#ic.| yeong

[sentofight]

"Um…" it's a hesitant start when the conversation topic trickles down into nothing, perhaps purposefully so as their responses became shorter. Something seemed to be on her mind, and as such, that something ended up gnawing on their mind. Another few seconds pass, unsure of how to word their concern, if they should word their concern, but in the end, they take a breath. "Are you alright…? You've been looking at your phone a lot, and you look kind of restless… If there's anyplace you need to be then it's fine with me if you go there, don't worry about me. But…if it's something else, then I don't mind listening. As long as you are fine with sharing, of course." ( HELLO YEONG

Oh, where to begin? The bombing of her family house? losing the last of her family? knowing something she wish she didn't know? Realizing that her life could be ... fake?

Did ... grandma loved me? Did she really loved me like her own? or was it the guilt of what she had done to me? Caleb! What about him? Did he know? Was his death in vain, too? All these questions keep prying on her mind the moment she let her guards down.

What is she?

Even Zayne kept that a secret from her.

Who can she really trust?

No ... she is too cruel on them if she thought they never loved her or cared for her. She knows it is true. No one can fake that much love she felt for the past what 8 years or more? Grandma raised her like she was her own and Caleb was there as her irreplaceable big brother. Zayne, well he was there for some part of her childhood then their fates decided a little detour before they come back into each other's life.

Digging into what had happened was the only thing that kept the gears in her mind working. Who and why would someone deliberately bomb her house. All clues lead to one .... one and only--Onychinus. If she is going to get answers then the best way is to find their leader and well, extract her answers from him. one way or another.

She was waiting for a confirmation from one famous artist to take her into where she could find more about Onychinus when Akira's voice rang to snap her out of her trance.

"--Ah! Oh, um ... sorry," hiding her phone into her pocket, she clasped her hands tightly. What was she doing ... she was out with a friend and look at her, ruining the mood.

"Sorry, you were kind to arrange this trip and here am I, thinking of something else beside how to eat these wonderful velvet cakes!" there was a forced grin plastered on her face. A blind person would tell how much she is trying to force a happy and excited vibe.

There is no need for more people to get involved. She didn't even tell Tara about this not even Jena, her boss. Akira is a civilian and what would do him if he learned about this? He'll just worry endlessly about her. I mean ... he is now but the less he know the better. In case she failed, that's a probability, he wouldn't be in danger.

"Come on! Let's eat and continue with the course, yes? We still got uuuh... the cat hat tricks shop to see! Aren't you excited? I heard that the cat cafe in the market district is actually there, too! Miser Vilho brought some of his cats into this magic show! aaaa!!! I hope he brought Vitalis~ He does not like me for some reason but I like him~ hehehe."

unprompted | <3 i love you <3 | @flovverworks

[rinkasisopods]

SEOYEONG WI ♡ DAWN (PRIDE & PREJUDICE) at KOREAN NATIONALS

[dis--parity]

『 🌹 』 "Augh... augh...

Short haired women are so hot all the time, every day, they are ev-ry-thing, god damn, I can't take this!"

[infinitie]

for @04nby, continued from here !

It’s truly amazing how much personality Replikas tend to have, even if they’re on the stern side. Ariane wonders if she’s caused some kind of offense to Anby at her attempt with small talk. She doesn’t mean to – she knows it’s not really becoming of her to apologize to a Replika, given her status as the human superior in this dynamic, but… maybe it’s just her upbringing that’s making her so sympathetic to the help. They look so human – act so human. They’re nearly indistinguishable if not for their telltale markings. Though, even Ariane’s interactions with other humans are a little … ungraceful, so she’s always  self-conscious of the way she comes off, regardless of company. Her mouth slips open to apologize, but shuts again when she realizes – it’s a joke. They were totally joking with her.

She wonders where they got that from !

She huffs out a laugh, stifled by a hand that also serves to cover up the embarrassed flush of her cheeks. 

“Aye aye.” Ariane smiles and bows her head as her hand returns to her sides.  “In return, I promise I’ll get us to our destinations safely, on my honor as your dutiful pilot.” 

She’ll admit that she hasn’t read the file on their next mission much, so her curious gaze follows Anby’s adjustment of their weapons. 

“Hopefully we won’t need to use that…” 

[convxction]

"I'll have him handcuffed and locked up even if it is the last thing I do."

"No, you won't--er, I mean, um good luck?"

"My brother lost it ..."

[starredblood]

NOWHERE GIRL

PART ONE

kang-saebyeok x fem!reader

synopsis: desperate to find a place to stay, your former high school friend ji-yeong let’s you crash at her apartment for the week. but things get complicated when her roommate doesn’t seem too happy about your arrival.

wc. 1.6k

warnings: none? | authors note: first ever fic woo-hoo! will try to finish this fic series before classes start next week but not sure how many parts this will end up being lol.

(nowhere girl masterlist)

“No. Absolutely not.”

Ji-yeong groans and throws her head back in tantrum. But if Sae-byeok says no, then it’s a no. Always being firm on her stance, it’s practically impossible to make Sae-byeok change her mind.

“But she’s literally right outside of the apartment building. Come on just one week and she’ll be gone like that!” Ji-yeong snaps her finger and shoots her roommate a sly smile. But because Sae-byeok was anything less than swayed she had to resort to pouting. “Please, Sae-byeok. After I ran away she was the only person willing to let me stay at their place until I got back on my feet. It’ll be awkward if I couldn’t do the same for her. And—And she’s such a sweet girl, nothing like me because I know you’d hate the idea of having two me’s running around!”

Sae-byeok rolls her eyes. She put herself through mental and physical obstacles to finally be able to afford to rent an apartment with Ji-yeong and to finally be the guardian Cheol deserves. After two months of tranquility in their new place, Ji-yeong suddenly wants to bring a fourth person into their tight knit sanctuary. A total stranger—she can’t imagine the discomfort Cheol will feel. It took him an entire summer to get used to Ji-yeongs presence.

“No.” Sae-byeok says, unamused.

“I will do you and Cheol’s chores for a month and you can hog the television as much as you want I won’t complain! Come on, just one week.” she crosses her fingers and begins batting her eyelashes.

Sae-byeok pauses to think for a minute.

“Just one week.”

“Yup! One week.” Ji-yeong nods.

“And you have to pick up Cheol from school on Mondays.”

“Ugh, fine whatever. So, is that a yes?” Ji-yeong groans. When Sae-byeok hesitantly nods she raises a fist in the air in victory. “Yes! Thank you, Sae, thank you! I’ll bring her up now—don’t worry she’s as harmless as a butterfly.”

Ji-yeong sprints to the front door and Sae-byeok slumps down on the couch. She grabs the throw pillow closest to her and presses it to her face to let out a massive groan. By the time Sae-byeok finishes letting out her frustrations on the pillow she hears the front door swing open and two people giggling like schoolgirls.

“Sae-byeok come here I want to introduce you to my ex-guardian angel!” Ji-yeong says, enthralled.

Frowning, Sae-byeok removes the pillow off her face and sluggishly gets off the couch. She’s not looking forward to this dreadful upcoming week with you around.

From first impressions, Ji-yeong was right about your delicate appearance. From your light denim wash overalls to your chipped pink nail polish, you were definitely the opposite of both Sae-byeok and Ji-yeong aesthetic wise.

“Hi, Sae-byeok it’s so nice to meet you!” you greet bashfully and give her a courteous bow. “Thank you so much for letting me crash here for a bit. I’ll do my best to not be a disturbance or anything like that.”

The moment you locked eyes with Sae-byeok you felt intimidated. Ji-yeong previously warned you about her cold nature so you braced yourself to be iced as you made your way to their apartment.

Sae-byeok bowed back ever so slightly, her hands dug deep in the pockets of her sweats, and her lean body easily towering over you.

Ji-yeong sensed that the tension was about to become awkward so she grabs you by your arm and leads you to her bedroom.

“My bed is small but we can definitely both fit as long as you don’t mind a little contact.” Ji-yeong explains.

You glanced around her room. It was messy, with posters placed crookedly on the wall, socks and undergarments scattered all over the floor, and a bag of open chips on the undone bed.

“Oh, uh, I’ll just sleep on the couch I don’t want to bother you anymore than I already have.” you say, laughing nervously. Was it too presumptuous of you to oppose her offer because of her messy room? You didn’t lie technically. You did feel ashamed to have to ask Ji-yeong for this huge favor.

“Are you sure?” she raises a brow.

“Positive.”

⊹ ✿・・───・・✦・・───・・✿

Ji-yeong was sworn to secrecy by you not to tell Sae-byeok why you had to stay at their place temporarily. But Sae-byeok isn’t annoyed because she wants to know what happened to you, it’s because she had the decency to let you stay so she has the right to know some backstory—but Ji-yeong remains tight lipped.

Sae-byeok was firm on having her walls secured throughout your stay.

The day you arrived, all Sae-byeok kept worrying about was how Cheol will take the news as she made her way to pick him up from school.

When you and Cheol met, the boy timidly greeted you before scurrying off to the room him and Sae-byeok share. He remained there for the rest of the day and Sae-byeok had to pull her roommate aside to tell her about how awful this plan was and that you had to leave immediately.

“She’s making him uncomfortable!” Sae-byeok argues.

Ji-yeong rubs her fingers on the sides of her temples. “Calm down, jeez. I’m telling you Cheol will warm up to her—“

“He shouldn’t have to warm up to her because she shouldn’t even be here.”

“Sae-byeok, you’re being dramatic. Just give him a day or two and he’ll be fine trust me.”

Sae-byeok wasn’t happy about this situation at all.

The morning after, Sae-byeok wakes up alone in her room with no sight of Cheol. She doesn’t think much of it at first since it’s Saturday, until she remembers that you were here. So she leaps from her bed and basically sprints to the living room. And to her complete and utter surprise, she sees you helping Cheol draw on a sketch book.

“Be careful with oil pastels, they break easily if you put too much pressure on them so draw on the paper lightly.” you advise the boy, your voice soothing and assuring.

Cheol’s tongue poke out between his teeth in concentration as he scribbles lines across the paper.

That’s when you sensed a set of eyes on you. You whip your head around and end up making eye contact with Sae-byeok.

“Morning.” you mumble to her before focusing back on Cheol’s painting because you can’t look into her eyes another second longer.

Sae-byeok inhales and exhales deeply before making her way to the kitchen. She’s conflicted. Cheol never became comfortable with someone this quickly. What, just because you can draw you are so likable?

Soon after, Ji-yeong pops out of her room in her work vest. When she heads towards the kitchen, she takes one quick glance at you and Cheol before smirking.

“I told you.” she whispers to Sae-byeok. The taller girl only scoffs as her response.

You appear right after. “Good morning, Ji-yeong.”

“Hey. Did you sleep well on the couch?”

“Yeah, I did. Thanks again—for everything. Both of you.” you say. You suck in a deep breath, hesitant and careful with your actions. “So uh, I’m working later this afternoon at the art gallery I told you about. I was wondering if you’d all like to go see the art there? All free, of course.”

Sae-byeok raises an eyebrow. Was this your way of getting into everyone’s good graces?

Ji-yeong shrugs. “Why not? It sounds cool. I get off work early today and Sae-byeok—“

“Is busy.” Sae-byeok cuts her off.

You nod. “Of course, no problem.”

“You are?” Ji-yeong retorts.

Sae-byeok throws her a glare trying to communicate with her eyes to tell her to be quiet. Ji-yeong gulps.

“Oh, yeah you are. Sorry I forgot.” she laughs. “But I can go—and take Cheol, of course. That poor boy needs to explore the world and I’m sure an art gallery will cultivate his—“

“Stop talking.” Sae-byeok through her teeth. You look back and forth at the girls, nervous that you’re about to start a squabble between them.

“How about next time?” you say. “I’m interning there until the end of summer break so you guys have plenty of time to schedule a day to come visit.”

“Great!” Ji-yeong beams. She grabs the sandwich Sae-byeok has been preparing for herself and stuffs it in her lunch box. “I gotta go I’m already late so see you guys later!”

Sae-byeok mutters curses aimed at her roommate. She begins prepping another sandwich until she realizes that you were still standing there fiddling with your hands.

“What do you want?” she asks, hostile yet quiet in classic Sae-byeok fashion.

Your eyes widen and your face becomes flushed at her aggression, almost forgetting what you came here to do.

“I just wanted to apologize if I overstepped my boundaries.” you explain, your gentle voice being a contrast to Sae-byeok’s. “I was working on my art project and I saw your little brother was watching me curiously so I let him play around with my old oil pastels. I hope you don’t mind.”

Sae-byeok sighs. She tilts her head slightly to observe Cheol who was in his own world coloring. She never even considered to buy him anything to draw with—she can only afford enough for food and shelter.

“It’s fine.”

Not wanting to pester her any longer you go back to the couch. Cheol starts explaining his drawing but you start zoning out trying to decide if you should just walk out of this apartment and never look back. Right now, you would rather venture out on the streets than have Sae-byeok constantly ice you for a week. But can you really survive out there? Maybe if you just avoid her for the entirety of your stay you will be fine.

[petersasteria]

Ghost of the Past - Daesung/D-Lite

Pairing: Daesung x fem!Reader Summary: You're still heartbroken over your ex even after three years, but Daesung has been nothing but patient and loving.

You hated yourself. You absolutely hated yourself for hurting Daesung's feelings. He assured you that it was fine and that it wasn't on purpose, but you still felt bad regardless.

It had been almost three years since you and your ex, Yeong-Jae, have separated. Though, it wasn't neither your choice nor his. Yeong-Jae had been diagnosed with cancer and the thought of losing him crept in your mind a lot.

Yeong-Jae was your everything. You were each other's first love and you knew that you wanted to spend the rest of your lives with each other. Unfortunately, fate wasn't on your side. The universe had other plans and it took the love of your life away from you. That day was the saddest, most painful day of your life. Your heart was heavy. After almost six years together, you didn't know what to do with your life. It was your first time, after a long time, being alone. Yeong-Jae cut off all contact with his family years ago due to a family dispute, so you never really spoke to them.

Knowing Yeong-Jae would've been sad to see you so lonely, you pushed yourself to slowly move on. It started with little things. You started cooking for yourself again, you would get up and shower, you'd go grocery shopping, you took yourself on a date at a new cafe because you didn't want to go to the cafe you and Yeong-Jae frequented, you stayed at public libraries to peacefully read your books, you asked your friends if they were free to hang out, and you buried yourself in your work to get your mind off of your loss. Despite doing those things, however, you still unhealthily text Yeong-Jae's number just to send him updates. It was silly because you knew he wasn't going to respond. You just imagined that he was too busy to answer back.

A year after losing Yeong-Jae, you met Daesung at a cafe. 'Ground Up Bistro' was a new cafe near your office. Curious, you went inside and you were hit with the smell of coffee beans wafting through the four walls of the quaint cafe. There were only a few people in the cafe. Two friends giggling in the corner, a student wearing headphones while reading a book, and a couple sharing a slice of carrot cake. You smiled to yourself when you saw the young couple, your thoughts immediately going to Yeong-Jae.

"I miss you so much, jagi." You sighed to yourself before walking to the register and ordering their special drink. You had always been adventurous when it came to ordering drinks. You were always fond of trying new flavors and crazy combinations. Yeong-Jae just stuck with his usual: iced americano. You would always joke that he's boring, but he'd laugh it off. You loved that about Yeong-Jae.

After ordering, you sat down and mindlessly scrolled on your phone. You left work early because all your tasks were done and you had nothing else to do. Thankfully, your boss allowed it. She was always very understanding and considerate. You looked up from your phone, thinking you heard the barista call your name. You stood up and walked to the claiming area and grabbed your drink... or what you thought was your drink. You felt a gentle tap on your shoulder and you turned around seeing a man with a shy smile, "I think you got my drink." He pointed at the drink and you glanced at it. Sure enough, your name wasn't written there.

"Daesung?" You questioned and he nodded. You gave him his drink and smiled, "Sorry about that."

"It's no problem. You must be Y/N, then? I got your crazy complicated drink." He chuckled. "It looks interesting, but I'm too scared to try it. I think I'll just stick with my iced americano."

As he handed you your drink, you froze. "Iced americano?" You repeated.

He nodded, "Yeah. It's my go-to drink. If I'm feeling a little adventurous, I get an iced latte. If I'm feeling extra adventurous, I get a brown sugar latte. Most of the time, though, I'm a boring guy."

Your heart couldn't help, but ache. He reminded you so much of Yeong-Jae. On the other hand, Daesung was absolutely smitten. He thought you were so beautiful in your simple office attire, half-tied hair, and minimal makeup. You were no model and you certainly weren't a celebrity, but Daesung didn't care. All he wanted was to be in your life forever.

Since that day, both of you swapped numbers and started texting day and night. To you, it was all friendly. To Daesung, it was his whole life. He was finally ready to date and he only wanted you. The rest of the band saw how smitten he was and they were very curious about the girl who finally occupied Daesung's heart and mind.

He did everything for you. He was there for you through everything. You weren't official yet, but you had already warned him about the baggage you had. You didn't want him to deal with it too. You kept telling him that and one day, he grew a little bit frustrated.

"Y/N, you always say that. Please understand that I'm not going anywhere!" He exasperatedly said, running his fingers through his hair. "How many times do I have to tell you that I'm here for you? I haven't left, have I?"

You looked at him from where you were seated, tears clouding your vision, "We don't know what the future holds, Dae. You could leave me one day because you realize you can't handle me after all."

"Please trust me." He pleaded. "Nothing you say or do can push me away. i know that something's bothering you. I know you have emotional baggage and I understand if you don't want to tell me yet, but I wish I knew just a little bit of it so I can understand you better."

He sat down next to you and cupped your face as tears cascaded down your cheeks. He wiped your tears away with his thumb and whispered, "I'm not a mind reader, jagiya. Please tell me what you're going through so I know. I care about you too much to allow you to deal with this on your own."

You closed your eyes and sobbed, "Yeong-Jae, leave me alone."

You felt his hands drop from your cheeks and you quickly opened your eyes. You realized what you had said, but it was too late. Your heart broke seeing the broken look on his face, "Yeong-Jae?"

"I mean, Daesung. I'm sorry. I-" You closed your eyes again and pinched the bridge of your nose. He looked away from you as tears flowed from his cheeks. Both of you sat in silence, crying for different reasons.

You cried because of a lot of things: you missed Yeong-Jae, you can't move on from Yeong-Jae, you liked Daesung a lot, you're scared that liking Daesung meant you're betraying and forgetting Yeong-Jae, you're hurting Daesung, and you knew it was time to come clean.

Daesung cried because of one thing: he realized that despite all his efforts, there was another man occupied in your heart.

"Dae." You croaked, your voice hoarse from crying. "Please hear me out."

He turned to face you, his eyes bloodshot and puffy. He wiped his tears away and nodded. It broke your heart even more. He still put you first even after hurting his feelings.

"Yeong-Jae, he was my boyfriend of almost six years." You started.

"Was?" He asked. You nodded, "He, um, he's gone. It's been a year since he died and I'm still terribly heartbroken about it. I miss him everyday and when I see you or when I'm with you, you remind me so much of him because you're so alike in so many ways. I truly didn't mean to hurt you, but moments ago, when I said his name, it was like I saw him instead of you. Then, I snapped out of it because how can it be him? He's dead."

You broke down. It was your first time finally admitting to yourself that Yeong-Jae was long gone. After all, you still text his number. You didn't want to lose him. Daesung sniffed and rubbed your back as you sobbed heavily.

You told him more about Yeong-Jae that night. He just sat in silence and listened, offering side comments to make things lighter. He watched you reminisce about the man you loved- love. Daesung knew better. He knew it wasn't the time to bring up your status. Instead, he kept an open mind and put himself in your shoes. After all, an almost six year relationship that abruptly ended isn't a joke.

You and Daesung became official two years after Yeong-Jae's passing. You loved Daesung very much, but Yeong-Jae was still occupying your heart and mind. Daesung knew that, of course. He was heartbroken about it. In truth, he was tired. Your one year anniversary as a couple is coming up and Daesung guessed that you two wouldn't make it. He never let it show, though. He was very good at hiding his feelings.

Sometimes, he'd hear you cry yourself to sleep. He'd turn to see you shaking and he'd just pull you closer to hug you. He's the best boyfriend you could ever ask for, but you didn't know how to exist without Yeong-Jae by your side. You were scared.

Daesung was at practice when you decided to keep yourself busy. You did a little spring cleaning around your shared apartment with Daesung. You got a little apartment near the cafe you first met. It's cheesy, but you needed to move out of your shared apartment with Yeong-Jae, anyway. You truly wanted to start fresh with Daesung and spring cleaning would help you.

Some of your boxes were still stashed in the storage room, so you decided it was time to unpack them and sort them out. You unpacked some of your clothes, photo albums from your childhood, your scrapbook, movie tickets from yours and Daesung's multiple movie dates, concert tickets from concerts you've been with your friends and Yeong-Jae, and many love letters from Yeong-Jae. He used to leave them in your locker for you to find. He was cheesy like that. You chuckled to yourself and shook your head. It seemed like a distant memory now. You placed the letters on the floor next to your other things when you see an unopened letter with your name on it with Yeong-Jae's handwriting.

"That's weird." You mumbled. You could've sworn you've read every single letter from Yeong-Jae. You carefully grabbed the letter and opened it:

"Dearest Y/N,

By the time you read this, I've gone to join the big man upstairs... or maybe I survived and I'm currently at work when you read this. If it's the latter, this is so awkward and I'll see you later, jagiya.

However, as much as I want it to be the latter, I know it's impossible due to my condition. I'm writing this letter to let you know that I've accepted my fate a long time ago. When I first met you, I was already sick. I survived the first time, but I guess I'm not so lucky now. Please don't blame yourself because I know how much you like to do that. You're probably thinking, 'if you hadn't met me, you wouldn't be sick again'. Y/N, I'd still be sick, either way.

As morbid as it sounds, I know I won't be alive by the time we celebrate our 6th year together. But please know I tried to fight. This cancer was just too strong; I'm sorry for being weak.

Since I won't make it on our anniversary, allow me to celebrate it a week early.

These 6 years with you have been the best years of my life. My family and I don't get along anymore, but you're the only family I need. Six years may seem short to a lot of people, but to me it felt like a lifetime. Thank you for giving me a lifetime full of love, laughter, and memories that I will forever cherish in this lifetime and the next.

I have so much love for you and I'm so happy to bring that love with me when I pass on. Knowing that I'll die with your love for me, makes me happy because I know I'll die loved. I know you have so much love for me and I know you have so much love to give. All I ask is for you to share it. I know it hurts, but I want you to find a decent guy who will love you as much as I love you. Please don't feel guilty about it. You deserve to move on. Please don't tie yourself to a dead guy. I'm very flattered, but you have to let go. Letting go doesn't mean forgetting me. I'll always watch over you.

If you don't find a guy for yourself, I'll send someone for you. You may know me as a lover, but I'm a pretty good wingman. Trust me when I say that the guy I'll lead to you will be the one you'll marry and I'll make sure you meet at a cute place like a bookstore or a cafe and he'll order a boring drink. Thank me later and I know you will.

When I finally rest my eyes, just know that I was thinking of you.

Yours, Hwang Yeong-Jae x"

This letter was the only thing you needed to finally breathe. It felt like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. When Daesung came home a few hours later, you gave him a tight hug. Of course, he hugged back.

"What's wrong?" He asked, brows furrowed in concern. You shook your head.

"Nothing. I just wanted to hug you." You breathed. "I also just want to thank you for coming in the cafe that day."

Daesung chuckled and hugged back tightly, swaying you both back and forth. "It was weird. I wasn't supposed to walk in, but a voice inside my head told me to go in because it might change my life or something like that."

He pulled away to look at you and gently push your hair away from your face, "That voice was right. That unplanned cafe visit changed my life because I met you."

"I love you, Daesung." You finally said without a trace of hesitation. His eyes widen in shock. "I really do. Thank you for everything."

"And I love you, Y/N." He smiled.

-

A/N: hope you liked it!!

Permanent taglist: @redhoodedtoad @billiesiousji @hayd3n8

Tagging the three people who commented on my post abt this fic: @natalicss @dollzites @amyyforshort

[expired-vibes]

Falling For You

DoYeong X YN , JaeJun x YN

The air between Ha Do-yeong and Jeon Jae-jun was suffocating.Y/N could feel it.

“Ye-sol is my daughter,” Jae-jun growled, fists clenching at his sides. “You’ve been playing house with her for years, but we both know she’s mine.”

Do-yeong’s expression was blank, but Y/N could see the storm raging in his eyes. “And yet, she runs from you every time she sees you,” he replied smoothly. “She chooses me.”

Jae-jun’s jaw tensed, and his gaze flickered toward Y/N. “You understand, don’t you?” His voice softened when he spoke to her, like she was something precious. “Ye-sol should be with me. And so should you.”

Y/N’s breath caught. She knew Jae-jun had feelings for her, had noticed the way his eyes lingered on her longer than necessary. But she never acknowledged it—not when her heart had already made its choice.

Do-yeong stepped closer, shielding her from Jae-jun’s gaze. “Don’t bring her into this.” His voice was dangerously low. “She’s not yours to claim.”

Jae-jun let out a bitter laugh. “Oh? And she’s yours?”

The last thread of control snapped.Jae-jun threw the first punch. Do-yeong barely dodged before retaliating, shoving him back against a parked car. It was violent, ugly—years of resentment and unspoken anger exploding all at once.

“Stop it!” Y/N cried, stepping between them just as Jae-jun swung again.

She barely registered the impact before pain shot through her shoulder, knocking her off balance. The world tilted as she stumbled, her ankle twisting beneath her.

“Y/N!” Do-yeong was at her side instantly, his arms catching her before she hit the ground. His hands, usually steady, were shaking as they held her, as if the thought of her in pain was unbearable.

Jae-jun’s eyes widened. “Shit. I—Y/N, I didn’t mean—” Then, as if realizing something, his gaze darkened with resolve. “Come with me.”

Jae-jun tries to take Y/N. Before she could react, Jae-jun reached for her.

His grip was firm but not forceful—desperate, almost. “I’ll take care of you. You don’t need to stay here with him.”

Y/N tried to pull away, but her ankle gave out, and a sharp hiss of pain left her lips.That was all it took for Do-yeong to snap. He grabbed Jae-jun’s wrist, his grip like iron.

“Don’t. Touch. Her.”

Jae-jun sneered, yanking his arm away. “She doesn’t belong to you.”

Do-yeong’s entire body was tense, his rage barely contained. “She’s not some object you can claim.”

Ignoring him, Jae-jun bent down, arms reaching to scoop Y/N up.Before he could, Do-yeong moved faster.His hand pressed against Jae-jun’s chest, shoving him back with enough force to make him stumble.

“She’s not going anywhere with you.” His voice was ice, but the way his arm curled protectively around Y/N’s waist was pure fire.

Jae-jun clenched his fists but didn’t move forward again. He looked at Y/N, eyes searching, waiting for her to choose.

Y/N met his gaze and shook her head. “I’m not going with you, Jae-jun.”

Something flickered in his expression—hurt, anger, resignation.With one last glare at Do-yeong, he turned and stormed off, disappearing into the night.

The moment Jae-jun was gone, Do-yeong turned his full attention to Y/N. His hands, rough from the fight, softened as they cradled her face. “Are you okay?” His voice was raw, laced with guilt.

She exhaled, leaning slightly into his touch. “I’m fine.”

“You’re not fine,” he said firmly. His fingers trailed to her shoulder, gently brushing the spot where Jae-jun had hit her. His jaw tightened. “Damn it, Y/N, I should’ve stopped this before it started.”

She reached for his wrist, her touch grounding him. “You were protecting Ye-sol. And me.”

His throat bobbed, his composure cracking just slightly. And then, before she could say anything more, he pulled her against him. Y/N barely had time to react before she felt the warmth of his embrace—solid, steady, overwhelming.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured into her hair. “I never wanted you to get caught in the middle of this.”

She closed her eyes, melting into him. “Then don’t fight for me,” she whispered. “Just stay with me.”

Do-yeong tilted her chin up, his eyes dark with something unspoken.And then, he kissed her.

Soft at first, hesitant, as if asking for permission. But when she sighed against his lips, her fingers tangling in his shirt, he deepened the kiss, pouring everything he felt into it.

When they finally pulled away, breathless, Do-yeong rested his forehead against hers, his hands still gripping her waist.

“I’m not going anywhere,” he promised.

And Y/N knew—this was where she belonged.

[sentofight]

"Ah! You almost got it!" a gasp and despair flowing through their voice when the colorful plushie falls down again, so engaged in the game they might as well have been playing it themself. "You can do it, Yeong...!" (hello guess who unlocked the crane game

"Come on ...Come on," her focus is on the plushie she wants. Tongue sticking out like a kid, focused on their drawing. "No ... nonononono! NOOOOOOOOO~!!!" hands slam against the transparent window then slide down in despair. Yeong drops on the ground, sniffling.

"Aaah.... *hic* nooo. Why have you forsaken me, plushieeeeeee~!!!!" insert a dramatic moment. Arching down to repeatedly slam at the ground. "I really wanted to get this for you ..." her initial shock of losing was soon replaced with unparallel determination, Yeong snapped back and jumped back on her feet.

"ALRIGHT! I'm not a quitter! Granny didn't raise a quitter! Let me at it again!" inserting more coins to resume her hunt for the colorful plushie. Hunter instincts kick in and viola, after a couple of times the plushie is hers!

"TAAADAAA~!!!! Ha ha! You're not escaping Linkon's best hunter, hehe~" she raises the plushie up high like the scene from a certain movie. "Now," she leans and present her trophy for her new friend. "I bestow this upon you, Akira." a grin cross her lips. "Thanks for cheering me."

[saebyeokbliss]

JUST MEET ME AT THE APT.— K. SAE-BYEOK

CHAPTER TEN

synopsis: managing a rising rock band is already chaotic enough, but when you're stuck touring with four reckless musicians, things get even messier. between late-night facetime calls, teasing that feels a little too knowing, and a certain guitarist who might just be your biggest problem, keeping things professional is getting harder by the second. but hey, no one said the music industry was easy.

warnings: mutual pining, intense eye contact, teasing that borders on flirting (or maybe it is flirting), friends who refuse to mind their business, secondhand embarrassment, slow burn that burns, emotional whiplash, competition??

playlist: spotify

You were going to die.

Like, actually, literally, cease to exist because your heart was beating so violently that it was probably about to explode, and your lungs had decided they no longer wanted to participate in the act of breathing.

The girls were staring at you. Correction: three-fourths of the girls were staring at you. Ji-Yeong was standing on the couch, one foot on the armrest, holding a half-empty iced coffee in one hand and her phone in the other, looking like she was about to deliver a TED Talk.

"You guys," she said, eyes wide, voice hushed. "I need everyone to remain calm."

Se-Mi was already grinning, vibrating with suppressed excitement. "Oh, absolutely not."

No-Eul, who was seated cross-legged on the floor, barely looked up from her book. "Just say it, Ji. Before you combust."

Ji-Yeong took a deep breath, dramatically swiped to refresh the Twitter feed on her phone, and then—

"WE GOT NOMINATED FOR A GRAMMY!"

Chaos. Absolute chaos.

Se-Mi shrieked, launching herself across the couch to grab Ji-Yeong’s phone. No-Eul blinked once, twice, and then set her book down with an exhale like she was finally accepting reality.

Sae-Byeok, who had been leaning against the counter, arms crossed in her usual unimpressed stance, went still.

You? You just stood there, gripping your clipboard like it was the last tether to reality, trying to process the words that had just been spoken into existence.

"Wait. Wait. Wait." You snapped out of your trance, reaching for the phone that Se-Mi was now aggressively shaking in front of your face. "Are you serious?"

Ji-Yeong let out a borderline manic laugh, pointing at the screen. "Does this LOOK like I’m joking?! We just got nominated for Best Rock Album and Best Rock Performance for ‘ROCKSTAR.’"

Se-Mi was already pacing, hands on her head. "Holy shit. Holy shit. We’re actually going to the Grammys?"

Ji-Yeong dramatically flung herself onto the couch, arms outstretched. "We’re actually going to the Grammys."

No-Eul, who had been quietly typing on her phone, finally lifted her gaze. "The official Recording Academy account just posted the list." She turned her screen toward you. "It’s real."

Your brain short-circuited.

Because this? This wasn’t just big. This was huge. This was career-defining.

This was the moment you had dreamed of for them.

Sae-Byeok, still eerily silent, finally moved. She walked over to Ji-Yeong’s abandoned coffee on the table, picked it up, and took a long sip.

"Guess we need to buy dresses," she said, completely deadpan.

Se-Mi screamed.

No-Eul actually laughed. Ji-Yeong started yelling something about how she was going to fight Harry Styles for best-dressed on the red carpet.

And you?

You just smiled, heart pounding, because somehow—someway—this was only just the beginning.

A little while after the excitement died down to a normal level, the girls (as in Ji-yeong and Se-mi) decided that it would be a good idea to start shopping.

And the boutique was insane.

Racks of designer gowns stretched wall-to-wall, the air smelled like expensive perfume and wealth, and Se-Mi was already trying on sunglasses that she absolutely did not need.

"We are literally shopping for the Grammys," Ji-Yeong announced dramatically, twirling in front of a mirror. "Do you understand how unhinged that is?"

Se-Mi, now wearing a pair of oversized Gucci shades, nodded solemnly. "I think I blacked out the second we walked in here."

No-Eul was flipping through a rack of sleek suits, completely unfazed. "Try not to pass out before we actually get to the red carpet."

You chuckled, trailing your fingers along the fabric of an elegant dress before moving toward the accessories section, letting the others lose themselves in their respective fashion meltdowns.

And that’s when you saw them.

A pair of heels—sleek, timeless, perfect. They weren’t too flashy, just the right mix of elegance and edge, and something about them just called to you.

You picked one up, checking the size.

Too small.

You frowned, scanning the display, but every single one was either too big or too small.

Figures.

With a sigh, you set the shoe back down and turned away, pushing it from your mind. It wasn’t that big of a deal.

But No-Eul had seen.

She had been flipping through a rack of blazers when she caught the way your face fell—the tiny frown, the way your fingers lingered on the shoe before you walked away.

At first, she assumed it was the price. This place was ridiculously expensive, after all. But when she subtly checked the tag, she realized—

It wasn’t the price.

It was the size.

No-Eul, being the quiet observer that she was, didn’t say anything. She just turned on her heel, scanned the boutique, and sought out the store owner like it was a mission.

"Do you have these in another size?" she asked, holding up the shoe. "This size, specifically?"

The boutique owner, a well-dressed woman with an expert eye, nodded. "Let me check in the back."

Minutes later, No-Eul had them. The perfect pair. The right size.

She paid for them without hesitation, taking the sleek designer bag and tucking it behind the counter for later. No grand gestures, no need for attention—just a quiet, simple act of kindness.

Sae-Byeok had seen the whole thing.

She had been pretending to browse scarves (which she did not need) when she caught No-Eul’s little mission. The subtle way she checked the price, the quick decision to buy them, the way she didn’t even tell you.

And it annoyed her.

Not because she didn’t want you to have the shoes—no, that was actually kind of sweet.

But because why hadn’t she thought of doing something first?

Sae-Byeok had spent so much time watching you—watching you be there for them, watching you take care of everything, watching you never ask for anything in return.

And now No-Eul was out here being thoughtful and sneaky, and Sae-Byeok was just standing there like an idiot.

Unacceptable.

So, naturally, she decided that if No-Eul got the shoes—she was going to find you the perfect dress.

"Hey." She appeared beside you, hands in her pockets, her usual unreadable expression in place.

You blinked up at her. "Hey?"

"You found a dress yet?"

You sighed, gesturing at the endless racks. "I have no idea what I’m doing. This is, like, next-level fashion, and I am but a mere mortal."

Sae-Byeok smirked. "Come on. Let’s find something."

And just like that, she took over.

Before you knew it, Ji-Yeong and Se-Mi had joined the search, the three of them pulling dresses from racks like it was their sole purpose in life.

"This one," Ji-Yeong said, holding up something dramatic and covered in sequins.

"No," Sae-Byeok and Se-Mi said in unison.

Se-Mi held up a sleek, elegant gown with a thigh-high slit. "This is hot."

Sae-Byeok gave her a look. "She needs classy, not ‘I’m about to murder my rich husband for his inheritance.’"

Ji-Yeong gasped. "That’s a great aesthetic, though."

You just stood there, watching them bicker, warmth blooming in your chest.

Because, for the first time in a long time, they weren’t just dragging you along for the ride.

They were taking care of you.

And for once—you let them.

taglist: @everly-summers-solace @knfthxv @madebysae @knfthxv @katieschry1 @imlackingsleep @lyzem @stellssxo @wiltingconquest @peelover25@monroesturnns @laurenkens @yenyu1s @idontliketoread2137 @bitchybananaflower @lyuuw

[whitehairandtraumatized-bracket]

White Hair and Trauma Brawl Round 1!

alrighty folks its finally time!!!

polls will be posted in groups of 5 and run for three days, voting is based on level of swag, trauma, and blorbo fave!!

and as always, propaganda is encouraged

let the tournament commence!!!

MATCHUPS

(winners of finished polls are bolded/italicized)

Klaus (Klaus) vs. Sage Lesath (Last Legacy)

Ken Kaneki (Tokyo Ghoul) vs. Fushi (To Your Eternity) 

Kalim Al-Asim (Twisted Wonderland) vs. Orion Lake (The Scholomance)

Gen Asagiri (Dr. Stone) vs. The Nefarious Meanie (The Crimes of The Nefarious Meanie)

Senku Ishigami (Dr. Stone) vs. Emilia Justina/Emi Yusa (The Devil is a Part-Timer!)

Hortense/Mist (Guardians of Ga'Hoole) vs. 2B (Nier: Automata)

Fujiwara no Iyozane (Len’en Project) vs. Lysithea von Ordelia (Fire Emblem: Three Houses)

Toby/Faust (Beyblade) vs. Cecil Gershwin Palmer (Welcome to Night Vale)

Eustace (Granblue Fantasy) vs. Zane (Ninjago)

Kuro/Black Jack (Black Jack) vs. Dream King (Wandersong)

Loop (In Stars And Time) vs. Raiden (Metal Gear Rising)

Shigaraki Tomura (My Hero Academia) vs. Snowtuft (Warrior Cats)

Toi Shiramitsu (18trip) vs. Thief King Bakura (Yu-Gi-Oh!)

Emet-Selch (Final Fantasy XIV) vs.  Zolf Smith (Rusty Quill Gaming)

Mystic Flour Cookie (Cookie Run Kingdom) vs. Hero (The Property of Hate)

Augustus (I, Claudius) vs. Chat Blanc (Miraculous Ladybug)

Ginko (Mushi-shi) vs. Kuguri Domeki (18trip)

Yuji Kiba/Horse Orphnoch (Kamen Rider 555) vs. Yokoka (Yokoka’s Quest)

Olaf (Frozen) vs. Bagi (QSMP)

Floyd (Trolls 3) vs. Seidou Takizawa (Tokyo Ghoul)

Qifrey (Witch Hat Atelier) vs. Yan Vismok (Library of Runia)

The Princess (Slay The Princess) vs. Kim Ford (The Fionavar Tapestry)

Tommy Shepherd (Young Avengers/Marvel Comics) vs. Soma Cruz (Castlevania)

Edward “Add” Grenore (Elsword) vs. Ariane Yeong (Signalis)

Niko Sasaki (Dead Boy Detectives) vs. Ursula (The Little Mermaid)

Natsume Takashi (Natsume Yuujinchou (the manga)) vs. Jiraiya (Naruto)

Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter) vs. Mathis Quigley (Sr.) (Unsounded)

Tam (Aurora) vs. Icy (Winx Club)

Arlecchino (Genshin Impact) vs. Agito (Origin: Spirits of the Past)

Estinien Varlineau (Final Fantasy XIV) vs. Zero Kiryu (Vampire Knight)

Isana Yashiro/Adolf K. Weissman (K Project) vs. Ethoslab (Life Series SMP)

Mara (She-Ra and The Princesses of Power) vs. Madame Director/Lucretia (The Adventure Zone)

Ryou Bakura (Yu-Gi-Oh!) vs. Phi (Zero Escape)

Nancy Whitman (Every Heart A Doorway) vs. Max (Sam and Max)

Kiyondo Ishida (Danganronpa) vs. Michel Bollinger (The House In Fata Morgana)

Kiana Kaslana (Honkai Impact 3rd) vs. Professor Henry Hidgens (Workin’ Boys)

Kite (Hunter x Hunter) vs. FitzChivalry Farseer (Realm of The Elderlings)

Kashekim Nedakh (Atlantis: The Lost Empire) vs. Rin Okumura (Blue Exorcist)

Furina de Fontaine (Genshin Impact) vs. Bepo (One Piece)

Nikolai Gogol (Bungou Stray Dogs) vs. Carl Fredericksen (Up)

Riku (Kingdom Hearts) vs. Rime Solano Varela (Last Legacy)

Eda Clawthorne (The Owl House) vs. Lay Grandsley (The Misfit of Demon King Academy)

Magneto (X-Men) vs. Lucy (Bittersweet Candy Bowl)

Mithrun (Dungeon Meshi) vs. Sweeney Todd (Sweeney Todd)

Nate “Near” River (Death Note) vs. Aaravos (The Dragon Prince)

Asuka R. Kreutz (Guilty Gear) vs. Lenore Vandernacht (Nevermore Webcomic)

Frieren (Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End) vs. Sebastian Morgenstern (The Shadowhunter Chronicles)

Tsubasa Ootori (Beyblade) vs. Haruka Sakura (WIND BREAKER)

Aziraphale (Good Omens) vs. Temenos Mistral (Octopath Traveler)

Lady Maria (Bloodborne) vs. Prince Lotor (Voltron)

Simon Petrikov/Ice King (Adventure Time) vs. Simon Snowlock (Memory, Sorrow and Thorn)

Kaworu Nagisa (Neon Genesis Evangelion) vs. Jiang Ziya (The Poppy War)

Sabitsuki (.flow) vs. Kallin Kessler (Yu-Gi-Oh! 5Ds)

Thancred Waters (Final Fantasy XIV) vs. Ozpin (RWBY)

Hoid (Cosmere) vs. January Sterling (The Mars House)

Claudius (I, Claudius) vs. Captain Ahab (Moby Dick)

Hearthstone “Hearth” Alderman (Magnus Chase/Gods of Asgard) vs. Ace Ukiyo and Tsumuri (Kamen Rider Geats)

Hajime Umemiya (WIND BREAKER) vs. Kuga Yuma (World Trigger)

Haru Sohma (Fruits Basket) vs. Cellbit (QSMP)

Kouji Ibuki (Cardfight Vanguard) vs. Biwa (Heike Monogatari)

Allison Ruth (Kill Six Billion Demons) vs. John Oliver (Last Week Tonight)

Claudia (The Dragon Prince) vs. Misha Necron (The Misfit of Demon King Academy)

Storm/Ororo Munroe (X-Men) vs. Glass (Hymns for the Road)

Thistle (Dungeon Meshi) vs. Kreia (Star Wars KOTOR)

Shiro/Wretched Egg (Deadman Wonderland) vs. Csevet Aisava (The Goblin Emperor)

Hades (Hadestown) vs. Roxy Lalonde (Homestuck)

Evil Xisuma (Hermitcraft) vs. Guts (Berserk)

Miki Rintarou (A Terrified Teacher at Ghoul School!) vs. Liv Moore (iZombie)

Remnan (Gnosia) vs. Yamato (One Piece)

Winter (Wings of Fire) vs. Utatane Piko (Vocaloid)

Jean Pierre Polnareff (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure) vs. Silver Sable (Marvel)

Emilia (Re: Zero) vs. Elric of Melniboné (The Elric Saga)

Kaitou Joker (Kaitou Joker) vs. Kochi Haruno (ZENO Daily Life)

Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII) vs. Neo Queen Serenity (Sailor Moon)

The Lamb (Cult of the Lamb) vs. Jonathan Sims (The Magnus Archives)

Susan Murphy/Ginormica (Monsters vs. Aliens) vs. Phainon (Honkai Star Rail)

Hakuri Sazanami (Kagurabachi) vs. Holland Vosjik (Shades of Magic)

Viktor (Arcane) vs. Dr. Two Brains (WordGirl)

Dr Zoidberg (Futurama) vs. Mytho (Princess Tutu)

Kazumi Onimaru (Cardfight Vanguard) vs. Kyrie Usiromiya (Umineko)

(Under Cut) Not Appearing Until Round 2 But Here They Are for Peace of Mind:

Jonathan Harker (Dracula)

Asra Al-Nazar (The Arcana Game)

Norman (The Promised Neverland)

Danny Phantom (Danny Phantom)

Jean Valjean (Les Miserables)

Henry (Fire Emblem: Awakening)

Jason Todd (Batman/DC Comics)

Scar (Fullmetal Alchemist)

Astarion (Baldur’s Gate)

Fenris (Dragon Age II)

Anna (Frozen)

Griffith (Berserk)

Siffrin (In Stars and Time)

Percy Jackson (Percy Jackson and the Olympians)

Ekko (Arcane)

Takashi “Shiro” Shirogane (Voltron)

Silver the Hedgehog (Sonic)

TommyInnit (Dream SMP)

Kanade Yoisaki (Project Sekai: Colorful Stage)

Gojo Satoru (Jujitsu Kaisen)

Itona Horibe (Assasination Classroom)

Kakashi Hatake (Naruto)

Nagito Komaeda (Danganronpa)

Shion (No. 6)

Weiss Schnee (RWBY)

Geralt of Rivia (The Witcher)

Godot/Diego Armando (Ace Attorney)

Lu Guang (Link Click)

Gorgug Thistlespring (Fantasy High: Dimension 20)

Simon Blackquill (Ace Attorney)

Boothill (Honkai Star Rail)

Princess Yue (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

Dave Strider (Homestuck)

Edelgard von Hresvelg (Fire Emblem: Three Houses)

Santa Claus (Christmas/Pop Culture)

Percy de Rolo (Critical Role)

Jack Frost (Rise of the Guardians)

Daenerys Targaryen (A Song of Ice and Fire/game of thrones too ig)

Santa/Aoi Kurashiki (Zero Escape)

Alina Starkov (Shadow and Bone)

Ranboo (Dream SMP) 

Atsushi Nakajima (Bungou Stray Dogs)

Inuyasha (Inuyasha)

Kida Nedakh (Atlantis: The Lost Empire)

Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)

Allen Walker (D.Gray-Man)

White Lily Cookie (Cookie Run Kingdom)

[dis--parity]

@chiryxushi | Plotted Starter

『 🌹 』 Underneath the moonlight, in the middle of an isolated woods one might only dare travel to if they were trying to film some obscure found-footage series, a vast lake basks in the midnight calm. Those pristine, gently-rippling waters are among the only places someone of Yeong-Hui's... popularity, can find an iota of tranquility these days. Here, they had a rare opportunity to detach themselves from the screens, the cameras, and the flashy clothing.

It's not like they minded all that, normally - but even someone like them could do with a refreshing skinnydip every now and again. And so they went - already less-than-modest clothing folded and set aside on a dirt incline overlooking those beautiful waters, they allowed the coolness and peace to wash over them as their body sunk into the lake water.

Basking in moonlight, they found their tranquility backstroking beneath the full moon in isolation, gazing endlessly up at the stars as they floated to the very center. So too did all thought abandon them as quickly as care and feeling, simply grinning with the satisfaction that they could just be, for a little while.

Ah, would that the moon were their only witness... of all the lakes they could have gone to, why were they so drawn to here? Perhaps they would soon find out...

[thewriterthatghostedyou]

Prologue

A/N: Heyyyyyyyyyyy soooo I may have started yet ANOTHER series, I do still plan on finishing Yet I Still Bleed but my hyperfixation may have moved to squid games for a bit… So I hope you guys enjoy this one! I’ll try to get updates out as often as I can but I never know when I will stop or take a break. Hopefully with season 3 coming out this summer I’ll have more motivation lol. Anyways, enjoy!

Warnings: canon-typical violence, angsttttt, Series is Gi Hun x In Ho x Reader but this specific chapter is Sae-byeok x reader, also: Reader takes Ji-yeong’s place but isn’t Ji-yeong, but you’ll see what I mean when you read!

Word Count: 1,386

All dividers by @steddiecameraroll-graphics

There were countless things you could blame for your failure. The lights were too bright, the neighborhood scene too jarring. Even that you were still exhausted from fighting for your life only an hour before when players turned against players. But that would all be a lie. The real reason you lost was emotion. Something that had always gotten the better of you. And now it was why you were going to die.

“It’s Sae-byeok.”

“What is?” You had asked, looking at Player 067 in confusion, the marbles in your pocket suddenly feeling heavier than before.

“My name. Kang Sae-byeok.” You felt yourself sigh internally as your choice became more complicated. Would she remember you when she won?

“Sae-byeok.” You rolled her name over your tongue, finally having a name for the first person you had met in the room full of beds. “It’s pretty.” You shot her a shy smile which she didn’t return. Probably too lost in the situation at hand.

“And you?” She was as cold as ice as she usually was, but deep inside you saw a small sign that she may have begun to thaw.

“L/n Y/n.” You answered confidently. As if the action of claiming your name was enough to give you a legacy before dying.

“Who should go first then?” Sae-byeok asked, as the two of you stared at the brick wall with small green vines twisting towards the artificial sunlight.

“It should be your turn.” You said stiffly. “Since your number is lower.” You reasoned out loud, putting into play the plan you had begun while sitting on the stairs with Sae-byeok.

Two triangle guards moved closer as you shifted your weight from leg to leg, they were no doubt waiting for the outcome of the game, waiting to shoot you.

As Sae-byeok shuffled forward, your eyes fluttered shut quickly and your hands shook. ‘This is for the best.’ You had to remind yourself. ‘Sae-byeok has a brother to take care of, a family to go home to.’

You shook your head slightly, knocking yourself out of your moment of fear as Sae-byeok’s marble rolled about 4 inches from the wall. A good throw. She turned and gave you a somber look before allowing you to take her place.

Time seemed to stop as you second guessed your plan. After this there was no turning back, no second chances. But you had no one to go home to and she did. You thought back to when the two of you had first met when they served the measly meal made up of rice and fish and how you had clung to her throughout the games, trusting that she was a survivor. And she is a survivor. So she would survive this.

You took a deep breath, before allowing the marble to fall from your fingers directly below you and stood tall, projecting a confidence you didn’t have.

“Hey, what are you doing?” Sae-byeok exclaimed, shoving you against one of the walls of the houses.

“I lost. You won.” You said simply, giving her another small smile.

“Stop it. Why the hell would you try to do that?” She yelled at you, showing more emotion than you had seen her ever show before. Perhaps she truly did see you as a friend after all even if she would never admit it out loud.

“Hey, I’ve got butter fingers. What else can I say?” You joked sadly, watching as the guard who had been observing you reached up to his ear and stood eerily still. You shifted your glance back to Sae-byeok, wanting to commit a familiar face to memory before you go. A face that you had been a blushing, sweaty mess around, but one that would remember you.

“What you said…” She paused, looking at you with quiet devastation in her eyes as she spoke. “...making sure that I won. Is that what this is? No. Take another throw, try again.” Her sadness changed into determined anger as she let you go.

“And I still wouldn’t be able to win.” The thought left your mouth before you could stop it. Not that you would’ve. “Let me make this choice.” You begged softly.

“Y/n that’s bullshit! Stop acting sentimental and just do a real throw!” She shook you again roughly, probably trying to knock some sense into you that wouldn’t come but you only huffed out a small laugh.

“We promised to tell each other our secrets, didn't we?” You repeated your promise to her as her eyes watered.

You wanted to tell her, probably should tell her that your heart skips a beat when you are around her, that your hands grow clammy when she talks to you, but you couldn’t. “My secret is, is that I have nothing.” You said instead.

“What?”

“You have a reason to get out of this place but I don’t.” Your voice shook with emotion and you felt tears rise in your eyes.

In any other situation you would try to block out Sae-byeok’s shaky breathing, the pain written on her face, but since you were about to die. You found yourself soaking it all in, trying to make your last moments with the woman you played the games with last. The woman you cared about and if you had the time to truly know each other, the woman you may have loved.

“I’ve thought about what I would do… if I won.” You blinked back tears. “No matter how hard I thought though, I’ve got nothing.” Nothing without you.

“The one who needs to survive, who has a reason to get back out there, that’s what’s right.” Smiling through your tears you nodded again. Your heart slowly breaking as tears roll down Sae-byeok’s cheeks.

“You can do this.” You continue encouragingly. “Don’t die in here, okay?” You wanted her to promise. To swear that she would survive and be happy. “And go…” You sniffled loudly before continuing. “... Go meet your mother. Go get your brother. And go to Jeju Island.” You let out a chuckle at that last sentence, a real one.

“I will. I promise you I will Y/n.” Sae-byeok reached for your hand and gave it a quick, tight squeeze before she choked out a small sob. Then silently stepping back and collecting the marbles you had thrown earlier. A triangle guard gestured to the path through a paneled gate, which she paused after walking through, turning to look back at you with pain written all over her face.

“Thank you L/n Y/n. Thank you for playing with me.” You appreciated her support, the fact that she wasn’t going to let you die alongside people who you didn’t know, who didn’t care for you as she did in her own way.

And you found yourself not fearing what comes next, as the two of you made eye contact, you wanted the last thing you ever saw to be her eyes, the very things that had drawn you to her in the beginning. But you weren’t even allowed that reprieve.

The gate swung shut in front of Sae-Byeok, the thick wood it consisted of leaving no way for the two of you to see each other and your heart plummeted as the triangle guard next to you raised his gun slowly. Your ears began to ring and you could vaguely make out a strangled cry from beyond the gate, that couldn’t be Sae-byeok… could it? So raw and full of emotion?

Tears fell down your cheeks in quicker succession as you swallowed your fear and prepared for darkness to consume you.

When the gunshot rang out, the person banging against the gate froze. Her cries silenced immediately, turning into choked sobs.

“Player 240 eliminated.” The loudspeaker cheerily spoke, and you took a shuddering breath, stunned as to why you were still breathing. But before you could call out to her, could even question why you weren’t full of holes, two strong arms gripped you tightly, pressing a damp chemically smelling cloth to your face and pulling you towards the sandy ground.

It was then, thrashing in a panicked craze in the second triangle guard's grip that you finally succumbed to the darkness you had expected. Only it appeared that they planned for you to wake up again.

Hope you all enjoyed! I’m not the best at writing angst but hopefully this turned out good. 

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[nabi-unveiled]

Catching Up: Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo (Ep 5)

Other Reacts: Ep 1 Ep 2 Ep 3 Ep 4

We left our leads on the cusp of a dinner with a foreboding vibe. Ju-yeong is an emotional mess. Do-hoe is a brick wall. Frenemy seems to be inserting himself into the situation. Note - I don't think Do-hoe and him are or have ever been "together" during the twelve years. I figure frenemy is still trying to shoot his shot though.

Anyways, let episode 5 begin!

I didn't catch it at the end of the last episode, but the colors of their clothes are very interesting. Ju-yeong in white, Hyeon-ho in black, and Do-hoe in grey. It's as if Do-hoe is literally between two worlds.

Ju-yeong is perceiving the formal speech as putting distance between them. He uses the phrase "just like before" which shows yet again that he's trying to recapture the past. That isn't going to work sunshine. None of you are the same now.

Hyeon-ho's remark indicates that they (him/Do-hoe) have moved on. They are now in the "adult" world. They use formal speech more often than casual - particularly in the business circles in which they float. However, there's condescension in this phrasing too. I just can't decide if it's intended or if I'm perceiving it that way because I don't trust him. I hold grudges.

Ju-yeong, I'm with you. Glare away. One, they are ignoring you. Two, this conversation displays a high level of familiarity with each other. Three, are they taking you to dinner with you wearing your taekwondo uniform? You know these men in their nice suits driving fancy cars aren't going to McDonald's. I highly doubt Ju-yeong is dressed for this occasion.

IT'S A QUESTION! And it's one that indicates that he still cares. I wish I had kept track of how many times Ju-yeong has said or pretended that the cold doesn't bother him in this show. We'd be at quite a few by now. But he isn't Elsa. The cold very much bothers him. The interesting thing is that the cold here is symbolic of Do-hoe (and Hyeon-ho) icing him out. They are creating the cold.

I stand by my earlier statements. This is not a warm, friendly atmosphere. They are setting Ju-yeong up to be a spectacle. And while I may not have been certain on Hyeon-ho's previous statement, this one here is DRIPPING with condescension. Based on Ju-yeong's facial expressions, he knows it too.

It's interesting that Do-hoe's friends are not from the top university. I'm guessing they got close through Hyeon-ho. It is apparent that Do-hoe is doing well at the tutoring center, but it's not architecture. That means Do-hoe's path diverted from his plans at some point.

It's at this point that Hyeon-ho IMMEDIATELY changes the conversation. There's something there. Something changed Do-hoe's path from architecture.

We have physical touch with the passing of the glass, and then this dick move here. He knows Ju-yeong is uncomfortable. He knows this is the equivalent of looking down on him. It feels more personally insulting knowing how Do-hoe feels about being looked down on.

(Meanwhile, there's a conversation about the Director's son getting into the architecture major in the background, and Do-hoe deflects. That's not a subtle coincidence at all 🙄.)

That said, I can't actually be mad at Do-hoe here. I should be, but I'm not. He's being a dick, but he needs Ju-yeong to go away. He didn't want to care when they were teens, but sunshine seeps into even the smallest of cracks. He doesn't want to care now. But sunshine seeps in. He knows he'll cave if Ju-yeong keeps showing up around him. Do-hoe NEEDS him to leave to keep his status quo, and if being a jerk will accomplish it - so be it. That said - this puts Ju-yeong in a TERRIBLE position to be tormented.

About $300 USD for a meal? Yeah, I'd be out. I felt bad about splurging $20 USD on a meal this past weekend. I know some people have that kind of cash though. Apparently Do-hoe is one of them. Academy teachers can make a lot in South Korea; however, I doubt it's enough to treat everyone to this type of meal on the regular and drive a BMW. It also seemed like he was fairly new to the academy. He has likely earned cash from somewhere else along the way. I just don't know where.

The actor playing Do-hoe uses a lot of micro-expressions like the subtle tightening of his jaw when Ju-yeong stands. I'm really enjoying his acting. With a character like this, you need someone who can convey a lot in the smallest of movements and expressions.

I appreciate that Ju-yeong says he will walk. Do-hoe may have a lot of the power currently, but that doesn't mean you have to put up with being treated poorly.

Hmm. I'm trying to figure out exactly why it's important to him. Is it the memories? Does he want to go back there to run it? Are there things to be resolved there? Something else? I don't have a good read on Ju-yeong's motivation here.

Woah. Do-hoe lashed out. Somebody got triggered, and it brought out a question. Little kid is a genius. There's so much this question tells you. Do-hoe's angry about Ju-yeong "interfering". It's not the first time he's used similar phrasing (stick to your own business, etc.). It's a trauma response first and foremost. But it also feels like there's more to it. I have thoughts, but I don't have strong enough evidence to back any of them up yet.

And we have a crack. Do-hoe invades Ju-yeong's space. It's charged, but it's not romantic. He taunts him with "do you still have feelings", and Ju-yeong responds as sunshine characters do. He basically says "yes". You see Do-hoe visibly crack before putting the wall back up.

OMG. This conversation is intense. The difference in their tones and body language, and the layers of meaning in every line of this conversation. I need popcorn....or ice cream. Seriously.

This is another shot through Ju-yeong's heart. I'm not sure how many more of these direct hits he can take. For someone who has held on so closely to those memories, to be told that Do-hoe hates them? 😭

Do-hoe says he's glad that Ju-yeong didn't say he "did it for Do-hoe's sake". If he did say that he'd "become a stranger" to Do-hoe. I still think Ju-yeong DID do it for his sake. Ju-yeong is obviously and understandably distressed. The thing is - Do-hoe's got teary eyes here too. (I have to slow down on screenshots. Eesh we're only 7 minutes in.)

This really feels like a Personal Weatherman type of exchange. What I mean is that Yoh is always saying the opposite of what he means in that series. You have to search for what he actually means and feels.

Do-hoe feels that way to me. In the previous episode, his "I don't understand you this time" was really "I don't understand myself this time". This "you'd become a stranger" feels like it's actually because Do-hoe wouldn't be able to handle that truth. Like he wouldn't be able to handle that Sunshine had been trying to protect him. That makes him weak if he needs protection. That makes him responsible for Sunshine's pain and beatings. (It doesn't - I'm saying from his viewpoint.)

I could be wrong, but it is beginning to feel like there's even more to this rejection of Ju-yeong than the fight or the knife scene. It's beginning to feel like Do-hoe doesn't like himself. He's successful. He's "free". But he doesn't want to think about the past. He doesn't want to think about who he was back then. A+ on the trauma characterization. Trauma doesn't disappear.

Ju-yeong is out in the cold AGAIN. And just like him, my mind is racing 100 mph. It feels like I'm missing something. 🤔🤔🤔 It's something to do with Do-hoe and why he's so adamantly pushing Ju-yeong away. The knife scene alone isn't enough 12 years later.

Is this just a regular junk drawer or is this a whole boatload of meds?He closes the drawers before Hyeon-ho enters. He who apparently KNOWS THE CODE. Are they living together? I'm not taking a screenshot, but the closing of the door there was great camerawork.

1 - She's not really his friend or she wouldn't be upset at him calling her after work. 2 - I forget that severance pay is a thing for some people. 3 - IT'S ABOUT TIME! Get angry. Start making moves. I'm seriously beginning to doubt my characterization of you as a Red Rascal. There's small bits of temper shining through, but I expect you to bring chaos to Do-hoe's life.

Hyeon-ho's dripping water on the floor, and apparently that's a big deal. Not sure why though. Is that a memory callback I'm forgetting?

Do-hoe seems to enjoy teaching, but there's a pill case on our genius boy's desk that got focused on too long. Are we dealing with a different type of abuse here? I've seen Extraordinary Attorney Woo (het drama) and did WAY too much research into Hagwons during The Midnight Romance (another het drama). Academic pressure is a THING.

HOLY CRAP! HE HEARD IT. HE KNEW JU-YEONG WAS GETTING BEAT ON EXAM DAY AND HE LEFT ANYWAYS. That's the information I was missing. I will 100% be going back to that scene in the previous episode to rewatch and see how it was edited. The truth was obviously obscured, but it will be fun to see if there were any hints I missed.

That said - we knew Do-hoe realized Ju-yeong was getting hit at least sometimes. Between the sparring match and the ankle showing during the chicken scene, Do-hoe knew. But to be aware on the day all of the shit went down. That adds a layer of bystander guilt.

This shot is interesting. It's his old self looking back. This reminds me of the school uniform shots we saw of Ju-yeong that I still haven't completely sorted. This one is pretty easy though - choices were made, and he doesn't like himself for them.

They are outside of the rooms. The doors are open. The wall is not between them in the same way as when they were teenagers, but the wall is still there. There's a clock on it. Taekwondo trophies behind Ju-yeong. A mirror with an obscured reflection behind Do-hoe. The framing and symbolism of this particular shot especially with the conversation about buying the gym is excellent. That could be a whole post in and of itself.

I'm glad Ju-yeong keeps pushing the issue. The only way to break walls down is to apply pressure.

DO-HOE IS THE ONE THAT CALLED THE POLICE?!? I'm trying to decide what to make of that. He's saying words, but I'm calling most of it as half-truths. Facts are that boy was SPRINTING after he finished his exams to get back to the gym.

Yep. He hates himself not Ju-yeong. The line that follows is "I can't be the person you want, nor is it what I want." What does he think Ju-yeong wants? That's the real question. He's back to begging him not to interfere and please treat him as a stranger.

Hmm. So did he not get into the architecture major? I'm calling B.S. on that. I think Ju-yeong just hasn't put it together yet that Do-hoe lied to him about failing the exam. I do think Do-hoe lied.

You know, yelling at each other is still a type of communication. I know some people probably don't like it, but I can appreciate it in these types of critical moments. At least it gets stuff out into the air.

Chapstick is back. It seems to come out at key times. It would be fun to collect those moments and look for a common thread.

I'm stuck on the fact that the math problem is on the back side of this note. It also creates something of a heart shape when unfolded. Plus it talks about food, and them going to Seoul together. 🥺🥺🥺

Do-hoe is crumbling. You can see it. PLUS THERE IS SNOW. It's a sign! But apparently, we're going to do a long flashback sequence to really hammer in the point that boy is crumbling.

AHHHHHHHHH! He caved! He caved! My only thought is....they either did A LOT more kissing that winter than we saw OR .... nope, that's all I got. Because, we KNOW that neither of them have likely been kissing other people in the past 12 years. This isn't the awkwardness we saw in the earlier episodes. Yes, they are adults now. But this? This is a familiarity and comfort with each other that comes with experience. (Assuming we have a director/screenwriter who knows what they are doing which...I trust Hwang Da Seul's track record.) I'm guessing the van saw a lot of business.

Crap. Do-hoe apparently had been momentarily overwhelmed. He hadn't processed what he was doing. It's written all over his face. But he's at least somewhat smiling as they talk about how they are not really going to Seoul together. They're driving separately. See...it's progress, but we're not there yet. We're back to the talking on the phone while traveling shots. Instability is still here I see. Interesting.

Frenemy, you are my enemy. Why are you camping out at Do-hoe's house? You had 12 years. Let's be honest. Your half-naked body getting out of the shower while dripping water just to make sure he saw you (yes, that's where I've landed on the water dripping)....it was an offer. He didn't take you up on it.

OOOOOH. He's made a decision. I like the sentiment "I'm not going back, but continuing...". BUT you can't ignore history. It has an ugly way of rearing its head. Feel free to continue from the moment you stopped though.

He's drawing HARD lines with frenemy right now. Mask is dropping. There's still a LOT of history here that we aren't privy too. Frenemy is shooting his shot.

AND HE MISSES (is rejected). The crowd goes wild. Me. The crowd is me. That said, is the mistake the bullying stuff from the past? I think there's probably more to it than that. Especially with that abrupt fade to black. But....I always think there's more to it than that.

This isn't a promising sign. If you were texting me, it wouldn't be unusual for me not to respond for a couple of hours (particularly not in the morning). However, this is a NEWLY rekindled relationship. Not texting and then going home instead of meeting up? This feels like Do-hoe is holding Ju-yeong at arm's length. It's distance.

I wish I could say I was surprised by the distance. I'm actually more surprised that he brought Ju-yeong home at all. Do-hoe will definitely be trying to establish a new status quo. The only question I have now is - what are his new rules of engagement?

Ju-yeong sleeps in his coat? Poor boy. Aww. The MP3 player is back. I probably should've predicted that one, but I didn't. The bad thing is, it means something to Ju-yeong. However, Do-hoe isn't likely to see it in the same light. That whole "continuing forward" means he still doesn't want to think about the past.

Frenemy, what you doing back here? I thought we had kicked your ass out. And there's the music cue for our cliffhanger angst to begin.

Do-hoe, what kind of games are we playing now? Can we at least clue Ju-yeong in on the rules? It's not fair to play a game without letting the other team know the rules.

[one-lucky-day]

SQUID GAME MAIN SIX - AS RARE NATURAL PHENOMENA

Seong Gi-hun - Moonbow

A moonbow is a rare phenomenon that occurs when moonlight creates a rainbow. It’s subtle, often not as vivid as a typical rainbow, and happens under very specific conditions. This fits Gihun’s personality. He’s someone who, despite facing struggles and seeming ordinary, has moments of brilliance and beauty in his character. He may not always be in the spotlight, but when it counts, his strength shines through quietly, just like a moonbow.

---

Cho Sang-woo - Flammable ice bubbles

Flammable ice bubbles are rare, formed when bubbles are trapped in ice and can be ignited. While the ice itself is cold and seemingly harmless, the hidden, volatile nature of these bubbles makes them incredibly dangerous. This reflects Sangwoo’s personality. On the surface, he may seem calm and composed, but there’s an inner volatility and potential for destruction. Like the ice bubbles, his true nature only reveals itself when provoked, and even then, it’s often hidden or carefully controlled.

---

Kang Sae-byeok - Frost Flowers

Frost flowers are rare, delicate ice formations that bloom on plants under specific conditions. They are fragile yet beautiful, much like Saebyeok’s quiet strength and emotional depth. Despite harsh conditions, frost flowers bloom, just as Saebyeok stays composed and strong in the face of adversity. They also represent her inner beauty and the fragility she hides, similar to how she conceals her personal pain and emotions.

---

Ali Abdul - Sailing Stones

Sailing stones in Death Valley are rare and mysterious, slowly moving across the desert floor, leaving tracks behind. They symbolize persistence and an unseen force driving them forward. Much like Ali, the stones move through an unpredictable environment, but they keep going, leaving a mark. Ali’s perseverance, despite the hardships he faces, matches the steady movement of the stones. His journey, though difficult, is one of quiet strength and determination to push through.

---

Jiyeong - Blue Hole

Blue holes are deep, underwater sinkholes that are stunningly beautiful and full of mystery. They represent something hidden beneath the surface, much like Ji-yeong’s character. While she may seem quiet or distant at times, there’s a lot of depth and emotion within her. The blue hole is serene but holds great power, just like Ji-yeong’s quiet strength and the intense experiences she carries beneath her calm exterior.

---

Han Min-yeo - Volcanic Lightning

Volcanic lightning is a rare phenomenon that happens during eruptions when the energy from the volcano creates lightning. It is chaotic, unpredictable, and powerful, much like Minyeo’s emotions. Her actions can be intense and explosive, making her presence impossible to ignore.

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[gyakusama]

❝ Oh, don'cha even worry 'bout it; my haircut────unlike yer face────never stopped no one from bustin'. ❞

❝ ♪ Summer lovin' happened so fast ♪ ❞

❝ ♪ Summer lovin' balls in my ass ♪ ❞