Into The Dark Night (15/?)
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 15
[ - ]
“Come back here this instant, young man!”
Minho hurled around, his tongue poking out and finger pulling his eye down as he ran backwards, the image of his mom getting smaller and smaller as he retreated into the trees. He could still hear her yelling in the distance so he ran faster and faster, adrenaline pumping through his veins as his rapid steps padded against the grass.
The weather was oddly good that day, not that it was bad yesterday or the day before, it was just…better. Their new Solis Leeteuk had seemed to finally get the hang of it and Minho thought of dropping by his chamber window later to say thanks for the hard work and maybe ask for some honey-he’d always admired him even though the guy wouldn’t stop talking sometimes and it annoyed Minho a bit.
He’d probably get scolded though, but really, what was new?
Minho stopped, and looked around, realizing he was getting too carried away with his thoughts. After a while and a quick survey of his surroundings, he sighed in relief. The woods still looked familiar-he hadn't gone too far.
But just as he was about to turn around and head on back to the main forest, a shrill cry startled him. Curious boy he was, he followed the sound to a baby wrapped in a pristine white cloth at the base of a tree.
“Hey there, little guy.” Minho crouched to stare at him, “whatcha doing out here all alone?”
The baby’s cries subsided as big beady eyes stared up at Minho, before giggling and reaching his hands out for him.
Minho laughed before kneeling down to get closer, catching sight of the patch of embroidery on the cloth wrapped around him.
“Hi…” He squinted his eyes to read the word, “Donghae. I’m Minho and I think my mom’s going to like you.”
Donghae smiled up at him, eyes twinkling and smile on his lips.
“A lot.”
-
-
-
-
[ + ]
Clouds blanketed the sky as Lumici hushed their young, ushering them into their homes and under shelter in preparation for the only time rain would pour over the Central Forest. They shut their windows and pulled down their curtains as a cold breeze blew through the walkways. The town fell into a silent pace, gardens empty and ponds void of any mischievous splashing or tinkling laughter. The wind howled, temperature dropping from the usual warmth that surrounded the forest daily as birds sang to each other across the trees in sad notes because it was finally time.
Succession was an occasion both ominous and opportune, as change has always been. With no guarantee for the current Solis’ survival but with the promise of warmer days ahead made Lumici unsure of whether to celebrate it or not. So they’d stay in their homes with lumber they gathered days ahead to keep them warm from the rare crying sky.
And when a bright blinding light floods the forest, flashing through closed windows and the cracks in their doors, they knew the deed was done. Offering a silent prayer for their perhaps lost comrade, they go out to clean up the mess the rain had left in preparation for a festival-their new Solis’ first greetings.
So it came as more than just a shock to see Heechul, albeit quite pale and confined to his seat, beside Leeteuk as he gave his formal address and first blessing.
Heechul had always been quite…dynamic during his reign; eccentric, sensible when he needed to be and sure to have made his predecessor Boa proud, but it was rarer than rare to survive Succession-the Lumici having achieved this could be counted on just one hand-much less make it out alive and well.
So they celebrated, danced and sang, marking it as one of the most joyous festivals in Lumici history; also making way into human archives as one of the hottest days recorded.
Since then, Heechul was well regarded, and respected. Crowds would part for him and, to put it bluntly, he just continued on doing whatever the hell he wanted. Borderline immortal beings the Lumici were, Heechul’s name was known across many generations as one of the few Soils who’ve lived past their time.
So when Heechul ordered that no one was allowed to see Donghae (he’d knocked Jaejoong over the head for not making their arrival discreet enough) until he said otherwise, no one dared defy him. Adding to the fact that their Solis Leeteuk was still nowhere to be found, Heechul had very well made quite an impact when he showed up-easily gaining highest position and authority.
Though Donghae had sparked their hope for survival and majority of the Lumici left were starting to get restless, everyone, save for a select few, steered clear of the West Wing.
-
-
-
“Don’t give me that look, Eunhyuk.” He examined his nails, “I can feel your negative vibes reverberating across the room.”
Hyukjae scoffed, narrowing his eyes at Heechul. “You said you were going to have a word with him. Not shove something down his throat.” His glare grew intense from where he sat, his hand still clasping the now unconscious brunette’s.
Kim Heechul may no longer be Hyukjae’s target, but that didn’t mean he was obliged to favor the guy.
“Yes, well, I figured giving him the antidote would be faster than telling him everything from scratch.” He looked up frowning, “and I don’t fancy being forgotten.”
“Then, tell me,” Hyukjae breathed, “just why you had to do it with your mouth.”
Jessica sat in the corner and unconsciously nodding her head with Hyukjae’s accusation, a slight pout on her lips.
Half the room’s jaws dropped to the floor when right after greeting Donghae, with a seemingly innocent and warm smile to boot, Heechul wasted no time in downing a bottle, grabbing Donghae by the jaw and shoving what he drank down the brunette’s throat.
Donghae slumped back into his bed lifeless, Ryeowook left the room with a hand covering his eyes and Hyukjae threw a fit.
“Aw, honey, no need to be jealous-”
Honey?!
“-I’m sure Donghae didn’t mind, it might’ve even sparked some memories of the many other kisses I used to give him.” Heechul stared at him from under his eyelashes, mocking.
Just as Hyukjae was getting ready to shove his boot into Heechul’s mouth, Jaejoong broke the tension with a sigh.
“Can it, Heechul. Stop planting crazy scenarios into the poor guy’s head. As for you, Eunhyuk, I suggest you remain as you are-seated. Or do you both want me to transfer Donghae to another room while you go at each other? I’m sure Minho and Jessica here won’t mind helping me out.”
With a chuckle, Minho nodded from where he was leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. “You bet.”
Hyukjae quickly calmed himself and sat back down, and much to his surprise, so did Heechul. Briefly, he wondered who this Jaejoong was to be able to tame someone like him.
“Where’s Junsu?”
Jaejoong blinked; a bit shocked that Hyukjae actually spoke to him. He hadn’t known the Rife long enough to judge, but he could tell at the very least that he was a man of few words.
“He’s outside. He said you told him there was someone else out there and he figured he should keep a lookout.”
Hyukjae nodded once before settling back on his seat and ignoring their presence in the room. Jaejoong raised an eyebrow before shrugging it off.
“So,” He sat himself beside Heechul, “When do you think he’ll wake up?”
“It should be a while,” his gaze trailed to the sleeping brunette, “There’s a lot to take in.”
-
-
-
-
-
[ - ] FLASHBACK
His house was at the far end of Central forest, small and simple. A bit shabby with the roof falling apart every other week but it was passable for one built by two scrawny kids.
Donghae lived alone. He had a bit of trouble with cleaning up after himself at first but it didn’t take long for him to get used to it. His house often got dusty and he would sneeze from time to time, but that didn’t bother him as much as the silence that enveloped his room as he lay in bed waiting for sleep to claim him.
It was different during the day though.
He could go out to play with Minho and the others. They would swim and splash water at each other, see who could climb trees fastest and steal fruits from baskets that were left on porches by unsuspecting mothers. It may not have been much but Donghae was convinced it was the most fun thing in the world.
So when the sky turned orange, tiny stars starting to peek out, he would slump his back as he waved goodbye to his friends, watching them get scolded by their mothers about how dirty their clothes were and how they needed baths. Sometimes, he’d wait until their doors closed behind them, before turning around and starting the lonely walk home.
He’d long stopped wondering why he had no parents. Minho told him the story of how he’d found him as a baby in the forest; accompanied by nothing, save for a white cloth wrapped snugly around him. He’d questioned it before-where did he come from? Who were his parents? When will they come back for him?
Who was he, really?
But Donghae wasn’t one to linger. He decided to wait for them, live happily in the meantime so they would be proud of him when they come back. Maybe then, they wouldn’t want to leave again and he could become like all the other kids and the silence wouldn’t have to be so painful.
He did live with Minho for a while but decided to find his own place because even though Minho’s mom was one of the kindest Lumici he’d ever known, he knew he was slowly becoming a burden for the frail 450yr old lady.
They’d argued about it for a while, but Donghae was stubborn and in the end, Minho begrudgingly helped him build his own home.
Usually, he only had singing birds and butterflies to keep him from the insanity of loneliness, so Donghae was a bit more than surprised when he came home that day and found the famous Kim Heechul, a surviving Solis, waiting at his doorstep.
“Hey, kid.” Heechul leaned down to meet his eye level and Donghae couldn’t help but shrink under the gaze.
“Things are going to be a bit different for you from now on.”
*
Donghae stood under the shade, his eyes growing brighter and brighter as he watched the other kids running around and kicking the ball back and forth. He hadn’t been allowed outside for a while now and the mere sight of kids his age was enough to excite him to no end.
The sun was bright and warm, that day, as it was almost everyday in the Central Forest. Some were cooler than others, but Donghae was convinced Leeteuk was one of the best Solis of his time. He could tell from the moments he snuck into his chamber during the day, hoping to escape Heechul’s scolding for skipping Meditation class again, that Leeteuk was just about as bright as the sun should be.
Never once had he ratted Donghae out whenever his door would creak open with tiny rapid footfalls following suit, instead laughing and opening his arms wide for the boy to snuggle into the warmth of his robes. He would hum him a song, the melody flowing through his ears and by the greatest of miracles, he would fall asleep even though it was clearly not nap time.
Donghae knew, from the way he watched Leeteuk shut his eyes tight when he thought Donghae wasn’t looking, concentrating, glowing, beautiful. In an instant, he would feel his energy replenishing, his skin a bit brighter-and he knew, it was the same for not only his fellow Central Lumici but for all the other forests as well.
Then Leeteuk would open his eyes and Donghae would tell him again how much he wanted to become just like him, poking the dip in his cheek that appeared whenever Leeteuk smiled.
“M-maybe we should go back inside,” Ryeowook whispered.
He stood timidly behind Donghae, constantly looking from left to right, convinced they were going to get caught any second.
“But it’s so much more fun out here, Ryeowook! See?” Donghae pointed to the kids not far off. “They look like they’re having a blast-maybe we should join them.”
The smaller boy’s eyes widened, before furiously shaking his head and tugging on Donghae’s sleeve. But Donghae would have none of it and urged forward, dragging Ryeowook along.
He kept tugging though, muttering under his breath how he was going to be in so much trouble and how Heechul was definitely going to chop his head off for this; but they hadn’t gone far when Donghae stopped abruptly. Ryeowook heaved a sigh of relief but broke into a nervous fit again once he looked over Donghae’s shoulder.
A bright red ball rolled his way, stopping just by his feet. The kids jogged nearer, forming a small crowd a few feet from where Donghae stood, their soft murmurs erupting once they started to recognize the brunette. It was the closest Donghae had been to them in a while but he could still recognize some faces.
“Come on, Donghae.” Ryeowook sounded worried now, “Let’s just go back inside, yeah?”
He shook his head and bent down, capturing the ball between two small hands.
“Hey, here’s-” Donghae’s smile faded as he looked back up only to see their retreating backs as they disappeared behind the trees. His gaze lowered to his feet, the corners of his eyes stinging, when a small crack of a twig had him snapping his head back up.
There, a red-faced blonde stood with her eyes wide and lips pressed into a thin line as her eyes bore into Donghae’s.
“Jessica!” His grin turned wide and Jessica could only feel her cheeks grow a deeper shade of red.
“D-Donghae…it’s been a while.”
“Yeah, Heechul hyung doesn’t really let me out much.” He smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. “How is everyone? Minho? Krystal? Henry? I’ve missed playing with you all!”
Jessica watched Donghae’s eyes grow bright with excitement, the light hitting his irises in a way that made her throat go a bit dry. She coughed, “They’re fine…uhm-”
“Jess!” Yoona hissed into her ear, tugging her arm not too gently, “what are you doing here?” She gestured meaningfully to the retreating crowd.
“Oh,” Donghae turned to the dark-haired girl, “Hello, Yoona-”
Yoona turned to him with a hard glare, “Just stay in that room of yours and leave us alone.”
Her words stung but Donghae smiled nonetheless, though it didn’t reach his eyes and Jessica watched his lower lip tremble. She looked ready to protest when Yoona pulled her back harshly, and was barely able to glance back at him as sweet Ryeowook now effortlessly ushered him back inside.
Yoona’s grip on Jessica’s wrist was so tight she was certain it would bruise. She felt like crying.
I didn’t even get to say goodbye.
That night, Lumici were awed at the slight drizzle as rain tapped softly against their windowpanes. Surely, Leeteuk hadn’t said anything about taking a rest, nor had there been any news of him falling sick.
*
“Where is he?!”
“Try looking there, I’ll search over here!”
“When I get my hands on him-”
“Please, just be okay.”
“Donghae!”
He shut his eyes tight, both hands pressed over his mouth in fear of letting out even a single sound. His chest heaved, eyes blinking rapidly in an attempt to wipe the dampness at its corners. He’d never gone this deep into the forest before, the woods looked foreign and the darkness frightening.
I don’t want to.
He’d run away before, many times in fact, but it was never like this. Usually, he just wanted to go out, to take a breather from the walls and the responsibilities he’s burdened with while kids his age were busy running around in the sunlight.
But this time, it was different. This time, he didn’t know if he really did want to go back.
I don’t want to.
He knew he should have stayed in his room, shouldn’t have hid from Jaejoong when he came to check on him, and most definitely should not have overhead his conversation with Heechul-one he was clearly not meant to hear.
Donghae wasn’t sure if he regretted it or not.
I don’t want to.
He didn’t know why he hadn’t thought of it before, how it hadn’t crossed his mind until now. Was he as strong as Heechul? As praiseworthy? Surely not. He wasn’t anything special-surely no one abandoned in the woods from the very start was anyone worth anything-he wasn’t strong enough to survive.
Rain poured down mercilessly, his bangs stuck firm against his forehead and his clothes drenched beyond comfort but all Donghae could do was wonder if this was how fear felt.
I don’t want to die.
“Me too.”
Donghae snapped his head at the shaky voice a few feet to his left. There was a boy like himself, seated fruitlessly under a tree for shelter, but he was different. He blended into the darkness of the forest; his skin did not contrast the night, instead covered in mud and scratches. How odd.
Donghae scooted closer, interested in how they were the same, yet different.
“Can you read minds?”
The boy stared at him funny, and being this close made Donghae see his eyes were swollen, skin blemished, clothes tattered. “No. You said that out loud.”
“Oh.” Donghae stared at the boy’s skin. “I ran away from home.”
“Me too.”
“Because I don’t want to die.”
He smiled sadly, “me too.”
Donghae grabbed his hand, pulling it towards him to get a good look at a red gash on his upper arm. “What’s your name?”
He didn’t flinch despite the contact, finding the Lumiciant’s presence oddly calming as he stared into Donghae’s eyes. “Kibum.”
“Well, Kibum, this is going to hurt a bit but I promise I’ll make it better.” Kibum watched with wide eyes as Donghae’s pale hand covered his arm in a warm blue light.
“Don’t look.”
He raised his eyes to the creature that glowed in the night-a Lumiciant, the very same kind as the ones his parents kept in the basement where he snuck in at every chance. He’d never seen one this close before, yet even Kibum could tell there was something…different.
“Why not?”
“I’m still practicing my Sanare, so it might hurt your eyes if you stare at it.”
“Oh. Okay,” Kibum looked at him instead, “you’re not like the others.”
You’re something I’ve never seen before.
“Yes, well,” Kibum felt the burn in his arm subside, and Donghae pulled back with a tentative smile. “I guess I’m a special case. I’m going to be Solis one day, you know?” He settled back, burying his face in his arms.
“Solis?” Kibum examined his wound, gawking at the healed skin.
“Mm-hmm.” He mumbled, “It’s a special kind, the center of Lumici. Heechul hyung says that when my time comes, I’m going to be a very important part of society”
“You don’t look very happy.”
“I’m not.”
Kibum gaze lingered on his healed arm, prodding the now firm skin.
“One day, I’ll take you away from here.”
Kibum smiled, but it didn’t make Donghae feel warm like Leeteuk hyung’s did.
He wasn’t sure, so he smiled back.
*
“Heechul hyung.”
He heard a grunt from beside him, and Donghae knew he was listening.
“I have a question.”
“Donghae, what part of ‘quiet’ and ‘tranquility’ do you not understand?”
“But hyung,” The brunette pouted though still managing to keep his eyes closed. “It’s really bothering me.”
Heechul sighed and tried to resist the urge to pull at his hair. Donghae had been refusing to practice his meditation as usual (he had no idea why the boy had so much trouble with it, really) and Taeyang was on his break, so he had no choice but to pull the boy into the room and have him practice under his own watchful eye.
But the brunette simply refused, saying that he couldn’t concentrate if Heechul just sat there staring at him the whole time-of course he’d be uncomfortable and even Taeyang wouldn’t do that, no, he would meditate along with him and well, Heechul didn’t seem to have a choice in the matter.
So he listened, stopped himself from interrupting as Donghae asked about creatures who don’t glow like they do, who age, get tired and eat meat, who rise and set with the sun. Heechul frowned at the enthusiasm in his voice.
“Humans.” He cut him off, “They’re called humans, the mundane.”
Donghae’s eyes lit up, glad to finally be able to match face with name.
“And I need you to stay away from them.”
The brunette grimaced. Again, he wasn’t allowed again.
“But why, hyung?”
Heechul frowned, and Donghae thought, as he watched his thoughtful gaze, that maybe this was one of the few rules he really should follow.
“Something just isn’t right with them. Listen to me, all right? I’m just being careful.”
Heechul smiled sadly as he watched Donghae mumble a yes and slump into his seat. There was something in the way the boy’s eyes glistened with untold stories that told him this wasn’t going to be the last time the subject of humans would come up.
*
The usual brightly lit halls were dark and damp.
It made staying indoors all the more stifling for him, so Donghae snuck out more than usual. Heechul had been missing for months now, and he could tell even though Leeteuk hyung would always assure everything was fine, that something bothered him greatly. He was always sighing, always tired-looking, sad.
“Someone very close to my heart.” He would answer when Donghae asks him what was bothering him.
“Someone close to your heart?” He leaned his head on Leeteuk’s shoulder, “Like…your favorite person?”
“Exactly.” Leeteuk chuckled, ruffling Donghae’s hair. “My favorite person is hurting because of me.”
“So,” He leaned back to smile at his hyung, his tone of voice would have sounded condescending if Leeteuk didn’t find it so cute, “stop hurting them, make the pain go away.”
“I wish I could, Donghae-yah.”
He smiled, but Donghae thought it wasn’t pretty like it usually was. He didn’t like it.
“I really do.”
The days grew cold since.
He escaped again that day. With Leeteuk’s sour mood and Heechul’s absence, it was getting easier and easier.
He should have known, though. That Leeteuk’s smiles were fake, while Jaejoong’s were uncomfortable. He’d grown now-they didn’t have to crouch down to meet his gaze (but they still leaned forward a bit- why couldn’t he grow taller?), and had finally reached the age where time stopped for Lumici, but why hadn’t grown wiser?
He should have known when the sky was darkening and when that drop of rain fell on his nose, that something was wrong. He should have known to stay by Leeteuk’s side that day instead of running away and searching for Heechul.
He should have known something was terribly wrong.
But he hadn’t, and in seconds, his vision blurred and his world turned black.
-
-
-
-
[ + ] PRESENT
“Hey.”
Hyukjae nodded curtly in Jaejoong’s direction as the Lumiciant walked past him after a pat on Junsu’s shoulder and a ruffle of his hair. Briefly, he wondered how they knew each other in the first place but dismissed the idea of asking Junsu about it. He felt bad enough dragging him here where he was sure unpleasant memories would resurface.
Instead, he dropped down beside him, surveying the area.
“Hey, hotshot.” Junsu grinned at him before looking back at the trees, “indoors finally got too stuffy for ya?”
Lumici have yet to warm up to the sudden increase of humans and Rife like themselves in their territory. Many still cowered in fear, albeit the few children who enjoyed pulling at the two scrawny policemen’s hair. Whilst majority shunned them, convinced that they were going to betray them any second.
Their hostility and hushed whispers meant nothing to Hyukjae nonetheless; he was determined to stay by Donghae’s side whereas Junsu let himself out, finding comfort in the sounds of the forest.
Even the humans who were received more warmly were cooped up in a room until the elders deemed fit, though Hyukjae was positive it was empty when he passed by on his way out.
“Have you noticed anything?”
“Spot-on as always, Hyuk.” Junsu nodded, “Someone’s out there alright- their tracks were well hidden but being the expert I am, nothing got past me.” He grinned, swiping his lip with a thumb, “They’re smart though. I’ll give them that.”
Hyukjae recalled just how that big guy danced around Siwon like it was nothing. It may have given him the opening he needed to swoop in and get Donghae, but he was sure he was going to have to deal with whomever the big guy was working with and, from the looks of it, they weren’t going down without a fight.
“Fast too. So you better watch yourself, Junsu.”
“As fast as your tiny ass? I doubt it.”
Hyukjae gave him a pointed look.
“Relax.” He chided, “And stop looking at me like I’m going to mess everything up or get myself killed. In case you’ve forgotten, you’re not the only hotshot around here.”
The redhead shook his head, smiling fondly before punching Junsu in the arm and walking back inside.
“Just be careful.”
They could be watching us right now.
“Yeah, yeah.” Junsu laughed lightly as his fingers grazed a bottle of water that was left at his side. He raised it as thanks and thought before he added, “When he wakes, tell Donghae I said hi.”
Hyukjae waved lightly without turning around, disappearing into the hideout.
-
He leaned his head on the doorframe, his hand unconsciously reaching inside his pocket to grip something inside. Hyukjae sighed heavily, unable to fight down the uneasiness that’s been gnawing at him since they entered the hideout.
Someone was out there, he was sure of it. He could feel it. Something wasn’t right, and this never bothered Hyukjae so much before-he had nothing to lose. But now…
The rustle of blankets from inside snapped Hyukjae back to reality. He stuffed the pure white cloth he’d been clutching back into his pocket, its brightness contrasting with the dark of his pants, and burst into the room.
He almost broke into a smile as he caught sight of Donghae seated up on his bed, his brown eyes wide and slightly confused. “Hey.”
Donghae turned to the doorway and a wide, warm smile graced his lips as he watched Hyukjae make his way to the bed. He lifted his arms for a hug.
“Hyuk,” He breathed, his cheek pressed against the red hair behind Hyukjae’s ear. “I remember now, I remember everything.”
Hyukjae nodded against him.
“And you…” Donghae pulled back to hold his face between his hands, the feel of the sharp jawline under his palm sending goosebumps all over his body. “You’re my favorite person!”
Now, more than ever, Hyukjae knew he’d cross worlds to protect this smile.
-
Siwon was thrown to the floor, biting his lip to not let out a single wince. His body hurt immensely, though having already lost feeling in his arms.
“Consider yourself lucky,” The familiar deep voice rang through his ears. All doubts of where exactly in the headquarters Taecyeon took him to vanished, “that I have a tolerance level that rivals many.”
He heard Taecyeon scoff and being hushed from behind him. Siwon knew the Elite was still frustrated when just as he was about to pierce him with the sword, Soo Man ordered into his earpiece that he was to return immediately-with Siwon, alive.
And all Rife knew exactly what that meant.
A failed mission was more than just shameful; it was dishonor many would remember for a long, long while. Especially for someone of that high a prestige as Taecyeon.
“You are to be put on probation indefinitely.” Siwon looked up to see his boss’ face grim. “I can’t say how long, but enough for you to reflect on what you’ve done-I’m sure.”
“Sunny, Hyoyeon,” Soo Man gestured for them to take him away, feeling Siwon’s gaze burn the back of his head.
“Why?”
“Why what?”
“You know what I mean, father.”
“By keeping it alive, I was making things more difficult. Complicated.” Soo Man sighed, “Or so an old friend tells me.”
“And having Donghae killed makes things easier?!” Siwon couldn’t help but raise his voice, attempting to stand up but was forced down by the guard’s firm hand on his shoulder.
“You call it by name now?” -his father looked mildly surprised, Siwon growled-“But yes, it does make things easier.”
“What does-”
“Wouldn’t it be?” a sleek figure Siwon had paid no mind to, spoke from where he stood in the corner, “If you could blow out an entire mass of candles with one swing? If a single life could tip the scale?”
Impossible.
“Oh, I’m sorry. I believe we haven’t met.” He stepped out from the shadows, “I’m an old…acquaintance of your father’s.”
He held out a hand.
“Call me Key.” -- ♦
- - -
previous | next
a/n: Attempting to revive my love for this story. :( Anyway, please pray for my countrymen! They need strength under these tough times…
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 15
[ - ]
“Come back here this instant, young man!”
Minho hurled around, his tongue poking out and finger pulling his eye down as he ran backwards, the image of his mom getting smaller and smaller as he retreated into the trees. He could still hear her yelling in the distance so he ran faster and faster, adrenaline pumping through his veins as his rapid steps padded against the grass.
The weather was oddly good that day, not that it was bad yesterday or the day before, it was just…better. Their new Solis Leeteuk had seemed to finally get the hang of it and Minho thought of dropping by his chamber window later to say thanks for the hard work and maybe ask for some honey-he’d always admired him even though the guy wouldn’t stop talking sometimes and it annoyed Minho a bit.
He’d probably get scolded though, but really, what was new?
Minho stopped, and looked around, realizing he was getting too carried away with his thoughts. After a while and a quick survey of his surroundings, he sighed in relief. The woods still looked familiar-he hadn't gone too far.
But just as he was about to turn around and head on back to the main forest, a shrill cry startled him. Curious boy he was, he followed the sound to a baby wrapped in a pristine white cloth at the base of a tree.
“Hey there, little guy.” Minho crouched to stare at him, “whatcha doing out here all alone?”
The baby’s cries subsided as big beady eyes stared up at Minho, before giggling and reaching his hands out for him.
Minho laughed before kneeling down to get closer, catching sight of the patch of embroidery on the cloth wrapped around him.
“Hi…” He squinted his eyes to read the word, “Donghae. I’m Minho and I think my mom’s going to like you.”
Donghae smiled up at him, eyes twinkling and smile on his lips.
“A lot.”
-
-
-
-
[ + ]
Clouds blanketed the sky as Lumici hushed their young, ushering them into their homes and under shelter in preparation for the only time rain would pour over the Central Forest. They shut their windows and pulled down their curtains as a cold breeze blew through the walkways. The town fell into a silent pace, gardens empty and ponds void of any mischievous splashing or tinkling laughter. The wind howled, temperature dropping from the usual warmth that surrounded the forest daily as birds sang to each other across the trees in sad notes because it was finally time.
Succession was an occasion both ominous and opportune, as change has always been. With no guarantee for the current Solis’ survival but with the promise of warmer days ahead made Lumici unsure of whether to celebrate it or not. So they’d stay in their homes with lumber they gathered days ahead to keep them warm from the rare crying sky.
And when a bright blinding light floods the forest, flashing through closed windows and the cracks in their doors, they knew the deed was done. Offering a silent prayer for their perhaps lost comrade, they go out to clean up the mess the rain had left in preparation for a festival-their new Solis’ first greetings.
So it came as more than just a shock to see Heechul, albeit quite pale and confined to his seat, beside Leeteuk as he gave his formal address and first blessing.
Heechul had always been quite…dynamic during his reign; eccentric, sensible when he needed to be and sure to have made his predecessor Boa proud, but it was rarer than rare to survive Succession-the Lumici having achieved this could be counted on just one hand-much less make it out alive and well.
So they celebrated, danced and sang, marking it as one of the most joyous festivals in Lumici history; also making way into human archives as one of the hottest days recorded.
Since then, Heechul was well regarded, and respected. Crowds would part for him and, to put it bluntly, he just continued on doing whatever the hell he wanted. Borderline immortal beings the Lumici were, Heechul’s name was known across many generations as one of the few Soils who’ve lived past their time.
So when Heechul ordered that no one was allowed to see Donghae (he’d knocked Jaejoong over the head for not making their arrival discreet enough) until he said otherwise, no one dared defy him. Adding to the fact that their Solis Leeteuk was still nowhere to be found, Heechul had very well made quite an impact when he showed up-easily gaining highest position and authority.
Though Donghae had sparked their hope for survival and majority of the Lumici left were starting to get restless, everyone, save for a select few, steered clear of the West Wing.
-
-
-
“Don’t give me that look, Eunhyuk.” He examined his nails, “I can feel your negative vibes reverberating across the room.”
Hyukjae scoffed, narrowing his eyes at Heechul. “You said you were going to have a word with him. Not shove something down his throat.” His glare grew intense from where he sat, his hand still clasping the now unconscious brunette’s.
Kim Heechul may no longer be Hyukjae’s target, but that didn’t mean he was obliged to favor the guy.
“Yes, well, I figured giving him the antidote would be faster than telling him everything from scratch.” He looked up frowning, “and I don’t fancy being forgotten.”
“Then, tell me,” Hyukjae breathed, “just why you had to do it with your mouth.”
Jessica sat in the corner and unconsciously nodding her head with Hyukjae’s accusation, a slight pout on her lips.
Half the room’s jaws dropped to the floor when right after greeting Donghae, with a seemingly innocent and warm smile to boot, Heechul wasted no time in downing a bottle, grabbing Donghae by the jaw and shoving what he drank down the brunette’s throat.
Donghae slumped back into his bed lifeless, Ryeowook left the room with a hand covering his eyes and Hyukjae threw a fit.
“Aw, honey, no need to be jealous-”
Honey?!
“-I’m sure Donghae didn’t mind, it might’ve even sparked some memories of the many other kisses I used to give him.” Heechul stared at him from under his eyelashes, mocking.
Just as Hyukjae was getting ready to shove his boot into Heechul’s mouth, Jaejoong broke the tension with a sigh.
“Can it, Heechul. Stop planting crazy scenarios into the poor guy’s head. As for you, Eunhyuk, I suggest you remain as you are-seated. Or do you both want me to transfer Donghae to another room while you go at each other? I’m sure Minho and Jessica here won’t mind helping me out.”
With a chuckle, Minho nodded from where he was leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. “You bet.”
Hyukjae quickly calmed himself and sat back down, and much to his surprise, so did Heechul. Briefly, he wondered who this Jaejoong was to be able to tame someone like him.
“Where’s Junsu?”
Jaejoong blinked; a bit shocked that Hyukjae actually spoke to him. He hadn’t known the Rife long enough to judge, but he could tell at the very least that he was a man of few words.
“He’s outside. He said you told him there was someone else out there and he figured he should keep a lookout.”
Hyukjae nodded once before settling back on his seat and ignoring their presence in the room. Jaejoong raised an eyebrow before shrugging it off.
“So,” He sat himself beside Heechul, “When do you think he’ll wake up?”
“It should be a while,” his gaze trailed to the sleeping brunette, “There’s a lot to take in.”
-
-
-
-
-
[ - ] FLASHBACK
His house was at the far end of Central forest, small and simple. A bit shabby with the roof falling apart every other week but it was passable for one built by two scrawny kids.
Donghae lived alone. He had a bit of trouble with cleaning up after himself at first but it didn’t take long for him to get used to it. His house often got dusty and he would sneeze from time to time, but that didn’t bother him as much as the silence that enveloped his room as he lay in bed waiting for sleep to claim him.
It was different during the day though.
He could go out to play with Minho and the others. They would swim and splash water at each other, see who could climb trees fastest and steal fruits from baskets that were left on porches by unsuspecting mothers. It may not have been much but Donghae was convinced it was the most fun thing in the world.
So when the sky turned orange, tiny stars starting to peek out, he would slump his back as he waved goodbye to his friends, watching them get scolded by their mothers about how dirty their clothes were and how they needed baths. Sometimes, he’d wait until their doors closed behind them, before turning around and starting the lonely walk home.
He’d long stopped wondering why he had no parents. Minho told him the story of how he’d found him as a baby in the forest; accompanied by nothing, save for a white cloth wrapped snugly around him. He’d questioned it before-where did he come from? Who were his parents? When will they come back for him?
Who was he, really?
But Donghae wasn’t one to linger. He decided to wait for them, live happily in the meantime so they would be proud of him when they come back. Maybe then, they wouldn’t want to leave again and he could become like all the other kids and the silence wouldn’t have to be so painful.
He did live with Minho for a while but decided to find his own place because even though Minho’s mom was one of the kindest Lumici he’d ever known, he knew he was slowly becoming a burden for the frail 450yr old lady.
They’d argued about it for a while, but Donghae was stubborn and in the end, Minho begrudgingly helped him build his own home.
Usually, he only had singing birds and butterflies to keep him from the insanity of loneliness, so Donghae was a bit more than surprised when he came home that day and found the famous Kim Heechul, a surviving Solis, waiting at his doorstep.
“Hey, kid.” Heechul leaned down to meet his eye level and Donghae couldn’t help but shrink under the gaze.
“Things are going to be a bit different for you from now on.”
*
Donghae stood under the shade, his eyes growing brighter and brighter as he watched the other kids running around and kicking the ball back and forth. He hadn’t been allowed outside for a while now and the mere sight of kids his age was enough to excite him to no end.
The sun was bright and warm, that day, as it was almost everyday in the Central Forest. Some were cooler than others, but Donghae was convinced Leeteuk was one of the best Solis of his time. He could tell from the moments he snuck into his chamber during the day, hoping to escape Heechul’s scolding for skipping Meditation class again, that Leeteuk was just about as bright as the sun should be.
Never once had he ratted Donghae out whenever his door would creak open with tiny rapid footfalls following suit, instead laughing and opening his arms wide for the boy to snuggle into the warmth of his robes. He would hum him a song, the melody flowing through his ears and by the greatest of miracles, he would fall asleep even though it was clearly not nap time.
Donghae knew, from the way he watched Leeteuk shut his eyes tight when he thought Donghae wasn’t looking, concentrating, glowing, beautiful. In an instant, he would feel his energy replenishing, his skin a bit brighter-and he knew, it was the same for not only his fellow Central Lumici but for all the other forests as well.
Then Leeteuk would open his eyes and Donghae would tell him again how much he wanted to become just like him, poking the dip in his cheek that appeared whenever Leeteuk smiled.
“M-maybe we should go back inside,” Ryeowook whispered.
He stood timidly behind Donghae, constantly looking from left to right, convinced they were going to get caught any second.
“But it’s so much more fun out here, Ryeowook! See?” Donghae pointed to the kids not far off. “They look like they’re having a blast-maybe we should join them.”
The smaller boy’s eyes widened, before furiously shaking his head and tugging on Donghae’s sleeve. But Donghae would have none of it and urged forward, dragging Ryeowook along.
He kept tugging though, muttering under his breath how he was going to be in so much trouble and how Heechul was definitely going to chop his head off for this; but they hadn’t gone far when Donghae stopped abruptly. Ryeowook heaved a sigh of relief but broke into a nervous fit again once he looked over Donghae’s shoulder.
A bright red ball rolled his way, stopping just by his feet. The kids jogged nearer, forming a small crowd a few feet from where Donghae stood, their soft murmurs erupting once they started to recognize the brunette. It was the closest Donghae had been to them in a while but he could still recognize some faces.
“Come on, Donghae.” Ryeowook sounded worried now, “Let’s just go back inside, yeah?”
He shook his head and bent down, capturing the ball between two small hands.
“Hey, here’s-” Donghae’s smile faded as he looked back up only to see their retreating backs as they disappeared behind the trees. His gaze lowered to his feet, the corners of his eyes stinging, when a small crack of a twig had him snapping his head back up.
There, a red-faced blonde stood with her eyes wide and lips pressed into a thin line as her eyes bore into Donghae’s.
“Jessica!” His grin turned wide and Jessica could only feel her cheeks grow a deeper shade of red.
“D-Donghae…it’s been a while.”
“Yeah, Heechul hyung doesn’t really let me out much.” He smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. “How is everyone? Minho? Krystal? Henry? I’ve missed playing with you all!”
Jessica watched Donghae’s eyes grow bright with excitement, the light hitting his irises in a way that made her throat go a bit dry. She coughed, “They’re fine…uhm-”
“Jess!” Yoona hissed into her ear, tugging her arm not too gently, “what are you doing here?” She gestured meaningfully to the retreating crowd.
“Oh,” Donghae turned to the dark-haired girl, “Hello, Yoona-”
Yoona turned to him with a hard glare, “Just stay in that room of yours and leave us alone.”
Her words stung but Donghae smiled nonetheless, though it didn’t reach his eyes and Jessica watched his lower lip tremble. She looked ready to protest when Yoona pulled her back harshly, and was barely able to glance back at him as sweet Ryeowook now effortlessly ushered him back inside.
Yoona’s grip on Jessica’s wrist was so tight she was certain it would bruise. She felt like crying.
I didn’t even get to say goodbye.
That night, Lumici were awed at the slight drizzle as rain tapped softly against their windowpanes. Surely, Leeteuk hadn’t said anything about taking a rest, nor had there been any news of him falling sick.
*
“Where is he?!”
“Try looking there, I’ll search over here!”
“When I get my hands on him-”
“Please, just be okay.”
“Donghae!”
He shut his eyes tight, both hands pressed over his mouth in fear of letting out even a single sound. His chest heaved, eyes blinking rapidly in an attempt to wipe the dampness at its corners. He’d never gone this deep into the forest before, the woods looked foreign and the darkness frightening.
I don’t want to.
He’d run away before, many times in fact, but it was never like this. Usually, he just wanted to go out, to take a breather from the walls and the responsibilities he’s burdened with while kids his age were busy running around in the sunlight.
But this time, it was different. This time, he didn’t know if he really did want to go back.
I don’t want to.
He knew he should have stayed in his room, shouldn’t have hid from Jaejoong when he came to check on him, and most definitely should not have overhead his conversation with Heechul-one he was clearly not meant to hear.
Donghae wasn’t sure if he regretted it or not.
I don’t want to.
He didn’t know why he hadn’t thought of it before, how it hadn’t crossed his mind until now. Was he as strong as Heechul? As praiseworthy? Surely not. He wasn’t anything special-surely no one abandoned in the woods from the very start was anyone worth anything-he wasn’t strong enough to survive.
Rain poured down mercilessly, his bangs stuck firm against his forehead and his clothes drenched beyond comfort but all Donghae could do was wonder if this was how fear felt.
I don’t want to die.
“Me too.”
Donghae snapped his head at the shaky voice a few feet to his left. There was a boy like himself, seated fruitlessly under a tree for shelter, but he was different. He blended into the darkness of the forest; his skin did not contrast the night, instead covered in mud and scratches. How odd.
Donghae scooted closer, interested in how they were the same, yet different.
“Can you read minds?”
The boy stared at him funny, and being this close made Donghae see his eyes were swollen, skin blemished, clothes tattered. “No. You said that out loud.”
“Oh.” Donghae stared at the boy’s skin. “I ran away from home.”
“Me too.”
“Because I don’t want to die.”
He smiled sadly, “me too.”
Donghae grabbed his hand, pulling it towards him to get a good look at a red gash on his upper arm. “What’s your name?”
He didn’t flinch despite the contact, finding the Lumiciant’s presence oddly calming as he stared into Donghae’s eyes. “Kibum.”
“Well, Kibum, this is going to hurt a bit but I promise I’ll make it better.” Kibum watched with wide eyes as Donghae’s pale hand covered his arm in a warm blue light.
“Don’t look.”
He raised his eyes to the creature that glowed in the night-a Lumiciant, the very same kind as the ones his parents kept in the basement where he snuck in at every chance. He’d never seen one this close before, yet even Kibum could tell there was something…different.
“Why not?”
“I’m still practicing my Sanare, so it might hurt your eyes if you stare at it.”
“Oh. Okay,” Kibum looked at him instead, “you’re not like the others.”
You’re something I’ve never seen before.
“Yes, well,” Kibum felt the burn in his arm subside, and Donghae pulled back with a tentative smile. “I guess I’m a special case. I’m going to be Solis one day, you know?” He settled back, burying his face in his arms.
“Solis?” Kibum examined his wound, gawking at the healed skin.
“Mm-hmm.” He mumbled, “It’s a special kind, the center of Lumici. Heechul hyung says that when my time comes, I’m going to be a very important part of society”
“You don’t look very happy.”
“I’m not.”
Kibum gaze lingered on his healed arm, prodding the now firm skin.
“One day, I’ll take you away from here.”
Kibum smiled, but it didn’t make Donghae feel warm like Leeteuk hyung’s did.
He wasn’t sure, so he smiled back.
*
“Heechul hyung.”
He heard a grunt from beside him, and Donghae knew he was listening.
“I have a question.”
“Donghae, what part of ‘quiet’ and ‘tranquility’ do you not understand?”
“But hyung,” The brunette pouted though still managing to keep his eyes closed. “It’s really bothering me.”
Heechul sighed and tried to resist the urge to pull at his hair. Donghae had been refusing to practice his meditation as usual (he had no idea why the boy had so much trouble with it, really) and Taeyang was on his break, so he had no choice but to pull the boy into the room and have him practice under his own watchful eye.
But the brunette simply refused, saying that he couldn’t concentrate if Heechul just sat there staring at him the whole time-of course he’d be uncomfortable and even Taeyang wouldn’t do that, no, he would meditate along with him and well, Heechul didn’t seem to have a choice in the matter.
So he listened, stopped himself from interrupting as Donghae asked about creatures who don’t glow like they do, who age, get tired and eat meat, who rise and set with the sun. Heechul frowned at the enthusiasm in his voice.
“Humans.” He cut him off, “They’re called humans, the mundane.”
Donghae’s eyes lit up, glad to finally be able to match face with name.
“And I need you to stay away from them.”
The brunette grimaced. Again, he wasn’t allowed again.
“But why, hyung?”
Heechul frowned, and Donghae thought, as he watched his thoughtful gaze, that maybe this was one of the few rules he really should follow.
“Something just isn’t right with them. Listen to me, all right? I’m just being careful.”
Heechul smiled sadly as he watched Donghae mumble a yes and slump into his seat. There was something in the way the boy’s eyes glistened with untold stories that told him this wasn’t going to be the last time the subject of humans would come up.
*
The usual brightly lit halls were dark and damp.
It made staying indoors all the more stifling for him, so Donghae snuck out more than usual. Heechul had been missing for months now, and he could tell even though Leeteuk hyung would always assure everything was fine, that something bothered him greatly. He was always sighing, always tired-looking, sad.
“Someone very close to my heart.” He would answer when Donghae asks him what was bothering him.
“Someone close to your heart?” He leaned his head on Leeteuk’s shoulder, “Like…your favorite person?”
“Exactly.” Leeteuk chuckled, ruffling Donghae’s hair. “My favorite person is hurting because of me.”
“So,” He leaned back to smile at his hyung, his tone of voice would have sounded condescending if Leeteuk didn’t find it so cute, “stop hurting them, make the pain go away.”
“I wish I could, Donghae-yah.”
He smiled, but Donghae thought it wasn’t pretty like it usually was. He didn’t like it.
“I really do.”
The days grew cold since.
He escaped again that day. With Leeteuk’s sour mood and Heechul’s absence, it was getting easier and easier.
He should have known, though. That Leeteuk’s smiles were fake, while Jaejoong’s were uncomfortable. He’d grown now-they didn’t have to crouch down to meet his gaze (but they still leaned forward a bit- why couldn’t he grow taller?), and had finally reached the age where time stopped for Lumici, but why hadn’t grown wiser?
He should have known when the sky was darkening and when that drop of rain fell on his nose, that something was wrong. He should have known to stay by Leeteuk’s side that day instead of running away and searching for Heechul.
He should have known something was terribly wrong.
But he hadn’t, and in seconds, his vision blurred and his world turned black.
-
-
-
-
[ + ] PRESENT
“Hey.”
Hyukjae nodded curtly in Jaejoong’s direction as the Lumiciant walked past him after a pat on Junsu’s shoulder and a ruffle of his hair. Briefly, he wondered how they knew each other in the first place but dismissed the idea of asking Junsu about it. He felt bad enough dragging him here where he was sure unpleasant memories would resurface.
Instead, he dropped down beside him, surveying the area.
“Hey, hotshot.” Junsu grinned at him before looking back at the trees, “indoors finally got too stuffy for ya?”
Lumici have yet to warm up to the sudden increase of humans and Rife like themselves in their territory. Many still cowered in fear, albeit the few children who enjoyed pulling at the two scrawny policemen’s hair. Whilst majority shunned them, convinced that they were going to betray them any second.
Their hostility and hushed whispers meant nothing to Hyukjae nonetheless; he was determined to stay by Donghae’s side whereas Junsu let himself out, finding comfort in the sounds of the forest.
Even the humans who were received more warmly were cooped up in a room until the elders deemed fit, though Hyukjae was positive it was empty when he passed by on his way out.
“Have you noticed anything?”
“Spot-on as always, Hyuk.” Junsu nodded, “Someone’s out there alright- their tracks were well hidden but being the expert I am, nothing got past me.” He grinned, swiping his lip with a thumb, “They’re smart though. I’ll give them that.”
Hyukjae recalled just how that big guy danced around Siwon like it was nothing. It may have given him the opening he needed to swoop in and get Donghae, but he was sure he was going to have to deal with whomever the big guy was working with and, from the looks of it, they weren’t going down without a fight.
“Fast too. So you better watch yourself, Junsu.”
“As fast as your tiny ass? I doubt it.”
Hyukjae gave him a pointed look.
“Relax.” He chided, “And stop looking at me like I’m going to mess everything up or get myself killed. In case you’ve forgotten, you’re not the only hotshot around here.”
The redhead shook his head, smiling fondly before punching Junsu in the arm and walking back inside.
“Just be careful.”
They could be watching us right now.
“Yeah, yeah.” Junsu laughed lightly as his fingers grazed a bottle of water that was left at his side. He raised it as thanks and thought before he added, “When he wakes, tell Donghae I said hi.”
Hyukjae waved lightly without turning around, disappearing into the hideout.
-
He leaned his head on the doorframe, his hand unconsciously reaching inside his pocket to grip something inside. Hyukjae sighed heavily, unable to fight down the uneasiness that’s been gnawing at him since they entered the hideout.
Someone was out there, he was sure of it. He could feel it. Something wasn’t right, and this never bothered Hyukjae so much before-he had nothing to lose. But now…
The rustle of blankets from inside snapped Hyukjae back to reality. He stuffed the pure white cloth he’d been clutching back into his pocket, its brightness contrasting with the dark of his pants, and burst into the room.
He almost broke into a smile as he caught sight of Donghae seated up on his bed, his brown eyes wide and slightly confused. “Hey.”
Donghae turned to the doorway and a wide, warm smile graced his lips as he watched Hyukjae make his way to the bed. He lifted his arms for a hug.
“Hyuk,” He breathed, his cheek pressed against the red hair behind Hyukjae’s ear. “I remember now, I remember everything.”
Hyukjae nodded against him.
“And you…” Donghae pulled back to hold his face between his hands, the feel of the sharp jawline under his palm sending goosebumps all over his body. “You’re my favorite person!”
Now, more than ever, Hyukjae knew he’d cross worlds to protect this smile.
-
Siwon was thrown to the floor, biting his lip to not let out a single wince. His body hurt immensely, though having already lost feeling in his arms.
“Consider yourself lucky,” The familiar deep voice rang through his ears. All doubts of where exactly in the headquarters Taecyeon took him to vanished, “that I have a tolerance level that rivals many.”
He heard Taecyeon scoff and being hushed from behind him. Siwon knew the Elite was still frustrated when just as he was about to pierce him with the sword, Soo Man ordered into his earpiece that he was to return immediately-with Siwon, alive.
And all Rife knew exactly what that meant.
A failed mission was more than just shameful; it was dishonor many would remember for a long, long while. Especially for someone of that high a prestige as Taecyeon.
“You are to be put on probation indefinitely.” Siwon looked up to see his boss’ face grim. “I can’t say how long, but enough for you to reflect on what you’ve done-I’m sure.”
“Sunny, Hyoyeon,” Soo Man gestured for them to take him away, feeling Siwon’s gaze burn the back of his head.
“Why?”
“Why what?”
“You know what I mean, father.”
“By keeping it alive, I was making things more difficult. Complicated.” Soo Man sighed, “Or so an old friend tells me.”
“And having Donghae killed makes things easier?!” Siwon couldn’t help but raise his voice, attempting to stand up but was forced down by the guard’s firm hand on his shoulder.
“You call it by name now?” -his father looked mildly surprised, Siwon growled-“But yes, it does make things easier.”
“What does-”
“Wouldn’t it be?” a sleek figure Siwon had paid no mind to, spoke from where he stood in the corner, “If you could blow out an entire mass of candles with one swing? If a single life could tip the scale?”
Impossible.
“Oh, I’m sorry. I believe we haven’t met.” He stepped out from the shadows, “I’m an old…acquaintance of your father’s.”
He held out a hand.
“Call me Key.” -- ♦
- - -
previous | next
a/n: Attempting to revive my love for this story. :( Anyway, please pray for my countrymen! They need strength under these tough times…