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 presented her painting to her mother, eager to share her achievement. The woman, absorbed in selecting jewelry to wear, stole a fleeting glance at the artwork. "Impressive, Zhezhi," she murmured with a brief smile. Delighted by the praise, the girl inched closer. "The people in this one are—" Her words faltered as her mother turned, 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 blinked, at a loss for words. Her mother grew impatient, sighing as she marched 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 closed, Zhezhi stared 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 clutched her skirt in the corner seat, silent amidst the bustling room of guests. The woman noted Zhezhi's unease, the sight of it triggering memories of their family's past struggles and humble beginnings. She strode 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 mimicked the grace of the upper class. "Would you care for a painting too? Zhezhi can finish one in a day." Zhezhi shrank inwardly, wishing to disappear, only to be thrust forward. "Show everyone your skills, Zhezhi." All eyes turned to her, leaving Zhezhi trembling, unable to paint a single stroke. Later, as the mansion fell silent, Zhezhi gathered her courage again. Holding the day's painting, she approached her parents' bedroom door. Just before knocking, she overheard 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 paintings for the guests 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 looked down at the happy family in the painting, her grip tightening until it crumpled, distorting her mother and father's faces. "...I'm sorry."