Cale also looked very excited.
Like making a mess like this 'calmed' him down somehow. The red-haired man would attack quickly, sharply and efficiently, wasting no energy with a calm expression on his face, in stark contrast to the chaotic atmosphere and the fire in the background.

Truly Hanibaram, the Calm in Destruction.

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PLEASE don't FORGET to VOTE, COMMENT, and FOLLOW~

[Three Ways to Survive in Ruined World]
[Revision '???']
[Chapter '???']

Reddish-brown eyes shone sadly as the intermittent voices echoed in his soul.

The power he received this time had a huge effect. Along with the power of nature that began to grow and tighten in the veins of the red-haired youth, nature felt like it replaced the flow of blood in his body. With every heartbeat, it sent all those feelings throughout his body.

"Are you alright?" the man's eyes opened, turning his head to see a blonde woman with heterochromatic eyes looking at him equally sad.

"... I think I'm fine," murmured the heart of nature grimly.

"Stop lying, Hani." The summoning master chuckled.

"After the nickname 'Hanibaram', I guess I can never get used to your nickname, Anna." The woman accompanying her snorted. She then moved to sit beside Hanibaram, where they currently sat on the outskirts of one of the intact tall buildings.

"Well, you never told me your real name yourself," snapped Anna Croft, one of the famous clairvoyants among the constellations and nebulae, also very wary of Yoo Jonghyuk, a powerful incarnation from Korea.

"My real name isn't very useful now," Hanibaram replied with a soft snort again.

"So, back to the point. I know that power has a strange effect on you." Reddish-brown eyes filled with kindness curved in a sad yet understanding smile.

"Isn't that power dangerous, Hani? You can hear the sounds of the world and it weighs on your body!" The red-haired man bowed grimly.

"I need it, Anna-"

"For who? That Korean bastard?! Do you know that with that world power, you're violating your own lifespan? You're going with the flow of that bastard's life!"

[Some Constellations have complained about the excessive censorship of the two Incarnations' talks!]

"Isn't that what I'm here for? In this world?" softly Hanibaram began to hug his knees with trembling shoulders. No matter if this position made him fall, the wind would catch him. Whatever was holding this world together would keep him alive.

"B-but, it pains me to see you suffer, Hani!" Hanibaram did not dare look up to gaze at the face of the closest friend he had made in this lifetime.

This time?

Yes.

There have been countless times when his presence has been 'reset' and goes with the will of this world which is somehow centered on Yoo Jonghyuk, one of the Incarnations from Korea who has the highest Incarnation position in the Star Stream.

As referred to by Anna, he was 'bound' and Yoo Jonghyuk's voice was the only one that mediated Hanibaram with this world, for some reason.

"Hani, come with me, hm? I will find a way to disconnect you from this world, so that you can return to where you came from, hm? Okay?" Looking up from his knees, the tears that threatened to spill over glanced at his friend sadly.

"Oh... My poor Hani," Anna whispered taking the fragile man into her arms. The smell of nature she emitted made the hetero-eyed woman's heart ache even more.

"What kind of way, Anna? All else fails," Hanibaram whispered brokenly. His friend shook his head.

"No! You will not give up this easily, Hani! Your children are waiting for you, your knights, your hyungnim, your family. Everyone is waiting for you and looking for a way!" said Anna as she broke the hug to hold tightly the beautiful tear-stained face in front of her.

"We'll keep looking for the trail of cracks, okay? I will help you and continue to help you, Hani," Anna said with a serious face. Her eyes shone with steely determination.

"And if you get reset, find me and tell me everything, then I'll always be by your side." The reddish brown eyes glazed over beautifully with warmth. Making Anna's heart fill with affection for the young man in front of her.

Even if the world tried to take away his identity and life, behind the facade that was so majestic and great, despite the daily heartbreak, the heart of nature still had a well of love and kindness that could not be matched by anyone Anna knew.

"Okay, Hani? Look for me, okay? This friend of yours will always come." The laughter that was so longed for sounded like a lullaby. Red hair fluttered in the night breeze, framing a face illuminated by the moonlight.

"Okay, Anna. I'll look for you-"

Her hands clenched, finding herself unable to write further. Tears just fell with a sad smile on her face.

"I'm sorry, Roksoo-ah... I'm sorry," she whispered.

"For him... we promised, didn't we, 'home'?"

[Chapter '???' deleted!]
[Revision to '???' done.]

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[Third Person's POV]

"So... hyungnim ."

Cale cleared his throat, his eyes not leaving Dokja who was also clearing his throat. But, this time it was more relaxed, even though his face was flushed a little.

After securing and treating Kang Ilhun as well as several other subordinates by Cale's request, which they had strangely complied with, Dokja and Cale now sat a little further away from the crowd for a private conversation.

"Huft... what did you want to ask, Cale?" the physically older man asked, straight to the point, making the red-haired man crack an awkward smile.

"Well, I asked for an explanation of 'Hanibaram'?" Although Cale already knew it with a rough sketch, he still wanted Dokja to clarify his conjecture. Just as he had when his knight found out, he also confessed to the children, Choi Han and Alberu about his identity as Kim Rok Soo.

If Dokja did believe him, Cale would be happy to listen. But if not, that was fine too. He didn't want to get on the 'Reader's' bad side.

Dokja inhaled and exhaled for a moment, sitting up straighter with his hands clenched on each knee. Feeling very nervous all at once, he was not even this nervous when he told Heewon about 'knowing the future'. Cale's judgment was suddenly more frightening than Dokja had expected after he had scowled at the red-haired man.

"Just as you thought, Cale. I know the future ." The redhead nodded calmly. Dokja refrained from patting the younger one on the head. Although his face was flat, he could see the anticipation in his reddish-brown eyes.

"And this future... 'centers' on Yoo Jonghyuk." Just as Cale had suspected, the fourth savior was a 'protagonist' like Choi Han. He nodded again, asking Dokja to continue his explanation.

"I know all the futures related to 'Yoo Jonghyuk' and what will happen."

[Some constellations are complaining about excessive censorship!]

Dokja's eyes widened. Forgetting that there was no barrier around them. He asked Cale to wait a moment before contacting Bihyung, telling him to give a commercial or something for 5-10 minutes.

"How's that?" the reddish-brown eyes, now sparkling with knowledge and understanding, looked up at Dokja.

"It's safe."

He goes on to explain about the future he knows, though it is somewhat disguised that the world they are facing now is a novel come to life.

Dokja shared some of the upcoming scenarios.

Other characters and disasters that they will face.

Some favorable Hidden Scenarios.

Then,

"-you are one of the most mysterious figures in Yoo Jonghyuk's 'future'." Cale gulped nervously. This was the first time he heard 'himself' become a character in someone's story. Not a figure who possessed a character like Kim Roksoo to Cale Henituse.

"You always show up in our protagonist's hardest moments. With your great natural powers, you are one of the most coveted Incarnations in the Star Stream." Cale shivered upon hearing that. He was afraid of becoming superpowered like in the book Kim Dokja was reading. Because being strong brought more tasks and responsibilities for his lazy self to deal with.

"Wait, Jonghyuk-hyungnim's " hardest" ... moments?" Cale quipped. Dokja nodded with a wry smile. Remembering the dark days when he was jealous of his favorite fictional character.

"Yes. It was almost like he was on the verge of death. You came through and helped like superman-"

"Ugh. Don't confuse me with that spandex clad alien, hyungnim ." Dokja burst out laughing, ignoring the younger's frowning gaze.

"I see... but, Dokja- hyungnim , do you know when the future 'me' first appeared?" Dokja shook his head with an honest expression. Because Hanibaram's character was introduced suddenly and only appeared for a moment. There was never any further explanation of the red-haired man's background.

It was a bit of a disappointment that Cale immediately hid well.

"Also, about that incident that attacked us earlier, will it also happen in the future?" Dokja could feel his heart stop beating for a moment at the question that was so on point and not playing around.

"... yes. It does happen but it is rarely seen," Dokja explained as smoothly as possible, causing Cale to nod with a pensive look.

"Alright. Thank you for the honest answer, hyungnim ." Dokja's eyes widened in surprise. Already? Was Cale not going to ask more about him and why Dokja had decided to help him?

Seeing the older man's expression, Cale chuckled. The jeweled reddish-brown eyes were almost curving into crescents by his smile.

"I've got all the answers, so that's enough." The redhead stood up from his seat, brushing the dust off his butt with a small cat-like pout.

"Ah yes, Dokja- hyungnim ?"

"Hm?" the pale-skinned man turned to face the still-seated Dokja, then his hand moved to stroke the top of the soft black-haired head.

"Thank you very much for helping me. Whether it was a future action or not, nothing is more important than a person's life. Therefore-" Starry black eyes peered out from behind bangs that were messed up by tiny, gentle hands, feeling his heart skip a beat at the sight of Cale's wide, sincere smile.

"-thank you very much, Dokja- hyungnim ."

The reader was silent for a moment, before looking up without interrupting Cale's touch on the top of his head. He returned his own gentle smile, eyes full of love and adoration that could not be hidden.

Cale's reddish-brown eyes widened as he felt the other man seemingly snuggling his head in his hands. Making the black hair look even messier, the bangs that faintly covered the left eye, revealing the warm and softest expression that Cale had never seen from the handsome man's face.

"Whatever it is about you, Hanibaram-" eyes closed with a wide, bright smile.

"-you're always welcome."

Whoah, the brightness of his smile could even match Choi Han's. Cale refrained from covering his face.

(Aiya! It's been 20 minutes and the constellations are getting angry, damn it!)

The flowery angelic atmosphere was withered by Bihyung's exclamation in Dokkaebi Dokja's message. Cale, who saw the change in the black-haired man then retracted his hand with an awkward smile.

It was unusual for him to touch someone like that.

Except for his children and sometimes Choi Han or Alberu on their shoulders.

But why was it different with Kim Dokja? Not to mention the strange feeling of warmth with the faintest tickle of butterflies in his stomach... it was strange.

"Are you ready, Cale?" returning to his usual casual tone, Dokja started to stand up. Ignoring the message of the constellations that overwhelmed them for being left out for so long.

"All ready, Dokja- hyungnim ." The older man nodded.

"Ah, earlier, hyungnim . Regarding this scenario-" Cale's hand moved to hold the end of the black glove Dokja was wearing. Somewhat to the older man's chagrin, an inward frown of protest at why it wasn't held in his hand.

"-I think I have a plan." Cale gave Dokja a slightly enthusiastic look. There was a sly grin on the beautiful face, which somehow seemed more appropriate than his calm features. It made Dokja grin unconsciously as well.

"I can't wait to hear it, Cale-ya."

Several people began to feel their hair stand up.

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[Third Person's POV]

"So, what kind of plan do you have in mind, Cale?" asked Hyunsung, breaking the silence. Staring one by one at the faces of his party mates with a small smile.

"Is everyone here?" the redhead asked for confirmation. Dokja nodded, closing the circle and leading them away from the crowd.

"Right off the bat, the point of Kang Ilhun's attack was 'me', right?" reluctantly, all the adults besides Cale nodded. Gilyoung pouted at Cale's side, roughly understanding what his hyungs and noonas were about to discuss.

"Then, they also moved because of the rumors that spread." Sangah nodded, a very serious expression on her face, making her eyes even sharper.

"Whoever gets Hanibaram, will get Yoo Jonghyuk." Dokja refrained from flinching at the sound, nodding along with the others.

"And from what I gather, Hanibaram is me and Yoo Jonghyuk-hyungnim is the power center they want," Cale explained directly with a cold expression.

"Then, the main goal of the rumor spreader is not to get Jonghyuk-hyungnim." Heewon reluctantly looked at Cale.

"Chaos, right?"

"Yep. Just like Heewon-noonim said. The main goal is to make Main Scenario #4 more chaotic, so that when there is so much commotion, there are also many loopholes. Then it becomes an opportunity for them to get me." Everyone's eyes were unhappy. Even Gilyoung.

Staring one by one at the expressions on this world's companion's faces, Cale gradually let an evil grin spread across his face.

"So, how was it?" Apart from Dokja and Cale, everyone had a confused expression.

"How do you mean, hyung ?" asked Gilyoung in a babbling voice. Cale, still grinning, patted the boy's head.

"Shouldn't we accept his challenge?" The evil side that Cale had been harboring to maintain his 'kind gentle good boy' image suddenly disappeared. Right now, he only wanted to destroy the plan devised by the rumor-monger about him.

And pity to whoever had summoned this War Commander's cruel side.

Heh 😏

"Let's make a bigger mess than planned, hyungnimdeul , noonimdeul ." Sangah's eyes widened at the realization, while Heewon looked lost in confusion with Hyunsung. Gilyoung just tilted his head uncomprehendingly. A glance at Dokja, who was equally grinning, further solidified Cale's resolve.

"If this rumor monger is attacking just for words-" The grin became a sly lopsided smile.

"-let's attack him with proof." Then his hand raised, asking for everyone's focus.

"But not in one place." Reddish-brown eyes glanced at their captive with a condescending look.

"Proof that I am everywhere, just like the rumors."

Silence engulfed them for a moment. Sangah and Hyunsung seemed too stunned to reply, while Heewon who was still confused and Gilyoung who gradually began to understand their play.

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' made a thinking face.]

[The Constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' grinned wickedly at the plan of the 'Cale Henituse' Incarnation.]

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' nodded proudly at the 'Cale Henituse' Incarnation.]

[Several Constellations familiar with war raised interested eyebrows.]

"That's... a very wicked idea, Cale-ya," Sangah whispered with admiration that could not be hidden.

"Yes. The way to play is almost like guerrilla tactics," Hyunsung murmured, his eyes now shining with respect for Cale.

"Must be pretty chaotic, huh, hyung ?" asked Gilyoung with a sweet smile. He had played games with the tactics Cale was describing.

"Wait, wait! Why am I the only one who doesn't understand?!" Dokja gave a dismissive look to the woman who was a year younger than him.

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' refrained from pinching her Incarnation.]

"It's this obvious and you still don't get it?" Heewon gave a ferocious look to the man who asked this with a sweet smile on his face.

"Damn it! I failed the exam for no reason!" Sangah seemed to be holding back from covering her face.

"That's... not something you should be proud of," Dokja said almost speechless.

"Relax, Heewon-ssi. I fail exams sometimes, too," Hyunsung chimed in out of nowhere, earning a tearful look from the woman beside him.

"In short, Heewon-noonim, I'll pit the other stations against each other to get back at the rumor monger." Everyone waited as Heewon paused to lose herself in thought for a moment. Before her eyes widened and looked at Cale who was still maintaining his sly grin.

"Whoah, daebak , Cale-ya. That's so sneaky and evil!" the woman whispered in an awed tone. The admiration only lasted a few seconds before she glared at Dokja.

"You bastard sekkiya ! Why did you taint such a good mind and heart like Cale's with your demon brain, huh?! You bastard! You ruined Cale!" Since Heewon was to Dokja's left, the woman swiftly punched the other man in the shoulder. We could see the veins appearing on her forehead, indicating just how upset she was.

"H-heewon-ssi, there are children here-" Sangah said, glancing at Gilyoung and Cale.

"C-calm down, Heewon-ssi," Hyunsung said in a somewhat scared voice.

Dokja? Poor man was beaten and protested in between hits.

"So why did I get hit? Yak ! You damn onna ! I did nothing wrong!"

"And dare to speak ill of women? What a devil! I don't bless you and Cale!" At this remark, Dokja's dark starry eyes widened in shock. He had not anticipated Heewon saying those words but was somehow severely affected by them.

"AH, don't! Bless me, please!""

Silence engulfed them.

Sangah's face now had a small blush, Hyunsung was scratching his cheek awkwardly, and Gilyoung showed a blank expression, while a giggling Heewon observed as a confused Cale pointed to himself.

"But wasn't it just a blessing for our relationship?" Dokja's heart rate rose an octave at Cale's innocent chuckle. His face was now redder than Sangah's and had unconsciously put on an expectant face.

"Ca-cale? Since when?" Sangah blushed even more and Heewon was still processing this information.

"Since Dokja- hyungnim cared about me, we've had a friendly relationship?"

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' shouted 'WHY' while kneeling dramatically.]

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' somehow felt that the incarnation 'Kim Dokja' would be disappointed.]

[The Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiled behind her hand.]

[The Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' cheered for the Incarnation 'Kim Dokja'!]

"Yes, right, Dokja- hyungnim?" Dokja was frozen like a statue as Cale's innocence-filled gaze stared at him expectantly. He could feel Heewon starting to laugh out loud. She even invited Hyunsung to laugh with him.

"... yes, Cale... yes..." Enough, please enough - Dokja's heart sank. He did not know why he was reacting like this. He should be happy that his idol, Hanibaram, considered him a friend. But, why was he still disappointed at that confirmation?

"Hm. Okay, back to our plan." Giving the taller man a pat on the shoulder, Cale went back to explaining the rest of the plan with a serious face. Heewon meanwhile, was still giggling, her eyes couldn't help but mock and pity Dokja who had already spaced out on his own.

"-okay, Dokja- hyungnim ?" the master in question nodded absently.

"Huh? Are you sure you agree to this, asshole?" Dokja's blank eyes glanced at Heewon who had made a shocked face.

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' was about to laugh.]

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' stared at the 'Kim Dokja' Incarnation with a betrayed look.]

Uh... why are you guys reacting like that? And what did Dokja agree to, btw?

"Yosh, then, I'll cut my hair-" - huh?

"-then have the survivors in our captivity spread it-" - wait, wait!

"-and we'll split up to mess with their stations-" - YA-!

"Wait, Cale. I don't approve of the part where you cut your hair, okay?" Sangah's smile felt terrible in that moment even though it looked sweet.

"Same! Why should we sacrifice your beautiful hair!" agreed Heewon in protest.

"Yes, hyung ! Don't cut your hair!" replied Gilyoung with teary eyes.

"Please reconsider, Cale," said Hyunsung, ready to put on a disappointed face.

"YES! Why is your hair the victim?!" said Dokja with a grumpy face. Cale was left speechless at their responses. He was the one who would get his hair cut, why did they take offense?

"Not much, just a wee bit anyway. Just a little, as evidence. Also, does anyone else have hair as red as mine?" reluctantly, everyone shook their heads. Cale snorted, continuing to explain the conclusion of their plan.

"Dokja-hyungnim, is there some kind of skill that can detect lies?" Whoah, dude. Cale's question was so dead-on that it almost made Dokja wince. The man in question nodded somewhat fearfully and Cale smiled a sweet, almost cheerful smile.

"Good. To make it even more convincing, I'll put a shield in their minds so that the detectors can't tell our captives are lying." Cale's smile began to feel triumphant as Glutton happily agreed to this new task.

"And finally, as I explained, we will split up. Me with Heewon-noonim, Dokja-hyungnim with Hyunsung-hyungnim and Sangah-noonim with Gilyoungie will guard Chungmuro Station because Sangah-noonim is our best choice-" wait . It seemed like he heard something wrong with this last conclusion.

"Me... and Hyunsung?"

"Yes, hyungnim ."

Heewon gave a 'what did I say' look.

... huh?

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[Kim Dokja's POV]

Cale carried out his plan very neatly and meticulously.

He really felt compelled to flip things over because he had become the target of the rumor spreader and wanted revenge. One thing that never crossed the Reader's mind was Cales capability for vengeance. Because the Hanibaram character that he has read about for the past 10 years had a very soft, warm, kind, innocent, non-vengeful, and very forgiving personality.

But, this?

It was as if he was witnessing a new side of Hanibaram, named Cale Henituse.

With adoration, Kim Dokja watched the redhead give detailed orders to each of the captives and the few people from their side who agreed to be spies. The whereabouts of the redhead, the stations where the redhead was seen were given, and of course, each captive had different information.

Hanibaram really was very powerful.

He was able to firmly maintain his mental power over more than 30 people.

"In that case, me and Heewon-ssi will put the flag at Myeongdong station." Cale nodded along with Sangah and Gilyoung as they left together with the prisoners.

As the reader remembers, after placing the flag at more than one station, it is already qualified to participate in the Secret Scenario 'The King's Road'.

"Dokja-ssi," Hyunsung called, pointing at the pile of corpses that the foreign survivors had just killed. Seeing him, they stopped and immediately got on their motorcycles and left. As if they had anticipated his arrival.

Dokja smiled wryly. He was starting to feel annoyed for some reason. Suddenly, he fully supported Cale's revenge plan. Not forgetting to give the sight of the disappearing survivor's back a sharp razor-like glare.

The red flag was reinforced and the scenario notification was displayed in front of them.

"10 stations in 10 days? We already have two, does that count?" Dokja nodded at Heewon's question.

"Then, as Cale suspected, we have two separate days to get ready!" Hyunsung's excited smile seemed out of place. Because the man's simple-minded and gentle personality did not fit into the genre of revenge and cunning.

"We need one day to spread rumors and provide a lure, then wait for news the next day and attack them from within," explained Heewon, still amazed by Cale's plan.

"Let's go back first to discuss with the others further."

*******

"Hmm, if the plan goes well, I'm sure we can occupy four stations in two days-" was Cale's response after hearing Dokja's explanation and reading the message.

"Why four stations?" asked Gilyoung in confusion. Cale smiled at the little boy.

"That's because the enemy will definitely recognize our attack pattern. If that's the case, we'll be one group but target one station." Dokja nodded at Cale's words.

"The station of the rumor-monger. Because the lure will make him come out when we successfully attack four stations which will catch them off guard."

"Yes, exactly, Dokja- hyungnim ." Cale's sweet smile, as if very pleased with the reader's quick reaction, made the man embarrassed.

"So, we don't need to attack Dongmyo Station right away? I think that's what Dokja-ssi would do." Dokja would have done that if he had not followed Cale's plan. He couldn't resist asking the other 'Reader' or seeing the situation firsthand.

"It won't be satisfying like that, Sangah-noonim." Cale almost winced sadly, making everyone gape at the red-haired man. Dokja in particular. He really did not expect to see the evil side of Hanibaram who was somehow more seductive, sweet and charming to him.

"Let him be afraid of us first and then we will attack him, ehehe :D" Hyunsung, who was innocent, was somehow chuckling ominously like Cale, while Heewon grasped Sangah's shoulder like a lifeline.

"... Cale really thinks like a criminal!" Heewon whispered in shock, stunned and horrified. Not at the evil prospect, but rather that Cale who was known to be so kind, sweet, funny, and innocent, disappeared to be replaced by the image of a Cale who grinned sharply, sweetly, cunningly and had an evil twinkle in his eyes.

"But, Cale's plan is very effective. We can finish in 5 days if it goes well," mused Sangah with one hand patting Heewon's hand on her shoulder soothingly.

"Alright then. I fully agree with your plan, Cale-ya," Dokja said, his smile equally sly and his eyes twinkling wickedly.

Poor Heewon's heart.

Suddenly, the couple who seemed to be in harmony, all fluffy feeling, cute, funny, warm and adorable.... disappeared into partners-in-crime who were villainous, evil, cunning, and laughing 'muehehe' together like pirates.

"TAKE RESPONSIBILITY, KIM DOKJA! I CAN'T ACCEPT CALE BEING EVIL LIKE YOU!"

" Aiisshh , don't start again, you annoying woman!"

" Mwoya ?! You dare speak like that to a woman?! You're such a bad influence!" Heewon's eyes darted to the little boy in their group for a moment, smiling sweetly with a deadly aura starting to surround her.

"Gilyoungie, cover your ears sweetie, noona must give this hyung a life and death lesson!"

"What did I do wrong again?! There's nothing wrong with Cale's plan!"

"This isn't about Cale's plan, goddamnit! This is about Cale becoming like a villain in isekai comics and novels! Huwaaa-! My sweet, innocent Cale is tainted!"

"Don't make it so ambiguous-!"

"Just admit it! You enjoy desecrating Cale, don't you?! 'Don't you?!"

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' inexplicably turned red at the thought of the Incarnation 'Kim Dokja' desecrating the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse'.]

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' covered his face in shame.]

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' snorted but supported the accusation of the 'Jung Heewon' Incarnation.]

Once again... what was Dokja's fault?! He himself was also surprised to see this new side of his idol!

Sangah and Gilyoung tapped their foreheads at the argument between Dokja and Heewon, while Hyunsung tried to calm things down and Cale made no move to mediate. Seemingly enjoying watching their hyungnim and noonyms bickering.

*******

[One day later]

[Cale Henituse's POV]

Victory seemed closer as rumors about him being everywhere spread. Some of the returning spies also brought news in line with what Cale had predicted and wanted. The evidence of his red hair also reinforced the notion that he felt that the average station occupant would spread out looking for him.

His mental barrier was also gone now, after they finished running their errands. He would sort out the information about the power later with the Glutton.

"How was it, Cale?" asked Dokja as he approached with food in hand. The redhead smiled gratefully. He gladly accepted the plate of rice and meat that the other black-haired man brought. Didn't even complain when the hand pat his head.

"It went well, hyungnim . I think they'll all be moving by midnight as it's a more convenient time." Dokja then took a seat to his right.

"I think we'd better get moving at dawn." Cale nodded, humming happily as the delicious taste of food burst in his mouth, making the Glutton exclaim happily in his mind.

There was also no need to worry for the time being. Because the rumor he created that Chungmuro Station was one of the places where the redhead appeared and where the captive group had attacked, made the redhead 'feel guilty' and 'leave' the group to protect them.

Dokja was silent for a few moments before smiling behind his palms. For a few seconds, he allowed himself to observe Cale intently, tracing every inch of the scenery in front of him, with a warmth that gradually made butterflies flutter around in his mind.

"Slow down, Cale. What's the hurry?" Dokja chuckled when he saw the sauce and rice at the corner of Cale's lips. As if with a mind of its own, his hand reached out, wiped away the leftovers at the corner of his lips and ate it himself.

The red-haired man froze like a deer caught in headlights. His eyes widened at Dokja's boldness and then he began to feel nervous himself. Even the children and Choi Han had never taken such initiative.

"Hmmm is it because it's delicious? I made the sauce for you, you know," Dokja grinned softly as he pointed at himself. With his black hair falling sideways by the movement of his head, along with his starry eyes curving into a smile, his strikingly handsome visage increased many times over.

Cale found that his ability to speak had suddenly disappeared. He froze, flushed and nodded absentmindedly. It made Dokja laugh fondly at the red-haired man.

"That's cute," Dokja muttered, which Cale could still hear, causing him to freeze again as he ate his breakfast.

↾ Oh wow... looks like I know what's different about this guy for our Cale~ (͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) ⇃

And when Cale asked what, Glutton didn't answer. Instead, she giggled to herself with a feeling of anticipation radiating amusedly from his mind. This caused Cale to unconsciously frown, which Dokja misunderstood as not liking the food or Dokja's close attitude.

"Ah, why, Cale? Is the food still missing something or-?" The redhead shook his head.

"Nothing, hyungnim . Just upset with my own mind." Dokja's dark eyes looked at every part of him, trying to detect what was wrong before nodding.

" Arasso . If something burdens you, I'm ready to bear it together, okay?" Before Cale could answer, Dokja was already standing with an empty water glass.

" Kajja . I'll get the other water. Finish your food." Finally Cale could only nod with a dazed face.

... has there been any change in Dokja? Why did it feel like every day he could see the difference in attitude between Dokja to him and Dokja to the other party mates?

"Hmmmm..."

I'll find out after this Scenario is over. Cale then nodded assuredly to himself, and continued his breakfast.

*******

[Two days later, in the morning]

[Cale Henituse's POV]

"I'm sure Gilyoungie can do it." The little boy nodded in Cale's arms. Sangah by his side began to feel more confident and responsible. She was given the task of not only watching over their station, but also suppressing Hoehyeon Station.

Everyone was getting ready to go to their respective places.

Cale was with Heewon.

Dokja was with Hyunsung.

While Sangah became the Vice-Representative, Heewon became the Envoy-Representative as the group split into two as Cale had planned.

"Alright. As Cale said, after taking control of Cheonggu and Sindang stations, everyone will return here immediately." Everyone nodded at Dokja's final explanation.

"Once you've succeeded, put on your stealth artifacts." Heewon raised her arm, revealing a pair of stealth bracelets purchased from the Dokkaebi Bag by the leader.

About to leave, Cale was held back by Dokja for a moment. The older man gave Heewon a sharp glare before sighing. It was as if it was very hard to carry out this task.

"Ahhhh, where is Jihye-na when I need her? Dokja-ssi's drama will happen again~" Sangah chuckled amusedly at Heewon's sly grin and teasing response.

"Don't push yourself, okay Cale?" the redhead nodded with a serious face.

"If you're tired, rest for a while. Walking is tiring." Cale nodded in agreement, still just as serious.

"Then, if you feel pressured, leave the useless Heewon-ssi behind and run here." Cale nodded but immediately stopped.

"Huh?"

" Yak ! I knew it, bastard!" grumbled Heewon, earning a disgusted glance from Dokja. (They're like besties in real life, after all lmao)

"Seriously, Cale, protect yourself, or call me. I'll come." Cale paused for a moment, allowing himself to see the full extent of Dokja's worried face, focusing on his starry eyes that twinkled so sincerely. Then he nodded.

"Okay, hyungnim ." Dokja looked dissatisfied, making the redhead laugh amusedly. It felt like he was handling a big baby.

"Want a hug, hyungnim ?"

This time it didn't take more than a few seconds for the dark-haired man to rush over and hug him. His right hand that somehow felt bigger and warmer embraced the back of his head, while the left hand went around his waist. The man's head and face were hidden between the back of his neck, making the pair of lips almost seem to be kissing him softly.

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' thanks whoever created the Incarnation 'Cale Henituse'.]

[The Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' felt like dying from looking at the cuteness of the Incarnations in front of her.]

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' felt his face turn red at the behavior of the 'Kim Dokja' Incarnation.]

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' endured a frown but felt that it had to give in 'a little'.]

"Take care, Cale-ya." the one being addressed, with his jeweled reddish-brown eyes now filled with a smile, nodded. Two hands patted the older man's shoulders soothingly while chuckling.

"Dokja- hyungnim be careful too."

"Aaaaawwwww~ come on everyone! Teletubissss~ hugs!" Heewon dragged a laughing Sangah along with an embarrassed Hyunsung. Gilyoung immediately took a place at Cale's waist, giggling playfully.

[The Constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' spat in disgust at the scene in front of him.]

[The Constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' shouted to Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Head Band' and Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' to stay away!]

[The Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Head Band' grinned mischievously.]

[Several Constellations shouted 'hug him!]

"Whoah, Hyunsung- hyungnim can embrace us all with his arms."

"Really? Ah yes, Cale said the right thing."

"Umhh... thank you?"

"Why did you go along with hugging Cale? Go away you demon woman-!"

"Yak! Don't push me, you evil man!"

"Don't kick me either!"

"Hahaha!"

And Cale laughed cheerfully among his saviors in this world for the first time. The faint warmth of Glutton was felt, who was happy to see that Cale could release a little of the burden of his past because of the good people like those who embraced him.

And Cale's little laughter was watched with fondness by everyone.

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[Jung Heewon's POV]

"Hooo okay, okay, soooooo... I'll be the main attacker while you'll be the shield and rear attacker?" Cale nodded with a patient smile, which Heewon was grateful for because it was different from Dokja, who would still be roasting her.

"Don't hold back, noonim ," Cale said with a sweet smile.

"Our main goal is not to eliminate them, but to create chaos." Heewon nodded seriously.

"We don't need to waste our energy killing everyone. When there is an opening, Heewon- noonim can just break through and put a flag on their pole, while I will hold them back from attacking." Heewon showed a worried face.

"Are you sure you can hold them off, Cale? And not vomit any more blood?" the man with reddish-brown eyes that curved with his soothing smile then nodded making Heewon feel at ease.

What a sweet donsaeng!

[The Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' nodded in agreement with the thoughts of Incarnation 'Jung Heewon'.]

Whoah, what a scary constellation this one is. What a true fan of Cale. Wherever the redhead goes, he will definitely follow .

"No, noonim . I've strengthened myself, really." The 27-year-old woman breathed a sigh of relief and patted the younger man's head affectionately.

"Good. Then let's get to work!"

They are an efficient team, Heewon thought.

As Heewon attacked in front, the attackers that she did not pay attention to were taken out by Cale's lightning and wind from behind. This made the survivors of Anguk station unable to move near the redhead.

"I-it's the redhead!"

"Wha-wasn't he at Cheongguk station? Why attack us?!"

"Arrghh! Help me!"

"Brrbbbb a-I kekekekekerbrbbr bbrbbb-"

"Aahhahah!" Heewon laughed out loud at the comical scene in front of her, where the unprepared survivors were scattering themselves. They were also left with just handling the weak ones, as the strong ones had moved at midnight last night to attack Cheongguk station.

" Noonim ! Now!"

From afar, Dokja received a notification that the station he was in had grown and changed color. Bringing smiles to his and Hyunsung's faces.

"Eheheheh~ great success!" exclaimed Heewon happily, half-hugging Cale with an arm around the shoulder of the slightly taller man. Their favorite beauty smiled broadly, looking equally pleased that the plan had gone well.

"Let's go soon, noonim ." The woman nodded, while not forgetting to give a tongue lashing to the few people who cursed at them for being tricked. After feeling that she had gotten far enough and was no longer being chased, Heewon ventured a look at the redhead.

Because she had thought about this concern repeatedly.

"Cale?"

"Yes, noonim ?"

"Don't push yourself, okay?" Reddish-brown eyes blinked in confusion.

"Like?" Heewon smiled in embarrassment.

"Like forcing yourself to wear a mask? Hiding your true nature? After I heard your plan, I reacted unfavorably, please forgive your noonymity, Cale-ya." The young man who heard this looked flabbergasted, as if he did not expect Heewon to say such a thing.

"I-I quite like your plan." A hand moved to ruffle her donsaeng's red hair.

"No need to be shy anymore, okay? If you need a friend to prank Dokja-ssi, just call me, arra ?" Cale chuckled at Dokja's name being mentioned with an equally wicked smile on Heewon's face.

"Okay, Heewon- noonim ." The woman nodded happily.

"Then, I'm really serious about blessing you with Dokja-ssi. I hope you guys stay happy whatever relationship you have or become." Heewon gave a thumbs up with a face like an auntie supporting her nephew.

Although Cale looked confused at the end of the conversation, Heewon still ruffled her donsaeng's red hair affectionately.

You should thank me later, Dokja-ssi. I'll make Cale fall in love with you (¬‿¬)

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[Third Person's POV]

Cale's plan went smoothly within two days.

They really made a mess.

Complaints, anger, and protests were heard everywhere. Like the redhead should be here! Why attack there?! You're lying! Why is there red hair on your hand too?! Damn it!

Aahahahah!

Cale also looked very excited. Like making a mess like this 'calmed' him down somehow. The red-haired man would attack quickly, sharply and efficiently, wasting no energy with a calm expression on his face, in stark contrast to the chaotic atmosphere and the fire in the background.

Truly Hanibaram, the Calm in Destruction.

With Cale's preventative actions that prevented the rapid spread of information, the enemy became even more agitated and miserable.

Kim Dokja, the Representative Leader, now officially held six stations in his hands. The flag has also changed to an indigo blue color, increasing the group's power by leaps and bounds. Is this what 'work smarter, not harder' is all about?

"What about the rumor monger, hyungnim ?" Dokja grinned wickedly and smugly.

"Seems to have overexerted himself, Cale-ya." The redhead nodded.

"If possible, tomorrow we can also attack Deongdaemun Park Station while we go to Dongmyo Station and then Changsin as requested by the notification."

Three stations at once? If it is possible then WOW.

That's so fast and it's only been 4 days since the Secret Scenario started. No, it should have been 2 days plus the previous 2 days they used to rest.

"Ehehehe, I can't wait, hyungnim ~ "

Even as evil, cunning, and manipulative as Cale may seem to people, he's still a sweet guy who hums playfully as he eats his food.

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[Someone's POV]

"HAH?! ARE YOU SURE?!" Hands slammed on their impromptu table with anger that could not be hidden.

"ISN'T HANIBARAM AT HAENGDANG STATION?! WHAT THE FUCK IS GOIN' OOONNN, DIPSHIT-!!!" the figure in the hoodie spat out his candy with cold eyes at the men in front of him who were cowering in fear.

"DAMN, YOU'RE ALL FUCKIN' USELESS, GET OUT!" he hissed angrily, leaving only one person he could call as his representative. After trying to calm himself down, the figure in the hoodie sighed.

"Alright, let's think it through first. There's certainly something strange about all this," he muttered as his foot began to tap the tiles repeatedly and impatiently.

"Where is the fault? I don't detect any lies among those pathetic survivors-"

"Is there a skill that protects the mind?"

"Heh, if there was, I would have detected it already, DAMMIT!"

"It's not clear... it's not clear at all!" he raged again getting annoyed and itching to smash something.

"My candy! Where's my candy!" somewhat frightened, his deputy moved to give him his usual candy when he was upset. The figure in the hoodie then rose from his seat with a grumble. He gave his deputy one last cold, sharp glare.

"How's our plan going so far?" The man nodded a little fearfully.

"Going well. The meteorite is at Anguk station as you instructed." Snorting, the figure then stood up.

"I will go and confirm for myself." The eyes flashed with murderous intent.

"Let's see the bastard who dared to mess with us."

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[Yoo Jonghyuk's POV]

"I think it's Chungmuro Station, Master!"

The wavy black-haired man snorted. His hand that was sharpening his sword stopped for a moment, listening intently to Lee Jihye's explanation of the chaotic station area from the other side of the station area. His dark eyes stared at the purple flag for a moment before snorting again.

"If that's true, then we'll see them again!" exclaimed the teenage girl starting to smile sweetly. Must have missed the woman, whose name was unknown, who had been the topic of their conversation for several hours.

"Master, what do you think?" the master in question nodded, gazing contentedly at the gleam of his sword then sheathed it.

"It was our plan to finish this quickly," Jonghyuk grumbled, starting to stand up from his seat.

"Let's go."

His purple flag needed to become black.

So the sooner Jonghyuk could meet and bring Cale along by his side the better.

That simple thought brought a small smile to the protagonist's handsome face.

Wait for me, Cale.

SEE YOU IN THE NEXT CHAPTER!

Well, that's it. I hope the plot wasn't too weird... and if there's anything wrong with the story in TWSA, feel free to let me know! 😊🌻💛✨
Hope u guys like this chapter and thank you again for the sweet comment! 🥺🤧😭🌊🤍💙