The Forbidden Flower of the Dark Life
Due to work matters, Serena reluctantly had to return to Pandora. Going back to her roots after five years away, Serena unintentionally finds herself reunited with Rhys—the man she deeply loved but had to leave for a painful reason in the past. Their relationship ended without words, and Serena suddenly vanished into thin air from Rhys' life, almost driving him mad. However, the fate that brings them together seems to force Serena and Rhys to revisit a love that has long been obsolete. Serena continues to try to avoid it, while Rhys continues to struggle to put together every piece of the mystery of the puzzle that has been present between them. But what happens when the truth from the past turns out to be like a thorned rose growing in the wrong soil, ultimately causing pain to one of them? "The Forbidden Flower of the Dark Life: Poisoned Love" Story & Illustration by Bintang Hamal
Fall in Love
Time passed. Since that day, Serena and Rhys started encountering each other more frequently in seemingly coincidental situations, and each time they met, they became more involved in each other's lives.
Unconsciously, their meetings began to stir feelings in both their hearts. Serena fell for Rhys because of his kindness and attentiveness. Meanwhile, Rhys fell in love with Serena because she appeared so strong and resilient. She could still smile despite all the suffering she had endured.
At that time, Rhys wasn't aware of his feelings yet. He still believed that his emotions towards Serena were merely concern and sympathy. However, deep down, he realized he had a profound care for Serena. Rhys even acknowledged that he never wanted Serena to suffer again, and he had a strong desire to protect her from the evil people around her.