#21 - Gather to Become Stronger (2)

POVs from various characters about their circumstances.

And about Cale going back to his old habits :D

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(Beta Reader by Steph 💛🌻✨️)

WARNING :
1. Canon plot that is quite thick for Dokja's POV
2. Our BELOVED scammer is comeback! ψ(`∇')ψ
3. PLEASE READ THE TAGS IN PREVIOUS CHAPTER BEFORE YOU JUDGE MY FIC HMMMM ☺️👊💥
4. Sweet comment, pwease??? 🥺❤🍓

Don't forget to COMMENT, VOTE and FOLLOW meeehhhh-

(Word : 10.7k)


[In TCF's World]
[Choi Han's POV]

Everyone waited with pale faces, accompanied by identical expressions, such as hopefulness, worry, anxiety, concern, and even holding back tears.

Choi Han stood helplessly. He was carrying the little dragon who did not stop crying on his shoulder.

Moreover, Cage's words turned out to be the same as the anxiety that plagued the little dragon during this week.

It felt like Choi Han's world that he had, started to rebuild after Cale-nim's death was crumbling again.

Black eyes now faded with emotion. Cheeks rested with an absent-minded hum on top of damp bluish-black hair. Humming with an inner emptiness, which again cruelly swallowed the man's feelings.

It hurts that the hope which grew within Choi Han backfired on the holder of that hope.

Their wish has become a weapon that could kill the soul of Cale-nim in the beyond, every time when they push the borderline.

"Choi Han...," called Rosalyn, voicing a sad whisper. The woman with Lock embraced the other two of Cale-nim's children at her side.

"W-were you sure, Saintess?" asked the oldest of them all. Her face was now nothing but a look of exhaustion and eyes sparkling with indescribable emotions.

Feelings of pain. Disappointment. Devastation.

-that Choi Han could feel in the atmosphere of the room.

Cage, who had arrived behind the teleportation circle, with Marquess Taylor by her side, nodded sadly. Tears made the woman's grey eyes shine with emotion as her lips trembled with tears.

"That bastard... damn it, why didn't you tell me before-?"

"Cage," Taylor called, sounding vulnerable. Trying to calm the dark brown-haired woman down, though to no avail.

"H-he said... Young Master Cale... is in danger there."

A sigh could be heard, and all eyes looked at the ancient golden dragon who was now seated. Behind him stood the Vampire lord, with a flat expression.

"Danger like what?" Asked Fredo, burgundy eyes staring intently at Cage while crossing his arms in front of his chest. It amazed Choi Han on one hand because out of all of them, only the vampire lord could control his emotions. Even Alberu-nim looked speechless. Joining in the silence with hollow blue eyes.

"As you know, Death said... t-that-" Choi Han could not even explain how he could understand Cage's feelings right now. It was painful to speak when your throat was choked, by the feeling of tightness and stifled tears.

"-Young Master Cale's soul actually did not survive after the World Tree branch incident. So, Death sent Young Master Cale to that world... where there is a fragment of Young Master Cale's soul there..." Everyone nodded at this information. Cage had explained it 4 years ago, which was the basis of their hope to retrieve Cale-nim.

"B-but, that world has its own rules and Young Master Cale is... a foreign variable?" Cage was confused at her own explanation.

"You mean-" Alberu-nim raised his voice. It sounded low and hoarse, as if just speaking was exhausting the man of Dark Elf descent.

"-Cale is not free there?"

It only took one question and Choi Han felt all the hearts of his comrades, family and himself breaking.

Vaguely, the Korean felt how tense Raon's body was in his arms. Another sob came and a reflex hand movement touched the head of the small black dragon. Despite knowing that the action only resulted in a painful void.

Cage shook her head sadly, tears flowing.

"Death said that the authority overseeing that world, Star Stream, had already detected Young Master Cale's presence-"

"-so what?" All eyes looked at the golden dragon. They saw power starting to emanate from his body, making its golden hair stand on end with veins appearing around the temples. The slit golden eyes grew narrowed to a frightening degree.

"-what's the point of saying if that bastard God CAN'T even do damn thing?!" Furious, the dragon aura was so thick, that if Choi Han were an ordinary person, he would have fainted under the pressure of the golden dragon power.

"4 FUCKIN' YEARS!"

Golden crackles surrounded the ancient dragon form.

"WHERE THE HELL DID THAT BASTARD DISAPPEAR TO?! AND WHEN WE REACHED HIM, YOU DARE SAY WE HURT MY SON?! BECAUSE OF OUR DAMN DESIRE TO MEET?!"

Everyone fell silent.

"HOW DARE HE?! HOW FUCKIN' DARE THAT BASTARD-!!!"

Feeling the anger and sadness of a father who misses his son.

"How... cruel," Eruhaben-nim whispered, exhaustion and dragon energy instantly evaporating.

He bowed his head, hiding his eyes behind his bangs of golden hair. The man did not even resist when Fredo-nim tapped his shoulder. The vampire's originally cold face became a gentle expression.

"F-forgive me..." Eruhaben-nim shook his head.

It was not Cage's fault that they were like this. The woman had tried her best in various ways to hear the voice of the damn god of death. Cage had even tried to poison herself, putting herself into a state of suspended animation so she could meet Death, which Taylor had immediately prevented.

They couldn't afford to lose anyone else.

"Continue, Miss Cage." Ron, without a smile, asked in a soft voice.

"... Death currently can't do much." That remark confirmed Eruhaben-nim's annoyance.

"That world doesn't just have 1 god, they... have a unique 'system'?" Cage then asked Jack to prepare a thin board and mana pencil. It was like a replica of the blackboard and marker/chalk in his world back then.

"Death explained a few points, one of which is that the world adheres to 'stories'." Raon, who was starting to calm down in his arms moved. So did the others, approaching and surrounding Cage.

The sadness was still thick, with the look of disappointment and expression of pain being held back. But there was determination strong in their eyes, to understand where things went wrong, warming Choi Han's heart, that all of them persisted in never giving up on Cale-nim.

"The higher the value of the story, the higher the 'divinity' of a person, which can make them a god. But, this world calls them 'constellations'."

"Then there's the Star Stream... which is like a system? That world is overseers by the 'constellations' which ensures their world goes as planned, which we must be wary of. Because they... ensure and monitor every variable that may disrupt the natural flow of that world's 'story'."

Some of them widened their eyes, as did Choi Han. Beginning to understand where this world system was going as they disliked the reality on display even more.

"Young Master Cale... is currently under surveillance. Because he's one of the 'story makers' there."

"Storymaker?" Hannah beamed, one eyebrow raised.

"That world calls it an 'Incarnation' or a 'constellation candidate'. The better the 'story' produced by an 'Incarnation', the higher the possibility of him becoming a 'constellation'."

"But... that's not the point, is it?" On muttered listlessly, golden eyes beginning to flicker with a cold glance. Followed by the rest of the room as well as a visibly annoyed Cage.

"Young Miss On is very smart," said Saintess Death, smiling faintly.

"As Young Miss On said, that is not the point or conclusion in that world. The main focus isn't about the great journey of becoming a constellation or achieving a good story... but being an 'entertainer'."

Choi Han's blood was pumped by the flames, his pulse boiling, making his hands clench into fists.

"You mean, my son is being an 'entertainer' for these damn constellation bastards?" The crackle of power was intimidating.

Some eyes widened to narrow as Cage nodded. Seemingly equally hateful and angry at the information.

"Damn it. Fuckfuckfuckfuck-" Eruhaben-nim, unable to hear any more of the information, walked away from the crowd. Towards the reading room followed by On, Hong and Fredo.

Choi Han felt bitter, saddened at another factor of reality given, that the 'home' that they loved, cherished, and protected so much, had only become mere 'entertainment' for the higher beings of that world. Hands were clenched so tight, thinking a figure with such a warm, kind heart with great love would be treated so lowly.

"H-how is Father doing now?" Raon finally, after a long time raised his voice. Blue eyes flickered with tears, hopeful for Cage to at least bring some good news.

"...we don't know for sure. Death disappeared after explaining the rest, his strength was drained while trying to 'peek through the cracks' of that world." The little black dragon withered again in Choi Han's arms. The blue eyes still had tears in them but his gaze was blank.

"Is... there nothing we can do, Miss Cage?" asked Alberu-nim, his glamorous blue eyes flashing sadness, doubt and hope.

Painful.

It's really painful.

Hope hurts.

(But sometimes so longed for, coveted and loved-)

"Can't we continue this project anymore?" Hannah asked, her voice small. Not in her usual fiery and passionate voice.

"Can I give my opinion?" The unexpected voice came from the secretary, Toonka's closest right-hand man, Harol. The brown-haired man, now elongated hair tied up French-style, smiled weakly as all attention was drawn to him, even if only through the communication ball.

"Sure," Rosalyn replied, smiling a little.

"W-what if this happens because of one side?"

Everyone fell silent at that question.

"Continue, Mr Harol," Alberu continued, eyes curving with an interested twinkle.

"I mean, so far, only those from our world have tried to reach there. That means, only one side is working. Also, the important point is, that we can contact Young Master Cale's world because he is there. As a connection. But not from there to our world."

His explanations sounded disorganised and raw. It was as if it was expressed immediately after the idea came up. But-

"I see your point, Mr. Harol!" Rosalyn exclaimed, her bright red eyes beginning to glow with understanding and hope.

The red-haired woman approached the research board, easily swapped it with another blank board then began to scribble. Two circles that Choi Han guessed to be their world and the alien world, then each circle was surrounded by another circle and a square.

"What Mr. Harol means is, all this time, our presence has 'clarified' Young Master Cale's existence in that world. Therefore, the more we try to get closer, the more Young Master Cale's life is threatened by the 'system' that runs that world. But-"

"What if we trick the 'system' with an 'original existence' of that world?"

Once again, even as a mere theory, Choi Han could feel it again.

As bitter, as painful as hope felt, it instantly grew buds like this.

"That means... we have to find people from that world to cooperate with?" Asked Raon, his heartbroken expression replaced with determination and longing.

"And, since Mr. Harol said earlier there was only one side, then our world must have one more existence just like that world. At the very least, it should have the same

aura, to be enough to trick the 'system' there." Alberu's explanation started to become clear and Rosalyn described it in detail on the board.

"And when we try to contact the two worlds, which are connected by the same existence, we will slip through the middle of the portal?" Mary's repeated conclusion made some of them gasp in anticipation. Then-

"That damn bastard-" -the door opened loudly, Eruhaben-nim entered with lightly glowing golden eyes. His face was pale, his body trembling, and he looked exhausted. But there was determination wrapped in a blanket of strength and anger, frustration as well as hope.

"-that damn god of death will become our 'existence'."

Cage's face brightened by that sentence to reveal a smile so wide.

Followed by Hong, who was strangely pleased. Then Lock and even Hannah.

"Gosh, isn't that a really good idea, Eruhaben-nim?!" The Saintess of Death exclaimed.

"Because originally Lady Cage said that the Death God was once one of the 'existences' there, right?" Jack asked with a gentle smile.

"That means, the god bastard at least still has a connection! Didn't he just try to peek through the rift of that world?!" Hong exclaimed, proud of his choice of vocabulary that used to make Eruhaben-nim horrified.

"In that case, the project will continue. But we will change the base runes. While the connection between our world and that world is still connected, we can create another connection but now with our beloved god of death~" Fredo clapped his hands proudly. Started ordering the research members to prepare another rune.

Rosalyn also hurried to her tower, preparing more mana with Hannah and Mary in tow.

"I guess I'll look for materials as usual," Bud excused himself, smiling with relief at the crisis he'd passed through.

"Say our hello to Princess Jopis." Alberu's smile was returned with a friendly wave.

And it ended like that, with everyone working as usual.

Leaving Choi Han, who was still by Raon's side. Then On and Hong who smiled a little at each other, Lock who held the two siblings' shoulders, and Eruhaben-nim who looked awkward.

"Raon."

The little boy gave a small gasp as Eruhaben-nim called out to him. Choi Han's heart trembled, seeing the ancient dragon reaching out to stroke the younger dragon's bluish-black hair.

"Don't give up hope, you hear me ya? Your father is still trying to survive out there. We're here doing everything we can to bring him home and-" The human-shaped dragon knelt down, golden eyes staring into stern blue orbs.

"-if you have the slightest doubt, you must say it directly. Or else the project we're building will be ruined." Lock looked like he wanted to protest, but Choi Han shook his head.

"Would you rather have a small chance or no-fuckin-thing at all?"

"Small chance," Raon-nim replied without hesitation. Although his eyes were still red from crying, the same determination came back to life in those eyes.

"Then it's time to get to work, Young Dragon."

Lock took his leave with On and Hong, and the two cat tribe siblings gave the youngest a hug and a kiss. Meanwhile, Eruhaben-nim joined Fredo-nim. Leaving Choi Han and Raon in the corner of the room, watching each researcher interact with each other under the command of the two powerful beings.

"Strong Choi Han."

"Yes, Raon-nim?" Slit blue eyes widened with a blank stare.

"We will capture that god bastard of death," said the Little Dragon, his voice low, drifting and deadly.

"Then we'll give it as a gift to Father."

The hollow face quickly switched to a wide smile, filled with an aura of innocence.

"What do you think, strong Choi Han?"

The black-robed bodyguard replied with an equally sweet smile. Hands clenched on his favourite sword, a gift from Cale-nim, which he cherished, and loved.

"Of course, Raon-nim."

A soft chuckle sounded.

"Cale-nim will definitely like it."

*******

( Vaguely, in his deep darkness, the figure felt threatened.

Even as his two friends tried to rouse him, he was too sleepy to wake up.

Why?

Why did it feel so scary all of a sudden-?

"You're a fool, Death."

"Goodbye, my friend. You will be remembered until the end of eternity."

Huh?

Wh-what?

Eyes opened wide, watching as the darkness around him began to fade with a sickening crack of glass.

WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON-AARRRRghhhh 🦅🦅🦅🦅🦅-?! )

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[In ORV's World]

[Lee Hyunsung's POV]

[7 days before Main Scenario #5]

Dark eyes with a soft twinkle couldn't escape the small frame sitting on the seat beside him. On messy hair, puffy cheeks, big round eyes and a very familiar grayish hue.

"What's your name, little one? My name is Hyunsung. Just call me hyung-"

"Jung Eunso... thank you for helping Eunso, Hyun-jussi!"

Rest assured, faintly, you could hear the sound of a crack in the burly man's heart. Because Lee Hyunsung is still 28 years old and does he look that old in the eyes of a child? To be called 'Ahjussi'?

[Constellation 'Master of Steel' stifles his laughter.]

By the way, Jung? With a face that had similarities as well as identical grey eyes, Hyunsung's mind couldn't help but return to the figure of a straight black-haired woman with a sharp grin.

Is this Jung Eunso some kind of Jung Heewon's brother?

If it wasn't for the facial resemblance, Hyunsung didn't think so. Moreover, the Jung surname is quite common.

The former army officer then refocused on the street scene. His eyes caught a glimpse of the billboard showing the change of region. Hyunsung was relieved that they were out of Chungcheong and into Kyonggi. If Hyunsung kept a steady pace, two days would be enough to reach the capital city of Suwon.

After giving some food to the little boy he had rescued earlier, Hyunsung's mind wandered again thinking of the little boy's possible relationship with his partner. Given the similarity of their facial features...

"Eunso-ya, do you have a noona?" Hyunsung asked directly, tilting his face with his trademark friendly smile.

The 6-year-old boy blinked twice and also tilted his head. Then he raised his hand and counted in a whispered voice.

"Hu um! Eunso is 6 years old and Noona is 21 years older!"

... what a unique answer. Well, that meant this little Eunso had an older sister.

"What's your Noona's name?" Doe, round deer-like eyes with a cute smile were given. Little Eunso had a positive aura that cultivated a protective instinct in Hyunsung.

"Noona Eunso's name, Heewonie-noona! Jung Heewonie-noona!" Hyunsung's dark brown eyes widened at his partner's name. Then gaped a little, not expecting that Heewon was so far away from his brother.

How could that be?

Especially living close to the army?

Or were the two living separately? Like Heewon went with her mother? And Eunso went with his father? Then Hyunsung felt his heart sink a little, realizing how little he knew Heewon. Despite their short meeting, they shared joys, sorrows and struggles.

"Jussi you know Eunso's Noona?" Asked the little boy again, hopeful with small pouty lips but big, teary eyes.

"Your Heewon-noona is hyung's friend!" Hyunsung exclaimed cheerfully, smiling sweetly and one hand moving to ruffle the little boy's black hair while the other was still focused on driving the car.

"Really?! And Jussi here came to bring Eunso to Noona?!" Hands reflexively tried to stop the little boy who was about to get up from his seat.

"Yep. We're going to Seoul and your Noona is there. Your hyung and noona are a team!" The older boy said, replying equally enthusiastically. Immediately got an adorable face of admiration. Despite a face covered in dust and a few traces of blood.

Seeing the fading red colour all over Eunso's body, the friendly expression became cold with eyes sparkling darkly, and filled with worry.

"Eunso-ya?"

"Hu um???" Hyunsung's heart sank at the sight of such young grey eyes, with a sweet innocent twinkle. As if unaffected by the harsh reality of a world on the verge of collapse.

"Who was Eunso-ya with before?" Hyunsung asked carefully. His body was tense, in ready mode in case of a monster attack though his ears remained focused to hear Eunso's answer.

"With Appa!"

And seeing the little boy alone... the older man's dark eyes glazed over.

"Where is... Your Appa?" He asked, voice hoarse. His heart sank as the boy now smiled a small, almost unreal, heart-wrenching smile.

"Appa went to heaven! So, Eunso has to see Eunso's Noona!"

Hyunsung couldn't imagine that if he had been late or not even determined to return to Seoul, Eunso might not have made it to Heewon's place. This child was only 6 years old, my god. Without adults and already able to survive alone.

Although on one hand, Hyunsung was impressed, but still Eunso was so small. Bitterly, the older man also realized again that Gilyoung was just as young as Eunso.

And... his heart was weak for such a small child. To be left alone, to live amongst merciless monsters.

"Then, come with hyung, will you?" Hyunsung asked gently. Hands now took turns stroking the little boy's cheeks with a reassuring look.

"Jussi doesn't find Eunso troublesome?" A small, innocent question but wrapped in doubt and sadness. The former army officer gave a small smile.

"No, Eunso-ya. In fact, Eunso is very helpful." Then there was a small chuckle. Warming the older man's heart by the cuteness of the laughter.

"Eunso is happy to hear that!" Hyunsung gave the dark hair one last stroke, then refocused on the road.

"Eunso-ya?"

"Hu um???"

"Can Hyung ask you something?"

"Yes, Hyun-jussi!"

"How did Eunso survive until now? What do you fight monsters with?"

Silence engulfed them for a moment. For some reason feeling nervous, Hyunsung tried to peek at the little boy sitting next to the driver's seat.

"Hmmm... Eunso's angel protecting Eunso!" Angel?

"Is the angel here?"

"Yes! She's writing something!"

[Constellation 'Lily Blooming in Aquarius'* greets Incarnation 'Lee Hyunsung' with a sweet smile!] *(Gabriel)

A blue screen was glimpsed on Hyunsung's left side, strangely giving off a warm air and fitting Eunso's sweet personality.

"Ah, annyeonghaseyo," the man replied awkwardly, earning laughter from the other constellations.

[Constellation 'Lily Blooming in Aquarius' thanks Incarnation 'Lee Hyunsung' for saving her 'little lamb'!]

[1000 coins sponsored!]

Hooo... apparently, Eunso's sponsor was a rich constellation and a woman?

"Of course, no problem. Eunso is also Heewon-ssi's younger brother."

Silence fell again and was it just Hyunsung's feeling that the blue screen looked scary?

[Constellation 'Master of Steel' is grateful that Incarnation 'Lee Hyunsung' is always polite.]

The older man's eyes blinked at the message that was sent secretly. Was there a problem with Eunso's constellation that made his own sponsor feel wary?

"Eunso has a good sponsor huh?" said Hyunsung, smiling slightly at the little boy who was still wearing his innocent smile. It was really sweet but at the same time began to have an ominous air, like his own constellation.

"Lily-noona often helps Eunso! Lily-noona says Eunso is a good 'little lamb' and deserves a reward!"

[Constellation 'Lily Blooming in Aquarius' smiled fondly! Her 'little lamb' is so adorable!]

[500 coins sponsored!]

...

Sweating coldly at the strange dynamics, Hyunsung forced himself to focus on the road. Not forgetting to give a final smile to Eunso who was now enjoying the scenery.

"Ahjussi?"

"Hmm?"

"Don't hesitate to ask Eunso for help, okay? Eunso can get rid of monsters!"

"Ah, sure, Eunso-ya, huh-?"

*******

Hyunsung gaped behind the shield he took out. The 6-year-old boy by his side was laughing cheerfully, in contrast to his form that had the bloodstains of monsters. There was a transparent halo above his head with several needles floating around his body.

"Attack again, Hyun-jussi!"

His exclamation was sweet, full of innocence with a wide smile. Compared to the surrounding scenery, Jung Eunso looked like a little angel but dare Hyunsung say that hmm-

"Ahjussi!"

"Ne, ne, Eunso-ya," Hyunsung laughed resignedly but couldn't cover his own smile.

"And how about to call me 'hyung' instead, okay?"

"Okay, Hyun-jussi!"

Although the possibility of a small child by his side was stronger, it was still the duty of adults to look after children.

And Lee Hyunsung had kept the promise to bring Eunso together with Heewon.

A real man would not break his promise!

[Constellation 'Lily Blooming in Aquarius' smiles sweetly.]

[Constellation 'Master of Steel' smiles nervously.]

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[Kim Dokja's POV]

[7 days before Main Scenario #5]

"You... WHAT?! You told that boring novel to that person too?!"

Black starry eyes glanced at the new partner with hollow eyes. Then grinned a small, almost sad and ironic grin. If not him, who else would Dokja tell everything to?

To tell him about his dreams, his hopes and his 'home'?

His eyes blankly watched as the leader of the Ruler of Wanderers excused herself to take care of the northern Disaster. Looking away, forehead furrowed in hatred. Thinking of how the name 'Hanibaram' came out of that voice, as if dismissive, as well as curious at the same time, had brought out the anger in him.

"H-hey, are you okay-?" Han Sooyoung, seeing the Reader so quietly followed anxiously. Afraid that the same trauma as the ugly red werewolf of old would have the same effect-

"I'm fine. Are you worried about me-?"

"Huh?! Why would I worry you? OI-bastard, where the heck are you going-?"

Kim Dokja approached the Yellow Meteorite and touched its surface.

"We have to wake it up." Sooyoung gaped, cat-like eyes wide as if questioning the sanity of the man beside her.

"Are you crazy?! Why do you want to hatch it?! What if what hatches is Disaster-?"

"It's not Disaster, you idiot. Didn't you write this in your novel? Every Meteorite like this is the Guide who takes care of Disaster later."

Sooyoung then remained silent for a while.

"Let me ask you one thing. Why don't you just look for Hanibaram? Instead of hanging around? You're so possessive that seeing you don't care how he's doing makes me wonder." Hands froze on the stone surface. Eyes widened at the unexpected question then snorted.

"... how can I face Hanibaram if I'm still this weak?" Dokja whispered, recalling the traumatizing moment with Song Minwoo and feeling a little shaken again.

The Fourth Wall still felt just as fragile.

"You? Weak?" Sooyoung couldn't stop thinking. This guy even punched the protagonist and knocked her out in one hit. How dare this crazy bro considers himself weak in front of Han Sooyoung?

"So, we have to hatch it with mana. According to my calculations, it will take about 10 hours to resurrect it. Me 4 hours and you 6 hours-"

"Huh?! WHY THE FUCK AM I THE ONE WITH 6 DAMN HOURS-?!"

"Honestly, what's your mana level-?"

"...level 55..."

...

...

"Then I'm 2 hours, you're 8 hours-"

"-YAK-!!!"

It was Dokja's turn to rest, eyes blurry as he watched how Sooyoung filled the mana into Yellow Meteorite. The mind drifted back to the woman's last question and reaffirmed himself.

As much as Dokja had grown in this world, he was not yet as strong as the Protagonist. Also, there were many points that Dokja had not thought about since meeting Cale.

First, the thing Dokja was most concerned about was that Hanibaram did not have a constellation in his favour.

Second, even in censorship, Cale has so much stigma. Given that Hanibaram was first introduced during Jonghyuk's 17th regression, how could this redheaded character have so many titles? When he didn't even have a constellation? This still doesn't have a clue, as Dokja doesn't know what Hanibaram was like before the 17th regression. Did Hanibaram die repeatedly in that alley?

Third, the skill that separates Dokja's consciousness between the novel world (fiction) and the real world. Remembering the encounter with Song Minwoo, the Fourth Wall became shaky because Dokja assumed that Song Minwoo was real, right? However, the skill stopped wavering when the name 'Hanibaram' fell from the bastard's lips. Was it at that moment... Cale was a figure that Dokja had completely dismissed as fiction. Or was it a reality?

Fourth, the phenomenon of a stranger attacking only Cale at Chungmuro Station. It had been almost two weeks since that had happened. Worry struck the Reader. What if.. it happened again while he was still separated from Hanibaram?

"How many days has it been?" -before Main Scenario #5 began.

"Seven days left. It's your turn, jerk," Han Sooyoung chirped, breaking Dokja's reverie. Without saying anything back, the man sat down, drank his mana-filling potion, and placed both hands on the surface of the Yellow Meteorite.

Well... there was still plenty of time Dokja could spend getting to know Cale.

A faint smile appeared on the man's face. Almost affectionate as his eyes sparkled with warmth.

Fiction or not, Cale's touch and laughter felt real in his arms.

Even if it was just wishful thinking... Dokja had already made his peace with them.

*******

"Let me learn it!"

"Huh? What for?"

"Isn't learning it the most important thing? Way of the Wind is it because you're not talented?"

"Bastard. It's not that easy, only people who have the Amulet can learn the Way of the Wind."

"Then, just give the amulet to me."

"This thing can't be moved."

[Incarnation 'Han Sooyoung' has confirmed that the statement is 'true'.]

"...you're the first person who's more suspicious than Yoo Jonghyuk."

"Okay, well, since this skill is supposed to be learned by Yoo Jonghyuk like in the original story, why should you bother learning it? Let's just leave it to the Protagonist!" The woman grinned mischievously.

"It's still not too late. Let's find Jonghyuk and bring him here to study him again! Surely the Protagonist is also looking for his lover-"

"-NOT A DAMN LOVER-!"

"-so you can take Hanibaram away while he's training! How's that?"

"... that bastard Yoo Jonghyuk won't listen to anyone else's words."

"I'll tease him ͡~ ͜ʖ ͡°) "

....

....

[Many Constellations tried to hold back their laughter at Incarnation 'Han Sooyoung' jokes.]

"Pffttt, at least be pretty like Lee Seolhwa."

"You bastard."

*******

"This bastard seems to have come to me on purpose."

"Huh? What's going on? Did he come to ask you for a favour? His prestige is too fuckin' high."

They watched in silence. How the reader used his sack of coins to buy all the ingredients and create some kind of deadly-looking green soup.

"Hufff... huff..."

Loving-damnly, Dokja propped up the back of Jonghyuk's head to feed him the antidote he had made.

....

....

"You're acting just like his wife."

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' closed her mouth in disbelief at the unexpected 'friendship' he witnessed!]

[...1000 coins sponsored!]

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' couldn't believe that the two were 'having an affair'.]

[500 coins for cookies.]

[Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' held back a smile -an evil grin-.]

[1000 coins sponsored.]

"Bastard. Do you want to do this shit?"

"No way!"

Dark eyes had no twinkle looking at the blue screen, stifling a growl as some started cheering for him to pair up with Yoo fucking Jonghyuk.

"Will you guys just shut (the fuck) up or will I turn off this (damn) channel?"

[Many constellations shouted 'DON'T!!!']

******

[6 days before Main Scenario #5]

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: One of the '10 Evils' has gotten the 'Disaster Meteorite' ]

[ Kim Dokja: Is it 'Poisoner' Lee Seolhwa? ]

The reader could feel the protagonist fall silent.

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: I found her on my way to find Cale. ]

It was a long journey then. Because Cale was on the other side of the Han River. It was possible that Jonghyuk didn't know where the Hanibaram himself was. Dokja didn't expect how Cale could stay in Gwanghwamun while the others were scattered.

[ Kim Dokja: Then, why were you 'poisoned'? You were distracted. You could have avoided or dealt with it directly, right? ]

For once, Jonghyuk was silent for a long time.

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: I tried to persuade her. ]

This answer stunned Dokja. What... does Jonghyuk still have feelings for that woman?

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: I think I can make her my partner again. ]

Ah... of course.

Yoo Jonghyuk just experienced his third regression.

The feelings won't die out in an instant, right? Because they were lovers in Yoo Jonghyuk's second regression. Certainly, Lee Seolhwa left a deep impression in our protagonist's heart.

So, why is it that now the protagonist can be easily distracted by Hanibaram? Is it possible that Yoo Jonghyuk is hiding his playboy side-hmmm 눈_눈)

The annoyance went away in an instant and with eyes flat.

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: ... even if it's just for a moment, I want to believe that the woman in my memories is still alive. ]

[ Kim Dokja: I understand. ]

For the umpteenth time, Dokja was taken aback by how different this Yoo Jonghyuk was from the one he read about.

Compared to his cold nature, he began to no longer care about his partner's feelings anymore. Not trusting anyone and could only continue to walk forward in an endless round of regression. Of course, hope was slowly disappearing from the identity of a 'Yoo Jonghyuk'.

But this one-

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: Strange. You're not a regressor... is this the original power of the Prophet? Even so, you're still trash in my eyes. ]

Ugh. Here we go again.

Dokja was almost sympathetic to this bastard! <( ‵□′)───C<─___-)||

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: Shameless. You kidnapped my sister and now I don't know where she is. You pedophile- ]

This asshole is becoming unbearable! ╬▔皿▔)╯

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: You also dared to date Cale while the apocalypse was going on- ]

[ Kim Dokja: Bastard. Do you need a damn mirror? ]

*******

"...Yoo Sangah-ssi?!"

The woman who appeared had such a different appearance after they were separated. Light brown hair that was loose, combined with a black combat suit that molded to her body and a black belt with a dagger on it.

A beautiful face with cold eyes. Pulling golden threads and mutilating several reincarnations that had been infected with parasites with ease.

Is she even still the Yoo Sangah Dokja knows?

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: She developed faster in your absence. You're not that talented, Prophet. ]

This annoying protagonist! Still taking the time to make fun of him!

[ Yoo Jonghyuk: Imagine Cale not thriving under your tutelage. Just give him to me- ]

His hand was almost raised, reflexively wanting to bash Jonghyuk's head in but was stopped by the echo of the promise of a death blow. Instead, Dokja turned his attention back to the woman in front of him.

"Sangah-ssi!"

Thankfully, the brown head turned and her eyes widened.

"Dokja-ssi?! H-how did you get here-?"

"I'll tell you after we leave here!"

******

"A lot of things happened to you, Dokja-ssi." Eyes looked around as if confused by only seeing Dokja. Along with two other black-haired people but not the red-haired one. Weren't the two inseparable?

"Where's Cale-ya?"

Silence engulfed them for a moment.

The doe's brown eyes widened in almost disbelief that-

"Y-you left him?!"

"Huh?! Ani! Aniya* !" Eyes glanced in annoyance for a moment, at Sooyoung who laughed mockingly and Jonghyuk who snorted. (*No in Korean)

"All the party members are separated in different locations!" Sangah's eyes narrowed and assessed, Dokja found himself almost unable to breathe because yeah, the doe-eyed woman's aura was now so damn frightening. Sangah's drastic change had left him speechless.

"I was at my parents' house in Gangdong-gu. On the way to Gwangjin-gu, I met Pildu-ahjussi. Where was Dokja-ssi before?"

"Ah, at our company," replied the Reader, still feeling nervous.

"Then do you know where the others are, Dokja-ssi? Cale-ya? Is he safe?" Unable to help himself, the man nodded.

"He's in the Gwanghwamun area-eh..." Black eyes with twinkling stars widened and immediately closed their mouths. The three people in front of him had diverse expressions but one common emotion, that of surprise.

"Mwoya*?!" (*What in Korean)

... have not met with a trusted person to talk about Cale in a long time, Dokja's mouth was quite a bucket apparently right...

"Why is uri donsaeng still there?!"

... Dokja was going to go crazy for a long time...

"No wonder you didn't catch up with him," Han Sooyoung snorted, giving him an evil grin.

"What!? You... you left him, Dokja-ssi?!"

"Pfft-"

"ANIYA! You chekky bastard, shut up you damn plagiarist-!"

When will we meet again?

Caleeeeeeeee- (;′⌒')

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[Shin Yoosung's POV]

[6 days before Main Scenario #5]

Now, things were even more difficult.

Tired brown eyes glanced at the blue screen on her right side. Reminding the little girl of the sub-scenario to survive 10 days by paying 500 coins every day.

Requiring Shin Yoosung to learn how to hunt monsters to survive.

What she had avoided, she now had to face.

How merciless.

This cruel scenario doesn't care about age and your well being, since when is everything normal? Yoosung felt that she was now too tired to move. Brown eyes grimly looked left and right from her hiding place. So far, she had survived with the Taming Beast skill, which had already reached level 9. An excellent achievement, since Yoosung herself hadn't chosen a sponsor.

The little girl somewhat regretted her past actions. Her attention was distracted when the sponsor selection took place, at which time she was still mourning. Losing her father, mother as well as Beomie overwhelmed the little girl's emotions.

It was also fortunate for her now that Cheonsa-oppa's group had a fellow constellation that was kindly watching over him.

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' told Incarnation 'Shin Yoosung' that it was safe.]

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' said it would only take a few more passages to reach Incarnation 'Kim Dokja'!]

[Cheer up!]

[500 coins sponsored!]

These two constellations -sometimes even more crowded- are very strange. On the other hand, it's like the parents are too much like Cheonsa-Oppa and Dokja-ahjussi. But, who is Yoosung to deny those who give coins for free? Without her begging? 500 coins from the constellation 'Demon-like Judge of Fire' was even enough to pay for Yoosung's sub scenario dues for tonight.

More importantly, this Dokja-ahjussi was getting closer. The little girl's eyes caught sight of one of the billboards, showing the address 'Dongjak-gu' listed on it. It made Yoosung believe they would probably meet near the Dongjak bridge.

Doe eyes looked at the darkening sky, sighing to herself. Today was really tiring, but the little girl was satisfied with the results of her own hard work. She even gained a new skill and some summonable animals!

"Come on, cheer up, Yoosungie! Tomorrow I'll meet Dokja-ahjussi, then meet Cheonsa-Oppa!" The little girl encouraged herself.

After paying the sub-scenario fee, Yoosung looked for another place to hide that was further away and closer to the center of the Dongjak district.

If monsters were approaching, then Yoosung would use the Taming Beast skill to create fights amongst the herd of monsters. Allowing herself to sneak in without having to fight, as well as having coins at her disposal.

The little girl decided on the second floor of a shop as her resting place. Seeing as it was almost 9 pm, she had to eat and sleep by 10.

Eyes closed, imagining the sweet picture of a reunion between Cheonsa-Oppa and herself.

Where Yoosung would show that she could and deserved to grow stronger.

Then the gentle gaze that Yoosung had been longing for.

Accompanied by the acknowledging glances of the other Dokja-ahjussi party members...

Could Yoosung be greedy to embrace that feeling-?

*******

[5 days before Main Scenario #5]

-the little girl did not expect the dark gaze that judged her.

Then at the stunned look that said nothing.

And an arm draped over her, pitying her.

"Do you want me to say it, bastard?"

"Han Sooyoung, stop! Damn it-"

"-that this child is a fuckin' Disaster?!"

Shin Yoosung's world came crashing down again.

.
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[Lee Gilyoung's POV]

[5 days before Main Scenario #5]

A familiar sense of warmth swept through the boy's consciousness. His eyes opened slowly, reluctantly because it had been a long time since Lee Gilyoung had felt this kind of comfort.

Not since Dokja-hyung's party was separated.

Then his forehead furrowed. He could vaguely feel the strokes on his hair and froze.

The memory of the red-haired man who had saved him flashed.

Slowly, Gilyoung looked away. Meeting a pair of beautiful reddish-brown eyes, which were now curved to give a small, gentle smile. The rose-red hair was now tied sideways, having a small braid on the left side of his head. Ruby earrings sparkled a blue necklace under a black shirt and an elf symbol on the forehead.

Currently, the man was sitting with his thighs next to Gilyoung's head pillow. Eyes glanced over, realizing that they were inside a green tent.

Was this a dream?

"Ca-cale... hyung?"

The hand wiping didn't stop.

"Hm?"

He's real...?

Gilyoung immediately sat up from the makeshift bed and then hugged the other man tightly. Small sobs could be heard again, along with gentle strokes of his hair.

"Hu-hughs, Ca-Cale-hyung! *sobs huwaaa-! Y-you finally-"

"Shhh..."

Cale-hyung didn't say anything. The man who smell like of nature let Gilyoung cry all he wanted while patting his back and rubbing his head.

After ten minutes passed, the boy embarrassedly removed his hug. He blushed when he saw that Cale-hyung's shirtfront was now wet from his tears.

"Done?" But, Cale-hyung didn't care about the mess. Instead, the attention of those beautiful eyes kept worrying him.

"D-done...," Gilyoung replied in a whispered voice.

[Constellation 'Lord of the Abyss' greeted his Incarnation with a relieved smile.]

[100 coins sponsored!]

Shyly, the little boy waved to his sponsor. Got another 100 coins in return.

"Try drinking some warm water first and then eat. You've been asleep for almost two whole days," Cale-hyung explained, grabbing a water bottle that was available near his bed.

"Two whole days?!" Guilt gnawed at Gilyoung. He had slept for two days, doing nothing. Wasn't Gilyoung not far from being a burden-?

"Yes. Two days. You were badly injured and exposed to poison, so it's only natural. After eating, rest again, arra ?"

The next sentence was not the reaction Gilyoung expected. Instead, the red-haired man told Gilyoung to rest, and to not hunt monsters-ah!

"The pay?! What about the coins-?!"

"I already paid for it." Cale-hyung's face became serious.

[Constellation 'Lord of the Abyss' is very grateful to Incarnation 'Cale Henituse'!]

[500 coins sponsored!]

"If you want to pay it back, heal yourself first. Then grow up healthy and strong."

A styrofoam containing a meal of some sort of grilled meat with rice was given.

"Eat-" sort of reflex, Gilyoung didn't even notice himself grasping the hem of Cale-hyung's shirt. The red-haired man was about to move to stand up from his seat.

"H-hyung where are you going?" Gilyoung felt nervous as he asked, cursing himself for sounding like he was whining. Asking not to be left behind-

"I'm going to see Donghoon for a bit."

"D-donghoon?" The pale-skinned man simply pointed to the left and Gilyoung realized that there was someone else with them.

The Donghoon in question looked like a teenager -not far from Jihye's age- with curly black hair. The teenager sat on a chair and in front of him was... a laptop? Does the internet even still work in a world like this?

Sensing the questioning gaze of a child, Cale pointed at the new person with a small smile.

"This new companion is Han Donghoon. He will help us contact Dokja-hyungnim."

"I'm helping Cale-hyung because he saved me." Gilyoung nodded in agreement at the looks of admiration and embarrassment on the other teenagers' faces. Cale-hyung was indeed very cool and kind!

A hand moved and tapped the youngest on the shoulder, "Donghoon, this kid is Lee Gilyoung, one of our members."

The two awkwardly introduced each other.

"A-arasseo..."

Perhaps something on Gilyoung's face made those reddish-brown eyes soften again. Cale-hyung's hand reached out to stroke his brown hair in a soothing touch. Making Gilyoung's eyes glaze over and shoulders tremble.

"Gilyoungie is safe here with me. Don't worry, drink, eat and then rest. Because I will need your help in the future."

The boy's heart then fluttered, that he was needed. By a powerful, beautiful, and majestic figure like Cale-hyung.

Gilyoung's cheeks flushed sweetly and nodded. The boy took Cale-hyung's hand and rested his cheek on the warm palm. A playful giggle could be heard, feeling the warm glow of the reddish-brown bead.

"Arasseo, Cale-hyung. I will drink, eat, rest and grow strong for you!"

Cale-hyung gave a small smile.

Gilyoung liked it when he smiled at him.

Just like when Dokja-hyung patted him on the shoulder proudly.

"Good boy."

Gilyoung ate with a warm feeling. Occasionally the little boy would giggle, embarrassed by the compliments from Abyss-hyung who gave coins as well as chocolates and sweet biscuits.

Now, Gilyoung missed Dokja-hyung...

... they'll see each other soon, right?

Well, Dokja-hyung is going to pick up Cale-hyung.

So, they'll definitely meet again!

******

[4 days before Main Scenario #5]

"Aaahh...?" Dark brown eyes widened with a blank look.

Seeing a wolf (?) figure with a height of up to 3 meters walking behind him. But there was something strange, even though it had the form of a wolf, his insect detector skill realized that it was some kind of parasite living on that body.

"You must be a strong insect, eoh?" The small smile, sweet and gentle, that Gilyoung learned from Cale-hyung was imprinted on the young face.

"I'll make you my pet and-" eyes glanced at the injured wolf, then tilted his head lightly.

"Maybe Cale-hyung will like new pets?"

An 11-year-old child's footsteps had never sounded so terrifying. The parasitic insect's gaze widened with an instinct that told it to run-!

"There's no escape. Stop moving, you could seriously injure Cale-hyung's future pet, you know?"

A small hand was raised and the wolf's body was immobilized.

"Obey me, okay?" ◠‿◠)

.
.
.

[Cale Henituse's POV]

[5 days before Main Scenario #5]

"How is it, Donghoon?"

The boy Cale had saved had a nervous expression on his face.

"It's almost done, hyung," Donghoon whispered, shyly. Showing the laptop screen along with some other computer codes connected to his skills.

"Don't forget to rest." The boy nodded, giving a small smile. Suddenly, Cale reached out to pat Donghoon's shoulder. Smiling as the other teenager began to return to his program.

Regarding Han Donghoon, Cale accidentally saved him while trying to run from a grade 7 monster. The level was low but still, it was no good fighting monsters when there was an unconscious boy in his arms as well as a tired Cale. So, the man chose to run away, not forgetting to apply Glutton's shield all over their bodies.

The landscape of Cale's eyes saw the figure of a familiar teenager who was weakly trying to kill one monster at the end of the hallway. It was only when the teenager turned around that he realized it was Han Donghoon.

Then they ran until they entered the territory of another monster that seemed to have a higher rank. Asking Donghoon to keep an eye on the unconscious Gilyoung, not forgetting to give them a shield, Cale faced the grade 8 monsters with ease.

After reaching the end of Jongno-gu, they rested.

Donghoon, feeling grateful to Cale then built his tent. It turned out that it could be used specially -like the one built at Dongmyo station- and had protection. Such as not giving out an existence to weak-level monsters.

"Let me know if you can contact Dokja-hyungnim." Donghoon gave a small nod, then returned to his laptop.

Reddish-brown eyes glanced at Gilyoung who had fallen back asleep after eating. Smiling languidly, he saw that the little boy had several scars around his arms and legs. Gilyoung had endured well and Cale was proud of him.

( The red-haired man's heart ached, filled with longing. Sometimes he saw the images of On, Hong and Raon lying there. Sound asleep with soft breathing and sweet laughter- )

Shaking his head, Cale opened the front of the tent.

"I'll hunt the monsters around the tent. Take care of Gilyoung and don't worry, I've put up a shield."

"Arraseo, hyung."

Stepping outside, reddish-brown eyes narrowed at the sight of the ever-cloudy sky. Even in the morning before noon, the weather was always cloudy. Now, Cale really missed the sunlight ಥ︿ಥ)

They chose the outskirts of the open area. Besides allowing for adequate battlefields, Cale could keep an eye on the Seoul cityscape from the top of this district. Garnett's eyes glanced at the Han River in the distance, speculating that it was where everyone gathered.

Then, do you still remember what Hoja-nim said before he disappeared?

'The Starting Point of Life'.

Until now, Cale couldn't understand what that hint meant. But, of course, the rose-haired man would not keep quiet and had made several speculations and summarized them into one conclusion.

Perhaps it was a place that Cale should visit? His hunch was quite strong on this speculation, where that place could be another clue for the way home. That is, like a 'link' between Cale's world and this world. The speculation made sense with what the God of Death had said, that there were fragments of Cale in this world. This is also the case in Dokja's novel.

This world is fiction made real. However, it was quite a contradiction to the fragments of the 'original' existence in this world. Except... the fragment referred to by the God of Death is not the 'Cale Henituse' fragment. Rather 'Kim Rok Soo'? Lord Haetae had even mentioned his name when they picked up Super Rock. It made Cale very surprised, that the name was mentioned in this world...

Was this world once the world of Kim Rok Soo? Of course, their civilization is not much different. Where technology has developed rapidly and they use touchscreen phones. Perhaps, the 'Starting Point of Life' is the place where 'Kim Rok Soo' was in this world, right?

Could be-

Caleeeeeee....

That's enough! I'm dizzy! I'M DIIIZZZYYYYY-! LET'S JUST FIND A MONSTER AND FIGHT-UGH!

My brain is not XXXX braining...

Hmm.... although that theory is wild, but I agree about the 'Kim Rok Soo' fragment. It makes more sense since your world backgrounds are similar-

Rock Gramppsssss... complained Glutton again, now whining with hunger at the thought of making him hungry.

The pretty man sighed.

Indeed, all the theories did not alleviate but instead added to the burden of thoughts wrapped in uncertainty. Since there had been no events to prove the theory so far, it all ended up as overthinking.

Then...

Cale opened his storage room and took out a ball the size of a shotput sport ball.

Ah! The item from the first monster that our Cale defeated, right?! cheered The Cheapskate. A sense of pride welled up inside him, recalling the memorable moment Cale defeated the Bulgasari with a cool spear swing.

Hmmm... looking at Bulgasari's Core, Cale thought he could make something out of it. Isn't that how it works in the game? You get item drops to create new items? The man asked for information and was almost gaped at by the information on display. Bulgasari's Core has SS-class durability! Isn't this a very good-?!

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' greeted Incarnation 'Cale Henituse' cheerfully!]

Reddish brown eyes narrowed suspiciously. Because before he had said anything, a strange constellation figure appeared in front of him. Who is this constellation anyway.

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' raised a hand in a gesture of relenting.]

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' wants to make an offer.]

One eyebrow was raised by those words.

"Offer?" A hand rose to stroke under the chin while the head tilted lightly. Eyes blinked innocently but a grin spread inwardly. It had been a long time since the Roan young man had heard this sacred word.

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' nods enthusiastically!]

"What offer?"

A translucent blue paper appeared in front of Cale.

"You want to make my clothes? From Bulgasari's Core?" This is a good opportunity.

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' nodded again while stroking his beard.]

Cale nodded and his attention returned to the requirements letter. There were several points about the requirements and now, Cale's forehead was completely furrowed by requirement number two.

"30% per cent promo if I'm willing to model?"

Did Cale just feel that the figure behind this screen was now striking an annoying damn pose?

And what is this, why is he suddenly getting an offer to model while the world is in the middle of an apocalypse? But! Back to the first point where the original price was-

"100,000 coins?" Cale's surprise was hardly elite at such an absurd price. Was this damn constellation psychic? Did he know about the condition of Cale's over 100,000 coins and then intend to fuckin' extort them all?

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' is proud of his creation! He is a great constellation and many like his products!]

Our beauty's eyes narrowed in disbelief and as if offended, another blue screen was displayed in front of Cale. It showed several items ranging from A-class to SSS-class displayed there. Then in the Creator section in bold, it said 'Mass Production Maker'.

"Hmmm..."

If the discount was 20% per cent of 100,000 coins, he would only need to pay 80,000 coins approximately. However, Cale's heart ached.

It was unwilling that the coins he had worked hard for, for a month in this world in the middle of nowhere would be spent on clothes. Even if it was SS class-

That's right, Cale! Then, this bastard wants to make you a model! MODEL! Glutton growled suddenly.

Cale's price is ONLY 20,000 DAMN COINS?! THAT MOTHERFUCKER-!!!

This modelling thing... you're 'selling' your body to display... for 20,000 coins? Super Rock's mutter sounded very cold and scary. Cale reflexively crossed his arms over his chest and moved away from the blue screen.

"Is that all it 'costs' to be your model?" asked Cale grimly but grinned sharply while chuckling merrily in his mind. If Raon was here, then 'Human! Are we going to loot someone?' echoed in his mind.

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' shakes his head in panic!]

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' was frightened by the other constellation's eyes!]

"For your products that... 'look' expensive," sighed Cale, waving a hand with eyes looking sadly -disparagingly- at the constellation's list of selling items. The face became a sad expression and looked at the ground as if it was pleading. The tip of the right foot was played with and two hands moved behind his body.

"You're offering someone 'like me', to promote your 'expensive' products?" The red-haired man sighed, looked up and gave an understanding smile to the blue screen.

"I'm sorry... you should find another 'model' who is 'worthy' of your 'classy' product, Mass Production Maker-nim." Reddish-brown eyes glazed over.

"I'm not that 'worthy' for you."

...

...

[Constellation 'Demon-like Judge Fire' just returned from duty and MWO THE FUCK IS GOIN' ON HERE-?!]

The figure behind the screen gripped the hologram that had now been modified and had a physique. Shocked, angry, furious faces were mixed together, seeing your favourite incarnation now want to cry. Was Cale being bullied outside of her vision?!

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiled softly.]

The honey-haired woman felt irritated for some reason. Blame it on that captivating face, it was so pretty even if it was sad and she did not mind paying more to see this Incarnation cry. But still-

[Constellation 'Father of the Rich Night' tilted its head with a pondering look.]

[Some Constellations feel cold!]

[Constellation 'Founder's Mother' frowned unhappily.]

[Constellation 'Sleepy Lady of Brocade' is displeased by the oppression.]

[Many constellations feel offended by the actions of Constellation 'Mass Production Maker'!]

The blue screen was full behind Cale, but in reality, it was small rays gathering. It showed that so many constellations were watching the red-haired man at the moment. To the point of creating a glow around the body of the figure who was loved by nature so beautifully.

[Constellation 'Prisoner of the Golden Headband' gapes in confusion and asks what has happened?]

[Constellation 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' cheers at all the constellations filled with grudges!]

[500 coins sponsored!]

[Constellation 'Secretive Plotter' asks why Incarnation 'Cale Henituse' is feeling sad?]

"Ah... it's okay, Constellation-nim. It's my fault for being 'worthy' for a Mass Production Maker-nim..." Cale murmured softly, sadly and wistfully. Attracting the sympathy of some of the other constellations.

For those who did not recognize this red-haired man, what they saw was the embarrassed face of a man who could not meet someone's expectations and was saddened by it :(

While the man was actually hiding a grin behind his palms, a joyful laughter echoed in his mind >:)

There's our Cale! Crazy Kid laughed happily.

GO, Cale! GO GO GO! LOOT THAT MOTHERFUCKER! The Cheapskate shouted viciously.

Actually, Cale didn't even need clothes or anything. He already had Glutton as a strong shield. So, why should he bother accepting a modelling offer for 20,000 coins? This constellation also didn't specify what kind of model he became and wouldn't he end up becoming an unpaid worker?

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' waving frantically!]

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' renews offer!]

[200 coins sponsored!]

The blue paper emitted a new light and hmmm-

This time, the 'Mass Production Maker' constellation offers to make Bulgasari's Core clothes for 20,000 Coins and a 50,000 upfront fee (as a start) for each product and will increase if sales increase. Products revolve around items such as clothing and ornaments. Reddish-brown eyes closed, mentally imagining the list of items this constellation had. Because if he saw it in person, wouldn't Cale look like a greedy Incarnation?

Now he was playing the role of a meek, kind and unpretentious Incarnation.

(*gasp ಠ□ಠ) Unpretentious your head-)

"This... is a good price." The figure behind the screen let out a sigh of relief. Then pointed at the stream screen for all the threatening constellations to move away from it.

"But, if I may ask, why do you need a model if your product is this good?"

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' complained that many Incarnations don't care about fashion!]

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' said that many Constellations would be attracted to an Incarnation if they looked cool.]

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker' thinks that Incarnation 'Cale Henituse' has the Incarnation's ideal face!]

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

Cale frowned, thinking about it carefully.

If his face was exposed, wouldn't that be bad? Moreover... he was not an original entity to this world. The red-haired man was also certain that the phenomenon that attacked him would not be forgotten so easily. Glutton said that the authorities who govern this world scan their souls, looking for anomalies that disturb the probability of this world.

But... Cale Henituse needed coins....

The gold he was carrying was useless here.

Dokja-hyungnim said that coins were essential for surviving through various scenarios. Just in case, as a bribe in case something happened...

"Actually, Mass Production Maker-nim, I'm a pretty shy person."

(If Alberu heard this, the man would have an aneurysm and probably a gaping Eruhaben, how UNLUCKY of this unlucky bastard-)

"So, can I add a few points?" The garnett-eyed man then smiled widely, so sweet and pretty.

"It's good for you." You won't regret it :)

[Constellation 'Mass Production Maker'... nodding.]

The figure behind the screen immediately felt inexplicably regretful. It felt like he had signed a pact with the devil-Ah, no, no!

Cale Henituse is a rising incarnation right now!

This little human attracted many eyes in an instant and he definitely had a good influence on the product! This old grandpa was tired of the demand for strong armour and weapons. He wanted to try his hand at fashion and was sure that the constellations would be interested in buying it too!

Still-

"Do we have a deal?"

-this Incarnation's smile looked extremely terrifying now.

[Constellation 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' smiled just as sweetly.]

... they look alike.

*******

[4 days before Main Scenario #5]

Two surprised eyes saw each other.

At that moment when Cale was slashing a grade 5 monster with Haechi's Bracelet spear, another person was slashing diagonally.

"Cale?!" how surprised he was when he saw the figure of a beautiful black-haired and grey-eyed woman now grinning brightly at him.

"Heewon-noonim?" The red-haired man smiled. Not caring about how the monster fell, Heewon rushed over and hugged tightly the beautiful donsaeng they had not seen for almost a week.

"Kyaaaakkk! Uri Cale p≧▽≦)p ! This noonim missed you so much!" The 28-year-old woman exclaimed, smiling with teary eyes. Not forgetting to give a small kiss while inhaling Cale's distinctive, indulgent scent. Welcoming Heewon in a reunion hug that felt like home.

Releasing the hug, grey eyes traced the younger figure's new appearance, then smiled radiantly. Hands reached out and cupped the pale, rosy cheeks of the beauty with obvious admiration.

"Ouch! You look so great, pretty, cool and MAJESTIC! Kyaakkk! (p≧∀≦q)"

"Thank you, Noonim. You look awesome too ◠‿◠)🙏✨"

Their meeting would not be long in coming.

And when that time comes, they will fight together with their own best versions.

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[Next Chapter Spoiler]

"Hoo-?!"

Jung Heewon grinned as she saw Kim Dokja and Yoo Jonghyuk standing together.

"Cale-ya~!" Called the woman, a cheerful teasing voice that immediately got the attention of two tall men. One had straight black hair while the other had wavy hair. But! That was not what caught Heewon's attention. Rather-

"Their clothes are like couple clothes! We should congratulate them!" Vaguely, there were devil horns above the woman's head. Who was now holding back an evil laugh

because the situation was so funny and Heewon herself missed annoying Dokja buahahah ψ('∇')ψ

The red-haired beauty turned his head. He was Staring at the matching outfits of the reader and the protagonist. From black shirts, black pants, and loafers. Not forgetting the white coat as an outer layer for Dokja and black for Jonghyuk.

"Whoah..." Suddenly, a small, sweet smile appeared on Cale's face. It left the two men momentarily stunned, especially with the redhead's alluring new look and the longing of not having seen each other in over a week.

"Congratulations to you, Dokja-hyungnim! Jonghyuk-hyungnim!"

...

...

"ANDWAAEEEE*! No! It's not what you thought, Cale! Σ(っಥ□ಥ;)っ" - KDJ (*No in Korean too? But funnier lol-)

"Eh? So-? '^')" -CH

"I'm not attracted to men, Cale (눈_눈" -YJH

"YAK! Stay away from Cale!" - KDJ

"I'm not that jealous! Really! Congratulations to you, guys-" -CH

"Cale is very wise! Being jealous of your own friends is not good-! (✿◡‿◡)👌✨" -JHW

"Disgusting." -YJH

"AAAAAkkkKKh-🦅🦅🦅! HAJIMALLAGOoooO*!!!" -KDJ (*'Don't do that' in Korean :v)

"I-I can't listen this shit again-ughh..." -KDJ *faints









































SEE YOU IN THE NEXT CHAPTER

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I really wanted to draw Cale's appearance in this fic... (;′⌒')But what can I do, I can only draw a traditional face ("_ _)ノ *notaddthedamnanatomy!

In the next chapter, one of the two remaining ancient powers will debut~
Guess who it is~? _(:з)∠)_

About this chapter (and before), there are no special notes, but if there is anything that confuses the chingudeul, feel free to ask me and correct it ( ͡~ ͜ʖ ͡°)✌✨
Because yeah, there were a lot of changes in chapter 19, yk.
It was quite a headache to guess the canon position of the ORV characters and then I had to match it with the Seoul district map in rl :)

And, guess what! Banner D won the vote (if you add the votes of Indonesian readers hahahah)Thank you for participating! *(੭*ˊᵕˋ)੭*ଘ♡▪︎.•°*

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Love,

Neri (Tressie_G)
✿◡‿◡)🙏💛🌻✨

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