Checkmate, Bitch

INACTIVE

[maneoxhyun-ae]

maneoseojin​:

maneoxhyun-ae​:

Heart to Heart

[…]

“Do you think Amaranthine could rise again after this?” the fallen angel blurted out the question he’s had on his mind for a few days now. “Would it be stupid if I offered help before it was even mentioned or asked? I just–I want to help as much as I can, you know. ”

Hyun-Ae focused on the hands cradling her own. It was easier than digesting the words the angel was trying to impress upon her. Part of the Gumiho wanted to huff a derisive laugh. How could it not be partly her fault? She was given one job when she entered Amaranthine—protect the family. Clearly, she was doing a poor job.

Still, Hyun-Ae looked up at Seojin and smiled softly. This time she did laugh, albeit quietly—Seojin was the last person she had ever expected comfort from when she first met him. Now, here he was telling her that she what she so badly wanted to believe. Hyun-Ae was grateful to have a friend like him and she hoped she could be the same for him.

Seojin offered her a smile and laugh, rifling through her box of mystery snacks to pull out a couple of sweets, passing one to her. The grin she offered him this time was genuine and bright. She was glad he decided to stay. They could both use the company.

“Listen, you rotten angel,” she joked, “the Big Guy Upstairs only did so much to help your looks. You gotta put in the rest of the work. What’ll Hana say if you start looking like a frail twig, huh?”

She took a bite of the sweet pastry and a satisfied hum travelled through her. Here she was chastising the doctor to take of himself, but she, herself, had forgotten to eat something while powering through the paperwork. Not that she’d admit as much.

The Gumiho took slow, controlled bites, letting the sound of their munching fill the silence. She could tell Seojin wanted to say something. She just needed to let him get there on his own. It was good she hadn’t pushed from the start because now he let the words bubble out of him, liked they’d been ready to flood out at the slightest provocation.

“Do you think Amaranthine could rise again after this? Would it be stupid if I offered help before it was even mentioned or asked? I just-I want to help out as much as I can, you know?”

Hyun-Ae mulled over Seojin’s questions. She’d been prepared for the angel to talk about something heavy, she just didn’t expect the concerns to be so focused on the family. Seojin was never one to put all his thoughts and concerns on the members. It was usually about himself.

Seojin had changed quite a lot from the angel she’d known for so long. But that wasn’t a bad thing. Just…sad that it’s grown from painful events. When had Seojin changed? He used to be such a pain in the ass. He was acting more and more like the big brother and capable member of the gang she’d grown to see him as. Part of her wished the angel would show that spark of mischief she’s learned to laugh and roll her eyes at, but right now, there wasn’t room to laugh—not with everything that’s happened.

“I think,” Hyun-Ae said slowly, “that we’re strong. Amaranthine might not be large, but we’re close. We look out for each other. That’s the type of foundation you need to rebuild again.” She paused. It felt like she was telling herself just as much as she was telling the angel her thoughts and beliefs. “So, to answer your first question—yes, I definitely believe Amaranthine will rise again. And no matter how many times we get hit, we’ll get back up.”

She looked Seojin in the eyes now. “As for the second question—Seojin, you never have to worry about offering help to others.” She tried to convey her earnestness, but she wasn’t sure if that would be enough to convince him. She fiddled with the choco wrapper.

“You do everything you can Seojin. I’ve seen how hard you work. I’ve noticed how you barely rest so that you can make sure Somin, Siwon, and Hana make a full recovery. Not just me, but everyone.” This time, Hyun-Ae reached out and covered the angel’s hand with her own. “You’re doing so much. I know you think you’re not, but you are. The members in the hospital wouldn’t be doing as great as they are if it weren’t for you. So, please, give yourself a bit—no, a lot more credit. Even now, you’re helping me just by being here. You’ve always been great like that. You help without thinking and everyone is grateful for it.”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

sominmaneo​:

there’s a rustle from the doorway and somin spots the flowers in the girls hand. she laughs softly even though she appreciates the sentiment. “you didn’t have to bring me anything,” she chides gently, a soft smile on her face, “i would have been fine if you just brought yourself. i thought you might have come yesterday. i was a little disappointed when visiting hours ended and i hadn’t seen you.” it’s a half joke. she had thought about hyun-ae because she knows how hard she can be on herself sometimes. somin knew that she hadn’t been at the guilded siren when the fire happened, but the witch had still been worried. after being in-tune with her plants for so long, she’s gotten much better at reading others’ energy as well. seeing hyun-ae now, she can tell she’s having as much of a hard time handling the guilt as much as somin is herself.

Hyun-Ae smiled brightly upon seeing her mentor awake in bed. She couldn’t begin to describe the relief of seeing the woman after so long avoiding her, fearful of Somin seeing past her happy front to the ball of anxiety and guilt underneath. That all faded to background noise, though, as she sat down in the chair next to the hospital bed. Hyun-Ae placed the flowers on a nearby table; she’d ask for a vase from the staff later.

Turning to Somin, she brightly said, “I could, but I figured you’d be sick of seeing nothing but plain white walls and the smell of antiseptic.” The Gumiho shrugged. “Picked these pretties up from Sangki’s shop so you know they’re happy and healthy and bright!”

The young woman paused, letting the joyful moment settle in the air before reaching for the words that she’d been rehearsing since the night before last. Really, she’d been running through it for a while before that even. It was just hard now, looking at Somin, trying to find the best way to say it. Finally, Hyun-Ae felt her lips move even as the words in her mind stumbled over one another.

“I’m sorry,” she blurted out. Good. That’s a start. “I mean—I guess—well, I know I wasn’t there when everything happened. And I know I shouldn’t blame myself. But still—,” something lodged in the Gumiho’s throat. “I just—I just feel so bad for not being there to protect any of you. And now you’re here. And I’m sorry I didn't visit. I was scared.” Scared she would see the Somin’s face and what she knew would be there, like it always was—since the day she was taken in by the dark witch.

Understanding. Patience. Forgiveness.

Hyun-Ae didn’t know if she could look at the face without crying—and she hated crying.

“Anyway,” she quickly pushed forward, shoving her feelings back down into the box she kept them in, “I’m just so glad you’re okay now. I’ll visit often. But don’t worry,” she hastily added, “I won’t shirk my duties. I just…want to make sure I spend time with you, Unni…I’ve missed you while you’ve been stuck here.”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

Nature’s Cure

@sangkimaneo​

[ ... ]

“It’s been,” he started and paused to think. “Busy with everything that’s happened. I’ll be happy to not make anymore burial wreaths for awhile. How have you been? Have you visited anyone at the hospital lately?” 

Hyun-Ae startled a little. Right, Sangki doesn’t just sell flowers to brighten people’s days. There are times like these where flowers can signify loss. She could feel the smile on her face start to curl down in a from—but no! Sangki doesn’t need more depressing feelings crowding his shop.

“Yeah, it’s been…hectic. And I’ve been good—busy. Nothing I can’t handle, though,” she shrugged with a noncommittal grin. She hadn’t gotten much sleep with trying to keep up with the workload and she could feel the toll it was taking on her. Her body felt like it was weighed down by lead. She could only imagine how Sangki was feeling; he looked kinda worn. Everyone did. She hoped he was taking care of himself.

“I was actually planning on visiting soon. I tried when everyone first got admitted, but the doctors told me they needed rest. Now seems like a good time since they’ve started waking up. Actually, I came here to grab some flowers for Somin! And maybe another plant for my apartment. Got any recommendations for plants that go well with hydrangeas?”

A sudden reminder flitted through her mind. “Oh, that reminds me—here,” she pull a small bag of cookies from her bag. “I made these in case you were hungry. Seems like everyone’s been forgetting to eat. Don’t blame ‘em, though. Hopefully you like ‘em. If not, I’ll bring a different flavor tomorrow.”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

X is for the Target on Your Back

@masonmaneo​

[...]

“now, angel face, please don’t tell me you’re here to kill me just because we split up. that’s a weak reason, even for you. i’d think you were above murdering someone out of resentment.”

Hyun-Ae, trying very hard not to show how the landing had left her a bit dazed, got to her feet. Her tail twitched in irritation. Mason had always been trigger-happy, and tonight was no different. But god, could he never go five minutes without waving his gun around like a flag? Personal experience told her he had nothing to compensate for, but she’d long stopped trying to understand the man. Afterall, he had never bothered to understand her.

“Mason, Babe, Sweetheart, Bane of My Existence,” she said cordially, a hint of exasperation lacing her words, “If you had paid attention at all while we were together, you would know I don’t mix business with pleasure.”

While she talked, she took in her surroundings—she had already taken note of the exits before taking the bait Mason set for her. She had no intention of fighting him here in this enclosed space. She had only wanted to get a feel for his fighting skills. He didn’t disappoint, that’s for sure. Mason, she knew, had a frame that she compared to a Michelangelo sculpture. Part of her felt a nostalgia for the skin walker, but she quickly brushed it aside because Mason had made it clear where they stood and right now, he was her enemy.

“I’m no liar,” she continued, keeping her eyes trained on the gun, but making sure her body language indicated no harm. “I wasn’t here to kill you—not yet anyway.” A shrug. “More like a test. I know I have a bit more training to do before I can kill you. We both know you can shoot me dead before I could land another hit. I know my limits.

“So,” Hyun-Ae continued, a carefree smile on her lips, “what else do you wanna know?”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

Heart to Heart

@maneoseojin

The days following the attack on the Gilded Siren were long and arduous. Seojin wondered when it would all come to an end. Every single time he passed by the room of the suspect, he couldn’t help feeling an intense rage for the frail woman lying on the bed. It took all of his strength to not defy Jaehwa’s orders and just end the life of the suspect. It would be easy for him since he is a doctor and he owned the hospital.

An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.

With a sigh, Seojin ran his fingers through his tousled hair. It had been a few days since he stepped foot inside the Amaranthine headquarters. The familiar interiors now looked so bleak without Hana, Somin, and Siwon in it. From where he stood, the angel caught a glimpse of the mural he and Siwon painted. The colors gave him a bit of hope that soon, Amaranthine will rise greater than before. After all, that was what he came here so late at night for. He needed to have a quick chat with their dearest bookkeeper.

“Sohee?” Seojin poked his head inside and found the room empty. The blaring numbers on the wall told him he was stupid for coming over at such an hour. Of course Sohee wouldn’t be there. A sigh fell on his lips as he closed the door. He was about to give up hope when he saw light peeking from the spaces of the door. At least someone was still here. Unconsciously, his feet took him towards the room and pushed the door open.

The angel’s brown eyes fell upon Hyun-Ae who was currently surrounded by papers. A tired smile made its way to his face as he peered at the files she was reading. “My cuts? They’re fine. It was just minor.” Seojin replied, sitting down across the gumiho and setting the folder he brought with him on the table. “Hana, Somin, and Siwon are still unconscious but they are healing day by day. It shouldn’t take them long.”

At Hyun-Ae’s last question, Seojin didn’t know how to answer. How was he doing? He doesn’t really know and for the first time in a while, the angel didn’t care about himself. His focus is not on him but on Hana, Somin, and Siwon. He looked up at his fellow assassin and mustered the brightest smile he could. “I’m good,” he brushed off the question and hoped that he could change the subject.

“What are you doing here by the way? It’s late already. What are you reading on huh?”

Hyun-Ae stared hard at Seojin. It hadn’t been the first time he’d brushed off her concerns, nor would it be the last, but that didn’t mean she had to like it. She could see the fatigue laced in his posture and sounding through his words, though, so she decided not to push. She’d just have to find another way to coax him into caring for himself.

Shrugging, Hyun-Ae instead turned back to the paperwork the angel had his eyes on. She took note of the folder he had dumped on the table. Seems like she wasn’t the only one looking to distract themselves from the chaos.

“I’m looking through the reports from the attack,” she replied softly. The gumiho was reading every line once over, twice, three—until her eyes had started crossing from looking for the hole in defense. She couldn’t help but feel responsibility on her shoulders for the attack.

“I have to learn from this. I…I wasn’t there to help everyone. I failed. I need to make sure I’m prepared for the next danger—because there’s always going to be another danger, Seojin.” Hyun-Ae could hear the slight shake in her voice—she paused, take two steady breaths before continuing. She needed to be calm for the anxious angel, not a sniveling, irresponsible mess.

She looked up at Seojin and smiled, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “I’ll do better for all of you. I promise. I won’t fail any of you again. I’ll protect you.”

Before Seojin could get a word in, Hyun-Ae swiftly reached into her bag sitting in the chair next to hers. She pulled out a bin of snacks she carried around for these types of situations and pushed it firmly into Seojin’s hands.

“You can hang out with me if want, but I want you to eat something,” She paused. “Scratch that—I want you to eat these whether you stay or go. You’re too thin and you need to be healthy to do your job.”

Her voice left no room for argument and her eyes narrowed, daring him to try and hand the bin back.

[karlcat]

it is a Scientifically Proven Fact that once a group of people become friends, the tendency to make really foolish decisions skyrockets…. and from this chaos…. the Mom Friend™ rises, ready to keep everyone alive, armed with exasperation and common sense in spades

[kannikaxmaneo]

𝘫𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘥

( @maneoxhyun-ae​ )

Kannika was slumped in the corner of the holding cell, staring aimlessly at the sterile white painted brick wall. She deserved it, really. She’d been dumb and impulsive and everything that her Amaranthine family was constantly on her ass about. But fuck if she could just let that guy talk shit without elbowing him right in the face! But nooo, apparently hitting a man because he called you a bitch for rejecting him was minor assault. If the damn off duty cop hadn’t been right there, she might have gotten away with it too—

“Kannika Baramuk? Your friend is here to pick you up.”

The dark witch’s eyes met the officer’s then, as he turned the key to open the door. Freedom. Wordlessly she complied, following him through the twisted halls and out to the police department’s lobby, where she found a familiar face awaiting her in disappointment. Goddamn it. A sheepish smile spread across her lips as she approached Hyun-ae. “Please don’t be mad at me, I can explain.”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

@kannikaxmaneo​

When Hyun-Ae got the call, she wasn’t surprised. She was pissed—and worried. Mostly for the guy who’d been at the end of Kannika’s fist. She knew the witch was a capable and skilled, but she was reckless and didn’t really consider the consequences of her actions—like pulling Hyun-Ae away from her Amaranthine duties.

Luckily, it wasn’t anything that couldn’t be finished tomorrow, so the Gumiho dropped everything and made her to the police station as fast as she could. She walked towards the counter where an officer looked like she’d rather be anywhere else than here tonight. Hyun-Ae felt a kinship with them.

“I’m here for Baramuk Kannika.” Hyun-Ae stood off to the side, observing the officers and their charges, sorting through the arguments of low-end criminals, sobs of victims, and the exasperated sighs of cops. All the wall her fingers tapped lightly against her crossed arms, waiting for the little troublemaker to be escorted from the back. As she thought that, Kannika came toward her, excuse ready on her tongue. Hyun-Ae had to resist the urge to roll her eyes. Her first instinct was to look over the witch for any injuries—there didn’t seem to be any which brought a wave a relief to the Gumiho. Now she can be annoyed.

“Save it,” Hyun-Ae held up a hand, knowing that whatever she was told would be the usual. Kannika was probably provoked. The guy got what he deserved, Hyun-Ae thinks to herself. That doesn’t matter right now. “Let’s just get you home. You look like you could use a hot bath, some good food, and a long night of sleep.”

Hyun-Ae paused and smiled brightly, focusing on making sure Kannika is taken care of before anything else. They’ll talk about her issues later. “So, what do you want to eat?”

[maneorigs-deactivated20200827]

@maneoxhyun-ae​

“First off,” Hyun-Ae started, eyes narrowed in a playful scowl, “at least have the decency not to compare me to a dog. Use “fox” instead. Second,” she paused this time to take a sip of her cooling coffee (gross), “yes, it’s that bad.”

If Hyun-Ae was honest, she’d tell you Rigs was not a friend—at least, not in the purest sense. It was more like…a symbiotic relationship. Hyun-Ae gushed about all her earthly problems to the Naga, and in return she’d reward him with endless cups of dark brew as he offered up vague replies and gestures. He rarely gave her advice, let alone sound advice. Still, she liked Rigs. He wasn’t one to judge—didn’t really care enough—and was the only one she felt she could unload her worries on without repercussion. It was nice having someone she could just spill her thoughts onto. Gods know that there was no one else she would dare tell these things to without fear it could be used against her.

If the day came that Rigs used what she shared with him to destroy her—well, she’d deal with that if—when—the day came. For now, she could feel herself calm down in his presence. He continued to sip his coffee as she gathered her thoughts—another thing she was grateful for.

“I’ve been running back and forth these past couple months,” she started. “Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind my jobs, but I swear the hitlists they give me are getting longer. Not to mention, I’ve got to help monitor the usual deals and check up on our sex workers. It’s just…a lot right now. Haven’t gotten much sleep.” Hyun-Ae fidgeted with the mug, watching the liquid slosh around. She raised her hand toward the barista and gestured for a refill. She also pointed to Rig’s mug; the barista nodded in understanding. She’d just put it on her tab.

“And you know how I’ve just started my human-free diet? Well, being surrounded by blood every night, even supernatural blood is making me more sensitive. I mean, just this morning some asshole human had the nerve to fall and scrape his knee. In front of me, Rigs. I forgot how good human blood smelled since I’ve avoided it for so long. Had to take deep breaths in the alley behind my apartment before I came here.” She shrugged lamely as she looked up at Rigs. “Got a meeting today too. Was worrying how I’d get myself under control. Then you showed up.” The Gumiho smiled brightly. “And now here I am enjoying your ‘sunny disposition.’ Talking to you always put me in a good mood. Thanks for that.”

While she was lying about the “sunny disposition,” Hyun-Ae did mean it. Rigs’ willingness to let her gush made her thankful to the Naga as he sat in front her, new mug of coffee placed before him.

Rigs snapped his fingers, shooting Hyunae a finger gun, “You got it foxy.” As his companion dove into her complaints, the Naga sipped his coffee, nodding and making affirmative noises at all the proper moments. Although he neither understood nor agreed with a human-free diet, a century of experience with women told him that that wasn’t the part of the monologue the other wanted him to comment on. If he commented at all.

He snorted when the woman mentioned his ‘sunny disposition’, shooting her an amused look. “Well, I can probably help with the sleeplessness, there are a lot of options out there.” Rigs sipped his coffee again, “As for the diet…” he shrugged, trying to give himself time to come up with a response that was more than just ‘don’t do that’.

“Don’t starve to death.”

Nailed it.

“But really, I dunno. I’d offer you my blood but it probably tastes like weed and shitty beer. Or plain boiled chicken. Actually, you know what, I changed my mind I bet it’s awesome.” As his refill showed up Rigs nodded in thanks and drank some of the piping hot liquid. “So yeah, I guess if you need it I’ll be your blood bag for a while if you keep me caffeinated.”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

@maneorigs​

Hyun-Ae froze, mug halfway to her lips. Did Rigs just say what she thinks he just said?

Supernatural blood…would that work?

As Rigs, unaware of the thoughts shooting through the Gumiho’s mind, downed his coffee, Hyun-Ae was going through all the reasons why she shouldn’t take the Naga up on his offer. Each one was met with a sound rebuttal. Drinking supernatural blood is taboo…but not unheard of. Fine, then why not just keep eating the raw animal meat she picked up from the supermarket—it’s got plenty of blood…that wasn’t working as well as it used to. Alright, but it’s Rig’s blood; it probably tastes exactly how he described—ok…but she’s definitely eaten her fair share of druggies and alcoholics in the past and, honestly, the kick it gave was kinda nice.

Suddenly a familiar, chilling voice she hadn’t heard in a long time whispered sweetly in her ear.

Supernatural blood doesn’t compare to the real thing my precious girl…just give in. There’re humans all around…take your pick…Rigs can’t help you…after all, he can’t keep you from turning into me…

“Fuck it,” Hyun-Ae hissed aloud, not caring that she got stares from the surrounding patrons. She looked Rigs in the eye, smile no longer present, and a past she’d thought she’d thrown away looming behind her.

“You mean it? All the coffee you can ask for in exchange for some of your blood every now and then. Unlimited caffeine, Rigs.”

She didn’t know if this would work, but she had to try. She would become a benevolent Gumiho.

She would not be her mother.

[maneorigs-deactivated20200827]

aka. riptide

Hyun-Ae was sitting by the window, a half-empty mug of coffee between her hands. Her fingers played with handle, twisting the cup this way and that. She couldn’t seem to keep still. She could hardly be blamed; it was a bad day. The Gumiho was so agitated, her tails had popped out earlier this morning (it took quite a while before she could hide them away again). Now she wore a hat to keep her fox ears hidden from view. She’d been sitting here since the little café opened, downing coffee (with milk and sugar, of course) rather than her usual cappuccino.

Yeah—it was a bad day.

At least it wasn’t raining.

She should be used to it by now, the sudden flashbacks to her childhood, but sometimes she’d come across something or someone that would spark that fear, anxiety, and anger she’d think she’d forgotten. But when she left the house today, she could detect the faint smell of human blood. She wasn’t prepared for, that’s why. Otherwise, Hyun-Ae would have been just fine.

Dammit, Hyun-Ae. Get it together. You have to meet the rest of the family later. They can’t see you like this.

She gritted her teeth in irritation as she heard frantic footsteps enter the café. This normally wouldn’t bother her, but right now, the sound grated on her sensitive ears.

“Pour over black, any medium roast or dark if you haven’t got it.”

Hyun-Ae’s head shot up. She knew that voice. Hadn’t seen him in a while, but there was no mistaking the permanent disgruntled expression and impatient voice.

“You know, if I didn’t know you, I’d believe you were a new kind of supernatural that needs caffeine to breathe,” Hyun-Ae happily called out Rigs. Just the person she needed right now.

“Wanna chat with me? I’ll treat you to your cup of darkness.”

Ears perking up at the familiar voice, Rigs looked over to find Hyun-ae sitting at a window seat, her hands already wrapped around a cup of coffee. Laughing, the man cocked an eyebrow, “The dog covered with dung scolds the dog with the chaff?” He accepted his fresh mug from the barista and took a long swig before moving to join the young woman, the wooden chair across from her creaking as he collapsed all his body weight into it at once.

“You know me, I’m a cheap man. Keep the coffee comin’ and I’ll sit here all day with you… Nice hat by the way.” Taking another sip from his mug, he eyed the liquid in the woman’s cup with a knowing expression. “That bad, eh? Now what?”

Rigs couldn’t remember the first time he’d run into Hyun-ae, but they’d quickly fallen into this routine. Him listening, pseudo-attentively, as he drank unholy amounts of coffee; her venting, usually about her endless soul-sucking responsibilities, also while drinking unholy amounts of coffee. The Naga would never describe himself as a wise man, he rarely ever offered her advice of any kind, but the young woman always seemed happy enough just to have someone to listen to her.

If asked, he could never accurately explain their relationship to others, but trivial things like that had never bothered Rigs.

[maneoxhyun-ae]

@maneorigs

“First off,” Hyun-Ae started, eyes narrowed in a playful scowl, “at least have the decency not to compare me to a dog. Use “fox” instead. Second,” she paused this time to take a sip of her cooling coffee (gross), “yes, it’s that bad.”

If Hyun-Ae was honest, she’d tell you Rigs was not a friend—at least, not in the purest sense. It was more like…a symbiotic relationship. Hyun-Ae gushed about all her earthly problems to the Naga, and in return she’d reward him with endless cups of dark brew as he offered up vague replies and gestures. He rarely gave her advice, let alone sound advice. Still, she liked Rigs. He wasn’t one to judge—didn’t really care enough—and was the only one she felt she could unload her worries on without repercussion. It was nice having someone she could just spill her thoughts onto. Gods know that there was no one else she would dare tell these things to without fear it could be used against her.

If the day came that Rigs used what she shared with him to destroy her—well, she’d deal with that if—when—the day came. For now, she could feel herself calm down in his presence. He continued to sip his coffee as she gathered her thoughts—another thing she was grateful for.

“I’ve been running back and forth these past couple months,” she started. “Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind my jobs, but I swear the hitlists they give me are getting longer. Not to mention, I’ve got to help monitor the usual deals and check up on our sex workers. It’s just…a lot right now. Haven’t gotten much sleep.” Hyun-Ae fidgeted with the mug, watching the liquid slosh around. She raised her hand toward the barista and gestured for a refill. She also pointed to Rig’s mug; the barista nodded in understanding. She’d just put it on her tab.

“And you know how I’ve just started my human-free diet? Well, being surrounded by blood every night, even supernatural blood is making me more sensitive. I mean, just this morning some asshole human had the nerve to fall and scrape his knee. In front of me, Rigs. I forgot how good human blood smelled since I’ve avoided it for so long. Had to take deep breaths in the alley behind my apartment before I came here.” She shrugged lamely as she looked up at Rigs. “Got a meeting today too. Was worrying how I’d get myself under control. Then you showed up.” The Gumiho smiled brightly. “And now here I am enjoying your ‘sunny disposition.’ Talking to you always put me in a good mood. Thanks for that.”

While she was lying about the “sunny disposition,” Hyun-Ae did mean it. Rigs’ willingness to let her gush made her thankful to the Naga as he sat in front her, new mug of coffee placed before him.

[masonmaneo-deactivated20210213]

@maneoxhyun-ae​

there’s a very specific tingling that mason feels at the back of his neck when someone is following him; a chill that crawls up his spine and settles a vibrating panic in his throat that he easily identifies. mason wonders if this rogue hunter that’s had all the gangs in a war amongst themselves is now aiming at him, but he doesn’t dwell on it. it doesn’t matter who, or what, it is. if it’s about to attack him now, it would be better to do it on his own terms. he mentally accounts for the gun holstered under his jacket and the knife strapped to his forearm. as he walks, he hears foot steps start to get closer behind him.

when he gets closer to his building, he turns left down a side street then jogs and takes another sharp corner, waiting for the person to turn around it behind him while he’s waiting. “gotchya,” he sing-songs when he sees them, pulling their arm and shoving them into the brick wall of the building. “now, who the fuck thinks–,” he starts, but freezes when he recognizes the person. he had thought the rogue hunter, but no one that good at not leaving a trace of themselves would be this sloppy unless they were trying to get caught. then he thought maybe it was an enemy, a gang member, or maybe someone seeking vengeance for someone he’d murdered. and, it was technically a gang member, but one he knew all too well. the one thing he didn’t have on the list of options was a crazy ex.

“hyun-ae?” he says with a questioning tilt of his head, but he’d know those eyes anywhere.

[maneoxhyun-ae]

@masonmaneo

Okay, it’s not as if Hyun-Ae is surprised she got caught. In fact, she expected it. Her bosses expected it. Not for the same reason, though. They just knew that Mason was old, cunning, and calculating. A young Gumiho, an assassin for only a couple years, was not expected to kill him—they just wanted to distract him, so he’d never see the real killer they’d send one day coming at him.

But here’s the thing—Hyun-Ae wanted to kill Mason with her own hands. She took pride in her job as an assassin, regardless of whether others thought she was talented or not—and she liked to believe she was. She didn’t spend her whole life on the streets skipping rocks and taking naps. She’s killed—and she’s always been thorough in her job. But, as reluctant as she was to admit it, this particular target was more…personal.

Afterall, Mason was the only person she’d ever loved.

And he’d left her broken-hearted and alone.

So, imagine getting the order to assassinate Kim Mason, prestigious leader of Venor and the son of a bitch who made her feel like she was less than nothing. Hyun-Ae was thrilled, but she knew that it’d take more than a simple tailing and stabbing to put an end to the Skinwalker. Her time with him had taught her plenty about him. Not everything, but enough to realize she’d have to bide her time and wait for the perfect strike. She couldn’t wait for that day—when she’d catch him off guard and see the surprise and upset in his eyes, knife planted firmly in his heart. She didn’t take pleasure in every kill, but she knew this one would be an exception.

So, while Mason, now looking down at her with a look of disbelief and—is that fucking amusement—held her firmly against the brick wall, Hyun-Ae calculated her next move. She needed to be cautious about what she did next because he wouldn’t hesitate to kill her if he thought it’d save everyone the trouble in the long run. She didn’t think he’d do it, though.

Hyun-Ae smiled wide, tails swishing pleasantly behind her, fox ears perked up—looking for all the world like she’d only been caught taking a relaxing stroll in Venor territory.

“Hey there, Mason,” she crooned sweetly. “I knew you hadn’t lost your touch, but I just had to make sure. Now that I know—”

Hyun-Ae let her instincts kick in and she made to twist Mason’s hand off her arm, kicking a leg out to sweep him off his feet.

“Guess who got promoted to assassin since we last met?”

[not-a-perfect-metaphor]

Goddammit I LOVE it when Jared gets protective of Jensen. Can’t stand it. Cannot. That hand on his chest? Gah!

Well they each get frequently protective of the other, and I love it both ways. Every damn time

[maneoxhyun-ae]

*Hyun-Ae when you mess with her family

[memesrfunaf]

💓💞💗💘💕💝🔫

[maneoxhyun-ae]

Checking In

@sominmaneo

The bouquet of flowers rustled as Hyun-Ae paced back and forth. She stood outside the hospital where some of her Amaranthine family had been admitted after the casino attack. She’d been putting off coming here for a while. It’s not that she didn’t try—she came by at the beginning but was told they were in no condition for visitors and she’d trusted that her loved ones were in the care of good doctors. She could have come at any point afterwards, once she was given the ok, but guilt held her back. What right did she have to worry over those she didn’t protect?

Hyun-Ae had one job—protect the family. And she couldn’t even do that. Why did she take that day off? Why? Now her mentor was in a hospital bed, recovering from injuries she’d heard were quite terrible. But there was no amount of guilt that could keep her from checking on them. She needed to see them and talk with them—make sure they were healing alright in every sense of the word.

Now, the young Gumiho was here, gathering the courage to head inside and check on the person she’d been told had finally woken up.

You can do this. You gotta make sure she’s ok.

With that pep talk, Hyun-Ae made her way inside, up the elevator, down the hall, until she stood in front of a room with a name plate hanging on the wall: Han, Somin. Gently, she pushed the door open to reveal a hospital bed—and her mentor and friend.

“….Somin-unni,” she whispered. “Are you awake?”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

Nature’s Cure

@sangkimaneo​

Hyun-Ae has been running around ever since the attack on The Gilded Siren. She’s been in meetings with other enforcers, checking in on their gang’s sex workers and dealers, and fulfilling assassination orders. She hasn’t had a moment’s peace, but that means nothing to her. She’ll work herself to death if it means relieving the burden off the other members.

Right now, though, she’s killing two birds with one stone. The Gumiho makes her way to a familiar and comforting shop sitting inside Amaranthine territory. She visits so often, she’d live there if the owner would let her, but that’s not gonna happen. Anyway, Hyun-Ae likes her apartment too much. She was here to stress buy another plant—and more importantly, check on the dryad who ran her favorite little plant shop.

She pulled open the door and stepped inside. Immediately, Hyun-Ae was hit with the pleasant scents of various flowers and plants—the smell just a tad stronger than that of her apartment. She made herself at home, walking around to each plant and giving her usual greetings. She needed to find the perfect friend for the hydrangea sitting in her kitchen. Maybe she should ask for advice?

As she thought that, she heard footsteps. Hyun-Ae turned to the sound and saw just the person she was looking for.

“Sangki,” a gentle smile following her gentle voice. “It’s been a bit. Sorry I haven’t come by in a while. How’ve you been?”

[maneorigs-deactivated20200827]

Coffeehouse; Neutral Territory @maneoxhyun-ae + rigs

Yin and Yang Espresso Bar was so hideously busy that morning that Rigs had walked in and immediately strode back out, a scowl on his lips. Realistically, he should probably just go to the grocery store and pick up a bag of coffee so he could start brewing his morning fix himself but… that was just entirely too much effort. Walking in a daze, the Naga only came back to himself when he smelled fresh coffee in the air.

Eyes snapping to the source, Rigs caught the door to the cafe someone was exiting, nearly catching the back of their coat in his haste. Ignoring their affronted grunt, the man practically flew into the coffeehouse, beelining for the register with a powerful need shining in his eyes. “Pourover, black, any medium roast or dark if you haven’t got it,” he ordered without preamble, handing over his card.

Barely resisting the urge to drum his fingers against the wooden countertop, Rigs accepted his card back and moved to the pickup area. His caffeine-desperate fog clearing now that he knew some was on the way, the Naga gave the coffeehouse a proper look around. Stylish yet simple, he made a mental note to jot down the name if their coffee was any good.

[maneoxhyun-ae]

@maneorigs

Hyun-Ae was sitting by the window, a half-empty mug of coffee between her hands. Her fingers played with handle, twisting the cup this way and that. She couldn't seem to keep still. She could hardly be blamed; it was a bad day. The Gumiho was so agitated, her tails had popped out earlier this morning (it took quite a while before she could hide them away again). Now she wore a hat to keep her fox ears hidden from view. She’d been sitting here since the little café opened, downing coffee (with milk and sugar, of course) rather than her usual cappuccino.

Yeah—it was a bad day.

At least it wasn’t raining.

She should be used to it by now, the sudden flashbacks to her childhood, but sometimes she’d come across something or someone that would spark that fear, anxiety, and anger she’d think she’d forgotten. But when she left the house today, she could detect the faint smell of human blood. She wasn’t prepared for, that’s why. Otherwise, Hyun-Ae would have been just fine.

Dammit, Hyun-Ae. Get it together. You have to meet the rest of the family later. They can’t see you like this.

She gritted her teeth in irritation as she heard frantic footsteps enter the café. This normally wouldn’t bother her, but right now, the sound grated on her sensitive ears.

“Pour over black, any medium roast or dark if you haven’t got it.”

Hyun-Ae’s head shot up. She knew that voice. Hadn’t seen him in a while, but there was no mistaking the permanent disgruntled expression and impatient voice.

“You know, if I didn’t know you, I’d believe you were a new kind of supernatural that needs caffeine to breathe,” Hyun-Ae happily called out Rigs. Just the person she needed right now.

“Wanna chat with me? I’ll treat you to your cup of darkness.”

[sunnymaneo]

maneoxhyun-ae​:

The Gumiho quickly sent a reply in response. Hyun-Ae was willing to go at whatever pace Sohee needed. The girl was gentle and sweet and Hyun-Ae didn’t want to push. She wouldn’t let her emotions get the best of herself this time, but they definitely needed to talk.

Yeah, I’d like that. I want to see my best friend again. I miss you and I want us to be ok. Do you wanna maybe meet at the usual café? My treat!

  Half a hour later, Sohee was seated impatiently on a white wooden chair, staring at her phone while her other hand was on the right leg, tapping against it every few seconds. Her eyes were blinking almost at the same rate and there was no denying it to anyone else who could see her. The girl looked anxious, almost ready to explode every minute to anyone who would ask her if she is okay. There, on her phone, was the last message she had sent to her gumiho bestfriend.

Yes. There in 35. 

  She was five minutes early and for now, there was no sign of the other female, but Sohee knew that she was coming. Hyun-Ae would never let down someone she cares about. Not like she, herself, did. The thoughts and guilt was all there, not leaving her alone even for a few minutes since the time it happened. The mixed-blood always puts on a positive front, but under it, hides the problems that she cannot deal with. 

  When the waiter comes close and asks if she needs anything or would like to order through her, Sohee licks her lower lip and quickly stops her patting, taking both of her hands to take out the notebook from her backpack and write a reply, explaining to the woman that she was waiting for someone and the other smiled at her antics, nodding to show that she understood before moving away. Letting a sigh escape her lips as she puts the notebook on the table, the female lets her eyes wander towards the door of the café just at the right time, the bell ringing a couple of times, annoucing the arrival of a guest. Suddenly, she was overwhelmed with the feeling of sadness, blinking the tears that were forming away while she waited, now patiently, for Hyun-Ae to approach.

[maneoxhyun-ae]

@sunnymaneo

Hyun-Ae had rushed through the streets of Seoul to the café that sat on a small street away from the bustle of business districts. She’d felt so relived to receive a reply so quickly. Quickly dashing across the street, she reached for the familiar doors and swung them open with a bit more force than necessary. The bells rang above the Gumiho’s head, but she paid no mind.

Sohee!

Letting out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding, Hyun-Ae walked with a eager step towards the girl sitting near the window. She could tell the Sohee was trying to hold back tears, but she didn’t point that out. Instead, Hyun-Ae pulled out a chair and sat with care. She would have taken off her hat too, but her fox ears had refused to be tucked away ever since she got Sohee’s text. So instead she fiddled with the material. There was an awkward silence (on her part really). There was tension hanging in the air.

Pulling together what courage she had, Hyun-Ae looked into Sohee’s eyes and smiled gently.

“How are you,” she signed. Her gestures were still clumsy, made even more so with how nervous she was, but she remembered what little Sohee had taught her so far. She didn’t give the mixed-blood a chance to respond before she started letting the words pour out. She needed to get this off her chest.

“I’ve missed you...and…I’m sorry. For the way I treated you before. I know you’re struggling and that wasn’t the way to handle it…I’m just…I’m sorry,” Hyun-Ae finished lamely.

As she waited with bated breath, a waitress stopped in front of them.

“Are you ready to order?”

Flustered, Hyun-Ae gestured to Sohee. “You can take her order with mine. I’ll have a cappuccino. You, Sohee?”

[maneoxhyun-ae]

Flower in Storms

The rain was coming down in droves, thunder clapping in the distance. Hyun-Ae sat huddled by the windowsill gazing out the window, but not really seeing the world outside. Her mind had travelled somewhere far away where no one could reach her—if there was anyone around to reach out in that moment. Her eyes had settled on potted flower she had put outside just the other day so it could get a healthy dose of sunlight. Now, the rain pelted it, seeming to beat the fragile petals into submission.

Hyun-Ae did not see the flower in front of her. Instead, a flower deep in her past filled her vision. She was young, hardly eight at the time. The Gumiho had just come back from a hunt with her mother. Bruises and claw marks stained her pale skin—her mother hadn’t wanted to share their catch that day. The little girl, hopeless, battered, and hungry, stared out the window of her house that lay halfway below ground. A flower sat at the window will. It’d been there for a few days now and Hyun-Ae had stared at it in wonder. Something so fragile and beautiful, she couldn’t help but envy it. Every day she checked on that flower until one stormy evening her mother came back from a failed hunt.

In her anger, Hyun-Ae’s mother had destroyed the alleyway where the flower hid. Hyun-Ae, in her anxiety, rushed out to protect it, only to be met with her mother’s rage. She’d been flung across they alley—crushing the flower beneath her tiny body. Hyun-Ae could remember the way her heart broke—as if that flower was her.

And then her mind jumped—she was on the run again. Twenty with nowhere to go, always hungry, hunting for the next human, always alone…

It had been a particularly bad day. But as she trduegd through the streets of Seoul, she’d come across a delicate flower much like the one from her childhood. She stared long and hard and as she reached out a hand to brush the bright petals, a group of men stood before her. It was always like this. But the Gumiho knew how to fight—and she did.

And someone saw. Saw the bloodbath at the young woman’s feet.

“You could put those skills to good use. Heard of Amaranthine?”

Hyun-Ae didn’t care about how her killing could be useful. She just didn’t want to be alone. And that person promised she wouldn’t be. Not ever again.

Hyun-Ae blinked back to the present. The flower—an aster—now had drops of dew from the storm that had seemed to pass in her stupor, still standing strong. Her eyes wavered for a moment—before a gentle smile graced her lips.