Esmeralda, Christine, Selena, Yingying, and May Lin were dressed in outfits inspired by the popular K-pop girl group Gfriend, were having a animated interaction in the literary department at the prestigious university of Moscow Russia, Selena began recount to her friends, upon discovering a manuscript in the library a few days ago hidden behind a book self, the manuscript reveals a encounter with a ghostly figure by grand duchesses Maria and Anastasia in the hallways of the Alexander Palace while under the care of their nanny Helene Eager. They saw a strange a shadowy figure of a man, Eugene entering the bedroom of their cousin Ella, who was terribly ill and sick at that time.
Maria, and Anastasia’s reactions were of fear by the appearance of the strange man. Esmeralda, Christine, Yingying and May Lin, were sitting at their desks listening intently to the story Selena was recounting to them, in connection to the young grand duchesses Maria, and Anastasia. Then Christine replies shortly after the appearance of the shadowy figure, sadly Ella passed away from her illness, Esmeralda replied this occurred over a century ago and during the nighttime after everyone was already asleep in their beds, while the entire palace was quiet and still.
Yingying said, the story sounds so hauntingly eerie it reminds them, of the abandoned palace they visited in the Chinese mountains over a year ago, it was resided by Emperor Xiao Zhang, and his beloved beautiful wife Queen Ningning reigned over the ethereal magical Kingdom of Yuan Sing centuries ago.
While exploring the magnificent ancient palace of Moon Ming, the girls began searching for a hidden study, Ningning used to read and study manuscripts, while her husband was discussing serious topics with his advisers in the imperial throne room. While the girls were searching through the dusty bookshelves in the secret study, going through the manuscripts, eventually discovering the truth about Ningning wasn’t known for her exquisite beauty, be she’s a intelligent, witty, wise, strong woman, had the strength determination and resilience to assist her husband the emperor with his daily tasks and responsibilities with dealing with his advisers and offering her advice and guidance to help him achieve and accomplish the happiness peace prosperity and tranquility of the entire country and kingdom.
In the magical enchanting realm of Sapphire Frost in the beautiful Kingdom of Silver Moon, sisters Aurora white, and Evie Queen, wore outfits inspired by Idols Jennie and Jisoo members of the popular K-pop girl group Blackpink. They are students at the prestigious Academy of Fairy Star, the sisters were having a animated interaction in the lush greenery courtyard of the school. Aurora began telling her sister, yesterday their friend and classmate Briar Rose, was practicing the beautifully intricate choreography from the iconic ballet Swan Lake in the dance studio, her hand gestures, facial expressions were moving so gracefully reflecting in the mirror.
Then Aurora continues the music playing on the background was both beautiful ethereal and mystical transporting Briar, Aurora, and Evie to the lush greenery of the starlight forest where the animals and nature live harmoniously peacefully side by side with the inhabitants of sapphire frost. The girls began to explore the forest landscape hearing the sounds of birds singing in the trees rabbits, foxes and various creatures living in their homes in the ground bushes and in other areas in the forest. While Aurora, Evie, and Briar were having a in depth discussion strolling in the forest, Briar began telling her friends, she lives in the region of “Moonlight Kingdom” a beautiful mystical Kingdom with shimmering forests, lakes, magical and ethereal landscapes and the inhabitants are co-existing with the creatures of nature itself. The two Kingdoms have been peacefully existing and prosperity for centuries under the rule of kindhearted wise, gentle and benevolent Queen Ravenna Snow and King Edward III, who are Evie’s parents, Uncle and Aunt to Aurora.
Then Evie, asks Briar, Moonlight Kingdom’s magical powers and properties are activated by the moon, influencing everything from the weather to the inhabitants magical and mystical powers and abilities. Then Briar replies yes, it’s true the magical abilities energies and powers are indeed activated by the moon, giving the inhabitants the ability to connect, and combined their powers from nature, they are able to protect and defend themselves and the kingdom from the evil forces of darkness from trying to destroy takeover, and conquer the entire realm which includes Sapphire Frost Kingdom.
After reading the manuscript for a few minutes, May Lin rolled up the manuscript and put it in her backpack, the girls let their seats gathered their belongings and exited out the door. They began strolling down the cobblestone streets of lively bustling historic city of Singapore, the girls were heading towards “ Emperor’s Room” tea House. Selena began to recount to her friends the cultural significance and symbolism of the color crimson red In Chinese culture and history, the vivid color is often used in celebrations like weddings and festivals, it symbolizes good luck, happiness, and prosperity.
When the girls entered the tea house, it was decorated with the vivant colors of red, white and yellow lotus butterflies, and lilies were hanging on the windows, doors, and the tables. They went over to a table near the window, with the beautiful view of a lush greenery landscape, with two blossoming lotus trees. Once the girls took their seats, May Lin recounts to her friends, the next subject of discussion is the historical connection to the practice of Cultivation, with the combination of manipulating the elements, and energies of nature and the spiritual powers of the underworld.
While the girls were in the middle of their discussion, May Lin’s cousin, Yingying entered into the tea house, went over to the girls table, greeted her cousin and friends, she sat next to Yujin, then asks a question. What were they discussing earlier before she arrived, then Selena replies to Yingying, they were discussing a little history, and the arts of Cultivation, before her arrival.
Selena, Luna, Christine and Esmeralda were visiting the abandoned house in Ekaterinburg to pay homage and respects to the martyrs of the imperial family, the Romanovs, July 17, 1918. When the girls entered the house, the atmosphere felt eerie and they can sense the presence of the Romanovs, and hear the fading voices of the grand duchesses singing beautifully, during the final mass in a small chapel.
As they stepped further into the dimly lit house, the air grew thick with a sense of history, and sorrow. The walls seemed to whisper tales of the past, and dust particles danced in the streams of light that filtered through the cracked windows.
Selena, the most sensitive of the group, felt a chill run down her spine, almost as if the Romanovs were guiding them through the shadows in their last moments.
Luna, with her adventurous spirit, suggested they explore the chapel where the voices resonated the most clearly. As they progressed, the spectral melodies grew louder, and Christine known for her deep appreciation of history, whispered about the importance of this space, for the Romanov family who had been united even in their darkest hours.
Esmeralda, an aspiring artist, took out her sketchbook hoping to capture the haunting beauty of the abandoned house. As her pencil moved over the pages, the girls felt the weight of both tragedy and love enveloped the Romanovs. Each line she drew seemed to echo the grace, resilience of the grand duchesses, and with each stroke, the atmosphere transformed, revealing flickers of the past amidst the lingering sorrow.
When they finally reached the chapel, they paused, awestruck by its simplicity and profound significance. The voices now clearer, felt like a call from the past, urging them to remember not just the tragic end, but the lives filled with joy and beauty. Together the girls formed a circle, closed their eyes, and silently paid their respects, feeling an unspoken bond with the family whose legacy continued to resonate throughout time.
In that moment, the abandoned house in Ekaterinburg became not just a place of remembrance but a sanctuary of connection, where the past and present intertwined, and the spirit of the Romanovs lived on in the hearts of those who dared to remember.
As the girls were praying in silence, in a circle, they began singing beautifully haunting melodies”’Once Upon a December” in the Russian language.
As the last notes of their silent prayer faded into stillness of the chapel, the girls exchanged knowing glances, their hearts filled with an overwhelming sense of unity and purpose.
Together, they began to sing, their voices intertwining in a hauntingly beautiful rendition of” once Upon a December” in a soft. Melodic Russian, the lyrics flowed through the air, evoking images of the bygone era filled with an elegance and warmth.
Christine, Esmeralda, Selena, Yujin, and May Lin were in the cultural department, at the prestigious University of Singapore in China, they are studying abroad for a year, to learn more about the history, traditions, culture, and mythology of China. Esmeralda were reading the historical context from a manuscript, she discovered at the library in May Lin’s house yesterday.
The contents reveals, a detailed account and description of the festival, it goes like this:
It’s one of the most important traditional Chinese festivals, known as the moon festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month either in September or October, this festival is a time for family reunions and is celebrated with various customs and activities.
The festival is marked by the appreciation of the full moon, which symbolizes unity, and harmony. Families gather to enjoy moon cakes, round pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings. Which traditionally shared among family members and friends as a symbol of completeness. Lanterns are also significant part of the celebration often lit and displayed and children may carry them in parades.
In addition to the moon cakes and lanterns the festival is rich in folklore, which the most famous legend, being of Chang’e, who is said to reside on the moon. The festival promotes themes of gratitude, reunion, occasion in Chinese culture.
The girls were researching for a upcoming project, for cultural history being taught by professor Xiao Moon, a renowned, and respected scholar of Chinese history, and culture. Selena, Christine, Yujin, and May Lin were sitting at the table listening intently to the words Esmeralda recited to them from the manuscript.
Then May Lin, replies to her friends, they should discuss this topic further at the tea house, “ Emperor’s Room” which is a few miles from the university, which having authentic traditional Chinese cuisine and tea.
Elena Hoyos, born Maria Elena Milagro de Hoyos in 1909, was a young Cuban-American woman who became the object of a obsession and infatuation by Carl Tanzler, a German- born radiology technician at the Marine- hospital service in Key West Florida.
Hoyos suffered from tuberculosis, a disease that was often fatal at the time. Tanlzer attempted to treat her with various methods, but she ultimately succumbed to the illness in 1931.
After her death, Tanzler’s obsession took a macabre turn, he visited her mausoleum regularly, and in 1933, stolen her body and took it to his home.
Over the next nine years, he preserved her body using a combination of wax, plaster, and other materials. The bizarre situation was discovered in 1940, by Elena’s sister Nana, leading to Tanzler’s arrest. However, he was not prosecuted, due to the statue of limitations on his crimes having expired.
This case has since become a notorious tale of morbid fascination and unrequited love.
This was the historical context, Yujin, Christine, and Esmeralda were reading from a book titled “ Lore: Tales from Key West by notable writer Marisol Lozada, still a resident in the exact same neighborhood, where Elena and her family resided. Esmeralda, replies to her friends, this particular tale, is infamous for its themes of obsession, Afterlife, grief, mourning, Mental Illness, and death, its especially apparent during the holiday season of Halloween. Then Christine, voiced her opinion, it’s also evident that Tanzler couldn’t differentiate and distinguish between love, and infatuation regarding to his one-sided feelings for Elena, what’s so infuriating about the fact is Tanzler had the audacity to disrespect, disregard how Elena’s family was going to react and feel when they discovered her body been stolen by someone they were supposed to trust.
Yujin, Luna, Selena, Aurora White, and Evie Queen were in the literary department at the prestigious academy, Silver Moon, in the magical, enchanted realm of Sapphire Frost. They were reading the contents of a ancient manuscript, Evie discovered in a secret passage from behind the bookshelf at the library.
The contents reveals the secrets of a powerful and skilled enchantress Sapphire Star, had the ability to manipulate elements of nature, electricity, and the energies from the spiritual world centuries ago before the founding of the academy. While Evie was reading the words from the manuscript, Selena, Luna, Yujin, and Aurora White were sitting at the table listening intently to what Evie was revealing to them about Sapphire Star. Then Aurora White replied to her friends, the enchantress also had the ability to create a celestial conversion deep within the magical forest of Starlight, a few miles from the academy itself. The historical context also recalls Sapphire Star, used her magic and mystical powers and knowledge to protect the academy and entire realm from the darkness were threatening to destroy all of the goodness and beauty from realm. The chapter describes Sapphire’s strength, bravery, courage in the face of adversity and her determination to protect the people she loves.
Luna, asks a question, Sapphire Star is regarded as a legend in the realm since her victory over the evil spirits, and forces of darkness. After a moment of reflection, Selena replies, after reading the manuscript, let’s head over to the music department to practice the piano, sing a cover to “ ways to be Wicked” from the popular franchise descendants, the girls rolled up the manuscript, placed it inside Aurora’s backpack, left their seats, gathered their bags and exited out the door, began to strolling to the music department, in another building on the opposite side of the academy.
Jane explains to the girls how all of the sisters have a dysfunctional and complicated relationship with their parents Catherine and Charles Bennet, this insight deepens the understanding of the family dynamics and the challenges each sister faces within the familial structure.
Then Elizabeth shares that what was particularly embarrassing was their mother’s obsession with marrying off her daughters to wealthy well established families, this sheds light on Mrs. Bennet’s priorities and the pressures she puts on her daughters to make advantageous matches. While in the middle of their conversation Elizabeth adds that their mother unfortunately lacks self awareness when in the company of others, such as family, friends, and associates. This trait is likely to contribute to the family’s social challenges and may lead to uncomfortable situations.
Their sister Kitty joins the discussion and shares that she turned her life around with the mentoring of Elizabeth, Jane, and Georgiana. She then reveals that the marriage between Lydia and Wickham has not been happy and harmonious adding a new layer of complexity to the family’s situation. Kitty expresses her opinion that Lydia and Wickham’s marriage is unlikely to last long because they don’t genuinely love each other, this insight suggests that the foundation of their relationship may not be strong enough to endure the challenges in the long run.
Kitty informs her sisters and friends that the family is unaware of the current whereabouts of Wickham’s regiment and the location of their living quarters since Lydia and Wickham’s marriage years ago, this lack of information adds a layer of mystery and uncertainty to the Situation surrounding Lydia and Wickham.
Elizabeth shares with her sisters and friends that they are unsure about the current status of the relationship between their parents, Catherine and Charles, after being married for thirty years, this uncertainty highlights the complexities and the potential challenges within their parents long- standing marriage.
Maria and Anastasia discovered a manuscript in the literature department from a hidden passage behind the selves, the contents revealed a another version of “ Alice in Wonderland”, as they begin to read, they discover a wonderland that is both familiar and bizarrely different.
The characters have evolved, and the landscapes shift with emotions of the protagonists. Simply navigating through the whimsical adventures, Maria and her sister Anastasia to become part of a quest to unravel the mysteries behind the manuscript- perhaps it will reveal hidden truths about the original author or the reasons why certain stories were told.
As Maria and Anastasia might navigate their own relationship dynamics throughout their journey. The Whimsical world could challenge their perceptions of reality and help them grow closer, or perhaps lead to some rivalry as they each interpret the story differently. They could encounter peculiar characters who mirror their struggles back home, adding layers of depths to the whimsical adventure.
Maria and Anastasia were reimagining “ Alice in Wonderland” they began to read the details of several specific changes to the original characters, which can add depth to the story;
Alice’s Role Remagined: Instead of a single protagonist Alice could be a mentor figure who guides Maria and Anastasia through wonderland. She may have grown wiser and empathetic, reflecting her own experiences and adventures.
The Queen of Hearts: The character could embody the themes of power, and authority showing a more complex side. Perhaps she struggles with her own insecurities or past traumas, presenting a more nuanced view of her tyrannical behavior.
The Mad Hatter: Instead of being just whimsical, he could represent the challenges of mental health. His eccentricities might provide insights into coping mechanisms for anxiety or depression, resonating with modern audiences.
The Cheshire Cat: This character might take a more philosophical role, posing existential questions that challenge, Maria and Anastasia’s perspectives on their identities, choices and the nature of reality.
The Caterpillar: rather than simply offering cryptic advice, he could serve as a mentor who helps the girls confront their fears and inner transformation and growth.
The March Hare and Dormouse: These characters may symbolize the struggle with societal expectations presenting challenges related to friendship and loyalty, which can complicate Mara and Anastasia’s Journey.
By deepening the understanding of these characters, the story can explore themes of identity, personal growth, and the complexity of relationships making Maria and Anastasia’s adventure resonate on multiple levels.
Lumina Lullaby is a dynamic girl group that draws inspiration from some of the most iconic K-pop acts including Blackpink, Shinee, Kara, Girl’s Generation, BTS, and twice. With a diverse lineup of talented members- Sakura, Yujin, Juliet, Danielle, Luna, and Isabella- the group combines various musical styles and concepts to create a unique sound and captivating performances.
Each member brings her own flair and strengths to the group, contributing to their overall charm and appeal. For Instance:
Sakura: might be known for her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, reminiscent of the strong vocalists in groups like Girl’s Generation.
Yujin: could bring a playful energy and catchy rap verses similar to the dynamic styles found In BlackPink and twice.
Juliet: May showcase her dance skills and visual appeal, drawing inspiration from the choreography- heavy performances of Kara and Shinee.
Danielle: might be the group’s center, known for her versatility and ability to connect with fans, much like members from BTS.
Luna: could be recognized for her emotional depth in performances, echoing the heartfelt expressions often seen in K-pop ballads.
Isabella: might add a fresh, youthful vibe, embodying the fun and vibrant spirit of the current generation of K-pop idols.
Together, Lumina Lullaby aims to carve out their own identity in the competitive K-pop landscape while honoring the legacy of their inspirations. Fans can expect a mix of catchy tunes, stunning visuals, and engaging performances that reflect their diverse influences.
