Work Text:
✨🪄✨
Jisung stepped into the quaint antique shop, the doorbell chiming softly as he entered. A mystical and calm ambiance enveloped the space. He glanced around, hoping to find a unique birthday gift for his dormmate and dear friend, Felix. Everywhere he looked, potted plants and vibrant flowers adorned the shelves, casting an ethereal hue. Their delicate petals unfurled as if whispering ancient secrets to those who entered. The air was infused with a heady scent, a harmonious blend of earth and of old books. Each step brought the soft rustle of leaves as if the plants themselves were awakening to the presence of visitors, giving it a mysterious charm. Amidst the antique trinkets and artifacts, the abundant presence of flora bestowed upon the shop an otherworldly charm.
As Jisung made his way through the cluttered shelves, his eyes widened in surprise. There, in the corner of the shop, stood Seungmin, his classmate from university, performing what seemed like a ritual of some sort. The boy was surrounded by an assortment of peculiar items in the middle of a drawn black circle on the ground.
Seungmin seemed to be manipulating objects effortlessly, causing them to float and spin in mid-air. He chanted incantations under his breath, his voice carrying a melodic tone that resonated throughout the shop. The antique trinkets responded to his command, emitting soft glows and faint whispers.
Jisung's eyes widened, his mind struggling to comprehend the scene unfolding before him. Seungmin and him weren’t really friends but Jisung had always known him as a studious and intelligent classmate, the best in his stats class, but this was not statistics. At all. This display of… magic (?) was very bewildering.
Was magic real or was Jisung dreaming? Sleep-walking? Hallucinating? Dead?
"Seungmin?" Jisung called out, his voice filled with disbelief.
Seungmin turned towards Jisung, his eyes widening in equal surprise. The realization of a human (Jisung was human the best he knew) witnessing his magical abilities sent a jolt of panic through his veins. He had always been careful to conceal his true nature from the human world, but somehow Jisung had stumbled upon his secret. And the antique shop. Which was protected by magic, so no human could enter it by mistake.
"What the hell are you doing here?“ Seungmin muttered under his breath, his voice laced with confusion. His eyes darted between Jisung and the shop's entrance.
Jisung's mind spun, unable to grasp the reality of what he just witnessed.
"I– Am I dreaming?“ he asked.
“Shit... Hm... Yes, Jisung, you're dreaming," Seungmin stammered, his voice filled with alarm. "You should close your eyes again, yeah?“
Jisung's brows furrowed, his heart pounding in his chest. He struggled to process Seungmin's words, unsure of what was happening. "What? Close my eyes? Seungmin, what's going on?“ Jisung's voice was laced with confusion.
Seungmin approached him cautiously, realizing that he needed to act swiftly to ensure Jisung's safety. He knew of a temporary solution, a way to protect Jisung's mind from the overwhelming magic that surrounded them.
"Close your eyes, Jisung," Seungmin whispered softly, his voice laced with a tinge of urgency. "Trust me, okay?"
Jisung, bewildered but willing to follow Seungmin's lead, reluctantly closed his eyes. Darkness enveloped his senses, but the residue of magic lingered in the air. He felt a gentle touch on his shoulder, followed by a subtle fragrance that made him feel drowsy as if he was being lulled into a deep slumber.
Unbeknownst to Jisung, Seungmin had retrieved a small vial of sleeping powder from his pocket, a magical substance that could induce a profound slumber. He carefully sprinkled it into the air around Jisung, watching as the powder settled and took effect.
After a few moments, Jisung's breathing slowed, and he fell into a deep sleep, Seungmin catching him before he could hit the ground.
Seungmin's task was far from over, though. He hurriedly dialed a number on his phone, seeking assistance from Chan, the shop owner and a magical creature himself.
"Chan, I need your help," Seungmin spoke urgently into the phone. "There's a human in the shop, and he's seen me using magic. I don't know how he got in, but I can't risk exposing us."
On the other end of the line, Chan's voice carried a sense of urgency. “Okay, I’m coming, Seungmin. We'll figure this out."
A few minutes later Chan was quickly making his way inside the shop from the back entrance, a mix of concern and recognition in his eyes as he saw Felix's dormmate cradled in Seungmin’s arms.
Together, they ensured Jisung's safe transport back to his dorm room, shielding him from any potential harm that could arise from his accidental exposure to the magical world.
As Jisung stirred awake in his dorm room, confusion clouded his mind. His encounter in the antique shop felt like a vivid dream, too surreal to be real. Yet, he couldn't shake the lingering sense of wonder and bewilderment that clung to his memories.
Unaware of what really happened, Jisung began to question his own perception of reality.
✨🪄✨
Jisung sat on the edge of his bed, waiting for Felix from his morning walk. He couldn't contain the tale of his bizarre dream any longer. He needed to share the strange events of his encounter in the antique shop with his dormmate and dear friend.
As the door swung open, Felix entered the room, his expression slightly tense and his movements hesitant. Jisung couldn't help but notice the uneasiness radiating from his friend. It was unusual, but Jisung brushed it off, attributing it to the stress of upcoming exams.
"Felix! You won't believe the dream I had last night," Jisung exclaimed, unable to hide his eagerness.
Felix offered a half-hearted smile, his eyes darting around the room. "Oh, really? That sounds... interesting, Jisung. What was it about?"
Jisung launched into a vivid description of his extraordinary dream, recounting the enchanted antique shop, the magic he had witnessed, and the familiar face of their classmate, Seungmin, who had seemingly been a part of the fantastical experience.
Throughout Jisung's animated retelling, Felix's demeanor grew increasingly distant. He fidgeted with the edge of his sleeve, avoiding eye contact as if trying to hide something. Jisung couldn't help but feel a pang of confusion, sensing that something wasn’t right.
"You okay, Felix? You seem a little off," Jisung finally remarked, concern coloring his voice.
Felix's gaze flickered to Jisung briefly before he nodded, a forced smile stretching across his face. "Yeah, just... a lot on my mind, you know? But that dream sounds wild, Jisung. Must have been quite the experience."
Jisung accepted Felix's explanation, although a small part of him remained puzzled by his friend's unusual behavior.
With their conversation winding down, Jisung glanced at the clock on the wall. He realized that it was time for classes. Both he and Felix gathered their belongings, ready to face the day's classes.
As they headed to their respective classes, Jisung couldn't help but wonder about Felix's odd behavior. However, he pushed the thoughts aside, eager to focus on finding the perfect gift and making Felix's birthday a memorable one.
After the last lecture of the day, Jisung embarked on his quest once again, stepping out into the city streets. Determined to find something truly special, he navigated through shops and boutiques, his eyes scanning the displays for that perfect present.
As he wandered from store to store, Jisung couldn't help but feel a lingering sense of curiosity about the magical world he had glimpsed in his dream. The memory of the antique shop danced in his mind, whispering the possibility of something extraordinary just beyond his grasp.
Lost in his thoughts, Jisung continued his search, hoping to stumble upon a gift that would capture the essence of his friendship with Felix, something he would love.
After walking for a while, Jisung stood outside the antique shop, his heart pounding with a mix of apprehension and disbelief. He had found it again and he couldn't shake the memory of his previous encounter. Determined to uncover the truth, he took a deep breath and pinched himself, hoping to dispel any lingering doubts.
As the pinch sent a jolt of pain through his senses, Jisung felt the familiar sting of reality. This was not a dream. With newfound determination, he carefully pushed open the door and stepped into the antique shop once more.
The soft chime of the doorbell greeted his arrival, mingling with the murmurs of conversation emanating from within. Jisung's heart raced as he strained to make out the voices, his senses on high alert.
And then, amidst the whispers, he recognized a voice. It was Felix's voice.
"I swear if he was anything other than human, I'd have seen it, okay? There's no way my eyes would have been fooled," Felix asserted, his voice tinged with frustration and confusion.
Seungmin's voice responded, filled with equal bewilderment. "Then how the fuck did he get through the door? It's impossible. If Jisung is human, there's no way he would have been able to pass the magical barrier and enter the shop."
Jisung's eyes widened. He couldn't remain silent any longer. Stepping forward, he interrupted their conversation.
"This is not a dream," Jisung proclaimed, his tone leaving no room for doubt.
The room fell silent as Seungmin, Felix, and a man that Jisung recognized as one of the graduates from last year, Chan, turned their attention towards him. Shock and confusion etched on their faces, they exchanged glances, failing to comprehend how Jisung had once again found his way into the protected antique shop.
Jisung met their gazes, his expression resolute. "Y'all need to start explaining. I want to know what's going on."
Seungmin, Felix, and Chan exchanged uncertain looks. After a moment of shared contemplation, Seungmin took a step forward, his voice steady yet tinged with apprehension.
"Jisung, you might want to sit down for this," Seungmin began, his eyes reflecting a mix of concern and curiosity. "Are you sure you're ready to hear this?"
Jisung nodded, his eyes meeting theirs with unwavering resolve. "No more secrets, please."
Felix, Seungmin, and Chan led Jisung to the back room of the antique shop where they found themselves surrounded by shelves filled with old, dusty books, peculiar trinkets, and various magical artifacts. The room exuded an air of ancient wisdom and hidden knowledge.
Taking their seats on couches and chairs arranged in a cozy circle, Jisung couldn't help but be fascinated by the eclectic array of magical objects that adorned the room. He knew he wasn’t dreaming but everything seemed so dreamy he found himself doubting again.
Felix, Seungmin, and Chan exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of concern and curiosity. With a deep breath, Felix caught Jisung’s attention and began to explain, his voice gentle.
"Jisung, this shop... it's not an ordinary shop," Felix started, his eyes locking with Jisung's. "It's a magical shop, and because of the dangerousness of some of the artifacts inside, it is protected against humans finding and entering it. Only magical creatures or those with some form of magic can pass through its barriers."
Jisung frowned trying to understand what his friend was revealing to him. "So, you're saying I shouldn't have been able to enter the shop? Since I'm human and it might be dangerous for me?"
Seungmin chimed in, his voice soft and calming. "Exactly, Jisung. That's why we're all so confused. The fact that you were able to cross the magical barrier and find your way here is... Unprecedented to say the least."
Curiosity and bewilderment danced in Jisung's eyes as he turned his attention to each of the others. "So, what are you all then? How can you enter this place?"
Chan spoke up. “I don’t know if you remember me, Jisung, but I used to go to the same University as you.”
“Yeah, you graduated last year top of your class,” Jisung nodded in acknowledgement. It had been a whole thing since Chan was well known and liked inside his department.
Chan continued sightly flustered, “So… Since then, I spend most of my time here, tending to the shop and its magical artifacts. It’s my inheritance, I do my best to take care of it."
Seungmin, continued the explanation. "And I am a sorcerer with an affinity for earth magic. I work part-time at the shop, helping with enchantments and assisting Chan."
Jisung's gaze shifted to Felix, searching for answers. His friend took a deep breath before speaking. "I have a small fraction of pixie blood running through my veins. It doesn't grant me magical abilities, but it gifts me with sight—magical sight. My eyes can perceive magic, like a truth filter, but specifically for the presence of magic itself."
The revelation settled heavily upon Jisung's shoulders. He couldn't help but feel a mix of surprise and a tinge of sadness. He had never known this significant part of his friend's life, but he understood why Felix had kept it hidden. However, the realization left him longing for the depth of a connection he thought he already had.
Watching the look on his friend’s face, Felix's voice trembled with guilt. "Jisung, I'm sorry for not telling you. I wanted to protect you, to keep you away from a world that could bring danger or complications into your life."
Jisung met Felix's gaze, his voice filled with empathy. "I understand, Felix. I get why you hid it from me. I just wish it had not had to be a secret. But I’m glad I know now.“
Then, Seungmin spoke up, a hint of sheepishness in his voice. "Jisung, I'm also sorry for putting you to sleep yesterday with the sleeping powder. I didn't know how else to handle the situation, and I wanted to ensure your safety."
At the look of seriousness in Seungmin’s face, Jisung couldn't help but chuckle, breaking the tension in the room. "Apology accepted, Seungmin. Though, I must say, it was the best sleep I had in years. Can I get more of that powder?"
The corners of Seungmin's lips twitched into a smile, relieved by Jisung's lighthearted response. “I think it can be arranged."
The momentary levity brought a sense of ease to the room, though confusion still lingered. Jisung was taking it all in better than anyone had expected, leaving everyone relieved of a weight they hadn’t notice settle on their shoulders.
Seungmin, unable to contain his curiosity any longer, leaned forward and began questioning Jisung.
"Do you have any knowledge about magic, Jisung? Has anything strange or unexplained ever happened to you before, apart from entering this shop?"
Jisung shook his head, a bemused smile playing on his lips. "Besides entering this shop and finding the cure for insomnia? No, nothing out of the ordinary has ever happened to me."
Felix interjected, his voice tinged with wonder. "And that's the perplexing part, Jisung. My eyes, my ability to see magic, they reveal that nothing magical resides within you. It's as if you truly are a normal, ordinary human being.“
As the room settled into a momentary calm, Seungmin's brows furrowed with concern. He turned to Chan and voiced his suspicions. "Chan, could there be something wrong with the magical barriers? Is it possible that they failed to keep Jisung out?"
Chan's expression turned serious as he considered the question, his eyes scanning the room and the protective enchantments surrounding it. "Seungmin, I assure you, the magical barriers and protections of this shop are foolproof. I would have felt any disturbance or breach. It's highly unlikely that they could have failed. Besides no other human has entered the shop."
Seungmin's uncertainty lingered, but he trusted in Chan's expertise. "Alright, if you say so. But this is unlike anything we've encountered before."
Chan nodded, his voice steady. “Hm, there must be something unique about Jisung that has allowed him to break through the barriers."
The room grew silent once again, each individual lost in their own thoughts.
Confusion and curiosity swirled within Jisung, mirroring the expressions of the others inside the room who were equally intrigued by Jisung’s weird ability to go through a magical protection.
✨🪄✨
In the days following Jisung's introduction to the magical world, Seungmin's curiosity burned brightly, driving him to try to uncover the secrets that surrounded Jisung's ability to breach the shop's magical barriers. After their classes one day, Seungmin mustered the courage to approach Jisung with a request.
"Jisung, would you mind coming to the antique shop again? I've been doing some research and I'd like to try some things," Seungmin proposed, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
Intrigued, Jisung agreed, eager to delve deeper into the enigma surrounding his unique connection with the magical realm. Upon reaching the shop, Seungmin led him to a cleared area of the shop, near where Jisung found him the very first day. The sorcerer drew precise lines and symbols on the ground, before turning to Jisung a satisfied glint in his eyes.
"Jisung, I want you to try passing through this barrier," Seungmin instructed, gesturing towards his drawing. "Let's see if it's just the shop's barrier that you can bypass or if it's a broader ability."
Jisung attempted to cross the barrier, but as expected, he couldn't penetrate its magical defenses. Seungmin observed carefully, humming in thought.
Reflecting on the outcome, Seungmin concluded, "It seems that you can only pass through the shop's barrier, Jisung. It's quite… perplexing, but it confirms that your ability is limited to this particular magical protection."
Seungmin's mind buzzed with theories and possibilities, he knew for sure that Jisung's ability wasn't immunity to magic since the sleeping powder worked on him, but rather a specific connection to the antique shop's enchantments. Determined to uncover more, Seungmin asked for Jisung's presence again the next day, eager to continue their investigation.
✨🪄✨
As Jisung arrived at the shop the following day, he encountered a new face in the room. Seungmin introduced the person as Hyunjin, his dormmate and a muse—a unique individual who acted as a creative buffer for those around him, fueling their inspiration. Hyunjin exuded an aura of effortless creativity and grace, which Jisung thought was fitting for a muse (not that he knew much about magical beings, but anyway).
Seungmin explained, "Jisung, I invited Hyunjin because I hope his presence might trigger some inspiration or ideas regarding your connection to the shop. We need all the insight we can get.“
Jisung nodded and exchanged hellos with Hyunjin while staring curiously at Seungmin as he prepared what they needed for his first test of the day.
Seungmin started to explain that the first test involved a magical genetic screening, ensuring that Jisung was truly 100% human, just as Felix had perceived.
As Seungmin requested Jisung to spit inside a vial, making the other two boys share a disgusted look, Hyunjin engaged Jisung in conversation. He took the opportunity to delve deeper into Jisung's life, his warm smile inviting open conversation. They discussed Jisung's age (22 just like Seungmin and Felix) and his major (biology) before delving into the reason he was here.
"So, Jisung, what drew you to the antique shop in the first place?" Hyunjin inquired, genuinely interested.
Hyunjin's friendly demeanor put Jisung at ease. His confident smile revealed a hint of mischief, hinting at the untamed spirit that lay beneath his handsome exterior.
“Well,” Jisung started, “I was looking for something unique and meaningful for Felix. He's been such an incredible friend and dormmate, and I wanted his gift to reflect that.“
Hyunjin nodded appreciatively, his eyes shining with understanding. "That's thoughtful of you, Jisung. And how did you meet Seungmin? In the shop?“
Jisung's gaze shifted to Seungmin who was concentrated on making vials and books float in the air and intricate symbols and incantations dancing around the room. "Ah, no.” He chuckled. “We met thanks to our shared classes. Seungmin has always been the one who aces every statistics exam, making the rest of us look like idiots in comparison."
Seungmin responded, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Hey now, don't sell yourself short, Jisung. You've got your own unique talents, even if they aren’t mathematical prowess."
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, creating an air of camaraderie within the shop. Hyunjin did such a great job distracting Jisung that he didn’t even notice Seungmin was done and had confirmation that Jisung was indeed 100% human.
Seungmin shared with the other two the results of the test and, both Seungmin and Hyunjin exchanged bewildered glances as the test confirmed Jisung's undeniable humanity.
Jisung watched Seungmin and Hyunjin exchanging puzzled glances, failing to understand the gravity of the situation. He furrowed his brows and finally mustered the courage to ask, "Hey, have you ever tried to see if any other human could enter the shop?"
Hyunjin chuckled, assuming Jisung was making a lighthearted joke. But as Jisung's earnest gaze met his, a realization dawned upon him, and his laughter faded. “Oh. Shit, you're serious, aren't you?"
Seungmin, sensing the need for clarity, intervened. "Jisung, the thing is, the shop is not just protected against humans, it's completely invisible to them. You, somehow, are an exception.”
Jisung's eyes widened with the new information. The shop was visible and allowed entrance to magical beings, those with magical abilities and him. Apparently.
Seungmin then turned to Jisung, his voice filled with determination. "Jisung, I'm going to need your help for the next round of tests. I have some ideas I'd like to try out."
Jisung's curiosity matched Seungmin's, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Of course. I'm just as curious as you are."
As they bid farewell for the day, Jisung left the shop charged with the excitement of discovery. The next day couldn’t arrive fast enough.
✨🪄✨
The next day, as Jisung stepped into the antique shop, he found Seungmin hunched over a cluttered desk, surrounded by stacks of books and parchment. Intrigued, Jisung observed silently, noticing for the first time the subtle aura of magic that seemed to emanate from Seungmin. There was a grace and confidence in his movements, a familiarity with the arcane that Jisung had never noticed before.
Curiosity getting the better of him, Jisung finally spoke up. "Seungmin, what are you doing?"
Seungmin looked up from his notes with a smile, his eyes flickering with determination and excitement. "I'm doing some research on your... special ability," he replied.
“I see,” Jisung said, “What’s in store for today, then?”
“I want to see if you’re under some kind of magical spell or something. That could explain why you’re able to enter the shop.”
Jisung couldn't help but feel a slight pang of worry. “Like some kind of curse?"
Seungmin reassured him with a gentle smile. “No, not really, don't worry, Jisung. Today's test is simply to determine if there are any magical influences at play. Curses are… Something else entirely."
As Seungmin continued to work, Jisung's gaze remained fixed on him. He watched as Seungmin’s fingers were effortlessly gliding through the air as if guided by an invisible force. Seungmin's notes floated beside him, organized and accessible, adding to the air of controlled chaos.
With deft hands, he carefully plucked petals from vibrant sunflowers, intertwining them with delicate blossoms of different hues. Each movement was deliberate and precise, as if the sorcerer held an intimate connection with the flowers themselves. Jisung watched in awe as Seungmin's fingers danced gracefully, effortlessly infusing a small pouch with the essence of these enchanting blooms. The sight left Jisung with a deep admiration for Seungmin's skill, his expertise in handling magic was truly mesmerizing to Jisung.
"Pass me the lilies' powder, please?" Seungmin suddenly requested, causing Jisung to furrow his brows in confusion. "Sure, where is it?"
Seungmin's expression shifted to one of flustered embarrassment as he realized his mistake. "Oh, not you, Jisung. I was speaking to the vines," he clarified, his cheeks turning a soft shade of pink.
Jisung couldn't help but blush as well. He continued to watch in awe as Seungmin deftly worked on the concoction, the vines on the walls of the shop gracefully providing him with the required ingredients and instruments.
In that moment, Jisung's appreciation for Seungmin deepened. He saw the sorcerer's unwavering concentration, his intellect and expertise in magic shining through. And as he took in Seungmin's features, Jisung couldn't help but notice the subtle attractiveness that had escaped his attention until now.
Seungmin, setting aside his work momentarily, turned his gaze towards Jisung, his eyes filled with curiosity. "Jisung, now that you've been introduced to the magical world, do you have any questions? I'm sure there's plenty you're curious about."
Jisung scratched the back of his head, his cheeks tinged with a blush. "Well, I may have bombarded Felix with every question that crossed my mind. I asked him if vampires and werewolves are real, and if they're anything like in Twilight," he confessed, embarrassment evident in his voice.
Seungmin couldn't help but chuckle, finding Jisung's earnest curiosity endearing. "Oh, I feel bad for Felix now.”
Jisung's blush deepened, but he couldn't suppress a sheepish smile. "I just couldn't help myself. It's all so fascinating, you know? I never imagined there could be creatures like vampires or werewolves living alongside us."
Seungmin nodded, understanding Jisung's awe and fascination. “It's understandable. It's natural to want to know more. I hope it wasn’t a let down to know Twilight’s rendition of vampires and werewolves is no where near real, though.”
“Well, knowing they exist is still a win for sure.” Jisung grinned.
Seungmin nodded, delighted by Jisung's enthusiasm. "You've only scratched the surface, Jisung. There’s much more out there than vampires and werewolves.“
“True, there are dormmates with pixie blood and kind sorcerers that control vines and make things float. And a muse that’s really pretty like, are all muses as beautiful as Hyunjin or is it just him? Because it would make sense either way, you know?” Jisung stopped himself from rambling more, his cheek flushed a pretty pink.
Seungmin grinned, a hint of mischief in his eyes. “Don’t worry Hyunjin has that kind of effect on people. It’s part of being a muse.“
Jisung nodded still embarrassed by the display, even if Seungmin didn’t seem put off by it.
The sorcerer carefully sealed the pouch containing the crushed mixture and muttered an incantation under his breath, infusing it with a touch of magic. He handed the pouch to Jisung, his voice serious. "Jisung, keep this pouch with you at all times for the next week. Don't take it off, even when you sleep or shower. After the week is over, bring it back to me, and I'll burn it. The color of the smoke will reveal if you're under the influence of magic and if so, what kind."
Jisung accepted the pouch, holding it gingerly in his hands. He nodded, a determined expression on his face. “Okay. I'll make sure to follow your instructions."
Seungmin smiled warmly at Jisung. “If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to me. You know where to find me."
As the evening grew late, Jisung bid Seungmin goodbye and left the antique shop, clutching the pouch tightly. Thoughts swirled in his mind as he made his way home, a mix of anticipation and curiosity filling his heart. He was eager to see where this would lead.
As the days passed, Jisung found himself irresistibly drawn to the antique shop. Even though he didn't have to return until the end of the week with the pouch, he eagerly went there every day after class just to spend time with Seungmin. He tried to help with the shop's orders, but his lack of knowledge of magic almost resulted in a disaster that made Chan ban him from any further involvement.
"I mean it, Jisung," Chan firmly warned a mix of exasperation and amusement in his voice. "Don't touch anything. Just sit down and look pretty for Seungmin." Jisung couldn't help but blush at the teasing remark, stealing a quick glance at Seungmin, who also had a rosy tint on his cheeks.
Nonetheless, Jisung soon realized that Seungmin didn't actually need his help. Seungmin was an incredibly capable sorcerer, effortlessly handling the shop's tasks with grace and precision. Jisung admired him for his skill and dedication, finding himself more and more drawn to Seungmin's charming personality.
Seungmin had a wonderful sense of humor, always ready with a witty remark or a playful joke. He was kind and patient, guiding Jisung through the intricacies of the magical world whenever Jisung had questions. Seungmin's intelligence and diligence were evident in every magical task he performed, leaving Jisung in awe.
But there were moments when Seungmin’s... Weirdness shone through. Jisung couldn't help but smile when he witnessed Seungmin engaging in a full-on argument with the aloe vera plant beside the cash register, complete with animated hand gestures and an earnest expression. It was in those moments that Jisung found Seungmin truly enchanting.
As their friendship grew, Jisung found himself appreciating Seungmin more and more. He enjoyed their conversations, their shared laughter, and the comfort of his company. Being around Seungmin made Jisung feel alive and curious as if the world held endless wonders waiting to be discovered.
At the end of the agreed week time, Jisung came back to the shop with Felix since his dormmate had been more than curious to know the developments of Jisung and Seungmin’s investigation.
As Jisung and Felix entered the antique shop, Felix couldn't help but notice the abundance of larger and more vibrant plants scattered throughout the space. He found it strange and couldn't resist commenting on it. "Hey, Jisung, do you think the plants look...bigger? Something’s weird," Felix pondered aloud.
Jisung furrowed his brows. He hadn’t noticed but, as Felix mentioned, the plants did look bigger than last week and definitely bigger than his first time at the shop. The flowers flourished, their petals unfurling in vivid hues of crimson, gold, and sapphire. The air was permeated with an intoxicating fragrance, as if every blossom competed to release the most captivating scent, creating an enchanting atmosphere within the magical haven.
At the cash register, Chan greeted them with a warm smile. Felix couldn't contain his curiosity and asked Chan about the unusual growth of the plants. Chan's expression turned mischievous as he responded, "You noticed too? I've already talked to Seungmin about it. He mentioned that controlling his magic has been a bit challenging lately."
An exchange of bewildered glances passed between Felix and Chan, a silent acknowledgment of something they seemed to know but hadn't shared with Jisung. Oblivious to the unspoken conversation happening in front of him, Jisung brushed it all off as he focused on the upcoming meeting with Seungmin.
With a nod, Chan excused himself, promising to fetch Seungmin from the back room and return shortly.
Chan returned with Seungmin in tow, who greeted Felix and Jisung with a warm smile. A strange vibe hung in the air, causing Jisung and Seungmin to exchange never ending smiles without uttering a word. The silence was broken when Chan let out a fake cough, drawing their attention back to the task at hand.
Seungmin refocused himself and gently requested the pouch from Jisung, who readily handed it over. With the pouch in hand, they made their way to the back room, a sense of anticipation building within each of them. Seungmin placed the pouch in a metal bowl, retrieving a match to set it ablaze. The four of them leaned in, their eyes fixed on the rising smoke, suspense filling the room.
The smoke billowed upwards, swirling and dancing in the air, before revealing its true color—a pristine white. Seungmin, Chan, and Felix exchanged bewildered glances, their expressions mirroring their thoughts. Jisung, oblivious to the meaning behind the color, looked at them with an eager expression, silently pleading for an explanation.
Chan cleared his throat. "White represents purity," he began, his tone serious. "It means that Jisung is untouched by magic. He isn't under any magical influence."
Realization washed over Jisung, filling him with a sense of relief and joy. He wasn’t cursed. Seungmin had reassured him before, but seeing this smoke actually made him feel better. Uncursed Jisung called for celebration.
However, the perplexity on the faces of Seungmin, Chan, and Felix remained, as they still grappled with the mystery of why Jisung could enter the magical shop despite being human. Nothing they tried until now was helping them understand this mystery, leaving them even more bewildered than before.
✨🪄✨
Since Jisung got used to his little routine of coming back to the shop every day after classes, he ended up entering the shop the next day, as usual.
As Jisung walked into the shop, he couldn't help but admire the vibrant and thriving sunflowers around him, they seemed to sway gently as he passed them by. However, his attention was quickly drawn to the conversation between Seungmin and Hyunjin that he inadvertently overheard.
Hyunjin's voice cut through the air, "Are you sure it's just curiosity that has you so obsessed with him?"
Seungmin responded defensively, "I'm not obsessed with Jisung."
Hyunjin's tone hinted at disbelief, "Sure."
Seungmin persisted, "I'm not."
A hint of concern laced Hyunjin's words, "Have you noticed your magic is different when he's around?"
Seungmin evaded, "I don't know what you're talking about."
Jisung felt his heart race as Hyunjin sighed, his voice filled with understanding, "Listen, Seungmin, I'm not judging you or anything. You know we can all see it, right? It's not just your good mood that's making the plants grow faster around here."
Seungmin tried to dismiss it, "What if I'm just happy?"
With a gentle tone, Hyunjin replied, "Then, as your friend, I'm glad. And I'm sure having him around does make you happy... You should tell him."
Seungmin's response was swift, "Shut it, Hyunjin."
Hyunjin concluded with a playful tone, "Fine, come find me when you're ready to stop ignoring your feelings."
Feeling a mix of curiosity and embarrassment, Jisung quickly realized he had unintentionally eavesdropped on a personal conversation. Flustered, he decided it was best to leave, not wanting to intrude any further on Seungmin and Hyunjin's discussion. As he made his exit, Jisung couldn't shake the nagging thoughts that lingered in his mind, wondering what exactly about Seungmin's magic was different. He also couldn't help but wonder if there was something more between him and Seungmin, something beyond friendship and curiosity about magical shop trespassing.
✨🪄✨
The next day, Jisung walked into the shop as usual, spotting Chan at the front counter. Feeling a surge of curiosity, he approached Chan, unable to contain his question any longer. "Hey, Chan, have you noticed anything weird about Seungmin's magic lately?" Jisung asked, his eyes filled with curiosity and determination.
Chan hesitated for a moment, his eyes shifting uncomfortably. "Well, Jisung, it's not really my place to say," he replied cautiously, trying to choose his words carefully. "But let's just say that Seungmin's magic has been... a bit different."
Jisung's eyes widened with anticipation, sensing that there was more to the story. "Different? In what way?" he pressed.
Chan sighed, realizing he couldn't evade the question entirely. "Look, Jisung, I really can’t tell you more, but Seungmin's magic seems to respond differently when you're around. It's as if..." Chan trailed off, struggling to find the right words.
Jisung leaned in, his curiosity reaching its peak. "As if what?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Chan hesitated for a moment, then replied with a small smile, "As if it's dancing to a new tune, one that only you can play."
Jisung's eyes widened in surprise, his heart skipping a beat. He couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness at the thought. He was determined to pay closer attention to Seungmin's magic now.
After the conversation with Chan, Jisung made his way to the back room where Seungmin was usually busy with shop tasks. As he entered, a smile stretched across his face, unable to contain his excitement. "Hey, Seungmin! Sorry I didn't come yesterday, got caught up with homework and all," Jisung said, deciding it was best if he didn’t tell Seungmin he had been here the day before.
Seungmin looked up from his work, a playful glint in his eyes. "Homework, huh? I guess I can forgive you this time," he teased, a smirk tugging at his lips. "But now that your villain responsibilities are out of the way, you can fully enjoy the incredible company of yours truly."
Jisung laughed, playfully rolling his eyes. "Of course, how could I resist the allure of your incredible company? It's irresistible," he replied, his voice filled with mock admiration.
As Seungmin continued arranging the shop's inventory, the surrounding plants seemed to sway and twist as if moving in harmony with their conversation. But Jisung remained focused on Seungmin, his attention fixed on the sorcerer before him. They chatted about various topics, from mundane to magical, their laughter filling the air as they enjoyed each other's company, oblivious to the enchanting dance of the plants around them.
✨🪄✨
Some days passed and Jisung returned to the shop with Felix in tow. Seungmin had told him the day before that he had a new test to try if Jisung was up for it. Which, of course, he was. He was still very much intrigued as to why he could enter the antique shop so easily while no other human could even see it.
As Jisung and Felix stepped inside the antique shop, the sunflowers immediately turned their heads, their vibrant petals following Jisung's every step.
A shiver ran down Jisung's spine, and he couldn't help but comment, "Okay, those sunflowers are seriously creeping me out. Why do they keep staring at me?“
Felix couldn't help but burst into laughter, finding the sight amusing and earning a puzzled look from Jisung.
At the counter, Chan, Hyunjin, and Seungmin greeted Jisung and Felix with warm smiles. The room was filled with friendly banter as they exchanged hellos and engaged in light conversation. However, Jisung couldn't shake off his curiosity about the sunflowers' unusual behavior.
"Hey, what's up with the sunflowers? Why do they keep following me around?“
Hyunjin playfully interjected, "Oh, you noticed that too? Yeah, what's the deal with the sunflowers, Seungmin?" Light laughter bubbled up from everyone except Seungmin and Jisung.
Seungmin let out a small sigh but without a hint of real anger in his voice. "It's nothing, Jisung. Just ignore it," he replied. Jisung couldn't help but feel like there was something more to it, something he was oblivious to.
Seungmin shifted the conversation, explaining the magical test he had prepared for Jisung that day. He described, "I've combined the power of the full moon with the purity of elemental water magic, channeled through this crystal. It's meant to unlock any latent moon-related abilities you might possess, Jisung. Since moon magic follows a cyclical pattern, it might explain why we couldn't detect any magic in you before.“
The sorcerer explained that he needed a drop of Jisung’s blood but reassured Jisung that it wouldn’t hurt.
Jisung, trying to lighten the mood, joked, "I thought the blood rituals would come much sooner in our magical journey together.“
Laughter erupted, easing the tension. Even Chan chuckled, shaking his head at Jisung's remark. Seungmin couldn't help but smile at Jisung's humor, appreciating how he could always lighten the mood.
As the laughter subsided, Seungmin took a needle in his hand. With the needle in one hand and Jisung's hand in the other, Seungmin prepared to draw a small amount of blood for the test. Jisung couldn't help but notice how soft and warm Seungmin's hand felt, and he met Seungmin's gaze before nodding to give him consent. As Seungmin pricked Jisung’s index finger, carefully collecting a droplet of blood and directing it onto the crystal, an incantation rolled off his tongue.
The five boys stood in silence, filled with anticipation, their breaths held. When nothing happened, Hyunjin sighed in disappointment, breaking the silence, "Well, that was anticlimactic.“
While Hyunjin, Felix, and Chan expressed their letdown, Jisung and Seungmin locked eyes, still holding hands. A small smile spread across Seungmin's face, mirrored by Jisung’s. The sorcerer gently squeezed Jisung's hand before releasing it, a silent reassurance that despite the results of this test, this wasn’t the end yet.
✨🪄✨
Jisung was a bit confused. Admittedly, there are a lot of things he doesn’t understand. Most of all when the subject is magic. But lately, things have been changing.
Jisung couldn't help but notice the subtle changes in Chan's demeanor, the mischievous glint in his eyes as he looked at Jisung, as if he held a secret. Chan's teasing had also increased, playful remarks and knowing smirks becoming a regular occurrence.
But it wasn't just Chan. Even Felix had started asking peculiar questions, seemingly innocent but carrying a hidden meaning. He would inquire if Jisung had enjoyed dinner with Seungmin (he did, magical research had them both hungry more often than not) or if Seungmin had given him any special gifts (he didn’t, unless the magical pouch counted). Jisung found himself growing more and more puzzled by these inquiries, sensing that there was an underlying message he was missing.
And then there was Seungmin himself, acting a bit differently around Jisung. Jisung couldn't help but notice the occasional flustered moments, the faint blush that colored Seungmin's cheeks, making him even more adorable in Jisung's eyes. Whether it was a result of their magical investigations or something else entirely, Jisung couldn't deny the way his heart fluttered at the sight.
Seungmin's intelligence and determination, coupled with his kindness and gentle nature, only further fueled Jisung's admiration. He found himself drawn to Seungmin's presence, his mind wandering to thoughts that were a little more than friendly. Jisung couldn't help but think that Seungmin was not just cute, but also undeniably hot and sexy especially when he furrowed his brows in concentration.
Jisung finally admitted to himself the truth that had been growing steadily within him - he liked Seungmin a lot, perhaps even more than he had realized. Even in the midst of frustration, as the sorcerer searched for answers to unlock Jisung's mysterious connection to magic, Jisung found solace in the company of Seungmin, cherishing every moment spent together.
As days went by, Jisung couldn't ignore the most perplexing change of all - the plants inside the shop. They had grown exponentially since he first laid eyes on them. What were once small, delicate blooms had now transformed into magnificent, towering specimens that seemed to reach for the ceiling. The sheer size of the shop's plants was astonishing, leaving Jisung in awe and wonder.
But it wasn't just their size that captivated Jisung's attention. The sunflowers, in particular, continued to turn to him, following him wherever he went. It was impossible to ignore. No matter how much Seungmin assured him it was nothing, Jisung couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that there was more to it.
The most astonishing part was when Seungmin and Jisung found themselves alone in the shop. It was as if a silent symphony played out before their eyes. The plants swayed and danced, their leaves rustling with an otherworldly rhythm, responding to a magic that Jisung was just beginning to comprehend.
While Jisung had been oblivious to certain subtleties, he wasn't blind or stupid. Jisung knew that there was a connection between Seungmin, the plants, and the enchanting atmosphere that surrounded them. Seungmin was an earth sorcerer and Jisung might not know a lot about magic, but he knew this was all connected. And if the plants were so weird, then maybe it was confirmation that Seungmin was too.
With each passing day, Jisung's curiosity grew alongside his growing feelings for Seungmin. Jisung thought that maybe it was time to take the bull by the horns. He had asked for no more secrets, and it was time for him to get to the bottom of this.
✨🪄✨
Jisung couldn't contain his interest any longer and finally mustered the courage to confront Seungmin about the extraordinary changes happening in the shop. With a determined look on his face, he approached Seungmin from where he was shelving enchantment book.
"Seungmin, please tell me what’s going on with the plants here. I feel like the sunflowers are staring at me, and like, it’s a bit creepy but I don’t mind that much, but I really want to know why. Please don't tell me it's nothing. It's clearly something, and it's not just affecting you, but the entire shop." Jisung pleaded, his eyes searching Seungmin's for answers.
Seungmin's eyes widened, a mix of surprise and flustered realization washing over him. He took a deep breath before mustering the courage to speak, his voice laced with vulnerability.
"You're right, Jisung. It's not nothing. The truth is... I like you. Romantically. That's why the plants have been growing more and everything. Your presence, your smile, it puts me in a good mood, and the plants and the flowers– my magic, it responds to that… To you." Seungmin admitted, his cheeks flushed with a rosy hue.
Jisung's heart skipped a beat, his surprise giving way to a warm smile. He reached out, gently taking Seungmin's hand in his own, feeling the flutter of excitement coursing through his veins.
“That’s incredibly cute," Jisung replied, his voice filled with genuine affection.
Seungmin’s flustered state got even worse after hearing those words, “In that case, Jisung, would you like to go on a date with me?”
Jisung couldn't help but let out a small giggle, a happy glint mixed with vulnerability in his eyes. “Of course, yes, but would you really want to date a human? A weird one who stumbles through magical barriers?"
Seungmin's eyes sparkled with determination and affection as he responded, "I don't care about any of that, Jisung. I care about you. And we have all our lives to figure out your magical weirdness."
A playful grin formed on Jisung's face as he teased, "Oh wow, we're spending all our lives together, and you didn't even take me on a date yet."
Seungmin's cheeks flushed an even deeper shade of red as he stammered, "Shut up, Jisung!" his flustered voice filled with a mix of embarrassment and excitement.
In the midst of that enchanting atmosphere, Jisung found himself drawn closer to Seungmin, their hearts beating in synchrony. A soft smile played on Jisung's lips as he leaned in, his voice barely a whisper.
“Why don’t you make me?," Jisung murmured, his words tinged with a playful yet affectionate tone.
Seungmin's eyes sparkled with a mix of anticipation and tenderness as he closed the distance between them. Time seemed to stand still as their lips met in a gentle and magical kiss. As their lips moved in perfect harmony, a soft glow enveloped them as if the very essence of their affection was illuminating the space around them. The dancing plants seemed to sway in harmony with their embrace celebrating the beginning of something more.
Their kiss held the promise of countless shared adventures, magical nights, and tender moments. It was a kiss that spoke of dreams and possibilities, sealing their bond in a moment that felt timeless and infinite.
When they finally broke apart, their foreheads rested gently against each other, their breaths mingling. They exchanged a knowing smile, their eyes reflecting incredible affection.
A mischievous grin tugged at the corners of Jisung's lips as he teased Seungmin. "So... If I understood correctly… You were so gone for me that the sunflowers followed me like I'm their freaking sun?"
Seungmin let out a snort, his cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and affection. "You'll never shut up about this, won't you?" he replied, a hint of exasperation lacing his words.
Jisung's smug expression only grew, but it was accompanied by a warm glimmer in his eyes. "Nope, I'll be reminding you of this forever, Mr. Plant Whisperer. Also, does this mean I get unlimited access to sleeping powder now?"
Seungmin rolled his eyes playfully, unable to suppress the smile that tugged at his lips. “I regret this already."
Jisung's hand reached out to gently intertwine their fingers, his touch conveying both affection and mischief. “Sure Seungmin. I think we make quite the pair, actually."
As they shared a laugh, their hearts intertwined with the joy and excitement of their newfound love. In that moment, they knew that their journey together would be filled with endless teasing, laughter, and a love that would continue to grow, just like the vibrant and enchanting plants within the magical shop.
✨🪄✨