Corrupt Destruction

Orphan

"Kids, get up! Breakfast is now ready!"

As the sun rose, we Kang Nam Children's Home orphans were eager to begin the day.

We quickly jumped out of our beds and hurriedly made our way to the dining hall. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm toast filled the air, making our stomachs growl with anticipation. The caretakers had prepared a hearty breakfast for us, consisting of fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs, and crispy bacon.

As we sat down at the long wooden table, laughter and chatter filled the room, creating a sense of warmth and belonging. Each bite was savored with gratitude, knowing that this meal was not just nourishment for our bodies but also a symbol of love and care. With every sip of orange juice and every bite of buttered toast, we felt a renewed sense of hope and possibility for the day ahead. The breakfast table became a place where friendships were forged, dreams were shared, and support was offered unconditionally. It was a reminder that, despite our circumstances, we were not alone in this journey called life. So as we finished our plates and wiped away the last crumbs.

Even though we were told not to go outside alone, our foster mother, Miss. Choi, got me up early yesterday so I could go to the market before rush hour. Why are older children required to do outside work? Despite the cautions, I would be safe alone as a fourteen-year-old girl. We're in great shape!

I led the children down the stairs while wearing flannel and trousers. Watching the news and sipping coffee at the same time was Miss. Choi. Despite wearing a uniform, she had her black hair in a bun. Miss. Choi, a responsible and confident adult, ensured our safety as we made our way down the stairs. With her attentive presence and professional appearance, she reassured us that we were in good hands.

"Kyu-Ri, are you looking forward to bringing a package to Ae-ri Ro this afternoon?" While giving the kids breakfast, Miss Choi asks.

I squint and reply, "Yeah, I am."

Ae-ri was an old woman who would advise us with her wise words. On my birthday, she once gave me a pujok (a fortunate charm) and requested that I greet Miss Choi on her behalf. She was acquainted with a few Americans on f*******: as well. Bella and Florian Mirano, as well as their parents, Frank and Vivian, are decent citizens who love their nation.

They are actively involved in community service and have made significant contributions to various charitable organizations. Bella, a talented artist, often volunteers her time to teach art classes to underprivileged children, while Florian, a skilled musician, regularly performs at local nursing homes to bring joy to the elderly residents. Frank and Vivian, both successful entrepreneurs, generously donate a portion of their profits to support educational initiatives in their community. Their dedication and kindness have earned them the respect and admiration of their peers. It is heartwarming to see such exemplary individuals who embody the true spirit of patriotism and compassion.

She seemed to believe that it was a pleasant place to be, but in my opinion, the reverse is true. Nerds are at the bottom of the food chain; guys may be jerks; popular females are viewed as pampered brats, and so on. When I watched LOL two days ago with Korean subtitles, it had a similar cliché. Everywhere you turn, romance, male trouble, and overbearing parents are waiting.

The movie portrayed the typical high school experience, where cliques and stereotypes rule. The nerds were constantly ridiculed and overlooked, while the guys seemed to embody the worst qualities imaginable. Popular girls were depicted as entitled and spoiled, reinforcing the age-old notion of social hierarchy. It was disheartening to see how these clichés permeated every aspect of the film. Even with Korean subtitles, the story remained predictable and unoriginal. It made me realize how pervasive these tropes are in our society, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and limiting our understanding of one another. We need more diverse narratives that break free from these tired clichés and offer a fresh perspective on teenage life.

The older youths advised staying away from drama and concentrating on their studies. They want me to assist the facility as much as I can, since I must do so to ensure the children's safety. I kissed my mother good-bye and made my way to Ae-ri's house while putting on a brave face. I spotted some children walking in uniform and conversing with one another as they passed. Two of them were Westerners studying abroad. When I arrived at the flat, Ae-ri was already writing to someone. Curiosity piqued, I couldn't help but wonder who Ae-ri was writing to. As I approached her, she looked up with a smile and shared that she was penning a heartfelt letter to her childhood friend who had moved overseas. It was evident that their bond transcended distance and time.

"Kyu-ri! "I haven't seen you in quite some time." She gave me a bear hug. "How are the kids doing?"

"They are fine, Unnie." I positioned the package. "Any updates on the Mirano family?"

Ae's grin began to fade. "Yes. Angel Hunt, Vivian's niece, really paid a visit earlier today. She said that information concerning a boot factory was distributed at school."

She displayed a photo of the instructions to me while glancing at her hanbok. She was familiar with this from the history of the Japanese occupation; it was a classic con. Vivian's niece, who seemed quite excited, shared that the boot factory was offering a limited-time discount on their products. She mentioned that her friends were also planning to visit the factory soon to take advantage of the offer.

"Her sister, Lizzie, wanted to go with more than half the class. "I'm praying they return home safely after Angel and I got in touch with her relatives."

"They'll be OK, I'm sure." I sighed. What more do you want me to do right now?

I finished assisting Ae-ri just as the sun was about to set. I should probably avoid Miss Choi until I get home because she could reprimand me. I'm about to wave the elder off when she says something crucial, but I halt.

"As soon as you can, return home." "You might be abducted without even realizing it."

I nod as I make my way to the orphanage. I fell over for no apparent reason, and someone helped me up. The person who assisted me, Pang Sochun, was in his fifties and dressed entirely in black. He had a mysterious aura that piqued my curiosity.

"Hello there." As he pats my head, he says, "Would you like to see Grallo?"

The query appeared strange. “What?"

"I'll take you there," Sochun says. "It's a futuristic metropolis in another universe."

My mind raced with excitement as I imagined the possibilities of exploring a futuristic metropolis in another universe. The enigmatic Sochun seemed to hold the key to an extraordinary adventure that would satisfy my insatiable curiosity.

He looked like a kidnapper; therefore, I knew this was a k********g. I need to let the kids and Miss Choi know I'm okay since they are waiting for me to go back home.

I had a crystal-clear head. "No, I don't believe you."

Sochun had deceptive eyes. “Oh? It intrigues me, I suppose."

“But I-” I want to speak, but he grabs my hand and silences me. I'm starting to dislike him.

"The city is wonderful! "Stop chatting right now and follow me." As I grumbled and followed him, he replied.

"I understand your skepticism," Sochun said with a smirk, his deceptive eyes glinting mischievously. "But trust me, the city holds secrets that will leave you in awe." As he tightened his grip on my hand, silencing my protests, a sense of unease settled within me. I couldn't help but grow increasingly frustrated with his dismissive attitude. "Can't we at least have a proper conversation?" I muttered under my breath, but Sochun paid no heed. Instead, he insisted we continue our journey through the bustling streets. His response was curt yet confident, leaving no room for negotiation or discussion. Reluctantly, I trudged along behind him, wondering what other surprises this enigmatic city held in store for us both.