Jimin’s palms were so sweaty he couldn’t properly grip his sword. Moments ago, he had been a prisoner. Krystal never let the point of her dagger stray from his neck. When Captain Moonbyul showed up, Jimin thought he was finally done. He wanted a hot bath and a warm bed. But instead he now found himself head of a small contingent of guards hurrying after the rebels. He still couldn’t believe that the Minister wanted him to kill Captain Moonbyul.

“Lieutenant Jimin! We’ve stationed archers on the walls. We have a clear view of anyone riding down the main path. Permission to shoot on sight of the rebels?” one of the privates asked him.

Jimin nodded, mouth too dry to even speak. He continued walking toward the front of the castle where he could see Krystal trying to hold Amber up on her horse. Soojin was standing beside them, in case Amber fell off while Captain Moonbyul leaned against the wall.

As he approached, Captain Moonbyul turned towards him and nodded.

“Lieutenant. I’m glad to see that you’re safe!” she called.

Jimin slowly stopped a few paces away from her.

“I’m glad to see you’re safe as well, Captain.”

But his Captain frowned, clearly aware something was not right. She walked toward him. Jimin saw the amount of effort it was costing her, from the way she dragged her right leg to the furrows in her forehead. But she came forward all the same.

“After this, I’ll help Jungkook get out. Don’t worry.”

Jimin his lips, unable to meet her eyes. He felt her pat his shoulder. Maybe she thought he was just sad about Jungkook.

“Moonbyul, we’re ready!” Soojin said.

Jimin saw Krystal sitting on her horse, Amber leaning against her back. Soojin was also mounted on her horse.

“All right. Let me you to the main road,” Captain Moonbyul cheerfully answered, hobbling out of the main gate.

Jimin couldn’t help it. He followed them through the tunnel. As they emerged onto the street he surreptitiously looked at the top of the ramparts. He could see the gleam of spears and the tips of several longbows as the guards crouched behind the wall. At any moment now, he could give the command to fire. At this range, no one would miss the targets.