2 January 2021

A hobby shop in Seoul

Seeing the posts of i-carats, stating their resolutions for the New Year, made me realise that I had been lax. I had been so caught up in the euphoria Junghyunnie effused; I had neglected preparing for battle. Securing weapons was only half of the tasks required: I also had to ensure that I was properly protected.

We had more than enough black face masks due to the accidental 1+1 purchase I had made last year and there were boxes of latex gloves in the kitchen. I scoured the internet looking for stores that sold blades and triggers, not wanting such a conspicuous and dangerous package to be tracked to my current accommodation.

I chose the prong rest as it was suitable for my shooting style and comfortable to use. The shop attendant made a mark where she had adjusted it for me so I could now maintain it for correct functioning on my own. I had told her that I would be hunting so she selected broadheads for my arrow tips. The edges were sharp and cutting.

Crow feathers, blending in with the night, were chosen for my fletches. They would stabilise the arrows in flight, being securely attached by means of screws. I had included in my bags at the lootbox sites: finger tabs, release aids, sights, stabilisers, and other accessories in the many compartments.

Longbows were what I had grown up with so I had chosen those. The chest guards would protect my heart, which beat with divine rice wine, as well as the collarbone and shoulders. Leather finger tabs would reduce friction and prevent injury, providing a smooth surface for the fingers to hold the bowstring.

Since my fingertips were already protected, I opted for gloves that protected part of my right hand only. They would provide accuracy and consistency in shooting. In the past, quivers could only be slung over the back or on the hip. The ones I had planted could be attached to the bow, allowing me to keep track of the number and save time.

The riser connecting the upper and lower parts of the bow was sturdy enough to withstand a great fall but I bought another one as a safety precaution. I had several sights to assist with aiming and the stabiliser was comfortable to use. The attendant could not stop grinning as she accompanied me to the till.

I kept three sets of my hunting uniform: one in the dorm, one with my youngblood, and one with Aron. Since these were kept in Chanel protective sheets and could be hung in wardrobes, any unsuspecting family member or friend would assume it to be used for promotional activities and would not snoop further- hopefully.

The uniforms themselves were quite intriguing: a textile so black, it absorbed shadows. It was made of waterproof material should it rain, snow, or hail. Hoods were added to hide my identity and I had had neck guards designed to the specifications of my spine, moving as easily as if it were a part of my skin.

The boots I would use were silent and menacing, like a predator in the rainforest. I had a Hyundai helmet, the visor protecting me from any floodlights that might appear. All in all, I was more invulnerable to any surprise attack than most top soldiers in highly developed militaries. This was in addition to my supernatural abilities. Caishen nodded his approval.