Chapter Text
Spring brings good weather, a type of warmth that Minghao loves. It reminds him of colorful foliage and bird watching.
He’s homesick again.
The omega loves his life; adores his new camp and pack. He’s also blessed to have Junhui, a lifelong friend, who refused to let him travel here alone. They talk in their first language, mostly to have some semblance of normalcy after such a huge change to their daily life. But Minghao still feels a pull from so far away, calling for him to return to his original home. It’s a bit easier to ignore on the days where the weather is perfect. Though, even with spring in the air, he still thinks of China summers.
The grass feels soft under his bare feet as he strolls between the pack’s tents, a book is tucked under his arm and he scans the area for somewhere to relax. A gentle breeze blows his long silver hair about, ruffling the skirts of his ornate hanfu robe. The omega can’t help but smile in contentment, the sunlight kissing his skin as he grips the burlap bag slung over his shoulder.
A shaded area beneath a weeping willow is spotted right outside of their camp perimeter, close enough to be considered safe. Minghao eagerly makes his way to the tree, settling against its old trunk before getting comfortable and flipping his book open after pulling it out of his bag. The serene ambiance settles around him and it’s not been this peaceful in weeks. Adjusting to a different culture and language has been difficult, even after two months of being here. Korean lessons are getting easier with Joshua’s help and he doesn’t have to suffer alone since Junhui accompanies him every afternoon.
He almost drifts off, lulled into relaxation so fast, he becomes drowsy as the writing begins to blur. Suddenly, a deep voice from somewhere above him causes Minghao to flinch before snapping his book closed and glaring up at a familiar alpha.
“Mingyu-yah.” Minghao hisses, though there isn’t any real heat behind it.
“What’re you reading?” Mingyu, one of the pack alpha’s sons, is grinning down at him with prominent alpha fangs on display. His golden skin is covered in a thin layer of sweat, only wearing loose linen trousers that hang dangerously low on his sculpted hips. His long black hair is tied back in a loose bun, off his thick neck. The alpha’s muscles are a bit distracting and Minghao, though he isn’t easily swayed with any alpha, is weak to the sheer strength Mingyu galavants around with. “Is it in Chinese?”
“M’yeah.” Minghao swallows, looking back at the hard cover in his hands. It’s a book from back home with a painting of a bird in flight across the front. It’s one of his prettiest copies of poems. “I can’t translate your language well enough yet.”
He flips it back open to where he was, trying to go back to reading but his mind isn’t focused on it, even as he tries to not spare the older man anymore attention. Instead, Minghao begins reeling over the fact Mingyu is now leaning down and so close to try and peer at its text. His sharp, woodsy scent is stronger because of his sweat and it makes the omega stupidly overwhelmed. He tries to lean away, big eyes glaring holes at the alpha. “What?”
The alpha has been courting him for the past few weeks, relentless in his affection and his interest hasn’t wavered yet, despite Minghao not being as receptive to his advances. He hates to admit that he finds it endearing and actually began to entertain the alpha a little bit. Even if Minghao is still limited with his korean and can’t hold a lengthy conversation even if he wants to, he likes to hear what Mingyu has to say, sometimes. Junhui thinks it is insanely amusing, since Minghao was notorious back home for never humoring courting from any alpha, no matter what or who they were. Also that he’s playing a dangerous game of hot and cold with someone so important in the pack dynamics.Maybe Mingyu will turn into an exception. His ancestors might roll in their graves that he would even think of mating with a foreigner but he never cared much for that tradition anyway.
“What kind of book is it?” He asks, tilting his head like a curious puppy. Cute..
“A poem collection.” Minghao finally responds in a mumble, flipping a page even though he didn’t read a word on it. Why is he so nervous? He’ll blame it on the alpha’s presence. “About omegan inclusion and finding one’s purpose in society.”
The older alpha makes an interested noise, squatting down to his level and getting even closer without actually touching yet. Minghao side eyes him, fingers tightening on his hold of the book as Mingyu leans in. The alpha isn’t subtle in how he tries to scent the omega and Minghao bites at his bottom lip. He can see the sparse beauty marks across the alpha’s face and it’s distracting.
“Sounds beautiful.” Mingyu says though he’s staring straight at Minghao’s profile. The omega meets his gaze with a raised eyebrow. “I mean, y’know, sounds super inspiring.” Mingyu backtracks with a flush slowly making its way to his cheeks as he leans back from him a little. Minghao can breathe a bit easier now.
“It’s considered radical thinking, to many alphas.” Minghao responds, still holding eye contact because it seems to make the alpha more shy. Interesting..
“Doesn’t sound that way to me. Omegas are the most important part of a pack.” Mingyu sits back on his haunches, hands resting on each of his knees. He’s quite stupidly handsome and Minghao wants to curse himself for being so easily attracted, at least physically, to him. “Read me a page?”
“I..” Minghao frowns, trying to piece his words together in a language he hasn’t become fluent in yet. “I can’t translate it well.”
He finds it almost embarrassing, not one to easily admit to his shortcomings. Especially to an alpha but Mingyu’s dark eyes reflect a deep sincerity that he doesn’t see often in other alphas. It’s very nonjudgmental. His only alpha exemption, Junhui, has shown similar attributes. Maybe that’s why he has warmed up so easily to Mingyu.
“You don’t have to translate it. I don’t want to bother you at all, I promise.” Mingyu replies, saddling up closer again so their shoulders now brush and Minghao can’t suppress the way his body tenses up from how warm the other’s bare skin is. “I just like to hear your voice, if I’m honest.”
“I—“ That makes Minghao tongue tied this time, holding the book up to cover his burning cheeks, clearing his throat. “Don’t be odd.”
The alpha chuckles and it comes out nervous as he gently takes the book from Minghao’s now weak grasp and the younger lets him. The omega watches how Mingyu makes sure his finger is wedged between the pages so that Minghao’s place isn’t lost in the book as he inspects the cover. He can feel a heat pool dangerously low at the image that flashes in his mind and he almost jerks away at the first bloom of arousal in his gut.
What is this?
Did he just get turned on at the simple show of courtesy and a slightly suggestive visual from an unmated alpha?
As if his mind takes over his body in a flight or fight response, Minghao snatches the book out of Mingyu’s hands as he stands up abruptly. He can feel bad about the kicked puppy expression the alpha is wearing when he thinks about it later.
“Sorry-I need to—goodbye.” Minghao is barely able to say as his face flames red and he gathers his skirts to his robes and his bag before hurrying off towards the camp again, almost shaking at the warmth that is settling into his limbs. He could die from embarrassment at this point and he wouldn’t be surprised.
——- —— ———-
It’s a relief to come barreling into his shared tent, but even a feeling of satisfaction at Junhui jumping from the sudden entrance can’t calm him down. Minghao’s face still feels as red as a ripened apple. He’s sure his usually gentle scent of moss comes out too earthy and damp with how his emotions are all over the place.
“Gods, Hao!” Junhui fusses, clutching his chest like his heart might pump out of it. His tousled brown hair is sticking up in different directions like someone was yanking him around by it. “Trying to kill me?”
The familiar Chinese being hurled at him is a breath of fresh air and the omega slumps down against one of their floor cushions. It smells of sickeningly sweet hormones and Minghao almost doesn't realize that he has interrupted something until a mess of ashen blonde hair pops up behind where Junhui is sprawled out in his bed, mostly naked, mind you.
“Minghao-ah!” Soonyoung’s chipper tone cuts through the silence, he’s without clothes too, from what Minghao can see. A thick blanket lays covering his lap, barely hiding any modesty he has left, which isn’t a lot to begin with. He smiles, not ashamed. “What’s got you so frazzled, bud?”
“What are you doing here?” Minghao counters, hands on his hips as he stares him down, gaze flickering between the two. Junhui also doesn’t care for his own modesty as he gets up to to step between them. It’s very obvious what they just finished doing. Crazy..
“Well, I was doing your—” Soonyoung tries to reply cheekily and Junhui has the gall to bark out a laugh, getting back into his bed to playfully shove at the chuckling omega. “Hey! Ouch!”
“What about Seungkwan?” Minghao asks, a bit put off by the idea of Junhui coming between a happy, same sub-gendered couple, whether it’s conventional or not for two omega to become mates where they are from. It doesn’t matter here. For the most part.
“What about me?”
He knows that familiar rasp. Minghao almost has to snap his jaw shut from the visual of the youngest omega in their camp strutting out of a side flap where their bath is located. He’s freshly washed, rosy cheeks making him look even more attractive than usual. A thin robe covers his thicker frame, Minghao admits to himself that he’s slightly jealous of the other’s more omegan-like curves.
“What the fuck is happening.” Minghao deadpans to Junhui in Chinese again as Seungkwan drops into the same cushion that he is on, cozying up to a disgruntled Minghao. “Did I miss something here?”
“Oh, gege.” Seungkwan teases as he pinches at Minghao’s shoulder, making the elder swat his hand away. Junhui must be teaching them terms again. “Soonyoung-hyung is in preheat, so we’re just getting acquainted before Junnie helps us out.”
“Yep, that’s all.” Soonyoung parrots with a grin, his short hair looking more ridiculous the longer Junhui essentially grooms him by playing with the platinum strands. “Sorry for defiling your space. We didn’t touch anything of yours, promise!”
“Ew-stop!” Minghao chokes, trying to wrestle out of Seungkwan’s grabby hands as he attempts to cuddle him with a stern pout. “You are all weird, get off me.”
Junhui gets up to lift a laughing Seungkwan into his arms to bring him back to Soonyoung, who immediately takes him into a strong embrace. As they settle into each other, Minghao has to admit, they are quite precious, all other silly things aside.
“I’m gonna be spending the week at their’s. Once his heat fully hits.” Junhui explains, sitting beside Minghao on his own cushion. He adds on in Chinese, his tone softer. “I don’t like the idea of leaving you alone here, though.”
Minghao almost scoffs, saying he can definitely handle himself but when he sees how earnest Junhui is in his concerns, he keeps his lips sealed, looking at his lap instead. At least the heat there caused by Mingyu has calmed down now.
“I’m not exactly close with anyone to just crash at their home or to invite them here.” Minghao mumbles, since Seungkwan is obviously out of the question. He switches back to Korean so the others can hear. “I don’t see why they need an alpha. Don’t they have each other?”
Seungkwan makes an affronted sound, frowning from where he is swaddled against an equally upset looking Soonyoung. “Of course we have each other, but we’ve learned it’s easier on the both of us, and our biology, to have a trusted alpha present.”
“I’ve fared just fine on my own during my cycles.” Minghao presses, ignoring the alpha moving in his peripheral. He swears he’s trying to not cause problems, but they are the ones imposing upon him and his comfort. Why should he have to be the one uncomfortable for their comfort? His words are becoming jumbled as he switches to Chinese once more while looking to the older alpha. “Jun, I just don’t understand—“
“We asked and he agreed. It really shouldn’t be a problem since you two aren’t even involved like that—“ Soonyoung begins, his tone taking on a defensiveness that immediately prickles at Minghao’s nerves but before anymore back and forth can happen, Junhui excludes pheromones that makes him feel like all the tension seeps out immediately, and by the looks of it, the other two omega as well. Damn alpha.
“Hao hasn’t been helped through any of his cycles. It’s customary where we are from for unmated omegas so please give him grace.” Junhui explains softly, trying to appear fair in the circumstance but Minghao knows he’s trying to defend him, which causes some odd form of jealousy to melt away. “So it’ll seem unnecessary for him. Omegas are held in high expectations to be chaste until their mating night, even during cycles.”
Soonyoung looks shocked, while Seungkwan just pouts, like he’s mulling over the idea in his head before humming to himself. “Oh..”
“So you’ve never..” The youngest begins, looking up at Minghao with raised brows, trying to ask a question that he doesn’t want to say out loud. Minghao wants to laugh at the way he was coming across so awkwardly but Seungkwan, who is clean and refreshed after fooling around, can't even ask if Minghao has had an alpha in his nest or not. “Aaah..”
“I’ve kept my chastity, yes.” Minghao lets out a short breath that sounds suspiciously like a laugh. “Not because I’m a prude or specifically believe in upholding those values, but that I'm helplessly picky.”
“Understatement of the century.” Junhui teases, which earns a deserved swat from Minghao. “Hey! It’s true!”
Minghao grunts out a complaint but Soonyoung looks more alert, apparently not minding his nudeness as he crawls forward before laying onto his stomach and rests his chin in his palms. “Wow, a young and beautiful virgin omega? They’d pay a high price for you where I’m from.”
“Don’t say nasty things like that!” Seungkwan scolds, landing a smack against Soonyoung’s pale ass, who shrieks before trying to wrestle the youngest into submission. Chaotic laughing and shouting follows and Minghao can’t help but cringe at the brash display. A strong arm wraps around Minghao’s shoulders as Junhui pulls him close to scent him lightly. Minghao wrinkles his nose at the intense smell of all three of them combined.
“We will figure something out.” The alpha promises, kissing at Minghao’s cheek quickly before the omega can shove him away.
Minghao gives him a look but his gaze softens at how honest his best friend’s expression is. Always so open and happy. He gives a small nod to acknowledge Junhui before getting back up, trying to ignore how the rough housing is turning into something a bit more raunchy between the bonded omegas and Minghao takes that as his cue to head back out.
“I’ll be back before dinner.“ Minghao says as he moves towards the entrance, pointedly gesturing to the suggestive display happening on Junhui’s bed. “Deal with that before then. I want to still have an appetite.”
Junhui laughs, vaguely promising as Minghao goes back outside, taking in the fresh air greedily. Now he needs to kill time.
——- ——- -
It’s almost been two years into their new settlement when Minghao’s life takes on a new path. He’s now twenty-one, marking the new journey for his omega, who is growing more restless to have a family the older he gets.
Junhui and himself have become ingrained into this pack, officially being inducted during a lavish celebration almost a year ago now and they’ve never been more content. Everyone accepted them with open arms, even the older pack members who were adverse to foreigners at the beginning but apparently softened towards them in the end. The omega has even had plenty of suitors try and court him to no avail, aside from Mingyu. The older anlpha only gets more handsome and strong as every full moon passes. Unknown to him, the biggest change for Minghao is what is about to happen.
Every three years, the pack holds a type of run that dates back to centuries ago and stays a tradition of sorts. One that wasn’t enforced but encouraged for the young, unmated alpha and omega that would push for more matches and in that, hopefully a future full of adding loving families and pups to the ever growing pack. The head alpha regards it as a right of passage for his alpha members, seeming to be filled to the brim with pride as he makes the announcement during the full moon feast.
“Time has come, everyone.” His loud, commanding voice booms over the idle chatter, easily gaining most of the attention from the crowd. Minghao swallows around a mouthful of braised beef before looking towards the center table where the head alpha and his sons sit. A now forever empty seat beside him, where the head omega once sat. “The run is finally upon us this moon cycle.”
A thrill rolls down his spine at the concept, only hearing of it a few months ago from an older omegan pack member, who barely gave a hint of her opinion on going through it. It was described like a mating ritual in a way, where consenting unmated omegas would give chase to unmated alphas, hoping that matches would be made in the most instinct driven way possible. It used to be something the omega had no choice to participate in, having to give themselves to whoever was able to overpower and take them by force. It thankfully had been reformed over the years. Sure, the omega still made whoever pursued them work for it, but they had the final say in who would ultimately gain their favor and trust before a claim is to be made permanently.
It honestly sounded appealing to Minghao, who has been longing to start a family soon, always hoping to have the chance to carry his own pups. Now he has the chance, if he wants to participate in something like it. It also takes any unwanted courting pressure off his shoulders. Minghao felt more comfortable with the idea the more he gave it thought and after hearing that Jihoon is going to participate in the run and sealed the deal for him. If a headstrong annd independent omega like Jihoon wants to delve into new water and let an alpha compete for him, Minghao thinks he could too. Especially after finding out that a certain alpha has agreed to participate. Even if it’s probably to only appease his father.
But the idea that Mingyu could track him down and truly pursue him in a more carnal and primal way, it honestly excites Minghao’s omegan hive brain more than he’d like to admit. Minghao has grown quite fond of the older alpha, who’s hair is now shorter but shaggy and curls over his ears, making his sharp features even more striking somehow. Not to mention his build that now towers over Minghao in a way that makes him feel stir crazy. What really made him fall fast though, is Mingyu’s kind and nurturing nature that isn’t overshadowed by his extraordinarily open mindedness. It was a dangerous cocktail that drove him to finally accept the idea courting formally. Always being chaperoned though, they’ve only shared a few chaste kisses and hand holding, which has only driven the omega further into an impatient mindset. Pup fever is way more intense than Minghao anticipated.
“We will have a decent turn out, it seems.” The head alpha continues once the excitement of the crowd dies down enough that he can be heard again. “We are ready to see what the goddess blesses this run with.”
After another round of boisterous cheers and never ending mead passing, Minghao catches the gaze of someone that he’s been craving all night. Mingyu’s dressed in a simple white hanbok that hugs his bulk in a beautifully flattering way and loose, tan trousers. His hair is neatly styled off his forehead and he seems to glow under the fire that acts as their natural light. The grin that greets him when they make direct eye contact makes Minghao feel gooey inside and out. He ignores the playful jabbing that is coming from Junhui as he heads towards Mingyu’s polarizing presence. As he gets closer to the table, Minghao can make out some familiar faces that he greets politely with a bow.
The head alpha had left after his words, leaving Seungcheol, the oldest of the alpha’s sons, in his place. He smiles at Minghao’s approach and it’s welcoming like always. The new practicing doctor, Wonwoo, who is Mingyu’s other older brother is speaking quietly with a smaller beta boy that Minghao can’t quite remember his name but neither acknowledge his presence. They are too lost in each other.
“Minghao.” Seungcheol greets as he stands up and offers a bow and it reminds Minghao of Junhui’s spot on impression of it. He has to reign in the giggle that threatens to spill out. “Hope you’re doing well.”
“I am, thank you alpha.” Minghao responds in kind, bowing a bit more properly than the older man. “I’m hoping to steal your brother for only a moment.”
At the insinuation, he can see Mingyu stand up so fast his chair nearly gets knocked backwards. The tips of his ears turn awfully red and Minghao doesn’t know how much more endeared he can become to this alpha. Minghao grins as Seungcheol scoffs in fond amusement.
“Sure, he’s been annoyingly fidgety the whole dinner anyhow. Take him for a walk.” Seungcheol replies coolly, patting Mingyu firmly on his shoulder, causing the younger alpha to pout and pull away from his brother.
“I’m not a dog.” Mingyu grumbles, fully stepping away from the table and quickly grabbing Minghao’s hand with his own before tugging him away but not before Seungcheol can be heard yelling ‘technically you are!’
“Your family is interesting.” Minghao muses as they begin to walk peacefully along the tree line. They are still close enough to the festivities that they can see the campfires and hear the low laughs and chatter. Minghao feels safe with Mingyu. Content, even.
“Interesting isn’t the term I’d use.” Mingyu sighs, swinging their clasped hands gently between them as the leaves crunch beneath their bare feet. “I’m sure your family is way more interesting.”
Minghao hums but it isn’t agreeing. “I was given away as a pup. I know nothing of my family.”
“Well, Junhui is your family, right?” Mingyu asks
It’s true that Minghao was taken in by the Moon clan, treated kindly and accepted as one of their own. Junhui became like a big brother to him. Someone that he can always associate with a different home.
“Not by blood.” Is what Minghao replies with and the alpha thankfully drops the subject without any hesitation. Minghao is always pleasantly surprised by how observant the older man is.
“I’m glad you have him.” Mingyu settles with, offering a genuine smile. “He’s so much fun and a wickedly good hunter.”
They continue with a bit more small talk but a nagging thought continues to itch at his conscience and Minghao stops in place with a small tug for Mingyu to do the same. The alpha looks back in question before getting closer as his expression morphs into on of concern.
“Something wrong?” Mingyu asks, even though there is distance between them, the omega can feel how his body heat settles beneath his skin. He wants to curl up against Mingyu’s taller frame and soak in his smokey scent. His pure intent and caring nature are just too alluring.
“We usually have a chaperone with us.” Minghao mentions airily, like it hasn’t been on his mind since they broke off into their own world. When Mingyu’s expression doesn’t change, the omega almost growls at how oblivious the older man is acting. “No one is keeping an eye on our every move right now, Gyu-ah..”
Mingyu’s brows furrow like he’s trying to read between whatever lines Minghao has drawn but his face is flushed a pretty pink against his golden skin. The cogs must be turning faster now in his dumb, gorgeous head because he grins and it’s toothy. Those sharp canines. Minghao wants to feel them sink into his skin, embedded in his nape forever. He might be a bit repressed, the omega is starting to realize through a quick self reflection.
“Are you suggesting something that would get us in trouble?” Mingyu baits as he subtly runs his fingers along Minghao’s slender arms, starting at the elbow and ending with their palms pressed together. “That’s—I’m not assuming, am I?”
Minghao tugs Mingyu in closer, causing the alpha to stumble against him, moving them back until Minghao is pushed up against the rough bark of a tree. He lets out a soft gasp but a hand cradles the crown of his head, Mingyu’s warm brown eyes meeting his silver ones in concern, seen clearly even in the darkness.
“You alright? Sorry, I’m clumsy.” Mingyu huffs, letting his hand run down the subtle curve of Minghao’s cheek before gently cupping the side of his long, sensitive neck.
The omega can’t suppress the soft whine that gets caught in his throat and it’s embarrassingly loud enough to hear. Mingyu’s broad hand almost encompasses his whole neck and he feels a tinge of arousal deep in his gut that he desperately hopes isn’t detectable through his scent.
“You o-oaf.” He tries to play it off with a shaky laugh, hands coming up to grip at Mingyu’s biceps and he realizes a bit too late that it was a poor decision, as he squeezes the muscles there. Minghao has to close his eyes to try and center himself before he starts to slick up. “Be a bit more careful, please.”
No response comes, just labored breaths and Minghao peers back up at the alpha, whose face is bright crimson. He barely has time to open his mouth before Mingyu pulls away, steading Minghao (in a more appropriate manner) to stand upright.
“I’m sorry.” He mumbles, brushing his hair back after letting out a long winded sigh and fanning himself. “It’s so hot tonight, jeez.”
“Mingyu.” The omega sighs, closing their distance again and brings both of his hands up to cup the older man’s face. It’s a welcoming warmth against his fingers despite the early summer heat and Minghao rubs his thumbs gently against the high points of the alpha’s cheekbones. “Are you toying with me?”
“No!” Mingyu denies too quickly and his shoulders rise up like he’s nervous and Minghao has never felt the urge to bite someone so strongly. “I just—got a lot on my mind and it’s making me stressed.”
Minghao makes a soft noise, prompting the older to continue but doesn’t withdraw his hands. If anything, he draws closer and rests his head against Mingyu’s chest while his hands slide down to rest on each rounded shoulder.
“Alpha has been talking up this ceremonial chase thing, really pushing for me to go after this one omegan girl he’s been eying for me. Apparently, she comes from a notoriously fertile lineage or something superficial like—ack! Hao?” Minghao snaps out of it and lifts his head, eyes meeting Mingyu’s, who smiles awkwardly and shakes his shoulders a little. “Your nails are digging really hard into me..”
“Oh—“ Absolutely embarrassed, Minghao draws his hands away as if burned, crossing his arms and he looks pointedly at his own bare feet. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to.”
The alpha just chuckles, like he knows something that Minghao doesn’t want to admit but luckily, the older man always knows when to stop his teasing. “I’ve already told him that the only reason that I’m participating and running at all is because you are going to. He didn’t seem happy but I also didn't care for his opinion. I think he’s just sour because my oldest hyung always refuses to participate.”
The idea of the head alpha not thinking Minghao is good enough omega for his son does make the omega a bit insecure, whether he wants it to or not. He can’t help but to question his worth sometimes, especially stepping into a culture so different from how he was brought up. The head alpha just doesn’t seem keen on anyone different getting too close. So he swallows his insecurities, especially when Mingyu reaches out for him again and he goes easily into the embrace.
“You really want to..?” Minghao leaves the rest unsaid, knowing what the alpha will say. “With me?”
“Of course.” Mingyu nuzzles against the top of his head and Minghao makes a pleased sound at the scenting. “More than anything.”
The omega lifts his head to meet those sweet, dark eyes that crinkle at the edges with his smile. Something stirs in Minghao, stealing the reins from his grasp on his self control and he closes the distance to press his lips against the alpha’s. It’s quick and sweet, leaving a dazed looking Mingyu when he pulls back.
A matching flush burns his cheeks and he extracts himself completely before dusting his robes off and smiles. “Something to think about before the run.” With that, the omega hurries off before he can see how Mingyu reacts, his lips tingling from where he can still feel the contact.
———-
The late afternoon sun beats down on Minghao’s pale skin, making him sweat to the point of it feeling unbearable. The group of omegas around him look equally uncomfortable as they stand side by side in a line.
About twenty yards away is the forest line, bright green and promising cover from the unforgiving heat. Minghao wipes at his forehead, brushing his fringe back out of his face but the hair on his neck is plastered against his skin.
“You nervous?”
Minghao glances to his side to see Jihoon, a rather short omega with closely shaved blonde hair and broad shoulders. He is in a similar state of undress as Minghao, only wearing a hanbok that is loosely fastened with twine around his waist. Nothing covers their bottom halves except for what the long hanbok edges can. The public exposure is unlike anything Minghao has dealt with before.
“Only a little.” Minghao replies with a light but strained laugh, bowing a bit out of respect for the older omega. Jihoon waves it off with a sigh.
“It’s easier when you know you have someone you want to pursue you.” Jihoon says with a sharp grin, shaking his limbs out a bit before stretching. Minghao mirrors him, both hands on his knees. “Good luck, maybe you’ll give that dumb knothead a good chase. You are the fastest wolf I know.”
Minghao can’t help but smirk back. “Of course. I think Seokmin will have an easier time catching you, though.” The taller omega is pointedly looking down at him with a snicker. “No offense.”
“I’m faster than I look. I can probably outrun him despite those long ass legs.” Jihoon grumbles and Minghao decides to leave him be with that, trying to sneak a glance behind them. He can’t see anyone else. But something seems off..
“Speaking of. Where are the alphas?” Minghao has to voice his curiosity.
“They are out of sight on purpose.” Jihoon mumbles, not sparing a glance behind them.
Minghao frowns a bit. “Really?”
“Makes for a more exciting run, I guess.” Jihoon sighs before he quiets down when the head alpha comes into view before the line of omegas.
Everyone bows before they give him their full, undivided attention. He looks as imposing as ever, brows low and gaze piercing as he sizes up every single omega. When his eyes land on Minghao, that gaze narrows and the omega suppresses a shiver but holds the eye contact. The alpha breaks contact first and moves on to Jihoon and so forth.
“Today, the decades-long tradition that brings together an alpha and omega is here. For them to become one and seal their union based on their instincts and true submission.” His voice booms throughout the field and Minghao swears he can feel the vibrations deep in his bones. “As the lesser side of the moon, an omega will give chase for a suitable alpha to prove themselves and lay their claim.”
Jihoon whistles loud enough for Minghao to hear and the younger glances down at the blonde omega before he whispers. “How dramatic. Makes it sound so archaic.”
Minghao giggles behind his hand but catches someone approaching the beginning of the line. It’s an older omegan woman wrapped head to toe in traditional robes and brandishing a woven basket hooked on her arm. The head alpha nods at her before she reaches into the basket and pulls out a small glass vial. She hands it to the first omega, a young blonde woman that looks absolutely petrified as she accepts it with shaking hands. Minghao hopes she won’t be treated too roughly, judging from how fragile she seems. The old omega continues down the line without a word. Minghao takes the small glass between his fingers with a polite bow that the woman ignores and hands the next one to Jihoon.
“What is this?” Minghao whispers with a covert glance at the shorter man. Jihoon is studying the vial with a slight grimace, like he immediately knows what it is. Minghao vaguely remembers something about Jihoon’s training in the medical field so he must recognize it.
“Heat inducer.” Jihoon says and his scent sours, making Minghao's nose burn. “Archaic means indeed.”
Minghao feels his stomach swooping in dread as he looks at the brightly colored liquid. It looks appealing enough, easily disguised as something harmless when in reality it can make an omega completely defenseless. The idea of anyone that isn’t Mingyu finding him in that state petrifies him. “This won’t be a fair chance at all.”
“Not at all.” Jihoon grunts in agreement.
Minghao’s gaze cuts back to the older omegan woman. She wobbles a bit but continues until the basket is empty and every omega has a vial in their hand. The head alpha glances over them to make sure no one tries to dispose of it secretly.
“Take and drink.” He demands and Minghao feels a sudden, invincible force bear down on him and he can't help but obey, popping the tiny cork and downing it easily. He notices Jihoon do the same, albeit he did try to resist more against the alpha’s command.
The taste is bitter, making Minghao cough a bit into his fist and he hears a few others do the same. He clears his throat to try and lessen the burn that he can feel in the back of his tongue. It quickly turns into a numb, tingling sensation as he stands there. His limbs begin feeling weighed down and the omega barely registers that he can hear his own panting, mouth unable to close completely without getting dry mouth.
The combined scents that start growing in intensity feel suffocating to Minghao, who usually welcomes a fellow omegan scent with no problem and he knows the others are in the same state. He can hear Jihoon curse under his breath.
It’s a forced preheat, his mind trying hard to keep up with how rapidly his body begins to weaken and Minghao fears he might pass out before he even has a chance to step into the forest. The vague thought of Mingyu finding him first makes his gut clench as he feels slick to gather between his legs. His body is readying itself for what it knows is imminent and Minghao knows desperation is clearly written on his face.
He hears a small whine and glances to see Jihoon in no better shape, even as he tries hard to keep his composure. The trembling in his legs gives away what he’s feeling and Minghao lets out a shaky sigh. A very loud whistle gets everyone’s attention back to the head alpha.
“The chase will start once I give the signal.” The alpha takes one sweep of the omegas in various states of distress and gives a curt nod to the old omega, who steps out of the way. Minghao watches as the alpha raises his hands and it’s almost like watching in slow motion as he loudly claps two times.
It takes a moment for Minghao to come back to himself and he realizes that most of the other omega have started towards the tree line. Mingho feels like he has to summon all the energy to move his feet but he feels stuck, blinking past his blurred vision as a large hand wraps around his forearm. A gasp leaves him at the contact but Jihoon shakes him a bit to get his attention. He’s met with bright blue, feline eyes.
“Gotta go.” Jihoon grits out through clenched teeth and starts to drag Minghao behind him until they get past the thickening brush of the woods. “Careful—!”
His arm is released and he makes it about three feet before collapsing into the dirt, crying out as he feels someone collide with him. He can barely feel anything aside from the burning pain in his abdomen and he gasps at a particularly sharp cramp as he tries to push himself back up.
“Didn’t want it like this.” Jihoon whines in aggravation and Minghao turns his head to see the blonde hitting his fist against the ground a few times in frustration before getting back up on his feet. Minghao sees the way that slick shines against Jihoon’s pale thighs and knows he isn’t fairing any better. “Fucking head alpha—“
A sudden and shrill whistle pierces the air and causes the two omega to cover their ears and suddenly it’s like a fire is lit beneath Minghao at the realization of what that signals.
“Come on, they’re coming.” Jihoon tries to help Minghao stand up, but it’s like his strength is slowly leaving him as his breathing becomes more labored. Every breath in is as painful as every exhale. Minghao tries to get to his own feet and somehow manages to rise with a new surge of energy. Jihoon looks about ready to protest again but Minghao gives him a light shove and it’s enough for the blonde to get the message. “Quickly!”
They push themselves to run long enough to get deep into the thickening bushes, their leaves scratching against Minghao’s sensitive thighs and making him wince. Now that he has the momentum going, it’s like his legs are working double time to take the rest of his body somewhere safe. He knows it’s pure instinct that’s leading him and with a glance to Jihoon, he knows the blonde is feeling the same.
The ground they’re able to cover with all things considered is impressive but it is only a matter of time that the alphas catch up. Minghao can already hear cries in the distance of omegas that probably gave in too early. Minghao takes in a deep, shuddering inhale as he and Jihoon take a moment to catch their respective breaths.
“How’re you feeling?” Jihoon gasps out, hunched over and coated in sweat as his scent becomes suffocating for Minghao. He has to cover his mouth and nose. “Fuck.”
“Still standing.” Minghao mumbles back, taking stock of what’s around them. Seems like they made it to a small clearing and a stream can be seen nearby that probably develops into a river somewhere. “It’s safe enough that I think we need to split. Our combined scents are going to become a beacon for alphas at this point.”
“Right.” Jihoon agrees, giving the taller omega one more glance before stroking the side of his neck with his wrist and it does dampen the panic slowly rising in Minghao’s chest. He didn’t even realize he was starting to hyperventilate. “It’ll be okay. Just don’t sit or lay down. You won’t be able to get back up with how this pseudo heat is getting worse.”
“Okay, thank you hyung.” Minghao offers a smile that he does get in return, albeit a bit strained. “Be safe.”
”You as well.” With that, Jihoon starts off up stream, his gait surprisingly stable and Minghao bites hard into his own lip to kick himself into gear as well. He turns on his heel before trudging down the nearby embankment and onto the small shore of the river before he walks into the slow moving waters. He hisses at the chill but it's welcome against his heated skin. Minghao takes a shaky breath once he’s at hip level and holds it before completely submerging himself in the water. Hoping that the water can dampen his scent enough to not draw anything nearby.
When the omega pushes himself up and out from under the water, he sputters a bit before shaking his hair out and wiping at his eyes enough to open them. Minghao goes still when he notices a wolf watching him from the shore. The large bulk of the animal hints at alpha and the shaggy black fur seems familiar. Their crimson eyes are bright and locked onto the omega. They keep contact, as if seeing who will make the first move but the wolf takes a seat by the water’s edge.
Minghao knows that in this human form while battling his body and soon to be heat-addled mind, he’ll stand no chance against a larger alpha wolf.
Then their scent hits him.
”Mingyu?” Minghao almost whimpers in relief at the alpha’s tail thumping against the sand. Suddenly, Mingyu stands up in all fours and fur standing on end in anger.
The wolf barks once, the sound loud and sharp enough to make Minghao hesitate but the alpha suddenly rushes forward into the river with an unknown goal. It causes the omega to panic as he tries to wade back against the current but something barrels into his back from behind and he goes plunging deep into the water once more.
“F-fuck—“ Minghao sputters as he breaks the surface with a quick breath and starts coughing any water refusing to leave his throat and lungs. He barely gets a chance to gain his bearings before foreign hands encircle his thin waist from behind and a solid but naked body presses against him.
“I got to him first, Mingyu-ah.” A crude unfamiliar laugh is sounded directly into his ear and Minghao flinches away as much as he can while being forced to stay still. At the feeling of a stranger alpha touching him, it muddles his heat addled brain and makes him anxious. It’s not the alpha he wants. He doesn’t know this wolf. Minghao grits his teeth in disgust when his body refuses to listen. “Better luck next run.”
A warning growl sounds somewhere in front of him and Minghao has to really focus on keeping his eyes open. Mingyu’s bare human form is only an arms length away, eyes deep red and furiously locked into whoever is holding the omega hostage. Minghao desperately wants to reach for the older man, a whine slipping past his lips as he all but begs for Mingyu to free him.
“He doesn’t want you.” Mingyu threatens, sharp teeth bared and even though it’s supposed to be frightening, Minghao feels himself getting hotter over the display. “Let go. You know the rules, Jeonjin.”
“Pft, I don’t care. What you gonna do, pretty boy?” The alpha challenges, only holding Minghao closer to his body. The omega is repulsed by the feeling and tries to struggle despite his body protesting the growing exhaustion.
Mingyu only seems to get angrier at the taunting and the pheromones the alpha pumps out are becoming too overwhelming for the omega to handle in this state. “Last chance, asshole.”
Minghao sways against the water as his vision begins to tunnel and a desperate cry is the last thing the omega can get out before his world turns black and he falls unconscious. He swears he could hear Mingyu call out his name through the hazy darkness.