Liability (VSOO)[18+]

Praise Secrets

As Taehyung strolled outdoors with his father, he couldn't help but reflect on the successful mission they had accomplished just three days prior. Jisung's cheerful demeanor was contagious, and Taehyung relished in the pleasant conversation they shared. It was peculiar to witness this side of his father, as he had always been stern and distant towards him.

However, Taehyung couldn't help but believe that his father's strictness stemmed from a place of love, as he only wanted him to excel and become a formidable soul reaper for the spectrum. And indeed, Taehyung had transformed into just that - a skilled and accomplished soul reaper. His newfound abilities had even begun to unsettle his brother Minho, who now felt a sense of unease in Taehyung's presence.

"So...let me get this straight. You're saying that she wasn't surrounded by a tight security? But your brother insisted otherwise!" Jisung exclaimed, his confusion evident in his voice.

"Father, I'm certain about what I witnessed. It was clear to me that she didn't have the level of protection usually given to their women. She only had two Essent guards accompanying her, and that was it," Taehyung explained. Jisung furrowed his brows, deep in thought, as he contemplated his son's words.

"... I can't help but feel suspicious about this! What if their true intention is to deceive us and join our side? What if we fall right into their trap?" Taehyung expressed, his eyes filled with concern. Jisung halted in his steps, his attention instantly shifting towards his son.

"Taehyung, you underestimate your brother's intelligence!" Jisung exclaimed. Taehyung was taken aback by his father's statement. He couldn't help but roll his eyes and let out a disappointed sigh.

"Please, just hear me out this time! I understand that you still hold a low opinion of me... But I am giving my all to earn your respect and prove that I can surpass even my older brother! I beg you, open your ears to my concerns. There is an unsettling feeling within me, Father... Even during my recent expedition alongside Astaseul, something felt amiss... And now, look at the disastrous outcome it led to!

"Unfortunately, we have lost Astaseul, one of our most brilliant members," Taehyung expressed with a tinge of frustration, his voice filled with evident distress. Jisung gazed at his son attentively, fully engaged in understanding his concerns.

"Taehyung, I understand your concerns, but I have faith in your brother. He possesses exceptional strategies and consistently makes wise choices. He has never let me down. That's precisely why he holds the position of my right-hand man, not you, Taehyung!" Jisung calmly stated, his gaze unwavering. A chuckle of incredulity escaped Taehyung's lips.

"I am well aware, father... there's no need for you to incessantly remind me!" Taehyung retorted, frustration lacing his words as he briskly distanced himself from his father's presence.

"TAEHYUNG!" Jisung's voice boomed, echoing through the air, halting Taehyung's retreat. Exhaling a weary sigh, Taehyung reluctantly pivoted on his heels to meet his father's gaze. Jisung's face softened into a warm smile as he closed the distance between them, his steps purposeful and swift.

"I apologize! I am aware that I can be quite tough on you at times. However, please understand that my love for you remains unwavering. You are my son, my cherished offspring, and I will never forsake you. Even if you seem average at best with your abilities, remember that you will always hold a special place within our family," Jisung expressed, his hand gently resting on his shoulder.

"Average??" Taehyung scoffed, a faint smile playing on his lips. Jisung grinned and swiftly drew him into an affectionate embrace.

"You know that's not true! I'm just trying to make you realize that I'll always be by your side!" Jisung exclaimed, his smile widening. Taehyung returned the smile and embraced him tightly.