mogiyue

[mogiyue]

KIM MINJEONG,

THE GOLD SQUIRREL

The Kim family consisted of only the father, the mother and their only child: Minjeong. Having grown up in a very ordinary family environment, the young girl has always been the darling child, the child prodigy of her parents, with strong exceptions for their daughter. Minjeong, the princess born at the beginning of the year, Minjeong, the princess born of youthful beauty and as much as possible to protect, Minjeong, the child who saw her dreams destroyed on her fifteenth birthday.

Minjeong, the cursed child of the Kim family, the horror in her parents' eyes understanding that they had lost their pride.

Then, the young girl saw herself change in appearance, a paler complexion, her hair becoming naturally red, an increasingly complicated appetite and worse still: a drastic change in behavior. And showing emotions. « Minjeong, you should live alone from now on. » His father announced one day. « For business and the image of the company, of the family. »

« Are you abandoning me? Are you leaving me? » Young Kim had very little reaction, she seemed almost cheerful at the news without knowing that the curse was the cause: Minjeong was devastated, scared, left like a common toy that her parents got rid of out of shame.

Minjeong ended up living in her side alone, an apartment paid for by her father. The young girl's only order was to never reveal who she was, who her parents were, nothing. She should no longer exist in this reality of a united and loving family. Her only family being a stuffed animal given for her birth, the only memory of a perfect life in her eyes.

At least, a reality where her parents had replaced her upon learning of the birth of a little brother, her little brother. A simple letter with a single photo of her parents and this little boy who looked just like her.

The young girl had just lost her mind.

« Is your name really Winter? »

« Yes, is it weird? » The young girl remained seated on the gray fabric armchair, the huge window revealing a landscape of concrete and cars facing her. The girl's hands were covered in bandages, bruises and scratches while holding her stuff toy.

« Why are you here again? » The same voice from before came a little closer, the person sitting next to her while keeping a certain distance.

« I fought. »

« Against whom? »

« Me. » The person looked at the girl, observing a face that seemed calm, seeming not to necessarily understand the real seriousness of the situation. Winter had a sulky face, like a child caught in a lie or being slightly stupid. « I just wanted to bring him a present and I think they didn't like the look on my face. I really tried to look sad but my face is frozen, blocked most of the time. Yet I'm really sad about this situation, I didn't ask to be cursed. »

« Ah, you have to go to the Uchinaga too. »

Winter looked at the person, the person being a boy in hospital scrubs like her. The Uchinaga? It was briefly explained to her when she understood that she was a cursed child: a woman had come to her old family home at the time accompanied by a young girl also her age who was almost unaware of her presence.

« You too ? » Winter questioned.

« Never in my life, I stay with my uncle. » The boy showed a somber expression, responding in a cold manner. The young Kim approached the boy, staring at him with a smile, a smile that was ultimately intended to be a face of sadness and compassion.

« Cheer up Jaemin, maybe things will be better for us. »

[mogiyue]

« What's going on? » Karina slowly approached Jeno and Sora. Sora still had the boy's forearm in her hand, quickly removing it when she noticed the younger girl's sad look. Jeno observed the young girl next to him from the corner of his eye, quickly placing his gaze on his forearm and looking at Karina who was in front of him.

« Nothing really important, I was coming to see Ame. » Jeno replied straight away. But what an idiot, Sora thought as he observed the situation and carefully observed Karina's body language. Sora told herself that she had to change the subject or at best make one of them leave.

« Ah yes, I see. Is she better? She really came out to your rescue during the storm. » Karina showed a fine smile, clasping her hands. Sora could see that the youngest was reassured that everyone was better; That's what she would think but Karina barely seemed to notice her presence. Was it because of when Sora was still holding Jeno's forearm ? Jealousy ?

Jeno slowly lowered his gaze to the ground, displaying a sad smile at the news that Karina had just brought him. A sadness that seemed to increase tenfold day by day, month by month for a reason of his own.

« Yes, I was with her but I wanted her to stay calm, I'm sorry I didn't know you were...Jeno. » Sora finally spoke, skeptical of her own response while trying to appear serious to dispel the slightest suspicion. « I'll leave you, I'll go back inside. »

« Wait. » Jeno suddenly spoke again. « You’re coming with me. »

Sora's body instantly froze, focusing her gaze on the boy, observing a palpable change in the energy around him. He sounded menacing, calm but also cold and authoritarian in his words; as if he gave the young Moon no choice in coming with him.

« To go where? » Sora showed no signs, just a confrontational energy towards the boy who seemed surprised by such a response. « Ame will probably need someone if she wakes up. »

« I’m staying with big sister Ame! » Karina immediately spoke, passing in front of Sora, assuring her that she would take care of the young Fitzgerald while the two adults talked among themselves. The girl seemed strangely reassured, could it be because Jeno kept his expression neutral and polite as usual? Perhaps she had misunderstood the situation after all.

The young Moon looked at Karina who was smiling at her, stepping back almost defeated as she faced Jeno who was waiting for her against the wall with his arms crossed. Sora took the initiative to move forward first, without looking at Jeno, who looked at her before starting to follow her in turn; however held by Karina discreetly by the hand.

Jeno removed his hand without really looking at it before leaving for good.

When Jaemin opened his eyes, Winter was beside him: a book in hand, still in her dance outfit. The cat boy's eyes tried to adjust to the ambient light, feeling his body completely overwhelmed with aches and his head heavy. With a slight movement, Winter was drawn to the sound of the sheets as she almost threw her book onto the bedside table and moved closer to Jaemin.

« How are you feeling ? Did you gain strength while sleeping? » The young girl spoke without stopping, a reassured expression followed by a pout when she saw the boy barely looking at her. Jaemin slowly sat up, removing the duvet completely due to the heat and discomfort of his day clothes on him. « Answer me Jaemin, we were worried and I'm sure you scared Sora. »

« Sora? » The boy came to look at Winter in surprise, « What happened? »

« Nana. » Hearing the name, Jaemin's face darkened, averting his gaze towards the window without continuing the conversation any further.

« I just wanted you to know but, don't you want to see a doctor? » Winter insisted, « You're not crazy, no one is crazy in this family, but I just don't think you can forget about it. »

Jaemin froze for a brief moment, looking out of the corner of his eye at the young girl next to him, as if he was encouraging her to continue her remarks, at least, Winter understood it that way and ended up seizing the opportunity by going to hold his hand.

« You're not guilty...» the girl inhaled sharply while continuing to stare at the boy. If Jaemin and Winter didn't know each other, many would think that the young girl was forcing herself to sympathize, as if she really didn't care.

« You seem sure. It's almost sad Winter. » Jaemin replied before getting up, leaving the young girl behind to head towards the exit. « I prefer it when you don't care, it makes you less strange to discern. »

Clack. Winter found herself alone in the room, staring at the closed door in front of her. The young girl's face tensed for a moment, bringing her hand to her chest, tightening the fabric of her sweater, displaying a very neutral expression but nevertheless carrying a known emotion: anxiety. I'm not crazy, I'm not crazy, I'm not crazy...

« I'm not crazy, no. »

Renjun was in the small wooden cabin at the end of the second interior courtyard, sitting on the ground opening, throwing, unfolding books and documents all covered in dust or cobwebs. However, the young boy had not come alone, accompanied by the young Lami, he had insisted that the young housekeeper come with him, seeming to be the only one who was more or less receptive to his efforts. The two in the shed, they seemed to be looking for documents, information, something that would help the young boy find his ultimate answer.

« There must be something in this place, everything has been packed here. » Renjun spoke to himself, displaying an irritated expression and not paying attention to the young Lami who was trying to help her master calm down to be more effective.

« Sir Renjun, take a break. I can continue while you rest for a few minutes. » Lami displayed a fine reassuring smile that had the gift of calming Renjun and simply sat down sighing.

« Thank you Lami, I won’t let you do all the work alone, I promise. »

« Don’t worry, it’s my duty. » The young housekeeper continued to show a smile, continuing to classify and leaf through the documents in front of her.

The young boy smiled weakly as he observed the younger girl, now understanding the immense attention Jisung had for her. She was like an angel who seemed to have gotten lost in hell. A hell where Renjun wanted to save everyone, no matter what. It was worth the children's lives, his sister's, his own.

For a while, the two resumed their search, eventually finding documents to exploit and useful to Renjun; the boy gained confidence in his quest and the young housekeeper felt delighted to have been able to be useful once again.

« Well, well, well. Are we hiding things? » A voice rose in the air, bringing a chilling energy into the small cabin. Lami, becoming frightened, came and hid behind Renjun, the two young people facing Haechan.

« Haechan. » Renjun remained in his position, protecting Lami behind him while staring at his elder, his senses suddenly awakening.

« Yes ? It's me. What are you doing here? » The eldest walked slowly towards the two youngest, lowering himself to their level and smiling widely. « So you’re in love? »

« Stop bothering us for talking stupid things like that. » The youngest boy stared viciously at Haechan, understanding that he hadn't found himself here by chance. Haechan was very, even too curious, like a good dog always looking, again and again, everywhere he could go.

Haechan observed the scene he faced, the books and documents from the old offices and libraries put back in yet another mess, opened and missing pages flying here and there. At Renjun's feet, huge books of urban legends and photo albums dating back to the imperial era. The boy immediately understood that something was up, Renjun was a very intelligent boy despite his great shyness and the fact that he remained silent most of the time; he must have something on his mind, something that required digging into the archives of the Uchinaga family and its cursed hosts.

« A need to know the history of the Uchinaga? » Haechan's tone became more mocking, a wicked smile appearing on his face as he went to hold Renjun's collar. « May I know what you're playing at ? »

« And you ? Are you satisfied with the danger she put you in? » Renjun added, his face tightening slightly under the silent cries of a frightened Lami. « Did you think I didn’t know? » Renjun showed a thin, mocking smile.

« You’re annoying me, can’t you stay the good little fox clinging to his sister’s paws? I should say a few words to Ame about it. » Haechan always hit where he was sure it would hurt; for Renjun it was his family, his sister for whom he also did everything he did. Renjun's gaze hardened, much to the elder's delight. « You don’t like what I’m saying? So don't make Giselle angry. »

« For what ? So that you can continue to sleep with her because she has her heart set on you? Is that why she caused the accident by asking you to make it happen by sending a message to Jisung to call Mark? You don't like what I'm saying? So don't make me angry. »

A thoughtful silence took place in the cabin, Haechan letting go of the youngest's collar as he stood up. He stared blankly, before showing a simple smile as if the tension from before had never happened, as if he and Renjun weren't about to almost come to blows.

« I have no idea why you're complaining about all of us. » Haechan simply turned around as he left the cabin. The two young people remaining in their positions before releasing their breaths that they didn't think they had been holding all this time.

« I don't understand why the situation suits you, especially you Haechan... » Renjun whispered to himself in a sad tone but which did not escape the ears of the young Lami who had kept her gaze on the closed door.

Jeno wasn't very talkative, Sora noticed, both installed in a room that was new to her. A rather modern living room which was more like an office in view of the huge desk where very well classified files were located. The boy had invited the young girl to sit on the sofa, preparing her a hot drink while softly humming a melody.

The young Moon didn't feel particularly comfortable, but no longer felt the danger from before when they were in front of Ame's room. An electronic noise was heard, Jeno turning towards Sora to bring her a cup of coffee. The smell of caffeine almost made the young girl dizzy, pushing the cup on the table slightly and grimacing.

« I only drink iced coffee. » Sora affirmed, looking out of the corner of her eye at the boy who displayed a falsely surprised expression before smiling.

« Wait for it to cool down then. » Jeno came and sat down opposite, setting down his own cup without looking at the girl. Sora slowly rolled her eyes in annoyance, finally taking the cup in her hands out of politeness without actually taking a sip. In her peripheral vision, the young Moon could observe the room, seeing portraits of unknown people hanging on the walls as well as diplomas; all in the name of ''Lee Jeno''.

« Are you an engineer? » Questioned Sora, probably interested.

« We can say that. »Jeno replied simply, passing his hand over his face, a sign of present fatigue.

Sora looked at Jeno again, studying his face a little better. No doubt, powerful genes must have flowed through the veins of their families to produce such beautiful children over time. The difference was that Mark was charming, Haechan, she hadn't seen him again to make a point and Jeno seemed very elsewhere. Mark, during their discussion, had quickly explained to him that Jeno and Haechan were the only three sons of the Lee family, one of the close families of the Uchinaga; she was only entitled to this small revelation. A silence hung over the room, only the repetitive sound of the wall clock being heard for every passing second.

« Karina is in love with you. » Sora's question sounded more like an affirmation, Jeno finally raised his gaze to place it on the young Moon, without answering. « It’s very obvious actually, but I don’t have the impression that it’s reciprocal. »

« Because I don’t love her. » Jeno showed a gentle expression, "Not like that. »

« Ah, do you like someone else? »

« You think ? » Sora and Jeno faced each other in a battle of glances, the two not deciding to speak again and letting the young Moon's question hover for a brief moment. In turn, Jeno leaned his body forward, his arms crossing over his knees as he flashed a bigger smile.

« How’s Jaemin? » Jeno asked suddenly. The young Moon raised an eyebrow at hearing the cat boy's name. The change of subject came out of nowhere, despite knowing that he was mentioning Jaemiin as if he knew what had happened before. Had he been informed? « If you ask, you smell his a bit of him, it’s very unpleasant. » Sora hesitated for a moment, telling herself that it was not necessary to go into details even if she suspected that Jeno knew about Jaemin's problem.

« Hm, I guess I can't stand the smell because it was Nana and not Jaemin. » Jeno added weakly, pulling himself together comfortably. « Tell me sora, you can answer my question. »

Again, Sora remained silent, nodding in agreement for the boy to continue. « Who are you ? »

Silence. The young Moon was surprised by the question, examining Jeno's attitude who seemed very calm and still displaying a much too gentle expression. Sora took a moment before answering, readjusting herself in her place before processing her words carefully.

« Like you, I am a cursed child and I arrived here a month ago. » Sora replied softly, « Why? » Jeno looked at the young Moon's face, without saying anything, as if he was scrutinizing the slightest particle of lies, in vain. The young man huffed a laugh, picking up his cup of coffee and standing up to spill the contents into the small sink.

« That's good to know, I guess. »

« Why. » Sora's tone grew colder, feeling the threatening, cold, thinking energy returning as before. Jeno turning to face her, his smile gone.

« Luckily you don't like coffee Sora, that would have been very annoying. »

« There’s blood everywhere, what are we going to do, please let me help you. » Her voice trembling, the young girl shaked all over, her eyes wide open as possible while trying to remain lucid in the face of the situation.

« Nothing will happen to us, it’s not our fault. » The boy took the girl in his arms, squeezing her as if ensuring her presence. « I promised to protect you, I will do anything for you, I will do everything, even the worst. »

During the day, the course of life had finally resumed its daily routine. Ame had left her room, having exceptionally eaten lunch in her room and being able to leave it to see the other children in the residence. Chenle and Jisung were reassured to see their eldest back on her feet, finding Renjun who didn't want to let go of her all day. We would think that the day had passed without any problems.

Mark passed here and there from time to time, staying for a while before leaving. The same goes for Haechan who had fun bothering the poor Ningning to make her cry again under Winter's complaints to leave her friend alone. Jeno was briefly passing by, like the return of a missing person, as he didn't really appear in front of the others at the beginning of the evening ans purposely avoiding some of the children. Only Karina and Jaemin ended up disappearing after a while.

« I must see Lady Irene. » Had announced the young girl earlier, leaving Renjun, Ame and Chenle in view of the heavy atmosphere in silence upon hearing the name of the ''witch'' as Chenle called her.

And at the start of the evening, Sora had simply taken refuge in her room, locking herself in there. The day was ultimately much too unbearable and heavy for the young Moon who had the impression of having undergone rollercoaster of emotions that were much too gripping and intense. She wanted to leave, it was decided. She wouldn't stay another minute in such a crazy place with people living like the worst criminals and psychopaths yet unknown to the public eye.

The young Moon was used to running away and finding refuge wherever she wanted; as long as she had a bed or a sofa, the rest mattered to her; she preferred her freedom and her security at the expense of a comfortable life with guaranteed meals every day. Even returning to the youth home was the possibility that crossed her mind more and more.

Sitting on her bed, the young girl could not see a shadow appearing in the window frame caused by the setting sun. A sliding noise was slightly heard and attracted the attention of Sora who, turning her gaze, could see Jaemin enters to her room as naturally as possible, the young Moon not stopping from screaming in surprise.

« BUT WHAT- » she was cut off by the cat boy who ran towards her and put his hand over her mouth, putting them in an almost compromising position.

« Shh, shh, I’m sorry. I'm going to withdraw my hand but please don't scream. » Jaemin replied, looking at the girl almost in despair.

With silence and a nod from both, the boy slowly removed his hand, slowly stepping back as he continued to gaze at Sora. He even had the facial expressions of a cat, the young Moon thought before grabbing the young boy's ear, the latter complaining of pain.

« It's rude to enter people's rooms like that, especially a girl's room! Imagine I was completely naked? »

« I wouldn’t have looked! »

« Liar ! Anyway, I'm going to leave this madhouse, I'm getting jumped on, being threated, Jeno is threatening to kill me, it seems like everyone is hiding secrets, I never asked to be cursed like that. » Sora complained without stopping, Jaemin's gaze softened as he listened to the young Moon displaying a frustrated expression, sighing more and more. The boy stepped back again when the young girl let go of him, saying nothing and observing Sora displaying a face as frustrated and sad as ever.

« Don't blame Jeno, he doesn't have much of a choice. » Jaemin finally spoke, Sora staring out of the corner of her eye at the boy who was only observing him.

« Are we forcing him to kill? I really have a good reason to leave here then. » Sora scoffed, rolling her eyes.

« I would say if he wasn't here, a lot of us would have been kidnapped and, or, killed. » The young Moon looked at Jaemin with a serious look, quickly realizing that indeed Jeno must not be the type to commit such acts for adrenaline or otherwise. Of course, everyone had no choice but to take drastic measures to protect themselves. From the beginning, none of the children really left the residence, none went into town or to the local market. No one had offered to show her around the small countryside in which they found themselves.

Their physical peculiarities could make people ask questions and attract the worst people. Ame's naturally white hair, Jaemin's veron eyes, Jeno's gray eyes, Ningning's burgundy-brown hair and eyes, Winter's bright red hair, Chenle's sky blue eyes and more the other might not have shown her or not that remarquable.

« You...we can be in danger so easily? » Sora questioned softly.

« Beyond our appearance, if a person of the opposite sex touches us, we transform into the animal with which we are cursed. I'll let you imagine the damage if that happens. » Jaemin replied simply.

« But should I have transformed since then? Whether it was when we saved Haechan or here now? »

« One cursed person cannot curse another, I would say. » Jaemin slowly approached Sora, gently grabbing her hand and intertwining their fingers with a gentleness that made the young Moon shiver. « Look, nothing. » with a low and slow voice, Jaemin continued to approach the girl, bringing his hand to her chin to lift her face towards his. « Even then, nothing either. » Sora observed the boy's face, his eye of a summer sun in duet with his other eye of a spring sea, the young boy had an aura that could charm and hypnotize, a feline gaze filled with mischief and 'attention. « Between us, we really don’t risk anything. » Jaemin leaned back from the young girl, detaching their hands from each other and leaving only a strong feeling of emptiness.

Sora stared at Jaemin again, the boy having sat down with his back to the wall, running his hand through his hair. He seemed to have settled into her room as if nothing had happened, still not knowing the purpose of his coming.

« Why are you here? »

« To say sorry. What happened this morning, I wanted to apologize, it doesn't happen to me often but I was.. » Jaemin took a moment before finishing his sentence, staring at his hands « I was tired. »

The young Moon could sense that the young boy was sincere, that he didn't want to specifically make a bad impression. He does quickly explained to him the reasons for his behavior but preferred to wait until Jaemin himself explained everything to her.

« I don’t blame you, I hope it gets better. » Sora showed a simple smile, the cat boy observed the girl and returned her smile.

It was only around midnight that the Uchinaga residence fell completely asleep. Each of the children housed in their rooms, sleeping under Morpheus' rain of sand. And even though everyone seemed to be sleeping, outside, a few kilometers from the residence, a small group of people had gathered away from the most curious eyes. One of the people, being a woman, carried a sheet dark enough to cover her face and outfit. Handing a thick envelope to one of the men, he removed his cap, revealing a young boy who appeared to be in the same age range as most of the children in the residence. A smirk appeared on the other young man's face, laughing lightly at the situation.

« You pay us far too well for the work you ask of us. »

« I want the work to be done as discreetly as possible. That's why I pay you so much. »

The woman said nothing more, watching the boy look at the contents of the envelope without changing the expression on his face: neutral and impassive.

« It will be done, don’t worry. » The young boy put his cap back on, simply giving the envelope to his sidekick as he already set off on the road.

The two men took to the road again, leaving the woman alone. She removed her sheet while observing the bright moon in the sky, an evil smile appearing on her coldly beautiful face. She would have what she wanted, without knowing that another person had seen her carry out her most deadly wish.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ath/mogiyue

[mogiyue]

« Didn’t you miss me? »

« But what the- »

The situation Sora found herself in seemed unreal, almost straight out of a teen series. Jaemin stood above her, a mischievous smile and a strange, mystical glint in his eyes; as if he was confusing the reality he found himself in.

« Let her go now. » Mark began, approaching slowly. The young boy causing trouble quickly looked at his elder, displaying an expression which this time showed a haughty and mocking air. Mark watched Jaemin in front of him, carefully studying his face, his body language and the way he spoke. He was exhausted, pale, nervous too ; his fingers trembled weakly but frantically.

«Nana..? » Mark asked simply, continuing to maintain his posture. Winter looked at Mark with a stressed look, staying close to the handmaids in case the situation got out of hand. It was bad, very bad, and both Winter and Mark knew that they were facing a real threat.

« What. » Said the Nana who responded with a cold air, still standing above the young Moon who was observing the boy's every move. « You’re honestly annoying me, what’s your problem in the end? Why do you prefer Jaemin over me? » Prefer Jaemin?

« You're tired aren't you? » Mark continued, approaching slowly again, « It looks like you haven't slept in a while. »

Nana's golden irises continued to coldly scrutinize Mark, displaying an increasingly menacing look as he readjusted herself firmly and still imprisoned the young Moon with his body. Sora noticed the boy's trembling hands, nervousness taking over his entire body even though he tried to keep an impassive posture. Although the young girl didn't understand the situation, she had to get out of there as quickly as possible and as if she had also noticed it, the young cat boy seemed exhausted.

« Jaemin? » Sora called out to the boy who came to look at her in disbelief. « Jaemin, aren’t you okay ? What do you need ? » The young Moon continued, continuing to stare at the boy while speaking to him in the gentlest way possible. Everyone held their breath, a silence taking place in the pavilion while waiting for a response from the boy.

« Jaemin is....I...I'm tired yes...» Mark opened his eyes wide, slowly observing the change in the young boy's behavior, apprehensive about what would happen next. « I keep having nightmares.......it won't go away........» Jaemin's eyes, almost back to himself, were growing more and more agitated, a sign of 'increasing anxiety and fear; invisible to others but so clear in his tormented mind.

Slowly, Sora raised his hand towards Jaemin's face, trying to calm him down as much as possible. Slowly caressing her face, Jaemin came to look at young Moon, feeling her eyes closing more and more.

« I just want to sleep, please stay with me. » He said, actually letting himself fall and barely being caught by Mark and some of the handmaids. Winter quickly came to help Sora to get up, nevertheless keeping her eyes on Jaemin, his mind kidnapped by Morpheus.

What just happened?

« That jerk of Winter still hasn't come back. »

Karina sighed once again, stopping to dance the umpteenth step that she was trying hard to remember, in vain. The morning was as a summer landscape with temperate temperatures, letting the wind pass through the doors and the huge sliding window overlooking one of the interior gardens. The young girl came and sat down noisily alongside the young dove, the latter displaying a lost and sad expression. Far from the usual character of the young Ningning, Karina couldn't help but look at the young girl's expression out of the corner of her eye.

« Is something wrong ? » Karina asked softly, placing her hand on Ningning's head as a sign of affection. « Winter always gets us into trouble but don't cry the dance master isn't going to punish us. »

The young girl wanted to be reassuring, taking her role as eldest seriously and her place in the residence. Yet something seemed very wrong, an energy lurking among the people living here that Ningning seemed to feel intensely.

« Karina, there is a problem... something is wrong... » the younger girl began to whisper. « I think someone did something. »

The elder of the two remained silent, observing the attitude of the young girl beside her and noticing that in fact, she seemed more in the process of having a stress attack than yet another desire to fall for a sob. It is true that for a while the residence seemed to allow an unusual silence to flow from one space to another. To tell the truth, Karina had only seen Ningning, Winter and Jeno, putting the lack of presence down to the accident that had shaken everyone; and yet, yes, she had been feeling strange for a while.

Without waiting, footsteps could be felt and heard from inside the residence. Handmaids, surely at their activities seemed to be carrying materials and bustling with discussion taking all the attention of their minds.

« Lady Irene is furious. It seems she asked to see Lady Uchinaga immediately. » Karina heard from the lips of a housekeeper. « This story just drags on, I wonder what would have happened if the eldest Lee hadn't arrested the middle child. »

The middle child? Jeno? Suddenly, Karina stood up quickly, grabbing Ningning's hand as she did so, who did not understand the situation. Both leaving the room, the four ladies faced each other in astonishment and surprising haste.

« Lady Karina..? »

« What happened with Lady Irene? » Questioned the young girl, looking seriously at the two young handmaids. « And don't try to hide it from me." »

The two young handmaids feel trapped, slowly looking at each other out of the corner of their eyes and trying to verbally communicate what they can say to get out of here. A long moment of interminable silence, none of them daring to open their mouths to speak.

« It’s nothing, we’ll leave you. » Karina looked in surprise at Ningning, who had spoken. The two young handmaids looked at each other again, regaining their senses and apologizing before moving alongside the other two young girls. The sound of their footsteps gradually faded away, becoming nothing more than a muffled, indistinct sound.

« Ning, what’s wrong with you? » Karina asked irritably. The young swan looked unhappily at her elder, staring at an invisible point. Gently, she took his hand, smiling weakly. Something had happened and neither she nor Karina are supposed to know it.

Mark had just placed a glass of water in front of Sora, she took it and nodded to thank him. The young boy had taken her to another pavilion that looked more like a library than a rest room after ensuring Jaemin's safety and health. Speaking of Jaemin, Sora hadn't dared to ask him any questions, simply waiting for Mark to tell her about it himself; since she thought he took her here for that.

« Don’t you have anything? I didn't ask you at the time. » Mark began, settling down in opposite on Sora on one of the brown leather armchairs. The young girl tried to stay somewhat focused but the presence of Mark so close to her disturbed her as much as possible. The boy's face showed a hint of stress and despite this, he remained smiling and reassuring towards the young girl.

« Yes I'm fine, Jaemin is fine? »

« I’m reassured and Jaemin is resting now, he’s exhausted. » Sora took a sip from her glass of water, slowly putting her glass down as if to avoid as much noise as possible. The young Moon observed the space, trying not to meet the boy's gaze. Mark looked at the girl in silence, himself observing her reactions in light silence.

« Jaemin suffers from bipolar disorder. » Mark had just spoken, Sora staring at him with an expression of slight surprise. “I think it's start during middle school. Before all that, he lived with an uncle of his and then they explained to us that he was sick, that we had to let have an eye on him. »

Sora listened attentively to Mark, watching the boy's expression change to one of sadness and a hint of anger. He seemed to really care about all the children in the residence, taking on his role of leader but also of big brother and protector.

« You see, the Uchinaga clan is cursed. There is a legend that speaks of thirteen primordial animals close to a human with divine gifts. Each child of a family are closely linked to the Uchinaga family can find themselves cursed the day after their fifth birthday and have an awakening when they turn fifteen. » Mark began to tell the story of the Uchinaga family, without looking at the reactions of Sora who seemed to be listening more and more attentively. « However, a child can find himself cursed much later.....if an accident occurs. »

Sora came to stare questioningly at Mark, who quickly looked away to place his bronze irises outward.

« There are three of you who have a curse linked by an external cause. » the young boy spoke again. Sora felt her breath catch, a nervousness gripping her throat as if she knew where the discussion would lead. Anxiety made her feel hot, turning her gaze to her glass of water, the water of which remained in a strange calm.

« Sora? » Mark noticed that young Moon was strangely silent, moving closer to her while holding her hand in attemp to ease her mind. The young girl looked at the young boy before Mark slowly removed his hand. « Sorry, it’s a reflex. »

« It's nothing. » Finally speaking, Sora cleared her throat weakly. Once again, a palpable silence took place, the two young adults looking into each other's eyes as if on the verge of revealing an outrageous secret. « My sister committed suicide a month and a half ago. My curse awoke at that moment and I... »

Sora remembered again the day she heard the horrible news. The call, the long hospital corridors, the doctors frantically circling around the pale body of her sister who seemed already gone. She, alone and paralyzed by the dominant emotion in her body and her mind, the realization, the shock, the anguish-

« Yoo-na, YOO-NA, YOO-NA DON’T LEAVE ME, YOO-NA »

« Time of death, seven o’clock. »

« Fear? » Mark said suddenly.

Yes, fear. Sora had been so afraid that day, a fear that she had never felt before, a fear that humanly did not exist in her deepest research.

« They declared her dead. Just like that and a few weeks later I was sent here. »

« Did you know about- »

« No, we didn’t live together. To be honest, we no longer spoke to each other. » Sora cut directly. Mark gave a simple nod of his head to affirm his answer, repositioning himself in his chair.

« If you need me, I’m here. I will answer all your questions Sora. »

The sky was painted an azure blue blending with the color of Chenle's eyes observing this same sky. The young boy sat on the window sill of one of the break rooms, accompanied by Jisung and the housekeeper Lami helping him with his summer classes. The clock was almost noon, lunch time was coming and all the children would finally come together for the meal.

« Lami, can I please stop, I don’t understand anything anymore. » Jisung complained, resting his head on the coffee table and feigning a dejected expression. « After the meal I promise you that I will make an effort. »

« He’s lying. »

« CHENLE! » The two boys bickered under the lost and stressed eyes of the young Lami who tried to ease the little tensions which had only fluctuated from time to time. It is true that the trio were practically locked in the young Chenle's room for their summer classes. Even if the information seemed plausible for the two boys, the young housekeeper knew that this was not the case and that, on the contrary, the questions and tensions due to the accident still loomed ; they had to pass the time until the children forgot or had no motivation to ask questions.

« Sir Jisung, I will allow you a ten-minute break and then we will resume before lunch. » Lami showed a shy smile as she grabbed young Jisung's hand with both of hers, displaying an affectionate expression towards the boy.

The said Jisung observed Lami from the corner of his eye, feeling a blush rising in his face before suddenly starting to stammer incoherent remarks under Chenle's amused gaze. The youthful and innocent atmosphere was however interrupted by knocking on the door, Lami excusing herself to the young boys to go see who it could be.

« You're so in love with her, I wonder how she doesn't see it…» Chenle began, whispering in Jisung's ear and still showing a mocking smile.

« Leave me alone, you’re annoying me! » Even though Jisung tried to be as discreet as possible, the younger brother couldn't stop the red coloring his face, distorted by shame.

« Sir Renjun? »

« Is Jisung there? I have to talk to him. » Renjun had just appeared, moving quickly towards the youngest, who was surprised by the sudden interruption. Renjun found himself facing Jisung, holding out his hand, a sign that he was demanding something from him and which seemed of extreme importance.

« Give it to me. »

« What... ? » Questioned Jisung more and more on his guard.

« Your phone, give it to me. » The young boy asked insistently, his gaze impassive.

The young Lami observed the scene with concern. Something was wrong, rather gentle in nature, Renjun seemed much harsh and much less welcoming in his body language. Jisung looked surprised, categorically refusing to hand over his phone so simply, wanting to put Chenle on his side by looking at him so that he would react.

« Why do you want him to give you his phone? » Chenle asked his question dutifully, taking the time to study Renjun's face who in turn came to look at Chenle out of the corner of his eye. « You've barely spoken to us since the beginning of summer and you came like you have a right to n- »

« I know why there was the accident. » Renjun cut in seriously, « Jisung, give me your phone. » A silence took place, everyone looked at Renjun with an expression of shock and surprise.

« How do you know? Do you think we'll just take your word for it? » Jisung adds and it takes very little time for Renjun before he lunges at the younger one and starts a fight. Fortunately, Chenle and Lami managed to separate the two boys without difficulty, Jisung looking angrily at his eldest.

« I know why the accident happened and you don’t want to believe me? What the hell is wrong with you? Do you really want to stay here? In this house? And die? » Renjun began to get more and more angry, breaking away from Lami as he stood up. « Would it make any difference if I told you how I know? I'm the only one here trying to save our lives and make sure we end this thing. »

“But let’s get this over with what, Renjun? » at his own, Chenle got angry, facing Renjun with his eyebrows furrowed as much as possible. « What story? What lives? Do you think we all really care ? Why are you thinking for us! »

« TO GET OVER WITH GISELLE UCHINAGA, THIS IS WHY CHENLE. »

Only their heavy breathing was heard, the wind blowing in a simple and violent gust and once again leaving a dead calm in the room. Renjun faced Jisung again, the latter looking at him with wide eyes not knowing what to think. Again, the eldest boy held out his hand again, only looking at Jisung but continuing to address Chenle.

« Unlike you Chenle, we don't all have the chance to be one of the cursed's favorite children if we take away the Lee family. »

No, they weren't all that lucky. And Renjun wanted to grab it.

« I told you, you can't betray me like that. »

« Please think for two minutes, you can see that I’m not giving you what you wanted. »

The young girl backed dangerously towards the void, looking at the person in front of her and begging them with her eyes not to come any closer.

“They are mine, you can never break our bond. You are just a nuisance. »

« You know, I felt so alone without you. »

The space was narrow and poorly lit, with only the charcoal lamp placed on the coffee table giving a glimpse of two human figures holding each other's arms in an intimacy that was only theirs. A smell of jasmine hovered in this place, distinguishing itself more and more like a maid's room, a fine mist coming from a stick of incense was enough to transform this space into a cocoon.

« How’s your head? » A soft and light voice only rose from time to time, belonging to a young girl with long, black hair. With a precise gesture, his lips rested on the top of the head of a young man, the latter holding the young girl by the waist, his eyes closed as if tenderly rocking. Once again, the girl's hand came to slide over one of the boy's shoulders before letting it fall on his chest. « How is your heart ? »

« Sick. »

« Because you love me, don’t you?” » The young girl replied simply, placing a quick kiss and taking the young boy back in her arms. « Because you love me, you almost died but you are still here by my side. Testing death also allowed me to understand that I am the person you need. I can control your life. I am the goddess you need, I am the chosen one and I chose you. »

The young girl faced the boy, he opened his eyes observing this beauty, this human being so perfect and without flaws, the fantasy of his most intimate dreams, gently bringing his face closer to her to kiss her tenderly.

« I chose you, Haechan. You love me, you love me, you will love me forever. »

Sora had left Mark a while ago, wandering almost aimlessly at first before deciding to join the young Fitzgerald in her room in the hope that she would have rested enough and woken up enough to get through the day. A silence hovered relentlessly in the residence, observing that the staff were busy as usual but without notifying the absence of the children in the corridors or rest rooms.

Most of the morning until midday, Sora had only seen a few of the children and wondered if the cause of all this was related to the accident. Who knows.

Walking steadily along the corridor towards young Soul's room, the young Moon was surprised to see one of the handmaid constantly knocking on the bedroom door, an anguished expression on her face and strangely trembling hands.

« Please open up for me sir. Miss Ame must rest. » The handmaids seemed desperate, seeking help from heaven for anyone who would listen in her situation.

« Are you ok ? » Sora approached the young handmaid, raising an eyebrow slightly. « Ame doesn't open the door? »

« No, at least... » the handmaid caught her breath « Sir Lee locked himself in the room with Miss Ame, I'm sorry he immobilized me enough for me to pass out and not take advantage of it." »

« Sir Lee? » the young Moon's expression immediately changed, turning towards the door to see that it was not closed but that on the contrary someone was there on the other side, pressed against it. « Ame ? Do you hear me? Open the door. »

No responses from the young girl, flat silence and a few movements that could be heard due to the person being pressed against the door.

« Open the door, I don’t know who’s there but you better open it. » Sora continued to rotate the knob non-stop, trying to get a reaction from the person locked in with the young Fitzgerald. Sora took several minutes trying many actions to get into the room, having asked the handmaid staying by her side to go get one of the children to come and help her in this situation.

Suddenly, with hope almost gone, the door opened slowly. At first Sora didn't see anyone in the half-open door before a hand came out grabbing the young Moon's forearm violently. The girl was led inside, the door slamming behind her and falling to the ground with a loud noise. Standing up on her guard, the young girl could observe the young Fitzgerald lying peacefully on her unmade bed, as if plunged into a heavy sleep.

« She's fine, she's just asleep. »

Sora came to look at the person who had just spoken. A boy, tall and finely muscled with the profile of a model. His jet black hair fell over his face, revealing semi-light gray irises. He looked tired and there was a bandage on his cheek to cover a minor injury.

Slowly, the said boy turned his gaze towards Sora, letting the young girl have a clear glimpse of his physique. Loneliness, an immense loneliness emanated from the boy, young Moon having not spoken since then and expecting a reaction from her interlocutor. Quickly, in a sudden awakening, Sora walked quickly towards Ame, putting herself in front of her under the surprise gaze of the boy who had started to follow her quickly before he stopped when he saw the young Moon blocking the way. as if to protect her younger friend.

« Who are you? » Questioned Sora.

Jeno, facing Sora, replied nothing. At least he carefully observed the young girl in front of him as he walked forward. Arriving around Sora, Jeno lowered his face on level of the young girl still with a neutral expression and unreadable emotion.

« Jeno, Lee Jeno. You, on the other hand, who are you? » Jeno stared unscrupulously at Sora, as if a wild beast confronting another predator.

« Moon Sora. » So it was him, the young girl thought after answering. The famous Jeno for whom Ame and Karina were worried. Sora didn't feel anything good coming from him, a dangerous energy hovering above his head as it contrasted with his soft face.

While slowly calming down, it was up to Sora to take the lead, grabbing the boy's arm pulling him out of the room and closing the door, staring suspiciously at Jeno who was looking at her strangely.

« Leave Ame alone, I don’t know what you were doing in the room but Ame needs to rest, it’s because of you that she’s-”

« What do you mean because of m-”

« Jeno? Sora? »

Suddenly, the two young adults directed their gazes in the direction of the voice that had just been raised. Karina just stood there, her eyes slightly wide as she observed the scene. Jeno and Sora relatively close, speaking almost in a whisper, Sora's hand continuing to hold the young boy's forearm firmly.

Since when were they so close, Karina thought, her heart sinking.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ath/mogiyue

[mogiyue]

« Why is not everyone here to eat ? Where is Ame ? And Jeno, Jaemin, Renjun and Haechan ? »

Since being at the residence, Sora was surprised to hear Ningning's voice for so long and without falling into yet another sob. Truth be told, it was quite understandable that the young girl felt upset because some of the children were missing for breakfast. Ame, under the orders of the handmaids, had to rest following yesterday's accident as well as Haechan who had felt unwell after a while. Renjun had more important things to do and Jeno seemed to have not left his room since he woke up. Jaemin? He hadn't given any sign of life since last night, he had simply disappeared into the residence. Not that she was worried about that stupid cat, but Jaemin had the gift of keeping his promise and ensuring that he, Sora and Chenle could return home safely by rescuing Haechan. The young Moon wanted to at least thank him for that with a polite gesture and nothing more; she didn't plan on getting closer to him.

« At least Chenle is here, even if i though you would die.. » Winter snickered, a wide smile on her face.

« Leave me alone you stupid ! » Cry back the boy.

While the two were bickering, the young Moon could see Karina out of the corner of her eye being strangely silent, slowly eating her fruit while staring at an invisible point. That too was strange, almost abnormal on the part of the younger girl. With a discreet gesture, Sora gently pulled on the sleeve of Karina's sweater to gain her attention.

« I was thinking about the accident, it's still a shock but i'm- » « You were thinking about Jeno. » Winter cut it.

Sora quickly turned her face, an incredulous expression appearing, Karina in turn turning red with shame and stammering many negations.

« MINJEONG. »

« And now she is using my real name, you're a cunt Karina i told you i don't like it when you call me like that. » Winter start sulking, Karina ignoring the insult she throwed at her.

« Everyone in this house know you're so in love with Jeno, like can you not show it everyday ? » Jisung snicker again, while laughing with Chenle.

The young girl felt shame and annoyance growing as the other children continued to tease her about this subject and leaving Sora completely lost and aware of little things that she had noticed since her arrival and especially yesterday. As the argument continued, Ningning, suddenly awakened to spoke unexpectedly.

« But, do Jeno likes you back ? If not why- »

However, the girl was cut off by a sudden arrival. Mark stood in the crack of the door, staring at everyone who had stopped when they saw him and returning to their seats in a religious silence.

« Don't stop speaking just because i'm here guys. » Said Mark while smiling.

The said Mark quickly moved to the table, taking the opportunity to pat Jisung's head with a tender gesture while smiling wider. They looked like a family, Sora thought, noticing that everyone had calmed down and were enjoying the meal as if nothing had happened.

« You okay ? »

Surprised, Sora realized the proximity between her and Mark, slowly agreeing that she was ok, the young boy sitting next to her still smiling widely to her answer. She hadn't realized that she had been staring at him the whole time. Charming, that was definitely the word that came to mind when she looked at Mark. He had everything of a charming boy, sunny and gentle in the way he approached people. She could see how his presence was enough to brighten up a room and calm everyone down.

Yes, Mark was charming she felt like she could trust him, maybe.

Ame's cell phone showed ten o'clock and the young girl remained lying on her bed, which she was not to leave if necessary. She knew that a handmaid was at the door to forbid her from going out. In another context it would be seen as a security gesture but in her case, it was something else entirely. The sun was already high in the sky, the trees were moving in a slow rhythm and gently rocking Ame's eyes who seemed to be falling back into yet another sleep. Still about to fall asleep, she was surprised to hear a noise outside her room, two people talking to each other in somewhat raised voices, mostly a male voice before the door suddenly opened wide. Renjun.

Ame slowly sat up, removing the blanket before Renjun approached her, taking her firmly in his arms. He came to bury his head in the girl's arms, his hands trembling as they desperately clung to her nightgown as if he was afraid she would disappear forever. Softly, Ame could hear the young brunette murmuring a few words, raising his face to meet his tired gaze. The young woman took her youngest child back in her arms, the poor thing was worried to death and even now, he did not seem one hundred percent calm about his sister's health condition. He cursed as much as possible this house, this environment, everything that could happen to them.

« I'm sorry, i didn't mean to make you scared like this. »

Even if Ame wanted to be reassuring, Renjun had already been building his plan for a while, since the moment they found themselves in this house. He and Ame couldn't stay another year here. He would leave this damn residence, this damn family.

Lady Irene was a very beautiful woman, with a cold and distant beauty, almost unreal enough to make one shiver. Her existence was as terrifying as it aroused the attention of anyone. Seated gracefully in front of her emerald green marble desk, the woman took care to create hymns in ink for the end of summer festival, accompanied by the sound of a music box. Her hair tied in a sophisticated and precise headdress, her ruddy red Hanbok gave her an even more enigmatic appearance. Such a beautiful woman with such a black heart. The sun seemed almost intimidated to shine on her porcelain skin and the wind blew gently so as not to arouse any annoyance.

Knock, knock, two small knocks were heard on the wooden door, Lady Irene giving permission to enter her room. Slowly raising her gaze, the woman saw Jeno appear with astonishment.

« Oh Jeno, I’m pleasantly surprised to see you. Come and settle in. » Irene showed a smile that made the young boy nauseous.

« I'm not here to chat with you. »

« Really, then why come this far into the dorm to end up in my room? » Irene continued to show her smile, this time more sinister. « Do you miss me ? »

The young woman came to get up slowly, approaching the young boy who looked away from her, feeling Irene's hand placed on his shoulder.

« I thought that when you came back, with the accident, you would realize. »

« So you are responsible for the accident? » Jeno continued in a cold tone, this time staring at Irene. « Me ? I wouldn't say that, I followed the orders too. »

Also followed ? Jeno couldn't believe it, he was frozen in place, almost forgetting the disturbing proximity between him and the woman. Slowly, Irene came to slide her hand up his arm, passing it over his chest, bringing her face closer to his. With a sudden gesture, Jeno pushed Irene away, trembling with an emotion he didn't like to feel. Anger and fear.

« Why did you come, Jeno. » Asked the young woman in a more icy tone. Jeno still didn't answer, stepping back further and further. « The accident? I confirm I have my share of responsibility, but so does Lady Giselle, it was her idea. We knew you were going to get through it just fine, not that everyone would get through it, that's not the case. »

« You are fucking sick. »

« And there’s nothing you can do about it, all of you. This is why I hate children, you grow up and you don't obey anymore- »

With a sudden movement, Jeno came to grab the woman by the neck, holding tighter and tighter while staring at her with madness crossing his eyes. He was starting to lose his mind. Amidst this din, the handmaids arrived hurriedly, shouting at the young boy to let go of Lady Irene. And even though she was out of breath, the woman couldn't hold back a wicked smile, delighted with the result. He was still under her influence. Jeno finally let go of the young woman, stepping back with a blank face before leaving, passing between the handmaid hastening to help Lady Irene. And while leaving, Jeno faced Mark, showing a surprised face when he saw the boy in an almost daze. Mark was trying painfully to calm the youngest, he had to take him to his rooms before he completely lost his footing. However, Jeno came to look at Mark with these simple words.

« Help me, or i'm going to end it. »

« Please, promise me you're not leaving me, it's cold, i'm scared, i'm scared, i can't feel my legs, my body, i feel nothing i want to sleep, don't sleep, don't sleep, help me, help me please, is there someone coming, someone is coming, coming please, come fast, don't move, you're bleeding to much, please stay with me, it's ok, everything is fine, just relax, i feel nothing, i'm scared, because you're afraid but everything is ok, i can't see your face, when i wake up are you going to be there, yes i will be there, just take a rest, i will be there, stay with me while i rest, please stay with me Nana, Nana, Nana, Nana... »

« IT'S YOU, YOU KILLED HER, YOU KILLED OUR DAUGTHER YOU DEMONIC CHILD »

Sora finally found herself alone in the main pavilion. Jisung and Chenle had gone out and the girls had gone to their stage presentation lessons of what she had understood. Renjun still hadn't made an appearance and she knew Ame needed some rest. Sighing softly, the young Moon appreciated the cooler, sunny weather and continued to enjoy a form of peaceful silence.

« The weather is nice today, I prefer it when it’s nice like this. » Turning around, Sora saw Haechan standing a few meters away from her. She hadn't heard him coming and seemed to look a little better. « I'm not disturbing you ? I don’t know where Mark is. »

« Please, no need to ask my permission. » Sora replied, waving at him.

Haechan came to sit next to her, trying to quickly get into a comfortable position with a hint of embarrassment in his actions. He was funny, Sora thought.

« My name is Haechan, and you ? »

« We already introduced ourselves, earlier in Ame’s room. » Sora showed an incredulous expression.

« AH. Oh yes it's true, I...sorry. » The young boy showed a confused expression as he looked at the girl, frowning slightly as he looked outwards. « The accident disturbed me a little, I'm a little slow. » The young boy began to laugh lightly, a smile embarrassed by his behavior which softened the young Moon.

« It’s nothing, are you better? You told me you were looking for Mark i- »

Sora stopped short in her sentence, staring at Haechan who continued to display a friendly expression. Something was wrong, Sora's senses seemed to be heating up, continuing to look at the boy with a more intense gaze. All of a sudden, Haechan started laughing, a much more petty and less friendly laugh, glaring at Sora while still showing his smile.

« Oh no, I got caught. » Says Haechan with a mocking tone.

« You're pretending to act like an idiot, aren't you? » Questioned Sora while remaining on her guard. « Just now you were pretending too. »

« Giselle is not going to like you at all, you should leave. » Haechan replied grimly, less playful and more serious. « That is, unless you know why you have to leave. »

« And why would I leave? Be smart for me then. »

Haechan stared at Sora, studying her face every millimeter, a hint of sadness passing through his eyes that young Moon did not immediately perceive.

« You make me sad, it’s pathetic. »

Winter had fled training claiming a stomach ache without waiting for a response from the girls and the teacher. Walking slowly through the corridors of the residence, a long sigh escaped her lips and she untied her hair to let it fall gracefully on her back. The weather really seemed calmer than yesterday even if a palpable tension continued to hover. This is hellish, I want it to stop, she thought, cutting herself off from her dreams as she saw someone walking in front of her.

« Jaemin? » The aid boy stopped in his tracks, slowly turning towards the girl while looking her up and down with an indescribable expression. « Since last night you have disappeared, again. » Winter wore a serious expression, even if she was somewhat unsettled by the aura that Jaemin could currently give off.

He seemed drowned in fatigue, his eyes half hidden by his hair. He still had his clothes from

yesterday and did not seem to have been treated for his minor injuries. In turn, Jaemin advanced towards the young girl, finding himself quite close to her while looking at her with a superior air. His eyes, shining with a piercing blue, disturbed Winter before she displayed an expression of horror.

« Jae-....Nana...? » She asked softly.

« Minjeong, it’s been a long time since I saw you. » He replied in a soft voice.

« What are you doing here. » The girl tried to keep her composure, staring at the young boy.

Jaemin or Nana seemed to be thinking, showing a slight smile as he placed her hand on Winter's cheek with a gentle gesture. However, a minimal pain was felt on her cheek as she observed that the young boy left a superficial scratch mark on her, a dark look scaring Winter.

« Nothing that concerns you. I'm just looking for something. »

« Jaemin had another nightmare and you took the opportunity to appear. You really are a coward. » Winter added, pushing the boy away and running away.

The young boy rolled his eyes as he watched the young girl leave, resuming her path as if if nothing happened. He had other things to do at the moment.

It had already been a while since Renjun had let Ame rest, the young girl having been able to go back to sleep once again. She was already feeling better, in fact, since this morning she had been in good shape; a particularity of her curse is that she received little physical damage in extremely cold weather. Busying herself to put away the few things on her desk her phone began to ring silently next to her, observing the welcome image for a while before feeling her heart fall into her chest seeing the person calling her . Incoming call: Jeno. With a trembling hand, Ame took the phone in her hands, taking some time to answer the call. A silence took place without either of them speaking.

« I miss you, Ame. » Jeno finally spoke, the girl's throat closing as tight as possible.

Ame still didn't answer, at least she didn't have time to answer anything because the call had just been cut off and the door to her room slowly opened without her realizing it. Staring at the screen of her phone with incomprehension, Ame heard a click, as if a door had just been locked. With a panicked look, the young girl turned around to find herself face to face with the young boy, leaning against the door of his room, a hand on his face as to hide something.

« Jeno ? How did you get inside ? And the handmaid ? »

« I didn't do anything to her just knock her out a little, i didn't do anything, I really didn't do anything to her, I just wanted to see you, just- » Jeno seemed to be speaking for himself, not even looking at Ame, as if he was afraid.

The young girl approached the boy hurriedly, removing her hand from his face and finally confronting their gazes. The young boy stared at Ame without saying anything, with so much admiration and love that it almost became too much to bear. Jeno came to grab Ame's hand with force, taking her in his arms.

« They can't take you from me, they can't, you are mine, mine, only me can love you, you promised me. » Once again, Jeno seemed to be talking to himself.

« Please, you can’t stay here. We will have problems. » Ame tried. And even if the young boy's embrace soothed him, they could not find themselves in such a situation, especially not since that day.

Jeno did not intend to let Ame escape, continuing to keep the young girl with all his strength in his arms even if it meant taking her breath away and making her faints in his arms so that he can have her her as long as he wants. The young girl's body became heavier, letting herself fall into the young boy's arms, placing his empty eyes on her face, in complete derealization.

At that same time since her last encounter with Haechan, Sora felt uneasy to stay. it's as if in the end she couldn't really trust anyone and especially if in the end everyone here could really play a double game with her. Quickly walking along the corridors, the young Moon told herself that going to join Ame for the moment would be a little safer for her and try to get answers to her questions from her. However, she was surprised to see Jaemin in one of the rest rooms, lying on the floor seemingly sleeping peacefully. The young girl stops for a moment, slowly approaching him while checking if the young boy was comfortable sleeping like this. Really stupid this cat, Sora preferred to leave him alone, observing that he still had his clothes yesterday damaged by the storm. About to get up to leave, the young girl could hear a slight grunt suddenly muffled by the sound of rapid footsteps in the corridor, as if people were running as fast as possible.

Intrigued, Sora looked towards the sliding door, suddenly held by the arm. The scene seemed to unfold in slow motion, seeing Mark, Winter and the governesses displaying serious, worried and fearful expressions.

« SORA, RUN AWAY FROM HIM. » Yelled Mark starting to stretch out his arm wanting to grab the young Moon. And suddenly, Sora found herself pinned to the ground, Jaemin above her with an indescribable look. Sora's senses were activated in alert mode and her breathing became short.

« Got you, angel. »

---------------------------------------------------------------------

ath/mogiyue

[mogiyue]

The first thing Jeno saw when he opened his eyes was the ambient light in the room, the branches of the trees moving slowly in the wind, the sounds surrounding the residence and the air purifier on his bedside table. He is hurt everywhere, the pain was bearable but his body seemed to have experienced all the worst torture possible. His head felt heavy, a certain compression on his arm sign of a freshly made bandage, the same on his leg.

Yet despite everything, the young boy couldn't remember what could have happened. The only one thing he remembered was following the Uchinaga family's car on his motorcycle, seeing it suddenly lose control, he himself not being able to plan for emergency braking by hitting the car and causing everything to happe, everyone falling on the precipice. Were Mark and Haechan okay? Was he the only one who escaped?

A knock on the door brought him out of his thoughts, sitting up as best he could on his bed, quickly watching the door open and seeing the young Lami enter with a meal tray and clean laundry.

« Mister Jeno, you’re awake! Wait, I'll help you. » cried the young girl, hastily putting down the things she was carrying and helping the young Lee to stand comfortably.

« Are you hurt somewhere? »

« Everywhere, can I have a painkiller? » Jeno had difficulty speaking, preferring to keep his voice at a very low decibel. The young Lami came to display a look of disapproval, biting her lip and apologizing by clasping her hands quickly.

« I can't give you medicine, Miss Ame already gave you some while you were sleeping around three in the morning and she told me it was every six hours. »

Ame, Jeno's ears twitched when he heard the young girl's name, a weak energy taking over him as he suddenly wanted to get up. He remembered seeing her, not before they left for the other residence but just after the accident ; Or was she there during the accident ?

« Is Ame okay? » he asked in a hurried tone, staring at the young governess.

« Uh? Yes, she's fine you know it's six in the morning, she must be sleeping. Rest, I’ll take over in the meantime. »

« Jaemin disappeared right after everyone got home. » Renjun's voice was short, holding his cup of tea in his hands, sitting against the bookcase. He and Chenle had settled into the small library of the main lodge, the rest of the members gradually waking up or others preferring to sleep a little longer. Chenle observed his elder with a surprised look, placing the book he was slowly leafing through at his feet, sighing weakly. He was not surprised by Jaemin's disappearances, in fact since he had moved into the residence, the young Na had only come and gone as he pleased, going from one day to two, the longest to date having been two weeks. God only knew where these two weeks Jaemin had gone to take refuge.

« It's weird, I mean he had no reason to leave. » Chenle added. « ..I mean, why does he disappear the day after such a major accident.. »

« Maybe because he’s selfish Chenle, I don’t know, have you thought about that? » Renjun adds, laughing sarcastically.

« Ren, why don’t you like Jaemin? Basically, did you get along well? »

That was before, Renjun thought, focusing his gaze only on the book he was reading. Renjun didn't have the time to think about these useless topics for him, he had other more important things to do, more important people to protect in his opinion, more important secrets to bring to light. Chenle observed him from the corner of his eye, resting his ocean gaze on the brunette's cheek where a pink bandage was there. Something had happened yesterday but more importantly ; Renjun must have learned something for him to change completely.

Winter didn't really know why she found herself in front of the bedroom door. She was sure that she would not receive any answers from yesterday's events. And yet, here she found herself, early in the morning, the stress making her wince slightly. She had already knocked five minutes ago, having tried again and again. She wasn't going to get any answers but she tried anyway; She had to try.

« I know you're awake, I can hear the sound of your duvet. » She began, « and I know that long before that you knew what was going to happen. Open the door for me so we can talk. » No answers, the young redhead remained in front of the door, her look changing from impatience to annoyance. Looking around her, the corridor empty of people, she returned her gaze to the door, giving it a much stronger and more brutal knock, her fist clenched as tight as possible.

« I hate you, even if you suffer I hate you, you are a coward, I really hate you. »

Sora had decided to sleep that night in the young Fitzgerald's room. Last night, the young girl and a boy, who happened to be Jeno, were found in time by the staff of the residence, themselves having been found a few minutes from the residence with Haechan with them. Last she heard, Haechan and Jeno's lives were not in danger. Not even that of the third boy. She hadn't really remembered his first name but from what she understood, he had managed to walk from the scene of the accident to here to ask for help before passing out from his injuries ; was his name Mark ? Truth be told, if he hadn't had the strength and determination, Haechan, Jeno but including her, Jaemin, Chenle and Ame could have died of cold or even worse for some.

Ame had collapsed as soon as she arrived, the young Moon could still see Renjun's face of horror when she saw the young girl on the ground, without a t-shirt and soaked as possible and the color of her hair having completely disappeared. Jeno and Haechan were taken away without wasting time

and Ame was taken to her room. Sora had designated herself to take care of her, there was nothing serious about her but in gratitude to her who had also welcomed her with open arms to the residence.

Seven in the morning was displayed on the bedroom wall clock and a faint melody could be heard from Ame's phone. Quickly, Sora took the device in hand to stop the melody before observing the welcome picture: a picture of Renjun at the foot of a cherry blossom tree. The photo seemed old, the brunette seemed much younger and strangely much happier in a way.

« Hmm? Sora? » Ame had just woken up, stretching gently.

« Ame, are you irresponsible? » Sora had just spoken, taking on a serious face as she stared at the young girl, surprised by her tone. The two young girls stared at each other for a brief moment, before the young Moon burst out laughing when she saw young Fitzgerald's decomposed face before she herself began to laugh.

« You scared me, my god I thought I had really done something stupid. »

« Don’t worry, it’s still irresponsible even if I understood the emergency. » Sora replied, sitting on the bed and handing the phone to the girl.

Ame seemed really exhausted, worn out by last night to the point of passing out. At the same time it was understandable Sora couldn't really be the first to judge, in a case like this many would have tried everything. Although she had only recently arrived, the young Moon was trying to piece together the puzzle of the dynamics between the children of the Uchinaga residence, understanding their connections, their stories and what made some people different from each other and others having higher titles or not. Sora also observed the bracelet on the girl's wrist, a bracelet decorated with purple stones and a butterfly-shaped pendant. Yesterday when the nannies were taking care of Ame, one of them wanted to remove the jewel from her wrist before Renjun violently intervened to not doing it.

« How are you feeling ? »

« Better, was I cold? It really never happens to me and with the fatigue it didn't help me. » Ame smiled weakly, getting up from her bed to open the window and let the morning air flow inside, her natural white hair fowing with the wind. It was as if last night's storm had never happened, everything seemed calm, sunny, the few passers-by going about their morning activities. « Today I think the weather will be much better, in the region there are often storms like this, it's quite impressive. »

Sora watched the azure blue cover the sky, no possible clouds to observe or any sign of a change in the weather on the horizon. In fact, it's as if the storm had never happened. Suddenly, there was a knock on the bedroom door, a weak knock but quite distinct before hearing a heavy noise and an almost muffled cry of someone complaining of pain. Without really giving the two girls time to respond, the door opened with a crash, revealing a young boy with honey hair, the same boy falling violently to the ground. Haechan had just appeared, a bandage on his head and cheek and a bandage covering his entire left arm. For someone injured, he seemed to have a lot of energy.

« Haechan? » Ame came running towards the young boy, holding out his hand to help him up.

Bronze skin and honey hair, it was as if the two shades were intended to be united and give an oriental appearance to the young boy, all accentuated with his caramel eyes. The young Moon was shocked to see a boy with such unique almost hybrid features as he seemed to come out of a storybook. The said Haechan looked at the young Fitzgerald, just looking at her as if he wanted to memorise her face as much as possible. « Are you okay ? Please be careful yo- »

« Ame ? Are you okay ? Did you miss me ? I missed you a lot, luckily I'm still alive to see you. » Haechan smiled widely, holding Ame's hand as the most precious thing in the world, he seemed to have stars, hearts, an entire galaxy in his eyes. He looks like a dog, Sora thought, holding back laughter as he watched the scene, seeing Ame trying to calm the boy down by gently tapping the top of his head.

« Stop it Haechan, you're making too much noise.. » Another person had just spoken, Sora looking at the origin of the voice before she felt her breath stop for a moment. A moment certainly but a moment for her to see a young man their age, jet black hair, skin that seemed soft just by looking at it, feline eyes with a yellow green color like diamonds of indescribable rarity .

« Mark is bothering me Ame, tell him to stop! » Complained Haechan, displaying a sulky face.

So he was the famous Mark that Jisung had called yesterday night. The young boy also seemed exhausted, he also had bandages on his shoulder and also on his neck. According to the housekeeper, it was a miracle that he was even able to walk for so long. Slowly, Mark came to set his eyes on Sora who was sitting on the bed, observing him for a while, red quickly rising to his cheeks before clearing his throat and smiling. Her smile was gentle and tender; the total opposite of his physical appearance which seemed more rustic.

« You're Sora, aren't you? Nice to finally meet you I'm Mark, Mark Lee. This is Lee Haechan. I would have preferred that we met differently. » Mark held out his hand towards Sora, who quickly stood up to grab it.

« It's nothing, finally you had an accident, I hope you recover quickly. I'm reassured that there's nothing too serious. » the young Moon responded, quite intimidated by Mark's presence, his whole being radiated royal and solar energy.

« Are you the one who found me with Nana and Chenle? »

« Nana? » Sora asked curiously, looking at Haechan who had spoken.

« Jaemin, Nana is his nickname. Thank you so much for, uh, helping me and uh..» Haechan seemed a little embarrassed, oddly embarrassed, letting go of Ame's hand and looking anywhere but in the direction of the people present. Mark watched the young boy from the corner of his eye with an indescribable expression, looking at Sora for a brief moment and finally turning his attention to young Fitzgerald. The young boy showed a reassured look when he saw the young Ame in good shape despite the visible fatigue. Despite everything, this was not the time to talk about things that were too serious, yesterday's events still remained too fresh in everyone's minds.

« We’ll leave you alone, we’ll all meet up for the meal. If necessary you can ask me anything. »

The eldest Lee spoke again, followed by the younger. Mark came to look at Sora again furtively before showing one last smile, not seeing Haechan's disturbed expression and leaving.

The rain and blood became one, falling and flowing at the feet of the boy who watched the scene in horror. Hands over his ears, eyes wide with fear, shock, trauma, tears ; his whole body trembling to no stop. The gray sky and cold light of the establishment gave a morbid appearance, almost setting the stage for a horror film. A lifeless body was in front of him, cold, rigid and a pool of blood that was spreading more and more. Everything revolved around the young boy and a laugh could be heard, a sinister and mocking laugh, as if to overwhelm him in his fate.

Look, look, look

You did it, you did it, you did it

« I didn’t do anything.....it’s not me, it’s not me, it’s not me...»

Look at her, look at her, look at her She's dead, she's dead, she's dead

« See what you did Jaemin? It's because of you that she died. »

« I DID NOTHING GO AWAY.»

The light, Jaemin was breathing heavily, clutching his fingers to his t-shirt toward his chest, his heart pounding excessively into his skull. It was like this every time, every storm, every rain. Large drops of sweat were falling from his face, his eyes falling into space and managing to perceive the time on the screen of his phone. The fear had taken over him so much, his body continued to shake, hearing knocks on his bedroom door and took refuge in panic, covering his ears so as not to hear the person on the other side. Murmuring the same words over and over again, eyes closed as tight as possible, tears streaming from his eyes. Please i'm so scared, please, please help me, i'm scared.

The door to Jeno's room opened a little, the young boy remaining in the crack just enough to reveal his face. Karina was on the other side, a huge smile as she saw the young boy's face and moved a little closer. The young girl was still in her pajamas, a sign that she had just woken up recently and probably preferred to see Jeno's state directly.

« Jeno, are you okay? I'm reassured, I preferred to see if you were okay when I woke up and if you needed anything. » Karina looked at Jeno attentively, shyness taking over her temperament and trying to appear natural.

« I’m better, Lami came by. »

« Okay, uhm yes ok, it’s really cool, I’m happy. » Silence fell again, Jeno observing neutrally as the girl played with her fingers to calm her embarrassment. Suddenly Karina took the initiative to leave, still displaying her same smile, her cheeks a little red.

« I’m going to let you rest, see you for the meal, ok? I- »

« Karina, don’t force yourself to be natural with me if the situation bothers you. »

Karina was no longer facing Jeno but she could guess the expression the boy must have had, a look certainly intimidating but tender in a sense. Jeno was telling her that for her own good, well according to him, for Karina it was clear that the situation they were in was starting to take a completely different turn. A turn of events that without her knowing it would break her heart.

Without saying anything more, Karina left, leaving Jeno alone before he returned to his room, leaning against the door and letting out a sigh. Taking his phone in hand, he could watch the time display and even observe the wallpaper, Jeno displaying a softened, peaceful and happy expression; sadly happy. A simple photo, a hand catching a cherry blossom petal and a bracelet decorated with purple stones and a butterfly-shaped pendant on the wrist.

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ath/mogiyue

[mogiyue]

It must have been a good ten minutes that the young Fitzgerald had been running in the rain which had come unexpectedly. Fortunately the cold had not yet reached her, her breath was short and yet the young girl ran with all her strength towards this unknown point, hoping to find Jeno in this vast forest. Fear, worry, stress, everything mixed in her mind, as well as incomprehension; they were just gone for a while, not long, it was all three of them, what could have happened?

Although the season was summer with the sun shining every day, the rain and the clouds darkened her vision, Ame could no longer tell where she was going, the rain even seemed to weigh down her body as she moved forward on the muddy ground. The more she advanced, the more her hair absorbed the water, starting to fade its color and leaving white reflections gradually emerging; yet another danger for her that she was unaware of.

Screams echoed behind her in the distance, cries calling to her and indistinctly calling the names of the injured boys. Jaemin, Chenle and Sora who had followed were running at high speed, taking the same path that Ame had taken earlier. The rain was getting more and more violent, accompanied by a few gusts of wind here and there. Chenle looked around, calling the boys's names in vain as he continued to run alongside his two oldest doing the same.

« Are we going to find them in this rain? »

« We see absolutely nothing there... »

« If we manage to get to the side of the road, we can surely see traces of an accident or not. » Sora continued, indicating to the two boys to follow her. « The firefighters will probably arrive that way so if we can get there before them it’s preferable. »

Everyone nodded in agreement before continuing on their way towards the road. The young Moon could hear every possible noise, surely a factor in her curse, she seemed to be constantly mobilizing all her primary senses forcing herself to concentrate on what could help them get closer to others.

Boom, Boom

A heartbeat, faint but that Sora managed to hear during their race. Suddenly the young girl stopped, worrying Jaemin and Chenle not understanding such a sudden stop. About to speak, their breathing ragged, the silence, the wind and the rain having taken place for a brief moment, Jaemin slowly came to approach Sora, placing his hand on the young Moon's shoulder to move out of her way, his glowing eyes staring at a point behind her.

« Jaemin? » Chenle worried, following him with his gaze. The said Jaemin didn't respond, continuing to move forward, followed closely by Sora and Chenle. And with surprise, passing behind the immense barrier of branches and leaves, the three saw a body lying on the ground, clothes soaked as possible, blood on the hands and honey-colored hair. Time seemed to freeze for a moment, the three staring at the body in front of them, multiple questions jumbled together in their minds.

Boom, Boom, Boom

« HAECHAN. » Chenle had just rushed towards the lying body belonging to the said Haechan, taking care to take the boy close to him almost forgetting that he could be seriously injured.

« Chenle calm down, be careful he is probably very injured. » Jaemin began, violently grabbing the younger boy's hand, staring back at Haechan with worry.

« His heart is beating slowly, I don't like that at all. » Jaemin and Chenle came to look in the direction of Sora who had spoken and stayed behind, wondering how she could know that without having been able to catch the injured young boy's louse. « I can hear his heart beating, it’s beating really slowly, when are the firefighters coming? » the young Moon was worried, she tried not to show anything but panic was taking over.

Jaemin stared out of the corner of his eye at Sora, noticing her hands truly trembling and staring anxiously at Haechan who was not receptive to their attempts to call. With a quick movement, Jaemin signaled Chenle to move away, paying attention to the injured man before carrying him on his back and miraculously hearing a moan of pain come out from between his lips. He was breathing but was really in bad shape, they had to act quickly at all costs.

« We're going to take him to the residence, the firefighters won't come. » Jaemin said as he adjusted the boy onto his back.

« What !? » Sora almost exclaimed, alarmed by the information. « But why the hell? Haechan is in bad shape, he could die if he isn't treated, we shouldn't call them? Are you stupid? »

« So that they understand that we are not strictly human? Think for two seconds, who in their right mind is going to take care of him or even Jeno or Mark if they see that anatomically we are nothing human? Imagine a nurse touches Haechan and he transforms in front of her? » the young Na had just gotten angry, his breathing ragged as he stared at Sora, the rain continuing to fall on them. Chenle stood back, holding Haechan's unbalanced hand as he looked down.

Jaemin took Sora's hand in a gentle gesture, caressing it unconsciously, his expression from before changing to a softer and reassuring one. The young Moon wanted to speak but the words couldn't form, she stared at Haechan on Jaemin's back, as if he was soothed, he seemed to be sleeping despite the wounds and the blood on part of his face and his hair. After a while, the young Moon came to her senses, fixing Jaemin with a serious look again.

« This is the only time I trust you, Jaemin. »

« I'm not asking you to trust me, I'm asking you to believe me, Sora. »

Renjun fumed in anger. The young brunette advanced angrily in the direction of the upper rooms, followed by Karina Winter and Ninging. His mind was blurring as he moved forward, the girls with him trying to stop him as best they could. But there was nothing to do, Renjun didn't hear anyone, he was on a mission and he would see it through to the end, even if he had to suffer the consequences.

« Ren, calm down, it’s not necessary, you’re going to get punished. » Winter tried again, grabbing his arm which the young boy violently pulled away. « Ren, I'm sure they're fine, imagine it's not her fault and they really had an accident?" »

Renjun had just stopped, turning towards Winter who almost regretted his words while observing the dark gaze of the young brunette. « You think I’m still Winter? That I'm sick of thinking what I think ? Are you honestly going to tell me that their accident was really an accident? »

« Please don't argue, we have to try to find a solution here too.. » The young dove had been crying since the beginning of the drama, holding Karina's hand who was trying to comfort her as best she could.

« Oh yes ? By doing what Ningning? By letting this sick girl have fun with our lives? » Renjun had just shouted, anger having completely taken control of his body. The girls had never seen him in this state, even less so than now when it was not the first time that an accident like this had happened.

The young people did not have time to continue their discussions when a presence was felt behind them, shivers of fear running through each other's bodies before they had the courage to look at who was in the corridor with them. A young lady, almost breathtakingly beautiful, with a crystalline and flawless complexion surrounded by black hair similar to the black of chaos. Her vermilion-colored household Hanbok gave her a graceful, almost divine air.

« What are you doing here ? » A clear voice, almost welcoming but completely threatening, her red jasper gaze observing each of the young people present.

« Lady Irene...» Karina began, stepping back weakly. « We didn’t want to- »

« I don’t like repeating myself. What are you doing here ? »

« Mark, Haechan and Jeno had an accident. » Renjun had just spoken, staring at the said Lady Irene with his gaze still filled with anger. « You are aware ? »

Lady Irene watched her cadets with a faint smile, rearranging her long hair before turning around again. « Go back to your rooms, it's not your problem. »

Renjun could no longer contain his anger, quickly advancing towards the young lady, grabbing her arm, his hand trembling and his eyebrows furrowed as much as possible.

« They had an accident and it's Giselle's fault I'm sure, they're injured outside somewhere and you don't care ? Are our lives so miserable for you? For the sake of the Uchinaga? » Karina suddenly came to let go of Ningning's hand who was looking at the scene in shock, Winter having stepped back as far as possible when she also saw the scene, panicking as much as possible. But too late, Lady Irene was faster, raising her hand almost in inhuman slow motion and forcefully slapping Renjun who fell violently to the ground. The young boy held his cheek, still looking with a hateful look at the young lady in front of him, giving an evil look, the pure and gentle side transforming into something dark and sinister. Karina stood between the two, protecting Renjun from yet another punishment by staring at Lady Irene.

« I see that you are becoming more and more insolent, I don't see what's stopping me from telling Lady Uchinaga about this problem. » Lady Irene stared at Renjun while speaking again, ignoring Karina who was staring at her with fear but also anger. Renjun was basically right, their lives didn't matter to them, but they had no other choice but to stay and suffer. Near or far. « Go back to your-

Suddenly, a deafening noise could be heard, like the crash of glass breaking on the ground. Everyone directed their gazes in the direction of the noise, one of the sliding doors slowly opening, blocking at one point and revealing a young boy with wavy ebony hair in a mullet cut. His face was contorted with pain, his face was covered with bloody scratches, his hand was holding one of his ribs where a huge red stain was located and crossing his yellow sweater with black stripes, torn in a few places. With tanned skin and crystal brown eyes, the young boy staggered forward and clung to the wall to keep his balance.

Looking up, Karina, Renjun, Winter and Ningning cried out in panic and relief when they saw the boy, Ningning taking him in her arms while crying forcefully.

« MARK » Ningning no longer let go of the injured man who had just fallen to the ground, breathing with difficulty, housekeepers coming and observing the scene with terror.

« Mark, is everything okay? We were scared Jisung warned us, what happened? » Karina had moved closer to him, placing her hand on his forehead, trying to check if he was no more injured. Winter was busy helping the other housekeepers to help Mark by sitting him more comfortably towards the wall, Renjun slowly approaching it.

Mark opened his eyes painfully, observing the people around him, finally finding a better breathing rhythm and settling his gaze on Renjun. He tried to speak, coughing from the pain before stopping briefly when he noticed his youngest's red cheek, the terrified looks of the girls and Lady Irene; present and standing in the background who was only observing.

Mark's gaze had just changed, the pain and weakness giving way to a more serious expression.

« Sir Lee? » asked one of the chief governesses when she felt the young boy get up. Mark had just stood up, still holding his bloodied rib, glaring at Lady Irene. He knew something, he wasn't stupid.

« Mark? » Renjun stared at his eldest, not understanding what was happening, seeing him going towards the lady, Mark grabbing the collar of the vermilion hanbok with violence, cries of surprise muffled from almost everyone. Mark and Lady Irene both glared at each other, the injured youth tightening his grip on the garment, despite the pain and exhaustion.

« I’m going to make you regret it. »

« I do not see what you're talking about. » Lady Irene responded indifferently, staring down at the boy in front of her.

« Oh yes ? » Mark began, « I'm going to make you regret this so much, you and your pawns who serve as your dogs are going to pay and I'll start with you. » The atmosphere of the pavilion became hot, like a fire of sunlight being close to them. A bestial and imposing energy disturbing for a moment Lady Irene who came to release Mark's hand, leaving in a hurry and leaving the others in a disturbing silence. And suddenly, it's dark, Mark had passed out, only just caught on time by Karina.

« QUICKLY, CALL THE FAMILY DOCTOR. »

Ame kept screaming Jeno's name in the immense forest, having been going in circles for almost an hour without any trace of the boy.

The rain continued to fall relentlessly, the young Fitzgerald becoming more and more exhausted even though the cold did not reach her. Her vision became blurred over time, she could no longer distinguish any shapes, only sources of light and possibly awaken her primary senses as much as she could. Anguish made her heart beat faster and faster, tears or rain flowed from her eyes; maybe she cried from fatigue, from fear to be honest she couldn't be effective with all this rain as if the universe was preventing her from finding Jeno. Her hands were covered in scratches, her cheek too, and her knees too.

Exhausted, the young Fitzgerald fell to the ground. Yet the impact was not as painful, it was as if she had fallen on a warm duvet. Getting up with difficulty, her hand came to slowly run over what she had taken for a duvet, soft, warm, almost pleasant but wet. Opening her eyes a little wider and looking at her hand, a cry of surprise escaped her when she noticed a huge stain of blood on her hand, stepping back quickly.

A black mass was in front of her that she couldn't really make out. Coming closer, this black mass turned out to be an animal that was still breathing but injured. Ame, still on her knees, walked around the animal, trying to observe the slightest significant injury that she could alleviate. The animal's leg was badly injured and tearing part of her t-shirt, Ame quickly bandaged it, all under the rain that wasn't going to stop any time soon.

The young girl was checking again the animal, observing its face, eyes closed and breathing in difficult. She observed him but at this point, Ame really couldn't see anything anymore, the red of her red dye having rubbed off on her top and her real hair color having taken its place; a snow white visible even at night. Gently, she came to caress the animal slowly for few minutes, her eyes still in blurry, gradually realizing that the soft coat had transformed into skin. A very slow breathing movement and a heart that she felt beating faintly on the palm of her hand. With surprise, Ame came closer, seeing herself holding in her hands a face with a falling temperature.

« J...jeno? Jeno ? Jeno !? » A cough was heard, the body next to her moving slightly. Forcing one last time, the young Fitzgerald took it upon herself to adapt her vision to the place, becoming clearer and less blurry. Ame felt warmth on her face, a hand having been placed on her cheek and caressing it weakly. There he was, lying on the ground almost at the end of his life in the first sense, his chest exposed to the open air in a temperature that was only dropping, injured in the leg and scratches and cuts on his arms and part of his head. face and despite everything, his beauty stood out.

« Ame...what are you doing here... » his voice was weak, Ame motioned him not to speak, looking around. Nothing, absolutely nothing else except the helmet of his motorcycle completely shattered near a bush. « Oh my god Jeno, we're going to go home and we'll heal you, please hold on. »

Jeno, who until now had kept his eyes somewhat closed, opened them a little more to observe the young girl at his side. He observed her in silence, watching as she picked up her phone and called who knew who for help. He observed her red dye which had completely disappeared, in his memories before he left for the other residence, she had them still red. She appeared to him like an angel.

Ame came to look at Jeno, reassured but still worried about his condition. She hoped to find a semi- solution by the time the others arrived, at least. Jeno couldn't stand in the rain like that. Quickly, Ame took off her top, remaining in her bra to cover the boy with it as best she could, using her strength to take him in her arms, Jeno's head on her thighs and the young girl's hands removing his hair from his face and trying to cover it as best as possible. Slowly, Jeno's temperature seemed to rise while Ame's temperature gradually dropped. The two stayed like that, Ame's eyes going blurry again and her lips turning blue.

« Please Jeno, please stay with me, everything is going to be ok. » The rain continued to fall, the wolf falling asleep and dreaming of a clear, snowy plain.

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ath /mogiyue

[mogiyue]

Jaemin was definitely a strange person. At first glance everything seemed normal about him apart from his very nonchalant and observant appearance, the young Na did not seem to have any problem. At least, that was the impression he voluntarily gave himself, sitting around the coffee table of the pavilion in the company of Renjun, Ame and Sora, watching him eat in a particular silence. The young Na didn't really seem to be bothered by the attention the others were giving him, nor when he occasionally took his time pushing certain foods off his plate, lowering his head onto his hand without looking up.

« Jaemin, how come you ended up in Sora’s room? » began Ame, curious about his unexpected arrival.

The said Jaemin finally came to raise his gaze in the direction of the young Fitzgerald, making his gaze travel to the young Moon who was looking at him with a confused look; this boy was really strange. One thing that she was able to notice quite late through observation was the strangeness of the color of his eyes: a very light blue but which seemed to be tinged with a different color from one eye to another. Surely the light or the fatigue, Sora told herself that she would see better the next morning; finally if the young boy had indeed returned from his own trip.

« Jaemin? »

Again, Jaemin returned his gaze to Ame, sighing weakly as he pushed his plate back towards her, still without saying a word before slowly getting up and walking away. In his turn, Ame took the plate in hand, looking at the contents of it having been little eaten, taking his turn to speak.

« He's annoying, it's already been three months now, he needs to stop sulking. » Renjun had just gotten angry, a frustration that he seemed to be containing since the young Na had returned to the residence. Sora was surprised, the young Na didn't seem to have anything against her, he just seemed tired. He had only observed her at times but since the beginning she had not really heard a single word come out of his mouth.

« Is he...ok ? » Renjun and Ame came to look at Sora, quickly looking at each other again with a much less cheerful look; they tried to appear as neutral as possible.

« Jaemin doesn’t want to live here, he was forced by his guardian. » « His guardian? » Questioned Sora more interested.

« Jaemin has no parents, when his curse happened his guardian decided to entrust him to the Uchinaga from time to time before completely letting him live here. » the young Fitzgerald recounted the life of the young Na in a very vague way, surely out of respect for the latter having perhaps not given his consent. Sora vaguely understood Jaemin in the sense that he, unlike her, seemed to have his own home that he had been forced to leave for various reasons. She wondered if everyone had been in a sense forced to live at the residence, if they had been removed from some of their homes or for some the departure was voluntary.

« We should really go to sleep. »

--

Eight hours. Eight o'clock in the morning and Sora had woken up after a night that was quite short. Young Moon could hear the servants busy cleaning the interior garden, folding laundry and dusting the open pavilions. Stretching slowly, the young Moon came to get up, leaving her room and gradually heading towards the kitchen. The residence remained huge and the fear of getting lost remained present even if Sora had a rather good memory. The sunlight passed easily through the windows, giving a calm and gentle air to this morning, the start of a new summer day.

Having a view of the garden outside, Sora was able to briefly admire the absence of the servants, look at this space finally empty of people, the cherry trees moving weakly and the flowers enjoying the heat which would not yet suffocate them. However, as she was about to leave Sora was surprised by the arrival of a young girl in a kimono passing from the other side of the courtyard accompanied by two governesses that she had never seen before. The girl in front had very long black hair highlighted by untouched porcelain skin. Even though Sora was far away from seeing his face, she strangely felt an uncomfortable, almost harmful energy as she watched the three people advance and disappear at the end of the corridor. The scene seemed to have played out in slow motion, almost like a movie scene announcing an important character who would soon appear. Young Moon felt disturbed, her animal instinct taking over as her hands were clenched and her senses on alert.

« Sora? » Turning quickly, Sora faced Ningning still dressed in her pajamas, her eyes half-closed and her hair disheveled. At her side was strangely Jaemin who was also looking in the same direction in which young Moon was looking earlier. Even stranger, Sora had the impression that Jaemin had been there for a while unlike Ningning who had probably just arrived.

« Hello Ningning. »

« Why didn't you wake me up when Jaemin arrived? Then we'll say that I found out about the news too late... » Ningning continued, on the verge of crying, sniffling little by little while staring at the two.

Not giving Sora time to respond, Ningning turned around and ran away shouting that she needed to wake everyone up so that they could all spend the day with the new arrival, narrowly avoiding a possible crying fit on the part of the young dove. Sora and Jaemin were both alone again, young Moon wanting to head straight to the kitchen again. However, the scene before as well as Jaemin's presence did not help the young girl in any way, as if she had lost her memory for a brief moment. Young Na only observed her, remaining motionless for a moment before advancing towards young Moon, freezing the latter, the two looking at each other with their faces in very close proximity. Slowly, a thin smile appeared on the young boy's face while placing a finger on the lips of the young girl in front of her.

« You can't be afraid of the devil when he invites you into his house, that's advice. »

--

« So, so, so you’re going to stay and live with us? » Exclaimed Karina with a huge smile on her lips, meanwhile devouring her lunch; without forgetting to occasionally attack poor Chenle who was hiding in vain behind Renjun.

« If you stay it’s bad I like your room, it’s big and perfect for me. » Winter continued, giving a look full of determination towards the young boy who didn't seem ready to answer any time soon.

« No, he has to stay, as there are more guys. » Jisung added, giving Chenle a high five, both agreeing with his words.

Sora watched all these beautiful people eating quietly, chatting as if nothing had happened, as if they were living the almost banal daily life of a family having a meal together, without the slightest worry in the world. Ame ate in silence, which was rather abnormal because she generally spoke at times or made sure that everyone was calm during the meal to avoid any incident; like Karina who might accidentally set a fire.

« Ame, is everything okay? » Sora questioned softly, looking at the young girl who had just jumped slightly.

« Yes, everything is fine, do you need anything? » Ame showed a big smile as usual, taking the towel from her hands as if ready to get up. Sora nodded to her, urging her to sit quietly. Young Fitzgerald seemed very tired, she barely kept her eyes open and tried as best she could to appear as normal as possible; something was wrong.

« You don’t seem to be okay, if you’re not okay you can tell me. » « Ah, you know it actually happens to me- »

« Giselle is back, right? » Renjun cut in suddenly and brought silence to the entire room. Sora felt uneasy, like the energy had suddenly shifted and everyone had tensed up in their chairs.

« I saw her late last night, she came home alone I thought she would come home with Mark, Jeno and Haechan. » Renjun continued, staring at Jaemin sitting right in front of him, the same thin smile on his face.

« Oh, and are you implying something, Ren? » It was Jaemin's turn to respond, sighing falsely as he stared at Renjun and raised an eyebrow.

« Absolutely nothing, it's not like you care anyway. » Chenle and Jisung looked at each other out of the corner of their eyes, Ninging lowering her eyes, holding back from wanting to cry. Karina was about to suddenly speak up to reprimand Jaemin but was suddenly stopped by Winter, telling her to shut up.

« It's true, I don't really care, to be honest, like I said, you agreed to live with the devil, I don't understand why you're afraid. »

« You’re not going to stay? That means you're a coward then. » Said Sora point blank, surprising the

other children and also Jaemin who for the first time seemed surprised by young Moon's retort. Sora found Jaemin strange but she couldn't stand his arrogance and the antipathy he exuded towards others. She was sure that something was tormenting them but that it was too early for Sora to know exactly what was going on.

It was in this long silence that Jaemin suddenly started laughing, a stifled laugh before he got up first, having not eaten anything like last night. Winter in turn came to get up quickly grabbing Jaemin's hand as if begging him to stay with them all. Young Na came to look at the young redhead, violently withdrawing his hand before leaving.

« Renjun, did you have to do that? » Winter began, very frustrated.

« It's my fault ? Jaemin doesn't want to live with us, no one is holding him back, why does he come thinking he can change everything like that? » The brunette angrily stood up suddenly.

« Mentioning Giselle was a good idea perhaps? » Karina continued, getting up annoyed in her turn, moving the coffee table and pouring back a few glasses.

« A very good yes, that way we avoid another serious incident like last time. Seeing Haechan almost lose his life because of her doesn't do you anything? If Mark and Jeno weren't here he would have died but you seem to really forget about him. » Renjun had just burst into rage, a sight that Sora would never have imagined coming from him, being the one who remained very calm most of the time and very composed at times. The situation was beyond what Sora thought, something was really wrong, watching the brunette leave, under the cries of Winter being held by Jisung, Ame running after the young boy.

–

Jaemin was fuming in annoyance, even though he hid it well, he was annoyed by the situation, just as much as Renjun. He had to admit it to himself but Renjun and he were the same on a lot of points and especially on the biggest problem that weighed on the residence. Young Na was afraid, he was mortified with fear of staying in this house and he would do anything to leave, alone or with those who agreed to follow him. Walking along the west corridor, young Na did not pay attention to his surroundings, suddenly feeling a certain pressure in his chest. This same harmful energy vibrating his ears. Suddenly, two arms came to surround him, two hands clinging to him and even digging their nails into his skin causing him minimal pain.

« Out of everyone, I missed you the most, Nana. »

–

Renjun and Ame had fallen asleep since lunch, Sora observing them lying on the thin mattress of the pavilion in front of the small garden of his arrival. After that, everyone dispersed in the residence, young Moon walking here and there and taking the opportunity to better discover the rooms of the house. She was intrigued by the discussion from before, at least the argument from before. This Giselle also seemed to be one of the children carrying the curse but she seemed to have a major role in everyone's lives.

Sora was not yet in the other small pavilions, walking for a long time before arriving at one of them having a very rustic style, the exterior clay walls having taken the brunt of time and a huge weeping tree letting its long leaves fall on the roof.

Easily pushing the door open with a deafening creak, Sora made a library almost abandoned, dust covering a majority of the books. No one, not even the housekeepers, seemed to come here to clean anything. Observing the place, the young Moon was fascinated by the ancient paintings of representations of the animals of the curse, not realizing that another person had appeared in the small library.

« Miss Moon? » Turning suddenly, almost falling, Sora faced a young governess that she was used to seeing quite often.

« Oh, sorry, I shouldn’t be here? »

« Oh? If you can but it's dusty, I'm saying this for you. » exclaimed the housekeeper, laughing softly. « Besides, you can call me Lami. »

« Lami is that it? I can ask you a question but it stays between us. »

Young Lami signaled that she would not say anything, assuring Sora that her role as governess was to ensure that the children in the residence could talk without worry.

« Who is Giselle? Is she a child like us too? »

« Lady Uchinaga? Yes, well, it's mostly the Uchinaga heiress. »

« Heiress?” Is that Lady Uchinaga? » Young Moon could hide her astonishment, staring at Lami who was answering her without questioning too much about the interrogation she was leading. This lady was therefore a young child like her and all the others, what made the difference was her status and her involvement in the family.

« Have you met her ? » Added the young governess.

Young Moon shook her head, turning her face back to the old paintings and books. Even with this little information, Sora knew that Lami would not have the answers she necessarily sought; she had to ask Ame directly to explain. Wanting to add yet another question, Sora and Lami were stopped when they heard screams in the distance, coming from the main pavilion. Immediately, the two girls started running in the direction of the panicked cries they could hear, finally arriving at their destination seeing Jisung in full panic as if he was looking for a person.

« Master Jisung? What's happening to you? » Lami worried.

« AME, WHERE IS AME ?»

« She was in the pavilion with Renjun, Jisung what’s going on!? » It was young Moon's turn to worry.

« I can't...oh no, oh no, oh no, no, no, no, no...» Jisung kept panicking, the young governess trying as best she could to help the young boy who seemed to be losing his voice.

« You need to calm down, your heart won’t take it, please. »

« What is happening ? Jisung what's wrong with you...? » Ningning had just appeared, alongside Karina and Chenle, equally surprised and confused by the scene.

« Where is Ame? » Sora asked again before the concerned one appeared, stopping confused before quickly running towards poor Jisung.

« Jisung calm down, Jisung breathe with me, what’s happening? » Ame tried to sound reassuring but panic rose in her voice, holding the young boy's hand tightly.

« Mark..I was talking with Mark, I tried to call him I know I shouldn't because Lady Uchinaga asked but I wanted to talk to him...I'm sorry.... » Jisung sobbed more and more, almost no longer able to make an understandable sentence. « I managed to get Mark on the phone except it was weird, he picked up without answering me at first and he ended up answering me... » Everyone seemed to be holding their breath, as if it wasn't not the most serious in Jisung's story but what he was going to follow right after. Jaemin appeared in turn, a confused expression before looking at the youngest with a frown. He and Sora exchanged a look, both knowing full well that this was no longer the time for jokes.

« Ame, they had an accident Mark just told me that it was no less than ten kilometers from here, I didn’t understand? Haechan is hurt and Mark told me not to tell you that I should just call someone for them but I- »

« And Jeno? » Ame cut off abruptly, staring at Jisung.

Jisung was silent, staring at his eldest, Karina suddenly moving towards Jisung, holding him by the collar, frustration taking over.

« WHERE ARE THEY, WHERE IS JENO? » Ame hadn't finished waiting for Jisung's response, having started running towards the front door, even forgetting to put on her shoes and taking her phone. Sora suddenly began to follow the young Fitzgerald accompanied by Jaemin and Chenle, the two agreeing to call for help.

« Jeno is missing, Mark doesn’t know where he is, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have called him, I’m sorry, I’m sorry. »

---------------------------------------------------------------------

ath/mogiyue

[mogiyue]

Sora had gotten used to the environment of the Uchinaga residence in a few weeks. Ame had explained to her that there would be a total of thirteen children living here; at least children born under the sign of a spirit animal. Sora had also learned that a hierarchical system existed between them, even if no one had respected it for several years. Ame, Jisung and Renjun were very welcoming and did their best to make the young Moon as comfortable as possible, spending most of their time in the small pavilion overlooking the stone garden, the two young boys passing by their time in this corner of peace fighting with water guns or water balloon.

« The others are in other Uchinaga residences or in their own families. » Ame began to explain, a glass of iced tea in hand and a huge plate of various fruits between the two young girls.

« Sometimes you don't see some of them for a whole year, if you're lucky you'll probably see them all. »

« They know I arrived? » Sora suddenly asked, somewhat apprehensive about having to recover from all these changes and meeting her new host family. Ame showed a fine reassuring smile, putting down her drink while slowly getting up and taking one last look at the young Moon.

« We all knew of your arrival when the curse was awakened, we were all warned by Lady Uchinaga. I'm going to go prepare dinner by the way, Karina, Ningning, Winter and Chenle are coming home today. »

---

The most complete chaos, the young Moon looked at the scene before her with a certain fear, stepping back as a precaution while watching the world remain far too stoic in the face of what was happening; was this normal? Usual ? Was it the fact that a young girl about her age, with jet-black hair and pale skin, labored breathing and a piece of broken vase in her hands stained with her blood or that of the boy on the ground constantly shouting and no one had any real reactions?

« Not only will I kill you, but I will happily eat your organs and vomit them out. »

« KARINA ARE YOU COMPLETELY CRAZY? »

« Did you say I was CRAZY ZHONG CHENLE? » the woman named Karina began to get even more angry, her face crumpled with a certain inexplicable rage, getting ready to throw the remaining slime again on the face of the young boy with tears in his eyes even more.

However, in all this agitation Ame appeared, a towel in hand, her gaze lost as she watched the governesses pick up the debris that had fallen earlier and the new arrivals in front of the front door. Slowly, Karina began to calm down as she watched the young Fitzgerald come closer, the said Chenle, running towards her, crying even more. Without a word, a young governess took the young boy by the shoulder towards the rooms while others hurried to take everyone's luggage.

« Karina, what are you going to tell Lady Uchinaga if she sees that you broke a new vase? »

The young Fitzgerald began in a nonchalant tone, almost accustomed to this kind of moment.

Karina didn't answer, throwing the vase on the floor and heading towards the bedrooms sulkily. She did not take the time to notice the presence of the young Moon until now remaining silent and surprised by this arrival with fanfare. Once she leaves, she can notice that two girls were also here, not knowing where to look and feeling uncomfortable with the other girl's behavior.

This is how Sora met Karina, the one who had broken the vase earlier. Long jet black hair, pale skin, big eyes like jade stones; she looked like a princess in the way she carried herself, a distinction that contrasted with an energy that could shift over nothing. Beyond that, the young girl was not mean, on the contrary, having even apologized to the young Moon for having been so rude before they all sat down at the table. Sora saw Karina as a child who had difficulty controlling her emotions, both positive and negative.

Just after she met Winter, a very calm young girl in appearance before she noticed that she and Jisung had the same facial expressions, the same reactions, like a duo always ready to plot jokes and plans almost too much. petty for the people of the residence. Short ginger hair with reflections from the sun, a face which at the same time expressed nothing, no emotions like a lot of things through a thin smirk, skin that was very or even too pale, very pink cheeks and large eyes of amber who seemed to be staring at nothing. Less reserved, she had only observed the young Moon out of the corner of her eye, without really saying anything.

Then it was Ningning's turn, a young girl who seemed to be, even extremely, emotional. Having kept her sunglasses on since her arrival, the young girl seemed to be bubbling with emotion for absolutely everything. Long wooden brown hair, immense ruby eyes that Sora had been able to perceive for a brief moment when she saw her rubbing them and fairly white skin, she looked like a graceful being, as if everything about her seemed fine and even fragile.

And finally Chenle, an extremely noisy young boy, too noisy to the great dismay of the young Moon who was already at the head of the groups: the loudest and the quietest. Tall, with tanned skin, small eyes with ocean blue irises and coal black hair. One of his cheeks had a bandage from the previous altercation, he himself showing a sulky face and staring evilly at Karina who was right in front of him during dinner. Noisy ? The young boy kept raising his voice even if it was against the young girl or when Jisung, he and Renjun threw a few pieces of food at each other. He had the appearance of a child from a good family, which made Sora doubt for a moment, wondering if all the children all had the same standard of living even while living here.

« I really like your hair Sora, it's as black as mine, do you want us to share our haircare ? Do you think we can do our hair together ? Ame often does my hair but I could have two hairdressers for myself, that's great, right? » Karina exclaimed, a huge smile on her face, eating and even having time to make a murder attempt on Chenle by throwing her fork at him.

« Ahem...yes if you want..? »

« When did you arrive? » Winter added, not taking his eyes off his plate.

« She arrived two weeks ago, Winter why don't you listen when the governesses talk ? » Ningning took the time to respond, annoyance and the desire to cry, quickly taking a tissue.

« Ning, aren’t you going to cry about this? »

« But Winter never listens, it’s very annoying for me.» The young Moon had the impression of being surrounded by lots of extremes, the most nonchalants including Ame, the latter experiencing the dinner as something usual, as if she were not there, Renjun quickly looking toward the few people interacting, Jisung and Chenle focusing on creating chaos as possible, Karina only wanting to fight as it was the fifth or sixth fork she was twisting , Winter more eager to finish eating and going to sleep and Ningning crying in annoyance.

« Ning, stop crying, I’ll make you some herbal tea afterwards. » Young Fitzgerald took care to finally speak, smiling gently at her and reassuring her.

--

Arriving at dessert time, everyone went to sit in the central pavilion, another room where the imperial inspirations could be noticed by the minimalist architecture, the decoration in bindings on the walls and the red velvet cushions. Ame appeared after a while, having gone away for a while to prepare dessert and tea, leaving everyone busy with various pursuits; card games or Go, Renjun being the only one having isolated himself in a corner of the room, a huge book in hand. The young Fitzgerald placing everything on the carpet-serving as a dining table while taking care to double- check if everything was present, turning her gaze towards Renjun to encourage him to come and eat.

« I didn't take the time to do the introductions better, I really wanted to wait until you were sufficiently integrated into the residence and everyone was there but I think we'll do that before the others come back. » Serving tea to everyone, Ame took care to carefully place the teapot, wiping her hands quickly and displaying a small, satisfied smile. A housekeeper to the side took care to get up and leave, sliding the door slowly. The young Moon had noticed this since her arrival: at no time were she or the others really alone, a governess was always present, in each room of the residence.

« To put it simply, I am of the sign of the snow fox, Renjun is of the sign of the forest fox. We are brothers and sisters too. Jisung is the sign of the mouse, Chenle of the dolphin, Karina of the tiger, Winter of the squirrel and Ningning of the dove. I don't know if you may have noticed it, but our physical and even behavioral particularities are impacted by the animal that inhabits us. » Sora listened attentively to young Fitzgerald's explanations, understanding more and more the questions she was asking herself and even the actions of some of them. She even understood Karina's aggressiveness even after dinner, not being able to find one of her rubber bands.

« I have red hair but I dye it, normally it’s white. »

« Why are you dyeing them? » Sora asked suddenly, realizing that she hadn't thought too much before speaking.

« .... I think people will pay a little too much attention to us, that's not the goal. » Replied the young Fitzgerald with a slight laugh, taking a quick sip of tea.

The young Moon came to stare at her cup of tea, feeling a stray of nausea upon hearing Ame's sentence. Of course they, including her, had to live in a certain discretion and do the best they could to fulfill their duties as hosts to the local population; those with a strong spiritual practice. Kiori had told her, now that the curse had hit her, Sora had to change her entire way of life, who she could be with, the trust she could give to others. Not everyone would wish her well, not even people from the Uchinaga's clan.

« Who died for you to take the curse so late compared to us? » Winter had suddenly spoken, her eyes still glued to her plate. A heavy silence fell in the room, Renjun lowering his gaze while gently squeezing his fork in his hand. Karina, usually agitated, had also calmed down, staring at her dish in front of her.

« Winter you're mean. » Chenle spoke in turn, looking at Sora out of the corner of his eye.

« I'm just asking a question because Giselle said t-»

« Winter that's enough. » The young Fitzgerald didn't look happy, not taking the time to glance at the person concerned. The air became icy again, the same leaden silence having taken place and forcing the young gingerhead to remain silent, displaying a bored pout. The young Moon felt that everyone had questions, but wanting to respect her privacy or not, she had to at least tell them the most general without necessarily going into details; people didn't care about the details.

« Yoo-na, she’s my big sister. She's the one who died. » Sora began, her breath short and her mind

a little clouded by memories of the girl who had for a moment been part of her life.

« She killed herself when...my curse came. »

« Oh my god...» Ningning had just exclaimed lowly, shock present on her face, her hands in front of her mouth not expecting such a thing. No one spoke, Sora staring outside with a sad and empty look, preferring to stop there. Gently, the young Fitzgerald came to place her hand on her shoulder, smiling slightly towards the girl ; calm and reassuring as if to make her understand that she could speak here, that this new family would do their best to help her.

« It's been a long day, we should all get some rest. »

–-

In front of her dressing table, Sora took a moment to brush her hair, looking at the packet of chocolate that Karina had left for her as well as the bottle of water given by Ame before she went to her room. Renjun, Jisung and Chenle had strangely refrained from making so much noise. The house was much calmer, the indigo blue sky accompanied by the last sounds of insects also going to sleep. Going to quickly open the window, the young Moon could hear a knock on her door, frail knocks that she had the responsiveness to hear.

« Yes ? »

« It’s Winter. » Sora finally came to open the door, Winter in her pajamas way too big for her and a huge stuffed animal in her arms ; an exhausted look on her face.

« I wanted to apologize, I didn't want to be mean when I wanted to know about your curse. »

The eldest was somewhat surprised, studying the face of the younger who seemed sincerely sorry. She handed her the stuffed animal, encouraging her to take the fabric animal with a hint of excitement. Accepting the gift, Winter began to yawn somewhat loudly while continuing to stare at Sora with the same emotionless look, remaining silent for a few seconds before speaking again.

« Are you thinking about it too? To do the same? » The young Moon stared at Winter in confusion, the two girls not saying a word. Sora was trying to understand what she could be talking about, what Winter was implying knowing that she remained rather vague in her question. Due to the lack of reaction from her eldest, the youngest finally started walking towards her room, displaying a thin smile and a wave of the hand.

« Good night Sora, see you in the morning. » Winter having left, Sora came to close the door to her room again and delicately placed the stuffed animal on her bed. A thin sigh escaped her lips, a feeling of exhaustion running through her entire body. The day was indeed long, the desire to simply get under her duvet and never come out seemed like a good idea. About to go to bed, a new person came knocking on the door and forced the young girl to get up. Opening the door again, Sora was surprised to see no one, not even the impression that someone had made a joke and given the young Moon time to form that thought.

Yet another knock was heard again. Sora closed the door of her room and came to let her gaze roam the entire room, looking for the source of this noise. While moving towards the window, this one still open, the young Moon looked around and felt the night wind rise a little more.

« Weird..» Not seeing anything else, Sora was about to close the window when with a violent flap of the shutter, she was thrown back on the floor, seeing a shadow pass above her and position itself on her, on their two hands and two feet.

Sora's heart began to beat violently, fear taking over her automatically expecting the worst. She began to think about everything the boys said; the kidnappings, being careful, she was sure it was the end. However, nothing happened, at least nothing predicted what would happen next; warm breath on her neck, fingers running through her hair in a careful and gentle manner, golden eyes accentuated by the light of the moon reflecting against the person above her. The intruder seems to look at her, their finger passing on Sora's lips ; giving her goosebump.

« Your skin is cold and you lips are blue, are you cold ?» « Wh-»

« I’m tired, I want to get some sleep. »

« Not on me!? » Voice gentle and low, the person who spoke had slowly stood up, also leaving room for Sora to get up and move as far away as possible from the intruder who had entered. About to speak again, the door of the room opened again in a hurry, Ame and Renjun both appearing, illuminating the room thanks to the light from the corridor and giving Sora the possibility to see the person in front of her better.

A handsome young man stood in front of her, with grape-colored hair, porcelain skin and rosy cheeks, somewhat full lips, golden eyes with green reflections and a slight slender waist. He stared at the young Moon from top to bottom, a curious and intrigued look, finally turning his gaze towards the other two who were just as surprised to see him.

« Jaemin? »

Na Jaemin, the siamese cat.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

ath/mogiyue

[mogiyue]

The town of Hahoe, spring 2019

« Yes, yes I have arrived and no I am not going to run away. » A long sigh escaped from between the pink lips of the young girl standing in front of the huge Uchinaga's residence. The sun's rays beat down heavily on her body, the sweat making her skin sticky and making her even more unbearable. Her huge suitcase beside her, the young girl was holding her phone in her hand, having hung up and looking around searching for someone living in the residence. The festival season had just slowly started, the residents all of them had to be in the city to participate in the various activities on offer. Sighing once again, the young girl came and dropped down on the immense steps of the entrance; the heat, the sweat and her long ebony hair didn't help her at all, she had to wait until someone came to help her.

Looking towards the sky, the invisible mists of the heat could be glimpsed through the few hints of light, the sounds of insects could be heard like sweet summer melodies arriving far too early in the region. To run away, she already wanted to leave, it almost suited her if no one came to pick her up so she could return to one of her many “homes”

Noise could finally be heard from down the street, two male voices seeming to linger over an agitated discussion. The young girl could already predict it without even seeing them that the two people were heading in her direction, their steps approaching at a rapid pace. Automatically standing up and carrying her suitcase at her side, she took the time to make herself a little more presentable just in time when the two people, two boys appeared in front of her dressed in traditional outfits, soaked.

« Oh, hello...? »

« We have no money, well the Uchinaga yes, I'm still in middle school ! »

« JISUNG. » Said Jisung, a boy already tall in stature, jet black hair and porcelain skin. His face contrasted strangely between innocence and mischief, his cheeks pink from the heat, he looked like a small rodent; he seemed like a pain in the ass.

« He's a bit stupid, I'm Ren- hm, who are you? » The young girl avoided bursting into laughter, noticing the confused expression of the other young boy, fairly long brown hair with coppery highlights, a fine, very feminine face, skin a little less pale and eyes resembling with two emerald stones.

« Maybe she'll want to kidnap us. »

« There are two of us, plus we run fast, I don't think she wants to kidnap us. »

« What if I wanted to kidnap you, exactly? » The two young boys stopped in their discussion, looking with fear at the young girl who had finally spoken after a long time. Suddenly, in an impossible chaos caused by the boys' cries of fear, the young girl slowly covered her ears, rolling her eyes at a scene that was more boring than funny, feeling her patience leave her faster than expected; if she had to live with the two boys in such conditions, yes, she would run away. About to speak again, the sound of the front door was heard, revealing a very small old lady with a thin smile painted on her face. The old lady took care to move towards the young girl, making the two young boys to stop, slowly opening her eyes as if to better see the person in front of her. And in the space of a fraction of a second, she was overcome with joy, placing her hands on those of the young girl surprised by this unusual but very sweet gesture.

« Are you Miss Moon? You were only due to arrive in an hour or two. Come with me, I'll take your suitcase and the boys will accompany you to the living room. Miss Fitzgerald is probably there. »

Way too much information in two sentences. The young girl was even more surprised by the improbable strength of the old lady who took her suitcase and went inside with her. Slowly, the young Moon came to look again at the two young boys who stared at her suspiciously before they moved towards the interior.

« If Governess Uchinaga took her suitcase with her, it’s because she’s coming to live here, right? » The said Jisung came to whisper in the ear of the other boy, both looking at her from the corner of their eyes at times, the latter looking at the residence with an air of bewilderment by the immensity, thinking she had previously calculated the grandeur of the place.

The three of them advanced in near silence towards a huge room looking like a living room, the typically imperial decoration can also be seen inside and not just the main courtyard. Jisung was the one who slid the door to make way for a small pavilion decorated in a very floral spirit. Observing the place, the young girl could feel an unusual freshness in the heat overlooking the province. The scent of flowers and tea hung in the air, a feeling of security and calm taking her by surprise.

« Hello, welcome. » The young girl turned her head in the direction of the person speaking to her, a young girl of small stature, black skin and hair the color of a red rose petal and her eyes like two indigo stone. She wore a long white t-shirt and a long khaki veil skirt. Many jewels adorned her neck, her fingers, her wrists and throughout, she displayed a shy smile.The young Moon was invited to sit around the small tea table where there were already small treats and various drinks. Hearing the two boy slowly complain about something again, she could here a faint voice coming from the other red-haired girl.

« If you haven't done anything, why are you soaked when I spent an entire afternoon ironing your hanbok? » An icy air took place in the small pavilion, the young Moon seeing the faces of the two boys frozen with fear by the question of the red-haired girl; she had to be their eldest, that was certain. Slowly, the other young girl came to focus her attention on the dark-haired girl, the air gradually warming up.

« My name is Ame, Ame Fitzgerald, Choi Jisung and Huang Renjun. » Simply nodding, the young Moon hesitated for a moment before taking the drink presented in front of her, taking a few sips bringing her the freshness she desperately sought during her journey. A silence took place for a brief moment, The three hosts staring at the new arrival with a curious look, making her feel uncomfortable not knowing how to introduce herself.

« Madam Kiori Moon explained to us that you ran away from your boarding school and that at the same time the curse was declared. »

« She really can't keep quiet... »

« Ah! No don't worry, I didn't mean that she spoke badly about you, just that she told us that the curse broke out at the worst time...well for you. You are not the only one I assure you. »

The young Moon can't help but roll her eyes again, imagining Kiori, her legal guardian talking over and over again about her strenght of having managed to educate her all this time; she had never been difficult to live with, people didn't necessarily want to adapt to her. Finally deciding to break this silence again, the young girl came and scratched her throat loudly, attracting the attention of the three others, Renjun and Jisung clinging to the arm of the young Ame.

« My name is Sora, Moon Sora. I've been under the sign of the Panther since Yoo-na died. »

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ath/mogiyue

[mogiyue]

.:｡

> 皮银 — m.list fluff – angst – mature

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[ 運痴長い ] uchinaga's curse : 00 - 01 - 02 - 03 - 04 - 05 - 06 - 07 - WINTER -