WARNING: TRIGGERING STUFF

Prologue: A Fateful Reunion

Every day, I cut my arms.

Because of that, my entire arm is littered with scars. Yet I never let anyone see the scars. I was Kang Taeyang, the smartest kid on the block, after all. Who would want to see a broken, depressed kid? No one would want to be my friend.

I hear the rumors. Some say I'm a drug dealer, some say I look like a kind person but I'm actually a manipulative jerk, there are even others that say that I'm a heartthrob behind the scenes.

Of course, that wasn't true, and they all knew it. Didn't mean that they couldn't laugh behind my back all the time, though.

It's been this way for years. Ever since Rosie left, ever since my friends left, it had been empty. The bullying I had endured since elementary only got worse. I was forced to do others' homework for them, and I hadn't gotten the right amount of hours since middle school.

Everyday I smile for my friends, yet something in me mocks how fake it was.

High school was the worst. I wore a mask, pretending to be someone I'm not for the sake of my friends, and it hurt. Every night, more marks appeared on my skin, and I cried myself to sleep for only two hours or so before I drag myself out of bed for school.

This cycle continued on from freshman's beginning, until autumn, when something unexpected happened on one of the many days in the school year.

It had been normal at first. Dragging myself out of bed (again), having milk for breakfast then heading out the door before my parents can corner me regarding my life choices.

But as I was nearing school, I saw some of the main bullies torturing someone younger than me by three years or so.

I frowned slightly. They were always like this, weren't they? Even after all this time...

I was about to step in, when suddenly, out of nowhere, a blur whizzed past me as someone punched a lackey.

"Oi, do you have nothing better to do than to torture kids? You really are numbskulls, aren't ya?"

"W-What did you say?!" The boss didn't seem happy at all as he stomped over the person.

On the other hand, my eyes had widened upon hearing that voice. I recognized him!

"You heard what I said. If you want a bloody nose, then I'll be all too glad to give one to you."

"Hey, boss, isn't he Oh Pilseung, the police officer's kid from Smile City? The one who's known to be a whistleblower?!"

"W-What?!" I saw the boss' face pale.

Sangria eyes looked up as Pilseung grinned, "I see that my reputation has spread to my new school. Good, I had been worried I would have to reintroduce myself the hard way. Anyway, wanna have a try at me?"

I had to stifle a snicker at how scared they looked. It was just so hilarious!

"T-Tch! We'll be back!"

With that, they scrambled off, leaving us there.

"Hey, kid, you good?" Pilseung squatted and smiled at the one who had been bullied just a few minutes ago.

"Y-Yeah... T-Thanks..."

"Hey, it's nothing. But I'm not happy that this place has people like those guys," he crossed his arms, seeming unhappy. "Argh, looks like Project Protection is back on again- Hey, wait..."

HIs purple eyes met mine, and they widened before he looked down at the kid and said, "You should head off to school. Can you head there by yourself?"

"I-I think so!" the child smiled. "T-Thank you, Hyung!"

"Hey, it's fine," he chuckled as he ruffled the kid's hair. "Now off you go. You don't want to be late for school now."

The sweet child nodded before speeding off.

Only then did the atmosphere go awkward.

I felt my face flush involuntarily. I forgot that I used to have a crush on him before Rosie left. Dang hormones.

"Taeyang, right...?" He spoke up, hesitation in his tone. "You ARE Kang Taeyang, right?"

"Y-Yeah," I sheepishly scratched the back of my head. "I-It's been a while, Pilseung."

"Don't you 'It's been a while' me like that," his eyes suddenly narrowed as he walked closer to me.

"W-What?!" I stammered, taking a few steps back.

"What was that, Taeyang?" He demanded. "The kid was just being bullied, and I saw you standing there like a lost duckling."

"I-I could say the same for you!" I shot back. "What were you even thinking, punching that lackey? You could be expelled!"

"Expelled I'm used to these days, but not you being completely clueless to what to do when someone's being treated badly!"

"You haven't seen me since we were ten, Pilseung! Don't expect things to be the same!"

"Well, I expected you to have some optimism and recklessness left! What the heck was that, Kang Taeyang!?"

"I lost that a long time ago!" I snapped. "Ever since Rosie left, ever since she took the Tobots with her, I had been forced to face reality! So excuse me if I've changed a lot since you last saw me!"

He went quiet hearing that, and for a minute I wondered what I had just said. This was totally uncharacteristic of me. I rarely voiced out my thoughts these days.

After a while, he looked back at me, eyes softer than before, as he asked, "You're being bullied by them too, aren't you? You wanted to help, but you couldn't because you knew it would get worse for your case."

My eyes widened. What... Where had he...

"It's written all over your face," he gave me a small smile. "And trust me, I've been bullied too."

"Y-You've been bullied too?"

"Yeah, but you know what changed?"

I blinked, "No?"

His answer caught me off guard.

"My mental strength," Pilseung chuckled. "What changed was how I viewed things. I realised that I had to stand strong, not just for myself but also for those who I care for. If I let others trample all over, what would they think?"

I went quiet, but he then pulled me into a hug, saying, "Don't worry, Taeyang. Your secret's safe with me. I won't let you get hurt again."

"That's a promise."

Was it one he could keep? Time could only tell.

But I wanted to believe in this. I wanted to believe in this small hope.

Slowly, I moved closer, and hugged back as I said, "T-Thanks..."

Scars may never heal fast, but certain events can kickstart their recovery.

In my case, it would probably be meeting Pilseung again after all this time. A light in the darkness.

My light.

Chapter 1

IntroductioNs

{태양}

"Everyone, we have three new transferees from Smile City joining our class today!"

I knew who it was, but I still looked up to see Pilseung and his younger brother, Pada, and his best friend, Pori, step into the classroom. Pilseung noticed me and waved at me, the warmth his eyes conveyed to me feeling wonderful.

"Would you like to introduce yourselves?" The teacher asked.

"I don't think Hyung needs one," Pada drily answered.

Pilseung laughed softly, his cheeks flushing, "Pada!"

"Ignore him, he's just really ignorant," Pori dismissed the confused looks our classmates shot their way.

"PORI!" He covered his face.

Pada chuckled before he said, "I am Oh Pada, and this is Park Pori. My older brother who's acting modest is Oh Pilseung. You may have heard of him as the one who's been helping the police with many cases, and he works well with our mom, Lieutenant Oh Hera."

"Y-You help out too!" Pilseung waved his hands frantically in the air, his cheeks completely tomato.

"You do most of the work, Pilseung," Pori smirked.

"You've become a very reliable person since they left," Pada smiled. "And I'm glad of that."

"Who's they?" Namhui blinked.

"Oh, they were friends of ours," Pori dismissed it quickly. "They left, but afterwards Pilseung became super strong. He even went to therapy after he turned 13!"

"It wasn't anything impressive," he shook his head.

"Puhleeze, knowing when the right time is to go to the doctor is something amazing," Pada rolled his eyes.

"Are you two trying to embarrass me?" He threw his hands into the air.

"Probably?"

"Argh, you two are truly the power couple."

"We serve to please," Pada's glasses glinted in the light, making me wonder just how they had changed.

"YOU GUYS!!!"

The rest of our class laughed a bit, and I cracked a smile. This atmosphere was nice.

After a while it settled down, and they were assigned to different seats.

Guess who sat adjacent of me?

If you guessed all three, congrats. You got it right.

"Hi Taeyang!" Pori waved at me.

"It's been a few years hasn't it?" Pada smiled.

"Yeah," I nodded.

I made eye contact with Pilseung, who flushed a little bit before he gave me a smile.

I felt my own face heat up. Oh my God what have I done right to deserve this?

"How have you been?" Pori asked excitedly. Her emerald eyes glowed under the artificial lighting our school usually provided.

"Good," I answered. I could feel Pilseung's eyes on me, and I didn't want to worry him anymore, so I put on a smile that didn't really reach my eyes. He had seen me last Friday, when I was walking to school. And while I had been touched by his declaration not to let me get hurt again, I knew it was a lost cause.

Bullies won't stop, after all.

Namhui would know.

So instead, I pretended my life was okay and ignored the concerned looks he gave me.

It hurt to ignore him like this, but I have to keep up the act. I couldn't worry them, no matter what.

So I will smile, even if it meant that my heart will die.

No matter what, I will protect my friends, even if it kills me within.

School let out really fast. Since Mondays usually had less lessons, we were free faster.

"Taeyang!" Pilseung rushed over. "Wanna walk home together?"

"Oh. Sure?"

"Thanks!" He smiled. "Pada and Pori went ahead for a date, so I wanted to spend time with you."

"They're dating?" I was a bit surprised of that truth.

"Yeah," he laughed. "I usually end up being the third wheel, even though they don't like that."

"Gyeongpo and Jihae are dating, and Jiuk is dating a guy in his year. I think his name was Dokgo Ondol or something?" I sweatdropped. "They're really cute together."

"What about Namhui?"

"Oh he hasn't moved on from Rosie," I scratched my head. "He had a huge crush on her, you see."

"Ah, that makes sense," Pilseung nodded in understanding, but it soon turned into a concerned look. "Is that... why they don't know about the bullying?"

"No!" I frowned. "I kept it from them. I don't want them to have this burden."

"You can't carry it alone," Pilseung crossed his arms. "You should know that, Taeyang!"

I snarled, annoyed by his words, and grabbed his collar without a second thought, "Stop acting so high and mighty, Pilseung! You do it too! Don't think you can hide the dark eyes you have! Stop acting as if I'm the only one struggling!"

His eyes widened, and he looked down, face shadowed, before he said, "So what if I'm struggling to move on? At least I'm doing my best to uphold the legacy they gave me. You're not, Taeyang, and it hurts seeing the confident ten-year-old I met then has changed so much."

I gaped, and he roughly pushed me off, walking away with a bit of a frustrated march in his steps.

Once he was gone, I bit my lip. What was up with him? He was acting different too! Why did he try to make it sound like I was the wrong one here?

Maybe because you know that he's telling the truth?

I growled, and quickly headed off to the arcade. It was time to kill some arcade monsters.Chapter 2

Inner Struggles

{필승}

"Pilseung, are you okay?"

"Huh?" I looked up.

Pori frowned, "You heard me."

"You've been tense since we met Taeyang," Pada added.

"I'm good," I waved it off. "Just a bit tired."

"You're usually more energetic," Pada rose an eyebrow. "Plus, I thought you would be excited to see Taeyang again after so long. You had a huge crush on him."

I sheepishly laughed, but kept quiet. I didn't want to divulge about the bullying he was going through at school. It felt like a breach of privacy.

Not to mention, he had been right when he said that I was struggling to move on. It was true; I had worked hard to ignore the emptiness in my heart ever since the Tobots left, and I never let it show.

I exhaled, and got up, "I'm going to take a walk for a while okay? I'll be right back."

"Stay safe, Hyung. You know how criminals can get," Pada warned, eyes growing soft as he said this.

"Don't worry, I'll be fine," I gave him a grin. "I'm just going for refreshing. Plus, Eomma knows to call me if there's a homicide."

"I know that. I still worry, though," Pada frowned.

I laughed, "Don't be a worrywart. I'm fine, Pada."

"Okay okay," he rolled his eyes, fondness clear in his eyes. "See you then, Hyung."

"Likewise," I smiled, and soon I was out of our new home in Nav City. The unpacking was done, so now it was only adjusting here.

I had only heard stories from Taeyang and Rosie, but the city itself was actually quite beautiful! I enjoyed how modern yet quaint it felt, and it reminded me... of home...

The home I would never see again.

My footsteps slowed.

I hadn't told Taeyang, but there was a sad reason behind our sudden move. Smile City... had been burned down to the core a month ago. A lot of people had managed to escape, but it wasn't without consequences. No more homes awaited us...

Who had done this? I had questioned myself as I stared at the ceiling a few days after the incident. I hadn't known why, who and how it had been done as it had been kept quiet. But the rumours on the Internet said that it was because of the rise of crime activity ever since the Tobots left.

I would be lying if I said I was okay with this. I had helped Eomma out during the mass fire, and had gotten scars from it, both mental and physical.

"Pilseung, if you ever need our help, we'll always be here for you!"

"Liar..." I whispered quietly. They had left in the end. Granted, it made sense, but it didn't justify the pain I feel every time a criminal managed to get away.

I wasn't Leo Kaijeo or Silver Hawk or even Captain Jack. I was just Oh Pilseung, former wielder of Galaxy Weapon 4, and a normal human. Nothing more. Not smart like Taeyang, not kind like him either...

The one thing that seemed to be my best feature would be my thirst for justice. Considering my name translated to justice, it made sense to most people.

But Pori, Pada and I knew that this wasn't always the case.

Months after they left, as I neared my twelfth birthday, I had nearly allowed myself to be run over by a car.

I could have died had it not been for the fact that Jeon Iruk had noticed and pushed me out of the way. Both of us had sustained serious injuries, of which I still have scars under my beanie, and to this day, a lot of people debate about who had been the person behind the wheel.

But that day led to us finally reconciling. We finally managed to get past our usually prickly personalities and become friends.

His words had inspired me to go to therapy after three-quarters of a year spent on contemplating. He had said that even if the Tobots were gone, someone had to maintain the peace, no matter how hard it was for my heart.

And that was what led me to decide that I couldn't mourn or anything. I had to move on. They were probably not going to come back, after all.

Right?

My eyes then caught a familiar shade of white with streaks of pink, and her voice wafted to my ears, "Are we sure he will be here?"

"Of course! His coordinates were last found here!"

My eyes widened, and my feet moved on their own as I rushed over.

"R-ROSIE!"

The long strands of her hair flew as she spun around, and her eyes widened in shock.

"P-Pilseung?!"

I couldn't believe my eyes. It really was her... and...

"L-Leo Kaijeo..."

Without realising my tears overflowed as I rushed over and hugged him.

He was big, yes, but right now, the pain, the suffering, the fake smiles... it was all worth it.

I just let them all rip in this one hug.

He seemed surprised at first, but soon he hugged back, and I could feel the warmth from it, "P-Pilseung!"

"Hey! Let me hug him for a change!" Another hand grabbed me, but it was a familiar navy blue.

Silver Hawk hit Captain Jack on the head but smiled at me, "Pilseung, it's been a long time."

"You've grown so tall!" Lightning smiled.

"He's our height!" Tankdori cheered.

"It's good to see you again— Wait, are you crying?"

I stopped, and felt my cheeks again.

I felt the water and how moist my cheeks were, but for once I didn't care. I didn't care if there were people watching me or whatever. I.. I had missed them so much, and what others think didn't mean a thing anymore.

I just buried myself into their metallic bodies, allowing the tears to finally come out after so long.

I knew there was definitely a reason behind their return.

But for once, I just wanted to be happy and relish in their presence.

Chapter 3

Their Story

{태양}

"It's been so long!"

"Y-Yeah!" I heard Pilseung answer as he wiped the tears away, a smile on his face. A genuine one. One I envied a lot, to be honest. How lucky could he get?

"I was so worried when I heard that Smile City had burned down!" Rosie hugged him gently. "The construction of Unicorn has been going great, so we had time to visit!"

"I'm glad of that," he smiled, but it soon turned to a frown that reflected my own. "Wait, how did you know?"

"About that..." Silver Hawk looked hesitant. "The city... was burned by the Galaxy Weapon Hunter."

Wait, hold on, burned? And also, a what now?

"What?" Pilseung sounded shocked. "What's this Galaxy Weapon Hunter, and why would they..."

"No one knows anything about them, but they've been hunting down former holders of the Galaxy Weapons," Classic explained. "Pilseung-nim, this Hunter nearly got Rosie-kongjunim, and they have already gotten to Bubble Cat."

"Is she okay?" He asked, concern lacing his tone.

"They, you mean," Leo Kaijeo corrected. "And yeah, they're fine. They got crazy injuries, though. It's terrifying."

"So... they were hunting me down, and that's why my city burned...?" Pilseung went quiet. "Iruk... died because of me...? Pori's parents too? And all my classmates... They all died... because of my status as a Galaxy Master?"

"Pilseung, don't blame yourself..." Rosie softly said.

"It's basically me killing them," he whispered. "Rosie... I'm sorry. I can't help you. You shouldn't tell Taeyang that I had moved here because of the fire. You can't. He's going through a hard time right now, and I don't want to burden him. Plus, he would be a great help to you in hunting that jerk down."

My eyes widened. Was that why he had been so mad at me? Because he knew just how overwhelming it could be?

Suddenly, his actions made sense. Why he had come on a Friday even though it was better to start school on the first day of the school week. He hadn't been given much choice.

And now my heart grew heavy. He had suffered this long?

I contemplated revealing myself, but I decided to just listen in first.

"Pilseung, you know that's not true... I'm sure you'll be a great help," Rosie placed her hand on his shoulder.

"I don't want what happened with King Demonseu to happen again!" He yelled, tears appearing as he spun around. "Rosie, I couldn't do anything!"

What?

What was this idiot insinuating? He was very useful, thank you very much! And yet he was claiming he wasn't?!?

That was the last straw.

Without thinking straight, I ran over and back-hugged him.

"Wha- Taeyang?!"

"Don't be an idiot!" I snapped at him. "I was the one who couldn't do anything inside King Demonseu you pabo*! You're the one who did all the work!"

"I agree with him," Rosie crossed her arms. "You did great Pilseung. Without your presence there, we wouldn't have won! Even during the struggle for Galaxy Weapon 6, your presence saved Taeyang from drowning!"

"A deeply terrifying thought," Kongdu nodded.

"E-EH?!" His face flared up.

"Just accept it," Silver Hawk lightly smacked his head.

"That hurts, Silver Hawk!" He protested.

I laughed, and then asked, "What about Master V and the others?"

"They're going to arrive soon," she smiled, but soon she frowned and sighed, "I don't want to drag any of you into this."

The two of us then shared a glance, and I said, "Rosie, this is our mess too. We won't let you take this one alone."

"We are the V trio, after all," Pilseung joked, bringing up an old nickname we had decided for the three of us.

Rosie laughed, "You have a point. Alright then. We'll need a meet-up place, though."

"What about that place where Dragon was?" I offered.

"The cave?" Rosie looked surprised.

"What cave?" Pilseung looked confused.

"We first met Dragon in the plains where we fought off Octonaus the first time," I quickly explained.

"That makes sense," he mumbled, but nodded. "Alright then. How do we get there, though? We can't walk, can we?"

"We'll come over and pick you up in our miniaturised forms," Leo Kaijeo offered. "Rosie-kongjunim will ensure that."

"Of course," Rosie nodded.

"Alright then," I agreed. "But we should probably get more help. The Galaxy Detectives should be able to help."

"And maybe Pada and Pori too," Pilseung added.

"Would it be okay to involve them—"

"It would be fun. Namhui's missed her a lot," I laughed.

At that, Rosie's face flared up, and Pilseung's ears perked up, "Wait, you reciprocate it!?"

"Of course she does!" I smirked, ignoring the sharp yet playful gaze I was getting. "She was the reason Namhui and I became friends, after all!"

"KANG TAEYANGGGGG!!!!" She immediately flushed all over and covered her face.

The rest of us burst out laughing. Gosh, it felt so nice to be able to joke around like this after six years of darkness.

"I'm going to text them to meet up here then," Pilseung got his phone out.

"Same here," I got mine out. "Jihae and Gyeongpo should be done with their date already."

"And I'm sure Pori and Pada are done with their homework," Pilseung did the same.

"Alright, so we'll wait for everyone, do reintroductions and then head to the cave to customise it. That sounds like a plan," Rosie mumbled.

At that, the two of us stopped typing and slowly turned to Rosie.

"Customise?" I repeated. "What are you talking about?"

She gave an enigmatic smile, "You'll see. Go call them first and I'll show you once we get to the cave. It's a new feature for the Space Guardians."

Chapter 4

A Sad Realisation

{필승}

"Rosie!"

"Everyone!" She waved, and they rushed to her. Pori and the blue-haired female were first, both gushing over how beautiful she had become, while Namhui's face had gone totally red.

But I noticed that there were three people I didn't recognise. The one with a beanie like mine was Jiuk according to Taeyang's description, and the one who was holding his hand... was probably Ondol?

So who was the last one?

And wait, this many people knew Rosie?

"Jiuk, it's nice to see you again," Rosie walked over to Jiuk. "Who are these two, if I may ask?"

"I'm Dokgo Ondol!" The other beanie-wearing male smiled as he waved. "And this is my Hyung, Dokgo Ogong! He's amazing with computers, and Jiuk thought we would need it!"

"I just had a feeling..." Jiuk's face flared up.

Rosie laughed, "Well, you're not wrong. Oh, there they are."

We all turned to see Master V and various other Tobots land. I didn't know who they were, but Taeyang did. His eyes lit up and he ran over, hugging them tight. I could hear his tears falling down as the Tobots reciprocated it, least of all the three Tobots who made up Master V.

"Oh, Pilseung's here too!" Speed noticed and waved me over.

I laughed and jogged over, only to be scooped up into a hug that was warm, it made me happy.

"I missed Earth and you a lot," Rocket affectionately hugged Taeyang slightly before he gave me a tight squeeze too.

"I-I missed you too," he smiled back, and for a minute I was struck by how broken and sad it was.

Taeyang, how many scars do you have inside?...

"Hi hi!" Pori waved, and Taeyang's other friends looked at us, shocked.

"You know about the Tobots?" Gyeongpo asked.

"I was the wielder of Galaxy Weapon 4," I sheepishly laughed as the two of us was let down eventually. "Nice to meet you all. Oh Pilseung imnida,"

"Woah! Wait, you mean you're the second user after...Swag?" Namhui said that name hesitantly.

At that, I saw something change in Taeyang's eyes. Like it was reliving bad memories...

"I don't know who this Swag is, but if he's important to Taeyang, I'll make sure I'll uphold the title better than before," I turned to them, a slight fire in my eyes.

I knew that I would never be able to measure up to Swag, whoever he was, but... I wanted to be there for him. He had probably gone through a lot.

"AWWWWW!" Pori squealed as she squished me. "Your love is showing!"

In five seconds flat, it clicked, and my entire face went completely red. AHHH! Why am I so easy to fluster? Gosh, this is why my friends are always teasing me!

"K-Keep it down!" I hissed.

"He didn't hear," Rosie assured, and we turned to see him talking with his other Tobot partners, laughing as he went.

That laugh brought me back, alright. Back before they had left, that laugh that sounded like a broken record—

Wait.

I stopped. My eyes grew wide.

It had always been there, even before we met. Could it be that... he was being bullied before we met?

That... That would explain a lot. He had always avoided questions about his past.

Why? Why keep it from his friends, though?

The answer came quickly, and I couldn't help the draining of my face color.

Most probably he had been blackmailed with his friends' safety. Taeyang's selflessness had always been a problem, according to Rosie.

With this information in mind, it only made me feel worse for him. I wish I could tell them this, but it would be a breach of privacy...

I rubbed my temple. I was exhausted from all this drama.

"-seung. Pilseung!"

I snapped out of my daze and looked at Pori, whose emerald looked concerned as she asked, "Hey, you okay? You haven't spaced out since... since the fire."

"It's nothing," I waved it off. "Anyway, Rosie, what do we know of this Hunter? If we can stop them here, it'll be great."

"We don't know much either," Rosie sighed. "Bubble Cat could only give some descriptions. But this person... is most probably humanoid."

"In other words, they would blend into Earth well," Taeyang deduced as he walked back to us.

"If we need to figure out stuff like that, then I can help," Ogong suddenly spoke up.

"Huh?" We all blinked as we turned to look at him.

He grinned slightly, "If you guys are Tobot Pilots, then I have no need to hide it any longer."

"So we don't have to hide it from Jiuk!? Yay!" Ondol cheered. "Go call your boyfriend, Hyung!"

"H-He's not my boyfriend!" Ogong's face flared up.

"You know he is Hyung because you guys once ki—Mmphmmph mph!" His mouth was suddenly covered by a beet red Ogong.

"Hold on, you're a Tobot pilot?" Rosie gasped.

"I came from Daedo City, if that clears up anything," he answered as he took out his phone to text someone. After a while he looked up, "They're heading here. Should be here soon."

"That would be very helpful," Rosie nodded. "Thank you, Ogong."

"Hey, it's no biggie. When we heard of Tobots in Nav City we were honestly surprised. Never expected Ondol's boyfriend to be involved with them," he admitted.

"That's really awesome!" Jihae smiled.

"Thanks," he sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. "It was tiring, but it was worth it."

All this banter made me smile. It felt nice to be surrounded by happiness after the rain.

Little did I know that the rain hadn't even begun.

Chapter 5

Confrontation

{태양}

To say I was surprised would be an understatement, honestly.

To know that Dokgo Ondol was the younger brother to a Daedian Tobot Pilot was just... shocking. I had known him for a few years after he moved from Daedo, but it had never clicked that perhaps he could be involved with them.

I was very surprised, to say the least. I guess my investigation skills had dulled due to lack of use.

But either way, we were soon in Daedo City after a lift between Ogong's Mach W and our Tobots. They had to compromise due to the lack of Tobots who could turn into air vehicles, but that was fine with us. It felt very nostalgic to me to be on them after all this time.

"Did you miss me?" Rocket teased as I sat in the pod.

"Obviously," I laughed. "I really did, Rocket."

"That's nice," Speed joked.

"Have you been good?" Monster asked.

I stopped, and wondered what to answer.

Okay? I was definitely not that.

Fine? What did that mean, even?

"Taeyang... are they still bullying you?"

My head shot up, "R-Rocket!"

Too late. I heard Gyeongpo's voice call out from Airpang's pod, "What are you talking about?"

"You never told them Taeyang?!" Speed sounded shocked.

"Technically, how does one even tell their friends that they're being bullied?" Monster asked.

"WHAT?!"

"GUYS!" I whisper-yelled at them.

Speed and Monster looked away, innocently whistling.

"Taeyang, you were what?!" Namhui angrily shouted.

"I-I can explain—"

"Guys, stop this!" Pilseung cut in. "You need to stop!"

"Why?!" Jihae demanded. "Why did he keep this—"

"SHUT UP!" I suddenly screamed. All the pent-up anger, frustration, everything was finally being forced into something unhealthy; shouting.

But the dam had been broken, and it showed very well as I yelled, "You have no freaking right to get mad at me for that! They... They kept on threatening your safety! Who the heck in their right mind would let their friends get hurt all because you refused to do something for an upperclassman?!"

"Taeyang..."

"You're not alone," Pilseung's voice suddenly wafted out. "I... I was bullied too growing up. Compared to my brother in every single aspect. They expected something of the same calibre as Pada, and when they didn't get it, they tried to hide their disappointment, but I could feel it. My dad left us because of me."

"You know it wasn't—"

"I was the last straw and it counts," his tone grew soft.

"Pilseung..." Leo Kaijeo whispered.

My eyes widened. I did know that Pilseung had been bullied, but to know he had been compared to his BROTHER... Wow...

"Taeyang, it's okay to not be okay. Don't lie to yourself anymore... I promised I would be by your side, and I don't plan on rescinding that promise any time soon."

Pilseung...

I looked down, and put my head into my hands, finally sobbing out, "I-I'm so sorry..."

"Can you beam him over to my place, please?" He asked Master V.

"Of course."

The next thing I knew, there was someone hugging me.

And the warmth I felt... it was so... so nice....

Is it okay to sink into it?

Am I allowed this pleasure?

...

I... I think so.

I want it. So so badly, I really want it.

Without thinking about it, I leaned in and hugged back.

"T-Thank you..." I sobbed out. "I-I really needed it."

He smiled and hugged me tightly, "I know. I know how much you needed it. I'm here for you always, Taeyang... I-I-I... I love you..."

It was at that moment that my hormones kicked in.

Grabbing his hoodie after letting it go, I pulled him closer and let our lips meet.

"O-OOMPH!" Pilseung yelped.

"Called it!" I heard Pori cheer.

"Just confess already," Pada sounded fond as he said that. "We all know you like each other."

"E-EH?!" I quickly pulled away, a face as red as a tomato clear, while Pilseung had the same reaction, covering his face with his beanie.

"It was so cute watching you guys," Rosie chuckled. "I remember that when we were ten, the Tobots and I would be so ticked off watching you two beat around the bush."

"W-WHAT?!" My face went red. Wait, was it THAT obvious back then?

"1, 2, 3, we had bets going on who would confess," Rocket answered calmly, but anyone could sense the grin he probably had. "Most of us bet on Taeyang, honestly. The only people who actually bet on Pilseung were Classic, the Rangers and Rosie."

"I had a feeling," I could practically feel her smirk. "Despite how he looks, Pilseung has the guts to confess."

"I-I can't believe you..." Now I really wished I had something to cover my face with aside from the helmet of the uniform Galaxy Weapon 1 had provided.

"That's really cute, though," Ondol chirped up. "I'm glad you found someone, Taeyang-sshi."

"Same here," Ogong laughed.

"T-Thanks," I blushed hard. It did feel nice to finally know that my crush on Pilseung was reciprocated. The feeling in my chest...

It was warm. It was happy.

I...

I liked it a lot.

"C-Can we do that again?" I asked Pilseung quietly.

"The hug?"

I nodded, and he immediately gave me a hug.

I sank into it, a content smile on my face.

We were in our own world, and I loved it.

Chapter 6

Arrival At Daedo

{필승}

By the time we arrived at the Tobot base in Daedo, Taeyang and I were complete tomatoes.

Who wouldn't be when you were teased for the entire flight after your first kiss? Granted, it was very warm, and Taeyang had initiated the kiss, but I had confessed first, so I guess it works?

Rosie was quick to grin at the Tobots who had bet on Taeyang, saying, "You know the rules."

"We know the rules..." Leo Kaijeo grumbled. "Sheesh, I'm really sorry I didn't have faith in Pilseung now."

I gave him a blank stare and said, "I'm feeling the love right now. You're only saying that because you lost."

"Erk..."

"His snarks are really great now, though, and I love them," Rosie grinned.

"I know right? Back then he had none," Kongdu agreed.

"You gotta love them jabs," Pori nodded solemnly.

"I guess Iruk rubbed off on me," I admitted, a soft chuckle erupting from my mouth.

"Iruk?" Taeyang blinked.

"His former bully, who became our friend, but then he... died..." Pori sighed.

"O-Oh... H-How?" Ogong asked quietly.

"Their city was burned to the ground a month ago," Rosie answered for us.

"Wait, Smile City?" A new voice called out, and we turned to see a small group around the same size as ours walk over.

"Duri!" Ogong surged forward and hugged one of them.

"We saw each other a few days ago, Gonggong," the light brown-haired male joked, but his tone grew serious as he turned to us, holding his hand out despite still holding onto Ogong, "Cha Duri, co-leader of the Tobot Pilots from Daedo City."

"Oh Pilseung, Tobot Pilot from Smile City," I answered swiftly, shaking his hand.

"I apologise for my twin brother, the other leader. He's not here because he's helping out some of our friends who don't live around here," Duri apologised.

"Don't worry, we get it," Taeyang stepped in and shook his hand. "Kang Taeyang, Tobot Pilot from Nav City."

"So you're also co-leaders?" Duri asked us, the curiosity in his eyes genuine as he looked at us.

At that, the two of us immediately flushed. W-What? Co-leaders!?

"Yeah," Pori smoothly answered. "They are the leaders."

Jihae nodded enthusiastically in response.

"And also fresh boyfriends from the control pod," Jiuk cackled as our faces went red.

"I-I haven't asked him out or anything!" I protested.

"Then you should once we're done with all of this Galaxy Hunter nonsense," Pori smirked.

My mind stopped processing that very moment. E-Eh?!

"I-I mean, I-I would," Taeyang blushed as he looked away, a red face clear on his face.

My face exploded as well, "I-If you want it, s-sure!"

Pori and Pada immediately burst out laughing.

"F-FINALLY!" Pada choked.

"THEY FINALLY ASK THE OTHER OUT!" Pori cheered."We lost our braincells all day long dealing with the two of you back when we were ten."

Ogong snickered, "I can tell."

"But like, can we get back to the part where your friend DIED?" His tone switched into a concerned one.

"Oh, erm, yeah," I looked away, all too aware of everyone's gazes on me. "It's.... A long story."

"Smile City burned down, and your family was the only surviving one," Duri spoke up. "How did you survive?"

"Well..." I felt Taeyang's hand on my shoulder, and said, "Alright then. I'll tell you."

"Are you sure?" He asked quietly.

"Yeah," I nodded. "If... if it can help us find the Hunter... I'll gladly do it."

"Just... be careful."

We've only been boyfriends for minutes, and already he's concerned. I had to stifle my snort. That was the Kang Taeyang I knew.

"I will," I smiled. "So don't worry about me."

"I will still worry," he said.

"True," I said. "But I'll be fine, and you know it."

"Alright then," he nodded. His hand didn't leave, though, and I didn't mind.

I inhaled, before I turned to them, "It's a long story. And honestly, I don't want to relive it again..."

"But. If it helps us find the Hunter and put an end to them, I'll gladly do it. I owe that to my friends and all the other civilians of Smile City who died in that fire..."

"So... brace yourself, guys, it's not a nice story..." I exhaled.

Taeyang's grip tightened. A sign that I didn't have to say a word. I didn't have to relive the pain.

But I had to. That Hunter had killed my friends and family. I couldn't let my own feelings get in the way of bringing justice for my loved ones.

I inhaled.

No one should ever have to go through what I did.

And it was my fault. I knew that.

The scars on my body, on my arms proved that I knew all too well that I wasn't supposed to be alive.

But I AM alive.

And I have people who love me despite the danger.

So guys...

Please watch over me from up there.

I WILL get revenge for you.

Even...

Even if it kills me.

Even if it rips my soul out and leaves me in eternal pain.

I deserve it anyway, for what I did to you.

Iruk, everyone... all of you didn't have to die so brutally.

But you did because of the Galaxy Weapon Hunter.

Hey, if you can hear my thoughts now...

I want you to know that when we find you, I will kill you myself. I will rip your soul away and get my hands dirty.

Because you destroyed my home, my safe haven, and made me come over to Nav City to see Taeyang broken, pained...

And that's unforgivable.

I won't be merciful, so you better be ready, because when I come for you, you will wish you were never born.