Avatar : The Legend of Cale

SIMP is Kim Dokja's middle name.

And Yoo Jonghyuk... where did our sunfish bastard go?

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Thank you so much, again, for waiting, visiting, and liking this fic! 🥺🙏🍓✨
Hope you'll like thic chapter ><)

Happy Reading, guys~!

Somewhere far, far away...

Deep in the darkness, a figure lay beneath its dark blanket - trying to find warmth and protection from the very thing that most people feared.

Sometimes, the comfort he felt inside made him not want to come out, reluctant to face the world of light, which was filled with various colours. Because what he encountered in that world so far was pain, suffering, scorn and a heart that was destroyed very easily.

Another teardrop fell, making the darkness around him struggle to wrap him up.

Then, something caught his attention from inside the darkness.

It was a glitch that appeared in the middle of the darkness, right in front of him. Curious as to what made it visit the darkness, he opened his starry blanket.

He was shocked and stunned to see that it was a small light.

What had this little light done to be able to penetrate the darkness?

As if hypnotized, a small, wounded hand reached out to touch the light. As soon as it made contact the light became brilliantly bright, widening a pair of beads that were beginning to sparkle brightly.

[...activate to the marvellous story fable!]

A story...

A blue holographic screen with glitches appeared in front of him, making the figure fall silent.

On the screen, a person could be seen. The most striking thing about the person was their bright red hair. Then their face, which was adorned with handsome, beautiful features, cheeks with noble blood, and a pair of reddish-brown eyes that shone with kindness.

Who was this man?

[Stigma 'Father of the Dragon' has been added.]

The screen showed the story of the red-haired man.

Of the man saving two young kitten.

Then a man in a black robe with dull lifeless eyes.

It showed his efforts to save a little dragon that had been caged in darkness from the moment of its birth.

Then him saving people from a bomb attack.

The rescue the Wolf tribe.

Then the Whale tribe.

And the Tiger tribe.

He even saved neighbouring kingdoms.

A girl of the Elven city, trapped in darkness.

The forest of elves and the queen of beasts.

Him meeting the golden dragon and saving him in more than one ways.

How he shone light into the life of a prince.

How desperately he fought for his life.

And how he provided a home for anyone who had lost a place to come back to.

[..... react to the fables great story!]

Great indeed.

Subconsciously, a small smile appeared on his face as he looked at the red-haired figure.

Indeed, his true nature was sometimes bold, very fond of money, clever and cunning. But that did not hide the fact that his heart carried a pure kindness within. There was tenderness in the hand that stroked the children's heads. A small, barely there smile when talking to the dark-robed knight. Witty eyes full of mirth when talking to the crown prince. And undeniable affection when looking at his comrades. His family.

The story was beautiful and marvellous.

Subconsciously, his hand moved forward to stroke the man's holographic features.

Cale Henituse was the man's name.

Kim Rok Soo was also his name.

How could someone like him, who had been hurt in such ways, still carry such great love in his heart?

"Is... it you...?" He whispered hopefully, looking at the warm reddish-brown eyes with a familiar feeling.

Tears fell just like that.

He wanted to meet this red-haired figure.

He wanted to ask.

What could he have done to earn that warm pat on the back?

How should he react if someone smiled at him this gently?

Would he be scolded again if he did something wrong?

How could he heal from this wound in his heart?

Can I be strong like ■■■■■■■■■■■ ?

If I'm like ■■■■■■■■■■■, can I go through everything to meet you?

Thousands of questions arose in his heart, making him unconsciously daydream, two careful hands cradling the hologram, afraid of shattering the faded object if he touched it carelessly.

Then, something surprising happened.

[T■e C■■st■■■at■on '■od ■f D■at■' requested authority to enter the ■t■r ■tr■a■]

Who?

[T■e C■■st■■■at■on '■od ■f D■at■' requests authority to heal an Incarnation.]

The screen showed the final war.

It showed the final sacrifice of the redhead who was willing to pierce his heart to end the war. Even though it was only him who had to suffer and die.

With a fierce and hopeful gaze, those eyes stared at the stranger who had slipped into the darkness. Thousands of eyes in silence became sanctioned by his side.

The incarnation in question was Cale Henituse? Kim Rok Soo?

The stranger with a thin presence nodded.

And he will heal there?

The figure nodded again.

[Permission granted.]

The figure disappeared, along with the red-haired man's soul, into the world he was referring to. Despite the permission, the foreign power could only transport him to a dark alley filled with poisonous fog. He also only had limited authority in this darkness.

So, he wistfully used his little bit of power to protect the 'missing' man, creating a soft golden glow to surround the man, to protect him from the dangers of the outside world, which faded his presence so that monsters would not attack.

A small, fragile smile formed on his lips and his eyes softened at the sight of the man with the beautiful reddish-brown eyes.

He wished him healing.

And a promise to meet again.

"See you again."

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[Present Time]
[Kim Dokja's POV]

Panic ran down Dokja spine as he saw the protagonist, Yoo Jonghyuk, disappear in front of his eyes. They were still on the 4th floor! Shouldn't our protagonist only be affected by the Theater Master on the last floor!?

Was it that easy to influence him? Was it because that sunfish bastard had been caught off guard?

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is very worried about the Incarnation 'Yoo Jonghyuk'!]

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' snorts.]

"Master! We must save Master!"

"Wait! Don't act recklessly, Jihye!"

"Heewon-noonim is right. We have to find out what's going on first, Jihye." His eyes turned to look at Hanibaram's figure, who was still staying calm. The red-haired man's hand rose to pat the teenage girl's shoulder gently.

"We don't know how our enemies will act in the future. What is certain, is that we lack information right now. A slight mistake could cause Jonghyuk-hyungnim to get hurt. So, calm down, okay, Jihye?" Heewon smiled gratefully at Cale who could easily calm Jihye down. Dokja thought it was amazing, considering that Jihye was still a teenager with unstable emotions and a rebellious streak.

She usually only obeyed her Master.

However, Cale's well-targeted words made Jihye nod reluctantly, earning her a fond smile from the red-haired man.

"Cale is right. We are currently lacking information, and have no idea where that basta-ehem, I mean Jonghyuk-ssi, went." Dokja took over, all the attention turning to him.

"One thing's for sure, we need to finish all these movies to reach the final one. I think he will be there, at the final stage with the Theater Master." Jihye seemed reluctant to accept Dokja's words. However, Cale's support once again made the girl nod.

"We have to go to the laboratory. The climax will happen there, won't it?" Heewon asked, remembering the movie they were in. Dokja and Jihye nodded, while Cale remained silent with a calm face.

"Let's-" Their movement was halted when several dinosaurs of human height blocked the way.

"Cale-ya, try to get rid of your army. We're in a hurry, you know," Heewon grumbled, taking a step back to avoid the snap of sharp teeth in front of her.

"They want to help... I guess," muttered Cale with trembling hands trying to touch the ancient creature in front of him. Docile as a cat, the dinosaur stroked its muzzle against the crown of his red hair.

"Riding them will get us there faster. Come on!"

*****

As strange as it may seem, they rode the ancient creature to the centre of the island, to the laboratory that breeds dinosaurs.

The centre of Dokja's attention however was not the strange embryos in the watery tubes, the blood samples, or how destroyed the lab was, but the few items they could collect here.

[Stamina Enhancing Ampoule]

[Magic Power Enhancing Ampoule]

[Agility Enhancing Ampoule]

[Strength Enhancing Ampoule]

There were about 20 ampoules, which by this world's standard were a lot. Enough to make his level increase a lot.

"Everyone, try to grab any item that has a description, then we'll gather outside the laboratory." Jihye and Heewon carried identical looks, while Cale simply nodded. It made it difficult for Dokja to refrain from ruffling the red head's hair.

After finishing, Dokja felt a little jittery when he saw that the carnivorous dinosaurs were still around the lab, acting as impromptu guards, at Cale's request. Even though they had been tamed by the red-haired man, it was still terrifying to be this close to the ancient creatures, especially the carnivorous ones.

Sitting down on the grass, the others soon followed suit. Cale on the right, Heewon on the left and Jihye in front of him. The teenage girl looked upset, still unable to stop thinking about the way Jonghyuk had suddenly disappeared from their sight.

"Why are we just standing around?! Are we having a picnic right now?!" Dokja's piercing gaze silenced the girl.

"For now, he'll be fine. The Theatre Master won't just let his toys die." Heewon's face paled.

"Sometimes... it's scary how you are able grasp these monster's character so quickly, Dokja-ssi."

"But it's better to think that way, noonim. At least we know that Jonghyuk-hyungnim... is still alive." Both Cale and Jihye grimaced in unison.

"Now, take out all the compensation we've earned up to this 3rd floor."

There were many items and rewards, including the ampoules Dokja had just collected.

Some could be used only while in the Theatre world, while others would have permanent effects.

Since they entered quite early in the plot of the original novel (considering that Main Scenario #3 had been completed quickly), they obtained many rewards. Dokja thought this was one of the more interesting rotations, as he vaguely remembered that the Titanic itself was supposed to be on the 4th floor.

It also didn't escape his notice that the posters would change at the whims of the Theatre Master himself. Was this one of the butterfly effects of Dokja's or Cale's presence?

"Wow, we gathered quite a lot," Heewon muttered staring in amazement at the objects in front of them. Too bad there were no swords, there were only small artifacts, potions, and even amulets (the result of the murim movie they played in earlier).

"I think this can be saved for Gilyoungie." Dokja separated an item they had obtained from a movie about insects turning into monsters.

"This is for Sangah-ssi... then Hyunsung-ssi..." there was no argument from Heewon and Cale, except for Jihye who was still staring intently at the bottles of skill-boosting drinks.

"And this is for you, Cale-ya." Reddish-brown eyes with a jewelled sheen blinked at the item, the 'Heart of the Ocean', that Dokja held out to him. The dark, starry eyes of the man who knew better glanced at the changes in the other redheaded man's expression.

His pale hand rose to grab it and without warning, the blue gem in the centre of the necklace started shining. It was mesmerizing. It sparkled like water hit by the rays of the sun, which slowly began to circle around Cale before entering his body.

"This..." Everyone waited for the other man's response. Dokja immediately felt strange seeing the nostalgic look in the others beautiful eyes. It was as if the necklace had not been seen for a long time. Then, he saw how the simple heart shape became an intricate little bottle, filled with shimmering water.

"Whoah! How did you change it, Oppa?!" gasped Jihye, trying to get a closer look.

"...I just felt like changing it. It's not sightly for men to wear heart-shaped ornaments," Cale grumbled without taking his eyes off the necklace in his hand.

"Let me help you put it on, Cale-ya," Dokja unconsciously offered. Cale's attention was immediately drawn to him before nodding.

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' holds her breath!]

Dokja knelt down behind Cale.

With gentle movements, the man touched the front of the bright reddish hair, pulling it back gently and draping it over the others right shoulder.

The revealed collar bone was alluring, the skin pale with an enticing reddish hue. Dokja was tempted to touch it, to see if the skin would be sensitive to the touch. However, the thought was quickly dismissed as his cheeks began to heat up.

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' blushed at the sight...]

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' is staring intently at the other Constellations.]

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' lashed out at all the Constellations, telling them to maintain the privacy of the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse'.]

Heewon and Jihye's piercing teasing gazes bore into the side of his head.

He opened the necklace, putting it around the other from the front and making sure no hair was caught before closing it at the back. After that, Dokja pulled Cale's reddish hair back into place. He looked down at the crown of 'Hanibaram's head with a smile on his face.

"E-ehem!" Dokja looked sharply at the now sour-faced Heewon.

"Master is waiting! We can continue this after Master is safe!" Jihye chided impatiently. Dokja reluctantly took his original seat halfway between Cale and Heewon.

"Ahjussi, can I have one of those ampoules you got? I don't feel strong enough," Jihye complained, putting two hands together to plead with Dokja.

"No, you can't." The girl's gaze shifted to stare at Cale. Wanting to complain about him, of course. That little devil-!

"Cale-Op-!"

"If you can win rock-scissors-paper with me, you can have some." Giving him a wide smile, Jihye began to beam. Heewon wasn't much different, but still felt anxious, while Cale nodded with a calm face, though there was a bit of anticipation in his eyes.

Starting with Jihye, who was already grinning frivolously, Dokja couldn't help but activate one of his skills.

[Exclusive skill, 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint Stage 1' activated]

[The Character 'Lee Jihye' has prepared scissors.]

Dokja was now grinning just as widely.

*****

Cale's wore a complicated look as he stared down at his hands, before turning the same look onto Dokja. His accusing eyes, asking if their game was rigged, was adorable.

Dokja refrained from squealing with tears in his eyes.

Cale looked so frustrated!

Like a cat staring at an annoying mouse that kept getting away.

Because of this, Kim Dokja relented five times, bringing out Cale's small but charming -and very cute in his opinion- smile.

"It's not fair! Why did I only get two?!" Jihye screeched unhappily.

"I also only won three times. Cut it out Jihye, Dokja-ssi is in bitch mode right now." The older woman chided with a grim face.

"Drink, Cale-ya, you can increase your stats so that your skills don't take too much of a toll on your body." The red-haired man nodded. It made Dokja smile too, skillfully ignoring Jihye's whining in front of him.

"Ah yes, Dokja-ssi, I have a question. If the dinosaurs have been tamed by Cale, how do we finish this movie?" Heewon asked matter-of-factly.

"I guess we could kill the scientist who brought the creatures back to life? Or we could take them off the island and let them dominate the world?" Jihye, Heewon and even Cale paled at Dokja's suggestion.

"Isn't that pretty cruel-?"

"We're here trying to satisfy the Theatre Master with an ending he likes. There's no point if it's the other way around. We've been stuck in this hidden scenario for almost two days." All of them turned grim-faced at the reminder.

".... then, let's just free ourselves from this island?" Everyone turned to look at Cale.

"How?" asked Jihye skeptically.

"Why would that be?" said Heewon again.

"Hmmm I guess there's no harm. Since both of Dokja-hyungnim's suggestions would have the same result... it's just, there's been enough killing already today." The explanation ended with Cale's muttering, earning a moment of silence, before everyone gave their approval.

"And I can ask the species that live in water to bring the others out." Cale then gave a small smile.

"A chaotic world full of ancient creatures in the modern world... that's a good ending." At the enthusiastic responses from Jihye and Heewon, Dokja had another feeling, that... this ending was the more cruel one? However, the thought was quickly dismissed from his mind.

"Let's get this over with quickly." Everyone stood up and nodded.

*****

"I've never been in a helicopter-! WHOAH-!"

"Dokja-ssi, are you secretly a pilot-?"

"It's been a long time..."

Three different responses were given to the party leader who expertly flew the large helicopter to transport the dinosaurs off the island.

After following Cale's advice, they got a note from the Theatre Master who liked the ending, allowing them to move on to the next floor.

They had to hurry to catch up with Jonghyuk.

Especially considering the initial influence of the Theatre Master, which was beyond Kim Dokja's prediction.

He didn't know what would happen to their protagonist.

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[Cale Henituse's POV]

"Hey, maybe it's just my feelings, but why are all the posters on this floor torn up?" Jung Heewon's question was met by silence as they reached the end of the 4th floor posters.

Cale couldn't help but follow the direction of the woman's gaze and indeed, all the posters had been torn down. He instantly grew worried.

After Yoo Jonghyuk, they were the next people to cross by, he was sure of that. Judging from the beginning only two movies had been ready, and this was the Hidden Scenario. Then there was the impromptu attack from the Theatre Master to tap into their minds, made Cale uneasy.

They had just finished the fourth of the eight movies on this floor, probably-

"Jonghyuk-hyungnim was forced to finish everything." Jihye looked very worried now. Cale too.

If forced to continue like this, Yoo Jonghyuk would be exhausted and end up being forced to fight the monster alone. They would also end up having to fight without a strong man like Jonghyuk.

Cale didn't like that thought.

"We have to hurry before Jonghyuk-hyungnim gets hurt even worse, Dokja-hyungnim." The other man's hand unceremoniously moved to ruffle Cale's hair. Cale protested slightly and brushed the hand away. He was not a child!

"Yes, that's right. At this inhuman speed, Jonghyuk will be in danger."

"What are you waiting for? Let's go to the next floor!"

[You have entered Floor 5, The Rewards Room.]

"The rewards room? Not a scary movie?" Chirped Jihye, slightly shivering at the memory of one of the horror movies they had entered previously - The Rings.

"This is the exhibition room. A place used to show props from the original movie." Cale's eyes narrowed to look at the other man.

As far as he knew Kim Dokja had never failed to bring a sense of suspicion to his heart. Not suspicious because of bad intentions, but suspicious because the man seemed to know more about what would happen at any time than anyone else.

His actions would never escape Cale's sight. Dokja acted faster than anyone and adapted with frighteningly speed and accurate adjustments.

Perhaps, it had something to do with the title of 'Prophet' that Yoo Jonghyuk had been referring to? From what Cale had read, only those who received a 'revelation' were called a 'Prophet'.

Cale's reddish-brown eyes widened at the theory. Could it be that Dokja received 'revelation's from the future?

Inevitably, Cale felt that this theory made the most sense with Dokja's behaviour thus far. Especially with the way he had concluded that Jonghyuk was in danger because of this Hidden Scenario-

"-le-ya? Cale?! Are you okay?!" A sudden shock to his shoulder broke his reverie. He was confronted with the worried face of the main source of his thoughts, Kim Dokja.

His starry eyes sparkled with genuine concern as two warm hands gently gripped his shoulders.

There was a peculiar expression on that handsome face. It looked as if the other was hurt to see how unresponsive Cale had been in the last few minutes.

".... I'm fine, Dokja-hyungnim. Just lost in thought for a moment." Cale replied immediately, not wanting to worry the man any further. Dokja still looked unsure. Those dark eyes looked Cale up and down before nodding reluctantly.

The action made the red-haired man smile a little, unconsciously.

Well, although Dokja's suspicious attitude about his future knowledge disturbed Cale's mind a little, it did not matter. The man was always worried about him, not harbouring any malicious intent.

After all, they needed to protect each other. Since Cale had decided to stay by Dokja's side, it would also safer, right? Since the man knew more about the future. In return, he could also provide a sense of comfort, as the person watching over Cale was 'protecting' them.

Should he call their relationship symbiotic mutualism? Mutually beneficial.

Hmmmm... Cale liked that idea.

"-What about this?" Dokja's voice distracted him from his thought. Cale's reddish-brown eyes gazed at the item, which was a familiar circular diadem with a wooden root-like design and a foliage decoration on the end.

[Galadriel's Headdress - Replica]

"It's the one from The Lord of the Rings... isn't it?" muttered Cale, remembering one of the movies that had made waves in his teenage years. Dokja nodded, touching the tiara with an appraising gaze.

"I think it would help make your shield stronger, Cale-ya. The information listed says it helps to strengthen you both physically and mentally." Reddish-brown eyes sparkled with interest. Perhaps it could help his plate to become stronger? But...

"It's so feminine," Cale muttered reluctantly at the item. Moreover, it glowed silver and exuded a regal aura. The shape reminded him eerily of the White Crown.

"But it suits a face like yours, Cale-ya!" said Heewon suddenly on the other side of them.

"...I'll keep it." Unable to resist the expectant gazes of the two dark-haired figures in front of him, Cale reluctantly took the replica and was about to put it away into his inventory when he got met with twin faces of disappointment.

Did they want to see Cale's pride as a man fall?

"But male Elves use it a lot too." Cale looked depressed at Heewon.

"I'm not an Elv-"

"But you're pretty like an Elves!" protested Jihye who suddenly entered, uninvited.

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' nods in agreement!]

[The Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiles in agreement.]

[The Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' said that the beauty of the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse' was very mystical.]

[Several Constellations that favor Beauty roar in agreement!]

Why were the girls and Constellations dismissing his word? Cale felt wronged. He was a man and yet he was being called beautiful.

His inner man screamed in objection.

"Try it, Cale-ya. Think of it as trying out how it really works." Dokja said, not to be outdone.

Cale wanted to protest, he swore. But he was overwhelmed by the three pairs of eyes staring expectantly at him.

Sighing heavily, the red-haired man lifted the diadem to the crown of his head and put it on. Reddish-brown eyes widened a little, feeling fresher, brighter and clearer instantly.

The item sparkled brightly as Cale felt that his plate was strengthened slightly.

"Whoah... Cale-Oppa, are you an angel? Why do I feel the need to pray to you?" Jihye asked with eyes sparkling in amazement. Heewon by her side nodded in agreement.

"Yes. I knew it. An item like this suits a face like yours, Cale-ya. It's not about feminine or masculine! It's about beauty!" Heewon's outburst made Cale frown unhappily.

"... right, you look... beautiful?" A small murmur from the older man distracted all his attention. Cale watched in confusion as Dokja's cheeks flushed red, his eyes trying not to stare at him.

Why was the man blushing? Was Dokja suddenly getting sick? No! They've come this far, don't make him fall away too! （；'д｀）

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' can't stop staring at you.]

"Dokja-hyungnim? Why is your face red? Are you okay?" Cale asked softly, hand raised to touch the black-haired man's cheek. Dokja stopped him by grasping his hand. There was a complicated expression on the man's face before he sighed.

"It's okay, Cale. I'm fine, just feeling a little overheated," Dokja muttered in what sounded more like a grumble. Cale let out a sigh of relief. Thankfully his powerful saviour was fine.

"Then I'll take this diadem off-" -eh? Why could he not take it off? Reddish-brown eyes glanced worriedly at the item still attached to his head.

"C-cale-ya?" Heewon instantly panicked at the sight of Cale's pale and scared face.

"The diadem can't be taken off!" Damn it! Cale should have been wary of this! If it continued like this, how would he sleep well?! Then how would he wash his hair? Cale didn't like the feeling of his head being limp! Couldn't it be changed into a smaller shape-?!

The diadem shone brightly for a moment before changing to take a different shape.

"Huh?" His head didn't feel heavy, but the gawking stares of the other three made him wary.

"...Why are you all looking at me like that?" They didn't answer. Only Jihye tried to grab one of the mirror-shaped replicas and Cale froze as he looked at his forehead.

He was grateful that the diadem had taken another shape. However, in the centre of his forehead, there was a white image and a simple V shape with a small leaf decoration on each side. His hand moved to touch the symbol with a worried face.

Was this permanent?

Fuck.

He was already trash, but now he was also branded???

Trash is unbranded after being thrown away!

"Don't worry, Cale-ya. You still look handsome." Dokja patted the younger man's shoulder in sympathy, even as his heart skipped a beat at the sight of the enhanced beauty of 'Hanibaram'.

"Right, Cale-Oppa! Isn't it better that way? Lighter than its original form!" Heewon nodded at the youngest's words.

"Hahhh... alright," Cale muttered resignedly accepting the situation. He did not know what fate would greet him with this misfortune. Well... at least now his plate was more stable with rapidly increasing stats. He felt that he would not vomit blood if he used his ancient power now.

"Is everyone done voting? We should hurry to the 6th floor." Cale's reddish-brown eyes glanced at one of the other items. Given that each Incarnation could only carry two items.

"I'll take this." Cale approached the Mjolnir replica, remembering Gilyoung's words that he really liked 'Marvel' besides the insects he kept.

His hand grabbed the hammer that was somehow very light in his hand, before putting it into his inventory, confused by the shocked, amazed and astonished faces he received by other three residents.

Cale himself didn't really need another item. His Ancient powers were enough and he could manifest them in various forms of attacks.

"Let's go."

*****

The 6th floor already had torn posters.

This was a very serious situation. Cale was getting more and more worried about his fourth saviour.

On the other hand, he was also grateful that the movies on this floor were easy. Moreover, Dokja had played a big role in completing this floor. The older man said that he had watched most of the thriller movies on this floor.

"After a while, I'm getting tired of getting into these movies." Cale strongly agreed with Heewon's words. They had been moving without sleep for almost three days, only armed with potions to refresh and relieve their sleepiness. Cale wanted normal sleep!

[The Theatre Master is satisfied with this movie's ending!]

[500 coins were given as compensation.]

Well, at least they harvested a lot of money for finishing this movie, but it was still tiring.

"Let's go to the next floor." Everyone nodded.

*****

This floor was also in the same condition as the previous ones. Some posters had been torn off, leaving only two other movies.

Cale refrained from sighing. His eyes looked critically at the fusion of zombies with the Joseon era in the first poster.

"Hah, it's a waste to avoid zombie movies if we end up in this one," Jihye grumbled with a disgusted frown on her face.

"Then, let's get it over with quickly. Let's kill the king, who was infected in the first place. Let's split into two groups," explained Dokja, who must have known about this movie. Cale read the title 'Kingdom'.

As usual, Cale would be with Dokja and Jihye with Heewon.

While the male team took care of the internal part of the palace, the female team took care of the external.

As the projection light shone down on them, Cale noticed their clothes had changed into movie-era hanboks as well. Reddish-brown eyes blinked at his own appearance.

He was wearing a soft cream-colored hanbok, combined with white, brown and maroon outer layers. It had been a long time since he had seen such a traditional Korean outfit. He smiled briefly at the oversized sleeves and dangled them forward for a better look.

"Cale-ya?" Slightly embarrassed at being caught being childish, the red-haired man glanced at Dokja and his eyes widened at how dashing the man looked in a hanbok typically worn by generals – with a black hat, beads dangling down his face, and a feather on the left side of the hat. The other man wore a dark blue outer layer with royal engravings, a white inner layer, matching pants, and calf-length boots.

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' screams hysterically at the new appearance of the Incarnations!]

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' is taking tons of screenshots!]

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' feels that this traditional outfit is very interesting.]

[Many Constellations like the new appearance of the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse'!]

[1,000 coins sponsored!]

Cale's eyes sparkled brightly. He could even earn coins just by wearing this outfit? Should he buy it and wear it sometime to dazzle the constellations?

"Let's get this over with quickly, Cale-ya." Dokja's chuckle made Cale feel a little embarrassed. He must have looked very childish earlier.

And just as Dokja had said, they immediately stormed the interior of the palace. Many of the invading soldiers tried to hold them back, but Cale youthfully sent them flying away with the sound of the wind.

"Cale-!" Sensing Dokja was preparing to go on a scolding rampage, Cale immediately spoke to calm the other man down.

"Take it easy, Dokja-hyungnim! I'm fine! I've increased my strength!" Looking reluctant, the older man nodded then slashed viciously at the other attackers.

Cale stifled a snicker as the black-haired man slashed at the infected king, before looking down at the queen and her subordinates who were cowering not far from them.

"What about them, hyungnim?" Dokja snorted, looking coldly at the other resident 'characters'.

"Leave her alone. The Queen's family is full of annoying villains. After all, I've already made sure she was bitten, the rest will be our protagonist's business." It was a good ending and quite satisfying. Cale nodded in agreement.

[The Theatre Master is satisfied with this movie's ending!]

"Looks like Jihye and Heewon-noonim are done as well." Dokja nodded.

The floor returned into a familiar lobby, leaving Cale somewhat disappointed when his hanbok disappeared as well. My investment coins...

"Don't worry, we'll buy a hanbok again sometime." Dokja said soothingly, making Cale's eyes light up. Dokja was planning to give him a hanbok for free? How nice of Cale's saviour!

"Ekhem-! Please, focus everyone!" As usual, Heewon's grunt of protest earned a glare from the other man. Cale glanced confusedly between the two. Was his interaction with Dokja distracting the others? However, it brought in a lot of money... Cale liked talking to Dokja.

Honestly, apart from Dokja's ability that seemed to be able to predict the future, his sincere attitude made Cale comfortable. It was almost like being with family. The man worried about him, took care of him, gave him free food as well as protection, and even liked the apple pies Cale offered it.

The kids would definitely like Kim Dokja and the man himself would definitely get along with Alberu, considering Dokja was a former office worker, even if it was at a gaming company. Cale smiled slightly, thinking of Alberu gaping at the responsiveness of a professional office worker. The piles and piles of paperwork would no longer his problem, so Cale could escape the pressure of becoming the minister.

Reddish-brown eyes frowned slightly. Why did it suddenly occur to him that Dokja would come with him to his world?

Hmm... if there was some sort of portal to go back and forth between the two worlds, Cale would gladly take Dokja on a tour-

"Ready to think, Cale-ya?" The sight of Dokja's handsome Korean face entered his field of vision. Cale absentmindedly nodded, earning another rub on the head, making the red-head sulk.

"This is the last movie. Prepare yourselves, guys." Cale nodded determinedly. The last movie before the final boss and a real good night's sleep! Three days, no, almost four days of moving without normal sleep.... Cale instantly envied Sangah-noonim, Gilyoungie, and Hyunsung-hyungnim.

*****

The necklace around his neck shone familiarly as the ship shook with the stormy winds. It made Cale think back with nostalgia to one of the wars he had experienced long ago against the White Star.

"Admiral Yi!" Dokja's exclamation got Cale's attention. It looked like they were in a war movie. Stepping up to approach the other man, Cale was nearly knocked off his feet by the sway of the ship and the urgency of the other soldiers.

"Cale!"

"It's okay, hyungnim! I have an idea!" Cale's throat hurt from yelling. Understandably, he had never raised his voice since arriving in this world.

"Hyungnim and noonim, try to take care of Jihye!" Cale gazed at Dokja's reluctant face fondly for a moment, before nodding and approaching Jihye. Whatever the man was thinking, Jihye must have a big and important role.

Cale on the other hand trudged towards the top of the ship, ignoring the calls of the other soldiers once he was right in the centre.

Reddish-brown eyes gazed at the three people who had come with him for a moment. He had to help ease their burden, considering that they would be fighting the last boss, and possibly Jonghyuk himself since he may have been controlled by now. Reluctantly -for the sake of investing in his safety and return plan- Cale spent 5,000 coins to increase all his stats levels.

[Stamina Lv. 5 ⇨ Stamina Lv. 15]

[Strength Lv. 10 ⇨ Strength Lv. 17]

[Agility Lv. 3 ⇨ Agility Lv. 9]

[Replica Item 'Galadriel's Headdress' was activated! All skills gained a 5% buff!]

[Artifact 'Heart of the Ocean' was activated! 'Sky Eating Water/Water' Personal Attribute Lv.??? strengthened by 10%!]

Wow... Cale had never felt this strong before.

At the screams of Jihye who was still lost in her trauma, as well as Dokja who was trying to resuscitate the girl, and Heewon holding back from the soldiers who were attacking them, Cale stepped forward and glanced at the approaching enemy ship.

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' begins to smile with eyes sparkling with interest.]

His right hand rose as the necklace of artifacts and forehead band shone brightly, sending the tide of the sea into Cale's veins. The jewelled reddish-brown eyes widened as he felt himself merge with the sea itself.

[Personal Attribute 'Sky Eating Water/Water Lv.???' activated!]

Thus, just like his hand was turned upside down, a huge tide appeared from below, forming a huge wave and smashing viciously into the enemy ship, capsizing it. At the same time Cale also sent out another tide, to keep the soldiers who were swimming from approaching them.

[Many Constellations are surprised by your power!]

[The Theatre Master stood up from its audience seat in surprise!]

Then, as the volcanic arrow attack from afar came, the wind around Cale swirled violently.

[Personal Attribute 'The Sound of the Wind/Wind Lv.???' activated!]

Cale's hand sweep made the wind easily deflect the arrows and with the domineering aura activating on its own, the enemy could be seen cowering in fear of the new enemy.

Meanwhile reddish-brown eyes didn't bother looking at the fleet of ships ahead.

When a beam of light began to shine from Jihye, Cale did not even bother to suppress a small grin. He gave a meaningful look to Dokja who was now staring at him.

"Let me open a marvellous stage for you, Lee Jihye."

The sky suddenly rumbled violently, clouds parting to reveal a faint golden glow.

[The Constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' trembles with the pleasure of destruction!]

[Some Constellations that love fighting, hold their breath.]

Along with many ghost ships appearing behind them, which must be the effect of the Jihye's new power, Cale activated one of his ancient powers which simultaneously appeared with the voice of the previous owner in the memories.

[Personal Attribute 'Fire of Destruction/Fire Lv.???' activated!]

The rumble released a roaring electric sound, huge and deafening. Cale's eyes flashed manically as he smiled.

"Destroy."

He lowered his hand.

Golden flashes rained down on the sea of ships.

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.
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[Kim Dokja's POV]

The 28-year-old man could only gape.

Black eyes widened in disbelief at the sight of 'Hanibaram' on the deck of the ship.

Even in the gloom and chaos of the storm, the radiance that the man possessed did not dim in the slightest. Instead, it grew brighter and brighter, and combined with the items he wore, it made for a scene that was simply breath-taking.

The wind fluttered in the others red hair.

As if in slow-motion, Dokja could see the closed eyes open, revealing jewelled eyes that sparkled with power.

The sound of ocean waves, strong wind, rain, and loud thunder in the sky with lightning resonated in his ears.

Nature was showing its true power.

And it came in the form of a red-haired man who managed to stay 'calm' and collected amid all this chaos.

This was the side of 'Hanibaram' that Kim Dokja admired.

Then, his eyes glanced at the rosy lips that were grinning sweetly around soft destructive words.

"Destroy."

-CTAR!

A majestic golden rose-colored lightning strike descended like a whip and struck right in the centre of the enemy fleet.

It created a middle path, which their ships and the 12 ghost ships behind could pass through.

"EVERYONE! RETURN TO YOUR RESPECTIVE POSITIONS!" Gone was the image of the little girl crying over the trauma of her first murder.

Now in front of Dokja stood the shadow of a war admiral.

"REVENGE ON THE ENEMY!" The sword stomped on the floor, eyes flashing.

"MAKE THE ENEMY DIE IN THIS PLACE! MAKE OUR TERRITORY THEIR GRAVEYARD!"

"GROOAAAAAAHHH!!!!"

Lee Jihye's shout made the remaining soldiers, as well as those on the ghost ship, burn with excitement. Heewon by his side had been gaping for a very long time, staring back and forth between Cale and Jihye with a look of disbelief.

As the screams of the Japanese soldiers fell silent, and the vortex of the Myeongnyang strait consumed all the corpses, a ray of sunlight appeared. In the silence amidst the crowd, Kim Dokja turned around.

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' are stunned at the majesty emanating from the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse'!]

[The 'Eden' Nebula is shaken by the divine aura of the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse'!]

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' gazes at the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse' with a nostalgic smile.]

His gaze focused on 'Hanibaram', who was now standing on the front edge of the deck, looking majestic with the sunlight washing over his body, making the man appear even more radiant.

Dokja's mouth grew dry as the pair of reddish-brown eyes looked up to meet his.

With red hair that shimmered like fire, framing a mythic face with pale skin, the other man looked beyond beautiful. A small smile slowly appeared on elegant lips.

Dokja's eyes inexplicably glazed over at the sight of that warm gaze on him.

Along with the smell of nature that reminded his inner child of happy times, running around happily in the meadow under the bright blue sky, Kim Dokja smiled back.

"Good job, Cale-ya." Dokja's lips read easily. Jewelled reddish-brown eyes curved into a knowing smile.

"You too, Dokja-hyungnim."

His hand consciously stretched forward, requesting for Cale to come down to him.

Hanibaram, with the power of his wind, flew down, accept his hand as he gently landed in front of him. Red hair flowed beautifully, filling Dokja's heart with a thousand rays of warmth as Cale came to stand in front of him.

"You're doing great, Cale-ya." The younger man's eyes flickered mischievously.

"Not as good as you, Dokja-hyungnim." Dokja smiled amusedly.

[The Theatre Master applauds!]

[The Theatre Master is very satisfied with this great ending!]

[1000 coins were given as compensation!]

The movie scene then faded, changing back into the movie theatre lobby.

"Ahjussi." Looking away from Cale, Dokja saw an exhausted Jihye staring sleepily at him while leaning against Heewon's side.

"M-master..."

"You just rest here, Jihye. We'll go rescue Yoo Jonghyuk." Heewon nodded, worried by the girl's pale face.

"Cale! How about you?" Ah, yes, he too! Cale had overused his strength earlier! Exclusive Rights were immediately activated, and his eyes widened slightly as he saw all the younger man's stats had increased by leaps and bounds.

"I'm fine, noonim. These items are keeping me intact." Cale's soothing nod made both Dokja and Heewon breathe a sigh of relief.

[4,000 coins were consumed.]

[Comprehensive enhancement ampoule has been used.]

[Stamina Lv. 18 ⇨ Stamina Lv. 24]

[Strength Lv. 18 ⇨ Strength Lv. 24]

[Agility Lv. 11 ⇨ Agility Lv. 20]

[Magic Lv. 10 ⇨ Magic Lv. 15]

After leaning Jihye against the lobby wall they made their way to the last floor, where the Theatre Master, and most likely our protagonist, Yoo Jonghyuk, would be waiting for them.

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.
.

[45 minutes later...]

[Third Person's POV]

"Cale?!"

Everyone stared at the monsters that were thrown away with stupid looks on their faces. Galadriel's Headress shone brightly as the monsters tried to get up and attack the redhead's mind. It only ended in futility, confusing their opponents, who were staring in disbelief as if Cale Henituse was a creature from another world.

Even Yoo Jonghyuk, who had been slightly released from the restraints of the Theatre Master, widened his eyes in surprise.

The rest of the audience, Dokja and Heewon, immediately joined in the giggles.

"Uh oh, I didn't know it would be that strong...?"

Cale tilted his face in confusion, his forehead still glowing brightly with the symbol of Galadriel's Headress.

This was way too strong!

Illustration for two Items that Cale uses now :

SEE YOU IN THE NEXT CHAPTER 

Spoiler Next Chapter :
One of Cale's Ancient Powers will appear! ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
And... did someone ever comment about cuddles and fluff too?

With warm greetings,

Neri 🌻💛✨