[To: Thorne

From: Supervisor Reed

Date: 12-25-20XX

Subject: Story Draft Entry

Dear Thorne,

The story you wrote was quite a read, and I admire the effort you put into it. Nonetheless, it is just distinct from what the company is pushing for. I know you've been interested in the Korean novels you like, but that shouldn't influence your writing career.

You live in America, and the stories people love here, such as fast-paced action, relatable characters, and clear resolutions, don't match those you want to write—my apologies.

I will discuss this in person if you have queries or need further clarification. You will still be paid for your time drafting, but please avoid unnecessarily diverting from American appeals.

Sincerely,

Jonathon Reed]

[To: Supervisor Reed

From: Thorne

Date: 12-25- 20XX

Subject: None

Dear Supervisor Reed,

Despite the company's preferences, let's consider this story. The Korean novel industry offers compelling concepts that could resonate with American readers, especially children. Systems, cultivation, weakness to hero, overpowered main characters, romance despite dangerous circumstances- these tropes are filled with thrill and potential. This story could be a big sensation.

If my creative ideas are not considered, I may have to consider other opportunities that align more closely with my ambitions and ideas.

Sincerely,

Thorne Alexandria]

It's discouraging when one's creative ideas are not given due consideration. I had high hopes for this story; seeing it booted without a fair chance irritates me. It took everything in me not to punch a wall. I worked so hard. 

It took so many months, weeks, days, hours, and minutes to write that draft, only to be told it was all for nothing on Christmas, of all days. What a rotten present if you ask me.

I always loved reading. I would lay in my bed for hours, the radio playing the latest pop music, reading away at the new world I got to explore. Dragons, vampires, elves, werewolves—I wanted to be them all. I wanted to fly in the sky, use magic, and howl at a full moon. Reading took me away from the hell that I called my own life. I wish I never picked up a pencil. I would have never become a writer if i knew it would be so restricted.

"I want... Chick-fil-A right now."

I moved away from my desk, which was covered in bottles, cans, and empty bags of snacks. I reached for the phone and quickly ordered. Nothing exhilarates me more than an eight-piece nugget meal with waffle fries, a Sunjoy, and Polynesian sauce.

"Ah, I should clean up. It's Christmas. Well, at least not yet. It's midnight. I want to celebrate in a clean apartment."

I stood up and approached the kitchen, grabbing two garbage bags. I began catching the empty garbage and throwing it quickly into the bag. I love watching how the room slows down and tidys up. It makes me smile and say,

"Wow, I can walk around now."

I won't lie and say I'm not dirty or depressed. Mental health has always been a struggle for me. However, I always feel better when I yell at myself to get up. Strive for more, Thorne. I want you to be better for both of us. It feels like an out-of-body experience.

Two Thornes are in my body, and one pleads for the other to improve. It's sensual and sweet. I plant my lips on Thorne's forehead, praising him for the bare minimum. That man smiles at me sickly and full of happiness. He wants to keep going just a bit longer. He doesn't want to leave.

He doesn't want to die.

"I don't want to die either, Thorne. Won't you live a bit longer? I want to create a story that thousands will read. Hold out for me."

A ping appears on my computer as I finish cleaning my monologue. I hurry over, full of curiosity. At first, I thought it was Supervisor Reed, and I was prepared for him to reject the demand from my email. But it wasn't. I got a message from someone I don't know. I looked over the message thoroughly.

SethAmber: Hello! It's nice to meet you, Thorne Alexandria. I am messaging you because I would like your assistance.

Thorne: And you are?

SethAmber: I would like you to help me write about my world. Of course, I will pay you.

Thorne: Oh, just a commission. I don't get those often, so pardon me for being suspicious; I'll take it. What's it about?

SethAmber: That's alright. ^u^. I want your help creating a world for a complex system.

Thorne: A world for writers?

"I knew this was too good to be true. A world for writers. Whatever that means."

I should probably sleep. I will deal with them tomorrow. Oh, wait! My food.

I got up and went to the door. Opening it, I met with what I had been anticipating. With a large grin, I grabbed my food and drink. I didn't realize my hunger until I sat down and took my first bite. A surge of satisfaction filled my stomach. I almost cried.

"Thorne, you should eat more. This self-harming you have is going to ruin your growth."

"Mother, I want food that will fill me."

"I know, but we can't do anything about that. I want you to work hard in school and never be hungry again."

My mother worked as hard as possible to provide me with a meal, whether working late at the market, selling herself, or even stealing. We only ever had cheap rice or vegetables. On holidays, people were more generous. We could eat beef and chicken.

When I finally graduated high school and got a job, I could eat these things without worrying about money. I could eat fulfilling meals with my mother. I wanted to keep seeing her smile from having a full meal. When I became a full-time writer, I made more money.

I freed my mother and me from the shackles of poverty. I got her a house and a pet, and eventually, she found a job that gave her enough to provide for herself. I left to keep pursuing my dream of writing.

I savor every meal as if it's my last.

"So good. No matter how often I get the same thing, I love it. I should sleep now. I need energy for whatever this guy wants me to write."

My bed is warm from my heated blanket, contrasting to the cold, fluffy snow outside. I stare at the ceiling, feeling my eyes lulling. The world blurred and went black.

"Thorne...Thorne. Thorne!"

As my eyes opened, I met with a blinding brightness. My body felt weightless, as if I were floating in the air. I glanced down and realized that I was in mid-air.

"What the...?"

"Thorne."

I glanced at the figure in front of me. Ethereal. Godlike. Was I dead? Probably not. I still feel alive.

"You're finally here, Thorne,"

"You know who I am. Who are you?"

"You're calm. Are you not afraid of me?" The figure speaks rather amused.

"Why should I be scared? You have not done anything for me to be. Who are you?"

"I see. Haha! I am Seth, don't you remember, Thorne?" Seth smiles mischievously.

"You're Seth?! Also, you messaged me. How would I have known who you are in person?"

"Ah, you're right. My mistake."

"So where are we? Is this some limbo?"

"The setting enveloped us like a plane, almost like a rift in time and space," Seth replied, uncertainty lacing his words.

"Do you have any idea where we are?" I asked, grimacing at the lack of clarity.

"Well, the intention was to find a peaceful place for you to begin," Seth explained.

"Begin? Begin what?" I asked, feeling completely perplexed.

"With writing a world for a complex system. I commissioned you, remember?"

"Well, how can I do anything? There is no pens, paper, or a computer."

"I can help with that, my dear writer."

Seth's graceful wave summoned a luminous orb that slowly transformed into an impressive pen. This remarkable writing instrument boasted elegant wings and a twisted snake coiled around it, all set against a backdrop of stunning maroon hues.

"It's beautiful, but what about paper? I have none."

"Just write."

"In the"

"Yes, in the air. As you can see, this pen is nothing like the worldly ones you see."

" I see. I could give it a try. I'll...make a character." I announced to him, and he met me with a nod.

I took a bit of a breath. I've never created a character before, which was my thought. I usually had inspiration or was just given a character. Seth isn't saying anything and doesn't seem to be trying to help me, so I will go the best way I can always start.

By making myself a character.

Seth observes my writing with interest. I describe myself with minimal effort to see if this pen works.

[Thorne is a striking figure with long, flowing black hair, piercing red eyes, and sun-kissed tan skin. He wears an off-shoulder sweater accentuating his shoulders, comfortable sweatpants, and black socks.]

I pause and wait, anticipating how this pen will make my words a reality. The writing swirls with a radiant light. Before me is myself—a replica. I caress the face of my clone in amazement.

But soon, that astonishment vanished as the body burst. It turned into a glitchy mess of words. I turned to Seth, utterly terrified of the current situation. He rushes over and smiles nervously.

"It's alright. It's okay. It was just a continuity error. That's it." Seth reassured me, patting my back.

"Continuity?" I asked, a bit shaken up still.

"When using such a pen, you must remain within the confines of continuity. Yes, there could be two Thornes, but how are there two of you?"

"What are all the rules of this pen?"

Seth waves his hand again, and a glowing list forms before me. I carefully look over the list thoroughly.

「Quill of Luminescence」

1. Never use the pen for evil purposes.

2. The pen's creations must not harm anyone.

3. Only use the pen for writing and creating worlds.

4. Do not use the pen to alter the real world.

5. The pen's power comes with responsibility; use it wisely.

6. Keep the pen safe and secure when not in use.

7. Respect the pen's abilities and limitations.

8. Do not let others use the pen without permission from Seth.

9. Use the pen's creations for complex and imaginative purposes.

10. Maintain continuity within the worlds created with the pen, ensuring logical progression and consistency.

"They all seem to make sense. Alright, now that I know the rules, I will try again," I declared, and I began to write.

Well, Other me. I will make you a reality.

[Thorne has a brother that separates from his body into its being. They are identical in every way. They have separated, but the other Thorne's desire to be his person, and now together as two loving twins. Thorne is fragile and relies heavily on the other, displaying unwavering loyalty and kindness.]

Just as I finished, my body began to ache in a sharp pain. I collapse to the floor, and I feel my back stretch and my shirt rip as the pain becomes agonizing. After ten torturous minutes, the pain began to fade. I'm left out of breath, panting and clutching my shirt. Tearfully, I smiled warmly, turning my head toward the peacefully sleeping man.

I'm sorry for my selfishness, my dear brother.

Soon, his eyes opened, and he fearfully looked around. When I awoke here, he was the opposite of myself. His fear disappeared at the sight of me. Shaking arms wrap around my body.

"Brother."

Seth's expression shifted from surprise to intrigue as he shifted closer to the both of us.

"Fascinating. But was it the right call to make him this helpless? It will make it challenging for him to evolve through the system." Seth inquired.

"That won't be an issue. The purpose of the other me is for myself to nurture and protect him."

"Ah...I see."

"Alright then, Seth. Let's start building this world."

"Alright, Let me see what you got."

Now that I see how this pen and writing work, I can finally move forward. I will tell a story that everyone will be interested in.