At eleven, Nain was already the kind of girl people whispered about.
Not because she tried.
But because she didn't.
Her dark braid swung behind her like a sword, her sharp tongue matched only by her sharper eyes. And while girls her age played games or braided daisy chains, Nain watched the skies. Always waiting for something greater.
Naturally… she attracted flies.
Boy (8, plucking his nose): "Hi! How about this flower? It looks beautifu—"
Nain (dryly): "Aunt Gu! He's flirting again!"
The boy gasped and ran off with a yelp, face red, flower forgotten.
Nain sighed, brushing her hair back.
Nain: "Sigh. Again."
Just then, another boy stepped into view—Bun, the son of the village chief. He was the same age as Tae, but tall for his age, with the confidence of a prince and eyes that flickered red—a mystery, since he was only a beta. That rare color earned him constant attention from swooning girls. But his eyes were always… on Nain.
Bun: "I know it's hard for you."
"How about you become my mate early? Skip the ritual. No suspense."
Nain (without even looking): "I don't have time to waste."
Bun (grinning): "Then I'll wait. You'll see."
Before she could reply, a familiar voice rang out:
Taehyung (running over): "Oh! I found you!"
"Look! Am I looking handsome today?"
He stood proudly, his messy black hair bouncing as he twirled once.
Nain squinted at him.
Nain: "Tae… these are the same clothes you wore last year."
Tae (pouting): "I like them!"
"And I like you."
Nain (laughing): "You're like a little brother. And you only reach up to my shoulder, little dragon."
Tae's smile faltered for a heartbeat—but he masked it with a huff.
Tae (muttering): "I'm going to grow tall… and you'll see."
Off to the side, Bun folded his arms and narrowed his red eyes at Taehyung. The wind between them grew tense—like a storm waiting to hatch.
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🧠 World Note:
Bun is a Beta, but his red eyes hint at something more—or something hidden.
Most females try to get his attention. He wants Nain. She? Wants freedom.
Tae is still mistaken as a Gamma or weak Beta... but something sleeps inside him.