Paintbrush Set

A set of paintbrushes Zhezhi purchased during her first solo shopping trip as a child, after fumbling for words in front of the shop owner. Wherever Zhezhi went, so did these paintbrushes, recording her artistic growth along the way. Though now too old and fragile to use, Zhezhi still regards them as a source of encouragement, handling them with great care.

Empty Birdcage

A luxurious birdcage left empty for a long time. As a reward for Zhezhi's obedience in using her Forte to paint and help save the family business, her parents bought her a pet bird as a surprise. Every day, Zhezhi watched the bird beat its wings against the cage until it was exhausted. After much hesitation, one day she boldly defied her parents and released the bird from its captivity. After her parents disappeared, Zhezhi sold off the family's remaining belongings, keeping only the birdcage as a memento. Whenever she looked at it, she didn't see the bars but the bird that had long since flown free.

Wish List

New desserts, art exhibit tickets, trips to new cities... Struggling to pay off her family's debt while barely making ends meet, Zhezhi took the habit of jotting down things she wanted to buy or do on a wish list. She often checks this list, but can only fulfill one or two of these smaller wishes on rare occasions when she has a bit of extra money.

Prized Possessions

The girl proudly presents her painting to her mother, eager to share her achievement. The woman, absorbed in selecting jewelry to wear, steals a fleeting glance at the artwork. "Impressive, Zhezhi," she murmurs with a brief smile. Delighted by the praise, the girl inches closer. "The people in this one are—" Her words falter as her mother turns, absorbed in wardrobe choices, oblivious to her daughter's attempt at connection. "Well done. Now, why don't you paint a few more before the guests arrive?" Zhezhi blinks, at a loss for words. Her mother grows impatient, sighing as she marches Zhezhi to the door. "Buy whatever supplies you need, dear. The price doesn't matter, we can afford it. Now, I need to dress. Be a good girl. Off you go.” As the door closes, Zhezhi stares at it, wanting to say more but unable to find the courage to voice the sinking feeling in her chest. Later that evening, Zhezhi, dressed to impress, nervously clutches her skirt in the corner seat, silent amidst the bustling room of guests. The woman notes Zhezhi's unease, the sight of it triggering memories of their family's past struggles and humble beginnings. She strides forward, taking Zhezhi's hand and leading her into the center of attention. "Didn't you know? Zhezhi was gifted from the day she was born. Her paintings were chosen for exhibitions even before we hired a tutor." With a painted smile, she mimics the grace of the upper class. "Would you care for a painting too? Zhezhi can finish one in a day." Zhezhi shrinks inwardly, wishing to disappear, only to be thrust forward. "Show everyone your skills, Zhezhi." All eyes turn to her, leaving Zhezhi trembling, unable to paint a single stroke. Later as the mansion falls silent, Zhezhi gathers her courage again. Holding the day's painting, she approaches her parents' bedroom door. Just before knocking, she overhears their conversation inside. "Did you know? That painting sold for 400,000 Credits today. With this money, we can fulfill the paused order." "Right. Are the guest paintings ready for this weekend?" "Not yet. Zhezhi mentioned wanting to go to the theater. That girl, always seeking diversions, never thinking about what's best for this family..." Zhezhi looks down at the happy family in the painting, her grip tightening until it crumples, distorting her mother and father's faces. "...I'm sorry."