Into The Dark Night (11/?)
Title: Into the Dark Night
Author: ms_awkward
Genre: AU, Fantasy, Angst, Romance, Drama, Adventure, Fluff?
Rating: PG-13
Pairing(s): HyukHae(main), KyuMin, HanChul, KangTeuk, YunJae, ninja!YeWook
Summary: All they needed was light.
Into the Dark Night
Chapter 11
Donghae watched with wide eyes as Hyukjae crushed the small black object in his hand; its pieces fell to the ground with a few crackles of electricity and lay in a mess amongst the soil. He unconsciously snuggled closer to Hyukjae’s side. Because of the cold or because the redhead looked so dazed it worried him-Donghae didn’t know.
They’d hid in a cave not far from the clearing in the forest Donghae woke up in. It was small, inconspicuous with stoned walls, a few trees and bushes in front to obscure it from view. On sight, Hyukjae immediately ducked into it, dragging a confused Donghae with him. Hyukjae hadn’t said much, at least not as much as the usual (which isn’t much either). His jaw looked as if he was clenching it unconsciously and his eyes darted everywhere, from corner to corner, calculating.
Hyukjae was more silent and though Donghae found it odd, he couldn’t bring himself to say more than his stuttered replies because of the firm grip on his hand all throughout. Hyukjae had held it and never once let go. If it wasn’t his hand, it was his wrist or his arm or his fingers, anything that kept Hyukjae connected to Donghae-he didn’t let go. As if he were so afraid of losing him.
It was the first time Hyukjae had ever initiated any form of physical affection and quite frankly, Donghae’s heart was beating too loud against his ears and his stomach was too busy flipping around for him to think clearly.
But what overwhelmed him more was that Hyukjae was even there. Seeing the redhead and even being in his mere presence relaxed Donghae, the dizziness he’d been keeping earlier on during his time with Siwon subsided.
Now, huddled in a corner of a dark cave, away from the sudden downpour of rain that beat against the ground and the leaves of trees, Donghae hadn't felt any better. He snuggled closer to the man seated beside him, propping a chin on Hyukjae’s shoulder.
“Hyukjae,” the Rife grunted in response as he dug through his coat, inspecting the gadgets, “what are you doing?”
“Making sure.” Hyukjae replied curtly as he crushed another tracker. The Corporation had always been careful to bombard them with tracking devices since most Rife do fieldwork, while the minority belong to strategy and Lee Soo Man liked knowing where his tools were.
The rain was too hard for them to navigate through the forest so Hyukjae decided it be best they hide there until it dwindled. But staying in one place made Hyukjae uneasy.
“Oh.” Donghae said, looking out the cave. He was still completely confused about what was going on. After all, he was just walking with Siwon around the forest and the next thing he knew, Hyukjae held him in an embrace so tight his cheeks were baking. But he decided to wait until Hyukjae was ready to explain things to him. He got to hold his hand, so Donghae certainly wasn’t complaining.
“Donghae.” Hyukjae breathed, staring intently at the brunette who was in turn, staring at the rain outside. When he got a hum in reply, Hyukjae frowned. “Look at me.”
With a turn of his head, Donghae found himself only a few centimeters away from Hyukjae’s face and his breath hitched.
The redhead leaned forward, connecting their foreheads in a sweet gesture. “Whatever you do, don’t go with Siwon.” He said firmly, his eyes boring into Donghae’s unique ones.
“W-why?” Donghae had a hard time speaking with his heart beating against his ribcage. He wondered if Hyukjae could hear, he always had such good hearing. “Siwon seems n-nice…” He stuttered, suddenly feeling guilty for leaving him without saying goodbye.
“Just don’t. He’s dangerous. He’ll hurt you.”
Donghae closed his eyes in attempt to calm his heart, but could still feel the warm breath fanning his face, “But why, Hyukjae? Why does everyone want to hurt me?” For some reason, he felt like crying.
Hyukjae observed the brunette closely. He looked confused and quite obviously, had no idea what he was-this upset Hyukjae. Donghae was going through all these troubles, all these people after him, yet he had no idea why. How could he not be aware of his…status? Had he lost his memory? Why had no one even explained it to him then? Hyukjae didn’t want to be the one to tell him
because his own knowledge on the Solis was limited, in fact no one really knows about them except Lumici.
He figured they should go find his guardians Kyuhyun and Sungmin. Or Heechul. That is, if they get through the city safely with the search party going on.
But for the meantime, he had to say what he could to ease Donghae.
Hyukjae grit his teeth, “Because…you’re special, Donghae.” He said, for lack of better wording.
To his surprise, Donghae whimpered and snuggled impossibly closer to him with a firm grip on Hyukjae’s sleeves. For some reason, this made Hyukjae became acutely aware of their position. His face was so close, his lips suddenly so tempting.
“Everyone.” Donghae cried, “Everyone keeps saying that…I don’t like it, I’m scared.” Even in his head and in his dreams, that fact haunted him. Special-he didn't want to be special.
“Donghae.” Hyukjae chanted the name as if it were a magic spell. The brunette slowly opened his eyes, only to be caught in the gaze of another pair. A calm, determined gaze filled with words the redhead couldn’t speak.
Their faces inched closer, closer.
“I’ll protect you. No matter what.” Then Donghae smiled so sweetly and so genuinely happy, it brought Hyukjae over the edge.
Their lips met in a soft, chaste kiss as electricity jolted through them at the slightest touch. They moved against each other in pleasure, as if their lips were magnets that had long been attracted and had finally met. Neither Hyukjae nor Donghae knew what they were doing, it just felt right. And so good.
Hyukjae lifted a hand to cup the brunette’s cheek, and Donghae’s grip on his sleeve tightened.
Donghae’s lips were the most wonderful, sweet and addicting things Hyukjae had ever tasted. He wished he could drown in them; take them as his for no one else to touch.
To Donghae, Hyukjae’s lips were soft and gentle, guiding and passionate, everything Hyukjae was and more. It overwhelmed him, leaving him lightheaded and dizzy.
A kiss-he’d seen Kyuhyun and Sungmin do it all the time, but he didn’t know it would feel this good. He smiled against Hyukjae’s lips.
For some reason, Hyukjae felt heat pool in the pit of his stomach and it made him uncomfortable, as if he were slowly losing his self-control. Afraid of pushing things too far, he slowly pulled away, missing instantly the sweet taste but settled with gazing into Donghae’s glowing eyes. Donghae whimpered at the loss but soon found himself adrift in the dark eyes in front of him.
“I’ll protect you.”
- - -
Kibum narrowed his eyes at his partner, arms crossed and lips formed into a thin line.
“He got away?”
Shindong shifted under Kibum’s scrutinizing stare, he looked ready to explode any second. And an angry Kibum was a scary Kibum.
Shindong nodded weakly.
“How the hell could he get away? You’re supposed to be fast.” Kibum bit out.
“I-It wasn’t really just him.” Shindong shifted from foot to foot, slowly getting frustrated at the memory of the redheaded intruder. He just had to show up! “Someone helped him.”
Kibum raised an eyebrow, “And this person outran you? Don’t give me this shit Shindong, you’re a match even for Rife.”
“Yeah, one Rife! Doesn’t mean I can handle two!”
“Two?” Kibum frowned, “On the same platoon?”
“No, they weren’t helping each other. Well, they didn’t look like they were helping each other. I was fighting one then another one just popped out of nowhere and stole it. I swear, the other guy’s eyes went huge like saucers! His face was epic!” Shindong laughed out loud at the memory, but quickly contained himself once he saw Kibum’s calculating expression.
“Against each other?”
It was odd, to say the least. Kibum learned of the workings of the Rife during his infiltration of the SM Corporation way back when. He was young then, though the memory stuck with him. Nights of stalking hallways and training grounds with his heart beating wildly against his ribcage in fear of getting caught made him remember clearly.
If there was one thing about the Rife, it was that they followed orders. Impressive as it was unnerving, they did as they were told from the very beginning, even as children. No matter how gruesome or pointless the task, they’d do it. A Rife disobeying orders was surprising to say the least. But here one was, going against not only orders but also a fellow Rife.
Interesting.
Shindong was slightly creeped out at the smile that broke across Kibum’s features.
It’s been too long they were stuck up in the tower, the only place high enough to have a view of the sky no one had bothered to look at anymore. Kibum had been waiting for the slightest sign that a Solis was active again, and when he spotted the faint glow of a moon, he knew that things were going to be interesting. The power of the Solis was unrivaled and if he were in possession of it…Kibum couldn't contain his excitement at the possibilities.
Oh the possibilities! He would build cities, lure people with the warmth that only he could provide. He would create inventions with light and people would be so mesmerized, so enchanted by what they’ve been deprived of for so long that they’d foolishly pay him for his services, no matter the cost.
He would control the weather to his liking, make it sunny when he felt like it and make it pour when he was melancholy-a few beatings and pain for the Solis would do the trick and it would rain cats and dogs in no time.
In fact, just having the Solis around as decoration, free for him to touch and feel and own such beauty, would be beneficial enough. These days, nothing’s beautiful enough anymore. Maybe people would pay to touch him as well.
Kibum smirked.
Surely, such a prized possession would not be taken so easily. Though it did frustrate him that it was already in his hands, just merely slipped away, he didn’t think much of it. He figured the game wouldn’t be as fulfilling if he had no competition.
A Rife though, and a rogue one for that matter, was the least he expected.
Interesting.
- - -
Sungmin didn’t particularly like the atmosphere. He was fidgeting in his seat, this stranger named Heechul was in some sort of trance while staring at the collapsed officer they dragged in, Kyuhyun was scrutinizing Heechul thinking the man looked awfully familiar, and Sungmin could hear the faint clatter of kitchenware since Ryeowook decided it rude to just barge in like they did and that cooking something up would ease the tension. But Sungmin bet he was just trying to escape the awkward atmosphere.
Heechul and Ryeowook were looking for shelter when the little one remembered what Jaejoong told him. There were two Rogue Lumici who helped him out and they were to be trusted. They’d even taken care of Donghae all this time, so Heechul decided it be best they ask them for help and a roof to stay under before looking for the survivors Ryeowook was talking about.
“I take it you know Donghae.” Heechul spoke up, slowly moving his gaze from Hangeng to the two other Lumici.
“Yes,” Kyuhyun spoke cautiously, “I saved him from the Reserve.”
“We've taken care of him since.” Sungmin interjected.
Heechul stood up and Kyuhyun instinctively shielded Sungmin with his body. Their eyes were wide, fearing the worst as they watched the milky-skinned Lumiciant walk to the side of the couch.
Just as Kyuhyun was about to pounce, Heechul knelt and bowed deeply before them. His forehead touching the floor and hands laid out neatly before him. He spoke, his words slightly muffled, “Thank you. Thank you so much.”
“W-what?” Sungmin was in shock. Though he’d just met him, Heechul certainly didn’t look like the type who’d bow down to anyone. There was this glint in his eye, something that reminded him of Kyuhyun. (Yes, well, it could just be him being biased but that wasn’t the point.)
“Thank you. Thank you.” He repeated the words over and over, once never being enough. “Thank you.”
Slowly, Kyuhyun stoop up and placed a hand on Heechul’s shoulder.
“Don’t thank us.” He said, and it almost sounded full of kindness. Oh, but Sungmin knew better. “We didn’t do it for you.” Kyuhyun deadpanned. “Instead of thanking us, you can explain what the hell is going on.”
Heechul chuckled and got up, giving Kyuhyun an I like you, let’s plot together kind of look which Sungmin thought was rather frightening.
“Fair enough. I do owe you an explanation.”
They made their way to their seats, Sungmin’s ears perked up and eyes wide. They’d never known enough about the Solis, since they weren’t from Central. Sungmin was an Eastern Lumici while Kyuhyun was from the West-their knowledge on the Solis was limited, only knowing the most basic facts: that they were the source of all Lumici energy, that they were their most protected treasure because the mundane wanted so badly the power they possess, that as they use their power, they slowly die. Lumici outside the Central Forest weren’t told anymore than that, and quite frankly, neither Kyuhyun nor Sungmin paid it any mind. Until now, that is.
“You know of the attack on Central two years ago?” Heechul began.
Kyuhyun scoffed. Of course they did, it started the collapse of the Lumici. It was the reason why they’d all lost homes and most importantly, their Solis. It was a mystery how the humans found their way through the maze of trees to reach the Central Forest, and rumors of a traitor in their midst were floating around. Without Central where the Solis resided, all the other forests were bound to fall and break apart as well-In fact, it was why Kyuhyun himself had gone rogue; he lost his home and he was smart enough to escape the invading mundane troops.
“It was my fault…that we weren’t able to survive the attack.”
There was a sharp intake of breath as Sungmin’s fingers curled into a fist. “What? You’re the traitor?!” He was about to stand up and approach a straight-faced Heechul when Kyuhyun calmly put a hand on his shoulder.
“Let him explain.”
Heechul gave him a curt nod before continuing, “I was in captivity of Youngwoon, taken as one of his lab rats a few months before the invasion. The experiments were…” he shook his head, as if trying to erase the memories. Seeing the firm grip he had on his arm, Sungmin didn't feel so mad anymore.
“I was there when word of the invasion got out amongst the humans, and I think I was even there when Youngwoon thought of it. He was angry, shouting that we shouldn’t exist, why we were so special. He looked like an animal then…”
Heechul frowned, “It scared the shit out of me. How did he even find out where Central was? I never gave anything out, and kept my mouth shut no matter the…torture they put me through. I tried to escape, tried to warn them because I was the only one who knew. I needed to get Donghae out of there, because I knew Kangin was going to go after him. Him, and Teuk. Why else would he target Central?”
He inhaled slowly, trying to calm himself, “On my way out, I passed by the Potions Room and out of impulse, stole one.” He locked eyes with Kyuhyun and Sungmin. “This was the potion that turned back Donghae’s Clock and erased his memories. I thought I was going to make it in time…no, I was supposed to make it. Central was at least a week’s worth of travel from the city and I had a head start since they were still preparing their equipment.”
“But you didn’t.”
Heechul sighed, “Yes, I was too late.” His gaze lowered to the floor, head hung low. “I…I got distracted.” Unconsciously, he stole a glance at the officer draped on the floor in front of the door.
Kyuhyun raised an eyebrow. Clearly, there was something going on between the Lumiciant and that officer. He could see it in the way Heechul looked at him, his eyes full of regret…no, was it sadness? It didn’t matter. Kyuhyun felt it was none of his business to probe on that (really, who was he to mingle in other people’s forbidden love affairs), and Heechul didn’t look like he was in the state to answer those kinds of questions. He looked miserable.
“I made it in time to at least warn them, but it wasn’t enough to evacuate the entire forest. Thankfully, we were able to spike Donghae’s drink with the potion and got him safely out of there. Teuk, on the other hand…” Heechul closed his eyes, trying to calm himself. He had a good guess on where the Solis was, an image of a burly man up in his palace angering him.
Teuk should’ve listened to me. Heechul seethed in his mind, He should’ve stayed away from him. He stopped himself from scolding his friend mentally because really, who was he to preach about loving humans?
“Do you know where Leeteuk-sshi is?” Sungmin asked.
“No, but I have my suspicions.” Heechul scowled, “where’s Donghae? I want to see him.” He whined and pouted slightly, a contrast to his strong demeanor that made Sungmin admire the effects Donghae can have on people.
After calmly explaining to Heechul how they let Donghae escape through the back door without having the princess (Sungmin thought he fit the name) explode too much, they settled down. Heechul still felt restless though, mumbling under his breath about how ‘Donghae has the attention span of a goldfish, but they let him out on his own’ and ‘What are these idiots, did they really take care of him all this time?’ and ‘I am going to carve someone’s face off if he gets lost out there’, while Kyuhyun and Sungmin could only watch him helplessly.
To their surprise, his mumbling was cut short with a sigh. “I guess this is for the better. For now, at least.”
Heechul knew Eunhyuk was out there, so he figured he didn’t have to worry too much about Donghae’s safety. Instead, he should use this time to…
Kyuhyun and Sungmin shared a look, clearly confused with the sudden change.
“Tell me, how is he? How’s Donghae?” Heechul gulped, fearing the worst.
Sungmin smiled softly, touched with how much he cared for him, “He’s alright, hyper and happy, just the usual power naps he always needs to take.”
“Nap?” Heechul frowned, “Donghae hates naps. How often?”
“All the time! Especially when he gets tired or…hey, what’s wrong?”
“What else?” Heechul was on the edge of his seat, “What else did you notice?”
“Well, uhm…” Sungmin found difficulty speaking with the way Heechul was looking at him. He sank further into the couch.
“His hair is always dry, he hates staying indoors and he has a huge schoolgirl crush on a redheaded freak.” came Kyuhyun’s blunt reply.
Heechul fell back into his seat. Already? His mind raced. Why was the phasing starting so soon?
Could it be…?
Then it all made sense.
The reason why they were able to spot this place was because the rain around it stopped. Heechul thought he was hallucinating; that his eyes were playing tricks on him again because there was no way that could happen in a city like this. No way.
How could there be two active at the same time? Leeteuk, no matter his whereabouts, was still their Solis and he should be the only one able to do that. It didn’t make sense…but Heechul knew this wasn’t going to end well. It disturbed the balance.
There was a time for everything, and Donghae’s reign wasn’t until next year. If the Succession were premature, the current Solis would take the toll and most likely, even die because the successor wouldn’t have enough energy to support what he’d lost over the decade of his reign-every Solis’ small chance of survival after passing it on.
Of course, Donghae wouldn’t go unharmed either. The Succession itself would slowly drain his life source, but having it done prematurely would leave him empty. He wouldn’t move unless needed, wouldn’t speak, much less smile. Slowly, he would forget everyone and everything important to him-all his memories. He’d become a hollow shell with eyes that dull and skin that dims as the days go by, his energy being used for everyone else’s sake.
This was why Heechul wanted to make it absolutely clear that Donghae is kept under protection until his time, especially from the likes of Kangin. He knew that if there was one thing Kangin wanted, it’d be to free Leeteuk of his bounds to duty as Solis so that they could ride into the fucking sunset and live happily ever after. The blubbering idiot had no idea how wrong he was and the consequences of what he wanted entailed.
“What is it? What’s wrong?” Sungmin asked, alarmed by the look of dread that escalated on Heechul’s face.
Now that Donghae was phasing early, it makes things worse. What if Kangin’s men found him? They were all over the city, and Heechul could only pray that his words got through to Eunhyuk and he was with Donghae right now. But how long would that last? He knew there was another Rife after him, and surely the SM Corporation wouldn’t send some rookie on an important mission like this.
No, they needed to get him as far away from Leeteuk as possible, otherwise the Succession would happen automatically if they got too close. They needed to find Donghae, and they needed to find Donghae now.
But first…
“Ryeowook,” Heechul spoke loudly so the younger could hear him from the kitchen, “he’s phasing early. We need to find the others.” He strode to the door, and turned back. “You two.”
Kyuhyun and Sungmin snapped to attention.
“You’re coming with us.”
- - -
Jaejoong raised an eyebrow at the jingling of keys in front of his cell. He was pretty sure he’d just been given his meal (which still sat untouched in the corner of the room, because he greatly disliked human food), so why would someone be opening his cell?
After pointless hours of interrogation, the humans decided it be best they lock Jaejoong up until he cracked, only opening it when they thought he needed to eat.
The door creaked open to reveal a grinning Yunho who jingled the keys in front of his face.
Jaejoong could tell from the abnormally wide grin and bright eyes that the guy was up to no good, and he wasn’t so sure he wanted to get caught in the trouble.
“What are you doing?” He asked, his eyes narrowing suspiciously.
“Getting you out.” Yunho’s grin grew impossibly wider.
Jaejoong frowned, stealing a glance at his unbuttoned uniform that revealed a fit black wife beater, “And why is that?”
“Because I want you to help me dig some dirt on your sister.”
The grin turned just a little bit snide and Jaejoong decided that maybe he did want to get caught in the trouble.
- - -
Hyukjae adjusted Donghae so he could rest comfortably on his back. He had his arms around Hyukjae’s neck and his face nuzzling into it. Hyukjae kept his pace steady, afraid to wake Donghae up (though he knew the other slept like a rock) as he walked through the forest, leaves rustling with each step.
He kept a weary eye out, constantly scanning the surroundings, ears perked up for any sound. Surely, Siwon would be on their tail and Hyukjae could only thank the heavens for the heavy rain that covered up their tracks.
He’d already destroyed all his tracking devices, but he knew that would only slow down the Corporation temporarily. Siwon probably told them of his betrayal already, and if they weren’t looking for him, they’d probably be looking for Donghae, which Hyukjae couldn’t stomach. He’d rather they track and attack him instead.
His mind wandered back to the cave and felt his cheeks heat up at the memory. Hyukjae had never been so rash in his life, but the thought of Donghae’s lips on his made his stomach turn, his toes curl and made him…crave more. It made him wonder how it would feel to…He shook his head violently, trying to rid himself of those kinds of thoughts.
The action made Donghae groan and Hyukjae worried that he’d woken him up, but the Lumiciant only snuggled deeper into his neck and fell right back asleep. Though the image of a sleepy Donghae was immensely cute to him, Hyukjae was worried.
Not long after their kiss, the pouring rain suddenly stopped and the next thing he knew, the giggling and blushing Donghae was out cold in his arms. To say that Hyukjae was a worrying mess would be an understatement.
He figured it was connected to him being the Solis, but Hyukjae didn’t know what to assume since he didn’t know enough but most of all, he didn’t know what to do. Donghae kept passing out and he didn’t know what to do.
So he took advantage of the drizzle and decided to look for Kyuhyun and Sungmin, and beg them to fix Donghae because something was obviously wrong with him. Terribly wrong.
He could feel it. -- ♦
- - -
previous | next
A/N: Hi, guys. o/
So a prologue that comes in three parts is in the works. Each explaining how Kyuhyun and Sungmin, Heechul and Hangeng, Kangin and Leeteuk met since the main focus of ‘Into The Dark Night’ is eunhae. ;) But it’ll be released after I’ve completed this so…it’ll take a while. I’ll only write them if you guys are interested though. ^^
And…sucky update is sucky, I know. ;w;
Author: ms_awkward
Genre: AU, Fantasy, Angst, Romance, Drama, Adventure, Fluff?
Rating: PG-13
Pairing(s): HyukHae(main), KyuMin, HanChul, KangTeuk, YunJae, ninja!YeWook
Summary: All they needed was light.
Into the Dark Night
Chapter 11
Donghae watched with wide eyes as Hyukjae crushed the small black object in his hand; its pieces fell to the ground with a few crackles of electricity and lay in a mess amongst the soil. He unconsciously snuggled closer to Hyukjae’s side. Because of the cold or because the redhead looked so dazed it worried him-Donghae didn’t know.
They’d hid in a cave not far from the clearing in the forest Donghae woke up in. It was small, inconspicuous with stoned walls, a few trees and bushes in front to obscure it from view. On sight, Hyukjae immediately ducked into it, dragging a confused Donghae with him. Hyukjae hadn’t said much, at least not as much as the usual (which isn’t much either). His jaw looked as if he was clenching it unconsciously and his eyes darted everywhere, from corner to corner, calculating.
Hyukjae was more silent and though Donghae found it odd, he couldn’t bring himself to say more than his stuttered replies because of the firm grip on his hand all throughout. Hyukjae had held it and never once let go. If it wasn’t his hand, it was his wrist or his arm or his fingers, anything that kept Hyukjae connected to Donghae-he didn’t let go. As if he were so afraid of losing him.
It was the first time Hyukjae had ever initiated any form of physical affection and quite frankly, Donghae’s heart was beating too loud against his ears and his stomach was too busy flipping around for him to think clearly.
But what overwhelmed him more was that Hyukjae was even there. Seeing the redhead and even being in his mere presence relaxed Donghae, the dizziness he’d been keeping earlier on during his time with Siwon subsided.
Now, huddled in a corner of a dark cave, away from the sudden downpour of rain that beat against the ground and the leaves of trees, Donghae hadn't felt any better. He snuggled closer to the man seated beside him, propping a chin on Hyukjae’s shoulder.
“Hyukjae,” the Rife grunted in response as he dug through his coat, inspecting the gadgets, “what are you doing?”
“Making sure.” Hyukjae replied curtly as he crushed another tracker. The Corporation had always been careful to bombard them with tracking devices since most Rife do fieldwork, while the minority belong to strategy and Lee Soo Man liked knowing where his tools were.
The rain was too hard for them to navigate through the forest so Hyukjae decided it be best they hide there until it dwindled. But staying in one place made Hyukjae uneasy.
“Oh.” Donghae said, looking out the cave. He was still completely confused about what was going on. After all, he was just walking with Siwon around the forest and the next thing he knew, Hyukjae held him in an embrace so tight his cheeks were baking. But he decided to wait until Hyukjae was ready to explain things to him. He got to hold his hand, so Donghae certainly wasn’t complaining.
“Donghae.” Hyukjae breathed, staring intently at the brunette who was in turn, staring at the rain outside. When he got a hum in reply, Hyukjae frowned. “Look at me.”
With a turn of his head, Donghae found himself only a few centimeters away from Hyukjae’s face and his breath hitched.
The redhead leaned forward, connecting their foreheads in a sweet gesture. “Whatever you do, don’t go with Siwon.” He said firmly, his eyes boring into Donghae’s unique ones.
“W-why?” Donghae had a hard time speaking with his heart beating against his ribcage. He wondered if Hyukjae could hear, he always had such good hearing. “Siwon seems n-nice…” He stuttered, suddenly feeling guilty for leaving him without saying goodbye.
“Just don’t. He’s dangerous. He’ll hurt you.”
Donghae closed his eyes in attempt to calm his heart, but could still feel the warm breath fanning his face, “But why, Hyukjae? Why does everyone want to hurt me?” For some reason, he felt like crying.
Hyukjae observed the brunette closely. He looked confused and quite obviously, had no idea what he was-this upset Hyukjae. Donghae was going through all these troubles, all these people after him, yet he had no idea why. How could he not be aware of his…status? Had he lost his memory? Why had no one even explained it to him then? Hyukjae didn’t want to be the one to tell him
because his own knowledge on the Solis was limited, in fact no one really knows about them except Lumici.
He figured they should go find his guardians Kyuhyun and Sungmin. Or Heechul. That is, if they get through the city safely with the search party going on.
But for the meantime, he had to say what he could to ease Donghae.
Hyukjae grit his teeth, “Because…you’re special, Donghae.” He said, for lack of better wording.
To his surprise, Donghae whimpered and snuggled impossibly closer to him with a firm grip on Hyukjae’s sleeves. For some reason, this made Hyukjae became acutely aware of their position. His face was so close, his lips suddenly so tempting.
“Everyone.” Donghae cried, “Everyone keeps saying that…I don’t like it, I’m scared.” Even in his head and in his dreams, that fact haunted him. Special-he didn't want to be special.
“Donghae.” Hyukjae chanted the name as if it were a magic spell. The brunette slowly opened his eyes, only to be caught in the gaze of another pair. A calm, determined gaze filled with words the redhead couldn’t speak.
Their faces inched closer, closer.
“I’ll protect you. No matter what.” Then Donghae smiled so sweetly and so genuinely happy, it brought Hyukjae over the edge.
Their lips met in a soft, chaste kiss as electricity jolted through them at the slightest touch. They moved against each other in pleasure, as if their lips were magnets that had long been attracted and had finally met. Neither Hyukjae nor Donghae knew what they were doing, it just felt right. And so good.
Hyukjae lifted a hand to cup the brunette’s cheek, and Donghae’s grip on his sleeve tightened.
Donghae’s lips were the most wonderful, sweet and addicting things Hyukjae had ever tasted. He wished he could drown in them; take them as his for no one else to touch.
To Donghae, Hyukjae’s lips were soft and gentle, guiding and passionate, everything Hyukjae was and more. It overwhelmed him, leaving him lightheaded and dizzy.
A kiss-he’d seen Kyuhyun and Sungmin do it all the time, but he didn’t know it would feel this good. He smiled against Hyukjae’s lips.
For some reason, Hyukjae felt heat pool in the pit of his stomach and it made him uncomfortable, as if he were slowly losing his self-control. Afraid of pushing things too far, he slowly pulled away, missing instantly the sweet taste but settled with gazing into Donghae’s glowing eyes. Donghae whimpered at the loss but soon found himself adrift in the dark eyes in front of him.
“I’ll protect you.”
- - -
Kibum narrowed his eyes at his partner, arms crossed and lips formed into a thin line.
“He got away?”
Shindong shifted under Kibum’s scrutinizing stare, he looked ready to explode any second. And an angry Kibum was a scary Kibum.
Shindong nodded weakly.
“How the hell could he get away? You’re supposed to be fast.” Kibum bit out.
“I-It wasn’t really just him.” Shindong shifted from foot to foot, slowly getting frustrated at the memory of the redheaded intruder. He just had to show up! “Someone helped him.”
Kibum raised an eyebrow, “And this person outran you? Don’t give me this shit Shindong, you’re a match even for Rife.”
“Yeah, one Rife! Doesn’t mean I can handle two!”
“Two?” Kibum frowned, “On the same platoon?”
“No, they weren’t helping each other. Well, they didn’t look like they were helping each other. I was fighting one then another one just popped out of nowhere and stole it. I swear, the other guy’s eyes went huge like saucers! His face was epic!” Shindong laughed out loud at the memory, but quickly contained himself once he saw Kibum’s calculating expression.
“Against each other?”
It was odd, to say the least. Kibum learned of the workings of the Rife during his infiltration of the SM Corporation way back when. He was young then, though the memory stuck with him. Nights of stalking hallways and training grounds with his heart beating wildly against his ribcage in fear of getting caught made him remember clearly.
If there was one thing about the Rife, it was that they followed orders. Impressive as it was unnerving, they did as they were told from the very beginning, even as children. No matter how gruesome or pointless the task, they’d do it. A Rife disobeying orders was surprising to say the least. But here one was, going against not only orders but also a fellow Rife.
Interesting.
Shindong was slightly creeped out at the smile that broke across Kibum’s features.
It’s been too long they were stuck up in the tower, the only place high enough to have a view of the sky no one had bothered to look at anymore. Kibum had been waiting for the slightest sign that a Solis was active again, and when he spotted the faint glow of a moon, he knew that things were going to be interesting. The power of the Solis was unrivaled and if he were in possession of it…Kibum couldn't contain his excitement at the possibilities.
Oh the possibilities! He would build cities, lure people with the warmth that only he could provide. He would create inventions with light and people would be so mesmerized, so enchanted by what they’ve been deprived of for so long that they’d foolishly pay him for his services, no matter the cost.
He would control the weather to his liking, make it sunny when he felt like it and make it pour when he was melancholy-a few beatings and pain for the Solis would do the trick and it would rain cats and dogs in no time.
In fact, just having the Solis around as decoration, free for him to touch and feel and own such beauty, would be beneficial enough. These days, nothing’s beautiful enough anymore. Maybe people would pay to touch him as well.
Kibum smirked.
Surely, such a prized possession would not be taken so easily. Though it did frustrate him that it was already in his hands, just merely slipped away, he didn’t think much of it. He figured the game wouldn’t be as fulfilling if he had no competition.
A Rife though, and a rogue one for that matter, was the least he expected.
Interesting.
- - -
Sungmin didn’t particularly like the atmosphere. He was fidgeting in his seat, this stranger named Heechul was in some sort of trance while staring at the collapsed officer they dragged in, Kyuhyun was scrutinizing Heechul thinking the man looked awfully familiar, and Sungmin could hear the faint clatter of kitchenware since Ryeowook decided it rude to just barge in like they did and that cooking something up would ease the tension. But Sungmin bet he was just trying to escape the awkward atmosphere.
Heechul and Ryeowook were looking for shelter when the little one remembered what Jaejoong told him. There were two Rogue Lumici who helped him out and they were to be trusted. They’d even taken care of Donghae all this time, so Heechul decided it be best they ask them for help and a roof to stay under before looking for the survivors Ryeowook was talking about.
“I take it you know Donghae.” Heechul spoke up, slowly moving his gaze from Hangeng to the two other Lumici.
“Yes,” Kyuhyun spoke cautiously, “I saved him from the Reserve.”
“We've taken care of him since.” Sungmin interjected.
Heechul stood up and Kyuhyun instinctively shielded Sungmin with his body. Their eyes were wide, fearing the worst as they watched the milky-skinned Lumiciant walk to the side of the couch.
Just as Kyuhyun was about to pounce, Heechul knelt and bowed deeply before them. His forehead touching the floor and hands laid out neatly before him. He spoke, his words slightly muffled, “Thank you. Thank you so much.”
“W-what?” Sungmin was in shock. Though he’d just met him, Heechul certainly didn’t look like the type who’d bow down to anyone. There was this glint in his eye, something that reminded him of Kyuhyun. (Yes, well, it could just be him being biased but that wasn’t the point.)
“Thank you. Thank you.” He repeated the words over and over, once never being enough. “Thank you.”
Slowly, Kyuhyun stoop up and placed a hand on Heechul’s shoulder.
“Don’t thank us.” He said, and it almost sounded full of kindness. Oh, but Sungmin knew better. “We didn’t do it for you.” Kyuhyun deadpanned. “Instead of thanking us, you can explain what the hell is going on.”
Heechul chuckled and got up, giving Kyuhyun an I like you, let’s plot together kind of look which Sungmin thought was rather frightening.
“Fair enough. I do owe you an explanation.”
They made their way to their seats, Sungmin’s ears perked up and eyes wide. They’d never known enough about the Solis, since they weren’t from Central. Sungmin was an Eastern Lumici while Kyuhyun was from the West-their knowledge on the Solis was limited, only knowing the most basic facts: that they were the source of all Lumici energy, that they were their most protected treasure because the mundane wanted so badly the power they possess, that as they use their power, they slowly die. Lumici outside the Central Forest weren’t told anymore than that, and quite frankly, neither Kyuhyun nor Sungmin paid it any mind. Until now, that is.
“You know of the attack on Central two years ago?” Heechul began.
Kyuhyun scoffed. Of course they did, it started the collapse of the Lumici. It was the reason why they’d all lost homes and most importantly, their Solis. It was a mystery how the humans found their way through the maze of trees to reach the Central Forest, and rumors of a traitor in their midst were floating around. Without Central where the Solis resided, all the other forests were bound to fall and break apart as well-In fact, it was why Kyuhyun himself had gone rogue; he lost his home and he was smart enough to escape the invading mundane troops.
“It was my fault…that we weren’t able to survive the attack.”
There was a sharp intake of breath as Sungmin’s fingers curled into a fist. “What? You’re the traitor?!” He was about to stand up and approach a straight-faced Heechul when Kyuhyun calmly put a hand on his shoulder.
“Let him explain.”
Heechul gave him a curt nod before continuing, “I was in captivity of Youngwoon, taken as one of his lab rats a few months before the invasion. The experiments were…” he shook his head, as if trying to erase the memories. Seeing the firm grip he had on his arm, Sungmin didn't feel so mad anymore.
“I was there when word of the invasion got out amongst the humans, and I think I was even there when Youngwoon thought of it. He was angry, shouting that we shouldn’t exist, why we were so special. He looked like an animal then…”
Heechul frowned, “It scared the shit out of me. How did he even find out where Central was? I never gave anything out, and kept my mouth shut no matter the…torture they put me through. I tried to escape, tried to warn them because I was the only one who knew. I needed to get Donghae out of there, because I knew Kangin was going to go after him. Him, and Teuk. Why else would he target Central?”
He inhaled slowly, trying to calm himself, “On my way out, I passed by the Potions Room and out of impulse, stole one.” He locked eyes with Kyuhyun and Sungmin. “This was the potion that turned back Donghae’s Clock and erased his memories. I thought I was going to make it in time…no, I was supposed to make it. Central was at least a week’s worth of travel from the city and I had a head start since they were still preparing their equipment.”
“But you didn’t.”
Heechul sighed, “Yes, I was too late.” His gaze lowered to the floor, head hung low. “I…I got distracted.” Unconsciously, he stole a glance at the officer draped on the floor in front of the door.
Kyuhyun raised an eyebrow. Clearly, there was something going on between the Lumiciant and that officer. He could see it in the way Heechul looked at him, his eyes full of regret…no, was it sadness? It didn’t matter. Kyuhyun felt it was none of his business to probe on that (really, who was he to mingle in other people’s forbidden love affairs), and Heechul didn’t look like he was in the state to answer those kinds of questions. He looked miserable.
“I made it in time to at least warn them, but it wasn’t enough to evacuate the entire forest. Thankfully, we were able to spike Donghae’s drink with the potion and got him safely out of there. Teuk, on the other hand…” Heechul closed his eyes, trying to calm himself. He had a good guess on where the Solis was, an image of a burly man up in his palace angering him.
Teuk should’ve listened to me. Heechul seethed in his mind, He should’ve stayed away from him. He stopped himself from scolding his friend mentally because really, who was he to preach about loving humans?
“Do you know where Leeteuk-sshi is?” Sungmin asked.
“No, but I have my suspicions.” Heechul scowled, “where’s Donghae? I want to see him.” He whined and pouted slightly, a contrast to his strong demeanor that made Sungmin admire the effects Donghae can have on people.
After calmly explaining to Heechul how they let Donghae escape through the back door without having the princess (Sungmin thought he fit the name) explode too much, they settled down. Heechul still felt restless though, mumbling under his breath about how ‘Donghae has the attention span of a goldfish, but they let him out on his own’ and ‘What are these idiots, did they really take care of him all this time?’ and ‘I am going to carve someone’s face off if he gets lost out there’, while Kyuhyun and Sungmin could only watch him helplessly.
To their surprise, his mumbling was cut short with a sigh. “I guess this is for the better. For now, at least.”
Heechul knew Eunhyuk was out there, so he figured he didn’t have to worry too much about Donghae’s safety. Instead, he should use this time to…
Kyuhyun and Sungmin shared a look, clearly confused with the sudden change.
“Tell me, how is he? How’s Donghae?” Heechul gulped, fearing the worst.
Sungmin smiled softly, touched with how much he cared for him, “He’s alright, hyper and happy, just the usual power naps he always needs to take.”
“Nap?” Heechul frowned, “Donghae hates naps. How often?”
“All the time! Especially when he gets tired or…hey, what’s wrong?”
“What else?” Heechul was on the edge of his seat, “What else did you notice?”
“Well, uhm…” Sungmin found difficulty speaking with the way Heechul was looking at him. He sank further into the couch.
“His hair is always dry, he hates staying indoors and he has a huge schoolgirl crush on a redheaded freak.” came Kyuhyun’s blunt reply.
Heechul fell back into his seat. Already? His mind raced. Why was the phasing starting so soon?
Could it be…?
Then it all made sense.
The reason why they were able to spot this place was because the rain around it stopped. Heechul thought he was hallucinating; that his eyes were playing tricks on him again because there was no way that could happen in a city like this. No way.
How could there be two active at the same time? Leeteuk, no matter his whereabouts, was still their Solis and he should be the only one able to do that. It didn’t make sense…but Heechul knew this wasn’t going to end well. It disturbed the balance.
There was a time for everything, and Donghae’s reign wasn’t until next year. If the Succession were premature, the current Solis would take the toll and most likely, even die because the successor wouldn’t have enough energy to support what he’d lost over the decade of his reign-every Solis’ small chance of survival after passing it on.
Of course, Donghae wouldn’t go unharmed either. The Succession itself would slowly drain his life source, but having it done prematurely would leave him empty. He wouldn’t move unless needed, wouldn’t speak, much less smile. Slowly, he would forget everyone and everything important to him-all his memories. He’d become a hollow shell with eyes that dull and skin that dims as the days go by, his energy being used for everyone else’s sake.
This was why Heechul wanted to make it absolutely clear that Donghae is kept under protection until his time, especially from the likes of Kangin. He knew that if there was one thing Kangin wanted, it’d be to free Leeteuk of his bounds to duty as Solis so that they could ride into the fucking sunset and live happily ever after. The blubbering idiot had no idea how wrong he was and the consequences of what he wanted entailed.
“What is it? What’s wrong?” Sungmin asked, alarmed by the look of dread that escalated on Heechul’s face.
Now that Donghae was phasing early, it makes things worse. What if Kangin’s men found him? They were all over the city, and Heechul could only pray that his words got through to Eunhyuk and he was with Donghae right now. But how long would that last? He knew there was another Rife after him, and surely the SM Corporation wouldn’t send some rookie on an important mission like this.
No, they needed to get him as far away from Leeteuk as possible, otherwise the Succession would happen automatically if they got too close. They needed to find Donghae, and they needed to find Donghae now.
But first…
“Ryeowook,” Heechul spoke loudly so the younger could hear him from the kitchen, “he’s phasing early. We need to find the others.” He strode to the door, and turned back. “You two.”
Kyuhyun and Sungmin snapped to attention.
“You’re coming with us.”
- - -
Jaejoong raised an eyebrow at the jingling of keys in front of his cell. He was pretty sure he’d just been given his meal (which still sat untouched in the corner of the room, because he greatly disliked human food), so why would someone be opening his cell?
After pointless hours of interrogation, the humans decided it be best they lock Jaejoong up until he cracked, only opening it when they thought he needed to eat.
The door creaked open to reveal a grinning Yunho who jingled the keys in front of his face.
Jaejoong could tell from the abnormally wide grin and bright eyes that the guy was up to no good, and he wasn’t so sure he wanted to get caught in the trouble.
“What are you doing?” He asked, his eyes narrowing suspiciously.
“Getting you out.” Yunho’s grin grew impossibly wider.
Jaejoong frowned, stealing a glance at his unbuttoned uniform that revealed a fit black wife beater, “And why is that?”
“Because I want you to help me dig some dirt on your sister.”
The grin turned just a little bit snide and Jaejoong decided that maybe he did want to get caught in the trouble.
- - -
Hyukjae adjusted Donghae so he could rest comfortably on his back. He had his arms around Hyukjae’s neck and his face nuzzling into it. Hyukjae kept his pace steady, afraid to wake Donghae up (though he knew the other slept like a rock) as he walked through the forest, leaves rustling with each step.
He kept a weary eye out, constantly scanning the surroundings, ears perked up for any sound. Surely, Siwon would be on their tail and Hyukjae could only thank the heavens for the heavy rain that covered up their tracks.
He’d already destroyed all his tracking devices, but he knew that would only slow down the Corporation temporarily. Siwon probably told them of his betrayal already, and if they weren’t looking for him, they’d probably be looking for Donghae, which Hyukjae couldn’t stomach. He’d rather they track and attack him instead.
His mind wandered back to the cave and felt his cheeks heat up at the memory. Hyukjae had never been so rash in his life, but the thought of Donghae’s lips on his made his stomach turn, his toes curl and made him…crave more. It made him wonder how it would feel to…He shook his head violently, trying to rid himself of those kinds of thoughts.
The action made Donghae groan and Hyukjae worried that he’d woken him up, but the Lumiciant only snuggled deeper into his neck and fell right back asleep. Though the image of a sleepy Donghae was immensely cute to him, Hyukjae was worried.
Not long after their kiss, the pouring rain suddenly stopped and the next thing he knew, the giggling and blushing Donghae was out cold in his arms. To say that Hyukjae was a worrying mess would be an understatement.
He figured it was connected to him being the Solis, but Hyukjae didn’t know what to assume since he didn’t know enough but most of all, he didn’t know what to do. Donghae kept passing out and he didn’t know what to do.
So he took advantage of the drizzle and decided to look for Kyuhyun and Sungmin, and beg them to fix Donghae because something was obviously wrong with him. Terribly wrong.
He could feel it. -- ♦
- - -
previous | next
A/N: Hi, guys. o/
So a prologue that comes in three parts is in the works. Each explaining how Kyuhyun and Sungmin, Heechul and Hangeng, Kangin and Leeteuk met since the main focus of ‘Into The Dark Night’ is eunhae. ;) But it’ll be released after I’ve completed this so…it’ll take a while. I’ll only write them if you guys are interested though. ^^
And…sucky update is sucky, I know. ;w;