ripple beach

@hwang hyunjin ˆ❤⌢ ᐞ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Oh heavens no, don’t think anything badly of your suggestions, or if you’re unsure too, I for one feel a bit clueless most times about too many things out there. However, with food, I’m a certified foodie, so I love trying way too many things out there.” Xiaoting states with a happy grin on her pink brims, she already decided to grab the cheeseburger and a little chuckle is being sounded when the serious man states his opinion on cheese.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You know Hyunjin, you’re picky with food, sure, but I think it’s rather endearing and a smidge bit of amusing as well,” Xiaoting once again speaks up, the woman shaking her head just a bit with soft chuckles slipping past her soft couplets, shoulders moving up and down a little as time goes on, only for her to lift her hand and flag one of the waiters over to their table.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “I guess, we’d be ordering the same dish after all, however, I might just ask them to get their best beer for us. I am not a beer expert, I’m more of a wine person, so I can ask them what’s the best to go with the burgers perhaps?” Once she queries with the taller, the waiter is doing his rounds first after lifting a hand to show her that he would be coming over soon and her attention is quick to flee over to the male opposite her. Orbs widened and curious, almost doe-like upon looking at Hyunjin and pondering over the name before clearing .

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “It’s not a bad thing to just go with the flow you know, even with naming your smithing tools, I think it’s neat you do that, you form a bond with them too, I like that,” a small smile plays on her lips before glancing over at the sea once more as if in deep deliberation before whispering. “Hyunjin, I must confess to one thing, however, I wanted to laugh earlier and it’s not because of the name, heavens no, but I am Chinese as you can see and hear from my heavy accent, and for a quick moment there, I thought I heard you called the hammer ‘tiddies’ instead of ‘tiddles’.” Taking a deep breath, cheeks tainted pink and bright under the chandeliers on the ceiling, the young woman winces as she expressed the honesty behind her reaction earlier, biting down on her lower lip and trying to not look at the male across from her in fear of upsetting him.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Horrible, I know.” She murmurs solemnly before ducking her head in shame. ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀҄ˆ❤⌢ ᐞ

Beach Day had an especially festive air around it. The green leaves drifting in the wind seemed like confetti and the chatter around town chirped with a cheer unique to summertime. Such events were what made Rigbarth such a comforting place, even for visitors.

Naturally, increased activity called for increased vigilance and Wheein was not one to slack on her patrols. Her routine brought her to each establishment to check in with the residents. A typical day provided no trouble, if not for the occasional request to obtain a specific item or deliver a message to particular person. Afterward, she inspected the town’s perimeter, both to ensure the monster activity remained manageable and to guide any lost travelers. Despite the mundanity, it never meant her work was lackluster. Rather, her work helped to usher peace.

The heat of the afternoon sun brought Wheein to a bench by the shore. She gave directions to a couple searching for the festival grounds but dropped her smile as soon as they were out of sight. Although she came to Rigbarth to distance herself from her title, there was still a cavern to cross before she could truly be part of a community. But if she was anything, she was persistent. With a deep breath to reset her thoughts, she stood and brushed herself off. Beach Day was still ongoing and she was not going to allow herself to become lenient.

@shen xiaoting Hyunjin nodded in agreement, it would be nice to have someone else other than his brother to spend time with in the odd event he decided that he needed time off from work. It probably wouldn't be immediately, at least per his request, that they would meet up again. "It is quite refreshing. Having someone new to talk as well is quite nice."

"Oh." Hyunjin couldn't help but feel a slightly guilty that he had mentioned anything for his distaste for seafood. It was quite unfortunate for him that he lived in a town that was right by the sea and relied heavily on fishing and seafood for it's cuisine. "I think just steak fries, cheese is only good on pizza and burgers." He stated again. If there was anything he was sure Xiaoting would learn about him tonight it was his distaste for a lot of foods. "What are you thinking about getting?" He asked curiously.

"I only drank beer a few other times. I think it tastes good with burgers. At least that is what I heard." He admitted. "I think it depends on the type of beer, some are better than others... apparently." He trailed off thinking of how he couldn't offer any suggestions. "I can't offer any suggestions though." He looked at Xiao as she moves her chair slightly. When the female answered his question he nodded lightly with a soft smile. "Hard work makes people hungry, can't blame you." He chuckled lightly. "Nothing wrong in wanting to enjoy your favorite foods."

Hyunjin felt the pause after admitting that he names his tools, and wasn't sure what to say. It was the other clearing that caught his attention again, and when she finally says something he felt a small sense of relief. He wasn't sure what the case was but it was far and few between that he let anyone knew anything like that about him. "Uhm, honestly..." He trailed off, looking back at her. "It just came to me. Nothing super special about it." He said nervously.

@hwang hyunjin ༺═──────═༻⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Xiaoting was genuinely and gleefully surprised to know that Hyunjin was even considering hanging out again after today. “Really? That’s such a nice notion, why thank you Hyunjin, I appreciate it a lot. Heavens know I haven’t been able to meet many friends as of late as well. I’ve been invested with work and I literally… Don’t have friends of the opposite , so this is… refreshing,” she laughs a bit and rubs at her nape sheepishly, clearing , she cannot deny the fact that the man wants to order a cheeseburger, which brings her excitement at the prospect. insatiably waters at the thought.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You know what? I think I am craving one of those too, it has been quite a long while if you count a week since I’ve last had a hefty cheeseburger, so would you mind if I order the same? Do you take steak fries with yours or cheesy fries? Curled fries?” She murmurs curiously upon finding the section with the burgers and side dishes for them, trailing a finger down to the other options that are given for the meal’s side deal before glancing up at the male with a tilt of her head.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Sadly, we can’t have wine with that, however, are you a beer drinker? I don’t usually drink beer honestly, but I am up for trying new things tonight, just like this date is one of the firsts for me, so what do you think?” Mumbling out softly, but loud and clear enough for the taller to hear her, she even shifts her chair a bit closer to the table, so that when she leans forward on the table, her voice can be carried over. Xiaoting can be quite soft-spoken even if she’s blunt and boisterous in her likes and dislikes, she isn’t ashamed of being who she is, her voice is still soft and light, it takes a lot to hear her sometimes and she knows this. Especially when she’s going through the entire menu and saying soft remarks about, ‘oh this looks nice,’ and ‘oh, that’s just horrible.’

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Shaking her head once, she places the menu back down, folding her slender digits into her hands while staring at the man with intrigue, lips tilting up into a smile and eyes shining with excitement and mirth. “I’d order the same as you and you can decide what fries you’d rather. Hm, I’m thinking to try the cheese fries and steak fries, as I’ve told you, shameless as it is, I’m a huge foodie and I love me some junk food.”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Xiaoting has been so focused on choosing the perfect dinner option that her ear did a double-take, her accent and understanding of the different languages sometimes play tricks on her. It’s one of those instances right now that she has to do a double take and look at the boy curiously and not sell herself out from chuckling. She doesn’t want the boy to think she’s laughing at his choice of a name but christ! Xiaoting swore she heard him say `tiddies` how embarrassing! Instead, she clears , bringing a hand up to fan her cheeks and she looks out at the view, admiring the sea and trying to talk as steadily as possible. “Tiddles? That’s honestly endearing, where did you get the name from?” She murmurs, now facing the handsome man before her, with intrigue lacing her features once again, truly curious as to where he got such an idea of a name for a Hammer of all tools, as well. It's pretty cute and unique. ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ༺═──────═༻

@shen xiaoting The laughter coming from the other throughout the night was nice. Of course, Hyunjin and his master joked around a lot but it was different when it was coming from a friendly figure. The male hadn't realized that he had been so cooped up for a long time, the only people he ever really interacted with was his brother and the smithy master.

Hyunjin's intentions are never to hurt people's feelings, however he hears a lot from his brother that he needs to practice saying things in a nicer manner and not being so blunt. Except, the blacksmith didn't understand the social cues or interactions of others that well, especially females. "Of course." He said simply, he could hear the sincerity in Xiao's voice, but was afraid things wouldn't be okay. He didn't know the female that well, but hoped that she would be just as honest as she is dedicated. "I do think we can find another time to hang out again." He let her know again. "Or at least keep in touch a little more than what we have been before."

Hyunjin had somehow grown used to the compliments from the other in the short amount of time that they have been hanging together, but still he shook his head a little bit. "I just-" he paused biting his bottom lip so nervously. He actually realized he was that much of a picky eater before, not really having to have someone else to figure out what to eat with. "I actually just see a regular cheeseburger." He said, it was simple but honestly just enough for the male.

"Drinks? I actually do like a bit of wine sometimes, or other alcoholic drinks. I don't drink much but I do like the taste of them with some foods." He admitted, the male never really did get drunk, which he knew a few people he often talked to at his work did. "You can get seafood, I don't mind. It doesn't bother me if I'm not the one eating it." He hadn't told the full truth, depending on what was on the plate did kinda bother him, but he wanted her to be able to enjoy her food as much as he could enjoy his.

The male blinked a little bit at the others sudden question. It caught him by surprise, but not in a wrong way. The male actually did. A small chuckle escaped Hyunjin's mouth at the others comment. "I don't know that I talk to them like a baby, but I do talk to my tools, and I even name them." He admitted, rather easily as well. The female in front of him, had a charming ability of allowing Hyunjin to be more relaxed and himself. He was honestly felt free of judgement, so it was no surprise when he stated. "I actually have a hammer named Tiddles."

@hwang hyunjin ╰✦･ﾟ✵ *:･ﾟ✦╮⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀The timing of the boy’s words as he tries to get out what he really feels, from what he hinders upon revealing amuses Xiaoting to a farther extent. This night has barely begun and she feels as if she’s laughing much more than she usually would. Sure, she hangs out with her friends and goes out and the likes when they ‘drag’ her with them. However, she’s always left wondering what can she do better to enhance her stones, how to add a bit more magical components to them, upon worshipping the moon and the sun, adding their energy into the marvelous beauty of gems. Here, her mind wanders off again, thinking about `work` and she has to try her utmost best to snap out of her reverie with a sheepish smile being placed on pink tinted brims.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Hey, relax hm? I think you’ve noticed by now that you can say just about ‘anything’ to me, and I don’t even feel an ounce of shame or offended by whatever you’d like to express. I’m someone you can be yourself with, so don’t be wary, I know it would take its time so I’m in no rush, but I’m just reassuring you.” Nodding her head with a gentle smile playing on her soft tiers, she glances over at the expressions placed on the male’s handsome features, noting how he scrunches up his nose and brows a bit, his lips twisting in disgust, all signs of how picky of an eater he can be which amuses her like no other yet again.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You’re cute please,” laughing out softly, she shakes her head once with a little tut of her tongue against the roof of , pursing out her lips thoughtfully while pondering. “Okay, so you’re a picky eater, you despise fried chicken, you dislike seafood, you love fruit sandwiches, hm, what is it on the menu that caught your eye?” Peeking over at the other’s menu, as if trying to see which page it's on, Xiaoting is curious to know what dish the taller has chosen, she’s quick to flick her eyes back at him curiously with a little tilt of her head.

“Speaking of, do you enjoy wine? Or any sparkling drinks? Alcoholic? Non-alcoholic? Either work, I’m just wondering,” she muses thoughtfully, the petite woman looks over her menu as well, noting the drinks section to see what would compliment her chosen dish. “I am feeling for seafood so I surely, hope it won’t nauseate you in any way?” She’s concerned, looking up from the paper to the other, wanting him to be as comfortable as possible and also, making it known that she’s considerate of others' likes and dislikes.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “If it does, I don’t have a problem with choosing another dish such as; the lamb steak looks divine as well, and maybe a caesar salad.” She murmurs more to herself than anything, but she’s pretty sure the man opposite her can hear her ramblings, something Xiaoting does a lot. Either talk to herself when working, or rambling about things when being in the company of others or, with someone else, which brings about her second question.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Do you speak to your tools when making them? Your products? It’s a funny thing to ask and I might seem even weirder to you, but I tend to speak to my crystal stones when I’m making them as if they’re a baby being reproduced.” A hint of a smile tugs on her couplets and she isn’t an ounce ashamed upon admitting to something as dorky as that to the other. Xiaoting is the type to bear her soul and tendencies out to others, rather than being reserved. She believes that once she’s honest with someone, they can quickly accept or reject whom she is, whether it be as a person, a co-worker, a friend, a date, or anyone for that matter. ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀╰✦･ﾟ✵ *:･ﾟ✦╮

@shen xiaoting Hyunjin couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle shaking his head at the others playfulness. "I honestly don't think I've ever been complimented like that." He admitted honestly, not thinking about it much. Joking around wasn't something Hyunjin did often, and didn't match his serious aura, but he had to say that being around someone who wasn't completely serious in the moment as he was. The male had considered joking a bit himself, but decided against it. It would be his luck that he would make things worse than before.

He was caught off guard by the others response when he had mentioned what he was afraid of. Hyunjin had to admit that he was enjoying his time out, but it was hard for him to bring himself to take more time away from work than he had to. Hyunjin decided he would hear the female out, taking note of the things she was saying. Honestly, Hyunjin thought he would be paired with some 'annoying' girl that would bother him all the time. Not that there wasn't anything wrong with someone wanting constant attention, and Hyunjin understood that everyone had their own prefrences, but he was one who was a bit more committed to his work than others. "You know, I actually apologize." He stated after Xiao finished her piece.

"You're right. I admit I was honestly expecting the worse, my brothers taste in people is completely different than mine, he loves chatting and hanging around people a lot more often than I do, so I was afraid I was going to end up with someone who..." He paused before he continued, trying to be more consciously aware of the things he was saying outloud. "What I mean is, as you already know, I am very committed to my work, but it might not be so bad to take more time off later... with you." That was the closest he could bring himself to admit that he too, had been enjoying his time out.

A soft 'thanks' escaped the males lips as he took the menu that was handed to him and looked it over. He had to hide his disgust for over half the food on the menu, as the male was more of a picky eater than he would like to admit. "I don't have any allergies but..." his eyes quickly glanced from item to item. "I'm very picky."

He sighed in relief once he found something he could eat. "I actually am not a big fan of seafood." He admitted placing his menu flat on the table looking up at his date.

@hwang hyunjin ஜ☆❀☆ஜ ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Xiaoting would’ve been offended if she wasn’t having fun talking with the other. However, she feigns hurt by pressing a hand to her chest where her heart `should` be located, all the while gasping upon hearing the ‘strange’ comment. “Oh, my, you kind sir, or so I thought, you’re actually feeling weirded out by being told something nice? Tch tch, Hyunjin you surely would be considered unique for the record and I adequately say this too.”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Reassuring the taller man that she means no harm or anything negative by it, her lips pull into a soft smile as she’s settling into the chair, his chivalry apparently isn’t dead and upon knowing that he hasn’t gone on many dates and occupied himself out and about with others, she’s left wondering if he picked up these little tidbit habits from novels or shows, or what —

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You feel uncomfortable with me asking to meet you outside of work once again? Is that what scared you? Or made you feel wary about the circumstance? I’m truly sorry if that’s the case, it wasn’t my intention, I just think, your company is really fun to be around. Hm, let me word this better, we have a lot more in common than I would’ve guessed, and I am enjoying the evening whereas, I was thinking my date was going to smell or he would be some oldie guy who’s going to be looking at me like I’m his sugar baby when I could’ve been at home having a nice glass of wine and reading a book to calm my mind from work. Yet, I came out with my friend's persistent nagging and I’m thankfully enjoying myself to the fullest, thanks to my date being `you.`”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Xiaoting flashes a tender smile, in hopes of not scaring him once more, or making him uncomfortable, it would be a shame if the lovely evening has to come to an end. With that remark, she’s quickly moving her hands to grab the menus on the side of their table, passing Hyunjin one laminated menu of the food, desserts, and drinks served here, before taking one for herself and flipping through curiously, taking in the different types of menus prepared. Seafood catches her eye and the aroma from being close to the ocean as well brings about a deep craving in her stomach to try something of the sea.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Are you allergic to any foods Hyunjin?” ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ஜ☆❀☆ஜ

@shen xiaoting Hyunjin completely felt awkward about the small outburst that he had simmered down a lot. "Of course we are talking about a raw chicken, not a live chicken..." He mumbled lightly as a joke to ease his self a bit. Of course it didn't help when the other had already complimented him once and also said the way he went into detail about the chicken was 'cute'. The male wasn't used to hearing things like that or about things he did.

"No, I think you're strange for thinking my smile is pretty." He admitted. He had never heard any kind of compliment or anything of the sort about him, it had only been about his work. He was happy that the male liked his work, he of course didn't know how to respond towards compliments. "I was afraid of this." Hyunjin admitted after the girl had mentioned of the possibility of meeting up anytime again after this date. "Meeting up again of course." He looked at Xiaoting and gave a slight nod. "I think it might be okay though. Actually, my master and I have rotisserie chicken together at work all the time." He adds lightly. "Of course, we can do it elsewhere."

Hyunjin didn't think much of it when the female grabbed his hand again and he followed her to the table that she had wanted to sit at, snorting lightly at the others nickname for himself.It had unknowingly made the male a little more comfortable about the situation though. He pulled out a chair for Xiao, allowing her to take a seat before he sat down just across from her. The male glanced at her, hearing the comment that she made. Instead of looking out the window, he actually examined the female in front of him, and maybe it was the atmosphere of the restaurant but the male suddenly understood what it had felt like to be on a date.

@hwang hyunjin 『 °*• ღ •*°』⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Call it intuition, but Xiaoting just knew deep down that the male would’ve said something ‘bad’ about liking fried chicken. The ‘abomination comment causes the woman to snort out an embarrassing laugh, it went straight from , traveling up to her nose and gliding out of her nostrils in an annoying, choked-out sound. It’s highly disgusting but Xiaoting finds herself at ease with the tall male that she couldn’t think anything badly of it.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “That’s a cute way of describing how to prepare rotisserie chicken, Hyunjin, it’s pretty amusing too that you had to mention sticking the stick up its poor arse too.” Shaking her head in mild amusement, the woman flashes him a cheeky grin, eyes lighting up in the dimmed lights from the restaurant’s ceiling chandeliers, adding to the sparks that are hidden in obsidian-filled orbs, hiding away all of the galaxies, the moon and the sun that the Fenghuang goes hand in hand with. Her power thrumming deep within the crimson flooding her veins, heating the silken smooth flesh that Xiaoting expresses as a hint of happiness there. She’s happy! First time in such a long time, she feels genuine elation and bliss, it’s not coming from helping others either, this is because she’s on a date with this unique man she worked alongside a couple of times.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “I am still reeling over the fact that customers get scared upon seeing a smile on your face. That’s just preposterous, I would’ve pegged them to be infatuated with how pretty your smile can be,” her blunt words don’t bother her in the lightest, Xiaoting compliments and admires beauty, even if the person of that said ‘beauty’ is disagreeing with her love for fried chicken.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Okay, sir, how about this. We can perhaps, have a get-together, maybe at your place, or mine, doesn’t matter to me, and you can ‘show’ me how to make the perfect rotisserie chicken?” Her head tips to the side curiously, looking at how his body language speaks for him faster than his mouth admits to something, she can tell she caught him out of his element suddenly. He’s surprised that he got avidly involved in a heated discussion over chicken and the infatuation and headstrong opinions he had, rendered her speechless, but also made her laugh, so she doesn’t dislike it one bit.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Come on, mister rotisserie chicken master, let’s grab that table that’s practically calling our name,” her hand slips into the taller’s and she gently tugs him in the direction, her nose trying to pick up on the different scents that linger around the restaurant, all the while admiring the aesthetic setting in awe, orbs glancing around curiously while humming under her breath. A random comment left her whispering lips, loud enough for the man to hear her.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination, and brings eternal joy to the soul.” ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀『 °*• ღ •*°』

@shen xiaoting "Artsy?" Hyunjin tilted his head lightly in confusion to the other's compliment, it was the first time he had heard anything like that. In fact Hyunjin hadn't even realized he was smiling. "Most of the time, when I smile it scares customers away." He stated honestly. It was one of his many troubles at work, customer service. Shaking his head lightly, as he told promised his brother, so he had tried to stop thinking about it just as much.

"Fried Chicken?" He asked more of taking in what the female was saying. "Pizza is okay, but... fried chicken IS disgusting. An abomination." His eyes were widened a little bit, completely unaware of the others playful tone. "I will tell you how you make some chicken." He took a small breath. "So you start by taking the chicken, shove a stick up its a*s, and putting it over an open fire." Without realizing the male started to become real passionate about the chicken. "You let it smoke over the fire. No oil. No seasonings." He put his hand up, "You want to butter it up? That's fine, I won't complain." He mimicked his hand rotating a rotisserie chicken. "Let him sit until he's done. Enjoy."

Hyunjin froze lightly when he realized that the two had already entered the restaurant before he went on his little rant. Clearing his throat, he nodded and immediately went back to his serious self. "Yes, I always get back to work as soon as I have had my fill." He nodded lightly. "Oh. I think I will call you Xiao then, if that's okay?" He asked, even though she had already gave her a bit of permission.

Hyunjin had kept quiet at this part and allowed Xiao to take the lead the way, she could choose a spot for them that she was most comfortable. He allowed the female to look around and observe the restaurant, in which Hyunjin had to admit it was pretty aesthetic. "It's quite relaxing too." He admitted, and nodded his head lightly at the others question. "That's perfectly fine." He agreed to the others suggestion.

@hwang hyunjin ⊰✩⊱⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀`Love and work, work and love… that’s all there is.`

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Hyunjin seems the same as the Chinese girl, she doesn’t want to say it out loud for fear of scaring him off or worse, angering him. Instead, she’s quick to crack him a smile, the first time spotting a little hint of a smile on plump brims brings her attention span to his features and she admits to herself, ‘he looks prettier smiling.’

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You know, smiling looks artsy on you,” she grins over at the young man, nudging his arm with hers, the same one they hold together and it doesn’t seem awkward to her, surely it’s the same for him. “Funnily enough, I love my fair share of sweets too, but maybe it’s the junk types? Hm, let’s see, I love ice cream, I love cream cheese, I have a love for coffee, but the sweet kind, like lattes, not the bitter kind, I adore, food-wise, junk food yet again,” smiling sheepishly, she feels a tad bit embarrassed for a moment. As if she’s like any other girl out there that’s admitting to pigging out on her date. However, after some time, she shrugs it off her shoulders, allowing it to leave her as she admits to him, “I love junk food too, let’s see… Pizza and fried chicken are a must for me.”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Xiaoting steps into the restaurant, taking in the smells and her stomach suddenly seems hungry once more before turning to look at the taller with a curious tip of her head to the right, “I’m the type of girl who likes to sit at home after a long, hard day at work and pig out on junk food, pretty disgusting huh?”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Her tone is playful and she even sticks her tongue out at him with a cheeky grin, shaking her head once before humming under her breath, “and when I’m satiated, I get back to working on things to enhance the crystals I make,” chuckling at how annoyingly addicted to her work she must seem, it feels less judgmental when talking to Hyunjin about it, seeing as he’s the very same.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Also, I know my name is a bit lengthy, so if you’d like to call me anything shorter, you can use either ‘Xiao’ or ‘Ting’ even, it’s up to you,” settling with a warm smile up at the taller man, she gives a satisfied nod before glancing around and stepping into the warm dinner area, taking in the different scents wafting around the area, and she admires the lovely glass view, showcasing the expanse of the ocean any turn they make and sit to wine and dine.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “It’s pretty aesthetic, don’t you say? I love the ocean’s view for us to see any side we turn. Shall we get a spot at the rear entrance?” Pointing a finger over to the spot she sees looking cozy and discreet away from anyone intruding on their time together. ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⊰✩⊱

@shen xiaoting "It just shows that we are dedicated towards are work than others, and that is a good thing."

Hyunjin could feel the change in atmosphere, even if it was small. Xiaoting wasn't sputtering out words like she was earlier, and she seemed to be more at ease now. Without realizing it, it made the male a little more relaxed himself. Perhaps this date would make it easier for them to work together in the future... so there was some hope to the end.

"Yeah, I've only heard." He nodded his head lightly taking another glance at the female. "I could hardly take a break when I have so much to learn." He hummed lightly. "I have to say though, I'm honestly surprised that you've never been on a date either. I admire the dedication to work of course, though." Hyunjin thought for a moment before continuing. "Most people in town try to get me to take a break, but it never really works out well in the end." He admits.

"I might." The male stated quite bluntly, still completely serious. "I enjoy food a lot, and I don't like it when people lie about whether food is good or not." He mumbled more to himself than anything. A small smile grew on his face when he heard the comment on the other, he hadn't realized but maybe they do have a bit more in common than the male had thought. "Oh, Just Hyunjin is fine, no need for formalities." He never was really one for them in the first place, but never really cared to correct anyone either, he was just too focused on his work. "My favorite food is honestly fruit sandwich. I like the sweeter tastes of things."

"How about you,what kind of foods do you like?"

As they approached the restaurant, Hyunjin made sure to hold the door open for Xiaoting, before entering in the restaurant, and following in behind her.

@hwang hyunjin ︶꒷꒦⋆✿⋆꒦꒷︶⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Huh, well that’s a unique way of looking at it. Not talking about work is weird, you’re one of the okay— you’re the only one I’ve ever heard saying that as well which is a pleasant surprise but welcomed nonetheless.”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀A small smile lines her features, the moonlight giving her an inclination of confidence that wasn’t there when she first got here, she thought the person in question on their date would be smelly, poor hygiene is a big no-no for Xiaoting. She also, thought she’d be stood up, or worse yet, she assumed they’d be a drag. Hyunjin is quieter than a lot of her customers and people she tends to take under her ‘wing’ to help. However, she finds herself enjoying the ambiance the man gives off. Something about him is soothing to her.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You said you heard,” she points out something with a curious tip to her head, “have you been working so hard all your life, that you haven’t been on a date before, as well?” Xiaoting's orbs enlargen while looking at the taller, his hand feels warm as it holds onto hers and she finds herself enjoying that decadency coming from him, it’s a source of comfort for the mythical being.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀`Stay close to the people who feel like Sunshine.`

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Another word of advice her mother once gave her as a child, is whoever gives her any positive feelings, keep them close. Her mother always told her to trust her instincts, after all, a Fenghuang is very intuitive by nature and as she looks over at Hyunjin even if she’s choking back a laugh from spilling because of his ‘fighting’ remark; she oddly thinks the unique man is a good being all in all.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You’re such a dork, I mean that in the nicest way and in a positive light, are you going to fight for food? Really?” Her words are hiccuped with soft chuckles now and again as she shakes her head to and fro. “Now there’s something we can say we got in common too! No one should ever mess with food or come between us and a good meal. What’s your favorite food, Hyunjin-ssi? Uh, what do I even call you? Do you want me to continue being formal or…” She trails off sheepishly, unsure how such things work on a date yet again, but the male’s comfort naturally comes first and foremost! ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ︶꒷꒦⋆✿⋆꒦꒷︶

@shen xiaoting Hyunjin felt a little jealous, how could the female talk so freely? The male had never thought too much about the words he has spoken before but he knew he was always short and to the point. Hyunjin nodded at the comment. At least he wasn’t expected to have a jacket, they were both hot natured.

When Xiaoting went off about her work, the male was able to confirm she was just as into it as he was, at least for now. He had kept quiet and listened to the other rattle on about what she did, wondering how people keep talking when they felt awkward. Perhaps it was like his thoughts when he felt the sense of dread when he first arrives to this date?

“I find it weird when people don’t talk about work.” He stated. “That’s not how a date is supposed to go, I’ve heard. So we can talk about other things.” Once the female took his hand, he began to lead the way to the restaurant. It was one of the few things his brother has told him to do. “Be a gentleman, lead the way.” His voice echoed in Hyunjin’s head.

“It better be, or I’ll have to fight someone.” He commented almost too seriously. He never took food as a joke.

@hwang hyunjin ⠀ꔛ✩⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀The girl flashes a tender smile at the spluttered question, her laugh filtering in the air, dancing across the billowing wind between them as she glances across her to eye the male sitting there. “Hm, I’m not the type to get cold easily, unless it’s with nerves or anxiousness like I was earlier when thinking this was all going down the drain.”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Now it’s Xiaoting’s turn to blurt out something embarrassingly, her cheeks flooding with a raging pink hue, Hyunjin may think he’s the only one who’s awkward in such social situations, however, the Chinese woman is all the same. Maybe, they have more in common than the handsome male thought, even the dainty woman may have thought as well. “Sorry, I am pretty awkward. I have been buried nose deep in my work, wanting to help people and figure out the proper requirements for each stone and make everything perfect, aiding in your weaponry as one and my little trinkets and jewels. Let me tell you, developing protection stones with high-class magic and celestial moonlight strength from the goddess herself is an intense work of art. Intricate and beautiful sure, but the labor behind it…” she trails off and feels a sense of awkwardness caress her heated skin, up the back of her nape as she feels herself freezing on the spot and her lower lip is held hostage by pearly whites.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “Shoot, I came here to ‘get away’ from work, and here I am yapping back and forth about the said work I’m supposed to escape from.” The young woman feels impish as she stares up at the ethereal being before her, he’s human supposedly but yet Xiaoting is only so much of a woman, is it a crime to appreciate a good-looking man or woman when she sees one? He always seem so shacked up while working, in his coveralls, focused intently on what was at hand so she rarely saw him looking at her, as he is right now. The moon goddess shines her light beautifully down on both, which inclines Xiaoting’s hand over to meet the man’s offered palm.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀A tender touch is given as her fingers skim across his palm and she finally shifts off the bench fully, standing on her own but holding onto the offered palm with a small smile playing on rosy-hued lips. “Let’s test out the reviews and see if their food is really to ‘die for’ hm?” ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀₊̣̇.ෆ˟̑*̑ᓭི༏

@shen xiaoting Hearing his name from the female's voice, Hyunjin couldn't help but have a sense of familiarity. The male blinked, observing the girl, getting a glimpse of her better with the moonlight shining on her face. It felt like the waves from the beach washed away some of the worries the male had. The male had only met her recently as he was studying different crystals to help with his weaponry work. She seemed to value hard work as much as she did.

Of course, Hyunjin didn't really care about the main work she did, he still appreciated how much dedication she put into her work. However, Hyunjin couldn't help but wonder why she was on a blind date as well. He had to stop himself before allowing many more questions and worries pop in his head. "Yes, you're from the crystal store, right?" He said to answer the others question. He racked his brain a little bit trying to think of the female's name. "Xiaoting?" He asked a little quietly as he didn't want to be wrong.

He leaned back on the bench, trying to relax himself a bit more as the female sat next to him. There was a moment of silence. It wasn't until he noticed the cool night air breeze that he had considered the others well-being, as he actually took note that the female was probably cold as well. Hyunjin didn't bring a jacket because no matter the time of year he was used to working next to a hot fire to smelt the metal he used.

"Aren't you cold?" He blurted out, completely ignoring the others statement, not thinking much of it. It was getting closer to the autumn season and being near the sea didn't help much. "I didn't bring a jacket, sorry." He said looking back at the female, he noticed her staring at the shore of the beach. Perhaps she wasn't that into him at all, and he wouldn't have to worry about going on the actual date.

Oh... Nevermind. Why would he think he could just get away with not actually doing the date. His mind started racing again, but he couldn't bring himself to say no. "Since I can't go back to work, then I guess we can." He stood up, holding his hand out for the female. "I heard there was some good food here too." He added.

@hwang hyunjin ༘⋆⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀From what the petite woman can see, the person who’s speaking doesn’t seem inclined in making a move. She cannot help having thoughts swirling around her mind, ‘is he here against his will? Did he want to leave? Oh god, what if he doesn’t want to be here?’ It embarrasses her knowing that there’s a high possibility with the person, however, she’s rendered speechless when the familiarity of his name sounds in her befuddled brain.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “H-Hyunjin?” Xiaoting feels as if a bucket of cold water has been splashed into her face, making her teeth chatter more than her body compared to a moment ago. “Hyunjin…” Breathing out his name softly, under her breath, the mythical human flicks her gaze out at the sea, darkness shrouding the area before moving back to the blacksmith she knows all too well. They have recently started working together but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t know a thing or two about the young man.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “I’m your… blind date, yes, I’m so very sorry about these circumstances,” Xiaoting winces before looking aside once more and sheepishly turns into the moonlight, casting an eerie glow across her delicate features, shifting away from the shrouding shadows in hope that Hyunjin can finally see the face attached to this mysterious voice.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ “You know me too, how ironic is this huh?”

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀`Irony is the hygiene of one’s mind.`

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀The thought flutters around her muddled brain, bringing her to her next step as she tentatively shuffles close, making a show of carefully sitting down next to the taller man, her eyes casting aside from the delicate waves washing ashore. Her nostrils flaring and twitching from the sea salt and the freshness coming from deep within the ocean of fishes and sea creatures alike. “It’s lovely to see you again Hyunjin-ssi.” She keeps her usual polite tone, just as she does when working with the male and Xiaoting stares at the shore too intently, clearly wanting to distract herself from staring at the impeccably handsome man.

⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀The Chinese female cannot deny that he is indeed beautiful, however, it’s impolite to stare, something her mother drilled into her since a child. “What do you say? Would you like to stay and get acquainted? Make the date worthwhile mayhaps? A little time away from work for the both of us, is probably needed, seeing as we are workaholics.” Slender digits elongate as her hand sheepishly shifts over and place in between their legs, fingers dancing up as if asking carefully, a bold move indeed but she leaves it up to the male if he’d hold onto her hand and go to their ‘set up’ for their ‘under the moonlight date.’ ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀✶༄ ‧₊˚

@shen xiaoting Hyunjin had been sitting on the bench for a while now... maybe it wasn't that long, but long enough for the male to get lost in thought. He had never been on a date before, and come to think of it, he couldn't recall a time he had actually been attracted to someone and was oblivious to anyone who had been attracted to him. He didn't understand social cues or norms that well, so he wasn't exactly sure what to do, how to act on what people considered a date.

A small part of him began to worry, what if the female had been looking forward to the date? Had she known who he was? What if she started to come by his work and try to bother him often? Hyunjin couldn't handle any more distractions from his work. The one friend he has, and his brother is enough for him already. Hyunjin stood up to leave but stood there for a moment. He could hear his brother now, "You stood her up? That's low." He was right, pretty low of a thing to do. The male sat back down and...

Nope. He couldn't do it. There has to be some excuse he could come up with that the girl would understand, right? He looked around for a moment and didn't see anyone coming or anyone new on the beach. She isn't here yet? Maybe she stood her up, and...

The male felt a hand touch his shoulder, followed by a soft voice, bringing him back down to Earth. Hyunjin let out a breath, turned around, attempting not to look like he wanted the ground to crumble beneath him. "Hello." He forced a small smile, maybe he could hide most of his expression in the dark. "I'm Hyunjin. You must be my date?" He asked hoping he wasn't wrong.

@hwang hyunjin []withouth the mic of course.

@hwang hyunjin ⚘༉⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ‘Be spontaneous, seize the moment, be spirited — and be optimistic!’

Xiaoting never thought in a million years, she would find herself in such a circumstance, being set up on a `blind date`, the Fenghuang counterpart of the girl is already ruffled in its feathers. Thinking about being matched with someone of the opposite gender, after all, the Fenghuang's job is to create harmony and balance with the planet’s yin and yang’s countenances.

Maybe the Chinese Phoenix is exhilarated at the idea of going on some ‘mystery date,’ whereas Xiaoting is shooting daggers at her best friend, “I hate you for this,” all she doesn’t do is swear at the perky female in her view. She’s being dropped off at the beach, thankful for the ride, it doesn’t stop her annoyance from bubbling deep within her. “What if he smells?” Xiaoting blurts out and it’s Jieun who’s laughing her arse off at the comment made. “Do you think it’s funny?” The petite girl all but growls out only to flick her gaze aside out the window, admiring the aesthetic view before her in hopes of calming her nerves.

Thereupon, she’s ushered out of the vehicle much to her reluctance, she’s still grumbling curses in her head at the woman and she peeks down into the window at her. “Just so you know, if I can find a way to give you a bad lucky crystal, it’s yours, baby.” Smiling sweetly, she doesn’t mean it one bit, but she flips her off the bird and walks off in pursuit of finding this `mystery boy`, she was told he’d be sitting off on one of the benches facing the pristine, clear ocean. The chilling air surrounding her blankets her slender frame and she’s shakily walking around, searching for anyone who’s sitting and looking out at the ocean.

`The ocean is everything I want to be, beautiful, mysterious, wild, and free!`

Xiaoting’s thoughts are clouded by the beautiful view before her, clouding her mind and erasing the anxious nerves bubbling within the pits of her stomach, bringing bile up to the back of her larynx. “Oh how I hope he’s not a bad person,” she sends up a silent prayer to the universe, in hopes that her command over the planets, sun, and moon, would be her aid tonight.

The young woman doesn’t know how he looks… what if he smells? Eek! Just the thought of him smelling horrible makes Xiaoting’s pores rise on ends in disgust. What if his breath stinks as he leans in to kiss her if he ‘wants’ to kiss her and she freaks out, what does she do then? A flurry of uncanny thoughts flutters around her mind in a whirlwind, all ending horribly. Wandering around the area, the Chinese young lady looks out for the mysterious stranger that’s soon to be her blind date, nervous, anxious, and a bit intrigued but also scared, what if she’s stood up and it all goes down the drain? What a walk of embarrassment will be done today if that’s the case and she sure, won’t be looking forward to that one. That’s when she spots someone, a lone figure, tall from what she sees and her breath hitches in anxiety, tentatively, she walks over and elongated fingers touch his shoulder gently, not being able to see a face from the angle and shine of the moonlight casting a shadow over his side profile. “Hello…?” ⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⚘༉


⇢her look for visual reference: https://64.media.tumblr.com/130ba357abccba579bc05c3b2e60d4eb/20423e2ce2ed9563-f5/s1280x1920/a537cb53eb8e16bd16077c005b4e02b37521da73.jpg

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@shen xiaoting "You'd really like her." The nagging voice, coming from the male's younger brother rang out.

A blind date, or any date for that matter, was the last thing on Hyunjin's mind. His younger brother on the other hand, had insisted it was exactly what he needed after working nonstop for a month. Everyday the younger male would ask if he could set him up on a date, and Hyunjin would always shove the suggested aside, saying he didn't have time in his life for a relationship, that he had too much work to catch up on. It was when his boss suggested that he should take the younger brother's advice that he finally decided to at least hear what the other had to say.

"Can I know the name of the girl you are setting me up with?" Hyunjin asked his brother.

"Do you even know what a blind date means?" His brother asked.

After an hour of going back and forth, Hyunjin had finally given in, deciding that there would be no harm in trying. Yes, it would take time away from his work, but the sooner he gave in the sooner he could get it over with and go back to his normal life. At least he hoped.

The day of the date finally arrived, and Hyunjin found himself dreading the next few hours. He got dressed in his only outfit that wasn't for work, a plain black t-shirt and some slightly worn-out jeans. A little casual for a date, but he couldn't be bothered trying to find something more fitting, even with the small nagging of his brother before he left.

'Alright, time to get this over with.' He mumbled lightly to himself as he decided to walk down to the beach, living close by had its advantages. Hyunjin arrived at the beach a little early, but still decided to look around to see if his date arrived before taking a seat on one of the benches facing the sea, waiting for the mystery girl so they could go down to their dinner date together.