•~○Cursed castle[NCT]○~•

○●○●○

Chapter 16

The cave’s shadow finally gave way, and the magic mountain world wrapped its ancient arms around the weary heroes. The scent of pine, earth, and wildflowers filled the air — a quiet sanctuary after hell’s suffocating grasp.

Yang’s voice trembled with joy, eyes shining.
“You did it!! You actually did it!”

Yuta rubbed his forehead, still breathless.
“Johnny turned into a full-on demon! I didn’t think we’d get out alive.”

Renjun stepped forward, curiosity and awe mingling in his gaze.
“How? Johnny knew all your moves. Were you really prepared?”

Jeno smiled softly, nodding to Kun and Doyoung.
“Kun and Doyoung came up with a plan on the spot — something none of us expected.”

Mark chuckled, a glint of fondness in his eyes.
“They go way back, those two.”

Jisung smiled warmly, eyes softening.
“And they’re in love.”

Jaemin’s weak smile carried hope and relief.
“Love conquers everything.”

Jeno pulled Jaemin into a tight embrace — a moment to hold onto amid the chaos. Others followed, letting the comfort of each other’s presence soothe the raw edges of their journey.

Renjun spoke quietly, admiration clear in his voice.
“You’re lucky — they searched every world, every shadow, just to find you.”

Lucas nodded, calm as ever.
“They didn’t rush. Their priority was saving everyone, no matter what.”

Kun’s proud smile met the younger’s eyes.
“Your parents must be proud.”

Hyuck squinted against the rising sun, exhaustion weighing heavy.
“Can we go home now? I don’t think I can handle much more sunlight.”

Jisung placed a steady hand on Hyuck’s shoulder.
“You’ve been through a lot. We need to get you healed.”

From nearby, Sicheng bowed respectfully.
“Thank you again, Princes, for saving our world.”

Kun smiled warmly, hand resting on Yang’s shoulder.
“YangYang, I think we need a serious talk with the gods…”

Yang’s eyes brightened, hope fluttering.
“Really, sir?”

Kun laughed softly.
“I want you here, where you can be with Renjun.”

Yang jumped up, hugging Kun tightly.

Doyoung glanced at the bruised angels leaning on one another.
“We should hurry. They won’t hold up much longer.”

Yang looked back at the group they’d grown close to.
“Will you visit us? We’ve become a family.”

Sicheng smiled warmly.
“It would be an honor to plan a parade next month — a celebration for the Chosen Ones.”

Jeno grinned.
“If you do, please let us know. We wouldn’t miss it.”

Doyoung teased.
“Do we get to come too?”

Sicheng laughed.
“Everyone will be invited!”

Suddenly, Chenle groaned and collapsed.
“I’m so sorry to ruin this moment, but my legs are about to give out!”

[Time Skip — Morning Light, Soft and Golden]

The first tender fingers of dawn crept through the curtains, painting the room in strokes of honeyed gold and whisper-soft amber. The air was thick with the scent of dew and earth—a quiet balm after nights soaked in cold shadows and desperate hope.