CHAPTER 1 TO 10 || BOUND AND TORN BY PROPHECIES

 

BOUND AND TORN BY PROPHECIES

....ENJOY....

Chapter 1: The Cursed Child of Raventhorn

 

The village of Raventhorn lay nestled between towering, jagged mountains that scraped the sky, their peaks forever shrouded in mist. Below them, an ancient forest stretched wide, dense with trees as dark as the legends that whispered through its branches. The villagers spoke in hushed tones about the dangers lurking within—the unseen creatures that watched from the shadows, the silent curses carried by the wind, and the dragons that once soared above, their scales like molten fire against the night.

They believed the mountains held secrets—forgotten gods, forsaken souls, and monsters that only the foolish dared disturb. Rivers cut through the land like veins of silver, their waters both life-giving and deadly. Some claimed that if you listened closely, you could hear the cries of those who had been sacrificed to appease the ancient beings dwelling beneath the surface. It was a place of both breathtaking beauty and inescapable horror, where myths shaped reality and fear governed life.

It was in this cursed land that Jeon Jungkook was born, and the moment he took his first breath, suffering followed.

His mother bled out on the straw mat where she had given birth to him, her last gasping words swallowed by the howling wind outside. The midwives barely had time to wrap the newborn in a tattered cloth before his father vanished days later, lost to the forest while hunting for food. Some said he was taken by the shadows that lurked in the woods; others whispered that the dragons had claimed him as penance for the boy’s birth. The villagers did not know, nor did they care.

Left alone, Jungkook was taken in by his grandmother—a frail yet strong-willed woman who lived at the edge of the village, far from the accusing stares and cruel whispers. She feared what fate had in store for her grandson, so she taught him all she could in the brief years they had together—how to start a fire with trembling hands, how to catch fish with makeshift traps, how to listen to the wind and understand when danger was near.

But fate was unkind.

When Jungkook turned five, his grandmother passed away one cold morning, her breath ceasing as she slept. He did not understand what death meant. For two days, he stayed by her side, curled against her unmoving body, waiting for her to wake. When hunger gnawed at his stomach, he shook her gently, whispering for her to get up, but her body had already grown cold. It wasn’t until the stench of decay crept into the air that the villagers came, drawn by the smell.

They buried her, muttering prayers under their breath, but not one person reached out to take the child in. Instead, they whispered among themselves, their voices dripping with fear and superstition.

“He is cursed.”

“Look at his eyes… No human should have eyes like that.”

One of Jungkook’s eyes was darker than the abyss, so black that even the night seemed bright in comparison. The other was an eerie shade of blue, deep like the ocean yet endless like the sky. They shimmered like cursed gems, beautiful but terrifying, drawing people in only to drown them in their depths.

Some said they were the mark of a demon. Others believed they were a sign of the ancient dragons—either their wrath or their blessing. But no blessing ever brought suffering like his.

He was shunned, a walking omen of despair. No one gave him food when he was starving. No one clothed him when winter bit into his skin. He survived on scraps, drinking from the river, hiding from the beatings thrown his way when he wandered too close to the village square.

Some villagers wanted to claim the small piece of land left behind for the orphaned child, their greedy eyes lingering on the meagre plot. But fear of his curse kept them away, their hands trembling at the thought of angering whatever darkness surrounded him. And so, Jungkook, barely five years old, started to survive on his own.

He tilled his field with tiny hands, catching fish the way his grandmother had taught him, his small body moving through each exhausting day with quiet determination. Though no one dared to approach him, a few villagers left behind old clothes or items they no longer needed, setting them near his hut before vanishing into the night. They never spoke to him, never even acknowledged him, but Jungkook was grateful for their silent kindness.

He learned to navigate the dangers of the wild, finding solace in the very things that terrified others—the rustling trees, the rushing river, the whisper of the wind through the mountains. He spoke to the stars at night, asking them questions no one else would answer. And when loneliness crept in, he imagined his grandmother’s voice guiding him through the dark.

Yet, the suffering never ceased.

Storms would tear apart his small field, ruining his crops before he could harvest them. The river, his only source of sustenance, would freeze over in the bitterest winters, forcing him to dig through the ice with frozen fingers. Hunger gnawed at his ribs, leaving him frail, yet he refused to crumble. He had no one, yet he endured.

The people of Raventhorn feared many things—the monsters in the forest, the spirits in the mountains, the curses that could turn crops to dust and rivers to blood. But above all, they feared him.

And in their fear, they left him to suffer.

 

Chapter 2: A Boy and His Guardian

The first light of dawn had yet to touch the sky when Jeon Jungkook stirred from his worn-out bed, rubbing the sleep from his tired eyes. The air inside his small hut was crisp, a reminder that winter would soon arrive. But waking up before the sun had become his routine—it was the only way to survive.

With a quiet yawn, he pushed aside the thin blanket covering him and sat up, stretching his arms above his head. A familiar weight shifted at his side, followed by the sound of a tail thumping against the floor.

“Good morning, Bam,” Jungkook murmured, ruffling the thick fur of his beloved dog.

Bam, a large yet lean pup, yawned dramatically before nudging Jungkook’s cheek with his cold nose. The sight brought a small smile to the boy’s face. He had found Bam a year ago, abandoned by his mother for being born the weakest of the litter. Jungkook, knowing the pain of being left behind, had taken him in without hesitation. Now, Bam was his best—no, his only—companion.

“Time to get to work,” Jungkook whispered, pulling on his tattered coat. Bam wagged his tail excitedly, already knowing what was next.

They stepped outside into the dark, chilly morning, the village still cloaked in silence. The only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the distant call of an owl. Jungkook made his way toward the river, his breath visible in the cold air. Bam trotted beside him, ears perked up, occasionally running ahead before circling back.

Reaching the riverbank, Jungkook crouched down and carefully began pulling up the fishing net he had set the night before. Cold water splashed over his fingers, sending a shiver up his spine. He held his breath as he inspected the catch.

“Not much,” he muttered, “but enough.”

Bam barked in agreement, wagging his tail. Jungkook chuckled and scratched behind his ears. “At least someone’s optimistic.”

After collecting the fish and securing them in his small woven basket, Jungkook wiped his wet hands on his pants and sighed. The hardest part of the morning was yet to come. He had to go to the village market.

“Alright, Bam. You ready?”

Bam’s tail wagged even faster. Jungkook smiled as he pulled up his hood and adjusted the fabric that covered the lower half of his face. Even though he was used to being shunned, he still preferred to hide whenever possible. With his basket secured, he set off toward the market, Bam trotting happily beside him.

By the time he arrived, the marketplace was still mostly empty—exactly as he had planned. He quickly spread a thin fabric on the ground and carefully arranged his fish by size and type. Then, he placed a small wooden sign with the prices he had painstakingly written the night before. His grandmother had taught him to read and write, and he made sure to practice every chance he got. He refused to let that knowledge slip away.

Bam plopped down beside him, watching curiously as Jungkook set up a small fabric for him as well. “You know the drill,” Jungkook whispered, scratching Bam’s head. “You’re in charge. Don’t let anyone take anything for free, alright?”

Bam let out a small huff and lay down, resting his head on his paws. Jungkook grinned. “Good boy.”

Once everything was in place, Jungkook climbed up a nearby tree, hiding himself within its thick leaves. He had started selling fish this way since he was eight years old. If he stood by the stall, the villagers would either ignore him completely or force him to leave—sometimes with words, sometimes with fists. But this way, they had no choice but to buy.

At first, people had taken the fish without paying, knowing there was no shopkeeper to stop them. But then Bam had grown up. The once-tiny pup had turned into a sharp-eyed protector. Now, anyone who tried to take without paying found themselves facing a low, warning growl and a set of sharp teeth. Since then, the stealing had mostly stopped.

Jungkook sat quietly in the tree, watching the village come to life as more vendors arrived. He stayed hidden, listening as people mumbled amongst themselves while buying fish. He didn't need to see them to know they refused to acknowledge his presence. It was fine. He was used to it.

Hours passed. Finally, as the market began to empty, Jungkook climbed down and hurried to pack up his things. He counted the money, a soft giggle escaping his lips when he realized today had been better than most days.

“Bam, we did it!” he whispered, scratching his dog behind the ears. Bam let out a pleased bark, his tail wagging in excitement.

Jungkook put the money away, keeping a small portion in his pocket. “We’re buying spices today,” he told Bam. “It’s been too long since we had a proper meal, huh?”

Bam barked in agreement, practically bouncing on his paws.

Jungkook scribbled a short list of the things he needed on a small scrap of paper. His handwriting was rough, but readable. After placing the money and the note in a small pouch, he crouched down to look Bam in the eyes. “Alright, you know what to do. Get the things and come straight home, okay?”

Bam let out a happy bark before trotting off toward the market. Jungkook smiled as he watched him disappear into the village.

While Bam took care of the shopping, Jungkook made his way back to the river, setting down the remaining fish to clean. The icy water stung his fingers, but he worked quickly, his thoughts drifting to the meal he would cook tonight. His grandmother had left behind an old, weathered stack of papers filled with recipes, instructions, and small notes about life. He had memorized most of them, but still, he liked to read them while cooking, pretending she was there guiding him.

Once the fish were cleaned, Jungkook stepped into the river, shivering as the cold water wrapped around him. He bathed quickly, scrubbing the dirt from his skin. He never worried about being seen—no one dared come this far into the forest, fearing the curses that supposedly lurked there.

By the time he returned to his hut, Bam was already there, his tail wagging, a small bundle of supplies tied to his back.

“You did good, Bam,” Jungkook praised, untying the bundle and checking the contents. Everything was there. “Perfect! Now, let’s cook!”

Jungkook moved to the small kitchen area of his hut, flipping through the old pages of his grandmother’s notes. “Okay, let’s see... Ah, this one!” he muttered, tracing a familiar recipe with his finger.

Bam watched him closely, wagging his tail as Jungkook mumbled to himself, bouncing on his toes in excitement.

“First, we need to cut the fish… like this! No, wait—like this! Ah, never mind, it looks fine.”

Bam barked.

“Oh, don’t laugh at me!” Jungkook huffed playfully. “I know what I’m doing… mostly.”

The fire crackled as he cooked, the scent of spices filling the hut. For once, the weight of loneliness felt lighter. Jungkook grinned as he stirred the pot, humming softly to himself.

When the food was finally ready, he set down two bowls—one for himself, and a smaller one for Bam. “Alright, dig in!”

Bam wagged his tail before eagerly devouring his portion. Jungkook chuckled before taking his first bite. The warmth of the food spread through him, and for a moment, he felt content.

Outside, the wind howled, carrying whispers of myths and curses. But inside the little hut, a boy and his dog shared a meal, finding solace in each other’s presence.

 

 

Chapter 3: Plans for Winter

 

The air was cool as Jeon Jungkook stepped outside, stretching his arms as he let out a soft sigh. The warmth of his meal still lingered in his stomach, filling him with a rare sense of comfort. Nights like these were precious—when hunger didn’t gnaw at him, when he had a plan for tomorrow, and when the world, for just a little while, didn’t feel so cruel.

Bam followed him closely, his paws barely making a sound on the dirt path as they walked toward the river. The moon was high in the sky, glowing softly against the dark, endless canvas of stars. The wind carried a quiet hum, rustling the leaves of the nearby trees as if whispering ancient secrets.

Jungkook settled himself on a large, smooth stone at the river’s edge. The water flowed gently, reflecting the moonlight in ripples that shimmered like silver. His fishing net was already set, swaying slightly with the current—he had done it earlier that morning after collecting his previous catch. This way, by the time the sun rose again, there would be new fish ready for him to take to the market. A routine built from necessity, a habit carved by survival.

Bam rested his head on Jungkook’s lap, letting out a long sigh of contentment. Jungkook chuckled softly, his fingers threading through the dog’s thick fur. “You’re getting lazier by the day, Bam,” he murmured. “All you do is eat, nap, and scare off thieves. Some guard dog you are.”

Bam huffed in response, nudging Jungkook’s hand as if demanding more affection. Jungkook shook his head with a small smile and continued petting him.

His gaze drifted back to the sky, to the thousands of stars twinkling above. He wondered if his grandmother was watching over him from somewhere beyond them. “Are you proud of me, Halmeoni?” he asked quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m doing okay now. It’s not as bad as before.”

The beginning had been the hardest. The first winter alone had nearly taken him. If not for the stock of grains his grandmother had bought before she passed, he might not have survived at all. He had rationed it carefully, eating just enough to keep himself going, stretching every handful of rice for as long as he could.

But when the stock finally ran out, he had been forced to rely on the little he could gather from fishing and the scraps left behind by villagers. It had been a brutal season, and he never wanted to experience such helplessness again.

But now… things were different. Because of Bam, because of his careful planning, he had managed to save some money. Enough to survive the coming winter without starving. He had endured worse, and now, for the first time, he felt like he was ahead of his struggles, even if only by a little.

Jungkook frowned slightly, tapping his fingers on the rock beneath him. “Should I try growing vegetables?” he muttered to himself. “Would it even work?”

He hesitated, staring at the small patch of land near his hut. He had never farmed before. What if he failed? What if the crops didn’t grow? Would he just waste the money he had saved?

“But if it works…,” he murmured, his thoughts slowly shifting. “If I can grow even a little, it’ll help. I won’t have to buy as much food in winter, and I can save more money for emergencies.”

He sat up straighter, rubbing his chin. “Maybe root vegetables would be best. Carrots, radishes… stuff that can survive the cold. I wouldn’t have to water them much either.”

Bam tilted his head, watching Jungkook talk to himself. Jungkook chuckled. “You think it’s a good idea now, don’t you?”

Bam wagged his tail slightly, as if agreeing. Jungkook sighed, but there was a small smile on his face. “Alright. I’ll try it.”

He glanced at Bam, a new idea forming. “You’re going to the market again tomorrow,” he said, scratching behind the dog’s ear. “I’ll write a note asking for seeds that are easy to grow, and I’ll also ask them to tell me how to take care of them through notes.”

Since no one really knew Bam belonged to him, they treated the dog normally. Jungkook figured that if Bam brought the note, the villagers might be kind enough to write instructions, believing the seeds were for an ordinary customer.

Leaning back against the rock, he stared at the sky, his fingers still absently petting Bam’s soft fur. The wind carried the distant howls of wolves, but they did not frighten him. He had lived too close to danger for too long. Instead, he simply closed his eyes, listening to the river’s gentle flow and the soft breathing of his only companion.

The cold was growing, and Jungkook could feel sleep creeping up on him. He let out a small sigh, knowing he should return to his hut for the night. “I should take out another blanket tomorrow,” he muttered, mostly to himself. “The mornings will be even colder soon, especially this close to the forest. Winter’s almost here… I need to start preparing.”

With one final glance at the moonlit sky, Jungkook stood up, stretching his arms as he nudged Bam gently. “Come on, let’s go to bed.”

Bam wagged his tail and followed him as they made their way back home. Jungkook felt a sense of quiet determination settling over him. Tomorrow would be another step toward survival, another step toward making things better.

For now, he would rest. Tomorrow, he would take the first step toward something new.

 

 

Chapter 4: The Boy in the River

Jungkook’s morning began like any other. Long before the sun peeked over the horizon, he stirred awake, stretching his arms and rolling his shoulders before sitting up. The air inside the hut was crisp, a reminder that winter was creeping closer. He rubbed his eyes and turned to the lump of fur curled beside him.

“Wake up, Bam,” he murmured, scratching the dog’s ear. Bam let out a groggy huff but stayed put. Jungkook chuckled and stood up, pulling on his worn-out coat. He grabbed a thin tree branch from the corner of the hut, using it to brush his teeth as he stepped outside. The cold air hit his face, waking him up fully.

After rinsing his mouth with fresh water, he bent down and splashed some on his face. Today was going to be a long day. He had a lot to do, starting with collecting the fish he had trapped overnight.

With Bam finally following behind him, Jungkook walked to the river, his breath visible in the chilly air. The stillness of the morning surrounded him, the only sounds being the rustling leaves and the soft lapping of the water against the riverbank.

Reaching for the net, he prepared to pull it up. The moment he tugged, however, he staggered back. It was heavier than usual. His heart pounded as he braced himself, pulling harder. The weight of the catch strained his muscles, and he gasped for breath, his arms trembling as he heaved the net onto the shore.

Panting, he took a step back to examine it. A large bundle was tangled in the middle, far larger than any fish he had ever caught before. His excitement flared for a brief second—if this was all fish, he could make more money than ever before.

But before he could get closer, Bam’s sudden barking shattered his thoughts.

Jungkook’s chest tightened. Bam never barked at fish. Usually, he would sniff around and hop in excitement, but now his growls were low and wary.

Something was wrong.

Cautiously, Jungkook stepped forward. He knelt and began untangling the net, pushing aside the flopping fish. His hands hesitated as his fingers brushed against something that wasn’t scales or fins.

His breath hitched.

A boy.

Lying lifeless among the fish, his pale skin wrinkled from the water, his body unnaturally still. Jungkook scrambled backward, fear gripping him. His mind screamed at him to run—to leave it alone. But something stopped him.

He forced himself to move closer. With trembling hands, he turned the boy onto his front. His face was delicate, almost angelic, but his lips were nearly blue, his skin cold and clammy.

Jungkook’s breath came in shaky bursts. What was he supposed to do?

He hesitated before lowering his head, pressing his ear against the boy’s chest. His heart clenched when he caught the faintest sound of breathing—weak, but there.

“He’s alive,” Jungkook whispered, exhaling in relief. But he wouldn’t be for long if he stayed like this.

He had no time to waste. Ignoring his own fear, he grabbed the boy by his shoulders and dragged him toward the hut. The journey back felt twice as long, the weight of the unconscious boy making each step heavier. He finally reached the hut, breathless, and carefully laid him down on the only bed.

Jungkook stepped back, rubbing his arms as he tried to think. What now?

He couldn’t take him to the village healer—he wasn’t allowed there, and even if he tried, no one would help him. He needed another plan.

His gaze flickered toward Bam, who was watching him expectantly. Jungkook clenched his fists. He had no choice.

Moving quickly, he grabbed a scrap of cloth and pulled out some of his savings. He hesitated—this was a lot of money, money he had been saving for winter. But if he didn’t act now, the boy would die.

He hurriedly wrote a note:

My friend fell into the river. His breath is weak, and his skin is cold and wrinkled. I can’t bring him myself, and I can’t leave him like this. Please, send herbs and instructions.

Jungkook wrapped the money and note together in cloth and tied them securely before crouching down in front of Bam. “Listen carefully,” he said, pressing the bundle against Bam’s fur. “Take this to the healer. Make him read the note. Then, come find me at the market.”

Bam wagged his tail once before taking off, disappearing into the trees. Jungkook exhaled and turned back to the boy. His breathing was even shallower now.

“I’ll be back,” Jungkook whispered. He had to leave. He couldn’t risk missing the market opening—if he wasn’t there, he’d lose his chance to sell his fish. He grabbed his baskets, giving the boy one last glance before stepping out.

---

By the time Jungkook returned, breathless and clutching the bundle of herbs, the boy was still unconscious. His lips were slightly parted, his chest rising and falling weakly. Jungkook wasted no time. He unfolded the cloth, pulling out the dried herbs. Following the instructions, he crushed them into a bowl and added water, stirring it into a thick paste.

Carefully, he sat beside the boy and pressed a spoonful against his lips. “Come on,” he murmured. “Swallow.”

The boy didn’t respond. Jungkook frowned, pressing the spoon more firmly. Slowly, a bit of the medicine slipped past his lips. Jungkook sighed in relief and continued feeding him in small amounts, watching for any sign of change.

Minutes passed, stretching into what felt like forever. But then—

A shuddering breath.

The boy’s fingers twitched. His lips parted slightly, and a faint sound escaped him.

Jungkook stilled, his heart hammering in his chest.

He was waking up.

Jungkook let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. He quickly stood and rummaged through his small pile of clothes, pulling out a dry set. He changed the boy into the warmest pieces he could find before covering him with his only blanket.

Still, he hesitated. The boy’s body was too cold. He wouldn’t recover quickly at this rate.

After a moment of contemplation, Jungkook turned to his small storage and pulled out another blanket—his last one. He draped it over the boy, tucking it around him carefully. “This should help,” he murmured, more to himself than anyone else.

Stepping back, he watched the boy’s weak breaths, hoping the warmth would help him heal faster.

For now, all he could do was wait.

 

 

Chapter 5: Preparing for Tomorrow

The sun had just begun to rise, painting the sky with shades of orange and pink as Jungkook stepped out of his hut. The cold morning air brushed against his skin, making him shiver slightly. He rubbed his arms before making his way toward the river, his mind still occupied with everything that had happened since dawn. His gaze instinctively flickered toward the hut, where the boy still lay unconscious. Jungkook had fed him the medicine, kept him warm, and now, all he could do was wait.

But waiting didn’t mean doing nothing.

He crouched by the river’s edge, pulling up the net he had set earlier. The weight was significantly less than yesterday, and when he examined the contents, he found only two small fish struggling against the ropes. He sighed. “This should work,” he muttered, taking them out carefully before washing them in the cold water.

Without Bam around—who was still at the market guarding the stall—Jungkook worked quickly in silence. He cleaned the fish, cutting them into small pieces, before heading back inside.

Once in the hut, Jungkook set up the fire and took out his grandmother’s worn recipe book, flipping through the pages with careful fingers. He found the fish soup recipe quickly—one of the simplest ones. Just some boiled fish, a little salt, and a few herbs. He could manage that.

As the soup cooked, he prepared a small pot of rice. Meanwhile, he skewered the remaining fish and roasted them over the fire with only a pinch of salt and chili. He couldn’t afford to use too many spices—not when he had to stretch his supplies for the long winter ahead.

The hut filled with the comforting scent of warm food. Jungkook sighed, satisfied with his work. He covered the pots to keep them warm and turned his attention to something else—his dwindling savings.

He reached for the small bag of money left after paying the healer. He counted the coins, his fingers moving quickly over the rough edges. “Not much,” he muttered. At least the healer had been honest enough to only take what was necessary instead of everything Jungkook had sent.

Still, he needed to be smart. He hesitated before dipping into his savings, taking out a few more coins. He needed seeds. With most of his money now going toward treating the boy, he had to think ahead.

Grabbing a scrap of cloth, he wrapped the coins and scribbled a short note. He would take it to Bam himself once he returned to the market.

---

By noon, Jungkook made his way back to the market, where the usual chatter of fishermen and customers filled the air. His small stall stood as he had left it, with only a few fish remaining, and in the middle of it all, Bam sat proudly, keeping watch.

Jungkook smiled, walking toward him. “You did good, Bam,” he murmured, crouching to ruffle his fur. Bam barked once in acknowledgment before wagging his tail.

He quickly packed the remaining fish, tucking them away for later. Then, he pulled out the small cloth pouch he had prepared earlier and tied it securely to Bam’s collar. “Alright, listen,” Jungkook said. “Take this to the grain shop and bring back seeds. We need to be prepared for winter, and we might need more money for medicine later.”

Bam let out a sharp bark of understanding and wagged his tail before dashing off toward the village.

Jungkook, now left alone again, sighed and adjusted the basket on his back. He started walking home, his thoughts swirling with worries about the unconscious boy, his savings, and the uncertainty of what lay ahead.

---

By the time Jungkook reached home, the first thing he did was check on the boy. He was still asleep, but his body wasn’t as cold as before. His breathing was steady now, not as shallow as it had been last night.

“The medicine must be working,” Jungkook whispered, exhaling in relief. He reached out, pressing the back of his hand lightly against the boy’s forehead. Warm—not burning, not freezing.

He’s getting better.

Jungkook let out a breath before leaving the hut again. There was still one more thing to do. He walked back to the river and carefully cut up the unsold fish into small pieces. With precision, he threw them back into the water near his net, hoping to attract more fish for tomorrow’s catch. If he was lucky, the bait would bring in a good haul.

By the time he returned, Bam was waiting outside, a small bundle tied securely to his collar. Jungkook untied the cloth and opened it, revealing an assortment of different seeds. He recognized some—carrots, radishes, and leafy greens—but others were unfamiliar.

A soft chuckle escaped him. “They must’ve packed whatever they had,” he murmured. “Maybe they do this for anyone who asks.”

His gaze landed on something else in the bundle—several sheets of parchment, neatly stacked. Jungkook flipped through them in disbelief. “There’s no way they wrote all this just now.”

It had to be a standard guide, something they gave to anyone who needed instructions. Still, he was grateful. This would help a lot.

He set the stack aside, deciding to read it thoroughly before planting anything. He would start soon—maybe not today, but definitely tomorrow.

His stomach grumbled, reminding him that it was time to eat. Jungkook pulled out two bowls, serving himself and Bam. The roasted fish was simple but satisfying, and the rice filled his empty stomach with warmth.

Bam happily crunched on his portion, wagging his tail. Jungkook chuckled as he chewed, watching his dog with fondness. “You think we’ll be okay this winter?”

Bam barked once.

Jungkook smirked. “Yeah? That confident, huh?”

Bam let out another bark, this time tilting his head. Jungkook hummed, pretending to consider. “I dunno… We just spent a lot of our savings. What if something else happens?”

Bam whined, then licked his lips and nudged Jungkook’s hand as if telling him to eat instead of worrying.

Jungkook laughed. “Alright, alright. I get it. One step at a time.”

The fire crackled beside them as they ate, and for the first time in a long while, Jungkook felt something close to peace. Things weren’t perfect, but at least, in this moment, they were okay.

Tomorrow, he would begin planting.

And soon, maybe… just maybe… things would get better.

 

 

Chapter 6: Eyes That Haunt

The afternoon sun cast a warm glow through the small gaps in the wooden hut, illuminating dust particles floating lazily in the air. Jungkook leaned back in his chair, his fingers tracing the rough edges of the seed guide as he struggled to make sense of the words on the page.

 He had never been taught properly—only the little his grandmother had managed to pass on before she left him alone in this world. Still, he had made it a habit to practice whenever he could, fearing that one day he might forget.

Bam rested at his feet, his large head placed comfortably on Jungkook’s leg. Every now and then, the dog’s tail would twitch, responding to the gentle rustling of leaves outside. The boy absentmindedly stroked his fur as he mumbled through the text, stumbling over some words, occasionally frowning at their unfamiliar meanings.

“Water once every few days... but not too much,” he muttered, tilting his head. “Too much... will ruin... the soil.”

He sighed, rubbing his forehead. “Why can’t they just write it in a simpler way?”

Bam huffed in amusement. Jungkook chuckled, poking his snout lightly. “You think it’s funny? Maybe I should make you read it instead.”

He returned his attention to the parchment, deep in thought. “If I plant them now, will they grow enough before winter gets worse? What if I mess up?”

He tapped his chin, contemplating the possibilities. “Maybe I should start with the radish seeds. They grow faster, right?”

His thoughts trailed off as he continued reading, completely unaware of the subtle movements coming from the bed behind him.

---

The world felt heavy.

There was warmth beneath him, soft yet unfamiliar. A dull ache coursed through his limbs, as if he had been submerged in ice for too long. He could hear something—a voice, quiet and uncertain, accompanied by the occasional rustling of paper.

Slowly, his consciousness stirred, pulling him away from the depths of exhaustion. His fingers twitched. His breath came in shallow draws as he fought against the lingering drowsiness.

Where…?

His eyelashes fluttered as he forced his eyes open, blinking rapidly at the dim interior of an unfamiliar hut. The wooden ceiling above him blurred in and out of focus before settling into clarity.

Then, the voice.

It was soft, thoughtful, tinged with uncertainty. Someone was speaking, mumbling to themselves. His gaze moved sluggishly to the source, and he saw a boy—his back turned to him, sitting at a small wooden table, hunched over a stack of parchment. Beside him, a large dog rested, tail wagging lazily.

He tried to move, wincing at the stiffness in his muscles. He swallowed dryly, his throat raw. The slight shift in movement made the dog’s ears perk up.

Then came the bark—sharp and alert.

Jungkook startled at the sudden noise, his grip tightening on the parchment. He turned swiftly, his eyes widening when he saw the boy sitting up, albeit with great effort. Relief washed over him, and before he could stop himself, a smile broke across his face.

“You’re awake,” he said, his voice filled with quiet relief. He quickly got up from his chair and moved toward the bed. “Are you alright? How are you feeling?”

The boy didn’t answer.

His breathing was uneven, his hands gripping the blanket tightly as he stared at Jungkook. But it wasn’t just shock from waking up in an unfamiliar place—there was something else. Something deeper. Something laced with fear.

Jungkook faltered slightly. “Hey, it’s okay,” he reassured. “I found you in the river this morning. You were unconscious, so I brought you here.”

Still, the boy said nothing. His wide eyes remained fixed on Jungkook’s face, frozen in horror and disbelief.

Jungkook frowned, following his gaze before realization hit him like a cold wave.

Ah.

His eyes.

His smile faded as he let out a breathless chuckle, though there was no amusement in it. “Oh,” he murmured. “You’re scared… because of my eyes.”

The boy flinched, as if caught in his thoughts. Jungkook lowered his gaze, his fingers clenching slightly before he forced a small, weary smile.

“I should’ve expected that,” he said lightly, trying to mask the sting in his chest. “I mean, I get it. They’re strange, right?”

He exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck before shrugging. “But they’re just eyes,” he continued. “I’m just a normal human—nothing special. Definitely not a monster.”

The words felt rehearsed, as if he had said them a hundred times before.

The boy’s breathing was still uneven, his body tense, but he made no move to run or speak. Jungkook sighed and decided not to press further.

“Look,” he said, walking toward the small wooden counter. “You should eat something.”

He grabbed the bowl of fish soup he had kept for the boy and placed it gently on the bedside table. “It’s still warm. It’ll help you regain some strength.”

Without waiting for a response, he turned away, heading back to his chair and picking up the parchment again. If the boy was scared of him, forcing conversation wouldn’t help. It was better to let him process everything on his own.

The room fell into silence, save for the occasional crackle of the fire and the faint rustling of paper as Jungkook resumed reading. But he could feel it—the occasional glances from the boy, his hesitant movements, the slight shift of the blanket as he slowly, cautiously, reached for the bowl.

Jungkook didn’t look up, but he smiled slightly as he heard the quiet sound of someone eating.

Maybe this was a start.

 

 

Chapter 7: A Shared Meal

The evening had settled in, the sun long gone beyond the horizon, leaving only the pale glow of the moon to cast silver light through the gaps in the wooden hut. The air had turned cooler, a soft breeze slipping through the cracks of the old structure. Jungkook sighed as he stretched his stiff limbs, the ache from sitting for so long creeping into his muscles.

He carefully placed the stack of parchment back in its place before rubbing his shoulders. "I need to move around before I turn into a rock," he muttered, glancing down at Bam, who wagged his tail lazily.

Reaching for a small lantern, Jungkook examined it under the faint light. His grandmother had prepared several of these before passing, and she had even written down instructions on how to maintain them. All he needed was the right oil and a fresh cloth wick when the old one burned out. With proper care, they could last a long time.

Lighting the lantern, he adjusted the wick before hanging it slightly higher, allowing the dim glow to spread across the entire hut. The warm light flickered against the walls, illuminating the small space just enough. His eyes flickered toward the bed, where the boy had once again drifted into sleep. Tiredness must have claimed him quickly, his body still weak from his time in the river.

Jungkook moved quietly, gathering the dirty dishes and washing them in a small basin of clean water. He decided to keep dinner simple—just rice, eaten with the pickles he had bought from the market a few days ago. Bam perked up at the mention of food, thumping his tail against the floor in approval.

“Guess you don’t mind as long as you get to eat, huh?” Jungkook chuckled, shaking his head as he set up the pot.

As the rice cooked, the comforting aroma began to fill the hut. Jungkook continued chatting with Bam, giggling softly as he recounted parts of the guide he had read earlier. He was so lost in his conversation that he failed to notice the boy stirring on the bed, his eyes slowly opening.

The river boy had woken up to the sound of Jungkook’s voice. His body still ached, but his mind was more alert now. He remained silent, observing everything—the way Jungkook moved effortlessly around the hut, the way he laughed at his own words, the way he seemed at ease despite being alone with a complete stranger.

He watched as Jungkook checked the rice, mumbling something to Bam about how perfectly fluffy it looked. The scene was... strangely peaceful. Familiar, almost. He had not felt this kind of warmth in a long time.

The rich scent of freshly cooked rice pulled him from his thoughts. He instinctively shifted, and the movement caught Jungkook’s eye. Their gazes met, and Jungkook immediately smiled.

“You’re awake,” he said. “Good timing—dinner’s ready. Come on, sit up.”

The boy hesitated but slowly pushed himself up. His muscles protested, but the hunger gnawing at his stomach was stronger. Jungkook, seeming satisfied with his movement, grabbed three bowls and began scooping rice into each one.

“So, what’s your name?” Jungkook asked as he worked, glancing up at him. “I mean, unless you want me to keep calling you ‘river boy.’”

A small pause stretched between them before Yoongi finally answered, his voice hoarse from disuse. “Min Yoongi.”

Jungkook nodded. “Yoongi. Got it.”

He placed the bowls on the ground and carefully pulled out a small jar. Yoongi watched as he unscrewed the lid and removed a few pieces of pickled vegetables, placing them into a smaller dish before sitting cross-legged beside the food.

“Sit here,” Jungkook motioned toward the bowls. Yoongi hesitated only for a moment before shifting himself off the bed and settling across from him. Bam, already used to this routine, sat patiently beside Jungkook, waiting for his share.

Jungkook passed Bam’s bowl first, adding a single piece of pickle beside his rice. “There. Happy?”

Bam immediately started eating, his tail wagging in satisfaction. Jungkook chuckled before adding a small portion of pickles to Yoongi’s bowl and then his own.

“Eat,” he said simply, taking his first bite. “It’s nothing fancy, but it’ll fill you up.”

Yoongi stared at the food for a moment before picking up his bowl. The first bite was hesitant, but the moment the warm rice settled in his stomach, he found himself eating more eagerly. He hadn’t realized just how hungry he was.

As they ate, Jungkook continued talking. “So, where are you from?”

Yoongi swallowed his bite before answering. “A village far from here.”

Jungkook tilted his head. “Why’d you leave?”

Yoongi glanced at him before looking down at his bowl. “No work,” he admitted. “I’m an orphan. Had to leave if I wanted to survive.”

Jungkook nodded slowly, scooping another bite into his mouth. “That’s rough,” he said honestly. “So, how’d you end up in the river?”

“I got lost,” Yoongi admitted. “Didn’t know where I was going. Before I realized it, I had fallen in.”

Jungkook hummed thoughtfully. “Well, lucky for you, I pulled you out before the fish ate you.”

Yoongi looked up at him in mild disbelief, but Jungkook only grinned, stuffing another bite of rice into his mouth. Bam huffed beside him, as if agreeing.

After a moment, Yoongi spoke again. “And you? You live alone?”

Jungkook’s expression shifted slightly, but he nodded. “Yeah. The villagers think I’m cursed.”

Yoongi frowned. “Why?”

Jungkook let out a small sigh, placing his bowl down. “Since the day I was born, bad things have happened,” he said. “My mother died giving birth to me. A few days later, my father went missing in the forest. Then, when I was five, my grandmother—who was the only one taking care of me, passed away. People started believing I was bad luck.”

Yoongi stayed quiet as Jungkook continued. “No one took me in. They all kept their distance. Some pitied me enough to leave old clothes or scraps near my hut, but no one dared to talk to me. Then, as I got older, they started calling me a bad omen because of my eyes.”

Jungkook met Yoongi’s gaze, his lips twitching into a small, sad smile. “They say my eyes are unnatural. One so dark it swallows light, the other so bright it sees beyond the sky. They think looking into them will drive people mad.”

Yoongi didn’t respond immediately, his grip tightening slightly on his bowl. Finally, he muttered, “That’s ridiculous.”

Jungkook let out a dry chuckle. “Yeah, well, people believe what they want.” He picked up his bowl again. “That’s why I live here, away from the village.”

A silence settled between them, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. Instead, it was filled with quiet understanding.

“Anyway,” Jungkook continued, shaking off the heavy mood. “You should rest. If you’re feeling better tomorrow, you can head into the village and look for work.”

Yoongi blinked at him, something unreadable passing through his gaze. He looked down at his nearly empty bowl, quietly processing Jungkook’s words.

Outside, the wind picked up slightly, rustling the trees. Inside the hut, two boys and a dog sat together, sharing a simple meal under the warm glow of the lantern.

And for the first time in a long time, neither of them felt entirely alone.

 

 

Chapter 8: The Market Routine

The first light of dawn seeped through the small gaps in the wooden hut, casting faint streaks of gold across the floor. Jungkook blinked awake, his body aching slightly from sleeping on the thin, worn-out mattress. He stretched, feeling the stiffness in his limbs, and glanced toward the small bed where Yoongi was still curled up beneath Jungkook’s second and only other blanket. His decision to let Yoongi sleep there had been simple—he was still weak, and the cold floor would only worsen his condition.

Jungkook exhaled quietly and turned his head to find Bam curled up beside him on the mattress, the dog’s warmth pressing against his side. A small smile tugged at Jungkook’s lips as he reached out, ruffling Bam’s fur gently. “You’re way too comfortable, huh?” he whispered, causing Bam’s ears to twitch slightly.

Not wanting to wake Yoongi, Jungkook carefully pulled himself up and stepped outside, inhaling the crisp morning air. The cold bit at his skin, but he was used to it. Stretching his arms above his head, he started his usual morning routine. Bam, now fully awake and energetic, padded after him with his tail wagging.

As always, the first task was to check the fish net. Jungkook walked down to the river, Bam trotting beside him excitedly. “Let’s see what we caught today,” Jungkook murmured as he gripped the edge of the net and began pulling it up. It was heavier than yesterday, which meant a decent catch. With a small grunt, he hauled the net onto the riverbank, shaking off the excess water.

“Well, not bad,” he commented, inspecting the fish flopping inside the net. “This should be enough for today.”

Bam barked in agreement, sniffing at the basket as Jungkook transferred the fish inside. Once he secured the load, he grabbed the strap of the basket and slung it over his back. “Come on, let’s head back.”

Bam bounced beside him as they made their way back to the hut. Before stepping inside, Jungkook adjusted his grip on the basket, preparing to take the cloth he used to cover his face. But when he entered, he found Yoongi already awake, standing near the small water basin while brushing his teeth with a thin tree branch.

Yoongi turned at the sound of the door, his sleepy eyes meeting Jungkook’s. “You’re up early,” Jungkook noted, setting the basket down near the door.

“Habit,” Yoongi mumbled, spitting into the basin before rinsing his mouth. He wiped his face with his sleeve and looked at Jungkook. “Where are you going?”

Jungkook tied his cloth mask around the lower half of his face. “To the fish market. If you want to go to the village and look for work, I can show you the way.”

Yoongi frowned slightly, his curiosity evident. “Villagers buy fish from you?”

Jungkook let out a small laugh, shaking his head. “Not exactly. I don’t sell them myself.” He crouched down to adjust the basket before glancing up at Yoongi. “I leave the stall to Bam.”

Yoongi raised an eyebrow. “Bam?”

Jungkook nodded. “No one knows he belongs to me. They think he’s just some well-trained dog from the village. If I stayed there, they wouldn’t buy anything, but since there’s no ‘owner’ at the stall, they do. Sometimes I stay there, hiding in a big tree nearby, but I never go out in front of them. If any of them noticed me, they would ignore my presence.”

Yoongi looked down at Bam, who wagged his tail proudly. “And they just... leave money?”

Jungkook let out a dry chuckle. “Not always. When I didn’t have Bam, most people took fish and paid nothing. But now, they at least leave something—probably out of fear that Bam will attack them if they don’t.”

Yoongi tilted his head. “And he can count money?”

Jungkook smirked. “Not exactly, but he knows when something’s off. If someone leaves too little or nothing at all, he growls at them. It’s better than nothing.”

Yoongi shook his head in disbelief but followed Jungkook outside without further questions.

---

After leaving the market, Jungkook returned to his hut and focused on another important task—preparing the field for planting. He walked toward the empty patch of land near his hut, taking a deep breath before grabbing a crude farming tool he had made from scrap wood and metal. He worked diligently, turning the soil, removing weeds, and breaking up clumps to ensure it was soft enough for the new seeds.

Once the land was prepared, he filled a small bucket with water from the river and poured it over the soil, watching as it darkened and absorbed the moisture. He wiped the sweat from his forehead, sighing. “That should do for now. I’ll plant the seeds once the soil settles.”

Feeling exhausted, he stepped inside the hut, deciding to rest for a while before heading back to the market. He lay down for a short moment, but his mind remained focused on the work ahead. After regaining some energy, he got up, covered himself properly, and set out again.

When he arrived at the fish market, it was as empty as usual—but this time, there was a noticeable difference. Yoongi was already there with Bam, collecting the remaining fish and packing up the stall.

Jungkook approached them, petting Bam while eyeing Yoongi curiously. “So? Did you manage to find work?”

Yoongi didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he handed Jungkook a small pouch of money. Jungkook took it and nearly dropped it upon feeling its weight. His eyes widened in shock. “What…?”

Yoongi sighed, crossing his arms. “I didn’t find any work, so I came back. Then, I saw a customer trying to pay less than what was fair. I decided to take over the stall and help Bam.”

Jungkook stared at him, still processing the weight of the money in his hands. “You—what?”

“I made every customer pay the full price,” Yoongi continued. “Also, some of the price tags you made were lower than what the other fishermen were selling for. So, I removed them and sold the fish at the same price as everyone else.”

Jungkook blinked. “And people actually paid?”

Yoongi smirked. “Yeah. And guess what? We sold almost everything. Only a few fish are left.”

Jungkook, overwhelmed with gratitude, immediately pulled Bam into a hug. “You’re amazing,” he whispered to the dog, then looked at Yoongi with newfound respect. “I’ve never made this much money by selling fishes before.”

Jungkook hesitated for a moment before pulling out some of the coins and holding them out to Yoongi. “Here. You worked hard for this.”

But Yoongi shook his head. “I don’t want it.”

Jungkook frowned. “What? Why not?”

Yoongi shifted, glancing at the hut in the distance. “I don’t need much. But… can I work with you daily and stay with you?”

Jungkook was taken aback. “You… want to stay?”

Yoongi nodded. “I can’t find work in the village, and I don’t have anywhere else to go. You need help, and I can make sure you get a fair price for everything. It’s a good deal.”

Jungkook hesitated before sighing. “I won’t be able to pay you as much as others, even if we sell this well every day.”

Yoongi shrugged. “I don’t need much—just enough to survive.”

Jungkook studied him for a moment before nodding. “Alright. If that’s what you want.”

A small smile tugged at Yoongi’s lips as they packed up the rest of the fish and began walking back toward the hut. For the first time in a long while, Jungkook felt like he wasn’t completely alone in his struggles.

 

 

Chapter 9: A Plan for the Future

After returning to the hut, Jungkook carefully stored the money they had earned in its usual place, ensuring it was well hidden. The weight of the coins in his hands still felt surreal—he had never made this much from selling fish before. Setting it aside, he exhaled and turned toward the small cooking space.

“Time to make lunch,” he muttered, rolling up his sleeves. Bam wagged his tail in excitement, already sitting near the fire pit as if he knew food was coming.

Jungkook retrieved the leftover fish from the market, deciding to roast them with a bit of salt and spice. While the fish cooked, he measured out some rice and set it to boil in a small pot over the fire. The warmth of the flames spread through the small hut, making the space feel even cozier despite its humble appearance.

Yoongi sat nearby, watching as Jungkook worked. After a moment, Jungkook spoke up. “I was thinking… Now that you’re staying here, I want to try growing vegetables.”

Yoongi raised an eyebrow. “Vegetables?”

Jungkook nodded, stirring the pot of rice. “Yeah. I already prepared a small patch of land near the hut, but I’ve never done any farming before. I was just going to follow the instructions that came with the seeds.”

Yoongi let out a short chuckle. “You don’t have to do that alone. I know a lot about farming.”

Jungkook’s eyes widened. “Really?”

Yoongi nodded. “I worked at a grain shop back in my village. I learned how different crops grow, how to prepare the soil, and when to plant. I can help.”

Jungkook’s face lit up. “That’s amazing! That’ll make things so much easier.”

After finishing their meal, Jungkook and Yoongi headed outside to the small patch of land Jungkook had prepared earlier. They spent the next hour sowing the vegetable seeds carefully, following Yoongi’s instructions on spacing and depth. By the time they finished and returned to the hut, the sun was beginning to set, casting an orange glow over the forest.

As they settled back inside, Yoongi asked, “Do you even know the way to your parents’ house? If we get lost, this whole plan will be pointless.”

Jungkook nodded. “I went there once with my grandmother, but I don’t remember it well. Luckily, she wrote instructions for me in case I ever needed to go there. We can follow those.”

Yoongi sighed in relief. “Good. It would be a disaster wandering around in the village at night.”

 

 

Jungkook lit a lantern and covered his face with a cloth. “We should leave now. It’s dark, and everyone should be inside their huts.”

With careful steps, they made their way toward the village. As expected, the streets were deserted, the villagers tucked away in their homes. Moving quickly yet silently, they soon reached an old abandoned house—Jungkook’s parents’ home. It looked untouched, likely avoided by the villagers in fear of the supposed curse.

Jungkook and Yoongi exchanged a glance before stepping inside. Dust covered every surface, and cobwebs stretched across the ceiling, but the house remained intact. None of the villagers had dared to take anything, which was now a blessing for them.

“Let’s take whatever we can use,” Jungkook whispered, already moving toward the storage area.

They began collecting anything in good condition—an old iron bed frame, slightly rusted but still sturdy, a mattress, and two thick blankets stored in a large tin trunk. They carried the trunk out first, making multiple trips back and forth, ensuring they didn’t leave anything useful behind.

Although most of the grains stored had spoiled, they found a large pot of honey, still perfectly preserved. “Honey never spoils,” Yoongi said with a grin. “We should take this.”

Jungkook nodded, lifting the heavy pot carefully. Meanwhile, Yoongi spotted an old, broken bicycle leaning against a wall. “This can be repaired,” he mused, deciding to take it along.

Among the many finds, they also uncovered woollen clothes in a well-preserved trunk. Though slightly large, they were in excellent condition. They hauled everything back to the hut in several shifts, huffing from the effort but excited by their haul. Even Bam helped in his own way, proudly carrying a small wooden toy he had found somewhere in the house.

By the time they finally returned to the hut with all their goods, it was past midnight. Despite their exhaustion, there was no fear—only excitement. “This is more than I ever expected,” Jungkook admitted, running his hands over the sturdy trunk now sitting inside their hut. “We actually have what we need to survive winter.”

Yoongi smirked. “Told you it was a good idea.”

Jungkook laughed, nodding. “Yeah. You were right.”

As Bam curled up on his new favourite toy, the two boys sat beside their gathered supplies, feeling something they hadn’t felt in a long time—security.

 

Chapter 10: A Changing Season

The soft hum of a melody floated through the air, blending with the gentle crackling of the fire. Jungkook stood in the small but cozy hut, stirring a pot of steaming stew while his voice carried the tune effortlessly. His tone was soulful, lost in the moment, as he focused on cooking.

The years had passed, and life had settled into a comfortable rhythm. Jungkook was now seventeen, taller, stronger, and more capable than the lonely boy he once was. His long sleeves were rolled up as he chopped vegetables with practiced ease, the warm scent of herbs filling the hut. It was almost time for Yoongi and Bam to return, and as always, he wanted lunch to be ready when they arrived.

A gust of wind rustled the trees outside, sending a shiver down the damp air. The sky remained covered in thick grey clouds, a sight that had become all too familiar these past two weeks. Though it was the rainy season, not a single drop of rain had fallen. The land was suffocating beneath the endless gloom, and the villagers had started whispering about it more and more.

Just as Jungkook finished setting out the bowls, he heard it—the familiar voice calling out from the distance.

"Kook, I'm back!"

A bark followed immediately after, Bam announcing his arrival just as enthusiastically. Jungkook smiled, wiping his hands on a cloth before stepping outside.

Yoongi approached with his usual calm demeanour, his hair slightly ruffled from the wind, while Bam ran ahead, tail wagging. "Smells good," Yoongi commented, his sharp eyes scanning the food Jungkook had prepared.

Jungkook rolled his eyes. "You always say that before even tasting it."

Yoongi smirked. "And I’m never wrong."

They settled down to eat, Bam happily munching on his share while Jungkook and Yoongi ate at a slower pace. Life was peaceful now. The days of barely scraping by had changed into something better. Yoongi handled the fish market and the village field, while Jungkook took care of the fishing, cooking, and the small vegetable garden near the hut.

It worked well. Yoongi loved sleeping in, and Jungkook had long since learned not to wake him too early unless he wanted to deal with his grumpy mood. In turn, Yoongi made sure the market ran smoothly, handling negotiations with ease and making sure they got fair prices. If needed, he helped Jungkook in the vegetable field as well.

Life wasn’t perfect, but it was steady. And that was more than they had before.

But today, something hung heavy in the air. The usual light-hearted conversation between them felt quieter, weighed down by an unspoken worry.

“The crops are struggling,” Yoongi finally said, setting his bowl down with a sigh. “If it doesn’t rain soon…”

Jungkook nodded, expression troubled. “I heard some villagers talking about it yesterday. Two weeks of no rain, no sun. If this keeps up, a lot of people won’t have enough food to last through winter.”

Yoongi leaned back slightly, staring out the small window where the gloomy sky stretched endlessly. “They’re hoping things will change, but if it doesn’t…” He trailed off.

Jungkook didn’t need him to finish the sentence. He knew exactly what would happen. Food shortages. Hunger. Desperation. And for people who barely tolerated him to begin with, he didn’t expect the situation to be any kinder to them.

“We should prepare,” Jungkook said after a moment. “We have some stored food, but if things get worse, we might need to rely on hunting or finding alternative ways to get what we need.”

Yoongi glanced at him, a flicker of approval in his gaze. “I was thinking the same.”

---

The next morning, Yoongi woke early for once, stretching as he got ready to head to the fish market. Jungkook stayed behind at the hut, planning to take care of their vegetable field.

With Bam trotting beside him, Yoongi made his way to the market, but as soon as he arrived, something felt wrong. The place was eerily silent. The usual lively chatter of vendors setting up stalls was missing. There were no customers, no movement—just a hollow emptiness.

Frowning, Yoongi set down his basket and looked around. It was already past the usual time when the market started buzzing with life, yet not a single other stall was set up. A strange sense of unease crept over him.

“This isn’t right…” he murmured, glancing at Bam, who let out a low whimper, sensing his unease.

Not wanting to waste time, Yoongi quickly packed everything back into his basket and turned toward the village. Bam followed closely, ears perked, tail stiff.

As Yoongi entered the village, the unease deepened. It was almost completely empty. No merchants, no farmers, not even children playing in the open areas. His pulse quickened as he walked further in, scanning every corner.

“Hello?” he called out, his voice echoing through the still air. “Is anyone here?”

At first, silence answered him. Then, a faint murmuring caught his attention. He followed the sound toward the village schoolhouse, where he found a small group of people—elderly villagers and very young children gathered inside.

The children played innocently, unaware of the tension among the elders, who sat together, speaking in hushed, serious tones. Yoongi approached, his voice firmer now. “Where is everyone? What’s going on?”

The elders looked up, their faces lined with fear and uncertainty. One of them, an old woman with deep wrinkles, let out a shaky breath. “You don’t know?”

Yoongi frowned. “Know what?”

Another elder leaned forward, whispering as if even speaking the words aloud would bring misfortune. “Everyone is going to die because of that demon carrying the curse.”

A chill ran down Yoongi’s spine. “What are you talking about?”

The old woman’s voice dropped lower. “The cursed boy who lives near the forest. He is turning eighteen soon, and his demons are awakening. If we do not act, he will bring death to us all.”

Yoongi’s breath caught in his throat. It took him only a second to understand who they meant.

Jungkook.

His fists clenched. “You’re talking about Jungkook?”

The elders exchanged wary glances before one of them nodded. “The signs are clear. The sky remains covered, the rain refuses to fall, and the crops are failing. This has never happened before. The village is suffering, and there is only one explanation—his curse is reaching its full power.”

Yoongi’s heart pounded, his mind racing. They were serious. The villagers—everyone—had already decided what they believed. And if they thought Jungkook was the cause, then there was only one thing they would do next.

They were going to get rid of him.

CLCIK THE LINK BELOW FOR NEXT CHAPTER:

https://novelreadingislife.blogspot.com/2025/05/chapter-11-to-20-bound-and-torn-by.html

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