The consequences brought about by the whim of the mysterious couldn't exactly be called bad.
If he really intends to erase the system, that is.
Seo Seo-hee smiled awkwardly and looked at the person sitting across from him. A person wearing a white priest's robe beneath a black cloak. The man commonly known to the world as "Hunter Sergio."
As always, he smiled gently and asked,
"Won't you have a bit more?"
"I've had plenty."
"How was today's meal?"
"The soy sauce marinated crab was absolutely insane."
That part had been so impressive he couldn't even pretend to be modest.
Despite being raw, there wasn't the slightest trace of fishiness, and the flesh was soft yet chewy. The crab meat soaked in soy sauce that wasn't too salty, when eaten with warm rice, was nothing short of paradise.
"Seems like our vice guildmaster always gets Western-style lunchboxes."
"I noticed he likes salty and greasy food, so I've been tailoring it that way."
"And mine is usually Korean-style."
"Because you like mild seasoning. Especially the natural taste of the ingredients."
"Right, I suppose I am like that. In an era like this where it's hard to enjoy fine cuisine, it's a picky palate that's tough to survive with. That's probably why I like the lunchboxes you make."
Of course, it wasn't just about that.
The higher a hunter's rank, the more refined their taste buds became. Naturally. As all abilities rose, senses like smell and taste sharpened too.
There's a reason our prickly vice guildmaster has his face buried in that lunchbox.
For hunters, finding a restaurant that suited their palate was rare. The fact that so many restaurants these days were upscale probably had something to do with that. Their main clientele were first-tier citizens like high-ranking hunters.
And the one making these lunchboxes wasn't even an ordinary person.
Just going by what's visible, he's an A-rank hunter rumored to be S-class... and the son of Bisa Beul, who rolls in the collector's guild. Even that alone suggests he'd never need to get his hands dirty.
More essentially, he wasn't even human. A being of mystery at such a high level that no existing rank could define him. The fact that such a being was personally preparing lunchboxes was closer to a natural disaster than mere favoritism.
In any case, to summarize: it was something to be deeply grateful for.
"..."
Time to stop entertaining peaceful thoughts.
"...It seems the gardeners are getting along well with the hunters lately. Ever since the Black Cloak series appeared, they used to be treated like 'unfortunate winners of a lottery,' but now they're being respected as rare and valuable teachers."
"I heard that too. Peaceful harmony is always a good thing."
"Thanks to that, Jeong Hae-Woon apparently never stops smiling anymore."
Jeong Hae-Woon was the very first gardener. And a Symbol of Eternity. He was essentially the vanguard of all gardeners in this world.
He didn't have any special title like leader, but that alone seemed to carry a great sense of responsibility. Jeong Hae-Woon had always been sensitive to the persecution of gardeners. And he took it especially hard.
And now, suddenly, gardeners were being treated with great respect. As long as there weren't any side effects, there was no reason Jeong Hae-Woon wouldn't be pleased.
"I think it's a good thing too. Gardeners were treated far too poorly compared to the work they do. If it were any other job, ◈ Nоvеlіgһт ◈ (Continue reading) they'd either quit themselves or have someone trying to stop them..."
Seo Seo-hee's smile twisted awkwardly.
"The Garden is holding the gardeners' love hostage, so no matter how badly they're treated, they can't easily walk away. That's the kind of power love has, isn't it?"
"Love, huh..."
The platinum-blond priest lowered his gaze.
"Love certainly has that kind of power. It makes the damage you take feel like it's not even damage. Sometimes the whole process feels natural, and sometimes you pretend not to know even though you do. Or maybe... you really don't know."
"People usually call that being love-blind, don't they?"
"I personally don't care much for that kind of love."
"That's kind of an interesting thought."
A spark of curiosity appeared in Seo Seo-hee's eyes. What kind of love does this gentle, old-fashioned seeming teacher believe in? Has he ever even experienced love? That kind of curiosity.
"Pardon me if this is too forward, but... have you ever been in love?"
"...Does familial love count?"
"To be honest, I was hoping to ask about romantic love."
"In that sense, I've never really felt anything I could call that. Of course, I do love the precious ones I care about and want to protect, but that's never turned into possessiveness."
"So the love you recognize is possessive in nature, then."
"At least from my perspective, yes. Otherwise, why would someone feel jealousy when the person they love smiles at someone else? It might sound strange, but I see it as a rather vicious impulse. Love is a formless concept, so why is it that it can't be shared equally?"
"...If it had to be shared equally, perhaps it wouldn't be love anymore. After all, love is an emotion that arises from making someone feel special, which inherently becomes favoritism... but anyway, setting that aside."
He hadn't brought this up to debate the definition and foundation of love. Seo Seo-hee shrugged lightly. The man across from him asked,
"That's the opinion of 'Giovanni,' right? Another name you've given to the mercy you bestow, calling it love?"
"...I suppose so. It's not like I've never played favorites, but I think the love I know is quite different from common understanding."
Giovanni tilted his head and smiled.
"Right now, Mr. Seo Seo-hee, it feels like you're more curious about what Zeorge would say than me."
"That's also true."
"I can't say for certain, but... perhaps it's closer to hatred."
"...That's a bit different from the image I had. I thought he embraced all things, just like Giovanni does—but in a different way."
"He embraces nothing. Except for his closest friend."
"Closest friend?"
"That... hat, you know."
"Ah."
He had heard stories about that. "Zeorge" apparently carried around a wizard's hat he rarely wore on his head. He remembered Jeong Hae-Woon saying it looked like a living creature with a will of its own.
"Far more than I expected... hmm..."
"He's a difficult person. Fickle, prone to wander. Sometimes he likes to stay in one place, but it never lasts long. He loves people, but also hates them. He never trusts anyone."
"...This is starting to feel like I'm being given dungeon strategies."
"Well, when you think about it, it's not entirely different."
Like a teacher calmly advising a student, Giovanni continued speaking gently.
"Zeorge is an expert liar. But he's often sincere too. I described it as hatred, but that doesn't mean his love is fake. It just fades quickly. But because he lies so well, you don't notice when it's already gone."
So what remains in the place where love has left is something indistinguishable from love itself—something closer to hatred. That was the love of Zeorge, as seen by Gio.
Seo Seo-hee's expression twisted subtly at Gio's gentle explanation.
"...Difficult indeed."
"I told you so, didn't I?"
"I know it's a bit late to say this now, but... Jeong Hae-Woon told me once that I'm a bit of a freeloader."
It was a tiring realization. Seo Seo-hee had always wanted to be a model student, but the more he tried, the more he realized that wasn't possible. From the beginning, he wasn't someone especially diligent, good, or upright.
He was simply imitating. Imitating what an ideal adult and leader should be. But even so, that didn't mean his core could be changed. Even if he always smiled and cultivated kindness and justice, in the end...
"...I know that, contrary to what others think, I'm actually a pretty awful person."
"Is that what you believe?"
"Of course, I've done plenty of good. But I'll never be the best grown-up. Well, I suppose that's true for anyone. Like when a child who thought their father was a hero eventually grows up and sees how small his back really was..."
"But right now, no one's looking at your back, Mr. Seo Seo-hee."
"Everyone's looking, but they've got a pretty thick pair of rose-colored glasses on. I'm not trying to complain or anything, just stating it as it is. I admit I'm a bit of a freeloader."
Seo Seo-hee smiled wryly.
"So I'll just wait around irresponsibly for the result. I do care about Earth's fate, but... for some reason, I feel like pretending not to this time."
"There are days like that."
"Yes. So for the rest of the conversation, please speak with my friends. I'll stay quiet and observe."
"Did the Association President summon me?"
"Well... it seemed like she wanted to speak with a certain portrait, not a hunter."
"I'll keep that in mind."
Hunter Sergio asked,
"Recently, I boiled some chicken and it turned out surprisingly well. How do you feel about baeksuk next time for lunch?"
"...Oh, that sounds great. While you're at it, how about samgyetang? Stuff it full of glutinous rice."
"It's supposed to be a lunchbox, so I'll give it a try."
And with that, the two of them finished their conversation.
***
And then, the portrait sought out Dan Haera.
"Hmm..."
With one hand cupping her cheek, she tilted her head.
"If it's this easy to summon you, it'll be hard to guarantee the safety of the citizens."
"You don't need to worry, Haera. I don't go just anywhere someone paints me."
"You're much kinder than I expected."
She narrowed her eyes with a smile as she looked at the portrait floating in midair. Not because the picture frame bobbing over the opposite sofa was particularly funny. But since it was a guest she had invited, it had to be treated accordingly.
"Please have a seat. I've prepared a decent tea; I wonder if you'll like it."
"If the Association President went to such lengths, of course I must sit. Thank you for the invitation."
The pitch-black portrait stepped out of its frame and sat naturally on the sofa. As if it had been there from the beginning, there was no sound, no presence. Even the flow of air remained calm.
Dan Haera, who had been silently watching, lifted her hand from her cheek. She pointed to the round teacup.
"Isn't the scent of the tea quite pleasant?"
"It's smooth and nutty. You found good leaves."
"It's not widely known yet, but it's being cultivated in a dungeon recently cleared by the Association. Seems like an ancient civilization had selectively bred it—these tea leaves were designed so that the tender sprouts couldn't grow thick and tough."
"And you're cultivating what was passed down?"
"These leaves... have lived delicately for far too long. Without the care of a refined, intelligent civilization, they couldn't survive. Don't they remind you of silkworms?"
They had been selectively bred for human convenience. Preserved in their youngest and weakest form, these tea leaves had been fixed in place—and no civilized lifeform had objected. That's why they ended up like this.
"One might think it's a shame, but... I'm not so sure. They've already been made this way and born this way. There's no way to go back to before the alteration. If humans, casting off greed, were to release them out of pure intent—what do you suppose would happen?"
Wearing an Association uniform resembling a hanbok, Dan Haera lifted her teacup with a slow motion. She inhaled the soft yet distinct scent, like that of grains, and took a sip. Even after drinking, a pleasant fragrance filled her mouth.
Then she looked at the guest who had lifted a teacup with her.
"I think... there's no meaning in that."
"What are you referring to?"
"The act of releasing a tea leaf that has already been modified."
Even if they're let go, what then? Without human care, those fragile children would simply go extinct. And if we were to evolve them to be tougher and stronger—how would that be any different from the original modification?
"In that case, it's better for both sides if we manage and utilize the already modified tea leaves. Humans benefit by gaining fragrant tea, and the leaves benefit by receiving consistent care."
"That's a fine idea."
"You never seem to reject any idea."
"Were you expecting a right answer from me?"
The Black Cloak looked at President Dan Haera from beneath the shadow of the hood. Inside that pitch-black shadow, one couldn't even imagine a human face. It was merely darkness—pure void. It felt like nothing else existed there.
And yet his behavior resembled that of a human. That strangely familiar demeanor created a far greater sense of dissonance. Despite knowing full well he wasn't human, he still felt familiar—intimate, even.
He offered a rather philosophical answer.
"There is no correct answer in the world."
"But we have laws and morality."
"Those too were made by humans. If the 'correct answer' you're talking about refers to those things, then I have nothing to say."
"I've heard you prefer the innocent and the good."
"Hearing it put like that makes me sound like some cruel dark god who desires tender, gentle sacrifices. But yes, I do like those kinds of people. They give me energy just by being around."
"And don't you also serve as their protector?"
"My personal preferences and the laws of the world are separate things..."
The Black Cloak said that law and morality were nothing more than human preferences.
"'Correct answers' are always born from necessity. Even things like science and math—their complex symbols were invented by humans. So while correct answers can exist, there can never be a correct answer at the level of essence, don't you think?"
"And yet... you're trying to erase the system."
Dan Haera gently set down the warm teacup and continued.
"If it wasn't because it was 'correct,' then surely you had some kind of intention behind it."
"Will no one in the world believe me when I say I had no intention at all?"
"That was a funny joke. Hmm... then is it revenge?"
"I don't have such feelings."
"Forgive me. I thought maybe it was a reaction to being forgotten."
"Rebelling against the past is certainly a meaningful act, but at least for me, that's not the case. I've always lived without regrets, and beyond reminiscing, I don't have the strength to attach meaning to the past."
"You're very generous."
"I don't care much whether the system exists or not..."
The "head" of the Black Cloak tilted, mimicking a human gesture.
"...But Mr. Zeorge doesn't seem to feel the same way."
The Black Cloak, who referred to another version of himself as if it were someone else, was... strange enough to warrant close observation.
Dan Haera smiled.
-x-X-x-
Dan Haera acknowledged it: the Black Cloak was quite a decent conversationalist and listener. He absorbed and assessed the other's words without emotional fluctuation and never criticized inefficiently.
Especially for Dan Haera, whose sensitivity to common human emotions had dulled, he was an even more comfortable person to engage with. This one was even friendly toward humans, and gentlemanly.
...Not all mysterious beings with human egos must be like this, surely.
In fact, it was often because they possessed personality that many mysterious beings turned out more twisted. There's a reason the term "uncanny valley" exists. There's at least some minimum justification why clumsy imitations of humanity provoke rejection.
And so, the main topic between the two flowed as naturally as water.
"Keep watching, you say?"
"I don't think I'm capable of persuading 'Zeorge.'"
"That's also true."
Dan Haera hadn't summoned him to persuade "Zeorge." Persuading a mysterious being? That was impossible to begin with. This was nothing more than a human's flailing attempt to prepare for the future.
"As the administrator of the 'Eternal Promise,' I feel the system's instability. Due to Mr. Zeorge's prodding, the system has been showing frequent errors lately—but in truth, this is no different than something that was destined to happen eventually, simply arriving a little early."
Of course, that didn't mean she felt no unpleasantness at all. For example, even if Earth were going to be destroyed in a thousand years, that didn't mean it had to happen now. But at the very least, Dan Haera wasn't someone qualified to make that claim.
Bringing the unhappiness and pain of the future ahead of time was something she was also guilty of. Dan Haera had collected accidents and incidents that didn't need to happen yet and locked them away in her research lab. As long as it wasn't something as extreme as total destruction, she couldn't argue much.
"...Hmm, still, it's unpleasant."
"Oh dear."
"I still believe that people need the system. Mr. Zeorge said the time for riding training wheels has passed, but... well, from where I stand, even those are barely keeping things afloat."
"That could be."
"But I also know I can't persuade Mr. Zeorge. Today was just to try and get a sense of the future—I didn't particularly expect persuasion or cooperation. That alone makes for a significant harvest."
At the very least, she confirmed that the "Black Cloak" wasn't hostile. He had the attitude of a bystander, but based on the rules shown by the "Portrait of Gio," he wouldn't demand some massive sacrifice either.
"And so, what remains is the responsibility of me and the humans, isn't it?"
"You still seem strong, and that's a relief."
"That's thanks to the Black Cloak, who gave the Association both the sickness and the cure."
Dan Haera smiled faintly. It was the same emotionless, mechanical smile as always, and in truth, she didn't feel any great emotion about this incident either. The absurdity had passed, and the many questions that had followed had gradually settled.
"Thanks to the help you offered, people no longer see the 'system' as something so essential. They've realized it's a faulty lifeboat, and now it seems they want to try learning how to swim instead. That's certainly not a bad approach."
She could acknowledge that too. Children couldn't remain on their parents' backs forever. They had to eventually walk on their own and live their own lives. They say not to give someone money, but to teach them how to earn it.
"But the problem is, the place they're floating isn't solid ground—it's the sea. The young and the weak will die, swimming toward some unknown shore that might not even exist."
"That's what you're worried about."
"If we're lucky, not a single person may die. But they all might. So we've been trying to lead these refugees not to drift in the sea but to bring them all the way to land."
Perhaps it was an artificial island created directly by the Symbols of Eternity. If what these poor refugees were floating on was truly an open ocean, what then? Before they could be wiped out, they had to forcibly create land.
Dan Haera had been waiting for the eternal time needed to prepare that. And so had her other friends.
"That way, at the very least, no one would drown simply because they couldn't use both feet."
"The sea carries great risk."
"A newborn baby has no business learning to walk in a place like that. It could be taught more easily, more gradually, and more safely—there's no need to push them into risking their lives for no reason."
"Somehow..."
The hooded shadow of the cloak seemed to nod.
"So that's why you've been looking so far ahead."
"Yes. Because bringing them safely to solid ground had to come first. If you've ever spoken with other Symbols of Eternity, you must have noticed. We are always looking very far into the future. In the case of Guildmaster Jeong Hae-Woon, the starting point for his project was a thousand years from now."
"Were you the same?"
"I hoped it would end sooner than that. Unlike Jeong Hae-Woon's project, the Association's work necessarily demands the sacrifice of countless lives. As a result, disregard for life is spreading quickly and deeply."
Dan Haera clasped her fingers together.
"I do not approve of the value of those sacrifices, but I do approve of the efficiency. If the punishment must come early to finish things quickly, then I believed I had to be the one to wield it, so I could bear the cost. I can only hope that you understand that judgment, Black Cloak."
She knew she would be recorded in history as a tyrant and a murderer. And still, Dan Haera had built all those laboratories. And she had pushed people into them. Because even the negative emotions and memories that arose during that process—Dan Haera could make use of them efficiently.
For someone like Dan Haera, who had grown numb to all emotions, even guilt, sorrow from criticism, or pain from her own evil deeds became immense rewards. They made her human—and at the same time, allowed her to forge even more "Promises."
"There won't ever be anyone more suited to this seat than me."
Dan Haera, too, would live forever, as long as the Promise remained intact. Who else could be more suited for the position of Association President, the one who holds the whip? Dan Haera simply didn't let this efficient opportunity slip by.
"But you are trying to ruin all of those plans. I know it's impolite to say, but for me, this is quite an unpleasant situation. Because the gaps in memory and emotion are so wide, I've become the sort who clings to even the smallest lines of a plan."
"Hmm, no..."
The Black Cloak said as if remembering something.
"You've always been like that."
"...That sounds interesting. Would you tell me more?"
"You've always hated when your plans get ruined. Even when it was something small and simple. Like—if you planned to go to the bookstore and then get ice cream, but you ended up getting ice cream first and then going to the bookstore, you'd get stressed."
"..."
After a moment of silence, Dan Haera asked,
"...? Are you saying that's something I used to do?"
"Isn't it still the same now? Or did you finally decide to just enjoy life as it comes?"
"I really was just asking because I don't remember."
"If it's about whether it's true—I wasn't lying."
"I was young then."
"Doesn't seem that different now..."
"Is that so? That's a bit surprising to hear."
"It could be."
The "head" of the cloak nodded.
"So you're angry because your plans got messed up?"
"It was partially to forecast the future, but I can't say it wasn't also an outlet for anger. I was curious, too—just what kind of person are you, to be standing in the way of our future like this?"
"I admit that Mr. Zeorge is a rather unsettling person to leave unattended. But he's me too. And I believe he won't sacrifice innocent people."
"Is he always sincere?"
"No, he's a skilled liar."
"In that case, I can't trust him."
"I understand."
The Black Cloak never took a strong stance. And so Dan Haera also gave up trying to ask for cooperation. This being was merely a bystander and observer who kept to the minimum line.
And then, he asked,
"Then is the main discussion over?"
"Yes. This was only a meeting to offer resentment and thanks."
"Well, I get the resentment part, but I don't think I got the thanks."
"Then let me offer it now. Thank you for taking such interest in Earth's future. I'm also thankful that your method of amusement wasn't particularly cruel."
It might've sounded sarcastic—but it was sincere. This portrait had tried to fix Earth out of kindness, and the direction couldn't be called bad. It was just that Dan Haera couldn't agree with the process.
And yet the Black Cloak carried everything out stably. With the system's errors and gaps as evidence, he could have let the citizens bring down the government and Association, but he didn't. He merely pointed out better paths through light conflict.
"I know how difficult that must have been."
Especially for someone like him—a bystander and observer.
The Black Cloak could have been much more indifferent. But he ◈ Nоvеlіgһт ◈ (Continue reading) still interacted with humans, imitated them, and followed their rules. That was something to be thankful for—as Association President.
"Thanks to that, I've been able to revise my plans. You could've trampled everything without a thought, but instead you gave me and my friends a chance. You gave us the dignity to debate fairly, to match plans without being humiliated."
Dan Haera smiled.
"I'm grateful for that."
"..."
And Gio thought,
...Wait, were we fighting?
He hadn't really been aware that they were contending over something.
But by this point, Gio had no choice but to learn. If others say it was a fight, then so be it. It was probably something like how his students once called him "the Northern Duke" or "the heir to the mafia." It wasn't worth getting angry over.
Feeling good after seeing an old student's face, Gio decided to enjoy the whole thing.
"...If that's how you feel, then I'm glad."
In any case, if the student was pleased, so was the teacher.
***
"So then."
Gio, for the first time in a while, called a hallway meeting.
"Before I lose face in front of our student Haera, I'd like to try doing something."
"...Why now?"
"I'm not brave enough to ruin a youth drama moment with a line like, 'I knew you'd do that all along—let's both try our best,' only to have someone reply, 'What exactly did you know?' Please understand."
"So what exactly are you trying to say? What did you and the President talk about?"
At Yoo Seong-Woon's instinctive response, Joo-Hyun tilted his head.
"Why are you trying to crush Mr. Gio's confidence?"
"Joo-Hyun, you're suddenly acting like an overbearing parent."
"I was joking."
With a light laugh, Joo-Hyun turned to Gio.
"Is that your idea, Mr. Gio? Or Mr. Zeorge's? I recall you once mentioned that your opinions sometimes diverge because the fusion isn't complete yet..."
"It's my own opinion."
"Well, then that's a relief. Personally, I'm still a little afraid of what kind of disaster Mr. Zeorge might unleash. Not that I'm saying Mr. Gio only causes mild disasters, of course."
"If you're going to take my side, shameless as I may be, I'd like to request you be a little more definitive about it."
"In any case, I'm here to support your activities, Mr. Gio. That's the role of a manager. It's actually been bothering me that you've done practically no work as a Hunter lately."
A bitter smile crept onto Joo-Hyun's face.
"I mean, just collecting a paycheck while doing nothing... isn't that a bit depressing?"
"...Isn't that... kind of nice?"
"Getting paid for doing nothing might sound great, but I don't think it's right."
He truly was a diligent person. Receiving money without compensation only made Joo-Hyun uncomfortable. That was partly why he had once visited the Cloak Church to spread what was supposedly "the will of God."
With the same sincere smile as always, Joo-Hyun asked,
"So, what are you planning to do this time?"
"I'm thinking of painting again. It's been a while."
Yoo Seong-Woon interjected.
"Sorry, but it hasn't actually been that long. Your series is still running loose all over Earth. So is this one of those situations again? Like with Mr. Argio..."
"Yes, this time I plan to release a new piece into the world, but under a different name than my own."
"So basically, you're planning to hide behind Mr. Zeorge's name and stir up a proper mess?"
"Well, in the end, we're the same person now, so doesn't that mean it's technically not a problem?"
"I don't know where exactly you got that idea from, but..."
After a brief moment of contemplation, Yoo Seong-Woon spoke again.
"...Just don't drag our guildmaster into it."
"Well, I haven't quite decided how it'll go yet."
"Please, I'm begging you."
That would definitely be a disaster.
-x-X-x-
Even though he had called a meeting, in truth, Gio had no plan at all.
"I had a feeling the Association President was expecting a fair and intriguing contest, so I put on a bit of a front... but unfortunately, I don't have any kind of plan. I'm completely broke."
"..."
And somehow, Cha Eun-Hyeok, who had half-forcibly ended up inviting the Black Cloak to his house, thought,
Is that really the kind of thing someone 'broke' says?
But he didn't voice that thought out loud. And it seemed that Cha Eun-Hyeok's reserved response stirred something in the Black Cloak. With a hint of surprise, he looked at Cha Eun-Hyeok and asked,
"Normally, wouldn't you be a bit more argumentative by now?"
"...Ah, it just feels unfamiliar."
"Are we still at that kind of relationship? Of course, I understand. A subordinate and a superior can never be fully comfortable. I'm not someone who forces that kind of thing. Still, it seemed like normally you would've said something around this point, so I was curious."
"Well... you're right about that..."
Unconsciously, Cha Eun-Hyeok gave the Black Cloak a once-over.
A figure tall enough to nearly touch the ceiling. A pitch-black cloak that covered—or perhaps was—that frame. A black shirt and tailored pants beneath it. And above all, the hooded shadow that hid any glimpse of what was inside.
So really, it couldn't be helped.
"...You just don't feel like my workplace superior."
"Though I am, technically."
"Your tone's different, and the vibe is totally unlike him."
"Unlike him?"
"It's like... you're brothers who share a portion of the same DNA."
"Ah."
Gio nodded. That was fair. Technically speaking, no "Gio" could be said to be exactly the same individual. They were completely different people who happened to share enough in common to appear identical.
"Genetically, we might differ quite a bit, but if it's more comfortable, you may think of us as twins. It's true—Mr. Zeorge and I still can't be said to be fully 'one' yet."
"Thank you for being considerate."
Cha Eun-Hyeok gave a polite bow of thanks. He was certainly much more courteous than Zeorge in many ways. But gratitude and facts were separate things. He voiced his thoughts.
"And I don't think the Association President is expecting a 'contest' with Mr. Gio."
"Then...?"
"Rather than expectation, I think it's closer to preparing herself emotionally. Like, there's a natural disaster getting ready to take over the planet."
"Perhaps more of an upheaval than a conquest, but I suppose that's possible. I'll gratefully take your advice into consideration."
"..."
Before even getting into whether it was conquest or upheaval—he just listened too well, and that was disconcerting in itself. In this respect too, he didn't really feel like a workplace superior.
He might be blunt, but his consideration comes through more clearly than the other one.
Given his permission, Cha Eun-Hyeok decided to just treat him as a separate individual.
And just then, from the kitchen appeared the second sibling of the household—Cha Ara, timidly peeking out. With an extremely awkward expression, she approached and quietly spoke.
"Um... I brewed a little tea..."
"Thank you for going to such lengths to treat me. Was it any trouble for you?"
"No, I actually like doing this kind of thing."
He still looked intimidating, but his reaction was kind. Encouraged, Cha Ara smiled and eased herself into the space between them. A fan of many types of cooking, she was a little excited at the idea of serving tea to a guest.
"Um, I made it using the recipe you taught me before..."
"The aroma is lovely. You must've taken care while drying it."
"I mean... it's nothing compared to what you gave me before..."
"I think this one tastes better."
He wasn't just being polite. The tea made by roasting and drying barley was warm and perfect for fall. And perhaps because it was a grain tea, it even left one feeling a bit full. Not that a few cups of tea could ever actually fill Gio's massive stomach.
And then Gio returned to the earlier topic.
"So I'm thinking of coming up with a plan."
"...Right now?"
"...No, someday."
Gio was rather lazy. He only became diligent when he felt like it—and now wasn't one of those times. It wasn't like the world was going to end just because he put things off a bit.
More importantly, Mr. Yoo Seong-Woon and Mr. Joo-Hyun's execution power has gotten oddly high lately.
Recently, Yoo Seong-Woon, delighted with a gift painting, had grown far too casual around Gio, and Joo-Hyun, possibly after hearing something from Bisa Beul, had become overprotective. Where before there had been one gas pedal and two brakes, now there were three accelerators. So Gio had to restrain himself accordingly.
And there was another reason Gio had visited the Cha household today. Surely he hadn't come all this way to a stranger's home just to draft a plan. Gio turned discreetly to the homeowner and asked,
"When are the kids supposed to arrive?"
"Hmm, probably right about now..."
And right on cue, the stars of the day made their entrance.
"I'M HEEEERE!!!"
The youngest of the house, Cha I-Sol.
"Pardon our intrusion."
And his partner, Iru Da.
Behind them stood several adults in suits. From what Gio had heard, they were bodyguards and chauffeurs hired by Iru Da's mother. There was a reason the kids had come down from Seoul's temple alone.
Seeing the youngest arrive safely, Cha Ara let out a broad smile of relief.
"I-Sol!!"
"Noona!!"
"Look at my poor baby, he's lost weight! I'm going to fatten you up again right away!!"
"I didn't lose weight, I gained—mmmghmmbbb!!"
Watching the heartwarming reunion unfold clearly at the front door, Cha Eun-Hyeok sighed. Pressing a hand to his brow, he walked over to the awkwardly standing Iru Da.
"Thanks for making the trip."
"Ah, please speak comfortably. It's easier for me if adults speak informally first."
"Ruda... has a great vocabulary. I-Sol's going to get smarter in no time, thanks to a good friend."
"I-Sol's already smart."
"Thanks. And the others behind you...?"
"I was just about to send them back."
"Ah, okay. Got it."
He'd seen and heard a bit about her before, but the kid really was mature and firm. Not noticing Cha Eun-Hyeok's slight awkwardness, Iru Da turned back to the guards. Her voice was far more assertive than when speaking to him.
"Thank you for coming all this way. I'll contact my mother separately, so please return for now."
"But this isn't the city, miss. Madam likely wants us to remain nearby for your safety."
"I understand how my mother feels, but the owner of this house didn't extend the invitation to all of you. So then..."
Iru Da turned back to Cha Eun-Hyeok.
"Excuse me, but... is there somewhere in the village they could wait?"
"It's a bit cramped, but they could all come inside."
"That would be too much of a burden, and I'd feel uncomfortable. If it's okay, could I ask that they wait at a public resting area in the village?"
"...If that's the case, there are a few pavilions near the village hall."
"Thank you for the kind directions."
Iru Da looked at the guards again.
"You heard him. Please take care of it."
"Yes, thank you for your understanding. If anything happens, please press the button to call us—"
"...? Is something wrong?"
"...No, my apologies."
The man who appeared to be the leader of the guards stared at the house briefly, then shook his head. Then, with a vaguely uncomfortable expression, he turned to Cha Eun-Hyeok and asked,
"Is there perhaps another Hunter inside?"
"Ah, well..."
He seemed to have sensed the presence of "Hunter Sergio." After a moment of hesitation, Cha Eun-Hyeok nodded. He wasn't a human, but he was technically a Hunter. So it wasn't really a lie.
"Yes, there's someone our youngest really likes. He found out the kids were coming home from the temple and decided to visit. I think he might've heard about it through his acquaintance with Priest Kang Seodam."
"...Would that person's name happen to be..."
"..."
This required a bit more thought.
Can I say that without losing my head...?
Right then, from inside the house, Cha I-Sol's excited voice rang out.
"WAAAAAH! IT'S GIO-HYUNG!! IT'S REALLY GIO-HYUNG!!"
"I-Sol, stop running...!"
"Hyung, hyung! I got vacation time! I've grown up so well, right?!"
Two of the three syllables of the name were already out. Cha Eun-Hyeok gave up all hesitation. The Black Cloak he knew wasn't the kind of being who would chop an innocent civilian's head off just because his name got leaked.
"...Yes, Hunter Sergio is currently visiting."
"...I see."
The guard, who was probably an Awakened, looked a little flustered. Though he hid it well, even a pro guard couldn't fully conceal their surprise at the unexpected appearance of Sergio.
You can tell he's wondering why such a big name is here.
Still, the public image of Hunter Sergio was stellar. Maybe that's why, although he still looked surprised, the guard's expression visibly relaxed.
A peaceful village with no dungeons, and an A-rank Hunter with a humanity-friendly image—it seemed they judged the "young miss" wouldn't be in any danger.
"Then we'll withdraw now. Please enjoy your time with your friend, and call us when you're ready to return. And if it's alright, miss..."
"What is it?"
"We'd like to verify whether there are any dangerous monsters in the area. With your permission, we'll only assess for now, and ask for further approval if action is needed."
"You'll need permission from the village chief first. We might disturb the monsters that peacefully coexist with the village. If you promise not to cause trouble, I'll allow it."
"Yes, of course. We'll report this to the Madam as well. Thank you again for your permission. Please enjoy your stay, miss."
And with that, the six or so suited men exited through the front gate. Honestly, "swarmed out" wasn't quite the right word—they were guards for a privileged child, and their presence was nearly undetectable. In other words, they were skilled.
...Why am I analyzing this when I'm not even an Awakened or a Gardener?
Lately, all he'd done was make fish-shaped bread and poke at snacks. Peaceful tasks, nothing more.
But running a street stall with Zeorge lately had brought him into frequent contact with Hunters. Most of them were half-dead and looked like they'd lost their minds under Zeorge's spell, but still—it had apparently sharpened Cha Eun-Hyeok's civilian intuition a bit.
Watching him, Iru Da hesitated.
"...I'm sorry if that was a bit noisy."
"...Huh? Oh, no, it's fine. I was just surprised because it's the first time something like this has happened."
"I apologize for showing up without warning and causing a commotion. I didn't expect so many to come. Originally, the plan was for just one guide to escort us to the terminal..."
"What parent would be comfortable sending their kid out of the city alone?"
Still, it had been a surprise. Cha I-Sol tended to view the world with a kind of innocence and had never described his partner's financial status. So Cha Eun-Hyeok only knew that Iru Da held first-tier citizenship.
Then again, there's no such thing as a poor first-tier citizen...
It had been an interesting experience, to say the least.
"We left you standing outside for too long. Let's head in."
"Yes, um—my mother asked me to give this as a gift to the homeowner..."
"Oh, fruit. Thanks."
"It's nothing, really."
Even as she shook her head, Iru Da found herself a little confused.
He doesn't seem all that uncomfortable.
She hadn't meant anything by it. But she had assumed that it'd be rare for someone from a rural area—lacking various infrastructure—to see such high-quality fruit.
Ah... maybe since they're close with Hunter Sergio, they're used to this kind of thing.
When her mother packed it, it had been awkward. The woman had wanted to boost her daughter's pride by belittling her friend's. By sending an overly lavish gift, she likely expected the tier-3 family to fall over themselves trying to show gratitude to a tier-1.
I was worried about where I could ditch this...
Cha I-Sol might not care about the economic gap between them, but she had no idea how his family would react.
So she'd brought that fruit basket with a pounding heart, hoping they wouldn't detect her mother's malicious intent. But when it was received as ❖ Nоvеl𝚒ght ❖ (Exclusive on Nоvеl𝚒ght) just a polite gift, Iru Da relaxed.
Good people attract good people, after all—everyone around Cha I-Sol, including his family, seemed like genuinely kind people.
I'm keeping Cha I-Sol at my side for the rest of my life.
Entering the house, Iru Da couldn't help but look a little excited. Though she tried to keep it in check in front of an unfamiliar adult, the unexpected warmth made her anxious in a good way.
"...Um, also—about Hunter Sergio. I heard he's here just now..."
"He arrived first, and we had a bit of a chat before you got here. Sorry I didn't tell you ahead of time."
"No, that's fine. Does he come here often?"
"Not that often, but he does drop by now and then."
"I see."
Entering the living room, she saw Cha I-Sol sprawled on top of Hunter Sergio. The boy had been tumbling around behind the white priest's robe, but when he saw his partner, his face lit up.
"Ruda! Why are you so late!"
"I had to send the others off somewhere else—it took a bit of time."
"Gio-hyung's here too!"
"Yup, I see him too."
Hesitating a moment, Iru Da gave a deep bow.
"It's been a while, Hunter Sergio."
"Sister Ruda is still as thoughtful and kind as ever."
"Ah, no, I..."
"You must be tired after traveling so far."
"Not that tired."
"Well, today's the kind of day where even if you are tired, you can't feel it, right?"
"...Yes."
Cha Ara smiled brightly at the shy and awkward Iru Da. Her face said she found Iru Da's mature demeanor simply adorable. Clearing her throat, Cha Ara lowered her blushing cheeks and declared,
"Well then! The first-ever Cha Family Pajama Party is officially starting!"
"WOOOOOOOO!!!"
Yes, that's right. They had gathered to have fun.
And that was the real reason Gio hadn't gotten around to planning Earth's downfall.
-x-X-x-
It was easy to forget due to his lack of interference, but in a way, "Hunter Sergio" could be considered the sponsor of the Cha I-Sol and Iru Da pair. After all, he had been supporting them from time to time.
"I was a little surprised when Priest Kang Seodam contacted me."
In other words, "Hunter Sergio" was also the guardian of the two children. On top of that, they were individuals the Church of the Sun openly paid attention to. If anything were to happen to these young priest candidates, Kang Seodam had no choice but to reach out.
"I know it's a difficult task for a priest-in-training, but I heard you were granted leave."
"Ah, yes. I was lucky enough to earn some merit in this subjugation...."
"I've heard you're participating in various fieldwork for early graduation."
"Thanks to the priests viewing me favorably, I was able to secure a spot."
Iru Da treated her guardian with utmost courtesy and humility.
'Mother also told me to be especially careful.'
Even though he hadn't appeared in dungeons or media lately, the person before her was Hunter Sergio. An unofficial asset of the Collector. Talented, with a good personality—many would want him.
'They say his only downside is that he's the Collector's son.'
In short, there was absolutely no harm in building a relationship with him. For a priest-in-training like Iru Da, who held nothing but first-class citizenship, he was someone she normally wouldn't even get the chance to meet.
More importantly, based on reports, he was a stable all-rounder. While Iru Da and Cha I-Sol had no immediate reason to enter dungeons with him, the future was uncertain. Iru Da understood her mother's advice—he was someone she should make a good impression on if possible.
"I also received decent scores in this round of exams."
"Mm, I heard about that too. Since I receive your transcripts quarterly."
"Oh, despite being so busy, you checked them... I know guardians receive reports on grades and conduct, but I'd heard not many personally review them... so I assumed you wouldn't know."
"No need to be so flustered. Sister Iru Da, you've done nothing to offend me. Still, a vacation, you say..."
As Gio trailed off, Cha I-Sol, who had been lounging around, suddenly sprang up and shouted.
"This stuff is rare! Hardly any kids go for early graduation, and even fewer get vacation time during fieldwork! The teachers really praised us a lot!"
"You're already standing out like this—how admirable. Are you hurt anywhere? Are the seniors treating you well, Brother Cha I-Sol?"
"Why are you speaking formally to me?"
"Well then, I-Sol, are you doing okay?"
"I'm totally fine!"
"Adorable..."
Gio approached and gently pinched Cha I-Sol's cheek, the child clinging to his leg. Cha I-Sol entrusted his cheek's fate to Gio's large hand. Seeing this lack of distance, Iru Da felt a bit flustered.
"Cha, Cha I-Sol... you shouldn't do that..."
"Why not?"
"He's our guardian. We need to be respectful."
"But Gio hyung doesn't get mad about that stuff."
"Even if he doesn't get mad, it could be tiring or uncomfortable for him."
As Iru Da fretted, Gio smiled and shook his head.
"Would I get upset just because a child is being affectionate? I'm neither troubled nor uncomfortable. Sister Iru Da, I hope you'll also feel at ease."
"B-but..."
"The term 'guardian' may sound grand. But have I ever asserted myself under that title in your activities?"
"...No."
Both Iru Da and her mother had found that peculiar.
The guardian system generally existed to stake a claim on promising young talents. Guardians usually protected the child while interfering in every little thing.
'A form of networking, an investment to recruit a good priest. It's not just charitable giving.'
In that sense, someone like Sergio—who merely sent money and otherwise left them alone—was rare.
From the recipient's side, it was awkward to question why he did that. For a priest-in-training, a guardian was an unfathomably high figure. For someone practically a puppet in the system, even sending a message required immense courage.
After some hesitation, Iru Da asked,
"...Would you prefer us to be more relaxed around you?"
"I would prefer that, yes. Hm. I think it'll improve with time."
"O-okay..."
Iru Da pondered.
'What does it even mean to treat an adult comfortably?'
As she thought, she looked at Cha I-Sol. But no matter how she looked at it, that wasn't the way. Iru Da knew she couldn't act as innocently as Cha I-Sol. Besides, those two were already close.
'It looks like he drops by this house often too.'
In many ways, their situations were different. Then how was she supposed to treat him? A deep crease formed between Iru Da's brows.
'...It'll work out somehow.'
If there were a problem, surely he'd tell her. Sergio wasn't the type to use such things against them. What would someone like Hunter Sergio even gain from exploiting a priest-in-training's weakness?
Only after thinking that far did Iru Da nod her head.
"...I'll do my best."
"...So we're supposed to treat you casually, right?"
"Ah, I think so?"
"Let's do that, then."
As always, Gio smiled gently and looked at Cha Eun-Hyeok, who had a reluctant expression.
"I think it's about time for dinner."
"Then... shall we start preparing?"
"This time, may I borrow the kitchen for a bit?"
"...."
At that, Cha Eun-Hyeok thought,
'This lunatic mystery being?'
What's he planning to feed the kids?
Cha Eun-Hyeok clamped his mouth shut while Cha Ara stared at Gio with a horrified face. Cha I-Sol lay limp without a care in the world. Seeing the adults' expressions, Iru Da unwittingly understood.
"Ah, um, is Hunter Sergio going to cook himself...?"
Call it a prejudice if you like, but it was a surprising notion.
Unless they had a skill related to it, high-ranked hunters like A-rank rarely cooked. Unless it was for personal consumption, cooking was usually an act of service—and a form of labor.
Sure, Gio had once cooked and sold food during the Collector's parade, but that rumor hadn't reached Iru Da's ears. So this situation was naturally shocking.
'They say he's such a precious young master the Collector doesn't even want to let him outside...'
Plenty of hunters cooked as a hobby. But this clearly wasn't that. He was planning to cook for the group gathered here. Iru Da found that incredibly odd. The person of highest status here was preparing to serve the others.
But Hunter Sergio still wore his immaculate smile.
"Yes, despite appearances, I'm quite confident."
"Well, I did expect you'd be exceptional..."
"Embarrassingly enough, even Hunter Seo Seo-Hee has complimented my cooking."
"Huh? Oh... even Hunter Seo?"
That was even more flustering.
'He's friends with one of the Symbols of Eternity?'
She'd never heard of that.
'I knew he was committed to mystery, but this level of information control is unexpected. The fact that his friendship with the Symbol of Eternity isn't public must mean Hunter Sergio and his associates are very good at keeping secrets.'
Out of habit, Iru Da began to think, "How can I use this?"—but quickly bowed her head. He wasn't someone to play such shallow games with. Ashamed of her calculating thoughts, Iru Da said to Hunter Sergio,
"I—I won't tell anyone. I don't know if you'll believe me, but I'm good at keeping things to myself..."
"You don't need to go that far, but... if you'd help, I'd appreciate it."
"Y-yes."
Seeing he didn't reject her, it seemed the right move was to keep her mouth shut. As Iru Da quietly breathed a sigh of relief, Cha Eun-Hyeok crept over and asked in a whisper,
"Are you really going to cook?"
"Give me the kitchen."
"What are you making? I'll decide based on that."
"Geez, why don't you trust me at all?"
"Should I?"
The way he whispered right back made it clear to Cha Eun-Hyeok—this man was Zeorge. Thankfully, at least his appearance still matched "Hunter Sergio."
"You're not going to make anything weird... right?"
"Everything I make tastes good."
"You know I'm not talking about taste, Zeorge."
"I was just going to make something simple."
"Like a simple seven-dish banquet or something?"
"Can I?"
"You swear it won't affect the human body?"
"All food affects the human body...?"
"Then can you at least pretend it's normal food?"
"Ah, like the stuff at our food stall?"
"God, you..."
Cha Eun-Hyeok clamped his mouth shut. Then nodded.
"...It'd be hard to do it alone. Let me help."
"Uh, oppa, are you sure?"
"I can't just let a guest do all the work."
"Well, um, yeah..."
In this household, the only one who enjoyed cooking was Cha Ara, but she stepped back quietly. She was one of the few who knew what her older brother did to earn money these days.
'I trust you.'
She didn't know how things had spiraled into this madness, but she trusted her brother. Even after all that hell, he still looked human. Believing he could handle it, Cha Ara stepped back.
"Then I'll go peel some fruit or something?"
"No, we'll take care of that... just watch the kids for us."
"Okay."
Seeing her older brother try to swallow his sorrow, Cha Ara felt a tinge of pity.
'Seriously, how did he end up in this mess?'
To wield divinity and cook in a non-awakened body—what a pitiful man.
***
After the meal, Iru Da lay peacefully.
"...You're not supposed to lie down right after eating..."
"Why not?"
"...It's impolite."
"As long as you're not in pain, isn't it fine?"
"...Still, it's not polite...?"
Awakened beings didn't struggle with digestion just because they lay down after eating. Besides, both Iru Da and Cha I-Sol were exceptionally gifted. They weren't so fragile that it'd hurt them.
But adults always seemed to dislike lying down right after eating. So Iru Da figured it must be bad manners. In other words, she didn't have a solid argument.
"Maybe it's a kind of tradition?"
"What kind?"
"For regular bodies, lying down after digesting everything is best?"
"I don't get it."
"You're pretending not to understand because you want to lie down, huh."
"Hehehe!"
"I ◆ Nоvеlіgһt ◆ (Only on Nоvеlіgһt) give up..."
After all, Iru Da was already lying down. The house wasn't very well insulated, and the weather was chilly, yet she felt cozy and drowsy.
'It was really delicious...'
Iru Da was recalling the meal prepared by Hunter Sergio.
She'd grown up in wealth. She'd eaten at nearly every fancy restaurant, tried all kinds of health foods and delicacies. But the seven-dish banquet prepared by Hunter Sergio was, honestly, unreal.
'Did he bring those herbs himself?'
Especially that richly fragrant dongpo pork—ah, it was just...
"...He's not going to open a restaurant, is he?"
"He's thinking about it."
"When's he planning to open?"
"...Huh...?"
Cha I-Sol looked at her partner with a rare sour face. He said he was considering it, not preparing for an opening. That was skipping a few steps too far.
"Sometimes Ruda just breaks."
"I'll reflect on it."
"No, well... yeah, sure..."
Gio, who had been silently observing them, offered,
"Would you like some fruit?"
"Ah, thank you."
Iru Da sat up and received the neatly cut apple slices. Her mother had prepared the fruit basket, so they must've been excellent quality—but oddly, it didn't taste as delicious as it used to.
'What the...'
Probably because her taste buds had been ruined by the insanely good meal.
"...So about that restaurant..."
"I'm only thinking about it."
"Do you have a location in mind...?"
"I haven't thought that far. Still deciding whether to do it at all."
"Our house has a really great spot for it, actually."
"Ha-ha, if I seriously get started, I'll reach out."
He really should start one.
'Wouldn't not opening a restaurant with that talent be a crime against humanity?'
Of course, starting a business was his choice—but it still felt unfair. Cha I-Sol's whole family had ties to Hunter Sergio, so she'd likely have more chances like this. But not Iru Da.
'I feel deprived.'
Iru Da had matured once again.
***
And so, the two diligent children fell asleep by 9 p.m., their digestion complete.
"...."
"...Hm."
Gio stroked his chin and asked,
"So this is what a pajama party is usually like?"
"Uh, well... we've never had one either..."
"Wasn't it supposed to be more chaotic and noisy?"
"Kids sleeping early is for the best."
"True, but... why do I feel so empty..."
Cha Eun-Hyeok delivered a sharp jab to his superior.
"That's dopamine addiction, Zeorge."
"I'm telling you, that's not what this is!"
"Let the kids sleep, please."
"I feel so wronged I could cry."
Zeorge was deeply disappointed.
He had no intention of letting the night end so quietly.
-x-X-x-
From the peaceful sleep so comforting it almost felt like a shame to wake, Iru Da suddenly sensed something wrong.
Danger.
"...Uh..."
At some point, when she opened her eyes, she was in a beautiful garden.
"..."
It was a garden in the most literal sense.
Not the infamous "Garden" that had recently caused a stir in the world, but a regular one, filled with various flowers and trees. The sky was painted in pinks and lavenders, with fluffy clouds floating overhead.
A world full of whimsical, dreamlike beauty.
'This isn't my dream.'
Iru Da was certain of that.
'There's no way I'd dream something this pretty.'
That wasn't the only reason, but in the end, that was her conclusion. The garden, so beautiful it felt wasteful just to look at, held an eerie air.
Iru Da realized she was sitting on a bench and stood up.
"...Where on earth is this?"
"Ruda!"
"Cha I-Sol?"
"Ruda's here too!"
"Wait, you..."
Iru Da halted Cha I-Sol, who was approaching with a cheerful face.
"Hold on. There's no guarantee you're the Cha I-Sol I know. No matter how I look at it, this doesn't seem like a normal dream. Which means you're likely a fake. If I let you get close, who knows what side effects could occur."
"Sorry, could you say that simpler?"
"It's nice to see you, but I don't trust you. Let's keep our distance."
"Mm... that makes sense!"
Cha I-Sol nodded obediently.
"I don't even have my necklace."
"Oh, I don't either..."
They had taken off their twin necklaces—used to track each other—and gone to bed. It seemed like they'd been pulled here in their sleeping bodies. That gave them even more reason to be wary of each other.
Honestly, Iru Da felt a little proud.
'I actually trained that airhead up to this point.'
By the looks of it, Cha I-Sol was also doubting her identity. Whether it was really her or not, the fact that she was suspicious was a huge leap forward. Especially in a place like this—it made all that effort feel worthwhile.
"Let's start with a light verification of each other, then?"
"I'm down. I'm confident!"
"We're not playing a game..."
The two had recently gained experience through multiple practicums. They'd learned how to handle uncertain identities. Through conversations only the two of them could understand, they tested each other.
Fortunately or unfortunately, everything matched in terms of "memory."
"Alright. If you're not the Cha I-Sol I know, then you're something even more terrifying. Just in case, I'll prep for escape."
"Yeah, me too..."
"Don't be disappointed just because I didn't trust you right away. This is a necessary procedure. It doesn't damage the deep friendship and trust we have."
"Of course I know."
Cha I-Sol smiled and held out her hand.
"Here, final check!"
"Right."
They exchanged divine power one last time.
'This is... definitely solar divine power.'
Iru Da's expression subtly brightened. It carried a strange chill like the deep sea, yet was also passionate and radiant. That vibrant, bizarre solar energy could only be wielded by Cha I-Sol.
Cha I-Sol seemed to have confirmed it as well.
"This is definitely yours, Ruda!"
"Cha I-Sol, don't you think you identified it too quickly?"
"Shouldn't we have just started with divine power exchange?"
"...It's essential to verify via voice and language. You know that divine power exchange can be dangerous if misjudged."
"Yeah, so we checked in the safest order possible... Gio said most corrupted beings get filtered out during that Q&A process."
"Would've been better if we had artifacts or an insight skill, but let's be content with this."
Iru Da pulled the hand she was still holding from the exchange. It was such a common act that Cha I-Sol followed along naturally. The two clung together, now calmly assessing the situation.
"Seems like we've been pulled into some kind of conditional dungeon."
"You mean a virtual dungeon, right?"
"At least, I have no memory of actually being transported somewhere."
There was a strange kind of beauty here. Unintentionally, Iru Da found herself captivated by the surroundings. Clouds puffed like cotton candy, sparkling waterfalls, and flowers that swayed lazily in the wind.
"...It looks like a garden."
"No monsters in sight."
"Either there really aren't any, or we just haven't found them."
"I hope they're not here. I like it. It's pretty."
"Well, I don't."
"Huh? Isn't it pretty?"
"It's not a matter of taste. It clearly has high aesthetic value, but..."
Iru Da had felt uneasy from the start. This garden, as beautiful as something from a dream, carried an inexplicable sense of wrongness. After a moment of thought, she found the words.
"...It's creepy. Like it's alive."
"Plants are supposed to be alive."
"I mean, like they're living creatures, moving around."
"Huh...?"
"...I don't even know what I'm saying."
"Oh, I get it."
Cha I-Sol spoke as if she remembered something.
"Isn't it like being taxidermied alive?"
"...What?"
"Yeah, there's a piece like that in the Collector's collection."
"There's a piece where something was taxidermied alive...?"
Iru Da was appalled. She'd heard many times that the Collector was a lunatic pretending to be a gentleman, but this turned her stomach. Cha I-Sol groaned thoughtfully.
"Urrrgh... maybe? I heard it from Gio hyung, so I don't know the details. But Black Cloak was supposed to be something that was taxidermied alive... so I kinda got what you were trying to say."
"You're Black Cloak's child and you're saying that? Isn't it top secret?"
"I'm not his child. I'm his sibling."
"Either way, Cha I-Sol, you're his apostle."
"He wouldn't get mad over something like this. It's fine."
"No, I mean..."
"Gio hyung wouldn't get mad over this stuff."
"..."
After a moment of silence, Iru Da nodded.
"...It was a bit unsettling, but you're right. That's exactly what it felt like. Like seeing something taxidermied alive. Like a creature submerged in formalin, still alive, on display in a museum..."
"What's formalin?"
"...Preservative."
"You really are smart, Ruda."
"Uh, thanks..."
The two slowly looked around. Observed closely, this beautiful scenery felt like something a child would imagine—an immature and fantastical world brought to life. Full of implausible flora and fauna.
Flowers that bloomed candy, a chocolate lake, a beach with sea snails shaped like chocolate bread. Trees made of baumkuchen. Cotton candy clouds on poles. Fountains bubbling with soda. A world full of sweets...
"This one tastes good."
"I'm not responsible if you get sick."
"It's hot chocolate. Want some, Ruda?"
"No."
As she watched Cha I-Sol's carefree demeanor, Iru Da looked up at the air. Or rather, tried to—only to realize her gaze didn't land anywhere.
It didn't respond to her intent.
'The system's not working.'
She'd heard the system had been glitching recently—was this part of it? But this wasn't a simple error or missing UI. It didn't respond at all. Was it a dungeon trait? Then can this place even be called a "dungeon"?
Maybe it would've been better if monsters had appeared. Instead, within this peace, Iru Da felt a deep unease.
'A world of literal fantasy...'
It was a scene that might tempt untrained, undisciplined children. Sweet and salty foods growing from plants, plush animals made of fabric wandering harmlessly.
No oppression. No duties. Just a beautiful world for eating and enjoying. The fuzzy sensations of affirmation and indulgence. And that was why it was disturbing.
"Where in the world would something like this exist?"
"Huh? It's right here."
"Utopia should never exist."
The instinct of living things is selfishness. From the will to survive to consuming resources—they persist through conflict and coexistence. There's no way for everyone to be happy and satisfied at once.
Which made this place a hollow, living hell.
"Is this some fickle evil god's afterlife? No, even that doesn't make sense."
Perfect happiness doesn't exist anywhere. And yet, this place clearly does. The terror of that contradiction slowly consumed Iru Da. A creeping anxiety climbed from her feet.
How had she even been brought here? What was this space?
"...Divinity is omniscient and omnipotent—beyond our understanding. If a being of immense mystery seriously tried to create a utopia, I suppose it might be possible. But Cha I-Sol."
"..."
"Can we call it a world? Isn't it just a giant deception, a stage? Should we really approve of a world where everything is governed by forced happiness and satisfaction?"
Look—at the forcibly cheerful flora and fauna here. Tigers befriend rabbits. Dolls, robbed of the need to eat or drink, don't hunt or get hunted.
Iru Da's hand, still holding Cha I-Sol's, was damp with cold sweat. Her eyes combed through this so-called utopia.
She had little strength in her grip. Her pale fingertips trembled.
"Whether it's a dungeon or an afterlife or whatever, this is some sadistic hobby. At least that's how I see it. Isn't it just too human-centered? All these plants and creatures exist for human indulgence—easily consumed, conveniently designed. They can't even graze or hunt, made of cloth and cotton..."
"..."
"Cha I-Sol."
"..."
"Cha I-Sol, answer me."
"..."
"..."
Iru Da turned her stiff head toward Cha I-Sol.
'Cha I-Sol?'
'Ruda's here too!'
'Cha I-Sol, don't you think you identified it too quickly?'
'Shouldn't we have just started with divine power exchange?'
'Either way, you're an apostle.'
'It's fine. He won't get mad over stuff like this.'
'Cha I-Sol.'
'....'
Not once had it acknowledged the definition of being "Cha I-Sol."
It hadn't responded to the name, hadn't answered questions aimed at her, hadn't matched explanations directed toward her.
Which could only mean one thing.
Iru Da withdrew her sweat-drenched hand.
"...Who are you?"
This was not a normal dungeon.
And this—
Was not Cha I-Sol.
***
"Who are you."
Yes, Zeorge was not Cha I-Sol.
"Knew it. Ruda, you really are smart."
"..."
"...Mmm, I'm sorry..."
"..."
"I mean it. I didn't want to scare you."
If he could explain himself—
'But really, though.'
He had only prepared a lighthearted little event. If those cute little lips had dared to mention a pajama party, wasn't it only proper to throw a cute and chaotic mess of a party in return?
But Iru Da was a well-adjusted child who'd grown up too fast, and Cha I-Sol was a modern New Country kid who respected her partner. Zeorge had only wanted them to enjoy their precious vacation a little more.
"These children... are really different from the ones I know."
"...Not all children share the same shape. Each has distinct traits. Perhaps you ~Nоvеl𝕚ght~ should study humans a bit more—don't you think?"
"That's quite a leap, but you're not wrong. My mistake. I should've done more research."
Kids these days were too smart for their own good. They matured too early, beyond expectations.
Back in the day, all it took was something fun and interesting with a happy ending to keep a child content. Had Gio's thinking grown too one-dimensional? Or had the world just changed that much? The kids he remembered didn't bother poking holes in fairytales.
'Like how they'd only think the witch's candy house looked delicious, and never worry about the storage or hygiene regulations...'
In that sense, he was genuinely surprised by Iru Da's intellect. He'd only stayed behind to manage appearances so she wouldn't feel betrayed when she realized Cha I-Sol had wandered off into another dream first. And yet, the child had been deeply shaken before they even reached the core.
Iru Da's glare burned into him.
"What exactly were you trying to do? Where is Cha I-Sol, and where are we?"
"..."
Only then did Zeorge realize something.
'Oh no. Did I blow the first impression?'
It definitely seemed that way.