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Chapter Text

It always broke Seokjin’s heart to care for omegas that have been stolen. As a healer, and the best one in his Pack, he was often the one that frantic members of his family would rush to, carrying broken wolves who would often pass on before he even had the chance to try. Those were the saddest days, his legs would carry him out of his hut and he would just howl, throwing his head to face the sky.

The pack – all his brothers and sisters – would follow, and sadness would cling to the air. Innocent souls that were torn from their families and never given the chance to see them just one more time – they were the ones that they mourned the most.

Other days, the healer would have the chance to at least look at those skinny, torn little wolves, usually much younger than him and all beautiful in their own way. He would try to work his magic, fingers nimble and precise as ancient words of a language only he knew would escape his lips.

Only a few of the stolen would live to see another day. And even they would slowly flutter on, their hearts too weak, bodies too frail.

Seokjin was the best healer many packs had seen in the past decades, if not more. He was connected to Nature in ways that other wolves could barely dream of, and even a mere whisper of his voice could heal any wound.

But no stolen soul had ever survived under his care. All of them slipped away – just like the hope that used to be there in his thoughts.

He could remember stories of times when it had not been so rough. When fear was not the first thing in his mind as he wondered about having pups of his own – pups that could be torn from him in a matter of moments. There used to be peace and some sort of happiness…

But really, he couldn’t really tell when, for even during the years he was born and years, his mother’s eyes held terror each night she sang him to sleep.

But he had been lucky – fortunate enough to be brought up without being taken from his family, people that treasured him for who he was. His brother would always be by his side, pretending to be just there to play but…

He had forever been on guard, right until the omega had finally bore the marks of his rank in the pack – deeming him safe.

His thoughts were torn, heartbeat picking up when a howl of absolute terror resounded in the woods surrounding his hut. The patients – all of them from his own pack, and safe – stirred, a little girl asking him why someone sounded so scared.

Seokjin shook, fingers turning white as he clenched at the hem of the loose pants he over, the fur grounding him, if for a moment. He could recognize that howl anywhere, for it belonged to the wolf that would curl up by his side each and every night. His mate, his alpha, the one that could calm him after a harsh day, after losing a life… The same wolf that would cry with him as he clung to his body as if he were a lifeline.

Namjoon, his alpha, in distress. Was he in pain? Injured during hunting?

Or maybe…

Seokjin pushed those thoughts away, praying that he was wrong. Within moments, he was running, his lithe form sprouting tan fur, clothes ripping into shreds as he grew. He was a wolf now, larger than most of his kin, but still smaller than many of the alphas he had met. Strong for an omega, but still tender and loving as one.

And so he dashed through the forest, rapid like wildfire. He knew that he was supposed to wait, to prepare for whoever that was hurt, but panic tore through him, barely allowing him to think. It was instinct that led him to the edge of their territory, near the shallow river that they would often swim in when the summer sun got too hot, burning through their skin. But this time, he wasn’t plunging into the water. He stopped right before the riverbank, spotting his mate on the other side of the border, growling low and threatening.

And that was when he saw the other wolves.

He knew just by the look of them that they were thieves, large and proud alphas with scars marring their skin – matching their rotting souls. They held themselves tall still, but Seokjin had a feeling that it wouldn’t be long until they would run away, tail between their legs like the cowards they really were, for Namjoon also wasn’t alone.

Many of his pack – the strongest, largest of his brothers – were already there, crossing the river by ease as they bared their teeth. It was a chilling sight. Even the omega felt a little afraid, albeit he knew that he would never be the target of his pack’s anger.

He was almost confused, for a moment. At first, he couldn’t see just why his mate had let out that shrill call of fear – but slowly, his eyes caught something odd in the grass.

A wolf, tiny and barely moving lay guarded by his mate. His fur was ragged, blood colouring the pale silver crimson in large patches. And on his neck, was the mark Seokjin had feared. Burnt into his fur, an odd shape, one that he had seen many times.

The sign that the covering little thing had been stolen.

The fight was quick and won with little effort. His pack was stronger – and the rage that those alphas felt seemed to be burning through the field. It was bloody, however. This time, none of those vile beings had managed to escape.

The healer, for once, thanked Nature for allowing his kin to die. But he barely noticed any of what was going on, for he was already human once more, struggling to help the hopeless little thing on the floor.

He felt odd, for the scent that came from the omega was almost familiar. One that reminded him of something… Someone. But who, he was unsure of as he tried to stop bleeding and to gentle rouse the poor thing from his unconscious state. Deep down, he knew, he knew that it was a lost cause, that he could never save a stolen soul, but he still tried.

And as his mate joined him, shaking as he collapsed on his knees, his nose burrowed in the fur of the creature he had just found, Seokjin stilled for a moment. Because suddenly he knew… He knew why his alpha looked to be in so much pain even though he bore no signs of his fight. He understood the affection and tenderness in those tearful eyes.

“It’s him, isn’t it?” he took a breath once more and inhaled the scent that was so similar to his mate’s, yet so different: a little sweeter, with just a hint of berries added to the fragrance of forest and the Earth he adored so much. He could recall the face up a pup that was only a few years younger than him, stumbling, laughing, chasing the two of them when life was still good.

His heart clenched as he tried to coax the omega to open his eyes, to show at least a small sign of being there with them, if only for a moment. He was afraid of having to take him back to the village like this. He could already hear many souls mourn, for this time, the stolen soul that would join many others in the sky soon have been one of their own.

“I will save him… I will try. I won’t let him down.” This was what he always said, and yet, he always failed. But this time, Seokjin wanted it to be different.

                                                                                              ***

In his hut, it felt safer. The omega treated the wounds of the tiny wolf, keeping his mate outside for he was terrified he would ruin even the chance of him giving the little one a chance to keep fighting. He knew that his alpha was in pain, he could hear his distressed whines, but he struggled to focus, even when another voice – one he also knew too well – joined the man he loved so much.

It was with surprise that the healer saw dark brown eyes flutter shut. And slowly, the wolf turned into a human. Seokjin wished he hadn’t, for many of his wounds opened up once more and the cry that tore from his throat was of absolute anguish. But he seemed aware enough, covering in fear.

“Hey, it’s alright.” the healer whispered, and it was his voice that broke as a hand went out to ruffle coarse silver hair.” You’re safe. I promise you. Do you… do you know who you are? Where you are?”

He received no answer, just a small whimper. It was more than nothing, however, and the healer found himself praising the younger wolf quietly. He didn’t dare whisper his name, not yet.

“Good, good…” And he went on, cleaning each wound once more. The soft sounds of pain that escaped the other omega made him flinch each time and yet, he was thankful that he was so awake and aware. There were too many cuts and bruises, the body of the wolf barely even trying to repair itself despite how it should have, how it possessed the ability to do so.

Once the poor soul was wrapped up and covered by thick furs, Seokjin stood. However, just as he was about to move, fingers wrapped around his ankle, blunt nails digging into the skin with desperation. Flushed and panting, the other omega finally spoke, his voice barely louder than a breath that escaped his pale lips.

“Don’t leave me…”

His fever, brought on by his wounds was too high, and he shook more with each passing moment and yet, Seokjin caved – someone else could gather the herbs he would need. “It’s okay. You’ll never be alone again…”

Just as he was about to whisper more, words emptier than his heart as he was almost convinced that this life would slip through his hands like all those others had before, he heard a growl. Loud, clear, and absolutely terrifying, just before the door to his hut was torn open and a livid alpha stormed in, his eyes red with anger, but his smell spiking with fear.

“You can’t go in!” He heard Namjoon yell, trying to wrestle the other back out into the clearing, but something caught Seokjin’s attention. The moment the heavy scent of the alpha – his brother, of all people – filled the room, the omega in front of them seemed to relax, if only a little. His hands shot up once more, blindly searching, struggling to grasp onto something, but the desperation in his movements was less by each passing second.

“It’s you…” the alpha whispered, and the healer just watched as the male’s confidence crumbled. For long years, he had been silent, barely uttering a word to anyone that dared glance at him. But there was tenderness in his actions as he grabbed the small fingers so eager to reach for him, peppering them with kisses as if he had yearned to for a long, long time.” Please, let me stay with him.” was all he whispered brokenly.

Seokjin could remember more of those memories that he desperately wanted to push away. His brother always guarding the cute little pup that would follow them – for back then, the alpha would be happy to play as well – refusing to leave him even at night. And then, crashing down on them with despair, the night that changed everything…

“Just try not to jostle him too much. He must be in so much pain…” blinking away his own tears, the omega reached glanced at his mate that stood there still and spotted an older omega behind him, her once ever-proud posture broken and hands trembling. Of course they were, for she was Namjoon’s mother, and that made her…  

” Please, help me gather some herbs for him, Joonie. Mother, it’s alright for you to… to come in here now.”

He watched as his mate’s mother, the pack’s strongest omega shattered in front of his own eyes. As she crumbled and wailed by the side of her child – barely noticing the alpha that was still there, ready to pounce if she ever dared to threaten the life of his omega.

“Please, please help him…” was what the woman kept uttering, and the healer’s soul shattered once more as he already knew that there was only so much that could could do.

Chapter Text

“Do you think he’s… he’s got a chance?” Namjoon’s quiet voice barely broke his omega out of concentration as Seokjin looked for specific herbs and flowers, nimble fingers gently tearing them from the ground before soft lips would whisper in gentle gratitude to the ground for providing him with what he sought.

It was with a sigh that he responded, his eyes filling with sadness.” He seems to be more aware than any of the others. But I… You know that I can’t lie to you, right, Joonie?”

The alpha’s shoulders sagged at that, the loss of what little hope he held quickly erased from his mind.

“He’s… he’s my brother, love. Even if I hadn’t seen him for so many years, he’s still my brother. Our Jimin…”

“But is he now?” was what the healer asked, his question meaningful to the both of them. They knew too well that those souls who were stolen, torn from their packs like that were nothing but objects abuse for those that held them captive. And only when they were completely broken and their chance to live was severed would they be tossed out like that.

As if those murderers were laughing in the faces of many packs they destroyed like that: the trophy of them being stronger bloody and heavy with sorrow.

“Am I wrong for praying to get at least another day with him? I know that he is in pain… I know that all he knows is suffering but…” Namjoon hang his head low, his tears shining in his dark eyes as he picked out some weeds, throwing them back in the grass.” I know that for them, to pass quickly is much better, it’s with less pain but…”

“He is your brother, Joonie. Of course, you wish for him to stay. But… You have seen his body. If it’s not his wounds that take his life, than it will be his fever. And even if he pulls through… He’s barely skin and bones. He would never survive the winter here.”

Why was he speaking with such cruel words? The omega himself did not understand – had he lost too many lives, had he stopped caring? Had his heart lost its warmth? Deep down, it was him that was still trying to think, looking for a solution, begging for Nature to allow them one more chance but…

None of that seemed to come out his lips. Just the bitter truth and nothing else.

“We can at least ease his pain until he leaves us…” he whispered finally, and didn’t dare glance at his mate, for he knew that the look in those eyes he adored so much would crush his soul. “I believe that when we find them, it’s not healing that they need, just a comfortable place to rest in while they prepare to pass.”

*******

“Jiminnie, do you remember?” the omega was barely awake, but he listened to the soft croon of the woman that sat next to him, his eyes half-open but struggling to focus on his saddened face still.” Do you remember when you were this small, and you wanted to hunt a deer?”

“You fell into the river instead.” a chuckle, heavy with tears came from the alpha, and the poor stolen soul felt something clutch his fingers more, and then wet lips on his knuckles. He let out a soft whine, but there was something stirring in the back of his mind.

“It was cold,” he breathed out, speaking for the first time since the healer had left. He felt pain in his chest, growing with each word, and suddenly coughs were racking his small form, but the hum he received in response was enough to calm him for a moment.

“Yes. How you did that, I’m not sure. But, I remember the panic you gave us. And you just laughed! Oh, my sweet pup, my little one.”

The omega didn’t speak again, but he lay there, listening. He forced himself to stay awake, for somehow. he knew – if he let sleep embrace him, he would never rouse again. He was terrified.

He was scared of the change – he could still recall the feel of cold chains wrapped around his feet and wrists, the cold pain, the blood running down his bare skin or matting his fur when they forced him into his other form to heal. He could recall it all, and with each moment it seemed more like a nightmare, but real, too. He wondered, in his feverous state, if he was just imagining it all. His mother – for he knew, her scent engraved into his broken mind, even now. Was he about to pass on, was she just a mirage to calm his mind before darkness would succumb him for sure?

“I promised you, one day… I doubt you remember because you were a pup, so small your eyes weren’t even open, huh… But I remember knowing that you were the one for me. So I promised to keep you safe, to give you the best each day. I would keep my promise, if you let me. You would be the happiest omega here, my sweet…” again, the alpha didn’t utter his name, but it hang in the air.

A sigh left parched lips, and they formed a word – one that the older woman had never heard any stolen whisper before, for they were so lost, they could barely recall their bodily needs. And yet there he was, his eyes opening more again, and a hand raised slightly.

“Water…”

It was the alpha that ran out for fresh water, his legs trembling, but there was new hope blooming in his chest.

Alphas tried to stop him, questions rapid like fire, but he just shook them off as got the coldest of the small bottles they held, perfect to squelch the thirst of his love, his beautiful little thing that had come back to him, just like he had prayed for him to, each time he glanced up at the moon.

Maybe it was a good sign, he thought as he kneeled by the omega, watching the mother who had once thought she had lost her pup for good prop him up gently, almost as if she was handling a new born once more.

“Gently, okay? He can’t drink too much, just a few drops for now…” she whispered, but her mind was changed quickly when she saw the way those weak fingers curled around the bottle, and the omega drank so fast he had to be calmed to slow down.

“There’s more from where this is from,” the alpha whispered, tilting the bottle gently, his hands never leaving it for he feared his love would drop it. There was a certain haze in his mind, he nearly growled when the woman by him moved to lay the omega down slightly.

“He might refuse you if you act this way to his mother, alpha,” was what the elder omega crooned, but there was mirth in her eyes as she spoke. For a moment, she seemed older, her grey hair almost gaining back some of its beautiful red colour, her gaze light and sweet.

But the stolen, the beautiful little soul coughed again, and nearly choked, the water coming back out within moments, wetting the furs around him as he struggled to turn to his side, heaving more with each breath.

“Oh dear,” his mother whispered and held him up gently, watching the alpha warily.” See, pup? Thirst is one thing, but we must always take it slow. Baby steps.”

The other nodded, and a tentative hand went out to ruffle matted hair gently, his fingers founding solace in how there was still a softness to them.

“Now, next time he asks, we will only give him a little. If he keeps it down, we’ll try some more. Can you hear that, my darling?”

The omega did not respond, but let himself laid back down gently, a soft sigh escaping him. His throat burnt, the pain coming back – but he was afraid to ask once more, for he sensed the tension in the hut by ease.

“What else can we do for him?” asked the alpha quietly, lips curling into a smile at the pleased sigh from his omega as he continued his gentle actions, fingers carding through his hair by ease now.

“Just keep company, I believe. It’s up to Seokjin to treat him.” the elder whispered with a sigh, her eyes once more just a mother’s as she smiled lightly, hearing the soft content hums from her up.” Even if he has changed, he’s grown, I would always recognize him. Without his scent, too. Just look at his face! Still my little angel,” she broke there, voice cracking as she struggled to keep talking. As she was about to try once more, Seokjin finally stepped inside, carrying the herbs he had gathered.

“Oh, poor thing.” he whispered, immediately seeing the residue of water and bile by the furs.” After I give him this tea, it would be better to bathe him somehow. I believe you can do that for him, Yoongi.” the alpha nodded, flinching only when his omega let out a whine.” For now, I will prepare this, it should bring his fever down.”

“He’s going to get better, right?” the alpha questioned, his heart clenching when the healer sighed.

“It’s hard to say. We will never know the true extent of what had happened to him, and there’s only so much I can do. Brother, I wish that it wasn’t us that had found him, for… I know it will be harder to let him go. But it might be better for us to prepare.”

“What if he’s the one we can help? What if something changes, if he’ll be alright?” the alpha whispered, and the growing anger in his voice made all omegas in the hut flinch, his poor beauty included. He was quick to hush him gently, thankful that for some reason, he didn’t seem as afraid as the others they would find. Almost as if he truly remembered.

“I’m sorry. But I will try my best. If there’s just a glimmer of hope, I will grab it. I’ve cleaned his wounds, we will bring his fever down… There’s little I can do other than this, and you know.” He finished crushing the leaves and herbs, motioning for his brother to help. Yoongi knew that Seokjin was merely in his healer mindset, that he just did not want to hurt and suffer when he was caring for someone he actually had known before, but the harshness of his words was still too painful for him.

And yet, he assisted as much as he could, almost chuckling when his omega let out an almost disgusted yelp as they tried to coax him into drinking the foul-smelling tea.

“I’m afraid most of this will end up like the water, but it’s best to at least try.” Seokjin murmured, and he watched as the omega let out a small groan of pain, a hand rushing towards his stomach. “Ssh, it’s alright. I promise you…” he spoke different now, addressing the poor lost soul instead of his brother. It was a clear change that even Yoongi seemed to appreciate in his own way. Namjoon suddenly appeared in the door, fear clear on his face.

“They found another. And he’s also ours.”

It was rare for them to find their own packmates that had been torn from them. Mostly, they would just hear the news from their neighbours and parents or siblings would have to rush to the nearby packs, ignoring rules of trespassing, only to find that it was already too late. But this time was different, and maybe even more painful.

“Bring him in.” the healer said, helping his brother move the omega slightly further to the corner of the room so they would have more space for the other.

He did not expect the wolf to be fully conscious and snarling, eyes livid – but oh, too familiar.

Chapter Text

The young omega, just as skinny as the other but much more alive despite the many wounds marring his entire body shifted into his human form and suddenly, he was attacking Yoongi with fervour, inhumane snarls leaving his lips with each hit.

“Don’t hurt him!” was what he seemed to be repeating, shaking wildly. It was easy to guess within moments that he was far from being merely angry – he was also petrified.

“Stop!” at the gasp of the barely-awake wolf on the floor, they all halted. He was sitting now, looking almost as if he was ready to try and stand – even though it was clear that was too weak to even stay awake for too much longer. “Taehyungie, look.” and it was clear that he wanted to say something more, but his breath hitched suddenly.

Yoongi saw it before anyone else. He could see the moment his beautiful omega paled, his eyes growing wide as pain hit him. He could almost taste the fear and anguish that coursed through him with a soft cry of pain.

And suddenly there was blood everyone.

It was not supposed to happen, they all knew. Even Seokjin was shocked, for he was sure he had cleaned the poor thing up as much as he could. But the scent was heavy and clear in the air, and he could see as the furs around the stolen one were coloured a bright crimson rapidly. He didn’t even know where it was coming from…

But he had seen this happen. Once.

Another omega, one he had been so sure she would pull through. She was getting better with each day, and they had already managed to get in contact with her birth pack – it was a little further up North near the ocean, a beautiful little place where even thieves rarely dared to visit for it was so hard to get there. She was skittish and didn’t speak, but her wounds were healing.

It was a memory Seokjin didn’t want to remember.

He shook as he remembered walking into his hut when he smelled blood and… it was everyone. Just like with Jimin.

He never figured out where it came from, but it was as if all of the wounds of the poor girl had been torn open by an invisible force.

The healer was frantic, even though he had suspected this would happen, he had almost let himself hope for his mate’s sake, for his brother’s, for the woman’s that he loved as much as his own mother…

“Ice.” Taehyung whispered, his eyes wide, however, there was an odd certainty around him as he commanded despite being a mere omega – and one that had been stolen  (Seokjin knew because he was a pup that he knew as well, although he was a mere babe when he was stolen with his eyes still sealed shut. He hadn’t been from the same pack, although they all considered him to be for many reasons,(his mother had brought him to the healer of those years for he was the runt of his litter but… the night of their arrival, the babe was stolen.).  It was the scent that gave it away – and the fondness from Jimin who was attracted to the teeny tiny pup even when he was so young. He was broken when the small thing was taken and the pack mourned him as if he had been born to one of their omegas. His mother had stayed with them for a long time, terrified of heading back to her alpha alone. It was a sad, heart-breaking story the elders spoke about around the bonfire on chilly nights.)” You need ice to seal his wounds. And maybe salt. What sort of herbs do you have?

It was odd. He was so different – he didn’t seem broken, if a little rough around the edges, but so different. And while Taehyung bore many injuries, he seemed to be ignoring them by ease. But it was the alphas that rushed to help – almost as if guided by a spell, running to the coldest chamber they held water almost as cold as ice. It was the summer and finding the real thing was impossible – but they had to try, right?

“What’s going on?” Seokjin whispered finally, watching the youngest omega wipe sweaty hair out of the shivering little thing’s face.

“It’s wasn’t our time yet. But we… we had a plan. To escape.  Because it was getting too hard. But he… he was stupid, okay? I mean, I never knew what he wanted to do. Jimin told me to run and that he would follow but he only did once he knew that they wouldn’t be able to catch me. I think he was hunted down by those damn…” he growled loud there, once more reminding them all of how different he seemed.” We are… we were okay. It was hard, but many had it much worse than us. But I think his wounds are grave. We… We used to just soak in cold water or lie on ice in our wolf forms until the bleeding stopped and it worked. It’s risky, we could die from being cold but…”

“It’s worth a try. But why ice? Why the cold? I mean, it can help seal some wounds shut but…”

“Hard to explain. Some of us had been looking for an opening for a long time, and we just figured that they didn’t actually want us to die so early. I think they don’t see the fun in that.”

Something wasn’t adding up.  Seokjin looked at the omega with mistrust, but he still laid Jimin, shaking and crying into a tub full of the coldest water he had found before adding salt – they had gotten it from nearby cities, usually using it for food that they would try to salvage for the winter – pouring it in with shaking hands.

And then, the screaming started.

He had never heard such yells of absolute terror. The omega shook and trembled, tossing and turning, trying to crawl out of the water, but they held him still for at least a few moments. And suddenly, he went completely slack in his alpha’s hold.

They all feared the worst.

“Let him sleep.” Taehyung whispered.” We had done this many times. They, they change us a little, I think. Maybe it’s magic, maybe it’s something else, but I don’t think that we are normal anymore. But… he will be okay, I think. He has to be…”

“You don’t know either, do you, pup?” whispered the suffering omega’s mother, cradling the little one she could still remember. “You’re in a barely better shape and yet you struggle to stay strong for him. I appreciate your efforts. Your mother would be so proud of you.”

Taehyung finally crumbled. It was true – he had been trying his hardest to keep strong, at first trying to protect the only soul he considered family, and then, trying to help him but soon… He grew tired as well. He was too far away from the place he had been raised in, and a heaviness settled in his form. He knew why, but he didn’t dare explain, for even he wasn’t sure if he was right.

It had been a long time since he had slept, but for one, he allowed himself to fall into a deep slumber. Even if he was to never wake again, he knew that he would see all of his friends on the other side.

When Jimin woke, he was still feverish, but his wounds had been sealed shut. It had been a shot in the dark, but Seokjin knew that the other omega probably understood the situation more than he ever could. He was starting to suspect that something else was given those that were tossed out. Was it a poison to make sure they would die? He hoped it wasn’t, but every sign pointed against it. Maybe there was something in the salt that helped absorb whatever it was pushing all the blood out through already healing wounds?

It was making his head hurt.

He had left his hut, looking up at the sky with heavy, tired eyes. Namjoon came to crouch by him, and he mirrored his gaze – so sad, so lost.

“I don’t think I can save them, Joonie.” the healer whispered finally.” Taehyung hadn’t woken since he passed out, and he’s much weaker than we thought. Maybe, he was trying to fight on his last legs, fuelled for only a few more hours but now… Now, he’s going to wither as well. And everything he says makes no sense. It’s almost like… like there’s something we should know and understand but we just don’t.”

“I understand, my love. I can feel them slipping away. It hurts me, and I know it pains my mother, and oh, your brother as well. But I think I’m ready to allow them to rest if they need. We don’t even know if they could ever… ever live the way we do, you know?” the alpha was so odd like this, quiet and uncertain as he spoke in a hushed whisper – for Yoongi was in the hut, guarding the omegas with ferocious growls each time someone even dared passed by. He cared little for Taehyung, but his love seemed to be important to the other wolf and thus, he decided that he should hold his protection as well.

“I wish we knew what we’re missing. The one thing we just don’t understand. I… it almost feels like we are in the dark, blind and deaf. We just don’t know what’s really wrong. They are so hurt, so ready to just… die. Even if they wouldn’t say…”

“I just wish it wasn’t so easy to give up on them. But I’ve always known that my baby brother is lost, love. I think I was happy to have him back, if only for just today.” the alpha hummed and peeked inside the open entrance, eyes filling with love – but also with sorrow. His brother was still, paler than before and so obviously worn out. It was clear that he was hanging onto the last thread, and Namjoon was nearly sure that by morning, he would let go, allowing himself to slip away.” I wish we were stupid enough to try and look for them, Jinnie. Because, Taehyung said, they are different, right? Maybe if we saved them, we could have helped them. If we were there, they wouldn’t have been so hurt, so… so weak. I just don’t understand why it’s out pack that has to suffer… My mother is going to break once more. She is crushed for each soul that is stolen from us, but now she’s forced to watch her own perish. I… I would do anything to save them. But there’s no way, is there?”

They were interrupted by an odd sound – a soft cough coming from the ground near them. And Taehyung was there, sitting still close to Jimin, but very awake, glancing back with wary eyes as if Yoongi could snap any moment.

“If you give up on us, we will truly perish. But I think… I think if you don’t, we both might have a chance…” he was interrupted by a whine, his own. His eyes widened and the mated pair watched in horror as bruises bloomed on his pale skin.” They can still hurt me,” he whispered and yelped once more, but there was determination in his voice as he tried to keep himself up. ”But not for long.”

Chapter Text

Yoongi didn’t dare close his eyes. He sat by his mate’s side – clutching the beautiful omega’s hands as if he would slip away if he let go. It was terrifying, seeing the stunning creature that his soul – and the wolf down in his soul – loved so much already.

He could remember Jimin as a pup – the two of them truly stuck together thick and thin, through good and bad. Of course, at that time, he only had an inkling that maybe what he felt was just a bit different from his brother’s affection to the younger boy – but he was young and foolish enough to believe that they had enough time to figure it all out. That was what his mother said at least when he asked one day, quiet and shy. He had always been a bit reserved, even so young, but at the time, his friends could see the cheerful little kid inside him.

When his friend was stolen, ripped away from his side – one day he was there, happy and smiling and the next he was just gone as if he had never even existed – when his Jimin was taken from him, he swore to become an alpha that could get him back.

He soon found out that while he was able to keep the first part of his promise, the second was impossible. There was no way, not even for a pack full of strong, enraged alphas to find those that had been stolen. There was a saying, something the old omegas that had been along long enough to remember the world where it was just starting, where the first few pups were being dragged away by men dressed in dark furs and eyes as dark as the night sky. “Once a pup is stolen, he can never be found.” It was simple (maybe it had been more complex years ago, or just a chat for young ones to whisper as they cowered under their mothers’ furs, praying that it wouldn’t be them next.) but too true.

Once stolen, a wolf was lost. And usually, it meant that they would never meet those that loved them again.

“And yet, here you are,” the alpha uttered quietly, his voice breaking the silence. Eyes on the pale face of his one and only love, he whispered another prayer to the Moon.” if only one more day was given to me by his side, I would be glad. But please, don’t take him from me so quickly. Allow him to see me just once last time. And let him be in peace.”

“You’re praying to the wrong one,” Taehyung crouched down by the alpha and flinched when the older snarled in response.” hey, don’t worry, okay? I want him to be better, too. But I don’t want him to… leave us. You don’t understand, but we really shouldn’t be so hurt. We wanted to come back here. We tried to hard and he still…. he still had to sacrifice himself. It just wouldn’t be fair if he never got to see the sun again.”

“A pup as young as you shouldn’t know so much about death,” Yoongi muttered, and it was true. Especially young omegas were sheltered in his pack – they were treated like the jewels they were, adored and spoiled. He knew well that the younger’s pack was the same – if not worse. As a child, he could remember wondering why his brother was treated so differently (and Namjoon voicing it many times, the curious pup that he was), but slowly, came to understand. Omegas were rare now, as so many of them were stolen at a young age. Those that stayed…

Were precious, to say the least.

“You don’t understand, huh. We’ve faced this many times. But it’s not so easy to find a foe you cannot see, and I’m sure you know that as well. But it’s not so long that they still have power over us. We broke it, I think.” The pup was a pitiful sight, really. Yoongi could see many bruises and cuts in his skin on parts of his body that weren’t covered by furs. And there was something odd to the way he spoke and acted, almost as if he was uttering in a foreign tongue the alpha could understand but never comprehend fully.

“Try and sleep, pup.” the older muttered finally, and couldn’t help but stifle the barest hint of a yawn, his eyes glancing at his beauty’s peaceful face.

“I will. I won’t tell you to, for I’m sure you won’t. But don’t worry too much about him. He’s much tougher than you think. That’s why I’m still alive, you know. Because he was always there to protect me when they threatened to toss me out. I’m a little weird, they said. Speaks so much, they said. But he… he always helped me.” Taehyung slowly changed into his wolf form as he spoke – maybe it felt more comfortable for him to rest that way. He wasn’t small, particularly (not for an omega at least), but his bones stuck out too clearly through his fur and it made Yoongi sick to the stomach. Usually in his pack, most omegas were slightly on the plumper side – and that was all he saw when he travelled as well to other territories. They could be slim, but never so…

So sickly.

He barely dared to glance at his own love, frowning as he could count ribs even through the fur that covered Jimin’s torso. This was never supposed to be like this – the two of them were supposed to grow up happy and mate once they were of age.

And yet there they were, and the alpha was almost sure his omega wouldn’t survive until the next day.

He was sure, after all, that Taehyung was delirious. The pup was rambling in such a way that would make his head hurt.

His heart was already aching, and that was making it so much worse at well. He wondered if it would ever ease, but he already knew the answer. It had been there since the moment he realized that the omega he adored so much was gone – and it would be there until the moment he died. Even if his Jimin would have the strength to be by his side, it would never disappear (for it was all his fault, and this sort of guilt could never be erased).

Yoongi drew a sharp breath when a whine tore him out of the near-slumber state he had settled into, his eyes instantly settling on the omega’s now scrunched up face.

“No…” he heard, as his eyes settled on pale lips, frowning when he saw them mouth the same word once more. It was so powerful – was his love just merely in the middle of a nightmare, or was it pain that plagued his mind? He just didn’t know and it was putting him through agony as panic rose in his mind…

Just like the sun that was slowly climbing up the sky.

It was morning, and both stolen souls were still there, lingering with the pack, even if they were suffering so badly.

Seokjin was the one that found his brother in panic like that, trying to understand his omega – and the one that was also unsure about what could be causing the distress, for his wounds were clean and seemed to have even healed, if only a little during the night. None had opened and everything seemed good and yet…

Something seemed to be not quite right.

“We have sent a messenger to his pack,” the healer spoke softly, nodding towards Taehyung who was still sleeping soundly, his soft wolf-snored some sort of a reassuring buzz, a sign that he was still there. “I just wish we understood what exactly he means with what he has been telling us. He seems confident that they will make it, but I’m wary that he might just not understand what’s happening to them…”

“I’m also confused whenever he opens his mouth. It’s as if he comes from a different world and yet, he’s speaking out language. It’s odd, but I do believe he is naïve enough to think that they will… pull through.” the alpha seemed much older as he spoke, and it was clear that he was giving up. Maybe it was because he hated to see the one he loved so much suffer, maybe it was because he knew that all odds were against them all – whatever it was, it was hard for him to have hope.

And just as he thought about that, a shrill scream came from his love, shattering and loud as he shot up, his entire form trembling suddenly.

“No… don’t… please..” he pleaded but his eyes were glassy, and it was unclear who he was talking to. His breaths were jagged gasps and Yoongi was barely able to catch him before he was ready to fall back – he could have hit his head, could have gotten much worse..

The alpha felt his pain.

Maybe it was through the bond the two of them should have owned. They had the right so, for they had made for each other.

With Yoongi in mind, his omega had been created by Nature, morphed into the perfect little thing that would be adored and loved by his alpha. And the alpha had been formed by invisible forces into a person that could be cherished by the one he would give his heart to.

Why was the world so cruel that the only one who he could truly ever own in such a way had been taken away by him before he even understood it all?

Suddenly, it was rage that cursed through the alpha’s veins.

It was unfair.

It was unfair that he never had the chance to love his omega the way that he wanted to. That the two of them would never have the chance to live together, to dote and be doted on, to share memories and soon, more. That they would never have pups and a family and…

Something in Yoongi broke and he snarled.

He acted by pure instinct and ignored Seokjin’s yell when he gently propped up his mate again and sniffed at his neck, nuzzling the soft spot where his scent was the strongest, where he didn’t smell like blood and death and tears but just like him. Jimin. And maybe a little bit of his alpha as well, but not enough.

Never enough to the possessive soul that was awakening in the broken man.

“Don’t do that!” Again, he completely ignored his brother. Yoongi felt as if he knew what he was doing much better. He growled – low and threatening and maybe just a little dominating and didn’t even spare a glance at Seokjin.

His fangs bared, the wolf in him was yelling at him to do the one thing he should have done long ago, the one that he should have had the chance to do so.

Mark his mate as his.

Even if his omega was to die, to perish, to be swallowed by the darkness and death that hang around them, it would have been, not as a lost soul, but as an omega that was bound to the one that adored him.

And the moment his heart would cease its beating, his alpha’s would as well, for just with one bite, their lives would be linked forever – if one lived, the other would as well.

Maybe it was selfish of the alpha to do such a daring act, but deep down he knew that he was doing something right. He ignored the pleas of his brother and Namjoon as he lunged at him to try and tear him away and...

He bit down.

Chapter Text

It was a risky move, Yoongi knew – or at least he was sure that the wolf in him was aware of what he was doing, at least to an extent – but he sucked on the fresh wound, ignoring his brother’s yells of surprise and the hands clawing at him, trying to push him away. He could smell Namjoon’s rage – but he didn’t care much, it was his instincts guiding him. Part of him was somehow convinced that by tying their lives together, he would be able to his mate.

He heard a whine coming from Jimin, and suddenly there were tiny fingers wrapped in his pale hair, tugging at the strands gently. A bond was forming between the two of them – and somehow, as sickly and hurt as his little love was, his wolf was begging him to complete it as well.

And thus, Yoongi, tilted his head to the side as he drew his lips away, allowing the omega access to his neck. The wound caused by the smaller was nowhere near as deep – barely darker than any mark of love would have been, but tiny holes of two small fangs stood proud against the flushed flesh of the older.

The others in the room watched with bated breaths, it was far too late to interrupt the two. Seokjin felt sorrow grow in his mind as he realized that soon, he would be losing his brother as well, not just a friend he had cherished when they had been young and knew nothing of the cruel world.

“Idiots.” Taehyung had been asleep until then, but suddenly he was sitting, a scowl marring his face.” Not those two. You all. You really believe everything that happens, right?” he huffed, but watched on, and there was clear worry in his eyes still. His personality was an odd one, from what they had seen so far, and the mated couple were unsure if they should have even tried to put him in place (for he was just a pup really, one that had his life slipping away from him so quick he couldn’t even see. “And by the way, I’m hungry. Seriously, one would think that you think of feeding your hungry sick people but…”

“Taehyung, quiet.” scolded Jimin, who had been lost in a daze, suddenly spoke quietly, still clinging to the alpha that let out a growl each time he dared to even move away. To Seokjin, he looked – better? Healthier, in a way maybe, with a glow to his skin that had not been there before.” Please, excuse me for my brother’s stupidity.” he whispered with a small bow.” He doesn’t know much, and he’s still too young.”

“Your brother?” Seokjin asked, more and more confused with each moment that passed. Something just wasn’t adding up. The two suddenly weren’t acting like they were on the brink of being kissed by darkness – dead, really – but like bickering siblings who had gotten into a fight or two on their way back home.

“Jimin basically raised me. That’s why I’m normal. Well, sort of.” Taehyung explained, but suddenly, there was a certain quietness to his words as if he wasn’t supposed to say the next part.” Look, there’s a lot that we have to tell you, but honestly, I think it’s better if we don’t… not yet. Not to him,” he shot an odd glare at Yoongi, which, weirdly enough, caused Jimin to let out a soft, angry growl, almost as if he was trying to protect his alpha. It was a sweet sight in a way, if a little odd – the omega seemed incredibly sickly still, and despite how he seemed more aware and awake, the healer couldn’t shake away the scent of death that clung to his senses.

“Look, sorry that I don’t like alphas. Out of all people, you should know why.” the last part was a mere whisper coming from the younger and suddenly he was walking outside. Suddenly, it was clear that he was in pain still – he dragged his left leg with a painful limp, and each movement of his needed moments as he gathered his energy. His mind was intact – but his body was nowhere near as alright as he was pretending it to be. Or maybe he wasn’t even, and it was just the wolves who didn’t know him that were completely confused by his presence.

“He’s such a bad pup,” Jimin muttered quietly.” Please, don’t hurt him, alpha,” the next part he spoke was much quieter, and Yoongi’s heart thumped painfully at the tears that gathered in his shaking omega’s eyes. He could now feel the younger’s pain – and his fear as well.

Had Jimin been so willing to hug him, to cuddle him, and to be claimed because he had been afraid? Maybe the alpha had been blind, he had read those signals completely differently from what they really were. Maybe all he had been trying was… protecting his ‘brother’.

The older let out a sigh, his hot breath fanning against the small omega’s mark on his neck – it made him shiver and maybe that was good but even he did not seem to know at that point.” I would never harm any omega, love.” he whispered finally.” He might be a little cheeky, but even as a babe, he was like that. He tugged on my tail with those chubby hands of his…” he groaned at the memory, and something remarkable happened just moments later as wide, dark eyes stared at him in wonder.

Jimin giggled.

The soft, quiet sound slipped off his rosy lips but quickly, his hands were there to be pressed against them, as if he was forbidding himself to show at least an ounce of glee. He quickly cast his eyes downwards, as if he was embarrassed. And just that – his cheeks gained a soft pink colour as well.

Was he shy? Or was it the rules that he had probably been taught since had been a child – to never laugh at an alpha or something stupid like that? Yoongi was confused, for sure, but he swore to hear that soft giggle once more.

It had been too adorable to be only heard once. Gently, with calloused hands – but still so tender over bruised skin – he grabbed his mate chin and tilted it upwards, a grin playing on his lips.” I remember you laughed the same way when he did it. And he was like, a few months old or something. I think he’s just always hated me.”

Jimin bit down on his lips – and now it was clear that he was stifling laughter once more, his eyes crinkling if only for a moment.

The alpha chuckled along as well, and decided that if nothing else, he would try to ignore all the odd things that seemed to be going on, and just enjoy the love of his life, his presence – and the fact that deep there, under all those cuts and bruises, he was the same as he had been all those years ago.

If only there was a way to stop time so that he could treasure moments like that forever…

Chapter Text

Jimin was terrified.

The wolf deep in his soul was howling at him for even letting himself worry (it was okay, alpha was there to take care of them, nothing would happen, they would be fine finally) it cooed each time his human mind allowed itself to wander, but…

It wasn’t as easy as he wanted it to be.

Shaking, he pressed closer to the man he knew – as a pup, at least. He felt better, but his body still ached. It wouldn’t ever go away, he knew. The marks would fade slowly, his skin fading into its usual shade after some time, but he would always feel as if there was something pushing down his chest, digging into his legs and arms, scraping at his back, or whips and…

Another distressed whimper left his lips, and this time, it was almost an animal’s – it was his omega pleading for its slumbering mate to wake. He felt strong arms wrap around his middle and his heavily beating heart slowed almost instantly – but sleep still evaded his mind.

“Love, are you in pain?” even laced with tiredness, low and sweet, the alpha’s voice was like music to his ears. He hummed in response, pressing closer again, his tiny hands curling into the furs that were draped over the both of them. The fresh bite stung on his neck but suddenly, there was a tongue lapping at it, as if the older had heard him.

All his life, Jimin had been raised to fear alphas.

He had thought at one point that he would end up like all the others whose time had ran out, tossed into the forest like broken toys. And here he was now – shaken and probably ready to shatter any moment – but in the arms in one of the very creatures he had loathed so much.

But it felt right.

And Yoongi, alpha or not, would never hurt him. That, he knew because he could remember.

It was hard to forget the pup that dragged him out of the river that one day he fell in. The one who kept him warm when they were young – and the very alpha he had thought would come rescue him. Each night, still as a child, as he was trained to be obedient (which he had never been, for he was spoilt as every other omega child in his pack) he would look up at the ceiling of the den they had been pushed into and wonder when the other would come for him.

And then he grew up.

But he never stopped believing.

His thoughts were broken when he felt warm hands gently caressing his suddenly freezing skin. Sighing in relief, he tried to close his eyes (this must have meant that the alpha wanted to sleep and he shouldn’t interrupt him, but he just couldn’t fully relax when he was still so scared, even if he wasn’t sure what from and suddenly he was near panic, petrified that he would be punished.

Again, his wolf was growling – there was no way their alpha could hurt them, he was so caring and he was so tender and warm and really Jimin should have just closed his eyes and slept for another morning would come soon and he would have all the time to worry and fret but…

“Love, hey. It’s okay… ssh.” he heard, and there was a hand on his chest – pressing into long cuts, but the pain was almost liberating, for it was grounding him – and another was taking his to press it flush against heated flesh. “Just feel it. Count with me, please. And breathe”

Jimin quivered, but he obeyed, his eyes falling shut as he felt his mate’s heart pound against his hand. Alphas over there would never make an omega who was stressing so bad. If anything, they would put them on the list – but there the older was, counting and whispering and his sweet voice was enough to finally allow Jimin to think clear, if only for a moment.

“Why? Why do you do all of this for me? I’m not worth it.” this was the most he had spoken in days, and it hurt, but somehow it was hard to stop, right until plush fingers pressed against his lips.

“I do it because I love you. You’re just as perfect as the last time I’ve seen you, if not even better. You’re beautiful. Scars could never cover you  up. You’re mine, omega, and I promise to protect and love you until we die. And if needed, I will remind you each and every day.”

Was it the man’s alpha talking or his heart? The younger wolf was unsure, but he didn’t dare wonder as now, there were lips against his forehead and soft words were uttered.

“Sleep. I won’t let you slip away.” the promise rang in his ears and he slowly drifted off into dreamland.

A tiny smile played on his lips, and to Yoongi, he had never been more beautiful.

Chapter Text

Jimin finally dared leave the hut the next day – with Seokjin watching him like a hawk as if he expected the younger omega to fall over. He was leaning heavily on his alpha, his tiny hands twisting into the furs that covered Yoongi’s torso, but there was some sort of certainty to the way he took each step.

He was, if only for the time being, alright.

It was a miracle – the healer thought as he watched his brother grin down at the small boy, his teeth flashing in the bright sunlight. It was still hard to say how long it would last, but for now, it seemed quite permanent.

Taehyung was out as well – albeit he had been, even the day before, as if nothing had happened to him. He was crouched by the bonfire, watching as some alphas were throwing large pieces of wood into it.

When he reached out a hand towards the glowing flames, Jimin was suddenly by his side – how he had done that, Seokjin had no idea – his eyes serious and scowl almost scary. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“Just checkin’ if it’s real.” the younger omega whispered. It was quiet, very unusual of him – and the way he usually spoke as if he knew everything and more about the world – but very real as well.

Jimin cooed and ran a still-bruised hand through his messy hair before cuddling closer to the younger, shooting a sad smile at his alpha who hovered, watching the two of them warily. Yoongi was showing every sign of a normal just-mated alpha despite how his mate had been on the brink of death just days ago. He was possessive (the moment when the two of them stepped out of the hut, there were alphas whistling towards them, albeit all with good nature, having known the young omega as a pup – and he growled, startling them into minding their own business) and oh, quite clingy as well.

Jimin however, didn’t seem as dependent on his alpha as he should have been. Maybe it was still hard to judge it, for Seokjin didn’t really know him, but he seemed completely fine, hugging his friend instead of whining to be closer to his mate. The again, maybe he was crying inwardly – maybe he was just pretending to be happy to have to help out the younger pup.

In all genuine honesty, Seokjin was getting a headache from the entire situation. Which was definitely not a good sign. He was worried, and he knew that if they lost the omega, his brother would be dead as well. It was terrifying.

Though… He knew very well that he would have done the very same thing for his mate. He would have tied their lives together just so that the two of them would have the chance to die together – and to exist as well, until one of their bodies had decided to give up, allowing death to swallow it whole.

But… That was different.

He had known his alpha for a long time.

He shook his head with a soft sigh.

“I assume I’m not needed here.” he said, a tired smile playing on his chapped lips.” I feel like I need a bath, so I will by the river.” he added – omegas always had to tell where they would be going, just in case something happened. In their territory, it was highly unlikely, but danger could linger closer than one would ever think.

It was best to make sure that his pack was aware of his whereabouts, that was it basically.

“I’ll go with you,” Namjoon emerged from the woods, holding a large rabbit in one hand and a knife in the other. “As long as someone can take care of this for me. It’s not much, but will be good for breakfast at least.”

“I’ll do it.” Jimin spoke up quietly. Only then did his brother notice that he was there, pale but healthy-looking with his lips twisting into a shy grin.” I like having something to do.” he added softly.

Yoongi gave a small warning growl – not to his mate but to the other alpha, to which the taller rolled his eyes.

“He’s my brother. Seriously. And Jiminnie, if you think you can do this, I would be really happy. We have more coming soon, but I really need to get clean before I even go close the fire. If all this mud dry onto my skin, it’ll be hard to walk.”

Why he was so dirty to begin with was a mystery – but Jimin couldn’t help but let out a quiet chuckle. He pursed his lips as he pushed himself up – ignoring Taehyung’s quiet whine and the way the younger omega grabbed onto his arm, for now it was merely heat he was seeking and not comfort – and stumbled to where his brother stood.

Yoongi was by his side within moments, but this time, he merely watched, pride clear in his gaze. His mate had beaten all odds, and was even ready to ‘work’, if only a little. He was unsure whether it was a good idea or not, but he didn’t dare say no, especially after the previous night.

“Thank you so much, Jiminnie. I think you can just sit down there and we can get a bowl or something for you. And a better knife. This one isn’t great.”

At that, most surrounding wolves scoffed, but didn’t say why. It seemed like an inside joke that they all seemed to know - but the omega didn't dare ask for he was afraid it would draw all the attention to him. 

Jimin hummed softly and propped down by the fire. He just felt better if he was doing something – because staying so idle was making him feel useless. Aching body, scars and all ignored, he went to skinning the rabbit. Only when his mate joined him by his side did he relax a little. All those eyes on him – the whole pack seemed to be watching – were making him squirm, but he was still doing a decent job.

Right until the knife slipped.

Chapter Text

Jimin winced a moment later as the knife dug into his flesh. He didn’t pay attention only for a moment, and his reward was a small but somewhat deep cut on the pointer finger of his left hand. The scent of blood sept into the air rapidly and Yoongi was there to take the knife out of his hand, inspecting the wound gently.

“Are you okay?” he asked, wincing as he watched his small mate nod, a pout forming on soft lips.

“It’s just a cut.” the omega muttered quietly, seemingly uncaring as he went back to what he had been doing before.

“Let’s wrap it up at least. Wait here for me, I’ll get something from Seokjin’s hut!” the younger just nodded, clearly a little puzzled (but by what, his alpha wasn’t sure about). Taehyung watched curiously, and took the chance to jump to his friend’s side when Yoongi disappeared from their line of sight.

“Does it hurt?” he asked quietly, even though he knew the answers already.

“You know that it’s nothing,” the older omega muttered, annoyed by the amount of blood that dripped off his finger. He took it into his mouth, cleaning it with a swift swipe of his tongue. He didn’t notice that Yoongi was there already, watching with an emotion he wouldn’t have quite understood anyway.

“I think he doesn’t seem to think so,” Taehyung snorted, and the amusement that flickered in his eyes was adorable. He looked like a pup, hair falling into his eyes as he grinned cutely.

“Just let me clean this for you properly,” Yoongi crouched by his mate and sighed, taking the younger’s hand again. He was surprised by the conversation he had overheard – Jimin spoke differently when he didn’t think that his alpha was watching him, and that made him wonder if the omega didn’t trust him as much as he seemed to. Just the thought hurt his heart – he loved the boy so much already, had for so many years. In the nights, when he comforted him, Jimin was pure and sweet, but by morning, he was shy and almost too quiet. . Now, however, he seemed different again. Which was the true face of the omega? It was hard to tell just yet. Still, the alpha grinned inwardly when the smaller blushed brightly as, after bandaging up the tiny cut, his mate kissed the small cut with a chuckle. “There, all better.” he said.

Jimin stammered out a soft ‘thank you’, reaching for the knife once more. But this time, a larger hand stopped him, worry clear in Yoongi’s eyes.” Let us do it, love. I’m sorry, but I worry too much to see you get hurt again.”

“I won’t.” whispered the omega, and there was an odd tone to his promise – as if he wasn’t referring only to slip-ups like that.

His eyes were sincere, and again, his alpha saw something in him that he had never the chance to glance at before. Confidence danced in dark eyes, and a soft smile curled onto those cute, pouty lips of his.
“I wouldn’t want you to get hurt as well, alpha.” Jimin whispered, and suddenly, he was shy again, staring at the ground. Almost as if some sort of secret of his had been exposed before he glanced at the alpha’s finger. Of course, as they have bonded –even if only by biting, they now bore the wounds of one another. At some point in their relationship, they would lose this ‘ability, or at least learn how to control it – for example, with an omega pregnant, it was too risky and their wolves knew it so well, but for the time being, it important for the bond that was still developing between the two of them.

Still, Yoongi could barely feel the sting. He had been too scared before, worried about the beautiful boy instead of himself. The bleeding had stopped long ago, and his finger was healing already, but it was still there, a mark that despite everything that seemed to be different about the way the two of them had met – they still belonged to one another.

“Thank you for that, my love.” he whispered and finally relaxed, sitting down by the omega. He carefully reached out, watching for any signs of fear before he drew the smaller closer, inhaling his sweet, intoxicating scent.” Is it okay for me to hold you like this, if for a little while?”

“Of course, alpha.” Jimin flushed again, and shot the older a small grin before humming, clearly content. Again, it wasn’t him who initiated the contact – but he seemed happy to receive the attention of the alpha anyway, his eyes closing for a few moments.” You smell good.” he blurted out.

Taehyung’s roaring laughter broke him out his blissed out state, his eyes going wide at what he had just said. Jimin, face red like a tomato, quickly squeezed his nose into Yoongi’s shoulder, effectively trying to hide himself from all the others that were watching them. Another omega had taken over preparing the rabbit and she grinned lightly, chuckling at the adorable sight. As she was a little older than the freshly-mated couple, she knew the struggle of being so embarrassing in front of others – but she still couldn’t help but chuckle as well. She knew about the omega’s past, but it was easy to forget it when he looked so normal save for his skinny body and the bruises that still coloured his pale, pale skin.

“You know, this reminds me of that one time my alpha forgot to wash this, cloak of his for like, a week,” she supplied, and her calming tone was enough to cause the younger omega to glance at her curiously. All the others just shrugged (they have heard of the story, too many times before, really), I ended up wearing it for days, saying how great it was. But then my sister told me how it stank so bad all the others hated to come near me! I loved his scent too much to notice that it wasn’t great.”

Jimin giggled at first, the sound clear and like bells ringing before a tiny snort escaped him – and Yoongi couldn’t help but laugh as well. He knew that the story was a slight exaggeration (it got worse each time it was told, but omegas were big gossipers, so he could understand in a way) but if it made his mate happy, he was going to enjoy it as well.

“Taehyungie once found this… I think it was some sort of coat made of fur or something. We… we were travelling with – them “ here, the omega’s voice got quiet, but he quickly started back up as his friend shot him a glare and attempting to cover his mouth “ and he loved it so much, he kept hiding it under his pillows. I think he still has it!”

“Why did you have to say it? That’s a secret!” the two bickered on for a while, and Yoongi couldn’t help but sigh how normal everything seemed.

He was content, if a little wary. But his wolf scolded him – after all, the alpha knew well that he would need a lot of time until he could relax. He could still barely believe that his Jimin was there with him. Maybe soon, he wouldn’t hate others for even glancing at his mate. But for now he remain silent and hope that his omega didn’t notice the way he was acting.

He didn’t want to scare him off, but he couldn’t help his instincts going haywire, after all!

Chapter Text

Jimin bit down on his lower lip shyly as he entered his alpha’s hut for the first time. Until the previous night, he had slept in the healer’s, mostly so that if any emergency occurred, the older omega could reach him in time. But some others had fallen ill and really, it seemed like the stolen was better. He couldn’t help the bright red blush that came to adorn his pale cheeks as he inhaled the scent that was deep, musky and just Yoongi, screaming at his inner wolf to just drop down and lay in the small bed – oh. how nice of a nest it will make! – until he smelled exactly the same as his mate.

It was hard to fight his instincts, but he struggled to do so, covering his face as a small whine slipped past his lips.

Yoongi gazed at the smaller boy (he wasn’t that shorter, but he was still much too skinny. He was in clear distress, biting down on his plush lips as he peeked up at the other shyly.

“Where… where shall I stay?” Jimin asked finally, quiet and soft as he looked around. There wasn’t much space in the hut – it was barely enough for the bed that was covered in warm furs and a small fireplace a few feet away from it, along with a couple of shelves that held clothes and some other knickknacks. It was small but homey – but still, the omega was unsure about where he would fit. His wolf howled in annoyance at that of course, they were going to stay with alpha in his nest, surrounded by his scent. And him of course!

“If you allow me, I would be honoured to share my bed with you. I’m your mate now, Jimin, and you are mine. That means that everything that you see here is also yours. So if you don’t want to… sleep with me, I understand. But I want to… I want to have you close.” Yoongi whispered quietly, and suddenly it seemed as if his confidence had shattered. He seemed so unsure and almost sad.

The omega had to do something about it.

This was the first time that he touched his alpha without prompting (and the fever that had weakened him for days). He cupped the alpha’s cheeks with his small hands and looked at him with pleading eyes.” Please, alpha. It’s your nest. But if you want to… if you are okay with me here I… I don’t want to be away from you.” he admitted quietly. His voice was still scratchy but he felt like he was getting better at least. Still, for a moment, he wasn’t sure if Yoongi understood him – not until the alpha took his hands in his own, much bigger ones and went to kiss them gently.

“That’s settled. I don’t ever want to be away from you, love.” At that, Jimin flushed a dark red, suddenly shy. He finally crouched down and sat on the bed, sinking into the soft furs with a content hum.

“When you were born, my father started building this hut,” Yoongi spoke up suddenly, his voice quiet but sweet as he sat by the other, gently wrapping an arm around him. He didn’t miss the way Jimin flinched at first, but he nearly cooed when the omega still cuddled closer to him with a small smile.” I was small still but I begged him to get me to you. I could smell you from all the way to the other side of the pack. So he took me there and I saw you and I think… I loved you then. And he started building this, because everyone knew that we would be together one day. It’s tradition that once an alpha finds his mate, his father helps him build a hut for the two of them. When it’s ready, the two can move in. Of course, we couldn’t have since you were so tiny, but…

“I’m not the Jimin you loved when we were little,” the omega whispered suddenly, and for the first time in long days, emotions he struggled to push behind broke out on his face as tears gathered in his eyes.

“Why would you say that, beautiful? Love, I… maybe I had let them get you, but I will never let anyone else harm you again. I have promised and I will tell you every day if I have to. Even when we’re old and wrinkly..”

“I’m sorry,” Jimin wanted to say something else so badly, but he couldn’t, his words freezing in his throat. So he just clung to the alpha as he started to shake. Now, that he knew he would survive, that he was alright…

Suddenly he could remember what he had been running from.

Chapter Text

The morning after he had officially moved in with his mate (it was so strange still, hard for him to understand that the alpha had actually wanted him there, in his nest of all places, just for the warmth of his body and nothing else, and he was so eager to hold him when his fear took over him that night) Jimin was awoken to a large commotion coming from outside. He whined softly when Yoongi stirred next to him, the older letting out a low, warning growl to no one (and everyone, really) in particular as he stretched, arms still wrapped tightly around the smaller, holding him in an iron grip.

“You stay until I make sure it’s safe,” his voice rough from sleep but eyes wide and alert, the alpha stood up swiftly, already tugging on some clothes that hang from the shelves. Jimin squeaked at that, seeing him in his naked glory just for a moment before closing his eyes, face hidden by his tiny hands shyly. His cheeks burnt a cherry red but Yoongi barely realized – he was running on worry, his instincts going haywire. He could smell unmated alphas even from the safety of his hut and they didn’t belong to his pack. Just the thought was enough to cause the small hairs at the base of his head bristle. Maybe it was a little odd of him to be so possessive already but Jimin was his and no one else’s – no other alpha would ever be able to even think of claiming him as their own.

Somehow, the little omega seemed more attuned to the other’s emotions than before as he slowly pushed himself up (he still had quite a bit of difficulty moving, albeit most of the time it wasn’t too obvious. Still, he was there to lay a soothing hand on the alpha’s shoulder with a soft, gentle smile.

“I’ll stay, but please, take care.” he whispered. He was about to say something else when the door of the hut was torn open by a panicked Taehyung.

“They came to get my corpse oh my god they are going to kill me help me please they want me dead.” he rambled, and that was the first time the alpha truly saw him break down. He had been odd but never so frail before, but it was almost as if something (or whoever that he was talking about) had caused him to completely snap.

Jimin however, again, quicker than it should have been possible for him, was by the younger’s side, slapping him across the face as gently as he could but with enough power to tear him out of whatever terrifying daydream that he was going through.

He didn’t expect the other omega to attack him back for sure.

Taehyung was skinny but taller than Jimin and he had always held more power – maybe that was why the older omega fell when the bony fist of his friend collided with his nose. He hadn’t expected the hit (it wasn’t even intentional and he knew it, a mere reflex caused by shock and fear), but it had still taken him off guard and caused him to whine, landing painfully on his back.

Yoongi was there within moments, an inhumane snarl torn out of his throat. Taehyung was back to his senses already however, and he shook, eyes wide – he had hurt his ‘elder brother’…

“Jiminnie, I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to…” he whispered, hands shaking wildly. But it was the alpha in the hut that was causing more of his fear. He could already see that his apology was accepted by his friend but Yoongi was another case.

“If you dare touch him again, omega or not,” he started, the threat hanging in the air for a few moments before he parted his lips to continue, his fists clenching with anger and teeth ground together with a sound that was petrifying to both of the youngers” I will personally make sure to dispose of you.”

That was the moment Seokjin chose to finally join them, concern and some sort of amusement flickering on his face. Behind him were a few shifters they had never seen before, looking confused and slightly bewildered at the sight.

“I think there’s a bit of a misunderstanding going on here. Remember how we’ve sent a message to your pack that you’ve been found?” he asked Taehyung, easily ignoring his brother’s low growl (he had dealt with many territorial alphas after all. His main concern was Jimin really, still down on the ground with pain written clear across his features. Had he pointed it out however, it would have caused even more chaos and he knew it all too well.” There had never been a stolen omega that we could save – and usually by the time their pack is here, they are all..”

“They die, right?” Jimin asked softly. “They are abandoned and left to die, but  before their family finds them, they give up… But we’re different. And they didn’t know, I assume.”

“Is that him?” a young alpha, probably on the brink of reaching adulthood asked, pointing at Jimin with something akin to disappointment in his voice.

“No, that’s Jimin. The feisty one’s from your pack.” Taehyung gave a soft scoff at that, his attitude finally returning as he glanced at his packmates finally, messy hair falling into his eyes.

“So they just thought that I was…”

“Dead. But you clearly aren’t.” an omega woman muttered, confusion clear in her voice. “Uh, this is really not what we were expecting. We didn’t even see you so but I assume that you’ve heard us and…”

“You scared him.” Jimin muttered softly, and only then did he finally stand back up, only to stagger, the hand that he raised to wipe at his nose coming back bloody.” Huh.”

“Not the worst I’ve given you.” Taehyung muttered, which made Yoongi growl lowly.

What surprised everyone in the hut however, was the way the young alpha who had barely stepped inside gave a snarl in response.

“Oh dear…” Seokjin muttered to himself, ready to watch a fight unfold…

Chapter Text

Yoongi bared his teeth at the younger alpha, hair bristling as he moved so that his mate was behind him, tiny hands clutching onto the back of his clothes. He was shorter, but his presence was heavy – even with the faint sting in his nose (after all, he would always feel the pain that his omega went through). “What are you even doing here, pup?”

“I have a feeling I know,” Seokjin decided to cut in before things changed for the worse, glaring at his brother with no shame.” Taehyung is from his pack, so obviously, when you threaten him, he won’t be happy…” he tried to reason, but at that, the omega in question just huffed.

“I can protect myself from this overgrown kitten, thank you very much. Hissin’ at me for talking to my brother,” he said, and again, he seemed completely different from how he had been acting just a moment ago. He changed so fast, it was hard to keep up with him.

“I don’t think you could, Tae.” Jimin muttered, peeking his head out as he held his achy nose.” You don’t hit as hard as you think you do.” he added.

Seokjin let out a sigh of relief, watching the newcomers look at the trio in wonder. It was clear that their youngest (the one who still looked ready to tackle Yoongi to the ground if he was being honest) was confused, his face changing from angry to amused than almost upset – almost as if even he had no idea what he was supposed to be thinking at the moment. However, one thing was clear – and it was the yearning in his eyes as he glanced at Taehyung.

“Are you going to come home with us?” the elder omega that had come with the party merely to grieve piped in, her voice soft.” Your father… and your siblings, they will be so happy to see you…” she added softly.

Jimin looked at his brother questioningly at that. The two of them had known that they would have to separate some day, for it was too risky to be at the same place – but so soon? And to go with people they barely knew? Suspicion rose in his mind: no one could be trusted, for magic could fool others so easily. What if it was just a trap…

“I think… I believe it would be best if I went.” Taehyung said, trying to ignore the wide-eyed fearful look Jimin shot him. However, he couldn’t help but notice as the young alpha (it was so obvious he was barely full grown, still so awkward-looking and meek, which was a rare sight) brightened up at that. “ I mean, they sent all these people after me. Well, the dead me. Thanks, by the way?”

“Just be careful. I can’t tell you what to do,” Jimin muttered at that, and nearly stumbled into his mate as a wave of dizziness hit him. Despite how strong he was trying to act, he still wasn’t ready to be up on his own too long – and the new bruises that bloomed around his nose well Taehyung’s fist had hit him, combined with the blood that had dripped down his face didn’t seem to be helping.”

“Says the one who always gets into trouble.” the younger omega chuckled softly.” But before I can go, I should ask at least who they are, shouldn’t I?” he whispered (loud enough that everyone could hear really) to the older with a thoughtful frown.

“That’s Jungkook, the son of our head alpha,” the older omega woman said with a fond grin.” And I’m the sister of your father, Junghee. I apologize for not introducing ourselves properly just yet, I still can’t believe that you’re… here…” And it was clear that she was still confused. Junghee was quite a bit older already with tan skin, dark hair and a scar under her right eye. She was beautiful in her own way – Taehyung wished that he could remember her from before but…

“I understand. I think we’ve given everyone a scare,” something inside him said that he should have went to hug his aunt to comfort her but… as confident as he tried to act, he was still so, so scared.

“Let’s go now. This place stinks,” Jungkook said, and without a thought, he reached out to grab the omega. However, he didn’t expect the reaction he got – Taehyung flinched back with wide eyes, as if he had been burnt. He couldn’t help but whine, biting down on his lower lip as the alpha stared back at him.

“What was that? Can you burn people like that? And how?” Jimin frowned at that as he was by the youngers within moments, inspecting Taehyung’s arm – but there was nothing there. He had an idea – but tried hard not to think about that for a moment, for that was quite impossible, if he was being honest.

“No? I don’t think this has ever happened. Maybe your skin is just too cold,” the young alpha’s cheeks were red, and suddenly he didn’t look intimidating at all – completely unlike how he had been only minutes ago when Yoongi had snapped at Taehyung. He looked down in shame, bringing up his hand again, slowly this time.

“Can I… try again?” his murmur was slow but the omega still heard him, reaching out with his thin, scarred fingers. Thin, darker lines marred the skin from the tips to his knuckles, matching on each digit, a haunting memory of things he would have forgotten in a heartbeat if he could. But as a warm hand wrapped around them, gentle, he couldn’t help but smile shakily – this time he felt the fire once more, but fainter – nothing but a gentle flame enveloping his skin.

‘It’s okay this time.” he muttered, and failed to add that really, he was usually creeped out by any kind of contact that wasn’t Jimin – and an alpha? Had it been someone else he would have been a snapping, growling mess – but he didn’t feel fear – just somewhat odd, empty but full at the same time. His heart hurt at the thought of leaving, but he knew that there was no way his brother would be able to come with him – not when he belonged there with his mate.

“Will you come back? Can he even visit? And what if…” Jimin was panicking now and there were tears welling up in his eyes. He was so frail – now it seemed as if he had no reason to be strong and somehow that seemed to be breaking him more. But his alpha was quick to placate him, wrapping around him as if to shield him from sorrow.

“He is welcome to come back any day, love. But he has a pack to see, too. Just like you, he has a place in this world…” Yoongi crooned as the omega sniffled into the crook of his neck.

“I promise to come back,” Taehyung whispered quietly. He followed Seokjin and the others, looking back to watch the alpha sit down, Jimin still on his lap.

“He’s still weak,” Taehyung muttered.” Jimin, he went through a lot so that they would leave me alone. Sometimes, they hurt me, too. But he was prettier. Small and cute is what they want, a sweet omega is a good mother, and the pups are pretty too, right? But… I don’t think this is my place to tell. But we had to run away or they would have killed us. “

“Thank you for telling me even this much. I knew you have ran, but never really understood how. Even now… I’m just happy we found you in time. My brother hasn’t been the same since Jimin went missing.”

“Just make sure he doesn’t hurt him. We’re safe now, I think, but they can find us. It’s hard to track us down, but it’s possible. We’re free of them for now, but there’s still something that bounds us to them and…” he bared the mark of the stolen on his neck, poking at it with a finger. The scarred skin seemed alive, stirring in a bizarre manner as he sighed.” Let’s go,” he finally turned to his own pack members, biting down on his lower lip.

After all, he knew that there was a chance he would never see Jimin again – and that broke his heart.

Chapter Text

Jimin could not keep in the quiet sniff as he nuzzled closer to his mate, his eyes filling with sadness. Whining, he buried his small nose in Yoongi's neck, causing the alpha to glance at him with a soft sigh.
"I am sorry, my love, but Taehyung has not been born into this pack. Tearing him from his own just because we care for him would be selfish, right?" the way he spoke was almost as if he was soothing a pup, but there was a certain sourness to his scent - jealousy emitting from his form. The alpha knew that realistically, there was nothing threathening his claim on his mate but still, part of him disliked the bond the omegas shared.

"I just don't want him to be away... what if they find him? Who will protect him if I'm here?" Jimin whimpered, but still clung closer to his somewhat foul-smelling mate. He scrunched up his nose at the thought, a pout replacing the sad frown on his lips.

"His family will protect him, love." Yoongi said patiently, turning slightly so he could gently cradle the omega's face in his hands, pecking his nose gently. "And I will be here for you if anyone ever dares look at you."

Jimin hummed at that, a hand wandering to where he held the mark of the Stolen, burnt into soft skin. He shuddered, feeling the energy shuffle about. "I know, but... I am just so worried that he could get into trouble. He is Taehyung."

"I know, sweetheart. But I'm sure someone will be there to save him if anything happens." There was bits of frustration lacing the elder's voice and Jimin finally noticed, eyes growing wide. Was he making his alpha angry by being stupid?

"I am sorry for speaking so much about him." he whispered finally, and albeit it shouldn't have, Yoongi's wolf was finally content. He just... wanted his omega to be his and no one else's.

Seokjin finally stepped into the hut, rolling his eyes at the sight." Brother, I believe you are on hunting duty tonight. Maybe running a bit will ease this... stench of yours, too." He spoke freely, and once more, Jimin felt admiration for the healer. For an omega to be so bold...

"I know. I will be going now. I love you." The alpha kissed his mate, a quick little peck on the lips before rushing out of their home.
Jimin watched him, love flickering in his eyes.

"When an apha is angry, you are supposed to... to.. do things. But what if... what if I am worried that I cannot?" he questioned quietly, and bit down on his lower lip with a sad look in his eyes."I was never good for..."

"Hey, hey. No one is even thinking about those things. My brother is just being stupid because he needs to clear his head. He had a lot of strangers barge in here, which probably messed up his senses." Seokjin chuckled, ruffling the smaller omega's hair.

"Oh." Jimin whispered, playing with his a piece of his clothing, twirling the soft fur around. "I just want him to be happy. Taehyung, too. Everyone, before I.. before something bad happens."

"There is something I wanted to ask you, Jimin." Seokjin sighed quietly, a sadness growing in his gaze." What exactly did they do to you? I don't mean how they hurt you, but this... brand of yours. I have never seen it on a living-breathing being, and it seems alive. My brother would never let me ask this, but I need to know. I need to know so we can help others if we ever find any..."
Jimin grew anxious within moments, his small form curling up more. He never rose his eyes as he spoke, words softer than a whisper."It's magic. A curse really - that's what they told us. That's what kills us when we are tossed out."

"But if it kills you when you leave then how are you..?" Seokjin had to ask it, for there was dread filling his chest as he looked at the other.

"We outsmarted them. Ran away without them being able to.... kill us. They have to touch it here," he poked the spot on his neck, a low keen of pain escaping him. The older omega thanked the Moon that his brother was already far away probably, unable to hear his mate in distress." They can't really get us if we are hiding. But if they find us,they can kill us just like this." he whispered. The way he spoke was odd, reminding the other of Taehyung when he seemed all odd. Was it because of the curse maybe? He had neved dealt with magic before, but he knew of it. However, one thing was odd..

"But we.. we don't possess magic like that..." he muttered, watching as Jimin nodded, biting down on his lower lip." They are different. Not quite like us, but similar. They said that we also could - we could do as much as they can, but we are tainted."

Just as he was about to say something else, his eyes went wide, lips parting as a gasp escaped his lips.

"No..." he whispered.

And all Seokjin could see was blood.

Like that time.

Chapter Text

But it was all in his mind. Seokjin shook his head, trying to will away the crude images, hands coming to tear at his hair, trembling – but he managed to ground himself still. The younger omega stared at him with those wide eyes, panic clear in them.

“I.. One of the other omegas, they killed her.” he broke down, tears running down his sunken-in cheeks.”We just know when one of us withers away, and I.. I hate how we can do nothing...”

“I am so sorry..” The healer steeled himself, his own worries shining through his still strange movements as he tugged the smaller closer.” It is almost like they forced you to make a pack of your own – so you feel whatever happens to the others. Packbonds are not always that strong nowadays, but they can be. I do wonder if the curse is just a really traditional bond – but then they should be able to track you down pretty easily...”

At that, Jimin's eyes flashed with pure fear, nails digging into the flesh of his palms.

“But...” Seokjin corrected himself quickly, he couldn't have his brother's mate panicking when he himself was on the brink of breaking down – he just couldn't.” I feel like there is a way to get rid of it. The curse part of it, I mean. Can you... can you talk to the other omegas, or can you just feel them? Could you tell me what you really feel?” This would make them both focus a little, he knew. He hated how weak he was – as a healer it was his task to be strong for others, but this was destroying him, too. He would lose his brother if something was to happen to the smaller omega and that thought was just..

“No. not really. We just know if someone dies or gets really really hurt. When we run away, I think the others knew – but I am not sure to be honest. I feel like it depends on how close we are too. But maybe we are wrong, it is like... we just do not know anything about this. Taetae was once caught up in a really big fight – I did not want him to, but I was with an... alpha, and he was really hurt. So I felt it and was really worried that he... but he did not! But now I cannot feel him or talk to him. I want him back here, to be honest. I miss him..”

This was probably the most the tiny omega had ever spoken and it showed, chest raising rapidly for a few moments. He had tears in the corners of his eyes – it was a sad sight, but really good information for Seokjin.

He wasn't even sure what to call it. It was more than terrifying, beyond feelings that he could really describe.

“Will Yoongi come back tonight? I miss him,” Jimin whispered – and it was clear that he was very willing to change topics, whether for his sake or the other's, it was unclear. Within moments, he seemed normal, just a freshly mated omega that really loved his one true love. It was cute really, as he pouted when Seokjin hummed in response.

“Well, he is hunting tonight, but generally he is back once he's caught something. He offens goes off on his own, it's a little interesting actually. Many alphas prefer to go as a pack, but Yoongi is strong enough to get his own prey. Or sometimes he goes with your brother – however they often do not find anything.”

“Oh?” Jimin tilted his head to the side, clearly interested. He knew that his mate was incredibly strong – and smelled amazing, most of the time, and he was nice (which was the most important part, really) but for him to not work well with a friend of his? Most alphas back there would always go off together – hunting together whether it was for food or... Entertainment.

“Well, they end up trying to catch the same deer or something and they fight for it so it just runs away.”

A twinkling giggle escaped the smaller and he couldn't help but imagine that. He wanted to see it for himself, too!

“I want to go see them once. Maybe even hunt. Yeah, I really want to. I could hunt a rabbit for sure, right?”

Something peculiar about Jimin was that his emotions changed incredibly quickly – one moment he would be scared, the next sad, and then happy again. Seokjin sort of envied this ability... But he knew that it was probably caused by whatever he had lived through. It was scary to think that omegas this young could be hurt so badly and yet, Jimin seemed fine now..

If a little anxious to see his mate once more.

That one, at least, the healer understood very well, for he also longed to be with his alpha all day (and night). It was only the love he felt for Namjoon that made him strong enough to heal. Without him, he would have been no one.