#suwon: accepted

[soo-won]

Layers

Redraw of the opening page of Witch Hat Atelier chapter 85 by Kamome Shirahama! Please go read it!!

[freewilllife]

Suwon has been repeatedly shown to hold his sword close to his chest (if you see the recent trio cover too). Any thoughts on what it may imply?

I guess you mean

Interesting in that pic is that all three hold weapons. Yona of course is the centre piece and appears in a form of armour. She is holding Hiryuu´s sword. Hak is to her right, Soo Won to her left side. Hak definitely stays closer to Yona than Soo Won, who is turning his body partly away. Soo Won is also the only person, who holds his sword with both hands.

And it is definitely the sword of his father, he has in his hands. In the background there is the wide sky with clouds, that are more present at Soo Won´s side. Hak´s weapon is also near Soo Won´s head.

More or less it does seem as if Soo Won is still separated from the other two, despite them being now allies. The separating factor seems to be the earlier twist.

So it does appear that there might be a conversation about their past.

Additionally, Soo Won is in his kingly robes...so his role as a king might be not a thing of the past.

The interesting point is also, that Soo Won and Yona are mirrors to each other in the latest chapter. They even hold the same sword.

They are "body & soul" of Hiryuu - Soo Won is his descendant, Yona own his soul.

And they both tear apart the dragons, who cannot accept the death of Hiryuu

[knightyoomyoui]

Rather Be

ft. TWICE's Jeongyeon (x Male Reader)

TYPE: Fluff, Angst GENRE: Romance, Drama, Slice Of Life REQUESTED BY: anon who asked for this: "Hi knight-nim, glad that you are back and lookong forward to your fics. Is it possible to request a Jeongyeon slice of life as an idol fluff fic about how she navigates her love life especially during her hiatus era and her comeback and her new youtube shows. I am a sucker for fluff with a tinge of angst and a supportive couple. Thank you." I hope you liked what I made for you and hopefully it reached your expectations!

WORD COUNT: 7083 ADDITIONAL NOTE: This might be one of my favorite fics I've made. I've enjoyed writing this a lot (which is why I exceeded to my 3k word limit) and I think I really went deep onto their personalities here. Probably because most of the dialogues here was like these were all I would like to express to Jeongyeon personally. Love my bias!

DONATE OR REQUEST FOR COMMISSION HERE: https://ko-fi.com/knightyoomyoui ===000=== An unexpected and saddening news was released right during the month of October which was TWICE’s 5th anniversary since their debut and the hype as well for the release of their upcoming 2nd full album titled ‘Eyes Wide Open’. It is said on the link that was posted by the agency itself JYP Entertainment that Jeongyeon, one of the members of the said group is suffering both from a severe anxiety attack and a herniated disc injury on her neck. This requires her to be on hiatus for an indefinite period of time, resulting for her to be pulled from the promotions of their album including their live celebration of their anniversary on YouTube.

The conditions were mutually agreed both from JYPE and TWICE, especially to Jeongyeon who is the most affected here. After the announcement was posted, it spreaded through the K-Media articles as well as globally for all of the ONCEs to see. The fans were disheartened from the idea of how Jeongyeon is suffering right now and disappointed of the unfortunate timing it occurred. Without any choice, the fans had to express their thoughtful and caring messages for Jeongyeon’s speedy recovery while others combined it with criticizing the agency for another mistreatment of their idols. Jeongyeon saw everything in the social media.. Despite the heartwarming messages being sent to her by ONCEs, the quivering feeling inside of her cannot be shaken away of what her current unstable state has been caused. Remembering what the doctor have said to her that the primary thing for her to do on beginning her recovery is to keep her distance away from the public and take some time-off she needed for herself. The burden of stress and guilt taking an effect of her led to Jeongyeon deciding that she wants to retreat back on her hometown of Suwon. She informed her sister Seungyeon about this and immediately accepted. However, she mentioned that she’ll be only taking her there and won’t be much in around as she is in a middle of filming a new series, but she promised that she’ll visit from time to time as long as she can monitor how she’s been doing. Touched by her sister’s love for her, she is determined now to depart temporarily from attracting an attention to the flashing cameras, public’s eyes, and the relentless pressure of the industry putting her on.

===OOO===

It’s a 30 minute drive from Seoul to Suwon. Before packing her belongings and drive away with Seungyeon and her recently bought car, she said goodbye to the girls and thanking the staffs including JYP himself for allowing her to take a break, in which it was done with pure intention as they believe everybody deserves to be and nobody should sacrifice their lives for exhaustion. She saw the signage that says she’s near now to her destination, Jeongyeon couldn’t help but to atleast crack a smile for a little, as she couldn’t hide her excitement to relive the nostalgia she had on that place. Now arriving to the province, Seungyeon parked the car to the familiar placed standing still and looking just as great as the last time they left here to pursue the best of their careers. They unloaded her things and approached the house where they were greeted by Yoo’s longtime helper Mrs. Song. She was stunned to see two women who were once little to her eyes, now a fully grown up and looking prettier than ever. “Hi, Mrs. Song.”

“Oh my Jeongyeon and Seungyeon-ah, it’s been a long time since you two went here!” Mrs. Song went to hug them both in which they giggled in response. “Look at you two looking like a grown-up women now, it has been a while isn’t it? Last time we’ve been together, I had to babysit you two and keep your playfulness in control.” All of them laughed at that memory. “We missed you too, Mrs. Song. We apologize if it only had come to this where we have to go back here. It’s busy out there in the city and… it’s an urgent matter.” Mrs. Song nodded, as she understood what Seungyeon is referring, which was their phone call last night. “I get it, and I can’t demand selfishly.” Her expression shifted into a softer one, turning her attention to Jeongyeon who is looking exactly as what she’s expected. “What did they do to you there, hmm? I heard what happened to you, Jeongyeon-ah. Have you’ve been tiring yourself too much on your work?” She held Jeongyeon’s hands which began to tremble. Meeting her eyes, she was shocked and devastated to see her the younger Yoo cry in her grasp.

“Aigoo, they’ve been too harsh on you.” Mrs. Song quickly hugged Jeongyeon into comfort. Seungyeon witnessing this scene tugs her heart and at the same time feeling sorry for her sister. “Don’t worry, I will take care of you here, okay? Enjoy your stay here, forget all of those you left behind for a while. This is about you that you have to be focused on first and they can’t stop you for it. Okay?” Jeongyeon nodded and answered in a muffled sobbing tone. “Yes, ahjussi.” z

“Ssshhh, save your tears, my Jeongie. Let’s take it here inside and continue. Here, let me help you two grab your things to your rooms.” Mrs. Song said as she rubbed Jeongyeon’s back before letting go and went through the luggages. ===OOO=== After an hour of reliving the old memories and catching up the lost times with their beloved helper, Seungyeon regrettably informed her that she has to go now for her schedule. Mrs. Song wished her goodbye and a safe trip back in Seoul while repeating what she advised to her in relation to Jeongyeon’s situation. Seungyeon keep it in mind and hugged Mrs. Song in gratitude. Jeongyeon stepped near at the car and watched her sister enter. Rolling down the window, she peeked at her vulnerable younger sister and aims to set some reminders. “Call me anytime if you need me, okay? Keep me updated on how you’re doing, you know I’ll always be concerned of you, especially mom and dad. Got it?” “Alright.” Jeongyeon nodded. “Have to go now, bye and love you!” “Love you too, noona.” Jeongyeon waved her hand and slightly smiled for her sister as she watched the car start to move and disappear through the distance. Mrs. Song smiled at the interaction of the two from the balcony before calling Jeongyeon. “Jeongyeon-ah, let’s go. I could take some help on the kitchen for our lunch.” “Okay, Mrs. Song!” Jeongyeon responded after rotating her body to face her. She entered the house and locked the gate. ===OOO=== The next day, Jeongyeon began to list down the things she wanted to do, motivated to heal and put herself back together again. Now convinced and contented on her procedure of self-therapy she arranged, she didn’t waste any more time to check them off the list. She started by reconnecting with some old friends in which they welcomed them back with open arms and offered assistance to her especially after what they have learned of her current struggles that brought her back to Suwon. Jeongyeon appreciated it and gladly granted them. She also went to revisit some of the places she has been since she was a child and other places where it was added during the length of time they departed to Seoul. She made sure to capture everything and add it to her gallery to compile once she feel like reminiscing again and see the progress of her hiatus.

She was also joined by Mrs. Song on exploring some new activities to discover and probably consider it to be added on her new hobbies. She was taught on how to paint to canvas, forming a clay pot, baking a cake, gardening and others that will surely gain her peace and relaxation that she craves to have. The past 5 days has been awesome for Jeongyeon. Despite the conflict both on her mental and emotional well-being, she is constantly attempting to fight through all these now that she is encouraged to do so with the continuous addition of everything and everything she loves back into her life. Which now then leads to this one particular moment when she was walking through the seashore in barefoot, wanting to feel the sand along with the splashes of the water and the breeze of cold air hitting her skin, her hair and dress flowing freely through the direction of the wind. Jeongyeon was so focused on viewing the emerging sunset from the sky when she was distracted by an accidental bump to someone. Her body flinched and got alerted at the impact that they both took. Believing that it’s her fault for being too oblivious and clumsy, she checked on the guy who abruptly fixed his camera and wiped it lenses. She noticed that it was a photographer she had just collided with. “I’m really really sorry, mister. I didn’t saw where I was heading towards at, I was looking at the sunset.” She apologized deeply to the guy who is bowing in front of her, still on aiding his camera. “No problem, just try to be careful next time.” The guy said. “But… how about your camera? Is it okay? I can pay for it if-” “No, you don’t need to. It didn’t had any cracks or whatsoever.” He began to straighten his posture after wiping the lenses with his shirt. “I’m really sorry again-” As their eyes met, both Jeongyeon and the guy couldn’t believe what faces they were seeing so closely. Both were in denial, but as further close inspections and such, they have confirmed each that it’s really who they think they actually are.

“J-jeongyeon?!” “Y-YN, right?” They’ve been greeted themselves by another familiar person that they’ve gotten closer with during their time here in Suwon. Jeongyeon and YN are staring at their former high school classmate. However, for YN only; it means more than just that which the latter doesn’t know at all. “W-what are you doing here? When you have been in here?” YN asked Jeongyeon, highly confused. “I’ve been here for 5 days now.” Jeongyeon answered. “I thought you are now in Seoul, like you know… being an idol. Are you for work as well?” “No, I’m not currently active in work right now.” Jeongyeon. “Actually, I just returned here to have a vacation, you know…. Take some time off.” “Ahh… well if that so, well uhh hi. Welcome back and… long time no see isn’t it?” “Yeah… how long it has been?”

“8 years I guess, or maybe more than that.” “That’s pretty damn long indeed.” They both chuckled. “Wow uhh, really I really didn’t expect that you’ll visit here again, seriously.” “Me as well, but I realize that I did needed this to you know…  take a break through everything.” “Why? Is something wrong going out there? Are they not doing well for you?” Jeongyeon remained silent and frowned. YN received the imaginary answer and an idea formed in his mind to create a necessary action to it. Meeting again this woman that made an immense effect to him since back to when they were younger, he don’t want the time to be ruined because of the ongoing suffering she must’ve been containing within herself, simply because of looking back at the numerous times that Jeongyeon made his days complete.

Determined to help her, he spoke cautiously at her. “Would you want someone to talk with and listen to whatever that’s bothering in your mind? Deep talks about life and some stuffs.  I’m available.” Jeongyeon looks at him and agreed to his invitation. “You sure it’ll be fine to you?” “Absolutely, why not? Especially when people needs to have a company to share things they haven’t been able to release. And it seems to be you right now sooo… as a friend, I’m willing to be the one by your side for that. Also, I’m just capturing the shore anyways so I’m not bothered.” “O-okay.”

“Where do you want us to talk? I suggest for us to remain here, Would it be perfect to do it in  a perfect scenery like this?” “Yeah, this would do.”

Jeongyeon and YN sat together in the sand, facing the waters and surrounded by the sound of nature that is effectively providing Jeongyeon the peace she has been searching for. YN lets Jeongyeon initiate to begin their conversation, starting off with detailing how is her life doing rn in Seoul and what happened in the middle of her successful career of being an idol that made her end up in the place where it all began for her.

“So… what brought you here in Suwon? Are you longing for your memories you’ve made here, chasing for solace, or… other than that?” “I’m here to rebuild myself on my own. I mean, I have my personal therapist to aid me but… I want atleast contribute something on the process of healing by myself. To feel that I can somehow… help myself in my own ways and value what I have become for the better.”

“Therapist?”

“I’ve been taking treatments, both physically and psychologically. Well, because of what happened to me. I got an anxiety disorder right when we’re on the road to preparing for our comeback and our group’s anniversary as well.” Jeongyeon’s voice starts to shake, holding her impending emotions.

“Oh god, I’m sorry about that Jeong.” YN became speechless as he watches Jeongyeon making her fragile self in notice in front of him. He couldn’t imagine that she has to reach this stage of her life where she grew to risk her emotional health in shambles to the point that not just a single simplest comfort would be enough for her to recover. “Tell me more about it. Why did you ended up being very anxious and just everything that stirs up inside of you? Were you being pressured in your work?” “Guess you can say so.” Jeongyeon tilted her head, now hugging her knees as she stares at the sea in deep thoughts. “I’ve always regarded myself as the least popular member of TWICE and I get that. It makes me believe that I just don’t do something that interest the fans to like me as much as the rest. Maybe I’m just not that talented or possess a likeable personality unlike my co-members. A boring person, if that’s how I can put it.” “But I admit, just because I believe that I am like that doesn’t mean I just want to be that way and have no any plans to change who I should be. It hurts me still, deep inside I want to prove that i’m not who they think I am, that I know I can still improve and show them that I’m just as the same level and feel like I deserve to be in TWICE.” “So I began to work my ass as much as I could. Every day I would spend my entire day just singing and dancing our choreo for More and More -it’s a song we released this year- in our company. I was so eager to cure this sickness of me always forgetting the choreo and try to find the spots where I think I lack at until… I didn’t think of the consequences anymore. All I wanted is to give what I got that this industry requires me to be.” “Then what happened?” “One day, while I was dancing together with the members, I felt a stinging pain on the back of my neck after we did like a move that requires our head to spin. Since we do numerous takes, we have to do it again and again. I was just so tired at that moment and when I felt that I just neverminded it for a while, but when I got to rest for minutes… and it proceeded to worsen starting on the next morning after I woke up.” “At that moment I just know this will be bad, so I kept it within myself as to not make my members and the staffs worry too much that may disrupt our preparation for the comeback. Thankfully it didn’t, but it started to distract me a lot when we also have to rehearse too for our virtual concert with ONCEs. My neck hurts a lot whenever I move, to the point that I was crying it out when I got to be alone, for no one else to see.” “Until one day, it couldn’t be helped, I was accidentally caught by our eldest member and my bestfriend Nayeon holding my neck. She scolded me when i revealed to her that i’m in so much pain and I’m keeping this to anybody for the sake of our project. Then, she advised me to report it to our company’s medical partners and… it was shown that I have a neck injury called herniated disc. It’s simply a dislocated disc on the weakened part connected to my spine.” “After that, my worries and fears increased about the possibilities of what this may cause my group’s activities and to what I worked hard for. You know, I always have this weird sense that I… can call it if there’s gonna be a trouble.”

“And… it came true?” Jeongyeon nodded, her tears now began to flow in her face. “I was diagnosed with anxiety attack as well when they did checkups on me. They have decided to put me into hiatus in which they had to receive my approval first for consent. As much as I don’t want to, seeing the members suffer more because of how stubborn I am made me surrender for good. I told them okay, and they did the announcement, and yeah, it sucks that i didn’t had to last long for me to promote our new album and join them on the celebration. I was supposed to be there with them today but… it’s just too much for me to handle.” she sobbed harder. “And now I’m here in Suwon to step away from being the center of attention because of condition, I don’t want to distract them too much from our album’s promotion. I listened to what my doctor said, because I couldn’t contain this feeling of of disappointment I just gave to myself and the fans who were still there to support me. I always let them down, YN. I’m trying so hard to forget them, distracting myself or taking my meds but I rather just end up costing me with insomnias at night or have a panic attack. I’m just scared at the thought that maybe I should not perform again due to how insufferable and failure I’ve become.” Jeongyeon continues to pour our her exhaustion and pain from going through all of these challenges she had to encounter in the peak of her career. Her sobs became louder and her body shivers both from the cold temperature and the amount of crying she’s having.

Meanwhile, YN sinks everything that Jeongyeon shared and it ached him imagining how much she sacrificed before her body gave up on her. He just watch Jeongyeon become emotional in pity which immiedately making an impact to him as well. Not only because of her hardships or her being a friend that had to be in that scenario… but especially with the fact that this is woman she loves that he had to learn she was struggling in her life despite being successful.

And he wasn’t there for him to guide and support her in all of these. Snapping back onto reality, he founds himself to be sitting inches close beside to Jeongyeon. He may have not been able to do what he wanted but now that he has the opportunity placed for him at this time, at this very moment, he knows there’s only way to make things right. He’ll be one to pick her up when she’s down. Jeongyeon felt warmth around her body. Opening her eyes, she saw YN embracing him to the side, trying to ease her emotions. She appreciated the gesture and she actually like how gentle and safe it makes her feel. “I know what you feel, Jeongyeon. Afraid that everything you’ve poured a lot of effort and strategies just to ensure that you’ll reach expectations and requirements just so you won’t lose the purpose of what you have. I know because I’ve been there, but the opposite is that I relate because I actually lose what I wanted to have unlike you who already grabbed it.” YN proceeds to share his own story that might motivate Jeongyeon. “You know I always dreamt of becoming a songwriter right? Back when we were in high school you’ve seen me tried to compose or write my own songs and some went well. I just didn’t have like enough equipments to give it more life, only the guitar that my dad has given to me would do the bare minimum.” “Well… unfortunately that dream had to die, after all I’ve done just to prepare myself to enter college with Fine Arts in Music or offer somebody to get my song. Nobody liked it, and coincidentally I happen to look for more money when my father became sick with diabetes. We didn’t had enough money to give him continuous treatment and medicines. I did try to perform everywhere, I do receiving some but still not enough. Then it made me understand it all too well that this may not for me when my mother happens to be granted by my aunt in States a business to build.” “You see that cafe that was closed there? That’s ours by the way.” YN said, pointing at the particular spot. “Really?” “Yeah. I made it official and clear that I have to give up my dreams through the pressure and desperation to make ourselves stable in life and to treat my dad. Fortunately, he’s been keeping up really well these days. Me and my mom are still working hard to run the cafe. So yeah, what I can only say about your side is that don’t let your dream end just because you don’t satisfy and fulfill what the people wants from you. We are bound to make mistakes and we can’t always satisfy ungratefulness. I mean, there’s always a time, just trust the process without any rush. 

And why give up when you’re at the stage of your career where you have it all? It depresses me already to give up something I want to achieve, what’s more for you?  Just because of them? Jeongyeon, those people aren’t your fans if that’s the case. You’ve spent all those years giving everything to the world. If you feel anxious that you agreed to take the hiatus, well damn them because you deserved it. It’s completely okay to give something back to yourself, and if you’ve been giving everything to the world that you weren’t been able to do that, and they still don’t like you for it, then they don’t deserve you. Jeongyeon, the real fans who loves you don’t just wait for you to come back as an idol. They wait for you to comeback as the best version of yourself.”

Jeongyeon couldn’t help but to shed some tears again because of your uplifting words you have in store for her. Your whisper and mellow tone of speaking it close to her ears is make her feel light around your arms. “Your anxiety manifested because of overthinking yourself to enhance your image as a member of TWICE. But… your worth shouldn’t be measure just by how you should perfectly perform on stage. You’re already enough just by being you. I know you want to improve, but don’t let it be driven by criticisms and insecurities. Jeongyeon, you don’t have to prove anything to anyone. You don’t owe the world often a fantastic performance. We are bound to have our limits, and I suggest that you do what you do because you love it not because people out there expect you to be.”

That concluded YN’s advice for her. Jeongyeon assured that she’ll apply it within herself because she didn’t want to make your well-spoken thoughtfulness be wasted for nothing. She is so overwhelmed that she’s to one you’ve expressing that amount of care you can develop and protect for the people that you’re close with.

Only if she knows the wider aspect of that which urged you to do what has to be done. “Thank you, YN. I am pleased, so much with your kindness.” Jeongyeon mumbled into your shoulder, her soft voice hitting your heart. “It made me miss you a lot.” “I-I missed you too, Jeongyeon. That’s why.” YN almost went stuttering as he blushes intensely at Jeongyeon’s confirming her longing for your presence. Both of them went silent as they enjoy the night with them unbothered that they’re still within each other’s embrace, in their minds motivated to do the right thing that benefits each of them.

===OOO===

Beng a man of his words, YN’s proposal to guide Jeongyeon on rebuilding her confidence and get her back on the right track began the next day. Mrs. Song who learned about the encounter Jeongyeon had to his former classmate and friend and surprised her with the most important and reliable advice she needed right now was happy to see that it made Jeongyeon to look on the positive side. That’s why when she excused herself again to her parents to meet him at the designated place, they didn’t hesitate to do so, for the sake of her happiness.

Jeongyeon went to YN’s cafe and they began chatting, this time about random stuffs about their lives that happened during those years when they separate ways. YN discovered that Jeongyeon is currently learning how to brew different types of coffee, an idea popped in his mind after realizing the perfect timing. He offered Jeongyeon an additional tutorial with him and even a part-time job for her to pass some free time on, in which Jeongyeon who was first shy and shocked at the offer, accepted it afterwards.

Week after week as Jeongyeon’s bond with YN lasts through the journey of her reigniting the joy of reality becoming an idol without the pressure, their friendship deepens into something more. Jeongyeon showcasing her talent and him allowing to play the guitar for her after a long time of quitting suddenly reminds him of why he loved music. He was helping Jeongyeon to become a tough idol to handle the public in reception to her performance, yet it also created a strong effect in his soul to carry that creative passion that he once had for music.

That one night, as YN and Jeongyeon rode a bicycle together after closing the cafe, they were sharing laughters and remarks through their random conversation. As they suddenly brought up those times when they were in high school together, something inside YN made him bravely admitted something that he’s been keeping for very long. Maybe it’s due to the fact he’s trying to sweep aside that Jeongyeon is scheduled to return in 2 days back to Seoul to meet her therapist regularly. “Jeongyeon, can I be honest with you? I… I just thought nobody has even mentioned this to you from one of the people you’ve met during your pre-debut days. Or probably there is but they haven’t got the chance to say it, so I’ll do them the favor.”

“Hmm? Which is what?” “I already knew you’ll be a very famous idol someday.” YN said with a smile. “In fact, I hoped and prayed for this and it happened. I’m even glad that I appeared out of nowhere around of you to see that it did, and… I’m just so happy for you, really.” “Come on YN why are you being like this?” Jeongyeon whined playfully. “I’m about to sleep when I reach home, I don’t want to burn my eyes with tears again.” “Sorry, I just… wanted to release it, you know. I’m taking all the chances tonight and definitely tomorrow before you uh… leave. Again..” His chuckle slowly died in the end. “But thank you for that. You were right, I mean there’s others who have told me that they called it of me becoming a member of TWICE, but that was when they started to root for me since SIXTEEN era. But you… you were the first to do so, and it’s special to me because out of everybody, you were the one from outside my career who truly supported me.” Jeongyeon smiled brightly as the moon displayed above her. “Please do so, what I’m working hard for, it’s also because of you now.”

YN’s chest tightened in joy hearing such sweet dedication from her. “I-I never stopped, that’s why I’m doing this for you too.” “Good, and also I wish you can the same thing for your dream of being a songwriter, YN. Don’t you have anymore desire to do so? I’m not forcing you but there’s still time to-” “Actually about that…” YN paused for a moment as well him paddling the bike. Jeongyeon was perplexed on why you suddenly stopped, her concern of the possibility that she made you mad grew.

“I-is everything o-okay, YN?” “Y-yeah, it’s just…” YN huffed some air before facing Jeongyeon, preparing himself for something. “Uhm there’s last thing that I want to get off my chest, after many years of keeping this a secret to myself.” “I-I’ll be listening. You can talk it to me, YN.” YN took another breather and continued. “Okay. So you do remember that I wrote songs before right? I couldn’t help it, even when we’re at school I always find some time to draft it all.” “Yeah, you’re a full built musician since then, YN. I was just saddened that you decided to give it up. You have so much potential, if I recall correctly i’ve read one of the lyrics and it was so well-written.” “Yeah, and I said that those words all came from my heart. Do you still remember that?” “I am.” She nodded. “Jeongyeon… out of everything I’ve spent my time doing songs, that piece was my proudest work of mine.” You smiled genuinely. “How remarkable was it to made me keep it to myself after all these years whenever I go, just for instances that I have to be ready when I wanted to perform.” “That song was always the one I play the last, saving for the best you know?” 

“I bet the people would applaud you and leave them with their ears blessed and smiles across their face.”

“They are. I have no doubts about it. And I’m glad they love it just much as I am making it for you.” Jeongyeon became silent. Her eyes fixed at YN, she was stunned at the last words you’ve mentioned. Her lips shuddered, prompting to speak in the midst of bewilderment. “YN… that was for me?”

YN pulls out his phone and tugs off its case. At the back, there was a folded paper with ink marks behind it, a hint that has filled with handwriting. You unraveled it, and Jeongyeon saw the familiar outline she complimented years before. “I actually don’t know why I haven’t removed it now that my dream is done. When you left, I began to lose the motivation, it was like a part of it disappeared with you. Then the family stuff followed, I just… ran out of the passion I needed. But now I realized why I still singing it everywhere for years, keeping it with me, giving this crumped sheet of paper a purpose… because there was always a reason why.” “That’s you, Jeongyeon. I may have given up my dream but the love that I used to create my own masterpiece, it never went away.” Jeongyeon’s eyes became watery at your confession. She was oblivious for a long time that while she was wondering if anybody would found her dearly, there was always this one guy who remained faithful and loyal for him. Despite through the unfortunate circumstances and challenge he had to surpass, the value of the love he developed because of her was used not only to continue living his life, but to keep his most cherished talent alive as well. YN endured that for more than a decade, only for Jeongyeon. “I believed in you, I supported you, I did it all just to know how you’ve been doing. Then I heard the news that you were hurt.” “You don’t know how much I wanted to visit you, but I know it won’t be that easy knowing about the industry you are in. That’s why all I did instead is to pray for you to get better, and hope for miracle atleast, that we’ll see each other again.”

“We did.” Jeongyeon smiled through her tears. YN nodded and bowed his head in guilt, he didn’t want to make her emotional again but he sweared that this will be the last. Jeongyeon came out of her bike and stepped forward closer to YN. She lifted her chin to see his bittersweet face. His mood went upside down when he suddenly felt her body wrapped around his. “Don’t be sad about whatever it is, YN. I want you to know that after everything you told me, I became happier and grateful that I got to have you through my difficult process of healing.” Jeongyeon started to sob harder in his shoulder. She felt his large yet tender touch gliding on her back. “I’d be willing to do it always if it’s you.” he replied. “Thank you for holding my hand and reminding me that I’m stronger than I refuse to be.”

Jeongyeon leans away from the hug and stares at him, this time not only with impression but with adoration. The urge complied her to push her head forward and lay a kiss on his cheek, startling him. She smiled sweetly and grinned. “Now that we’re exposing our secrets here, I’ve also started to convince myself that not only you’re good hearted person but… you’re actually good looking too.” “W-what…” “I like you too, YN.” Jeongyeon stated, making his mouth open in amazement. “I know its not as much as you’re expecting me to say but-”

“No, I don’t care. Having you is already enough.” YN nodded and shrugged it off. “I know we can’t rush things, so take every time you got. B-but Jeongyeon, are you sure you want to be with someone like me?” Jeongyeon furrowed her brows as it clicked to her the negative thoughts you were trying to imply. “What? That you’re not as successful like me? That I’m an idol and you’re just a stranger?”

“Yeah, exactly.” “You said it yourself, I don’t care. As long as we learn how to keep supporting each other  without losing ourselves in the process, we’ll be fine. I know it’s a shot in the dark, but I’ll take it. Will you?”

Jeongyeon’s assurance instantly erased all of YN’s mindset of inadequacy and insecurities. “ You gave me a chance, Jeongyeon. Why won’t I do the same?” And they both laughed at their mutual arrangement.

===OOO=== Jeongyeon has finally returned to Seoul. As per the schedule, she met her therapist and examined her through narrating whatever she did during her time off. From revisiting her hometown, staying in her childhood house, meeting loved ones, especially reconnecting with YN. The therapist took all of that in a positive note. Due to this, she made an evaluation that this is an advantage to make her recovery faster and smoother. She learnt other coping mechanisms—meditation, journaling, and understanding her triggers. She made a promise to remain in contact with YN despite being distant again from each other. Jeongyeon can notice how YN’s sweet talking at her is greatly increasing her love for this man. However, it wouldn’t be the same as having his presence being around her, that’s why it causes her discomfort everyday not seeing him physically when she’s alone in her place.

Months later, Jeongyeon made her surprise appearance at the 2021 Seoul Music Awards to join her fellow members of TWICE to receive their awards. It became the headline of numerous articles and became trending all over social media. Not only did the fans and the K-Pop community acknowledged the return of the idol, but also to her new appearance. She was touched at all the welcome backs she received, but she also can’t dodge the toxic comments about her new look from toxic bodyshamers who most of them just simply hate TWICE and had the opportunity to find something to bash her on. Her return resulted to a mixed emotions for her, but she tried to be composed. She just turned her attention more on being with her group, with her family, her therapist, and YN.

Returning to vocal and dance training after months of rest feels harder than she imagined. Her stamina isn't what it used to be, and self-doubt creeps in. She tried to mask it in during their promotions for Alcohol-Free, until a clip from her fancam was leaked spotting her wincing in pain whenever she dances that requires head movement made her wondering if she’s still not truly back as what it seems to be. A candid moment with YN reminds her that her artistry is about authenticity, not perfection. She tried to live up to it, but the desperation ran wild inside of her to the point that she’s starting to forget it again. It then went blank when she requested at their choreographer to teach her for almost an entire day just to execute the choreo of Perfect World well. Her struggle triggered her anxiety and panic disorder again, causing her to take another hiatus in August 2021. She couldn’t take it anymore, she then requested for her manager and driver to pick up YN from Suwon. As he finally arrived to her location, her longing for his company activated, hugging him tightly and tears burst out of her tired eyes.

“You’ll get through it, Jeongyeon. I won’t go away, I’ll be here for you.”

“You better be. I thought I could manage to stand up for myself.” She muttered. “But I got lost again.” “It’ll be okay. I’ll make sure you will be prepared as much as you need to be. Learn to disregard the unnecessary, Jeongyeon. What matters is what holds importance to you.”

===OOO=== Through YN’s stronger guidance, Jeongyeon became steady at her pace again. Her appearances on their 1st English Single “The Feels” made a lot of positive reception both for her and the company, stating that it’s impressive and respectful on both side agreeing for the sake of making the vibe of their comeback “complete” without causing any harm, especially to Jeongyeon’s current state. The girls including the staffs met YN and learned about their relationship, in which they both shared their decision to keep their relationship private. The were still grateful for their support and wished them to stay strong together. Luckily, after almost a year of recovery, Jeongyeon was then cleared by her therapist to return full-time as an idol starting with the title track of their 3rd Full Album, “Scientist”, in which YN attended on every music shows and fanmeets to support Jeongyeon for the first time. More comeback eras have passed, Jeongyeon remained on doing well as she took things slow and focused on a healthier schedule that was granted to him by her company after standing up for herself, a demand that she’ll do everything on her own terms now with their group projects as well as her doing solo. She had photoshoots, a cover, and even hosting her first YouTube series.

Last year, Jeongyeon made a comeback of writing a song called “Bloom” for their mini-album “With YOU-th”, which was inspired by her experiences with YN when they reunited at Suwon. She felt proud and overwhelmed at the highly positive reactions from ONCEs, with others claiming it as their personal best track in the album. While scrolling on her tablet, she came across of a post by a ONCE featuring a beauty appreciation of her. She saw the comments of the said post, and again the inevitable, she came across some negative comments about her weight gain. She was about to be sad hen she heard the bathroom door open, revealing YN in a freshly new bath. She blushed at the sight of your manly figure but her heart moved in euphoria when she was flashed by his smile.

“You busy?” She looked back again at the screen of her device, but unspokably, her eyes went towards the comments of her fans defending her. A smirk crept up on her lips before shutting off her tablet. “Nope. Why?” “I just wanted to talk to you, I didn’t want to disturb you onto something.” “How thoughtful of you.” She rolled her eyes and laughed. YN joined her on the bed, sitting on the edge as she faced her. “I wanted to say thank you. For bringing me here to Seoul for a new beginning, the help you gave to my mom on our cafe, and… what we have right now.” he holds her hand and cuddled it on his cheek. “I made a promise, I might as well fulfill it, especially because it’s for you.” Jeongyeon said. “Take it as a return for everything you did for me… and also, I can’t let us be apart again.” She locked his hand stacked against hers. “I’m never going anywhere this time. There’s no place I would rather be if I’m not with you, Jeongyeon. I love you.” “I love you too.” After they shared a passionate kiss and another quick one on her forehead, YN excused himself to buy dinner while Jeongyeon reopened her gadget, switching back onto the Notes app she was typing at before she took a short break while scrolling through X. She reviewed again his part and her unfinished part on the song you and her will both collaborate to write for the first time, as well as now both being a songwriter and an artist for JYPE respectively.

===END===

[blooming-periwxnkle]

Akayona 269

(aka user blooming-periwxnkle's incessant screaming about suwon)

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Ofc you're not..

excuse me for a moment, but i am gonna once again cry about how i am sad at the fact that suwon is basically doing the tough part once again. wish he had someone too..💔

He is HIM. Literally.

My boy is literally standing like this in front of gods and maybe death itself. while he's terminally ill.

He's carrying this manga bro. Nothing can convince me otherwise.

guys. I.

I have no words.

Wow. Literally wow.

He meant it. He really did. My boy's staring into death's eyes unflinchingly.

As much as I wish he didn't have to do all this, I can't help but admire his character even more.

Moments like this make me grieve the fact that he's written into the fantasy genre and not in a political one because.. there is so much more of him that I feel like we can get if we remove these restrictions. I really do feel like this manga is somewhat holding his character back.

But all that aside, gosh, forget about his intelligence in critical moments, but his most admirable trait, his steely determination, it makes me cry.

Yes yes yes!!!

Tell them!

Suwon acknowledging and questioning all the suffering Hiryuu's descendants went through because of the dragon gods.. it's so important to me. He must've had these questions for ages, considering how he is, and the fact that he's able to keep his composure while confronting the beings that are responsible for the deaths of those he held dear, and his own impending death. The fact that these "gods" doomed so many people out of their selfishness... even if he feels anger, he can't show it...

Also, so many times, his 'every card' so often includes.. himself.

I hope this discussion never comes up anymore, but like.. Suwon is the type who'd damn himself first and foremost to hell.. who'd walk that thorny path and willingly accept the title of a villain.

For redditors who wanted him to 'redeem' himself, I hope this is enough redemption for you.

The duo we all knew we needed😭😭

Tysm sensei😭😭

Suwon and Zeno were both people with simple dreams who ended up bearing heavy destinies. Both of them have lost and borne a lot more suffering than they should've. They're both people who were failed by those who should've protected them...

So, the two of them collaborating like this and helping each other.. it makes me so happy. I always wanted to see more of them, and I hope we'll get to see them once things become better..

[under-my-pillow]

"Higher moral scale - Zeno, Soo-won, Lili, Yona, Yoon

Lower moral scale - Kye-sook, Jae-ha, Ki-ja, Shin-ah, Hak, (They are marked on the lower scale because their actions and reason are fundamentally dependent on another person.)

These categorizations are based on their individual thoughts, convictions, actions, and their impacts seen so far.

Anyone who has properly followed the plot will know that Soo-won is one of the people whose has actions have consistently benefited a large number of people for a decade. He has put in considerable effort, thought and taken actions that have secured long term stability and prosperity for the people.”

Morality dictates collectivity, and if we judge on that basis, Suwon has done quite a few immoral things. Furthermore, he supports Yuhon's actions of displaying decapitated heads and burning people alive. "These are things that happen in war." If I compare Suwon to any Fire Emblem Lord, Suwon comes off as a caricature. What he was working on for 10 years with the people is not explained. Yes, he was preparing, and later he conspired to commit regicide. From that moment you can evaluate his management as a ruler. Yona has influenced characters like the dragons, Tae Jun, Lili, Kouren, Mei. There is a lot of narrative value there. But I guess Suwon did more in 10 years for NPCs.

“Soo won's conviction has always been - "Keep sacrifices to the minimum."

He knows the value of life. He doesn't take the easy way out. We have seen this several times.

When there was an opportunity to drop the battle he dropped it. When there was an opportunity to forgive people he forgave them. When there was opportunity for diplomacy he took it. When there was an opportunity to use the divine dragons in war, even if it went against his beliefs he used it. Why? To nullify sacrifices. “

Suwon is a utilitarian. His ideology is that the end justifies the means. You saying that he knows the value of life contradicts what is stated in the narrative. There is the chapter of the boxes (220 chapters later Suwon has a turning point and some development). Suwon learns from Yuhon that people are like tokens, some are useful to you, others are not. Suwon did not think it was wrong that Kyesook would kill people just because he found out about the king's illness. Yes, the value of life. He reluctantly accepted Yona's help.

“And secondly, re-read the definition of antagonist - (Now this is how I know your understanding of the manga is one dimensional.)”

Suwon is Yona's antagonist in the first arcs. It's not my fault that you can't identify roles in the narrative. Yes, he hasn't been one for a while now. His role has been diluted into something else that Kusanagi hasn't been able to develop. She had to invent an illness for him to give him some presence.

Morality dictates collectivity, and if we judge on that basis, Suwon has done quite a few immoral things. Furthermore, he supports Yuhon's actions of displaying decapitated heads and burning people alive. "These are things that happen in war." If I compare Suwon to any Fire Emblem Lord, Suwon comes off as a caricature.

What he was working on for 10 years with the people is not explained. Yes, he was preparing, and later he conspired to commit regicide. From that moment you can evaluate his management as a ruler. Yona has influenced characters like the dragons, Tae Jun, Lili, Kouren, Mei. There is a lot of narrative value there. But I guess Suwon did more in 10 years for NPCs.

Morality dictates collectivity? - You might want to reconsider that. Morality is simple yet also quite complicated.

But let's see regicide - Killing Il, immoral?

Let's imagine, we are in a lawless society. We have an asshole of a father. Everyday he is a good-for-nothing deadbeat who does nothing but cherish a holy book and worship a cult. His wife and children are starving to death, but he doesn't care. Other men come over to rape his wife, he lets them. He doesn't want to confront any of them because he is so kind and he hates to fight. As long as he can avoid fighting and defending his family, even if they rape, kill or traffic his children he's fine with it.

Now, not only does he not want to defend his family, he doesn't want anyone else to protect or save his family either.

Finally one day, someone has had enough. He kills the deadbeat father, defends the wife and children from those cruel men. He gives better living & learning opportunities, and is even prepared to kill to deter a few assholes who can't seem to take the hint to stay away.

From that moment you can evaluate his management as a ruler.

Yes, I can, because I am not an idiot. I would defend that man who defended me. I would choose that man who is fighting for my interests.

In an election would you choose to vote for a candidate who just prioritizes personal interests or would you vote for someone who is out there working to change the actual shitty situation?

Oh, but poor little Yona. Got betrayed, thrown out of the castle for no fault of hers. Oh, her struggles with the best warrior as her bodyguard— stop. You have a problem if that is the only side of the story you can understand.

Sorry to break it to you, but cut out the fact that your poor little princess got thrown out and witnessed first hand what her wonderful father did and your little Yona would be worse than a caricature of a harem storyline.

Yona has influenced characters like the dragons, Tae Jun, Lili, Kouren, Mei. There is a lot of narrative value there. But I guess Suwon did more in 10 years for NPCs.

Leave the poor dragons out, anon. If she spat, they'd be admiring her spit for the rest of their lifespan. But it is true that Yona has influenced Tae-jun, Lili and Kouren. I agree here, but the Mei-nyan narrative for the lack of a better word was lame as shit. (It is one of the perfect examples of oversimplifying Yona's circumstances.)

And NPCs? - They say the first time you read a story, its about the protagonist. The second, third, fourth, as you keep re-reading, the story changes, it stops becoming the protagonist's story, and once you have read it more times than you can count it becomes a world's story.

Go, re-read the story, until the death of the kid on that random panel resonates with you. Those characters might be NPCs to you, and NPCs to Yona, but you see those to Soo-won they weren't.

Suwon is a utilitarian. His ideology is that the end justifies the means. You saying that he knows the value of life contradicts what is stated in the narrative. There is the chapter of the boxes (220 chapters later Suwon has a turning point and some development). Suwon learns from Yuhon that people are like tokens, some are useful to you, others are not. Suwon did not think it was wrong that Kyesook would kill people just because he found out about the king's illness. Yes, the value of life. He reluctantly accepted Yona's help.

Wrong and wrong. It has been emphasized through out the manga that Soo-won always wants to minimize sacrifices even in war. Soo-won uses the analogy of the boxes to rationally analyze the situation. Don't twist it.

When Yon-hi says - Il is Yona's father, and Yona would pay for it as well if Soo-won passes judgement on Il. Soo-won brings up the box metaphor to convey that to him Il and Yona are separate matters.

And he was absolutely right. Il was the father of the country. The King. Him neglecting his country is a separate matter, and him being a loving father to Yona is a separate matter.

The chapter 221 where we see a flashback of Yu-hon's teachings is actually a very beautiful chapter. Yu-hon's idea itself is not wrong. In war, people have to be clear headed. The core message is do not lose yourself to emotion.

However in Soo-won's case he has always repressed his emotions. It was one of his greatest flaws. We see the most complicated flow of emotions through out the chapter. The mental war, the pressure to make the right decision-nothing was simplified for Soo-won, his delayed miss in decision was not glossed over in this chapter, and at the end is the punching realization that he can't discard them. — it was not reluctance— The exact opposite. Does this look like an expression of reluctance to you? - It is realization.

That is the kind of challenging thinking I wanted Yona to have as well regarding her identity, the nature of the dragon warriors. The questions. Not just happy picnic days. Unfortunately, anytime the opportunity came to ask those questions, the narrative was turned into some mushy picnic.

As for the King's illness. It is a national issue. If the information where to leak into the wrong hands it would spell the greatest disaster. He is not wrong to take precautions. It is simply common sense. And let me tell you if Soo-won really wanted Hak dead. Hak would be dead. Hak himself admits Hyoori was someone even he could not beat.

Suwon is Yona's antagonist in the first arcs. It's not my fault that you can't identify roles in the narrative. Yes, he hasn't been one for a while now. His role has been diluted into something else that Kusanagi hasn't been able to develop. She had to invent an illness for him to give him some presence.

Wrong again. He was certainly pitched as someone Yona hated, still hates to some extent, but just because Yona hates him or can't forgive him - why does that make him an antagonist?

Sasuke and Naruto had different goals. They were up each other's throats in the beginning. Did that make Sasuke the antagonist?

Gilgamesh in the Fate Franchise is an insufferable prick half the time. With ideals significantly different from Rider - Iskandar. Can you consider him one of the antagonists of the Fate Franchise?

Code Geass - Lelouch and Suzaku - Each hated the other for a period of time. Who was the hero here, who was the villain? Cordelia, the Orange dude?

At the same time, Suguru Geto and Gojo Satoru, they were the best of friends, yet he was the antagonist and Satoru one of the protagonists.

You say his role has been diluted? Very wrong.

The correct term is multi-faceted. And multi-facted characters are some of the best written characters.

If a main character's hate or dislike was enough to determine who the antagonist was in a story then I assure you, you will never guess who the protagonist and the antagonist are in the stories like Pandora Hearts or Yatagarasu.

I am baffled by such one-dimensional standards. If your idea of a story is just to blindly follow the protagonist's narrative, I am afraid your understanding of the world of that story will forever be one dimensional.

Akatsuki no Yona is one of those stories that has so many deep thought provoking moments and emotions, and its such a shame that you are only able to see one side of it.

[sorasan000]

I had to think about Suwon's decision in ch.256 for a little bit, but I'm ready. His decision to retreat has two sides: a logical one and a personal one.

The reason Suwon kept pushing forward despite the apparent disadvantages was because he analyzed the consequences of a retreat: 1) he doesn't have much time, 2) he had full faith that they could bring this threat under control even without him there, and 3) he can't leave this unfinished for his successor to figure out.

When Suwon is told about the news that the dragons are potentially dead, he approaches the consequences of that from a logical standpoint as well: the country has stood without them in the past, kings come and go, and castles can be rebuilt. By those accounts, this shouldn't have changed his mind, but it did.

The reason things have changed is because while he was talking through this and clearing his head (as much as he's able to anyway), he deemed Yona losing the dragons a bigger threat to Kouka's stability than retreating. For his current plan, he had given up any and all personal hang-ups on Yona ruling with the dragons by her side and just accepted that it was what it was. Y'know, if Il was right all along. Yona losing the dragons, however, means she's not sufficiently equipped for becoming the ruler now. Something has deviated from what he might have been told throughout the years by Il himself.

That's where the personal standpoint comes in.

When Suwon named Yona his successor, I got the feeling that it was something he decided only after concluding that everything he stood on when it came to his stance on the gods and Il's beliefs was pointless and in vain. Il was right. Yona was King Hiryuu incarnate, she was going to become the ruler of Kouka one day, the dragons would be by her side and the country would be in their hands. It was something he fought against for as long as he had known about it. In the end, he succumbed to it, though.

Until Zeno did what he did.

So we have a destabilized successor, and we have an unknown future that Suwon wants to see unfold before he dies.

[cinefreaks]

♱ ˚｡⋆BASICS

BIRTH NAME :: HAN YONGRAE

STAGE NAME :: YONGRAE

BIRTHDAY :: JUNE 14, 2000

ZODIAC :: GEMINI

BIRTHPLACE :: SUWON, SOUTH KOREA

HOMETOWN :: SONGPA DISTRICT, SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

NATIONALITY :: KOREAN

ETHNICITY :: KOREAN

LANGUAGES :: KOREAN, ENGLISH (FLUENT), THAI (CONVERSATIONAL), JAPANESE (CONVERSATIONAL), CHINESE (BASIC)

♱ ˚｡⋆CAREER

GROUP :: CINEFREAKS (FORMERLY KNOWN AS NIGHTMARE)

AGENCY :: KILLJOY ENTERTAINMENT (2023-PRESENT) ONEWAY ENTERTAINMENT (2018-2021)

POSITION :: LEADER, MAIN VOCALIST, VISUAL

REPRESENTATIVE HORROR MOVIE :: THE SHINING

REPRESENTATIVE WEAPON :: MALLET

♱ ˚｡⋆PERSONALITY

POSITIVE :: CONFIDENT, SUPPORTIVE, VISIONARY, DETERMINED, CHARISMATIC

NEGATIVE :: CONTROL FREAK, PERFECTIONIST, OVER CRITICAL, RESERVED, IMPATIENT

NEUTRAL :: ANALYTICAL, ADAPTABLE, FOCUSED, OBJECTIVE, OBSERVANT

♱ ˚｡⋆PHYSICAL

FACECLAIM :: KOO JUNGMO

HEIGHT :: 174 cm (5’8″)

BLOOD TYPE :: A

BODY MODIFICATIONS :: NONE

♱ ˚｡⋆TRIVIA

He is the oldest of CINEFREAKS.

Yongrae was the 4th member to be revealed when they were known as NIGHTMARE, but after signing with KILLJOY Entertainment, he was the 2nd member to be announced as an artist under the label.

He is the second child of his parents office finance manager Han Sang-min & real estate agent Bae Minah. He has an older sister named Han Sihyeon who is an idol trainee who is also under KILLJOY Entertainment.

Before auditioning for ONEWAY Entertainment, he had auditioned for previous other companies such as GLASSHOUSE, SM Entertainment, & Cube Entertainment but was never accepted by them.

He was the first member of the group to terminate his contract with ONEWAY.

Yongrae's English name is Owen.

Yongrae thinks that CINEFREAKS' lore and sound is fun and interesting since it's based on horror movies.

He wants to try horror concepts like Psycho or Alien.

mentioned :: @glasshcvse

​psd coloring credit goes to bobbisbird on polarr !

[hot-boyband-tourney]

Welcome to the Tournament of the hottest boy band members of the 80s/90s

It was inspired by all the tournaments pitting famous beautiful people versus famous beautiful people of specific eras and specific jobs. The polls should start on the 8th of April, leaving around two weeks for submissions. I’ve compiled a list already but you can submit other boys that aren’t on the list through a google form. Feel free to submit non english speaking boy bands.

Propaganda

The only pictures accepted will be pictures from the 80s/90s and very early 2000s. To submit propaganda either use the same google form as for submissions (even if the guy in question is already on the list) or through the submission box or tag me on posts.

The List

Backstreet Boys

Nick Carter

Kevin Richardson

Brian Littrell

AJ Mclean

Howie Dorough

Take That

Robbie Williams

Mark Owen

Jason Orange

Gary Barlow

Howard Donald

NSYNC

JC Chasez

Lance Bass

Justin Timberlake

Joey Fatone

Chris Kirkpatrick

New Kids On The Block

Jon Knight

Jordan Knight

Joey McIntyre

Donnie Walberg

Danny Wood

Jodeci

Joel "Jo-Jo" Hailey

Donald "DeVante Swing" DeGrate

Dalvin "Mr. Dalvin" DeGrate

Cedric "K-Ci" Hailey

G-Squad

Chris Keller

Marlon

Gérald Jean-Laurent

Mika

Andrew Mac Carthy

Seo Taiji & boys

Seo Taiji

Lee Juno

YG (Yang Hyun-suk)

H.O.T

Moon Hee-jun

Jang Woo-hyuk

Tony An

Kangta

Lee Jae-won

Sechskies

Eun Jiwon

Ko Jiyong

Kim Jaeduck

Lee Jaijin

Jang Suwon

Kang Sunghoon

2Be3

Filip Nikolic

Frank Delay

Adel Kachermi

Westlife

Shane Filan

Mark Feehily

Kian Egan

Nicky Byrne

Brian McFadden

Boyz II men

Shawn Stockman

Wanya Morris

Nathan Morris

Marc Nelson

Michael McCary 

5ive

Scott Robinson

Ritchie Neville

Sean Conlon

Abz Love

J Brown

Boyzone

Ronan Keating

Keith Duffy

Michael Graham

Shane Lynch

Stephen Gately

98 degrees

Nick Lachey

Jeff Timmons

Drew Lachey

Justin Jeffre

Jonathan Lippman

Dream street

Matt Ballinger

Frankie Galasso

Greg Raposo

Jesse McCartney

Chris Trousdale

B2K

Omari Grandberry

Jarell Houston

Dreux Frédéric

De'Mario Thorton

BBMAK

Mark Barry

Christian Burns

Stephen McNally

LFO

Rich Cronin

Brian Gillis

Devin Lima

The Moffatts

Scott Moffatt

Clint Moffatt

Bob Moffatt

Dave Moffatt

New edition

Ralph Tresvant

Bobby Brown

Ricky Bell

Michael Bivins

Ronnie DeVoe

Johnny Gill

East 17

Terry Coldwell

Brian Harvey

John Hendy

Tony Mortimer

[lgcsaem]

☆ ⸝⸝ 𝐓𝐎 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 , a solo.

misaki can't remember the last time he'd ever been this bored.

schedule completely cleared, lessons and classes nonexistent, misaki faces a change of pace he can confidently say he doesn't like. it's not often he finds himself with nothing to do, nothing to keep his time occupied with, instructors no longer breathing down his neck, a newly appointed manager leaving him and his members to their own devices as they're awarded a six week break.

from the moment he'd stepped into the legacy building, teeming with life and energy and possibility, misaki has never truly experienced a time in which he could simply . . . slow down. go, go, go has always been the way in which his mind worked, thoughts racing a mile a minute from one thing to the next, one adventure to the next, but now?

he's at a standstill, roadblocks placed before him without his own input, something equally as frustrating as it is interesting.

six weeks. what could he possibly occupy himself with for six weeks?

at first, things are rather . . . odd.

the air is charged, teeming with energy misaki hadn't necessarily come to expect, but quickly grew to accept considering all the changes happening. moving dorms, while annoying simply due to the sheer amount of things misaki owned and needed to account for when packing, was always an exciting endeavor, uncharted environments coupled with what seemed to be a shuffle of possible roommates leaving room for nothing but curiosity and enthusiasm.

misaki liked minki incredibly, the older man being one after misakis own heart with his equal adoration towards plushies and late-night dance sessions, so learning the two of them would now be rooming together had been quite the treat ( even if misaki outrightly mourned no longer being able to claim noeul as a roommate ). haneul had done well, as always, in making sure the groups youngest kept a level head despite how scatterbrained he tended to be, a quick trip to suwon providing nothing but fresh air and a positive outlook on their newfound beginnings.

they were all dealing with things in their own way, but misaki hoped he'd been able to lift haneuls spirits during their time away, even if only a little.

a return to practice after their first week of pure solitude, facilitated by their own drives and resolves, comes with both triumphs and blunders. for the first time in his life, misaki knows what it feels like to be hurt by a true friend, a confidant, a brother, but his heart knows better than the baseline thoughts of his mind.

bk encompasses everything misaki looks up to— that has not changed. their immediate reconciliation makes sure of that, a heart-to-heart squashing what troubles misaki in an instant, paling in comparison to the unyielding drive that keeps the younger going.

from there, misaki simply keeps himself going, an unstoppable force as his remaining free days are filled with self-imposed practice sessions that span from dusk til dawn, a lackadaisical boy disciplined enough to know his worth and determined to prove his might. he'll make it, they'll make it, that much he knows without a doubt. rough patches are just that— patches, moments in time unmarked and unremarkable in comparison to the strides that'll be made immediately in their place.

misaki has no need to worry, not when everyone is finding their own way toward the same destination. he simply has to do his own part, and do he shall.

[nightingeal-arch]

the novelty of having a key to minjoon's place hadn't worn off, simultaneously grounding elinor while sending her heart into a small flutter if he spent too long thinking about it. like now, for example, as the key turned and the door swung into minjoon's apartment. careful to make sure suwon didn't slip out of the open door, ellie kicked it shut, hands full with groceries - he was planning on making dinner for them both tonight.

"baby, are you home?" placing the bags down on the kitchen counter, he glanced around the seemingly empty rooms. slipping her jacket off, he poked his head into the bedroom to double check that she hadn't caught her boyfriend in a nap ( and definitely not opposed to joining him were that the case ). nope... huh. 

📩 do you want to come in ? i was gonna take a shower … (couldn't resist... from joon, obvs) @lctibule 🔆 melt into me – accepting!

minjoon's voice comes from the bathroom, bringing ellie's attention to several things at once. first, minjoon's location. not that she was worried, but he was about to be, so that was a nice relief. second, that a shower before cooking was an option. third, that minjoon was about to be in a state of undress behind that door, if he wasn't already, and finally, and most loud in all of it, he was being invited in. which could be entirely innocent! but he hoped not.

"alone? that sounds dangerous..." she called back to him, slipping his shoes off before opening the bathroom door and simply leaning on the doorframe. he tilted his head, mock concern doing a terrible job of hiding the fact she was checking him out. the illusion disappeared completely when he ended up biting his lip, but still tried to keep the pretence up, eyes widening, pleading, but it probably didn't have the desired affect.

"what if you slipped?" ellie closes the distance between them, hands firmly on minjoon's waist now, holding him in place, regardless of the fact he hadn't stepped into the shower yet. "what if you got lonely...?" 

[90sloverwithinsomnia]

Switch Rivals - Chapter 16/21

This is one of many archived fanfics featuring 1st and 2nd generation K-pop acts that I've come across recently. It's all in good fun, and maybe a bit cringeworthy! Just to clarify, I don't post fanfics, so I hope to the people that post and read K-pop fanfics makes sense. Credits go out to the original creator 90s_love.

*Note: Nothing in their post will change (unless necessary), other than being posted here, and the (Link) will be provided to the page that i found it on.

Characters:

Kim Jaeduck, An Seungho (Tony), Moon Heejoon, Jang Woohyuk, Ahn Chilhyun (Kangta), Lee Jaewon (H.O.T.), Eun Jiwon, Lee Jaijin, Kang Sunghoon, Ko Jiyong, Jang Suwon

Summary:

Now all of H.O.T knows Tony and Jaeduck's problem.

Chapter 16: Explaining Part 3

The rest of H.O.T have been suspicious of "Tony's" behavior since the accident. He suddenly became more quiet and timid. And after Woohyuk got involved, they decided to investigate what's going on with them. 

They've been following them for weeks trying to find answers to their questions. One day, while following them, they sees a house standing in the middle of the woods. They looks through a window and sees "Tony" and Woohyuk with Sechskies' "Jaeduck" and Suwon and a strange person.

"So this is what they were hiding?" (Heejun)

They listened to what they were talking about. Switched bodies? Potion? That had to be the answers they was looking for.

They thought about this. For an entire year, they've been working with Kim Jaeduck from Sechskies, not Tony An of H.O.T. After about a week of thinking, they decided to accept the fact. While at work, they decides to tell Jaeduck and Woohyuk about what they know.

"Tony. Woohyuk. Do you have a minute?" (Heejun)

"Sure, Heejun." (Jaeduck) They didn't know what was up.

They went to a empty confrence room and Heejun started to talk.

"We know everything." (Heejun)

Jaeduck gulped. This didn't sound good. "Know what?"

"I know it's you, Jaeduck." (Heejun)

"Heejun, you must be crazy. This is Tony, not Jaeduck." (Woohyuk)

"Wookhyuk hyung, you don't have to hide it anymore." (Kangta)

"Yeah. And in case you're wondering, we thought about this and we accept him." (Jaewon)

"Really?" (Jaeduck)

"Yeah. You seem nice and you're fun to work with." (Heejun)

"Thanks." (Jaeduck)

After that, Jaeduck calls Tony and tell him that the rest of them know.

"Did they accept you?" (Tony)

"Yeah. They were really nice to me." (Jaeduck)

"They are. Unlike your leader. He's been pushing me to do chores for him." (Tony)

"Maybe I forgot to tell you about that." Jaeduck said jokingly.

They laughed on the phone and Tony told Jaeduck to invite them to their house so he can talk to them again.

"You sure?" (Jaeduck)

"I'm sure. Because it's actually me that they will be talking to." (Tony) And he was right.

Later the evening, they all went to Tony and Jaeduck's house. Tony brought Suwon with him so that they will get used to another Sechskies member being with them.

"Uh... Hi?" (Jaewon)

"Nice to... meet you?" (Suwon) It was a bit awkward.

"It'll be okay. You'll get used to it." (Tony)

"Easy for you to say." (Heejun)

"Well lucky it wasn't Jiwon who's spied on us." (Woohyuk)

"Yeah. That would cause a riot." (Jaeduck)

"You think?" (Kangta)

"Yeah. He can be out of his mind sometimes." (Suwon) That's saying a lot from a fellow member.

"And this merchant was staying with you?" (Heejun)

"Yes. I'm been staying with them so I can make the reverse potion." (Merchant)

"It only last for a few days once the potion is made and spell is cast." (Tony)

"So thing will be normal again? At least for a few days?" (Jaewon)

"That's the plan." (Jaeduck)

"When did you find out?" (Kangta)

"Me and Suwon? We found out like two months ago." (Woohyuk)

"On the day before the Idols on Stage "incident"." (Suwon)

The others understood what they've been going through this past year. They decided to help them and the merchant with the potion and to keep the secret. No one should know about this and they've already been exposed twice. They don't want that to happen again.

[soo-won]

Nobody is asking Yona to sacrifice herself or stay with the dragons forever. That's not why ppl are upset with her imo. What's disappointing was that when the gods say Kouka would turn into hell, we didn't saw any hesitation in her. She could've argued w them or showed some determination like: "hey, I won't let you play with me or my country no matter how hard you try" something she did while zeno was trying to kill himself. But no she's like oh hell sounds fun as long as I'm with my family. She even hesitated when Hak's life seems at stake. So what does it mean? And there's is a difference between her running away from the gods vs Suwon not depending on the gods. She's ok to enjoy the blessings but when it comes to pay back, she's running away. Yona acted like a selfish brat like she used to be in the castle, which is disappointing if we consider her development in the past

I'm not gonna lie in this case I feel like people are just looking for something to be mad at her. Like, in chapter 257, I was more bothered by Yona not hesitating because the consequences of that decision were 100% assured and known : all the dragons of the past waiting and suffering in vain until the current generation. And the whole time paradox twist was a lot to process and swallow in a few pages, that Yona's reaction felt sudden too. I wanted to see her hesitate then because I was affected as a reader by the twist that it was technically Yona that made the cycle happen? Even if from her POV it was about not erasing the past like damn that's a lot.

But the circumstances are not the same at all here imo. Yona has been in this chalice for like an entire volume. She tried already to negociate with the gods. It didn't work. They went against their words. They hurt the dragons. She tried everything she could here. They're basically bullying her, they keep tormenting her, she's not getting through them at all. Yona is affected and upset when they tell her about the dragons' limbs. She came here to begin with to save them, she made a deal with the gods that made her stuck inside the chalice against her will but supposedly in exchange of the dragons being freed, and now she realizes that even that failed and that they lost body parts. It's devastating. And Yona looks sick of it. From this point, it's clear to me she realized it's useless trying to get anything from them, because she won't. They're only toying with her and her feelings. All she can do is leave with them and defuse. There's NOTHING she can do more from the heavens, she can't ask the gods to save the dragons and even less protect Kouka.

Yona has been having nightmares about natural disasters and wars breaking out since chapter 257, she's already past hesitating about this too. So I don't mind she doesn't hesitate for it here. Yona in chapter 257 was scared of even falling asleep because she was scared of this future where she's all alone and it's hell everywhere. But she can only stop it by facing it and standing against it. It didn't happen yet, she has to keep her eyes open... She already learned this lesson. As we've seen with Yona protecting Hak from Zeno, her nightmares can be prevented, but this won't be if she stays still in heavens. Staying in a peaceful garden and shivering because intervening outside could cause more problems is much more like Yona of the beginning before her development, than Yona leaving to live in Kouka and fight against problems arising there. Yona was told her existence and actions were a pain that could create more problems at different occasions, and her conviction has always been to make her own place in the world anyways. Before she asks for the gods' divine protection, she should face her own fears and try to do something herself...that's how she always worked. She has always refused to rely on the gods alone.

The motif of living outside and in not the most comfortable place but finding purpose in getting through struggles together has been a thing forever that Yona's reaction about life outside being preferable only seems natural to me. I don't know... Her hesitating here would have felt redundant and would have surprised me. Yona has long ago developed the conviction that she finds more purpose in life in the struggles and difficulties because of all the people reaching out their hand to help, than her peaceful and confined, lonely days in the palace. She always found more purpose in helping people on the ground than to take decisions from above. Even in the castle and south kai arcs it was visible how she wanted to go help prisoners herself, and the way she went to rescue Meinyan shows it well too. I don't want her to hesitate for this. She already said she'd rather live in the mud in chapter 263 too. That's the most Yona thing ever imo, it makes me happy personally. It doesn't need to be said she's concerned for others, and she will keep running to their help to do something with her own hands. I don't need her to hesitate because personally I have no conflicted feeling about the situation and I think Yona is 100% right, here. I have no doubt she is intelligent enough at this point to say this too.

You could argue it would have been better if she had a speech like the one she had in chapter 43, and I can't argue about that (it's true it's very good!). I can understand, I just personally don't need it, because the fact chapter 43 exists is enough in itself to me and the present automatically resonates with it and everything before. I can't be mad at Yona not saying word for word "I'm going to save people struggling outside" because I already know that. I personally don't need that reassurance at this point.

The chapter shows her being concerned for Kouka and everyone on Earth when she flies on Ouryuu's back. Yona always planned to return from the chalice for everyone and everything she left behind on Earth. Of course she's concerned. She wants to bring her friends back from the chalice AND help everyone in Kouka. She promised Yun she would come back with everyone, she planned to return to Suwon too and not abandon her duties as Princess. All these things exist inside of her. Anyways, Yona doesn't need to tell the gods to stop toying with her country like she did with Zeno before too, because the ways things are presented, it seems like it's not like the gods cause this on purpose either? It's a consequence of everything going to shit, and it's also Ouryuu who is on her side talking to her before she says she prefers hell than here. So she doesn't reply angrily, she replies with hope. That's why that page is beautiful too, imo. The gods might not see and understand the value in such a world that Hiryuu and Yona are so fond of. But they can't help but love this messy, "hellish" world. Talking angrily to the gods didn't work in ch263/264 either, so I feel like it was also her trying a different approach when she told them she would live in Kouka maybe? Like she doesn't want to let herself be affected and be upset by them and she simply, intransigently voices her intentions to them?

You say you don't want her to sacrifice herself and stay with the gods forever, but also accuse her of "running away" from the gods and call her a selfish brat for her reactions in this chapter, so I really don't understand your point here. How on earth is Yona supposed to not depend on the gods in this situation but by not making a deal with them? Staying in Heavens, contract done to protect Kouka from doom and ending it at that (because she would be stuck there) would be truly the coward move imo. Yeah she's turning back and trying to get out of Heavens but... it's...good to stop moving forward and further if doing so brings you to extreme loneliness and/or death I think...? I think that's the point...Getting desperate, leaving everything behind and sacrificing more and more of your true wants and isolating yourself has been a pattern that never brought anything good to the characters that tried before. She struggles and things didn't happen as expected, many things are still unresolved, but she can only do so much in this situation. She tried. She tried discussing with the gods, asking them to free the dragons, to let her out. It didn't work, it was a blow on her when they forced her under a sea of flowers, when they tried torturing Zeno, and when she learned the dragons got injured. From that, she adapted and tried to leave. That's it.

I think Yona wavering when they threaten to kill Hak and what it means is pretty simple and is no secret. Yona loves and cares about Hak. Hak is someone important, personal and intimate to her, so obviously she's not unaffected. Yona from the very beginning has been trying to get stronger and do all she could to protect Hak again and again. Losing people dear to her is what scares her more than anything, it always has been so, even if it coexists with her caring about the world around her too. And you know, even if Hak is special to her, I honestly think that if the gods had threatened the lives of the dragons and not only their limbs, Yona would have been affected too. She would have also faltered had they threatened the life of people she doesn't know in the same terms. It's just extra cruel to use Hak in particular against her. It shows again the gods atp are only interested in destroying everything that might be connecting Yona to Earth. It's the exact same form of abuse that Chagol used against Meinyan. It's about isolating her. It's also not really the same as claiming people will die without the gods' divine protection that is more like a potential consequence than a term of a contract like it is at the end of the chapter. She can stand against conflicts outside and protect people there, but what can she do against Hak just, being killed by divine intervention if she doesn't return to heavens (supposedly)? They fucking coerce her here. Maybe it's just bluff, and she should not give a fuck about Hak and still leave. After all, what is one person against the world and her freedom! But well, she cares. She never discarded her loved ones and never compromised Hak and her friends' life. She never compromised the life of anyone really (which is different from sparing and refusing to kill anyone). That's who Yona is. Yona doesn't sacrifice and compromise people's lives, That's why she wants to save everyone AND wants to go home. And that's why she's stuck now. Yona wants to live. But she can't sacrifice someone innocent either, especially not someone she loves. It's the perfect dilemma for her. And that she's forced into it is what is heartbreaking. She shouldn't have to choose. That's why she needs help now.

Bringing up payback like this rubs me a bit in the wrong way...This damn idea of paying back is what has been haunting the narrative for so many years i can't conceive repeating it for Yona too. To me it comes from the same mindset that asks for retribution, punishment and karma for every character that upset Yona in some way or should be grateful and kneel to her and Hak that has been so sickening for so long. I don't want anyone to be forced to pay anything back ever. Every character should get all the help and support they need for free at all times imo. I don't think Yona nor the dragons should have to pay such a harsh price either. Because that's what a blessing is. That's what love and kindness are. That's what wishes are. If the gods really cared for Hiryuu, they wouldn't ask her anything in return, they wouldn't torment her, they wouldn't punish the dragons either. It can just...stop. (Because yes this favor shouldn't be at all to begin with) Which is what Yona wants.

Aren't we so tired of all this "contracts" and "punishment" and "paying back" bullshit by now? I so am. It's exactly what has been ruining the lives of the characters forever and now (and my mental health as a reader lol). She's paying back right now by being in this situation already. And that's not a good thing at all. It's very good narratively though because yeah, they want her to pay back! They make this about contract when she was asking a favor! She's paying the price for her decision in ch257, for ever using the dragons, for entering the chalice as Hiryuu's reincarnation...But it's nothing but sad. There doesn't need to be this payback. That's what the story is exploring. Looking for the dragons to survive (whom she never forced, even if yes they were bound by their contract thing) and protect Hak is not a crime, not erasing the past to save her friends isn't so evil that she deserves to sacrifice herself. Making it end is enough. It may be selfish that yeah she enjoyed the good parts of it until it bothered her but honestly I think it's okay lol. As long as it ends. As long as no one has to pay back anything for doing their best to survive and struggling to protect something. Like Meinyan doesn't need to apologize or to pay back anyone for all she did and was done for her, just like Suwon doesn't need to be even and be punished, like Shinah doesn't need to executed for attacking Suwon, like Zeno doesn't need to be punished for betraying Yona and the ddhhb, etc... Because it's better to look at the bigger picture and at people's circumstances you know...That's how I interpret this arc, at least.

Yona doesn't pay back by sacrificing things, she "pays back" by giving back out of gratitude. That's precisely what she does by doing all she can to save the dragons right now. The dragon warriors gave her so much without ever asking anything back, they saved her from danger and they saved her from despair, she's so grateful and loves them so deeply she wants to bring them happiness too. But Yona can't give the Gods what they want without sacrificing important things to her, and not when they're the way they are now. So she can only leave.

Of course Yona/Hiryuu alone getting this treatment from the gods was always unfair and it shouldn't be at all, especially not at the cost of so many dragons suffering for so long. But well, she did. And when learning how this "favor" was hurting the people around her, she was affected, grieved it in ch253/254, and then she opposed it and tried to stop it in the present. (Also she's been concerned by the dragons' use of their powers for a very long time even if she doesn't go deeper) But the gods don't care. You can blame her for not questioning things more before, I'm critical of this too, I still conflicted about chapter 257 as well, plus everything irt the crimson illness etc but like, she says it, she doesn't want their powers if that's the price. She only wants the human them. She doesn't need the dragons' powers and she doesn't need the gods' protection. When she throws away Hiryuu's sword they give her, it's her rejecting that again. She doesn't want that special power and favor, that's not what she's asking. She wants agency and power, but not at the price of the agency and free will of others. She wants everyone to have normal lives where they can decide things for themselves, to live with their whole free will. That's her development in this arc. I like that she finally faces these things.

Maybe it's just a question of preference, and you might be affected by Yona's reactions in a way I can't relate. But personally I like the chapter this way and I like Yona in it. I don't think she's a selfish brat (god. it's...such a thing to call her honestly it irks me sorry, despite all criticisms I have of her character.) I don't think she doesn't care about Kouka and its people at all. Ive seen people say that too but...Even if yes Yona is still a 16 years old girl with struggles and feelings and still some immaturity which is important to take into account, I don't think she's as childish and inconsiderate as people make her either. People often seem to say her reactions and decisions are emotional and with no reason but I think they're emotional AND with reason, at least here. Yona doesn't say this about Kouka struck by disasters being preferable than Heavens from emotions alone (because yes, she just wants to go home and she genuinely loves the people in Kouka), but also from experience and conviction. They don't cancel each other out. It doesn't make her a hypocrite to have personal interests in it too.

[soo-won]

Something I really like about this is that I also feel like the japanese text highlights the parallel in both their stances irt the Gods. Like both Meinyan and Suwon use the word ゆっくり (yukkuri) for slowly, leisurely etc... Meinyan uses it in this page in "Let it be comfortable", and Suwon uses it for the "Make it last " line. I'm not sure what to make of this yet, but it's really telling to me to have Meinyan beg the Gods to let her have a comfortable end, whereas Suwon uses the same word to ask the very opposite ie: killing him slowly implying painfully. Meinyan submitting because she's just so tired and wants to be left alone in peace, and Suwon who says it as direct rebellion against the Gods. Meinyan saying she's been a good girl, trying to get their pity smh, and Suwon being everything but a good boy with them lol.

It's also an ironic reversal from their respective stances in the past. Like Meinyan was the one trying to convince Suwon to rebel and get the dragons for themselves and denouncing how unfair things are for them, whereas Suwon rejected it because he didn't have time to fight against it and only saw it as an obstable, trying to discard anything in relation to the Gods in his life at that point, in a way just accepting things as they were. Now Meinyan is the one who accepted it and is waiting passively, whereas Suwon is proactive (even if he's not motivated by the illness stuff so far).

In the same chapter we also have Zeno, again forced to "negociate" and let go of his greatest wish for Ouryuu's sake, Suwon kinda (?) looking upset while he does so and immediatly stabbing Hiryuu's neck, making Zeno's sacrifice vain. It just makes me feel like Suwon is officially done with all this bullshit and doesn't want to just wait for death without resisting first, trying to not let the Gods win anything.

I'm not sure it can really be connected to that as well but imo it kinda resonates with his "And then I felt at peace" in chapter 262 when he narrated about Shinah attacking him. Instead of passively waiting for death to come and accepting it, consequently making him feel "at peace", he now would rather make things last despite the sheer pain of his headaches + the upcoming (I HOPE NOT) attacks from Ouryuu. Suwon that kept saying he wants for things to end as quick as possible VS asking to make things last longer now. It also resonates with Yona in the Heavens indirectly. Like prefering to live in hell and in pain rather than accept peace in Heavens which the story equals to death several times.

From there I truly don't know where it will go, I'd really like to see Meinyan catch up and do something in the castle too eventually, but anyways I really like how Meinyan-Suwon/Zeno-Yona are interconnected in this one.

Meinyan begging god for a comfortable end to her existence, either through the illness which plagues her due to their blood in her veins or by the world dying from their rampage - only for the very next panel to show Soowon, also sick from this illness, actively fighting the gods

[snowyfaerie]

“𝓐 𝗍𝖺𝗅𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝖽𝗋𝖾𝖺𝗆𝗌 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗆𝖾𝗅𝗈𝖽𝗒”

Once upon a time in the enchanting land of Suwon, Gyeonggi, South Korea, a radiant soul named Kim Min-Jeong was born on January 1, 2001. However, destiny had a whimsical twist, and the tale truly began on January 1, 2001, in Nampo-dong, Busan. Little Kim Min-jeong spent her childhood amidst the gentle breezes of Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, surrounded by the proud echelons of a military family – a father, an older brother, and numerous kin all donned in the uniform of service. In the tender cradle of her youth, she harbored dreams of becoming a soldier herself.

Winter's journey through the chapters of life led her to Yangsan Samsung Middle School. A diligent scholar, she excelled in the arcane arts of advanced math, her popularity earning her the coveted role of vice president among her peers. Yet, her tale unfolded not only in the hallowed halls of academia but also in the symphony of skills she honed. A virtuoso of multiple instruments, the piano and guitar bowed to her command. In the realm of sports, she danced with grace through bowling alleys, embraced the precision of kendo and fencing, soared through the air in the pursuit of basketballs, and engaged in the elegant shuttlecock ballet of badminton. The rhythmic echoes of her passions resonated further as she adorned the dance club of her school. Little did she know that her destiny would take a turn at a dance festival in 2016, where an SM talent scout discovered the hidden melody within her. A surprise to her military lineage, for she had never shared her aspirations with her family. The audition demanded a songbird's serenade for three to four hours, an enchantment that secured her acceptance into the magical realm of SM Entertainment. And so, with a brave heart, she departed from Yangsan Girls' High School, her GED exam later attesting to her scholarly prowess.

𝖠 𝖬𝖾𝗅𝗈𝖽𝗂𝖼 𝖩𝗈𝗎𝗋𝗇𝖾𝗒 𝖡𝖾𝗒𝗈𝗇𝖽 ��𝗁𝖾 𝖵𝖾𝗂𝗅

In the mystical year of 2020, Winter emerged from the cocoon of training, unveiled as the first luminary in the celestial constellation of Aespa. The group, a wondrous creation under the auspices of SM Entertainment, bore the unique metaverse concept, captivating hearts with a resonance echoing through the corridors of the magical company. A herald of harmony, Winter and her compatriots embarked on their melodic odyssey, casting spells with the debut single "Black Mamba" on November 17. This ethereal journey marked not only the genesis of Aespa but also the rebirth of SM Entertainment's girl group legacy, a tale continuing the enchanting narrative woven by Red Velvet in the bygone days of 2014.

And so, the chronicles of Winter, born Kim Min-Jeong, unfolded – a tapestry of dreams, melodies, and the captivating allure of the metaverse.

[layla99999999]

yeah, hak is trying his best to cling onto his bubble, if he accepted reality he would have to work through everything (like yona does) - and it would distract him from protecting yona [but this coping mechanism is so harmful - that's why i'm hating on hak so much, this exact coping mechanism of someone close to me ruined my own life]

and the story could be better if they were all older - hak clinging onto his bubble would hit harder if he and suwon were like 20-22, suwon still idealising his father and suppressing all his emotions would hit harder, suwon's character in general (isn't he a little bit too mature and calm and cynical for an eighteen year old?) could make more sense, yona still being so sheltered and naive and the level of "protection" king il wanted to have would also hit harder if yona was older - cause who wouldn't be sheltered and naive at 16 years old; but let's say she was like this at 19 - it would show king il's character perfectly wouldn't it

king il killed murdered many many more people than even yuhon did, il was worse than even yuhon (and that's a rarity!)

suwon only killed one person, he only killed one murderer - and they all see him as the biggest villain

in all these villages in the entire country, people starving and dying in such a way, women and girls were being trafficked for ten years in awa, people were dying from drugs in water tribe...

king il's body count is in thousands

and suwon's body count is one murderer

but sure, suwon is the villain because he made a few people (yona and hak and that's really it) suffer instead of you know killing thousands and letting women get trafficked

that's the reason i will hate hak

even yona is able to acknowledge what her father did and who he was, EVEN YONA

[blooming-periwxnkle]

This is the last time I am going to rant abt this chapter and

This chapter was so heartbreaking... it honestly pains me sm to see how alone Suwon really is after all. He has accepted that he's gonna die and there's no cure for his illness,and at the very end he just wants to make sure that Kouka ends up in a safe position,even if it means leaving it to the gods,the same gods who are responsible for his clan's suffering and ultimately the unfortunate end that he foresees for himself. Even in his final moments, kouka is all he's thinking about,and he's ready to compromise with his own beliefs as long as it ensures Kouka's stability...

The lack of anyone caring for Suwon as a person is just so heartbreaking. He's dying and when he tries to talk to his childhood friend,the only answer he receives is that he's being selfish rn...seriously Hak?

"Things would've been fine if you married Yona"...is that where everything starts and ends for you? Did you really prefer such a fate for Yona? Yes she would've married the person she had a crush on,but Suwon's stance on it was quite clear since the beginning,he did not wish to marry her,then why do you still think that marrying a person who was always opposed to that idea was the ideal solution for the whole mess?

The way Suwon gave me "I've done all I had to do" vibes in this chapter was so..so sad. It's like he believes the entire purpose of his existence was to ensure his kingdom's stability, as if his existence as a person did not matter at all... and the fact that no one around him is there to tell him otherwise is even worse. He has almost lost all his allies' support,he's literally so lonely right now.

Even during his childhood,his mom was heavily codependent on him, and the 9 yr old child who had just lost his father,had to pretend that he was okay to ensure that his mom's health does not worsen. All the adults around him threw their dreams and ambitions on his shoulders, and as if all this was not enough,his mom ended up writing to the person who was responsible for her husband's death and endangered his life...

After all this.. this is the end he receives...