, bowing low. “I would be honored to carry you, my love.”
“Could we take a nap first?” He asked drowsily.
“Your wish is my command,” Taehyung took Jungkook by surprise when he lifted him in his arms and carried him upstairs to their bed, where they lay down to cuddle and sleep a little more before the night’s festivities.
They finally got up around four in the afternoon, feeling more refreshed after their nap, although Jungkook still complained about being sore. Taehyung kissed him a few times as if to ask for forgiveness, which Jungkook gave willingly, especially as it got him extra kisses.
“Should we go get our pup and let her see her new room?” Taehyung asked as they were lazing on the back porch swing, enjoying the warm day. Their jasmine and pine scents were bright, carried along on the cool breeze.
Jungkook opened his eyes and looked up at Taehyung from where his head rested on his lap. “Think the house has aired out enough from our activities? I don’t want to overwhelm her.”
When they had woken up the last time, they had opened several windows as their aroused pheromones had taken over the entire house. Thankfully, there was a good breeze that blew through the house.
“Good point. Also, am I a bad brother if I want to be alone with my new mate a little longer?” he asked, a little worried he wasn’t one hundred percent ready to get his sister.
“Not at all. That’s our bond settling. Plus, she knew she wouldn’t see us until the celebration. And you know everyone is absolutely spoiling her to the point she is going to want to stay with them. I do miss her though, but I don’t mind the idea of a little bit more alone time with you.”
They sat outside for a couple of hours longer, finally going in near the time they had to leave. Jungkook got dressed in his white hanbok from the night before and pulled out a similar one for Taehyung to wear.
At his look, Jungkook explained, “Mom wants us to dress up.”
They closed all the windows before heading back downstairs and had just walked out the front door, when they heard bells ringing and a shout from the road.
There was Yoongi on the front seat of a horse-drawn carriage, Jimin beaming beside him. He got down to greet them as they walked down the short path, speechless.
“I knew you’d be too sore to walk out there tonight so we had Bam brought to town. Hop in,” Jimin explained with a devilish wink.
We’ll talk later, he mouthed to Jungkook.
In the carriage sat Jiyoung in her own white hanbok. She looked excited to see her brother and his mate.
Taehyung held Jungkook’s hand and helped him up into the carriage. Jiyoung came to hug him and once Taehyung had joined them, sat between them.
“Where is everyone else?” Jungkook asked, looking around.
“They left about five minutes ago in their own carriage. We’re all making a grand entrance tonight.”
During the short ride, Jiyoung told the two wolves all about her evening away from them and the fun she had.
“I’m excited to see my new room,” she stated. “Jinnie told me it is perfect for me.”
“It is. You’ll love it,” Jungkook assured her. “And it’s at the front of the house, but if you want one of the other bedrooms, you can change.”
“I missed you both so much though. I can’t wait to come home.” She squeezed both their hands and put her head on Taehyung’s shoulder.
“We’re here!” Jimin announced as the carriage came to a stop outside the grounds. Namjoon and Hoseok stepped up to help everyone out. Tonight, the entire group was walking in together as a family. They were all dressed
Dahee came over to inspect their mating marks, which had healed well. She hugged both Jungkook and Taehyung, telling them how happy she was. Wooshik looked on proudly.
“Now, Woo and I will walk in first, then you three,” she motioned to the newly mated couple and Jiyoung, “then Joon and Jin, Yoongi and Jimin, Hoseok and Areum.”
Yoongi handed the reins off to a wolf who was standing there to take care of the horses and they all lined up.
Wooshik gave the signal and they all started walking in. The pack of wolves started applauding when they came into view.
Dahee, to no one’s surprise, fell back and grabbed Taehyung’s and Jungkook’s hands, lifting them up with an exuberant “They’re mated!”
Everyone started cheering, happy for the omega they had seen grow up before their very eyes and for the alpha who had become such a treasured part of the pack.
When the cheers had died down, Namjoon and Seokjin walked in, holding hands. “We’re expecting!” They called out, which brought on more applause and cheers. The entire pack had been waiting since the couple had mated three years prior for those very words, to see that Rose Moon’s legacy would live on.
Yoongi and Jimin were not far behind. They were clapping for their friends but Jimin yelled mischievously, “So are we!”
The wolves couldn’t believe how blessed they were. Two babies. One mating. It was definitely a time to rejoice.
Hoseok and Areum slipped in as everyone was congratulating the three couples.
Dahee stopped them. “Don’t you two have something to say?” she asked, giving them a look.
“We’re getting mated soon,” Hoseok announced.
Jungkook looked agape at Taehyung. He felt like they had missed so much in just one day. He was going to be an uncle to two–TWO!–babies and another one of his best friends was actually settling down.
Wooshik let all the chatter go on for a few more minutes, then quieted the crowd down by standing on the stage.
“On this momentous day, again I thank you all for trusting me with this pack. The Moon Goddess truly blesses us with the news of my grandchild coming and my youngest son mating. Rose Moon is strong and will go on. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
The wolves all repeated his last line, giving everyone chills at the sound of several hundred wolves showing gratitude.
Dahee stepped up next to her mate, looking out at everyone.
“It is the Rose Moon tonight and we are so thankful to the Moon Goddess for all she has blessed us with. Please join us in celebrating all we have. There is rose wine for all who are of age tonight to mark this special occasion.” She went through her invocation, ending it with her signature “Amen, aho, and so it is.”
After she was done, Namjoon, Seokjin, and Jungkook stepped up the light the bonfire. Jungkook looked around for Taehyung and motioned him over.
“You’re his mate now,” Yoongi said, pushing the alpha forward. “You get to help.”
Taehyung walked over shyly to where Jungkook was standing with two torches. He handed one to his mate and showed him where to stand, the four forming a square now instead of a triangle.
On Wooshik’s signal, they touched the torches to the wood and cheers broke out when the flames caught. Once it was burning merrily, children, including Jiyoung and Eunchae, came up to toss bundles of dried sage, rose, bay, sunflowers, pine, rue, yarrow, and rue in, the scents wafting pleasantly through the air. Everyone then went to get their dinner.
Jungkook went straight to Seokjin and Jimin, hugging them both tight. “I can’t believe neither one of you told me!”
Jimin laughed, “To be fair, Yoongi and I told no one but Jinnie because he examined me.”
Namjoon came over then and corralled them long enough to go sit down, their plates already waiting for them, thanks to Wheein.
As they ate, they discussed due dates and Hoseok’s upcoming mating, Jungkook leaning against Taehyung, who was making sure Jiyoung was eating.
That feeling of domesticity hit him again as he looked at his mate and his new little sister, feeling comfortable.
The evening passed quickly it seemed. The grandparents and Byeol were there, congratulating everyone, already making plans to come help out with the pregnant omegas.
It seemed like the entire pack wanted to come with their congratulations as well. Jungkook felt like he talked to a million people by the end of the evening. But their excitement and happiness were contagious and he wasn’t sad at all to spend that time with them.
Hyoshin came up to Taehyung near the end of the evening, accompanied by a very pregnant Yongsun. He embraced Taehyung, saying “I’m so happy for you.”
Taehyung looked at the glowing omega next to his friend and replied, “Same for you. We are so lucky to have found our mates.”
After hugging Jungkook as well, the couple took off as Yongsun was feeling tired and needed to get off her feet. She was so far along she shouldn’t have come out, but she said there was no way she was missing this.
The carriages were waiting once the night ended. There were still wolves hanging out to celebrate and a small percentage had gone for a run in the moonlight.
Taehyung looked up at the full moon hanging high in the sky. He felt his family was up there watching them. He mouthed “Thank you” to the moon as he helped Jungkook into the carriage.
“Let’s go home,” he said to Yoongi, who smiled and clicked his tongue to get the horse moving.
As soon as they got home, they took Jiyoung up to her new room, which she was in raptures over. “It’s perfect!”
Taehyung and Jungkook gave her a hug and left her to explore her bedroom, going back to their own room to get ready for bed.
A few minutes later, when Jungkook was in the bathroom, doing his skincare regimen that he swore by, a knock sounded.
Taehyung, who was lounging on the bed, opened the door to find a little girl in her pajamas standing outside.
“I love my room, but tonight could I sleep with you?” she asked, holding her stuffed rabbit. At Hoseok’s, she would sneak into Taehyung’s bed when she felt sad or lonely to be cuddled by her big brother.
“Of course, Ji.” Jungkook called out from the bathroom. She came in and headed immediately to see what the omega was doing. Taehyung heard the sound of giggles as he went to sit on the window seat. The moon shone its light into the room.
He could see his omega and sister from where he sat and felt satisfied.
He was the first to awake the next morning and sat up, watching Jungkook and Jiyoung sleep, cuddled up together. Jungkook woke up shortly and smiled sleepily at his mate.
“Should we get up?” he whispered.
“We don’t have to, but I am a little hungry.” Taehyung answered. They carefully eased themselves out of the bed, choosing to let Jiyoung sleep longer, going downstairs in their pajamas to get breakfast started.
The smell of pancakes and bacon brought Jiyoung to the kitchen, still yawning and rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.
“Come eat, Ji,” Taehyung motioned to the little table off to the side.
They ate quickly because Jiyoung expressed a desire to check everything out. After going upstairs to change, they took Jiyoung on a tour of the entire house.
“I’m so happy this is our house,” she squealed upon seeing everything. She hugged both wolves. “Thank you for loving me and loving each other. I couldn’t ask for better brothers.”
“You’re our pup, Ji,” Jungkook said. “And you always will be.”
Later, the little family of three was in the backyard, enjoying the warm sunshine. Taehyung and Jungkook sat at the little table, cups of tea in hand, watching Jiyoung as she explored the garden with the eagerness of a child on an adventure, exclaiming in delight over all she found. She looked loved and nurtured, her face as radiant as all the flowers she found blooming.
For that moment, as the sun shone down and a warm breeze ruffled their hair, their scents of jasmine and red pine swirled together, wafting about the garden, all was right with their world and they were happy.
Notes:
And we're done!
I absolutely fell in love with these characters and it's a little sad to leave them. But we leave them at a happy time and know they will all live happily ever after.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for reading.
I hope you loved it as much as I do.
Chapter 30: Epilogue
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Summer Solstice
Five Years Later
Jungkook sat in his garden on the bench they had installed next to the small table. He was drinking tea and enjoying the sunshine, having just finished his breakfast. His family would go celebrate solstice later but for now, it was their time to be together.
He reflected on how much had changed in the past five years. His brother and Seokjin had two children now, one boy and one girl. Yoongi and Jimin and Hoseok and Areum each had one child. In fact, a whole spate of babies had been born in the past few years to all their friends.
His father and mother had finally stepped down from being pack alpha and Luna, handing the reins over to Namjoon and Seokjin. However, they refused to move from their house because they wanted to be close to all their grandchildren.
The pack was still going strong, their hunts were successful and the harvests were abundant. They had had some wolves leave due to mating someone from another pack and some wolves enter due to the same reason.
He looked at his ring, watching the flash in the sunlight. Taehyung was still the love of his life and if the past five years were any indication, the rest of their lives would only get better.
Jiyoung was now seventeen and had presented as an omega, with the loveliest rose scent, the year before. She was still best friends with Eunchae, who had also presented as an omega. The little girl had grown into a beautiful and kind teenager. Jungkook loved his first pup so much. Their relationship had blossomed even more once he had mated her brother. He was her confidant and she was his partner in crime.
“Dada,” a sweet little voice lisped as a child toddled her way over, a bunch of wildflowers clasped in her hand. “Pwitty dada. Pwitty fwowers. Pwitty like dada.” She brandished the bouquet like it was the most valuable thing in the world, and to Jungkook, it was.
He placed his teacup on the table, then reached down to pick the little girl up and settle her next to him. “Junghwa, are these for me? They’re beautiful.”
The tiny black-haired girl leaned back against her father, looking pleased with herself as Jungkook gently took the flowers and laid them on the table.
“Taehwa, come back here.” Taehyung raced by after another little girl, who was evading him, giggling the entire time.
She was caught by Jiyoung, who scooped the two-year-old up in her arms. “You running from papa?” she asked, laughing. Taehwa nodded proudly.
“Papa no catch,” she crowed as her sister walked with her to where Jungkook was. Jiyoung knew she was actually the girls’ aunt but she preferred to be called their sister. Neither Jungkook nor Taehyung were going to tell her differently.
Jungkook reached out to take her and Jiyoung placed her on the opposite side from her twin. She then sat down. Taehyung joined them, a little out of breath.
He leaned down to kiss Jungkook, then bopped Taehwa’s nose.
“Your daughter is a menace,” Taehyung told him.
The omega gasped. “ My daughter? No, she gets that from you.”
Junghwa held out her arms for her papa to pick her up, which of course, he did. She looked at her sister and stuck her tongue out at her. “I no run Papa. I give pwitty flowers Dada.”
Her little statement said so smugly caused the three older wolves to burst into laughter.
“That’s my little wolf,” Taehyung smiled, sitting down next to Jungkook, Junghwa in one arm and the other he put around his mate. He leaned over again to kiss Jungkook, who exuded pleased pheromones, his jasmine just starting to be tinged with something new, something familiar but not.
When Taehyung sat back, Junghwa patted his face with her tiny hands, wanting her own kiss. Taehwa then screamed for a kiss too, wanting what her sister had.
Jungkook bent down to kiss Taehwa while Taehyung kissed Junghwa. Jiyoung was curled up in her chair, giggling at the antics of the little girls.
The twins were in their terrible twos but absolutely adorable. They were identical with Jungkook’s doe eyes and Taehyung’s boxy smile. Dahee often said they were as mischievous as Jungkook was when he was their age and Taehyung said they were as tiny as Jiyoung was. They hadn’t learned to shift yet, but with how impish they were, Jungkook was a little afraid of them doing so. They were already a handful, as evidenced by Taehwa running from her father and thinking it a great joke. Once they could shift, Seokjin joked about putting leashes on them.
Their cousins, although not much older, doted on them as did most of the pack. Whenever Taehyung and Jungkook took them into town, everyone wanted to see them. Even with their own children, their friends always offered to babysit whenever the mates wanted time alone. They had to make a schedule so no one got left out. Jungkook worried they would be incredibly spoiled as they got older, but Taehyung assured him they would make sure the little girls grew up to be as sweet and down-to-earth as Jiyoung, who was still fussed over by the adults.
Jungkook got two years to stay at home with them as all omegas did while Taehyung went back to work after the first year, his hunting prowess being sorely missed. Dahee and the grandparents came over almost daily so he wasn’t left alone, Jimin, Seokjin, and Areum having already gone back to their pack duties.
Jiyoung sat up and sniffed the air. She frowned trying to put a name to what she smelled.
“Kookie?” she asked over the babbling of the little girls. They had their own language to talk to each other.
“Yes, Ji?” he murmured.
“You smell different. Taetae, you smell it right?” She turned to her brother, who then put his nose on Jungkook’s scent gland and sniffed. Their scent had melded a little bit after mating so there was always a tinge of pine in Jungkook’s pheromones, but this was different.
“It is. I can’t quite put my finger on it,” Taehyung agreed.
Jungkook’s nose scrunched up when he smiled and he had stars in his eyes as he looked at his beautiful family. His handsome, adoring mate. His beautiful pup who he had adopted as his own, although she wasn’t a pup anymore. His adorable twins who drove him crazy but also made him fall in love more and more each day.
His eyes met Taehyung’s questioning brown ones.
“I do have some news and I was planning to tell you later, but right now is as good a time as any,” he started. Realization began to dawn on the sibling’s faces as they connected the dots.
“Are you?” Taehyung breathed, unable to believe it.
“Really?” Jiyoung said excitedly.
Jungkook nodded. “Yes, I am pregnant. This baby is due in late October.”
Jiyoung squealed as she got up and threw her arms around Jungkook. Taehyung was sitting there with a stunned look on his face.
Taehwa and Junghwa had no idea what was happening but they adored their Jiji so they squealed with her, bouncing up and down.
“I hope it’s another girl,” Jiyoung said matter-of-factly. “I like you two being outnumbered.”
“We already are,” Jungkook laughed. He turned to look at his mate. “Tae?”
A smile broke out slowly on Taehyung’s face as the information of a new child was processed.
“We’re having another baby?” he whispered in disbelief, glancing at Jungkook’s still flat stomach.
“Yes, Tae. You’re gonna be a papa again.”
Taehyung still had his arm around Jungkook so he pulled him closer and kissed the omega full on the lips.
“Thank you,” he breathed. “I can’t wait to meet this little one. I love you and them so much.”
“I love you too, papa.” he whispered.
Jiyoung sat back down, a contemplative look on her face. “Have you started thinking about names?”
“I’ve got a few,” Jungkook admitted. “One of them is your grandmother’s name Hyunji. I owe her a lot for keeping you two safe until I found you. I also like Jia and Jaehwa. Jihyun or Taeyoung for a boy.”
As Jiyoung and Taehyung discussed names and decorating the room next to the twins’ for the new baby, Jungkook looked at his perfect family and his dream house and thought how lucky he was. He had the life and mate he had always dreamed of.
For that moment, as the sun shone down and a warm breeze ruffled their hair, their scents of rose, jasmine and red pine swirled together, wafting about the garden, all was right with their world and they were happy.
🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕🌹🌕
The End
Notes:
Thank you so much for reading! Catch you on the flip side (or after author reveals)
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