The Moon Between Heaven And Ruin [Minsung]

5 : Sacrifice for Greater Good

Minho sat in a small, hidden tavern on the outskirts of Velmora. The room was dimly lit, filled with the smell of old wood and burning candles. He had been resting for hours, trying to gather what little strength he had left.

His body still aches from breaking free of the seal. Every movement felt heavy, every breath a struggle. But his mind was sharp, sharp enough to plan his next move.

Suddenly, he felt a presence. Someone was outside the room.

Immediately, Hyunjin appeared in front of the door like a living shield, his body tense and ready to protect.

That's when Changbin revealed himself, bowing his head low to show respect to Minho. "Lord of Ruin" he said, his voice steady. "I come with a request from the Lord of Stars."

Minho couldn't afford to show weakness. He sat up straighter, closing his eyes as if deep in thought. He took a slow, steady breath, then spoke calmly. "Hyunjin, let him speak."

Hyunjin hesitated, then took a step to the side but he still blocked Changbin from entering the room. Changbin had to speak from outside.

"Speak" Minho commanded, his voice cold.

"The Lord of Stars wants an alliance with you, Your Majesty. If you agree~"

But Minho cut him off with a mocking chuckle. "But I have heard the Land of Stars has been taken down by the Heavenly King. And no bloodline remains from the Royal family."

On the side, Hyunjin let out a small scoff, a smirk curling on his lips.

Changbin pulled out a golden feather from his cloak and held it out on his open palm. "My Lord was aware that you wouldn't believe his words, so he sent this as proof. Please accept it."

Hyunjin rolled his eyes with a sigh. He walked forward lazily, as if he didn't care, and took the feather from Changbin's hand. The moment his fingers touched it.

A flash of vision struck him.

Golden wings. Sparkling and beautiful but bleeding, as if they had been cruelly cut off. And those eyes, tearful golden eyes, filled with pain and loss.

Hyunjin gasped, snapping back to reality. He blinked, steadying himself, then walked inside the room and handed the feather to Minho.

A faint smile touched Minho's lips. "So... the Royal bloodline of the Land of Stars still lives" he muttered. He took a breath, then added, "Fine. I'll accept whatever deal he proposes."

Hyunjin's eyes widened in shock. He wanted to stop Minho, to warn him but he knew his place. He couldn't speak against his Lord's command.

Minho handed the feather back to Hyunjin. "But I have one condition."

Changbin bowed his head. "We will do anything to fulfill your needs, Lord."

A sly smirk curved on Minho's lips. "I need to enter the Moon Land."

He couldn't reveal his true intention. He couldn't show his vulnerability, not even to his own servant.

Changbin bowed again. "I will find a way, Your Majesty."

Minho hummed in approval. "After I return from the Moon Land, arrange a meeting with your Lord of Stars."

"Of course, Lord." And with that, Changbin vanished into thin air.

As soon as he was gone, Minho added. "Hyunjin, on the day I go to the Divine Lake, you must retrieve the Dark Flower from the Flower Realm."

Hyunjin bowed deeply. "As you command, my Lord."