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Healing Manhwa

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Chapter 37 – The Countdown to Graduation The announcement appeared on every hallway screen. “Graduation Ceremony: Two Weeks Away.” ⸻ The entire school changed overnight. Suddenly… Everyone was talking about memories. Photos. Last performances. Future plans. ⸻ Jennie stood in the hallway staring at the announcement. Her blonde hair was styled in loose waves, and she wore a black oversized jacket, a white top, baggy jeans, and her favorite boots. For once… She wasn’t making a joke. ⸻ Felix noticed. His black hair was slightly messy, and he wore his varsity jacket, black shirt, athletic pants, and sneakers. “You okay?” Jennie looked at him. “Yeah.” A pause. “Just weird.” “What?” “Everything.” ⸻ Felix looked at the graduation poster. “I know.” “It feels like yesterday we couldn’t stand each other.” Jennie smirked. “You couldn’t stand me.” Felix laughed. “You roasted me every five seconds.” “You deserved it.” ⸻ Han suddenly appeared. His messy brown hair was covered by a graduation cap he wasn’t supposed to be wearing yet. “I heard emotional conversations.” Everyone groaned. ⸻ Lisa walked over laughing. Her ash-blonde hair with bangs was tied back, and she wore a casual black jacket with cargo pants. “Why are you wearing that?” Han looked proud. “I’m preparing.” “For what?” “My future as the best graduate.” “We haven’t graduated yet.” “Details.” ⸻ Rosé smiled. Her lavender hair fell over her shoulders, and she wore a soft sweater and jeans. “He’s been practicing his graduation speech.” Jisoo looked concerned. Her red hair was tied neatly, and she wore a cream sweater with black pants. “How long is it?” Han looked away. “…Forty minutes.” Everyone: “No.” ⸻ Hyunjin arrived dramatically. His blond hair was perfectly styled, and he wore a black sweater with layered necklaces. “Graduation is the end of one era…” Everyone stared. “And the beginning of another.” Han nodded. “Exactly.” Jennie whispered to Felix: “They are both dramatic.” Felix whispered back: “Extremely.” ⸻ Later that day… The group practiced for the ceremony. ⸻ Jennie was helping organize the music. Felix was helping with the sports awards. Han was somehow distracting everyone. ⸻ “Han.” “What?” “Why are you spinning in the graduation chair?” “Testing durability.” “Why?” “In case I become too successful.” ⸻ Jennie shook her head. “You are impossible.” Han smiled. “Thank you.” ⸻ After practice… Jennie and Felix stayed behind. The empty auditorium was quiet. Rows of chairs filled the room. The stage lights were on. ⸻ Felix looked around. “Can’t believe we’re almost done.” Jennie nodded. “Yeah.” ⸻ He smiled. “You know…” “What?” “If we met on the first day again…” “I would still roast you.” “I know.” “And you would still annoy me.” “I know.” ⸻ A small smile appeared on Jennie’s face. “But…” Felix looked at her. “But?” She looked away. “…I’m glad we met.” ⸻ Felix smiled. “Me too.” ⸻ A moment passed. Then… Jennie pointed at his outfit. “Your graduation suit better not look weird.” Felix blinked. “That was the moment you chose to roast me?” “Of course.” He laughed. “Never change.” ⸻ The auditorium lights turned off. They walked out together. Graduation was coming. A new chapter was beginning. But one thing was guaranteed… Even with diplomas… New futures… And everything changing… Jennie and Felix would still find a way to annoy each other.
Chapter 20 – The Worst Kept Secret The next morning… Jennie had one mission. Act normal. That was it. No smiling. No looking at Felix. No acting different. Simple. Except… It was impossible. ⸻ Jennie walked into the dorm kitchen. Her blonde hair was styled perfectly, and she wore a black oversized hoodie, baggy cargo pants, and black sneakers. She grabbed a drink. Everyone stared. ⸻ She stopped. “What?” Nobody answered. Jennie looked around. “Why is everyone looking at me?” ⸻ Han slowly put down his spoon. His messy brown hair was sticking up, and he wore an oversized green hoodie, black jeans, and white sneakers. “Interesting.” Jennie narrowed her eyes. “What does that mean?” “Nothing.” “Han.” “Absolutely nothing.” ⸻ Lisa walked in. Her ash-blonde hair with bangs was perfectly styled. She wore a black bomber jacket, graphic shirt, cargo pants, and colorful sneakers. She looked between Jennie and Felix. Then smiled. “Oh.” Jennie immediately pointed. “No.” “I didn’t say anything.” “Your face did.” ⸻ Felix entered. His soft black hair was slightly messy, and he wore a black varsity jacket, white shirt, athletic pants, and basketball sneakers. The second Jennie saw him… She looked away. The second Felix saw her… He smiled. ⸻ Everyone noticed. Immediately. ⸻ Rosé walked in laughing. Her lavender hair fell over her oversized cardigan. She wore ripped jeans and white boots. “Oh no.” “What?” “They’re doing the thing.” Han nodded. “The thing.” Jennie looked confused. “What thing?” Jisoo smiled. Her dark red hair rested neatly over one shoulder. She wore a cream sweater, black pants, and ankle boots. “The thing where you pretend you don’t like each other.” ⸻ Jennie froze. “We don’t.” Felix answered at the same time. “We don’t.” Everyone stared. ⸻ Hyunjin entered dramatically. His blond hair was perfectly styled, and he wore an oversized sweater, black pants, layered necklaces, and clean sneakers. “Perfect synchronization.” Han sighed. “Please stop making everything sound like a drama.” ⸻ At school… It was even worse. Because apparently… The whole friend group had eyes. ⸻ In class, Jennie was trying to focus. The teacher was talking. The board was full of notes. Everything was normal. Until Felix passed her a note. She opened it. “You okay?” Jennie looked over. Felix smiled. She wrote back. “Why wouldn’t I be?” A few seconds later, another note came back. “Because you’re avoiding looking at me.” Jennie stared. Then wrote: “Because you’re distracting.” Felix smiled. “Good distracting?” Jennie paused. Then wrote: “Don’t push it.” ⸻ Han, sitting behind them, saw the notes. He leaned toward Lisa. “They’re literally flirting through homework.” Lisa smiled. “Should we tell them?” “No.” “Why?” “This is too funny.” ⸻ After class, Felix caught up with Jennie. “You know everyone knows something is different.” Jennie sighed. “They know everything.” “Probably.” “I hate that.” Felix smiled. “No you don’t.” Jennie looked at him. “You’re annoying.” “But?” She tried not to smile. “But…” She looked away. “You’re less annoying now.” ⸻ Felix laughed. “That might be the nicest thing you’ve ever said.” “Don’t get used to it.” “Too late.” ⸻ From across the hallway… Han watched them. “Do you think they’ll ever admit it?” Lisa shook her head. “No.” Rosé smiled. “But they don’t need to.” Jisoo nodded. “They already know.” ⸻ And that was the funniest part. Jennie and Felix spent months fighting. Roasting each other. Trying to prove they were nothing alike. But somehow… The person who annoyed them the most… Became the person they looked for first.
Got it — I’ll keep your chapter exactly in tone, but adjust Ari and Noah to sound like teenagers and add clearer visual descriptions for them. ⸻ CHAPTER: “ANNOUNCEMENT DAY / THE TOUR RETURNS” (UPDATED) ⸻ The morning started like any other— until it didn’t. ⸻ BLACKPINK were gathered in the living room. Not for rehearsal. Not for casual planning. But for something bigger. ⸻ Jisoo stood first, holding a printed schedule in both hands. Her long dark hair was softly styled, and she wore a calm ivory blouse with tailored trousers. Her expression was steady—but there was excitement underneath it. ⸻ Jennie leaned forward immediately. “Don’t tell me…” ⸻ Jisoo nodded. “It’s official.” ⸻ A pause. ⸻ Rosé covered her mouth slightly, blonde hair falling over her shoulders as she smiled. “…We’re going on tour?” ⸻ Jisoo smiled back. “Yes.” ⸻ The room shifted instantly. ⸻ Jennie stood up. “International?” ⸻ “International,” Jisoo confirmed. ⸻ Lisa hadn’t spoken yet. ⸻ Lisa sat on the edge of the sofa, staring at the schedule in Jisoo’s hand. Her brown hair was tied loosely, casual home clothes replacing stage outfits for now. Her expression slowly changed—from surprise… to recognition… to something softer. ⸻ “…It’s been a while,” she said quietly. ⸻ Jennie pointed at her. “That tone means you’re already thinking about choreography.” ⸻ Lisa blinked. “…No.” Pause. “…Maybe.” ⸻ Rosé laughed softly. “That’s a yes.” ⸻ ⸻ Jisoo sat down beside them. “This tour isn’t just performances,” she said gently. “It’s a full journey again.” ⸻ Jennie smiled. “So basically… chaos with a schedule.” ⸻ “Exactly,” Jisoo replied. ⸻ ⸻ Lisa finally looked up fully. Her eyes sharpened slightly—not tired, not overwhelmed. Focused. ⸻ “…We’ll need to prepare everything,” she said. ⸻ Jennie grinned. “There she is.” ⸻ Rosé nodded. “I’ve missed that energy.” ⸻ ⸻ From the hallway, two figures paused. ⸻ Ari stood slightly ahead of Noah. She looked like a modern teenager now—about 13–14, with long dark hair tied into a loose half-braid, wearing an oversized hoodie over a school uniform skirt, phone in hand. Her expression was calm but observant, the kind of quiet maturity that came from watching more than speaking. ⸻ Beside her, Noah leaned against the doorframe with a relaxed teenage posture. Around 14–15, he wore a slightly unbuttoned school blazer over a hoodie, messy hair falling into his eyes, backpack still hanging off one shoulder like he hadn’t fully decided if he was coming or going. His expression carried that classic teen mix of boredom and curiosity. ⸻ Ari tilted her head slightly. “…Tour means you’ll be gone a lot.” ⸻ Lisa turned toward them. “…Yeah.” ⸻ A pause. ⸻ Noah exhaled. “So basically the house becomes quieter and more monitored.” ⸻ Jennie raised an eyebrow. “That sounded like a complaint disguised as analysis.” ⸻ Noah shrugged. “I’m just stating outcomes.” ⸻ ⸻ Lisa stood and walked toward them, kneeling slightly to their level. “…We’ll still be here,” she said gently. “Just busy.” ⸻ Ari nodded once. “I get it.” Her tone was more grounded now—teenage understanding replacing childhood confusion. ⸻ Noah looked at her. “…We’re fine.” A pause. “…Probably.” ⸻ Rosé laughed softly from behind them. “That ‘probably’ is doing a lot of work.” ⸻ ⸻ Jennie clapped once. “Okay. Tour mindset starts today.” ⸻ Rosé smiled. “I’m excited.” ⸻ Jisoo nodded calmly. “Then let’s prepare properly.” ⸻ Lisa stood again. Her focus fully locked in. “…Let’s do it right.” ⸻ ⸻ And just like that— the house shifted again. From everyday rhythm… to movement, schedules, stages. ⸻ And in the hallway, two teenagers watched it all unfold— old enough now to understand what “busy” really meant… but still young enough to feel it when things started changing again.
Book 2 – Chapter 12: The Girls’ Day For once… No drama. No Felix. No Han chaos. No college competition. ⸻ Just the girls. ⸻ Jennie woke up late. Which was rare. Very rare. ⸻ Lisa immediately noticed. She walked into the room holding snacks. “Are you okay?” Jennie looked up. “Why?” “You slept past your alarm.” Jennie shrugged. “Maybe my alarm was annoying.” Lisa stared. “It was your alarm.” “Exactly.” ⸻ Lisa laughed. “You’re impossible.” Jennie grabbed a pillow and threw it at her. “You’re loud.” ⸻ But Lisa smiled. Because that was Jennie. Cold to the world. But with them? Different. ⸻ A few minutes later, Jisoo and Rosé arrived. ⸻ Jisoo’s long blonde hair with lavender-pink ends was tied back casually. Rosé’s black hair was styled softly, and she carried drinks for everyone. ⸻ Rosé smiled. “Girls’ day.” ⸻ Jennie looked at the drinks. “Finally. Something useful.” ⸻ Lisa gasped. “You mean my company isn’t useful?” Jennie looked at her. “Your company is questionable.” ⸻ Lisa put her hand on her heart. “That hurt.” Jennie looked away. “Good.” ⸻ Jisoo laughed. “You say that, but you saved her a seat.” ⸻ Jennie froze. “I did not.” ⸻ Lisa pointed. “You literally moved your bag so I could sit there.” ⸻ Jennie looked away. “Accident.” ⸻ Rosé smiled. “You’re terrible at pretending you don’t care.” ⸻ Jennie narrowed her eyes. “Careful.” ⸻ Rosé laughed. “There she is.” ⸻ The girls spent the afternoon walking around campus. ⸻ They went shopping. They got snacks. They explored the little stores near the college. ⸻ Lisa held up a jacket. “Jennie, this would look amazing on you.” ⸻ Jennie looked. “No.” “Why?” “Because you picked it.” ⸻ Lisa looked offended. “Wow.” ⸻ Jennie smiled slightly. “But…” She took the jacket. “It is actually good.” ⸻ Lisa gasped. “Was that a compliment?” Jennie immediately looked away. “Don’t get excited.” ⸻ Jisoo laughed. “That was basically a love letter from Jennie.” ⸻ Jennie rolled her eyes. “You’re all dramatic.” ⸻ Later, they sat outside with snacks. ⸻ For a while, nobody talked. It was peaceful. ⸻ Rosé looked at Jennie. “Are you okay?” ⸻ Jennie looked at her. “I’m fine.” ⸻ Jisoo raised an eyebrow. “Real fine or Jennie fine?” ⸻ Silence. ⸻ Lisa immediately understood. “Jennie fine.” ⸻ Jennie sighed. “You three are annoying.” ⸻ “But?” ⸻ She looked at them. ⸻ Then quietly said: “But you’re my annoying people.” ⸻ The three girls smiled. ⸻ Because that was Jennie’s version of saying: I love you. ⸻ Lisa leaned closer. “So…” “What?” “Are we allowed to mention Felix?” ⸻ Jennie’s eyes narrowed. “No.” ⸻ Lisa nodded. “Okay.” ⸻ Two seconds later. ⸻ “Anyway—” ⸻ “Lisa.” ⸻ “Okay, okay!” ⸻ Jisoo laughed. “You lasted three seconds.” ⸻ Rosé smiled. “New record.” ⸻ Jennie shook her head. “You all need help.” ⸻ But she was smiling. ⸻ And for the first time in days… Jennie wasn’t the savage queen fighting everyone. She wasn’t the DJ ready to destroy anyone who challenged her. ⸻ She was just Jennie. With her three favorite people. ⸻ And maybe… Just maybe… That was the only place where she didn’t need armor.write in English
Chapter 34 – The Morning After The Chaos The next morning… The dorm was silent. Too silent. Which was always suspicious. ⸻ Jennie woke up slowly. Her blonde hair was completely messy, with strands sticking in every direction. She stared at the ceiling for a few seconds. Then… She remembered. ⸻ The celebration. The dancing. Han’s terrible speeches. Jisoo roasting everyone. Felix helping her back. ⸻ She sat up. “Oh no.” ⸻ A knock came at her door. “Jennie?” Felix. She immediately froze. “Why is Felix outside my room?” She opened the door slightly. ⸻ Felix stood there holding a drink and a bag of breakfast. His black hair was messy from sleeping, and he wore a black hoodie, gray sweatpants, and sneakers. “Morning.” Jennie stared. “Why are you being nice?” Felix looked confused. “Because it’s morning?” “Suspicious.” He laughed. “You think everything is suspicious.” “Because people are suspicious.” ⸻ Felix handed her the breakfast. “You didn’t eat much last night.” Jennie blinked. “You remembered that?” “Yeah.” She looked away. “You’re annoying.” “But?” She sighed. “…Thanks.” ⸻ Suddenly… A loud noise came from the living room. “NO ONE MOVE!” Han. Obviously. ⸻ Jennie and Felix walked out. And stopped. ⸻ The living room was a disaster. ⸻ Han sat on the couch wearing sunglasses indoors. His messy brown hair was somehow even messier. “I have made an important decision.” Lisa looked tired. Her ash-blonde hair was tied into a ponytail, and she wore an oversized hoodie. “What now?” “I am never dancing again.” Everyone stared. Then Han stood up. “Actually, I am dancing tonight.” Everyone groaned. ⸻ Rosé laughed. Her lavender hair was tied loosely, and she wore a cozy sweater. “He’s already changed his mind.” ⸻ Jisoo walked in. Her red hair was messy for once, and she wore a comfortable sweatshirt and jeans. “I have one question.” Everyone looked at her. “Why did Han try to teach a chair how to dance?” Silence. ⸻ Han pointed. “The chair had potential.” ⸻ The room exploded. Jennie laughed. Actually laughed. ⸻ Felix looked at her. “What?” She looked confused. “What?” “You laughed.” “So?” “You don’t usually laugh this much.” Jennie shrugged. “Maybe you guys are slightly less annoying than I thought.” ⸻ Everyone gasped. ⸻ Hyunjin entered dramatically. His blond hair was perfectly styled despite everything, and he wore a black sweatshirt and loose pants. “She has grown emotionally.” Han whispered: “Someone write this down.” ⸻ Jennie grabbed a pillow. “Don’t make this weird.” ⸻ Later… Everyone sat around eating breakfast. The conversation somehow returned to last night. ⸻ Han looked at Felix. “So.” Felix immediately knew. “No.” “I haven’t even asked.” “No.” ⸻ Han smiled. “Did you and Jennie have a moment?” Jennie and Felix both froze. ⸻ “No.” “Absolutely not.” They answered at the same time. Everyone laughed. ⸻ Lisa smiled. “You two are so obvious.” Jennie crossed her arms. “We are not.” Felix nodded. “Definitely not.” ⸻ Rosé looked at them. “You literally agreed at the same time.” Silence. ⸻ Han pointed. “Evidence.” ⸻ Jennie looked at Felix. “This is your fault.” “My fault?” “Yes.” “How?” “You exist.” Felix laughed. “That is still not a reason.” “It is a reason for you.” ⸻ Everyone laughed again. ⸻ But underneath all the teasing… Something had changed. Before, Jennie would have hated everyone noticing. Before, Felix would have avoided admitting anything. Now? They just laughed. Because maybe… They didn’t need to explain it. Maybe everyone already knew. ⸻ And the worst part? Han definitely knew. Which meant… They were never going to hear the end of it.
Chapter 17 – The Festival Countdown The school festival was only three days away. And somehow… Everything was becoming more chaotic. ⸻ The biggest problem? Everyone had discovered Jennie’s new blonde hair. And they were not letting it go. ⸻ Jennie walked through the school hallway. Her blonde hair fell in soft waves around her face, looking completely different from her old black hair. She wore a black leather jacket over a graphic shirt, baggy cargo pants, black boots, and her silver headphones around her neck. She was still Jennie. Still confident. Still impossible to embarrass. At least… That was what she thought. ⸻ “BLONDE JENNIE!” Han shouted from across the hallway. Everyone turned. Jennie stopped walking. Slowly… She looked at him. “Do you want to survive today?” Han froze. His messy brown hair stuck up, and he wore his oversized green hoodie, black jeans, and white sneakers. “I was just appreciating the new look.” “You were yelling.” “Appreciating loudly.” ⸻ Lisa laughed. Her ash-blonde hair with bangs framed her face, and she wore her black bomber jacket, cargo pants, and colorful sneakers. “I think Han likes the new hair more than you do.” Han nodded. “It’s iconic.” Jennie rolled her eyes. “You all are dramatic.” ⸻ Rosé smiled. Her lavender hair fell over her oversized cardigan. She wore ripped jeans and white boots. “You’re secretly happy everyone likes it.” “No.” “Yes.” “No.” “Your face says yes.” Jennie immediately covered her expression. Everyone laughed. ⸻ Then Felix walked in. His soft black hair was slightly messy, and he wore his black varsity jacket, white T-shirt, athletic pants, and basketball sneakers. He stopped when he saw Jennie. Not because he hadn’t seen the blonde hair before. But because every time he saw it… It surprised him. ⸻ Jennie noticed. “What?” Felix blinked. “Nothing.” “You stared.” “I did not.” “You did.” Han whispered: “He definitely did.” ⸻ Felix ignored him. “It just looks different.” Jennie crossed her arms. “Is that good or bad?” Felix thought. “Good.” A small smile appeared. “Really good.” ⸻ The hallway immediately exploded. Lisa covered her mouth. Rosé laughed. Han looked shocked. “He said it again.” ⸻ Jennie looked at Felix. “You know…” “What?” “You’re getting suspiciously nice.” Felix smiled. “Maybe you’re getting used to it.” She opened her mouth. Then closed it. Because she had no comeback. ⸻ Later that day… The festival team met in the gym. The stage lights were being tested. The music equipment was being set up. And Jennie and Felix were in charge. ⸻ Felix practiced his basketball performance. Jennie worked on the music. The two of them somehow worked perfectly together. Which annoyed them both. ⸻ Felix looked over. “You’re good at this.” Jennie glanced up. “At what?” “Making everything come together.” She shrugged. “It’s what I do.” “No.” He shook his head. “It’s more than that.” Jennie paused. Because Felix wasn’t joking. ⸻ Before she could respond… The speakers suddenly blasted music. Everyone jumped. Han covered his ears. “JENNIE!” “What?” “You almost destroyed my hearing.” “You’re welcome.” ⸻ Felix laughed. And Jennie smiled. ⸻ From across the gym… Lisa watched them. “They’re getting worse.” Rosé nodded. “Definitely.” Jisoo smiled. “But in a good way.” Hyunjin placed a hand over his heart. “The festival will reveal everything.” Han sighed. “It’s literally just a school event.” ⸻ But none of them knew… The festival wasn’t just going to be about music. Or basketball. Or performances. Because something was about to happen… That would change the way everyone saw Jennie and Felix.
Book 2 – Chapter 33: The Boys’ Panic Meeting The night before the college dance… The girls were prepared. The decorations were ready. Jennie had her DJ set planned. ⸻ But somewhere else on campus… Three boys were completely losing their minds. ⸻ The Dorm Room ⸻ Felix sat on the edge of his bed staring at his phone. His blonde hair was messy, and he wore a black hoodie, gray sweatpants, and sneakers. ⸻ Han walked in wearing a blue-and-black jacket. His black hair faded into blue at the ends. He looked at Felix. ⸻ “You’ve been staring at that phone for ten minutes.” ⸻ Felix didn’t look up. “I’m thinking.” ⸻ “You’re stressing.” ⸻ “I’m not.” ⸻ “You sighed six times.” ⸻ Felix looked up. “How do you know that?” ⸻ Han pointed. “I counted.” ⸻ A pause. ⸻ “That’s concerning.” ⸻ Han nodded. “Very.” ⸻ The door opened. ⸻ Hyunjin walked in. His red-tipped hair was styled perfectly, and he wore a black jacket with jeans. ⸻ “Why does this room feel like a disaster meeting?” ⸻ Han pointed at Felix. “He’s trying to figure out how to ask Jennie to dance.” ⸻ Hyunjin immediately sat down. ⸻ “Oh.” ⸻ Felix looked at them. “Can you both not make this worse?” ⸻ Han smiled. “We absolutely can.” ⸻ The Plan ⸻ Felix stood up. “Okay.” ⸻ Everyone listened. ⸻ “I want to ask Jennie to dance.” ⸻ Han nodded. “Good.” ⸻ “But…” Felix sighed. “She’s Jennie.” ⸻ The room went quiet. ⸻ Hyunjin nodded seriously. “Valid fear.” ⸻ Han raised his hand. “Question.” ⸻ “What?” ⸻ “What if you just ask normally?” ⸻ Felix stared. ⸻ “That’s your advice?” ⸻ “Yes.” ⸻ “That is the least dramatic advice possible.” ⸻ “Exactly.” ⸻ Hyunjin crossed his arms. “Actually, I agree.” ⸻ Felix looked surprised. ⸻ “Really?” ⸻ “No.” ⸻ Felix blinked. ⸻ “I just wanted to sound wise.” ⸻ Han laughed. ⸻ “You are so dramatic.” ⸻ “Thank you.” ⸻ “That wasn’t a compliment.” ⸻ “I accepted it anyway.” ⸻ The Confessions Begin ⸻ A few minutes later… ⸻ Han suddenly became quiet. ⸻ Felix noticed. “What?” ⸻ Han looked away. ⸻ “Nothing.” ⸻ “Han.” ⸻ A pause. ⸻ “…I might ask someone too.” ⸻ Felix raised an eyebrow. ⸻ “Who?” ⸻ Han looked embarrassed. ⸻ “Rosé.” ⸻ Silence. ⸻ Then Felix smiled. ⸻ “Wait.” ⸻ “You want to ask Rosé out?” ⸻ Han covered his face. ⸻ “Don’t make it weird.” ⸻ “You just made this whole room weird.” ⸻ Hyunjin laughed. ⸻ Han pointed. “You’re one to talk.” ⸻ Hyunjin froze. ⸻ “What?” ⸻ Han smiled. ⸻ “You have someone too.” ⸻ “No.” ⸻ “Yes.” ⸻ “No.” ⸻ “Jisoo.” ⸻ Hyunjin immediately turned red. ⸻ Felix and Han stared. ⸻ “OH.” ⸻ Hyunjin stood up dramatically. ⸻ “Fine!” ⸻ The room went silent. ⸻ “I do.” ⸻ Han gasped. ⸻ “He admitted it!” ⸻ Hyunjin pointed. “Do not make this a moment.” ⸻ Felix laughed. ⸻ “So let me understand…” ⸻ He counted on his fingers. ⸻ “Han likes Rosé.” ⸻ Han nodded. ⸻ “Hyunjin likes Jisoo.” ⸻ Hyunjin nodded. ⸻ “And I’m stressed about Jennie.” ⸻ Everyone looked at each other. ⸻ Han smiled. ⸻ “We are doomed.” ⸻ ⸻ The Practice Conversation ⸻ Han grabbed a pillow. ⸻ “Okay. Pretend I’m Jennie.” ⸻ Felix stared. ⸻ “No.” ⸻ “Do it.” ⸻ Han changed his voice. ⸻ “Hello Felix.” ⸻ Felix immediately laughed. ⸻ “That doesn’t sound like her.” ⸻ Han continued. ⸻ “Would you like to go to the dance with me?” ⸻ Felix shook his head. ⸻ “Jennie would roast me before finishing the sentence.” ⸻ Hyunjin nodded. ⸻ “Accurate.” ⸻ Han tried again. ⸻ “Felix, I have decided you are acceptable company.” ⸻ Felix froze. ⸻ “…That’s actually closer.” ⸻ Everyone laughed. ⸻ The Final Advice ⸻ Eventually, the room became quiet. ⸻ Felix looked at them. ⸻ “What if she says no?” ⸻ Han shrugged. ⸻ “Then she says no.” ⸻ Hyunjin nodded. ⸻ “But at least you tried.” ⸻ Felix smiled. ⸻ “Thanks.” ⸻ Han stood up. ⸻ “Now…” ⸻ “What?” ⸻ “We need to practice my Rosé speech.” ⸻ Felix laughed. ⸻ “No.” ⸻ Hyunjin stood. ⸻ “And my Jisoo speech.” ⸻ “No.” ⸻ Han grabbed a notebook. ⸻ “Too late.” ⸻ Felix looked at the ceiling. ⸻ “Why did I ask for advice?” ⸻ Because tomorrow was the dance. ⸻ And three boys had three missions. ⸻ Felix: Ask Jennie. Han: Ask Rosé. Hyunjin: Ask Jisoo. ⸻ The only problem? ⸻ They were all terrified.
Chapter 31 – The Night Everyone Lost Their Minds The dorm was chaos. Absolute chaos. And the reason? Jennie still couldn’t decide what to wear. ⸻ She stood in front of her closet. Her blonde hair was curled perfectly, but her outfit choices were covering half her bed. “Why is this harder than performing in front of hundreds of people?” ⸻ The door suddenly opened. Lisa walked in. Her ash-blonde hair with bangs was styled perfectly, and she wore a black jacket with a sparkly top, cargo pants, and boots. She looked around. “Wow.” “What?” “You have created a clothing disaster.” Jennie crossed her arms. “I need help.” Lisa smiled. “I knew this day would come.” ⸻ Jennie held up two outfits. “Which one?” Lisa stared seriously. “Hmm.” A pause. “Felix would like the first one.” Jennie froze. “How do you know?” Lisa shrugged. “Because Felix is a boy.” “That explains nothing.” ⸻ Lisa picked up another outfit. “Actually, wear this one.” “Why?” “Because it says mysterious DJ.” Jennie nodded. “Okay.” “Wait.” Lisa grabbed another dress. “Actually this one says powerful.” Jennie blinked. “So which one?” Lisa thought. “Both.” “Lisa.” “Okay, okay. The dress.” ⸻ After another twenty minutes… Jennie finally decided. She wore a sleek black dress with silver details, a cropped jacket, and black boots. Her blonde hair fell in soft waves around her face, and her DJ-style accessories completed the look. She looked confident. Different. ⸻ When she walked downstairs… Everyone stopped. ⸻ Han’s mouth dropped open. His messy brown hair was sticking up, and he wore a denim jacket over a hoodie with black jeans. “Okay.” “What?” “I forgot how to speak.” Jennie raised an eyebrow. “That might be the first peaceful moment you’ve ever created.” ⸻ Rosé smiled. Her lavender hair was styled softly, and she wore a pastel jacket with a black outfit. “You look amazing.” Jisoo nodded. Her red hair was tied back elegantly, and she wore a stylish black outfit with boots. “Definitely.” ⸻ Hyunjin dramatically looked up. His blond hair was perfectly styled, and he wore a black jacket with layered accessories. “The main character has arrived.” Han sighed. “Please stop.” ⸻ Then Felix walked downstairs. His black hair was styled neatly, and he wore a black button-up shirt with a jacket, dark jeans, and sneakers. He stopped. Completely stopped. ⸻ Jennie noticed. “What?” Felix blinked. “Nothing.” “Felix.” He looked away. “You just…” A pause. “You look really good.” ⸻ Everyone immediately reacted. ⸻ Han pointed. “HE FAILED.” Felix looked confused. “What?” “You tried to hide the blush.” “I wasn’t blushing.” Lisa laughed. “You absolutely were.” ⸻ Jennie smiled. “Are you okay, basketball boy?” Felix recovered. “Yeah.” “Because your face says otherwise.” Everyone laughed. ⸻ Later… The group arrived at the dance event. Music filled the room. Lights flashed. Everyone was having the best time. ⸻ Jennie stepped onto the dance floor. And Felix forgot everything else. ⸻ He had seen Jennie confident before. On stage. During roast battles. During competitions. But this was different. She was just happy. Laughing. Dancing. Not caring what anyone thought. ⸻ Felix smiled. Han noticed. “You are staring.” Felix looked away. “I am not.” “You are.” “I was just watching.” “Exactly.” ⸻ Felix looked back. And somehow… He knew. He was completely falling for her. ⸻ Meanwhile… The rest of the group became a disaster. ⸻ Jisoo was trying to teach everyone a dance move. “I am the instructor.” Han looked confused. “You don’t know the dance.” “I know the spirit of the dance.” ⸻ Hyunjin joined. “The movement represents freedom.” Han stared. “It’s literally just jumping.” ⸻ Rosé laughed so hard she had to sit down. Lisa recorded everything. “This is going to be used against all of you forever.” ⸻ Jennie walked over. “What is happening?” Han pointed. “Art.” Jennie looked at everyone. “This is the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen.” Felix smiled. “And you love it.” She paused. “…Maybe.” ⸻ At the end of the night… Everyone was exhausted. They arrived back at the dorm laughing. ⸻ Felix helped Jennie walk to her room because she was tired from dancing all night. “Careful.” “I’m fine.” “You almost walked into the wall.” “The wall moved.” Felix laughed. “The wall moved?” “Yes.” ⸻ He opened her bedroom door. “There.” Jennie looked at him. Then suddenly pointed. “You.” “What?” “You are officially my assistant.” Felix blinked. “Excuse me?” “Carry my trophy tomorrow.” “No.” “Wow.” She shook her head dramatically. “After all our friendship?” Felix laughed. “You are impossible.” ⸻ Before leaving, Felix placed her trophy safely on her desk. Then he smiled. “Goodnight, Jennie.” She looked at him. For once… No roast. No comeback. Just a smile. “Goodnight, Felix.” ⸻ He turned to leave. Then Jennie called: “Felix.” He looked back. “Yeah?” She smirked. “Your dancing was terrible.” He laughed. “There she is.” ⸻ And as he walked away smiling… Felix realized something. The girl who used to drive him crazy… Was now the person he never wanted to stop being around.
# THE NULL SOVEREIGN ## CHAPTER 1 — THE SILENT PILLAR ### SEQUENCE 01 — THE AWAKENING PLAZA **PANEL 01 — EXTREME WIDE** The **Awakening Plaza of Asterion** stretches across the page. Thousands upon thousands of people fill the marble square. White-and-gold marble reflects the morning sun. At the eastern edge rises the enormous **Royal Palace**, its towers and golden spires piercing the sky. At the center stands the **Divine Pillar**. Thirty feet of living crystal. Its interior pulses with rivers of System energy. Blue. Gold. White. Blue again. **CAPTION:** *Every sixteen-year-old in the Kingdom of Asterion undergoes the Awakening.* --- **PANEL 02 — WIDE** The crowd is divided. Nobles stand behind velvet ropes guarded by Silver-rank soldiers. Commoners occupy the rest of the plaza. Parents hold their children's shoulders. Guild representatives watch eagerly. Merchants whisper. Priests stand beneath the palace balconies. Everyone is waiting. --- **PANEL 03 — MEDIUM** Kael Veyron stands alone among the crowd. Seventeen. Thin. Plain. His borrowed clothes hang loosely from his shoulders. The sleeves are slightly too short. He pulls one down. It rolls back up. He pulls it again. **CAPTION:** *Kael Veyron had no family waiting for him.* --- **PANEL 04 — CLOSE-UP** Kael's fingers nervously pinch the sleeve. His knuckles are slightly pale. **CAPTION:** *No father.* *No mother.* *No name worth celebrating.* --- **PANEL 05 — CLOSE-UP** Kael looks toward the Divine Pillar. His expression is uneasy. The enormous crystal reflects in his eyes. **CAPTION:** *The Pillar would decide the rest of his life.* --- ### SEQUENCE 02 — PELL **PANEL 06 — MEDIUM** A stocky red-haired boy stands beside Kael. Pell Harten. His best clothes are visibly just clean work clothes. His belt buckle is rattling from how badly he's shaking. **PELL:** "Stop fidgeting." --- **PANEL 07 — TWO-SHOT** Kael looks sideways at him. **KAEL:** "I'm not fidgeting." **PELL:** "You're pulling your sleeves." --- **PANEL 08 — CLOSE-UP** Kael looks down at his hand. He releases the sleeve. Then notices Pell trembling. **KAEL:** "You're shaking." --- **PANEL 09 — CLOSE-UP — PELL** Pell's face is completely serious. **PELL:** "That's different." Beat. **PELL:** "That's medical." --- **PANEL 10 — SMALL** Kael almost smiles. For the first time, the oppressive atmosphere around him breaks. --- **PANEL 11 — TWO-SHOT** **PELL:** "What do you think you'll get?" **KAEL:** "Iron." Beat. **KAEL:** "Maybe Bronze if I'm lucky." --- **PANEL 12 — CLOSE-UP — PELL** Pell looks horrified. **PELL:** "I just don't want Farmer." --- **PANEL 13** Kael looks at him completely deadpan. **KAEL:** "You could pull turnips very well." --- **PANEL 14 — PELL** **PELL:** "Shut up." --- ### SEQUENCE 03 — THE NOBLES **PANEL 15 — WIDE** The noble section. Velvet rope. Two Silver-rank guards. Silk. Jewelry. Perfect posture. The children stand like they've rehearsed this moment their entire lives. --- **PANEL 16 — CLOSE-UP** A noble boy's polished boots. Another's jeweled bracelet. A third's expensive System-enhancement necklace. --- **PANEL 17 — MEDIUM** Kael watches them from the commoner section. **CAPTION:** *They had been preparing for this day since birth.* --- **PANEL 18 — MEDIUM** Elara Wenthis. Tall. Blonde. Immaculate. She stands at the front of the noble section. Her posture is perfect. Her expression calm. --- **PANEL 19 — CLOSE-UP — ELARA** Her eyes remain fixed on the Pillar. Completely confident. --- **PANEL 20 — KAEL** Kael looks at her. No envy. No hatred. Just distance. **CAPTION:** *They lived in different worlds.* **CAPTION:** *The Pillar was about to make that difference official.* --- ### SEQUENCE 04 — THE PRIESTESS **PANEL 21 — FULL-WIDTH** A bell rings. **SFX:** **KOOOOONG** The entire plaza falls silent. --- **PANEL 22 — UPWARD ANGLE** The balcony of the Royal Palace. High Priestess Seraphina steps forward. White hair cascades over her shoulders. She appears no older than thirty-five. Her eyes are milky white. Blind. Perhaps. --- **PANEL 23 — CLOSE-UP** Seraphina's pale eyes. Despite being blind, they seem to look directly through the entire crowd. --- **PANEL 24 — WIDE** Her Saint-rank aura spreads across the plaza. No visible attack. No violence. Just overwhelming presence. The crowd instinctively straightens. --- **CAPTION:** *The Church was present.* *The System was watching.* --- **PANEL 25 — CLOSE-UP** Seraphina raises one hand. --- **PANEL 26 — SPLASH PANEL** The Divine Pillar suddenly erupts with light. **SFX:** **WHOOOOOM** System energy races through its crystal interior. --- ### SEQUENCE 05 — THE SYSTEM **PANEL 27 — FULL-PAGE SYSTEM OVERLAY** A translucent System notification appears before everyone. **SYSTEM NOTICE** > **DIVINE SYSTEM NOTICE** > > **THE AWAKENING CEREMONY** > > **YEAR 4247** > > *All eligible candidates shall approach the Divine Pillar in designated order.* > > *The System will assign Rank, Class, and Purpose.* --- **PANEL 28 — WIDE** The notification disappears. The crowd begins to move. --- **PANEL 29 — MEDIUM** A noble boy approaches. Confident. --- **PANEL 30 — CLOSE-UP** His hand touches the Pillar. **SFX:** **WHUM** Golden light surrounds him. --- **PANEL 31 — SYSTEM PANEL** > **CANDIDATE: ALDIS MERROW** > > **RANK: SILVER** > > **CLASS: KNIGHT** > > **AUTHORITY: STANDARD** --- **PANEL 32 — CROWD** Polite applause. His family smiles. --- ### SEQUENCE 06 — THE AWAKENINGS **MONTAGE** **PANEL 33** > **IRON — FARMER** A boy looks disappointed. --- **PANEL 34** > **BRONZE — MERCHANT** A girl bursts into tears. Her family embraces her. --- **PANEL 35** > **IRON — LABORER** Silence. --- **PANEL 36** A Silver awakening. The crowd cheers. --- **PANEL 37 — KAEL** Kael watches. The morning sun has climbed higher. Sweat gathers beneath his borrowed clothes. His hand returns to his sleeve. --- **CAPTION:** *Iron.* *Bronze.* *Silver.* *Everyone received something.* --- ### SEQUENCE 07 — PELL HARTEN **PANEL 38 — SYSTEM** > **PELL HARTEN** --- **PANEL 39 — CLOSE-UP — PELL** His face goes white. **PELL:** "...No." --- **PANEL 40** He walks toward the Pillar. His legs visibly shake. --- **PANEL 41 — CLOSE-UP** Pell places his hand against the crystal. --- **PANEL 42** A faint iron-grey glow. --- **PANEL 43 — SYSTEM** > **CANDIDATE: PELL HARTEN** > > **RANK: IRON** > > **CLASS: MERCHANT** > > **AUTHORITY: STANDARD** --- **PANEL 44 — CLOSE-UP** Pell stares. Then his eyes fill with tears. --- **PANEL 45** His father screams from the crowd. **PELL'S FATHER:** "MERCHANT!" --- **PANEL 46** Pell laughs through his tears. He turns toward Kael. Raises both thumbs. --- **PANEL 47 — KAEL** Kael smiles. A tiny nod. --- ### SEQUENCE 08 — ELARA **PANEL 48 — WIDE** The System calls the next name. **SYSTEM:** > **ELARA WENTHIS** --- **PANEL 49 — FULL-BODY** Elara walks toward the Pillar. Her movements are controlled. Elegant. Almost ceremonial. --- **PANEL 50 — CLOSE-UP** Her hand touches the crystal. --- **PANEL 51 — SPLASH** The Pillar erupts in brilliant silver-blue light. **SFX:** **VRAAAAAAM** --- **PANEL 52 — SYSTEM** > **CANDIDATE: ELARA WENTHIS** > > **RANK: SILVER** > > **CLASS: BATTLE MAGE** > > **AUTHORITY: STANDARD** --- **PANEL 53 — NOBLE SECTION** Her family nods. Satisfied. Not surprised. --- **PANEL 54 — KAEL** Kael watches. His expression changes. A cold realization settles over him. **CAPTION:** *The Pillar had decided Elara's path before she was born.* --- **PANEL 55** Kael looks toward Pell. Then toward the nobles. **CAPTION:** *The System was supposed to be fair.* --- **PANEL 56 — CLOSE-UP** Kael's eyes. **CAPTION:** *Everyone said it was.* --- ### SEQUENCE 09 — KAEL VEYRON **PANEL 57 — FULL-WIDTH** The plaza has grown hotter. The crowd has thinned slightly. The list is almost finished. --- **PANEL 58 — SYSTEM** > **KAEL VEYRON** --- **PANEL 59 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP** Kael's pupil contracts. --- **PANEL 60** His breathing becomes visible. **SFX:** **THUMP** --- **PANEL 61** His fingers curl. **SFX:** **THUMP** --- **PANEL 62** He steps forward. --- **PANEL 63 — LONG SHOT** Kael walks alone toward the marble stairs. The enormous Pillar waits above him. The crowd surrounds him. But visually, Kael appears completely isolated. --- **CAPTION:** *One step.* --- **PANEL 64** His foot touches the first marble stair. **CAPTION:** *Two.* --- **PANEL 65** His hand trembles. He forces it still. --- **PANEL 66 — EXTREME WIDE** Kael reaches the top. The Divine Pillar towers above him. --- ### SEQUENCE 10 — THE TOUCH **PANEL 67 — POV** Kael looks at the crystal. System energy moves inside it like blood through veins. --- **PANEL 68 — CLOSE-UP** His fingertips approach the surface. One centimeter. --- **PANEL 69** Touch. --- **PANEL 70 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP** Kael's eyes widen. The System enters him. **SFX:** **MMMMMMMM** --- **PANEL 71 — ABSTRACT** System energy races through his body. His veins appear illuminated. A lattice of information surrounds his consciousness. **CAPTION:** *Sorting.* *Measuring.* *Evaluating.* --- **PANEL 72 — BLACK TRANSITION** The hum stops. --- **PANEL 73 — FULL-WIDTH** The Divine Pillar goes completely black. Not dark blue. Not dim. **BLACK.** The sunlight around it appears swallowed. --- **PANEL 74 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP** Kael's hand remains against the black crystal. His eyes reflect nothing. --- **PANEL 75 — WIDE** The entire plaza freezes. No one moves. --- **PANEL 76** A child in the crowd stares. His mother instinctively pulls him closer. --- **PANEL 77** A priest slowly rises. --- **PANEL 78** Seraphina's expression changes for the first time. Her eyes widen. --- **PANEL 79 — KAEL** Nothing. No System warmth. No hum. No response. --- **PANEL 80 — SILENT PANEL** Five seconds. --- **PANEL 81** Ten. --- ### SEQUENCE 11 — NULL **PANEL 82 — FULL-PAGE SYSTEM** A System notification appears. But unlike the previous notifications— **there is no color.** No gold. No silver. No blue. Only black text inside a stark white frame. > **CANDIDATE: KAEL** > > **FAMILY: VEYRON** > > **AGE: 17** > > **RANK: NULL** > > **CLASS: NULL** > > **AUTHORITY: RESTRICTED** > > **STATUS: SEALED** --- **PANEL 83 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP** Kael's face. He reads it. Again. And again. --- **PANEL 84 — SINGLE WORD** > **NULL** --- **PANEL 85 — SILENCE** No dialogue. --- **PANEL 86 — CROWD** A parent takes a step backward. --- **PANEL 87** Another pulls their child behind them. --- **PANEL 88** Nobles whisper behind gloved hands. --- **PANEL 89** Priests lean toward each other. Their faces are no longer calm. They are afraid. --- **PANEL 90 — CLOSE-UP** Someone in the crowd screams: **VOICE:** "DEFECTIVE!" --- **PANEL 91 — CHAOS** The word spreads. **VOICES:** "Defective!" "Anomaly!" "Broken!" "NULL!" --- **PANEL 92 — KAEL** Kael stands completely motionless. The noise becomes visually distorted around him. --- **CAPTION:** *Not Iron.* *Not Bronze.* *Not Silver.* *Nothing.* --- ### SEQUENCE 12 — THE MESSAGE **PANEL 93 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP** Kael's hand against the black Pillar. Something appears beneath his palm. Ancient symbols. --- **PANEL 94 — POV** Ancient writing burns across the black crystal. No System interface. No notification. Something older. --- **PANEL 95 — CLOSE-UP — KAEL** His expression changes. Confusion. Recognition. --- **PANEL 96 — BLACK BACKGROUND** The ancient words appear. > **RETURN TO THE FORGE, FIRST SOVEREIGN.** --- **PANEL 97** Kael stares. --- **PANEL 98** The inscription disappears. --- **PANEL 99 — KAEL** **KAEL:** "...What?" --- ### SEQUENCE 13 — CAPTURE **PANEL 100** Two priests seize Kael by the arms. --- **PANEL 101 — CLOSE-UP** Their faces. Not disgust. Not anger. Fear disguised as professional composure. --- **PRIEST:** "Come with us." --- **PANEL 102** Kael looks toward the crowd. --- **PANEL 103 — PELL** Pell stands frozen. His Merchant classification forgotten. His face has gone pale. --- **PANEL 104 — KAEL** Kael looks at him. --- **PANEL 105 — PELL** Pell looks back. Neither says anything. --- **PANEL 106 — WIDE** The priests drag Kael down the marble stairs. The black Pillar remains behind him. Still dead. Still black. --- ### SEQUENCE 14 — BENEATH THE PALACE **PANEL 107 — VERTICAL** Stone stairs descend. Kael is led deeper beneath the Royal Palace. The bright plaza disappears above. --- **PANEL 108** White marble becomes grey stone. --- **PANEL 109** Grey stone becomes ancient masonry. --- **PANEL 110** The light disappears. --- **PANEL 111 — WIDE** A small stone room. One bench. One candle. One iron door. No windows. --- **PANEL 112** Kael is pushed inside. --- **PANEL 113** The iron door closes. **SFX:** **CLANG** --- **PANEL 114 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP** The lock turns. **SFX:** **CLICK** --- **PANEL 115 — LARGE SILENT PANEL** Kael sits alone on the bench. Head lowered. The candle flickers. --- ### SEQUENCE 15 — NOBODY **PANEL 116** Kael closes his eyes. --- **PANEL 117** He attempts to summon his System interface. Nothing. --- **PANEL 118** Again. Nothing. --- **PANEL 119 — ABSTRACT** Where there should be a System interface— there is only black. --- **CAPTION:** *No rank.* *No class.* *No stats.* *No skills.* *No credits.* *No connection.* --- **PANEL 120 — KAEL** His eyes open. --- **CAPTION:** *He was invisible to the System.* --- **PANEL 121 — LARGE PANEL** Kael sits alone in the candlelit room. **CAPTION:** *He was Nobody.* --- ### SEQUENCE 16 — THE GLOBAL NOTICE **PANEL 122** The door opens. A young priest enters. He is visibly trembling. --- **PANEL 123** The priest holds a glowing System tablet. --- **PRIEST:** "The System has issued a notice." --- **PANEL 124** Kael looks up. --- **PRIEST:** "A global notice." --- **PANEL 125** The priest turns the tablet around. --- **PANEL 126 — FULL-PAGE SYSTEM PANEL** > ⚠ **SYSTEM ALERT** ⚠ > > **ILLEGAL EXISTENCE DETECTED** > > **SUBJECT:** KAEL VEYRON > > **CLASSIFICATION:** NULL > > **STATUS:** ANOMALY > > **EXECUTION AUTHORIZED** > > **ALL CITIZENS ARE ORDERED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS** > > **REWARD FOR CAPTURE:** > > **500,000 SYSTEM CREDITS** > > **+ RANK PROMOTION** --- **PANEL 127 — EXTREME CLOSE-UP** Kael's eye. The reflection of the words **EXECUTION AUTHORIZED** burns across his pupil. --- **PANEL 128** The priest backs toward the door. --- **PRIEST:** "I'm sorry." --- **PANEL 129** His hand grips the door. **PRIEST:** "I'm so sorry." --- **PANEL 130** He looks at Kael. Terror. **PRIEST:** "They are coming." --- **PANEL 131** The door closes. --- **PANEL 132 — BLACK** Silence. --- **PANEL 133 — FINAL PANEL** Above Kael, muffled through layers of stone— **SFX:** **BOOM** Then— **SCREAMING.** Then— **CLANG.** Then another explosion. Kael slowly raises his head. --- **CAPTION:** *They were already here.* # END OF CHAPTER 1
Chapter 11 – The Night Felix Saw The Real Jennie It was finally night. The city lights were glowing, the streets were busy, and for once… Jennie wasn’t in the dorm arguing with Felix. She was with Mina. ⸻ Jennie walked into the lounge and found Mina waiting. Her long black hair with soft curtain bangs framed her face. She wore a black jacket over a fitted top, baggy cargo pants, and her favorite sneakers. Her silver headphones rested around her neck. Mina smiled. “You actually came.” Jennie sat down. “Don’t sound so surprised.” “I am surprised.” “Rude.” “Accurate.” Jennie rolled her eyes. ⸻ The night started normally. They talked. They laughed. They caught up. Mina ordered two giant colorful mocktails. Jennie stared at hers. “Why is it so big?” Mina shrugged. “You need something fun.” “I have fun.” Mina looked at her. “You argued with Felix for twenty minutes yesterday about a pillow.” Jennie paused. “That pillow was important.” Mina laughed. ⸻ As the night went on… Jennie became less and less like the Jennie everyone knew. The serious DJ. The queen of roasting. The girl who always had the perfect comeback. Gone. ⸻ Mina stared as Jennie laughed at the menu. “Why are you laughing?” Jennie pointed. “Look.” “It’s a menu.” “No.” She held it closer. “The salad has a personality.” Mina blinked. “…What?” “It looks judgmental.” Mina covered her face. “Oh no.” ⸻ Five minutes later… Jennie was trying to convince Mina that a tiny decoration on the table was “the world’s smallest DJ.” Mina looked at it. “It’s a candle.” Jennie nodded seriously. “Exactly.” “How is that a DJ?” “It has a stand.” Mina burst out laughing. ⸻ Then suddenly… Jennie got quiet. Mina noticed. The goofy smile disappeared. “You okay?” Jennie looked down. “Yeah.” But Mina knew her too well. “Jennie.” A pause. “I just…” Jennie looked at her drink. “Everyone thinks I’m cold.” Mina softened. “Because you pretend you are.” Jennie didn’t answer. ⸻ Mina sighed. “Okay.” She pulled out her phone. “I’m calling someone.” Jennie immediately looked up. “No.” Mina smiled. “Yes.” “No Felix.” Mina raised an eyebrow. “You said Felix before I did.” Jennie froze. “That doesn’t count.” “It definitely counts.” ⸻ Mina searched her contacts. Felix. Call. ⸻ Back at the dorm… Felix was sitting on the couch. His soft black hair was messy, and he wore a black hoodie, gray sweatpants, and white sneakers. Han was beside him eating snacks. His soft brown hair was sticking up, and he wore an oversized hoodie with black jeans. Felix’s phone rang. He looked down. “Mina?” He answered. “Hey.” Mina immediately said: “Felix, emergency.” Felix sat up. “What happened?” “Your roommate has been replaced.” Felix blinked. “What?” “The Jennie I know has disappeared.” Han leaned closer. “What is happening?” Mina continued. “She laughed at a menu.” Felix paused. “…A menu?” “Yes.” A pause. “She also complimented a candle.” Han covered his mouth. “That sounds impossible.” “It happened.” ⸻ Twenty minutes later… Felix arrived. He found Jennie sitting with Mina. The second she saw him… Her eyes widened. “Felix!” He stopped. “Hi?” “You came.” Mina smiled. “I told you he would.” Jennie looked at Felix. “You actually came.” Felix nodded. “Of course.” She stared at him. “Why?” Felix looked confused. “Because you’re my roommate.” Jennie looked away. “That is a very boring answer.” Felix smiled. “You wanted a different one?” She immediately shook her head. “No.” A pause. “…Maybe.” ⸻ On the way back… Jennie was completely different. She walked slowly beside Felix. Then suddenly stopped. “Felix.” “Yeah?” “You know your hair is nice?” Felix froze. “What?” “Don’t make it weird.” “I’m not.” “You look surprised.” “Because you never compliment me.” Jennie nodded. “True.” “Then why now?” She thought. “Because I’m honest today.” Felix smiled. “Interesting.” ⸻ A few steps later… Jennie looked at the ground. Her smile faded. “Do you actually think I’m mean?” Felix stopped walking. “What?” “Everyone thinks I’m cold.” Her voice became quieter. “I joke because it’s easier.” Felix looked at her. For once… He didn’t tease her. “You know…” “What?” “I don’t think you’re cold.” Jennie looked up. “You don’t?” “No.” “Then what do you think?” Felix smiled slightly. “I think you’re someone who cares too much and doesn’t want people to know.” ⸻ Jennie went quiet. Then her eyes watered. “I hate that you’re right.” Felix looked surprised. “Jennie…” She wiped her face quickly. “I’m not crying.” “I didn’t say you were.” “Good.” A pause. “…Because I’m definitely not.” Felix smiled. “Right.” ⸻ When they reached the dorm… Everyone was waiting. Lisa immediately looked shocked. “Wait.” “Is Jennie emotional?” Rosé smiled softly. “She’s just having a moment.” Jisoo nodded. “Let her.” Hyunjin dramatically whispered: “The walls have fallen.” Han nodded. “The roast queen has been defeated.” Jennie looked up. “I heard that.” Han immediately stood straight. “She’s back.” Everyone laughed. ⸻ Before going into her room, Jennie stopped. She looked at Felix. “Thanks.” Felix smiled. “Anytime.” Jennie nodded. Then quietly added: “But don’t tell anyone I was nice.” Felix grinned. “Your secret is safe.” And for the first time… Jennie wasn’t annoyed that Felix saw the real her. She was glad he did.