Chapter 15: Uncovering Secrets

Damien sat at his desk, staring at the maps and reports spread out before him. Despite his recovery, his heart ached with the weight of Min-jun's absence. Every moment felt like an eternity, knowing the man he cared for was in the hands of the enemy. Determined to save him, Damien threw himself into planning the rescue mission, but doubt and worry gnawed at him.

Leo entered the room, his expression serious. "Your Highness, we've received a report from our scouts. They've confirmed Min-jun is being held at Alaric's main camp."

Damien's heart skipped a beat. "Is he... is he alright?"

Leo hesitated. "He's alive, but they're... they're not treating him well. They're trying to break him, to force him to reveal his magical abilities."

Damien's fists clenched, a surge of anger and protectiveness washing over him. "We need to act fast. I won't let Alaric torture him any longer."

"There's more," Leo said, his voice lower. "I've been investigating Min-jun's powers, trying to understand why Alaric is so determined to exploit them. I've discovered something... extraordinary."

Damien looked up, his interest piqued. "What is it?"

Leo took a deep breath, his eyes meeting Damien's with a mixture of awe and trepidation. "Min-jun's magic isn't just powerful; it's unique. According to ancient texts and the information we've gathered, Min-jun possesses angelic powers."

Damien's eyes widened in shock. "Angelic powers? How is that possible?"

"Angelic bloodlines are incredibly rare," Leo explained. "It's said that those with angelic heritage have the potential to wield immense power, both for good and ill. Alaric must have realized this during the battle. That's why he's so desperate to control Min-jun."

Damien's mind raced as he processed the information. The surge of energy, the barrier that had protected them—it all made sense now. "If Min-jun's powers are that extraordinary, then Alaric won't stop until he has complete control over him. We have to move quickly."

Leo nodded. "I've already started gathering our best soldiers and strategists. We'll need a precise plan to infiltrate Alaric's camp and rescue Min-jun. But there's another aspect we need to consider."

Damien raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"Min-jun's powers are tied to his emotions," Leo explained. "The stronger his feelings, the more potent his magic becomes. Alaric will try to exploit this, pushing Min-jun to his breaking point. We need to be prepared for the possibility that Min-jun might unleash his powers in unpredictable ways."

Damien's heart ached at the thought of Min-jun suffering. "We'll do whatever it takes to protect him. Min-jun is strong, but he's been through so much already. We can't let him face this alone."

As they spoke, Lady Elara entered the room, her expression resolute. "Your Highness, I've spoken with our allies. They're ready to support the rescue mission. We'll have reinforcements to help us infiltrate Alaric's camp."

Damien nodded, gratitude and determination filling his heart. "Thank you, Lady Elara. Every bit of help counts."

Over the next few days, the castle buzzed with activity as preparations for the rescue mission intensified. Soldiers trained, strategists planned, and scouts gathered crucial information about Alaric's camp. Damien worked tirelessly, coordinating efforts and ensuring that every detail was accounted for.

Late one night, as Damien reviewed the final plans with Leo and Lady Elara, he felt a sense of hope and urgency. They were ready to move, and every moment brought them closer to rescuing Min-jun.

"Everything is in place," Leo said, his voice steady. "We have the element of surprise on our side, and our forces are well-prepared. We'll strike under the cover of darkness and use the terrain to our advantage."

Damien nodded, his gaze fierce. "Min-jun has suffered enough. We'll bring him back, no matter what it takes."

Lady Elara placed a reassuring hand on Damien's shoulder. "We'll succeed, Your Highness. Min-jun's strength and resilience have inspired us all. We won't let him down."

As they finalized their preparations, Damien couldn't help but think of Min-jun, alone and in pain, but still fighting. The thought fueled his determination, his love for Min-jun driving him forward. They would rescue him, and together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead.

...

As the moon rose high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the castle, Damien stood with his assembled forces, ready to embark on the perilous mission. The night was quiet, the air filled with anticipation and tension.

Damien looked out at his soldiers, his heart swelling with pride and resolve. "Tonight, we rescue one of our own. Min-jun has shown us the meaning of bravery and sacrifice. Now it's our turn to bring him home."

With those words, they set out into the night, their hearts united in a single purpose. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but Damien knew that they had the strength and determination to overcome it. Min-jun's life depended on them, and they would not fail.