The salty air whipped through their hair as they piled out of the rented mini-van, the sparkling turquoise of the Korean coastline stretching before them. Day five of their spring break was dedicated to exploring the rugged beauty of Jeju Island.
"Okay, team! Coastal hike first, then we conquer some seafood!" Bang Chan announced, clapping his hands together. Hyunjin leaned into him, a contented smile playing on his lips. "Conquer seafood? Sounds dangerous, Chan," he teased.
Lee Know, Han, and I.N were already heading towards the trailhead, hand-in-hand (or, more accurately, hand-in-arm-in-hand in their case). "Last one to the top buys ice cream!" Lee Know called back, his voice playful. This immediately spurred the rest of the group into action.
The hike was invigorating, the trail winding along dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean. Felix, ever the sunshine, was busy taking photos of every flower and interesting rock. Changbin, surprisingly agile, kept a watchful eye on him, ensuring he didn't get too close to the edge. Seungmin trailed behind them, humming softly, a comfortable smile gracing his features.
Han, always the energetic one, was composing a rap in his head inspired by the crashing waves and the salty air. I.N., despite being the youngest, proved to be a surprisingly strong hiker, keeping pace with Lee Know who, true to form, was effortlessly leading the way.
Bang Chan and Hyunjin brought up the rear, a comfortable silence settling between them as they enjoyed the scenery. Hyunjin occasionally pointed out interesting rock formations or swooping seabirds, his artistic eye always seeking beauty.
Reaching the summit, breathless and exhilarated, they were rewarded with a panoramic view of the coastline. After snapping countless photos and catching their breath, they descended, their stomachs rumbling in anticipation of the promised seafood feast.
Their destination was a small, family-run restaurant perched right on the harbor. The air was thick with the aroma of grilled fish and simmering sauces. Chaos erupted the moment they stepped inside.
"I call dibs on the octopus!" Felix yelled, grabbing a menu. "We are sharing Felix, stop being greedy" Changbin teased. "I want abalone!" I.N declared. "Someone order kimchi jjigae, please!" Seungmin requested, ever practical.
Han, inspired by the lively atmosphere and delicious smells, started beatboxing, creating a surprisingly rhythmic backdrop to their ordering frenzy. Lee Know just shook his head, a fond smile on his face as he translated their jumbled requests to the bewildered but amused owner.
The food arrived in a glorious torrent of colors and smells. They devoured everything with gusto, laughing and teasing each other between bites. Felix, true to his word, was the first to attack the octopus, brandishing a tentacle with a theatrical flourish.
"Careful, Lix, it might attack back!" Changbin chuckled.
After the meal, pleasantly full and content, they strolled along the harbor, watching the fishing boats bobbing in the water. Bang Chan bought everyone ice cream, keeping his promise. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, they piled back into the van, exhausted but happy.
That evening, back at their rented house, they gathered in the living room, reminiscing about the day. "That octopus was legendary," Felix declared, earning a chorus of agreement.
Hyunjin, curled up next to Bang Chan on the sofa, pulled out his sketchbook. "I want to try and capture that sunset," he murmured, already sketching furiously.
Han, strumming his guitar, began to hum a melody inspired by the day's adventures. Soon, the entire group was singing along, their voices blending in a harmonious chorus of laughter and contentment.
As the night deepened, they slowly drifted off to sleep, filled with the warmth of friendship, love, and the lingering taste of the sea.