#I’m like so in love with the blue and I have another Yun blue custom combo I like too

[kylehyde]

🔹 blue period 🔹

[writing-frenzy]

I Wouldn’t Risk It (SVSSS Fic)

Summery: In which one annoyed Shang Huan does not know why he puts up with a certain Demonic Cultivator- “I owe you.” ah, that’s right.

Warning: some Violence and blood, and cursing. All good things to be found in svsss canon~

(In which @hamelin-born is a terrible, wonderful enabler, thus this is how it came about.)

EDIT: Part of Wager verse, first Part HERE

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“Welcome to- oh wait it’s you.” Shang Huan started to greet some incoming customers, only to give the pair that came in a flat look instead.

“Greetings Uncle Shang!” Cao Mei, an actually adorable raven haired girl, her purple eyes so dark one could almost think they were black if it weren’t for certain lighting here and there. Puberty was obviously treating her well, seeing she must have been 19 at least, was developing some curves, her baby fat also finally melted off. But despite this, Shang Huan was unmoved, as for one, he wasn’t a fucking pedo, and two, he could easily see that same matching intelligence and calculation she inherited from her grandfather’s own dark purple eyes.

As expected of Wife #45; not only a knock out beauty in the making, but even had more IQ points then most, along with a more developed character and backstory then a lot of his later wife plots.

Though, he could admit he was taken off guard with her story then most; the cause of that being one certain person-

“I see the place hasn’t burnt down yet; congratulations for that.” was huffed by said anomaly, making Shang Huan focus his deadpan face on the other.

“Thanks, my kitchen staff is always trying though.” and no sooner were the words spoken, then what sounded like multiple firecrackers going off in said kitchen... He could even swear he saw what looked like a blue firework of a bird fly out from there, before one of his handy golems ate it as it passed...

Closing his eyes, Shang Huan counted to three, before opening them once more; he would never be able to count as high as he really wanted, but time was rarely on his side, so three it was. Hazel eyes once more opening, Shang Huan was able to look at a source of many headaches, one Dark Poison Sect Leader, Cao Xiaowen, a true doting grandfather who still looked like he was only in his late 20s, his blood red hair peppered with black from all the resentful energy surrounding him, and greys from stress of life actually catching up with him.

And a character that was never in Proud Immortal Demon Way, but yet again from one of his other stories; a Demonic Sect Leader that had just been a random background character, just to flesh out that world a bit more. He had only named because while he could get away without naming the Sect the guy made, it wouldn’t make sense to have Cao Xiaowen be nameless, seeing as he had bullshited a whole bunch of techniques this infamous and well known demonic cultivator was supposed to have made...

Making a face at that smiling face before him, Shang Huan felt some regrets; just some more to add to his pile stashed in his closet and under his floorboards, but what can one do? Especially with a story that seems to make sure he can never forget any of them, always seeming to push willing to push cheery, willful mistakes into his face.

i.e. the Demonic Sect Leader before him.

But then again, to see these two characters, Cao Xiaowen and Cao Mei connect here, in this living world of PIDW and other mash ups, was honestly rather amazing, just with Demonic Cultivation and the same last names... It was as fascinating as it was paranoia inducing. Cao Mei had been just another revenge wife plot, the young woman wanting vengeance against her Mother for killing her loved family members along with trying to kill her... as well as to save her young baby brother, who their Mother was trying to mold into her perfect image of Sect Leader. The girl had only been able to survive for as long as she did because one of her dying relatives had sacrificed themselves, turning themselves into her Spirit Familiar and protecting her...

.... And as for Cao Xiaowen, when he had mentioned how he went down in his end in his own story verse, Airplane had only said that it was due to betrayal and sacrifice, that being the only ending he gave the character...

(How many other fucking throwaway lines does he have to worry about ohmygodwhyisthishislife-)  

“...So, why do you choose now to darken my doorway?” Shang Huan asked, the unspoken ‘I-know-you-hate-this-place-much-less-willing-to-bring-your-beloved-granddaughter-with-you.’ not said, but easily heard.

“... You would be glad to know, but I must now introduce you to Sect Leader of the Dark Poison Sect, Cao Meihui.” Cao Xiaowen introduced as he motioned to the young girl. Shang Huan stared for but a moment before closing his eyes once more, even as whispers broke out all around them in his place, from the gambling tables to even the bar and restaurant.

This time he allowed himself to count to 10, as a treat.

“Follow me this way, Elder Cao, Sect Leader Cao.” and with a simple hand motion, a few of his workers already getting things done, the Ruby Room already to entertain his ‘guests’. It didn’t take to long after all, with his standards and staff precision, but he needed to make sure there was nothing to spy on in this conversation.

Because oh, does he have a lot to say right now.

Once the door was closed and all the silences spells and talismans in place, Shang Huan rounded on the now sitting pair, letting his hands slam on the service table before him.

“Can you not?!” Shang Huan seethed, even as Cao Xiaowen grinned, his heir now leader beside him shifting ever so slightly beside him, smartly making some space between them.

“Why, Shang Huan, what ever do you mean?”

“You politic in my place again and I will make sure to show the world just how much I can beat you into the ground.” was practically growled, Cao Xiaowen smartly raising his hands in surrender as he did. “Why the hell did you even need to do that, didn’t you already get the stalker bitch killed and dispersed last year? I distinctly remember being there for the mad ramblings.” 

-Urgh- he never wanted that much TMI into someone’s deluded sexual fantasies, especially rounding around this who-me? Demonic Cultivator! Body stealing and marrying the guy’s son just to get a possible chance at him, and then killing him and half his family when she still couldn’t get what she wanted to spite him?

Shang Huan doesn’t move, but that still doesn’t mean he’s not fighting a shiver of repulsion at the thought. Seeing the way Cao Xiaowen grimaced at the reminder, Shang Huan was actually starting to feel in a better mood. 

“While she and most of her supporters are now gone, traces of those who still hold sympathies for her and her ideals still remain.” the man scowled, even as he took out a small sachet, handing the small plain back over as he did.

Hmmm, spicy roasted melon seeds; say what you will about the man, he did know his bribes at least.

“They’re also trying to push my little didi to be the next Sect Leader, even though he never wanted it in the first place!” Cao Meihui scowled in turn, taking out a beautiful, yet still deadly battle fan to fan herself. “Really, he has suffered enough under that woman’s ‘care’, he should be able to choose however he wishes to live in life!”

Shang Huan doesn’t even wince at those words, even as he thinks on the poor fate of canon fodder Cao Yun, a young boy desperate to leave his harsh home circumstances, even joining a certain Righteous Sect set to be doomed and destroyed, loosing his home once again and setting him in turn on a doomed quest to stop Luo Binghe...

Well, considering the boy had left home at 15, and had only just turned that this year, maybe that path could be prevented; there were still plenty of other Sects still up and running when his protagonist came into power, maybe he could join one of those?

Still though, maybe he should give the kid a transportation talisman for his birthday; you can never have too many of those after all.

“That still does not explain why you had to announce Young Mei right in front of my store.”

“Please, it’s the perfect place too; not many completely neutral places around anymore, what with Hua Hua Palace trying to police everyone and dragging the other Righteous Sects into it... Speaking of which, they haven’t bothered you after last time, have they?” Cao Xiaowen asks, with what looks like could be actual concern in his eyes.... Ha-

“I’m pretty sure they won’t forget my warding anytime soon; not to mention the rest of the towns folk’s farewells.” Shang Huan replies dryly, remembering just how all those golden pricks were beautifully thrown from his store, some of his staff even joining in on the beatdown the protection brought forth. If he remembers right, it soon became a whole town wide event to run them all out. 

And when you have a whole town seemingly a melting pot filled with Spiritual beings, humans, and demons, they definitely are going to have their wounds to lick.

“But again, my place is, as you said Neutral; so why are you bringing in politics here? Announcements of a new Sect Leader should be only at official events or places that one is already allied with after all.” The Owner of the Gilded Plane asks lightly, those hazel eyes taking on a deadly touch, like molten liquid gold is taking over bronze, a sunset of colors being the last of the sky you will ever see, easily to see it all reflected in the blade at his side.

(Ah, how terrifying, seeing the threat of Fortune’s Favored all out to bare, Dujin Xue at his side, the spirit weapon willing and bloodthirsty to take out any threat to its master.)

For a moment, all is silent, before finally, the red haired cultivator takes from his sleeves, a few boxes simple in their decorations and yet obviously of the finest Jade.

“I almost forgot; I have with me some of the finest of Blight and Poison Talismans with me, not to mention my newest creations; a Pipa made with Blood Drain White Wood and using heart strings of an abyssal creature, painted with curse residue.” Cao Xiaowen motions to an opened box with said black and purple instrument with white accents, truly a work of art and power, even unbound as it is, no master to really work those deadly strings just yet.

Another box is soon opened as well, revealing a twin pair of daggers, their blades white with a beautiful red handle for a hilt. “Not to mention these Ancient Necromancer’s Bone Daggers, recently uncovered in an old tomb, plenty of resentful energy and dark desires just waiting to be unveiled in any upcoming battle, madness in but a cut to be delivered...” the former Sect Leader says, a bit of sweat coming from his brow, those dark eyes uneasy even as he hides behind his bluster and charm. His granddaughter, Cao Meihui watches intently, her own dark eyes worried even as she is awed by her beloved grandfather’s work, and the man who can make him so nervous. 

The one Fortune’s Favored watches and listens, and waits, even as he is showcased all the wares most people would die to get their hands on, each item worth more then most lives to some.

“... I will give you a warning and you will be Marked for it; there will be no next time if you try and pull this stunt again, you hear me Xiaowen?” Shang Huan allows, eyes turning back into that warm and soft hazel, even as he sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose as he does. Well, at least he now has more good things in store for his gambling patrons, who will no doubt go crazy for these goods.

(Never noticing how the familial pair relax, a breath of relief taken for their own that this gambit actually worked, even if they are now Marked by all the staff.

Best behavior is a must for now at least.) 

-----+----- 

~15 Years ago~

Cao Xiaowen, once just regular Cao Xiao, was a man most would never dare cross; as a Demonic Cultivator, you wouldn’t even be able to escape through death. He had cultivated carefully along his chosen path, having no talent for what was Righteous roads, so turned down to darker paths and alleys to get what he wanted. He had been smart about it, and equally talented for Demonic Cultivation, becoming a Bounty Hunter to be able to hide just what practices he used.

Not only did it get him much needed gold, but the resentful energy and blood of the wicked were quiet useful on his path. Unlike other Demonic Cultivators that sought to take in the energies as fast as possible to form their Obsidian Cores, killing innocents, and eventually needing Cauldrons in the end to balance themselves and to go farther in their Cultivation, Cao Xiaowen went for a more steadfast pace.

He first started with crafting items of Resentful energy, talismans and amulets to get a better feel for the delicacies of the energy he chose to work with. With time and effort, along with plenty of meditation and blood on his hands, he found a cultivation path that suited him rather well, untraditional as it was for the usual brutal force most Demonic Cultivators usually went. His path was like a slow acting poison, letting the wicked energies ever so carefully, ever so gently gather into his meridians, building up a steady foundation before he ever focused on building his Core.

And the results for it were astounding; when compared to traditional Demonic Cultivators, not only could Cao Xiaowen hold his own with those stages above his own, he could beat even those whose Cultivation that was said to be an entire level above him. Not to mention just how devastating his spells and attacks were against those of the Righteous Sects.

It was no surprise that when he founded his own Sect, he had plenty of disciples to chose and pick from...But he wasn’t stupid.

He knew he had plenty of enemies all around him, some just jealous of his power, others hateful of just how he got it, being a Demonic Cultivator was a sin for some even if he only went after criminals. That he was a rather attractive even as his red hair was peppered black and grey, and even a few tigers acting like pigs to be fatten all came for him in the end. He knows people were waiting in the shadows, eager to take him down and steal everything he worked for, salivating over his abilities and life work...

Though despite it all, he never expected the betrayal to come so close to home.

“P-papa.” was stuttered out by his honestly rather adorable Granddaughter, the young four year old sobbing as she reached for him; his daughter in law smiling all the while even as she held one of his crafted knives to the little girl’s throat. He had to give it to her, not many women could still look so devastatingly beautiful, covered as they were in their husband’s blood. He never expected the raven haired woman to be so ruthless, honestly sure the woman loved his son.

Looks like he still has errors in his judgement, even at his age; taken off guard on what he though would be a simple material gathering mission, only to be crippled and threatened by a woman he thought he could trust even as she slit his beloved child’s throat before his eyes.

“You really shouldn’t have refused me all those years ago; this all could have been avoided if you had just agreed to be mine... oh well, too late for regrets.” The woman mourns softly, making Cao Xiaowen feel his brow crinkle, dark eyes confused.

But trying to parse the words of the mad woman was not something he had time for, seeing as his lovely little granddaughter was suddenly in his arms, the both of them finding themselves being pushed off a cliff, and into the Broken Jaw Ravine.

Using what remained of his spiritual energy in his blighted Obsidian Core, Cao Xiaowen was fully prepared to become his dear granddaughter’s Familiar Spirit to protect her...

When in the end, it turned out unnecessary; they ended up landing in a Spirit Capture Net. And judging by the pure color and Qi he could feel running through it, a high quality one at that. Feeling how it blocked him from using any of his spiritual energy and Qi, he looked to his darling dear grandchild, the (forcibly) retired Sect Leader couldn’t help but feel so relieved to see her shaken, but well at least in body.

And then he heard the cursing.

“What in the fuck you soggy old vulture of a corpse! Curses on your fucking clothing to never be nice and pristine, to always stub your toe on the corner, to be miserable even when you have your favorite food! Do you know how long it took to make that net?! Could you have fallen somewhere else? No, of course the skies would decide to shit on me with some young man in my beautifully crafted net! Probably jumped off for the heck of it knowing how fucking dumb most Demonic Cultivators are! ARRRHGGGG YOU DAMN WALNUT!” was practically ranted below them, a young brunet man yelling up at him, who couldn’t be more then in his 20′s. (Though rather impressively at the Peak of Core Formation from what he could sense.)

As it was, two pairs of dark eyes could only give the ranting rouge a wide eyed stare, even when, in the end, the young man let them down, hazel eyes narrowed in on them. He raised one brow at his child that was with him, but easily narrowed them back onto Cao Xiaowen’s own.

Ah, he could probably sense his power (use his weakness).

“So, this is how it is going to go down. I’ll help heal you and your kid, won’t even leave her in debt... tho your ass is mine; I say jump, you better do it and ask if this is high enough. You will owe me till the end of your day and then some, and in return I will benevolently help you out. You agree or should I leave you and the kid here for any unpleasant fates?” was the rather grumpy, if smartly given offer, Cao Xiaowen finding he can’t help but respect it, even as crudely as it was put. Looking down to his innocent little Cao Mei, the grandfather could only nod at the offer, no other recourse that could ensure his little gem a better chance at life.

And thus marked the first meeting between the terrible and powerful Dark Poison Sect Leader Cao Xiaowen, and the Rogue Cultivator Shang Huan, who would one day have a title even greater then his own.

Amazing really, how some things start (and others end).

-----

:D Here we are, another story from this verse; it was really fun! (even if I actually had to create a damn timeline to make sure everything was straight TTxTT)

Anyways, here is an ally of Airplane! Their relationship can be described as.

Shang Huan: Why do I put up with you again?

Cao Xiaowen: Because I have the best gifts bitch. *Inwardly sweaty*

But Also-

Cao Xiaowen: So... Demonic Cultivating involves a lot of... Dual Cultivating huh... And are those innocents being brutally murdered over there?

Rando: Yeah, ain’t it great? :D

Cao Xiaowen: ... *proceeds to make a cultivation path that involves as little Dual Cultivation as needed while also being one of the nicest ironically* Ah, that is better, better get more wicked blood~

These two were really fun to write together, and with PIDW, I can make as many ocs as I want~ So much to do, so much to play with~

Oh yeah, Shang Hua’s blade, Dujin Xue means Gilded Blood :3

Cao I picked for being a common last name, while Xiaowen means red skies. Mei means red gem, but for Meihui I liked the meaning of monstrous/demonic beauty~ As you can see, I had fun~ 

[tinywho-man]

Once More

an Akatsuki no Yona fan fiction

Pairing: Zeno x Kaya / Reincarnated!Kaya (and some platonic Zeno x Yun as well)

Word Count:2,570 words

Short prompt: As the happy hungry bunch walks around in a shopping district, Zeno meets Kaya’s reincarnation as a seller of jewelries.

(Uhhh, this is the first time that I’ve written a fanfic so pls have mercy on me and don’t expect much lmao)

/////

After a week of nothing but fighting people who endangers the fate of Kouka, the happy hungry bunch collectively agreed to treat themselves in the nearby shopping district. And by treating themselves, they mean looking around for sightseeing because reality isn’t kind enough to let them enjoy the expensive stuffs.

“Listen. Avoid getting too much attention to yourselves and causing too much ruckus, okay?” Yun attempted to tell them off and although he heard nothing but responses of agreement, he knew that it will be impossible for them not to attract attention anyway.

Everyone missed the lighthearted atmosphere and the sound of people laughing and merrily walking around rather than hearing the slices of the soldiers’ weapon, the agonizing screams of the enemies that they defeated, and the aggressive battle cries of both sides. It was a refreshing scenario and a beautiful moment for them to breathe.

All of them gleefully scanned the area until Zeno stopped walking in his tracks when he noticed the familiar brown locks and hazelnut orbs selling luxurious jewelries with gems shining as brilliantly as the eyes of the sellers. His felt that his chest tightened all of sudden.

‘K-Kaya?’ He hitched his breath as he stared at the seller with widened and surprised eyes. His feet froze on the spot as he felt his heart throbbing so loudly to the point that it’s the only thing that he can hear despite the surroundings being a thousand times louder. He clenched his tightening chest with his palms that are sweating thoroughly. Am I hallucinating? It’s been several years since I last saw her in my illusions. She can’t be Kaya’s reincarnation! They look so much alike that they can’t-

His trail of thoughts were cut off when he felt a tap on his shoulder. With his eyes still trembling, he looked at the hand on his shoulder only to find out that it was Yun. After all, it wasn’t hard for his friends to notice his strange behavior. “Zeno? What’s the matter?” Yona asked as she shifted her eyes to the person who was being stared by the yellow dragon. The female with brown locks who is allegedly Kaya’s reincarnation was talking to one of the customers, probably doing the sales talk. As her mouth moves, the golden haired man can definitely hear her cheerful voice from his imagination and he can infer that the way she moves definitely screams his deceased wife.

Yun gently gripped Zeno’s shoulder which made it easier for him to collect his thoughts and calm down. He closed his eyes for a few seconds, taking a while to find the comfort from the six worried people that surrounds him. His heart finally beats into a slower pace as he calmed down and opened his eyes to look at her properly. His expression softened as he can see a quite more energetic version of his wife.

“Want to check it out? We can only look at it though, since we have no money,” Yun mumbled the last part as he mentally sweat dropped over them being broke. Zeno simply shook his head and went back to his usual glee, “No need. I was just amazed at the jewelries,” he spoke as he fakes being fine just like how he faked it for the past several years.

Of course, none of them believed him but they have no other choice but to pretend to do so since the eternally 17 year-old will keep brushing it off. With Shin-ah especially sensing the uneasiness of the usually cheerful dragon, he did not hesitate to put Ao at Zeno’s shoulder in an attempt to comfort him. Zeno pretended not to notice as he continues to collect himself.  

Soon, he was distracted by several attractions such as funny costumes, unbelievable fortune-tellers, and amusing entertainers. The group mentally sighed in relief as the situation a while ago was their first time seeing Zeno in such an unstable state. They didn’t know if they were going around in circles, but they just walked along to the shops that attracts their interest the most just to distract their yellow happy pill. Though they were sure that he was not completely okay, they wanted to check on him later before they sleep at night in an attempt to console him.

After a while, the whole group heard Yun as he delightfully gleamed. “You can go ahead guys, I’m going to check these out,” the youngest boy said without lifting his eyes away from the products that peaked his interest which made his eyes sparkle at the sight. “Are you sure? We can wait, you know.” Jae-ha said, not wanting to leave anyone behind just for safety measures. Zeno chuckled at the overly worried man. “I’m going to accompany him. He might take a while if he wanted us to go ahead,” he remarked.

“If Zeno is there, I guess we don’t have to worry,” Kija muttered, though he knows that Zeno is still faltering quite a bit. Yona nodded, “We’re going to wait at the huge mango tree, okay?” She said. She thought that it will work out somehow with Yun calming down Zeno if he freezes again and Zeno protecting Yun without a second thought. “If you guys are still not there by the sunset, we’re going to cause a huge ruckus to search for you,” Hak added with an indifferent expression. Zeno laughed at himself because the possibility is really there. “Okay, see you later.”

Zeno hurried towards Yun as he sat beside him, “What got you so interested, kid?”

"Ah, look at these,“ Yun pointed towards a set of blueish flowers. Zeno tilted his head, "What are these?”

“Smeraldo flowers. I read from a book that these are imaginary flowers and apparently, there are rumors that once you get your hands on these flowers, its petals can cure whatever disease a person can have,” Yun explained.

A voice belonging to a seemingly old female hummed. “You are well-informed. Just add a single petal of this flower, a person will be very healthy and they will get rid of whatever illness or disease they may have. It’s a medicinal herb for incurable diseases, you know?” The grandmother who sells the smeraldo flowers spoke.

'Incurable diseases…’ Zeno frowned at the nostalgic phrase which he hated the most. “How much is this, miss?” Yun asked with the greatest puppy eyes that he could ever give in hopes of a big discount.

"Oh my, being addressed as a 'miss’ by a fair young man is really flattering. It’s 1500 rin, but for you, I will sell it for 1000 rin,“ she offered. With his shoulder growing heavy, and his head hanging down a little, it was obvious that Yun’s mood dropped after hearing the price. Sure, it was a big discount but he doesn’t even have half the money that he needs for the purchase.

"R-Right. It’s a rare flower, after all,” he nervously laughed. Zeno read the atmosphere as he quickly thinks of a way to get out this awkward situation. “Hey, kid! It looks like Hakuryuu is getting into a fight!” Zeno quickly points particularly nowhere. “What?! That troublesome guy, I swear!” The two man scrambled as they ran away from the shop.

When they were sure that they are not seen anymore, they finally halted. “Thanks, Zeno. I really wanted to buy it for you guys in case I won’t be capable enough to treat you anymore,” Yun frowned as he crossed his arms in disappointment. Zeno patted the head of their young healer. “Don’t worry. As long as I’m here, I’ll protect everyone,” he assured the kid. Yun shook his head, “I don’t want you to be severely injured anymore,” Yun’s shoulder grew heavier. Zen sighed fondly at the youngest.

“Say, Zeno,” Yun called the attention of the older male. “If you feel like you’re falling apart, I hope you remember that you are not alone anymore, okay?” he trailed off as he went ahead because he couldn’t bear the embarrassment, but he’d rather be embarrassed that let his friend drown in misery.

Zeno found the kid adorable as he watched Yun walking away with obviously flushed cheeks until Yun halted when he noticed a bracelet with seven differently colored gems– red, black, white, blue, green, yellow, and peachy orange. He wasn’t familiar with the names of precious stones but he can definitely see his family with that bracelet.

Without the two of them noticing the seller, Zeno hummed in amazement. “I like the yellow stone!” He enthusiastically claimed. “Good eye, mister! It resembles you perfectly,” the seller commented.

“Hm?” Zeno looked at the seller and almost dropped the item as he was surprised once again at the ever-so-familiar woman in front of her. Her smile was so nostalgic that Zeno reminisced his marriage life for a second. The memory of them having fun with each other’s company despite both of them not knowing when will the other meet her demise was a bittersweet one that he can’t help but bite his lip to stop his own tears. Seeing her up close gave her another pang of sadness hitting into his heart but as he glanced into the bracelet that gives him a different kind of happiness and comfort, he holds it tightly as he fights against the battle going on in his head.

He studied her features carefully. The short haired Kaya with unpresentable and simple clothes is now someone who has her hair reaching her hips and her clothes looking more colorful and elegant that goes well with her healthy body built. With the way she presents herself right now, she will never be thought of someone who is poor and sick. Although her hair length and clothing style is entirely different from Kaya, it would be safe to say that she indeed bears the soul of someone whom he loved the most but quickly passed away decades ago. He wanted to jump onto her and embrace her but he knows deep in his heart that this was not Kaya herself.

Or was she?

Of course, this is not literally Kaya herself but Zeno can’t help but question fate as to why he needed to see this person with a huge resemblance to his loved one, out of all people that he could have met. Perhaps, he already met his wife’s reincarnation countless times without him realizing it. Were they bounded to meet again and again regardless of what kind of person Kaya will be? Was Kaya impatient into meeting Zeno again? Did she found out that Zeno will never be able to meet her in the heavens so she went to the earth once again just to meet him?

He didn’t know, but one thing is for sure and that is the fact that destiny is playing with his heart and he didn’t know if he would like it or not.

Regardless, Zeno can’t help but curl his lips upward. He decided to just enjoy the moment and play along with fate “Maybe it resembles me because of my hair,” he scratched his head, trying to act as normally as possible. “I wouldn’t say that. That stone is a symbol of the sun and you surely give me a warm vibe,” she said honestly and without the hint of being flirty at all. Without the lady realizing it, it was her who was actually giving Zeno a warm vibe. He playfully grinned this time, “Well, a lot of people say that.”

As if to remind the two of them that there is another person, Yun cleared his throat and asked, “Aren’t these jewelries too expensive to be sold in a place like this?”

The young lady giggled. “Actually, my father is a stone cutter and these are the remnants or the edges that was cut. You could say that these are "rejects” but it would still be a waste not to sell it,“ she answered.

Yun nodded but he wondered if it was actually legal to do this. However, he shrugged it off because it won’t be surprising if the stones turned out to be completely fake. Perhaps the smeraldo that was being sold to them a while ago is also fake but they’ll never know. Zeno, on the other hand, was glad that the reborn Kaya does not need to spend her life in isolation anymore. Hearing her talking about her father gave him a sense of relief. "Your family seems well-off if he is a stone cutter,” Zeno said. The brown haired lady just laughed it off, “We’re not as well off as you think. But I’m thankful that my father is a great financial provider,” she said.

’At least you do not have to live by yourself while being unhealthy,’ Zeno thought as he also examined her body without perverted thoughts. She wasn’t as thin and pale as before and there was nothing more that could make Zeno happier.

The lady noticed the small piece of golden plate dangling by his head. As she takes a closer look, she knew that it was a pendant but she didn’t want to pry; maybe it was his own style. What took her interest though was the material of the necklace itself. “That chain also looks expensive and carefully carved! May I take a look at it?” Zeno was surprised at her comment that his widened eyes looked like eyes of suspicion.

“Ah, don’t worry, I’m not a thief. You don’t have to let me take a look if you don’t want to,” she reassured which made Zeno remember the first time he talked to Kaya where she also defended herself when she kept the necklace for him.

“It’s okay, I was just surprised. Here,” he said as he took it off and gave it to her with trust. He thought of it as a sort of payback for that night. “It’s really pretty and it seems like it was made just for you,” she commented. “Thank you, miss seller." Yun didn’t want to ruin the moment but he was thinking that their friends might be worried if they wouldn’t go to meet them. As much as Zeno wanted to talk to her, he also doesn’t want them to be worried and cause a ruckus while finding them. With that, they had bid her goodbye to which the lady gave them her farewell also.

"Sorry if we weren’t able to buy anything,” Yun said. She simply shook her head. “No need to be sorry. You were fun to talk to,” she reassured as she looked at Zeno with a genuine smile that Zeno missed so much seeing.

“I hope we’ll get to see each other again, mister sun,” she looked at her with hopeful eyes that glistened as the sun gets dimmer. It reminded him of how Kaya used to look at him with her loving eyes that never had an intention of doing anything bad to him but rather, it was the eyes of someone who gave him nothing but pure happiness and gentle affection.  

With no panicking and breaking down this time, Zeno gave her a smile with deep and complex feelings that not even he himself could decipher, “If we’ve been destined to meet again and again regardless of the time and place, surely we will see each other once more."

[hoseok-is-my-bias]

|| Volcano Cafe || Sehun x Male Oc {Pt. 2}

Plot: It was crazy. Almost something out of a movie. The lonely kid with nothing going for him meets the famous pop star in a coffee shop. Well…Tea shop. It’s crazy the way boba tea really brings people together.

Pairing: Sehun x Male! Oc

Word Count: 1942

Genre: || Romance || Drama ||

Notes: N/A

Kao shifted slowly as a beam of light gleamed brightly through his window, showing signs of it being early morning. He would have panicked if he hadn’t know that it was Sunday, which meant his day off. Still, rather than continue laying on the floor, he got up slowly and cracked his spine. 

Last night was something he hadn’t done in a while, it made him exhausted and elated all at once. 

He glanced over at his creation clipped to the body frame he had in his closet and couldn’t help but smile. 

On the frame was a yellow and blue button up shirt, stitched nicely with a white tank top underneath it. For bottoms it adorned a pair of blue jeans with rips where the knees would be. Kao shook his head and laughed. Maybe Mr. Sehun would like to wear something like that. 

The thought couldn’t but bring a warm feeling with it. 

Finally Kao yawned and walked past the mess of rolls on the floor and into his bathroom, cleaning himself up before he’d go back out. Even on his days off, he enjoyed going to the tea shop for Bubble tea and then spending his day searching for cloths in the shops nearby. 

As Kao rode down to the shop, he kept his thoughts on his project from home. Should he have left his stuff out? What if Maka got on the the outfit? What if she gets hurt with anything he left out? The thoughts worried him, almost to the point that he almost didn’t stop at the light while biking.

He puffed out a soft sigh as he held himself up, glancing to the side to the car beside him. When he looked in, he almost felt his jaw drop. 

A black car with a retractable top, pulled back to show the stranger from yesterday sitting with his shades on, waiting for the light to turn. Kao shook his head and starred for a moment longer before even thinking about talking to him. 

Well, he could see why that man could afford to buy him another tea. 

Just as Kao was about to yell to him a hello, the colours turned to green and Mr. Sehun had driven off. Kao felt his enthusiasm deflate a little before he puffed out his cheeks and continued biking. 

Oddly enough, Mr. Sehun just so happen to be riding his way. Who would have known? 

As soon as Kao got to the shop, he hooked up his bike to the nearby bike rack, locking it up to make sure it doesn’t get stolen or anything. He took his bag off from one shoulder and let it slip over to one side and made his way in, slowing his walking a little when he noticed the car from earlier. 

Kao raised a brow curiously but continued walking. When he walked in, he made sure to smile at the young man who was at the register, a teenager who went by Koko, currently helping a customer. 

The way the boy fidgeted while helping him confused Kao, it was almost like he was holding in a scream or something. 

Still, Kao shrugged and continued to wait behind him before he moved forward. While he stepped up and the stranger moved to the side, Kao gave the teenager a look, ignoring the stranger who was looking at him now. 

“What’s wrong, Ko? You look as though you’ve just seen ghost.” Kao said with a chuckle. Koko shook his head and sighed happily, “Oh, it’s better than that. Anyway, you want your usual Kao hyung?” Kao furrowed his brows and nodded, narrowing his eyes at the boy. “This conversation isn’t over, boy.” He said, pointing his card at the teenager who flinched slightly. The boy rolled his eyes and took the card as Kao moved to the side to join the stranger. 

Kao turned to look to the stranger and smiled, only to realize the stranger was already looking at him. The male shifted his shades up and smiled back at him, to which Kao felt his heart leap a little. 

“Oh, Hello again.” He said as he placed his hand out to the male he had bumped into the day before. “Well, I’m glad we see each other again without spilling out drinks.” Sehun said with a polite smile, shaking Kao’s hand. “I don’t know, there is still a chance we might spill them. I’m rather clumsy.” Kao commented, releasing the mans hand. 

Just in time too, Sehun’s drink had been called. A Passion Fruit Green tea. “Ah, Thank you.” Sehun said to Koko, who looked like he’d had his heart ripped out or something. “I suppose your right. Don’t worry, if you drop it i’ll buy you another.” He said playfully as he took a seat at a table nearby. 

Kao watched him with a small smile, holding back his laugh. “You’re ridiculous.” He said aloud, earning a glare from Koko who handed him his drink. Kao was taken aback by the gesture, since the boy had never done such a thing to anyone, and to do it to him so suddenly was rather shocking. 

Kao took his drink and stepped away, about to move into a seat away from Sehun but, was instead stopped by his voice. “Hey, Sit with me.” He asked, turning Kao’s head. He raised a brow before shrugging and taking a seat across from him. “Thank you, Stranger.” Kao said jokingly, placing his tea down just as Sehun had placed his sunglasses on the table. 

“Oh. I-I’m sorry, did i not introduce myself?” He said quickly, sitting up just a little straighter. Kao took a sip of his tea and waved his hand dismissively. He pulled away from his drink and chewed the boba as he spoke. “No, No, i know who you are. I was just kidding.” Upon hearing this, Sehun almost quaked. “Y-You know who i am...?” He asked cautiously. 

Thankfully, Kao was too dense to catch the nervousness. “Yeah. You’re Sehun. I overheard your name with your order yesterday.” He replied, watching as the male leaned back in his seat and let out a sigh of relief. “Um...Is there a last name with that? Because i mentally refer you as just Mr. Sehun.” Kao commented honestly, watching as the male took up his own drink and nodded. 

Sehun pulled away from his own drink and chewed the boba, just as Kao did. “Oh.” He replied simply, earning a curious look from Kao. “ ‘Oh’ what?” Kao asked, watching as the man looked him in the eyes. Kao almost flinched at their intensity, they really were strong. 

“My name. It is Oh Sehun.” He replied as he swallowed the last of the Boba in his mouth. Kao sat completely straight and stared almost shaken by the males eyes. Sehun furrowed his brows and looked at him concerningly. “Um, Are you alright?” He asked, waving his hand in front of him. 

Kao blinked and nodded quickly. Sehun smiled lightly before taking up his tea again. “Well, Do you have a name? Or should i start calling YOU stranger?” 

Kao blinked at him, taken aback by the question. And with the facial expression Kao gave him, Sehun stuck the straw in his mouth and smiled faintly. ‘Damn, this guy is good...’ Kao thought to himself as he finally spoke his name. 

“Kao Ha-Yun. Nice to meet you, Oh Sehun.” Kao said, placing his hand out. Sehun took it and shook loosely as he continued to drink. When Kao let go, Sehun pulled his drink away from his mouth and nodded a little. “Ha-Yun? Your parents were fond of the sun, or something?” Sehun asked flatly, creating small talk. 

Kao was never fond of his name, due to its bright meaning. Literally “ Summer Sunlight”. 

Kao smiled a little and shook his head, “I don’t really know. My mother told me i was named Ha-Yun because i was born in the summer while my older sister, Nun, was born in the winter. Honestly, it’s such a boring name i never really gave it any thought. Everyone just calls me Kao, though.” Kao responded, looking down at his tea which was slowly dripping cold droplets from the side. 

“It’s simple. I like simple.” Sehun replied as he sipped his drink again. Just as Kao began sipping, he could feel himself get a little warmer inside. Another smile graced his lips, but a much more bashful one. He liked this guy. He was nicer than he looked. 

Sehun put his drink down just as Kao did, crossing his hands on the table and stared at him. Rather attentively. Kao found it rather odd to have someone look at him like that, but regardless he spoke again. “So, Sehun...Do you...Come to the shop often? I come here everyday and it was only yesterday that i had seen you here.” Kao asked, pushing and pulling his drink across the table as he glanced between it and Sehun. 

Honestly, keeping eye contact with that guy was really REALLY hard. 

“Well, My friends and i used to live on the other side of town, we moved over to this side just so we could be a little further from the loud noises of the city.” Sehun explained, unfolding his hand and taking his sunglasses, fidgeting with them. “When i found this shop was nearby where i lived, i just had to start coming here. I love bubble tea.” Sehun finished, looking back at Kao with a smile just as the male had removed his straw from his lips. 

“Oh. Same here. Well, hopefully you and your friends are enjoying this side of town.” Kao said simply before sipping the last of his tea down. “Aw...well...” Kao muttered as he pushed the empty cup aside. Sehun noticed his disappointment and snickered. 

“Want another one? I can get you another.” He offered, but only saw Kao shake his head. “No, No, Please. You bought me one yesterday. I’m sure i make enough to buy another on my own. Plus, i’ll need to take it with me.” Kao responded as he removed his backpack off his shoulders and rummaged through it for his wallet. 

Sehun rolled his eyes and got up, ignoring Kao’s protests to him buying him another drink. Normally, when a guy offers to buy him a drink, it’s usually full of alcohol or...something. This was not what he expected to get from a guy he had only really gotten to know a couple of minutes ago. 

Sure enough, Kao left the shop with another tea. He would complain to the male but, his mother had taught him to just Thank and receive when things like this happen. 

Kao indeed thanked Sehun with a formal bow, causing him to shake his head as he slipped on his shades. 

“So, are you walking my way?” Sehun asked after the boy had thanked him, Kao shook his head in response. “Actually, i usually go to look for cloth in the shops nearby.” 

Sehun glanced down the path leading to the shops. He shrugged and put on hand in his pocket. “I guess i’ll join you since i have nothing else to do.” Kao furrowed his brows and shook his head, “Oh. Um...i mean...i guess. Uh, we’ll probably be a while.” Kao responded, watching as Sehun checked his phone for the time. 

“I’ll drive you home if it gets too late.” Sehun finally said before leading ahead, “We better get a move on. My hyungs would get pissed if i come home past 10.” 

[toldyoushecan]

BORACAY 2017 | Happy Birthday, B!

Finally after so many food hunts I’ve written recently I am now back in writing another travel adventure! NAMISS KO TO! :) I’m not complaining about all the new things/experiences I’ve had last 2016 kaya hindi masyado nakapag travel but hopefully this year we can climb more mountains, walk in different beach sands and meet more new people! :)

Remember when I took the B on a sweet trekking sesh during his last birthday? :) Click ME if you want to recall :) Of course this year’s birthday celebration is another excuse to splurge out a little bit. (or maybe a little bit more this time? haha) At about 1 month or so before his birthday, we impulsively booked 2 tickets bound to Kalibo! Recalling it now it might actually pass as the best 5 days of my life! :) heehee

It was my first time in the island and man all this time I never really knew how relaxation meant until I stayed there. lol ANG SARAP PALA SA FEELING NA WAPAKELS MGA TAO KAHIT MAG FLOWER CROWN AKO WITH RED LIPSTICK pero naka t-shirt at shorts WALA SILANG KEBER! hahaha I think yung 5 days yung perfect schedule pag gusto mo mag relax, mag enjoy, and mag de-stress from all the hustle back in Manila. ANG DAMI NAMING TIME! Sobrang saya. Pinag-iisipan ko kung masusulat ko ba to ng as detailed as I hope for kasi ang daming ganap pero please bare with the sequence of my kwentos/TIPS *yessshhh*

WHERE TO EAT and medjo DRINK? heehee

Epic

Pretty big restaurant in Boracay and this restaurant gets jam-packed with customers everyday. The food was awesome I just don’t like the customer service. We were informed that the wait time for the Blue Marlin will be 15 minutes but I believe it took about 30 mins before it got served. Maybe a little follow up from the customers won’t hurt. :)

Paradiso Grill

It was our first night in Boracay and we were too hungry from the long travel time. We found this restaurant which had a number of people dined in at around 7 in the evening. We ordered Sinigang sa Hipon and 6pcs barbecue. Sobrang waleyyy laaaaang. The Sinigang didn’t have that unique maasim yet malasa feels like with Max’s or Marina’s. The barbecues were another so-so. We find the sauce too ordinary and sweet. Good thing their customer service were excellent. If you are looking for an affordable restaurant which offers Pinoy favorite dishes pweds na sila :)

Tribal Adventures

We dined here at night and it was super fiiiiine to eat dinner by the beach. I got one of their best sellers which was an Indian dish *forgot what it is called* It was full of flavor and tolerable yung spiciness which alam niyo naman zero tolerance ako about anything maanghang ;)

Hookah Bar

If you want to drink while watching some awesome fire dancers and smoking Shisha then this is definitely the place to be. Chill lang yung place. You’ll get to stay in some cozy little sofas na naka-set up sa sand area. They don’t offer food so talagang pang inuman lang. Honestly mas bet ko yung ganun kasi di masyadong maingay tapos I’m not really a party goer so I don’t appreciate loud music while dancing so mas okay yung ganto. :)

Kalinga bar and Restaurant

Located in Station 2 here’s a restaurant that offers buffet at only 280php! If you’ll ask me okay naman yung food. Madaming choices. Nothing special sa mga luto pero pwede na. I remember their menu were: Oyster, Bicol Express, Menudo, Lumpiang Shanghai, Crab, Ampalaya etc :)

Jonah’s

Sabi nila must try and so we did. Sakto lang yung shakes nila :(

Aria’s

Gelato and Mango shake were the bomb  

**Meron pa kaming isang kinainan ng lunch time na nagpaluto kami. I have to search for it kasi nakalimutan ko yung restaurant na** 

OTHER RESTAURANTS NA FOR SURE ALAM NIYO NA:

We ate at Mcdonalds and Andok’s twice

lunch at Shakey’s

afternoon kwentuhan and desserts at Starbucks 

*para maiba naman* lol

ACTIVITIES:

As popular as it is, there are really a lot of fun activities to do in Boracay. Get ready as you will definitely encounter a lot of locals offering their activities and tour packages. We booked Parasailing + Helmet Diving for 1600php each. The Parasailing experience was definitely memorable! I have been wishing to try it for quite some time now and finally I did *with the love of my life pa! heehee* You get to enjoy staying up in the air for a good 15 minutes! The following day we did another interesting activity in the island which is ATV! *fee is at 1000php/head*. We opted to go to Mount Luho’s view point where you get to see a 360 degrees view of the island. Perfect for photo ops! The last fun activity we did was Paddle boarding *priced at 300php for 1 hour rent* We had super fun playing with it haha kaso ang funny medjo struggle kami ni Bri mag balance pag kaming dalawa so salitan nalang kami lol

SIMPLE THINGS TO CONSIDER:

If you prefer to splurge more on food and activities and keber na kayo sa simpleng hotel basta malinis and MALAPIT sa beach then I would recommend Backpackers Zone 2. We paid a total of 6715php via Agoda for a total of 4 nights. We got a clean basic room na malapit lang sa beach front. (2-3 minutes away)

Again if you are bit in a budget and you want to shop some bazaar clothes (or if basically you are like me na kinulang ng dalang summer dress) then don’t shop at around D*Mall. Sobrang mahal. Yung alam mong basic tank tops na you can buy for 250php-350php nasa 700php dun :( Try to go to the bazaars in Station 3. Afford mga clothes dun and maganda din. I got a white tube romper at 300php :)

Okay this one can be a LITTLE pricier than going DIY but we preferred to book the hotel transfer Air Asia offered in our flight. I heard someone say mas mahal daw yun ng konti pero honestly mas convenient na siya kasi hatid-sundo ka nalang wala ka ng iintindihin or di na kailangan magtanong tanong :)

You may also watch our video to see more of our blissful experience! :)

**To my Chubby Bunny B! Thank you for bringing me to this wonderful place! To more adventures with you

                                                   I love you!

***

*click my #toldyoushecangoplaces hashtag for my other travel trips*

toldyoushecan

Claudine De Leon

[imaginarydaydreams]

All that Glitters Turns to Tarnished Gold

Concept: “They say that one’s eyes are a window to the soul. But what happens when someone tries to change the color of their own?” Character study and backstory of Custom MC Yukari Jang. Date Written: 1/30/17 Thoughts: I always think about how all of the Cheritz heroines have golden eyes, as well as the profile picture MC 1 having semi-golden eyes. It fits in with the story I created for Yukari, and yet…I still feel conflicted.

They say that one’s eyes are a window into one’s soul. That was what Yukari’s parents told her. They had said that a person’s eyes shine with all the colors of that person’s soul, painting the landscape with splashes of the various tints and shades reflected on the surface. According to her parents, there were five main types of eye and soul colors. People with blue eyes saw the world clearly, as if looking upon the calm, reflected surface of a lake at the mere hours of dawn, when life remains still asleep and tranquility fills the silence left in the gaps. Those with red eyes hid a passionate flame behind those fiery irises, lit with the talents and determination that burned through the very core of their being, ever confident in their abilities to be the best in their fields. Ones with green eyes weaved together the tales whispered to them upon the winds, words of freedom laced through their words, the magic of fairies and magicians dancing behind their mischievous naivety. Individuals with hazel eyes always watched reality pass by through a multifaceted spectrum; the light of the world shone through the kaleidoscope of their eyes, an array of colors bouncing off one another to create a beautiful work of art sparkling behind their irises. And lastly, those with deep, dark eyes—as deep as the night sky—pierced straight through the souls of others. Their eyes bore directly into their very core, pulling out the secrets hidden deep within and dragging them to the surface. But their eyes also shone with a special type of warmth hidden underneath, one that spoke of the subtle serenity lingering in the darkness of the night. However, there were always a few select people who are born with rare eye colors, colors that went against what was considered normal. Most people feared and scorned those people, believing them to be an ill omen sent from the universe. Yet, it was quite the opposite. These people, with their “unnatural” colors, were innovative; their reality glittered with the colors of a completely new astral plane, separate from the rest of the world and, because of that, they were always ready to challenge the norms and eager to recreate the world to include their colors. Yukari’s parents had taught her at a young age that her soul was rare—the color of her soul was inherited from a long line of unique artisans who entertained the world with their special talents and arts. And, as such, she bore an extremely unique eye color to reflect that. Her eyes sparkled bright like the sun, flecks of precious golds glittering on the surface as they stared out into her surroundings. They took in everything—the flowers blooming in the spring, the gentle smiles that echoed the love and warmth of her family, the gleaming stars that came to visit her windowsill at midnight—using these varied images to sculpt the world into a mirror of the one resonating within those deep pools of sunlight.  This was evident in the colored paints that decorated her canvases and the words that flew past her fingertips, recreating her daydreams in real time. Already at such a young age, she was demonstrating the extent of her unique soul, sharing with the world the reality that she saw through her own eyes. It was then that her parents knew. Though this rare eye color hadn’t been seen in the family line in quite a long time—the last known Jang with golden eyes had been born in a time lost to the ages—Yukari surely was blessed by their ancestors. They would have been so proud of their great-granddaughter. This raw, natural talent of hers would surely take her far in life, allowing her to easily capture the hearts of those that even so much as glanced at these beautiful masterpieces.

Much like herself, Yukari’s siblings were extremely talented in their own regard. Like her, they also showcased extraordinary abilities in varied disciplines. Yukito, her older brother, showed amazing perception and extreme attention to detail. His skills with a camera rivaled that of their mother’s, a world-famous freelance photographer. Her younger twin sister, Yumeko, although completely different from the rest of the family, demonstrated an uncanny love and skill for computer programming. And much like with Yukari, her parents showed nothing but encouragement and love for their children, guiding them to further pursue their goals. And it was soon that the young Jang siblings’ talents caught the attention of the world. Yet, with every blessing resides a double-edged curse. Due to the vast fame that encased the family name, Yukari and her siblings were always forced into the spotlight. Everyone’s eyes were on them—whether for better or for worse. Everyone was interested in the genius that again emerged as per the Jang name. Their parents tried to protect them, make sure that they could live semi-normal childhoods, going so far as to making sure that their appearances were obscured so that no one could ever recognize them randomly on the streets and harass them. However, that never stopped those that endlessly searched and searched for any bits and scraps of information on the young protégés. That didn’t stop some people from finding out about Yukari’s rather unique eye color. Tabloids practically wrote themselves, debating the poor young girl’s “true heritage” and how there was no possible way that Yukari was truly part of her own family. Others spouted venom-laced rhetoric about how Yukari Jang’s “abnormal eye color meant ill tidings.” Ha-Yun and Min-Jun Jang had done nothing but raise Yukari in an environment of love and protection, and they would be damned if they allowed these people to break their little girl. And protect Yukari they did. Her mother and father shielded her away from those papers that printed nothing but lies. They refused to throw a bone to these lowly beings that would try and harm their children—a child—in any way. As a result, the bright golden eyes of their second youngest child still sparkled under the light of the sun, her worldview still tinted in blissful ignorance. That soon changed when Yukari entered the second grade. She could still remember every detail of that day. How could she not? Those thoughts pervaded her mind so often that they practically engraved themselves on the back of her eyelids. The quiet stares of the other children trained upon Yukari unnerved her as she was gently ushered into the classroom by the teacher. Her eyes flittered around nervously, glancing to and fro from the door to the various vibrantly-colored decorations strung along the walls. After years of her young life spent travelling, the Jangs finally returned to their home country of South Korea. Her parents had told her that it would be good to make friends; although they enjoyed hearing tales about the newest thing that their clients had taught the Jang children, it would be nice for them to have friends their own ages. As such, they were enrolled in the best schools, close to their home at the center of Seoul. And that’s where young Yukari Jang found herself: standing at the front of a classroom full of strangers, who did nothing but stare blankly at her. The teacher bent down to give the small girl a reassuring squeeze of her arm and a soft smile. His nature coincided with the tales that Yukari’s parents ingrained into her and her siblings. She took comfort in that, returning his kindness with a bright grin befitting of those glittering golden suns. The teacher nodded before standing and turning towards the class, loud but kind voice echoing off the walls. “Class, we have a new student joining us today,” he began, smiling again at Yukari before moving his gaze back to the other students. “This is Yukari Jang. I’m sure you or your parents know about her and her family; she comes from a family of extremely talented artists who travel the world.” Everyone’s eyes lit up at those words. “They just moved back to Korea from—” He turned to look back at Yukari—“where did you say your family moved here from, Yukari?” Yukari looked around at the kids focusing their gazes on her. They were so intense. “My family and I just came back from America,” she mumbled, shifting her weight. Their gazes were so intense. “Everyone was nice there.” “I see,” the teacher said, acknowledging that last statement. “Well, I’m sure you’re happy to be back in Korea. You might need to teach us about the countries that you’ve visited.” He gave a mirthful chuckle before continuing, “And we’ll make sure that you’re treated just like you were while your family was in America. Won’t we, class?” A cheerful “yes, sir!” reverberated through the air, blank stares turning to joyful grins. Maybe this wouldn’t be as bad as Yukari thought— “Why are her eyes weird-looking?” The question hung in the air as a boy sitting in the back stood up from his seat. Yukari froze; her eyes were…weird-looking? Her mind raced back to the descriptions given to her by her parents about the different eye colors. None of them ever talked about someone’s soul being “weird-looking.” The boy advanced to the front of the classroom, standing next to Yukari and giving her an once-over. The others only looked on curiously. He turned towards the teacher, repeating the same question. “Teacher, why are her eyes weird-looking? And how do you know she’s really famous? My mom and dad talk about the Jang family all the time and they’re always saying how their daughter, Yukari, couldn’t be part of the family since her eyes are weird-looking.” He turned back towards Yukari. “My parents also told me that no one could have been born with that kind of eye color; it’s too uncommon. And if they are, it means something bad’s gonna happen.” Yukari could only stare in shock at this boy’s hurtful statements. But she couldn’t tell what hurt more; those words that pierced painfully through her heart? Or the fear and scorn that quickly replaced the kindness previously reflected in her classmates’ eyes? From then on, Yukari’s entire world flipped upside down. Everyone treated her like the plague, avoiding and scorning her despite the teachers’ firm request to be kind to her. No one heeded their words though; they were too caught up “trying not to get cursed by the weird-eyed girl!” They always picked on her, refused to play with her, refused to even let her help with group projects—they kept hating her even more whenever she would get perfect grades on the art assignments, saying that she was just using her fake parents’ talents. Yukito and Yumeko were the first to find out about the bullying. Sometimes Yukari would just stand there and take the insults, bottling up the sadness deep within her. Sometimes Yumeko would beat up the kids that made her twin cry, glaring at anyone around them, challenging them to lay a finger on Yukari. And other times, Yukito would have to walk his sisters to school in order to protect them from any harassment lest Yukari come back home with her pigtails tied together again. Eventually their mother and father found out about the bullying, pulling all three children from the school and enrolling them in a new one. Yet the same thing happened again. And again. And again. And again. This continued for a short while before Ha-Yun and Min-Jun decided to have their children privately taught. However, the damage was done. Despite her parents and siblings vehemently trying to convince Yukari that the others didn’t see what they saw, the damage was already done. No longer did Yukari Jang believe in the tales of the souls. No longer did Yukari Jang believe in the tales of unique innovators marked by rare souls as per their supposed “unique” eye colors. No longer did Yukari Jang believe that her eyes were a blessing from her ancestors, as her parents had always told her. Instead, she viewed them as a curse, silently hating them as she tossed and turned at night, hateful voices filling her dreams for years to come.

Yukari stood before the mirror of her apartment, staring into those cursed golden eyes that had plagued her for her entire life. Nothing reflected upon the surface, not like it had before all those years ago. Instead, she was met with the dulled glassy sheen more fitting of her mood. Her hand moved towards the cabinet to her right, sifting through miscellaneous bottles of medication and beauty supplies before pulling out a small blue case. She eyed it carefully, almost as if wary of its contents and hesitant about whatever came next. A heavy sigh left her mouth as she pulled the contacts out from their case. A hand moved to her face, two fingers keeping her eye firmly opened while the other placed the contact onto the surface. Suddenly, the gold disappeared, replaced by the dark, dark brown that matched the rest of her relatives. “Mother, Father,” she said aloud to herself, moving her hands to place the other contact in the opposite eye. She looked back up at the mirror, staring at the now-deep brown eyes that stared back. “I know that you told me before that there are people born in this world with the power to invent a new world view.” She placed her contacts case back on the shelf, moving to grab her purse hanging from her bedside table. “But,” she said, walking towards the door to her room. She took one long glance back at her reflection before sighing and turning off the lights. “How can those innovators ever change when all everyone does is turn what once glittered into tarnished gold?”