[ A/N: start the song when I tell you to. Not now.

And vote! 🗳 ]

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He steps inside the old building, which brims with several men who are indulging in drinks, embracing women in their arms. The place exudes an unmistakable scent of lust, as it seems more debaucherous than necessary. It's a location that both men and women flock to for enjoyment, often attracting those seeking secret conversations or crucial information. A bustling atmosphere like this doesn't raise suspicions. Laughter fills the air as men and women, impeccably groomed for the occasion, engage in conversation and savor the moment. Most of the men present sport mustaches and beards, and they lose themselves in inebriation. Here, alcohol, particularly beer, reigns supreme. This wooden structure is renowned for its lively ambiance.

Everyone in the establishment recognizes him; it's not unusual for a man adorned with a golden mask to enter the tavern. While some patrons show minimal interest, others seek to establish a friendship with him. He exudes an air of mystery that piques their curiosity.

JK has entered the inn where he resides. His black boots make contact with the wooden floor as he strides purposefully toward his destination. He settled in this place just a few months ago. Despite the merriment of men reveling in their drinks and laughter, he pays it no mind as he walks away, a small creature named Bam perched on his shoulder. Bam's gaze fixates on a stunning woman who strides alongside them.

He points his bluish-yellow wing at her with a focused stare. "Have an affair with her. I won't say anything to your horny arse. But leave that evil bitch."

Bam turns his redheaded gaze to JK, waiting anxiously for his response. The woman, resplendent in a golden dress, hasn't spared them a glance, as her attention is captivated by another man approaching her. Witnessing her radiant smile upon seeing him prompts Bam to reconsider his choices.

"Enough, Bam," JK replies wearily.

Suddenly, a burly man collides with him, diverting all his attention to the encounter.

JK's gaze remains lowered as he gradually looks up, his eyes brimming with fury. "WHO THE FU-"

"It's me," the man says as he pats JK's shoulder, causing JK to let out a sigh of relief. He recognizes the man, a regular here, and they've crossed paths multiple times, fostering a sort of friendship in the man's mind. JK resents being treated as a pushover, a common occurrence in this place where people derive amusement from bullying others. He's willing to fight fiercely to earn the respect he deserves.

His thoughts are interrupted by the voice, "Care to drink the night away, JK?" JK offers a polite smile upon seeing the man's friendly demeanor and casually shakes his head. The man sports a mustache above his lip and is simply a man enjoying the spoils of ill-gotten wealth.

"I have some business to attend to, Christos. I'll join you later," JK implies that his availability for company is limited. He waves his hand nonchalantly, signaling for the man to depart.

"Alright, have a good night, my friend," the man responds before walking away, his departure drawing Bam's lingering gaze.

Bam is a rare creature, akin to some animals in this world, capable of speech and comprehending actions. Some individuals would go to great lengths to acquire a pet like him, while others aren't fortunate enough. Whenever people spot Bam, their gazes inevitably follow him, even though they feign indifference, aware that pets like him remain loyal to their masters until the end. Bam doesn't find it unusual that people's eyes are always on him; he's grown accustomed to it. Every regular patron of the inn knows Bam and JK, seeing them enter every night.

"You don't have a great taste in friends either," JK disregards Bam's words as he finally steps into a room with a desk at its center. Numerous bookshelves adorn the otherwise modest but decorated space. A man sits at the table, arranging his books, and looks up slowly upon JK's arrival.

"What do you want?" he utters, his words tinged with frostiness. Nonetheless, JK rolls his eyes and approaches, taking long strides.

"I carried out the task," JK says, retrieving a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket and tossing it onto the table.

His friend furrows his brow. "The client wanted the document protected and delivered safely after eliminating his rival."

JK meets his friend's gaze squarely, shrugging. "I don't care. What matters is, I completed the job." He turns around and walks away, leaving his friend, Min Yoongi, perplexed, his gaze locked on the crumpled note.

Bam stares at Yoongi, shaking his head vigorously, while JK exits the room. "He must regret having you as a friend. Poor Yoongs."

"You don't like him," JK sarcastically responds as he climbs the narrow, grey stairs. His work is done for now; he's tired and in need of rest. He's not in the mood for drunken revelry with strangers. It's better to get some sleep and ease his weary muscles.

"I—" Bam begins but is clearly irritated as he closes his eyes and takes deep breaths. "AT LEAST HE SHOWS HIS EMOTIONS. YOU'RE FREAKING BITCH HAS 'FAKE' RUNNING IN HER VEINS."

Bam's sudden outburst causes JK to snap his head toward him. Bam is breathing heavily but eventually realizes what he's done. Everyone on the stairs stops what they're doing to stare at him.

"Apologies, ladies and gentlemen," Bam says, bowing gracefully and using his wings instead of human hands, attempting to appear as if nothing unusual happened. JK stares at him, offering his own apologies, and when Bam finishes, the inn's patrons return to their activities, allowing him to continue walking.

"Yes, I argue with Yoongs, but I still care about him. It's a different kind of affection," Bam finally confesses his feelings for Yoongi. It's a breakthrough. His anger compelled him to reveal his true emotions.

"J—JK." Bam pauses, turning around and looking at Yoongi, who has a strange expression on his face, seemingly ignoring Bam's presence.

Bam feels his cheeks flush red, but he's a parrot, so it doesn't show, but it's still there. He's utterly embarrassed.

"Yes?" JK advances, taking the paper that Yoongi had in his hand.

"Y—Your next client," Yoongi stammers before quickly walking away, leaving Bam even more embarrassed. Bam and Yoongi have always argued, but this is entirely new for both of them. Did Min Yoongi really have to overhear their conversation? Why is fate so cruel?

JK looks at the paper while Bam babbles incoherently, "You love me too."

JK coughs into his fist, turning toward Bam. "What's gotten into you today?" Nonetheless, Bam continues to gaze at him expectantly for a response, looking miserable. "Well, no, you're starting to become delusional," JK adds, smirking, as he turns toward his room and opens the door, grabbing the wooden handle.

"Why did you take me? Why not a falcon or an eagle? Assassins typically have falcons and eagles, but you don't. You're lying," Bam asserts, convinced that his master cares for him despite the lack of direct confession.

"I had no burdens or problems in life, so I adopted you," JK responds matter-of-factly. Bam blinks rapidly, drained by his master's blunt admission, as he feels like a burden.

"By the way, you're the one who followed me everywhere-ow!" JK exclaims as he feels a smack on the back of his head. He sees Bam flying into the room, clearly trying to avoid him.

"I hate you!" Bam declares, sitting inside his cage and hiding himself within his wings.

The room is dimly lit, with the window open and moonlight casting an ethereal glow. Draperies billow in the breeze, creating a sense of coldness. Bam's cage is nestled in a corner, containing all of his essential belongings: seeds, water, a cloth he snuggles into, and various other items. It's a simple room designed for one person, giving the impression of modesty. However, JK is far from poor. He prefers living his life in inns rather than buying a house and arousing suspicion from others. Moreover, his assassin companions are nearby. Given his history of eliminating numerous enemies, he finds safety in their company.

He discards his mask and removes his shirt, revealing his abs and tossing his shirt over the bed. Then, he approaches the cage, bending over with his half-naked body and gripping the bars for a better view inside. A soft smile plays on his lips as he gazes at the cute bundle of feathers tucked in a corner, avoiding him in the darkness.

"Thank you for following me everywhere, Bam."

"Go away!"

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JASIRA'S POV ─

"You're as beautiful as ever," Melissa compliments as she stands before me.

I sit on the bed, my eyes cast downward, my hands resting on either side. The chambers are elegantly furnished, with a dressing table on my left and the bed in the center of the room. The bed is adorned with several red canopies, all tied up neatly. Maroon sheets and pillows are meticulously arranged, inviting me to rest. The window behind me lets in a gentle breeze, casting a soothing blue hue in the room.

I've chosen to wear my white nightgown for the evening. The maids have just finished preparing me, and the day has concluded after fulfilling my princess duties. I'm tired, but I keep my weariness hidden, especially in front of Melissa.

"Sweet dreams, your highness," she says, bowing and preparing to step away.

I lower my voice and ask, "When will the marquess be here?" Melissa pauses in her steps, surprised by my question. No one has been forthcoming with information about palace affairs, not even regarding my impending marriage. The king, who is technically my father, regards women as inferior. He believes I'm incapable of ruling, and he's instructed everyone to keep me in the dark. Despite being a princess, I hold no real power. No one is willing to support me.

The king intends to place his only nephew on the throne and marry me off to a noble who will repay him with lands, wealth, and influence.

In this kingdom, there are only three royals: myself, the king, and his nephew. The moment his nephew ascends to the throne, it will lead to bloodshed, rivalries, suffering for the commoners, and potentially the downfall of Ivrea. I'm well aware of all this, but I've chosen to maintain a low profile for my own safety. If, by some mistake, his nephew has an heir, it will spell the end for me.

But I won't remain silent.

Melissa forces a smile onto her lips as she inclines herself in respect. "He'll be here the day after tomorrow."

I nod, appreciative of her willingness to share this information. I know she's fearful, her heart likely pounding with anxiety, for revealing this secret could have severe consequences not only for her but also for her entire family and anyone associated with her.

"Thank you, Melissa," I say, offering a forced smile even though I'd rather not.

She bows once more and departs, leaving me alone in the silence of this room.

[ start the song now. ]

After contemplating the pillow beside me for a moment, I rise from the bed and approach the window with slow, silent footsteps. The white nightgown billows behind me as my bare feet softly touch the floor. Once I reach the window, I gaze out at the mesmerizing view beyond. The moon shines high in the sky, surrounded by countless stars, creating an enchanting spectacle. It feels as if the moon is beckoning me toward it. Below, the royal gardens lie in serene silence, adorned with various beautiful flowers. However, my focus remains fixated on the radiant moon.

A tea party scheduled for tomorrow, followed by the marquess's visit the day after tomorrow.

I must prepare myself for the events that lie ahead.

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JK begins to make his way to the window, grasping the handle and preparing to pull it open. Outside, the houses of the commoners stand in stillness, devoid of any signs of life as most have retired to their beds. He gazes at the breathtaking night sky, a soft smile gradually forming on his lips. His eyes briefly shift downward as he bites his lower lip, maintaining that gentle smile as he slowly returns his gaze to the celestial view.

Bam takes flight, perching on JK's shoulder, mirroring his actions and fixating on the night sky. JK glances in Bam's direction, then returns his attention to the captivating bluish-grey moon, which holds him enthralled with its beauty.

Much awaits him in the days to come, and he's prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead. He gradually closes the window, still captivated by the alluring sky before him.

Tonight, in a somehow extraordinary way, the moon was exceptionally thrilling to behold.

[ stop the song. ]

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The sun's rays fall upon his eyes, prompting him to use his arm as a makeshift shade. His slumber is abruptly disrupted by the unwelcome intrusion of sunlight. Exhausted from a distant assignment the previous day, he craves more than just sleep.

But as he shields his eyes, he realizes he's not alone in this endeavor. There's someone else here.

JK slowly blinks his eyes open, trying to clear the initial haze of sleep. A familiar voice reaches his ears, causing him to furrow his brow. He's an assassin; he should have sensed anyone approaching his door. How could someone stand before him without him noticing?

"It's me, V," the voice continues, and now JK's groggy expression shifts to recognition.

"Oh," he mumbles, offering a sleepy smile after identifying his visitor.

"Come on, wake up already. And yeah, in case you forgot while you were sleeping, I'm an assassin too. That's why you didn't sense my presence." V's tone is casual as he talks.

"I'm not that clueless," JK retorts, looking away.

"I know you're not," V replies, undeterred. He moves to remove his hood, revealing his handsome face. Sunlight catches the specks of dirt on his hair, casting a slight shimmer. He's dressed in a sleeveless top with a chest belt containing hidden blades. The black top features an attached hood designed for an assassin.

"I came to discuss some VIP work-related matters. But before that, could you please ask your bird to stop staring at me?" V's words are casual, but his gaze remains fixed on JK, seemingly unmoved by the adorable eyes peering from the cage.

Bam retreats into his cage, attempting to make his observation appear nonchalant. After all, he wasn't staring; he just happened to glance in that direction. At least, that's what he hopes.

"What is going on?" JK is now sitting up, his eyes conveying his sleepy demeanor.

V takes a seat beside him, his gaze still on the window.

"Did you receive a new contract to eliminate a royal?" V's eyes remain fixed on the window, where a few sun rays breach the room, causing JK's brows to furrow.

"Yeah, I did. How did you know?" JK stands up, heading to his desk to retrieve the paper that Yoongi had given him the previous day. He strides to the other side of the bed, where there's a small nightstand.

As he searches for the paper, V's words cause him to pause, his eyes widening in surprise.

"Because... I got one too. Someone's targeting the royal highness, my friend."

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[ A/N: The moon scene may or may not~ be describing their feelings for each other with the metaphor of it~ I wanted to make it a lil' dreamy~ but it suits the plot- ]