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Chapter Text

Darkness.

All he could see was darkness.

It didn't matter if his eye were open or not, its not like the view changes.

The feeling of his limbs were gone. He couldn't breath nor did he need to. It was like nothing existed here.

His own existent felt like it was fading. Fading away into nothingness like everything around him.

Where was he even? And how did this happened?

Was this the abyss? Was he drenched in void? This pure blackness wasn't really reassuring him anything, now was it?

How could he get out of here?

'Is there anyone here?' He tried to say something but his voice couldn't come out of his non existence throat.

...

He found himself thinking.

Perhaps this is his final destination. That this was the end he had longed for. That after the scenarios there was nothing.

...

How long time had passed. An hour? A day? A week? Or did time simple not exist here?

...

How he longed for something to happened.

...

Then,

a voice was heard from the distance. It seems like it is talking to him.

[You aren't ready.]

He had heard that voice many times before. And the speech pattern was easily recognized.

[It is still to early for you to reach beyond that wall.]

Why was he even here. And what was he even talking about. What nonsense did he want to put into his mind this time?

[You existence hasn't reached the requirements, you are still just a puppet, puppet of the most ancient dream.]

Why was he always called that. Is it because all incarnations are puppets of the constellations. And this 'the most ancient dream' haven't even shown himself, so why? Why was he a puppet of something that they aren't even sure exists.

'It's the nonsense about a puppet again. What does it even mean?'

He couldn't open his mouth. So he resorted to the next best thing. Hoping that the other him could understand his thoughts.

[You haven't even figured that out yet? Oh puppet of 'the most ancient dream'.]

'...'

'Where am I?'

[Definitely not a place you can escape on your own.]

'Then what?'

[I'll give you an offer. I'll return you to the beginning.]

'Would that even be any different from dying! Do you want me to through hell again like you did. Why would I wan't to regress again?'

[No, I'm not talking about regression, instead how about you start this specific round from the beginning. Instead of branching of the another to another worldline.]

{Are you telling me that I can get another regression with Kim Dokja?}

'A time-jump? Are you really capable of something like that?'

[Haven't I sent Kim Dokja to another worldline before, why would this be any different. I'm not giving you a stigma, it is a one way trip and failure would result in you dying. Succeeding in this 'trip' is the only way for you to break out.]

'And why should I accept your offer?'

[You really haven't realized the situation you are in right now. But I guess it should have been expected out of the 3rd regression turn.]

'Then, what do you mean with 'break out'?'

[You wouldn't understand even if I told you]

'If I accept your offer will this timeline disappear?'

[Not particularly.]

'Then I guess there is no other choice.'

With those final thoughts the space around him began distorting. A last sound echoed through his mind.

[Learn about someone's existence and in return learn would learn about yours.]

At the time he couldn't clearly understand the sentence that was left behind for him. Was this some sort of final advise that would help him gain enlightenment?

Then his conscious left him.

----

...

Waking up in the sickeningly familiar subway, Yoo Jonghyuk repeats to himself that yet another round has failed. That he failed to protect yet again. He just wants to close his eyes and wake up from this terrible dream.

He almost considers breaking down the door to the car door in front of him to check if Kim Dokja really is there. This has been the biggest nightmare for the regressor. Not knowing if he will be able to meet Kim Dokja again.

Kim Dokja has always been this singularity in his 3rd round. Not appearing in the previous ones. This is also one of the questions he has always wondered about.

{Why did he appear in the 3rd round?}

He has wondered this for a long time yet, he never really found a good answer. His first thought had been that he had died in first scenario though that couldn't be the answer. The Kim Dokja he knew wasn't that weak. But he couldn't just have materialized into existence one day, could he?

His train of thought quickly came to a stop as an announcement from the speaker could be heard.

[Announcement to all passengers!]

[Everyone run away!]

Energy began to circulate in the air, sparks appearing around it. The clock making its last 'tick' sound before turning to 07:00 pm.

Notifications began appearing in the air, this in itself showed that this is no longer the reality we know.

[The free service of planetary system 8612 has been terminated.]

[The main scenario starts now]

The Dokkaebi appeared. The white furry creature with two golden horns on its head. One could say it was cute the first second they saw it. But he always found it disgusting. The dokkaebi starts speaking but Yoo Jonghyuk didn't listen. He already knows all the words that would come out of that disgusting creatures mouth.

The other passengers were already in full panic mode. Letting out screams as their heads were blown up. The numbers of passengers quickly decreasing before his eyes. Blood splattered everywhere even though the real slaughter has yet to begin.

[@BI-7623channel is open]

[The constellation have entered]

Then as aspected the first scenario arrives.

[The main scenario has arrived]

+

[Main Senario #1 - Proof of Value]

Category: Main

Difficulty: F

Clear Conditions: Kill one or more living things.

Time Limit: 30 minutes

Compensation: 300 coins

Failure: Death

+

{This stupid scenario again.}

{How annoying.}

This scenario was an easy task for the regressor as he apprehends the terrorist in the corner, pinning him to the floor. Taking out a knife from one of the terrorist pockets and stabs it into his throat trying to minimize the blood on his clothes.

[You have achieved the 'First Kill' achievement.]

[100 coins have been earned as additional compensation.]

Another swift motion with the knife and a nearby head falls to the ground.

[You have killed a living thing.]

[100 coins have been earned as additional compensation.]

Is 100 coins the worth of a human being? Of course not.

But this has nothing to do with the compensation. Nor does it have to do with the punishment of failure.

These were just walking pieces meat he had already killed numerous times. They had never made it out of this subway car alive before. None of these humans were better than garbage on the streets. If he didn't kill them right now they would just start killing each other instead.

Blood sprayed across the windows. People's shouts started to quiet down as they realized the situation they were in. But it was already too late. {They were already dead in my eyes. }

A self-made bomb was set of at the opposite side of at the other side the car causing a loud explosion. It would have proven difficult if it wasn't the 3rd regression turn.

{Wait.}

{3rd regression turn.}

{Not 4th?}

The regressor's memories slowly started to recover.

{What was he doing here again?}

{I was with Kim Dokja when I was grabbed from behind and swallowed up whole. Then in the darkness I heard Secretive plotters voice. I accepted his offer to go to the beginning of the 3rd turn. Then would this be counted as the 3rd regression turn or the 4th?}

{No, that doesn't matter right now. }

Is Kim Dokja in the car in front of him? If he remembers correctly he was in the same car as Lee Hyungsung and Kim Namwoon. Though Kim Namwoon would soon be killed by Kim Dokja.

Kim Namwoon dying wasn't something he cared for. He might have been useful in the first couple regressions but he was no longer necessary for his progress.

{Since the first scenario is already over I should meet up with Kim Dokja again. He might not remember the 'me' from this regression but he still knew me better than anyone else.}

The Dokkaebi appeared one more to inform him about the sponsor selection. Only to let out a surprised gasp.

[You, you have already chosen a sponsor? This shouldn't be possible. And the sponsor isn't even the channel? How could this be?]

"Shut up"

[Such a arrogant and insolent incarnation. I'll overlook your rude behavior this time since you seem to be popular with the constellations. But I'll warn you not to get too cocky only because you have the attention of a few constellations.]

The Dokkaebi left as quickly as it appeared. And now that he was alone it was time to get going.

Prying open the door before him by kicking it a few times. The door falls forward to reveal the empty car. A few limbs could be seen on the ground along with blood covering the walls and floor. The bodies from the passengers were already gone somewhere.

{Seems like the next scenario has already started.}

Rushing out of the car by the open door on the side, he quickly makes way along the bridge that was going to soon collapse.

A new scenario enters his vision.

+

[Second Scenario - Escape]

Category: Sub

Difficulty: D

Clear Conditions: Cross the broken bridge and enter Oksu Station.

Time Limit: 20 minutes

Compensation: 200 coins

Failure: ???

+

{Seems like someone knows that the bridge can't be crossed without exiting early. It was like this last time too.}

A bit further ahead he could spot the demonic people. The ones who died i the train came back from the dead. The headless monsters were no different from the passengers he killed earlier. Beating them up with his bare fists was no problem.

His already bloodstained cloths became even greasier as he punched through the toughest parts of the demonic beings. Destroying the heart is the only way to get them out of the way for good. He wouldn't want anyone interrupting his talk with Kim Dokja.

Kim Dokja's black messy hair could barely be seen through the hoard of monsters. Soon they would reunite again. Of course, as long as Kim Dokja didn't get defeated first. But he would never let that happened.

...

Finishing of the last of the demonic people, Yoo Jonghyuk finds himself standing face to face with his companion in life and death. An ordinary man he once was. The plain face with a traumatic backstory one has seen many times before. There wasn't anything really special with the man yet the things he accomplished was impossible feats. Gaining the attention from the entirety of Star Stream. An entity who has risen from ordinary office worker to that of the most powerful of gods.

The man lacks talent and technique, yet carries his whole team through scenario after scenario. But how? One might ask. A question he himself hates the most but still can't help but ask.

Who are you? What are you? These question can't help but repeated themselves over and over again. Question Kim Dokja himself can't truly answer. The questions themselves holds multiple answer yet nothing can satisfy the curiosity in the air.

A reader. A Dokja. Kim Dokja is a reader. He finds himself repeating. Someone who loves stories unconditionally. Who always reads to the end.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk reaches out with one hand and grabs the neck of Kim Dokja. To keep him here. This rat bastard always runs away from him. He easily avoids the hard questions by changing the subject. A heart to heart talk is always impossible with him. But the same thing could be said to him. This is the way their comradeship works. Misunderstanding pile up after one and another. And their only way of talking is with their fist or more correctly with their swords.

Taking a few steps forward. Hanging Kim Dokja's body over the edge of the bridge. Normally one would be scared, right? Yet, he has that smirk on his face like he already knows everything thats going to happened. Did Kim Dokja read his status? Perhaps he should have checked it by now. Judging by his expression he can tell it is the same as in the 3rd round before. Transmission wouldn't necessary work since this isn't the usual regression.

"Name."

"What?"

"What is your name?"

He isn't asking because he doesn't know but because he did the same thing when they first met. He wants to smirk as he looks at the small Kim Dokja in his hands. He didn't nearly have as much muscles as he has later on. This is more of the real 'Kim Dokja' he doesn't know. He had seen the library. He had seen how weak and pathetic of a man he really is. There is no fooling him this time around.

"Kim Dokja."

"A strange name."

"I've heard that a lot."

"Kim Dokja." He mumbles to himself. This strange name is so familiar in his mouth. He had used this name many times before. To call of to this being in front of him. Just saying the name felt like convening all your thoughts to the other person. It wasn't necessary to say anything else. Kim Dokja always knew what he meant.

He could go on and ask how he survived like last time. Though what would change if he did. Like any other regression, repeating the same steps would only lead to the same demise. He wouldn't have brought up regression in the first meeting with anyone. Or that used to be the case. Kim Dokja would surely understand without needing to be given a long explanation.

Choosing his words carefully, Yoo Jonghyuk finally decides to open his mouth.

"It's been awhile, Kim Dokja."

Chapter Text

"It's been awhile, Kim Dokja."

"Huh, what?"

[A few constellations are wondering about your relationship.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is screaming in excitement.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' is interested in this new development.]

[800 coins have been sponsored.]

Kim Dokja blanks out completely. Eyes wide as he studies the figure who left him these words. He open his mouth to say something, only to close it again. He was completely speechless.

A few more seconds went by. Kim Dokja finally started to collect his thoughts.

This can't be happening, can it? How would Yoo Jonghyuk know him? Did he hear wrong?

Since this is the 3rd regression, could he have been in previous ones? But wouldn't that change things from the original story? He had the same skills as in the book. This doesn't make any sense. But in a sense, 'Ways of survival' became reality, then isn't anything possible?

"Don't dwell on things to hard, Kim Dokja. You won't be able to figure things out with that foolish brain of yours."

Yoo Jonghyuk continues to speak. Still having a rough grip around Kim Dokja's throat.

"I'll accept your offer on becoming your companion. So, how about we get out of here before the time runs out?"

This new mind reading Yoo Jonghyuk started to walk over the brigde with him still in his hands. Why? Kim Dokja wanted to ask. Since when was Yoo Jonghyuk a mind reader? Or had the same situation happened before. But if so, his skills shouldn't be the same.

{And could he please let go my throat?}

"Yoo Jonghyuk, my legs aren't broken."

Kim Dokja lets out a weak voice that only comes after being strangled for a certain amount of time. Yoo Jonghyuk only frowns as a response. Not even thinking about letting him go. If anything, the grip only tightens. What a bastard, Kim Dokja couldn't help but to think. What had he done to deserve such harsh treatment.

Yoo Jonghyuk steps comes to a sudden stop for they have finally crossed over the bridge. Kim Dokja can't help but let out a sigh of relief. What is with this nerve-racking attitude this newly found Yoo Jonghyuk has. Like seriously. The usual 3rd regression Yoo Jonghyuk would have been much simpler to deal with. That Yoo Jonghyuk could be read like an open book.

That Yoo Jonghyuk’s thought process went something along the lines of 'kill' or ... 'kill'? Actually perhaps this was for the better. At least he hasn't been killed yet. Yeah, living sounds good.

"Kim Dokja."

{Actually, why did Yoo Jonghyuk accept me as his companion? I mean, after the 2nd regression he stopped considering his companions as companions. They were more like subordinates to him. Does Yoo Jonghyuk know what it means to be his companion? Or I am now his subordinate?}

"Kim Dokja."

{By the way he is acting, it seems we have traveled together before. Did I help him reach the end? No, if he is here now he couldn't have? What did I do wrong. Were there a mistake in my plans. Was there some obstacle I didn't calculate. Did we reach a point were the novel couldn't help us anymore. Or was the problem that it was only the 3rd regression turn and he wasn't powerful enough.}

"Enough, Kim Dokja."

Kim Dokja looks up to meet Yoo Jonghyuk's glaring eyes. A sharp gaze enough to pierce the heart of a dragon. It doesn't have the usual murderous glare or the cold one that sends a chill through your entire spine. It is rather a more sincere look that only the sole reader could make out. A look befitting of the one they call the main protagonist.

Kim Dokja had always wondered about what Yoo Jonghyuk looked like. How could a man fit all those descriptions that 'Ways of Survival' gives out. How would a man so perfect ever be real. He wants to continue study the shape of the man before him, if just for a little bit more.

[The exclusive skill, 'Forth Wall' is activated.]

[The exclusive skill, 'Forth Wall' is shaking.]

{Huh.. Is this a new skill?}

{It is in moment like these I wish I could see my attribute window.}

A sigh escapes the from Yoo Jonghyuk's lips. He seems to be deeply disappointed with his lack of response.

"Don't forget your mission."

Then the grip around Kim Dokja's throat disappeared and gravity took a hold of him instead. He was falling. Right down into the mouth of the sea commander. Just before he could be swallowed up whole, he saw Yoo Jonghyuk's lips move. He seemed to be smiling, like something had made him really happy.

"Let's meet up again soon, Kim Dokja."

It was the last words he heard before he heard before the shock of the impact along with the cold water of Han River.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk had dropped Kim Dokja from the bridge into the gaping mouth of the sea commander. Basically feeding it his companion. And yet, Yoo Jonghyuk was happy. Not because of the bitter smile that greeted him when Kim Dokja fell down from the bridge. Or because he had gotten rid of that pesky rat. But because of having the chance to meet him again.

He already knew Kim Dokja would comeback to him. And stronger at that. This hidden scenario that Kim Dokja was doing was his responsibility. It was also his responsibility to take care of his teammates. And clear Gumho station.

Even if he himself could do a better job at raising Lee Hyunsung level and skill, Kim Dokja had brought out a new teammate that he didn't see in previous rounds. Judge of destruction, Jung Heewon. It was obvious who had helped him clear out Gumho station. Perhaps that was why Lee Hyunsung's level and skill proficiency was lower. And why his attribute also hadn't evolved yet.

He didn't need to stay any longer. He didn't need to stare any longer down a the waters of Han River. He should make his leave, he thought. He had no reason to stay more than necessary. Waiting here for three day was just a waste of his time. Kim Dokja took four days before killing the sea commander.

Four days is too long to just sit around. Now was a perfect time to train his skills and get better equipment, weapons and more coins. Coins wasn't needed just to increase stats but also used for the Dokkaebi bag and probability. Though probability wasn't something he could use in the early scenarios.

He turned and walked away from the spot he was standing. Engulfing himself into the wall made by the scenario after having crossed Dongho Bridge.

[Second Scenario - Escape has ended.]

[200 coins have been acquired as a basic clearance reward.]

[100 coins have been reduced for the channel usage fee.]

He could see the eyes of his former teammates staring at him, they were both curious and cautious. Perhaps also a bit fear in their eyes. It was understandable since he came and not Kim Dokja. For all they know he had murdered him on the bridge and they were now his new victim.

How should I solve this, he thought. In the previous 3rd turn he hadn't left them on a good note. The words he wanted to use now, he couldn't find them. He couldn't just leave either. He was stuck thinking. How could he give a explanation without sounding like a murder. How could he give them hope of Kim Dokja's survival.

"Is Dokja-ssi still alive?"

Yoo Sangah decides to finally speak up. How bold of her. Asking someone who could be a murder if their victim is still alive. Guess she must be getting desperate to know the situation of things.

"Yes, he is still alive."

Yoo Jonghyuk decides to answer truthfully. They deserve to know at least this much.

"Then did you cross the bridge together?"

"We did."

"So, were is he now?"

"..."

He couldn't bring himself to answer. Like, what should he say. That he had been eaten by the sea commander.

"All you need to know is that he is still alive and that he'll come back in a few days. Just go to the next station already."

Yoo Sangah, Lee Gilyoung, Lee Hyunsung and even Han Myungoh was staring at him as he was taking his leave. They were all useful as Kim Dokja's teammates in the future. But, for the moment, he had no reason to continue to associate himself with them. He hoped they wouldn't burden him by asking him to the next station.

They might have been in the same nebula and had fought together many times. And were able to establish connections that weren't only through Kim Dokja. But that didn't mean he wanted to help them to the next station. The needed to learn to survive on their own.

...

After running for some time he had reached Gumho station. Throughout the short trip there he had collected food as perusal. Two paper bag were filled full with what he could find laying around. The bags were like a ticket to go through the station without trouble.

Of course he could always slaughter everyone in there and move on. They were all murderers anyway. There were no such thing as innocent citizens anymore. Everyone still alive in this dome had killed in order to pass the first scenario.

Though, Kim Dokja was able to clear it with out murdering a person or animal. Bugs. He cleared through squashing a grasshopper. Then he wasn't a killer yet. And in the previous 3rd turn he wasn't one until peace land. King of No Killing or Immortal King. The incarnations had called him that. Of course by the time he was recognized as it. He had already killed.

He reached out his one of his hands and grabbed the handle to one of the doors to the station. It was locked. Strange, he thought. This door was usually opened. Perhaps because he it is like this cause he got here earlier than before.

Bang.

The door falls down to the floor.

A presence could be felt in the darkness before him. Small breaths that wouldn't have been heard had it not been him. A feminine voice echos through out the hall way. A sharp voice it was. One that he had heard many times before. To think he would meet this person here.

"Who are you?"

The familiar voice asked. She steps out of the shadows. Face barely visible. One fist raised. She once again opens her mouth. Her voice a bit more clearer and higher.

"I'll ask you one more time. Who are you?"

Chapter Text

"I'll ask you one more time. Who are you?"

The words spew out of her mouth as if to strangle his neck. Her voice was confident yet her face tells him otherwise. The words were sharp, sharper than he expected. When did this sword become so sharp?

"A survivor."

A simple answer he had used many times before. Not wanting to waste his time or breath with other humans.

"Uh-huh, are you here to seek shelter then?"

He gives a small nod. He plans on staying here for two day like last time. Enough time do everything he needs to do. The sword that he plans on using is in the treasure room in the middle of a sub scenario. Of course he need a weapon before to slay all of the 9th grade underground species, ground rat.

Weak creatures they are. Like the demonic people from before. But this time the number are higher and he had yet to gather enough coins to take it on. The real problem would be the shadow keeper. A higher grade monster associated with the Demon King of Rage and Lust. Demon King Asmodeus. He needn't kill it nor fight it though. It was easy enough to just sneak past.

"You are aware that the whole of Seoul broken down, right? And that you won't be a rescue team coming?"

He knows this better than anyone else. Though that wouldn't be the case with a lot of others. The fastest ones to adapt have a higher survival chance. Like how Kim Namwoon was. He never really lived in reality an therefor had a easier time when the fable 'Star Stream' came.

He gives another nod to answer. She continues to talk.

Annoying, he couldn't help but to think. Get to the point already.

"I advise not to join the group here. They are all controlled by Cheon Inho. Once you join it will be hard to leave. You should count yourself lucky encountering me here instead of his gang members. They would of killed you on the spot if you wouldn't have joined them."

"I won't."

"And what is that you have there? Food?"

"Move."

"That isn't the way to talk to strangers."

"Didn't you say it yourself? Seuol has fallen, it doesn't matter how I talk to others."

If she wasn't his former party member he would have definitely punched her in the gut by now.

"I guess I'll let you pass."

Good, with this she get to live another day, he mumbled to himself.

But just as he was about to leave, she called out to him one last time. Stopping him in his tracks.

"Can I at least get your name before you leave?"

Another bothersome question. He wasn't at all talkative yet she just keeps talking. Had someone starved her of human interactions?

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

"I would say it's nice to meet you, but it's not. I'm Jung Heewon by the way."

{I wasn't asking you that. Stop with these unnecessary answers.}

Not bothering waiting anymore, he leaves. He couldn't just stand around talking when Kim Dokja was fighting the sea commander alone.

...

Cheon Inho. The gang leader who took control over Gumho station. The first regression he joined thinking he was a savior to someone. What a joke. The was everyone was treated reminded of one of those fables where they took someone in and treated them nicely and feed them. Only to eat them later when they fell asleep. Though in this case they would only take the coins and the equipment.

If this would continue I'm sure they would eventually resort to something of that sort.

He needn't engage with them for long. He handed over the two bags to him without much hesitation.

"Look everyone, he delivered food directly to us. He is a rare good person."

Cheon Inho said putting up a smile to display. Showing a act of a kindhearted leader. Different from his wicked personality.

A good person? No. This is not the right description for him.

"It's nice to meet you. I'm Cheon Inho. Can I have your name?"

Giving out his name to someones who is about to die, how meaningless.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

But not answering would bring unnecessary suspicion.

"Ah, I see. Welcome to Gumho station, Yoo Jonghyuk."

...

The head of a ground rat could be felt under the palm of his hand. He was slowly crushing its resistant skull. Blood pouring out onto his already greasy hands. The fur rough and covered in wounds. Its eyes complete black with life sucked out. Sure enough it was already dead.

How many more was there to come? How many more would die at his hands?

He had counted them before. The corpses of 27 ground rats lying on the ground. The memory felt distant. Yet it was only a regression ago. Little time had passed yet everything before was now a forgotten dream.

He takes out the previous knife he had gotten from terrorist. Cutting up the back open and taking of its spine. A long bone useful for the beginning of the scenarios. Better than any of the weapons made by mankind. A simple spine out classing guns. How ridicules. Humans development was lacking quite a lot now, wasn't it?

The rest of the rats was staring at him in silence. Black eyes studying every move he made. Waiting for the best opportunity to attack. Slowly surrounding him as they were enveloped in the darkness.

In a flash there eyes turned red. Charing at him from each and every angle. Mouth wide like they were trying to eat him alive. And overwhelming situation for a normal human. One could nearly survive against one of these even with a gun of some sort.

Yet here he was facing 27 of these disgusting creature foolish enough to even think about attacking him. He newly found blade moved along the darkness, piercing the hearts of the ones that were closest.

Forward, back and to his side. All ground rats fell and corpses quickly pilling up around him. Blood spilled all around as the darkness was singing about another death. His own adrenaline hasn't even begun venturing in his blood. Such weak rats could possible put up a worthy fight against him.

And so, the last fell before his feet.

[A few constellations are enjoying the blood shed.]

[300 coins have been sponsored.]

...

[The sub scenario has been updated.]

[You have entered the 'Ground Rat's Treasure Trove.']

The tunnel here was a labyrinth of darkness. Capable of swallowing of the light. Had he not been here many times before he would of surly gotten lost on his way here.

The shadow keeper was fast asleep the treasure trove. Doing a poorly job of guarding it. Its black tentacles creeping along the floor. It stomach rising up and down. Its breath slow and steady. Fighting this massive creature head on was asking for a death wish. Especially since he was all alone this time around.

[A few constellations are holding there breaths.]

Swift was the wind he moved around the demon. Its breathing hitched quietly but showed no signs of waking up. Wasting no time he picks out the items he needs. A bit of equipment, some healing items, a magic stove and of course a new sword.

[A few constellations are disappointed by your actions.]

Its a small treasure trove but enough items to carry him through the next couple scenarios. He didn't pick up all of the items. Leaving behind a Old Shield, a Magic Stove and a Magic Power Recovery Bracelet. He figured that Kim Dokja would sooner or later pass by here. Since he saw Lee Hyunsung wearing the old shield.

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' admires your generosity.]

Why is she watching? Shouldn't she be with Kim Dokja right now?

{I get it now. Kim Dokja is still inside the sea commander. I guess she wants to know more about our relationship. But now isn't the time for that.}

...

He quickly heads back to Gumho station. Careful not to encounter Cheon Inho again. A wicked person like him will only bring back unnecessary memories he rather not remember. The first encounter was enough to get on his nerves. I he met him again, he isn't sure if can hold himself back from killing him.

28 hours had already passed since he last had met Kim Dokja. He could imagine him clinging onto flesh wall of the sea commander. Barely conscious. Slowly getting dissected by the stomach acid. All alone in the darkness not knowing how much timed had passed.

{Why did it hurt so much thinking about the pain he had caused for Kim Dokja?}

He wasn't sure himself. Last time he had only been disappointed that the prophet couldn't do at least that much. Disappointed that he, himself, had kinda gotten his hopes up for something like having a prophet on his team.

It shouldn't hurt, he thought. He had future information. He knew that Kim Dokja had fought and won against the sea commander. And that he came back. Yet somewhere deep inside he was nervous. Nervous that something had changed and that he would lose Kim Dokja.

He couldn't assure himself anything anymore.

Regression couldn't save him anymore. Regression couldn't save Kim Dokja.

This pain he felt was different from what he was used to. Different from his regression depression. The pain he felt hadn't appeared until 3rd regression.

{This is all Kim Dokja's fault.}

He made him this way. To get rid of this pain, what should he do?

.

.

What should he do with this fool to make him stay by his side...

No, now was not the time to be thinking about this. He had been awake for more than two day and his stamina had already dropped enough. Staying awake any longer would only impact his mental health badly.

...

He left early in the morning. Even if he couldn't see the sun outside he knew it was still morning. After 1863 regressions turn he had developed his own internal clock. Was it useful though? Not really.

He hadn't seen Cheon Inho either, which was good. Though he still wasn't in a good mood.

Who would be in a good mood after the scenarios just started.

The next step in his plan was to head to Chungmuro. He needed to fix up a few thing before Kim Dokja and his teammates would arrive. Of course he also needed to train his disciple so she wouldn't lose when encountering the apostles. That had been troublesome. What if he didn't wake up at that time? Would all of his teammates have died?

He wasn't sure himself of the answers. But this round isn't going the end up the same. This time he will be prepared of their arrival.

Last time Kim Dokja had eaten the specter's stone. Kim Dokja had dreamt of his trauma because of him. He wouldn't put Kim Dokja through that again. He'll get rooms for them. Kim Dokja wouldn't know that he had killed to get it. Kim Dokja wouldn't need to be burden with unnecessary thoughts.

{Yes, this time things will be different.}

Chapter Text

[The second main scenario is enabled.]

+

[Main Scenario #1 – Meeting]

Category: Main

Difficulty: E

Clear Conditions: Cross the tunnel and meet the survivors in the first main base.

Time Limit: None

Compensation: 500 coins

Failure: ???

+

[The next main base is 'Chungmuro.']

Chungmuru. His next destination. There he would have many preparations to do. Bothersome it is and always has been. Needing to do thing over and over again. Each time swifter than the last. The most bothersome part of the second scenario is the 'time limit' of a week. It was easy to stay in a room and wait but for someone like him who doesn't have time to sit around, it is annoying.

It was a good thing Kim Dokja had destroyed the rooms to hurry up the second scenario's end. The more time they spent there, the more time wasted for the third scenario. Since, not all scenarios start at the same time. Other stations had finished it before and had more time to conquer other stations. Time was something he was lacking, yet, he had more time than anyone else.

The problem wasn't only the ground rats but also the rats known as 'humans'. In Yaksu station he had some encounters with other incarnations. They had stopped him in his track threatening him for all of his items and coins. Of course, those people didn't get to live another day. He could still remember their sober cries for mercy after utterly slaughtering everything around.

More blood was spilled as he had passed through Dongdae station. Though not as much as in Yaksu station. There were fewer incarnations here since most had either been killed off or escaped to Chungmuro.

The last passage was always the toughest for someone with a weak mind or trauma. Using ones memories to create illusions of the past. Trapping one in its mind and driving them insane.

If he would of brought his companions with him. They would surly be killed. Not by themselves but by him.

He was a bit thankful for this. It could ease his mind knowing he wouldn't danger their lives by his own mistakes.

He stepped into the dark tunnel, knowing full well the disadvantages he had in clearing this scenario.

+

[Sub Scenario – Welcome Prison]

Category: Sub

Difficulty: D~F

Clear Conditions: Escape from Welcome Prison within the time limit.

Time Limit: 1 hour

Compensation: 300 coins

Failure: ???

+

Haze appeared all around, turning the tunnel into a augmented reality. His view became cluttered as the landscape around him was being painted white.

The hazy landscape was one he had seen before.

He was on a island. In front of him stood another person. Her hair swaying in the wind as white ether was gathering around her the tip of her fingers. With a face of betrayal, a beam of light was fired at him. Too fast to avoid.

He stood there. Not moving an inch as he watched everything happening. This was the end, he thought.

A figure moved, it was hazy and dark.

「 "Get out go the way Yoo Jonghyuk!"」

But he knew who it was without looking. He was pushed to the side along with this person. He. himself had avoided death. But the same couldn't be said to the person beside him.

He had a gaping hole where his stomach used to be. Blood flooded the ground where he laid. Clutching his none excited stomach he gave Yoo Jonghyuk a stare of relief. Like, he was happy that Yoo Jonghyuk was still okay even though he, himself was on death's bed.

He smiled at Yoo Jonghyuk as he told him.

「"Hey, kill me. You usually want to kill me."」

He could take these words again.

He shouldn't have to hear these words again.

He wanted to deny reality.

「 "What do you mean?"」

He could hear his voice as words came out of his mouth. His body had moved on its own, like he was no longer in control.

「 "There is one minute left so I'll let you kill me. Kill me."」

His eyes wandered over to Kim Dokja's fallen self. Blood poured out from his mouth and he was struggling to breathe. His eyes distance as he looked at the sky above and back again at Yoo Jonghyuk. He was dying and there was nothing Yoo Jonghyuk could do for him.

「 "Wait Kim Dokja! It isn't to late."」

「 "It is too late."」

「 "It isn't!"」

His voice sounded pained and desperate. He had kneeled down beside Kim Dokja trying to patch him up with whatever he could get his hands on. Trying his best to stop the bleeding. He dug through his pocket looking for anything to heal Kim Dokja in his current predicament. But he found nothing.

He looked around. Was there anyone here that could help him? But there wasn't. Only he, Kim Dokja and Shin Yoosung could be seen in this forest.

Kim Dokja's bleeding couldn't be stopped. He had already lost too much blood, even then he couldn't possible live on without most of his internal organs.

'This is the end for Kim Dokja.'

「"If you kill me now then you can gain coins. I'm already dying. Just kill me." 」

Coins? He didn't need coins. He needed Kim Dokja. And Kim Dokja only.

「 "I can't do it."」

How could he? How could he possible kill his own life and death companion?

Kim Dokja's eyes closed and his breathing stopped.

Yoo Jonghyuk's heart ached like never before.

Not even when Lee Seolhwa or his child died had he felt this pained.

He wanted it all to stop. He wanted it all to be a dream. He wanted to deny reality.

He took out his 'Heavenly shaking sword' and pointed it at Disaster of Floods, Shin Yoosung. His breathing hitched has he dug his throat for the words that were left.

「 "I'm going to kill you, Shin Yoosung."」

All he could come up with at this moment was to kill. A fearsome aura rose all around him. His killing intent all directed Shin Yoosung. He had already drawn his blade. Ether flowed around it and in a moment, a screeching sound was made as his ether blade moved through the air.

Closing the distance in a instance. Swinging his blade aiming for the neck from behind Shin Yoosung, she still managed to dodge the attack with a smile on her face. She seemed interested in his level of sword art.

「 "Your level of Breaking the Sky Sword is quite high already? However, you can't beat me no matter how hard you try. At most, it is this level?"」

「 "You must turn in this round."」

「 "We'll see. I won't die now. It might be possible if it was 10 years later."」

「 "I will kill you."」

「 "... Captain, aren't you too agitated? What is the reason?"」

The reason, she asked. Did he need a reason? She whom killed his life and death companion. She whom was responsible for his despair at this moment. What right did she have to ask such question?

He kept swinging his sword as he stayed silent for awhile. Then, he slowly opened his mouth again.

Familiar words run down his tongue.

「"... That guy." 」

The way he had always called him in front of others. Like he was the most obvious thing in the world.

Shin Yoosung stared at him in disbelief. Like her world was just about to be shattered. There was a slight pause in-between but he continued nonetheless.

「 "He is my life an death companion."」

.

.

The words came out different. But it was more perfect.

It reminded him.

He took his sword and stabbed it into the air. Trying to get rid of something invisible around him.

[The exclusive skill 'Destroy Evil Lv. 7' is activated.]

As the fog retreated and welcome prison disappeared, he could once again see his surroundings. The tunnel had been utterly destroyed as a after effect of the battle in his mind. It was worse than last time.

[Many constellations are complaining about your filtered memories.]

[Many constellations are intrigued by your secrets.]

[A few constellations were hoping for your death.]

[200 coins have been sponsored.]

[You have met the conditions to clear the sub scenario!]

[You have earned 300 coins.]

The clear message arrived as proof of the clearance. And then beings of reminiscent of ectoplasm had showed up.

The 8th grade specters.

The enemy itself was easy compared to the trap they had laid out.

[Specter's stone.]

It was the item they dropped, it had an ability to turn the user into a 'ghost' when eaten. Making one invisible to monster, which it useful. Though the drawback it quite severe. Like the welcome prison, it shows ones trauma and this time there is no way of escaping it.

He had never used the item itself since he didn't deem it useful enough. Even if monster can't see you, that doesn't mean other incarnations can't. It seriously lacks any sort of usefulness, except for the upcoming scenario.

That was why he kept the item on him instead of throwing it away.

...

Lee Jihye. His disciple. It was regrettable having to scoop her up from dying each time. But it was necessary to gain her trust as fast as possible. It was the way he had always done it. And she had always become the scarred sword demon.

The tunnel were he found her were covered in blood. Both from monsters but also from incarnations. Seems like many people had already died trying venture in here. There wasn't any light source either, making it darker then when it's nighttime. But now that they were incarnations, increased senses were common. Especially night vision.

Lee Jihye looked scared. Her whole body told him that she was scared. Having to inflict trauma on other really wasn't one of his hobbies. And that especially included his own comrades.

Even as she shook, he just stood there, looking down on her. His sword out cowered in blood from the massacre. His hair covering his eyes, trying to hide the look in his eyes.

There were other people here as well. A little boy beside Lee Jihye was cowering even more. He was soon going to die. Killed because of his luck of choosing the wrong room.

"...The monsters are dead now."

He didn't get much reaction from his words just now, but that wasn't the point. He was just evoking thoughts in side her head. So that she could figure things out herself.

"...Let's head back."

[The constellation 'Maritime War God' gives his sincerest gratitude to incarnation 'Yoo Jonghyuk'.]

[1000 coins have been sponsored.]

Chapter Text

"Master!"

Lee Jihye exclaimed as she came running from around the corner.

It had been a few day's since he had saved her and she was already calling him master.

Nothing extravagant had happened yet. But there was this one time a few drunkards got in the way of her training. And the other time some had tried stealing his food. And now he had a bit more coins to increase his stats. But it was nothing worth noting.

He had trained her hard, harder than the earlier 3rd round. Her 'sword training' had already reached Lv.4 and she had learned the skills 'absolute sense' and 'ghost walk'.

'The skills are sufficient for now...'

'Her overall stats are low and there aren't anymore scenarios here which can provide the coins I need...'

'To kill or... to go to the dungeon?'

"Master."

She exclaimed again, successfully gaining his attention.

Yoo Jonghyuk, who, was elegantly standing by the wall with his eyes closed and arms crossed, opened one eye and gave a questioning stare.

"Master, I found this suspicious person, who declared to be your companion."

His eye slightly widens at the remark.

'That guy... he's here?'

"Take me to him."

The abrupt answer left Lee Jihye a little bit dumfounded.

"Huh? I never said it was a guy?"

"What? Is it a woman?"

"N, no. I just, does master know this person?"

A bit taken back by his sudden question she stuttered. But he was still as calm as ever.

"Let's go, Lee Jihye."

The words shut her up as she understood he didn't want to discuss the topic further.

"Yes, master."

...

Yoo Jonghyuk's huge momentum sweeps through the area as he walk down the escalator with Lee Jihye. Lee Jihye cried out shrilly as she pointed out a certain black head down there.

"Master, it is that person. He pretended to be Master's companion."

'Pretended? That wasn't what you said before.'

He found himself smiling inwardly at the appearance of 'that guy' but of course all they could see was his impressively fierce eyes.

Kim Dokja waved his arms and casually spoke as if putting on a show for those around.

"Hi Jonghyuk."

'First name basis?'

"Have you been well? Your face looks good?"

What kind of bastard greets their companion like a lover? Well, Kim Dokja here is that kind of fool.

Both Lee Jihye and Gong Pildu looked between the two of us and gave a bewildered look. Seems like us being companions was equivalent to pigs flying. Was it really that strange? Or was it the greeting? It was defiantly the greeting.

"These people don't believe I am your companion. Can you tell them?"

[A few constellations are paying attention to character Yoo Jonghyuk's answer.]

[The constellation Demon-like Judge of Fire is observing the loyalty of Yoo Jonghyuk.]

If only he didn't hesitate to speak perhaps he could of gotten in a 'yes' of some sort before being interrupted by the words of Kim Dokja.

"Ah right, it would be better if you let me use the bathroom!"

Well... He was never good with words anyway, he thought as he pulled out his sword and pointed it towards Gong Pildu.

...

"Its nice to see you, you rascal."

Kim Dokja said wearing a wide smile on his face. He had just came back from bathrooms.

"You came..."

He wanted to say more, he just wasn't sure what to say. He had never been good with these kind of conversations. And especially when it came to conversation with Kim Dokja.

"Did you miss me?"

Kim Dokja was using that cheeky tone again. It always got on his nerves yet right now it was only welcoming. But that was nothing that could be said out loud.

"No."

His answer was firm. Yet Kim Dokja didn't look taken back at all. Instead Kim Dokja looked Yoo Jonghyuk in the eyes with a serious expression. His smile slightly faltering.

"What exactly do you mean by 'It's been awhile'?"

Kim Dokja wastes no time beating around the bush.

"Can't you tell by the words alone?"

He knew Kim Dokja had a few theories of his own, but Kim Dokja could never guess the right answer himself. Keeping Kim Dokja in the dark was harder than it was worth.

"Can we talk alone, Yoo Jonghyuk?"

He had waited for this. It was what awaited him after showing favor to Kim Dokja. He knew that it couldn't be talked about in the open, therefor, they went to a secluded part of the station.

...

"Is this the 3rd regression, Yoo Jonghyuk?"

What a hard question to start of with. He needed to think over his answer in how much he wanted to reveal, because it was quite a long story.

"No. The numbers are lying."

"Then what regression turn is it?"

"It's not a regression turn."

Kim Dokja when quiet for a few seconds, he seemed dumbstruck, what an unusual expression he is showing. Kim Dokja eyes wanders over to Yoo Jonghyuk's face. He looked like he was trying to read Yoo Jonghuyk's face to understand what nonsense he was spewing out this time. But he slowly realized that what had been said wasn't a joke.

"I don't understand."

Kim Dokja admits out loud.

"Can't you explain instead of making me guess?"

Kim Dokja seemed a bit hopeless when the words left his mouth. This only made Yoo Jonghyuk more intrigued.

"You fool..."

Yoo Jonghyuk started.

He wasn't disappointed. He had been in Kim Dokja's shoes many times. Look at him now, Kim Dokja went from being a omniscient reader to being one of character in the story. Or it was what it felt like.

"If I knew I would have to recite the whole story I wouldn't have told you those words."

"Are you regretting your decision?"

"No. Are you not listening? I'll tell you what you need to know."

Taking a deep breath, Yoo Jonghyuk prepares his mind.

"We met on the bridge in the 3rd round. And you trick me into thinking you're a prophet and we become life and death companions. Then we fought our way through scenario after scenario. We killed incarnations, constellations, demon kings, gods, dokkaebis until reaching a point were most of 'Star Stream' had undergone destruction."

Yoo Jonghyuk felt like that was the longest he had spoken in his life, yet, everything was too summarized. Kim Dokja was also a bit surprised by the long statement Yoo Jonghyuk has just said.

"Did any of our companions die?"

It was an unexpected question. No... This was what Kim Dokja strived for. He wanted to reach the end with all of his companions. Should he tell him?

"Yes. But they survived. The one to die most frequently was actually you, Kim Dokja."

"I died?"

"More than one could count."

"I see."

Kim Dokja redirected his eyes to the ground. He was thinking about something that needed his full attention. Another minute passes and the atmosphere got more awkward than before. Finally he open his mouth again.

"Did we reach an ending?"

"I can't be sure."

He was telling the truth. He wasn't sure what he even reached in the end. What was the darkness that Secretive plotter found him in?

But Kim Dokja didn't like Yoo Jonghyuk's answer.

"Did you die before reaching an ending?"

"That's not the case. I haven't died since I first met you on the bridge."

"How come you are here then?"

"I was caught were the novel ended. Unexpected things happened since we all made to the white mist. Everyone was caught by an ink like substance except for you..."

"And it sent you to the beginning of the 3rd round?"

"No, I was stuck in the darkness and secretive plotter had helped me time travel."

"Secretive plotter can do something like that?"

"Yes, he is more powerful than you think. But his origins isn't something you should concern yourself with yet."

Kim Dokja vaguely understood the situation. There were still missing pieces but he was satisfied with the answer he had gotten until now. He understood that this was no longer a normal regression and that they had traveled before. He could understand why his skills and stat were the same but the way he had done thing was different. There were also the problem with what information Yoo Jonghyuk knew.

Though Yoo Jonghyuk's personality had changed a lot. He could bet it was his influence on Yoo Jonghyuk, making him more talkative. Considering they had traveled together for who knows how long, he sure had made quite the impression on him. It made him feel safer knowing Yoo Jonghyuk probably wouldn't kill him.

He found himself lost in thought. His world had been turned upside down yet here he was with his favorite character from his favorite novel talking about their past together. It was a good thing that he had the 4th wall otherwise he would of gone insane already. It was enough that Yoo Jonghyuk knew him from somewhere to make his brain stop working but now he was faced with all of this? He really wasn't sure of anything anymore.

Notifications had flooded in during his conversation with Yoo Jonghyuk and they were still ongoing. Many constellations were complaining about the filtering. It was good that the second scenario hadn't even started yet because it meant that they wouldn't get unexpected eavesdroppers.

Speaking of which, he was still in the same room as the bastard. He should get out of here while he is still in a decent mood.

Yoo Jonghyuk stared at Kim Dokja as he was making his leave. He had discussed what was needed for the moment so he let him leave. Even if he hadn't shared any of the plans of plans for the upcoming scenarios like normal people would he still felt satisfied with today conversation.

Of course, the possibility of misunderstandings forming was high since of the little information he had shared but even with a foolish brain like Kim Dokja's, he was sure he had put most of the puzzle pieces in the right spot.

He didn't know before but it took of some burden being able to share secrets like this with Kim Dokja. He wondered what makes Kim Dokja so special that he can reveal things so early on know full well he would be betrayed. Was this what it was like to have companions or was this the special privilege of being life and death companions?

Speaking of life and death companions, the fable, it seemed to be forming inside him or was it waking up? Did it follow with him through time and space? This hadn't happened before so he wasn't sure but something he did know was that no matter what timeline or worldline, he and Kim Dokja would always be companions in life and death.

[A fable who is fascinated by your comradeship is looking in your direction.]

Chapter Text

He had been watching Kim Dokja for a while. Hiding away in the shadows, concealing his presence. He hadn't been watching for long, he was just a bit anxious since the second scenario is about to start.

He wondered what Kim Dokja was thinking while looking at the black screen of his phone. Kim Dokja sees something there which no one else except him can see. Was it because he was a reader of the novel that it showed itself before him. Was he currently reading the novel?

Why else would he so diligently move his eyes up and down at the dark screen of his phone. Why else would show such a interesting and complex emotion on his face? Why else would he not look away for a second from the screen even in the middle of the apocalypse?

He wanted to continue to watch but now wasn't the time for this. Lee Jihye had approached Kim Dokja and was currently questioning him.

"Really? You are quite relaxed Ahjussi. Do you want to die?"

Kim Dokja turned around but didn't look surprised at all.

"It looks like you are quite free."

"Nobody touches my room. I will send everyone who touches it to hell."

Twirling her deep blue sword around show her superiority she countiues to speak.

"I don't want Ahjussi to die. You were quite impressive against Master earlier."

She is quite daring to go up against Kim Dokja, he'll give her that. But it seems like this sort of behavior is why he doesn't harbor any affections towards her as a companion.

"Don't worry, I won't die. I won't die even if I don't find a room."

Kim Dokja speaks the truth. Kim Dokja used specter's stone last time because Yoo Jonghyuk was in the way of his plans.

Lee Jihye narrowed her eyes at Kim Dokja.

"Ahjussi, do you know what you are saying right now?"

"Yes."

"Ajussi, are you strong? As strong as Master?"

No... Not right now. He had quite the advantage in early scenarios because of his high level skills and information. There was no way for Kim Dokja to be able to catch up yet. And when he says yet he means it...

Yoo Jonghyuk materialized behind Lee Jihye, stopping Kim Dokja from spewing out nonsense into the ears of his disciple.

"Stop and go back to your room."

"Ah... yup. Master."

As obedient as she is, she immediately left the two of us alone.

Yoo Jonghyuk stared Kim Dokja down with a frown on his face.

"You are going to do something reckless again, Kim Dokja."

Kim Dokja just shrugged. Clearly aware of the risks he was going to take.

"Don't you already know if my plan is going to work or not?"

He states as a fact. But Yoo Jonghyuk doesn't react.

"That's not the point."

"No, everything clearly worked out last time, right? Or are you hiding something from me?"

"..."

Yoo Jonghyuk goes quite for a second, clearly, he was hiding something. Not just the simple thing he hadn't mentioned, it was more of something he didn't want to talk about. Kim Dokja stared into the eyes of Yoo Jonghyuk, greedy to reveal the truth.

"Are you... planning to conquer the theatre dungeon?"

This guy... Why did he have to have such insight. His personality obviously differs but his habits are still the same it seems. He had gone to the dungeon multiple times already, why wouldn't he go there once more?

"Don't get in my way, Kim Dokja."

"...Only if you don't go dying on me."

"You are the one that keeps dying."

"And why exactly did I die?"

He's got a point. He did always sacrifice himself to protect his teammates... and his life and death companion. Then does that mean it was our fault for him dying? That isn't a something one could argue for. Everyone felt responsible for Kim Dokja's death.

"..."

"You aren't telling me? Then, watch me do the impossible."

[The constellation 'Bald General of Justice' is impressed by the words of incarnation 'Kim Dokja'.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' is want to know what incarnation 'Kim Dokja' is plotting.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' wants more comradeship.]

[200 coins have been sponsored.]

Kim Dokja sure is extra, no, if only extra was enough to describe him. A miracle? No, he was simple beyond what words can describe.

Yoo Jonghyuk's lips curve up hinting a smirk from his emotionless face. How glad he was to have someone as Kim Dokja as his companion.

...

Kim Dokja rushed with Lee Gilyoung to find the secret room only visible when monster have started to invade the train station. It was empty. For now, both Kim Dokja and Lee Gilyoung was safe for the night.

In a remote area of train station, blood had been splattered across the room. Monster were gnawing away at the corpses left behind by the murderer. A black coated man sat on the floor in deep concentration. His eyes were closed and he a neutral look on his face. He seemed to be training even in this situation.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk tore of the posters scatter at random across the hallway and rooms. Others was slashed with his sword. It didn't matter how they were destroyed. They just needed to be destroyed.

When entering a new floor a movie starts. The movie was based upon movies from earth and the scenario was to get to the ending of it. The ending varied from killing the boss to following through with the story. Simple enough, right?

The problem accrued when facing a movie that you never had seen before. Going through with this dungeon without preparations and information was almost impossible. That was why, as a regressor, this dungeon was easy. Slaughter was the only answer he needed.

Killing everything causing the boss on the final floor to get stimulated on all of the blood shed. Blood and pain. That was the focus here. The ending didn't need to be the same as long as it was approved by the theatre owner, the final boss.

He had left one poster on certain floors. Clearing all movies was just a waste of time.But also as a warning to anyone that would enter after him or to serve as a hindrance. Even if Lee Jihye was unrivaled at the sword except for himself he couldn't help but to take precautions. Or was this just a habit of his? So far, the chances of anyone entering except for Kim Dokja or his party members was basically zero.

Yet doubt kept creeping up inside of him. That if he was careless while facing the theatre owner and he got backstabbed again, not that he had gotten backstabbed while in the dungeon. He had to make sure of clearing everything while taking the outmost caution, he had gotten one more chance and this chance was not going to go to waste.

On the 5th floor was the reward room were you can get two A grade items of your pick. Of course all of it was replicas and none of it was as good as the original but in terms of this still being in the early scenarios the reward was too good to pass up. It wasn't only the reward room but movies themselves give quite a lot of high quality items.

Yoo Jonghyuk had gone through all the floors now except the last, the 8th floor.

[You have entered the eighth floor, the Heavenly Garden.]

He came up the elevator and entered the last floor. The last floor in the theatre is a rooftop. It was a small dome that remind him of an opera house, not that he had ever been to one. As expected with the name 'garden', green gras covered the ground. He could of been fascinated by the view if he would of ever cared for something like that.

The view wasn't what was important right now, because before him sat none other then...

[The 'Theatre Master's Simulacrum' has been revealed.]

His sword already unsheathed, he made use of his sudden arrival to launch a attack as quick as possible. He needed to take down the boss before the activation of a certain skill. Even his 'Mental Barrier Lv. 6, could withstand the theatre's owner skill for long.

[Red Phoenix Shunpo Lv. 1]

The skill allowed him to close the distance in an instance, even though it is only level one the skill was extremely powerful. Theatre Master's Simulacrum seemed a bit taken aback by the sudden speed as it immediately activated one of it's powerful skills. But not the one he was worried for.

[The 'Theatre Master's Simulacrum' has triggered 'Simulacra.']

Hoard of monster who exists within the dungeon rush at him. Too many to fight and too many to avoid... If it was actually real. But it was all fake, an illusion like everything else.

Yoo Jonghyuk closed his eyes and used his senses to navigate reminiscence of opera.

He had gotten it all figured out, the attack pattern and it's skills. But in the end it all depend on something so simple as luck...

He didn't want to read the message that appeared in front of his eyes. Even if he had his eyes closed he couldn't avoid it.

[The 'Theatre Master's Simulacrum' has triggered 'Mental Erosion.]

The headache attacked him once more, making him dizzy. His mind got clouded. The barrier made it so resisting was possible. It was worse than welcome prison, much worse. It didn't compare to what Nirvana had used but at his current level it wasn't doable.

He heard whisper of his past memories, memories forgotten by all except for him. Failed world-lines that he hadn't managed to protect.

He was reminded was again of death. Not just the death of him but of everyone.

His body crouched down and his hands grabbing the cloth near his heart.

It stings.

His thoughts starts contradicting themselves.

On part, his past before the 3rd regression. Wanting the pain to end, it suggests regression. The easy answer.

But the other part, the part where his heart is. Want to keep going through this pain and, like Kim Dokja said,

to see this turn's end as a human.

But not just him as a human, but along side with his comrade and teammates.

His left hand wanders over to his pocket. Reaching out for a cold stone buried under everything. He hoped he didn't need to use it, but just hope hadn't gotten him far.

The stone's ugly surface reflected in his eyes. The time had come for it's usage.

[Specter's stone.]

.

He hesitated for a moment. His eyes glance behind him. A rucks was being caused near the entrance. He came. Even after everything that was said.

The ugly stone was quickly thrown into his mouth. Something vapor-water-like emerges from within the stone in his mouth. Covering him in fog like substance.

This was the only way for him not to attack them while under the control of the theatre owner. He became a 'ghost' as described. A ghost who dreamed of the past. He wasn't being attacked anymore nor could he attack. This was what he could do for now, at least he wasn't as much as a hindrance as before.

Something hits him from behind and he immediately falls down and enters a long awaited sleep.

{That bastard...}

His last thoughts trail of into dreamland.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk's mind expanded and seeped into the surrounding. Keeping his mind straight wasn't possible in this drug like world. It wasn't as bad when he entered Welcome prison the first time this round because even if trauma is attacking his very being he didn't need to break out of it.

The dream wasn't relaxing nor soothing, exactly like all the nightmares he had before. A good night's rest was already a forgotten concept to him.

The nightmare whispered reminders of the past into his ears, it reminded him of his failure and his losses. The whispers takes the voices of his former comrades, it keeps telling him to give up and that nothing is worth it. Further away he also hears screams of one's who died by his sword.

「 Yoo Jonghyuk? Are you Yoo Jonghyuk? 」

It seems that there isn't only memories of the past mixed in this dream. A hazy figure of a short blond foreigner showed itself before Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes. This hadn't happened before, was it because of the specter's stone he had used?

「 It seems I found the right person after all. 」

The woman who can see the future and uses that ability the shape her own dream. A perfect night. A night without any constellations, where only she rules. Her ambition wasn't that unlike his but they could never join arms peacefully until Kim Dokja came around. She, who had betrayed him in the 2nd round, completely backstabbed.

In her eyes, he was just a tool to be used, they could never become companions. Not again.

「 ...What have you done? 」

What was she going on about now?

「 Why... why can't I see anything...? 」

{She can't see anything... then...}

This was unexpected. Was this a side effect from time traveling? But it was good, he could use this to his advantage.

"Anna Croft, to think that the you only accounted to this much."

He wanted to mock her. Just like how Kim Dokja does it.

"And here I thought you were some great prophet that only comes around once in a century time."

「 ... 」

It felt good making fun of her. He didn't have this kind of opportunity before because she could always transfer her memories to the next turn and yet, here she was, without any memories.

"You came and scouted me, yet now you got nothing to say? You aren't the type to contact anyone without a purpose."

"So tell me what you have to say."

「 Are you really Yoo Jonghyuk? 」

"If you just came to question my identity then leave."

「 You have changed. 」

「 To think this cold-blooded murder could have changed this much in such a short time. 」

「 What happened? 」

"You have no right to question my decisions, after all, wasn't it you who backstabbed me?"

「 You are still stuck up on the past? 」

「 ... 」

「 I'll give you a offer. I'll make you my teammate and give you information about the future and in return, you'll have to follow my orders. 」

A deep frown appeared on his face. He definitely didn't like the offer.

Was is Anna Croft thinking trying to make me her comrade, surely she of all people would understand that such a offer is meaningless. What makes Anna Croft think that Yoo Jonghyuk would ever trust her again.

"And why exactly would I accept the offer of a traitor?"

「 It was a decision driven by the moment, I did everything to get the best possible ending. Your stories and skills was necessary to move on. 」

Is everything going to be forgiven because it was necessary to move on. He might have killed to survive, but he had never sacrificed his own teammates like she had. Deep down he knew that she only ever thought him as an expendable object which could be used.

How careless he had been in the second round.

"I see. I was only a subject to you. To think I ever joined arms with someone like you."

"I reject your offer. Next time we meet, we'll be enemies."

Of course in the first 3rd round they had eventually joined arms because Kim Dokja need her alive but that time hasn't come. He had no need to be friendly with someone like her.

「 You are impossible to converse with, just as you would have expected from cold-blooded bastard. 」

「 Until next time then, I wish you luck. 」

"I don't need your..."

It was already to late, Anna Croft had already exited his mind and Yoo Jonghyuk's was left with his own thoughts.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes abruptly shot open. The time had ended for Welcome prison. He was still dizzy from the experience but it wasn't worse than what he had been through before.

Lee Jihye's knees was underneath him, why would she think this was a good position to be in? Yoo Jonghyuk got up on the spot. It seems he was still on the rooftop in the theatre dungeon.

Lee Lihye's eyes were slightly widened and she opened the mouth to say something to her newly awoke master.

"Master, you are awake. How are you feeling."

"That isn't important right now. How much time has passed?"

"About 8 hours since we rescued you."

8 hours had passed. Kim Dokja hasn't left already, has he? That bastard always disappears whenever they battle. It is infuriating how hard it is to keep him in under check.

"Where is Kim Dokja?"

"You mean that ugly ahjussi? He left an hour ago, he was heading for Dongmyo Station."

He frowned.

Kim Dokja had already left. Was this the time when he went away and became a king? He didn't know the events that would transpire because he was asleep for a whole week. Should he have predicted that something like this would happened?

"We're going after him."

He had made up his mind to save Kim Dokja. He couldn't possible go back on his words now.

"But master, ahjussi said we needed to stay behind to protect the base."

"Then you stay behind and I'll go."

"Bu, but..."

She was really insistent. Had Kim Dokja already affected her this much? He might be the subject of a king right now but since he hadn't been given any orders he could do whatever he wanted. But the same could be said to Lee Jihye.

He feel bad leaving her like this since the base would soon be attacked. And if it weren't for him, she might really have died.

"Master, ahjussi wanted to give you this note but you were asleep so he gave it to me instead. Here take it."

He furrowed his eyebrows.

Kim Dokja left him a note?

It wasn't about his sister, was it. If so then he already knows. Kim Dokja should know that he know too. He took the note and unfolded it.

「 Dear sunfish bastard, 」

He, he just wanted to stop reading. It wasn't the same as before but... If he is going to start of with something like this he should of know that he would drop it. Yoo Jonghuyk wasn't a reader, likewise, Kim Dokja wasn't a writer. Why did they have to make this horrible combination.

「 since you're such a sleeping prince I went ahead did your job. Hope you're happy, leaving everything to this poor reader. Aren't you the protagonist, act like one! 」

Is Kim Dokja taking out his frustration through this note? Just get to the point already.

「 Also, Lee Hyunsung, Jung Heewon and I went to Dongmyo station. So, don't follow. Do what you want but don't follow. Go and conquer some other station or what not, but don't come here. Hope you'll listen since I came and saved you. 」

So, Kim Dokja left a message to not follow after him? And why exactly would he listen to that?

「 Are you well? The specter's stone gives some serious nightmares. If you want, I'll let you cry on my shoulder when we meet next time.

Anyway, best of wishes, from your number one reader. 」

Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to destroy the note. Seriously, this bastard is so infuriating. When had ever cried?

Though, he would probably get nightmares from the specter's stone, not that he didn't have nightmares before.

Lee Jihye was looking at him with hopeful eyes, she probably wanted to know what the note said. But he wasn't just about to give out information like this.

"What does it say, master?"

"Non of your business."

He answered back in a cold voice, but Lee Jihye wasn't about to give so easily. She reached out her hand to snatch it instead. If Yoo Jonghyuk isn't giving it to her then she'll have to take it herself.

"Hey, give it to me."

But Yoo Jonghyuk just moved his hand out of the way.

"That is no way to talk to your master."

Yoo Jonghyuk could practically see her pouting away. Was she going to throw a tantrum now? What was she, a kid?

"If you want it so badly, you'll have to fight me for it."

"Is it that important? Or is embarrassing? Why can't I see."

"You're noisy."

"Well, that because you're not giving me the note. If you give it to me then I'll stop."

Yoo Jonghyuk gave her a questionable look. Again, what was she, a kid? Isn't this exactly like a tantrum. And her offer to stop being clingy and noisy is to give her the note? Had she already forgotten how it started.

"No."

Yoo Jonghyuk said firmly. But Lee Jihye wasn't about to back away just yet. She could fight him physically but verbally on the other hand...

"You're so childish. To think I had chosen such a childish master."

"You're the childish one."

"And mean too. Perhaps I made the wrong choice. Kim Dokja wouldn't treat me this badly."

Yoo Jonghyuk looked physically taken aback. And then narrowed his eyes on her. But that didn't stop her from continuing.

"Dokja-oppa was such a good leader, he defeated the landlord alliance and rescued you. He's way smarter too and has more knowledge, you missed those ampoules. I also bet he's way more powerful than Jonghyuk-ssi..."

Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't take it anymore and just shoved the note in her face. To think she would slander his name like this, and what was that about Kim Dokja. Lee Jihye gave him a grin in accomplishment.

She diligently read through the note with a smile plastered on her face.

"Sunfish bastard, sleeping prince? Heh, I guess he's talking about you."

"Protagonist..."

Lee Jihye looks up from the note and narrows her eyes at Yoo Jonghyuk.

"I guess you look the part. And your skills qualify... but that personality of yours..."

She looks back down at the piece of paper.

"What are you? A dog? Ahjussi is giving you a command?"

And then she blabbers on...

"Oh, he actually cares about you. Never thought master would find a lov-"

Yoo Jonghyuk immediately covers her mouth.

"Stop blabbering already. I don't have time for this, who knows what Kim Dokja is up to?"

"..."

"I'm leaving. You, keep an eye out for the kids."

He finally removes his hand.

"You're putting me on babysitting duty? What about my free time?"

The stare he gave sent chills done her spine. She really couldn't resist her master, now could she?

"Fine."

That was all the answer he needed. In a moment and he had already disappeared. Which left Lee Jihye alone at the roof of the theatre dungeon. All she could do was to sigh at her unfortunate decision at choosing her master. How hopeless could one man be?

.

And out of reach from Yoo Jonghyuk was Kim Dokja. And he sneezed. And he felt fear because who knows who is following from behind and hunting him down at this very moment.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk moved swiftly through the tunnels using [Red Phoenix Shunpo Lv. 2]. He was moving faster than any vehicle, his feet barely touching the ground with light steps. He was determined to catch up to Kim Dokja by any means. Before he was just running but then a message appeared before his eyes and he changed his tempo.

[Dongmyo Station's deputy, Lee Sungkook has sworn on the King's Honour.]

[If he breaks this vow, Lee Sungkook can be punished by you.]

This was obviously Kim Dokja's doing. He keeps going around stealing his name so often Yoo Jonghyuk doesn't know what to do with him. He wasn't particularly angry, that bastard did come and save him in the theatre dungeon after all but that doesn't mean he wasn't annoyed.

The only way to counter Kim Dokja's identity theft, was to steal his identity.

What did he plan to do when see that bastard again? Give him slap on the back and face plant him onto the ground or perhaps making him feel a bit of his killing intent and giving him a bit of a scare.

He found himself smiling inwardly at the thought, a scared Kim Dokja. Well, as long as he was the one scaring Kim Dokja then there was no problem. But it others do it, then death for them.

Why was he so sure that it was Kim Dokja stealing his identity? Well, that bastard is the only one brave enough to do it of course. Never in his earlier regressions had others stolen his identity.

Kim Dokja had stolen his identity but he wasn't just going there to expose him or anything like that. It would of just been boring if it got out. Kim Dokja always does the most interesting of things. He wanted to be there to watch and follow through with his plans.

If he wanted to go around and pretend to be Kim Dokja he couldn't show his face. Why? Prophets had appeared and they knew who he was and therefor he couldn't show his face without exposing Kim Dokja.

He had met Han Sooyoung, the first apostle. Apparently there were more apostles and prophets, but they were nothing like Kim Dokja or Anna Croft. Him getting the chance to meet them could be interesting indeed.

...

Kuk!

Kim Dokja lets out a weird noice as he suddenly founds himself on the ground, face first onto the dirt. Something had hit him in the back of the his head. Who could this bastard be that was powerful enough to come unannounced and deal this kind of blow?

Lee Sungkook wouldn't dare to hurt him then who... He turns his head and immediately finds the answer. He wasn't supposed to be hit, instead it was supposed to be Kim Dokja hitting him.

"Son of a bitch."

He lets out a snarl but of course the bastard who did it didn't care at all for his feelings. To think he had already showed himself. His calculations were a bit of as he never expected him to wake up so early. Or was it right to say that he was way faster than anticipated.

Right now, all he could hope was that a certain guy would cause anymore trouble than he already had. If his cosplaying doesn't work he could just simply threaten Lee Sungkook to follow his lead. He had done it before. The fact that he could easily kill him didn't change even if he himself wasn't Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

The man said with a different voice than usual. Now that Kim Dokja looked closer he could see that the man was wearing a mask of sorts. He had seen it before, what was it called again. Right, [Swindler's mask]. A special mask made to hide ones identity, it had the ability conceal ones face and change ones voice.

No wonder he didn't recognize his voice. Who had he killed to obtain it? Anyway, what was important right now he seemed fine with playing alone with this charade. Wait, how did he even know? Oh right, Lee Sungkook swore the on King's Honour. He must of gotten the message as well.

And then, over there we had Yoo Jonghyuk who was enjoying the situation to the fullest. It was good that Kim Dokja hadn't arrived at Dongmyo station yet because this meant he could easily hide his presence and sneak up at Kim Dokja.

He had chosen his role as Kim Dokja, therefor he planned to talk like Kim Dokja too. What would Kim Dokja say in this kind of situation?

"Yoo Jonghyuk, you bastard. You should be more considerate of your companions and not leave without saying anything. You're always running off doing something stupid that would get you killed, don't you understand the burden you put on others?"

{Almost feels like I'm slandering myself...}

Lee Sungkook looked more than surprised, but of course it was understandable. Because in his eyes, the great protagonist Yoo Jonghyuk had just been hit making him fall to the ground by a man who says he is Yoo Jonghyuk companions? But Yoo Jonghyuk didn't have a companion in any round that he had read through. Was this not the 3rd round that he thought it was?

Kim Dokja was almost at a loss of words by this behavior. Yoo Jonghyuk was not normally a talkative person, so Kim Dokja didn't have any problem keeping his thoughts to himself and staying quiet. But this wasn't the quietness that was around him wasn't what Yoo Jonghyuk normally wore, for Kim Dokja, this quietness was more of a awkwardness that comes from a unexpectedly stupid situation.

Yoo Jonghyuk who had put on a Kim Dokja font felt accomplished in his own weird way. He thought that what he said was completely in character. Why? Well, Kim Dokja always had a way of slandering him that ticked him of but never actually made him want to kill him. Then wasn't this completely acceptable as a imitation of Kim Dokja?

"Kim Dokja."

Kim Dokja scowls just like Yoo Jonghyuk's face does it. Was he always this good of a actor?

"I'll kill you."

There it was, the typical lines he had grown used to. Kim Dokja, who no longer rested on the ground took out his splendid star relic [Unbroken Faith] and pointed it at him, of course it was all a play for those present.

Lee Hyunsung and Jung Heewon seems to finally have understood that everything they did was an act to keep up with Kim Dokja's identity theft. They had been as dumbfounded as Lee Sungkook just a moment ago.

"You, who are you?"

Lee Sungkook asked unable to keep up with the situation.

"I'm Kim Dokja, Yoo Jonghyuk's life and death companion."

"Life and death companion?"

"That's right. Now why are we still standing here. Get a move on already."

Lee Sungkook didn't question it further because for him, it didn't matter who was who. All he knew was that the people surrounding had no problem taking his life away if he acted up. He had to throw away all pride and dignity for survival. Yes, this was the only way.

...

Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk both moved to the back of the group. To be able to talk with each other with our getting interrupted. Kim Dokja, keeping his voice low whispered to Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Hey , I thought I told you not to come. Didn't you read the note? Or did you throw it away without reading?"

"I read the note."

"Then why did you come even though I said not to?"

"I don't like being order around."

"Of course you don't but that doesn't mean you have to do the opposite of what the note tells you."

"I don't want you to go of dying."

"But weren't you in the situation of dying before?"

"That's different."

"It is not. Anyway, it is not like I'm one only here or anything, and I'm strong enough to be able to protect myself you know."

"In a normal scenario that would work."

"Are you telling me something abnormal will happened while I'm gone?"

"There is always a chance."

"A chance you say? Now that you say it, the prophets here are abnormal indeed. Do you know anything about it?"

"I don't know a lot. I was sleeping at the time."

"I see, was it because of the theatre dungeon back then too? You sure aren't that thoughtful after all."

"..."

Kim Dokja was right about that though. He hadn't gotten that thoughtful after all. There was improvements but he still slips ups.

"In less than a week Chungmuro station will be attacked. You should send back Jung Heewon, with that it should be safe."

"Who is going to attack Chungmuro?"

"The Apostles."

"Apostles? Who are they?"

"You'll find out soon enough. What is important right now is for you to send back Jung Heewon."

"Is Jung Heewon going to be enough? I don't know what they are going to be facing."

"Just give her some items or something, that should do it."

"I'll trust you this time."

"You better."

Had Kim Dokja not trusted him before? Or was it because of theatre dungeon that his trusted had fallen a bit?

"Jung Heewon."

Kim Dokja called, she immediately turned around to look at him.

"Take this with you and go back to Chungmuro station."

Kim Dokja handed over the [Tyrant T-Rex's DNA Ampoule] to Jung Heewon. An item that increases all stats with 10 levels temporary. Quite the overpowered item.

"Wait, what? Why am I going back?"

"Kim Dokja came so I need someone to keep the base safe for the time being."

"Can't you just send 'Kim Dokja' back then?"

"You know I can't do that."

"Oh, really. Aren't you the King here, then there shouldn't be any problems, right?"

"Just go back Jung Heewon."

Jung Heewon stared at Kim Dokja for a while before deciding that it wasn't worth it.

"Fine."

She said as she turned around and started to walk back. Kim Dokja felt a little bad about taking her along only to send her back, but if Yoo Jonghyuk said was true that it was complete necessary for their safety. He wouldn't want anyone to die while he is gone.

Keeping up his Yoo Jonghyuk font was going to get a lot harder with the real one right here. Especially when that Yoo Jonghyuk was trying to imitate him. How wrong can it go he asked himself, only to find that a lot could go severely wrong. Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't one to follow his orders either.

Kim Dokja's plans were never smooth sailing with Yoo Jonghyuk around, and this particular Yoo Jonghyuk was even harder to make predications for. The only good thing was that Yoo Jonghyuk was a one man army capable of eradicating everything in his way.

{What could go wrong...}

.

Little did Kim Dokja know that he was raising a lot of flags for himself by his mere thoughts.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk glared at the people from Dongmyo. It wasn't long ago he had arrived here with Kim Dokja and Lee Hyunsung. Kim Dokja was currently in the tent talking with the representative of Dongmyo. He couldn't hear their conversation because of a barrier around the tent. He knew that Kim Dokja had the conversation under control but he still wanted to know what they were talking about.

From how things looked, Han Donghoon was the one who was in the tent. In an usual regression turn he would have been the king but right now, that wasn't the case. Instead the prophets had completely taken over the place. The one guy from before, Lee Sungkook, he was now the vice representative and had the ability to use [Hypnosis]. Another thing to note was the guy with [Fugitive's Mask], who had the [Cursed Gladiator] attribute. And both shared the 'get off' attribute.

Wasn't it pretty obvious who was who here?

Just looking at the skills and attributes the leader's could easily be pin pointed. Who were they to trying to fool? The leader was out here while Kim Dokja was in there with the vice president.

It was a shame that he couldn't do anything right now. He wasn't the type to just wait around but if it was for Kim Dokja he could do it.

Jung Minseob, the cursed gladiator, and the leader approached him with ill intent. Was he dumb or just a fool. Did he really think they could win? Wasn't these the prophets who had read the novel? He knew that 'Kim Dokja' wasn't a part of the original and perhaps because of it was looking down on him. But really now?

"What is it?"

He ends up saying. He knew the intentions they had but he was obliged not to attack anyone so this wasn't the desired situation.

"You look weak, who are you?"

Weak? That wasn't something people had ever called him. Was it because he had chosen to hide his aura? He wasn't short or scrawny either, maybe the guy was just blind.

"Shouldn't the one asking for a name introduce themselves first?"

"Tch, the name's Jung Minseob. Now I'll ask again, who are you exactly?"

"I'm Kim Dokja. Yoo Jonghyuk's companion."

Was this the knew way he was going to introduce himself for the time being? Yes.

"Kim Dokja? I have never heard of you before?"

"Why would you know anything?"

"You see, we have been interested in Yoo Jonghyuk for a while now and therefor have been watching."

"And yet you didn't hear anything about Yoo Jonghyuk's closet companion, let me ask you, how did you get information about Yoo Jonghyuk?"

He had his own ideas about it and he also knew about the novel. But he wanted to hear it himself from them. How far could he push it before they would attack, he wondered.

"..."

Jung Minseob was in deep thought as he couldn't answer the question without revealing more information. He had no reason to answer Kim Dokja since he wasn't Yoo Jonghyuk but agitating one of his companions could lead to suspicion. And suspicion wasn't something he wanted to show if they were going to form an alliance.

If only this nobody wasn't so suspicious all of a sudden it all could have gone different. Yoo Jonghyuk was currently in the tent and couldn't hear anything so maybe he could get away with beating up this mob. But then again, this was still Yoo Jonghyuk's companion and Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn't pick up someone powerless.

Weighing his thoughts he came to an answer. But the answer was definitely the wrong answer.

Jung Minseob shoved the mob to the ground, or that was what he tried to do. But this so called nobody still stood tall at the same spot. He removed his hand with a tight grip on his wrist. And then he pulled his wrist down making him stumble forward.

Kim Dokja put his face right to his ears and from just a tiny whisper, Jung Minseob was sure he had wetted his pants. Kim Dokja's voice, as low as it was, was more threatening than anything he had ever heard. What was Kim Dokja? Some sort of demon?

Just as he had enough of this he get shoved to the ground, face first. One second he was being whispered to and now he was face planting into the ground. This mob was way to scary and powerful. He regretted his decision to provoke him a hundreds of times already.

Jung Minseob moved position, not to attack but to bow. Bow and beg for mercy.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked down on the guy, who has less worth than a bug in his eyes.

If Kim Dokja wasn't here he was sure he wouldn't have been so merciful.

...

[Representative 'Kim Dokja' have used the benefits of the navy flag.]

[From now on, you can use the 'group chat' with the group members.]

Kim Dokja had briefly explained situation to them. Even so, it was only brief and Yoo Jonghyuk wanted more. Lee Hyunsung, who was the only one kept in the dark here unsurprisingly looked surprised.

-What going on Dokja-ssi? It is unbelievable, do they know part of the future? Is that why Dokja-ssi is acting like Yoo Jonghyuk?

-Yes.

-Why are you attacking them then? Wouldn't it be better to form an alliance and get more information?

-You would think so.

-Huh?

-We don't need an alliance from someone so weak. Their information is also lacking. The only thing interesting is the network between prophets and that isn't a problem to take care of.

-Your plans?

-Drag out the 'Prophets' and 'Apostles' to get rid of them all, of course.

-Extermination of the Prophets and Apostles, I like it.

-Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi!

-But it is true, we can't have them running around. Therefor, on my signal I want Yoo Jonghyuk to apprehend everyone here in the station.

-Apprehend?

-Yes, I don't need a massacre here.

-Tch.

-What about me? Dokja-ssi.

-Just stand by, we don't know what will happened in the future.

{Was Lee Hyunsung disappointed just now?}

Kim Dokja's eyes must be betraying him.

...

It wasn't soon after Kim Dokja disappeared with the use of a special cloak that the internet around here stop working. He himself didn't have access to it but he heard what others were talking about. The two prophets rushed into tent and Yoo Jonghyuk got his signal.

-Now Yoo Jonghyuk.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't miss his chance. Using only his bare fist he knocked down the incarnation who was the closest. Other around quickly caught on what was going down but it was already to late before it even started.

Yoo Jonghyuk made sure to pull his punches as Kim Dokja requested him to. No one had died yet but that didn't mean they weren't hurt. Most just threw up blood after passing out on the ground. What an ugly sight.

His fists didn't stop before almost everyone was knocked out. What a bunch of weaklings, he thought. What was all this show of with items and coins if they just straight up lacked skill. Kim Dokja was even better with his sword than everyone here he had seen, and Kim Dokja was just swinging it around while predicting the enemies next movement.

Now that he thought about it. Kim Dokja lacked a lot of things when it came down to combat. His stats and talent were both, how should he say it? He was useless when it came down to talent. At least he had his skills that made up for it.

A thought passed through his head.

Kim Dokja doesn't know his own attributes or skills.

[The 4th wall] blocked everything about it.

He should tell him about it sometime. He wouldn't want it his companion to suffer just because of his lack of knowledge of himself.

-Kim Dokja.

He begun.

-I knocked out everyone.

-Good job, I'm almost finished here.

-...

-...?

-Can we talk in private later?

Even the group chat wasn't private because Lee Hyunsung was here. And it was too early for him to hear anything.

-Sure.

A response came.

The group chat sure was convenient.

...

After a full night of rest they were already heading off. He hadn't had the chance to talk to Kim Dokja about his abilities yet because of how busy he has been.

Yesterday Kim Dokja took the [Fugitive's Mask] and now he looks like himself. It was weird seeing himself walking around, especially since it was Kim Dokja. How far was he going to take the identity theft? Was Kim Dokja going to grow some muscles and grow a head taller? Would his voice suddenly sound even more like his than it already does? He truly was too occupied with his own thoughts.

Anguk station was the meeting point this time. It wasn't occupied by anyone right now and served it job as a meeting point.

Kim Dokja's flag as of yesterday had also evolved into a brown flag which only boosted his strength further. Even still, he had a bad feeling about today. Or more specifically about the meeting. The prophet's couldn’t possible outdo them in strength so why? He wasn't sure himself. Yoo Jonghyuk's gut feeling had never been wrong before which only made him worry more.

When arriving at Anguk station, other prophet's quickly spotted us and begun to approached us.

"Hey, No. 1089!"

"Oh, it is No. 763 hyung."

"How have you been? You face doesn't look good?"

"Well spotted. The Tyrant Kill is giving me hell."

"I told you not to advance towards the Dobong side. Why didn't you listen..."

'No. 763' trailed off glancing around until his eyes landed on Kim Dokja.

"P-Perhaps... he is...?"

Jung Minseob nodded and 'No. 763's eyes showed astonishment in them.

“I-It is really an honour. Yoo Jonghyuk-nim!”

The uproar caused more of the prophets to gather one by one.

“Is that…?”

More prophets crowed in front of Kim Dokja.

“He looks better than I imagined! I am No. 998!”

“It is great to meet you, Yoo Jonghyuk-nim! I’m No. 1055!”

Before he had wondered what the numbers meant but by now he had figured it out. The numbers had to do with how much of the novel they had read. A lower number meant that they had dropped it off in the beginning. In other words, the higher the number the more information they had. But of course the one who knew the most didn't even have a number because he never dropped it.

“It was very impressive when you fought against Demon King Asmodeus in the second regression.”

Wrong. They clearly hadn't read it properly.

“It was mentioned briefly in the Book of Revelations… now that I’ve met Yoo Jonghyuk-nim, I feel like hearing about it from you.”

Book of Revelation was what they had called it but the true name is 'Three Ways to Survive In a Ruined World'.

“Who are you?”

Kim Dokja asked, his voice showed disappointment.

“I am No. 1168.”

A high number.

'No. 1168' asked Kim Dokja,

“Excuse me, is it Yoo Jonghyuk-nim’s third turn right now?”

“That’s right.”

Kim Dokja answered.

“Ah, as expected…”

A few prophets showed dark expressions. Was this because they knew that it was inevitable to fail in the early rounds? Or that was the case until Kim Dokja showed up. But they wouldn't know about it.

“Lee Hyunsung-nim!”

“Steel Sword Lee Hyunsung?”

The prophets continued to disturb us. And now they were going after the party members.

“W-What are you doing? I’m not the Steel… I’m not that!”

“Wow, just like a real revelation. Look at those biceps!”

“Ohhh! So taut!”

Yoo Jonghyuk was enjoying his time not being bothered until some jerk approached him.

"You... who are you?"

How many times had people asked him that already?

All of the sudden the prophets attention turned to him. He expect as much.

Gathering up his breath, he once again played his role of Kim Dokja.

"I'm Kim Dokja,"

He begun and a wide smirk appeared on Yoo Jonghyuk's lips.

"Yoo Jonghyuk's life and death companion."

Chapter Text

"I'm Kim Dokja,"

He begun and a wide smirk appeared on Yoo Jonghyuk's lips.

"Yoo Jonghyuk's life and death companion."

The words that left his mouth echoed through the whole station, and in return gaining the attention of everyone around. The chatter instantly disappeared and all that was left was a heavy silence. His words were so firm that anyone who heard him would believe what he just said even if it was outrageous.

The prophets, who turned speechless started to slowly take in the words he had just said. Jung Minseob was the first to start talking again.

"This again..."

He said as he put a hand up towards his face and sighed.

"...Again?"

No. 1168 questioned. A big question mark appearing on his face.

"He did this before. At least it isn't as bad as then."

Another sigh escaped his mouth. Sometimes he wondered if his survival was really worth it.

"...As bad? What happened."

"Someone *cough* Kim Dokja *cough* smacked Yoo Jonghyuk-nim in the back of his head."

Because of the statement of Jung Minseob other prophets voiced their thoughts.

"What! How is he still alive?!"

"Why are you asking me that? How am I supposed to know?"

"Is that guy like really strong or something?"

"If you want to know you should challenge him. I'm sure he would be happy to beat your butt."

"Who is that guy really though? I haven't heard of any Kim Dokja before and why would he be covering his face?"

"Perhaps he is just that ugly."

"I wonder how ugly a face could be to have to cover it up with a mask?"

Yoo Jonghyuk felt himself getting angrier and angrier by the minute. Soon he would probably take out his sword to deal with these loose mouths.

-Can I kill them?

-No.

What a shame.

Kim Dokja turned away from the murderous intent Yoo Jonghyuk was releasing and started to walk about the real reason he came. Yoo Jonghyuk carefully listened in on their conversation.

"Where is the weapon?"

A weapon? Kim Dokja didn't say anything about it... Why was he hiding the information from him?

"Huh?"

"The weapon you have hidden. I will check it first."

"Ah, here it is."

No. 763 excitedly moved to the center of the platform and removed the cloth covering a ...meteorite?

"Is that a meteorite?"

"Haha, that's right. At this point, Yoo Jonghyuk-nim might not know... according to the Book of Revelation, it contained a powerful weapon."

"A weapon?"

"Yes! That's correct. Maybe it is a weapon like a top ranking star relic."

"Doesn't the meteorite need hatching time and can't be used now?"

"Haha, we have a rotation that will provide magic power. It will hatch tonight at the latest. We have been working on it for a few days..."

A star relic that hatches out of a red patterned meteorite. Such nonsense.

"Which bastard gave you the information?"

"Huh?"

"That person who brought the meteorite to you."

"Oh, that... No. 1124, he was the first one..."

No. 1124, isn't that to early of an number to know something about this? He himself haven't seen anything like it so the likeliness of this being correct is... zero. Then what was it? He hadn't seen Kim Dokja using an star relic other than [Unbroken Faith] in the early scenarios. He pondered his brain for any information the could lead to answers.

"Where is he?"

Jung Minseob looked around the place and muttered.

"Uh... I guess he hasn't come yet."

The informant didn't come here. Everything was finally falling together. It seemed Kim Dokja had also figured it out as he shouted,

"We have to get out of here."

That right. It was a trap. For you see, a certain disaster from the fifth scenario never appeared. And that certain disaster was none other than the lesser fire dragon Igneel. He never knew what had happened to it other than that Kim Dokja had already taken care of it before the scenario even came.

But now he knew. This was what had happened.

"Huh?"

"Right now."

He had to get out of here as soon as possible but Kim Dokja was already dangerously close. He could get out of here in time using [Red Phoenix Shunpo] but then Kim Dokja would be left behind and he couldn't possible let that happened.

The meteorite was trembling which caused the whole platform to vibrate. Something was hatching, and it was something with tremendous power.

"W-What is this?"

Kim Dokja's gaze moved in between the prophets and the meteorite. He seemed to be unsure of what to do, so instead, Yoo Jonghyuk made his choice. He swept Kim Dokja from his feet and carried him to the other end of the platform.

The safest option for Kim Dokja was the best option for his mentality.

Lee Hyunsung quickly followed suit. Though he still didn't fully understand the situation.

-Dokja-ssi, what did you mean by 'we have to get out of here'?

-It is too late.

-What is too lat-

The red aura of a lesser fire dragon spread fast across the platform and a faint barrier surrounded the surrounding space. Constellation were excited by their current predicament, It was a bad omen.

[An omen of the fifth main scenario has appeared.]

The surface of the meteorite cracked and red blinding light poured out of it. The light touched a nearby prophet and his body fell to the ground headless. Multiple prophets screamed and retreated further to the edge but they were unable to escape.

More cracks appeared and now lava poured out and created a new lava zone. A painful zone for someone who doesn't have resistance to fire or heat. Someone like Kim Dokja or Lee Hyunsung.

From the meteorite, which had expanded to a size of around 2 meters, crawled out a monster over five meters long.

-It's here. The disaster.

-Disaster?

The dragon species who just hatched out let out a roar.

Kuoooooh!

It was really violent even if it was just born.

Severely confused prophets called out for Kim Dokja's help even though they were the ones who caused the incident. Even as he was frowning he still gave out orders to the ones who chose to listen to him.

"Get back to the edges."

Responding to what he said everyone who wasn't already at the edge got back as far as possible.

-How unreasonable. A hidden scenario will start soon, though it has an unusual difficulty and there will soon be an intervention.

And as Kim Dokja said, it appeared. A dokkaebi. Not a low grade like Bihyung. Instead this one wore a tidy suit and had two little horns on his head. It was an intermediate dokkaebi.

It spoke.

[Hrmm. This is difficult. How did you guys get this 'root'? It was only installed recently...]

The movements of Igneel stoped once his voice rang out.

[A disaster woke up in the fourth scenario?]

[Some constellations are poisonous so I can't spare you... it is also hard to downgrade the difficulty...]

The intermediate dokkaebi's gaze landed on Kim Dokja.

[I have decided. I won't downgrade the difficulty.]

[Still... it won't be interesting if you all die this way. I will use my discretion to change the scenario content.]

[The hidden scenario has arrived!]

+

[Hidden Scenario – United You Die, Scattered You Die]

Category: Hidden

Difficulty: A

Clear Conditions: Within the time limit, hunt down the 'lesser dragon Igneel' or survive his attacks.

Time Limit: 20 minutes.

Compensation: 3,000 coins

Failure: Death

Hidden pieces are hidden in this mission.

+

Kim Dokja, who was still on Yoo Jonghyuk's back, gulped. 'United You Die, Scattered You Die' the title of the scenario really gave one hope, didn't it?

Lee Hyunsung who was beside asked Kim Dokja,

–Do we have to hunt him?

–No, don't even dream about it.

Of course, even for himself, Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn’t dream of killing a fifth grade dragon in the beginning of the 4th scenario. So, how? How did Kim Dokja take something like this on and win? Maybe because he wasn't Yoo Jonghyuk he could win. But what was his plan?

-Kim Dokja.

A single message made Kim Dokja awoke him from his dazed state. He gave out more orders for avoiding the dragons attack.

"Everyone run counterclockwise."

Counterclockwise it was. He moved as Kim Dokja instructed. It was good that he at least knew the pattern. But just as he had dodged one attack another came.

[The 5th grade fire dragon species, 'Lesser Dragon Igneel' is preparing the 'Flames of Destruction'.]

"Look for a foothold."

"Yes?"

"Number 5... or 2 and 3! Anyway, just quickly find something that adds up to 5!"

[A hidden piece is activated.]

[Numerical footholds are activated.]

[Once the appropriate number of people enters the foothold, 'Absolute Shield' can be activated in 10 seconds.]

[Absolute Shield won't activate when the number on the foothold is exceeded.]

There were few footholds around, which made many of the prophets fight for the ones left. Were they going to die from fighting each other in front of a boss?

–Representative-nim! There is no foothold.

–There is nothing here!

Yoo Jonghyuk looked around for a foothold to house his party. But the only one that was close, only had four. While his party was five people.

[The 5th grade fire dragon species, 'Lesser Dragon Igneel' is using the 'Flames of Destruction'.]

Emergencies created sacrifices. He was just about to sacrifice Jung Minseob to the incoming fire when a prophet shouted his name.

"Yoo Jonghyuk-nim!"

It was a call for Kim Dokja. But he couldn't just let Kim Dokja leave his side.

-Jung Minseob, leave.

As ordered, Jung Minseob rushed to the other foothold.

"Activate the shield!"

[Absolute Shield is activated!]

Kuoooooh!

Flames bursted out from the dragon and burned everything on the platform. Just from the touch and Jung Minseob could of melted. Kim Dokja, who has had enough of being carried around by Yoo Jonghyuk, told Yoo Jonghyuk,

-Let me down.

-No.

-I need to talk with prophet over there, it is important.

Yoo Jonghyuk gave him a frown and slowly let him down. The fierce heat died down and a path between Jung Minseob, No. 1168 and Kim Dokja was created. The absolute shield soon turned of as well.

-Be fast.

At Yoo Jonghyuk's words, Kim Dokja hurried over to the terrified Jung Minseob and No. 1168.

"Who are you?"

Kim Dokja questioned him harshly. Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to know what Kim Dokja was thinking.

No. 1168 laughed lightly. "I'm disappointed. Have you already forgotten? I am No. 1168. About Asmodeus..."

"That isn't my question."

No. 1168 showed a surprised look and his eyes shook at the question.

This time, Kim Dokja pulled out [Unbroken Faith] and pointed it at him. He once again opened his mouth to speak.

“I will ask you again. Who are you?”

“My identity? What are you talking about suddenly…?”

“Have you forgotten? I have Sage’s Eyes.”

Kim Dokja didn't have Sage's eyes though, that was his skill. But the prophet quickly admitted defeat.

“…I didn’t think Yoo Jonghyuk-nim would notice.”

“You are an apostle. Right?”

“That’s right. You already knew it.”

“This is a trap. Is it because of the Butterfly Effect?”

“Haha, that’s right.”

Kim Dokja had already figured out that much. This only proved that his insight was once again lacking compared to Kim Dokja's. Even if he had learned a lot from being with Kim Dokja, he still hadn't learned merely enough.

“If there are a lot of flying butterflies, unnecessary storms will happy.”

“You are killing the larvae before they become butterflies.”

“The larvae that are about to become pupa are the easiest to kill.”

The larvae obviously symbolizes the prophets, then the apostles goal is also to kill of the prophets. If he wasn't going after the apostles and if they hadn't put up this trap for him, maybe they could of worked together.

[After one minute, the positions of the footholds will be recreated.]

The situation right now was way too dangerous to just have a casual talk like this. But Kim Dokja needed the conversation to get more information about the apostles. But he didn't want Kim Dokja to get hurt again.

He needed to wait out the situation. All he could now was to listen in while avoiding all incoming attacks from the fifth grade dragon.

What was the apostles purpose for putting up such a deadly trap and why were them here themselves? Are they planning on beating the dragon? They couldn't possible.

But then he saw it, a ice pill was in the hands of the apostle. Why hadn't he thought about that before. So, they really came prepared to slay the dragon while destroying all the larvae in the process.

It was a smart move on their part, but would those ice pills really be enough? Or had they just dug their own grave. As much as he wanted to make it out alive he wouldn't mind the latter happening.

And even if the prophets could defeat the dragon he wouldn't let them get away afterwards.

Chapter Text

Kuooooh!

The lesser fire dragon Igneel let out a deafening roar, causing the platform to vibrate once more.

[The positions of the footholds will be created!]

[The 5th grade fire dragon species, 'Lesser Dragon Igneel' is preparing the 'Flames of Destruction'.]

This situation had become rather troublesome.

Not only did he have to fight a disaster in the in the 4th scenario but he also had to fight with apostles at the same time. Fortunately for him, they hadn't attacked yet but that didn't lessen the fierce atmosphere.

Kim Dokja had acted one his own and was currently speaking with one of the apostles. This made him greatly worried. Therefor, he had quite the hard time staying still. The way the conversation flowed was leading the one way he didn't want to see.

He wanted to call him back immediately but the foothold that had been created didn't have enough space to fit everyone. The coward, Jung Minseob, had run back while Kim Dokja was distracted by the apostle and now there wasn't enough footholds.

Kim Dokja therefor had no choice but to stay over there while all he could do was to watch the conversation unfold.

"Do you think I am worried about my party members? People die anyway. I can gather other people."

Kim Dokja's spoken words made him flinch, he didn't like that sentence coming out of Kim Dokja's mouth even if he was acting.

"Huhu, you are truly like the revelations. But you better think carefully."

"What do you mean?"

"By now, Yoo Jonghyuk-nim's main base would've entered our hands."

"..."

Kim Dokja didn't say anything to that. This was what Yoo Jonghyuk had warned him about. He felt relief over the fact that they were currently safe.

"Maritime Admiral Lee Jihye, a child who uses strange abilities. One of the 10 Evils. And Judge of destruction Jung Heewon. It is different from the original revelation but you have made a fairly good party. If they all die, won't Yoo Jonghyuk-nim face problems starting again?"

"What makes you think you could win?"

"Our group has already completed the King's road scenario and you should know the gap between a group with and without a king."

There was that part too. Good thing he leant the capsule to Jung Heewon for backup.

"It will be much worse if we take away Chungmuro station. You should know that the proposal won't last forever."

No. 1168 kept talking while trying to convince Kim Dokja.

"If you pledge to join arms, we can provide safety for your teammates as well as support in the future. This is a promise on your king's honor."

"Your King, were did they get off?"

"The king dislikes being call someone who 'got off'"

"So, who are they?"

"Even if you're Yoo Jonghyuk-nim, please refrain from speaking about him like that. He is someone who read all of the revelations, he knows both your past and future."

Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't help but snort at the nonsense that they were spewing. A proposal that would pass of as a threat? That they could actually defeat his party? That they believed that they could fight of the dragon? Their king who apparently read all of the novel that wasn't Kim Dokja?

Nonsense. Absolute nonsense.

Kim Dokja's reaction was similar to his as laughter emerged. A laugh that was ridiculing what No. 1168 was saying.

Kuuoooh!

Igneel let out another roar. It was time to prepare for the third attack to start.

In that moment Yoo Jonghyuk felt panicked as he looked over at Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja was stepping back and out of the foothold.

-Don't worry.

Kim Dokja's message rung into his ears. But he couldn't help but do the complete opposite of what he said. What was he planning this time?

-No matter what happens, don't move from there. Understood?

-Kim Dokja!

Kim Dokja backed further away from the foothold with slow but sure steps. Yoo Jonghyuk started to become more visible panicked. Other apostles also panicked as they watched Kim Dokja moving away in the direction of the lesser dragon.

"What?!"

"What are you doing? Come back immediately!"

"No!"

Apostles scream at Kim Dokja, but Kim Dokja didn't come back.

"Did your king tell you about this future?"

Defying the novel, this was exactly the way Yoo Jonghyuk had reacted when he learned about it. Killing or dying in order to prove them all wrong.

"You guys haven't forgotten what my stigma is, right? If so you should know that I'm not afraid of death. I can always start everything over again."

'This can't be...'

"I wonder what the effect will be on you? If I die here, will you exist in the next turn? Or will you end along with this world?"

Yoo Jonghyuk knew the answer to that all to well.

"You should know the answer if you read the revelations, right?"

Even Kim Dokja didn't have the answer to that, and he read the whole novel.

"Yoo Jonghyuk!"

The apostles kept calling out his name as they rushed after Kim Dokja. Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to rush along with them if it meant that he could save Kim Dokja. But that wasn't the case and he knew that all to well.

"Quickly! Catch him!"

Yoo Jonghyuk called out Kim Dokja once more. But this time he shouted it out instead. He wanted to be heard and he wanted Kim Dokja to listen to him.

"Kim Dokja!"

In the end he couldn't keep up his disguise until the very last moments. Yoo Jonghyuk's voice was desperate as he shouted after Kim Dokja.

"No, Kim Dokja!"

-I'll be back.

[The 5th grade fire dragon species, 'Lesser Dragon Igneel' is using the 'Flames of Destruction'.]

[Absolute Shield is activated!]

Fire burst out and spread across the platform, it was even worse than before and it burned everything in its way. He could barely make out Kim Dokja put his flag into the flag holder before it swallowed him whole.

In Yoo Jonghyuk's mind the single response echoed through his head. 'I'll be back' was the message.

Red devoured his vision as flames came into contact with the absolute shield. Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes were shaking.

Lee Hyunsung who hadn't said anything until now could only stare at what he just had witnessed. The despair he felt right now was overwhelming but it still couldn't compare to what Yoo Jonghyuk was feeling.

Even in this situation Yoo Jonghyuk remained standing. That was because it was the only thing left that he could do.

Yoo Jonghyuk started to regret many things. Many choices that differed that he had made shouldn't have happened. He regretted them all. But he could only regret them in silence because he had no one left to talk about it with.

He felt his own rationality snapping at the moment.

'...'

'... Why?'

'... Why must this always happened?'

'... Why could I never protect anyone?'

'... Why could I never protect Kim Dokja?"

He wanted to despair. But he couldn't. He couldn't because that wasn't what Kim Dokja wanted. All he could do now was to wait in hopes of him coming back as always.

All he could ever do was to sit back and watch as Kim Dokja sacrificed himself over and over again. Had nothing changed from rounds to rounds? Was anything ever going to change?

He needed to think rationally, he needed to reason with himself and not just question his own purpose.

'Kim Dokja was gone?'

The words didn't sit right. Kim Dokja wasn't that kind of person.

'Then what?'

He continued to think through what had happened.

'Kim Dokja was king of immortality.'

That was a fact. When did he become a king? When completing the scenario King's road. When did one complete King's road? When acquiring enough stations. Had Kim Dokja acquired enough stations?

The flag had evolved into a brown flag and therefor he had completed the King's road.

'Therefor he could still live.'

Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts had reached its conclusion.

'He will live.'

This was the only way for him to move forward. Because before him, the dragon still existed.

-Lee Hyunsung.

He used the group chat even though Lee Hyunsung was right next to him. He just didn't fell like talking.

-Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi.

Lee Hyunsung answered Yoo Jonghyuk. Lee Hyunsung didn't know much about Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's relationship other than that they were life and death companions as Yoo Jonghyuk had stated many times.

Even though he hadn't known Yoo Jonghyuk for long he could feel that Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's relationship was more than what was shown, it felt like they had known each other for a very long time and that they had a deeper understanding of each other.

It was odd watching the way they got along because they seemed so different. Why would that be the case? Had they known each other before the scenario started perhaps? But that didn't seem to be the case either.

Lee Hyunsung himself had felt very devoted towards Kim Dokja because of the role that he had played from the beginning of the scenarios. And therefor also felt great despair at what had just happened, but in some way he felt that Yoo Jonghyuk was in even greater despair.

He had never been good at comforting people and had no idea how to do that, especially when he also felt down. Even in times like this he was selfish, because he wanted someone to comfort him when Yoo Jonghyuk was hurt even more than him.

-Kim Dokja will live.

Lee Hyunsung flinched as he read the message. Yoo Jonghyuk was rational, he knew that much, so why would he send a message like this? He wanted to hear the reasoning behind it but at the moment he still felt unsure. Therefor he just chose to accept the message and believe in both Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk.

-I trust you.

Trust, that was what give to Yoo Jonghyuk. He couldn't be his shield because that spot was already taken by Kim Dokja. But at least he could give Yoo Jonghyuk the trust that he deserves.

The flames died down and Yoo Jonghyuk could finally view the area again. Kim Dokja wasn't visible anywhere. All he saw was his items that hadn't yet been destroyed. Kim Dokja's cloths was all gone along with him.

How would this turn out?

It wasn't long after that the shield went down once more.

The room was more quiet than before, this could be because of most prophets had already died.

And then, something started to happened. It was around were the lesser dragon was, something was forming. And Yoo Jonghyuk could immediately guess what. Because he had seen it before.

When Kim Dokja came back after being killed by Shin Yoosung.

'Kim Dokja was coming back...'

[A Fable within you is responding to your will.]

'...?'

[The Fable 'Life and Death Companions' started its storytelling.]

'What?'

This didn't happened before. What could have caused it?

Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's fable had distracted him for a moment but he returned his eyes towards were Kim Dokja was resurrecting.

It was not the prettiest sight to see someones body being build up from nothing and before he knew, he directed his sight else were.

-Kim Dokja.

He sent the message to Kim Dokja hoping that it wasn't just an illusion. And as he thought, Kim Dokja really came back. Because not before long he got an answer.

-I told you I'll be back.

-You were right.

-Of course I were.

Kim Dokja was still as smug as ever even after burning to death huh?

'I'm glad.'

He hesitated sending something like that. But Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't one to hesitate often so he chose to show his feeling once in a while.

-I'm glad that you're back, Kim Dokja.

Chapter Text

Recreation of Kim Dokja's flesh finished just as the next 'Flames of Destruction' was about to begin. There really is no time for rest.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't hesitate to reach out towards Kim Dokja, who was close to a foothold with a number '2' written on it. They ended up sharing the foothold, just the two of them. Kim Dokja, who had lost all of his clothes to the fire, embarrassingly asked Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, do you have anything for me to wear? A separate pair of clothing?"

Yoo Jonghyuk, who did actually have a another pair of clothing, took of his shirt and handed it over.

"Here."

Yoo Jonghyuk's clothing was much lager than Kim Dokja's because of his build. It worked similar to a poncho in that sense because it covered him enough. Kim Dokja could help but to stare at the shirt and then shifted his gaze beyond the shirt onto Yoo Jonghyuk's stomach. Which was a full on display of abs.

Kim Dokja, who was on the verge of having a nosebleed, took the shirt and put it on. It really was to big on him to be called a shirt.

[The constellation ‘Abyssal Black Flame Dragon’ is looking at the black flame dragon.]

Kim Dokja felt a gaze around his shoulders and subconsciously shrank back. Kim Dokja regretted not turning his notifications off. And Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to punch that 'abyssal black flame dragon' for looking that way.

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes, which subconsciously had begun to glance downwards, shifted up to Kim Dokja's face the moment Kim Dokja took the shirt. And another thought passed through his head.

'...Kim Dokja's smell on his shirt...'

Then we have Kim Dokja who was having a similar reaction.

'Yoo Jonghyuk's shirt, with his smell on it...'

And at that moment, both Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja wanted that shirt. But none of them could say that thought out loud. So, instead they chose to keep quiet about it.

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk spoke. He needed to know what to do next.

"Let's move."

The flames died down once more and so did the heat.

Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja, Lee Hyunsung and whatever prophets was left, moved counterclockwise as instructed before. Ice pills was rolling around on the ground, evidence of the apostles dying. Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk collected all of the scattered items since they were the fastest of the party.

Roooooaar!

"Gather!"

A single foothold with the number '5' was activated. That was fortunate for them.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, give me all of your ice pills."

Plop.

The ice pills fell into the hands of Kim Dokja.

"What do I need to do?"

Yoo Jonghyuk had a serious expression on his face. He still hadn't been told what to do properly.

"We'll fight."

"Against the dragon?"

"Exactly."

But even if Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja was up to doing crazy stuff that seemed impossible, Lee Hyunsung couldn't help but to worry.

"But Dokja-ssi, didn't you say that the dragon was impossible to kill? Isn't it crazy to fight it right now? And just after you came back after dying."

Lee Hyunsung and the prophets were both tired out from the heat and was having a hard time breathing. Yoo Jonghyuk, the inhuman beast he was, wasn't even exhausted in the slightest.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, we'll go. Lee Hyunsung, you can just stay behind and watch.

Kim Dokja swallowed up all of the pills. He felt like he was naked in the arctic, actually, it might be even worse than that. But fortunately, he had two skills that was able to offset the cold and pain.

Cold resistance and the fourth wall.

Blade of Faith shone in the color of dark blue, it was a mesmerizing color.

The absolute shield deactivated.

"Let's go!"

Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk rushed for the dragon. They had little time to take it out because they never knew when the footholds wouldn't be enough.

The lesser fire dragon Igneel didn't just have one attack. It could utilize its whole body for attacking. A red giant paw aimed for Yoo Jonghyuk's side. Too bad for it, because Yoo Jonghyuk was much faster.

Kyaaaaaak!

The dragon was stabbed in the head by blade of Faith. The lesser fire dragon let out a cry of pain.

Peooook!

Another stab wound was created in its hind legs. It was Yoo Jonghyuk's doing. Even without a ether sword with a ice attribute the damage was massive.

Kim Dokja couldn't help to think that Yoo Jonghyuk was truly scary. It wasn't just the amount of damage that he had done but also.

'How would that bastard know its weak point without a skill?'

The dragon's paw and tail worked together to attack the two companions.

Kim Dokja, who was too close, used his newly acquired brown flag to protect himself from the paw. In response, Yoo Jonghyuk stabbed the dragon's tail with his sword and slit it right off. Once again, the dragon let out a cry of pain as it stumbled for balance.

Kyyoook!

They worked together to attack the dragon in the chest. One from above and the other from underneath.

Puook!

Weird noises kept coming out of the dying dragon as it kept getting hurt in its weak points.

[The 5th grade fire dragon species, ‘Lesser Dragon Igneel’ is preparing the ‘Flames of Destruction’.]

Time was almost up by now. But Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk didn't hesitate to continue. Their companion and the prophets called out to them to come back but there was no turning away from the battle. It was a battle of time now.

The dragon maw opened wide to prepare for the 'Flames of Destruction'.

Roooooaarr!

"Kim Dokja!"

Yoo Jonghyuk had stabbed his sword in-between the scales of the dragon. But this made it become stuck. The last blow was for Kim Dokja to make.

Kim Dokja grabbed the hilt with all of strength. He needed to put his all into this attack.

His sword became invisible and silent, like Yoo Jonghyuk's blade. The sharp sense of emotion filled Kim Dokja up and he moved forward, towards the dragon.

There were no hesitation in his movements. His sword swung and then.

Kuuong!

Blood rained down on Kim Dokja. He sighed in relief. He really was moments away from perishing along with Yoo Jonghyuk.

Kim Dokja vomited from where he was lying. The vomit mostly consisted of the ice pills that he had swallowed before. Too many in his body was complete poison from him so it was good that he could get rid of them from his system.

Yoo Jonghyuk came over with a bit of a worried expression on his face. He understood the necessary action of having to vomit up the pills but he was still worried about Kim Dokja's health.

After vomiting a bit more, Kim Dokja tried to stand up but he just staggered as he tried. This made Yoo Jonghyuk grab a hold of Kim Dokja's shoulders to help him balance.

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk whispered into the ears of Kim Dokja. He hoped to convey his thoughts through the usage of Kim Dokja's name. But Kim Dokja misunderstood and answered.

"It's dead."

Of course he knew that. He wanted to know the condition of Kim Dokja not the dragon.

The notifications for their grand victory soon appeared before their eyes.

[You are the first to kill the disaster ‘Lesser Dragon Igneel’.]

[You are the first to contribute to clearing the fifth main scenario.]

[An impossible feat has been accomplished.]

And praise came soon after.

[The constellation ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’ applauds your spirit!]

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ praises your courage!]

[The constellation ‘Secretive Plotter’ is curious about your tactics.]

[The constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' thinks you were a bit cool.]

[Some constellations are greatly impressed by your performance.]

[20,000 coins have been sponsored.]

It was now time for the sweet rewards.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, can you get me-cough- the core."

Blood came out as Kim Dokja coughed. Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't help but to worry more.

"Lee Hyunsung, get the core."

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't want to leave Kim Dokja's side so he order Lee Hyunsung instead.

Lee Hyunsung was hesitant but did as he was told. He took out his sword and held it over were he thought the core would be and just as he was about to stab it Yoo Jonghyuk corrected him.

"Lower, the core is lower down the body."

"Yes sir!"

Lee Hyunsung answered back on reflect. He fixed the grip on the knife once more and stabbed the knife lower down the body.

Something hard was at the end of the knife. Lee Hyunsung removed the knife and pulled out whatever he found.

[5th grade Fire Dragon’s Core]

The red core gave of a soft light as it shone in the hands of Lee Hyunsung. It was of high quality as expected from a 5th grade dragon.

"Do you need me to carry you?"

Yoo Jonghyuk asked the hurt Kim Dokja, who couldn't even stand on his own.

"No, that isn't necessary."

He felt disappointed at the answer. Lee Hyunsung butted into the conversation.

"Dokja-ssi! How are you doing? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine."

No, he was not fine.

Lee Sungkook and Jung Minseob were still alive and arrived together. They were at the opposite side of the platform and took there time to get back to the others. The atmosphere was quiet and stiff. Of course Kim Dokja knew the reason for that.

After a bit more silence, Kim Dokja sighed and started to speak.

"Everyone can ask one question each. What are your questions?"

...

"Are all the useless questions finally over?"

Kim Dokja heaved a sigh. Though Lee Sungkook still wasn't done.

"Can I ask one more question?"

"What is it?"

"Why are you suddenly using honorifics?"

"My Yoo Jonghyuk concept is over."

"Ah."

Lee Sungkook let out a noise in understanding.

"Then, come to think about it..."

"So noisy."

This time, it wasn't Kim Dokja but Yoo Jonghyuk who heaved a sigh. Yoo Jonghyuk still haven't asked his question but he figured he should save it for when it really mattered. Kim Dokja didn't really want to push Yoo Jonghyuk to ask any question and just let it be.

"Actually, you never answered who this guy was?"

Jung Minseob pointed towards Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk ripped off his mask that he had been using and both the prophets couldn't help but to gasp in shock.

"Wa, wait a minute."

"Isn't that the same face that was shown on your face. Then does that mean-"

"Yes. He is Yoo Jonghyuk. I thought you already knew."

"But how could we? Then, who is Kim Dokja? The name that this mister here kept spewing out."

"Oh, I'm Kim Dokja."

Lee Sungkook and Jung Minseob just felt that it all was way to messy to get involved with.

"You impersonated each other then? Does that mean that the bastard personality he put on were your pers-"

"That's enough. Give me your phone."

Lee Sungkook finally understood who the real bastard between the two companions was. He had no choice but to obey. He took out his newest model phone and handed it over the bastard. Kim Dokja had no problem snatching Lee Sungkook's phone away and making it his own.

"Everybody can rest now. We'll move in 10 minutes so collect all the items that you can."

Yoo Jonghyuk looked around a few seconds before turning he gaze back onto Kim Dokja. The phone that Kim Dokja took just now had turned into a note block and that worried him. Why was it that the phone had turned into a note block?

"Kim Dokja, you're holding a phone, right?"

"Yes, why are asking?"

"It is not a note block, right?"

"No?"

"What is this? Why can't I see the phone that you're holding?"

"Huh? Wait what?"

Kim Dokja thought over the words that Yoo Jonghyuk had just said. Wasn't this the same for the constellations and the dokkaebi as well? But hadn't Jung Heewon seen a dark screen. What was going on?

This is...

weird.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja and Lee Hyunsung were all heading back to Chungmuro station to meet up with the rest of the group. Lee Sungkook and Jung Minseob decided to go their own way and they ended up separating. For Kim Dokja's group it was a good thing to get rid of the trash before they got to close. Lee Sungkook and Jung Minseob didn't want to stay with them either because of the personality of the group leader. So, it worked out for both of the groups.

For Lee Sungkook's and Jung Minseob's final mission, Kim Dokja made them use the internet to spread a fake revelation. It would work as bait for other kings in the near future.

Kim Dokja still hadn't gotten a new pair of clothing and was walking around with only Yoo Jonghyuk's bloodied shirt. The shirt itself was quite the high quality armor but the problem wasn't the protection against attacks but how much skin was covered. Also there was blood all over it.

The compensation for the scenario took some time before the rewards were given out. Since two people killed the dragon the compensation was settled differently. Everyone that was alive afterward got 3, 000 coins for clearing the hidden scenario. Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk split the 15, 000 coins for killing the 5th grade fire dragon. Kim Dokja obtained the 'Protection Symbol of the Imyuntar', while Yoo Jonghyuk choose another reward.

Another odd thing that happened was that the 4th scenarios length shortened. There was only 48 hours left until the end of the 4th scenario. This meant that they had to quicken their walking pace on their way back.

Lee Hyunsung took the front to look out for any enemies on their way back because both Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja had thought hard against the dragon while he wasn't strong enough to do anything. He felt the need to do something for them and therefor chose to do what he did best.

Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk, both had to keep their earlier conversation short because of the interruption from the dokkaebi, choose to continue were the conversation left off.

"So, you're telling me you can't see this phone and that it looks like a notepad? I think I know the reason behind that."

Kim Dokja whispered to Yoo Jonghyuk so that Lee Hyunsung wouldn't hear him.

"You do?"

Yoo Jonghyuk had been wondering why for sometime time hoped that he would get his question answered.

"As you know, the novel based on this world or the world based on this novel, whichever it is, isn't something that should exist in this world and therefor can't be seen by the existences in the novel. It's probably being filtered like our conversations is to the constellations and dokkaebis."

Yoo Jonghyuk thought over the answer. It made sense as to why that would be, information like this was always filtered. It was one of the reasons it was hard to tell anyone what he knew in the early scenarios because most of it got filtered. The only reason he was able to tell Kim Dokja was because of what information Kim Dokja possessed before they met.

"Is the novel showing on the phone right now?"

That was the conclusion he reached when he thought why the phone would get complete filtered.

"Yes, it is weird but whatever phone that I claim I can download the novel. It was a gift from the author."

"Gift from the author?"

"Just before the start of the scenarios, I got a mail from the author who saying something about winning an competition of some sort and as the only reader who read until the end I was given this gift along with my skills. Or that is what I believe it was."

This sounded unnatural. How did this even make sense? Though it wasn't as if it was the most unnatural thing out their. It feels like everything can happen in this universe.

"The author's username is 'tls123'."

He recalled the name which had written that novel about him. The username itself wasn't anything special, it was just unique because of how plain it was.

"Oh, so you knew already."

"There is still too many things that are unknown."

He felt that even if he knew the username he had no way of knowing who was behind it. They had no clue whatsoever as to who it was. There is even the possibility that the author doesn't even exist to being with.

"There sure is. But doesn't that make it all the more exciting? Isn't it unknown that makes you want to keep exploring? Isn't that a reason to keep going, keep fighting or to keep reading?"

"..."

'The human instinct of wanting to know more.'

It is true what Kim Dokja said. Human nature always searched for more knowledge and answers.

"Aren't you the one who wanted to see the end of the scenarios? The one who don't even know their own constellation sponsor? The one who wants to why they have to suffer through hell over and over again?"

'And I'm human as well.'

"You-"

"I'm the same as you in that way but at the same time, I'm still different."

'Does he mean that he is also human or that he wants the same answers a me? Or maybe both?'

"If you're questioning why you have regress and life through hell over and over, I'd also do that, I'd also question reality with you. But I wouldn't stop there. So, instead of just questioning I would find a solution so that you wouldn't have to suffer that problem."

"..."

'...To question reality with me... To be by my side...'

"I'll make it so that everyday isn't a living hell for you and that you would never have to regress again."

"..."

'To stop the suffering... To make me happy... To be my life and death companion...'

"Yoo Jonghyuk, do you know what my goal is?"

'Kim Dokja's goal?'

The memory of his resolve popped into Yoo Jonghyuk's head.

"To see the end of the scenarios with everyone?"

That was the answer he had given Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja had a mild smile fixed sated on his face, unlike how he usually looked. His lips separated as he spoke.

"Correct. That is indeed my ambition is. The problem is that I hadn't included myself in that statement."

Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to flinch at what Kim Dokja said but found himself unable to do so. He wanted to be surprised by the fact Kim Dokja felt that but he wasn't. This was the problem in the last round. Kim Dokja's sacrificial tendencies and his other tendencies of leaving everyone behind.

Even if he promised to be there with everyone, he still chose to abandon his own life. It was like his life had less worth than others, that he had less worth to his teammates, that he less worth to Yoo Jonghyuk.

Yoo Jonghyuk could never fully understand the way Kim Dokja's thought process worked when it came to emotions. Yoo Jonghyuk was bad when it came to emotions and he knew so himself, but Kim Dokja was just another level of bad. A level of emotional dense that he didn't know anyone could actually reach.

"Kim Dokja, you think I haven't noticed?"

And now Kim Dokja was surprised.

"I asked you before, I asked you to see the end of the scenarios. And when I said that, I excluded myself as well."

"...?"

"I wanted to be selfless like you and tried to sacrifice myself so that you could live. Do you know what happened next? You sacrificed yourself once more and made us kill you."

Yoo Jonghyuk once again found that anger and desperation he once felt before. He continued to speak.

"We are both wrong. That is never the way to go about doing things. We both hurt the people around us by having to sacrifice ourselves. That is why I'll tell you this once and once only."

Yoo Jonghyuk took a deep breath before continuing one. He had a serious expression on his face and Kim Dokja could see Yoo Jonghyuk's left eyebrow twitching.

"Don't ever die on me, Kim Dokja. Live, live a long a happy life with us, with me."

Kim Dokja's eyes couldn't help but to widen at the statement. Who had thought this sunfish to ever be able to speak like this? Oh, it was probably himself that did that.

"I,"

Kim Dokja had chosen an answer after a couple of seconds.

"I'd say the same to you, Yoo Jonghyuk."

"Good."

Then their conversation was finished. And the constellations could hold back their indirect messages anymore.

[The fable 'Life and Death Companions' nods its head in agreement while smiling warmly.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' can't contain herself and her screams can be heard through out all of Eden.]

[The constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' is gripping his hair at the comradeship.]

[The constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' thinks the incarnations on this channel are all dense.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' wants to hear more about the earlier topic.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' thinks that the constellation 'Secretive Plotter' is a buzz kill.]

[The constellation 'Scribe of Heaven' thinks the constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is too loud.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' says she can't help it.]

[The constellation the like comradeship nods in agreement.]

[The constellation that like friendship thinks that this is a beautiful thing.]

[A few constellation says that this isn't a romance channel.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' disagrees strongly with that.]

[Many constellations likes this comradeship.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' wants to show her shrine to other constellations.]

[The constellation 'Scribe of Heaven' doesn't know what to do anymore.]

[A few constellation agree with that statement.]

[3, 500 coins have been sponsored.]

...

Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja and Lee Hyunsung came back to Chungmuro and was greeted with a moist eyed Yoo Sangah in the distance. Something else moved and came up to Kim Dokja. It was Lee Gilyoung.

"Have you been well?"

Kim Dokja asked Lee Gilyoung and received a slight nod.

"Hyung, what happened to your clothes?"

"We fought a fire breathing dragon."

"Cool! I wish I could of joined as well. I've always wanted to see a dragon in person."

"You'll get another chance in the future."

This time it was Yoo Jonghyuk who said that. He recalled the chimera dragon that Lee Gilyoung and Shin Yoosung had tamed.

"Where is Jung Heewon?"

Lee Hyunsung chimed in as well.

The rail tracks were all covered in blood with bodies scatter about. It seemed to have been a brutal battle.

Yoo Sangah turned to answer.

"She is further ahead. The battle ended not long ago."

And as Yoo Sangah said. A bit further ahead, Jung Heewon was standing, holding onto a head covered in a cloak with the number 1 on it. The head was thrown aside because it all of a sudden started to speak even though it was just a head.

"It was you, wasn't it? You screwed up my plans."

The 'you' was obviously pointed at Kim Dokja, who, was surrounded by his teammates and life and death companion.

"What is your identity? What are you?"

Yoo Jonghyuk stared down at the head. The head looked smugly at Kim Dokja and avoided his eyes.

Han Sooyoung.

That is her name. The name of a writer and the first apostle.

Yoo Jonghyuk turned his head and made eye contact with Kim Dokja. He received a nod in return. Kim Dokja was allowing Yoo Jonghyuk to handle this situation since he knew the most about it.

"The first apostle."

Han Sooyoung finally looked his way.

"Or should I call you Han Sooyoung?"

Han Sooyoung flinched at the mention at her name. Yoo Jonghyuk moved in closer and grabbed onto the hair of the head. No blood was flowing out and it showed that this was indeed a avatar. He whispered in a threatening voice right next to her ear.

"Just shut up. I don't want to hear any of your lies today. Your voice is already annoying as it is."

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk glared at the head, the head glared back.

The first apostle, Han Sooyoung, had a surprised look on her face. Who wouldn't have that in this situation. All of her plans just now had failed. The apostles who had joined to team up with Yoo Jonghyuk was killed, the dragon was killed as well. The attack on Chungmuro failed because of all of these unexpected variables.

A guy who had pretended to be Yoo Jonghyuk, and Yoo Jonghyuk pretending to be someone else. Jung Heewon who had defended against them all. Who knew she had her hands on that [Tyrant T-Rex's DNA Ampoule] which amplified one's physical and magic abilities. And apparently, Yoo Jonghyuk already knew who she was?

There were many questions and not enough answer for her. She put her mind to work to understand whatever clique situation this is.

From what she knew it was possible that the core of the book had changed and that this wasn't the normal regressions she knew. She had considered the possibility of this not being the first time that they're meeting at that she existed in a pervious regression turn. If that was the case then it was understandable why they would be able to predict all of her plans.

And if so, there wouldn't be a way for her to pull out lies if he already knew all about it.

Han Sooyoung quieted down for a bit trying to figure out what exactly is going. This worked in Yoo Jonghyuk's favor because he didn't have the energy to deal with someone like her right now. The only reason he hadn't cut up the head yet was because Han Sooyoung would later join Kim Dokja's company. It would be good if they could bring her over as quick as possible.

Though that didn't mean he had to fix his attitude at all. If she wasn't going to be able to deal with at least this much rudeness, she wouldn't be worth it.

"Han Sooyoung."

He said her name to get her attention.

"I won't join your side."

He needed to make it perfectly clear to her what how it was.

"Your side is already destroyed. Your information is lacking is also lacking compared to Kim Dokja. You don't have any value as it stands now. That is the present right now."

Han Sooyoung's eyes widens slightly. Like she recalled something thanks to that statement. Yoo Jonghyuk didn't miss the reaction but still choose to ignore it.

"Though your future could be different. That is if you join us instead. You'll be able to survive if you make the right choice. So, think carefully until we meet next time, Han Sooyoung."

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't allow her to put more words in as he threw the head to the ground and he stepped on it. It disappeared into thin air after bursting. Yoo Jonghyuk turned around and looked at Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja."

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

Kim Dokja was a bit stunned after the performers but he still answered back. Silence swept over the again. Yoo Jonghyuk really wanted to know what was going through Kim Dokja's head. Yoo Jonghyuk spoke after a few seconds.

"Are you not going to ask me anything?"

"I guess. But you don't want to tell me, do you?"

"That is true. But that doesn't mean I won't speak to you."

"So you will tell me?"

Kim Dokja, who had used [Omniscient reader viewpoint], already understood a bit about whoever that was. Of course, any other information would be helpful as well.

"Later. We'll talk about it some other time. Before that, there is something that is more urgent."

"You're talking about the 48 hours that are left on the scenario, right? If that is case, then go to the north. You can kill the Tyrant King and use it to help you make your grand flag."

"I plan on going somewhere else before that."

"Where?"

"Who knows?"

And oh, Yoo Jonghyuk was so infuriating at times like this.

Yoo Jonghyuk knew all about how going to the north was useful for him. But he would had no problem taking care of him along with the rest of the kings just before the absolute throne.

"Besides, don't you have a family member there as well?"

That was also a reason to go there. But considering what happened last regression...

"Won't you take care of Yoo Mia?"

Yoo Jonghyuk said with a emotionless face as always. Like he wasn't just handing over his sister's safety to someone else.

"Hmm? You want me to save your sister?"

Kim Dokja didn't understand why Yoo Jonghyuk would leave such an important task to him. And it wasn't like he would do it without being told, he was actually hearing Yoo Jonghyuk say something like this to him.

"I trust you."

The sentence was short but very meaningful for Kim Dokja. Earning someone's trust was hard in itself. But earning Yoo Jonghyuk's trust were worlds apart from what he was expecting of himself. Kim Dokja would of been very happy from Yoo Jonghyuk even looking at him and here he was earning something like trust?

Did he ever have someone to trust except for his mother when it came to before the apocalypse? Did he even trust his mother anymore? Anyway, the point is that gaining trust was very hard and almost impossible when it came to Yoo Jonghyuk.

Kim Dokja would have to bite his lips to stop himself from smiling.

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk called out to the almost smiling Kim Dokja.

"Was there something else?"

Kim Dokja wondered if he had missed something. But that worry soon disappeared.

Yoo Jonghyuk dug through his pockets and took out a coal black box.

"Take it."

Kim Dokja received the black box from Yoo Jonghyuk.

"What is this?"

Kim Dokja looked down on the black box and then back up at Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Open it if you want to now so badly."

"It is not going to explode right?"

"Didn't I say that I trust you? But you don't seem to trust me."

True. Yoo Jonghyuk did say he trust him. And it was that way for Kim Dokja as well. But still, what was in this box? He didn't need wonder anymore because he moved his hands and opened it up.

"Is this..."

There was multiple items in the small box. Was it one of those storage dimensions that was used throughout the novel? But how did he get his hand on it so early?

"Where did you get this?"

"It was the reward I choose from defeating the dragon with you."

"Oh."

Inside the box was a few high grade healing items, clothing, Midday Tryst and a note. Wasn't this very valuable high grade items? Was it really okay to give all of this away like this? Wasn't this something he needed?

"Is it really okay to be giving away something like this?"

"You'll need it more than me anyway."

Had Yoo Jonghyuk awaken a knew side to himself? What was up with this generosity?

"I left some useful information on the note. You'll need new cloths now that your former cloths were destroyed. You can activate Midday Tryst right now so that we can still communicate even though we're far away."

"And what about the healing items?"

"Kim Dokja, do you really have to ask about that. You get hurt and strain your body all the time, of course you'll need it."

Kim Dokja took out Midday Tryst from the box.

[You have used the Midday Tryst.]

[You are seeking consent from the target.]

Yoo Jonghyuk looked Kim Dokja in the eye.

[The target has agreed to communicate with you.]

[The Midday Tryst has started.]

Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to give himself a pat on the back from doing a good job. With this he won't have to worry about Kim Dokja for a while.

-Hey?

-Kim Dokja.

Midday Tryst activated without problem.

-I'll leave now.

-Hurry and come back then, you bastard.

Kim Dokja had a smug look as he talked to Yoo Jonghyuk through Midday Tryst. But it only looked weird for the rest of the group because that didn't know what Midday Tryst did.

"Lee Jihye, we're leaving."

Lee Jihye, who just came down from another floor looked at her master in shock.

"Already? No resting? Aren't we all tired from fighting, Master?"

"We have no time to waste."

"Okay Master."

Sigh. Lee Jihye let out a sigh, she really couldn't go against her master. Well, it wasn't all bad. She had understood from the last battle that she needed to get much stronger if she wanted to survive. The apocalypse was hell after all.

"Master. I want to hear all the details of what Master and Ajussi did together."

"No."

"Hyunsung-ssi, can't you share with me at the very least?"

"Lee Jihye, we're leaving now."

"But, Master."

"Don't make me say it a third time."

"Fine, Master."

And then, Yoo Jonghyuk and Lee Jihye walked off. Yoo Jonghyuk missed the days were Lee Jihye would do anything he said without question. And Lee Jihye who had no way of knowing how she was in previous regressions had her mind occupied with thoughts about her master and Ajussi. She had clearly spotted the shirt Kim Dokja was wearing and instantly connected it to her shirtless master.

Since Kim Dokja had just come back and everyone had been attack like Yoo Jonghyuk said would happened. Kim Dokja needed to ready his next plan. But before that, he needed some rest. Kim Dokja's group also needed rest to be able to heal from any injuries.

...

It didn't take long before Kim Dokja received a message from Midday Tryst.

-Remove Lee Jihye and I from the group.

And oh, that was something he definitely had forgotten about.

-Sure.

Wasn't this very awkward for the both of them? Actually, Yoo Jonghyuk probably wouldn't care at all.

...

Kim Dokja looked at the coal black box in his hands. He had already put on the perfect fitting clothing that Yoo Jonghyuk had gifted him. But there was still something he hadn't looked at.

The note.

The note that was there. A folded piece of paper. What could Yoo Jonghyuk had written on here? Yoo Jonghyuk said that it contained useful information. Could it be something about the future that he had decided to share with him? That would surely be useful.

He opened up the note and read what was written on there.

...

Of course Yoo Jonghyuk himself knew what he had written on the note. It was about Kim Dokja's skills that Kim Dokja didn't know about. Even though he asked to have a conversation with Kim Dokja, time had become much shorter than before and they wouldn't be able to have a proper conversation for a while.

Therefor he had written down what he knew about Kim Dokja's skills for Kim Dokja. It was something that would help both Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk when they fight together in the future.

...

"So this what he wanted to talk about before?"

Kim Dokja had reread the note a few times already. The information wasn't what he thought it would be but it was indeed useful. He had already figured out something about what he could do but there was multiple methods he hadn't thought about yet.

[The fourth wall.]

It was an even more special existence then he had thought before. To think it could do all sort of things. But he didn't yet know how to control it. He might have information but practice was still needed.

And what was this about a library? From how it was described it almost sounded like he had experienced it first hand.

A single thought appeared to summarize what he felt.

'Interesting. It was interesting indeed.'

Chapter Text

Kim Dokja slept. Or more correctly he was working even when being asleep. He really didn't to rest at all. Checking up on the prophets that he had abandon was one thing that he had planned on doing. The unexpected part were that Yoo Jonghyuk had been constantly thinking about him.

Thinking about each other made it so he could view the area around that person in 3rd point of view. So of course Kim Dokja wanted to know why Yoo Jonghyuk kept thing of him and therefor went to check it out. Only to find Yoo Jonghyuk on a killing spree with Lee Jihye behind him watching as the slaughter happened.

Why was Yoo Jonghyuk thinking about him while murdering everyone around? Kim Dokja felt shills down his spine as he watch another man lose his head. Did Yoo Jonghyuk want to kill him so badly that he resorted to self hypnosis and was imagining that he was killing Kim Dokja when all of these heads fell to the ground?

Kim Dokja watch a bit longer.

Yoo Jonghyuk handsome as always even if he was covered in blood from his enemies. But the enemies didn't look very good. Kim Dokja saw the no name king getting finished off before deciding to wake up. Or that would of been the chase hadn't Yoo Jonghyuk spoken out loud.

"Kim Dokja."

Kim Dokja didn't want to hear the next words because he was expecting the worst scenario out come to leave the mouth of Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Go to sleep."

'Hmm?'

That was surprisingly considerate of him Kim Dokja had to admit.

Kim Dokja wanted to know how Yoo Jonghyuk knew he was there but since he had no choice but to follow the words of his life and death companion.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts weren't about killing Kim Dokja surprisingly enough. He was just thinking if Kim Dokja was getting enough rest. Only to feel the presence of him. It was a weak presence but he could feel it. This wasn't something done with the skills earned from 'Star Stream' rather it was just a sixth sense of his.

Maybe after being around that bastard enough he could get a feel to what he was up to. Yoo Jonghyuk spoke with honesty as he told Kim Dokja what he wanted him to do.

...

"Master!"

Lee Jihye came running from behind. Yoo Jonghyuk looked at the display in front of him before he turned around to face her. The display followed where his eyes directed and the display covered Lee Jihye's face.

[The main scenario has been updated!]

[The main scenario has been updated!]

[Main scenario # 4 – The King's Qualifications has begun.]

+

[Main Scenario # 4 – The King's Qualifications]

Category: Main

Difficulty: A

Clear Conditions: Occupy the 'Absolute Throne' located at Gwanghwamun.

Time Limit: 8 hours.

Compensation: 10,000 coins

Failure: ―

* This scenario can only be challenged by those who have completed the hidden scenario 'King's Road.'

* The absolute king has absolute commands over all the other kings.

* There are additional special clear conditions for this scenario.

+

"Master, are we leaving for Gwanghwamun? The 4th scenario has already begun and there is no one here other than us."

Yoo Jonghyuk gave a slight nod to answer his disciple's question. Barely a few hours of sleep and he was already leaving to create more bloodshed. Things had been happening faster than before, so he also needed to speed things up.

He could easily guess why thing where moving at a different pace. As a regressor, things that change or develop faster becomes natural. The thing that isn't natural is when he no longer is the only one who changes things with prior knowledge.

...

[Main scenario # 4 – The King's Qualifications has begun.]

+

[Hidden Scenario – Artifact Trials]

Category: Hidden

Difficulty: F ~ A+

Clear Conditions: Clear the right 'artifact dungeon' with the proper personnel.

Time Limit: None

Compensation: 500 ~ 5,000 coins

Failure: Death

+

Another annoying scenario appeared as always. He had no need to whatever artifact was here, what mattered was getting to where Kim Dokja was. He needed the coins for that and only after repeating this scenario a couple of times he could get there.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked to his side. Lee Jihye was with him as always. She was was just a innocent high schooler a week back, to think he always had to put her through so much just to barely survive. And even if she survived up to a point she was destined to die. But that was before Kim Dokja came and showed him it's done.

"Lee Jihye."

His voice was clear as always.

"You can rest here."

He didn't need her for now so it would be much better for her to get some rest. He would have to pick her up after the absolute throne scenario was over but for now at least she could rest.

"Or you could train. The choice is yours."

It wasn't an order to rest. He could very well give her that order but she was still young and needed at least some freedom of her own.

...

[Do you want to enter the hidden chapter, the Big Dipper?]

[You have entered the Big Dipper chapter.]

As the notifications showed, Yoo Jonghyuk entered the location that Kim Dokja was at. The number of kings had greatly gone down even before entering 'the Big Dipper chapter'. Not everyone had made themselves an easy target for his sword. He had get to see the neutral king anywhere.

The weaker kings weren't a match for neither was any other king for that matter, with an exception for Kim Dokja and Han Sooyoung. Kim Dokja was simply to cunning and Han Sooyoung's real body could be anywhere because of her ability to create avatars.

Actually, she might not even need a real body as she can easily transfer all of her memories to another avatar if needed.

The point was that getting the floor, walls and his sword bloodied was undoubtedly going to happened.

...

The Tyrant King, other weaker kings and subordinates lay on the floor in one gooey mess. Blood and fleshed that was once strengthen pilled up along the newly dead corpses. Even with this sight all around him, his gaze fixated on one special person.

"Kim Dokja."

This particular name left his mouth again. Kim Dokja who was standing at the end of things was looked directly at Yoo Jonghyuk. The black flag behind Yoo Jonghyuk was a symbol of over powering power that came from someone who has experienced hell over and over again.

They made eye contact and Kim Dokja's lips separated.

"You came."

Kim Dokja didn't just stand around. After hitting Han Sooyoung and stealing her flag and items he moved onto stealing the Tyrant King's flag and items. Lee Gilyoung also summoned one of his insects to join in the battle.

Yoo Jonghyuk who wasn't standing still either had moved onto other kings. There was no one that was safe in this vicinity anymore.

"Did you sleep?"

Perhaps that wasn't the most fitting question to ask in the midst of a massacre but had Yoo Jonghyuk ever cared about that? Kim Dokja didn't care much about that either apparently because he casually answered back.

"I did."

[The character Yoo Jonghyuk is currently using Lie Detection Lv. 6.]

[The character Yoo Jonghyuk has confirmed that your words are false.]

Yoo Jonghyuk narrowed his eyes at Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja was slightly nervous because he hadn't expected Yoo Jonghyuk to be using lie detection for something small like this. Was Yoo Jonghyuk suddenly going to care about his health? Kim Dokja asked himself.

"You didn't."

And there was no answer better than adding another lie on top of the other lie.

"I didn't have time."

[The character Yoo Jonghyuk is currently using Lie Detection Lv. 6.]

[The character Yoo Jonghyuk has confirmed that your words are false.]

"..."

Kim Dokja should be happy that he isn't dead after being exposed for his lie. Kim Dokja watched as the king in front of him got his skull crushed under Yoo Jonghyuk bare fists.

"You're not going to do that to me, right?"

Kim Dokja felt as if Yoo Jonghyuk was showing him an example of what happened when he doesn't listen. Yoo Jonghyuk just frowned instead of answering, this made Kim Dokja even more nervous.

"You remember how you asked me to take care of you sister. She should be very soon so..."

"Did Jung Heewon keep her safe?"

"So you knew. Shouldn't I get a thank you for keeping her safe?"

Kim Dokja knew better than to expect something in return from Yoo Jonghyuk. But if there was even the smallest of warmth in Yoo Jonghyuk's frozen void heart than maybe he might get at least verbal appreciation. Well, even bring it up felt like a joke in his mind.

Yoo Jonghyuk mouth shut tight. For Yoo Jonghyuk this was definitely a unexpected request from Kim Dokja. Had Yoo Jonghyuk ever thanked Kim Dokja before? He couldn't remember if he ever had.

"Do you really expect me to do that?"

Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't help but to ask. Kim Dokja simply answered.

"You might change."

Yoo Jonghyuk felt taken aback by the answer he received. Of course he had changed from this regression to another. Kim Dokja was the one who had changed him. Kim Dokja might have made him change but he wouldn't know how he had changed. It was possible that the Kim Dokja before him thought that Yoo Jonghyuk acted like a complete stranger.

But even if the character of Yoo Jonghyuk changed, Kim Dokja wouldn't dislike him for it. Because to him the change was very welcoming. Before he had met Yoo Jonghyuk like this he thought of Yoo Jonghyuk as a character. That didn't mean he wanted Yoo Jonghyuk to be a character though. Because the Yoo Jonghyuk in front of him now was just Yoo Jonghyuk.

Not a character in some novel he had read for 10 years but a living breathing person. And like any other person out there Yoo Jonghyuk might also change. That change wasn't negative, it was just a sign of personal growth. Kim Dokja accepted Yoo Jonghyuk for who he was, who he is and who he will become. Therefor, nothing could ever make Kim Dokja want to abandon Yoo Jonghyuk.

The reason is simple, cause they are Life and Death Companions.

Yoo Jonghyuk's expression lightened. It wasn't a frown anymore nor was his face expressionless. Kim Dokja's gaze was focused Yoo Jonghyuk and watched this change in demeanor and felt his heart clench. When had Yoo Jonghyuk made this sort of expression before?

Yoo Jonghyuk's lips separated as light surrounded him. The next scenario was starting and they were being forcibly moved. But Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't finished with what he wanted to say. The words wasn't loud but it was clear as to what he had said.

"Thank.."

Kim Dokja's eyes widened at the sentence that was leaving Yoo Jonghyuk throat. Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't just going to be saying this now, would he?

"...You..."

And then, Kim Dokja was left in the center of Gwanghwamun without Yoo Jonghyuk.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk opened his eyes to the sight of three other kings and the Absolute Throne. The other kings was a bit confused at the sudden change of scenery but it only lasted a second or two. The Absolute Throne looked as mighty as always. The Absolute Throne naturally drew his attention like any powerful items would.

But this time it was a bit different. Yoo Jonghyuk no longer eyed the throne because he was greedy for the power behind it, instead he saw it like it was a cursed item made by a constellation for their infinite entertainment.

After learning the truth about the item he was very thankful that Kim Dokja had stopped him from getting it. The only way to advance this stage was to the destroy that cursed throne. Any other way would only lead to a dead end.

King of Beauty, Min Jiwon.

The Maitreya King Cha Sangkyung.

Only those two aimed for the throne with intention of sitting on it. The Neutral King had already abstained from participating.

The only one who charged forward was the Maitreya King Cha Sangkyung. He was clearly a fool. Not because he didn't know the truth about the Absolute Throne but because he choose the wrong opponent.

Tsk.

Yoo Jonghyuk clicked his tongue in annoyance. A blue screen appeared in front of him.

[4 000 coins have been invested in physique.]

[4 000 coins have been invested in agility.]

[4 000 coins have been invested in strength.]

Skills and stigmas had been sealed. The level of all stats had been changed to level 10. The only thing left would of been his muscle memory except for the secret he had found out.

Coins could still be used and therefor as someone who currently has the most coins in this area he was naturally the top predator.

But would the other kings now of such things? No, they did not know about it. How could he be so sure? He was a regressor for a reason.

Yoo Jonghyuk's leg moved and struck Cha Sandkyung's abdomen.

"Kuk!"

Cha Sangkyung's body hit the barrier around the room. Blood emerged from his mouth. He would of been dead if that was what Yoo Jonghyuk really wanted. But Yoo Jonghyuk choose to keep him alive because he could be useful for Kim Dokja.

The same thing could be said about the Neutral King though. That traitor had chosen to go against them in the nearby future. This was one of the problems with being a regressor.

Yoo Jonghyuk had often stared at his teammates' murders without being able to do anything. He had no way of justifying his actions to others either if he choose to kill someone who did bad thing in a past regression.

A constellation could of slaughter his closest teammates while he would later have to team up with that constellation in another regression turn.

Shin Yoosung. She was someone who could have killed if it weren't for Kim Dokja. The younger version and the older version from different regression turns. Killing the younger one resulted in the death of the older version. A simple way of getting rid of an almost unbeatable boss.

Killing an innocent child for the safety of thousands of other people. Doing something for the greater good. When would he wake up and realize that his options weren't that limited.

Kim Dokja might have showed him the way to get past previous problems but in the end he couldn't save everyone. No one was lost forever but they still died.

Kim Dokja couldn't save himself.

This was something anyone would notice if you spent enough time around him.

He therefor took it upon himself to do that role. Yoo Jonghyuk had experience saving people. After living for how many regressions he naturally became more powerful than his teammates and his teammates could never surpass him. He had acted to keep them safe but in the end he had never been enough.

In the previous 3rd turn he had tried multiple times to be there and try to rescue Kim Dokja. Had he ever succeeded as such? No.

He doesn't even want to count the times he had let Kim Dokja down.

Yoo Jonghyuk strengthened his resolve once more.

'Kim Dokja, I won't let you die again.'

Maitreya King Cha Sangkyung let of painful noises as he tried to get up but he couldn't because of how much damage that kick had done.

[The Maitreya King Cha Sangkyung is out of combat.]

"I didn't think that it would be that strong. What the hell did you do?"

All Yoo Jonghyuk did was to send a threatening glare and he shut up like the piece of dough he was. The nearby Min Jiwon got scared the moment Yoo Jonghyuk looked at her. She jumped in surprise and put up her hands in the air.

"...I will abstain."

[’King of Beauty’ Min Jiwon has abstained from the battle.]

At that moment another person entered the area. And of course that person was Kim Dokja.

-Do what you need to do.

[’Supreme King’ Yoo Jonghyuk has abstained from the battle.]

With this his role he was finished. Kim Dokja could handle the rest on his own. Yoo Jonghyuk crossed his arms as he watched Kim Dokja.

All kings had abstained expect for Kim Dokja leaving him to be the winner without him even having to do anything.

The constraints on the kings was lifted and his levels returned to what is was before the Absolute Throne scenario.

The dokkaebi finally decided to appear.

[...What a surprising winner.]

[This is the result then. I'm informing all incarnations of Seoul of the new owner of the Absolute Throne now.]

"Wait."

Kim Dokja interrupted the busy dokkaebi. The dokkaebi's eyebrows twitched.

[...What is it now?]

"Aren't you doing things ahead of time? I haven't even sat on the throne yet but you're already making a deceleration like that? Shouldn't you ask me first?"

[You will sit now so what does it matter?]

"What does it even do?"

[You can do anything to humans]

"That is all?"

[...?]

"Isn't that too good to be true? You dokkaebis are always good at lying. Can this throne even act beyond the constraints of plausibility?"

[What is with the nonsense you're speaking. I'm tired of this talk. Just sit on the throne already so that I can finish this scenario already. If you talk nonsense one more time I'll break the Absolute Throne.]

"Ah, can you really do that? Then go right ahead and try it."

[Huh?]

"This Absolute Throne,"

Kim Dokja gestures with his hands.

"I will never sit on it."

Thunder roared in the sky and it started to rain. It was a sign of the fifth scenario, the Great Hall. Amidst the rain the intermediate dokkaebi opened its mouth to speak.

[...Do you even know what you are saying?]

"I won't ever expect this throne."

[...I can't understand what you are trying to do. Don't you know the benefits that the Absolute Throne brings? If you don't have the power of the Absolute Throne then the Seoul Dome will never survive the fifth scenario.]

The people in Gwanghwamun acted desperately and screamed at Kim Dokja once they heard the dokkaebi's words. To them, the words of a dokkaebi were absolute. Therefor they couldn't help but to believe the words that were coming out.

But both Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk knew better. Yoo Jonghyuk raised his murderous intent and quickly shut them all up.

After awhile of more arguing the dokkaebi couldn't stand it any longer and made a special sub scenario just for Kim Dokja.

[A new sub scenario has arrived!]

+

[Sub Scenario – Forced Succession]

Category: Sub

Difficulty: B

Clear Conditions: Suppress the incarnation ‘Kim Dokja’, who doesn’t want to sit on the throne and place him on the throne.

Time Limit: 30 minutes

Compensation: 6,000 coins

Failure: ―

+

Some people gained courage and approached Kim Dokja in order to suppress him but Kim Dokja's companions wouldn't allow that. Jung Heewon, Lee Gilyoung, Yoo Sangah and even Yoo Jonghyuk came forward.

Yoo Jonghyuk instilled fear in the surrounding eyes and this kind of development would cause the difficulty to rise beyond what was currently possible.

Yoo Jonghyuk's protections sure was safe.

...

Wind swept through his hair as he stood tall on top of a destroyed building. There was no doubt that this was the building were he used to live before the scenarios started.

This was the place he ended up after the throne broke.

He hadn't spent time anywhere else because of his carrier choice. Being a gamer meant that he spent a lot of time a home. That home that contained him and his sister, the only other family member he had.

He couldn't remember a thing about his parent. They died. That was the only thing he knew. He was to young at the time. For all he knew they could both be male and he was adopted by them. While his real parents had been at the other side of earth.

Was he unlucky because he had to work at a young age and support his sister? He himself didn't to so. There was many other who had it worse than him. Kim Dokja could be one of the examples.

Kim Dokja had suffered through his entire youth alone. At least Yoo Jonghyuk had Yoo Mia.

The building crumbled even more with every step he took. It wasn't even in a condition to be called a building anymore.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked around. There was no one other than him in sight. He was very much alone.

Where would he go first? In the previous 3rd turn he had fought with a corrupt guide controlling Lee Seolhwa. But that didn't end in victory. He couldn't handle Lee Seolhwa without a big risk of her dying.

The chances of winning and saving her was too low to take the chance.

What choices did this give him?

Kim Dokja is a priority of his but going after Kim Dokja this second was too soon. Even if he wasn't going to pick up his teammates he still had place he needed to visit.

With his current sword he wouldn't last against disaster of questions. He needed upgrades before going after Kim Dokja.

...

A few days passed in just a moment. There wasn't a moment when Yoo Jonghyuk's mind wasn't filled with Kim Dokja. It was good that he had Midday Tryst and could keep in check with how Kim Dokja was doing.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked over the messages that they had been sending to each other.

「 -Are you getting any sleep?

-...What are you up too?」

「-You better not have died again.

-I don't have that kind of hobby. I haven't died again in fact.

-Good. Keep it that way.」

「-Where are you?

-You don't need to know that.

-Don't make me have to search for you.

-Why are you interested anyway?

-I need you location if I'm going to kill you.

-Isn't that less of a reason not to tell you?」

「-Kim Dokja.

.

-Kim Dokja.

.

-I'll kill you if you don't answer.

-...

-I better don't see any eye bags when we meet next time.

-...」

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk looked down from the building where he was standing. The endless sky gave of a warm glow to welcome the night. The great hall looked as massive as always as it floated in the sky. The scenery would've been welcoming for anyone other than himself.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't care about the scenery. He didn't care about it at all. What he cared about was who was in it. Kim Dokja was down there practicing 'way of the wind'. Or a more accurate depiction was that he horrible failing at it. Kim Dokja really didn't have any talent when it came to things like this.

How hard must it have been to have to try to surpass that talent of his.

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes weren't glaring at Kim Dokja instead he wore a softer look that didn't suit his personality. But that softer look couldn't be compared to when other people had a soft look on themselves. Yoo Jonghyuk's softer look was when he didn't frown and he didn't furrow his eyebrows. Instead his mouth formed more of a straight line and his eyes were deep with emotion.

A strange facial expression that if Kim Dokja saw it he would of thought that Yoo Jonghyuk was possessed or something similar. Maybe Yoo Jonghyuk just was possessed, not by a different person but possessed with emotions.

Yoo Jonghyuk hadn't been here for long. Well, a long time for Yoo Jonghyuk and a long time for normal people was different. A moment for Yoo Jonghyuk could easily surpass hours for a normal human. While that didn't mean time passed differently Yoo Jonghyuk but instead it was like when you're focusing on a game and time pass faster. It was like that when Yoo Jonghyuk was watching Kim Dokja.

Nine days were left until the start of the fifth scenario. It was about a day earlier than the time when Yoo Jonghyuk arrived bloodied and poisoned in front of Kim Dokja.

Kim Dokja, Lycaon and Han Sooyoung was together down there. Lycaon. The name that wasn't very memorable but it was still stuck in his head. Maybe it was because of the story he had been told a few repeated times. However, the knowledge that Lycaon brought wasn't much compared to what Yoo Jonghyuk himself knew.

The destroyed plant that Lycaon originated from didn't exist and knowledge about that place wasn't usable to him. It had helped him figure out what the other guides and disaster were but it didn't help him much more.

Way of the Wind. It was a skill that Kim Dokja had frequently used. He failed to learn it thanks to his talent but because of his 'bookmark' skill he could still use it. Yoo Jonghyuk thought he could have helped Kim Dokja more it he would've been allowed to see the description of Kim Dokja's skills but he didn't think much about it.

The moon had already made it's appearance and it would soon become dark. Yoo Jonghyuk had watched enough and he decided to descend upon the ground. Tomorrow they would need to fight Disaster of Questions which had decided to awaken earlier due to a guides interference.

Yoo Jonghyuk's landing didn't shake the ground nor did it make any peculiar noise even though he had come down from quite the hight. Yoo Jonghyuk's techniques were all top class as he had studied under his master for a long time.

-Kim Dokja.

Yoo Jonghyuk sent a message to Kim Dokja. Luckily the response came quickly.

-Yoo Jonghyuk?

-I'm here.

-Huh?

Kim Dokja tensed up a bit before turning around and trying to spot Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't that close yet so it took a few seconds before Kim Dokja found him.

Han Sooyoung also looked at where Kim Dokja was looking because she found it odd for him to suddenly stop and then start looking around. Han Sooyoung wasn't very delighted with what she saw.

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk greeted Kim Dokja in a very Yoo Jonghyuk way.

"You sure came out of nowhere."

Kim Dokja was as casual as always.

"We're moving to the east tomorrow. The Disaster of Questions is waking up."

Han Sooyoung and Kim Dokja froze. They hadn't expected to hear this out of nowhere.

"One of the guides is waking up."

Yoo Jonghyuk shared his information. Lycaon was the one to ask a question now.

"Who are you? And what was that about a disaster waking up? Protector, who is this person?"

Lycaon didn't know who this unexpected individual was. Kim Dokja and Han Sooyoung clearly knew who it is and therefor he decided to ask Kim Dokja. But instead it was Yoo Jonghyuk who answered.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja's life and death companion."

Han Sooyoung choked. What? What did she just hear? Yoo Jonghyuk had acted differently towards Kim Dokja but to think it was to this extent. Yoo Jonghyuk almost never called others his companion but here Kim Dokja was receiving a special title just for them. Life and death companion? Who came up with such a unused but clique name? She shouldn't have asked, Kim Dokja was clearly responsible for this.

"Hah."

Kim Dokja sighed. He was very happy to be recognized by his favorite protagonist who was now a person but he didn't show it on the outside. Life and death companion. The name had a very nice ring to it and he felt joy of being called Yoo Jonghyuk's companion. But was this going to stay? Was Yoo Jonghyuk going to keep introducing himself that way from now on?

Kim Dokja had complicated thoughts.

"He was the one who took down Igneel with me."

Lycaon was delighted to hear about Kim Dokja's companion. Maybe he could learn the skills instead of Kim Dokja because he also contributed to the death of Igneel. But before Lycaon could voice his thoughts his mind went back to the news he had heard.

"About the guide-"

"Parasite Queen Antinus. She is the one who is waking up the disaster."

"Why would she-"

Lycaon stopped himself. He didn't know enough to understand why she would betray this planet. Hadn't she lost countless of her own species to the disaster yet now she was willing to help a disaster and bring forth destruction to earth. Did she even learn anything after everything that had happened?

Lycaon also had complicated thoughts.

"Shouldn't we leave right away if it is so important? Why are we waiting until tomorrow?"

Han Sooyoung questioned Yoo Jonghyuk's thought process.

"Isn't it night?"

"So?"

"There is no need to rush. Kim Dokja, get some sleep."

Yoo Jonghyuk spared a few seconds for Han Sooyoung before turning his attention towards Kim Dokja once more.

"I was planning on doing that anyway."

Yoo Jonghyuk had already been so strict with this sleeping this that Kim Dokja couldn't even argue against it anymore.

Actually, where were they going to sleep? It is not like there are any sleeping bags or anything here... The dokkaebi bag. Kim Dokja pulled out two sleeping bags and put them on the ground. Han Sooyoung approached one of them to claim but was stopped by Yoo Jonghyuk.

"This one is mine."

"No."

"...?"

"Buy your own."

Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't going to let Han Sooyoung exploit Kim Dokja. While Han Sooyoung thought that Yoo Jonghyuk was very petty.

"Why should I? Isn't it you who should get your own?"

"You're not Kim Dokja's companion. Kim Dokja shouldn't have to spend money on someone who already has plenty."

Yoo Jonghyuk started glaring at Han Sooyoung.

"It isn't Kim Dokja's responsibility to care for you."

"Hey, Yoo Jonghyuk. It is fine, I'll just buy another one for Han Sooyoung."

Kim Dokja tried to calm down the situation before it got out of hand. Fortunately, it ended after Yoo Jonghyuk killed a few of Han Sooyoung's avatars.

"Can't believe you actually fought over something so trivial."

"You should be happy you're still alive."

"Kim Dokja! Can't you do something?"

"This is your fault to begin with. Next time you should watch your mouth."

Kim Dokja was still harsh against Han Sooyoung because they had been enemies not long ago. Even if they currently were working together he still hadn't fully forgiven her. Just because he saved her didn't mean that he had forgiven her. He just couldn't stand by and watch her die. Was he too soft? Kim Dokja asked himself that question.

In the end Yoo Jonghyuk clearly won over Han Sooyoung and Han Sooyoung had to buy her own sleeping bag. Yoo Jonghyuk chose one of the sleeping bags that Kim Dokja bought and placed it a meter away from Kim Dokja's sleeping bag.

"Isn't it a bit close?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Nothing."

"Anyway, I'll take the first shift. Han Sooyoung you can take the second."

"Why wasn't Kim Dokja included in that statement?"

"He needs to sleep more."

"Hasn't he rested enough? It isn't like he did anything today."

"Are you saying that without using your eyes? Have you seen the dark circles around Kim Dokja's eyes?"

"....Kim Dokja come here."

"Um, no."

"Let me see your face."

"Just no."

This conversation was getting nowhere. Just like most things when people argue over trivial things. When two strong opinions meet it is bound to get messy real quick.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk woke up covered in cold sweat. It was another nightmare this night too. His mind had become lighter ever since meeting Kim Dokja but he still had his ever lasting nightmares. Would he always have these shackles of the past in the from of nightmares?

It has been way to long since he could have a normal night sleep. What was a good nights sleep? Yoo Jonghyuk had experienced too many nightmares and he didn't know what is was anymore.

Yoo Jonghyuk turned his head to the right. Kim Dokja's stomach was moving up and down slowly. His breathing pattern was regular. It showed that Kim Dokja was in a deep sleep. It would be hard for anything to wake him up know.

Kim Dokja's eyes were closed but his eyelashes were still fluttering in the soft breeze. The sleeping bag was more simple than what you would think. Since it was the apocalypse the sleeping bags had been designed differently so that they wouldn't get in the way if you needed to quickly move. They were also easily destroyed as the material was cheap.

But the sleeping bags were still soft enough to be worth the coins spent on it.

Though Yoo Jonghyuk didn't need that kind of comfort. The comfort he needed came from Kim Dokja and Kim Dokja only. Yoo Jonghyuk found his comfort as he watched Kim Dokja breathing in and out. Kim Dokja was alive and beside him. It seemed like something that would easily be achieved but it was much harder than one could think.

Kim Dokja dying and disappearing. It had happened too often. Yoo Jonghyuk didn't want it to ever happened again. But was that really enough to stop someone as stubborn as this squid? Yoo Jonghyuk could only keep focusing on Kim Dokja so that he would never leave his eye sight.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja and Han Sooyoung made their hasty leave. The Imyuntar, Lycaon, still hadn't woken up so Han Sooyoung voiced her thought only to be shut up by Kim Dokja. Even if both Han Sooyoung and Kim Dokja had read the novel the difference in information is overwhelming. Han Sooyoung is even lacking information compared to Yoo Jonghyuk.

This made it so that Han Sooyoung was the one to question their choices while Kim Dokja had to use his breath to answer. Really though, Yoo Jonghyuk just wanted her to shut up sometimes.

Since Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't hurt this time around their movements were naturally faster and they could quickly pass over Cheongdam Bridge and soon entered Gwangjin-gu. The terrain changed to that of a forest with grass plains. It would have been a much more enjoyable sight if it weren't for the monster and creature who lived in this so called forests.

The plant like monsters dig there way through the ground before rising through the ground and growing enormous.

[The 7th grade plant species ‘Yanaspleta’ is on the lookout.]

The 7th grade plant species that came from the ruined world of Chronos. World versus world was another name for the 5th scenario. Seoul versus Chronos.

Han Sooyoung was about to pull out a dagger when Kim Dokja stopped and used his almighty knowledge.

"Don't act rashly if you don't want to worsen the situation. The Yanaspleta won't attack unless you do it first."

"...Don't these type of monsters usually attack with tentacles."

"This isn't a manhwa. They are gentle unlike you. Just avoid the roots."

Han Sooyoung really is the weakest of the trio, both with strength and information.

A sunflower-like monster with giant eyes looked down on the trio, studying and predicting the movements. Yoo Jonghyuk felt the presence but didn't feel any pressure, it showed how much weaker these monsters were compared to him.

Kim Dokja shouted, mostly just to inform Han Sooyoung.

"The terraforming has started."

Terraforming is the name used to describe these changes to the environment. Han Sooyoung's avatar had been scouting the area as they moved and she informed the group about the fact that they where in the middle of a monster colony.

"What is the person like who is waking up the disaster?"

"A person like you. You were the one who woke up the fire dragon."

-Kim Dokja.

-...

There is a line you shouldn't cross even when making fun of Han Sooyoung. It is fine as long as you don't drag the rest of the group down with her. The difference between Han Sooyoung and Lee Seolhwa... There isn't any similarities. Han Sooyoung did it because she wanted to win over Yoo Jonghyuk or kill him while taking all of the rewards. While Lee Seolhwa is control by a guide and is forced to wake one up while planning on destroying all of Seoul. There is also the difference in personality not even worth bringing out.

"Is it possible to suppress and take down the disaster right now? With you and Yoo Jonghyuk shouldn't it almost be easy."

"There is a difference difference between the fire dragon and Disaster of Questions. Firstly, the fire dragon had a penalty and it was open much earlier so that it couldn't exert it full power because of were it was summoned."

"There was a penalty? Then wasn't that very beneficial for you?"

"Even so, it was almost impossible to begin with. Secondly, the Disaster of Question won't have any penalty set by the dokkaebis."

"Is it even possible to take it down then? Shouldn't it have a mayor weakness if it doesn't have a penalty."

"This is were guides becomes useful. Aren't you going to ask about the skill that I've been learning?"

"You call that learning? Didn't you fail completely in learning it thought? How could that even help you if you don't know it?"

"There is a solution to that. With my skill-"

"Ha, I'm surprised you even have any skills with your talents. Is that skill a stigma from your sponsor perhaps?"

"No, I don't have a sponsor."

"...You don't have a sponsor? Isn't there many constellations after you? What have you been doing all this time?"

"You don't have a sponsor either."

"It is different."

"As you said, we all have out own reasons and the reason why we haven't chosen a sponsor is also different. So why don't we focus on what is right in front of us?

Just as Kim Dokja said. A different group of people were in front of the trio. Enemies that is part of the poisoner's group. Yoo Jonghyuk hadn't thought twice about attacking even though there was a rain of poisonous arrows flying through the sky. The amount of coins that you got from killing others were small in comparison to some scenario rewards but when it was stacked up in masses then it was worth if.

Of course there could of been another reason for killing them other than gathering coins. A possible reason could of been for survival or to stop the disaster.

Well, what mattered was that there was once again blood on Yoo Jonghyuk's sword.

Yoo Jonghyuk's sword techniques was as always powerful and concurring. The sword dance that dominates and breaks the sky. Splitting and crushing. Yoo Jonghyuk showed overwhelming power in the face of any battle.

Red Phoenix Shunpo. Yoo Jonghyuk twists the space itself and his movements are beyond that of simple running. Beyond the concept of space, that is the kind of shunpo Yoo Jonghyuk uses.

His sword cries out as it is pushed to it limits while Yoo Jonghyuk's movement are minimal. To excerpt such power Yoo Jonghyuk has pushed past the psychical power of his own body and take down stars. Transcendence is when you go beyond the limits of the body that you were born in. Yoo Jonghyuk had achieved that multiple times before but as of now, he isn't nearly there yet.

Still, Yoo Jonghyuk isn't a existence to be underestimated.

Even so, Kim Dokja can't see himself falling behind. He might lack talent, control and technique, and is more than weaker with basic survival instincts. But he still trusts his skills, knowledge and coins. Kim Dokja has what Yoo Jonghyuk lacks and Yoo Jonghyuk has what Kim Dokja lacks. There is a reason why they are companions beyond the concepts of companions.

Even so, the enemies numbers are many times more than the trio and since they can't afford to drag it out much longer the trio-

But before that, survivor comes running from behind the enemies and Yoo Jonghyuk recognizes what is happening.

Threads of silk forms dozens of thin webs under the incoming arrows. Arranged neatly enough that no arrow advanced through the silky web built in the sky, it is clear who is behind it. Or at least it is clear for Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja, Han Sooyoung is lagging behind as always.

"Yoo Sangah-ssi?"

Kim Dokja calls out to the woman flying above. She moved beautifully through the air like a dance. Kim Dokja questioned what had happened in such a short time while they weren't together.

Yoo Jonghyuk gives Kim Dokja a blunt answer to his thoughts.

-She grew because you weren't around.

-It was because I pushed her in the beginning.

Kim Dokja didn't want to admit his lack help and chose to ignore the fact. He turned towards Yoo Sangah who safely made it to the ground beside the trio.

"Yoo Sangah-ssi, this way."

Because of Yoo Jonghyuk's advice to go back to a high-rise building the group of four members moved away from the enemies while they were distracted by the avatars made by Han Sooyoung.

"Dokja-ssi is everyone okay?"

Yoo Sangah was the first to speak after they came to the secure building.

"Safe and secure as one can get. Are you fine as well?"

"Yes, I'm also fine .

Then the atmosphere became stiff. Yoo Jonghyuk still hadn't said anything as always, Han Sooyoung felt that she wasn't in the place to speak because of past battles and Kim Dokja hadn't had a friends since birth so his social skills were next to zero.

"That... um."

Kim Dokja didn't know what he should even ask in this situation. Yoo Sangah was the only one between the group of four who actually have had friends before the start of the apocalypse. Because of this she recognized the atmosphere gave an unknown smile before speaking.

"You must have been through a lot Dokja-ssi."

Then the short story began.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at the scenario notification that was in front of him.

+

[Sub Scenario – Disaster Prevention]

Category: Sub

Difficulty: S-

Clear Conditions: Unknown powers in Gangdong-gu are trying to hatch one of the disasters. Defeat them and stop the incoming ‘disaster.’

Time Limit: 2 hours

Compensation: 22,000 coins

Failure: Early emergence of the Disaster of Questions.

+

It was the same scenario he had gotten before. The scenario that was bound to fail. Even so, it wasn't bad in the end. The gain of killing the Disaster of Questions later was much more rewarding than just 22,000 coins.

Should he just leave it to Kim Dokja and watch him helplessly struggle with Disaster of Questions for a while? Standby and watch. It wasn't something Yoo Jonghyuk usually do but Kim Dokja was the only one who could currently fight against Lee Seolhwa controlled by the fallen guide. There was also Han Sooyoung but Yoo Jonghyuk doubted her willingness to cooperate.

The Thousand Spirits Poison. A deadly poison even he couldn't resist. He had succumbed to the power of the poison before and became incapable to fight for days. If Kim Dokja could deal with the fallen guide than Yoo Jonghyuk could help with the Disaster of Questions.

It was a really hard choice to make. Kim Dokja currently processes the abilities necessary for fighting the enemy but is lacking in control and technique. It would of been much easier if he could've gotten it instead. But the easy way was never the answer for him or Kim Dokja.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked down from the building where he was standing. Kim Dokja was down there fighting to save his past teammate. Kim Dokja wielded the sword without hesitation. A powerful start relic he obtained too early to be considered fair. The sword showcased the faith of the owner and that faith was never-ending.

The sword that glowed white pierced past Lee Seolhwa’s group members. They were never a match for Kim Dokja in the first place. His skills might be lacking but he had enough of everything else to make up for it. There is a reason why he was called the strongest incarnation before he became a constellation.

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes were always on Kim Dokja. It felt nostalgic as he watched from above. He might be watching from above right now but soon Kim Dokja would be the one in the sky and when that time came, Yoo Jonghyuk would go beyond the limits of a human to be by Kim Dokja's side.

To be by Kim Dokja's side as his life and death companion. That was what Yoo Jonghyuk wanted more than anything in this world.

Chapter Text

The Imyuntar's prince, Lycaon, was summoned to the battle field because of his mission as a guide. The guides usual task was simple to assist verbally and give information about the incoming disasters but now things had changed.

Lycaon looked ahead at Queen Antinus. He wore a serious expression at the conversation that had just happened. He would of thought that this was the way Queen Antinus felt. Well, there wasn't anyone to console her and guide her the right way. She was the guide and had no one to guide herself. Lycaon felt regretful over this. If they had met earlier could things have changed?

Lycaon thoughts went on. Even though that on Chronos they hadn't been close enough to be called friends, it was barely past formal relationship that happened between royal families but Lycaon had a big heart. He hoped that if that there was even the slightest of chances that she would understand and stop with the awakening of the disaster, that he could grab on to that part of her soul and convince her. To bring her over to his side and for it not to lead to her destruction.

But that hope soon got ruined. The way Queen Antinus spoke made her thoughts obvious and Lycaon wasn't dense enough not to understand. Queen Antinus had chosen her side and they had now become enemies.

Fighting to the death with one of the only survivors of his former home planet. This wasn't something he dreamt about. If only she had thought about her mission more and just if they could have found peace together on earth...

Lycaon shook his head. He needed to stop with his thoughts. Lycaon had to firm his resolve and the battle between the two begun. As they both were naturally airborne, that was where their battle begun. Lycaon used way of the wind, the one thought by their species. It was a symbol for him, a symbol of who is was, something to tie his identity to and something to make sense of this knew world he had been brought into.

With his newly enlightened way of the wind he now stood a chance against Queen Antinus, before when they had spared he had so utterly lost but now things were different. Lycaon expressed his thoughts loud and clear to Queen Antinus.

"I'm not the same Lycaon you once knew."

His words were to personal, he thought. It was like how Queen Antinus wasn't the same Antinus he remembered. Even though she said that she died back then with the rest of her species, Lycaon could still see the look in her eyes that she once had. The small glint in her eyes still hadn't left. Lycaon didn't miss that glint but he couldn't do anything with it.

The wind around Lycaon moved like his mind. It moved silently and was almost invisible. Queen Antinus realized why she was slowed down to this extent and became vary of how much Lycaon had evolved.

"Queen of Insects, kneel in front of the wind."

The wind didn't just block attacks, it also cut through the body. Small cuts started appearing on Queen Antinus and she pushed her wings to the limit as she activated ye another skill. One blow was what it would take to end this life and death match. Her small eyes searching for an opening through the blade-like wind but it was to no avail.

And then when she distracted by Lycaon her wings tore and her speed slowed down significantly. Allowing Lycaon to make the final blow. Lycaon's speed accelerated as a storm-like kick landed on her upper-shell. It was enough to push her out of the sky and she fell down down.

She attempted to land but one of her wings were practically gone and probability storm started to increase around her. Queen Antinus knew this was the end for but she didn't want it to end like this. She said her final words,

"Kiiiit! I won't let it end like this! My world, my race, my family! The cost you have to pay for the destruction of my world, I will absolutely make you pay it!"

Then, Queen Antinus poured out the last of her magic power towards the meteorite. Lycaon moved and tried to block it, but just when everyone thought it was over Lycaon spoke.

"...Protecter, sorry..."

Lycaon went down.

All sound disappeared at that moment.

And then with a bright flash the meteorite that everyone had feared exploded. The huge explosion struck down everyone and meteorite shards flew through the air. One of which was about the hit Kim Dokja's head. But just as it was close enough that it seemed impossible to block someone painted a line with his sword and the shard disappeared upon impact.

Yoo Jonghyuk stood in front of Kim Dokja shielding him from the explosion. The building couldn't handle the explosion and broke down. The fragment that once again was about to hit Kim Dokja was destroyed at the hands of Yoo Jonghyuk.

Kim Dokja wanted to know when Yoo Jonghyuk had moved here but he found it meaningless to ask because it wasn't over with the destruction of the guide or the building. A knew challenge had appeared before them.

[You have failed to clear the scenario.]

[The 'Disaster of Questions' has come to your world.]

[An early hatching has weakened the Disaster of Questions.]

[Due to the early hatching penalty, you won't be able to attack the Disaster of Questions for three minutes.]

This was bad. Kim Dokja knew this as the newly awakened Disaster of Questions stepped forward. Yoo Jonghyuk stood in front of his in a protecting way but even he couldn't move. All had to wait for the penalty to end. This was especially bad for one woman in the poisoner's group who looked like she had just woken up.

With a disaster of questions heading her way all she could do was to form exclamations and say "huh?" a repeated number of times until a proper word came out. All that was needed was one question answered and the 17 years old boy had a penalty lifted and thus became far more powerful.

Even though he was in a extremely weakened state he wasn't any less dangerous to the the rest of the people crowded around. Kim Dokja's group was the only ones who could practically put up a fight and even then it almost seemed impossible. Kim Dokja thoughts about the situation become even more negative as he kept going and the only one who could calm him down now was Yoo Jonghyuk.

With midday tryst he could bypass the penalty and share thoughts with each other.

-Kim Dokja, calm down.

Kim Dokja who almost didn't notice how his thoughts were in the negatives collected his thoughts and calmed down.

-You're right.

Yoo Jonghyuk knew all to well how Disaster of Question were like. The talkative guy who wouldn't shut. Complete opposite of how his own personality were like. They didn't mix well.

Yoo Jonghyuk thought bad to how Kim Dokja had defeated Disaster of Questions before but didn't know he could best handle the situation. Leaving it alone and defeating it when it became stronger would give a better narrative for Kim Dokja when building up his stories to become a constellation. But it would lead to more deaths and more people would get hurt...

After weighing his option, Yoo Jonghyuk naturally thought it would be better for Kim Dokja o get stronger, not just for now but for the long run. If the story became downgraded because Yoo Jonghyuk was inpatient could only make it worse. So, in the end he had to leave it up to Kim Dokja. Of course Yoo Jonghyuk would still fight, he wasn't about to lose a chance to gain a story with Kim Dokja, he was just taking the backstage a bit for the growth of his companion.

[The early hatching penalty has ended.]

[The power that controlled your movements has disappeared.]

Just when the penalty for the incarnations was released Disaster of Questions moved onto his next victim. But that victim was unfortunately one of Kim Dokja's teammate, specifically it was Yoo Sangah. Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't fast enough to stop the movement because of the penalty and could only watch as Yoo Sangah made her mistake of answering.

[The second question has been resolved.]

[The second seal of the returnee ‘Myung Ilsang’ has been released.]

Of course the glances Yoo Sangah was sending in direction wasn't helpful in the least because this made for his next target. Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know how Kim Dokja was constantly sending Yoo Sangah messages and could only blame Yoo Sangah herself.

[The character ‘Myung Ilsang’ has triggered ‘Small Black Fire Cannon’!]

Purple particles formed around the hands of Myung Ilsang before shooting out right toward Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk. However the attack was easily blocked by Yoo Jonghyuk.

Thus giving the chance for Kim Dokja to use his ability 'character list' to check the Disaster of Question current status. Yoo Jonghyuk also used his 'sage eyes' to check.

[The exclusive skill, Character List is activated.]

+

[Character Information]

Name: Myung Ilsang

Age: 17 years old (127 years old)

Constellation Support: Mass Production Maker

Private Attribute: SSS-grade Warrior (Hero), Disaster of Questions (Legend)

Exclusive Skills: SSS-grade Growth Acceleration Lv. 10 (Currently Lv. 1), SSS-grade Swordsmanship Lv. 10 (Currently Lv. 1), Black Fire Cannon Lv. 9 ((Currently Lv. 1), SSS-grade Footwork Lv. 10 (Currently Lv. 1)…

Stigma: The Answer is Fixed and You just Need to Answer Lv. 7 (Lv. 2).

Overall Stats: Physique Lv. 99 (Currently Lv. 55), Strength Lv. 99 (Currently Lv. 55), Agility Lv. 99 (Currently Lv. 60), Magic Power Lv. 99 (Currently Lv. 55)

Overall Evaluation: The Disaster of Questions that destroyed Chronos. All stats are sealed due to the current scenario penalty. Every time a seal is released, the stats will rise. Once all seals are released, the real power of the disaster will awaken. If you want to survive, don’t answer his questions. But you are still going to die.

+

Kim Dokja who had first been blinded by all of the 'SSS' that was on display finally understood the true state of the returnee. He was weak, very weak, at least currently.

Yoo Jonghyuk dashed through the black flames to face Disaster of Questions. Even Though he currently wasn't going all out to save strength he was still at the speed of the disaster. Having his stats at the scenario limit and using his movement skill he actually surpassed the speed of the sealed disaster.

This surprised Myung Ilsang very much, he never thought he would have to face such a formidable opponent head on. Even without a sword he dodged and attacked back. But Yoo Jonghyuk didn't take any damage and the same couldn't be said about Myung Ilsang.

Myung Ilsang was clearly in a disadvantage and was slowly forced into a corner by Yoo Jonghyuk, Yoo Sangah and Kim Dokja who appeared later. Han Sooyoung had gotten the order to spread out her avatar in case the disaster decides to be smart and escape.

Once Yoo Jonghyuk's sword headed towards Myung Ilsang's neck, it was then when he really started to panic. Using the skill blink, Myung Ilsang's body blurred before disappearing completely. Yoo Jonghyuk wiped of the blood left on his sword from the disaster before turning towards Kim Dokja.

"2km northwest."

"...?"

"We're leaving, Kim Dokja."

Kim Dokja could only sigh at Yoo Jonghyuk because of his way of speech. It must be painful for Yoo Jonghyuk to from proper sentences from time to time. Even so, Kim Dokja didn't hate the way Yoo Jonghyuk was. Maybe this was just what Kim Dokja's tastes were like... This doesn't seem to be the right way to put. Kim Dokja shook his head at the thought and Yoo Jonghyuk could only minimize the area between his eyebrows because he couldn't understand what Kim Dokja's reaction was about.

Chapter Text

Myung Ilsang had escaped and was constantly releasing his penalties, which made the situation more grave. Of course Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't very worried. Maybe was is because he had experienced it many times before that made him so utterly confident. Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk left the area to search for where the disaster had escaped to. It wasn't far away because of the skill he had used was only short distance teleportation and he was also to preoccupied on every single target of his.

It wasn't just that he was going around killing everything in sight. He made sure to question every single one of them too. This made his travel speed much slower then if he had just left to begin with. This was one of the reason Kim Dokja could actually catch up to him as well.

With this second fight Yoo Jonghyuk was more drawn back because Kim Dokja needed to get experience in fights more then he needed. Because Kim Dokja wasn't a regressor he didn't have the necessary talent or control skills to fully utilize his own power. Kim Dokja had drawn the wind to boost his power and speed, making him considerable faster than before. With the two of them Myung Ilsang's end would only come faster.

In the end, Myung Ilsang could only escape once more with his tail between his legs as he teleported away again. Kim Dokja, who could now utilize Way of the Wind, speed up alongside Yoo Jonghyuk.

The twenty forth seal of the disaster was broken along with the neck of a bystander. Myung Ilsang turned around and faced what he called 'Hunter association'. Kim Dokja was already very aware of the kind of background Myung Ilsang had and the traits that followed. Myung Ilsang was like a standard isekai protagonist except he wasn't the protagonist. Myung Ilsang, who had been summoned to Chronos to save the planet like any other isekai, but instead of saving the planet he made the opposite choice and became on of the disaster.

Becoming one of the disaster was a choice Myung Ilsang himself made and Kim Dokja understood this and placed Myung Ilsang in another category then the rest of humanity.

While Kim Dokja's attack only felt ticklish for Myung Ilsang, Yoo Jonghyuk could barely keep up as Myung Ilsang had already surpassed the scenario limit.

"I'll buy time, so just concentrate."

Yoo Jonghyuk back was as big as ever as he faced the disaster alone. But Kim Dokja couldn't watch and instead focused on his plan of creating a dome of vacuum around Myung Ilsang.

The wind twirled and twisted until it took shape of an octagon. The octagon shaped dome was even harder than steel even though it was just wind. The wind hadn't solidified and it just moved in such away and gave of enough air pressure that even Myung Ilsang couldn't get through. The air inside the dome cleared and what was left was vacuum and three people. These three people endured the discomfort and the pain of not being able to breath.

Kim Dokja swallowed back the air he had almost let out and focused on the wind roaring around them. The wind for him became like a sixth sense but the air inside the dome was gone and he almost missed how Myung Ilsang attempted to kill him while he was too focused one recovering the broken parts of the barrier. Even with out skills Myung Ilsang still had his physic that made it possible to destroy minor parts of the dome.

While Myung Ilsang focused on killing Kim Dokja who had trapped him, Yoo Jonghyuk took the chance to launch a sneak attack from Myung Ilsang's blind spot. Unable to parry the attack, Myung Ilsang's face hit the ground and the air in his lungs escaped through his mouth. The chocking returnee could only watch as Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk left the barrier and he was all alone inside the vacuum.

The dome which quickly decreased in size made Myung Ilsang even more panicked and therefor resorted to using his black flame cannon as his last hope. The previous black flame cannon had died down almost instantly because of the lack of oxygen but this time the power was increased by several times and broke through the wind dome, creating multiple holes all around. Even the bystanders wasn't speared from its massive power and could only face destruction.

The only one basically not affected was Kim Dokja as he once again faced Yoo Jonghyuk's back. The wide back that protected him from the explosions once again protected him from the flames.

The constellations and dokkaebi had gone rather quiet which wasn't a good sign. When Yoo Jonghyuk noticed this it could only trigger a flag to destruction. A death flag as it is called.

The dokkaebi's voice rang out to the incarnations below.

[It isn't exciting enough...]

Yoo Jonghyuk who hadn't expected the appearance of the dokkaebi could only widen his eyes in surprise before his expression turned into a frown.

[It is too easy...]

Kim Dokja didn't like where this was going.

[Myung Ilsang is too weak... His resolve isn't enough.]

The new dokkaebi that appeared wasn't the same one that advertised isekai before. This was a intermediate dokkaebi. Usually the dokkaebi that created the scenario would have all the power over it but there was a few rules that bypassed it. It seemed that a intermediate dokkaebi had been dispatched this time. It could bring mayor impact even on the main scenario. Of course that would be if the constellations desired it.

And what was the desires of the constellations? Anyone living in this hellhole of the apocalypse would know by now.

Flick.

The dokkaebi flick his fingers and the dome around Myung Ilsang disappeared. This caused Kim Dokja to spit out blood before staggering forward and falling. Kim Dokja had used the wind as balance and now that the balance was gone he could only lose strength in his legs and fall. Kim Dokja didn't fall to the ground because something caught his shoulders and was holding him in place.

It was Yoo Jonghyuk. Kim Dokja could how Yoo Jonghyuk had gotten burnt by the fire earlier yet he still choose to support him even though it must be hurting a lot. This makes Kim Dokja want to take back his words about how his companion is a bastard. Of course Yoo Jonghyuk is still a bastard in Kim Dokja's heart.

The dokkaebi still wasn't done though. The dokkaebi's eyes moved to the half dead Myung Ilsang who was basically unconscious from the lack of air. Getting rid of the dome wasn't enough to restore the balance because Myung Ilsang was already at death's doorstep.

And then another second passed before the dokkaebi choose his words.

[Disaster of Question unarmed was weak enough to only be handle by two people... But then, what about the armed version...]

This wasn't the development neither Kim Dokja or Yoo Jonghyuk had expected. Kim Dokja knew that Disaster of Questions was a warrior and that he was naturally more powerful with a weapon. The reason Myung Ilsang hadn't armed himself before was because of his own mentality.

Myung Ilsang didn't think that there would be anyone strong enough to face him even if he himself didn't cary weapons and therefor because of his own pride he sought out his doom. There was only a few instances when Myung Ilsang had armed himself and that was in the regression before the 30th regression turn. The reason why it wasn't earlier was because there wasn't anyone powerful enough and the reason why it didn't occur later then the 30th regression turn was simple because Yoo Jonghyuk was too powerful.

So what would happened if the dokkaebi forcefully armed Disaster of Question during the 3rd turn? Kim Dokja didn't want to even think about. That wasn't even the only problem with this. Kim Dokja bookmark skill only had a few minutes left before it would forcibly turn of and Yoo Jonghyuk and himself had suffered plenty throughout the battle already. If they were to continue fighting an even more powerful version then...

The word 'strategic retreat' seems to be whispering into his ears softly. If only then had more time...

[Because of further enhancement the Disaster of Questions will be postponed... You better use that time well, incarnations. The next battle will surly be thrilling.]

[The sub-scenario - SSS-grade Hunt had been postponed.]

[The sub-scenario - SSS-grade Hunt had been updated.]

+

[The sub-scenario - SSS-grade Hunt]

Category: Sub

Difficulty: ???

Clear Conditions: Get rid of SSS-grade Myung Ilsang(armed).

Time limit: None

Compensation: 60 000 coins, ???

Failure: Fall of Seoul Dome.

+

With that the intermediate dokkaebi disappeared and left behind a terrible scenario.

Myung Ilsang was covered in another dome that was somehow different then the one made out of wind. This one was more of a protective shield rather than a binding dome. Myung Ilsang was also asleep inside of it and it was as if he once again slept inside the meteorite.

It seemed like they were safe for the time being at least. But they couldn't party just yet because the final phase was incoming and they would need to grow much stronger before then.

Yoo Jonghyuk, who was still holding onto Kim Dokja's shoulders, took another hold of him before he threw him over his own shoulders so that Kim Dokja wouldn't need to stand anymore. Though the position wasn't the greatest for Kim Dokja he could only hang over Yoo Jonghyuk's wide shoulders and stare into his back. Yoo Jonghyuk was now holding onto his legs instead.

Yoo Jonghyuk intended to head back and group up with the others who probably didn't understand the situation. Yoo Jonghyuk could only adapt to the ever changing world around him as he tightened his grep on Kim Dokja's legs as ran.

...

Kim Dokja had somehow fallen asleep in that position on the way back and Yoo Jonghyuk could feel Kim Dokja's soft breaths against his back. Yoo Jonghyuk hadn't even gotten that far before Kim Dokja passed out. Just how tired was he to be able to sleep like this. Yoo Jonghyuk hesitated for a second before he stopped and choose to settle down in a nearby building.

Kim Dokja wouldn't be able to get a good rest while being carried so Yoo Jonghyuk choose to stop so that Kim Dokja could rest. The building was abounded as always but the interior wasn't damaged too badly. The bed was still useable and he put Kim Dokja down on it.

Yoo Jonghyuk was also tired but he had another important thing to come up and that was to deal with the armed returnee.

Yoo Jonghyuk had thought of multiple ways of facing Myung Ilsang but he had yet to come up with the specifics. So while Kim Dokja would rest, Yoo Jonghyuk would carefully plan their next move.

Chapter Text

Kim Dokja had a good night's sleep, or something like that. The two companions both had been suffering from nightmares for what felt like eternity. Kim Dokja had his childhood trauma that shouldn't be brought up carelessly and Yoo Jonghyuk... Well, after going through the apocalypse how many times it isn't hard to imagine that he would have nightmares from it.

Though that the nightmares weren't consistent anymore. Kim Dokja or Yoo Jonghyuk hadn't had any nightmares this night or the night before. One could call this a coincidence or maybe it's... Of course the two of them had no idea that this is happening to the both of them.

Kim Dokja stretched out his arms as he does almost every morning only to be met by something warm at the palm of his hand. Kim Dokja's eyes burst open as he had not expected something to be there and what he was met with was one glaring eye of Yoo Jonghyuk. Because the other eye was covered by his hand.

Kim Dokja really hadn't expected this. He might have passed out in the arms of Yoo Jonghyuk but to think he would find himself in the same bed as him. Although the bed was rather large and all his clothes was one so it wasn't like there was anything weird about it...

No. This was Yoo Jonghyuk, Yoo Jonghyuk that was a cold-faced, cold-hearted bastard with the mind of a sunfish. Why would he ever share a bed with someone?

Kim Dokja was stuck in his own world of theories while Yoo Jonghyuk still had Kim Dokja's hand on his right eye. Yoo Jonghyuk hesitated before getting up and putting Kim Dokja's hand back to where it belonged, obviously it didn't belong in his face.

Yoo Jonghyuk hadn't been up all night cause he was a living being who also needed sleep. After looking around the apartment he couldn't find another bed or a couch for that matter so after some thinking he choose to rest beside Kim Dokja in the bed. It was just an easier option instead of destroying a wall and bringing over another bed from another apartment, he also didn't want to leave this log of a sleeper alone cause Kim Dokja might die before even waking up. The case was that this was all for convenience.

Yoo Jonghyuk told himself so and he wasn't about to change his thought process one bit.

Of course Kim Dokja must of arrived at the same conclusion as he also got up.

As a master chef who transcended gods, it was Yoo Jonghyuk who had the responsibility to cook. The matter couldn't be handled Kim Dokja and Kim Dokja had been strictly forbidden from the kitchen. This actually worked out favorably for Kim Dokja because he got to spend his time reading the light novel again.

Yoo Jonghyuk was standing in the kitchen while looking through the pantry. He wasn't about to open the fridge or the refrigerator and risk the smell getting out. The pantry wasn't particularly full. It seemed that whoever lived here before lived alone and enjoyed a king sized bed. Since the pantry was basically empty Yoo Jonghyuk made through use of the dokkaebi bag instead. It might cost a few more coins but a health meal to recover was one of the most important things during the apocalypse and without energy how was one supposed to fight to the fullest.

Yoo Jonghyuk whipped up a healthy meal for both him and Kim Dokja. Yoo Jonghyuk remember that he had almost never cooked for Kim Dokja. Even though they had spent so much time together it seemed he missed out on the most basic of things.

As a chief, Yoo Jonghyuk had cooked many meals for his teammates and his sister. Even more so in the 3rd turn, yet Kim Dokja was still left out. Yoo Jonghyuk thought about it more while his hands showed high dexterity in the was from chopping the vegetables. The knife used moved way too fast for any onlookers' eyes to follow, it was like lightning-speed expect saving for the fact that there wasn't any lighting effect,

The stove didn't work because everything was lacking electricity. Even so it didn't matter cause he had his own equipment. He took out the magical stove he had gotten from the treasure groove and began frying the meat he bought from the dokkaebi bag.

Kim Dokja in the other room began to drool just from the smell. He had to swallow back is saliva. Kim Dokja hadn't tasted Yoo Jonghyuk's cooking yet and could only dream about how it would taste. Before the scenarios Kim Dokja had made himself multiple lists, one of which contained the "must try" food list. And on that list was Yoo Jonghyuk's cooking with murim dumplings.

Even though Kim Dokja had guessed that Yoo Jonghyuk was cooking for the both of them he didn't get his hopes up in case Yoo Jonghyuk felt like being a bastard. Yoo Jonghyuk would always be a bastard in Kim Dokja's heart but other titles could also be added.

"Kim Dokja, breakfast."

Kim Dokja's gaze broke away from his phone and he put it away. The breakfast Yoo Jonghyuk made wasn't the sort of breakfast you would usually have in the morning. It was more like lunch than breakfast, in any case this was much better.

Kim Dokja sat down across from Yoo Jonghyuk. In front of him existed a meal only for him and Yoo Jonghyuk. To think that he would have a chance to eat like this with the protagonist. Wasn't this a dream come true fro any reader? Kim Dokja felt satisfied even before eating anything, it was as if the delicious smell was enough to fill his stomach.

Yoo Jonghyuk batted Kim Dokja a eye before ordering to eat. Kim Dokja took a hold of that signal and started stuffing his mouth. And it really was too good to be real and if Kim Dokja would have to describe the taste he would need to use the descriptions used in was of survival or search up fitting words because none of his own words would ever be able to describe this appetizing, delectable, delish, divine, flavorful, flavorsome, flavory, full-flavored meal.

Therefor he didn't flatter the food and instead flatter the cook.

(Option 1. Your handsome face makes the food even more appetizing.

Option 2. I wonder how much better your face tastes compared to your cooking.

Option 3. You'd make a great wife, Yoo Jonghyuk-ah.

Option 4. Wish I could your cooking for the rest of my life.

Option 5. Marry m- )

'No wait, these options aren't lining up with reality.'

Kim Dokja felt embarrassed by his own thoughts and went with the hidden option.

"You should cook for me more often."

"That can be done."

With the casual but heavier reply than Kim Dokja thought the conversation didn't last any longer as they soon made their way to regroup.

...

"Dokja-ssi."

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Sangah and Han Sooyoung shouted their way the moment they discovered the life and death companions.

"You bastard, you can't think it is okay to run of like that, can you?"

Yoo Sangah put her hand on Han Sooyoung's shoulder.

"We were so worried that something had happened since you didn't come back."

Emphasizing the "We" in her sentence, Yoo Sangah had her eyes closed in a smile like a innocent office worker that she once was. Save for the fact that Han Sooyoung didn't have those sort of thoughts of Yoo Sangah. Han Sooyoung had witnessed sids of her that she would rather forget.

"Quite a few problems occurred and it seems the Disaster of Questions will be back for a second round."

Kim Dokja spoke the truth to his companions. Yoo Sangah and Han Sooyoung had already gotten the updated scenario but the cause of why this happened wasn't explained. Therefor they wanted answers out of Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja continued to speak.

"After running off, Yoo Jonghyuk and I succeeded in sealing the Disaster of Questions but the dokkaebi interfered because everything was to smooth."

"So you're saying yo failed to kill the Disaster of Questions."

"Yoo Jonghyuk was the one who failed to kill."

"Do you think anyone other than you can put the blame one Yoo Jonghyuk? Especially when he is right beside you?"

What Han Sooyoung said was correct. If it were anyone other than Kim Dokja saying that they would have already been dead by now.

"The point is that the Disaster of Question isn't dead and now is going to get even stronger. Even with the four of us it won't be enough to deal with the armed version. The suggestion would be that we find Jung Heewon and the rest of the group."

"You said Jung Heewon just now, why her?"

"Only with Jung Heewon's attribute could the armed disaster be defeated."

Since the Disaster of Questions is "evil" by the standards of all the constellation of 'absolute good', Jung Heewon can utilize her attribute exclusive skill 'hour of judgement'.

"There is no chance otherwise?"

"Unless you wan't to sacrifice yourself-"

"Why are you still standing around? We've already lost plenty of hours. Hurry up!"

Han Sooyoung was already spreading out her avatars to search while Kim Dokja turned towards Yoo Jonghyuk.

"You know where they all are, right?"

Kim Dokja wasn't sure if Yoo Jonghyuk actually knew but who else could he ask. Everyone would arrive at a place familiar to them but Kim Dokja hadn't asked much about everyone background. Of course he knew about the characters from Three Ways to Survive in a Ruined World but his teammates didn't only include characters from the novel. Jung Heewon. Lee Gilyoung, Gong Pildu... It would of been much easier if you knew their positions from someone experienced.

Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't sure what to answer. He had found them and did know mostly where they all where but if they had moved then that could be problematic.

"Jung Heewon got teleported to her work place."

"Which is?"

"A bar."

"A bar?"

"Yes."

Kim Dokja really wished Yoo Jonghyuk would elaborate more often instead of staying quiet.

"Can you take me there?"

Yoo Jonghyuk nodded as a response. At least that solved the first question.

Chapter Text

The wind brushed past the ears of the teammates as they run across the city of Seoul. It was once again getting dark. Finding Jung Heewon right now was the goal of the group. Yoo Jonghyuk had taken the initiative to guide the group but he could only guide to the general area because this was the apocalypse and one couldn't stay in one place to long.

The sun was setting and even more monsters made their way out of the darkness. The reason for delay with the search was mainly because of the monster that kept appearing. Not that it was particularly hard to be dealt with considering that Kim Dokja knew all the weaknesses and Yoo Jonghyuk almost one-shotted all of them. The problem accused because of the sheer quantity.

The area they were wandering was particularly filled with tanking poisonous insects and plants. This made it so that the group had to be extra careful not to get poisoned while dealing with many arising roots of a nearby monstrous plant.

Even though they got used with this sort of fighting style, their stamina was constantly decreasing. Because of the scenario limit they could even bypass their weakness with coins.

The almost invisible string casted webs all around the plants and insect while also slicing it down. Yoo Sangah had recovered significantly and was once again using her stigmas. Although she had been warned not to exaggerate with the usage because of how dangerous it could get over the long run she still couldn't hold herself back, she didn't want to be a burden and only be a help to her companions.

Kim Dokja had helped her out and sacrificed a lot for her so it was only reasonable to give out help in return. Of course the 'giving out' part of her was infinite just as it was with Kim Dokja. Yoo Sangah had already made her resolve and nothing was going to get in her way of fulfilling it.

Even though they had barely met when this all started he still chose to help her out. Without Kim Dokja she was sure that she probably wouldn't even have survived the first scenario and was forever grateful to him.

"Dokja-ssi."

Yoo Sangah called out to Kim Dokja. Since Kim Dokja was the unofficial team leader it was better to consult him about questions regarding the group.

Yoo Sangah wanted to rest while she also wanted to ask Kim Dokja about Yoo Jonghyuk. She hadn't gotten the chance then but it seemed like she would be able to get an opportunity soon. Through what she had gathered, they definitely were companions but it was just rather odd.

The first time Yoo Sangah and Yoo Jonghyuk met it was awkward and tense to say the least. The way he had appeared instead of Kim Dokja and had told them that Kim Dokja would get back in few days was really suspicious. Yoo Jonghyuk is also a very quiet person, a person of few words one could say. Even his eyes only told up to a maximum of three words which consisted of 'get lost', 'I'll kill you' or a combination of the two.

Even if the interactions between them was short, Yoo Sangah had always been good at reading people and their expressions.

The next time they met was at the Chungmuro station.

Yoo Jonghyuk coming down the escalator with Lee Jihye, his disciple. His cold eyes scanning the area before falling directly onto Kim Dokja. The gaze in his eyes instantly changing from what she saw in the first meeting. It wasn't a cold glance that spoke three words but instead it was deep gaze that spoke of a story. There was a unimaginable depth to that gaze that covered Kim Dokja.

Yoo Sangah saw all of this happening but didn't say a word about. She did however have her own thoughts about why such a gaze was directed at Kim Dokja.

The third meeting was in the theatre dungeon. Though Yoo Jonghyuk hadn't said a single word before passing out it was still a meeting. There wasn't anything much to conduct from Yoo Jonghyuk perspective of things but when she looked at Kim Dokja a thought dawned on her...

The way Kim Dokja had spoken about Yoo Jonghyuk, Yoo Jonghyuk's way at looking at Kim Dokja, there was definitely something in-between them. The depth of those eyes couldn't have come from just that one meeting on the bridge. They must have known each other before then.

The fourth meeting after Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk had gotten back together. Of course there was Lee Hyunsung there as well. The point was that Kim Dokja was only wearing Yoo Jonghyuk's shirt and Yoo Jonghyuk was shirtless. There had definitely been something between them.

Also there was the gifts that they had gifted each other. Was that really something only companions who hadn't even traveled together did? There was also that gaze again...

The fifth meeting in the absolute throne scenario. Yoo Jonghyuk giving up his chance to get the throne for Kim Dokja? Had they communicated without her knowledge? That was a possibility. If it weren't for that gaze again that was always at Kim Dokja she wouldn't think too much about it.

But there was that gaze again. And even now whenever Yoo Sangah looks at Yoo Jonghyuk, Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze always made its to Kim Dokja's figure.

Yoo Sangah didn't want to burden Kim Dokja with personal questions but this had greatly peaked her curiosity. Though Kim Dokja and Yoo Sangah hadn't been close before the scenarios started, she felt that if Kim Dokja had someone like Yoo Jonghyuk in his life he would have mentioned it. Or maybe this was all a speculation of hers, and Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk had actually met for the first time on that bridge and that single meeting had caused the both of them to change so drastically.

Even still, she couldn't help herself asking that question.

"Hm? Do you need to rest, Yoo Sangah-ssi?"

Kim Dokja carried a causal tone as he answered Yoo Sangah back.

"This, that would be appreciated."

And so, they took a break. A very appreciated break for those who have worked hard to survive. Kim Dokja set up the tents, Yoo Jonghyuk cooking the meals, Han Sooyoung helping the hopeless Kim Dokja with the tents while also scouting the area at the same time, and Yoo Sangah setting up traps for monsters nearby. Peaceful but not quite.

There was also how Kim Dokja wanted to make a sign so that Jung Heewon could spot the place better. Well, everything was completed rather quickly. Yoo Sangah found it rather nice to sit by the fire while eating the most delicious meal she'd ever had.

There was two tents that had been set up for convenience. Woman and men, that was how it was divided. Yoo Sangah would once again sleep in the same tents as Han Sooyoung while Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk would be sharing a tent.

Because of the avatars, the rest could sleep in peace. Though before going to sleep, Yoo Sangah had called Kim Dokja over because of what she wanted to ask.

They climbed a building and stood on the roof a building. Not wanting to be heard by the others. Yoo Sangah spoke first.

"Dokja-ssi, there had been something caught on my mind."

Yoo Sangah begun. Kim Dokja was a bit nervous as to what exactly she had been thinking about. Obviously, he had many secrets kept away from the group.

"About you and Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi. Have you met before, you seem very familiar with each other?"

Oh, that wasn't as bad of a question Kim Dokja was imagining.

"The first time we met was on that bridge."

Kim Dokja's answer sounded as if it revealed everything but it was more vague than one would originally think.

"Any other time you have made contact after the bridge incident and before Chungmuro?"

Yoo Sangah continued to question.

"No?"

Kim Dokja didn't know where Yoo Sangah wanted to get at. Sometimes it was just a shame that 'omniscient reader's viewpoint' didn't work on everyone.

"In Chungmuro station, you said that your relationship with each other was 'life and death companions', was that really your second meeting? What happened at the bridge for you to advance so much?"

"Eh?"

"You do realize how whenever you talk about Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi your tone changes? And then there was how you insisted on saving Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi. Also how you wore Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi's shirt and the gift you exchanged."

"..."

"Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi always looks for you and his gaze always seems warmer whenever it glances at your figure. Not forgetting what Lee jihye had said about the two of you. Was there really nothing before the apocalypse?"

And oh, Kim Dokja really didn't think he would be misunderstood to this extent. How was he supposed to answer this?! Yoo Jonghyuk knowing him from another regression and him reading the novel isn't something that can simply be explained. What a mess he has gotten himself into.

...

At the same time near the camp. A figure covered by the darkness of the night approached the smoke spotted earlier in the sky. Only after following could she make out a ridicules sign in front of the camp. Seriously? Jung Heewon really didn't think she would stumble across the group here. But it was still lucky.

After having to fight through the night constantly, she had been injured and was searching for somewhere safe to spend the night. It really was a great coincidence that she would her comrades at such a time.

Her mood lightened as she made her way to the camp. Only to be seen and stopped by another person. However, it was someone she recognized. Though the person she recognized wasn't exactly her teammate. In a moment of hesitation, before Jung Heewon could draw her sword, the other person spoke.

"Mm? Are you Jung Heewon?"

...

While at the camp, Yoo Jonghyuk was wondering where Yoo Sangah and Kim Dokja went. A slightly darker shade covered his eyes. Yoo Sangah hadn't dragged Kim Dokja away like this in the 3rd regression turn, so why now? If Kim Dokja didn't confess what had happened when he would come back, surely Yoo Jonghyuk would pry him open for answers.

...

Kim Dokja suddenly felt his back growing cold for some reason other than his current predicament.

Chapter Text

"Mm, are you Jung Heewon?"

The sudden words echoed through the quiet night. The sky was getting darker by the minute and a cluster of stars made their presences known. The dark sky was something to admire because it wasn't something often seen anymore. The clouds of smoke used to cover the sky making it almost not visible.

They had also spent lots of time underground when day and night wasn't something like a clock to guide one when to sleep and what not. The night right now was pretty as it displayed the stars. Though those stars wasn't just stars anymore because they were constellations. Those constellations could also be evil in her eyes and this made the scenery have less value as she found it faulty. She wondered if she would ever be able to look at stars the same way as before again.

'This person...'

The person who stood before her was that of a woman with black her, black eyes and a small black mole under her left eye. This person she had seen before. It hadn't been long at all. During the fight for the absolute throne this person had been there. Though at the time she wasn't very friendly with Kim Dokja. Had something changed since then? With the work of Kim Dokja everything seemed possible. Gong Pildu had been turned into a ally so why could the same be said about her?

Jung Heewon worked on her thoughts. Even though is was unrealistic for her to be an enemy she still couldn't be sure of what the current progress of events were. If this person in front was now one of her allies then greeting them would be appropriate for the situation.

Since this person seemed to have waited for her then it is possible for the whole group to also be looking for her and that is why they here. But how would they know? Could it be the constellations?

"Yes?"

Hesitant, but is indeed an answer. Satisfied with her predicting skills Han Sooyoung smiled. And then she turned away and started walking.

Jung Heewon understood the meaning and followed after this unknown ally. Though she was injured her steps wasn't slow and she had no problem keeping up with the person in front. Jung Heewon still didn't know this person and had many unanswered questions and therefor she engaged into a conversation with the stranger.

"Your name?"

Han Sooyoung looked to her side as Jung Heewon walk next to her.

"It's Han Sooyoung. I'm in the same group as you, Kim Dokja's group."

"Who is here?"

"There is three more expect for you and I. Yoo Sangah, Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja."

So, Kim Dokja is here as expected. But why Yoo Jonghyuk? The same that happened to her must of happened to everyone else as well. It would be good to group up as fast as possible.

With the pace at which the two were walking, they soon arrived at the camp. Since there was now one more person another tent was needed. It worked out fine since one could just be bought from the dokkaebi bag. So, in just a few more minutes one more tent was set up.

At some point, Yoo Jonghyuk had gotten out of the tent and was standing by a nearby wall watching. Maybe because of the noise Yoo Jonghyuk had gotten out? But there wasn't a clear explanation as to why he wouldn't just rest at the tent

After that, Jung Heewon got her treatment in the tent and got to lay down and rest. A long-deserved rest.

...

Back to how Kim Dokja had it. Kim Dokja was currently being questioned on something he himself hadn't taken notice of and was wracking his brain in order to dodge the question. Of course with Yoo Sangah there, there wasn't any way of him easily getting past the barrage of questions.

A few of the stupid ideas that somehow landed in Kim Dokja's brain was; lure a monster to attack; jump of the roof; buy a invisibility cloak; call Yoo Jonghyuk here so that he can explain everything instead; feign ignorance; make a fake past together with Yoo Jonghyuk; or something similar.

Like the fool Kim Dokja is, he went to the edge of the building and looked down. The building wasn't as high as that of a skyscraper but it was so low either. Just enough so that Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn't be able to hear the conversation. Yoo Jonghyuk and his out of the world senses.

Seeing how Yoo Jonghyuk was standing there by the wall, he shouted,

"You bastard better get up here and explain!"

With a combination of plan 'A' and 'D' Kim Dokja dodged all responsibilities. First of all, the shout attracted nearby monsters, including Yoo Jonghyuk. If monsters attacked, he could prioritize the monsters, if Yoo Jonghyuk came, then this is all Yoo Jonghyuk's responsibilities.

Poor Yoo Jonghyuk, who got dragged into Kim Dokja's mess like usual, could only look up at the idiot who had shouted at him. Really now?

Yoo Jonghyuk looked up to see Kim Dokja glancing down to him. What was the matter? Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know if he wanted to get involved anymore. But Kim Dokja was stubborn. If Kim Dokja didn't bother Yoo Jonghyuk each and everyday than can he really be called Kim Dokja?

Kim Dokja turned back to Yoo Sangah, who looked stiff?

Yoo Sangah hadn't expected Kim Dokja to shout like that. Of course no one had expected that. Should she not have said anything to Kim Dokja? But the question just bothered her very much. Living everyday in the apocalypse was like this because he never know when death would take the final step. If you didn't ask today then you might never get to ask again.

Yoo Sangah did trust Kim Dokja, more than she ever trusted anyone ever before. Even though she knew that he told white lies or some of his explanations were a bit off. There was also the strange future seeing ability that he had.

If Kim Dokja felt uncomfortable now that she had asked, what was she to do?

"Dokja-ssi, you don't have to answer really don't want to."

"It would be better if you ask Yoo Jonghyuk about it. What I can tell you is that Yoo Jonghyuk and I didn't have any contact before the scenarios but to me Yoo Jonghyuk was that of a childhood idol with him being a gamer and all."

There was something there. Yoo Jonghyuk had been Kim Dokja's childhood idol, it would make sense that Kim Dokja would get excited when talking about him. Though the question about Yoo Jonghyuk's behavior is still there. However, if Kim Dokja didn't know why then there really wasn't any reason to keep pushing Kim Dokja for answers.

"Thank for taking your time, we should go back now since the others are waiting."

Thus the two returned to the camp.

Both Han Sooyoung and Yoo Jonghyuk were there when they got down from the building. Yoo Jonghyuk was frowning and Han Sooyoung wasn't particularly interested in anything. Therefor she left the second she spotted Yoo Sangah and Yoo Sangah followed after her to the tent. This left Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk alone.

Kim Dokja was also about to go the other tent when Yoo Jonghyuk stopped him.

"Jung Heewon arrived."

"That's great."

Unexpectedly good news flowed out of Yoo Jonghyuk mouth.

"She is also injured."

The bad news followed the good news.

"How hurt is she? She should still be able to participate in defeating the Disaster of Questions, right?"

"Half a day and she should be fully healed."

"That works then."

Kim Dokja found the situation satisfying and nodded in acknowledgement.

Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't done with Kim Dokja yet though. He still had the thought of questioning him about the conversation he had with Yoo Sangah. It seemed his interest was piqued even more because of Kim Dokja's sudden actions before. Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to know the meaning behind those words Kim Dokja said.

'What was it Kim Dokja wanted him to explain?'

Since standing outside like this wasn't so comfortable, Yoo Jonghyuk first took Kim Dokja into the tent before starting his questioning.

Kim Dokja who thought that he was finally free was once again being questioned. He really just would of slept on the spot if it weren't for the fact that this protagonist over here would have no problem beating him up if he so wished for it.

"What you said before, what exactly did you mean?"

"Yoo Sangah-ssi just questioned if we knew each other before the scenarios started."

Yoo Jonghyuk gave a suspicious glance and raised one of his eyebrow at Kim Dokja but didn't active his lie detector skill.

"Your answer?"

"Of course I said no."

"Was that all?"

"There was also a question about our relationship as companions."

"Then that was what you called me for then? Wasn't it an easy question?"

"It was just the thing Yoo Sangah-ssi brought up that I myself couldn't answer. Companionship isn't one-sided after all."

"..."

Yoo Jonghyuk was looking for any lies on Kim Dokja's eyes and Kim Dokja felt like he almost became petrified with how Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes seemed like they could see through everything. It was almost like looking into the abyss. Perhaps that was how Yoo Jonghyuk felt like when he watched Kim Dokja's pupils focus back at him. Both of their eyes had a way too look beyond that of a facade and see the truth behind it all.

The two abyss-like eyes seemed to be conquering each other. Until the both of them looked away after realizing what they were doing. That night everyone slept like a log or a corpse. Especially Kim Dokja slept like a corpse. The rest were more like logs.

Then next day Yoo Jonghyuk woke up first. He prepared breakfast that was more like a five star lunch. Jung Heewon was feeling much better and all of the group ate together. It was unexpectedly peaceful morning like they were camping instead of trying to survive the apocalypse with barely skin and bone attached.

A nice change of pace for once in a while. Though it didn't last long at all.

Chapter Text

The team consisting of Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja, Yoo Sangah, Han Sooyoung and Jung Heewon... Kim Dokja quintet? Is that what this would be called? The point is anyways that the team of five was still just five members. The whole group was still not assembled.

So, in order to lessen the risk of the upcoming scenarios, the Kim Dokja quintet faithfully searched for the next members. With the guidance of both Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk it was hard to find the teammates location. Lee Jihye was next on the list mainly because of the distance between Jung Heewon's work place and Lee Jihye's school.

Even if they wanted to find for example Lee Gilyoung, they would have to take a detour and it wouldn't be as efficient, also it was unknown where Lee Gilyoung currently is so that was also a reason not to search right now. Lee Hyunsung was further away that Lee Jihye but at least his position was known. But like how it was with Jung Heewon, movements of the other party weren't known so they could only search in the close proximity. Gong Pildu wasn't even on the list, poor Gong Pildu.

Yoo Jonghyuk had already gone through the options before. Yoo Jonghyuk had collected his teammates like this multiple times already, though there are a few more this time around, it still wasn't a hard task to do. There wasn't the pressure of the usual scenario tying them down even though they were waiting for postponed scenario.

The mind of the group wasn't to say peaceful, it was only peaceful in comparison to the days in the underground subway. The subway was dark and humid with bloodstained walls and encounters with life and death situations were all too common. This freshness in the air put a better mood on Kim Dokja quintet.

The mobs of plant like monsters had already switched to that of rat-like monster. And now with Jung Heewon here the hoard of mobs were even easier to defeat. The problem that could have caused problems if they were any weaker would of been the poisonous ones.

Because the terrain had switch they no longer encounter the poisonous insects. Because the insects had a weaker body structure, the most effective way to kill was to use poison. Large and small bodies with blades attached to their bodies and the poison cover on top, it made it increasingly difficult to kill if you weren't highly alert at all times. This consumed more mental strength and more time was needed to rest which slowed down them considerable.

Now as if to reward the group Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja suddenly stopped. In the distance a loud roar was heard. It seemed to be the reason why the monsters had lessen the closer they had gotten.

Yoo Sangah remember how she had seen Lee Jihye on the blue transparent screen on the subway, it was clear that the background shown was a school. It made sense that if anywhere Lee Jihye would appear it would be here.

Kim Dokja quintet made their way around the building and discovered that a chimera was fighting a black haired youth. This youth was obviously Lee Jihye. Though the chimera was that of a lower level than the insect-dragon chimera in the paradise, it was still a chimera.

The chimera was that of a combination between lion and a praying mantis. Bug-like eyes, antenna and sharp blade as claws. It was indeed at a higher level of that then the monsters nearby.

Still, Lee Jihye had been fighting for a while. She herself couldn't focus on the time because of how focused she was on the fight. She noticed the movements behind her but couldn't turn around and so instead she choose a different view to attack from. Since the chances of the newcomers being enemies, she couldn't have her back against them. If they were to attack would have run away because she could deal with any other targets right now.

Dodging to the side she could spot in the corner of her eye a group of five, some of which she was very familiar with.

Her master had come for her!

Instantly she felt excited but she didn't forget the fight as she once again cut away at the chimeras hind legs. The blade-like claws had injured her left arm but it wasn't deep. The battle was still doable even if there wasn't any water nearby.

On the side Kim Dokja quintet was watching. Different emotions flashing by as the intense battle was on going. The ground shook as the chimera slammed its paw at Lee Jihye's earlier location.

Yoo Sangah wanted to step forward to help but was stopped by Jung Heewon. Jung Heewon gave her a meaningful glance but didn't say anything. Yoo Sangah was a good interpreter and quickly understood the reason for such a gaze. She looked back on how Jung Heewon had faced a similar situation.

For Lee Jihye, this was her battle. If she couldn't overcome this herself she would have a hard time finding herself. This chimera could easily be overcome together but Lee Jihye still chose to fight alone.

Yoo Sangah swept her gaze over her other teammates and it seemed everyone had come to a similar conclusion. Since this was Lee Jihye's personal battle everyone would stand back and watch.

Lee Jihye also understood this and it was good to make things clear.

Lee Jihye used the sword techniques that her master had thought her and moved swiftly close to the ground. Her sword was swift and sharp, almost invisible to the naked eye. Utilizing her movements skill to surpass the speed of the chimera, she stuck the chimera from behind and close to the neck. With injured legs, the chimera couldn't dodge in time but its thick skin was enough to block most of attack only leaving that of a inch deep wound. For a human that could have easily been deadly but the chimera possessed high defense as well as good regeneration abilities.

One strike wasn't enough. Then how about two or three? She could just keep slashing until it would eventually cut through.

The chimera let out another roar followed by venom. The chimera spit out deadly venom that only glanced the edge of her sleeve but it burned away half her sleeve. Though her skin was fine, the venom was still a major threat.

After the venom came the claws. The claws that had already cut her arm had blood on it and the drops of blood hit her face. She stumbled back but didn't loose her posture and once again attack. Her mental stamina wasn't as drain as her physical stamina because she had mostly been using techniques and not skills.

The wounds the chimera suffered only increased and its healing couldn't keep up. Its hind legs had bone-deep wounds making the chimera barely being able to stand. This only showed the toughness of the beast and how different is was from that of ordinary humans.

If it weren't for the regeneration ability, the chimera would of probably died of blood loss.

Kyyuk!

More blood splashed on Lee Jihye's sword.

"Ah."

A wound was created near Lee Jihye's stomach.

Keoook!

A deep wound on the chimera's back adding to its countless scars.

At this point the battle was consisted of the idea 'an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth'. If Lee Jihye was hurt by a kick to the stomach, the chimera got a sword in its neck. It was a fierce one on one battle. Even the constellations were quiet.

Time passed as both sides got hurt. The chimera was hurt the most, having lost one of its legs and its tail, it could no longer keep its balance and collapsed. Though the beast wasn't dead it was in a very sorry state.

The chimera's roars changed to that of whimpers and low growls making it much less threatening. But pity wasn't placed on it.

Lee Jihye's sword was pulled back before striking the chimera at the neck with had been struck many times before. The chimeras regeneration failed and the sword could only slash right through. With its neck chopped of, the whole body fell lifelessly down. The bloodied corpse was the only thing left of it.

Lee Jihye also collapsed afterwards. Mostly due to exhaustion and blood loss. This caused the worried teammates to finally come over.

Yoo Sangah took out water and recovery pills. Lee Jihye gladly took the bottle of water and chugged it down hastily. Afterward she coughed lightly before swallowing the pills as well.

Jung Heewon looked over the wounded Lee Jihye. Maybe she changed her opinion of her to that no longer a brat. That was until she opened her mouth to talk though.

"Ahjussi, how have you and master been doing lately?"

If Yoo Sangah had handed Kim Dokja the water bottle instead he would of probably spited it out after that comment.

"Lee Jihye, you should ask about peoples private affairs so openly. It makes them shy."

Kim Dokja would say 'Yoo Sangah too the rescue', expect this wasn't a rescue at all. Wasn't this just adding to the misunderstanding? Hadn't he made it clear it wasn't anything like that?

Even though Yoo Jonghyuk was standing right here being asked about his relationship with Kim Dokja, he felt like he had been complete ignored. But in actuality it was Han Sooyoung who was the ignored one. Though she was a newcomer, was it really alright to be ignored like this? Han Sooyoung felt very bitter about this.

A pat on the back from Kim Dokja and Han Sooyoung's emotions completely changed. What was this? Should it be Lee Jihye getting that pat? She didn't need comfort from some bastard.

Han Sooyoung suddenly felt a cold sharp stare in the back of her neck and this caused her to instantly freeze up. Was Yoo Jonghyuk also bulling her now? Wasn't it enough with Kim Dokja's bullying?

Chapter Text

Maybe because the date hadn't been set in stone it became a bigger surprise to suddenly find the scenario notification up in front of the teammates' eyes. The absent scenario had gotten back on them once again and the update was just a step away from being made.

Yoo Jonghyuk's cold eyes read it half-heartedly without much interest. This could be because he had never experienced the armored version yet. It wasn't a rash decision to head back earlier. If they weren't there when Disaster of Questions was released then who knows how many seals would be lifted.

Of course there wasn't enough time to make it back completely to where Disaster of Questions where located but it was still in the vicinity. The ground shook and notification rang in everyones ears. The area around had been evacuated and the only ones left were the foolish ones. There were the weak foolish people and the somewhat stronger foolish people. None of which had enough fighting power to stand up against the disaster.

The team with highest combat ability was obviously Kim Dokja's and Yoo Jonghyuk's teammates. This scenario really wasn't set up to be fair against anyone else than the protagonist.

Kim Dokja remember reading about returnee Myung Ilsang. That guy had such an obsession with being a protagonist that it was almost sad. If he weren't such a bastard then maybe he would have some sympathy. But nonetheless, right now Myung Ilsang was nothing more than a cannon fodder.

The ground shook once more and then a third time before coming to a stop. The movements of the party halted. It wasn't the same force that stopped them when the disaster woke up, instead it was more based on instincts.

Kim Dokja had just gotten out his sword when a blade fell towards him from above. Without any time to react, he only showed his wide eyes. Sparks flew through the air and Yoo Jonghyuk's obsidian black blade met with that of the disaster.

Yoo Jonghyuk was always prepared and his draw-speed was second to none. With a reaction time to that of a transcendent, Myung Ilsang's blade could only be halted in mid air.

Myung Ilsang was also impressed with the performance of Yoo Jonghyuk. He hadn't forgotten for a day the humiliation he felt when facing the two companions. Now that he could utilize a blade he could truly show his capabilities.

Being just slightly faster Yoo Jonghyuk, Myung Ilsang could safely retrieve back. Though the ambush didn't work, he still didn't have the disadvantage. Though that was just his imagination. The power of the not seen before teammates couldn't be underestimated. In fact, Myung Ilsang truly believed he was stronger.

"Did you being more people from the Hunters Association?"

'Though he sound very stupid using such words.'

Kim Dokja quietly thought to himself.

Myung Ilsang wasn't one the same page at all.

Even if Kim Dokja drew his blade he wasn't planning on actually using it. The more efficient way to fight would be using Way of the Wind, not his ether sword.

Silky thin webs covered the area and it lays almost invisible traps. The thin threads had two main points. One was to hinder escape, while the other was to slow down his movements. The webs had already entangled themselves over and over again forming that of a white dome.

Myung Ilsang noticed this but couldn't do anything because the second he wasn't focused on his enemies he would be attack in his blind spots. The first one to attack was Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk's blade wasn't that of a silent killer but instead showed overwhelming force at pinnacle of incarnations.

While Yoo Jonghyuk's blade was more shown in the open, Lee Jihye's blade was that of shadows. Though the white dome wasn't a place to hide, her unique skills showed their quirkiness in teamwork.

Master and disciple was an unfathomable wall to climb for Myung Ilsang. The disaster had no idea of the disasters to come.

Myung Ilsang's swordsmanship was that of SSS-grade, it was still like a baby in front of someone like Yoo Jonghyuk. Even if the strength couldn't keep up, Yoo Jonghyuk's technique was still that of superiority. Myung Ilsang's swordsmanship technique originated from that of mass production while breaking the sky swordsmanship was only second one spearmanship in murim.

There was no flaw in Myung Ilsang's movements but Yoo Jonghyuk located the weaknesses instead instead. Only a few barrage of attacks and Myung Ilsang had to fall to more of a defensive posture.

Within this short amount of that had passed, it only accumulated to that of less than a minute. The lesser black flame canon shot out a warning roar before deciding to burn of anything within a kilometer.

The dome of silky white thread was burned, the wind barrier was passed and a broken shield scattering pieces onto the ground. The broken shield wasn't much but the quality wasn't bad. An item bought just to resist the flames.

The level of Way of the Wind had leveled up but it still couldn't contain that of the black flames.

The openings of the group was almost nonexistent. Even after that major attack, the only one hurt was Kim Dokja. The development was satisfying in the eyes of Kim Dokja but in the eyes of his companions it wasn't very much so. The level of self sacrifice never seems to lower and only seems to rise. If it wasn't for the face that they were currently facing this so called disaster that had been armed and gotten even more so powerful, you best believe that Kim Dokja would be wrapped up in bandages for three day and nights.

Seeming to spot a weakness, Myung Ilsang attacked the only one who currently hadn't attacked yet. This was once again his misunderstanding.

"Noona? Is it very harsh for you to attack someone as handsome as myself?"

Returnee Myung Ilsang was certainly using a provocative tone. The whole group hadn't said a single word upon meeting the disaster. Myung Ilsang could only hope to provoke them into forgetting the non-spoken rule.

Of course it was only quiet for the returnee. The group chat had been very much active.

-Dokja-ssi!

-Kim Dokja!

-Ajussi!

Everyone was shouting at Kim Dokja because of how the took the blast.

Jung Heewon was one step ahead of the disaster.

The character 'Jung Heewon' has activated the exclusive skill 'Judgment Time.']

[The Absolute Good constellations have agreed to the use of this skill.]

['Judgment Time' has been activated.]

With her firm resolution and ambition, her sword cut at the incoming blurry figure.

Keeok!

For once a bloody wound was created. The wound was created to that of the stomach and it allowed more blood to flow out from within it. This was a serious wound created using the 'Judgment Time' skill. Up until now, only minor injuries and bruises could be seen and it didn't slow down the disaster at all. But this wound was different. Though his healing speed was that of abnormal, it still wasn't fast enough to heal within minutes.

The constant movement kept it from fully closing as more blood spilt from the stomach onto the ground leaving a red trail.

The wounds was no longer one-sided. Kim Dokja had been hurt, mostly internal injuries. Yoo Sangah and Jung Heewon had been kept out of danger. Han Sooyoung was no where to be seen. Yoo Jonghyuk and Lee Jihye with minor scratches.

The returnee's sudden halt in movement made for openings and the master and disciple duo took every chance they got. Returnee Myung Ilsang's injuries pilled up after just a quick session.

The breakthrough of flames erupted after a roar. It was even more dangerous this time because it contained a lot more emotion in it.

Kim Dokja was again used himself as a sacrificial pawn and took the blown head first with another same quality shield. Even though the shield couldn't contain the whole damage, it wasn't as useless as facing the fire without anything. Though in the end the shield scattered in the end and Kim Dokja faced more internal injuries which made the teammates as furious as they much as they worried.

This more aggressive fighting style pushed the returnee into a corner even quicker.

Before the battle on the returnee's side, he hadn't run head first for the ones who defeated him before. The foolish incarnation who were just outside of where he slept had all been questioned and killed.

His seals weren't fully released but there weren't many left. He had recovered more than two thirds of his powers and yet he was still pushed back? Myung Ilsang couldn't understand why people who're as powerful as a returnee existed already this early in on the scenarios. It was like telling him that his hundreds years of struggle to be the best was laughable, that even though given all that time he still wasn't measured up against incarnations who only had gone through the scenarios for like two weeks.

'Whyyy?'

Myung Ilsang wanted to doubt reality. But reality was like a stone-cold blade that pierced his chest. His air leaving his punctured lungs along side his blood. The drained blood made him pale like a ghost and his usually red lips were even redder because he had bitten them in pain. The last remaining question could never leave his heart and he was never going to be heard again if not for Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja turned of Omniscient viewpoint because there were no more thoughts to be heard from a corpse.

Notifications that hadn't been heard for a long time once again came into light.

[The constellation ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’ is satisfied.]

[The constellation ‘Secretive Plotter’ nods with slight discontent.]

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ is greatly pleased with your story]

[Someone has recommended your scenario to the Star Stream.]

[25,000 coins have been sponsored.]

Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze didn't hang on the corpse for long because when the heart beat no longer was heard he immediately looked over at Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja's gaze wandered about as he took in all the destruction. The road had been cut and crushed. The tall sky scrapers had been blown apart with the black flames.

The destruction was just too much for the eye to take in.

It was also deadly quiet. If not for the notifications one would have expected more danger to arise.

In this short moment of exhaustion, Kim Dokja limped before collapsing. The adrenaline had carried him this far but his injuries still wasn't something to underestimate. In short of breath, Yoo Jonghyuk pulled his hands forward and caught the weakened form of Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja's conscious couldn't be kept and deep sleep was met soon afterwards the strong and safe embrace had surrounded him.

Chapter Text

After the scenario ended, Kim Dokja fell unconscious. Due to the injuries he received and the stamina that went into the battle it was very much understandable.

Yoo Jonghyuk noticed the switched positions. This time it was Kim Dokja who got badly injured not him. Does this count as a failure then?

Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to save Kim Dokja but instead he got injured like this when he shouldn't have been. How unreliable of himself.

He doesn't know what happened after the fight with Disaster of Questions last round because he had to recover but the conversations with the dokkaebi was cut short.

[The sub-scenario – SSS-grade Hunt has ended.]

[The compensation settlement will begin.]

[You have obtained 60,000 coins as compensation.]

Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't one to uphold conversations and the dokkaebi seemed to give in because of the infamousness he had gathered. The point was that Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to be able to give his whole focus to Kim Dokja as soon as possible.

[Infinite Dimension Space Coat] – SSS-grade.

[Dark Fire Half-Gloves] – SSS-grade.

[Sylphid's Jump Boots] – SSS-grade.

The rewards were that of the last round except for the number of coins which had increased.

The choice was obvious.

[Infinite Dimension Space Coat]. It had been used by both him and Kim Dokja. It was the kind of item that can be useful through all of the scenarios. The fabric wasn't much protection but it could restore it self so that even if it got holes it would go back to normal after a few minutes. The most important part of it was the sub-space in its pockets.

Although the sub-space was small, unlike its name, it was still a SSS-grade item. It could be worn outside of armor so protection could still be used. This was also a fashion choice. Clearly the white [Infinite Dimension Space Coat] was used to connect solely to Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja made that coat his own.

Likewise, but no as popular, Yoo Jonghyuk had also used the same kind of item. The black color reflected his personality in being coldblooded. He would of never worn the white color usually if it weren't for Kim Dokja.

The point was that Yoo Jonghyuk had no problem choosing the reward for both himself and Kim Dokja. With the new fable and rewards out of the way, there was only room for Kim Dokja in his eyes.

[The Fable 'Life and Death Companions' is continuing its storytelling.]

Or would this also count as having his focus on Kim Dokja? The fable with the origin of him and Kim Dokja was choosing to make itself known. Although its origin is known, this time was more confusing.

There was also something else about this fable Yoo Jonghyuk had thought about. The beginning of the fable, when was that? Although the origin is with him and Kim Dokja, when did it begin?

Was it when Kim Dokja read the novel, or when the scenarios started, maybe when they first met, or could it be when they finished a certain scenario together? But there was also with the lesser fire dragon Igneel. Did it have stories from the pervious round or was it only this round? Was there another round included in this fable?

If only he had a better compatibility with stories then maybe he could have asked it. Should he ask Kim Dokja about it?

The only expression shown on Yoo Jonghyuk's face was his wrinkled eyebrows and caring gaze on Kim Dokja's face While Yoo Jonghyuk's arms was used to hold him by his shoulders and waist. It was a delicate hold which made the onlookers question their eyes.

It was a sight to behold indeed.

Han Sooyoung had some how sneaked her phone out of her pocket and was using it to take pictures. Probably for blackmailing, it could either be for Yoo Jonghyuk or Kim Dokja. Could probably be used for both.

If it weren't for the fact that they were currently in the middle of the apocalypse, this could of caused rumors online.

The sight didn't last long because Yoo Jonghyuk flipped Kim Dokja over completely before taking him on his own shoulder. It was the same way Kim Dokja had been carried before.

After Yoo Jonghyuk left with Kim Dokja, Kim Dokja's party followed shortly after.

Because of Yoo Jonghyuk's earlier gaze, the rest of the party didn't bother Yoo Jonghyuk with anything. Even though they wanted to consult Kim Dokja, and care for him of course. Since he was currently unconscious it only felt right to give the close companions some time of their own.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk put Kim Dokja gently down inside one of the tents that the party had. The ground wasn't as smooth as Yoo Jonghyuk would of liked so he used a thin mattress as well.

He lifted Kim Dokja head up before putting a pillow under it. Then there was also the undressing part. Because most of the wounds Kim Dokja had gather on himself was internal, all he could really rely on was the medicine from the scenarios and time. The self-healing ability of an incarnation was superior of that of a normal human. Therefor, some wounds had already started healing.

The problem was that Kim Dokja didn't have any healing skills on his own. Though he could continue fighting even with injuries during battles, the problem usually came afterwards. There was also the thing about not having a doctor yet in this party that was a problem.

Lee Seolhwa wasn't yet part of the party. Even though she was saved by Kim Dokja she still wasn't willing to team up. It was irritating but in the end it couldn't have been helped. She will come sooner or later anyway.

As of right now, there was only Yoo Jonghyuk here to care about Kim Dokja's wounds. Yoo Jonghyuk was only second to Lee Seolhwa because of his many chances with regressions.

Of course it hadn't been many times were he would have personally cared for others. Kim Dokja had definitely become one of those exceptions.

With a higher number of coins because of the scenario rewards, Yoo Jonghyuk chose that of higher grade pills. The pills would be enough to heal Kim Dokja fully over night. The wounds and bruises had been cleaned and bandaged.

The newly acquired coat had been used as a quilt. So the first thing Kim Dokja would see when he wakes up would be his clean white infinite dimension space coat.

After making dinner for the party, Yoo Jonghyuk chose to lay down next Kim Dokja like usual. This wasn't a habit he had before this round, Yoo Jonghyuk never slept next to Kim Dokja before. It was a more peaceful habit to soothe his nightmares.

Yoo Jonghyuk's own way of salvation.

His gaze once again flowed towards Kim Dokja. Even going as far as to reach with his hand and trace his line of sight. Kim Dokja's eyebrows wasn't that of a straight line as if expressing his own thoughts. Kim Dokja's dream didn't seem like that of a usual dream and it was more of a nightmare.

The nightmare affected Kim Dokja's mood and his face wasn't gentle sleep as before. After tracing Kim Dokja's eyebrows with his thumb, Yoo Jonghyuk stopped because he felt the cold sweat that covered Kim Dokja's forehead.

With a moment of consideration, Yoo Jonghyuk brought out a wet towel and put it on Kim Dokja's forehead to cleanse him of his sweat and to cool him down. Kim Dokja didn't have a fever but the wet towel helped him calm down and his brows went to that of a natural line.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't get many chances to study Kim Dokja's face this close and he would not let himself lose this chance. Even after putting on the towel Yoo Jonghyuk didn't feel like sleeping just yet and just quietly watched his companion beside him.

His brain once again issued the need to protect.

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes became even gentler than before.

If Kim Dokja had seen this he probably would of thought that Yoo Jonghyuk had been possessed.

There was also a certain constellation coughing blood in the distance but didn't dare to make any noice in case of ruining the current mood. She had already saved this memory forever in her brain and as a hologram. This is going to her collection.

[The Fable 'Life and Death Companions' is humming in joy.]

...

When Kim Dokja woke up he felt a faint taste of iron in his mouth. There was also something soft and cool on his forehead. He guessed it was a towel. The quilt that covered him wasn't actually a quilt but a white coat.

After a few seconds his memory kicked in. This was the coat he had read, the infinite dimension space coat that Yoo Jonghyuk had so commonly used. Only after recognizing the coat on top of him he noticed the faint breathing beside him.

After sitting up and looking around he found out that it was actually Yoo Jonghyuk who was beside him. There were currently in a tent like the night before, expect for the fact that the tent had another color. Before it was dark green but now it was black. That only added to the darkness, this was one of the reasons he didn't immediately notice that Yoo Jonghyuk was beside himself.

Had Yoo Jonghyuk developed a habit of sleeping next to him or something? Even though there was no problem with the amount of tents, Yoo Jonghyuk still chose to share one with him. Of course there was also another idea of how this habit had come from the previous regression round that Yoo Jonghyuk told him about.

There was a lot of information he felt that he had missed even though he had read through the whole novel. Had Yoo Jonghyuk always shared tents with him and therefor was also going it now? It felt logical to him.

Kim Dokja doesn't always think about Yoo Jonghyuk had spent a whole round with himself but it often crosses his mind. He felt himself subconsciously comparing his former and his current self. There was also a strange burden from it all.

Questions about his own existent weren't often positive.

Kim Dokja at one time questioned if the Kim Dokja Yoo Jonghyuk knew was a complete different Kim Dokja and that he somehow was a fake. That the Kim Dokja Yoo Jonghyuk knew wasn't him and that Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't actually his companion.

If Yoo Jonghyuk was faced with a choice of returning to that Kim Dokja of this round that wasn't him, would Yoo Jonghyuk actually leave him then? What if Yoo Jonghyuk suddenly disappeared because he had found his Kim Dokja?

Kim Dokja kept repeating to himself. His worries had somehow grown and he was anxious.

'What if all of this is just a dream?'

'What if I suddenly waked up and found that everyone had disappeared?'

'What if Yoo Jonghyuk decides to leave?'

Kim Dokja's thoughts were a like a plague to himself. There was a reason for the wall to separate his mind from reality.

Chapter Text

The night had passed but the outside was still dark.

Kim Dokja quietly sat there on the soft mattress without making a single sound for a while before he spoke softly.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

In the tent only Kim Dokja spoke.

"You're awake, aren't you?"

Of course Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't sleep when Kim Dokja was awake. Yoo Jonghyuk had immediately woken up because of the change in Kim Dokja's breathing. Still, Yoo Jonghyuk didn't respond and only laid there without moving.

Kim Dokja wasn't bothered by the lack of response and continued to speak in a low voice.

"Have you had any nightmares lately?"

"..."

The question Kim Dokja spoke wasn't actually meant only for Yoo Jonghyuk but also himself. Though Kim Dokja wouldn't admit any of his nightmares.

Yoo Jonghyuk thought over Kim Dokja's question. His answer was left in his head though.

'Not with you beside me.'

Kim Dokja's eyebrows slight twitched but Yoo Jonghyuk didn't see anything because he still had his eyes closed.

"In your memories, what was I like?"

An anxious question.

Kim Dokja had many worries but he never talked about it. He almost never even joked about his life out loud. He kept it all to himself, everything about his past was kept quietly in his heart. But this bastard beside him new things about him that he himself didn't know about, like how Kim Dokja knew many things about Yoo Jonghyuk that Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know about himself.

This time Yoo Jonghyuk made some movement and opened his eyes. He also sat up so he could face Kim Dokja.

Kim Dokja might of liked if Yoo Jonghyuk could lie down some more because Yoo Jonghyuk was always towering over him and it made him nervous now that he tried to have heart-to-heart talk.

Silent passed between the two men as they sat beside each other. Both their eyes unwavering and clear as they both tried to peak at the other's soul. Trying to read the thoughts passing in the others head.

Kim Dokja's thoughts were clear but even so it wandered over to the beauty of Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes. In the same way Yoo Jonghyuk was also studied Kim Dokja.

Yoo Jonghyuk took mental notes of the difference between the Kim Dokja who was asleep and the awake one. Yoo Jonghyuk found that he liked the awake one more. He liked the way Kim Dokja's eyes looked at him and him only. The shape of the eyebrows as they moved and how his expression changes. The black bed hair on his head was also enjoyable to look at.

Yoo Jonghyuk might have been even more captivated by Kim Dokja's appearance than Kim Dokja of Yoo Jonghyuk's appearance.

"A fool."

The insults were insults but there was no malice of sorts when said.

"A bastard."

"..."

Kim Dokja felt that this wouldn't stop for a while.

"An Idiot."

"..."

"Selfish."

"..."

"Self-sacrificing."

"..."

"A pain."

"..."

"A bother."

"..."

"Was this what you wanted me the say?"

"That, Yoo Jonghyuk you-"

Before Kim Dokja could finish Yoo Jonghyuk cut him of.

"You were a cunning fox who didn't know when to shut up."

There was still more insults...

"You made enemies left and right while climbing on top of everyones expectations."

Yoo Jonghyuk spoke so much that it felt like the amounts of words he had spoken in his whole life doubled. Or maybe tripled.

"Impossible didn't exist in your vocabulary and you dodged death countless times."

Yoo Jonghyuk's insults gradually shifted and it was hard to tell if it was actually compliments. But Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't a guy who stated compliments in a straight forward way.

"Getting killed and kidnapped was like your hobby."

There was almost no pause in-between what Yoo Jonghyuk was saying and it made Kim Dokja feel overwhelmed.

"The nebula you and I made became the most powerful in the whole Star stream."

Yoo Jonghyuk gradually got closer as he spoke.

"You became a constellation, a demon king and an angel."

"Even the Dokkaebi King wasn't your match."

"Your achievements doesn't know when to end and your stories captivated all of Star stream."

When Yoo Jonghyuk said all of Star stream he meant all of Star stream. He himself was therefor included.

What Yoo Jonghyuk was talking about seemed like a distance dream for anyone. That just made Kim Dokja so much more amazing. Just one of Kim Dokja's achievement would make anyone stand out and here Kim Dokja was just being Kim Dokja.

"In other words, you were a fool."

Yoo Jonghyuk meaning behind fool was much deeper when said to Kim Dokja. The foolishness he talked about wasn't foolishness in the eyes of anyone besides Kim Dokja's companions.

Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to hit some sense into this dense fool who couldn't understand anything emotional. Really, was there nothing about this fool he couldn't appreciate?

Even though Kim Dokja was harshly judged in the beginning of this he felt much better afterwards. Yoo Jonghyuk's words had made a turn around and Kim Dokja understood better about what Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to convey.

When did this protagonist learn to speak so much? If only he didn't have face paralysis then maybe he could of like that of a human.

"And that makes you perfect as my companion."

'...Bastard?! What did you just say?'

Kim Dokja's expression changed greatly from that last line. Blood crept up his skin to his ears and they gradually turned red. His eyes also widened. Surprise and embarrassed, that was what Kim Dokja felt like.

Yoo Jonghyuk watched the change in expression and felt that he especially liked this expression.

Under Yoo Jonghyuk's watching gaze Kim Dokja couldn't make any sudden movements. Running away didn't seem like the right option right now and beside, the wounds he had still hurt a bit. At this time he was trapped by Yoo Jonghyuk, and even though Yoo Jonghyuk didn't have any malice in his eyes, Kim Dokja couldn't help but feel that he was in a dangerous situation.

"Um, Yoo Jonghyuk?"

"Kim Dokja."

"Isn't it time to get up? Aren't you going to make breakfast?"

Yoo Jonghyuk only looked annoyed but didn't say anything.

"Do we even have any ingredients, wouldn't it be good to go and hunt then?"

Verbally, Kim Dokja ran away from the earlier subject. Yoo Jonghyuk reluctantly let go of the subject only because Kim Dokja didn't want to continue. At the same time he also backed away, but only a little bit. Enough for Kim Dokja to feel safe.

"The dokkaebi bag has everything we need. No need to waste time hunting. If anything, shouldn't you rest instead of hunting? You were hurt badly by the fire and moving already would only tire you out quicker. "

"That, aren't I already fine?"

Instead of a verbal response, Yoo Jonghyuk only lifted an eyebrow before moving his hand swiftly and lifting up his shirt and touch his stomach. It was only a light touch, but Kim Dokja still let out a low noice in response.

"This is fine?"

"It only hurts, there isn't any wounds."

"There shouldn't be any wounds because of the medicine but you still need to rest."

"Why?"

"As a patient you need to rest so that it stops to hurt. Have you ever even considered resting when you're hurt?"

"No."

"Then rest. I'll get the breakfast for you so you can just wait here. Don't come out."

"..."

Kim Dokja shut his mouth and laid down again and pulled the coat over his body like a blanket. Yoo Jonghyuk saw this and spent some coins for a real quilt. He pulled it so that it covered all of Kim Dokja's body below the neck and then rolled Kim Dokja in it to make him stay.

Kim Dokja who just became a burrito: ???

Yoo Jonghyuk felt satisfied with himself and then left to make breakfast.

Han Sooyoung had already woken up and was sitting outside. Han Sooyoung gave Yoo Jonghyuk a look and Yoo Jonghyuk gave Han Sooyoung back.

"What happened to Kim Dokja?"

"He is still hurting and needs to rest."

"Nothing else happened?"

Yoo Jonghyuk stared before saying,

"He got embarrassed from compliments."

"He what?

Han Sooyoung felt that for a second she had heard wrong before she tried to seriously consider it. Kim Dokja wasn't one to easily be embarrassed so how exactly did Yoo Jonghyuk do it? Also why Yoo Jonghyuk? Yoo Jonghyuk never gives out compliments just like that. What happened between them exactly?

Han Sooyoung felt like she was missing an very important puzzle piece for all of this to somehow make sense. Only thing she sent Yoo Jonghyuk was a confused look and went another way. She needed sometime to think about all of this.

With Han Sooyoung gone, the rest gradually came out as well. Mostly woken up by the delicious smell.

Jung Heewon made a comment about not being able to eat anything else than Yoo Jonghyuk's cooking after taking a single bite. Yoo Sangah only smiled brightly at every bite.

While Lee Jihye joked about Yoo Jonghyuk being wife material and that Kim Dokja was really lucky. And when Yoo Jonghyuk took two portions of food and made his way back to the tent Kim Dokja was staying at, Lee Jihye couldn't help but to make another comment.

"Master, are you going to feed Ajussi? You should spoon feed him yourself so that Ajussi understands how much you care about him."

"..."

'What was Lee Jihye thinking?'

Yoo Jonghyuk felt himself remember the time he was poisoned and was spoon fed by Kim Dokja. Although it was only the antidote and that he didn't have energy at all to even open his eyes, was it really a way of showing affection?

'Hadn't Han Sooyoung said something similar at that time?'

He entered the tent and found that Kim Dokja was still there, he hadn't escaped, and he was even in the same position.

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk sat down and out down the two plates.

"Wake up."

Kim Dokja had somehow fallen asleep again in that short time. How bothersome. Yoo Jonghyuk reached out and pinched Kim Dokja's cheeks. Soft. The word appeared in Yoo Jonghyuk's mind.

Since the scenario began, incarnation had always had tough bodies to withstand attacks from monsters. But it seems Kim Dokja's cheeks were still soft even though all the coins he had poured in.

Yoo Jonghyuk used his other hand as well and he pinched both of Kim Dokja's cheeks. Moving his cheek and making funny expressions, his own expression softened.

When Kim Dokja woke up a little later he found that his cheeks were hurting and Yoo Jonghyuk was sitting next to him with two plates of delicious smelling food. Even after his mouth became all watery he still asked about his cheeks which were hurting.

"Did you slap me awake?"

"Yes, your face was ugly when you were asleep and I didn't want to see it anymore."

'...This sunfish bastard!'

At that moment Kim Dokja just wanted to punch Yoo Jonghyuk but had to hold himself back because of all the food in front of him.

'Stupid food, stupid stomach.'

Chapter Text

HSY: Why didn't you just write during the rest of the week instead of leaving it until the VERY LAST DAY?

Author: The inspiration always come three hours before I'm supposed to finish it.

HSY: -_-'

Author: ...

HSY: You should've written the chapter in the time it took to make note.

Author: I... I have nothing to say about that.

HSY: Didn't you also have to days off before to finish this?

Author: I wrote on other things...

HSY: Then what about the hour-long toilet break?

Author: That's private though... private I'm telling you!

HSY: Are you sure you're tired? Didn't you sleep the whole car trip?

Author: Human beings sleep away most of their life and I'm no different...

HSY: When you say you have to get up early, how early is that really?

Author: Although it isn't for school, it is a little later than the time when I wake up for school...

HSY: The forgotten medicine then? Was it really forgotten?

Author: I used it all -_- so there really isn't any.

HSY: Did your mother have any?

Author: Just asked and she did have... Maybe I'm really not using my brain at all.

HSY: About the last excuse... I really don't know what to say to you. Wouldn't it have been easier just to say that instead of using the other excuses?

Author: That excuse has nothing to do with this. T-T

HSY: Hopeless, completely hopeless.

Author: I feel so too...

Chapter Text

Kim Dokja glares at Yoo Jonghyuk as he begins eating. Though the glare didn't last long because he got fully immersed in the rich taste in his mouth. Kim Dokja feels like he is heaven and his moods becomes much better only after a few bits. He almost forgot that Yoo Jonghyuk was still in front of him.

Kim Dokja thinks Yoo Jonghyuk fits his tastes. Both the eye candy and this meal.

Yoo Jonghyuk was one-sidedly staring at Kim Dokja this whole time to make out his emotions. Yoo Jonghyuk saw how much Kim Dokja appreciated the meal he made and became very happy on the inside.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

"En?"

"It's good."

It was an ordinary compliment. But because it was from Kim Dokja's mouth, Yoo Jonghyuk felt that it affected him much deeper.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk had to once again separate from Kim Dokja. It wasn't something he would be able to change even if he knew the future. Kim Dokja got to rest off before they held a short good bye. Both Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja already knew what the other was going to do so the verbal conversation was very short.

Although the gaze they were giving each other pointed towards another direction.

Yoo Jonghyuk took his disciple and went west. The point of going west was to find that soldier and deal with the Disaster of Ice.

The Disaster of Ice.

It really wasn't very well known. Maybe because of how it hasn't yet succeeded once in winning? Yoo Jonghyuk might be missing memories from the majority of regressions, he isn't at all scared of it.

If Disaster of Ice had won then the whole of Seoul would have become that of something similar of a popsicle, it isn't even as bad if Disaster of Questions would have won.

Disaster of Ice wasn't even someone he personally needed to kill, the only reason he came personally was because of Lee Hyunsung. There was also his sister. Maybe he shouldn't forget his sister just yet.

At one time he did have a much closer relationship with his sister, at the time he definitely would of worried about her wellbeing and put her safety first. It is just that after such long time and regressions his 3 views had changed.

Looking for benefit instead of considering personal relationships.

Related by blood? What a joke.

Oh, we spent 20 years together? Wouldn't even count to 1% of the time he had lived.

Yoo Jonghyuk became more coldblooded as time passed.

At one time he probably would of just abandoned reality and just live alone in search of his own death.

That was until the third regression came around.

His only companion is Kim Dokja now. All other is in the past, Kim Dokja is the only one he needs.

No...

It isn't only Kim Dokja.

Kim Dokja's company is his company too.

...

Sweeping up Yoo Mia wasn't any different from last round. The same place was occupied once more. The same reaction as it should be. The same words of comforts. Too much repeating.

...

His sister and disciple gets along well. Almost too well.

...

Gaebong-dong. 5603th military division.

Lee Hyunsung.

Yoo Jonghyuk remembers Lee Hyunsung's trauma. He himself had experienced it many times after all. Even if Yoo Jonghyuk knew the trauma of Lee Hyunsung he didn't do anything about it. Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't the person suited to comfort others. Kim Dokja fit that role better.

A pat on the back.

Lee Hyunsung flinched before understanding its meaning.

Don't get stuck in past.

The silence contained words that wasn't said.

Lee Hyunsung followed Yoo Jonghyuk out.

...

The temperature around gradually became colder as he entered the next area. The snow falls heavy upon entry. The others wears winter jacks to cover themselves. He had his coat. The same coat that Kim Dokja wears. A pair.

The icy ground makes for hinders. Yoo Jonghyuk knows his way around all too well. Not stumbling even once.

The party members aren't the least surprised because this is just the way Yoo Jonghyuk. Impossible knowledge that he has, it is questionable but comforting. Yoo Jonghyuk is as cold as the ice but the party members still seek him out.

The burdens on Yoo Jonghyuk shoulders is never light.

'Is Kim Dokja's shoulders heavier?'

Yoo Jonghyuk asks himself. Then he asks Kim Dokja.

If Yoo Jonghyuk carries the world, then Kim Dokja carries the universe.

...

Silky black hair, abyss-like eyes, black clad and an onyx colored sword. Yoo Jonghyuk really stands out like a sore thumb in the snow covered lands. Speck of black in the red snow.

The Disaster of Ice isn't the only monster roaming the tundra-like landscape.

The monsters are only beasts, humans can become monsters too.

Those who surrendered to greater power of Demon Kings and changed their species.

How they lay low waiting for prey to pass. An ambush created beasts.

Yoo Jonghyuk had experienced it many times before. Not even unsheathing his sword. They have already fallen into eternal sleep.

Lee Hyunsung, Lee Jihye and Yoo Mia never got the chance to do anything. The feeling of going out to buy soy sauce.

...

Just like how Yoo Jonghyuk thinks about Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja also thinks about Yoo Jonghyuk.

Or his meals. Mostly he misses Yoo Jonghyuk's cooking. He should ask for more food next time they meet.

Kim Dokja taps his finger in his pocket.

No, meals isn't the only thing he wants out of Yoo Jonghyuk.

Yoo Jonghyuk is his most precious person after all.

Kim Dokja would prefer it if they didn't have to continue to separate. It isn't because he feels the need to lean on Yoo Jonghyuk like others. The bastard is the one who needs to lean on him instead. How is he supposed to keep that man alive if they are so far apart?!

...

Kim Dokja's first incarnation.

Shin Yoosung.

The beast lord.

The little girl who will destroy Seoul five days later.

Kim Dokja affectionally rubs her hair and gives plenty of praises while helping her grow. Kim Dokja thinks Shin Yoosung is a very lovable little girl. There was no mistake in making her his incarnation.

There was also Han Sooyoung who left a cold corpse after her. Something normal people leave when they die was left behind by Han Sooyoung when she escaped. Ai, was this supposed to fool him or something? Couldn't she just have left in a less worrying way?

...

Kim Dokja reunites with his lost teammates. Lee Gilyoung has no problem holding on to his thigh. Kim Dokja brushes Lee Gilyoung's hair with his hand.

Lee Gilyoung calls him hyung and Han Donghoon calls him Dokja-hyung.

Kim Dokja couldn't help but to smile.

Shin Yoosung and Lee Gilyoung will make a great team, Kim Dokja couldn't help but to think.

...

'It...'

Yoo Jonghyuk dodges a blast of ice shard before swiping away the pillars that formed as protection.

Yoo Mia was near but not involved in the fight.

Lee Hyunsung and Lee Jihye is both fighting with him. Not much help but at least he isn't alone.

Disaster of Ice.

Truly deserving of its name.

Phoenix Shunpo.

Yoo Jonghyuk travels through space and unleashed his swordsmanship.

Swish.

Cutting through the air before digging deep inside the flesh. A bloody limb falls to the side. A broken off arm.

And that was just the first cut.

His swordsmanship wasn't just a simple cut.

Yoo Jonghyuk's sword connected dots through the air and aims for the other arms this time. Though it isn't easy because the Disaster of Ice's basic physique exceeds his because of the scenario limits.

He ends up cutting the winds.

Disaster of Ice moves back to create distance between the two. Shooting more more ice shards. Because the distance was still relatively close, on scratches his cheek. A light wound was created, only a few drops of blood flowed out from the small cut.

Small cuts like these usually stings more but Yoo Jonghyuk is still expressionless.

A layer of frost is added to the surroundings. This freezes the blood flown out of the wound, making it even more uncomfortable.

Even so, Yoo Jonghyuk's cold resistance is enough to block it out.

Repositioning his sword, Yoo Jonghyuk dashes forward to attack the Disaster of Ice again.

While Disaster of Ice is focused on Yoo Jonghyuk who constantly pushes it to its limits, Lee Jihye strikes from behind. Further injuring the disaster.

Since the old arm was cut off, Disaster of Ice creates a new one made purely of ice. It has that of a human shape, though that doesn't mean that it is human.

Disaster of Questions is a returnee and human, Disaster of floods is also human. Lesser fire dragon Igneel is a dragon as said in its name. The disasters not because they are human or monster but because of the destruction each one causes.

Disaster of Ice is a disaster who freezes everything around them and makes everything enter the ice age.

Although the ice is weak to fire.

And Yoo Jonghyuk's sword's attribute is fire.

The onyx-colored sword flicks and before it is set ablaze. Fire attributed ether forming at the edge of the sword making that of a golden coating. The temperature suddenly rises in the near area.

Disaster of Ice can only shrink back in fear of the black clad incarnation in front it.

...

[Someone has dealt with the Disaster of Ice that came from the west.]

The notification appeared before Kim Dokja's eyes. It appears Yoo Jonghyuk has already completed what he needs to do. Surely that bastard's return isn't far away.

Chapter Text

[A new bounty scenario has arrived!]

+

[Bounty Scenario – Punishment]

Category: Bounty

Difficulty: A

Clear Conditions: Brutally kill the incarnation 'Kim Dokja.' The more brutal his death, the more coins you can receive.

Time Limit: 20 minutes.

Compensation: 40,000 ~ ????? coins.

Failure: ―

+

Yoo Jonghyuk who had just arrived at Han River was forced into another scenario.

'...Bounty scenario?'

Had this happened last time too? Yoo Jonghyuk himself didn't know the answer.

Kim Dokja always seem to get himself into trouble.

This was also not the usual bounty scenario it seems.

'Brutally?'

What disaster had he made for the constellations to want him brutally dead?

Yoo Jonghyuk felt the need to pull Kim Dokja over by the collar and give himself some answers. Of course he also knew that this wasn't the time to question Kim Dokja since he seemed to be in a rather pitiful situation.

Helping Kim Dokja was something that crossed his mind. But it only crossed his mind once. Kim Dokja was strong enough to survive on his own anyway. Yoo Jonghyuk thoughts were a bit contradictory at this point but eventually choose the observation way of doing things.

Since around this time the second sponsor selection was being held it must have been about that. Kim Dokja never got himself a sponsor... Was it just about him not choosing anyone? Were the constellations this greedy? If he doesn't choose a sponsor then he can just die, was this what it is about?

Or did he cheat on the constellations?

Yoo Jonghyuk was focused on his own thoughts when he suddenly saw a distant figure running at the opposite side of Han River. Followed by a large crowed of incarnations.

Yoo Jonghyuk had found his companion.

The 7th grade ichthyosaurs territory was Han River. Kim Dokja who swan dived into Han River looked as if he had just became servant food on his own volition.

Han River had been announced a dangerous territory ever since the scenario began and most of all incarnations kept their distance from the river. It wasn't only because of 7th grade ichthyosaurs that lived there, but also because it wasn't a favorable place to fight.

There was also higher grade ichthyosaurs like the sea commander Kim Dokja killed.

And even that was not all. As its own species, it also had a king and queen. The king and queen was especially powerful that it wouldn't be possible to kill them with just numbers alone.

As of right now, the queen of this species resided right here at this part of Han River. This part that Kim Dokja had just submerged in.

Yoo Jonghyuk once again needed to test his constraint.

If it weren't for the fact that he knew about Kim Dokja's skills. He would of definitely followed him into the river.

Or that would have been he if would of used the strategy of thinking before acting.

Yoo Jonghyuk submerged himself in the water of the river. His area of sight painted blue underwater. The giant serpents swimming around and beyond their lengthy bodies, Kim Dokja could be spotted.

It wasn't because Kim Dokja was close but because of Yoo Jonghyuk good eyesight.

Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't a fish in water. Well, Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't a fish after all. Instead he was more sea king in water. Yoo Jonghyuk- the kind of the sea- had no problem traversing through masses of water. Yoo Jonghyuk was a regressor with way too much experience of everything. With the harsh training of his master he had learned to fight in any sorts of environments.

Although he couldn't breath underwater, holding his breath for extended period of time while fighting was possible.

Fighting wasn't necessary in the end.

While Yoo Jonghyuk made his way over, he could see how Kim Dokja was close to a ichthyosaurs of greater size. Yoo Jonghyuk knew who that ichthyosaurs was. She was the queen of all ichthyosaurs, Mirabad.

Queen Mirabad's serpent body spun around the figure of Kim Dokja, encircling him in that of a careful hug. There wasn't any hostility between the two but the friendliness wasn't high. Yoo Jonghyuk recognized the diverge communication skill that was being used.

After all, he had seen it being used many times. Both by Lee Gilyoung and Shin Yoosung.

Kim Dokja using it could only meant that he was using his copy-like skill. The skill that copy others skill. He didn't know the specifics but he knew the general usage. Since Kim Dokja never told him directly these kind of things he could only make his own observations.

At the time, Kim Dokja turned his head as if he sensed something. The direction of which his head turned was where Yoo Jonghyuk was swimming. It was only a quick glance but much emotion could be made out of it.

Kim Dokja needed to focus on communicating with the queen and couldn't afford to look at Yoo Jonghyuk any longer.

With Kim Dokja distracting the ichthyosaurs, Yoo Jonghyuk could make his way over undisturbed. In fact, it took less than a minute for Yoo Jonghyuk to swim across.

It was just that time almost stopped for just the two of them when their gazes met.

Kim Dokja was in turmoil when he noticed noticed Yoo Jonghyuk coming his way. It wasn't only simply coming his way, they were underwater filled with dangerous monsters after all.

Even still, Kim Dokja thought that if he would have looked any longer then he wouldn't have been able to turn his head away.

The way Yoo Jonghyuk looked all drenched in water was too alluring. Kim Dokja felt that he himself must of looked completely stupid in comparison. Just now he had commented on being a drenched mouse.

Yoo Jonghyuk was like that of the king of the sea. Easily slapping mermaids and merman thrice on their cheeks.

There was even a certain constellation laughing at him at this moment.

The reason Kim Dokja noticed Yoo Jonghyuk had nothing to do with his usual senses. The diverge communication allowed him to perceive a new world. The smell of the world had changed. There was friendly smells and hostile smells. Then along came a different smell from everything around.

Emotions that couldn't be describe with simple words like friendly and hostile came from that smell. It was a familiar smell even though he had never perceived the world this way before.

It was unique and Kim Dokja was naturally interested in it.

So, when he turned his head and spotted the person he lest expected to be here, it really caught him by surprise.

Like the momentary blindness had passed and world started to clear.

Kim Dokja's world that went from the darkness of the river, to the world of scents, and then to the new world of just him and Yoo Jonghyuk.

The way his heart clenched.

A moment of which his own feelings couldn't be identified by himself.

A surge of unknown entered his heart, and his heart started beating again like it had gained new life.

Kim Dokja couldn't even blink away the moment even if he wanted to.

A low tune came from Mirabad. Kim Dokja was immediately pulled back to his senses and turned his head back.

'...What is Yoo Jonghyuk doing here?'

For a normal person, this should of been the first question they asked in their heart. While Kim Dokja's heart was more of brief pause of reality in which he took notice to the person itself.

Logically, he still questioned Yoo Jonghyuk.

-Was underwater really the place in which we agreed to meet?

Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk had planned to take on the disaster of floods together. So the planned spot was of course an artificial island in the Han River, Nodeulseom.

Yoo Jonghyuk knew this but he still came to find before. Kim Dokja wanted to know just why that was.

-Thought you might be in trouble.

Yoo Jonghyuk answered him. And what Yoo Jonghyuk said was also correct. He was indeed in trouble. The trouble didn't just come from the penalties but also the fact he was surround by incarnations and monsters.

Although Yoo Jonghyuk coming to help him...

-Everything was under control.

Even if it worked out, you can't just say that it went according to plan. Yoo Jonghyuk quietly thought to himself.

Yoo Jonghyuk was finally in front of Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja had climbed onto the Queen Mirabad and Yoo Jonghyuk followed right after. There was a slight reaction from Queen Mirabad. Maybe because handling just Kim Dokja was testing the limits of her restraint, Kim Dokja thought.

Though in reality it was because Queen Mirabad became more submissive. The pressure she felt from Yoo Jonghyuk was really suffocating.

With the two of them on, Queen Mirabad shook before cutting through the surface of the water. The breaking of the water surface caused waves to form and almost flooded the nearby incarnations.

The sudden boost of speed made Kim Dokja loose control over grip and get pushed back.

-Kim Dokja.

-En?

-You'll fall if you don't hold on tighter.

But because Kim Dokja wasn't alone on the ride he didn't actually fall of like Queen Mirabad wanted. With Yoo Jonghyuk's body as a seat, Kim Dokja didn't have any more problems with falling over.

Yoo Jonghyuk lightly, not really lightly, gripped Queen Mirabad's scales in a way that made them bent. Pain flashed through her body and she stopped trying to throw the two of them off.

Queen Mirabad couldn't attack the two of them but she could try to throw them off. While she tried to do just that, the black clad one actually dared to bend her scales?! Sure enough, these weren't at all like the incarnations she had bullied in the past.

Yoo Jonghyuk felt something of with Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja seemed much weaker than before? Yoo Jonghyuk's first thought was that he was injured but he couldn't find anything that would cause to become this weak.

Was this because of the punishment scenario? Had the constellations put penalties so that the rest of the incarnations would stand a chance?

Yoo Jonghyuk put his hand on Kim Dokja's shoulder and applied some strength. Sure enough, this wasn't the coin build he had last time they had seen each other.

Kim Dokja on the other hand only felt like Yoo Jonghyuk was trying to crush his shoulder. What had his shoulder ever done to you?

Kim Dokja could only cry pitifully in his heart and hope for Yoo Jonghyuk to stop.

But Yoo Jonghyuk didn't stop. Using both his legs to grab on tightly to Queen Mirabad's scales, he freed his other hand that he was using to hold on before.

Before Kim Dokja only waited disasters.

The feeling of being grabbed by his waist. The hands sliding against his sides. The occasional poke.

Kim Dokja body collapsed as soon as he reached the island. The sand was much better then being held by Yoo Jonghyuk like that...

Chapter Text

Kim Dokja was washed ashore while Yoo Jonghyuk walked with his long legs.

Why such different treatment? He was the one with the diverge communication skills anyway? Was this because of the protagonist aura? Kim Dokja thought to himself if this was the only reason he was lacking in comparison to Yoo Jonghyuk. No, he was lacking much more then just that.

The fourth wall came in to play and scooted all those negative thoughts away.

Kim Dokja didn't choose to lay down on the ground the whole day and soon got up. The sand had somehow wandered inside his matching white coat. This was the problem with sand, it got everywhere. Especially when you're wet! It wasn't a simple dusting off to get rid of this dirt.

Therefor, since Kim Dokja had gotten sand everywhere, it was up to his competent companion to help him out.

Yoo Jonghyuk took of Kim Dokja's white coat with one swift movement and then proceeded to use one of his cleaning skills he had gotten earlier from the dokkaebi bag.

Thats right, skills wasn't just earned through practice. Coins is the universal payment that can by almost anything. Even probability can be bought.

With this Kim Dokja got back a shiny like-new white coat. Although there was a function to get rid of dirt it didn't include sand particles.

Yoo Jonghyuk even put the coat on Kim Dokja himself. A very competent companion indeed.

Even the onlookers thought this way. Or they were to busy fighting the ichthyosaurs.

Earlier, Yoo Jonghyuk had sent his teammates to this artificial island to guard it from all incarnations. Someone needed to block it from anyone foolish enough to awaken it earlier then necessary. Before, that foolish one had been himself.

There was also Lee Seolhwa that he picked up after dealing with the Disaster of Ice. Since he was one of the once who saved her it was very easy to get her onboard. His experience also helped him, after all, he had picked her up before. There was also how he are her personality because of the time they spent together.

But of course things like these were all in the past.

Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't the only ones on the shore. Further away was Lee Jihye. She was currently dealing with the trash Kim Dokja left behind. Many of the incarnations, after defeating the ichthyosaurs, followed after Kim Dokja. By boat or flying, even swimming wasn't excluded.

Kim Dokja had brought them together to help with the disaster but it seemed they were more of a disaster themselves. Teamwork definitely won't work. Although it was the expected situation it was still disappointing.

Hunting down one incarnation instead of looking forward to face the real disaster, society ah society.

Even still, were they worse than the ones hiding and expecting someone else to deal with Disaster of Floods? Who was worse?

If it weren't for main characters then humanity would of already died out.

Kim Dokja clicked his tongue in his mind.

Jung Heewon wasn't here at the moment. She had gone of to help the wanderer king and hadn't returned yet. Yoo Jonghyuk thought that she might finally be accruing her sponsor Uriel.

That would be boost to their team.

At the other part of Han River was Kim Dokja's left behind teammates who were trying to figure out a good way to get across. Shin Yoosung greatly help out with this. Her control over the skill and skill level was much higher Kim Dokja's copy. In other words, taking control over almost all ichthyosaur wasn't impossible.

Kim Dokja had chosen quite the luxury ride, with so many ichthyosaur present and he choose the queen? Kim Dokja was definitely showing off.

Shin Yoosung hadn't used her skill much but for her, the skill was something she was born with. Like an instinct. Shin Yoosung's control could even compare with Lee Gilyoung.

Still, Lee Gilyoung was superior as of right now.

Yoo Sangah only thought that both kids were very powerful and sweet. If it weren't for the battlefield currently ongoing she would definitely be enjoying her time right now. There was also the slight worry for Kim Dokja buried in her heart.

Lee Hyunsung was currently on the artificial island. His task weren't much different from Lee Gilyoung. Getting rid of incarnation that weren't welcomed.

Though their way of getting rid of the incarnations differed a bit too much.

Lee Jihye using her sword to cut her way though. People was loosing limbs over there. She lived up to her reputation of being fierce. She had even taken on the nickname of her sponsor.

Lee Hyunsung's way of clear could also be said to be that of a monster. The affected incarnation said so.

"A lieutenant of the 6502 unit..."

The 'former' lieutenant of the 6502 unit, Lee Hyunsung, used 'authority' to guide people to safety. In other words, he picked up and threw incarnations over Han River to mainland. What monstrous strength.

The order he had acted on was Yoo Jonghyuk's. Lee Hyunsung didn't have anything against Yoo Jonghyuk but he felt much more comfortable following orders from Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja was the one who saved him after all.

Lee Hyunsung didn't look very comfortable. He was worn-down and tired. He just wanted to see Kim Dokja again.

'It is hard... Dokja-ssi, where are you?'

Maybe it was fate.

Lee Hyunsung turned and looked in Lee Jihye's direction. At that moment, both Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja was there talking with her. Lee Hyunsung's face changed to that of seeing an oasis in the desert. Kim Dokja was Lee Hyunsung's salvation.

He wanted to run over right away but the incarnations kept flooding in. Thinking about it for a moment, then Lee Hyunsung activated one of his newly upgraded stigmas.

[Great Mountain Smash Lv. 5.]

The whole of island Nodeulseom shook violently and the edges of the island even exploded. Incarnation at the same time was sent flying though the air. It was raining incarnations.

With the incarnations cleared, Lee Hyunsung wasted no time to get closer to Kim Dokja.

"Dokja-ssi!"

Surprisingly, Kim Dokja took a step back.

'Dokja-ssi didn't recognize him?'

Lee Hyunsung's thoughts almost turned towards the negative but it was a good thing he was simpleminded at times and that thought couldn't even last a second.

"Hyunsung-ssi, it has been a while."

Kim Dokja looked at the desperate gaze of Lee Hyunsung.

'Was Lee Hyunsung worked to the bone by Yoo Jonghyuk or something, why did he look desperate?'

Kim Dokja gave a glance towards the indifferent Yoo Jonghyuk, who by chance was also looking at him.

'So he was worked to the bones, is that what you're telling me?'

Yoo Jonghyuk returned with an answer.

'No.'

'Then why does Hyunsung-ssi look desperate?'

'Fool.'

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at the Kim, fool, Dokja. Ever heard of comradeship?

Even Lee Jihye was having the same thoughts. Although when it comes to understanding gazes, the best she could understand was the meaning in a simplified matter. Mostly only recognizing her masters gaze.

Hopeless, so completely hopeless.

"What happened Dokja-ssi? Why is everyone chasing after you?"

"In short, it is a bounty punishment scenario."

"It is the constellations doing."

"En."

Unfortunately, Lee Hyunsung didn't have the strength to deal with constellations. The constellations was still just stars in the sky, unfathomable beings. Lee Hyunsung understood that he was still not enough to protect Kim Dokja. To protect Kim Dokja he needed strength enough to go against the whole of Starstream! Lee Hyunsung's eyes was like that of on fire.

To protect Kim Dokja he would do anything. Even his own life would he offer for him.

While Lee Hyunsung was having some dangerous thoughts of concurring the whole of Starstream, Lee Jihye just stood there. The feeling of being forgotten by all washed over her, so this was what it was like. Philosophical questions even emerged from the depths, who am I, what am I going here, what is life?

Even her master wasn't giving her a single glance, all attention was on Kim Dokja. Ai, how could she be done this way.

There wasn't even any incarnations left for her to deal with, should she start fighting in the sea or something?

"Master, what is the plan?"

If she new the plan, at least she could do anything other than just waiting!

"Disaster of Floods will be dealt with next."

"What can I do, Master? Ajussi?"

This time it was Kim Dokja who answered.

"By feeding the meteor a guide it can pre-hatch, did you know Lee Jihye?"

"Why would I know?"

"Then did you know that it gets stronger the earlier it hatches? It is very different from all the other disaster that we have faced before."

"Then we shouldn't pre-hatch it. Waiting game then?"

"Yoo Jonghyuk, do you want to give the disaster a try?"

Recalling his previous memories of what happened, Yoo Jonghyuk shook his head thrice. He definitely won't let it happened again.

"Good. Lee Jihye, as you said, waiting is the right option. Why would we take the risk when everything can be done safely."

Lee Jihye looked Kim Dokja in the eyes. Then turned her eyes to the sky and then followed up by looking at the ground. Breath, and breath again. See, she was very good at dealing with this kind of idiot. Why take the risk, he said? Take a risk when there is a safer option? If he followed his words then that would be his first time choosing the safer option!

Chungmuro getting destroyed was obviously not the safer option, okay?!

Lee Jihye was in turmoil on the inside.

Yoo Jonghyuk also thought about this bastard’s words. He even restrained himself on using lie detection. Was there a single memory of Kim Dokja choosing the safer option.

Was sacrificing himself the safer option? Dying was safe? Just throw this whole bastard into the water instead and maybe he can stop sacrificing himself.

In the end, Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't fully restrain himself and took Kim Dokja by the neck.

Bewildered Kim Dokja couldn't even say anything else.

Lee Hyunsung was also bewildered.

While Lee Jihye was in daze and didn't notice anything until a few seconds later. Ai, just what she expected. This was her master's way of doing things.

"Um, Yoo Jonghyuk?... Is it a joke?"

Kim Dokja didn't understand what he had said wrong, everything was fine just a minute ago so why?

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes showed that he was clearly not joking. The sharp penetrating glare that was used when they first met. If it weren't for the fact that 'sage eye' didn't work on Kim Dokja than maybe it would of already been used.

"Tell me."

Yoo Jonghyuk's voice was threatening and it shook Kim Dokja to the bones. Yoo Jonghyuk being this serious, he hadn't seen it before.

"The plan you said..."

Each pause showered the surrounding teammates with goosebumps.

"It is not the plan you're planning on using, is it?"

Chapter Text

"It is not the plan you're planning on using, is it?"

Yoo Jonghyuk's words were like dawning thunder. The stillness that happened because of the pause created a momentum enough to make the words travel deep into the heart of the listener and engraving it in the soul.

Yoo Jonghyuk had no plans on using [Lie Detection] skill. He was certain that he was the one who knew Kim Dokja the best. Yoo Jonghyuk was actually even better than a lie detector because there wasn't any way for Kim Dokja to get around him unlike the lie detector.

"So?"

Patience. Yoo Jonghyuk was patient with Kim Dokja. Although that wasn't the image shown on the out side. Making time pass wasn't a problem, if time passed then Disaster of Floods could only get weaker.

"Hey, Yoo Jonghyuk."

Kim Dokja was finally talking back. It seemed at least it wouldn't be a one-sided conversation.

Kim Dokja went through what he wanted to say. His earlier plan was of course as Yoo Jonghyuk, just camping at the meteor for a few days wasn't something he had scheduled. Even if resting was something that he would like consider doing, it would be much better if the others rested and he worked.

His companions, Kim Dokja he cared about them very much. If there was a way for Disaster of floods to be defeated with them getting hurt he would choose it even if it meant sacrificing himself. Of course finding a suited route wasn't easy, he had been thinking about it for long. Reaching an answer wasn't easy but it seemed this wasn't the way Yoo Jonghyuk wanted.

"You're right. I am foolish."

Kim Dokja could only try to soothe Yoo Jonghyuk's heart.

The way Yoo Jonghyuk looked at him before... It really touched a deep spot in Kim Dokja's heart. Stories he had read wasn't enough to describe the look at which Yoo Jonghyuk had used. The cold and deepness wasn't something one couldn't imagine unless one saw it themselves.

Maybe one day this gaze could touch even the heart beyond the wall.

Yoo Jonghyuk expression became easier after hearing Kim Dokja's words. A sort of relief swept across his heart. Such a simple sentence carries more weight than a whole speech maybe just to touch the heart of the listeners.

The grip on Kim Dokja's throat lightened enough for him to set his feet on the ground and support his own weight.

Yoo Jonghyuk slowly removed his hand, like he was uncertain if he had done the right thing. He was uncertain in his own mind, he wanted to trust Kim Dokja's words like they were his salvation but at the same time he still wanted to hold on to what was real.

At the side, Lee Jihye and Lee Hyunsung let out sighs of relief. They were both caught up in the atmosphere and was unable to get in a single word.

The two of them both looked at the closeness that Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja displayed.

Lee Jihye didn't even have to think any thoughts of a rotten woman because she was so immersed. Good thing that others are even more dedicated their cults so that this moment will forever be ingrained in Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's myth.

[The fable 'Life and Death Companions' will forever tell your stories.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' thinks a ◾◾is perfect for this situation.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' disagrees with the constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire.]

[Many constellations wants to know what is being censored.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' says it is for the best not to know.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' suggests to incarnation 'Yoo Jonghyuk' that if he wants to keep incarnation 'Kim Dokja' then he must ◾◾.]

[2000 coins have been sponsored.]

Yoo Jonghyuk regrets turning on the notification. The regrets just keep piling up.

'Kim Dokja, he really made a record of how fast one can turn Uriel.'

It was even faster then the last round. If he regresses a couple more times then will Uriel just span as a ◾◾.

If only thoughts can be washed clean whenever one want to.

As if distracting himself, Yoo Jonghyuk took Kim Dokja and his teammates to another part of the island. Soon, Lee Gilyoung, Shin Yoosung and Yoo Sangah made their way there too.

There was a camp here that had already been set up before according to Yoo Jonghyuk's orders. Lee Seolhwa was here before they came and she greeted them with a gentle smile- if only it was just a gentle smile.

After the check ups, that was when the other teammates arrived.

Most of all was exhausted. With Yoo jonghyuk as an exception.

Yoo Jonghyuk, being the only professional cook, was of course the one who prepared meals. Since Yoo Jonghyuk doesn't eat food made by others, exception of Kim Dokja, so he always prepares something for himself. Anyway, making larger quantities doesn't matter to Yoo Jonghyuk. The pettiness has been dealt with. The teammates better appreciate Kim Dokja's offering.

Now there was a 6/5 star dinner severed.

"Oppa, give me a taste."

Yoo Mia was also present. She just tried to get spoon-fed from her Oppa.

Yoo Jonghyuk shot her a glance but didn't say anything. Then he picked up the chopsticks and took a piece of perfectly cooked meat and held it out. Yoo Mia thought she had gotten a free meal but just as she was about to bite the piece of meat had disappeared form sight.

"...Oppa, why...?"

Yoo Mia looked at her Oppa. And her Oppa looked back. Behind her Oppa, Yoo Mia saw Kim Dokja munching on something. But Kim Dokja hadn't even taken a plate so where was the food coming from? Yoo Mia could only narrow her eyes. Suspicious, she thought.

Kim Dokja, who had just been stuffed with meat, wanted to question why as well but couldn't because the meat was a delicacy with a mouthwatering taste. The meat occupied his whole mind and he couldn't possible think of anything else at this time.

But this wasn't a cooking show and Kim Dokja wasn't about to make an essay long description of how a single piece of meat tasted. Besides, that would just torture onlookers.

[The constellation 'Black Abyssal Flame Dragon' can't keep his mouth shut.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' says he is a better cook.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' believes that the constellation 'Secretive Plotter' doesn't have any taste buds.]

[The constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' wants to reincarnate into the scenario.]

[Many constellation is against the constellation Prisoner of the Golden Headband'.]

[Many constellation secretively agrees with the constellation Prisoner of the Golden Headband'.]

Kim Dokja didn't sit alone at all. With Yoo Jonghyuk right beside him and two kids plastered on his body he couldn't have more company.

Actually, all the three of them took turns feeding Kim Dokja. While Shin Yoosung and Lee Gilyoung would argue, Yoo Jonghyuk would pull a sneak attack. This definitely made Yoo Jonghyuk and opponent in the minds of the kids.

Lee Jihye was already asking for her third fill but she got turned down. So, Yoo Sangah shared some of her own meal with Lee Jihye. Lee Jihye got a second favorite Unnie. Jung Heewon is still the best. Lee Seolhwa got down to the third place.

Lee Hyunsung was happily eating alone, maybe he missed Jung Heewon at the time.

Jung Heewon secretively sneezed somewhere.

On this artificial island the scene of happily joined company was imprinted in their stories.

The night sky was painted in a pinkish blue color and the stars started to become visible. The sun was nowhere to be seen because of the trees that covered the view of the sea. The trees were a nice shade of green and it fit in with the theme. If the theme was 'Kim Dokja's Company' then it worked out perfectly.

The only things that should be taken into consideration was the dead body of a guide close by, the meteor with a disaster in it and how it was currently the apocalypse.

It was a peaceful night during the apocalypse.

At least of company.

The screams of incarnations couldn't be heard under water after all.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja shared a tent like it was a norm. Lee Jihye and Yoo Mia shared a tent. Yoo Sangah and Lee Seolhwa choose one together. And then there was Lee Hyunsung who wanted to sleep under the starts for once.

For Lee Hyunsung it wasn't like the time when he was a soldier. When he was a soldier he wasn't with people he could trust like a family. Neither was the stars enemies who he need to keep an eye out for.

So, Lee Hyunsung was the one chosen to keep watch tonight. Or rather than being chosen it was more of volunteering.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

In Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's tent there weren't anyone sleeping.

"..."

There wasn't any excess noice. Just Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's breathing.

"If I were to, lets say I'd die. Then what would you do?"

Kim Dokja, like any other reader, had always been plagued by this question. Kim Dokja wanted to know if Yoo Jonghyuk would care if he one day he died. If Yoo Jonghyuk were to care, then that would be his greatest achievement in life.

"..."

"..."

Yoo Jonghyuk felt like he had crossed the same road once again. If only swearing was enough to calm himself down.

"Kim Dokja you-"

"Oh, don't get me wrong I wasn't planning at dying at all."

"If you died... that wouldn't happened."

"What do you mean by it wouldn't happened?"

"If you were dead then I would no longer be alive."

"I don't-"

"The only reason for you to die would be if I'm no longer in this world."

"..."

"The only reason for you to die would be because I wasn't strong enough to protect you."

...

Kim Dokja wants to scream in his mind, no, he is already doing so. Each and every sentence was like a rollercoaster in his heart. The first felt like Yoo Jonghyuk was planning on choking him again, the second just felt like he was defying was he was asking, the third felt like Yoo Jonghyuk would kill himself along with Kim Dokja, the fourth felt like Yoo Jonghyuk had gazed into Kim Dokja's soul and found out Kim Dokja goal of keeping everyone alive, and then the last one was too much for anyone to handle.

Whose heart was made to handle such a rollercoaster?!

Defeating Disaster of Floods would be much easier than this!

Chapter Text

Sorry, there is no chapter this week. I thought I had a good enough idea about this battle but when I wrote it out I didn't like it. But because it was already so late I don't have time to change it so instead I will postpone it instead. What can I even do with such a blank head like mine. T-T

Anyway, as I said I need time to think it through more throughly. Sorry again.

Chapter Text

[The Disaster of Floods has hatched.]

Shin Yoosung, the Disaster of Floods, woke up after a long time. She herself didn't even now for how long she had traveled. She knew it was beyond thousands of years but beyond it time couldn't be measured. One thousand, two thousand or one hundred thousand, but it wasn't the time it took that mattered.

The part of being abandoned by her own world was the deepest wound. It was a wound time couldn't heal.

[The Disaster of Floods is waking up.]

She, who had been abandoned by her world, woke up at last. The white pelt that she had been wearing in her last world grew on her body. It was pleasing to the touch. The animal pelt kept her warm when no one else was there for her.

Slow light steps were taken as she left the meteor she traveled with behind. It was like she was a new born child.

Her eyes were wide open as she studied her surroundings. The forest, which had been destroyed to a certain extent due to the crash of the meteor, was still lush and was showing off its luxurious green color. The sky was blue without any clouds and the sun showered everything in a warm light. It is peaceful but that peace wouldn't last long.

There was was no sound from any animal, only the wind could be heard as it sizzled passed.

Shin Yoosung almost instantly adapted to her own strength. She felt much weaker due to the limit of the scenario, it was like cutting out a part of her senses and increasing the gravity.

As a disaster she also had scenarios. The scenario she had gotten was to destroy Seoul, her former hometown. The scenarios has always been merciless although this time it was of her own will to become a disaster.

No, it wasn't actually her will.

.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at Shin Yoosung through a different view. The last round had gone horrible wrong with the confrontation of the Disaster of Floods.

His own mistakes at the time had caused not only Kim Dokja to die but also put everyones else's lives at stake. He felt that he was blind at the time. Not being able to see anything in his former companions eyes and only looking for the end without even considering what kind of ending it was.

Yoo Jonghyuk grabbed his onyx-colored sword. It was a sword that had cut down the flesh of living beings, and now he was going to use it against his former companion.

Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't remember what had happened during the 41st round. He didn't know what Shin Yoosung before him had suffered. Because there was only two people in this world that knew and he wasn't one of them.

He adjusted his own breathing.

The difference in skill level from last round and this round is worlds apart.

Even if there wasn't the story [Hellscape of Eternity], he still did reach grounds beyond 999+. Although Shin Yoosung did spend time growing she was only stronger because of the scenario limit.

But defeating Shin Yoosung wasn't the important part in all of this. Kim Dokja had thought him that.

Shin Yoosung, who had suffered something worse than hell, was the one who deserved salvation. And Kim Dokja was the one who gave her the salvation she deserved. It wasn't his role to give others salvation and he had no way of making it up to Shin Yoosung, all he could do was to be better in the future.

Yoo Jonghyuk would of preferred leaving Kim Dokja out of this fight, because he didn't wan't Kim Dokja dying. The problem was that Kim Dokja didn't want Yoo Jonghyuk to die either. Leaving Kim Dokja out of it was no different from what Kim Dokja had done.

This left only one choice.

The rest of the group was further away at the very least. It wasn't that they weren't enough to help but because this conversation was something the involved only him and Kim Dokja.

"Shin Yoosung."

"Captain."

"You've done a good job."

Yoo Jonghyuk thought of the words his former companion wanted to hear the most. He also thought of his mistakes the last round.

"...Captain?"

Shin Yoosung must of been confused by the sudden words. Clearly not expecting anything from her captain but yet...

"This isn't the first time you're seeing me right? Right?"

Yoo Jonghyuk shakes his head.

"No, we have traveled together before."

But it didn't sound right. They did travel together but this, won't it be taken the wrong way?

"What regression round are we currently on?"

This question again. Isn't it to hard to explain with just numbers.

"It is not a regression."

Saying something like 1864 would only bring despair to Shin Yoosung. The despair that her almost broken soul doesn't need. But lying isn't something Yoo Jonghyuk can do to her either.

"Captain, what do you mean?"

If only talking was a way to solve this scenario. Maybe she could be saved peacefully.

Yoo Jonghyuk grabs a hold of Kim Dokja.

"If this was a simple regression, this guy here wouldn't exist. Kim Dokja wouldn't exist. You wouldn't have gotten the salvation you deserve either."

"Salvation? What does all of this mean?"

Time was running out. An explanation in a few words wouldn't work. Wasn't there a way to transfer memories?

"You talk about salvation after everything you have done, Captain?"

There was something that Shin Yoosung couldn't believe.

"Why won't you answer my question?"

This talk about it not being a regression and an unknown person who she has never seen before appearing. And Salvation? Him bringing her salvation. She couldn't understand what her Captain was talking about.

"Then if this 'Kim Dokja' is the one giving me salvation, wouldn't you need to prove it first? If he can't even survive against me, if he isn't even stronger than me, then how would he be able to save me?"

With that Shin Yoosung gathered ether at her palm before quickly firing it off. The ether storm was directly aimed against Kim Dokja's heart. Yoo Jonghyuk who was right beside used [Red Phoenix Shunpo] and help Kim Dokja avoid it completely.

"Avoiding my first attack, at least Captain hasn't been slacking off."

Yoo Jonghyuk let go off Kim Dokja while Kim Dokja used ether properties on his sword. The fire property burned bright like a star as it slashed away at the next incoming ether storm.

Ether attacks was only a small part of the abilities of the beast lord in front of the companions. The main attribute of beast lord -Monster gate- which allowed her to summon numerous monster domesticated by her while she traveled across dimensions.

These summons was now being released onto earth like small disasters. Multiple of which was equivalent to that of the fifth grade fire dragon.

The 5th grade sea species, King Masswood. The 5th grade behemoth, Heavy Metal Bean.

These kings hadn't been summoned yet but they were expected to come soon.

The trees which had been standing tall just seconds ago was easily teared down and the water that had a comfortable stillness was now like that of a raging ocean. The ichthyosaur that had been cleared out before once again appeared. There was even an ichthyosaur with similar strength to that of the sea commander that Kim Dokja killed before the second main scenario.

Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja's focus wasn't that one the monsters that Shin Yoosung had summoned but on Shin Yoosung herself.

Yoo Jonghyuk's blade cut though the wind as it headed towards Shin Yoosung. His breaking the sky swordsmanship reached newer levels that wasn't comparable to last round. His sword could even cut through the white pelt of Shin Yoosung which last round he couldn't even scratch.

While Yoo Jonghyuk was distracting Shin Yoosung, Kim Dokja used the time to active his reward stigma he got from helping Lee Jihye. The words of the diary owned by the Duke of Loyalty and Warfare painted Kim Dokja's sword and further empowering it.

A ether sword star relic with fire properties boosted with a powerful stigma.

Even Shin Yoosung couldn't underestimate this unknown man named Kim Dokja anymore.

.

Their companions had been instructed to deal with the monsters that came from the monster gate.

There was Lee Jihye wearing a slim black hoodie standing on top of her own fleet. It was the stigma of the Duke of Loyalty and Warfare, Ghost Fleet. 23 ships were floating in Han River. The ships gave of and oppressing aura that boasted it's strong attack power.

Lee Jihye pointed her sword at King Masswood.

"Fire!"

Cannons from all 23 of her ships made loud noises and out fired cannon balls. The cannon balls proved to have high accuracy as it successfully hit King Masswood multiple times. King Masswood let out a cry of pained and followed right after by freezing Han River as a whole.

Already being prepared Lee Hyunsung used his new stigma to instantly break the ice that formed on top the river. The ice hadn't even reached the ships before being mercilessly destroyed.

The shockwave created by breaking the ice caused King Masswood to get hurt, it even created waves that swept away nearby ichthyosaurs.

But it didn't end with that.

Shin Yoosung's past self from another worldline, Shin Yoosung who is the incarnation of Kim Dokja. She herself will on day become a beast lord and when she does so she will surpass her future self by leaps and bounds.

The ichthyosaur queen Mirabad. Queen Mirabad was called in to battle against the ichthyosaur king Masswood. One was controlled by future Shin Yoosung and one was controlled by Shin Yoosung.

The conflicted ichthyosaurs didn't know who to side with but it didn't matter as they were wiped out during the aftermath of the blows that were being exchanged. The river was truly in chaos at this moment. The Island wasn't any better.

The 5th grade behemoth, Heavy Metal Bean. The giant chimpanzee called Heavy Metal Bean stomped its hind legs. Causing the whole artificial island to shake. The poor island was already mostly destroyed and almost couldn't get any worse, except it got worse.

Lee Hyunsung's abnormally large right arm hit the giant Heavy Metal Bean. Just from one attack it was obvious who had the upper hand. Blood seeped out of Lee Hyunsung's mouth while the Heavy Metal Bean was pushed down to the ground. The Heavy Metal Bean's cry of pain sounded in Lee Hyunsung's ears.

Lee Gilyoung called his Titano. The giant praying mantis swiftly swung it's claws and cut away at the Heavy Metal Bean. The giant chimpanzee swung it arms to defend itself but ended up getting restrained by thin threads.

The thin threads tightened and deepened into the skin of the behemoth. With just a single more cut from the prying mantis and its arms fell off.

With only it hind legs left to fight with it struggled to attack. It stomped on the island as its final struggle but with the move of a silent sword, its head was rolled off it's shoulders before falling down to the ground with a boom.

Chapter Text

There was a clash between sword and body. Shin Yoosung who had stepped out the meteor mere minutes ago didn't have any weapons on her. Her weapons had always been her beasts and monsters. Although her way of attack wasn't only limited to beasts.

There was her perfect protection because of the fur covering her body. And she could control and condense ether as her attacks. Techniques learned from a millennium was condensed into a single attack.

Yoo Jonghyuk swung his sword but it was parried by Shin Yoosung before it could do any greater damage. Shin Yoosung had the upper hand in both strength and speed so just overwhelming in raw power wouldn't work.

Kim Dokja wasn't on standby either. His fire covered ether sword did more than enough to cover up his weakness in technique.

While Yoo Jonghyuk was slightly pushed back, Kim Dokja cut from the side and made it so Shin Yoosung needed to dodge. The sword Yoo Jonghyuk had was only SS-grade and couldn't at all be compered to the star relic Kim Dokja was using.

Kim Dokja's sword could even slice through the thick pelt while Yoo Jonghyuk's sword was being destroyed by Shin Yoosung's ether filled punches.

They clashed, clashed and clashed again.

Until...

-Crash.

The 5th grade sea species, King Masswood. The 5th grade behemoth, Heavy Metal Bean. The comrades 41st round Shin Yoosung had summoned simultaneously went down.

It was an organized attack after days of training.

Yoo Jonghyuk had greatly helped his teammates improve their strength while Kim Dokja was discussing strategy with them. Someone who know their greatest potential and someone who know almost everything there is to know.

This duo of leaders was without a doubt the greatest there is.

Even if 41st round Shin Yoosung had been personally trained by the 41st round Yoo Jonghyuk, she was still only a student. Being faced with 1864th round Yoo Jonghyuk, one who had surpassed 41st Yoo Jonghyuk by leaps and bounds, there was no way for her to compete.

If it had been 3rd to 40th turn Yoo Jonghyuk than maybe things would have been different.

But now there was this that existed.

[The story 'Life and Death Companions' begins its storytelling.]

A story unlike all else.

A story that spans across worldlines and time.

A story between two companions.

It remember. Just like how Yoo Jonghyuk remembered.

The battle that repeated itself over and over every regression. Although it was different this time, because this time he had a story that remembered this battle.

Shin Yoosung also reacted to the story.

"...Companions? Captain has a companion? Why?"

Her mind that was at the edge go collapsing couldn't handle anything emotional. Anything that touches her soul could cause her to brake down and in return destroy everything and everyone.

"...Is it him? The one fight with you? Why is it him?"

Jumping to conclusion and hurting her own mind. It was a very human way of doing things. Shin Yoosung, even if she had traveled for a millennium, was still a human deep down.

Kim Dokja recognized her state of mind. Not just because of what he had read in the web novel but because something he couldn't put his finger on.

Was there sympathy for her... or?

"Tell me Captain. Tell me he isn't your companion."

Yoo Jonghyuk had also learned of her state of mind through mistakes. Kim Dokja is his companion through and through but in front of the fragile Shin Yoosung he was hesitant to announce their status.

Is there no way to win without breaking her heart down?

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at Kim Dokja. His gaze meeting the other's glance.

Kim Dokja nodded at back.

If what Yoo Jonghyuk said is true then this could possible be solved this way.

A story in the Star Stream is different from the stories read in books. The stories created under the influence of Star Stream is alive with its own will and has its own personality.

Kim Dokja heard the story talking to him. It was the story written from him and Yoo Jonghyuk. It told him about the other timeline, the timeline he didn't have any memories of.

The story between the two companions is lengthy and Kim Dokja couldn't hear all of it right now but he heard parts of this battle.

Kim Dokja walked towards Shin Yoosung. Slow and even steps was taken like there was no worry in the whole world. Like there was no danger in getting close to the Disaster of Floods.

Shin Yoosung glared at Kim Dokja. Raising her hand and focusing ether in it. It was as if she was about to shoot another ray of ether, the same kind that had killed him in the different timeline.

Yoo Jonghyuk almost went forward to stop Kim Dokja. Even if he full heartedly trusted he still worried about his life. The reason for their preparations was because he needed to keep everyone alive. Especially Kim Dokja.

Yet Yoo Jonghyuk didn't go forward. He stayed and showed his trust. But Kim Dokja wouldn't know how he felt.

Kim Dokja had just about reached Shin Yoosung and Shin Yoosung's ray of light was only seconds away from firing. It was extremely dangerous. Just watching each other would mean his end so Kim Dokja chose to speak up for the first time.

"Shin Yoosung, I'll be your salvation."

Shin Yoosung flinched as if surprised by Kim Dokja's words.

As if to back him up, the story started to tell a tale.

[The story 'Life and Death Companions' wants to tell 'Shin Yoosung' its story.]

"Your greatest wish, Shin Yoosung, let me help you full fill it."

The condensed ether in Shin Yoosung palm slowly disappear as Shin Yoosung's expression began to break.

"You... Who are you?"

It wasn't a question asking for a name.

"A reader who likes happy endings. But you can call me ahjussi."

"Ahjussi..."

Shin Yoosung repeated his word as if in daze.

Kim Dokja thought that this innocent girl had truly suffered something worse than death.

He reached out his hand and cupped Shin Yoosung's cheek.

"Everything will be alright. After this is over I'll full fill your wish and bring you back. Then you can have someone to rely on and care for you."

Shin Yoosung reacted greatly to his words. It was only his words but also because of the tale that the story was telling.

It is the truth, Shin Yoosung thought. There was only truth in this man’s, no, ahjussi's words.

Shin Yoosung thought she might also be able to get her own happy ending.

She didn't dare to attack anymore so she put down her hands. He legs gave in and she fell, but was caught by Kim Dokja.

Tears streamed down her face and landed on Kim Dokja's white coat. She broke, but it wasn't the way one predicted. Instead of destroying everything she cried and showed her emotions openly. Still, even if she had broken down, it was in a way that could be fixed.

Her broken state just showed how human she truly was.

Kim Dokja also reflected on her behavior.

"I, I want to know more about you."

Her voice was almost drowned by her tears, still Kim Dokja heard all of it.

"We'll have plenty of time in future, Shin Yoosung."

'In the future.'

Shin Yoosung caught on to the words.

Kim Dokja's voice had been soft and caring. Like that of a father to a daughter.

"Shin Yoosung, sorry for the lack of time."

"I know."

"I'll have to kill you before I can bring you back."

"En."

"It might take some time."

"I'll wait."

"I'll definitely full fill your wishes."

"I know you will."

"Until then, sorry again."

"Ahjussi doesn't have to apologize all the time."

"Shin Yoosung, until we meet next time, good bye."

Then Kim Dokja took his sword and gave Shin Yoosung a painless death. Since there wasn't a even a slight hint of resistance, the sword just cut right through.

Only ashes remained.

.

Yoo Jonghyuk came up to Kim Dokja from behind. He watched it all without interfering. Shin Yoosung had truly been persuaded. It was almost as if he couldn't believe it. Kim Dokja had done something that Yoo Jonghyuk would never have been able to do.

Kim Dokja had remained motionless for a while. Therefor Yoo Jonghyuk had no choice but to take this soft fool back himself.

Yoo Jonghyuk had warned Kim Dokja of the strategy that Kim Dokja had used last time. About how he had gone against the dokkaebi and how Shin Yoosung had been forced to become evil by the scenario.

Kim Dokja didn't want Shin Yoosung to get controlled and was left with the only choice of killing her before that.

Yoo Jonghyuk carried the fool on his shoulder. Like how he had done many times before. Even if he was tired form the battle he still had strength to carry someone as light as Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja."

Kim Dokja didn't answer so Yoo Jonghyuk had to repeat himself.

"Snap out it, fool. You know it couldn't have gone better then that. Even if Shin Yoosung died it was only a temporary death. You did your best."

Words of comfort. This was the best Yoo Jonghyuk could give.

Kim Dokja's ears slightly reddened from Yoo Jonghyuk's word of comfort. He wasn't used to being consoled. And the effect was even greater because it was Yoo Jonghyuk. Not only because of Yoo Jonghyuk egoistic personality but because of what Yoo Jonghyuk means to Kim Dokja.

.

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' is saddened by 'Disaster of Floods'.]

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' is conflicted because of the intimacy.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' questions the behavior of incarnation 'Yoo Jonghyuk'.]

[The constellation 'Black Abyssal Flame Dragon' wanted more fights.]

[The constellation 'Prisoner of The Golden Headband' is impressed by the actions of incarnation 'Kim Dokja'.]

[A few constellations are also saddened because of 'Disaster of Floods'.]

[A few constellation, who were hoping for death, are disappointed.]

[22 500 coins have been sponsored.]

.

"Hey, how did it go?"

"Ahjussi!"

"Hyung!"

"Master!"

"Dokja-ssi!"

Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's teammates called out for them as they saw the two come out of the forest. They had been told that under no circumstances are they allowed to follow them in.

Of course this only caused their teammates to worry. Only two people will fight the disaster? Wasn't that dangerous?

Even still, they all listened well and showed their trust in each other. The teammates had done a wonderful job of getting rid of all the beast and monsters, making it so that there was no distraction during the battle.

Kim Dokja reflected on this fact and said.

"You have all done well."

But it was a bit embarrassing as he was still being carried by Yoo Jonghyuk. So Kim Dokja patted Yoo Jonghyuk's back as a signal. Yoo Jonghyuk still didn't move.

"Yoo Jonghyuk you bastard, let me down already."

In front of their teammates, Yoo Jonghyuk could no longer be stubborn. In the end, Yoo Jonghyuk reluctantly let Kim Dokja down

The second he was down, two kids got plastered on legs. Like attachment of sort, or was it magnets? Anyway, Kim Dokja patted the kids head.

Truly wonderful to have teammates that care for each other, Kim Dokja thought to himself.

Chapter Text

History repeated itself.

The intermediate dokkaebi Paul had no problem trying to screw Kim Dokja over again. Although things changes the story still tries to keep certain thing on track.

After being accused of having an illegal contract Bihyung, Kim Dokja once again goes to beat the intermediate dokkaebi up.

Though it isn't something Yoo Jonghyuk can witness because of the private meeting room. A disappointment to say the least.

Kim Dokja really is in the spotlight at times like these. Making it so that Yoo Jonghyuk doesn't have to share the same burdens as before. Companions truly shares each others burdens.

Except, Kim Dokja doesn't really say what is bothering him. He is too quiet about his own mental state. If only Yoo Jonghyuk had a way of caring for him the same way Kim Dokja cared for himself. But Kim Dokja has that strange wall, it limits his approach.

Yoo Jonghyuk remember that around this time he left. He left with Lee Seolhwa to clear hidden scenarios all throughout Seoul.

'I won't be leaving this time.'

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't want to leave, he didn't wan't to leave Kim Dokja this round.

The scenarios are important but Kim Dokja is more important.

Also, he already has more strength then that round. The hidden scenarios doesn't have anything of use.

[The sixth scenario will start in three days.]

As the notification says, the next main scenario will start very soon. It was a joined scenario that happens between different domes. In this specific scenario, the absolute throne would of played a big role. But now it was missing.

It doesn't matter, the absolute throne would of done more harm than good anyway. This was proved by Kim Dokja. One can't truly be free after they accept the throne, and freedom was one of the reasons to defeat the scenarios. How could he ever chose the throne after everything Kim Dokja has done?

The sixth scenario wasn't a simple one, there was no such thing as a simple scenario. The last round had been a complete mess at that. But was there to correct?

Kim Dokja emerged from the private space. It was time for the settlements to begin.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't have thoughts on that, all he cared about was Kim Dokja.

...

After the settlement, Jung Heewon tried to lighten the mood. The loss of Shin Yoosung was on the unknown side, outside of Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk, but there was still the scenarios.

To keep ones sanity, one had to relax as well. Too much stress would only affect one negatively, of course it wasn't only stress from overwork. Having to adapt under harsh circumstance, having to kill and discard the rules of society. It wasn't something one could do without leaving psychological shadows.

"Such things can still remain?"

Kim Dokja asked Jung Heewon as she held on to six bottles of beer and soju.

"There wasn't much but this should be more than enough."

Jung Heewon replied.

After that all the companions helped each other to set up camp. It was habit they had developed together.

Lee Hyunsung wasn't lonely as he talked to Jung Heewon.

Yoo Jonghyuk was beside Kim Dokja but he didn't drink anything. He only watched as Kim Dokja drank.

Noticing that Lee Jihye was about to take a bottle of beer, Kim Dokja was quick to swat away her hand.

"You're a minor."

"...What does it matter? There isn't any laws anyway."

"Go and drink cider with the rest of the kids."

"I'm not child anymore. Master, you can't possible think the same, right?"

If Kim Dokja didn't allow her than she would naturally turn towards her master. Her master was the one who decided anyway, why should it matter what Ajussi said?

"Right."

"Right?"

"Kim Dokja is right. You're still a minor."

Being off told by even her own master, Lee Jihye could only give the beer a glance before walking off to Shin Yoosung and Lee Gilyoung.

Yoo Sangah had already drunken three bottles of soju and going strong on her fourth. But showed no signs of being drunk.

"Yoo Sangah-ssi, are you alright?"

"There are no problem, Dokja-ssi, even if I don't usually drink I'm still a heavy drinker."

"If you say so."

It was soon after when most of the teammates had passed out or was asleep. The children had already drunken their cider and left for the tents. Lee Jihye, being the devil she is, tried to get beer through Jung Heewon and somehow succeeded.

Yoo Mia wasn't interested in anything other than meals and had already gone to sleep long ago.

Jung Heewon had passed out so Lee Hyunsung carried her to her own tent. After that he didn't actually stay like a good boy and then went to sleep in his tent.

The tent sharing became a mess after the group up.

Jung Heewon and Yoo Sangah shared, Lee Jihye and Yoo Mia shared, Lee Seolhwa and Shin Yoosung shared, Lee Hyunsung and Lee Gilyoung shared, and of course Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk shared.

But there wasn't always only two in each.

If you were to look away from the masses of tents then you would see the remaining teammates.

Kim Dokja himself wasn't a heavy drinker by any means, even just after a glass he was already flushed. His face didn't even stop getting redder or hotter.

Yoo Jonghyuk had never seen this sort of face before that Kim Dokja was making. His redden cheeks and ears. It drew Yoo Jonghyuk in.

"Kim Dokja, you-"

[The constellation ‘God of Wine and Ecstasy’ wants to talk to incarnation 'Kim Dokja'.]

The God of Wine and Ecstasy. The only person who used such a modifier was Dionysus, one of the 12 gods of Olympus.

[The constellation ‘God of Wine and Ecstasy’ is humming.]

Yoo Jonghyuk had been stopped mid sentence, it seemed this constellation wanted something, something that opposed Yoo Jonghyuk.

Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't hear the humming. Yet he could still get an idea of what he was humming, that was because of the drops of alcohol dancing. The dancing drops of alcohol moved around and formed numerous musical notes on the ground.

On the ground between Kim Dokja and Yoo Sangah.

'...Why?'

'Why between them?'

Dionysus mentioned that he wanted to talk to Kim Dokja, but what has that to do with Yoo Sangah? Even if Olympus is Yoo Sangah's sponsor, it still doesn't have anything to do with her. Maybe he overthinking it, it was just that it was bothering him for some reason.

Yoo Sangah examined the notes on the ground carefully.

"It's puppy waltz."

What was she came up with.

"Is it difficult to read musical notes?"

"A little, it is just that it has to do with what I had studied."

"En."

Yoo Sangah thought a little more before she added.

"Why is that Chopin suddenly appeared?"

Kim Dokja thought of what Dionysus was described as in the novel, and it made sense for Dionysus to have an interest. It wasn't something strange.

The musical notes suddenly changed to arrows, it was pointing toward a bottle of soju.

Yoo Jonghyuk felt that he was greatly ignored in all of this. Kim Dokja drinking more when he was already this flustered? Dionysus was definitely up to something.

Yoo Sangah came to the same conclusion as all other present.

"...He is telling us to drink?"

That 'us' didn't sound like it included Yoo Jonghyuk though.

"There is no choice then, let's drink."

Kim Dokja got himself another glass of soju. One too many, thought Yoo Jonghyuk.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't want Kim Dokja to drink anymore but at the same time he didn't know what Kim Dokja had to do with Dionysus. Since he wasn't present last time he doesn't what goal Kim Dokja has.

If Kim Dokja wanted to drink, who was he to stop it?

Yoo Sangah suddenly cocked her head and asked.

"Is Dokja-ssi a light drinker?"

"En, I'm not a strong drinker like you, Yoo Sangah-ssi."

It seemed that Yoo Sangah had a habit of saying obvious thing out loud. Kim Dokja was clearly not a heavy drinker judging by his red face.

Even after one glass nothing happened so Kim Dokja reached for a second glass.

Yoo Jonghyuk had to challenge his self control once again.

Even after a second glass Kim Dokja wasn't done. Then there was the third.

Yoo Jonghyuk watched the process of Kim Dokja getting his third glass and couldn't help but to think to himself.

'Fool, who is supposed to care for you after you get yourself wasted?'

Kim Dokja's face couldn't get any redder after this. He even began to undo his shirt because of the heat he felt from the alcohol.

Yoo Sangah smiled and said to Kim Dokja.

“It is nice to drink with you. I was a bit lonely.”

Yoo Jonghyuk suddenly felt that something was wrong. It wasn't just because of the alcohol they could be acting this strange, could it?

But everyone else drank it, it wasn't poison. It was just that this effect...

Yoo Jonghyuk felt that he was missing something.

And while Yoo Jonghyuk was thinking of the problem, Kim Dokja was taking the drinking even further. Four, five, six, seven...

The amount of Kim Dokja had drunk increased like the river.

Yoo Sangah did the same. Her amount of intake was even higher than Kim Dokja actually. There was also the four bottles she had drunken before.

In a moment of 'drunkenness', Yoo Sangah slowly moved closer to Kim Dokja. The distance shortened wasn't a lot but they were already to close for comfort.

Kim Dokja wasn't the only one with a fully reddened face and a flustered state. Yoo Sangah seemed to finally also be affected by the alcohol.

Yoo Sangah's shoulder light touched Kim Dokja's, causing his own heartbeat to accelerate.

A pair of quarter notes and eighth notes danced intensely around Kim Dokja and Yoo Sangah as the distance only kept getting closer and closer.

Kim Dokja subconsciously closed his eyes at that moment.

It wasn't until there was only a bit more than decimeter left that a forceful grip took a hold of Kim Dokja's shoulder and then quickly turning him around. This quick action left Yoo Sangah unable to cope and she complete stopped her actions.

Meanwhile, Kim Dokja, who was leaning in, was forced to turn around and he didn't stop his movements. He only found something wrong after he heard the notification pop up.

[The exclusive skill ‘Fourth Wall’ has offset some of the drunkenness.]

Kim Dokja's eyes subconsciously widened greatly and his face would of become even more flustered if it weren't for his earlier alcohol intake.

[The exclusive skill ‘Fourth Wall’ is greatly shaken.]

Kim Dokja's eyes watched Yoo Jonghyuk's expression thoughtlessly. His mind became completely blank. He couldn't even understand what had just happened.

And Yoo Jonghyuk was in the same situation.

Only a few words passed through Yoo Jonghyuk's mind.

'I... kissed Kim Dokja?'

Chapter Text

'I... kissed Kim Dokja?'

Yoo Jonghyuk's mind had become blank.

He didn't know how to respond to such a situation.

But the blankness didn't last long.

Almost as if in daze he covered his mouth with one hand. The red from the tips of his ears spread from across his cheeks to his whole face. Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes were wide and a glint of gold could be seen in it. His ebony-colored hair hung down and cowered parts of his dazed and flustered expression.

It was a sight Kim Dokja never thought he would ever be able to in his whole life.

After Yoo Jonghyuk's psychological state collapsed, it slowly started to rebuild itself and Yoo Jonghyuk thought of what led him in to such a decision.

It was as if his thousands of years of battle experience had done everything to keep his mind straight. Blanking out to easily be akin to death after all.

When he had felt that something was missed, he had turned away from what Kim Dokja and Yoo Sangah had been doing. The way Kim Dokja acted, it was something odd about it. Kim Dokja wasn't one to drink a lot of alcohol in the first place and even if this constellation wanted them to drink, wasn't this just too much?

So, he started to think back to any encounter where Kim Dokja had drunken alcohol. To try and figure out if this was just how Kim Dokja was when he was drunk, but he couldn't remember any time this had happed.

Then he thought of what had happened in the 3rd round around the same time, but the memory was quite hazy. Almost as if it was something someone had deliberately erased from his thoughts.

Of course this 'something' could very well be himself. But since his memories are hazy he couldn't find the answer this way either.

By the time he checked back at the rest of the people present, Kim Dokja and Yoo Sangah... He could not see exactly what they were doing but with such an intimate position he could only guess. Since Kim Dokja was sitting on his right side and Yoo Sangah was on Kim Dokja's right side, with their heads tilted like that... From the position alone...

Yoo Jonghyuk's body acted faster than his mind.

He griped Kim Dokja's shoulder to turn him around, his back now facing Yoo Sangah instead. What he hadn't expected was that after turning Kim Dokja around, Kim Dokja would continue to lean forward.

The shock from such a intimate position left him unable to move after Kim Dokja leaned in.

And now, faced with reality, there was no escape.

The memory that was hazy just a minute ago resurfaced, the memory of when Kim Dokja and Yoo Sangah almost kissed.

'Almost.'

Yes, that was right. It seemed he had done something unnecessary.

It didn't even end there.

Yoo Jonghyuk was about to question why he even needed to intervene when he came up with the most logical explanation.

'Kim Dokja was about to do something against his own will.'

If Kim Dokja was controlled, then there needed to be someone to stop him from making stupid mistakes that he would later regret. Kim Dokja himself had told Yoo Jonghyuk how he didn't have any feelings for Yoo Sangah so it was perfectly fine to intervene.

Well, Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts went somewhere offtrack but he was pulled back by a certain someone. Not one who was better at not getting offtrack, making excuses and running away.

"...Yoo Jonghyuk?"

Honestly, Kim Dokja just didn't even know where to start with all of this.

Really, really?

Looking at the over the level of usual hotness Yoo Jonghyuk, it was safe to say that it wasn't Yoo Jonghyuk who took the initiative.

But was it really Kim Dokja who took the initiative then? It seemed it wasn't only the alcohol affecting at that time.

If it wasn't for the flustered expression Yoo Jonghyuk was showing, then maybe he would of had the chance to laugh it off? Or at least not take it too seriously. If Yoo Jonghyuk's reaction had been any less than this, maybe they could of passed it of to whatever had taken control of himself.

But now, wasn't it to late for that?

It felt way to late...

Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't very responsive, not that usually was responsive.

'Was he ignoring me or is it that he is too caught up with himself?'

Kim Dokja turned to Yoo Sangah instead.

"Yoo Sangah-ssi, it would be the best if you went to rest."

"..."

Oh, Yoo Sangah-ssi wasn't responsive either, this was rarer.

Kim Dokja waved his hand in front of Yoo Sangah's face.

"Hey, Yoo Sangah-ssi?"

"...Huh, sorry Dokja-ssi."

Good, Yoo Sangah seemed to have recovered at least.

Yoo Sangah rose from her seat and left. Her shared tent wasn't far away and she was soon out of Kim Dokja's sight. Even if she didn't fall asleep right away, there shouldn't be any problem in being overheard.

"Hey."

Kim Dokja tried making contact with Yoo Jonghyuk again. This time Yoo Jonghyuk actually answered.

"...Kim Dokja."

Honestly, Kim Dokja really wasn't expecting much.

"About emm, the lip touching? Do you have anything to say for yourself?"

"No."

Yoo Jonghyuk refused to talk it seemed. Wasn't it you who created this situation?

"No nothing?"

"..."

Yoo Jonghyuk still didn't want to talk about it. If it wasn't for the flustered expression earlier, Kim Dokja would of thought that Yoo Jonghyuk didn't care. Since Yoo Jonghyuk had done this sort of thing before while Kim Dokja... only had experience from what he had read.

"Should I call you Jonghyuk-ah now that you took my first kiss?"

"..."

"Giving my only first kiss to a guy as cold-hearted as you, what should I do in the future?"

Kim Dokja felt that if this was to turn into a serious discussion, the world might just turn upside down. Even if the kiss happened due to special circumstances, it was still a kiss.

A kiss.

Kim Dokja felt himself turning flustered again.

[The exclusive skill 'Fourth Wall' is greatly shaken.]

Oh, yes he still had that skill. Was this wall the only thing keeping him sane at the moment?Kim Dokja felt that might just be the answer.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't move from his spot, neither getting further away nor moving closer. It was as if he was rooted in place. Or more frozen in place.

"Kim Dokja..."

Yoo Jonghyuk had never been good with this sort of talk, never mind talk in general. The words couldn't work in his favor and he couldn't find the words he wanted. It was as if the only words that could roll of his tongue was Kim Dokja's name.

Like all words were forgotten except his name.

"Kim Dokja, I'll take responsibility."

If there was one thing Yoo Jonghyuk wanted, it was that this wouldn't created a distance between them. Having gone through enough with the earlier round, Yoo Jonghyuk wanted nothing more than to stay by Kim Dokja's side to keep him safe.

If they couldn't remain companions after this incident, then that would truly be the worse outcome.

Kim Dokja held his head. Maybe he was overthinking things, maybe he had read too many novels, maybe his fourth wall wasn't doing its work, but didn't it just sound as if he lost his purity?

And Yoo Jonghyuk was asking to take responsibility? Couldn't he just have remained quiet instead and let time take over.

Kim Dokja looked at his imaginary plate and sighed. It seemed his burdens increased.

Because of this sudden event, he had almost forgotten his purpose behind all of this. The reasons for drinking too many cups of alcohol and kissing Yoo Jonghyuk.

The reasons of talking with Dionysus.

The moment the conversation calmed down, the notes all stopped at the same time.

It was a serene silence, like the midnight festival had suddenly stopped. The alcohol bubbles fell to the ground and sparks flew.

It was just too much.

Kim Dokja knew he couldn't just ignore Yoo Jonghyuk, it was just that there really wasn't enough time.

Drawn between Yoo Jonghyuk and Dionysus, it seemed that dealing with a constellation was easier.

As he thought so, alcohol bubbles from before formed a string of words.

-This was better than expected.

Kim Dokja looked surprised at the string of words, all though it wasn't as surprising as what had happened earlier. Although it was indeed a feat for a constellation to be able to have such a massive source of probability. It certainly was a constellation from Olympus.

"It would be better to get straight to the point, God of Wine and Ecstasy."

The alcohol bubbles moved once more and formed another string of words.

-Rude Human.

The string trembled.

-Still, I like rude humans.

Kim Dokja had read Way of Survival. He already knew God of Wine and Ecstasy and what kind of personality he has. It was an easy feat to get on the good side of Dionysus.

-There used to be a human just as foolishly brave as you once upon a time, he could play the lyre very well. Shame it didn't end well for him.

Kim Dokja knew who Dionysus was referring to. There was an obvious answer to all of this.

"I'll be different."

There was no way he wouldn't be.

-Opening the entrance to the underworld isn't a problem, goddess of the underworld will listen to me even if Father of the rich night doesn't like me. However, there is no guarantee for you to come back alive, after all, the rest will all be up to yourself.

"There is no problem."

-Very eager aren't you? Good, I like eager people.

-Keep in mind the fact that I can't only give you a maximum of 12 hours. Anymore than that and your soul may never return to the scenarios.

Kim Dokja realized the scenario might start right now and hurriedly tried to get in contact with Yoo Jonghyuk.

Even going as far as grabbing his shoulders.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, there isn't much time left. I'll have leave for now, look after the kids."

"Kim Dokja, what did you do? Hey-"

[A new hidden scenario has arrived!]

A new wave of dizziness overcame Kim Dokja and he closed his eyes in order to stabilize himself. In the background, the drops of alcohol looked like they where laughing as they floated up and down.

The new string of words that formed was,

-I hope Father of the Rich Night will listen to you.

Chapter Text

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' dies due to nosebleed.]

[The constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' respects incarnation 'Kim Dokja's tastes.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' looks down uncomfortably.]

[The constellation 'Black Abyssal Flame Dragon' isn't used to all the dog food.]

[The constellation 'Scribe of Heaven' needs incarnation 'Kim Dokja' to pay for the hospital bills.]

[Multiple constellations are having nosebleeds.]

[A few constellations are choking on the dog food.]

[A lot of constellations wants incarnation 'Kim Dokja' to pay for their hospital bill.]

[Some constellation in nebula 'Eden' wants compensation for their loss of hearing.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is asking for another.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' sponsors 5000 coins.]

[3500 coins have been sponsored.]

...

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' says good bye.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is praying for a safe reunion.]

...

Looking back at the constellations' messages was a mistake. A foolish mistake.

Yoo Jonghyuk once again blocks it.

Should of never unblocked it.

Definitely never again.

Never.

Except...

Yoo Jonghyuk sits in the place he was left at. The place that was once next to Kim Dokja. Since when Kim Dokja just disappeared Yoo Jonghyuk was unsure of what to do next.

For the first time in this round he felt like he didn't know enough. He regrets leaving Kim Dokja alone, he regrets Kim Dokja leaving him.

In this situation where Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't follow Kim Dokja, Yoo Jonghyuk felt that he was severely lacking.

He wasn't enough? No, he was never enough to begin with.

This might have been a scenario for Kim Dokja and Kim Dokja alone. But the problem that occurred was that Yoo Jonghyuk had no way of even knowing if Kim Dokja was safe, much less being able to ensure his safety.

Kim Dokja is strong. Yoo Jonghyuk has no problem admitting that.

But Kim Dokja still isn't the strongest nor has he gathered all his allies yet.

In a situation where he went to the underworld where the judges reside without protection...

No, he needs to stop worrying.

Kim Dokja is still Kim Dokja.

Kim Dokja will succeed even if Yoo Jonghyuk doesn't thinks he will.

It wasn't that Kim Dokja was unworthy of being Yoo Jonghyuk's companion, it was more like Yoo Jonghyuk was unworthy of being Kim Dokja's companion.

With that out of the way, he should bring out the more problematic problems.

Yoo Jonghyuk was about to search his memories for future scenarios where Kim Dokja dies yet what resurfaced first was a more recent memory. The tips of Yoo Jonghyuk's ears changed to a slightly red color.

Why did this show up right now?!

It would be better to just stop thinking altogether.

...

Meanwhile in the underworld.

Persephone's appearance slowly changed into Yoo Jonghyuk's image. It wasn't the usual Yoo Jonghyuk. This Yoo Jonghyuk wore a black Chinese dress and a garter belt, with seductive eye makeup...

Kim Dokja started to doubt his eyes.

"?!!!!"

Blood slowly tickled down to Kim Dokja's lips. It tasted of iron.

If it weren't for the fact that he knew where the blood came from he would of thought it was from his eyes.

Kim Dokja rubbed his eyes before looking again.

This damn masterpiece.

He should of just died while he was at it.

Yoo Jonghyuk usual cloths were usually black, but this black combined with the Chinese dress and a garter belt...

Subconsciously, Kim Dokja's hand reached down his pocket, wanting to fish up his phone.

Even for a guy, Yoo Jonghyuk looked way to good in a dress. Yoo Jonghyuk's body structure wasn't even close to that of a woman and had no feminine points yet the combination...

This damn motherfu*king masterpiece.

Kim Dokja opened his phone and opened the camera.

As a masterpiece of the infinite universe, of course it needed to be saved.

This was a f-ing heirloom of earth- no, a heirloom of the universe. President universe's heirloom that will bring fortune to all of eternity.

And Kim Dokja didn't stop pressing the button.

If there was any time when he used all his effort and control, it would be now.

After 1000+ clicks, Persephone spoke up.

[There isn't much time so get to the point quickly.]

-click, click, click...

[If you feel uncomfortable then I have no problem changing my appearance to someone else.]

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes squinted and the mouth turned more into a frown. This look was even more like the Yoo Jonghyuk Kim Dokja knew.

-click, click, click...

"Oh no, the appearance is fine. Alright then, I was looking for a soul of a woman. You have probably already heard but I'm willing to make a trade"

...

Yoo Jonghyuk had no idea about the disaster that unfolded in the underworld.

It would be for the best if he never knew.

But there was one very problematic constellation. And that constellation used all her effort to spread a certain photo. If Yoo Jonghyuk did unblock his notifications then maybe he would of noticed a flood that was going on.

But he didn't.

He didn't unblock his notification.

So the new could very well be a big shock in the future.

Except that would be in the future.

...

Secretive plotter also very much hated it. Having to see the one who looks like him dress up in a dress and having that photo get spread around.

It wasn't just being uncomfortable at this point.

He never ever disliked the probability restrictions this much before.

Queen of the Darkest Spring, you should learn some restrain.

...

[Survivors are advised to gather in Yongsan Station.]

A string of letters appeared in front of everyones eyes. It was the announcement of the sixth scenario.

Yoo Jonghyuk watched it with cold eyes. Kim Dokja hadn't even gotten back yet the next scenario already called for them.

Yoo Jonghyuk closed his eyes. If he could just close his eyes and open them, if only Kim Dokja could get back by then. He had waited the whole night and it was already dawn.

His teammates had mostly woken up by now.

They, of course, asked about Kim Dokja and his whereabouts. The answer was the underworld. But it wasn't a answer that could be easily said without explaining.

Currently, Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't in the mood to talk.

Still, they were his teammates. And Kim Dokja had asked him to look after the kids.

Yoo Jonghyuk therefor answered the children.

"Kim Dokja went to the underworld. He will be back soon."

That was all he did for his teammates. He didn't even want to make breakfast like the other days.

If only Kim Dokja could be back soon.

When Kim Dokja went to the demon world for the first time, how did he even endure the weight of time? Just this short time alone was enough to give him such a sour mood. Then there was also when Kim Dokja went to another timeline. The three years was too much pain for him to remember.

It seemed Kim Dokja just won't stop traveling to other worlds while forgetting about him.

Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts only worked to downgrade his own mood.

At that moment, a new low breathing sound next to him. It came out of nowhere. There was no footsteps nor did it come from the sky.

Yoo Jonghyuk opened his eyes in surprise and found Kim Dokja lying down in the spot he had left before.

As heard by his breathing, Kim Dokja was asleep.

Everything must have worked out if he could just sleep like this.

Shin Yoosung, who stayed close to Yoo Jonghyuk, was also surprised by Kim Dokja's sudden appearance.

Even so, she stayed quiet. Kim Dokja was asleep after all.

Yoo Jonghyuk used a low voice and spoke to Shin Yoosung.

"Tell the others we are leaving."

Following Yoo Jonghyuk's instructions, Shin Yoosung swiftly and quietly went to tell the rest of the teammates.

This left Yoo Jonghyuk alone with Kim Dokja.

Kim Dokja's chest moved up and down slowly as he breath in and out. He slept peacefully.

So peacefully that Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to hit him awake.

Yoo Jonghyuk had been waiting in worry and Kim Dokja just get to sleep so peacefully.

The sour mood turned into anger.

Not long after it cold down.

Kim Dokja didn't get enough sleep after all so if he was to sleep a bit longer that would be for the better.

Yoo Jonghyuk picked Kim Dokja of the ground.

And didn't swing him over his shoulder. Instead he held Kim Dokja in the clique princess cary.

Lee Jihye, who had just turned to corner, got a surprise can of dog food.

Her thoughts went: Ohhh god what have I witnessed.

'MY PHONE?! WHERE IS MY PHONE!'

'Uriel!!! I'm begging you, please share this with me later.'

Meanwhile in Eden, Uriel couldn't have been happier. And Eden suffered like there was no next day.

It was an extremely blissful day for a rotten woman.

The kiss, Yoo Jonghyuk saying he would take responsibility, Kim Dokja getting a nosebleed over Yoo Jonghyuk's appearance in a black Chinese dress and garter belt and lastly the princess cary.

'Ahhh, I'm getting ahead of myself. Better add it to the shrine and then there was also the incarnation Lee Jihye. She would like these copies. What more, what more.'

Uriel looks over her many holographic displays, all that shows Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja together.

'Such good memories.'

In the future, maybe she could get more friends to share it with.

'Then it won't just be a simple shrine. It should be a whole museum.'

Future dreams, future dreams indeed.

...

When Kim Dokja woke up, he found himself being carried in Yoo Jonghyuk's arms. It wasn't even the usual swung over the shoulder position he was so used to. With how his view was he had no problem guessing the worst.

It wasn't just about the position he was carried in.

If it were Lee Hyunsung, then it wouldn't be equally as weird.

The problem was that it was Yoo Jonghyuk specifically that carried him.

Yoo Jonghyuk.

Handsome, cold-blooded regressor Yoo Jonghyuk.

The Yoo Jonghyuk he saw in a black Chinese dress just a minute ago.

That Yoo Jonghyuk.

As if sensing his confusion, Yoo Jonghyuk spoke to him in his ear.

"Didn't want to wake you up."

With Yoo Jonghyuk's low voice in his ear, Kim Dokja's ears' tips turned slightly red.

This is so unfair. His heart is too unprepared. He can't handle this.

Kim Dokja was about to speak back when something tugged his heart. Even though he wanted to ask Yoo Jonghyuk to put him down, he didn't seem to have the ability to ask. It was like body stoped his mind.

To ruin the mood, Yoo Jonghyuk put Kim Dokja down in a standing position.

This left Kim Dokja in a state of confusion. Secretly, he felt a bit disappointed.

Chapter Text

When Kim Dokja woke up, they had already travel most of the way there. Kim Dokja didn't sleep much and yet they were still very close by, this was because the way there was originally very short.

Their arrival wasn't very welcomed though.

Most incarnations was ignorant after all.

The incarnations at the scene in front of the teammates all stared at a projected screen. The screen showed other scenarios that occurred in different lands.

Both Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja recognized who was shown.

It was the Japanese.

And the one shown was on of the most popular incarnation. Izumi, that was the name of the man shown on the transparent blue screen.

But that wasn't important.

There wasn't any new information anyway.

The reason for them being here wasn't to watch other incarnation's scenarios, instead it was to select who would join the sixth scenario.

Since the number of participants was limited.

It wasn't that they needed to choose who would go, rather is was that they needed to consult the other kings first before they could make a choice.

At the scene, one of the kings went forward. It was the Neutral king.

"It's been a while Kim Dokja-nim. This should be the first time I'm greeting you formally."

A tall middle-aged man reached out his hand.

“I am Jeon Ildo and I’m called the Neutral King.”

“I am Kim Dokja.”

They shook hand under Yoo Jonghyuk's increasingly cold stare.

Unlike Kim Dokja who willingly shook hands, when the Neutral king looked at him and said,

"Supreme king Yoo Jonghyuk, this should also be our first formal greeting."

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't even try to move his hadn't for a handshake.

He still vividly remembers Neutral king's betrayal. Even if the betrayal wasn't anything large, it was still a betrayal nonetheless.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't even put Neutral king in his eyes.

Neutral king understood the meaning and instead of further embarrassing himself he continued talking with Kim Dokja.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't have any interest in what Neutral king had said, although he didn't look away from where they were standing.

Soon the conversation got to the main point.

Neutral kings goal was to bring Kim Dokja to the gathering of kings in order to discuss who should participate in the sixth scenario.

It seemed that himself being here was just a variable. They probably didn't even want him in the meeting. What was too bad for them in this situation was that Yoo Jonghyuk had no thoughts of separating from Kim Dokja.

The kings had gathered at the center platform of Yongsan Station, where the meeting would hold. The meeting room was in a large tent specifically covered with a soundproof barrier.

There was also guards surrounding every inch of the tent in order to keep it fully secured.

They were the ones he had defeated when entering the tent last round.

This round he didn't need to put everyone under him to enter, it was done smoothly as he just followed alongside Kim Dokja.

The guards that stop his teammates from entering fell from just a glare.

Really weak, Yoo Jonghyuk thought.

Inside the tent, there was plastic- and wooden chairs, even a sofa existed. All used by the kings as a throne.

This was the kind of throne they deserved. Because there was no one here other than Kim Dokja who deserved a real throne.

Another middle-aged man's voice was heard.

“You said that our group has an advantage? South Korea will be a latecomer. Do you think we can deal with those who are already present? However, it will be different if our group goes. I will go…!”

But his voice soon faded as Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja entered.

"It seems like the last kings have gathered."

Stated King of Beauty Min Jiwon.

Kim Dokja gave light greeting to everyone present while Yoo Jonghyuk remained an unmovable ice block the entire time.

Actually, not everyone gathered here were kings.

There was a certain politician seen in the last round, and there was also King of Wanderers.

Yoo Jonghyuk zoomed in on the King of Wanderers.

Last round he hadn't cared much for anyone present, even if the extra seats had been odd, it wasn't as odd as Kim Dokja.

Now that he knew who King of Wanderers was, he wasn't as careless.

“This person called Lee Sookyung is attending for a similar reason. I don’t know if you’ve heard but she is called the King of Wanderers.”

This person was Kim Dokja's mother.

It wasn't just the identity of being Kim Dokja's mother that made her special. Her own achievements last round was very impressive.

It even proved to be troublesome.

Not just when she opposed Kim Dokja but also having to go through everything to keep her alive.

The discussion began after everyone was introduced.

Naturally, Yoo Jonghyuk had no need for an introduction. There was already deep psychological shadows left from when he had beaten everyone up. There was no way they would ever forget him.

It was an unspoken agreement between the kings not to bother the supreme king.

When they spoke it was almost as if they really tried create a opportunity for democracy.

But that was just a joke.

If they wanted democracy, then what was the need for kings.

Soon the discussion broke down. The fierce atmosphere seemed to anticipate bloodshed in any second.

Yoo Jonghyuk's patience was running out.

He had watched enough of these fools fooling around.

"Enough."

Just one word from Yoo Jonghyuk was like pouring cold water over everyone here. From Yoo Jonghyuk's glare to his aura, there was nothing was wasn't threatening.

"I will be the one who announces the people that will be participating in the sixth scenario."

Yoo Jonghyuk's tone left no room for arguing.

Kim Dokja was leisurely standing next to Yoo Jonghyuk eating biscuit.

"Speak if you have any complaints."

The politician was intensive as always.

"Who are you to decide these things...?!"

Yoo Jonghyuk kicked the politician without much thought.

Then he stepped on his back until he passed out.

"Any other complaints?"

The room that was already tense form the moment Yoo Jonghyuk spoke became even tenser.

"Yes, I didn't think so. Then I will being to announce the following participants."

Kim Dokja finished his biscuit and took a beef jerky from the table in the middle.

Yoo Jonghyuk gave Kim Dokja a stare but continued talking nonetheless.

"The first on will naturally be Kim Dokja."

"!!!"

It wasn't just the kings but even Kim Dokja was surprised. He even began choking on the beef jerky.

Yoo Jonghyuk stopped speaking and turned around to help Kim Dokja. He didn't know that Kim Dokja would start choking due to surprise. He should be more careful in the future.

"The second participant is me."

...

"The eight participant is Shin Yoosung."

The names called differed from what Yoo Jonghyuk had said in the last round. But the result was the same. He called out all his teammates, even Yoo Sangah, to help in the sixth scenario.

"...Take care of rest yourself."

Yoo Jonghyuk was finished with the discussion even if no one else was.

He took the opportunity to leave afterwards.

Using his reasoning, he didn't drag Kim Dokja with him.

The situation was very tense and they weren't going to get anywhere with him here. But Kim Dokja still had to decide the last participants.

Yoo Jonghyuk was reluctant but still left.

....

Or, Yoo Jonghyuk didn't fully leave. He only hid outside. He watched everyone exit the tent, only Kim Dokja and the King of Wanderers was still left.

There was probably a mother to son talking in there. Except their relationship wasn't good so they wouldn't even regard the other as nothing more having a blood relationship.

It wouldn't be good to intervene, but that doesn't change the fact he needs to speak to Kim Dokja's mother. It would be easier if Kim Dokja was present at the same time.

Yoo Sangah came up to the tent, but she didn't go in.

'Was she listening in?'

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't approve of the behavior and went to stop her.

"Yoo Sangah, leave."

The tone was low but Yoo Sangah heard every word. She turned around and met eyes with Yoo Jonghyuk.

"But Dokja-ssi-"

"You should leave before you are discovered, you know this behavior is wrong."

Even more so when it's Kim Dokja and his mother who are talking.

"Yes... I'll take my leave Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi."

Yoo Sangah quickly left with light steps, soon it became like she was never here in the first place.

But then he heard the mother and son conversation.

“Dokja. Look straight at reality. Even if fiction becomes reality, you shouldn’t think of fiction as reality.”

'...'

He heard something he shouldn't have heard.

Yoo Jonghyuk's movements halted.

The words spoken hit his heart directly.

It was painful.

He didn't want to think about the meaning of the sentence. He wanted to shut of his thoughts. He wanted to delete his memories.

“Do you understand?”

'Do I understand?'

'I...'

“That’s right. I think that fiction is like reality. Why? It is because I have always been living that way.”

Lee Sookyung's voice in his head was replaced with Kim Dokja's.

'Kim Dokja.... you, what have you gone through.'

'At least Kim Dokja is on my side.'

Yoo Jonghyuk returned his reasoning, he also understood that he shouldn't keep listing in.

He had gotten rid of Yoo Sangah only to do the same mistake.

Yoo Jonghyuk felt that he was completely unreasonable.

He left the area where he could hear anything. He still waited for Kim Dokja though, he won't forget his original goal in keeping Kim Dokja safe.

While alone, Lee Sookyung's words kept flooding his head. The words seemed more imprinted in his mind that he first thought.

'Dokja. Look straight at reality. Even if fiction becomes reality, you shouldn’t think of fiction as reality.'

This fiction, he was obviously the fiction. Alongside his world.

Yes, he had gone through this with Kim Dokja already.

Yoo Jonghyuk already knew he was a character in a novel, to that was how Kim Dokja had learned about himself.

What was painful to him was how Lee Sookyung was trying to pull him and Kim Dokja apart. Regarding himself as something that was only fiction was limiting his relationship with Kim Dokja.

Not only that, it was as if she was warning him that he was fake or that he could disappear at any moment.

She wanted him to look at reality, then would Kim Dokja ever look at him again?

For Kim Dokja not to take these words to heart, Yoo Jonghyuk would do anything for that to happened.

Chapter Text

Kim Dokja soon came out. Although his mood couldn't have been worse.

It wasn't just the disappointment in his mother and himself. There was also the memories which resurfaced. There wasn't any good memories.

Yoo Jonghyuk easily noticed the difference, but since it was expected it only made it easier.

Yoo Jonghyuk came up from behind. He didn't know how to comfort others. He had tried to comfort Kim Dokja multiple times but the was far from used to it.

He looked at Kim Dokja's shoulders. It wasn't thinner than what was normal, it is just that compared to his own, they looked many times thinner. Those shoulders which are thinner than his own but carries a much larger responsibility.

From behind, it also looked lonely.

Kim Dokja was often surrounded by companions who cared more for his life then their own yet he could still look this lonely.

To break the wall that separates them...

Yoo Jonghyuk reached out subconsciously. His larger build surrounding the smaller build. Long arms wrapping around the other's shoulder tightly.

Kim Dokja froze when he felt someone's arms around his shoulders. The breath tickled his ears which slowly became red.

He felt the others body heat right next to his own. It was a different sensation from just being held or holding the other.

'What?'

Kim Dokja obviously hadn't heard anything until Yoo Jonghyuk decided to come up from behind like this.

"You let down your guard to easily."

Yoo Jonghyuk's low voice was right next to his ear.

"No, it is you who is too good."

"As my companion, I can't have you lagging behind."

"You're the one who is behind now."

Kim Dokja retorted back.

And then after did he remember the position he was in.

"What's with the... hug? Or are you planning on doing a german suplex?"

"What would you prefer it was?"

"..."

Yoo Jonghyuk completely ignored him and asked back a question he rather not answer.

Kim Dokja was unsure how to respond. He couldn't just break away if Yoo Jonghyuk genuinely chose to hug him, can he?

If he does that, won't this sunfish feel even more depressed?

Looking at his options, which wasn't many, Kim Dokja choose to hear Yoo Jonghyuk out.

Yoo Jonghyuk was too strong anyway, there wasn't even a chance to get out by force.

He'd rather not get anyone hurt right when they would start the sixth scenario.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

"Kim Dokja."

Kim Dokja sounded Yoo Jonghyuk out. The easiest way to know Yoo Jonghyuk feelings without looking was to have him call his name.

Yoo Jonghyuk mood was to visible when he called him Kim Dokja.

From the sound of it, is he a bit depressed again? But with the combination of caring and longing, what was Yoo Jonghyuk on?

What could of caused Yoo Jonghyuk's mood... There wasn't anything specific that would make Yoo Jonghyuk this way.

"What happened?"

"..."

But Yoo Jonghyuk didn't say anything.

Kim Dokja didn't know what to do anymore.

"Yoo Jonghyuk-ah, did you perhaps he-"

The weight on his shoulder left. The hug was over.

Seemed his guess was correct. Yoo Jonghyuk did hear his conversation with his mother.

"Did you hear everything?"

Yoo Jonghyuk shook his head.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know why he was like this either. The part he had heard had indeed shaken him but hadn't he already gotten over it? Expect when he saw how Kim Dokja looked after he walked out of the tent. He couldn't help but to want to comfort the other.

At the same, he himself also felt comfort.

Could physical comfort really improve ones mood?

Did this work with anyone or just with Kim Dokja?

Yoo Jonghyuk walked into foreign concepts.

Kim Dokja watched Yoo Jonghyuk reaction. He really just looked like a cat. Perhaps Yoo Jonghyuk could be described that way. If Yoo Jonghyuk had cat ears then they could drop when he was sad and rise when he was happy. It would look very cute, unlike Yoo Jonghyuk's usual iceberg image.

Yoo Jonghyuk just stood there and furrowed his eyebrows and frowned slight.

Kim Dokja gazed at Yoo Jonghyuk empty head.

'Maybe wolf ears would be even cuter.'

'The hair looked so soft too.'

'It is probably soft to the touch.'

Kim Dokja reached out his hand to Yoo Jonghyuk's head.

'How can he even keep his hair this soft without shampoo and conditioner? Or is it the protagonist halo again, doing it's work?'

Kim Dokja's hand combed through some individual hairs. It was soft like silk.

In times like these it was easy to forget. Easy to forget who was doing what to who.

After messing up the ebony-colored hair for a bit, Kim Dokja froze before retracting his hand.

'Was he really doing this?! This was Yoo Jonghyuk, handsome, cold-blooded regressor Yoo Jonghyuk. If anyone else than he was doing it wouldn't their hand already be cut off before even touching a single strand of hair?'

He must of lost himself to delusions. It is still in the start of the apocalypse yet he was acting all... intimate with Yoo Jonghyuk?

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' supports the actions of incarnation 'Kim Dokja' and 'Yoo Jonghyuk'.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is asking for more headpats.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' wants incarnation 'Yoo Jonghyuk' to give headpats.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' asks for more comradeship.]

[5000 coins have been sponsored.]

Uriel, do we need to have a talk?

"Why did you stop?"

Cat-like Yoo Jonghyuk would have his cat ears drooped down right now, if he had any that is. A showcase of his mood.

"Inappropriate behavior?"

"Why did you start then?"

"Show of affection?"

Honestly, Kim Dokja didn't know what he answered. Should he just have told the embarrassing truth or continue with this embarrassing lie.

Fortunately or unfortunately, this two people world didn't last forever.

Because of the delayed time, Jung Heewon came looking for them.

"Hey you, stop being all lovey dovey. It just about to start."

The glare from Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't a joke.

"Did I interrupt a kiss or something? Did you finally get together? But you know, surviving is the first priority. So, you better get your ass here right now or else."

...

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' has mixed feelings.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is happy with her incarnation even if she caused an interruption.]

...

A white crystal descended slowly from the Great Hall in the sky.

It was the warp crystal that was needed to get to the area where the next scenario would hold place.

There were five grooves in total engraved in the crystal, each representing a path to another world than theirs.

All lead to the same world but where you end up won't be close to each other.

Two people per groove. Five grooves in total. Ten people had been assigned for the sixth scenario.

Except before anyone could insert the symbols acquired from the disasters, a dokkaebi showed up out of nowhere.

[Wait a minute. I’m really sorry but I have an emergency announcement.]

Yoo Jonghyuk frowned. It was as expected. It had happened before after all.

[I forgot to mention that the number of people who can participate from Seoul Dome is 8, not 10.]

The outcome was expected.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at Kim Dokja, only to meet the others eyes. The signal was obvious for Kim Dokja.

Two people need to drop out and those would be decided by Kim Dokja.

Yoo Sangah and Jung Heewon both voluntarily choose to subside.

Jung Heewon added the unnecessary comment,

"I'll leave the dog food for you."

Lee Jihye gave thumbs up.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't understand what it meant. As someone stuck in the apocalypse for over 1864+ rounds, he didn't have a good enough memory to remember internet slang from his time as a professional gamer.

Besides, was it even Korean internet slang?

Anyway, as continued.

The Protection Symbol of the Imyuntar.

Protection Symbol of the Parasites.

The Protection Symbol of the Jenobel.

And the protection symbol obtained from Disaster of Ice and Disaster of Water.

All was put into the grooves of the warp crystal.

[The qualifications are complete.]

[The Warp Crystal is activated.]

The crystal split into four pieces and a blue colored door was created.

Kim Dokja walked in while holding the hand of Shin Yoosung.

Yoo Jonghyuk took his disciple by the arm and went through as well.

It was just, when Yoo Jonghyuk looked at Kim Dokja holding someone else's hand, a feeling arose in his heart.

He also thought, if he and Kim Dokja went through together, would they also hold hands?

....

Yoo Jonghyuk opened his eyes after going through the blue door.

He felt a slight dizziness but it was nothing compared to what he had experienced before.

In front of him was a green forest and below was brown soil. It could have been a resemblance to earth's forests but he couldn't remember. He couldn't remember the lush forests of earth.

He could image what it looked like but he couldn't make out any memories. It was all to far back.

Except the trees seemed a bit too small for that.

Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to go to where Kim Dokja was right now. But he didn't now where that would be. Also, there was a slight baggage with him.

Lee Jihye was on the side, currently vomiting.

Yoo Jonghyuk patted her back like he had done many times before.

He showed some care for his disciple.

Meanwhile, he took a look at the main scenario.

[The main scenario ‘Abandoned World’ has begun.]

This notification had appeared the moment they entered.

After a quick look through the details, Yoo Jonghyuk judged that the scenario conditions were the same.

Then there shouldn't be any unpredictable events on Kim Dokja's side either.

That would be good if it happened.

Lee Jihye finished vomiting but the dizziness didn't go away immediately. She looked at her master with praise and wonder, wanting to know his secret to staying completely fine.

"Lee Jihye, let's leave as quickly as possible."

"Are you going after your beloved companion?"

"..."

Yes, he was after Kim Dokja. But was the 'beloved' really apart of that?

"It's life and death companion."

"Oh right, gotta be original I see. Ahem, are you going after your life and death companion then?"

"...Yes."

"Better be as quick as possible. Kim Dokja will get lonely without you, can't make him miss you to much."

"..."

What was he hearing?

The 'Abandoned World' is different from your usual world. Here lives monsters and people of a different sizes.

For example, a 7th grade monster would usually reach a height of a house but here it was more like a 9th grade monster comparable earth's animals.

[The 7th grade monster ‘steel wolf’ has appeared.]

The steel wolf was the size of a normal wolf found on earth. If people from this 'Abandoned World' faced this wolf then that would be comparable to the scenarios on earth. But for us outsiders it was just a joke.

"Aren't they kind of cute? Should I ask Shin Yoosung to tame one for me?"

Lee Jihye found that is was not a joke but a cute pet.

"Stupid disciple. Shouldn't you at least ask for something stronger? It will just die before it can get back to earth."

Traveling with Kim Dokja would have been better for his mental state.

He shouldn't be that far away, right?

Chapter Text

The forest didn't cover all of Peace Land. There was plenty of plains as well. In these plains there was major battles currently on going. The battle between incarnations and disasters.

It was as if one was brought back a scenario.

Yoo Jonghyuk and Lee Jihye both entered Peace Land as disasters. Though that identity wouldn't last long.

This scenario had started without any clues. It was only natural that there would be hidden pieces to it as well.

The major battle differed from how Seoul dome had experienced it. The Japanese was using katanas and the Peace Land residences were using bows and swords.

As if time had progressed backwards.

Lee Jihye, as almost every round, was against the Japanese.

In this scenario, the Japanese showed the viscous side that most, if not all, humans had.

Before Yoo Jonghyuk even said something, Lee Jihye had already drawn her sword.

The full fledged attack from someone he had personally trained, the disasters wasn't even allowed to live a second more.

And then, as if thanked by the planet for her good deeds, the scenario penalty activated.

Lee Jihye shrunk.

It started with 5 cm and then she wasn't even taller then Yoo Jonghyuk's waist, a few seconds more and her sight was already at that of the ground.

Hadn't it been like this last round as well.

Yoo Jonghyuk placed his hand inside his pocket and took out a simple set out clothes. The smallest size bought from the dokkaebi bag.

"Put this on."

"Don't look!"

Yoo Jonghyuk turned around. He himself was fortunate enough to have clothes that changed to fit any size but the same couldn't be said about his disciple. Her clothes that had gotten to big for it to fit due to her shrunken size.

The clothes couldn't just be left on the ground either so Yoo Jonghyuk put it in his sub-space pocket.

With Lee Jihye of this size, she couldn't very well just run after him.

In this case she was even more like that of baggage.

Yoo Jonghyuk made the same decision as last time and decided to split up.

"Just stay alive."

He told his disciple before leaving.

In any case, his goal was to look for Kim Dokja first. His goal last time had been to obtain a weapon necessary to kill a certain snake. This time however things had changed. With Kim Dokja loosing the privilege of King of No Killing made him worry even more.

He was also certain about the time it took for him to find and obtain the weapon.

Unlike before, he now knew the exact method, time was therefor further reduced.

This time he obtained could be used to spend time with Kim Dokja.

'Kim Dokja...'

Yoo Jonghyuk gaze met his sword.

The sword was unmistakably covered in red. The blood of disasters.

While occupied in his thoughts, it seemed he had thoroughly dealt with some passing disasters.

His sword was covered with blood but the disasters wasn't dead.

[The Star Stream has detected anomalies from you.]

[Hostile acts against a disaster have... Error.]

[Cannot judge actions as hostile.]

[Penalty withdrawn.]

An unexpected bug had appeared.

Perhaps due to his own thoughts that showed no hostility, but the small person penalty had been withdrawn.

This was why the scenario was flawed.

The scenario penalties you due to hostile thoughts and actions. If one were to act out of role then the penalties would begin.

The reason for this having no effect was simple.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't even acknowledge the disasters one bit. There was no hostility when he drew his sword, no blood lust, no nothing.

Yoo Jonghyuk only thought of Kim Dokja.

At the same time, thoughtless killing was within reason for disasters.

There was another point to add.

All Japanese in this scenario wasn't united. Not in means of refusing to slaughter the small people, but the tyrants and the ones seeking revenge.

Tyrants who killed their own teammates due to the fun of killing. These people deserved death.

There was also more than a few Japanese who entered this scenario precisely for revenge. Those who killed their own teammates for revenge would then turn into small people. And these small people, if one were to kill them would it count as killing a disaster or small people?

Of course it would count as killing small people.

If Kim Dokja wanted to save this planet, then so be it.

Yoo Jonghyuk could still keep his size even if he didn't kill one of the inhabitants.

The small people stuck under clothing, his sword just moved for them without second thoughts.

The clothes dyed in red showed that the Japanese was now dead.

The scenario no longer questioned his motives.

This Japanese belong to the category of seeking revenge, as seen by his size, he had already completed his mission and was already waiting for death.

Three birds one stone.

The Japanese wanted to die, and Yoo Jonghyuk needed to kill that Japanese and small people.

Mutual goals.

Yoo Jonghyuk's steps suddenly halted. A thought that never crossed his mind before appeared.

Not even a second later, Yoo Jonghyuk rushed in the direction Lee Jihye had disappeared to.

Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to swear at himself, why hadn't he thoughts so earlier?

Lee Jihye had reunited with Kim Dokja after she left on her own.

Then all he had to do was to follow Lee Jihye and he would of had no problem locating Kim Dokja.

Yoo Jonghyuk jumped from tree to tree, avoiding all small people and monsters.

Where did she disappear to?

Using [Sage Eye], Yoo Jonghyuk looked for all possible clues.

With the shrunken size of her's, the tracks were even smaller than before. Just why did he teach her to cover up her tracks after herself?

Fortunately, he headed in the right direction, because up ahead he spotted a colony built by the Japanese.

Yoo Jonghyuk refrained himself from entering, he only watched from outside. First he must make sure if Kim Dokja was really here before heading in.

He didn't even get to look for long, shouts were heard and a tornado seemed to have risen from a specific spot.

There was no way that wasn't Kim Dokja.

Using [Red Phoenix Shunpo], Yoo Jonghyuk traversed space. He even got a perfect landing on the one closest to Kim Dokja. His foot, on top of the shoulder of the Japanese dressed as a samurai, pressed down, causing him to fall over.

Kim Dokja gave Yoo Jonghyuk a look of surprise, but didn't stop running.

Yoo Jonghyuk followed closely after.

"Who are you?! No, who cares! Just kill them all!"

"Doesn't matter if you kill them! In any case, we will just become smaller!”

“We will take care of the smaller ones so kill him!”

Shouts heard from the Japanese were directly translated due to the Star Stream, so Yoo Jonghyuk understood every single word said. But understanding the words and listening to it wasn't the same thing.

“Get revenge for the prime minister!”

The prime minister was already dead? That for sure is useful.

A few blades aimed at the back of Kim Dokja, Yoo Jonghyuk blocked each and everyone of them.

The surroundings changed as night time arrived. The trees moved and formed a narrow passage. The Japanese chasing after began to lose their tracks. The forest camouflage had begun.

However, this didn't effect Yoo Jonghyuk and his teammates.

Because someone Kim Dokja had saved guided the way.

“Run to the right at that tree!”

She, Asuka Ren, was someone Kim Dokja had picked up last round as well.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know her identity, it was one of the few identities he didn't know.

For some reason she knew this forest very well, and even Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know why.

When asked by Kim Dokja, all he got was a lie as an explanation.

It was similar to how Kim Dokja answered when asked.

Not long after, the Japanese started to catch up again. However, it was already too late because the forest zone finally ended.

Kim Dokja shouted suddenly,

"Everyone, get away from me!"

Yoo Jonghyuk was momentarily surprised, and at the same time suspected the worst. Even still, Yoo Jonghyuk didn't approach Kim Dokja and could only follow along with the change. He saw his teammates jump off Kim Dokja as Kim Dokja's size decreased.

Understanding what happened, Yoo Jonghyuk let himself calm down a bit.

After all, a worst case scenario could of been Kim Dokja exploding.

Kim Dokja's size changed to that of other small people. So small that he wasn't even bigger than Yoo Jonghyuk's palm. Yoo Jonghyuk picked up the minituralized Kim Dokja.

Kim Dokja felt fragile as he held him in his palm. The small complexation of his looked slightly confused, probably due to his sudden transformation.

The movement of a blade came from behind and Yoo Jonghyuk quickly put Kim Dokja in his pocket before using his sword to block.

The other couldn't hold back his hostility and had already shrunken dozens of centimeters.

"Die!"

The other shouted while once again attacking straight forward with his sword.

Yoo Jonghyuk flicked his wrist and cut of the others arms.

Too weak.

Only a few Japanese had made it through the forest, they would have been easy enough to take care of but their approach suddenly stopped.

Their movements were halted and they couldn't move a single finger.

It wasn't natural.

Yoo Jonghyuk instinctively looked down at his pocket.

Kim Dokja had a paler complexation than before and blood flowed out of his nose.

It was clear whose power was used.

"Run, Yoo Jonghyuk."

He felt that Kim Dokja had done something unnecessary. Rather, it only became worse because he had gotten himself exhausted like this.

Kim Dokja must of misunderstood his situation.

Still, Yoo Jonghyuk retreated as Kim Dokja said.

He could see a fortress further ahead, that must be the destination.

The fortress was very familiar, it was one he had seen before. The fortress belonged to Gong Pildu which had been left behind certain amount of times.

Gong Pildu was also one of the two who crossed to this dimension before the rest of Seoul dome.

Gong Pildu wasn't the only one here.

Many small people had been gathered and attacked the disaster. With the help from shells fired out from turrets, the small people threatened the Japanese enough for them to retreat.

The battle on the small people's side was intense, but to Yoo Jonghyuk, who still had his original size, it was like watching bugs fight.

Yoo Jonghyuk went back to checking Kim Dokja's condition. It hadn't even been an hour that they were separated yet he had already been pushed to exhaustion.

"...Kim Dokja?"

"Did you kill small people?"

"Only the small Japanese people."

"Good."

Of course Kim Dokja would of been suspicions of why he still retained his original size after an hour. After all, if you didn't kill a single small people in that time you would lose your identity of a disaster.

"The wounds?"

"None."

It doesn't seem to be a lie. Yoo Jonghyuk used [Sage Eye] but couldn't find any. Then it must just be overuse of skills and loss of stamina.

Yoo Jonghyuk put Kim Dokja on his shoulder after the check up.

"Shouldn't you let me down now that it is safe?"

"I don't see the reasoning behind it."

"..."

Are you sure that is all there is to it?

A familiar voice was heard next to Gong Pildu.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't turn to look but Kim Dokja saw.

Kim Dokja saw who he didn't want to see.

The other person who had been transported here was none other than the goddess of Peace Land, Han Sooyoung.

Han Sooyoung, who had left after questioning their relationship.

The small people of Peace Land cheered for her as she made her way to them.

Yoo Jonghyuk still didn't look in her direction.

So, Kim Dokja had no choice but to go down on his own. It was only then that Yoo Jonghyuk reacted.

Instinctively, he reached to catch Kim Dokja again.

It wasn't only Kim Dokja who got dumbfounded by Yoo Jonghyuk actions.

"...Don't go"

Yoo Jonghyuk's voice was low but everyone had no problem hearing what he had said,

After careful consideration Kim Dokja agreed.

Only, how was he supposed to talk with Han Sooyoung this way?

"Aren't you very close now, huh?"

Han Sooyoung couldn't hold herself back.

"Not even a hello? Are you stuck in your two person world again? You know what, bastards, you're still ugly in my eyes."

Chapter Text

After meeting Han Sooyoung, goddess of Peace Land, they headed towards the castle. Yoo Jonghyuk reluctantly let Kim Dokja down as it was inconvenient to chat in such a manner. Still, even if Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to follow, he couldn't.

It was the inconvenience that came along side strength; fear from the ones you're protecting.

Although in reality, he didn't care much for their safety at all. He had already once murdered everyone in cold blood once before.

Yoo Jonghyuk settled down just outside of Veronica castle. Not putting up a tent or something similar, just sitting against a tree. This simple setting was something he was used to.

Honestly, tent and sleeping bags were like decorations for him. It was something he played along with because others in his party wasn't used to the cold hard ground.

There was one time when Lee Jihye had questioned him.

"Master, as the Supreme King, isn't it unfitting of the title if you just sleep directly on the ground?"

At the time, he hadn't thought at all about something so minor.

Survival was the only thing he thought of.

Survival of him and his teammates.

And to get to the end of the scenarios.

But that was then. Now he had Kim Dokja.

The night passed silently, or so it could of been.

Yoo Jonghyuk had been fully prepared to be left alone, after all, his teammates and Kim Dokja could sleep in Veronica castle.

He seemed to have drawn the wrong conclusion.

It could be said that it was all natural, leaving ones companion to sleep on the bare ground while oneself sleeps in a castle, it wasn't something someone calling themselves a companion would do.

"Kim Dokja, why are you here?"

"I can't be here?"

"...do what you want."

The small figure of Kim Dokja gradually got closer. Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze never left it one bit.

"If you keep staring at me like I'll get...?"

'No, what will I get?'

Kim Dokja stopped his words.

'Get embarrassed?'

It was a natural response to being stared at, yet he didn't want to put it into words.

'Being stared at by Yoo Jonghyuk, shouldn't one be scared? And with my current size... Why would I get flustered instead?'

"Yoo Jonghyuk, about tomorrow, what are your plans? Surely you're planning on getting the weapon, yet you still came to me? Wouldn't that just decrease the amount of time you have?"

Although his main reason for coming to Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't what he was talking about, He felt that it was still necessary to clear up.

"To protect you, why else?"

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't emit all of his thoughts. He came partially because he was worried, and also to protect Kim Dokja. In this point of time there were too many dangers. Too many unpredictable dangers.

One of which Kim Dokja would be meeting tomorrow.

"Why do you have to say it so naturally. It is almost as if I would die in an encounter here?"

"..."

This silence, did he awaken any memories?

"Wait, I didn't die here, right?"

"...No."

'Hah, what are you making me so nervous for?'

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at Kim Dokja, he hadn't moved since he started speaking. Standing close but still at a distance. The distance was uncomfortable.

He reached his hand out, slowly closing his fingers around Kim Dokja's body. Only, Kim Dokja evaded his touch.

"I can walk on my own."

Instead of being held in Yoo Jonghyuk's hand once more, he lightly jumped up to Yoo Jonghyuk's shoulder. With Yoo Jonghyuk's broad shoulders, there was no problem sleeping there.

He stretched out before laying down on his back. Even if it wasn't as soft as the beds in Veronica castle, yet, it brought a different sort of comfort. Something not easily described in words.

Of course, being able to lie down on the protagonist's shoulder wasn't anything Kim Dokja would of imagined in his wildest of dreams. At a point in time, just being able to meet Yoo Jonghyuk was like a dream itself.

Everything that had happened past the point of the start of the scenarios was almost dream-like.

It wasn't a dream to be desired, no, maybe this was how he desired the world to be.

Yoo Jonghyuk's voice tickled his ears. It was really too close at times.

Kim Dokja had been enjoying the benefit of monopolizing for quite some time. From what was described in the novel, Yoo Jonghyuk had never been talkative. It wasn't that he was talkative now, it was just that he spent his time talking to Kim Dokja and no one else.

From his looks to his voice, Kim Dokja truly enjoyed monopolizing it all.

From the time back when met with the prophets, he had wanted to brag about Yoo Jonghyuk. Not just Yoo Jonghyuk's looks or skills, he wanted to brag about all of Yoo Jonghyuk. It was as if Yoo Jonghyuk was his possession.

Yoo Jonghyuk's voice had been something he couldn't enjoyed because it was just a novel. Now, being able to hear his low-pitched, masculine voice, Kim Dokja cheered in his heart.

"Are you really sleeping with me?"

"I couldn't just leave you all alone, could I?"

"Then, stay with me..." from now on.

The last part was gone with the wind.

Kim Dokja closed his eyes as he rested on Yoo Jonghyuk's shoulder.

Yoo Jonghyuk moved slight and fixed his posture so that Kim Dokja wouldn't fall off.

This position reminded him of another regression round. The corners of his mouth twitched slightly.

He liked that Kim Dokja could depend on himself, by lending him a shoulder. Because he had been dependent on Kim Dokja for the longest of times, he felt the need to do something in return.

At least like this, he could be of some use.

-Kaa

The wind blows quietly.

Neither of them spoke for a while. Enjoying the silence in their own way.

...

Han Sooyoung looked out of her bedroom's window. The scenery kept reminding her that it wasn't her world. Even if she was called goddess by the population, she couldn't stay.

That wasn't her biggest problem though.

She moved the wine glass in her hands, making the wine in it twirl.

Tsk.

Han Sooyoung clicked her tongue.

Just this amount of alcohol wasn't enough to get rid of the after taste of dog food.

It was a shame that this wasn't a time when could drink until she didn't remember what happened.

The worst problem wasn't even the fact that they spread dog food everywhere they went.

Neither was the constellations supporting this.

The most irritating, infuriating thing was that they didn't even know anything.

Yoo Jonghyuk, a regressor who had already experienced everything.

Kim Dokja, someone who read the whole novel.

They both had enough knowledge to make the universe bow, yet the two still didn't know anything.

No nothing.

Absolutely infuriating.

Those bastards, what kind of clue would they even need.

There is only one thing on both their minds, Kim Dokja only thinks of Yoo Jonghyuk and Yoo Jonghyuk only thinks of Kim Dokja.

Outside, Yoo Jonghyuk is sitting by a tree with Kim Dokja on his shoulder. It was clear in view for someone with the right skills. Beyond the darkness of the night, they were being as intimate as ever.

Tsk.

Han Sooyoung clicked her tongue again.

Disgusting.

Absolutely disgusting.

This wine is already ruined.

Being bothered by a couple who doesn't even know they're a couple in the middle of the apocalypse. One would question ones own priorities.

But this was about a power couple who is destined to destroy the universe. How could she not think about it? It was easier said than done.

Her mood just worsens.

...

The next morning, Kim Dokja gathered all party members at the entrance of Veronica, telling all of them about the plans he had.

Lee Hyunsung was the first to speak up after Kim Dokja finished explaining.

"Surely, you're not going with just Jonghyuk-ssi?"

"No, these two will follow along as well."

Kim Dokja pointed at Han Sooyoung and Asuka Ren.

Lee Jihye asked.

"Then, what are we supposed to do Ajussi? Master?"

"Have you check the updated scenario? You and Hyunsung-ssi are in charge of guarding it until we come back."

"Yes, I'll fulfill my mission. Meanwhile, Ajussi when are you planning on making the next move?"

"Didn't I already tell you, we are heading out right now?"

"No, not that kind of move-"

Lee Jihye was mercilessly cut off by Kim Dokja.

"Hyunsung-ssi, there is Gong Pildu but it will be hard to stop the disasters with Armed Fortress alone. Sorry to have to leave the responsibility to you..."

Lee Hyunsung was just happy to be relied upon.

"Don't worry, Dokja-ssi. Protecting the base is my specialty. I won't disappoint you ."

Kim Dokja felt relived upon hearing Lee Hyunsung's words. After all, the scenario they are going to be facing will be much more difficult than what he was going to face.

But there was one more thing he was worrying about.

"If you see the ‘snake’ of the first group, don’t confront him head on. Flee Veronica Castle if you have to. Can you promise me this?”

“I promise.”

Kim Dokja turned to his kids. Lee Gilyoung and Shin Yoosung looked at him with expecting eyes. He patted their heads as he spoke.

"Your missions are to delay time as much as possible. Therefor, secure and tame as many insects and animals as you can."

Lee Gilyoung and Shin Yoosung nodded.

"Yes Hyung."

"I understand Ajussi."

With that out of the way, they finally departed from Veronica.

Not even that far away, Han Sooyoung could finally ask her question.

"So, where exactly are we going?"

Kim Dokja, who was getting a lift on Yoo Jonghyuk shoulder, answered,

“The eastern rocky zone.”

The startled Asuka Ren told Kim Dokja. “The Japanese has already occupied that area.”

“I know. That is why I brought you with me."

"Do you even trust me?"

Of course not, the one Kim Dokja trusts is Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk and his ways of torture.

But that wasn't something that could be said out loud.

"I don't trust you. I just want to get back the value of saving your life."

"... I understand."

Since Asuka Ren had come to a understanding, then there was only one more idiot left to deal with.

"Are you cursing me?"

Han Sooyoung had sharper senses than ever before.

"I only called you an idiot."

"We'll see who truly is the idiot here shortly."

Han Sooyoung seemed to have her own plans.

"If I'm the idiot, what is the one you're riding on?"

"A bastard?"

"You idiot. Yoo Jonghyuk, take your sword back. He was the one who called you that, not me. Damnit!"

But it was too late, Yoo Jonghyuk's sword was already drawn and he was prepared for a blood bath.

Chapter Text

Only after delivering a clean cut to Han Sooyoung's neck was Yoo Jonghyuk satisfied. It was a shame that Han Sooyoung appeared again right afterwards.

Killing becomes more difficult each day that passes.

After the passing of a clone and Han Sooyoung's return, they went back to discussing their next move.

The rest that followed was simple.

Yamata no Orochi, Sovereign of Eight Heads. The King currently possessing the Absolute Throne of Japan. The King was a incarnation who had sold himself for the power of a constellation. The King's soul was already stolen and what was left was a mere shell for Yamata no Orochi to control.

In any case, what they need to do was to get rid of the King. Expect, the body was controlled by a constellation and could handle more probability then what was allowed in the current scenario. Then how would it be possible for it to be defeated?

The plan's main goal was to meet this person capable of balancing the probability.

"Although Japan's king is in the rocky zone, he isn't someone we can deal with without preparations. We're going to be meeting someone else in the rock area."

Kim Dokja said right next to Yoo Jonghyuk's ear, he was still sitting on his shoulder after all.

"It is a strong person from Peace Land."

Of course, not everyone could except this answer. Han Sooyoung retorted.

"Are you kidding me? A strong person from Peace Land? Peace Land? This is Peace Land we're talking about! Can't you see how weak the people who live here are? There isn't even the sight of a third-rate swordsman, let alone a swords master! And magic, the only magic they would ever be able to use is lighting their stoves on fire"

Yoo Jonghyuk understood Han Sooyoung's confusion. If he didn't already know about it, he would of thought who ever said it was lying. Well, if it was Kim Dokja saying it, it might have been more believable. Or at least it would of been a half-truth half-lie.

"This isn't even a third-rate novel, one could tell just by staying in Veronica for a day. There is also how this world is a gathering of weak people, almost as if someone had maliciously gathered them only for slaughtering. I honestly don't understand. Why did the dokkaebi's even make this world a stage? Is this an alternative idea to give coins?”

Han Sooyoung made multiple fair points. Still, Yoo Jonghyuk didn't appreciate her analogy. Because, he was originally from that of a novel.

Kim Dokja interjected the upset Han Sooyoung.

“Relax. This world wasn’t made by the dokkaebis.”

“What?”

Yoo Jonghyuk raised and eyebrow. This was new?

Asuka Ren hesitated for a moment before bowing. “I’m sorry.”

Han Sooyoung seemed to realize something and Yoo Jonghyuk had a strange feeling.

“Wait, don’t tell me?”

Asuka Ren slowly nodded. “…Peace Land is a world I created.”

"..."

Kim Dokja made a mental face-palm. Aren't you going a bit too far with revealing information?

Han Sooyoung was in absolute disbelief.

Yoo Jonghyuk kicked Han Sooyoung away.

"Yoo Jonghyuk! When will you ever stop?!"

"You had such a stupid look on your face."

"Shut up and give me time to digest all of this."

Even if the statement Asuka Ren gave made him surprised it wasn't time to stare blankly. Besides, wasn't this whole world a story? Han Sooyoung also knows this, yet, she still makes a blank look like that.

"Haah, the novel I made became reality anyway."

Han Sooyoung mumbled to herself after some time. Then, after that, Han Sooyoung began to scold Asuka Ren. This showed that she truly was a writer. A senior author giving a junior author a scolding, like a modern day scenario.

Asuka Ren ended up half crying while Han Sooyoung pulled out her sword. It sure escalated quickly.

Yoo Jonghyuk was getting ready to kill Han Sooyoung for the third time since they left Veronica, but Kim Dokja stopped him.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, you noticed, right?"

"You want me to take care of it?"

"Yes."

Kim Dokja jumped off Yoo Jonghyuk's shoulder, much to Yoo Jonghyuk's disappointment. Yoo Jonghyuk unsheathed his sword and took a stand. Since Kim Dokja wanted him to get rid of the disasters, there was no other choice but to follow his words.

Kim Dokja took Asuka Ren and Han Sooyoung, and fled.

Well, it was about time anyway.

Since he hadn't killed any small people for quite some time, wasn't this the perfect time then?

Yoo Jonghyuk readied his sword and charged forward. It was only four people, this should be done in no time.

The Wind Shadow Squadrons movement was light and quick, very specialized. It was a shame that their opponent was even more specialized.

Yoo Jonghyuk's first movement was very blunt, this led the Wind Shadow Squadrons to believe he wasn't very skilled. But the distanced crossed in the short time was really to fast. Just as Yoo Jonghyuk was in range of the assassins' attacks, he disappeared from their view.

For one of the members of Wind Shadow Squadron, Yoo Jonghyuk cut of his legs. Limiting his movements. He only needed two of them alive.

He used |Red Phoenix Shunpo] and appeared next to another assassin. He aimed for the legs again. The member of Wind Shadow Squadron nimbly tried to dodge but was caught up in the attack, this rendered his legs useless. The member who completely lost the use of his legs took out a long range weapon and aimed for Yoo Jonghyuk but Yoo Jonghyuk cut off the projectile directly with his sword.

Two left, Yoo Jonghyuk counted.

At this point the members of Wind Shadow Squadron began to realize that they didn't stand a chance and that they had totally underestimated the enemy.

"Scatter!"

At least they had to get back to report the information about the enemy. Even if the assassination attempt was a failure, they need to still be able to secure information.

One.

The last assassin didn't even realize that the other had already died. Not until his view changed did the thought dawn down on him.

'Who is this absolute monster?'

Zero.

.

With this over, Yoo Jonghyuk went to over see the two assassins. Both had already shrunken a considerable amount. But they weren't small people yet.

"Kill the guy over there."

Yoo Jonghyuk stepped on his back to assert dominance.

"Just use your gun."

.

Taking down the four members of Wind Shadow Squadron took less than two and a half minutes. Half a minute had been use to make the two remaining members of Wind Shadow Squadron kill each other.

In a total of three minutes, everything had been properly dealt with. Yoo Jonghyuk even had time to wipe the blood off from his blade.

There was no blood on his clothes.

Time to get back to Kim Dokja, was Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts. With just a five jumps using shunpo, Yoo Jonghyuk had already arrived back at their side. At that moment, the surrounding air started to go though a change and an unusual cold swept through the area.

[Who are you?]

The critical moment was already gone yet he still chose to appear. The presence alone was that of a constellation. Pure white lightening struck close but didn't hit anything, it showed a clear warning.

Yoo Jonghyuk recognized the voice. The one who had gotten very close to his own teacher. He was also the teacher of Kim Dokja.

[I will ask again. Who are you?]

The strength behind his voice was undeniable. Yet, he was still a small person of Peace Land.

His name was Kyrgios Rodgraim of Peace Land. And he was one of the strongest returnees in Ways of Survival.

.

Yoo Jonghyuk could clearly see his figure in the sky, it was a small person with long, sky blue hair. He also happens to be one of the few who Kim Dokja considered more attractive than himself.

As Yoo Jonghyuk studied Kyrgios Rodgraim, Kyrgios Rodgraim also studied them.

[Interesting. You gave up your existence for another planet?]

This question was solely for Kim Dokja even if it applied to others. It was clear who Kyrgios Rodgraim showed favor to.

Then, Kyrgios Rodgraim turned to Yoo Jonghyuk.

[You succeeded in keeping you size despite spearing the residence of this planet, impressive.]

The amount self control Yoo Jonghyuk showed by keeping back all his bloodlust was more than impressive enough to notice. At least with this much he was able to attract Kyrgios Rodgraim's positive side even if it was less than a second.

[I’ll let it pass just once because of your courage. Take that woman away.]

An attractive offer for those who can't stand up against one of the strongest returnee, yet, Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk didn't even have a single thought of accepting it.

"I have something to say to you."

[…Say?]

Kyrgios Rodgraim was the reason they came here, and Kim Dokja would leave until he achieved his goal.

[Do you think you are in a position to talk to me?]

However, Kyrgios Rodgraim only showed an arrogant side.

[Your dare oppose the White Storm?]

The White Storm let out a partial bit of his status. A pressure that could crush any incarnation in this scenario under his feet. This all was directed against Kim Dokja. Even Yoo Jonghyuk felt himself being infected by it.

His mental barrier went of immediately but the pressure easily surpassed it. Yoo Jonghyuk's only defense left was his years worth of experience.

Yoo Jonghyuk kept a expressionless face as he stood still.

He couldn't help but to glance at Kim Dokja's small figure. It wasn't that he didn't believe Kim Dokja could handle the pressure, he was just looking for injures from the previous battle.

Even when he had engaged in battle alone, Kim Dokja had somehow hurt himself again. Just from this he could tell that Kim Dokja's wrist was broken and that he right now was close to passing out due to dehydration.

[…You endured it? How? Do you have the protection of a higher being?]

Kyrgios Rodgraim was curious.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't look up but could tell from his words alone. Kim Dokja changed the subject and began to explain his reason for seeking Kyrgios Rodgraim out.

“Kyrgios. This world needs your help.”

Kyrgios’ expression changed.

[This is why you came looking for me?]

“That’s right.”

[The small person…]

The small person constellation showed its presence.

[A small planet’s constellation is looking tearfully at Kyrgios Rodgraim.]

[A small planet’s constellation has sponsored 10 coins to Kyrgios Rodgraim.]

Kim Dokja saw the notifications, it was going just as he had planed.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't see the notifications because he had already turned it off. His only focus had been Kim Dokja this whole time. He just wanted them to stop talking so he could care for Kim Dokja's broken wrist.

Chapter Text

The conversation soon ended. What happened of it was that Kim Dokja in convincing Kyrgios, although Kyrgios hadn't completely agreed yet. Everything was still under Kim Dokja's control.

Except Yoo Jonghyuk who took Kim Dokja under his control.

Since Kim Dokja had somehow broken his wrist by doing absolutely nothing, it was Yoo Jonghyuk role, his own choice, to treat Kim Dokja. In the first place, doing first aid was something Yoo Jonghyuk had mastered long ago. Even if Lee Seolhwa was the best of the group, Yoo Jonghyuk still wasn't far behind.

Yoo Jonghyuk took out the splint he had stored in case of emergences, only to realize that it was a tad too big.

With how Kim Dokja was the literally smaller than it.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked between the splint and Kim Dokja, his first thought was to tie the whole Kim Dokja to it instead. Well, there was no way that was going to work. He then opened the dokkaebi bag and searched for splints.

There was all kinds of splint there, the biggest on was multiple kilometers long, and the shortest not even a millimeter.

The kind of splinter seemed to have been made for bugs. Maybe something Lee Gilyoung could use in the future.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked around the rocky area only to be disappointed. There was no good spots to rest, at least for someone of his size.

In the end, Yoo Jonghyuk took forward a blanket he had stored and used it as a seat pad.

There, he quietly sat and dexterously helped Kim Dokja put the splinter on.

Not even two hours later, Kyrgios was already back with his tsundere attitude.

This time, however, he had used some energy to speak in a human voice.

"The White Storm has already been wiped out after I left. I don't know if it still exists."

His first sentence referred to what Kim Dokja said about requesting the White Storm school's master to take him as a disciple.

"Also, I have decided to receive you as my disciple."

Kyrgios left after saying just paragraphs. It was obviously not because he was in a hurry, so just why did he continue to leave just like that?

Yoo Jonghyuk thought about it only to come to the conclusion he might have had the same attitude in the past. Leaving without letting others talk and being overbearing. The attitude might have come just from his personality alone.

Anyway, after helping Kim Dokja with his broken wrist, he went back to using his phone. Not even a broken wrist could stop Kim Dokja's addiction to his phone, maybe two broken wrists wouldn't be enough either.

Kim Dokja's phone had shrunken in size as well, this was a side effect of storing it in his space coat. It was very convenient.

Kim Dokja's thumb seemed to scroll through something, but all that was visible to Yoo Jonghyuk was a black screen. Yoo Jonghyuk realized his limitations and that he was still stuck under the Star Stream's control.

"Are you reading?"

Kim Dokja was startled by Yoo Jonghyuk question, only to remember how Yoo Jonghyuk already knew about Was of Survival.

"Yes."

Kim Dokja thought of how his answer was lacking and asked back,

"You wan't to hear about it?"

Of course, even if Kim Dokja did say it out loud, there was a big chance that it would all be censored. Still, he couldn't help but to ask.

"No, it is my life. I don't need to hear about it from anyone else."

"That's correct, it is you life after all. I'm actually surprised you still let me read it."

"As long as it you, then is fine."

Yoo Jonghyuk thought about it a bit more and then added,

"You should just keep reading it and hold it in your heart. Don't let anyone else hear about it."

Kim Dokja replied,

"It is important information about the scenarios, if it all get out then there would be too many variables."

Kim Dokja's answer was logically correct, but Yoo Jonghyuk felt dissatisfaction in his heart. Clearly, this what was he was after, yet, he still wanted another answer. But what this other answer was, Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know. This Yoo Jonghyuk's mood even more complicated.

And it was just in time for Han Sooyoung to arrive.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, did you learn a new pick-up line? What did you mean by having your everything in Kim Dokja's heart? Honestly, it's too cheesy, I'll write you a book later on how to create pick-lines so that I don't need to hear this sort of thing in the future."

"..."

Han Sooyoung eyed the dense bastards she had to work with. Jokes aside, they might really need a book on relationship advise. Seeing as they don't even have a single clue on the subject. Yoo Jonghyuk should at least be somewhat aware, shouldn't he? He has been married before so why can't he pick up the hints?

She was honestly speechless when Yoo Jonghyuk left the tent saying he embarrassed Kim Dokja. Having traveled far and wide in search of a proper mentality to handle this bull sh*t, Han Sooyoung was determined not to falter due to the denseness of her teammates. Yet is is absolutely infuriating having to watch them go through every only to go back to route one again.

Yoo Jonghyuk's expression didn't change, and Han Sooyoung couldn't read his true feelings, yet his actions from the times with Kim Dokja made everything obvious. Kim Dokja might think he knows Yoo Jonghyuk so well but he still can't see Yoo Jonghyuk reaction towards himself.

Han Sooyoung eyed Kim Dokja's reaction. It was, although faint, a slight blush on his cheeks. It seemed he at least understood her words.

"I see that I haven't killed you enough."

Then Yoo Jonghyuk went in with the kill threat again.

"Bastard, can't you take a joke?! Jeez, and here I come to give you advice but all I got was a threat. But if you say so, then I'll take my leave."

Well, no, not actually. Han Sooyoung was just waiting for a time when Yoo Jonghyuk was alone.

With Han Sooyoung gone, Yoo Jonghyuk enjoyed his time with Kim Dokja. Expect another distraction came.

Kyrgios Rodgraim, who had just accepted a new disciple and fixed up some training equipment, came to get Kim Dokja. So that Kim Dokja could start training today.

Although the training equipment would probably be just decoration in the end.

"My disciple, you shouldn't be wasting your time. Come, let me teach you the basics."

Soon after, Yoo Jonghyuk was left alone again. With no one left to socialize with, Yoo Jonghyuk made the best use of his time. Since Kim Dokja was training he could slack of either.

But at the same time, he wasn't prepared to do any physical exercises. With his current height, he would only bother everyone around if he started throwing punches or using a sword.

Instead he started to meditate to build up his power from the inside.

Three days quickly passed.

In these three days, Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk had both been training to the bone. Kim Dokja making the same movement again and again, while Yoo Jonghyuk meditated and increased the level of his skills. And at night, Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk would sleep against each other.

The three meals a day had been brutally reduced to two meals a day because of Kyrgios. And since Yoo Jonghyuk didn't have a say in this because of his lack of strength, Yoo Jonghyuk could only try to make extra amount for Kim Dokja instead.

Kim Dokja might of suffered bullying from his new teacher, but at least he got to eat however much food he wanted that was personally made by Yoo Jonghyuk.

Yoo Jonghyuk's home cooked meals were the greatest delicacies in the whole of Star Stream after all.

It was peaceful here at Peace Land.

But on the third day, when Kim Dokja had finished training for the day, Yoo Jonghyuk was nowhere to be seen.

Kim Dokja first started to look around and even asked Asuka Ren if she had seen anything. Of course the answer was as expected.

"Yoo Jonghyuk? We never talk about anything, let alone seeing each other's shadows."

Since Asuka Ren was just a disappointment, he went to find Han Sooyoung instead.

"Have you seen Yoo Jonghyuk?"

"Yoo Jonghyuk? I don't know, that bastard always leaves without saying anything?"

Han Sooyoung was looking extra suspicious today. But there was no lie in her words, so she truly didn't know where Yoo Jonghyuk went.

Kim Dokja was left to make his own guesses.

If this was the usual 6th scenario, then where would Yoo Jonghyuk be?

As someone who had finished the whole novel, this question was easy to answer. Since Yoo Jonghyuk had left like this, he could only presume that Yoo Jonghyuk planned on getting the weapon that was needed to defeat the snake.

And as to why he hadn't left earlier? Kim Dokja couldn't figure out a good answer.

.

Actually, what had happened earlier on the third day was rather simple.

Han Sooyoung had been getting along with Asuka Ren just fine, as a senior writer she showed her junior how to improve and gave accurate criticism.

Just, it was getting boring with only Asuka Ren.

Any other bastard would of been more entertaining.

This made her miss that Yoo Sangah couldn't follow with to the 6th scenario. That sweet smile of hers and her shining eyes, she missed it so much.

Anyway, in order to entertain herself, she went and found Yoo Jonghyuk. Kim Dokja wasn't one she could interrupt when training but with Yoo Jonghyuk... well, she had no problem being a nuisance to him.

Remembering her earlier thoughts, about how she should give advice to Yoo Jonghyuk, she thought she should give it a try. Or at least try to help him gain higher EQ.

"Hey!"

Han Sooyoung called out to Yoo Jonghyuk, who was currently meditating. Because if she didn't say anything, the bastard Yoo Jonghyuk would only ignore her.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

Yoo Jonghyuk reluctantly opened his eyes and gazed at her small figure.

"There is something important I need to talk with you about."

"Is it about Kim Dokja?"

'Is the only important information in your mind about Kim Dokja or something?'

Thought Han Sooyoung as she secretly judged Yoo Jonghyuk.

"It is, actually."

"Then say it."

At least he isn't in a bad mood. But this sort of talk, shouldn't it be taken slowly?

"This isn't something that should be said directly, I would recommend you to prepare your heart first."

"Prepare my heart? Did Kim Dokja die again?"

Yoo Jonghyuk subconsciously frowned. If Kim Dokja had died again, he wouldn't know what to do. But judging by Han Sooyoung's expression that didn't seem to be the case. She was neither angry or laughing.

"No, that didn't happened. But actually, it might be better to ask you this first."

Han Sooyoung took a deep breath before asking,

"What do you think of Kim Dokja?"

Chapter Text

"What do you think of Kim Dokja?"

Han Sooyoung had seriously asked Yoo Jonghyuk this question. As much as Yoo Jonghyuk likes to pull out his sword at her he still new that this wasn't the time. So, he honestly chose to answer.

"He's a deceitful bastard."

"I can't argue with that."

Han Sooyoung felt that is was a description perfectly fitting of Kim Dokja. Except what she wanted was to pry open more of Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja's relationship.

"This wasn't exactly the answer I was looking for."

Han Sooyoung was a writer, she had no problem changing her wording if needed. But with Yoo Jonghyuk and love, she felt that she needed to be more direct with him.

"Then, what do you see your relationship with Kim Dokja as? I don't want to hear just 'companion' from you."

Not just a companion? Yoo Jonghyuk didn't need to think about it and straightforwardly told Han Sooyoung,

"We're Life and Death Companions."

Not only was it a companion, it was 'life and death companion'. Han Sooyoung looked at Yoo Jonghyuk like he was a idiot.

'Fu*king chunni answer you gave.'

Feeling the look Han Sooyoung gave him, Yoo Jonghyuk raised an eyebrow.

Forget it, there was no use in getting worked up, Han Sooyoung thought to herself. There was a reason she needed to be here after all.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, you been trapped by your narrow vision, not noticing how everyone else around you feel. Just a single look from a third perspective is enough to notice."

"...Han Sooyoung?"

"I'm not saying Kim Dokja isn't your Life and Death Companion, what I am saying is that you need to figure out Life and Death Companion means as a relationship status. Remember how you were once married? But now you don't even look at her, you just follow Kim Dokja around all day long. I'm afraid you might not be as straight as you think."

"Han Sooyoung, genders is a limiting worldview made up by humans. Do you think that I would care about what humans think of genders?"

"No, I'm talking about sexuality. Your sexuality to be exact."

"My sexuality isn't something for you to question."

Yoo Jonghyuk felt that the conversation wasn't going anywhere, obviously Han Sooyoung had something important to say. But it wasn't even about the scenario or Star Stream. Instead she kept talking about him and Kim Dokja. Was there some sort of hidden point he was supposed to get out of this?

He stood up and was about to leave, yet Han Sooyoung didn't let him go. She stood short in front of him. Almost asking to get stepped on. The temptation surged Yoo Jonghyuk's heart.

"Hey, Yoo Jonghyuk! Listen, don't you think you're escaping reality a bit too much?! I came here to sit down and talk it out with you! Yet you don't even give me a bit of your time? This isn't done for me but for you!"

Although she spoke with such confidence, her true motive was for herself. She is a selfish person at heart. Of course, this sort of thing isn't unchangeable. Without realizing it herself, Han Sooyoung had started to let other people into her heart.

Yoo Jonghyuk's steps halted.

"For me?"

"Yes, you!"

"I don't need it."

Merciless rejection. Han Sooyoung wondered why she even tried this in the beginning.

"Fine then, if you ever have love problems in the future then don't find me. Clearly because I'm so useless to you."

After that, the both of them went separate ways.

...

Kim Dokja, of course, had no idea what had transpired. All he knew was that Yoo Jonghyuk had left. This left a perfect opportunity to use his phone and look at some forbidden pictures. Forbidden pictures that shouldn't be looked at when Yoo Jonghyuk was any where near.

The red blood flowed down and touched his lips. It reminded him of when he first took the pictures.

The first thing he needed to do was to sort out the best ones and set the absolute best one as a background. Therefore he will never have to separate his sight from it. Besides, the constellations couldn't see his phone so this was a perfect opportunity.

Shame that he couldn't get pictures from more angles or poses. If in the opportunity arises in the future... No he shouldn't think of what he might do.

Kim Dokja was very flustered with himself. What thoughts had entered his mind? What forbidden thoughts had entered his mind? If it continues this way, he might just have to consult that rotten archangel. But that would probably the worst case scenario.

No, this should be a natural response to the beauty of Yoo Jonghyuk.

If you are not attracted to Yoo Jonghyuk, then something must be wrong with your brain.

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' wants to know what you're thinking about.]

"That idiot fool."

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' says she already guessed.]

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' wishes you luck with your feelings.]

Kim Dokja watched the indirect messages and felt that they weren't very indirect. Did the misunderstanding just deepen?

"No, Uriel, this isn't what I meant."

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' gives a doubtful look.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' shakes his head.]

[The constellation 'Prisoner of The Golden Headband' pulls his hair in frustration.]

[A few constellation are wondering about you denseness.]

[A few constellation are narrowing there eyes at your face.]

[3000 coins have been sponsored.]

Kim Dokja's wallet got fuller, but his shame also rose. No, wait. In the first place, how should he even clear up the misunderstanding? Although Uriel wouldn't know his thoughts about Chinese dresses and garter belt, he can't just admit tastes.

That alone would be even more shameful. On top of that, if Uriel took it into consideration and made Yoo Jonghyuk wear it...

Kim Dokja's licked his lips and tasted the iron. His feeling were very complex.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk quickly strode though the the forest, and looked back only once. What Han Sooyoung had said made him leave earlier than he wanted, but at the same time he couldn't stay much longer anyway.

It also made everything so much more complicated between him and Kim Dokja.

Han Sooyoung's words just kept sinking deeper into his heart and mind.

It made him want to shut everything out. Yet he couldn't do something so cruel.

Each time he remembered the sentences she uttered, his face flushed and his heart beat speed up. This abnormal response was to foreign to him. He just didn't know how to respond.

'Life and Death Companions.'

It was what he and Kim Dokja had regarded each other as. But in reality, did any of the two of them truly know what it meant?

[The fable 'Life and Death Companions' has begun its storytelling.]

As if summoned, the fable 'Life and Death Companions' revealed itself. It didn't appeared often, let alone when Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't with Kim Dokja. Yet now, it had begun its storytelling.

Words drifted around, words written in the fables Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja created. It was their story. Not just a story solely about Yoo Jonghyuk, not a story solely about Kim Dokja, it was the story of Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja.

A story were both of their destines intervened. Intervened in each other.

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes couldn't help but widened when he read what the fable showed him.

His heart's speed that accelerated, accelerated even faster. His steps also became faster, almost as if running away from something. Was he nervous? No, this wasn't a emotion he'd ever feel.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't know what to think.

All he could do was to continue to read the lines that appeared before his eyes. A gaze that never left their stories.

...

The glossy violet ornamental knife looked cheap. Not fitting for a weapon he was going to use.

Of course, it itself had its purpose like most other weapons. How else was he going to kill that snake?

Usually it wouldn't even take a day to reach the place where this cheap knife was at, but today he had started much later. There was also the fat of how he hadn't done anything against the small people in a length of time.

He had now turned into the size that Kim Dokja was. The same short size.

That means no more holding Kim Dokja in his palm for a while. Yoo Jonghyuk felt a slight disappointment.

Well, for a while. As long as Kim Dokja gets the skill then it will be possible in the future as well.

Yoo Jonghyuk narrowed his gaze at his palm.

...Kim Dokja.

.

No, it wasn't time.

Yoo Jonghyuk picked up the cheap glossy knife and shoved it into his pocket.

"Lets leave."

He said to himself as the walked of into the forest once more.

Unsurprisingly, he had been followed.

Fortunately, it gave a chance to test his skill. He wasn't very used to fighting at this level, should be good to test his strength at bigger opponents.

Yoo Jonghyuk pulled out his sword and aimed it at his opponents. They look about the same as the shadow assassin squad he had faced before, or whatever name they had.

...

Kim Dokja had rushed over to Veronica castle with Han Sooyoung and Asuka Ren. Since a week had passed, he had succeeded in learning what he needed. Or he had succeeded in stealing his teachers skill. Whatever way you want to look at it.

“Kyrgios has noticed. Hurry.”

While running, Asuka Ren kept glancing back to the rocky area. Han Sooyoung noticed this and asked Asuka Ren.

"Are you sorry?"

"Huh?...No."

“Don’t you feel that it is weird? It is probably the first time you saw a character that you made.”

“…Yes.”

“Furthermore, he is handsome. Don't you agree Kim Dokja?"

Han Sooyoung pulled Kim Dokja into the conversation like a sly snake. Since Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn't work with her, Kim Dokja would become her target.

"Yes, undoubtedly."

"More handsome than Yoo Jonghyuk?"

"That... what are you trying to get out?"

Hesitant, Han Sooyoung noticed Kim Dokja's reaction. If someone got in between Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja, would that help them get closer?

"Ah right, Dokja-ssi. I have a question.”

Han Sooyoung gave a disappointing look at Asuka Ren. Why couldn't she read air? Throwing of the conversation she was trying to start just like that.

“Yes.”

“How did you gain Kyrgios’ favor?”

Hah, Han Sooyoung took back what she said. At least she didn't switch of topic completely. This could work too.

“His favour?”

“I got the impression that Kyrgios liked Dokja-ssi.”

“…Huh?”

“Kyrgios acts angry when he likes someone.

Han Sooyoung halted half a step but continue running nonetheless. Maybe Kyrgios was a better rival than she first thought. With this kind of progress, the two might actually realize their feeling before the end of this scenario.

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' is closely listening.]

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' urges incarnation 'Han Sooyoung' to say something.]

[3500 coins have been sponsored.]

Uriel, just stick with Lee Jihye. I beg of you.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk rushed through the forest of Peace Land. At this moment, he had become unsure of what time it was exactly. Before when he had arrived, Lee Jihye had been in danger, if he were to appear any later then that would cause mortal wounds.

The speed at which he traveled go faster the more time that passed. In the distant he could see smoke rising and cannons firing. It was clearly Veronica which was being attacked. The king of disasters had already arrived.

Not even a few second later, he witnessed the snake with eight heads and a tail open its mouth and gulp down nearby small people. Luckily, non of them were any of his teammates.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't slow down a second and continued to move at a high speed towards Veronica, the snake's movements were similar to that of before, at this point he should be able to directly cut of one of its heads.

One of the heads were turning in that of a different direction, from the looks of it it could be seen that it had found its target. Thinking about how Lee Jihye had gotten attacked before, he assumed that it must be Lee Jihye who was seen.

But just as it was opening its mouth, it suddenly changed direction.

That included all other heads. All heads were pointing in a single direction. It must of been very threatening. With one glossy knife Yoo Jonghyuk prepared Splitting the sky swordsmanship. A single cut wouldn't have been enough, if all heads were aiming for a single person, even if he could cut of a head, there would still be seven more.

The gaping mouth of 'Sovereign of Eight Heads', Yamata no Orochi, shot towards a single point. It was a matter of a moment and whatever was aimed at would be eaten alive.

Yoo Jonghyuk felt a great panic in his heart and instinctively active [Red Phoenix Shunpo]. He didn't understand this panic, but he didn't have time to think of the reason. All of his focus was on stopping Yamata no Orochi. At all costs, at that.

The glossy knife slid across one of the throat of Yamata no Orochi, directly cutting of. The movement didn't stop there. The knife moved in a arc and cut deep wounds in another head, the closest head was met with a fierce set back as it was directly blocked. It got pushed back and troubled and blocked the other heads. With no chance of attacking because of the entanglement, Yamata no Orochi was stunned for barely over a second.

In this time, Yoo Jonghyuk used Giant Body Transformation and once again attacked with the violet glossy knife. The knife was smaller than the sword he usually used, but Yoo Jonghyuk showed great efficiency in welding it.

Yoo Jonghyuk changed his grip on the knife and attacked in a reverse grip. The knife cut the monster Yamata no Orochi like tofu. There was only a single creature that could be cut like this with this knife.

The weapon showed outmost efficiency against Yamata no Orochi specifically because of its own myth. But unlike the myth, this Yamata no Orochi only had a single tail.

In the midst of the confusion, Yoo Jonghyuk attacked once again. He slid across the throat of the snake and dodged the single tail that tried to attack him. Having to look out and not get eaten by these several heads made it even more difficult to see who got attacked.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't even get the chance to look back before for the throats of slithered and tried to squeeze him in place. The head with deep wounds was slightly slower and couldn't escaped getting cut again by the glossy knife.

Two head were down, five left to perish.

The Giant Body Transformation was very limited on time, Yoo Jonghyuk choose to show his swordsmanship once more. Splitting the sky reached a perfect state as it gushed out ether, enveloping the blade of the knife. It was flashy and spectacular. It was unlike that of just a battle, it was more of a stage play with Yoo Jonghyuk as its protagonist.

Four left to perish.

Yamata no Orochi had originally been enjoying devouring small people of Peace Land but was now faced to deal with a protagonist. Yamata no Orochi's anger had finally risen to its peak, and the slaughter of the protagonist made Yamata no Orochi furious.

It howled and released its presence as that of a constellation. The pressure, Yamata no Orochi thought that the worm wouldn't be able to take it and die. But the worm wasn't that of Yamata no Orochi's expectations. Instead of stopping, it continued injuring it.

The glossy knife moved in a arc following the moment of Yoo Jonghyuk's wrist, it was the final cut before Giant Body Transformation was lifted.

The snake head disappeared before it could even touch the ground.

There was three heads left.

Yamata no Orochi breathed out fire and poison, which Yoo Jonghyuk hastily dodged. Yoo Jonghyuk even succeeded in avoided the tail that had hit him last time.

Since the effect had worn off, Yoo Jonghyuk was now exhausted. Like this, he wouldn't be able to keep dodging. Yoo Jonghyuk took a few quick steps before jumping of the snake heads.

At this moment, he couldn't finally see who was targeted by the monster snake.

'It was you.'

Yoo Jonghyuk eyes couldn't hide his feelings. And at the same time, Yoo Jonghyuk thought of his worries.

"Why didn't you dodge, Kim Dokja?"

It was inevitable that Yoo Jonghyuk would have asked this of him.

"You're late, Yoo Jonghyuk."

Kim Dokja showed him a shit-eating grin, like it was all as Kim Dokja expected. Yoo Jonghyuk landed next to Kim Dokja, standing face to face. It was as if they had already forgotten about the three headed snake in the background.

"Kim Dokja...this was all your plan? Getting yourself in danger."

"Yes, it was."

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't like being used, but his heart couldn't help but soften when he thought of Kim Dokja. Having been used so many times by Kim Dokja already, wasn't he used to it?

"Setting myself up like this, are you ready for the consequences?"

Yoo Jonghyuk eyed Kim Dokja from top to bottom. Obviously he was searching for injuries. But from the onlookers perspective, it was as if Yoo Jonghyuk was checking him out. But in the two-person world, both were too dense to notice.

"We'll talk about it after the battle."

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't think Kim Dokja understood his words, clearly, these 'consequences' could be whatever. Yoo Jonghyuk's mind went back to when he said he will take 'responsibly'. Kim Dokja didn't seem to understand most of his words.

"By the way, Yoo Jonghyuk, lend me Totsuka-no-tsurugi."

Yoo Jonghyuk gave his glossy knife to Kim Dokja without hesitation. It was clear that the trust between them were soul-deep.

It was a shame that they didn't have time to talk further, because Yamata no Orochi showed no signs of stopping its attacks.

[...Cheeky...worms.]

The true voice of the constellation came as a dawning thunder. This voice wasn't something normal people could endure. The closets of small people all died, their internal organs rupturing.. Yoo Jonghyuk quickly glanced around. He immediately spotted multiple of his teams, most if not all was suffering from headaches and their ears were bleeding.

Several of his teammates were also throwing up blood. It was a gruesome sight.

Yoo Jonghyuk turned back to face Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja wasn't nearly as effected as everyone else. Just like Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja had his own mental wall as protection.

Kim Dokja might be looking very fine as he was standing straight on his two legs, his white coat fluttering from the wind. But Yoo Jonghyuk knew that Kim Dokja had still been effected, his face was slightly paler and small sweat drops were forming. Even his hands were shaking slightly.

Yet, Kim Dokja didn't take a step back, instead he took steps forward. The steps showed his determination to fight, all confidence he had flowed through his veins. Yoo Jonghyuk watched Kim Dokja's back getting further away, but he didn't make a move to follow.

Yoo Jonghyuk knew.

Kim Dokja knew.

This battle was now all in Kim Dokja's hands.

The fluttering got more intense as Kim Dokja activated his trump card. Pure white lightning rose around Kim Dokja, building up and enveloping around him. His black hair was no longer visible, all that was left was pure lighting.

This skill that Kim Dokja had used countless times, he had once again obtained.

The presence surrounding Kim Dokja rose up unbelievable levels that shouldn't be possible before the tenth scenario. It made Yamata no Orochi, who had been so confident, question the fairness of the scenario.

Kim Dokja took a single step, then another. He was already in front of Yamata no Orochi. Then after the third step, he had already left Yamata no Orochi behind himself.

A white storm had been following each of Kim Dokja's steps. Releasing more power the more steps he took. Without even looking, Yoo Jonghyuk knew that this power was beyond what the current Kim Dokja could handle. Even if the distance created by a mere three steps was so large, Yoo Jonghyuk could still see Kim Dokja's figure which was shaking heavenly.

The worry within Yoo Jonghyuk resurfaced. But he was once again powerless to do anything about it.

The power he had harnessed alone wasn't enough to take care of the King of disasters, making it so that Kim Dokja would have to sacrifice part of his body.

Yoo Jonghyuk clenched his fists. Will he ever be enough?

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes narrowed in on Kim Dokja. Will he ever be enough for Kim Dokja?

Words touched his lips but he wouldn't let it out.

[The constellation ‘Sovereign of Eight Heads’ is shocked by incarnation 'Kim Dokja's' swordsmanship.]

In just a moment, Orochi had one head left and was floundering from the pain. Yoo Jonghyuk saw as two heads perished without leaving any traces.

[The constellation ‘Sovereign of Eight Heads’ is questioning the fairness of the scenario!]

Sparks filled the air as the probability was dancing, it showed the interference of a intermediate dokkaebi.

[Geez, a person of noble blood looks so ugly.]

The intermediate dokkaebi Ganul had appeared just as Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja had expected. Ganul looked down from above, in the dokkaebi's eyes, all life except the snake was like ants. And the snake of noble blood was only ugly in Ganul's eyes.

[…Ah, really. I can’t just watch. This is a big problem.]

[The constellation ‘Sovereign of Eight Heads’ is shouting with anger.]

[Hrmm, you can’t make an impossible demand. As you can see, you’ve used up all the probability allowed in this scenario. ‘They’ can’t lend you any more power.]

Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze covered the single headed snake. The battle was just about over. At this point, he was about to be left out. Having nothing to say in the first place, Yoo Jonghyuk remained by himself in silence.

Chapter Text

The roar let out by Yamata no Orochi covered all of Peace Land. It was a roar of the humiliation it had suffered.

"Protect the king!"

The Japanese all rushed towards their king. But they couldn't be of any help.

Yamata no Orochi was preparing the final verse. The dokkaebi became panic when it realized what Yamata no Orochi was trying to accomplish.

[Hey, no! Wait a minute! Constellation, what are you going?!]

Signs of a probability storm formed and curled around Yamata no Orochi's incarnation's body, it was a ominous current.

The dokkaebi became even more panicked, enough to start stuttering.

[Turn back now! The bureau, this is an emergency!]

At this point, those who knew what was happening all turned and looked towards the sky. In the sky, the great hall opened.

If you weren't looking then, you're definitely looking now. There was a restless sensation arising from deep within the great hall. The surging waves of consisted of, chaos, disorder and a void. It was the origin of all fear that was leaking out. And this existence was lending its probability to Yamata no Orochi.

Yamata no Orochi' body's size grew as the probability used increased, soon the body of Yamata no Orochi would cover the castle, and then after that it would cover all of Peace Land.

[Measuring… sword…!]

It's thunderous power of its voice brought the inhabitants to their knees. No, not just the inhabitants, Kim Dokja, Kim Dokja's teammates and even Yoo Jonghyuk didn't mange to stand up. The force to make everyone kneel was just that dreadful.

Yoo Jonghyuk tried to move the muscles in his legs, but there was no response. To be this weak, not even being able to stand up...

Then Yoo Jonghyuk looked in the distance.

'Why is it him?'

'Freely being able to move through the sky, yet I'm stuck to the ground unable to move.'

Kyrgios Rodgraim, the only existence right now that could stand in between Kim Dokja and Kim Dokja's death.

He spoke with arrogant words that no-one could ignore.

[Since when could a god from another world intervene in the scenario?]

He was the absolute being born from this planet.

[Don’t get involved in my planet’s matters, if you don’t want to confront me where my story began.]

The White Purity, Kyrgios Rodgraim.

Yamata no Orochi shouted out at the absolute being.

[You, monster of this world! Get lost!]

Yamata no Orochi's mere attempt to stop the the absolute being all went down the drain as Kyrgios soared through sky complete unaffected by a narrative-grade constellation. Pure white lightning stretched out to Kyrgios as he flew through the sky, it was a spectacle.

The tentacles that Yamata no Orochi had sent out was all broken when Kyrgios showed his true strength and forcible closed the door to the great hall. Instantly, Yamata no Orochi's power started to plummet, and along it came the decrease in size.

[Ah..no....you!]

Kim Dokja didn't mis the gap and used his remaining strength to release the power that Kyrgios wielded. At that exact moment, all ether poured towards the single glossy violent blade that Yoo Jonghyuk gave to Kim Dokja. And then, Kim Dokja used his final steps left that could be taken and surpassed the constellation.

Something belonging to that of Yamata no Orochi's incarnation rolled on the ground. Then, the shadow of the constellation scattered into ashes. The last thing that could be heard was the constellation's painful scream as it faced the reality of its death.

After that, several notification pupped up for everyone present.

The sixth scenario had finally come to an end.

...

The battle had come to an end and the inhabitants of Peace Land prepared an outdoor banquet. Veronica was decorated and it now had a festive feel to it, unlike before when the despair was deep and the blood bath covered all of Veronica.

Meanwhile everyone had already started the party, Yoo Jonghyuk helped Kim Dokja gather all the alcohol necessary for the ceremony.

There were lots of secrets in all these places, many of which Yoo Jonghyuk would gradually learn from Kim Dokja.

None of the two had dressed up, both still wore their clothes from the battle. If it weren't for their coats self-cleaning and self-regeneration, they would have been wearing blood for the banquet.

In any case, there wasn't any one to comment on this. Because in this apocalyptic scenario, who would have spare clothes for partying?

Actually, there was a certain someone who cared about this.

"Master, this is the perfect gathering to dress up a bit more appropriate. In this medieval Europe setting, wouldn't it be a waste not to wear something more noble?"

Lee Jihye had started nagging her master about his clothes. Although the black coat was fitting and didn't at all let her master's looks down, how could she not ask him to dress more properly? A noble's clothes could only enhance his figure and face, there was no harm to be done.

Yoo Jonghyuk gave her a side ways glance but continued carrying the alcohol. He didn't understand why she would suddenly start nagging like this. What had changed for her to ask him of this?

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't find his answer and only continued to carry the alcohol content from the cellar to the outdoor party.

"Listen to this, Master. If there would be anyone happy to see you dressed like a noble, it would definitely be ahjussi! Don't you want to see his embarrassed look?"

His steps temporarily halted. Kim Dokja's embarrassed face? It was an attractive offer.

"Were would you even clothes from? Using coins would be a waste."

Using coins for such a small thing, Yoo Jonghyuk expressed his logical conclusion. Though, his heart thought differently. Kim Dokja's embarrassed expression is priceless, this sort of deal was too profitable.

Lee Jihye immediately saw through her master's words. Was he willing to participate? She would never let such an opportunity go.

"Han Sooyoung-ssi offered to use the clothes in the royal bedroom. We should go there right now. Royal's always have many spare clothes, there isn't a way for there not to be unused clothes in your size."

Lee Jihye's eyes showed her great expectation. They were practically glistening.

Being persuaded by his disciple, Yoo Jonghyuk nodded.

Before leaving, he handed all the alcohol to the people who worked in the Veronica castle. After making sure that all the alcohol would be properly delivered, leaving a few threats under his breath, Yoo Jonghyuk followed the brat he raised upstairs.

She opened the door leading to the royal wardrobe.

"This here is beautiful, absolutely stunning. Why isn't everyone wearing this all the time?"

The moment she laid her eyes on the outfits, she was reminded why she wanted her master to wear it.

"The red colored outfit is popular, but you would fit better in the dark blue outfit. But at the same time, wouldn't the black be an even better choice? Green and white is already out of question. Yellow was never an option to begin with. Actually master, you should choose an outfit depending on your own tastes. Or you could choose something ahjussi likes, the decision is up to you."

Even if Lee Jihye wanted to pick clothes for her master, her master wouldn't allow it anyway. So, she dashed out of the room, slamming the door behind. Only leaving a slightly confused Yoo Jonghyuk behind.

He slowly moved his hand alone the lines of clothes, there wasn't anything particular eye-catching to him. Even if the clothes were stunning themselves, if was enough for Yoo Jonghyuk to wear it.

Secretly, Yoo Jonghyuk opened the dokkaebi bag. Even if he said he wouldn't spend coins on something so small, he had already changed his heart. Everything would work out fine, he just needed to convince his disciple that the clothes were from another wardrobe if anything.

The collection that the dokkaebi bag had was naturally higher, the choices was also spread out. Yoo Jonghyuk quickly went through everything and picked the one he thought was the best. The main color of the royal clothes had been that of onyx, it looked imitating but at the same time it carried a sense of hidden beauty.

After just a dozens of seconds, the new royal-like clothes had already been put on. The remaining items had been placed in the pockets of the coat.

Carrying only a coat, Yoo Jonghyuk left the room. Not so surprisingly, Lee Jihye had already left to go somewhere else.

At this point, Yoo Jonghyuk realized he might just have been caught in one of her schemes. But there wasn't any evidence of it, so Yoo Jonghyuk quickly left behind that thought.

The castle hallways that had been buzzing with people going back and forth earlier, was now completely empty without a single soul in sight.

Was everyone already at the party?

Yoo Jonghyuk walked steadily in his long boots that showcased the length of his legs.

Even as he reached the entrance of the castle, there still wasn't anyone in sight. This was unnatural but there wasn't anything to fear so Yoo Jonghyuk didn't pull out his sword.

Beyond the castle gates, Yoo Jonghyuk met a pair of onyx-like eyes. The deep black pupils started right back at him, the moment they made eye contact, the eyes instantly softened. His equally black hair was hanging right above his eyes, making only partial of his eyebrows visible. It was that same hairstyle he always wore. Yet today it felt more impactful.

Kim Dokja before him had raised his lips into a smile in anticipation. The hidden ears grew redder before spreading across his cheeks.

Before him, Kim Dokja was wearing similar royal clothing, the only real difference was that main color. While Yoo Jonghyuk's suit was black, Kim Dokja's was a clean white color, just like his coat.

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes never left Kim Dokja. He slowly approached, his gaze checking out Kim Dokja from head to toe.

Unknowingly, Yoo Jonghyuk's lips also rose into that similar to a smile. It was unlike of that of when the threw Kim Dokja off the bridge, this happiness in his heart came from something else.

Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't understand the feeling, but he now knew that it was only when he was with Kim Dokja that this feeling grew. Similar to how only the fable 'Life and Death Companions' was about him and Kim Dokja, these feeling were only for Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk was now close enough to whisper to Kim Dokja.

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

Kim Dokja could also whisper back.

"Matching clothes?"

"Both of us are cheating them."

Kim Dokja's situation seemed to be similar to that of Yoo Jonghyuk's situation.

"No, we are being cheated by them."

Yoo Jonghyuk finally realized. The wardrobe had been made so he wouldn't find anything, the suit had also been deliberately put out by an anonymous user, this would have been done by Uriel. Going through this much effort, Yoo Jonghyuk had to give it to them.

"Should we beat them up?"

Yoo Jonghyuk asked this but at the exact same time, loud explosions were heard far up in the sky. The sky was blooming with fire works. White, blue, red, yellow, green, the sky was filled with all sorts of colors. There was no coordination to be seen.

If he was to guess, Lee Jihye was the one responsible for the fire works.

The loud fire works clouded his words, Kim Dokja couldn't make out the sentence but it was easy for him to understand what he was trying to say.

"There are never ending opportunities for that. Yoo Jonghyuk, look at me. Isn't there something more fitting before that?"

Kim Dokja paused Yoo Jonghyuk's lips by putting his finger on it. Letting Yoo Jonghyuk reach his own answer.

"You're asking for your punishment?"

Kim Dokja coughed twice.

"No, I am asking you to take responsibility."

Chapter Text

Han Sooyoung sighed to herself as she saw Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja fighting together. The two shared looks and had such great understanding with each other. Even the words spoken could be interpreted very wrongly. The two were too lovey dovey for her to deal with in a proper way. Since she had already become the goddess of Peace Land, this was the perfect place to set up her plan.

She had already talked to and insinuated Yoo Jonghyuk. The next one on the list was Kim Dokja. But unlike Yoo Jonghyuk, Kim Dokja had an easy time shutting himself off from reality. Getting some sense into him would take even more effort.

Another part of her plan was to get help from Lee Jihye and Uriel. Lee Jihye could easily come in contact with Yoo Jonghyuk and Uriel had the power of a constellation on her side.

Both of them would be more than willing to help out with her wingman plan.

Unknowingly, Han Sooyoung had been wearing an evil smile on her lips as she went through the idea in her head.

...

After speaking with Lee Jihye and Uriel, Han Sooyoung went and found Kim Dokja.

The preparations for the banquet had only just begun, meanwhile Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk were mending each other's wounds. Han Sooyoung didn't do much but had already found the not so couple-couple.

Like a good wing-woman, Han Sooyoung waited until Kim Dokja was alone.

Honestly, she just took another walk around the castle. She wouldn't deal with watching those two together. Of course, in the case where she came, she had quite some bad luck. Having seen those two being close enough to kiss, yet not doing anything, her frustration rose to the max easily.

Not just the way their faces were up against each other, but also how Kim Dokja was sitting on Yoo Jonghyuk's lap.

Was there anyone who would ever look at them and say they were just companions? Or was she as a writer lacking understanding of what the word 'companion' meant?

When Yoo Jonghyuk finally decided to leave, Han Sooyoung immediately jumped down the wall. Successfully startling Kim Dokja.

"Han Sooyoung, were you watching?"

Kim Dokja turned around and faced her. Not so secretly putting away his phone into his pocket.

Han Sooyoung scoffed in her mind, did you think I wouldn't notice? Those pictures of Yoo Jonghyuk aren't just your secret anymore. Well, there was also the question how he got the pictures but it wasn't something she could just ask out loud. In fact, it would probably be better if she didn't know.

"Of course I was. And it was painful, let me tell you. You two, what were you even doing here?"

"Mending wounds? We can't just leave wounds untouched. Since we'll need to start fighting again soon."

"Mending wounds? Do you take me for a fool?"

Han Sooyoung looked at the foolish Kim Dokja, like the fool he was. Kim Dokja sensed her gaze and understood that she was definitely cursing him under her breath.

"Do 'companions in life and death' have a special way of treating wounds together? How come I have never heard of this before?"

"Han Sooyoung, it is a misunderstanding. We don't have that sort of relationship!"

"At least you have some understanding."

She sighed to herself.

"You know, just a few words could change your relationship."

Her words were brutal. Kim Dokja's denseness had been proven over and over, this was a natural way of dealing with the denseness.

"No, why would that ever happen? Yoo Jonghyuk and I? That could never happen. You know that better than anyone else."

"What is there that is even stopping you in the first place? It is not that Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn't agree if you asked. Nor is it because of the scenarios?... Tell me, it can't be because you still just see Yoo Jonghyuk as a protagonist in a novel?"

If that was the case, she should've prepared to have an even longer conversation than this. Actually, a speech might be needed.

"No, it is none of that. Yoo Jonghyuk, he is a real person. Not a character. I will never take him as a novel character ever again."

"If it's not that, then what is stopping you?"

Since the wall separating reality and fiction was already losing its power, then what was stopping Kim Dokja? Han Sooyoung was a writer but even she had to ask this question.

"Don't say it's because you are shy?"

"Emotional trauma and shyness isn't the same thing."

Emotional trauma? This was new. It was true that they didn't know each other the best yet, having not talked about their pasts at all. Although Han Sooyoung had been suspecting his identity, she still didn't know about what had transpired in his childhood.

"Han Sooyoung, do you think this love is fleeting? Just a fleeting moment for Yoo Jonghyuk? It is just, there are so many chances for everything to go wrong. If I fail, then wouldn't Yoo Jonghyuk have to regress over 1800+ times? Either I will be forgotten with time or just cause hell for Yoo Jonghyuk. I have already failed once. Although I don't know why, it still doesn't take away my failure."

Han Sooyoung's gaze looked into Kim Dokja's eyes. Trying to capture everyone of the thoughts flying out from inside. At this point, she could no longer just stand there. She got down and sat next to Kim Dokja.

"You are depressing Kim Dokja. Creating all these scenarios. You know, so far you have done a good job. You have been great Kim Dokja. There isn't a need to put yourself down like this. Your thoughts only show how much you care for him, not wanting to plague his mind is only a part of your care."

She expressed her own thoughts for once. Opening up her thoughts and letting out some care in Kim Dokja's direction. Even going as far as coaxing him a bit.

"Kim Dokja, your worth isn't something only you can see. We all value you, a lot. We all do. And Yoo Jonghyuk treasures you even more. Yoo Jonghyuk has shown his care with physical actions, and you showed your care for him for being considerate about how he was feeling with all of this. Between the two of you, there isn't a way to measure who loves the other more."

Kim Dokja heard Han Sooyoung, her words were loud and clear. It was to the point where it wasn't only his ears listing but his heart also took it in.

He couldn't remember when all these feelings started... No, there was never a start. It felt like it had already been there before the beginning. The way he looked at Yoo Jonghyuk, did it ever change? Did he look at Yoo Jonghyuk this way back on the bridge? Or was it even before then?

The realization wasn't something that came abruptly either. When his feelings became stronger he would question it, but never think of why these feelings came.

Right now, with Han Sooyoung confronting him, he felt nervous. Nervous in a way he hadn't felt in a long time.

And at the same time, he felt torn open. Like he was just an open book that Han Sooyoung could tore open at any time. Han Sooyoung had even begun writing in the book that is himself.

But now, unlike before, he no longer felt that way. Instead, she had tended all the wounds she could find. The tearing was like placing back a dislocated bone, then after that came all the caring he would need. She didn't ruthlessly make fun of him, put him down, pit against him.

Kim Dokja saw Han Sooyoung in new light.

"Han Sooyoung. Thank you, thank you for everything. I needed this."

He genuinely smiled at Han Sooyoung, for the first time.

...

Having made Kim Dokja emotionally stable, Han Sooyoung felt that she also needed to be pampered. Having missed Yoo Sangah everyday since arrival, Han Sooyoung felt the need to be even more with Yoo Sangah in the future. Even if she was just one-sidedly thinking of Yoo Sangah this way she had no thoughts of giving her up. One day, she would definitely become hers.

Although those were thoughts for the future. Right now she was leading Kim Dokja to the wardrobe. Having set up Yoo Jonghyuk with the use of Lee Jihye, Han Sooyoung had to personally take care of this herself.

"Kim Dokja, I suggest that you switch clothes for the occasion. I mean, you are switching clothes. There is no question about it."

Han Sooyoung shoved Kim Dokja into the room and then dusted off her hands.

While she was waiting, Lee Jihye came to find her.

"Han Sooyoung-ssi, I did as you said."

"Is Yoo Jonghyuk switching clothes right now?"

"No, he is probably searching in the dokkaebi by now. Do you want to delay it further or should we ask Uriel right now?"

"Give it another minute. Anyhow, before you said you wanted fireworks with this?"

"Fireworks is something I want, it is something I need. If it wasn't for Master, I would have also put roses on the ground and spread candles everywhere. Don't you see? I'm holding myself back a lot. It is all for their happiness."

"I'll leave the spectacle with the fireworks."

"I will not not disappoint you, Han Sooyoung-ssi!"

With this, Lee Jihye left to make her own preparations.

Not even a minute later, Kim Dokja came out of the room. He was dressed in white royal clothing. The one Uriel put out in the dokkaebi bag.

It was just as planned.

"If you are done, let's leave."

"Wait, Han Sooyoung! Aren't you going to say anything?"

"Yes, the suit suits you."

"That wasn't what I meant and you know it."

"If you keep talking, you're gonna spoil the surprise. Just hurry already."

...

"You're asking for your punishment?"

Kim Dokja coughed twice.

"No, I am asking you to take responsibility."

The line made Kim Dokja internally shy, but none of that showed on his face. Having talked with Han Sooyoung, he had gained full confidence. Therefore, even when he started straight at Yoo Jonghyuk, he didn't stutter one bit.

Just like when faced with danger. Except this was the most dangerous one of them all.

"...Responsibility?"

Yoo Jonghyuk's smile rose. He leaned over Kim Dokja's shoulder, gently kissed Kim Dokja's ear and then whispered,

"Like it?"

"...!!!"

"Or do you want it on your lips?"

"!!!"

Kim Dokja didn't know Yoo Jonghyuk would respond so directly. Oh oh oh, oh no. This! It was too much to deal with. Fu*k, he has fallen way too deep.

Chapter Text

No chapter today! Sorry!

Everyone having fun with orv rare pair week and here I am with multiple final exams. I've had one final exam this week, and then the coming week I will have another one. I felt the need to study this time and didn't write anything for another chapter.

I know that this week's pause doesn't work well because of the cliff hanger. Therefore, I'm very sorry!

I still felt the need to express why there isn't another chapter. Even though I got everyones hopes up by adding another chapter.

Sorry, again.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk's deep gaze inspected Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja's words just now had been intriguing and inviting. The red blush that spread from the ears to across the cheeks down to his neck, it looked almost appetizing. Yoo Jonghyuk leaned over, as gently as he could, he kissed Kim Dokja's red ear.

The closeness was strange but not foreign.

Then, he whispered words he never thought he would say to Kim Dokja.

"Like it?"

It was as if Yoo Jonghyuk was slowly approaching Kim Dokja's heart. Careful not to pass a line he shouldn't pass.

"Or do you want it on your lips?"

Yoo Jonghyuk took back his head to see Kim Dokja's reaction, but before he could get out of the range of closeness, the back of his neck was grabbed by Kim Dokja. And in the next second he was kissed directly on the his lips.

This time it was Kim Dokja who took the initiative, catching Yoo Jonghyuk off guard. For the first time in forever, Yoo Jonghyuk was caught off guard. But in this case, being caught off guard didn't result in death, instead it was exciting experience.

Kim Dokja stole a kiss from Yoo Jonghyuk mercilessly, not letting him fight back.

Although there had been a peck between the two, kissing was an actual new experience.

Kim Dokja having never kissed anyone and Yoo Jonghyuk who had never kissed a man before, it was bound to be chaotic if it continued for long. So, after just a few seconds, Kim Dokja separated and gave a shit eating grin.

"Having grabbed my neck multiple times already, how do like the taste of your own medicine? Or do you want to talk about your experience in having a kiss stolen?"

Yoo Jonghyuk returned to his senses when the other warmth left, almost missing what Kim Dokja said. Still, he licked his lips and spoke,

"Not bad."

No, it wasn't just not bad. It was intriguing and heart capturing on another he had never felt before. It was truly different, but he preferred it this way. It even made him want to taste more. No, it was just at the level of wanting, his heart yearned for more.

Yet, he forced himself to stop.

"Kim Dokja. Do you accept me?"

Yoo Jonghyuk, in all seriousness, asked this. Kim Dokja, equally serious answer back,

"Accept you? I'm the one who is supposed to ask that, yet your asking me? You know, I'll accept you even if you try to kill me. So, let me ask you back, can you accept me? Can you accept me in your heart?"

In the end, both of them are asking to be accepted by the other.

"Kim Dokja."

Yoo Jonghyuk's voice was as clear as it could be. His gaze showed that he was deeply moved.

"You bastard. You're my life and death companion. I have already accepted you."

...

[The constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' respects your taste.]

[The constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' gives his blessings.]

[The constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' is looking away in embarrassment.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' is speechless.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is screaming.]

[The constellation 'Scribe of Heaven's' ears are bleeding.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is screaming.]

[The constellation 'Scribe of Heaven' is threatening constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' .]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is screaming louder.]

[The nebula 'Eden' is asking for hearing-loss compensation.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' screams have reached the abyss.]

[The constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' is asking if constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is okay.]

[The constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire's' screams have gone beyond ###]

[Multiple constellations are escaping for their lives.]

[40 000 coins have been sponsored.]

...

Kim Dokja took the distilled spirits and threw them into the human-sized bucket.

"This should be enough. Yoo Jonghyuk, give me the sword."

Yoo Jonghyuk handed over the sword without a word and Kim Dokja took it and threw it into the mix. The sword melted into the drinks with alcohol content.

"Ah, the precious alcohol. Why do you do this?"

Lee Jihye eyed the alcohol as if she wasn't a minor.

Having already watched the process before, Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't very invested in watching. Instead he just stood by the side of Kim Dokja.

Soon, the a star relic rose from the alcohol content.

[The star relic 'Heavenly Sword of Gathering Clouds' has appeared!]

It was an quick and easy process.

"This one is mine."

Yoo Jonghyuk swept the sword up.

"Hey! We caught it together, didn't we?"

"Don't be jealous, you're also mine."

Kim Dokja tsked in his heart. Did Yoo Jonghyuk really think he was jealous of him calling a sword his? Besides, there was another problem with what he said...

"You're mistaken, you bastard. I'm not yours, you're mine. Got it?"

As if to relive the situation, another star relic appeared out of the alcohol.

[The star relic 'Heavenly Sword of Gathering Clouds' has appeared!]

This time however, it was a knife that appeared not a sword.

"Then, this one is mine."

Yoo Jonghyuk narrowed his eyes at Kim Dokja's wording.

Lee Jihye didn't know what to think. The happiness of her ship sailing had already exploded inside of her, and now she was continuously fed dog food. At this point, she just wanted the alcohol so that she can drown herself in happiness.

"Petty minded males, instead of fighting with words you should use actions. Actions I tell you! In any case, this golden alcohol it's magnificent."

Ignoring Lee Jihye completely, Kim Dokja left the golden alcohol for whoever wanted it. What had caught his eyes was what Yoo Jonghyuk was cooking. Obviously Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't interested in eating anything made from someone else.

Yoo Jonghyuk was slicing up and roasting meat and vegetables. Just from the smell alone it was clear that it had an otherworldly taste.

As if it was a built in function, Yoo Jonghyuk quickly prepared for Kim Dokja to have a portion of what he was roasting. Even going as far in stuffing it directly into Kim Dokja's mouth.

Kim Dokja's expression the instant he was stuffed, Yoo Jonghyuk's mouth curved at the sight.

In the midst of eating, Kim Dokja asked Yoo Jonghyuk.

"I know you don't eat what others make because it isn't delicious. But if I made if for you, would you eat it?"

Yoo Jonghyuk raised an eyebrow, trying to see through Kim Dokja's scheme. Not seeing anything life threatening in his eyes, Yoo Jonghyuk nodded.

"I need to speak with someone. I'll be back in a bit."

"Asuka Ren?"

"So, you knew."

Kim Dokja didn't say anything and turned to leave. Leaving Yoo Jonghyuk to focus on cooking. Of course, Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't focus on cooking when Kim Dokja left. Yoo Jonghyuk glanced around the area. Lee Seolhwa had previously helped out with the decoration for the banquet but was now enjoying the golden alcohol Kim Dokja had made. Yoo Jonghyuk had no interest in engaging in a conversation with her.

Not far away, Lee Jihye was sprawled on the ground with a cup of golden liquid in her hand. She must of drunk quite a lot.

Yoo Jonghyuk felt a presence from behind and quickly turned around.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, are you happy with yourself?"

Han Sooyoung, the goddess of Peace Land, had appeared.

"You schemer."

"I see that you're happy with my contribution. You better remember this in the future."

"..."

"As talkative as ever I see. You must of already figured out that I set you up. Of course, this is nothing you should get upset over. In fact, shouldn't you be happy to see me at this point?"

Yoo Jonghyuk eyed Han Sooyoung suspiciously.

"Did it fill your wallet?"

Han Sooyoung grinned.

"My wallet? Me helping you had nothing to do with the coins received."

"Your purpose?"

Seeing how Yoo Jonghyuk still didn't fully believe her, she explained herself.

"You wouldn't understand it. But I'll tell you if you want to know that much. First, let me some wine for this."

Han Sooyoung took out a bottle, filled it with golden liquid from the human-sized bucket, sat herself down and took a big chug of of it.

"Mm better. Now, where should I begin. It probably started by the first time we met..."

...

Three hours later, Han Sooyoung was pouring herself a seventh bottle. She really was drinking away her sorrows.

Yoo Jonghyuk had already stopped listing to her long ago. He really didn't expect her to get this emotional.

"I'm so miserable, having you two continuously flirting in front of me. Do you know how badly I just wanted to rip you apart and throw you away? If it wasn't for my great self-control you'd be dead in a Han river long ago. You should be thanking me yet here I am still being seen as suspicious. How do I deal with you? I just-"

Yoo Jonghyuk wordlessly watched as Han Sooyoung swallowed down the bottle in one gulp.

This wasn't something he could deal with. Yoo Jonghyuk sneakily left the area, making sure not to be seen by Han Sooyoung. It wasn't just that Han Sooyoung had been talking for so long, he also wondered why Kim Dokja wasn't back yet.

Obviously, he had just done to quickly talk with Asuka Ren. Yet three hours had already passed. Did he forget to come back or something? Or did something happened?

It didn't take long for Yoo Jonghyuk to find Kim Dokja passed out on the ground using Lee Hyunsung's lap as a pillow. Yoo Jonghyuk glared angrily at Lee Hyunsung and quickly swept up Kim Dokja in his arms.

"Lee Hyunsung, explain yourself."

"Dokja-ssi had told me to guard him and then he passed out. I wouldn't let Dokja-ssi just lie directly one the ground."

"Next time, don't make the same mistake."

Yoo Jonghyuk held Kim Dokja in a princess cary and left Lee Hyunsung behind.

Although Yoo Jonghyuk's heart experienced a turbulence, he still understood Lee Hyunsung. Himself and Kim Dokja are the ones who understood Lee Hyunsung's character the best after all.

Though, he is still jealous. Not just because Lee Hyunsung gave Kim Dokja a lap pillow but also because Kim Dokja trusted himself to Lee Hyunsung.

As he was walking away, space started to distort in a specific point. It was the portal. A portal between Seoul dome and Peace Land. For some reason, even though the scenario had already been completed, the second group was arriving.

People started to crowed around, watching the space distort, even Lee Jihye had stopped lying on the ground. Because of the commotion, Yoo Jonghyuk felt that Kim Dokja was just about to wake up.

But instead of facing Kim Dokja, Yoo Jonghyuk faced the portal.

It was already time for him to appear, was it?

Chapter Text

Nirvana Moebius, it seemed it was already time for him to appear. Yoo Jonghyuk's heart was uncomfortable, having experienced the mental attack that he brings. This wasn't a opponent he could currently face, even if he succeed in raising his mental barrier further than the previous 3rd round.

Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze landed on Kim Dokja as he was just about to wake up.

'Kim Dokja, you're my life and death companion. Now it's your turn to protect me.'

His inner thoughts seemed to always turn toward Kim Dokja, because Kim Dokja was always the answer he needed.

"Kim Dokja."

With his name being called, Kim Dokja almost jumped out of his arms. The current position was a surprise for Kim Dokja.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, what happened with Lee Hyunsung?"

Feeling himself around, Kim Dokja noticed the position which he was being held, in fact, it was the same position as when he first returned from the Underworld. Yoo Jonghyuk frowned at Kim Dokja question, obviously not pleased.

"Next time, you should find me to guard you."

Realizing his mistake, Kim Dokja tried to explain himself.

"Ah, it was urgent so I just called the closest teammate. It has nothing to do with Lee Hyunsung."

It wasn't Kim Dokja's wrongdoing, it was just Yoo Jonghyuk being petty.

"Just remember what I told you."

"I will. Now then, care to explained what I missed?"

Just when Kim Dokja asked this, Jung Minseob who hadn't been seen since the early scenario in the subway appeared. Not that Yoo Jonghyuk remember his name, he only checked his status.

Lee Seolhwa quickly stepped forward and tried to treat him, but is was already too late. In his dying moments, he uttered his final words.

"Don't... come....back."

Even if it was his final words, Yoo Jonghyuk didn't feel any reason to fulfill it. There wasn't even a choice staying here in the future.

"Kim Dokja, Salvation Church is here."

"Salvation Church? Already? Don't tell me Nirvana Moebius is also here?"

"Yes, you should chaos when we leave Peace Land."

...

[The main scenario has ended.]

If only is was all main scenarios that ended, but it was just one of of many.

The moment the view of Seoul entered Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes he quickly grabbed Kim Dokja and moved him out of the way. Right after, the ground where he had just stood exploded. Magic bullets poured over and the ground was further eradicated, but non was able to hit Yoo Jonghyuk nor Kim Dokja.

"The Supreme King!"

"Don't hesitate and shoot!"

"Focus everything on King of No Killing, don't worry about the Supreme King, they aren't on the same side anyways!"

"...Are you sure about that?"

"Are you doubting the information? I said attack!"

Yoo Jonghyuk quickly prepared his sword and was about to cut out the eyes of whoever said that. Because they clearly didn't need their eyes.

The ambush team leader appeared, threatening Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja, put your weapon away and come th-!"

"Who are you calling Kim Dokja?"

Yoo Jonghyuk was a moment faster than the team leader's tongue. Succeeding in killing him instantly. And Kim Dokja, who the ambushers thought was King of No Killing, had already pulled out his star relic sword.

[Blade of Faith is activated!]

In less than a dozen seconds, everyone had been killed.

"Kim Dokja, this way."

Yoo Jonghyuk took the initiative, swiftly leaving to find the other the group fighting saviors around here.

"Wait a minute."

The woman's voice was easy to recognize, it was Min Jiwon.

"Kim Dokja-ssi?"

The unexpected meeting was unexpected for Yoo Jonghyuk, having already experienced it before. It was useful to get someone else to explain what had happened even if talking to Kim Dokja wasn't a waste of breath.

Actually, what was really unexpected was the way Min Jiwon looked at Kim Dokja. The way her faced blushes, it was obvious that there was feelings involved. This was something he only noticed because he had changed part of his relationship with Kim Dokja. If it were the previous 3rd turn, then this would have gone unnoticed.

“…The king faction was disbanded?”

“First, the Maitreya King’s forces were hit and then it was the King of Wanderers.”

“Is the King of Wanderers dead?”

“I don’t know her whereabouts. She is currently missing. Jeon Ildo, the Neutral King joined the other side.”

Hearing that Kim Dokja's mother was missing, Kim Dokja felt a wave of momentarily dizziness. Noticing the change, Yoo Jonghyuk assures Kim Dokja through midday tryst.

-Your mother is fine.

Although he doesn't how fine she is, she is at least not dead.

-I figured, she is King of Wanderers for a reason.

Meanwhile, Min Jiwon started to talk about the Salvation Church.

"...They aren't from Seoul."

Light gushed out of the sky, the rays of light hit the ground and humans appeared.

[New people have entered the scenario zone!]

[The seventh main scenario is currently underway at Seoul Dome.]

Over 900 people was summoned through the light rays and they were all wearing casual clothing, not combat clothes.

During the scenario, it was coming that most people present would die, if too many died then they would need to summon more. These people in all likelihood came from all over the country.

The new incarnations had no way to match the current incarnation in Seoul dome, therefor it was common to go under a king and be raised under them. It was just as the dokkaebi explained for the new incarnations.

Expert unlike previous new incarnations, most of the summoned ones already had gained access to the information before hand. The dokkaebi wasn't even finished before they had already started searching for the most power kings.

"The Supreme King! I have to stick to the side of the Supreme King!"

"Correct, the strongest incarnation is the Supreme King! "

Although not all called for the Supreme King, some where greedy for beauty instead. There was also those with somber eyes who started discussing who was the strongest. In any case, if it wasn't Yoo Jonghyuk then if was Kim Dokja.

“In fact, there is a rumour that the Supreme King and King of Beauty were beaten by him. There are also many women chasing after him?”

“Really? Who is it? What is the king’s name?”

“I’m not sure…”

“Damn, then how can we find them?”

“I heard that we should find the ugliest king.”

Kim Dokja looked at Yoo Jonghyuk when he noticed his gaze. It felt awkward with Yoo Jonghyuk looking at him like this.

"What is it?"

"Ignore the bland fools, they're only relying on rumors."

At this moment, the sound of horns were heard in the distance.

“Poor people playing out the scenarios of the highest beings.”

The voice spread vastly and it felt as if the whole space was ringing. It was very unpleasant. Along with the sound of the Salvation Leader's voice was the sound of elephants stomping on the ground.

Yoo Jonghyuk glared at the one who had appeared.

"Nirvana Moebius, you're here at last."

Yoo Jonghyuk had no expectations for him to hear him. In fact, it would be better for him not to notice them at all.

But in the end, those thoughts were meaningless.

Because it didn't take long before Salvation Leader, Nirvana, to brainwash the new incarnations. And then after that, he didn't take away his eyes from Yoo Jonghyuk's figure.

The Salvation Leader approached Yoo Jonghyuk and shouted to him.

"Yoo Jonghyuk!"

Yoo Jonghyuk only felt disgusted when he called him in that way.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, become one with me!"

"Stop with the nonsense before I kill you."

Yet the Salvation Leader only laughed at Yoo Jonghyuk's attitude. Yoo Jonghyuk gritted his teeth and glared at Nirvana.

“You pretend to hate me but in fact, you want me more than anyone else. You need my strength! Have you forgotten your failures in the last round? Only I in this world can save you and liberate you from the wheel of ti-"

"I don't need you."

"...What?"

Yoo Jonghyuk faced Nirvana without wavering. He gave a side eye to Kim Dokja before telling Nirvana,

"I already have my companion, the only companion I will ever need."

Not only Nirvana, but even Kim Dokja looked surprised by Yoo Jonghyuk's words. Having been accepted like this, it just warmed his heart.

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ appears late and looks around.]

[The constellation ‘Secretive Plotter’ feels ashamed of incarnation 'Nirvana's' lack of information.]

[The constellation ‘ Demon-like Judge of Fire’ is praying for the line to be spoken again.]

Nirvana was in disbelief.

"...Just now you-"

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ likes incarnation 'Yoo Jonghyuk's' attitude.]

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ has sponsored you 2,000 coins.]

"No, that was suppose to be me. How could you? Say that he isn't your companion and I might spare you!"

Looking at the ignorant Nirvana, Yoo Jonghyuk takes his declaration further. He simply grabs Kim Dokja's waist and pulls it to himself.

"I said, Kim Dokja is the only companion I will ever need."

"...Kim Dokja, that name! Why is it him. It's impossible!"

Feeling the killing intent rising from Nirvana's body, Kim Dokja started getting nervous. Kim Dokja hurriedly whispered.

"Can't you at least pretend to go along with him?"

"I don't want to."

"Why? Just close your eyes and do it quickly."

Nirvana was even angrier when he saw the two being close and whispering to each other.

"Don't whisper in front of me!

Then, Yoo Jonghyuk spoke in a loud voice.

"I'm only interested in Kim Dokja!"

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ cries out tears of blood.]

[3,500 coins have been sponsored.]

Nirvana looked as if he would puke blood at any time.

Kim Dokja tried to distract Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, we could of taken advantage of him."

"He is too dangerous."

Nirvana's combat power was expected to exceed Yoo Jonghyuk's, Nirvana was also not sane enough to get close to. It would been a too risky move.

Yet Kim Dokja tried to talk it out with Nirvana.

"Wait a minute, let's talk about it. I think there is a misunderstanding."

Yoo Jonghyuk glanced between Nirvana and Kim Dokja.

"Does he look sane to you?"

That wasn't a question Kim Dokja could answer no to.

"We have no intention of being hostile towards the Salvation Church, Yoo Jonghyuk here just isn't good at expressing himself... In fact, we were thinking about going under you. Let’s throw away the future and live for the present! How good would that be? Yoo Jonghyuk, don’t you think so?”

Nirvana's killing intent gradually declined as if he had gained new hope.

"...Really, Yoo Jonghyuk. Is it true?"

Yoo Jonghyuk was the cold water that extinguishes fires.

"Absolute nonsense."

Although the part about him not being good at expressing himself might be true. It wasn't something he was willing to express.

Chapter Text

"Absolute nonsense."

Yoo Jonghyuk's clear denial caused Nirvana to lose his last straw with Yoo Jonghyuk. Nirvana gritted his teeth and spoke as if he had expected the situation.

"Indeed, you are narrow-minded. If it's like this, then just go to hell!"

Nirvana's body disappeared before Kim Dokja's very eyes. The speed that Nirvana accomplished was equivalent to way of the wind. As seen by his slender muscles, Nirvana has made some sacrifices to deal especially with Yoo Jonghyuk. Investing in acceleration and mental skills rather than physical ones.

Yoo Jonghyuk moved and blocked an attack right in front of Kim Dokja. If it wasn't for Yoo Jonghyuk's high stats and clear priority, such a protective gesture wouldn't have been possible.

Through his gritted teeth, Nirvana said.

"What a peculiar friendship. You are thinking of your companion first?"

Yoo Jonghyuk directly attacked Nirvana although it proved ineffective. Another clash between them happened causing devastating sounds.

"Friendship? From what sentence did you pick that word up from?"

"Does it matter? It's already too late."

Instead of speaking with Yoo Jonghyuk, Nirvana said to Kim Dokja.

"Your companion will die."

Then Nirvana, as if he had enough playing around, quickly chanted a spell. Noticing the effects, Yoo Jonghyuk turned towards Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja... It's up to... now."

Not even moments later, Kim Dokja saw notification from his skill showing up before his eyes. The white text on the translucent blue background read,

[The character ‘Nirvana Moebius’ has used the stigma Eternal Nightmare Lv. 8.]

Sparks flew from Yoo Jonghyuk's body hardened body. It was a skill Nirvana had learned only to deal with Yoo Jonghyuk, it was a fatal weakness of his. In every other case, this would have been the death of Yoo Jonghyuk.

Expect, that was when Yoo Jonghyuk was alone. And Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't alone for he had his sole companion. His life and death companion.

With the black cloud-like smoke covering his vision, Yoo Jonghyuk could no longer see Kim Dokja's figure. Yet, before him, he knew that Kim Dokja was still beyond there. And since Kim Dokja hadn't disappeared from his side, how could Nirvana expect to defeat him?

The stigma Eternal Nightmare that was used... wasn't the name about the same as how he would describe his journey? The eternal nightmare of regression, it was something Yoo Jonghyuk had lived through. Everyday from his first regression to his 1863rd regression turn, wasn't that an eternal nightmare?

Expect, for an stigma, wasn't this skill to weak? His experience from the first to the third regression was all dug up and exposed, like a ghost clinging on to his legs trying drag him down. Yet, what was truly a nightmare for him, was something even the stigma couldn't dig out.

Having expected the worse, Yoo Jonghyuk was disappointed with the nightmare. For once, he wasn't dragged down by his mental situation, his regression depression.

He watched himself and his former companions die over and over again, the same painful deaths was no longer painful. He felt himself being stabbed through the heart over and over, the demon king standing above continued to pierce though him. Still, his only thoughts were of Kim Dokja.

It was as if the nightmare had been purposely created based on what Nirvana knew about him, not what knowledge he held. As if the previous turn had all been forgotten, as if it was only his imagination.

[The fable 'Life and Death Companions' is looking at you.]

...No. It wasn't just his imagination. The proof was right in front of him, and will always be there. The one fable that hold what he sees as his dearest.

The sword that was about to pierce him once again was stopped as he took a hold of it by its blade. His warm blood flowed through his palm and onto his clothes, later joining with the blood on the ground. Yoo Jonghyuk's expression was ice cold as his gaze pierced right through the demon king that had once killed him.

He stole the sword and inserted it in the heart of the demon king. It was a swift natural movement without hesitation, but then after inserting it blade the figure of the demon king changed. Kim Dokja's shadowed was imprinted in this nightmare at last.

Yet, Yoo Jonghyuk didn't take back his action. Only holding on to the sword without moving. Gazing down at the shadow of Kim Dokja's face. He muttered to himself.

"Why is it you? Why is it always you?"

Even if only part of his own heart, Yoo Jonghyuk knew that Kim Dokja had always been involved in his most painful moments. If it wasn't for the fact that the sword had already punctured Kim Dokja's heart, he might have hesitated. And that moment of hesitation could of been his own death.

Unlike last turn, this time he had succeeded in escaping the illusion rather than being released from it. It showed that not only had he become stronger but also mentally strong.

The illusion that is his nightmare was released and the black smoke didn't linger and quickly disappeared.

His first senses that connected with the world around him was his hearing. He heard part of the conversation between Nirvana and Kim Dokja.

“…I have become even more curious. Come under me along with Yoo Jonghyuk.”

“I don’t want to.”

“Aren’t you curious about the secrets of this world? I can help you survive even after the end of this world. It has nothing to do with the failure of the scenarios.”

Nirvana's offer could of worked with most people, yet he still choose the person who was the most opposed to the offer.

“I’ll allow you to become one with me!”

Disgusted with Nirvana, Yoo Jonghyuk almost flew forward with his sword in hand. But he refrained himself.

Behind Nirvana was a mandala showcasing hundreds of faces. They all showed painful expression. It was would of happened if one became "one" with Nirvana.

Looking at it, even Kim Dokja was disgusted.

"Shut up you pervert!"

“If you don’t agree then I’ll have to force you.”

In response to his words, Kim Dokja activated his most powerful bookmark. The bookmark that copied a skill from his teacher Kyrgios.

First, Kim Dokja activated Miniaturization, making him shrink down to the size of small people from peace land. Then the flashy white storm appeared around Kim Dokja's form.

Yoo Jonghyuk saw Kim Dokja attack Nirvana with the power of Kyrgios. Although the power wasn't as much as when he was in Peace Land, it still left Nirvana with a mortal wound. Yoo Jonghyuk took the chance and ambushed Nirvana after Kim Dokja landed his attack. The dust that arose from the attack blocked Nirvana's view, giving Yoo Jonghyuk the chance of successfully slicing of his arm.

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't even leave the arm falling to the side, instead he directly took it as if it was a trophy won from battle.

“Using my memories in a mere place like this…”

Nirvana was still arrogant as he was bleeding out. But instead of dying, petals and sparks started to surround him.

A grim voice was heard, it was from the constellation sponsoring Nirvana.

[Story Payment.]

“…I will see you again.”

A large lotus leaf covered Nirvana's body, it was clear that he was making his exit. Both Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja rushed to attack him

“You will pay for going against the ‘present.’ It will be in the most terrible manner.”

Starting from his chest, Nirvana's body completely turned into lotus leafs. Making any attack useless. But before his whole body disappeared, Kim Dokja succeeded hitting Nirvana's left arm. Leaving only Nirvana's armless body to escape.

Because of Nirvana's tactical retreat, the Salvation Church members started to panic. Then after the chock passed, some collapsed while others were running away. It showed how temporary the Salvation Church really was.

"The Salvation Leader really lost!"

"Who is the incarnation that defeated the Salvation Leader?"

"Wait a minute, isn't that..."

Someone unknown point at Kim Dokja and exclaimed,

"The ugliest King!"

Yoo Jonghyuk, who had just dealt with the disgusting Nirvana and had already put his sword back, was ready to pull it out again.

"..."

Being glared at by the Supreme King, was there any incarnation brave enough to repeat themselves? Clearly there wasn't any.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, put the sword away."

Yoo Jonghyuk clicked his tongue. If Kim Dokja didn't mind it who was he to make a deal out of it in front of him. He'll just have to remember their faces for later.

"So, about the arms... What do you want to do with them?"

Having snatched both of Nirvana's arms, they were at a lost of what to do with them.

"Give them to me, I'll destroy them."

Kim Dokja obediently handed over the cut of arm. Meanwhile he started to read the pop up notifications.

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ belatedly regained her spirit.]

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ wants to explain why she came here.]

At Uriel’s words, Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja looked up at the air simultaneously.

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ needs your help.]

Even with the limitations of indirect messages, both of Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja grasped the meaning. Since Uriel had come all the way here, something must of happened to her incarnation, which was Jung Heewon.

“Min Jiwon-ssi. Do you know where Jung Heewon-ssi is?”

Kim Dokja looked for Min Jiwon but realized that she was still unconscious. The situation was probably very urgent, this left only one choice. Kim Dokja locked eyes with Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, can you hit me really hard?"

"No."

"Not just hard, give me punch that will kill me. Kill me now."

"Never. And don't even think about finding someone else to do it."

"Yoo Jonghyuk, just once. Do it for me once."

Then, Kim Dokja blacked out. Even with all the hesitation in the world, Yoo Jonghyuk still succeeded. Although the punch was aimed at Kim Dokja, Yoo Jonghyuk felt as if he had just punched himself in his heart.

Yoo Jonghyuk held the unconscious Kim Dokja in his arms.

"Why is it so difficult? Why do you make me do these painful things."

Even after living through many lives, Yoo Jonghyuk was still full of question. Most of which was aimed at Kim Dokja.

Yoo Jonghyuk slowly stoked Kim Dokja's face, straightened his eyebrows and pinched his cheek. There was no reaction from Kim Dokja. Only the moving chest, beating heart beat and the warm touch of the skin showed that Kim Dokja was still alive.

There had been many times when Yoo Jonghyuk had seen Kim Dokja asleep, yet Yoo Jonghyuk still preferred it when Kim Dokja was awake. That was because then the sight of Kim Dokja wouldn't remind him of Kim Dokja's corpse. Of the times when he had watch Kim Dokja dying in front of him over and over again. Just like how Kim Dokja's shadow was showed when he killed the demon king in the eternal nightmare.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze went between Nirvana's two arms that he had in his hand and Kim Dokja slopped over his shoulder.

'Now, to dispose of this.'

The problem occurred when Yoo Jonghyuk realized that his hands were full. If only Kim Dokja was in his small size then he could have him in his pocket, but that wasn't the case, now was it? Of course between throwing off Kim Dokja or the arms, Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn't even hesitate to make the choice, but the problem was if Nirvana would retrieve his arms.

In order to solve the problem, Yoo Jonghyuk threw the arms on the ground, then he put up a tent and let Kim Dokja rest in it while he himself got rid of the arms. Are disposing the arms, Yoo Jonghyuk used a water bottle and freshened himself up by pouring water on himself and washing off the blood. It wasn't his own blood and there wasn't any noticeable wounds either, so there was no problem using just water.

Well, the bloody scent was still there.

Since Kim Dokja hadn't woken up yet, Yoo Jonghyuk simply sat down next to him. He was close, close enough that with just a slight movement they would touch, yet Yoo Jonghyuk didn't touch Kim Dokja. He wasn't one to take advantage of Kim Dokja's current state.

Time passed, it wasn't long but for Yoo Jonghyuk every moment with Kim Dokja was like an eternity. And after that eternity, Kim Dokja woke up. His expression was pained and he was still slightly dazed. Yoo Jonghyuk had wanted to attend the wound but felt that it was risky for him to touch Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja, are you dead?"

Yoo Jonghyuk had checked over and over again, of course Kim Dokja wasn't dead, he just wanted to hear from Kim Dokja himself if he was dead or not.

"I might as well be. With that power behind your punch should I be impressed that I survived?"

'Yes, you're alive.'

Yoo Jonghyuk held back a sigh of relief.

'Kim Dokja, do you even know what you have done to me?'

Yoo Jonghyuk stood up and was about to leave when Kim Dokja grabbed his the tail of his coat.

"Jerk, can't you see I'm hurt? Carry me."

Without question, Yoo Jonghyuk swept Kim Dokja over his shoulder and got out of the tent. Kim Dokja hit Yoo Jonghyuk's back and complained,

"Why are you so indifferent to this? Shouldn't you at least carry me like you usually do?"

"This is how I usually carry you."

Kim Dokja gave him a side-eye glance, of course Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't see it.

"I mean how you would hold me when I woke up multiple times before. You know that position close to the chest... Actually forget what I just sai-"

For once, maybe not the time Kim Dokja wanted, Yoo Jonghyuk actually listened to him. Without even blinking, Kim Dokja looked as he was suddenly in a completely different position.

Min Jiwon, who had long woke up, approach them. Gave a glance at how Yoo Jonghyuk carried Kim Dokja, took in their conversation from before and now, and then she didn't know what to imagine.

'Did they always have this sort of relationship?'

No, that couldn't have been. But at the same time, his reaction towards her would be explained if that was the case. So it wasn't that he wasn't attracted to her, it was just that he was already attracted to someone. Of course his loyalty must be high not to abandon him and go for herself.

She gave a glance to Yoo Jonghyuk. It was a beauty that surpassed herself. This wasn't her place to compete, no, why should she compete in the first place?

"The two of you are quite familiar with each other."

The statement was clearly an understatement. Min Jiwon didn't give them any more glances and choose to focus on the situation.

With the help of King of Beauty, Kim Dokja collected all the scattered people. It was an easy task with the help of King of Beauty's Hwarang.

Fortunately, when searching for the the scattered people, Kim Dokja found Lee Gilyoung, Shin Yoosung and Gong Pildu who were all in the close proximity. It was easy to spot because Gong Pildu had occupied a while building.

"...I wanted to stay in Peace Land."

Gong Pildu grumbled as he spoke with Kim Dokja. Kim Dokja had already had his two leg-attachments that he was patting, so he was happy.

While Yoo Jonghyuk stood a few more meters away from Kim Dokja then normal, Min Jiwon approached.

"Greetings, Supreme King."

Yoo Jonghyuk didn't shift his eyes from Kim Dokja. He only nodded as a greeting.

Looking at his attitude, Min Jiwon could basically confirm Yoo Jonghyuk attitude towards Kim Dokja. However, she was still curious as of how far they had gotten in their relationship. Although they say curiosity killed the cat, Min Jiwon wasn't a cat.

"Say, Supreme King? Is it true about your relationship with Immortal King? Are you together ye-?"

Before she could finish, incarnation over-shouted her.

“Honourable Supreme King! Please accept me!”

“I respect you!"

Yoo Jonghyuk observerad the loud-mouthed incarnations.

'These people wouldn't be able to save the world even with 100 trucks. Useless.'

Noticing how Yoo Jonghyuk looked at the incarnations, Kim Dokja quickly intervened. In the first place, Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't the only one who liked to observe the other, only he was making it more noticeable.

"Now now, calm down. Can't you see that min- our Supreme King isn't in a good mood right now? Do you want to die?"

The incarnations glared at him as if he was a manger of a celebrity kicking out fans.

“Who is this bastard?”

“He is the Ugliest King.”

Min Jiwon, hearing those words, expected a blood bath. She had just gathered the lost incarnations yet now all would be slaughtered. Those thoughtless idiots, insulting the Supreme King's dearest. This wasn't just unfortunate at their part, they had dug their own grave insulting a king. Maybe it was all karma.

Just as she foresaw Yoo Jonghyuk pulling out a sword. He instead stepped forward with his sword sheeted.

"If anyone want to join me, first you must be able to help me."

Unlike usual, there was a strong melancholy in his cold voice. His words were insulting, yet the response to that was fitting of a protagonist.

"Oh damn, that was too cool. The excellent dark and young voice."

"Yes! I will become stronger! I will definitely become useful to you!"

Hearing what others had to say about his companion, Kim Dokja became jealous. Sometimes, he also wanted the acknowledgment. Yet, stuck with his average appearance in a novel where everyone was other worldly attractive, it really wasn't doing him justice.

Even if he defeated something no one would else would be able to beat, would they even look his way?

Hearing how their ahjussi/hyung was treated. Kim Dokja's leg-attachments both held his hands in comfort.

"I think ahjussi is attractive."

"Hyung, your face isn't everything."

Kim Dokja's heart warmed at his kids attempt at comforting, at least they were by his side... At least Shin Yoosung was on his side.

A message from midday tryst arrived.

-Do you want my comfort?

...And Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk was also on his side.

"The ugliest king? Puahaha. It fits you really well."

Listening to that voice, Kim Dokja didn't want to turn around and face her. But did he ever have that choice? Lee Jihye was on the verge of throwing herself on the floor out of pure laughter, she couldn't even hold back her tears. That moment of comfort, was it already gone?

Lee Jihye hadn't come alone, almost all of their party members where here. Minus Jung Heewon, Lee Hyunsung and Yoo Sangah.

But before they could even exchange greetings, a loud noice was heard in the distance. Yoo Jonghyuk was the first to respond.

"A large monster species, it is 6th grade. The next phase is already here?"

"Is the scenario in progress right here? But a 6th grade, isn't it too early?"

Min Jiwon explained the situation as she noticed the confused faces.

“I’m sorry but the seventh scenario is already over.”

“…It isn’t in progress right now?”

"At the time you arrived, the rewards was just being handed out. The highest reward was also rewarded to the Salvation Church."

"Then, why is there monsters here?"

"Kim Dokja, there aren't just one or two."

Yoo Jonghyuk reported. He had already pulled out his sword and taken his stance.

"Be prepared. The eight scenario is about to come."

Although he gotten Yoo Jonghyuk's warning, this really wasn't something Kim Dokja had expected. This sort of thing didn't happened in the third turn, no, it wasn't even the third turn in the first place. It was already a mess, yet the mess had already come so far?

The heavy paws of the 6th grade heavy hound flatted building as they passed through. As Yoo Jonghyuk said, it wasn't just one or two, just from a glance one could see that there was over 10 of them. Yet for them to be moving around in a group like this? It must mean that the eight scenario is really being prepared.

Yoo Jonghyuk moved like the wind as he climbed buildings and used his Breaking the Sky Sword at the heavy hounds. Just one swing and the neck had already been cleanly cut off, it was a power too powerful for the 8th scenario. Yoo Jonghyuk didn't stop at a single swing, he swung his sword yet again only for another head to fall on the ground. The head didn't just fall anywhere either, he had specifically targeted the ones who had bad mouthed Kim Dokja.

Even if Kim Dokja didn't allow him to kill them, as long as it was an accident then that works out well. Except, Lee Jihye took care of the head that was about to hit the incarnations. It seems just that won't be enough to deal with them.

"Lee Jihye, take the hounds in the west."

Now, for round two.

Yoo Jonghyuk attracted the heavy hound's attention and purposely avoided the attacks that so coincidentally hit a building that just so happened to collapse on top of a few incarnations. Yet, before it had completely fallen, Gong Pildu shot down the whole building. Not leaving anything to fall on the incarnations.

With disappointed eyes, Yoo Jonghyuk takes out the heavy hound. Since that didn't work, a more direct approach was the only way. Yet, before he could go further, he was hugged from behind.

The white coat sleeves was the only thing visible to him. Kim Dokja was covering his eyes, yet it was disguised as a hug.

A minute passed and then the surrounding sounds stopped. Just at the same time he removed his hands. The battle with heavy hounds was already over.

"Jonghyuk, you don't have to do it for me. If I want it dealt with, I will do it myself."

Chapter Text

"Jonghyuk, you don't have to do it for me. If I want it dealt with, I will do it myself."

Yoo Jonghyuk's mind, well, it was blank. Hearing Kim Dokja say this to him, he didn't know how to respond at all. He wanted to analyze what Kim Dokja said, understand what it meant and implement it into is own behavior. Yet, for some reason he couldn't.

Maybe it was some sort of self realization, because he couldn't put it into words what had come over him.

There was a connection to be made. Between his behavior in the past and what Kim Dokja had said. After some moments, Yoo Jonghyuk recovered himself.

'Maybe, I'm just reminded of my old self.'

His old self before this round, a round before he met Kim Dokja. One where he took all the burdens of the world alone and never shared it. Even after having his former companions pester him about it.

Of course, Kim Dokja is more than capable enough. Kim Dokja, one who he'd trust his life with. If it where someone who he'd choose to allow to kill himself, it would be Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja, no. I don't want you to have to deal with it yourself."

In the end, Yoo Jonghyuk choose to be selfish. Not letting Kim Dokja deal with things alone.

"At least, as your companion, let me help you. If not as your companion, then as your lov-"

Then, a voice of a dokkaebi was heard through out Seoul, interrupting Yoo Jonghyuk's and Kim Dokja's conversation.

It was a voice Yoo Jonghyuk had heard before but wished it would never have to appear again.

[I wish to inform all incarnations of Seoul Dome.]

The message he remember in his nightmares started to recite themselves in front of him again.

[Aren't you surprised by the monsters suddenly appearing? Sigh... as you might've expected, the next scenario has started. We also wanted to give you a break... it is regrettable. This scenario wasn't created by the dokkaebi but is an automatic scenario.]

Of course it was automatic, even the dokkaebi's scenarios are fairer than this scenario.

[A new main scenario has arrived.]

[Main scenario # 8 – The Strongest Sacrifice has begun.]

Before seeing the popup notification, Yoo Jonghyuk grabbed Kim Dokja's wrists and burrowed his face in it.

"Yoo Jonghyuk?"

Kim Dokja had already covered his vision before, why can't he do it again?

"Let me stay. Let me stay with you."

"Yoo Jonghyuk? What is this about?"

Kim Dokja was confused by Yoo Jonghyuk's sudden initiative. It wasn't a reaction of rejection, he just confused. He had just been thinking about the 8th scenario but before he could read it Yoo Jonghyuk had intervened.

"Don't you know, Yoo Jonghyuk? You can tell me anything. Of course, relevant information would be more appreciated."

The voice didn't stop even after sending out the scenario details.

[Ah, for your information. It starts from the 6th grade. In four hours, the 5th grade species will emerge and then four hours after that, it will be 4th grade. Then four hours later... huhu, well. Don't you know?]

Then, in the distance, one of the incarnations shouted.

"What? What is an automatic scenario?"

"Eh? There isn't a time limit?"

[A time limit? Haha. There is no such thing.]

Listening in on the words, Kim Dokja started to vaguely understand what was going on.

[It is because all of you are too strong. Oh my god, the Korean incarnations have become so strong that they don't fit the balance anymore. Aren't you being a bit too greedy? This is a scenario that automatically occurs when the incarnations of certain domes become too strong.]

[As mentioned, there are two solutions to this scenario.]

This development, he had read about it before. If he was not mistaken. Just, the conclusion to this scenario was a tragedy in it self. One that unconditionally required death. Even with the first scenario, there was a loop hole, yet this scenario had no such a loop hole.

Yoo Jonghyuk in front of him hiding behind his own hands, Kim Dokja could only guess what had happened.

"...It is me, right? The one everyone is after?"

Kim Dokja barely felt the head movement, but he was certain that it was a nod.

"Then, have you made your choice?"

The small movement was perceived as a head shake by Kim Dokja.

"If you don't make your choice, then I'll have to make due with my choice."

"Kim Dokja. No."

Yoo Jonghyuk removed Kim Dokja's hands and looked at him. His resolve was outstanding for someone who hadn't even chosen one of the two options.

The blue translucent panel he had been trying to avoid created a screen between him and Kim Dokja.

+

[Main scenario # 8 – The Strongest Sacrifice]

Category: Main

Difficulty: S

Clear Conditions: Survive the wave of monsters (this scenario requires caution because the rank of the monsters rises every four hours).

Time Limit: ―

Compensation: ???

Failure: Death

*There are additional clear conditions.

* Hints are provided once every four hours.

+

Yoo Jonghyuk quickly got rid of the panel only for another to appear.

+

Additional Clear Conditions (Pick 1):

1. The death of half the incarnations in Seoul Dome.

* Current number of incarnations (107,614).

+

Before pressing the x button and getting the panel away, Yoo Jonghyuk finger halted. If he left it like this, then he wouldn't need to look at the other option, right?

Kim Dokja spoke to the hesitant Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, how do I say this? I won't actually die, you know? I'll survive even if I'm killed. So, follow your own ideals."

Yoo Jonghyuk paused, then clicked away the panel. The other popup showed up.

+

Additional Clear Conditions (Pick 1):

1. The death of the strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome.

+

Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes silently started at it before also getting rid of it.

He was unsure. Kim Dokja was telling him to follow his own ideals, but his only priority this round had been saving Kim Dokja.

...His own ideals?

There was a time when his single purpose had been saving the future, by getting to end of the scenarios. But now, he has a companion that he cherishes. One that he would even give up seeing the end for.

It just, it just can't work.

"Hey, Yoo Jonghyuk. We should talk for a bit."

...

Kim Dokja took him here, he took him here again.

Yoo Jonghyuk gazed at the apartment building that he could never forget.

The two of them sat down together on the railing on the roof. Around them, the landscapes spread far and wide. Parts of the city of Seoul had been covered in a jungle-like terrain, another had been frozen. But most of the city had already been destroyed, even finding one untouched building would be impossible.

This, apocalypse like nature had befallen on the dome of Seoul. Outside the dome, most of Korea had been left untouched.

It was at such time, Yoo Jonghyuk questioned, why him?

Why was it him, and not anyone else?

Kim Dokja, who Yoo Jonghyuk had at his side, gave a breath of relief and then spoke.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, take a breath and enjoy the view with me, will you?"

Yoo Jonghyuk gave Kim Dokja a look and then turned his head and looked at the horizon.

"You know I don't like landscapes."

"The world, then? Yoo Jonghyuk, isn't it beautiful? The world is not just made up of landscapes."

In the horizon, monsters were flattening the city. In the Han River, sea serpents were swimming and hunting. In the sky, insect-like monsters were patrolling for prey.

No matter where Yoo Jonghyuk looked, destruction was seen.

Then, he looked to his side. The side where Kim Dokja was sitting.

'The world is beautiful? No.'

'If it was my world however, the answer would be different.'

"Yoo Jonghyuk, why is it that you don't like landscapes?"

"Landscapes, they are things that will disappear one day."

"But you don't dislike things because they will disappear, do you?"

A cold wind blew and they both looked down at the ruined city together.

If that was the case, like he had said, would there ever be anything he likes? Everything, one day or another will disappear. If he kept this mindset, he would of already collapsed. Just after the first regression, everything he knew disappeared, every time he regressed, everything disappeared.

Even his memories disappeared.

He can't hate everything that will disappear one day, so why did he use that as an excuse for his dislike of landscapes? He himself is unsure.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, what is important is that we need to protect these things."

Yoo Jonghyuk agrees with what Kim Dokja says.

"Yes, so allow me to protect you. There shouldn't be a need for your sacrifice."

Although flattered, Kim Dokja disagrees with Yoo Jonghyuk.

"No, I should be the one to protect you. We both know that it is the better option."

"Kim Dokja, what is important is you. Your sacrifice will only bring pain to the rest of our future nebula and I. I need you to understand that. Kim Dokja."

"..."

"Kim Dokja, don't make me beg you."

At this point, Yoo Jonghyuk found himself desperate. He wanted to grab on to Kim Dokja's shoulders and hold him tight. Tight in his embrace so that he would never do anything he will regret.

But before he could do any of that, Kim Dokja had already grabbed Yoo Jonghyuk by the shoulders.

The sense of distance that was created was instantly blown away. Because of this closeness, Yoo Jonghyuk could even feel the warmth of Kim Dokja's breath. It was taunting him. Any closer and he wouldn't be able to resist leaning in for a... kiss.

No, this wasn't the time to have those thoughts.

It really wasn't time for those thoughts...

"Kim Dokja, why so close?"

Kim Dokja wouldn't be thinking about that, would he?

Kim Dokja whispered in his ears,

"Let me hit you just once, okay?"

"..."

"I'll take your silence as a conformation."

Yoo Jonghyuk's whole mind was full of panic. Their thought process had went in such a different direction that Yoo Jonghyuk had become speechless. Not even realizing that his silence was an agreement.

"Then-"

But before Kim Dokja could beat some sense into Yoo Jonghyuk, the door to the roof broke down. The first one to fall down was Gong Pildu and Lee Jihye and the children were on top of him.

“Ehhh! Don’t push! Look at how we have fallen.”

“Ah, I was just wondering what they’re talking about. Ahjussi, why did you do that?”

“A man shouldn’t interfere with a person’s personal conversation. Especially not between lovers. ”

“A man is a rat…”

[The constellation Demon-like Judge of Fire’s eyes are shining with delight.]

The two people stuck in a inappropriate position: ...

Chapter Text

"..."

Lee Jihye's scream could only be contained on the inside because it really wasn't appropriate right now. She held her hands over her mouth in order to cover up every last bit of her scream. It, it was just too difficult to hold everything back. Not even half ways after lifting herself up, Lee Jihye falls down to the ground again. Even choosing to lay there and not continue trying to get out.

'What the actual F did I just fall into?!"

'No no no. They are together now, this part of the process is natural. Just, just, just what did I see?'

Lee Jihye not so sneakily glanced at the pair of lovers, being very close together.

The way Kim Dokja is half-climbing on top of Yoo Jonghyuk and the way Yoo Jonghyuk is looking at Kim Dokja. There was no way nothing was about to happened right, right?

If only she had a camera with her. Wait, what about Uriel?

Lee Jihye tried her best to calm herself down enough to be able to speak again.

"Uriel, tell me you got everything saved right?"

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ is giving thumbs up.]

'Uriel, my savior. I'm in debt to you.'

'Now, to make my leave.'

Kim Dokja spoke before Lee Jihye could follow through with her plans.

"Now, all of you should take your leave."

Kim Dokja wasn't so shameless to beat up his companion in front of his kids. Or maybe that was a lie. Yes, it was a lie. He was more than shameless enough to beat up Yoo Jonghyuk in front of them. What worried him more was the look Lee Jihye had been giving him since the moment she entered through the broken door.

"If you could not spe-"

Gong Pildu's look met Kim Dokja straight on, giving Kim Dokja shivers.

Maybe the scariest one of them was actually Gong Pildu.

In any case, whatever misunderstanding that just now had been created was about to be leaked to the rest of their comrades. With Gong Pildu as a witness.

No, the misunderstanding shouldn't be his focus. What was important right now was Yoo Jonghyuk. That dense sunfish bastard was still caught up in his own thoughts. Even if the regression depression wasn't as concerning as it could of been, this behavior of him not being allowed to sacrifice himself needed to stop.

...Through the novel, wasn't it always Yoo Jonghyuk sacrificing himself? Sacrificing himself so that more could live. Yet now he was so dependent on him making it through alive?

Was there something else he was missing, it was just, there's something bugging him. Nothing he could put his finder on...

Yoo Jonghyuk opened his mouth.

"I've been thinking- "

'Oh, you been thinking. Aigoo, that's so very much unlike yourself, Yoo Jonghyuk.'

Kim Dokja internally facepalmed.

"And I think that we need to get rid of Nirvana."

"Nirvana? Ah yes, that guy."

Was Nirvana always so forgettable? Or has his mind been getting off track lately? He should get back into focus and make sure not to miss any important detail. He was the one responsible for their plans after all. If there was someone who couldn't screw up then it was himself.

"Even if Nirvana isn't the strongest in Seoul dome, it wouldn't be safe to have him running around with a leash."

"Yoo Jonghyuk, shouldn't you at least consider Nirvana your opponent?"

"Between us and Nirvana, the winner is already clear. The problem is luring them out. Therefor, we should host another duel."

"Another duel? Was it solved like that in-"

"Kim Dokja, careful with your words."

Yoo Jonghyuk gave a side eye to the comrades which have yet to completely leave even though Kim Dokja's earlier request.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, if it’s a duel doesn't that mean you'll be up against Nirvana alone? Didn't we establish that there wasn't a way for you to win alone?"

"...Alone? Kim Dokja. I won't do it alone."

...

Kim Dokja pulled out the newly bought boxes. There was ten of them in total.

Seeing the boxes, Lee Gilyoung hesitantly asked,

“Hyung, is that what we see in games? If you open it, you get a random good item…”

"Yes, that's right.

Kim Dokja bought the boxes with mind of doing business but everyone here he had a good relationship with and it wouldn't hurt if their strength increased. So, there was no reason to ask them for coins.

Lee Jihye looked excitedly at the boxes. Very eager to snatch on of the free gifts one of the behalf of Kim Dokja.

"Ajhussi, if you say so. I'll make sure to put it to good use!"

Kim Dokja almost went back on his words after hearing from this sneaky brat. If anyone should pay for it, it should've been Lee Jihye, with all the ruckus she created on the roof top. But if he holds Lee Jihye responsible, then would have to hold everyone responsible. Sigh, in the end, Lee Jihye got away with it.

After Lee Jihye, Gong Pildu and Lee Gilyoung also took one each.

“Hyung, what if I get a SSS-grade?”

“It is tough since the odds are 0.00001%.

“…Really?”

"That is the life of a Gacha gamer, let's just be fools today."

Yoo Jonghyuk squinted at the gacha-like boxes.

"Kim Dokja, would these boxes' item change depending on the time when bought?"

"Shouldn't you be the one most experienced in this? Jonghyuk-ah?"

"..."

Obviously, this was incorrect. But he couldn't call him out on it before everyone. Yoo Jonghyuk silently took the box from Kim Dokja's hand.

Even if the items changed, the goal for opening the boxes remained the same. There was just the problem if that specific consumable didn't come out, that nobody but him were expecting.

However, Yoo Jonghyuk's worries were unnecessary. For the same blue panel appeared before him.

[Congratulations! Someone has broken the probability of 0.00001%!]

Loud firecrackers exploded through the air around Shin Yoosung, who had been the one to break the probability.

It was if Shin Yoosung's whole face had lightened up. The white light scattered and in palm of Shin Yoosung, a small fruit appeared.

Just as Yoo Jonghyuk was about to let out a sigh of relief in his mind, his companion Kim Dokja, appeared behind him.

"Did you get your answer now? Was that what you were nervous about?"

"Here take this."

Yoo Jonghyuk ignored Kim Dokja's cheeky comment and gave him what he got. It appeared to be the same consumable as last round. This sort of luck, it could only be due to time travel. Even when regressing getting the same items twice, it almost never happened.

Yoo Jonghyuk gave one of the loud speakers to Kim Dokja. Of course, he wasn't the only one offering it.

"However, just saying a few words to that guy won't work."

Kim Dokja told Yoo Jonghyuk.

"The important thing is what you say."

...

Avalokiteśvara’s hand firmly dug into Lee Sookyung’s head . Lee Sookyung’s story flowed and started to entangle with Nirvana’s story. There was a sense of being ‘one', just like what Nirvana told Yoo Jonghyuk about. Nirvana’s senses trembled as he chewed, tasted, ate and enjoyed. He was a genuine epicurean of the Star Stream.

"It's really amazing. How can an incarnation like you have information of the future."

Lee Sookyung desperately tried to resist her memories of Kim Dokja being dug out. But her resistance alone couldn't go against the flow of Origin of Principle and Secondary Causes. In the end all was sucked into Nirvana.

"Interesting, very interesting. So this is the essence of incarnation Kim Dokja."

"..."

"You are a sad mother. You lied to your child. You deceived your child for your own dogmatism."

Lee Sookyung who had remained cold towards Nirvana, couldn't help but let out her some of her built up anger. She declared in front of Nirvana,

"You won’t be able to win against m- that child."

"I do admit that he is an intriguing incarnation."

He was one that forced Nirvana to use Succession. However, he was only human... Or only human in the eyes of Nirvana. Nirvana who had only seen Kim Dokja through the stories of Lee Sookyung could never fathom the existence of the one called Kim Dokja.

A limiting mindset such as that of Nirvana, would one day lead to his own demise. Not, it wasn't just one day. The time was bound to be even sooner.

It was just up to here. Then a message rang through the air.

[ Applying for a duel with the Salvation Church’s leader, Nirvana Moebius. ]

Nirvana who'd been interrupted was surprised. It was Kim Dokja using the loudspeaker. Lee Sookyung looked as if she was waiting for this.

"That child is strong and wise. He knows what he needs and what he can do best."

Although Nirvana's initial surprise had been the loud speaker, what really surprised him was Kim Dokja's clever use of the loud speaker.

[ The place of the duel is Gwanghwamun at 2 p.m. today. The person you will be confronting is the Supreme King Yoo Jonghyuk. The two people closest to being the strongest incarnations will fight to defend Seoul Dome. If you are really living in the present, don’t avoid this confrontation. ]

Not only was there the clever use of the loud speaker, he also knew how to use his words. Using the argument of living in the present, he made Nirvana unable to avoid the confrontation. If he avoided this confrontation, he would receive the chastisement of all the incarnations in Seoul Dome as well as the Salvation members. However, he would be a fool to go after knowing it was a trap. Nirvana laughed.

"The provocation is decent. Then what should I do? In any case, my goal isn’t to clear the scenario. My purpose is greater than…"

[ Of course, your great plan won’t concent to this confrontation. However… ]

Nirvana stiffened at Kim Dokja’s words.

[ If you come now, I will give you a chance to become one with Yoo Jonghyuk. ]

Nirvana was so astonished that he let go of Origin of Principle and Secondary Causes. He shivered in anger, wonder and an unknown sense of shame and bit his lips.

"Your son, Kim Dokja, he is truly interesting."

Lee Sookyung felt the huge urge Nirvana was emitting through the thin string connecting them.It was the desire to combine with one person for a bigger story.

Lee Sookyung laughed at the desire and earnestly told Nirvana.

"I have already told you before, you are bound to lose."

...

Nirvana's answer soon came.

[ Okay. ]

It was simple and concise, unlike how Nirvana usually behaves.

Kim Dokja stood up and shook off his dizziness. How come that he was the one who was hurt after hitting Yoo Jonghyuk?

"Jonghyuk-ah, you bastard!"

That jerk bastard. Kim Dokja felt that one hit on him wasn't enough for Yoo Jonghyuk. Even a beating felt like it wasn't enough.

"You're the one selling my name? Shouldn't you be hit for it instead?"

"Fine, we'll call it even."

Kim Dokja clenched his fist.

"Just this time."

Chapter Text

Kim Dokja quickly stood up after facing the consequences of punching Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk, who had planned to help Kim Dokja, had to shove away those ideas.

Comparing the wounds he received and the ones Kim Dokja received, it was too different. Or maybe one took it too seriously. What concerned Yoo Jonghyuk- no not concerned, Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts that had only accepted one reality was questioned.

But before he could dig into his doubts, a translucent blue box appeared before him.

[You are curr-]

[Error.]

[Star Stream is currently re-calculating.]

'...'

Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts almost became a car crash with how fast it came to a stop. And then, after some silence from both his mouth and his brain, his reflexes kicked in.

...

Kim Dokja, who had sworn at Yoo Jonghyuk, was the first to notice his absence.

"You shitty bastard. Where did you even leave to?"

"Do you mean Yoo Jonghyuk, Ahjussi?"

"Yes, that stupid sunfish."

Although there was plenty of time to get there, why did Yoo Jonghyuk leave without warning? In the first place, was there any need for him to leave now? There shouldn't be anything close by Yoo Jonghyuk would want to get nor was there a scenario. Splitting up like this before the battle, Kim Dokja didn't like the sound of it.

It's not like Yoo Jonghyuk was scared. That bastard wouldn't be scared from just this much. Even if he were to go up against someone that was stronger than himself, Kim Dokja was there to help.

"There couldn't be something your hiding right?"

Kim Dokja mumbled to himself.

...

Sneakily, but not very sneakily. Fast, but not fast enough to be noticed. Yoo Jonghyuk quickly left the area where his companion and teammates were.

'No, this can't be.'

From just the vague message, Yoo Jonghyuk found himself panicked on the inside. No, it should be panic, right? Just, there was a strong inexplicable feeling. However, whatever it was, it made his heartbeat raise to the extreme.

The unexplainable situation made him flee. Although little thoughts went to why he wanted to flee.

The system message, it didn't even finish before an error appeared. Just from the small amount of text alone, Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't decipher what it would say. Except considering the time it appeared, Yoo Jonghyuk had his suspicions.

'No, my focus should be on the upcoming battle. Not this hinderance.'

If what he suspected really came true... at this point, he wasn't sure what he would do.

...

Kim Dokja and his party arrived near Gwanghwamun half an hour before the promised time. In the meantime, the same message kept repeating in his mind.

[You are curr-]

[Error.]

[Star Stream is currently re-calculating.]

Kim Dokja wanted to swear at the system. Damn, like he didn't have enough problems already. Why did another of the problems have to be with the system? Just shut up or display the whole message. Why repeat the same broken code?

Having read the whole novel called WoS, of course Kim Dokja knew what the message was suppose to say. Not only that, Yoo Jonghyuk had already told him about it.

When Yoo Jonghyuk about how he was the strongest in Seoul dome, frankly, he'd been embarrassed. And every other time he took it up, Kim Dokja continued being embarrassed about it. He had barely managed to win against Nirvana and he wasn't even sure if he could beat Yoo Jonghyuk even if he used all his powers and strength. Yet, Yoo Jonghyuk still called him the strongest...

Then a sentence from the 51st regression in Ways of Survival appeared.

「 Strength and weakness in the Star Stream have nothing to do with the power or skill proficiency. The standards of strength come from the ‘story.’ 」

Then, there were also the words that Nirvana had said.

"Strength and weaknesses are ultimately determined by the story."

"Dokja-ssi!"

In the distance, both Jung Heewon and Lee Hyunsung were approaching. It seemed their bond with each other was stronger after overcoming the difficult situation together. Jung Heewon waved at Kim Dokja.

“I saw the proclamation of war. It was very beautiful.”

Lung Heewon said, almost jokingly.

"How are you feeling?"

“I’m fine. However, Hyunsung-ssi was a bit hurt…”

"I'll be completely fine!"

Lee Hyunsung exclaimed. Jung Heewon sighed.

"...He is just bluffing."

At the end of Jung Heewon's words, Lee Hyunsung struck his chest with his fist to prove that he wasn't lying. Just from the performance alone, it was hard to see it as a bluff.

Lee Hyunsung had started to inherit the story of the Master of Steel. Perhaps Lee Hyunsung was one of the top five incarnations in Seoul Dome. He was strengthened by inheriting the story. Lee Hyunsung was a perfect example of ‘strength is a story.’ It was the price of a story that determined ‘strength’ in this world.

Perhaps Kim Dokja was ranked as the ‘strongest incarnations’ because the stories I accumulated in this life were at an impossible level.

Of course, the stories of the regressor Yoo Jonghyuk and reincarnator Nirvana were also formidable but their story was of the past.

Although, there was one problem. The frequent error message had really been bugging him for a while. In the first place, even if it were hard to calculate the strongest incarnation there still shouldn't be a reason for it to shift like this. This surely wasn't a case of power balance between to powers continuously overlapping, because even if that was the error still wouldn't be explained.

In the end, however much he thought of it, he couldn't come up with an reasonable explanation.

The landscape of Gwanghwamun started to be seen in the distance. Kim Dokja checked the time on his phone. Three hours and 40 minutes had passed since the first wave. Once every four hours a monster wave would appear, so there was only little time until the second wave.

“The 5th grade monsters will soon come. Will the other incarnations be okay?”

“It will be fine here.”

Kim Dokja and his teammates look around. It had started getting more crowed here, and not only that, the number kept rising.

“This…” Jung Heewon seemed to realize something. Shouts came from all over the place. Everyone in Seoul was gathering at Gwanghwamun. This was a natural response.

“Let’s defeat the Salvation Church’s leader!”

“We have to kill him to end this scenario!”

Incarnations armed with weapons were shouting. No one was talking about freedom or equality. It was because the humans of the present were too shabby to talk about such a grand concept. Instead, they all gathered for survival.

“Follow the Supreme King!”

“Break the Salvation Church!”

"We need to bring down the Salvation Church!"

Lee Hyunsung looked at the scene with a complicated expression.

"Dokja-ssi, you expected all of this to happened."

"It was within my expectations."

Gong Pildu looked at the crowed of people and let out a sigh.

"Damit, South Korea is ruined. Where are the lawmakers who were going to return my land from the dead?"

"Why are you saying those words in a situation like this?"

Lee Jihye clicked her tongue at Gong Pildu.

"What about Yoo Sangah? I heard she was taken by the Salvation Church."

"We'll go and get her, that is if 7Han Sooyoung doesn't get to her first. However, right now isn't the time."

All of Gwanghwamun was becoming heated up by the incarnations when a shining message appeared in the air.

+

[Hint 2]

The ninth strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is ‘Insect Boy Lee Gilyoung.’

+

Lee Gilyoung’s eyes shone and sparkled when his name was called through the shining message.

"Hyung, I’m ninth!"

Lee Gilyoung said with all excitement. Being so high on the list, it was all thanks to his hyung. With this, all he wanted was to hug his hyung's legs and get praised.

Kim Dokja sensed his kid's desire. He gladly patted his head.

"…It is ridiculous. I’m weaker than that kid?"

Lee Jihye grumbled. Maybe slightly jealous of the attention 'that kid' was getting.

"Now, stop talking and get ready."

The party members all nodded simultaneously in understanding. Since the second hint had been released, the second wave would also begin soon.

5th grade monster's roars could be heard from the outskirts of the city. Each 5th grade monster could be classified as a 'small disaster' on it's own. It was naturally at a level which a normal incarnation wouldn't be able to handle. However, since almost all of incarnations had been gathered, it wasn't impossible to fight. Although that couldn't be said about the next wave.

"We have to settle this in four hours. After that, 4th grade monsters will start to emerge. It is the end once that happens."

They once again nodded in sync. Even if they could fight of 5th grade, a higher ranked wave would be next to impossible. Kim Dokja asked Gong Pildu and Lee Hyunsung to lead the incarnations and form a defense network, it would be better to keep formation for security and safety during the fight.

"Let it to me. I'll be sure to do my best!"

"Gwanghwamun will become my land after this scenario is over."

Kim Dokja smiled and replied to Gong Pildu.

"Yes, however you like it."

Sadly, once this scenario was over, the ‘Seoul land’ that Gong Pildu desired wouldn’t exist. However, there was no reason to tell him about it now. Let him have his dreams.

Kim Dokja led the rest of the group to the centre of Gwanghwamun. A building that didn't originally exist was now there. Since there was no stadium in Gwanghwamun, the Salvation Church had temporarily added it. On top of the building was a figure of a person.

-All incarnations, who is our real enemy? Why are we now pointing our spears and swords towards each other?

Jung Heewon frowned when she heard the voice.

"...Is it the Neutral King."

The Neutral King was using ‘Voice Amplication’ at the top of the dome like he was a dokkaebi.

-I naturally understand your feelings. Whether it is the Salvation members or other forces, we are all weak people. We are just victims of the scenario. In fact, you know. There is no point in fighting between us here! This is what the dokkaebi wants!

“Shut up! It was the Salvation Church who started fighting first!”

“Yes! Kill him!”

Jeon Ildo, the Neutral King, laughed lightly.

-Everyone, don’t you know that the monsters are coming? Seoul will be destroyed if we fight.

“Then what are you going to do?”

-Everyone knows this is a scenario where we can live if the strongest incarnation sacrifices themselves.

The opaque exterior of the stadium became transparent and the interior started to show. There were two people standing on a stage with the gorgeous spotlight behind them.

-The two heroes who are coming forward for the incarnations of Seoul Dome! I will introduce you to the strongest incarnation candidates!

The Salvation members on the opposite side of the dome clapped loudly.

“Yoo Jonghyuk! Yoo Jonghyuk!”

“Nirvana! Nirvana!”

The incarnations seemed baffled by the sudden change of atmosphere.

“W-What is this?”

“Are they fighting already?”

Kim Dokja knew what they were thinking.

「 What if we can clear the scenario like this? 」

「 Regardless of whether it is the Salvation leader or the Supreme King, isn’t it good for us if both of them die in this fight? 」

The common human was a coward, no, every human was a coward. This was something Nirvana knew about the most, he knew that humans were the most cowardly.

Kim Dokja approached the dome and hit the wall.

[The incarnation ‘Jeon Ildo’ is using Fair Duel Lv. 3.]

[All incarnations apart from those involved in the duel aren’t allowed to enter the stage.]

As expected, there wouldn't be a way to physically interfere with this battle.

...

Yoo Jonghyuk entered the stage where his battle with Nirvana would be. This stage, the spotlight in the background, the surrounding incarnations. He had already lived though this before. This was the life of a regressor, experiencing everything over and over again. And now in this fight, he already had more of an advantage then last time.

The Neutral King announced the two heroes who will be fighting to death. Yes, he called them heroes. However, would anyone truly consider them heroes? Fighting to death like this, it was only martyrdom. There wasn't anything heroic about it.

Yoo Jonghyuk glanced out of the translucent walls. In the crowd of many, a special face stood out. His white coat fluttered and flowed in the wind. His clear black eye's only had on person in his eyes. Just like Yoo Jonghyuk. Both of them made eye contact, but only for a moment.

[You are curr-]

[Error.]

[Star Stream is currently re-calculating.]

The message was once again heard in his mind. It was too distracting. This message that he had continuously plagued by.

Still, Yoo Jonghyuk prepared himself. In the same moment, a burst happened within the stadium. Yoo Jonghyuk and Nirvana met in the middle of the stage. Yoo Jonghyuk two sword made an eerily sound as it collided with Nirvana's white magic power.

Yoo Jonghyuk’s Breaking the Sky Sword and Nirvana’s Mandala caused a storm in the space.

Dozens of exchanges were done in a short amount of time. It was a cautious and elaborate battle.

With each attack, Yoo Jonghyuk gained more of an advantage. Even if Nirvana has invested in acceleration, Yoo Jonghyuk already knew how to counter it. Especially when it comes to close combat.

They used Transmission or Succession to read the other person’s skills and tried to gain an advantage. This was a confrontation between a regressor and a reincarnator.

It was Nirvana who moved first in earnest. Nirvana’s mandala rotated quickly, spinning his magic power as a threat that attacked Yoo Jonghyuk’s body.

Yoo Jonghyuk avoided the blow and jumped high up in the sky, while avoiding the white magic power. Yoo Jonghyuk's combat instincts were far superiors to Nirvana.

At first glance, it seemed like an endless number. It was because the white magic power acted according to his movements, making it impossible to simply avoid. Yoo Jonghyuk quickly spun his blades to hit the mandala’s power, and this time, he didn't miss any bundles.

Even after all this, Yoo Jonghyuk hadn't gotten wounded once. Yoo Jonghyuk was still extremely calm.

Yoo Jonghyuk jumped near the dome’s ceiling and took charge from the ceiling. Then he dived down while holding the Heavenly Sword of Gathering Clouds. Blue magic power was nestled in the sword but Nirvana was already finishing his defense.

At the moment of downfall, the size of the Heavenly Sword of Gathering Clouds suddenly changed. It was transformed into a giant sword and started to grow to the size of a tall building.

Yoo Jonghyuk’s arm holding the sword was the same. It was like the right arm of a giant god.

The 'Giant Body Transformation' skill was currently being used.

The surprised Nirvana tried to leave the range of the blade but it was already too late. The weight of the blade that split the sky literally fell onto Nirvana.

A huge roar was heard and then dust filled the entirety of the stadium. Making everything invisible from the outside. Of course, Yoo Jonghyuk could still navigate and fight. Though, the recoil of the attack made him stagnant for a short moment.

The dust quickly cleared and what could be seen was Nirvana lying in a deep pit made by Yoo Jonghyuk's sword. The incarnations exclaimed but Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't care less about them right now. Even after being hit hard by the sword, Nirvana didn't stop attacking.

Numerous arms had emerged from the mandala.

The Thousand Hands of Avalokiteśvara. The hands of the Bodhisattva were fighting against the giant sword. If it wasn’t for the dome, the area would’ve been destroyed by the collision, no, the sheer force from air pressure would of been enough to destroy the whole area. All the incarnation watching were overwhelmed by the sight.

This was what it looked like on the surface. However, between the reincarnator and the regressor where the flow of their thoughts. There was a reason other than pure seriousness that they weren't talking during the battle.

Nirvana thought,

「 Did the level of Mental Barrier go by a lot? The magic power wavelength is becoming stronger. 」

Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts were also clear.

「 Your skill level is lower than what I thought. What did you even gain from Succession? 」

「 You act like your left shoulder is hurt but that is a trap. 」

「 Giant Body Transformation has a short duration. You should look at the whole of the match. 」

Kim Dokja, an outsider to the battle, was the only one who could see the whole battlefield. It had been a long time since he had last used Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint on Yoo Jonghyuk. And now that he used it again, he doesn't regret it. Because not before long, he would have to use it again.

Chapter Text

[The exclusive skill ‘Advanced Mental Barrier Lv. 4’ is starting to reach its limit.]

Even if he raised the skill level, it could only carry him so far. Still, Yoo Jonghyuk was as calm as ever. It wouldn't matter even if the mental barrier broke this second, because he was already prepared if that were to happened.

The unnerving part was not knowing what Kim Dokja was doing. The plan they made right now was to deal with Nirvana, however, if Kim Dokja suddenly decided to take care of multiple thing at once... Yoo Jonghyuk didn't want to think about it.

+

The eighth strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is 'Moonlight Girl Yoo Sangah.'

The seventh strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is 'Armed Fortress Master Gong Pildu'

The sixth strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is 'Judge of Destruction Jung Heewon.'

The fifth strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is 'Pure Steel Sword Lee Hyunsung.'

The fourth strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is 'Black Flames Empress Han Sooyoung.'

+

Hints were piling up and endless notifications of errors were repeating in Yoo Jonghyuk's mind. It was as if it was trying to cloud his mind. However, no matter how many of these message, Yoo Jonghyuk was fully focused.

Even after being cut over and over, he never lost himself. He stayed one with his sword and their plan.

Except, despite how much he focused, he could never get rid of the doubts in his mind.

'Is this really the correct thing to do.'

Maybe Nirvana had gotten slower or he was more used to battling, but something was creating gaps in the battle which made him focus on anything else.

'Kim Dokja, are you watching?'

[The constellation ‘Secretive Plotter’ is shutting off his heart.]

[The constellation ‘Prisoner of the Golden Headband’ is sweating and has lost hair.]

[The constellation ‘Bald General of Justice’ wipes his head.]

Yoo Jonghyuk ignored the incoming messages and raised his sword again.

There was a gruesome sound as the Thousand Hands of Avalokiteśvara were pierced and crashed together making mechanical sounds.

Just as Nirvana was fighting a losing battle, Yoo Jonghyuk was the same.

'Just because he had some extra time, it didn't mean I could win against the reincarnator.'

Right now, the effects of 'Giant Body Transformation' was starting to wear off and the side effects were starting to take place. It slowly collapsed Yoo Jonghyuk's presence. Not only that, the cost of 'Giant Body Transformation' wasn't something he could handle right now.

The colossus had clearly warned him when he was given this power.

「 Never use this skill until all your stats have reached three digits. 」

However, even if the colossus knew about Transmission, it knew Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn't listen. The colossus even questioned if there was anyone Yoo Jonghyuk actually listened to.

Using the last of his magic power in his body, Yoo Jonghyuk aimed his sword at Nirvana. Then, a huge amount of blue magic power all rushed towards Nirvana.

「 Splitting the Sky is an explosion.

Don’t hide yourself. Expand, blossom, flood. Don’t allow the heavens to be above you. 」

It was the words of the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint, who taught him Breaking the Sky Swordsmanship.

In the middle and second half of the second regression, the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint fought against the alliance of returnees and died alone. At that time, Yoo Jonghyuk saw a thick sky that he couldn’t break. There was definitely such a sky in the world.

"Yoo Jonghyuk-!"

However, Nirvana was never a sky to begin with. Nirvana was a strong reincarnator.

The whole stadium suffered from the attack, debris started to rain down. The whole ground where Nirvana cracked and split. Creating permeant damage to the earth. Yet, he could never be as strong as a heavenly demon or the Breaking the Sky Sword Saint.

Even he, himself will eventually surpass them.

'Thus, you're bound to die here.'

The magic power Yoo Jonghyuk released crushed Nirvana and Nirvana's flesh that was hit was torn apart. The magic power also broke Nirvana’s Thousand Hands of Avalokiteśvara into pieces. The inherited skill completely reached it's limits.

But that wasn't the only thing at it's limits.

[The exclusive skill ‘Advanced Mental Barrier Lv. 3’ has reached its limit.]

[The exclusive skill ‘Thought Vaccine Lv. 1’ has eroded it.]

'It's as expected.'

Even if the system ranked him higher, their incompatibility made Yoo Jonghyuk lose the advantage. Yes, despite the variable of Kim Dokja, Nirvana's focus was still on Yoo Jonghyuk.

[The exclusive skill ‘Advanced Mental Barrier Lv. 3’ has been destroyed.]

[108 evil spirits have started to gnaw at your mind.]

At this moment, Yoo Jonghyuk’s eyes turned black and his five senses started to run wild.

Nirvana laughed from inside the pit.

"Yoo Jonghyuk! Only I can understand you!"

Despite the effects of the 108 evil spirits, Yoo Jonghyuk retorted to Nirvana.

'No, it should be said that your the one who understands me the least.'

Nirvana however, neither perceived nor or tried to understand what Yoo Jonghyuk was trying to tell. Instead he kept his own nonsense spewing.

"Stop now and become one with me."

This time, Yoo Jonghyuk could neither hear nor make sense of anything Nirvana said.

'Is it up to here? No, think. What would K-.'

Yoo Jonghyuk exercised final control over his body and brought the Heaven Shaking Sword to his neck.

'...'

'...Regress? Is regression the option he was looking for?'

'No. No. No.'

At this point, Yoo Jonghyuk was fighting against his own body. His thoughts from the third and this regression synchronized. The 108 evil spirits gnawing away at his mind made him unable to understand the situation.

-[I'll give you an offer. I'll return you to the beginning.]

A voice rang inside his head. It was conversation from the past. A conversation about restarting this round, not as a regression but time travel. Giving up this life was never an option.

{Are you telling me that I can get another regression with Kim Dokja?}

Yoo Jonghyuk released his grip and the sword dropped to the ground. His thoughts were finalized.

'... Kim Dokja. It is always you.'

'Even in front of the door of death, why is that you never once left my mind?'

Then, his vision gradually dimmed.

-You jerk. You took your time even after everything?

The familiar voice gave warmth to his heart. Everything that had been put to suspense was finally relaxing.

-Now, take a break. My protagonist...

Even if Yoo Jonghyuk wanted to hear to the end, the sleepiness that overwhelmed him was too much. So, despite his reluctance, Yoo Jonghyuk closed his eyes. And then darkness overwhelmed him.

...

'My protagonist, you are such a bothersome bastard.'

Kim Dokja opened his, no, he opened Yoo Jonghyuk's eyes. The feeling in this body was so different from his own original. He felt as if he was overflowing with power, even though Yoo Jonghyuk had already exercised such strength.

[The 1st person protagonist’s point of view has been activated!]

Even though Yoo Jonghyuk had explained what could be possible with his skill, it still felt so unreal. Possessing somebody else's body, especially the protagonist. It was difficult to understand what Kim Dokja was feeling.

"...How did you get your mind back from 108 Worries?"

Kim Dokja studied his surrounding, completely ignoring Nirvana. This elevated height was also pleasing he felt. If this weren't in the end of a battle, he would of definitely needed to try out some things...

Nirvana’s eyes were fierce as he aimed a skill at Kim Dokja.

[The character ‘Nirvana Moebius’ has used 108 Worries Lv. 2!]

108 Worries. It was originally a skill to raise a person’s enlightenment level by frightening their own spirit but when used on others, it would invoke terrible delirium. In particular, the effect was worse than Thought Infection or Eternal Prison for regressors like Yoo Jonghyuk.

Of course, this was for Yoo Jonghyuk. But now, even though Kim Dokja had taken possession of Yoo Jonghyuk's body, he was still Kim Dokja.

[The Fourth Wall has completely neutralized the effect of 108 Worries!]

"This feeling is… who are you?"

As expected of a reincarnator, he noticed quickly. Of course, it didn't matter even if he noticed or not. Deciding to take this body for a test run, Kim Dokja rushed over and punched Nirvana in the mouth.

"Kyyuak!"

Screaming Nirvana was sent flying. Kim Dokja felt extremely satisfied with this body. Although, it was satisfying seeing Nirvana scream after being hit, it wasn't enough to make up what he had done to Yoo Jonghyuk.

With just this much, Nirvana could still resist. Of course it was expected. Still, Kim Dokja once again punched him.

"You've been through death dozens of times, yet you never truly experienced 'death'. It's funny."

Death was death and it only happened once. A human’s ‘present’ was important because there was nothing after death. This was why Nirvana didn’t know ‘death’ or the ‘present.’

Death only happened once, yet in the ruined world, the average death count for each person is higher than one. Preaching for a present in such a ruined world...

"A person who can’t live in the present preaches about the present. There is no contradiction, right?"

"What about me...kyeeeok?!"

"I know. I know all about you. Your reason for wanting to be one with Yoo Jonghyuk, your goal with the Salvation Church and what you ultimately want to reach."

Kim Dokja understood, which was why he had to stop him now. Nirvana hesitated. Still, he was a reincarnator and quickly regained his composure.

Nirvana shouted at Kim Dokja.

"Foolish person. Everything you're trying to do is useless. Even if you try to stop me, Yoo Jonghyuk will still die. He will regress and I will reincarnated. In the end, it is inevitable that we will end up as one."

This way of thinking, it could only belong to a reincarnator. But as reader of this story,

"Do you really think so?"

At that moment, a message appeared. It seemed to be the perfect timing.

+

The third strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is ‘Salvation Leader Nirvana.’

+

'...Um?!'

Nirvana’s expression became strange. No, not only strange.

"Third place...?"

Kim Dokja was also stunned slightly.

'It was unexpectedly Nirvana? Then, it is different from what Yoo Jonghyuk explained.'

'No, before taking any drastic measures, I should wait for the second place.'

Kim Dokja smiled and nodded at Nirvana.

Nirvana watched Yoo Jonghyuk smile with a speechless expression.

"In any case. Yoo Jonghyuk will never go to the next regression."

"What?!"

"No matter what. Yoo Jonghyuk will survive, I'll make sure of it. So, it is either you or me."

"Don’t make me laugh! I am the strongest incarnation, Nirvana Moebius. A trivial person like you.."

Half way through, Nirvana started to tremble. Seemingly only now starting to understand what the message said.

"It can't be. How could this ever be true?"

Then, another message appeared. It announced the second strongest incarnation.

+

The second strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is '---'

+

Or that should of been the case. But the spot where a name was supposed to be was completely blank.

Chapter Text

+

The second strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is '---'

+

Kim Dokja and Nirvana both paused as the message was heard. The dokkaebis floating in the sky started to sweat nervously because of the information released, or rather it was because they didn't release any information at all.

'Did the system break again?'

Honestly, at this point, Kim Dokja was almost used to it. Maybe he wasn't as angry because he was the one doing it, expect he still couldn't help but swear at the system in his heart.

It did occur to him that this might have connection with all the error messages he has been getting lately. But still, why did the system have to screw up like this?!

"...This is ridicules."

Nirvana couldn't help but to point out. And for once, Kim Dokja agrees with what Nirvana is saying.

However, Kim Dokja will always be Kim Dokja, it doesn't matter how unpredictable scenarios you throw at him. In one way or another, Kim Dokja will always find bullshit his way out it.

"You said you wanted to live in the 'present'?"

"..."

Smoothly and completely ignoring the ridicules circumstances, Kim Dokja continues his talk.

Nirvana's body shook like he had encountered a topic that could never be interpreted. Or maybe he was still stuck on the past from a few second ago. Either way, Kim Dokja opened his mouth and spoke in a very low voice. Just like a whisper of a reaper.

"Nirvana Moebius, I will tell you about your 'death.'"

.

"Kuaaaaaaak!"

Nirvana's body flew across the stadium. Kim Dokja still hadn't had enough of beating Nirvana up. And it seemed like Nirvana hadn't had enough of a beating either. Despite being beaten black and blue, Nirvana didn't stop talking back. As if what Kim Dokja just said was an insult to his entire carrier.

"You will tell me about my 'death'?! My 'death'? Don't make laugh. I won't die, I can't die! If true death was that easy for me, I would of been released from this suffering a long time ago!"

'How can he still be so full of emotion?'

There was such a question in Kim Dokja's mind. Yoo Jonghyuk had become much more emotionless in a much shorter time period. No, made Yoo Jonghyuk had always been this expressionless and emotionless.

'Of course, this could just be part of Yoo Jonghyuk's char- no, human beings themselves aren't 2D. Still, how Nirvana developed his personality is still a mystery to be solved.'

Kim Dokja used his privilege as Yoo Jonghyuk to grab Nirvana's collar and hold him up in the air.

'This is, such a nice feeling. If only Yoo Jonghyuk was here to see.'

'Or to try it out with him in b...'

Kim Dokja used every bit of him mental power not to finish that thought. He tried to redirect his attention to the one being lifted by himself.

"You actually want to die, right?"

"...!"

"It is because you can't die that you're comforted by the death of others.That’s why you preached to the Salvation Church. You watched them live a one-time life and also want to be absorbed into their lives. You want to share the emotions they feel."

[Your understanding of the character ‘Nirvana Moebius’ has increased.]

"Don't speak nonsense."

Nirvana's tone changed. No, it wasn't just his tone. This time he looked completely serious. Kim Dokja picked up on this, it seemed that Nirvana had finally gotten angry.

"It is the same for humans who don’t know death. Nothing exists after death! Humans can die but they can’t suffer from death in a true sense. It is something that can’t be owned by anyone!"

"At least we can feel the fear of death. It makes human life possible. That is the biggest difference between you and an ordinary human."

"You-!"

Nirvana tried to swing his fist towards Kim Dokja but Kim Dokja easily caught it. Another privilege of Yoo Jonghyuk, long strong arms. Even after catching Nirvana's fist, he could still hold Nirvana's collar.

"That’s why you want to become ‘one’ with Yoo Jonghyuk, right?"

'Did you know that saying something like 'becoming one' could mean something entirely different?'

Kim Dokja wanted to educate Nirvana on how he says things. No, he even felt the need to that especially. If only he wasn't planning killing Nirvana at this time.

If anyone else heard what he had been saying, there would of been a deep misunderstanding. However, in this case, Kim Dokja already knew what Nirvana was trying to accomplish.

"You think you can erase your existence by becoming one with Yoo Jonghyuk. Right?"

Nirvana’s expression completely stiffened.

"Reincarnation is the stigma of the highest grade constellation. To erase it, you need the power of a higher constellation."

In other words, he needed the power of Yoo Jonghyuk's constellation. The mystery constellation not even himself knew what it was called.

Nirvana looked at Kim Dokja and gritted his teeth.

"You are beyond my imagination."

"I don't think that I'm the only one beyond your imagination. After all, you imagination has always been very limited."

"Then kill me already! Still, keep in mind that I'll always come back to life, and when I do I'll kill you and show the worst pain. Just like how I did to your mother."

"Oh? You met my mother? Did she even give you approval?"

"...you."

"Thought so. "

"She, she is a very good mother."

'What does that have to do with anything?'

Kim Dokja internally questioned Nirvana's sanity, then realized that it was reincarnator Nirvana he was thinking about.

"It is fun to make her submit. You know, I like to corrupt a virtuous spirit."

[The exclusive skill, ‘Fourth Wall’ is shaking!]

"The scene where she struggled and begged for her life is still vivid in my eyes."

[The exclusive skill, ‘Fourth Wall’ is steadily shaking.]

"Ha, now you're caught!"

[The character ‘Nirvana Moebius’ has used 108 Worries Lv. 2!]

Kim Dokja's vision shook and his world became dark. Kim Dokja had a feeling of being sucked and thrown into another world other than the stadium. This was the stigma 108 worries' work.

In the darkness, voices could be heard.

「 Master, run away! 」

「 Please, please save this world. 」

「 You can easily throw away this world. But I ...! 」

They were voices filled with resentment.

This darkness, could it be the inner part of Yoo Jonghyuk?

"Yoo Jonghyuk! You finally allowed me in! Now... you will be one with me."

It seemed he wasn't the only one here in the darkness.

"It is a mistake for you to be here."

Kim Dokja watched Nirvana with cold eyes. A reincarnator was truly a reincarnator, look at him preparing a counter attack last minute.

A mandala pattern appeared by the feet of Nirvana. Since the inner surface of the soul was less effected by probability, Nirvana would be able to use all his accumulated stories.

Nirvana grew gigantic in an instant, his massive build was the result of his accumulated stories.

Hundreds of arms grew like wings from his back while his legs were half covered with the feathers of a bird and half covered with the scales of a snake. A wolf-like snout protruded and horns grew from his head.

He looked monstrous. And it was this monstrous creator that represented the 'true' Nirvana Moebius.

[I am Nirvana Moebius.]

Nirvana introduced his true self.

[A reincarnator who leads the unfortunate people to Nirvana.]

In this form, Nirvana looked confident. However, Nirvana didn't know that everything had been planned out. Getting hit by the stigma, it was all part of the plan.

"Nirvana, do you know the principle of reincarnation?"

The space trembled as Kim Dokja spoke.

"Your soul is bound to the mandala’s guardian. Once you die, you don’t go to the Underworld. According to the unique laws of the constellations, your soul is nestled in a body that was just born."

[...What are you talking about?]

"You aren’t immortal. Your body is born again but your soul isn’t."

[Nonsense!]

"Nonsense this, nonsense that. When will you realize-"

The hundreds of arms on Nirvana’s back poured towards Kim Dokja. It poured out like a waterfall, if Kim Dokja was hit by this in reality, he would of already been long gone. However, this wasn't reality.

"-that this battle is already over."

Kim Dokja was now Yoo Jonghyuk. In other word's, this inner place was also his, his inner self. These attacks was useless before even being fired. The hand of Avalokiteśvara melted right before Kim Dokja's nose, rendered completely useless.

Nirvana looked surprised, like he had already been before many times over.

Numerous pages rose and surrounded Kim Dokja. The fluttering white pages was filled to the brim with words, the words of what he had once read. The countless words that Kim Dokja had read formed a wall blocking Nirvana off from himself.

[The exclusive skill, ‘Fourth Wall’ is activated!]

Nirvana tired to escape the wall but it was already too late for escape. The wall had already fully surrounded him.

[What have you done? Release this wall! This, this is...!]

The perplexed Nirvana looked at the wall. A blinding light emerged from the letters on the wall.

「 If this world continues to be reborn, we can clear it. 」

[This... don’t tell me...!]

Nirvana stared at the pages that contained his truth.

「 Yoo Jonghyuk, I can take you to the end of this world. 」

[H-How do you have this?]

Kim Dokja looked at the perplexed Nirvana and spoke.

"You don't need to see the end of this world."

Every time letters appeared on the world, Nirvana’s huge body started to disintegrate. Nirvana’s body split into countless letters and started to be sucked into the Fourth Wall.

"You will met you true death here, Nirvana Moebius."

An unknown emotion filled Nirvana as his soul disintegrated. On the wall, words were being written in real time.

「 At last, the reincarnator Nirvana reached a ‘single life’ after hundreds of years of wandering. 」

He laughed to himself.

[Ha, hahah. Ha!]

「 He greeted his real ‘death.’ 」

Nirvana’s expression was jubilant.

「 This is... dying. 」

[I see. This is it.]

「 At that moment, Nirvana realized what he had long been waiting for. 」

It had been hundreds of years. He reached the end after countless incarnations. Nirvana closed his eyes at this long-awaited moment. Despite closing his eyes, Nirvana’s inner thoughts were still written on the wall.

「 Then why? This is what I’ve been hoping for. 」

His whole body was covered in minor cracks, and it was all being sucked into the wall.

「 Why am I feeling afraid? 」

He felt the fear of death for the first time. One of the only things separating him from the rest of the humans. The concept of death, not being able to move, think or feel his own existence.

「 I don’t exist. 」

Nirvana’s eyes flashed open for a moment.

「 Don’t... I don’t want to! 」

No one would hold a philosophical view when fated to die. All beings were helpless before death.

Kim Dokja read Nirvana's thought and action through the wall. For him, it was like watching the end of a character in a novel.

「 In his last moments, Nirvana repeated the words he hated the most. 」

「 I don’t want to die. 」

Soon, Nirvana's soul had fully disappeared.

[The Fourth Wall has eaten the character ‘Nirvana Moebius.’]

[The Fourth Wall is smiling with satisfaction.]

It was fine for the wall to kill Nirvana. However, Kim Dokja still didn't understand the existence of the wall.

[The Fourth Wall is looking at you with greedy eyes.]

The Fourth Wall wriggles like it was alive. The pages turned and flowed around himself.

Suddenly, Kim Dokja felt a presence behind him. Misty cloud started to pour in and surround himself. At first, it looked as if it was trying to devour it's prey before the wall. However, if you looked closely, you could see that it a protection set up against the wall that was looking at Kim Dokja with greedy eyes.

[...Kim Dokja?]

The voice sounded like it was right next to his eats even though there was nothing there. The familiar voice was recognized instantly by Kim Dokja.

It seemed as though it was time for Yoo Jonghyuk to wake up.

Kim Dokja smiled sadly at Yoo Jonghyuk's appearance.

"...Did I betray your trust, Jonghyuk-ah?"

[...]

The voice only returned silence.

"I don't want to make excuses for myself Jonghyuk-ah. Right now, lend me your power."

[...Kim Dokja, what did you do?]

Kim Dokja's expression was like a explanation in itself. Although barely conscious, Yoo Jonghyuk understood Kim Dokja's heart.

Instantly, Kim Dokja sensed the overflowing power. Maybe it was because of how they had become one that this process was possible. However, what mattered more was that it worked.

"Jonghyuk, thank you."

「 At this moment, Kim Dokja thought, ‘I will surely come back to you.’ 」

[108 Worries has been disabled.]

Kim Dokja's vision started to return to its original state. The wall, Nirvana, Yoo Jonghyuk. It was as if nothing had happened from the beginning.

Chapter Text

For once, the stadium that was ground for the battle, was completely silent. Even the dust clouds that appeared after breaking through the floors had sunken into the ground. All that was left in the stadium was man standing. Two people entered and only one was left. This was the expected final.

However, when the announcement appeared, the strongest incarnation was beyond their expectations.

Because, there wasn't a single strongest incarnation.

Instead, two names appeared on the light blue translucent screen above the stadium.

+

The strongest incarnation in Seoul Dome is'---'.

+

[...]

+

The strongest incarnations in Seoul Dome is 'King of a Kingless World Kim Dokja' and 'Supreme King Yoo Jonghyuk.’

+

...

Yoo Jonghyuk's consciousness was blurred, it was if nothing really made sense. As if everything he had experienced so far was just a fever dream.

The usually stable body of Yoo Jonghyuk staggered as he took a step. He was almost completely exhausted.

Then, he fell over hitting his face right into the ground. The taste of dirt was on his lips but he couldn't get himself to get up. He thought he could walk but he thought wrongly.

"..."

Slowly, sanity he didn't know he had started to return to him.

The memories was still blurred though. What did he remember? What had happened?

Yoo Jonghyuk tried sorting it out.

'There was Nirvana, who he had fought.'

'Then... he blacked out?'

Yoo Jonghyuk listened but he couldn't hear another heartbeat in the stadium.

'He is dead? With no body left?'

Thinking it over, the conclusion was that Nirvana was dead. Nirvana didn't just face 'death', he faced his true 'death'

It seemed that Kim Dokja had succeeded eliminating Nirvana.

Kim Dokja...

Suddenly, Yoo Jonghyuk's headache started acting up and more information started to pour in.

They were memories from his body. How he had beaten Nirvana senseless.

「 "...Did I betray your trust, Jonghyuk-ah?" 」

Kim Dokja's voice echoed in Yoo Jonghyuk's mind.

Hearing Kim Dokja's voice like this, Yoo Jonghyuk became speechless.

"..."

「 "I don't want to make excuses for myself Jonghyuk-ah. Right now, lend me your power."」

This time, Yoo Jonghyuk heard Kim Dokja's voice even clearer. Still, Yoo Jonghyuk could only think of this as a hallucination.

Nonetheless, hallucination Kim Dokja was still Kim Dokja.

"Kim Dokja, what did you do?"

'Lending power to Kim Dokja? Of course I would always be willing.'

Although Yoo Jonghyuk internally agreed to hallucination Kim Dokja's request. There wasn't a way for him to fulfill it. None that Yoo Jonghyuk knew of.

Yet,

「"Jonghyuk, thank you."」

The response was like this.

The severely confused Yoo Jonghyuk stopped breathing.

His heart missed a beat as everything started to aline itself. The mental conversation right now combined with earlier experience.

Images of a bloodied Kim Dokja flashed through his eyes, the scene was ever so vivid.

Yoo Jonghyuk's body which was like a flattened pancake on the ground started to get a refill of adrenaline through sheer stress. He pushed himself off the ground and was ready to break through the roof of the stadium. The earlier barrier hindering him from escaping had long been deactivated.

He touched to ground low ground that had been horrible destroyed and then he leapt in the air using Shunpo. A loud sound of the collapsing ceiling attracted the attention of all nearby incarnations, although he couldn't care less about them right now.

From the roof of the stadium, everything could be seen. Yoo Jonghyuk activated 'Sage Eye' and desperately searched his surroundings.

-Kim Dokja, where are you?

Yoo Jonghyuk activated Midday Tryst, hoping to be able to reach Kim Dokja wherever he is.

Using Midday Tryst wasn't to get an answer from Kim Dokja, instead he used it to confirm whenever Kim Dokja still existed.

A deep trauma from Kim Dokja's disappearance started to slowly infect his mind.

His golden glowing eye showed the world through a different perspective. As he scanned the area, he suddenly felt his Eye of Sage acting up. Pain was brought to his left eye and he almost missed the appearance of the system notifications.

[The exclusive skill 'fourth wall' has blocked 'eye of sage'.]

Without hesitation, Yoo Jonghyuk traveled in the direction that was denying the existence of his 'eye of sage'.

...

Han Sooyoung watched the bloodied body of Kim Dokja slowly stop breathing. Having being able to survive this long while loosing such a amount of blood was impressive feat that bastard accomplish. She had to give it to him.

Seeing how he had finally died, Han Sooyoung was about to finish her end of the deal when another presence was felt nearby. Although this roof top wasn't very hidden, it was still a surprise that another soul was able to make it's way here.

It also turns out it wasn't just any soul that showed up. Instead, it was that bastard's bastard.

"Han Sooyoung."

Yoo Jonghyuk had only said her name yet he was already all over her nerves.

"Look as you, arriving late as always."

Though she said he was late, he was still here earlier than she had expected. Of course, it was still too late.

Yoo Jonghyuk only gave Han Sooyoung the slightest of attention, like the jerk he was. before turning to Kim Dokja.

"..."

The corpse of Kim Dokja was still bleeding out on the ground. A pool of deep red was still expanding at Yoo Jonghyuk's feet. This image, it fit his memory. Yoo Jonghyuk's usually cold expressionless face showed an expression of horror for the first time in forever.

He collapsed on his knees next to the still warm body of Kim Dokja. The bloody was sticky as it filled his palms. This amount blood, it was really too much.

"What have you done, Han Sooyoung?"

Yoo Jonghyuk changed tone caused the calm Han Sooyoung to face an inner panic. This emotion Yoo Jonghyuk showed, it was unlike what she had seen before. It was the sound of despair and sorrow.

Any answers she had to his question was washed away as if none of it really mattered. Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't looking for a explanation.

"Yoo Jonghyuk. It was what Kim Dokja wanted. Neither you nor I were responsible for what happened. And it's not like he was trying leave you either."

"He was trying to leave?"

"Yeah actually, that might just be it."

'Did he turn delusional? Did he really not hear anything else? Is this the selective hearing that I heard about?'

With those words, Han Sooyoung took her leave. Because she knew Yoo Jonghyuk neither had the strength nor will to stop her.

But before leaving she turned around and took out what she had gotten from Kim Dokja, minus the coins. She gave the two of them one final glance while thinking,

'This wasn't the desired ending to this scenario. Now I have to deal with a heart broken jerk later.'

'I should rescue my own companion while I'm at it, now that Nirvana is gone.'

...

Rain poured down on Gwanghwamun Square. The streets were near ruins thanks to the monsters. The collapsed media logos were broken and trampled on. The King Sejong the Great and Yi Sunshin statues that were the symbols of Gwanghwamun were completely destroyed.

The civilization that Seoul boasted had collapsed and the culture was lost. There was only one story left but none of the people in Gwanghwamun wanted this story.

In Gwanghwamun Square, a single roof was shared by the strongest incarnations in Seoul dome. The two whose stories intervened with each other had made it to the top, not by themselves but together. Yet, this effort, why was it only awarded by death?

Speechlessly, Yoo Jonghyuk started to take care of Kim Dokja's wounds. First, he removed Kim Dokja's white coat that was similar to his own coat. The white coat remained it's color even when dipped in blood. It was due to auto cleaning mechanic that was installed in this sss-grade item. Even when stabbed, the holes would regenerate. Simply, the coat would always keep its quality.

However, the clothes Kim Dokja wore underneath wouldn't recover nor clean itself. Since that was the case, Yoo Jonghyuk had taken upon himself to do just that.

Of course, before that, Yoo Jonghyuk was taking care of the wounds.

The wounds of corpse wouldn't regenerate naturally, but forced healing was possible. Yoo Jonghyuk took out one of the medicines he had saved for Kim Dokja. Only, it was a shame it couldn't be used when Kim Dokja was alive...

"Dokja."

At some point, no, maybe it was always like this. Yoo Jonghyuk held endless emotion towards Kim Dokja. And whatever form it took, comradeship or love, Yoo Jonghyuk was never willing to give it up. Nor was he willing to ever give up on Kim Dokja.

Even now, when he was attending his corpse, Yoo Jonghyuk still hadn't given up on Kim Dokja.

And he don't think he ever will. Because at times, Kim Dokja is his only driving force.

Now, that Kim Dokja had once again had died, Yoo Jonghyuk called out Kim Dokja's name. Not Kim Dokja, but Dokja. Just like how Kim Dokja had only used Jonghyuk.

Yoo Jonghyuk took it upon himself to take care of Kim Dokja, yet at times like these, he wanted to be the one taken care of. The feeling of saving and also being saved, he wanted to experience it more often.

"If I can't save myself? Will you save me?"

The blood had started to dry out and left barely visible stains on Kim Dokja's black clothes had yet to be removed. And on just those clothes, Yoo Jonghyuk buried his head in. His whole upper body was supported on Kim Dokja chest. The feeling was colder then he was used to, and when he listened there was no heartbeat.

Yet, it was still the chest of Kim Dokja. It gave the smallest amount of comfort.

The endlessly pouring rain was like sky mourning. At least it recognized this world's losses.

The rain drops flowed through Yoo Jonghyuk's hair and silently intervened together. A single drop of emotion formed and fell together with the water drops. It was a moment like no other. Yet, was there even a single soul to witness the moment?

Actually, there was.

And that single soul was the cause of it all.

Chapter Text

He rose from his position, dusted off his clothes and bent over to pick him up. The body had cooled down from the normal human warmth, it wasn't pleasant to the touch. Yet, Yoo Jonghyuk carried him close to his heart. However, that didn't work out and Kim Dokja ended up hung over Yoo Jonghyuk's shoulder.

The bloody mess had long been washed away from the constant rain and now it only remained as an depressing memory.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked up at the daunting sky. It didn't seem as if the precipitation wouldn't be ending any time soon.

Then, he looked down at the low ground. His and Kim Dokja's teammates were gathered there, helplessly searching for Kim Dokja. At some point, Yoo Jonghyuk had started to consider himself close to these people Kim Dokja had brought together. Even if there weren't on the same page as himself and Kim Dokja, they could still be considered trusted.

However, they weren't close enough right now to know about his secrets. Nor was he willing to expose his weak side.

He thought to himself, do I want to give Kim Dokja to them?

Comparing this round and the round before, what was the better out come? Having somewhat sobered up, Yoo Jonghyuk tried thinking things through logically. However, his own desires, how much could really be repressed?

Yoo Jonghyuk once again felt torn.

Then, he took a step over the edge and jumped down. His black coat was swept by the wind as he descended down the building, practically free falling. In the eyes of normal incarnations, this was equivalent to suicide, however, this wasn't a normal incarnation but the Supreme King.

Yoo Jonghyuk with Kim Dokja on his shoulders landed with out making any noise. It was if they never was he never touched the ground in the first place.

Lee Jihye was the first to notice them, she started to run their way. However, her steps halted a few meters away.

"...Master?"

The mood around her master was completely different from usual. Something had happened, and it obviously involved Kim Dokja. From the way he was unconsciously hanging over his shoulder, she could almost suspect the worse.

"Ahjussi? What happened to Ahjussi?"

"..."

"Is he badly hurt?"

"...No."

Yoo Jonghyuk had already treated his wounds. Only, something like that couldn't bring the dead back.

"Then, he is only unconscious? That means Ajussi will wake up, right?"

Slightly hopeful, Lee Jihye asked. Expect, her master was silent. The rest of their teammates caught up to them.

"Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi?"

"Dokja-ssi?"

"Hyung?"

"Ahjussi?"

Jung Heewon, Lee Hyunsung, Lee Gilyoung, Shin Yoosung, Lee Jihye... All where gathered in front of Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't even meet their eyes.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, speak. What happened to Dokja-ssi?"

Jung Heewon was the only one brave enough to face this Yoo Jonghyuk.

"Hey, don't think being quiet will solve anything. So spill it."

"...Kim Dokja, he is..."

"He is what?"

"He's dead."

They had their own thoughts as they Yoo Jonghyuk with Kim Dokja over his shoulder but none of them spoke. Perhaps their thoughts were wrong. Perhaps... they were afraid it was right. And now, even after it being said, it was hard not to doubt it.

"You're kidding me right? Dokja-ssi, he can't be dead, can he?"

Jung Heewon's expression, it looked desperate. Yoo Jonghyuk recognized that reaction. She grabbed his collars, wanted to shake the nonsense out of him or something.

"Kim Dokja. He is dead."

Nonetheless, once the words fell again, she couldn't bring herself to do it. For once, she was unable to find a way to deal with the despair.

Still, Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't done with speaking.

"However, he will live."

Jung Heewon paused all her actions. Lee Hyunsung, Lee Gilyoung and Shin Yoosung, who was on the verge of crying also paused. Even Lee Jihye looked at her master in surprise.

"Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi, what do you mean?"

Lee Hyunsung voiced his thoughts, then a memory of fighting the dragon came back.

"Just like when we fought the dragon? Will Dokja-ssi really come?"

"Kim Dokja still has the ability resurrect, even if it takes sometime. He will surely live again."

Yoo Jonghyuk's words that once brought despair upon them was now pouring new hope into their souls. New hope about Kim Dokja.

"When will Hyung come back?"

"Can't be sure."

He clenched his fist. In the end, this was all he could do for them. He didn't tell them because they were Kim Dokja's comrades, nor was it because of what Kim Dokja wanted, he did it for himself. And when he saw Jung Heewon's expression of despair, he realized of foolish he had been. Only thinking of himself when there was so many others who also devoted their life for Kim Dokja.

"Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi are you leaving now? After all, you prefer being alone."

"It wouldn't be convenient to take him with me. You take care of him instead."

"I'll do my best."

Lee Hyunsung spoke as he carefully took Kim Dokja into his arms. The cold touch was evident of his death, although it hurt him to know what happened, he didn't show anything on his face.

"Really, I'll take care of him."

With that, Yoo Jonghyuk gave a glance to them all, nodded and then turned to leave.

...

Even when he said it would be inconvenient, he still wouldn't mind the burden. Because in this Seoul dome, there wasn't anyone left to challenge him.

The streets where empty, no monster nor incarnations were visible. Since almost every incarnation had gathered in one part of the city, there wasn't anyone around. There was barely any tall standing building left after the higher grade monsters had ravaged through everything.

Yoo Jonghyuk trawled the streets neither fast nor slow. There was a place he had to be, where someone was being kept, however he didn't feel the need to hurry. Because in the end, will she even expect him to be there?

Smoothly, Yoo Jonghyuk passed through the mostly empty Salvation Church. And whoever remained here, Yoo Jonghyuk mercilessly killed them. This time, he didn't need to search the building because he knew exactly where Yoo Sangah was being held.

"...Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi?"

Yoo Sangah called out as she recognized his foot steps. Seeing as it was Yoo Jonghyuk coming here and not Kim Dokja, Yoo Sangah couldn't help but ask after being released from the bindings.

"What happened to Dokja-ssi? Is he alright?"

"Kim Dokja, he is dead."

Yoo Sangah, similarly to Jung Heewon, showed a face of despair. As if her whole world had come crashing down at Yoo Jonghyuk's blunt words.

"Still, he will live again."

Yoo Sangah, still dealing with the words of Kim Dokja's death, had a hard time understanding Yoo Jonghyuk. Usually, she would be quick to adapt, yet right now she had a difficult time composing herself.

"...Like again? How?"

"Kim Dokja has an ability of resurrection. He will live again, no, he must live again."

"Resurrection? Did Dokja-ssi tell you about it?"

Yoo Jonghyuk nodded at Yoo Sangah's words. It was better to confirm her words than explaining. Because, Kim Dokja hadn't actually told him about it. In the end, it was all knowledge from another round that couldn't be explained right now.

"Yoo Jonghyuk? How did you get here before me?"

Instinctually, Yoo Jonghyuk almost pulled out his sword towards Han Sooyoung that descended the stairs. Still, he succeeded in suppressing himself.

Han Sooyoung looked coldly at the sword Yoo Jonghyuk was about to pull out towards her, then she saw that there wasn't only one sword by Yoo Jonghyuk's side.

"Did you take Kim Dokja's sword with you? Seriously? And what are you going to do with it?"

"Why should I tell you?"

"What? Of course I wasn't expecting you to answer."

Han Sooyoung looked towards the woman she hadn't seen in what felt like forever. Her long brown hair draped over shoulders, her white porcelain-like skin and those beautifully brown glistening eyes with the hint of tears... Tears?!

"Yoo Jonghyuk, did you make Sangah-ssi cry?"

Although said in a calm tone, there was no way that it was a friendly question. Yoo Sangah sensed the atmosphere and stepped in to help.

"It wasn't Yoo Jonghyuk's fault, Sooyoung-ssi. He only helped me and told me news about Kim Dokja."

Han Sooyoung believed Yoo Sangah's words however the other Yoo...

'That bastard doesn't have a hint of innocence though.'

...

After leaving the two of them to themselves, Yoo Jonghyuk wandered the city until nightfall. The rain had finally stopped yet the sadness Kim Dokja's death was still there. Unconsciously, Yoo Jonghyuk returned to a place he had shared with Kim Dokja before. On his travels through Seoul, there had been plenty of opportunities to sleep next to Kim Dokja, still, there was one place that stood out.

Yoo Jonghyuk stood outside of the apartment complex. Some of the top floors had been destroyed but the foundation was still standing and so was the room that they had stayed in.

He touched the handle of the door and opened the it. Behind the door was a familiar apartment, the walls were still intact. At least this place had survived. At the time, he hadn't thought much what it looked like, but this time he took his time to really take a look at his surroundings. Although the place was relatable small, it gave of a sort of comfort.

'Is this the sort of place he could of lived in if he was a normal human?'

'Was this a place that Kim Dokja could of lived in?'

This normality, Yoo Jonghyuk wasn't used to it. He couldn't even remember anything about how his house looked like, he only knew where it once was. Living like a human in modern day society, what was that like?

It was another question he wanted to ask Kim Dokja.

Yoo Jonghyuk walked into the kitchen, it was the kitchen where he had made Kim Dokja a meal. Not only that, Kim Dokja had also appreciated him for the food. It was a precious memory. It was a memory he made as a real person.

Then there was the bedroom where they shared a bed. Even if it was only was sleeping, there was still a knew sense of closeness at the time.

Yoo Jonghyuk stoked the bed cover before laying on it.

"It has been a long day, hasn't it, Kim Dokja?"

He spoke into the air, hoping Kim Dokja would still be watching him.

"Do you remember this place?"

"I promised to cook for you, yet how can I do that now?"

Yoo Jonghyuk took out Kim Dokja's sword which he had been carrying with him. Then, he put down the sword on the side next to himself.

Then, he closed his eyes and once again everything returned to emptiness.

Chapter Text

Darkness.

Everything was darkness.

It was as if everything was drenched in the void. It made the space seem cramped and at the same time endless.

Emptiness, such a word was a fitting description. It left an empty feeling watching this void of nothingness.

This space was indeed very empty. The only one it housed was a mind equally as empty.

Then, the empty mind was no longer empty.

The dazed mind flickered between consciousness and a single line was spoken.

"Is this the end?"

However, before anything was understood, the sight of the darkness had already left his thoughts. In the end, everything was a dream doomed to be forgotten.

---

Yoo Jonghyuk woke up drenched in a cold sweat. Horrible suffocation had suddenly come over him and he was forcibly awoken. However, he didn't believe it was because of some dream.

His vigilance turned towards the extreme and he sat up and quickly scanned the room. Indeed, he wasn't wrong. He wasn't alone in the room.

In a corner, there was a shadow. It had been watching him. Only, from this angle. it wasn't possible to tell who exactly it belonged to.

Instinctively, he reached for Kim Dokja's sword. Yet, there wasn't anything there. Only the cold bedding.

Yoo Jonghyuk harshly spat out a threat at the shadow.

"What did you do?!"

Due to just having woken up, Yoo Jonghyuk voice's was extra raspy. However, the two people couldn't care less about that.

The person in the shadow didn't answer him, as expected. Instead, they took off the hood revealing an oddly familiar mask. Barely even a glance at the mask and Yoo Jonghyuk recognized it instantly. There wasn't a way for him to forget that oddly familiar mask.

Despite knowing the character of the person, Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't say the other person's name. For all that he had been through with the other party and yet not being able to call them out, it was a shame. This round was their first meeting.

Knowing the other's personality, Yoo Jonghyuk could already guess the other person's intention.

Having already risen from his sleeping place, Yoo Jonghyuk slightly looked down at the other figure.

"King of Wanderers. No, should I call you Lee Sookyung? What brought you here?"

"Supreme King Yoo Jonghyuk, I guess he had already told you? Otherwise, there wouldn't be a way for you to know my name, now would there?"

"Now, give me back the sword."

Since the person was Kim Dokja's mother, it was fully possible to negotiate instead of just blandly attacking. Of course, he didn't expect her to give up the sword easily.

"Still so rude, are you like this with my son as well?"

"Don't bring Kim Dokja into this. In the end, you were the one who stole the sword."

"As his mother, keeping my son's possessions while he is away is only natural. That said, did he give you his sword, or did you take it from his dead body? If you want the sword back, just answer my question."

At the question, Yoo Jonghyuk almost revealed weakness. Still, he succeeded in keeping himself calm and spoke back.

"Instead of his mother, isn't it normal for it to go to his lover?"

Yes, he said it. Yoo Jonghyuk didn't show any kind of embarrassment saying it out loud, it was in all seriousness. In the first place, there had already been confirmation of this fact, second, this was his lover's mother, she, if all people, deserved to know their relationship.

"Lover? Where did that kid go to get a lover? Although he is old enough, where would he find the idea to date? If anything, he would be too dense to even realize his feelings."

"..."

Maybe, it wasn't that good of an idea to tell her directly... Seems that Kim Dokja doesn't have any face in front of his mother. Nonetheless, at least she still cares about him, even after everything that happened between them.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, you said my kid got a lover? And that kid's lover, it's you isn't it?"

"..."

"Ah, how could it turn into this so quickly?"

While Lee Sookyung was slightly-, not so slightly, surprised, Yoo Jonghyuk quietly observed her reaction.

'Dokja. Look straight at reality. Even if fiction becomes reality, you shouldn't think of fiction as reality.'

He still remembers the word Lee Sookyung told Kim Dokja during the reunion. It was apparent she had taken a stance against him. Yet, now that she got the news from him, how would she react. Would she still reject him?

It felt as if it took every nerve and bone in his body to resist revealing anything.

He could tell her that he already knew he was only fiction that Kim Dokja had once read, that he didn't exist, that he isn't reality. And then he would tell her about his love for Kim Dokja, and how he would always watch his back as his companion. Then maybe, she could understand that they were meant for each other?

However, Yoo Jonghyuk felt that it wasn't right for him to do such a thing. Because the only thing she needed to know was that he and Kim Dokja were already together. And even if she took a stand against him, he would not let that hinder him.

"Yes, Kim Dokja is my life and death companion. And it will forever be that way."

Hearing Yoo Jonghyuk resolute's answer, combined with emotion in his eyes. It was obvious with a single glance that this wasn't like Yoo Jonghyuk's other relationship. Lee Sookyung could see that Yoo Jonghyuk truly cherish her son. Even more, than she does. At this point, was there even a way for her to compete against him, with what she as a mother had done to her only son?

Lee Sookyung felt the sword under her cloak. From the way, he had treated the sword even in his sleep and how he instantly reached for this sword when he woke up even when had his sword closer, it was obvious this sword meant a lot to him. She, herself, could never match such devotion.

Her kid, when did he grow old enough to realize his feeling? Although another concerning thought was that he had fallen for a fictional character... Forget it, Yoo Jonghyuk before her was not a character, maybe she was the one growing old at this point. Right now, all she should do is wish them a happy marriage. Except before that, she still had a question to ask.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, tell me, what actually happened to Kim Dokja?"

"You accepted it?"

Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't help but blankly ask. Obviously, he didn't expect that she wouldn't reject him, ask him to leave and not take his side. It felt like a great surprise, unlike his expectations.

"Yeah, you care about him and he cares about you. I have already warned him but he still choose you, I have done my part as a mother. If I stand against you, then he would never forgive me, so, in the end, isn't this the best choice?"

"Now, son-in-law, tell me about Kim Dokja?"

"Kim Dokja, he sacrificed himself for the survival of his teammates. He wasn't confident in protecting them from the higher-level monster so he choose the best option in his opinion. You probably know already, that your son won't stay dead. As we speak, there is a chance that he is watching us."

"Watching us? That must be an ability of his. I'll keep it in mind. Here, you should have this."

From under the cloak, Lee Sookyung took out a shining sword and threw it over to Yoo Jonghyuk. Yoo Jonghyuk skillfully caught it and eyed Lee Sookyung's movement suspiciously. Looking for a hidden condition attached to receiving the sword.

"What? Didn't you hear? You only needed to answer my question, so, now the sword is yours. Of course, only until my son comes back that is."

With that, Lee Sookyung left through the door like a normal human. If it was Kim Dokja, he might have directly left through the wall.

After she left, Yoo Jonghyuk fell into the bed. Even though he had already slept the whole night, he felt extremely tired. It was unlike normal. He felt tired enough to sleep through another day. Yet, he couldn't bring himself to fall asleep again. The nightmares, it was better to avoid it.

Yoo Jonghyuk got up again and looked towards the kitchen. Nonetheless, even if the world was destroyed it was still impossible to fight his body's needs. He has already ignored it yesterday when he had an extremely exhausting fight. Now, how was he planning on staying alive if he couldn't even defend himself due to starvation?

Maybe, a meal could do him some good. Just like how Kim Dokja wouldn't let him miss eating, just like how he didn't let Kim Dokja stop eating. If he couldn't take care of himself, how could he later take care of Kim Dokja?

...

'...'

Kim Dokja felt through Omniscient reader's viewpoint stage 3 that someone was thinking of him and was drawn here by force. Waking up to the scene of Yoo Jonghyuk and Lee Sookyung talking about himself without fighting. It was indeed a shock. Although he wasn't sure what was the most shocking part.

The fact that his mother went to find Yoo Jonghyuk to ask about himself or that Yoo Jonghyuk told her about their relationship. Kim Dokja felt anxiety through their whole talk, scared that they would start fighting or even worse, that they would try to kill each other. In his current state, it wasn't even possible for him to even intervene, making everything a whole grade worse.

"Yes, Kim Dokja is my life and death companion. And it will forever be that way."

Hearing this, Kim Dokja's whole heart softened. To think his status in Yoo Jonghyuk's heart had reached this level, yet he had to go behind his back and hurt him. In the end, wasn't he more of a bastard than Yoo Jonghyuk could ever be?

That jerk, making him look like the real bastard here.

Kim Dokja could only cry tears of blood in silence.

"Now, Son-in-law, tell me about Kim Dokja?"

'...'

Hey, wait a minute?

Is this script right?

No, seriously. This is serious. When did he ever say he would get married? And married to Yoo Jonghyuk? This is just a conspiracy, right? Yoo Jonghyuk, why aren't you saying anything about it? Don't ignore it, say something back! Are you going to just accept what she says?

It was outside of Kim Dokja's prediction. No, everything was outside of his prediction. They got along, and she called him son-in-law?

At this point, even the world makes more sense.

Chapter Text

The blue translucent screen floated before his eyes, it was the display used by all. This time, it displayed a hidden scenario he had acquired. The invitation to the constellation banquet, with the main purpose of making a debut, wasn't something he would choose to attend. Although the reward coins were something he needed for advancement, the constellation banquet itself which had the purpose of earning favor and inheriting stories, was almost completely useless to him.

In the first place, he couldn't even inherit any stories even if he wanted to.

Second, he was never one to try to gain the favor of constellations. Although his view of constellations had changed, he still wouldn't try any behavior to gain favor. It was difficult for him to forget the humiliations of the past.

However, a scenario was still a scenario. No matter how much he refused, there wouldn't be a different ending than that of failure.

Those were the thoughts of the past. Currently, however, the situation was much different.

Yoo Jonghyuk swept the translucent screen away. There was no doubt in his mind that he wouldn't be going.

...

The chairs presented in the waiting room were neither soft nor hard, instead, it was balanced in a way to make for the perfect experience. Nonetheless, Yoo Jonghyuk still preferred the cold walls over the chairs, the reason for why remains unknown to this day.

He adjusted his posture as he slightly titled against it, to make it more comfortable. At the same time, it was as if all eyes were on him and not at the same time. Obviously; he was a new figure here and still hadn't introduce himself, making one curious of him.

Yet, he only stood against the wall looking awfully mysterious. The frown portrayed his physiognomy and gave a hint of his nature, making it difficult to approach without reason. If not for the type of characters present, they would probably be surprised by his handsomeness.

During regular intervals, his gaze shifted towards the door and then back towards the floor. Making it obvious to others that he was waiting for someone.

In the background, the sound of the TV was heard, saving the incarnations from the awkwardness in the air.

Soft steps were heard outside, someone was speaking. Yoo Jonghyuk listened intently yet there were no words he could make out. The person, however, could it be him?

The steps followed each other, it seemed that it had yet to reach its destination. Outside the door, the footsteps stopped. The individual spoke some words then turned to open the door. In the room, it seemed as if the temperature had instantly lowered by a few degrees, the incarnations looked suspiciously at Yoo Jonghyuk.

Without even shifting his gaze, Yoo Jonghyuk already knew who had entered. The footsteps of the individual remained forever engrained in his mind. Yet, despite everything, Yoo Jonghyuk appeared as if he was unmoved. Looking at his behavior, it was already guessed by the incarnations in the room that the person clad in a white coat was the one he was looking for.

"... Jonghyuk?"

Only after hearing his voice did Yoo Jonghyuk glance his way. He nodded and added,

"Kim Dokja."

Both remained calm as they observed the other, trying to pry each other's thoughts. Kim Dokja was the first to give way.

"Long time no see, jerk."

"..."

Yoo Jonghyuk made no move to return the greeting. Instead, he was expectant of something else.

Kim Dokja read Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze however he was still unsure of what Yoo Jonghyuk was looking for. Making him only more nervous. This was especially so because of "unwanted viewers" that resided in the incarnation waiting room.

Kim Dokja took a deep breath and thought about their parting, was it something he said that made Yoo Jonghyuk this way? Looking back at it, he did betray his trust once again, didn't he? However, Kim Dokja's mind has yet to forget the conversation between Yoo Jonghyuk and his mother, making it difficult to think of anything else.

He wanted to clear it out with Yoo Jonghyuk, yet, now was definitely not the time.

Right now, this reunion, should it be between lover or companions?

At this moment, he almost couldn't distinguish between heaven and earth anymore.

In the end, all the words he could pull out were,

"I came back to you, Yoo Jonghyuk."

It was a promise he made to himself, even if he hadn't said it to Yoo Jonghyuk. At least he kept his own promise.

Yoo Jonghyuk's expression gave a hint of warmth, it was no longer as cold. Even the temperature in the waiting room seemed to rise. Yoo Jonghyuk sighed as he replied under his breath,

"Kim Dokja, you really are bothersome."

Then, in a normal tone, he said.

"Everyone is worried about you, don't leave them behind again."

Kim Dokja's ears heard the word 'everyone' from Yoo Jonghyuk's own mouth, he almost felt surprised. Still, thinking back to what he saw in that state, it really wasn't surprising. Yoo Jonghyuk's mental state must have taken a blow from his death, he would need to take care of that in the future.

Without saying anything else, Kim Dokja took a seat next to the standing Yoo Jonghyuk. He gazed up at the large screen, there was an intermediate dokkaebi ad playing currently.

-Thank you to all the constellations and dokkaebis who have given me the glory of the story...

It was an interview with the dokkaebi Bihyung, it was no wonder he said to Kim Dokja to watch the screen.

-Half of the glory is actually due to an incarnation working hard in my channel. Maybe he is a friend that you know. I'll give half this joy to the incarnation!

Kim Dokja felt uncomfortable hearing the shameless words of Bihyung, that bastard.

Then, in the ad, Bihyung presented a dokkaebi egg, it was the egg Shin Yoosung's soul was bound to. Yoo Jonghyuk felt relief over the scene that transpired. At least this hasn't changed.

Yoo Jonghyuk exchange eye contact with Kim Dokja, Kim Dokja nodded to confirm his guess. Unpleasantly, a voice interrupted their silent conversation.

"Are you perhaps... Kim Dokja?"

The woman sounded uncertain. Yoo Jonghyuk watched her unamused. Obviously; both names had just been said, yet, why are you putting up this act for?

"Do you know me?"

Kim Dokja, however, looked amused when she took the initiative.

"Oh a bit, I've heard some stories."

As she said that, she glanced between Yoo Jonghyuk and Kim Dokja as if to confirm something.

"It's nice to meet you, Selena Kim."

"You know me?"

Selena Kim looked slightly surprised.

"Aren't you the representative of the United States? Of course, I've heard it before."

Kim Dokja said back as if it was obvious. Yoo Jonghyuk squinted his eyes at Kim Dokja's answer. Who do you think you are lying in front of?

"There is such an ugly person on the Korean side. Are you the representative of South Korea?"

Hearing that yet another person called Kim Dokja ugly, Yoo Jonghyuk made a move to unsheath his sword. Before that, however, a hand reached out to his. Single-handedly, Kim Dokja stopped Russia's representative from being killed. Still, he wasn't happy at the comment from her, Kim Dokja still kept a smile on his face.

Only Yoo Jonghyuk sensed that Kim Dokja's mood was off.

Any thoughts of murder were tucked into himself by Kim Dokja. Even his depressing thoughts had lessened considerably. It was as if Kim Dokja was the poison and the cure at the same time.

"Iris, that is rude. Judging people by their appearance is a bad habit of yours."

"Ugly is still ugly, there isn't any other way to put it. Honesty is a Virtue in Moscow."

The little girl with twin ponytails was someone Kim Dokja knew, nonetheless, because of how she was acting he wasn't about to save her any face.

"Who are you?"

"...Do you not know? You should know me, Iris Vladimirovna Rebezova."

"And what should I know you for?"

Selena Kim intervened in the conversation, trying to appease both sides. She introduced Iris and her nickname 'Full Body Red Square.'

Then she went on to introduce Kim Dokja, except, she didn't know his nickname.

This time, Yoo Jonghyuk intervened in the conversation.

"Kim Dokja's nickname is k-"

Thinking it might be something embarrassing, Kim Dokja hurriedly said,

"I don't have a nickname."

Iris gave a proactive laugh, then she turned back towards Kim Dokja, seemingly wanting to fight. At this, Yoo Jonghyuk moved to block her. Iris, watching the attitude of the man clad in black, took some steps backs.

Before the situation could fully escalate, a low-grade dokkabi made an announcement about the soon-to-start 'Story Succession.' Afterward, everyone followed with the banquet hall. The first one up was Selena Kim.

Yoo Jonghyuk ignored this and instead focused on Kim Dokja. He gently touched the second sword he was carrying and wondered if Kim Dokja had noticed it. If only this was his real body then he could give back the sword.

After Selena Kim and the squared incarnation made their debut, it was Kim Dokja's turn.

Unlike previous candidates, the atmosphere was quiet. As if cold water had been poured at it. It was only when the first constellation recognized him that the atmosphere returned, no, it had risen even higher.

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at Kim Dokja in the limelight, he wasn't envious at all, instead, he was reminded of Kim Dokja in the previous turn. Kim Dokja just had that personality that attracted everyone to him. Inevitably, that also included himself, however, the attraction he felt was different from others.

Yoo Jonghyuk's watched Kim Dokja's back as it showered in the light, in one way, it felt natural. It was only when on the battlefield that he would stand beside Kim Dokja his equal.

Yet, despite this, the limelight still turned to himself. Yoo Jonghyuk couldn't help but frown.

[Yoo Jonghyuuuuk―!]

[The best Supreme King!]

[Come into our nebula!]

Yoo Jonghyuk quickly took a seat next to Kim Dokja, not at all showing any respect for the cheering constellations. This didn't surprise the constellations as they already knew of his personality.

Seeing the popularity of Kim Dokja, Iris quickly realized her mistake. Except, before she could speak, she was interrupted by Kim Dokja.

"Don't be hasty if you want to survive in the future."

With a blank face, Iris looked up at the panel on the ceiling. It was just then that it had zoomed into her face. Everything had been filmed, even in the incarnation waiting room.

This was the reason holding Yoo Jonghyuk back from acting out. Even his conversation with Kim Dokja had been limited because of this. Even as emotion took over, he could only coldly stare forward. This feeling of being limited, Yoo Jonghyuk hated it.

Chapter Text

Yoo Jonghyuk gave a side glance at the constellation that had come to lead him upstairs. it was a very shameless constellation that he would rather not associate with, however, he was left with no choice but to head to the second floor where the narrative-grade constellations were housed. He silently glanced at Kim Dokja in the limelight, trying to make himself fall more into the shadows. For him, standing out during the constellation banquet could be his biggest mistake in a regression turn.

It was just that, the feeling of someone watching himself wouldn't go away. He was unsure of which narrative-grade constellation's eyes he had caught, yet when slightly turned his gaze, he felt that the answer couldn't be more obvious.

An angel clad in a black lace dress stretched out her arms to wave at him. It was so damn obvious. Even the slight winking she made couldn't escape his view. If it weren't for the constellation banquet in the early scenarios, she probably would have dragged him off to sit beside her.

The angel dressed in a black lace dress, who else could it be but your favorite fujoshi constellation?

Yoo Jonghyuk narrowed his eyes at Demon-like Judge of Fire. She looked innocent enough causing only a few to know of her dark demon side. He knew somewhat of her dark side, yet it was impossible for him to gauge the depth of it.

He, if anyone, had a great sense when it came to judging someone. Excluding Kim Dokja. Except now, when met with the abyss deep secrets of Uriel, he could only shudder in fear.

Just then, a dokkaebi went on the stage and opened his mouth to speak.

-From now on, the Story Succession will begin.

Then, on the stage, six rooms equal to the number of incarnations participating in the Story Succession appeared.

-Now, all incarnations, please move to the Room of Secrets!

With that, the doors opened allowing Yoo Jonghyuk to escape the view of the Demon-like Judge of Fire.

"I'll see you later."

Kim Dokja called after Yoo Jonghyuk, still, he was too slow because Yoo Jonghyuk had already disappeared into the Room of Secrets faster than anyone. At that pace, Kim Dokja would have thought he was running away from a life-threatening creature. Yet, when he looked in the place Yoo Jonghyuk originally stood, he only saw Uriel not far away.

'It couldn't possibly be about Uriel could it?'

Kim Dokja shook his head, surely it wasn't that.

.

As he quickly entered the possible most confidential place in the entirety of Star Stream, a flood of messages popped up in front of him. Telling him about his privileges in the Room of Secrets.

[The Room of Secrets.]

[You have entered The Room of Secrets.]

[You have become the master of the Room of Secrets for one hour.]

[You have been given the administrative rights of the Room of Secrets.]

[The maximum time you can use the Room of Secrets is one hour.]

[Please make contact with as many constellations as possible at this time.]

The function of the Room of Secrets was simple just like the Story Succession. The incarnations would communicate with the constellations through the Room of Secrets and hear all their conditions. Later, they would go up on the stage and announce the story they would receive.

Of course, for himself, the Story Succession wasn't as simple. With the conditions set by his unknown sponsor, he could not accept the succession of other constellation's stories. In this case, things for him would either be more complex or less complex depending on how he handled the situation.

Usually, he would get away with a slight uproar. Yet now with Kim Dokja here, how much would the ending of the banquet truly change? At least he doesn't have to worry about minor conflicts when Kim Dokja will drag him down the abyss with himself.

So, seeing the 'please make contact with as many constellations as possible', he can only reject the message. Less contact would be more beneficial to himself.

Yoo Jonghyuk took the chair by the backrest and sat down fluidly. Yoo Jonghyuk then stretched out his legs and folded them, and leaned back on the chair. With the administrative privileges, the chair was no longer a simple chair as it closely now resembled that of a throne.

With this, he was now ready to receive constellations.

Or so he thought...

[Hello?]

Even though he was the current master of the room, he felt like his position was taken away as someone figuratively slammed open the doors and rushed in. The constellation resembled that of a small demon even though she was an angel.

Yoo Jonghyuk, with a thin line, kept his original cold appearance up. Still, he was infinitely close to breaking, on the inside at least.

"...Demon-like Judge of Fire. Greetings."

[Supreme King Yoo Jonghyuk. Come here.]

Yoo Jonghyuk looked at the angel, who was holding her arms out and opening up for a hug, speechlessly. He called the constellation who led him upstairs shameless, however, this small demon angle before him embraced a whole new level of shamelessness.

"No."

For her, a no wasn't actually no. It was simply just a trait of his personality to say no to a hug. Therefore, before Yoo Jonghyuk could have any further thoughts, he was already stuck in an embrace.

In the next instance, he reached for his sword with a furious expression. It was another level of bloodlust. Yet, Uriel ignored his attempt at freeing himself at started to rub his head.

[I'm so happy to see you but it was so sad. At the time I only wanted to hug and comfort you yet when I thought about it. Kim Dokja hugging you would have been even better.]

"..."

'...I was so confidant and for what?'

[I wanted to see you for so long. From the start, I could already see your destiny with that man. You two are the most perfect combination I have ever seen.]

[It felt like yesterday when the both of you were trying to kill each other on the bridge. And yet now, before I knew it you two were already together.]

'...'

[I have already started to plan out the wedding. So, for the tablecloths, do you want white or black?]

"...Demon-like Judge of Fire. I believe this is our first meeting."

[Wait, you want to save the marriage talk for the second meeting, then?]

"Let me remind you about today's occasion. This room is designed for incarnation and constellation to be able to talk about Story Succession."

Even if he was originally planning on completely ignoring the Story Succession part. He now felt that he needed to use it against Uriel because of her irrelevant ideas.

"There is only one hour, how can I have time to talk about my marriage with you during this time?"

[Yes, I need time to talk to Kim Dokja as well...]

"As for your reason to barge in here-"

[So for the Messiah's path, obviously it isn't suited for you. Because you can't be a eunuch. Unless no wait-]

"Next."

.

Yoo Jonghyuk covered his face in his palm, feeling very frustrated. From the moment Uriel was about to consider him a eunuch something okay, he felt he couldn't take it anymore. Besides that, why was she even here when she didn't have a suitable story for him? Considering her personality, it was presumable due to her own greed. And her greed for what? That he can't be sure of.

The problem still stands as he now has to continue facing the rest of the constellation. At least the worst one should have passed for now, if anything.

At least the privilege of kicking people out will somewhat entertain him. And the fact that nothing in here can be viewed from the outside is interesting as well. If only he could obtain a Room of Secrets for himself. Then, he and Kim Dokja could possibly...

.

-The next person is the Supreme King of Seoul

Yoo Jonghyuk heard the voice of the dokkaebi. It was telling him that it was his turn to take the stage. He moved up towards the stage, he heard some constellations gulping, others looked at him with strange eyes, some showed fear. Very few constellations showed complex emotions in their eyes. However, non of this was in Yoo Jonghyuk's focus.

He walked in a tempo that was neither slow nor fast, showing that he wasn't stressed nor relaxed. His attitude was captured by all constellations although none of them could possibly guess what he was thinking.

Yoo Jonghyuk stood on stage. His gaze lowered on the audience. However, he was slightly unfocused as he only not only took in what was in front of him but also around him. Then, he opened his mouth.

"I-"

He almost stammered as someone grabbed his hand and pulled it into the sky.

"I have an announcement to make."

Kim Dokja stood by his side, sharing his burden. In this banquet filled with constellations and incarnations, there was truly only a single individual he could believe in. This time, Kim Dokja didn't disappoint him.

Yoo Jonghyuk saw how the faces of the constellations changed. At the same time, he wondered if Kim Dokja's ways of speech would create a new misunderstanding between the two. From the looks of Uriel, he guesses might as well be correct.

Uriel went from excitingly holding a camera to almost fainting. Although it looked like she fainted, Yoo Jonghyuk could still see her finger's movement and the shutter opening and closing constantly.

"We have decided not to inherit your stories."

At this time, Yoo Jonghyuk's gaze was fixated on Kim Dokja as Kim Dokja grinned back at him. It was almost cute... in a bastard-like way.

"Instead, we will buy your stories."

Buying, after Kim Dokja said everything, it felt like an obvious answer to his problem. Yet, pulling off something of this caliber was something only Kim Dokja would be able. To be able to create a situation where both incarnation and constellations were equal in the Story Succession.

"If you have any stories to sell to Yoo Jonghyuk and I, please consult our nebula."

A deep silence was evoked among both constellations and incarnations present. Even the dokkaebis was momentarily surprised. The first to recover was one of the dokkaebis.

[Incarnation Yoo Jonghyuk. Is Incarnation Kim Dokja correct? Are the two of you creating a nebula together?]

Obviously, a serious matter like creating a nebula needed the consent of both parties. And with this matter, Yoo Jonghyuk did not hesitate a bit as he answered.

"Yes."

In this complete silence, a burst of soft laughter could be heard. It belonged to Persephone.

「 Kim Dokja, you did it after all. This is why I like you. 」

Yoo Jonghyuk watched the not-yet stepmother of Kim Dokja show her affection. Except, the problem was the form she took on. Why didn't he notice it earlier? Yoo Jonghyuk towards Kim Dokja, want to threaten him for an answer. Yet, Kim Dokja ignored Yoo Jonghyuk's obvious glare.

[The nebula 'Vedas' is disappointed in you.]

[The nebula 'Guiok' despises you.]

At her fellow constellations' reactions, she held a handkerchief in her hand to her mouth and frowned at all of them. Extremely displeased with the constellations.

[What? Why are you like this? This is obviously the best thing this world ever experienced! You guys don't know how to enjoy anything.]

Chapter Text

Constellations from the second floor openly showed their contempt, it was natural because creating a new nebula wasn't a small feat. Especially for someone who has yet reached the position of constellation. However, even with all the contempt, it was in the hands of the Star Stream to decide and the Star Stream has already shown who has the recognition.

From the palm of Kim Dokja's hand, stories flowed out and projected into the air. Yoo Jonghyuk watched one of Kim Dokja's stories unfold above him.

[King of a Kingless World.]

The story fragments told them about Kim Dokja's accomplishments, and how he destroyed the Absolute Thone by borrowing the power of the Four Yin Demonic Beheading Sword. This was judged by the Star Stream as the beginning of Kim Dokja's narrative.

The reactions of the constellations varied. Those who had yet to be informed could only be surprised, meanwhile, some allied constellations watched quietly, as if waiting for the coming reactions. The following stories started to unfold as well. All gaining satisfying reactions.

[He Who Opposes the Miracle]

[One Who Showed Contempt for a Streamer]

[One Who Hunted the King of Disasters]

The stories were indeed impressive, even more, impressive than any other stories he had earned before the end of the 10th scenario.

Yoo Jonghyuk closed his eyes. The fifth story he earned... It was even more powerful than the four combined, yet the sacrifice needed to create such a story. It is difficult to put the pain into words. He was unsure if he could ever endure such a scenario again.

If only he could find another path to walk without sacrifices.

The constellations were like headless flies as they continued to question them about their new nebula. In the first place, did the constellations even know the requirements? Or were they not updated on the information.

[No, is there even a name for the nebula in the first place?]

Hearing that familiar line, Yoo Jonghyuk once again opened his eyes. Although the situation had become slightly awkward due to continued questioning, it couldn't be worse than Kim Dokja's answer.

"The name of our Nebula is...-"

Yoo Jonghyuk glared at Kim Dokja. Don't you dare say it otherwise-!

"...Kim Dokja's Company."

Yoo Jonghyuk brutely interrupted Kim Dokja's words.

"There is not a name yet. In addition, we start gaining supporters now."

'Kim Dokja. Don't think I will ever forget this. One day, you will suffer.'

"Are there any constellation that wants to support our nebula?"

...

[I also support it!]

Uriel of Eden declared her support. Like she hadn't already made it oddly clear before.

[I will also give you the name of your nebula! The nebula name shall be Forbidden Lo... oof!]

The angel beside her showed a flabbergasted expression as they desperately covered her mouth with their hands. However, no one in this room didn't understand her intentions. If anything, it almost made the situation even more awkward. Yoo Jonghyuk was sure she would get another round of scolding after returning to Eden.

With this, there isn't anything left to deal with here. After all, the ending of the banquet was drawing near. Listing to the support of the constellations again, Yoo Jonghyuk gained deeper insight into their thoughts. Because of knowledge gained from either future events or from other sources like Kim Dokja, he had a deeper understanding of the contents of conversations.

[The constellation ‘Secretive Plotter’ will support your nebula.]

That guy. Someone whose identity was almost unidentifiable until the end. Yoo Jonghyuk originally thought it was another version of Kim Dokja, however, it turned out to be someone even crueler.

Obviously, that guy was also reset, yet, why does he still feel like he was looking down on him? At least now, unlike before, he has an advantage over him. And what that advantage was information-, no, it was that he had the advantage with Kim Dokja.

Then, the banquet hall started to shake and distort, the final part of the constellation banquet had finally arrived. In the distorted sky appeared probability sparks and the sky started to tear apart. Something was forcing its way through. The great hall appeared with its uninvited guests, the outer gods.

Uriel swiftly flew over to cover Yoo Jonghyuk's ears, meanwhile, Persephone took care of Kim Dokja. In no time, a transparent circle was created around them to transport them away from the horrible battle that was about to take place.

The outer gods, unexpected or not, looked in Kim Dokja's direction. With the current status, there was a way to dodge or save oneself. If not for the constellations around and Kim Dokja's own state, maybe this could have been a cause of death. Not just a mortal death.

Yoo Jonghyuk could only watch in desperation as the darkness surrounded Kim Dokja once again. Why did he forget about this event?

Then, his view distorted and everything returned to as before the constellation banquet.

.

The space shifted and he once again appeared where he left Seoul. Now, there was a sense of reality again. Unlike the perfectly engraved hallways of an unnatural banquet hosted by constellations, the ground was now uneven, the air was filthy, and the surroundings were too silent. Yoo Jonghyuk put his hand on the handle of his sword. Then, he felt a slight gust of wind. However, there shouldn't be any wind inside the building. Instead, it was a creature breathing down his neck.

Yoo Jonghyuk's sword moved faster than the demonic beast quietly observing him. His sword struck the claws and then towed through it and cut off its arm. Following the same flow, he disarmed the demonic beast completely. With desperation, the demonic beast used its tail as the last line of attack, however, the obvious moves were already within Yoo Jonghyuk's predictions. And with that, Yoo Jonghyuk once again bloodied his newly wiped sword.

"I should sharpen it some more."

He quietly told himself.

"Until it can cut down all of our enemies."

...

On the roof of a skyscraper, he positions his sword towards the sky and the stars embedded in it. He moves his leg back and slightly bends it, taking the position of one of his ultimate moves. He gazes at the stars in the sky and then looks down at the rooftop. Compering everything to how it was done before, even if didn't nearly have that sort of power yet. He felt the need to start his training early.

And it was then that it hit him. In the sky observed, there was always a vacant spot. That spot in his memories always belonged to the brightest star he knew.

Yoo Jonghyuk reached out his hand to it, and through the in-between of his fingers, he saw the beginning of the brightest star. And now, that star was within his grasp.

[Someone has acquired five stories.]

[A new constellation is born in Seoul’s night sky!]

Chapter Text

"Yoo Jonghyuk, you are really a damn protagonist jerk!"

Han Sooyoung gritted her teeth as she spoke without bothering to get up from the floor of the Dark Castle.

"Don't let the scenarios fool you, you are the real demon here."

"You jerk."

Not far from Han Sooyoung stod Yoo Jonghyuk slightly tilted against the wall. Yoo Jonghyuk didn't even bother lowering his gaze to look at fallen Han Sooyoung, instead, he just pinched the in-between his eyes.

"You know this isn't enough the reach my bottom line. So, why do you continue?"

"Bastard, why did you steal my proofs for in the first place? What if Kim Dokja hears of this?"

"Really pushing it, huh?"

Even after everything, why did it come to this? Yoo Jonghyuk clicked his tongue, why did it have to come to this?

After picking up his not-actually-so-helpless sister, he started ransacking the Dark Castle for demon proofs, and for some reason, he still runs into Han Sooyoung along the way. Even when he tried to avoid her.

"Han Sooyoung, why isn't Yoo Sangah with you?"

"She went off to look for a certain bastard."

"Kim Dokja?"

"No, it's you, you idiot."

Of course, Yoo Jonghyuk already knew the reason why Yoo Sangah would search for him. However, this time, he would not willingly let Yoo Sangah find him.

"Why did you attack when you already knew that you were destined to lose?"

"The story isn't set in stone yet, nothing is impossible. Do you think that only because you got your number one lovey-dovey spot together with Kim Dokja that you would be invincible?"

"I understand now."

"You understand what?"

"That you are jealous."

"Again, you bastard!"

It turns out she was testing out the system rankings. Although it wasn't the best approach to it, seeing how she was almost turned into dust. Then again, when it comes down to strength, she could have almost rivaled my point from before the time jump. If it goes on like this, things might really change. No, it has to change.

Maybe, meeting Han Sooyoung again wasn't the worse. At least it lightened his mood. She has begun to speak from her heart around him.

"You jerk, why did you stay?"

"..."

...This, is it something he should tell her? No, there shouldn't be any problem. She should even be able to guess why without explanations.

"I believe Kim Dokja will show up here."

"Thought so. You and your lower body truly know your way around."

"..."

"W-wait a second, it was a joke. A pure joke. Now, put that back."

Yoo Jonghyuk, with a sword in hand, looked at Han Sooyoung with disgust.

"Han Sooyoung."

Yoo Jonghyuk spoke. However, Han Sooyoung couldn't even see his lips moving due to the shadow suddenly covering most of his face up. She slowly nodded while gritting her teeth so she would accidentally put that last straw on the camel's back.

"You really are starting to scrape my bottom line."

...

When Han Sooyoung first caught the trail of the demonic wreckage, there was no doubt in her mind that it was Yoo Jonghyuk's doing. So, with the single goal in mind of trying to steal the protagonist's proofs, she quietly followed behind him on his hunt. Yet, before even having a chance to ambush him, she was already overwhelmed.

However, even after she was obliterated by him, he had the nerve to steal her proofs, putting her all the way back to the beginning. And now, that jerk would neither kill her nor leave her alone. So, in the end, she chooses to lay down on the cold floor to wait things out and at the same time vent out her rage that was hard to keep hidden.

Because he really was that much of a damn protagonist jerk.

About the other reason for cursing him. Since after thinking about it, if Yoo Jongyuk truly killed her, then what would Kim Dokja do? Of course, Kim Dokja wouldn't look away from it. So well, let's just say somewhere in her cursing she attempted to anger him. Yet, when he showed a disgusted expression, she remember that dying to Yoo Jonghyuk was worse, regardless of what Kim Dokja would do.

-!

Yoo Jonghyuk swiftly redirected his sword towards the entryway of the corridor. Judging the number of footsteps, there should only be five of them. Just basing it on the footsteps, Yoo Jonghyuk could tell that Lee Hyunsung was among them. Thus, there wasn't any problem with him putting away his sword.

"Han Sooyoung-ssi, Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi!"

Han Sooyoung, in preparation for others, had already gotten off the floor, yet when she saw their faces, she sighed deeply. Yoo Jonghyuk remained quiet till the end.

The next to speak was from the so-called teammates that Lee Hyunsung had gathered.

"What the hell is this?"

From the feminine voice to the clothes, there was nothing odd with the party members Lee Hyunsung gathered, yet, the expression on Han Sooyoung's and Yoo Jonghyuk's faces was unrecognizable.

Han Sooyoung replied.

"I was hurt fighting the demon servants. However, Lee Hyunsung-ssi also entered the maze?"

"That is correct. Are you alright?"

It was the Genuine Steel Lee Hyunsung... Truly. Just as he tried making his way over, the four new teammates dragged down his arms and screamed.

"Don't go over there, Lee Hyunsung-ssi, it might be a trap!"

"That's right, now back off!"

"Wait-!"

Lee Hyunsung looked between the "woman" and Han Sooyoung and Yoo Jonghyuk. He felt very troubled.

Han Sooyoung made a slightly disappointed expression and told Lee Hyunsung.

"Has your party changed?"

"...I just split from the party at the beginning of the labyrinth..."

Sure enough, with "woman" pulling his arms, it was difficult to get his point across. For once, Han Sooyoung triggered her skill Detect Attributes trying to catch the name of the people. Yet, as she saw the translucent blue window appearing, a smile couldn't help spreading across her lips.

"Are trying to build a harem? Or do you call this a reverse harem? How come I didn't realize your unusual taste before?"

"Huh?"

"Don't you know Lee Hyunsung-ssi, that you shouldn't just a book by its cover? Just like how don't judge people based on appearance."

"Han Sooyoung-ssi, what are you trying to say?"

"Wake up already Lee Hyunsung-ssi, because they are all men."

[A constellations who likes to change sex is surprised!]

[The constellation in love with a woman is aghast!]

The "woman" or more like men in their 40s, looked astonished.

The current group of four, Yoo Jonghyuk remembered the name that they called themselves by.

[Pink Kids]

The small group of men disguised as girls was something he rarely discovered because he was never their target. Yet, for them to target Lee Hyunsung, it was too much of a surprise for him. The odd way Lee Hyunsung is behaving, could it have to do with Kim Dokja?

Han Sooyoung spoke suddenly.

"Kim Dokja might have saved your lives, however, I'm not Kim Dokja. I have to get rid of these disgusting things."

"No, wait Han Sooyoung! There aren't bad people!"

"Lee Hyunsung, step back."

"Yoo Jonghyuk-ssi?"

Yoo Jonghyuk watched with cold eyes, he wouldn't interfere with Han Sooyoung's doing. Because Lee Hyunsung's death would be more than just impactful. He even lent her a hand. Then again, Lee Hyunsung was too bewitched as of right now.

Even as Han Sooyoung summoned a large number of clones, Lee Hyunsung battled back with tremendous strength. At this time, Han Sooyoung was running the risk of failing at killing the Pink Kids. Therefore, drastic measures needed to be taken. Of course, if Yoo Jonghyuk went after them then this would be unneeded. It was just that Han Sooyoung had no confidence in Yoo Jonghyuk helping out anymore.

Han Sooyoung smiled bitterly and asked the resisting Lee Hyunsung.

"Do you want to see a good show?"

In the next moment, the clones surrounding Lee Hyunsung took off their clothes simultaneously. Very smoothly, one might add. Lee Hyunsung blushed and collapsed on the spot. Leaving the rest of the Pink Kids ready for killing.

Han Sooyoung flew through the air and aimed her dagger at the back of Yoon Woochul, who once operated a coin farm. The next one who was in charge of trafficking was sliced through the neck. The next one was so quickly taken care of that it was even difficult to count his crimes. And just as it was down to the last one, a story was triggered.

[The fable 'Life And Death Companions' wants to begin its storytelling.]

"You almost made a mistake."

"What?"

"Don't kill this person. He is needed for my strategy."

"It really is you, Kim Dokja. And, you're too late. Like, hella late."

-!

Before Kim Dokja even had time to question Han Sooyoung, he was already pinned to the wall by his neck. A rough breath could be felt and his view was almost completely covered by black, slightly fluffy hair. He couldn't tell if Yoo Jonghyuk was trying to choke him or hug him. It was presumably both. His bastard was never good at deciding these things.

"Kim Dokja."

"Yoo Jonghyuk."

"Don't try to sacrifice yourself again. Or I will personally murder you."

"Haha. I missed you, too, Jonghyuk."

"..."

"Now, I if we continue with-"

Yoo Jonghyuk, not about to let Kim Dokja get away by changing the topic, pulled out a blade different from what he used before. The shining sword glittering with ether was Kim Dokja's well-known star relic.

"...Jonghyuk?"

'Ah yes, I see you took my sword, yet, do you feel that it is necessary to have it right by my neck when showing it off?'

...

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire's eyes can't stop sparkling.]

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' says she has already planned the wedding.]

[The constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' wants to ask the date when it will be held.]

[The constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' is asking the constellation 'Demon-Like Judge of Fire' for the attendance list.]

[The constellation 'Prisoner Of The Golden Headband' will give his blessing again when the time comes.]

[The constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' is questioning his incarnation for about his invite.]

[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' is shaking his head while mumbling.]

[5500 coins have been sponsored.]

Chapter Text

Looking down on the shiny blade that was too close for his comfort, Kim Dokja was slightly nervous- afraid of any sudden movements. However, after noticing that Yoo Jonghyuk didn't plan on, ahem, taking his life today, he sighed quietly to himself.

Then, Kim Dokja quickly collected himself, his blade, and his companion.

Han Sooyoung, who had been openly watching a questionable scene of affections, couldn't hold back her laughter.

"Bhhahaahaha. It brings tears to my eyes. How is it possible for two grown men to have no idea how to express their thoughts to each other?"

"Han Sooyoung, I'm afraid you aren't doing any better yourself."

"Oof-"

"Now, quickly return what I gave you."

"Che, I understand."

[The incarnation 'Han Sooyoung' has fulfilled the contract.]

"What a shame. I felt so rich for a while."

"You sure you still don't feel rich, Han Sooyoung?"

"Eh, it is not that bad. I'm sure you'll earn it all back quickly."

"...Han Sooyoung. You know I have a Yoo Jonghyuk and I'm not afraid to use it."

As if on queue, Han Sooyoung saw Yoo Jonghyuk slowly raise his eyes to look directly at her. With those glaring eyes, scrunched eyebrows, and not-very-visible-but-is-still-clearly-there popping veins. Han Sooyoung felt like she was a prophet predicting her doom.

"Hey, there is no need to involve nuclear weapons here. Oh look, I got your coins right here. So, put down THAT."

Kim Dokja slowly stoked Yoo Jonghyuk's hair a few times for him to stop his actions.

"Then, one last thing."

Kim Dokja looked at the embarrassing scene with Lee Hyunsung in the middle.

"How about you stop with the sexual harassment, Han Sooyoung."

"Oh that, kinda forgot about it."

Kim Dokja smiled kindly at her forget fullness when committing sexual harassment and then approached Lee Hyunsung, who was sitting on the floor and covering his ears. Then, he stretched out his hand to help up the helpless soldier. Not at all minding Han Sooyoung's avatars dancing around without covering clothing.

Lee Hyunsung, still scared, didn't notice Kim Dokja's approach. No, he probably didn't even know Kim Dokja was still alive.

Kim Dokja sighed again and roughly patted his back.

"Hyunsung-ssi, are you okay?"

"D-dokja-ssi?"

Lee Hyunsung showed a broken expression as he looked up at Kim Dokja. He looked like he was on the verge of crying, there were already tears forming.

"Kim Dokja-ssi... why are-? is that really you... aren't you... dead?"

Yoo Jonghyuk watched Lee Hyunsung. Was there something wrong? Didn't he tell them that Kim Dokja was coming back? Yet, why? Why was Lee Hyunsung showing such an expression? No, in the first place, did his teammates truly believe what he said? Was Kim Dokja buried even? Even though he asked them to take care of him. Or did his wording make them misunderstand?

...

The ninth scenario, Dark Castle, is named after the appropriately colored castle. In this scenario, beings that had never appeared before emerged. Although demonic beings have appeared until now, there hadn't been any actual demons.

Yoo Jonghyuk watched Lee Hyunsung still trembling on the floor, the unconscious Lee Jihye, and then there was Shin Yoosung and Yoo Mia who cared for the injured Lee Gilyoung.

Seems most members of the future Kim Dokja's Company were gathered. Although Yoo Jonghyuk would prefer not to reference the nebula's name. Since it felt like a reminder of his inability to stop Kim Dokja's bad name-giving ability.

Yoo Sangah was most likely searching for me, Yoo Jonghyuk thought. It would be best for his mental sanity to avoid confrontation for now.

Then there was also Jung Heewon, however, she was powerful enough to deal with it on her own so Yoo Jonghyuk didn't worry much for her.

...

Soon, Yoo Jonghyuk and his teammates arrived in front of the altar that would lead them to the second floor. Lee Jihye questioned why the person was still following, and to answer her, Kim Dokja gave away his sly plan.

"Since the level of the demon is based on the weakest party member. Kim Yongpal-ssi. Lead the way."

"Kim Dokja truly is the best at being shameless."

"Not shameless, but strategic."

"Lee Jihye, you should have seen him before. Kim Dokja was being very shameless with Yoo Jonghyuk."

Han Sooyoung grinned.

Kim Dokja ignored the annoying Han Sooyoung and placed all the proofs on the altar. Meanwhile, the onlooking Yoo Jonghyuk had a bad promotion. Based solely on Kim Dokja's luck, this plan could never go his way. At this point, maybe he will be more surprised if someone weak actually shows up.

[The demon who wants you is on the second floor!]

[A demon unrelated to your level will be summoned!]

[Demon Earl ‘Tentacio’ has descended!]

It was true to his expectations...

In the colorful spotlight, a demon ranking at the level of Earl appeared.

The demon earl showed a cruel smile as he opened his mouth to speak.

"...I see. Are you the one they call Yoo Jonghyuk?"

"...Yoo Jonghyuk?"

"..."

The situation quickly got awkward. Noticing that he wasn't getting an answer, the demon earl looked at Lee Hyunsung and asked.

"Are you Yoo Jonghyuk?"

"...I'm Lee Hyunsung."

"Then where is the person called Yoo Jonghyuk?"

Of course, Yoo Jonghyuk wouldn't expose himself to any of the tricks of the demons. Leaving his name to them would simply be more suicidal than not. If anything, he is impressed that the others hadn't looked in his direction at all.

Kim Dokja, the one closest to the demon, asked.

"Why do you want to find him? He isn't here so go back already."

The demon earl only laughed mockingly at Kim Dokja.

"A bug is talking back at me? Earth's bugs are strange. However, contradictory to your statement, I heard that the strongest person is here?"

Yoo Jonghyuk, who had no plans on intervening at first, heard the demon's mocking statement and quickly threw out his original idea. It was only a demon earl anyway, what privilege did it have talking down to his life and death companion.

"I'm the man you're lo-"

However, before he even had the chance to finish his statement. Kim Dokja shut him up.

"That sounds like me."

"Didn't you say you're not Yoo Jonghyuk?"

[The constellation ‘Lady of the Brocade Sleep’ is sorry towards you.]

[The constellation ‘Lady of the Brocade Sleep’ is asking you to defeat this demon.]

So, that is what happened.

With the intervention of a constellation, Kim Dokja was slightly dazed. Meanwhile, the demon earl started getting impatient.

"Why are you speaking to yourself? Then, you aren't Yoo Jonghyuk?"

Without waiting for an answer this time, the demon earl Tentacio started to release a powerful airflow from his body and it quickly shot towards Kim Dokja.

"Dokja-ssi, let me take care of him."

Lee Hyunsung quickly blocked the attack.

"Hyunsung, this isn't something for you to do alone."

"I will never lose the empty cartridge again."

Han Sooyoung whistled as she found it interesting. The demon earl kept saying useless words. There was also Yoo Jonghyuk, who was harshly staring down the demon.

The earth under the floor shook as Lee Hyunsung activated his steel transformation and then bravely attack the Tentacio's shoulder horns. Tentacio embraced Lee Hyunsung and fangs grew out of his mouth. Because after seeing Lee Hyunsung's story, Tentacio couldn't help but lick his mouth. He wanted to eat it.

Tentacio bit down hard on Lee Hyunsung's shoulder and cracks started to appear. Yet, when Lee Hyunsung hit down on Tentacio, he remained completely unfazed.

"It is the time of slaughter, Bugs."

Lee Hyunsung's steel completely shattered at this point, Han Sooyoung's countless avatars exploded, and Lee Jihye fell unconscious again.

The bug slaughter story showed overwhelming power against many weak people. For those who believe in the power of quantity, this was its worst nightmare.

Kim Dokja caught Lee Hyunsung by the shoulder as he was slung backward.

"Dokja-ssi?"

"Move back."

"That is not possible. If I don't protect Dokja-ssi this time-"

"A cartridge doesn’t disappear so easily. Now, watch me."

Kim Dokja patted both Yoo Jonghyuk's and Lee Hyunsung's shoulders as he walked past them.

The demon earl glanced at him with an interested expression.

"What now bug, why don't kneel."

He once again released the pressure of his story, yet Kim Dokja remained unaffected. The demon's eyes widened as he watched the approaching Kim Dokja.

"At least marquis grade… perhaps a demon king? No, that isn’t likely… you, are you a returnee? However, returnees can't enter the first floor."

"Right, both are wrong."

Kim Dokja didn't delay it any further and quickly rushed toward him while activating White Pure Star Energy.

[Blade of Faith has been activated!]

[The special option of Unbroken Faith is activated.]

[The ether attribute is converted to "divine".]

The first strike of the sword cut through the horns, then the second strike flew before Tentacio could react.

"No, this is impossible. A constellation?!"

However, before the second strike could land, Tentacio strengthen his body using his magic power. Kim Dokja slightly gritted his teeth and invested his coins into stats. With an average of level 90, Kim Dokja had successfully gone beyond all incarnations when it came to stats.

Yet, even as Kim Dokja relentlessly swung his sword and even when the demon earl's body was getting more and more torn, he still didn't fall.

Yoo Jonghyuk watched thoughtfully.

'If only his techniques were higher, then it could have been quickly finished.'

'Even with stat increase, the attacks are too sloppy.'

'If only there was more time to train him.'

'That attack, he should've been able to dodge it.'

Two injuries appeared on Kim Dokja. Yoo Jonghyuk used great strength not to intervene. Because Yoo Jonghyuk knew the weight of a battle. For Kim Dokja, this was the best he could do.

Just then, the size of Kim Dokja's body suddenly shrunk and electrification was visible as white lighting spread across Kim Dokja's decreasingly small form.

Beyond his surprise, the demon earl was terrified. He shouted.

"What on are earth are you?! A constellation with the ability of a returnee?"

Then, the dreaded situation happened.

"...What? I am Yoo Jonghyuk."

Yoo Jonghyuk, hearing Kim Dokja's answer, instantly activated Red Phoenix Shunpo. However, it was already too late. The demon earl's limbs might have exploded off but the rolling head continued speaking.

"Uh, Yoo Jonghyuk. You will regret giving me your name."

Just as Yoo Jonghyuk's blade made an impact with the skull of the demon, the skill was activated.

[Demon Earl Tentacio has used ‘Death Scream.]

[Demon Earl Tentacio has spread the name ‘Yoo Jonghyuk’ through Dark Castle.]

[The Dark Castle rankers will remember the name ‘Yoo Jonghyuk’.]

[The Dark Castle rankers are baring their teeth towards the incarnation ‘Yoo Jonghyuk’.]

"No-!"

Yoo Jonghyuk gritted his teeth. His promotion came true. Yoo Jonghyuk turned around and gave Kim Dokja a wronged look. It wasn't that he couldn't deal with the aftermath, however, was it needed for you to utter his name in this situation?

"Jonghyuk-ah... I just hadn’t expected this."

"..."

Chapter Text

"...Shit, Kim Dokja is crazy, no, it's probably already beyond that."

Han Sooyoung muttered to herself and shook her head.

"Actually, it's probably the world that is crazy. Crazy because of that Kim Dokja."

"Dokja-ssi, how strong are you right now?"

Lee Hyunsung approached Kim Dokja after regaining his spirit. Then, he looked down at his bitten shoulder. It wasn't a mortal wound of any kind, not even grotesque, however, the implication was still there. Kim Dokja answered Lee Hyunsung's worry.

"There are some dangerous guys left but it's uncommon. This guy's ranking was definitely high."

As if waiting for the right dialogue, the translucent blue notification window popped up in the air.

[50,000 coins have been acquired as the main scenario reward!]

[The main scenario content has been updated!]

[You have won a place in Dark Castle.]

[You have hunted the 10th place demon on the Dark Castle Rankings, Tentacio.]

[Ranking will be in proportion to the hunting contribution.]

Followed right after came the ranking of each participant.

For most people, the ranking was one of the most important parts of this main scenario. Even Yoo Jonghyuk considered the ranking, like how he let Kim Dokja fight and didn't intervene. Therefore, his ranking only slightly rose after the demon was defeated. Just enough to be incredibly close yet too far from Kim Dokja's ranking.

Earlier, he screwed over the ranking system for who was strongest, yet now, in the blink of an eye, he was already behind Kim Dokja. This is exactly why he might or might not regret his decision. Not to mention Kim Dokja's screw-up.

'He said that it was unexpected that the demon left a curse because of a name.'

'However, it seems he is not at all bothered by it?'

'No, he was always good at hiding his feelings.'

'Knowing Kim Dokja, he will definitely try to plan his way out of being killed.'

Yoo Jonghyuk stood there quietly, his eyebrows twitching slightly.

'Kim Dokja...'

'Is such a fool sometimes... and it's just that fool that I'd give my weapon to. Even if it means being backstabbed in the end.'

Unknowing about Yoo Jonghyuk's thoughts, Kim Dokja was grinning at the rest of his teammates and was discussing each other's rankings. Some were embarrassed, actually, most of them were, yet they still had a great time. Judging only from their expression, one could tell that the mood had considerably risen than from before. And this was solely due to Kim Dokja.

Even when everyone was overwhelmed due to the hidden powers of the demons from the Dark Castle, Kim Dokja could still make a smile and make them lighten up.

Yoo Jonghyuk, as someone who always has his eyes on Kim Dokja, noticed this a long ago. Of course, it wasn't just their companions who made it through many tough times thanks to Kim Dokja, Kim Dokja was also someone who found drive thanks to his companions. Everyone supported each other.

Just like how Kim Dokja wants to save everyone, Yoo Jonghyuk has been fighting for the same thing for as long as he can remember. It was for just that reason, and that reason alone, that Yoo Jonghyuk decided against his stay with them.

'...If I follow you now, I will only bring dangers.'

'I trust in your ability to protect them because I know you will give away even your life.'

'This is also the reason I don't trust you to protect yourself.'

'Just like how you would give your life for our companions, I trust our companions to do the same for you.'

'Therefore...'

-Kim Dokja, I trust you.

-Yoo Jonghyuk, what are you planning to do?!

Kim Dokja, while sending a reply through Midday Tryst, already made a move. He turned around and quickly tried to grab on to Yoo Jonghyuk, however, just as he barely got a hold of Yoo Jonghyuk's black coat, it slid through his fingers.

Yoo Jonghyuk took a step back to dodge his attempt, his black coat sweeping through the air, and then he activated Red Phoenix Shunpo before anyone else had time to react.

"Yoo Jonghyuk, you bastard!"

It was before Kim Dokja even had time to call out to him. It seems that his tongue wasn't fast enough this time.

Kim Dokja swore to himself. Why did that fool leave?

'Even if Yoo Jonghyuk suffered from regression depression, he wouldn't just leave.'

'It also didn't seem like he was too salty from having his identity stolen.'

'Then, it could only be because of death scream.'

'That Yoo Jonghyuk, he has too much of a soft heart sometimes.'

Kim Dokja held himself back from grinning. Earning affection and care from Yoo Jonghyuk and not getting buried six feet under was something he would have never expected to happen if it was himself from the beginning of the scenarios.

...

-Baa, baa

The sheep excitedly rubbed against the white feathers belonging to a wing. At the same time, the seemingly young-looking angel patted the head of another white sheep.

"There you go, there, there," said the angel.

"There it is, there it is," the angel said, laughing.

-Baa, baaa

For the angel tending to the sheep was something mundane as feathers. Yet, today the sheep were more needy than usual.

The white sheep continued ruffling up her wings and gnawed slightly on both her dress and ears. It had started to become uncomfortable.

-Baaa

In just a few seconds a dozen sheep had already begun circling the young-looking angel. Making her feel very suffocated. Almost desperately she called out the black-clothed angel walking far away.

Seeing her desperately trying to struggle out of the sheep's way without hurting any of them, Uriel laughed lightly before helping the younger angel. Then, remembering her original intentions for going out, she hurriedly asked the angel.

"Would you like to support our lord and savior Kim Dokja? He has blessed our lives with good. Just have this little act of kindness, for our lord and savior, Kim Dokja."

"We're planning on adding a new building to Eden and we need some more support, could you please help out?"

"I -uh"

The woman had a blank look on his face, and then a thought occurred to her.

"Eh... although I'm not the usual one to help out since you're sincere about it, I'll make an exception for you."

...

Getting another angel's approval, Uriel walked away happily. Since she already had thoughts about making a museum for the best ship out there, of course, she would go all out. She even planned to meet with Metatron to sort things out.

As one of the archangels, she had more power when it comes to decisions in Eden. And with the backing of the majority of angels, even the other archangels wouldn't be able to go against the decision.

In the first place, adding another building wasn't a major problem. The problem stems from the dislike of other archangels. Having their eardrums burst wasn't a pleasant experience, to say the least. Not only that, she never paid the medical bill. If not for their status as archangels, they would definitely be pettier about it.

Although, there were quite a few ordinary angels caught up in all of this, which would definitely oppose Uriel's idea. Or that was what the archangels thought. In reality, most of them had already been appeased by Uriel and gladly accepted. Some of it might be because of Kim Dokja's favorability with most angels. And now, he had even inherited a story from Eden. There was no longer a good reason for refusal.

With all of this, and Uriel's hard work. She now only had to once again confront Metatron about it.

"Sign this document."

"...?"

"It's for our lord and savior."

Metatron squinted his eyes at the document. "Lord and savior" were indeed mentioned, however, he could not help but be suspicious of her intentions.

"Uriel, is it correct to assume that you want to build a museum for our lord and savior here in Eden?"

Uriel nods vigorously, afraid that if she says one more word she will get exposed.

"Lord and savior, what a round-about way of saying it. Uriel, you're our precious archangel, don't forget to take care of yourself and not overdo it, okay?"

Once again, Uriel nods quickly. Then, swiftly get back the documents that were just signed and leave the vicinity.

Hearing the door close, Metatron sighed and closed his eyes tiredly.

"Lord and Savior are that what they're calling incarnation Kim Dokja these days, or is it constellation Kim Dokja now."

"At least, it seems Eden really has been corrupted by now."

Metatron sighed to himself again, even though he seems to have been beyond intrigued by Kim Dokja. Even allowing Uriel to raise a new building in their honor. What has Eden truly come down to?

...

Having successfully cleared one of the most difficult obstacles yet, Uriel decided to reward herself.

Her hand slid across the multiple stories created by her dearest Kim Dokja and his companion. Almost blindly, she chooses a projection to once again view. For her, the translucent blue projections were her most treasured possession. And she could not help but warmly smile whenever she watched it on repeat.

As the projection turned on, she immediately recognized that it was the memory from Peaceland. It was where she had helped Han Sooyoung set up one of the memorable experiences. The projection of Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk moved, both standing incredibly close to each other. Their clothes make a perfect match together. And then the way Kim Dokja held the back of Yoo Jonghyuk's neck as they passionately kissed under the night sky. So close, so intimate, it was beyond what she could originally manage.

"###### Kim Dokja ## Yoo Jonghyuk #### the love is true-!"

Once again, her screams echoed through the Star Stream, into the void, and even beyond to the N'Gai's Forest.

...

Paradise.

The purest of evil.

A world created yet it could never be accomplished, one world that could never be reached.

Paradise is something that only creates dispairs for those who believe in it.

Paradise, a word so sweet yet so poisonous.

Paradise is what the demonic creatures have said to create amid a castle built on flesh and blood.

And It was just the paradise that once gave him hope to believe in what paradise promises.

The very same paradise he once crushed underneath his boots in another regression, was once again standing tall in a place where the very thing he fights for is meaningless. A place that bewitched his teammates that doesn't know the truth and then eats them up alive when they least expect it.

It was this very paradise, that he swore to destroy.