Shadows

A Shattered Illusion

That evening, as the mansion buzzed with quiet activity, Joong found himself wandering through the expansive halls. He was looking for Pond, who had disappeared shortly after dinner, presumably to practice piano with Phuwin.

Joong paused as he approached the music room. The soft notes of the piano drifted through the slightly ajar door, but what caught his attention wasn't the melody—it was the sound of voices.

"You're really playing the long game with Pond, huh?" a voice teased. It was Dunk.

Joong froze, curiosity and unease mingling as he leaned closer.

"It's not that hard," Phuwin replied smoothly, his tone laced with amusement. "He's an easy target. A little charm, a little attention, and he's already opening up."

Joong's stomach churned. He clenched his fists, every instinct screaming at him to barge in.

"Don't get too carried away," Dunk warned. "We don't need unnecessary complications with them. They're just here to do their job."

Phuwin chuckled. "Relax. I know what I'm doing. Pond's harmless."

Joong couldn't listen anymore. He turned on his heel and marched back to their shared room, his blood boiling.

When Pond finally returned, his face was lit with a rare smile. He seemed lighter, more at ease, as he shut the door behind him.

"How was practice?" Joong asked, his voice colder than he intended.

Pond blinked, surprised by the sharpness in Joong's tone. "It was fine. Phuwin said I'm improving."

Joong snorted, unable to hold back his frustration. "I'm sure he did."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Pond asked, frowning.

Joong stood, pacing the room like a caged animal. "It means you're being played, Pond. Phuwin's not interested in helping you or being your friend. He thinks you're an easy target."

Pond's expression shifted to one of hurt and confusion. "What are you talking about? Phuwin's been nothing but kind to me."

"Exactly," Joong snapped. "Too kind. It's all an act. I overheard him talking to Dunk. He's using you, Pond."

Pond's face fell, the weight of Joong's words hitting him hard. "You must have misunderstood," he said weakly, though doubt crept into his voice.

Joong grabbed his brother's shoulders, his eyes blazing with urgency. "I know what I heard. You have to be careful. We can't trust them."

Pond pulled away, his expression a mix of hurt and frustration. "You don't know him like I do," he said quietly. "Maybe he's different with me."

Joong sighed, his anger softening into concern. "I just don't want you to get hurt, Pond. That's all."

Pond didn't respond, his gaze dropping to the floor. The room fell into a heavy silence, the tension between them palpable.

The next morning, Joong barely touched his breakfast, his mind preoccupied with what he had overheard. Fourth, ever perceptive, noticed his brother's unease.

"What's got you so grumpy?" Fourth asked, nudging Joong with his elbow.

"Nothing," Joong muttered, his gaze flickering to Pond, who sat quietly beside him.

Fourth raised an eyebrow but didn't push further. Instead, he changed the subject. "So, did you know Gemini is thinking about taking up swimming? He says he's inspired by me."

Joong rolled his eyes. "You mean you wouldn't stop bragging about how fast you are."

"Hey, I'm just spreading the joy of athleticism," Fourth replied with a grin. "Speaking of which, I saw Dunk watching you again yesterday. He's got that same 'I'm interested but too proud to say it' look."

Joong glared at his brother, his cheeks heating. "Don't start."

"Just saying," Fourth teased. "You might want to pay attention. He's not exactly subtle."

Joong shook his head, refusing to entertain the idea. He had more pressing concerns—like protecting Pond from whatever game Phuwin was playing.

Later that day, Pond found himself alone in the garden, his thoughts swirling. Phuwin approached him, his usual charming smile in place.

"You seemed distracted during practice," Phuwin said, his tone warm.

Pond hesitated, Phuwin's words from the night before echoing in his mind. "I guess I have a lot on my mind," he replied carefully.

Phuwin tilted his head, his gaze softening. "You can talk to me, you know. I want to help."

Pond's heart ached at the sincerity in Phuwin's voice, but Joong's warning lingered. Was this kindness real, or just another move in some hidden agenda?

"I'll be fine," Pond said, forcing a small smile. "Thanks, though."

Phuwin looked like he wanted to say more, but he nodded, stepping back. As he walked away, Pond's chest tightened with uncertainty.

In the shadows, Joong watched the interaction, his jaw set. He had a sinking feeling that things were about to get even more complicated.

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This is the longest story ever and i'm not even done yet, i'll probably make a sequel for this story