As the carriage rumbled through the heart of the bustling city, Taehyung could barely contain the excitement flickering in his gaze. He sat across from Seokjin, his eyes alight with wonder, glancing repeatedly at the window veiled by a silk curtain. Unable to resist, he finally rose from his seat, fingers brushing the edge of the fabric as he carefully lifted it to steal a peek outside.

The city stretched before him, vibrant and bustling, alive with the scents and sounds of daily life. Merchants called out to passersby, their voices rising above the clatter of wooden carts laden with goods, while children weaved through the crowd, their laughter blending with the hum of passing conversations. Taehyung’s heart raced as he took in the scene, his gaze drawn to the lively world beyond the window, eyes wide with awe.

Despite his eagerness, Taehyung knew he had to keep his presence discreet. His wolfish ears and tail, hidden beneath the carefully draped hood Seokjin had placed over his head, were a telltale mark of his difference. Until he mastered the art of concealing his features—a skill he would soon be taught at the academy—he could only observe the world from behind his veil, hidden from view.

Seated across from him, Seokjin noticed Taehyung’s restless movements, his bright eyes filled with wonder as his body leaned closer to the carriage window. With a soft smile, Seokjin leaned forward, his voice gentle yet firm as he offered a quiet reminder, “Please, sit down. It is dangerous to stand while the carriage is in motion.”

Taehyung blinked and nodded, obediently sitting back down as Seokjin instructed. But his curiosity tugged at him, refusing to let the moment pass. After a few sneaky glances at Seokjin to ensure he wasn’t watching too closely, Taehyung slowly stood up once more, inching his way to the window. Lifting the edge of the curtain with a careful hand, he peered out again, his eyes widening as he took in the bustling streets unfolding before him.

Suddenly, the carriage jolted over a loose stone, sending a tremor through its wooden frame. Taehyung gasped as the sudden movement lifted him off his feet, his balance wavering as he teetered dangerously forward. In an instant, Seokjin's arm shot out, catching him by the waist. He pulled Taehyung securely into his chest, his grip firm and unyielding.

Seokjin let out a soft sigh as he steadied Taehyung, his voice gentle yet firm. "I warned you, did I not?” he chided quietly, his grip lingering for a moment longer to ensure Taehyung's balance before shifting to make space beside him.

“Please, be obedient,” he murmured, his gaze both warm and resolute as he guided Taehyung to sit beside him. “Sit still. I would rather not see you hurt.”

Taehyung’s lips formed a small pout, a hint of indignation coloring his cheeks, but he made no attempt to rise again. Instead, he remained beside Seokjin, his curiosity now tempered by a quiet respect for the carriage’s unpredictable motion.

As the rhythmic clatter of the carriage wheels softened, Taehyung began to settle, his fidgeting subsiding into a more composed demeanor. Seokjin took a moment to ponder a suitable alias, one that was simple yet distinct—carefully chosen to shield Taehyung’s true identity as the crown prince while he attended the academy. After a moment’s thought, a name came to mind, and he turned to Taehyung with a calm smile.

“From this day onward, you shall be known as Kim Tae,” he said, his voice gentle yet carrying a sense of gravity. “How does this name sit with you?”

Taehyung tilted his head, blinking in slight confusion as he tried to process this unfamiliar name. Seokjin patiently pointed at him and repeated, more slowly this time, “Kim Tae.”

Following Seokjin’s gesture, Taehyung hesitantly lifted his own hand, pointing to himself with curiosity as he echoed the name, his voice tentative, “Kim... Tae...”

Seokjin’s expression softened, a hint of approval gracing his features as he observed how swiftly Taehyung was catching on. “Yes, Kim Tae,” he replied with quiet satisfaction. “Now, let us try my name,” he added, pointing toward himself with a composed tone, enunciating carefully, “Seokjin.”

Taehyung looked at Seokjin thoughtfully before lifting his finger to point back at him, his face brightening with a small grin as he proudly called out, “Lord Kim.”

A soft laugh escaped Seokjin, his amusement barely concealed. Shaking his head, he gently corrected, “No, not Lord Kim—it is Seokjin.”

Taehyung’s brow furrowed as he tried to process the new name. In his mind, everyone had always called Seokjin “Lord Kim,” a title as deeply rooted as the respect it signified. But, seeing the patient encouragement in Seokjin’s gaze, he attempted to repeat it, stammering slightly, “S-Seok... jean.”

Seokjin’s laughter echoed warmly in the small carriage. He nodded but gently corrected him once more, “It is ‘Jin.’”

Taehyung’s eyes lit up in delight at the simpler version. He repeated confidently, “Jin!” The name rolled off his tongue with newfound ease.

Seokjin widened his eyes in mild surprise, yet his soft smile lingered. Across the endless span of his life—one stretching through countless generations, his existence woven into the fabric of history itself—few had ever dared to address him without a title or rank. Yet, hearing Taehyung speak his name so simply, with such unguarded innocence, stirred something unfamiliar within him.

For a fleeting moment, he felt a rare and unexpected warmth in his heart, a sense of closeness he hadn’t realized he had longed for after all these centuries. Facing forward once more, Seokjin gave a gentle nod, his voice soft and sincere. “Jin is fine too,” he murmured.

After nearly an hour of jostling through the bustling streets, Taehyung’s initial excitement had dimmed. His legs trembled slightly as he stepped down from the carriage, the rhythmic movement still lingering in his bones.

Seokjin, already on the ground, extended a hand toward him, a gesture that was both quiet and reassuring. With a grateful smile, Taehyung took the offered hand, feeling his balance return as his eyes lifted toward the wooden gates before him.

Standing at the entrance of Hanyang Academy, the grand institution loomed, its imposing stone walls and sweeping eaves casting a solemn shadow over the courtyard. As they approached, a distinguished man stepped forward to greet them. Dressed in elegant yet simple hanbok, his posture exuded a dignified air. This was the headmaster, Mr. Jang Dae-Soo, who greeted Seokjin with a warm, respectful smile.

“Welcome, Lord Kim,” Headmaster Jang greeted with a deep, respectful bow, his words polished and sincere. “Your journey must have been tiring. It is a profound honor to welcome you once more.”

Seokjin returned the bow with equal grace, his expression warm yet composed. “The honor is mine, Headmaster Jang.”

Headmaster Jang’s gaze softened as he lowered his head slightly in a humble gesture. “My Lord, your generous patronage has been a great blessing to our academy,” he began earnestly. “Through the contributions you have bestowed over the years, we have enriched our halls, elevated the quality of our facilities, and expanded our library’s collections to better serve our scholars. Your support has also allowed us to welcome promising young minds from humble origins, granting them an opportunity they might not otherwise have had. Truly, our academy has flourished under your benevolence.”

Seokjin inclined his head, his tone courteous yet carefully measured, recognizing the subtle trace of flattery in the headmaster’s words. “It is heartening to witness the academy’s growth and success,” he replied, his voice respectful yet distant. “If my modest contributions have aided the future generations of our land, I am content.” His gaze softened as it shifted toward Taehyung, who stood quietly beside him, his expression still reflecting a trace of unease from the long journey.

Following Seokjin’s gaze, Headmaster Jang’s discerning eyes rested on Taehyung. “Ah, is this the young man you spoke of?” he inquired, his voice steady and authoritative, resonating within the stone corridors of the academy.

“Indeed,” Seokjin replied smoothly, a reassuring smile gracing his lips. He guided Taehyung forward, his gesture both protective and encouraging. “Bow respectfully,” he murmured, his voice a soft prompt as he placed a gentle hand on Taehyung’s shoulder, guiding him into a respectful bow.

With Seokjin’s guiding hand, Taehyung managed a proper bow, his posture slightly awkward yet sincere. The headmaster inclined his head in return, though a flicker of curiosity sparked in his eyes when Seokjin removed the hood from Taehyung's head, revealing the wolf-like ears that perched atop his head, their soft fur catching the light.

“A Wolfian, is it?” Headmaster Jang observed thoughtfully, his eyes widening slightly as he took in Taehyung’s features. “Quite an unusual companion for one of your esteemed lineage.”

Seokjin maintained his composure, a faint smile playing on his lips as he responded with practiced grace. “He is a friend of a distant relative,” he replied smoothly, deflecting any unnecessary curiosity. “His name is Kim Tae. He has led a secluded life, with little exposure to formal study, and is unfamiliar with basic knowledge, including reading and writing. I entrust him to your guidance, Headmaster Jang, confident he will receive the proper instruction.”

The headmaster nodded, his gaze softening with understanding. “You have my assurance, Lord Kim. We shall take the utmost care in his instruction.” He hesitated briefly, a pensive expression crossing his face. “Would it be prudent, perhaps, to provide Kim Tae with special support? We could appoint a mentor for him, monitor his progress closely, and safeguard him from any unkindness he might encounter. Given your generous contributions to our academy, special provisions could easily be arranged.”

Seokjin’s expression remained calm yet resolute, exuding the dignity of his noble lineage. “I value your concern, Headmaster Jang,” he began, his tone unwavering, “but I must insist that Kim Tae be regarded as any other student. He deserves the same opportunities—and challenges—as his peers.”

He paused, allowing his words to carry the full weight of his conviction. “His acceptance without the entrance examinations is already a privilege. It is only fair he learns to navigate this world as his classmates do, without undue leniency. To coddle him on account of my contributions would do him a disservice, for it would ill-prepare him for the realities he must one day face.”

Headmaster Jang studied Seokjin’s firm expression, quietly acknowledging the wisdom and fairness in his words. After a moment’s reflection, he offered a slow nod, a glimmer of contrition crossing his features. “Very well, Lord Kim. We shall ensure that Kim Tae receives the same treatment as the other students.”

Turning his attention to Taehyung, whose wide, curious eyes shone with innocence, Headmaster Jang’s voice softened, becoming an invitation steeped in the gentle authority of his role. “Welcome, Kim Tae. May Hanyang Academy be a place of learning and growth for you, where knowledge flows as freely as the waters of the Han River.”

Taehyung merely tilted his head to the side, his ears perking up in curiosity, a reflection of his naivety and confusion. Headmaster Jang immediately recognized that this young Wolfian did not yet grasp the complexities of human language, nor the intricate societal nuances of their world.

Seokjin turned to Taehyung, his gaze softening as he prepared to take his leave. “You must go inside now, Kim Tae,” he murmured, his voice a gentle reassurance against the worry in Taehyung’s eyes. “Embrace each lesson and learn all that you can. I shall return for you when the day’s teachings are complete.”

Taehyung’s eyes darted between Seokjin and the entrance of the academy, a flicker of confusion crossing his face. Instinctively, he reached out, his fingers clutching Seokjin’s robes as if they were a lifeline, unwilling to step forward into the unknown alone.

Seokjin placed a gentle, reassuring hand over Taehyung’s, his voice a soft murmur filled with warmth. “I cannot remain with you, as this place is for students alone. Seek companionship among your peers, absorb all the knowledge offered here, and remember—I shall be waiting to bring you home once your lessons conclude. This, I promise.”

After a few moments of coaxing, Taehyung reluctantly released his hold on Seokjin’s robes, his fingers lingering for a moment longer, as if trying to grasp the warmth of their bond. As he followed Headmaster Jang, he glanced back several times, uncertainty etched on his face. With a final wave, Seokjin offered him an encouraging smile, his eyes filled with unwavering support.

Taking a deep breath, Taehyung turned and followed the headmaster through the academy’s grand gates. As he crossed the threshold, a world of new sounds, scents, and sights enveloped him. The air was tinged with the faint scent of ink and aged parchment, mingling with the sweet fragrance of persimmon trees lining the pathways, their leaves rustling gracefully along with the wind.

The chatter of students drifted around him, a lively symphony of excitement and curiosity as they noticed the newcomer. Humans mingled with those who bore animal traits—a hint of fur or feathers here, the glint of scales there—each unique presence contributing to a harmonious atmosphere that was as vibrant as the paintings that adorned the academy’s walls.

Here, away from the outside world that held such deep-seated fears and discrimination, humans and hybrids coexisted, their differences set aside in the pursuit of knowledge. As Taehyung walked behind Headmaster Jang, his fascination mirrored that of the other students, their gazes filled with curiosity as they stared at him. His fingers tightened momentarily around the headmaster’s sleeve as he felt the weight of their attention, the curious stares lingering on his form like moths drawn to a flame.

Some whispered about his wolf-like ears, while others commented on his lean frame and delicate features, their voices mingling with admiration and intrigue. News of his arrival spread like wildfire, drawing curious glances and whispers from every corner of the room.

Having a new student join at this time of year was unusual, for most students had already completed their entrance exams in early spring. Speculation swirled among the students, many of whom suspected that Taehyung had been admitted through special means. Whispers rippled through the crowd, their voices low yet inquisitive, as more students gathered around to observe him with a mix of wariness and wonder.

Among the crowd, a few students resorted to thinly veiled mockery, their words laced with derision. “See how his tail wags, as though he’s visiting an academy for the first time,” one boy sneered, his tone low but cutting, drawing snickers from his companions as their laughter echoed softly against the academy’s stone walls.

“Does he truly belong here?” another boy murmured, casting a glance of feigned pity. “Perhaps the children’s quarters would suit him better.” Their laughter, though restrained, carried a harsh edge through the air.

Taehyung saw their laughter, and in his innocence, his eyes lit up, joining in without understanding the mockery behind their words. His tail wagged faster, a display of unfiltered joy as he laughed along, attempting to bridge the gap between them with his infectious spirit.

The boys were taken aback by Taehyung's laughter. They had never encountered someone quite like him, and their amusement grew louder as they began to label him a fool.

Headmaster Jang directed a sharp glare at the group, a silent reprimand that conveyed his disapproval of their conduct. Their laughter faltered, and they quickly retreated as he turned his attention back to Taehyung. Observing the Wolfian still caught up in laughter, a blend of relief and concern washed over him. He felt fortunate that Taehyung hadn’t grasped the meaning of their taunts, sparing Seokjin the distress that might arise if he learned of it and reconsidered his contributions to the academy.

Yet, a sense of duty compelled him to offer reassurance, as he had promised Seokjin to watch over Taehyung. “I apologize for their conduct, Kim Tae. Rest assured, they will be disciplined accordingly. Do not let their actions weigh upon you; oftentimes, it is curiosity or envy that stirs such behavior. Should it happen again, I urge you to rise above it and avoid unnecessary conflict.”

Taehyung could barely comprehend what the headmaster was saying, and he gradually ceased his laughter, sensing the shift in the atmosphere around them. They continued their walk with the headmaster leading the way until they paused in front of a modest wooden door. Its surface was adorned with simple engravings of plum blossoms that spoke to the delicate artistry of the time.

“This will be your place of study,” Headmaster Jang stated, his tone warm yet authoritative. “The fact that Lord Kim has personally entrusted your education to this academy signifies the potential within you. I trust you will heed each lesson with diligence and honor your name, Kim Tae.”

They entered the room, and as the lesson came to a halt, Headmaster Jang approached the mentor in charge, Mr. Byun. He explained that Taehyung had yet to receive formal education and, therefore, struggled with understanding, speaking, and writing. After imparting this information, Headmaster Jang departed, leaving Mr. Byun to assist Taehyung.

“Everyone, I present Kim Tae,” Mr. Byun announced with a respectful nod, gesturing towards Taehyung. “I trust you will extend to him the courtesy he deserves. Kim Tae, you may take any seat that pleases you.”

The students' eyes remained fixed on Taehyung, their curiosity piqued by his delicate features and the air of uncertainty that surrounded him. Taehyung looked around, unsure of what to do, feeling the weight of their scrutiny pressing down on him. Mr. Byun patiently gestured toward the empty spaces in the classroom, encouraging him to take a seat.

Understanding his mentor’s silent instruction, Taehyung chose a random spot at the back of the room. He preferred this position; it granted him a vantage point to observe his peers, allowing him to glean insights into how those around him navigated their daily lives.

However, Taehyung’s chosen seat was not to remain uncontested for long. A tall boy with a fierce glare and an unmistakable air of authority, one that made the other students shrink back, strode into the room and loomed over Taehyung. His voice was low, yet commanding, “Who told you to sit here? Do you not know that this is my seat?”

Taehyung looked up, meeting the boy’s gaze. His tail began to wag, his eagerness to make a new friend apparent. Before he could respond, a calm but firm voice rang out from the front of the room.

“Jungkook,” Mr. Byun’s tone was controlled, yet unwavering. “There will be no quarreling in this classroom. Let me remind everyone: no seat here is claimed by a single student. You have arrived after the others, so please find another seat and maintain the peace within these walls.”

The name Jeon Jungkook sent ripples of unease through the room. Known for his fiery temper, he had a reputation for causing trouble and challenging anyone who dared stand in his way. His disdain for those who entered the academy through wealth or influence was unmistakable, especially toward newcomers like Taehyung, whose place had clearly not been secured through the academy’s rigorous examinations. Unlike them, Jungkook came from a humble background, studying tirelessly to pass the entrance exams and earn his place through merit alone. This journey instilled in him a fierce pride, and he could not abide what he perceived as unearned privilege.

The students around them fell silent, their heads lowered to avoid Jungkook’s piercing gaze, acutely aware of the potential consequences should they draw his attention.

Jungkook arched a brow as he took in the sight of Taehyung’s wagging tail. Realizing the newcomer was a Wolfian, his own ears flicked with irritation. He crossed his arms, narrowing his eyes with evident disdain. “I cannot believe a Wolfian such as yourself gained entry to the academy through such questionable means,” he muttered, his voice laced with contempt. "What a disgrace it is for us to share the same kind.”

Taehyung blinked, then took in Jungkook’s features with wide eyes. The black, wolf-like ears atop Jungkook’s head flicked in irritation, and Taehyung’s excitement bubbled over—this was the first person he had met who resembled him so completely. Eagerly, he pointed to himself, his voice soft but brimming with enthusiasm. “Kim Tae,” he stammered, grappling with the unfamiliar name, yet his bright gaze shone with joy at finding such a connection.

“Kim Tae?” Jungkook scoffed, a dismissive sneer curling his lips. “What a pitiful name.”

Mr. Byun let out a resigned sigh, rubbing his temples in exasperation. “Jungkook, please show some respect for your peers,” he said, his tone steady but carrying an undertone of expectation.

Ignoring the admonishment, Jungkook rolled his eyes and slammed his fist onto the low table, the impact echoing through the room. He was mere inches from Taehyung, his intense glare fixed on him. Taehyung flinched, the brightness in his expression fading as he realized the first Wolfian he’d met held no intention of friendship.

“Move away,” Jungkook growled, his voice low and primal, a warning that Taehyung instinctively understood, even if the words were foreign to him.

Whining softly, Taehyung rose from the floor, uncertainty clouding his gaze. The tension grew thicker until Mr. Byun stepped in, his tone calm yet firm. “Jungkook, you are well aware that fighting is strictly forbidden. Even as one of our top scholars, misconduct will not be tolerated—do not bring trouble upon yourself again.”

Jungkook growled, his tail flicking in irritation at the constant reprimands. With a swift motion, he shoved Taehyung away, the force of the push making Taehyung stumble back. He then sat down on the floor, disbelief crossing his face at the sight of the scrawny, feeble boy unable to withstand even a gentle shove. It was a disgrace to the reputation of Wolfians, creatures known for their raw strength.

Taehyung clutched his shoulder, pain radiating from the spot where he had been slammed into the wall. A low, instinctive growl rumbled from deep within him, his face twisting slightly in anger at Jungkook’s unprovoked attack.

Hearing the growl, Jungkook's eyes widened, a brief moment of surprise flashing through him. “Y-you...” Jungkook stammered, glancing back at Taehyung, his voice faltering, losing the certainty it once held.

Mr. Byun interjected once more, his voice firm and authoritative, “Kim Tae, do not engage with him. He is nothing but trouble. Please, take a seat elsewhere.” With a guiding hand, he ushered Taehyung to a nearby empty seat.

Taehyung sat, noting the narrow space that remained between him and Jungkook. Still, Jungkook’s presence loomed large, his unwavering gaze fixed on him. There was a look of confusion in his eyes, as if he could not reconcile Taehyung’s frail form with the strength behind his growl. Beneath that piercing stare, something else lingered—a quiet curiosity, mixed with a discomfort he could not quite shake, each time the memory of Taehyung’s growl crossed his mind.

As the morning lessons proceeded, Taehyung focused intently on the brush and ink before him, carefully attempting to form characters on paper. He wished to write, to create words he could one day show to Seokjin, hoping to earn a proud smile from him. The thought of Seokjin reading his clumsy scrawls brought a soft, hidden smile to Taehyung’s face, one that stayed with him throughout the lesson.

When the midday meal arrived, Taehyung observed the other students discarding their practice papers without a second thought. Unlike them, he carefully crumpled his own practice sheet into a tight ball and tucked it safely into his cherished wooden box. Though his writing was still rough and unrefined, he saw value in his work, for each stroke brought him closer to creating something he could offer Seokjin.

But as he rose to leave the classroom for his meal, a strong hand suddenly seized him from behind. Before he could react, he found himself roughly pulled through an open window and thrown into a patch of bushes outside, landing with a sharp pain that left his body aching. Looking up, he saw Jungkook leaping out of the window after him, his frame towering above, his gaze sharp and intense.

“Newcomer, who are you?” Jungkook demanded, his voice thick with impatience, a low growl rumbling from his chest.

Rubbing his sore shoulder, Taehyung shot Jungkook a defiant glare, his eyes flickering with a hint of anger. “Eum!” he snapped, his tone sharp, though it reflected both his irritation and his limited understanding of human speech.

Jungkook’s expression twisted from annoyance to disbelief. “You... cannot even speak the common tongue?” he scoffed, his sneer growing. “Truly a disgrace to Wolfians.”

Taehyung struggled to his feet, attempting to brush past Jungkook and escape the confrontation, but Jungkook blocked his way with ease, his imposing figure casting a long shadow over Taehyung.

“Who gave you permission to leave?” Jungkook’s voice deepened, a low growl emanating from his chest, the threat in his tone unmistakable. “Answer me—who are you?”

Taehyung pointed to himself, his voice steady despite the tension. “Kim Tae!”

Jungkook rolled his eyes, swatting Taehyung’s hand aside with irritation. “I am not asking for your name, fool. I wish to know your lineage—who is your family?”

Frustrated and uncertain of how to respond, Taehyung’s confusion only deepened. With his irritation growing, he let out a low, instinctive growl, a sound that echoed through the air with a silent command. The effect was immediate: Jungkook’s eyes widened, and he froze, his fists unclenching as his body was overtaken by an inexplicable force. A strange weight pressed against his chest, rendering him completely still.

The message in Taehyung’s growl was unmistakable—a clear warning to maintain his distance. Seizing the opportunity in Jungkook’s stunned silence, Taehyung swiftly moved past him, his steps quick and purposeful as he put as much distance as possible between himself and the Wolfian.

Once Taehyung was out of sight, the tension in Jungkook’s limbs finally eased, but a strange weakness lingered. Stumbling backward, he fell to his knees, his mind racing as he replayed the moment. A shudder ran through him as he whispered, “That... that fragile child... how could he possess such strength... much like Crown Prince Namjoon?”

Conflicted by disbelief and an unsettling sense of vulnerability, Jungkook clenched his trembling hands. The memory of Taehyung’s growl—so powerful it had left him powerless—struck at his pride, filling him with a deep sense of shame. Yet, curiosity gnawed at his thoughts, his mind returning to the new student, whose quiet presence seemed to conceal a power far beyond what he had ever anticipated.

━━━━⊱⋆⊰━━━━

In Joseon classrooms, students sat on the floor, a practice reflecting both the simplicity of the era and the disciplined, humble nature of education, where formality was maintained even in posture.