Harbour of the Dragon Curse

Chapter 1 - Kori

In the bustling city of Tokyo, nestled near the banks of the Sakan River, lay the quaint neighbourhood of Machido. At the end of one lane stood a charming pink cottage that seemed to glow with a life of its own. The front of this home was decorated with cascading vines and vibrant flowers that spilled from every corner, creating a whimsical garden that whispered of magic.

Crossing the threshold, visitors would be welcomed into a space that is impeccably clean but highly cluttered. The walls told stories through a captivating collection of photographs, while cabinets held an intriguing assortment of teapots and bizarre clay figurines—each a curious creation seemingly inspired by creatures from fantastical realms.

The heart of the home, the lounge and dining areas, are presided over by towering bookshelves. These shelves overflowed with volumes from all over the world, some looked old and some looked new. Despite the delightful chaos, not a speck of dust was to be seen.

Lush greenery was scattered in the house, infusing life and colour into the warm, inviting and peaceful. This hidden gem, with its unique charm and vibrant personality, was a true reflection of the owner of the house.

The owner was an old woman who dedicated her time to helping others. She prepared meals and tinctures for neighbours, offered haircuts, assisted with car troubles, and lent a hand with anything that was needed. This generous soul was June's grandmother, whom she affectionately called Gran.

As June stepped in from school, she spotted Gran at her work desk, immersed in her writing. Gran was a writer, she crafting amazing and whimsical fairy tales for children, each one filled with wonder and magic. She had golden hair that shone brightly against her soft tan skin, she radiated warmth and kindness. Gran told her she was from Norway which is why she looked different to June who had black hair and green eyes.

June often marvelled at how her grandmother seamlessly blended into any setting. It was as if Gran possessed an innate ability to feel at home wherever she went, exuding a quiet confidence that made her seem both comfortable and in charge. June had never felt this way. She always felt odd and awkward. Unless she was with Gran.

June arrived home from school and settled on the couch to begin her homework. A few minutes later she heard the front door creak. She looked up, a smile spreading across her face as her Gran entered, her cheerful demeanour lighting up the room. June ran over to hug her Gran.

"Good evening, my Snoepje!" Her Gran's voice felt like a warm hug, enveloping June in comfort. June giggled and asked "What is Snoop ye?".

Gran smiled "It means 'little candy' in Dutch. It's the same as calling someone my sweet."

June grinned "You are my snop ye too!"

"Would you like ramen for dinner tonight?" Gran asked, her blue eyes sparkling with warmth.

"Yes please. Are we planning to cook for Mr. Young again?" June asked, as they often cooked for their neighbours.

"Yes. He's had a hard week at work, shall we start?" They made their way to the kitchen and began preparation. "Oh, and your thirteenth birthday is coming up. We'll celebrate during the New Year festivities!"

June's heart raced at the thought of her upcoming birthday. They did not have much but Gran would always go out of her way to ensure that June felt special on her day. It was already a special day for the world as her birthday was the first of January. Gran would let her stay up the night before and they would light some fire crackers at 12am.  June  looked at her Gran, something wasn't sitting right. "You're keeping a secret, aren't you?"

Her grandmother smiled mysteriously, the corners of her lips curling upward. "I cannot tell you, Pudingeto. They say secrets meant for thirteen-year-olds don't sit well with twelve-year-olds. Now go wash up while I take this to Mr Young then we can eat"