The grand hall of Jungkook's palace was abuzz with anticipation. The room, usually a venue for diplomatic discussions and royal decrees, was now filled with courtiers and nobles, all eager to witness the day's significant event. A large, ornate throne sat at the end of the hall, where Jungkook presided over the assembly, flanked by his closest advisors.

Jennie and Jae had orchestrated a dramatic moment, leveraging the tension and uncertainty that had been brewing within the kingdom. Their plan was coming to a head, and they intended to use the public stage to advance their own agenda.

---

As the room settled, Jae stepped forward, his demeanor poised and confident. He had a calculated charm about him, which he used to its full extent as he addressed the gathered assembly.

*"Your Majesty Jungkook,"* Jae began, his voice echoing through the hall. *"I stand before you today not only as a friend but as a suitor with an offer that could greatly benefit both our kingdoms."*

Jungkook looked at Jae with a mixture of curiosity and caution. *"What are you proposing, Jae?"*

Jae smiled, taking a deep breath as he continued. *"In light of the challenges we face, both internally and externally, I propose a union between us. By marrying me, you would strengthen our alliance and consolidate our power. This marriage would not only bring our kingdoms closer but also provide us with the combined strength needed to secure our future."*

The hall erupted in a murmur of surprise and intrigue. The nobles, seeing the potential benefits of such a union, began to whisper amongst themselves, weighing the implications of Jae's proposal.

---

Taehyung stood among the courtiers, his face a mask of controlled anger and jealousy. The proposal was a direct challenge to his own position, and the sight of Jae presenting himself as a suitor to Jungkook stirred a deep sense of frustration within him.

*"How dare he!"* Taehyung thought, his fists clenching at his sides. The realization of Jae's intentions-to strengthen his own position and undermine Taehyung's-only fueled his anger.

Jennie, standing beside Jae, observed the scene with a calculated gaze. Her plan was coming together, and she knew that this proposal was a crucial part of it. By creating the appearance of unity and strength, she hoped to consolidate her and Jae's influence over both kingdoms.

---

As the murmurs in the hall grew louder, several influential figures stepped forward to voice their support for Jae's proposal. Their endorsements were designed to sway Jungkook's decision, emphasizing the practical benefits of such a marriage.

*"Your Majesty, this union would indeed be advantageous,"* one noble remarked. *"It would ensure a strong alliance and bolster our defenses against any external threats. We must consider the stability of our kingdom."*

Another noble added, *"Jae's offer is a timely solution to the challenges we face. It would bring significant support and resources to our cause."*

The pressure mounted as more voices joined in, advocating for the union. Jungkook, caught in the crossfire of political necessity and personal feelings, found himself grappling with a difficult decision.

---

Jungkook's gaze shifted to Taehyung, who stood at a distance, his expression conflicted. Jungkook could sense Taehyung's discomfort and jealousy, though he was unsure of the exact reasons behind it.

*"Taehyung, are you alright?"* Jungkook asked quietly, his concern evident in his voice.

Taehyung forced a tight smile, trying to mask his inner turmoil. *"I'm fine. Just... processing the proposal."*

Jungkook nodded, his eyes reflecting his own uncertainty. The weight of the decision was heavy, and he knew that accepting Jae's proposal would have far-reaching consequences.

---

In the midst of the unfolding drama, Jennie and Jae exchanged a subtle, knowing glance. Their plan was more intricate than it appeared. By pushing for this marriage, they aimed to position themselves as the rulers of both kingdoms, using the guise of political necessity to further their own ambitions.

Jennie leaned in close to Jae, her voice a low whisper. *"This is working perfectly. Once Jungkook accepts, our influence will be solidified. We'll have the power to shape the future of both kingdoms."*

Jae's eyes gleamed with determination. *"Indeed. And with Taehyung sidelined, we'll have fewer obstacles to our plans."*

---

As the hall continued to buzz with discussion, Jungkook took a deep breath, making his way to the center of the room. He addressed the assembly with a voice that carried both authority and hesitation.

*"I appreciate the proposal, Jae, and the support from all of you. This is a significant offer, and I need to consider it carefully. I will give my decision in due course."*

The crowd's murmur of approval was mixed with anticipation. The immediate reactions varied, but the uncertainty surrounding Jungkook's final decision left everyone on edge.

Taehyung's frustration simmered as he watched Jae and Jennie's plan unfold. The sight of Jae's confident demeanor, coupled with the public's support, was a sharp reminder of the precarious position Taehyung found himself in. His jealousy and anger were palpable, but he knew that confronting Jae directly in such a setting would be counterproductive.

---

As the crowd dispersed, Taehyung withdrew from the main hall, seeking solitude to process the events. The proposal had exposed not only the political machinations of Jennie and Jae but also the growing emotional complexity between himself and Jungkook.

In the quiet of his private quarters, Taehyung grappled with his feelings. The prospect of Jae and Jennie's plan succeeding was disheartening, and the jealousy he felt was a stark reminder of his deeper emotions for Jungkook.

*"What am I going to do?"* Taehyung wondered aloud, his thoughts clouded with uncertainty and frustration. The stakes were high, and the choices made in the coming days would shape the future of both kings

_______