⚠︎ This chapter has small mentions of homophobia.
♬ Breath Of Life - Florence + The Machine ♬
''Why did I choose her as my wife? Don't be silly Yongsun, people in power don't marry due to love, we marry to strengthen our already overwhelming privilege''.
A report about the 'Tower of Life' by a chronically online guy.
Topic: Tower of Life • Author: HoonsWife • Published 3 minutes ago • Text available in: English, Korean and Japanese.
Two days ago a mass disappearance happened across the globe, and as many of those who stayed, I was deeply curious about what the fuck was all of this about. And a few hours later when the mysterious new streaming page appeared to us all, I was absolutely obsessed.
As any good 27 year old with nothing better to do than work, I had to know what this was all about, and here it is all I've managed to compile about the 'Tower of Life' after long hours with no sleep and several energy drinks.
The 'Tower of Life' kidnapped 2bi people all at the same time, there was no discrimination regarding age, gender or physical limitations. Reports of children, elderly and those with disabilities appearing there were found everywhere; The 'Tower of Life' consists of 100 floors, which can be challenged up to floor 10 every 9 months, the reason for a cooldown wasn't specified and none of the 'Players' streaming could tell us the reason. As a seasoned video games expert and having watched my fair share of anime, I can assume that during the cooldown the 'Players' might return to their homes and attacks might happen through monsters, this is, of course, just an assumption; The amount of 'Players' is currently reduced to 1bi and they're currently on the 6th floor, from what I gathered, the challenges all have the same duration and you cannot leave the floor after the time is up, resulting in death; The goal of the 'Tower of Life' is human salvation from a catastrophe schedule to occur in 10 years time, what exactly this means and if we will truly be able to go through this, only time will tell, for certain I can say that the number of 'Players' will be reduced even more and if there isn't any more 'Players' recruited we probably won't survive at all (God's mercy my ass); Not every 'Player' streams, the streaming is a mean for regular humans to assist their 'heroes' in building themselves with real world currency, an good example for that are Rank 1 and 2 of streaming: Yoon Yong-sun, a popular K-idol and son of a rich family, who already amassed a total of 1074 coins, and . Considering every coin is currently valued at 1,000 US Dollars, they're highly estimated in maintaining their ranks, the real use and how valuable such coins are, is still a mystery; 'Players' acquired skills and talents surpassing the human race comprehension, and those who rank above others there are speculated to have transcended above limitations and became true 'Heroes'.
Truth be told, even though I wasn't able to gather enough info, let's all hope this nightmare ends soon. Also for those scared of tuning in the streams, those are filled with gruesome deaths, monsters that might give any weakminded folks nightmares. I even had to turn it off at some point. Not only that, as human nature foretells, some streamers aren't scared of slaying their comrades in live streams, so you might not only see the death of inhuman monsters, but also fellow humans. Honestly, a cruel game with the objective of ''saving'' humanity is surely the best and most cruel way of exterminating the human race.
Regardless of hope, at the end of the day, those with impressive powers will always feel the need to trample the weak, forgetting all about saving the world. The 'Tower of Life' doesn't discriminate, weak, strong, righteous or evil, be careful with those whom you send your support, and let us all pray for the salvation we aren't sure we'll receive.
Likes: 1,541 Dislikes: 588 Shares: 5,879
Comments:
Anonymous1: Damn, this post has more info than the news reports in my country, what is the government doing right now:
↳ Anonymous2: Saving their ass, those cowards motherfuckers.
↳ Anonymous1: The Tower should've caught them not innocent people ffs.
Anonymous3: Dude, get some sleep, we only have 10 years left anyway.
↳ HoonsWife: Sleep are for the weak.
↳ Anonymous3: Who cares if the world ends, we're a shitty race anyway.
↳ HoonsWife: If you're so eager to die, just jump off a cliff then, some of us still wish to live.
MissLover: No wonder I saw you everywhere lmao.
↳ HoonsWife: Someone had to.
↳ MissLover: What's your e-mail? I'm doing research on the Tower and I would love to know your sources and means of researching this information.
↳ HoonsWife: My email is [email protected]
↳ MissLover: Hahahaha, somehow I'm not surprised.
Stormie23: So this was what you were doing while fanboying over TEMPEST… Damn we sure are a fandom of talented people.
↳ HoonsWife: A good wife is good at multitasking.
Anonymous4: We're all going to die…
Anonymous5: I'm already seeing how much the crime rate will spike… Is hope truly possible?
↳ HoonsWife: The moment we give up of hope, we give up life.
✴
TEMPEST: The group of Rank 1 'Player' Yoon Yong-sun.
Topic: Tower of Life | K-pop | TEMPEST • Author: Stormie23 • Published 1 hour ago • Text available in: Korean, Chinese and Japanese.
TEMPEST, who are they and what is their relation with the famous Yoon Yong-sun, rank 1 of the 'Tower of Life' and the person catching the eye of many with his skills in his streaming.
They are a 5 member K-pop group that debuted 6 years ago by a small company called 4SEASONS that previously only had actors. Immediately after debuting they took the industry by a storm with their solid harmonies and good-looking members, after 2 years they made an international debut becoming the first K-pop group in history to be known across the globe. Every song they release enters the top 10 of any country and every show they made is sold-out in seconds.
Their list of achievements is extensive, being mostly known as the first ever K-pop group to perform in the White House and Buckingham Palace. Rewards? There isn't a single one they haven't got, including rewards previously only won by USA artists.
The group concept is nature, with each member representing a different element of nature, and all of their albums and music videos had a storyline of mages of a fallen kingdom, going through war, revenge, desolation, corruption and enlightenment, they're known for never deviating from the storyline or even their theme.
During the 6 years they've released 4 mini-albums and 2 full-albums, as well as 2 sub-unit albums, one with the Rap line (TEMPO) and another with the Vocal line (EYE). Jun-seo also released a collabs album he self-produced with big names of the international pop industry.
On the members:
Kang Hoon (27) - Debuted at 21, it's the oldest member and the leader, and has a reputation as a cold prince (despite being kind and sweet with his fans). It's the best at dancing and singing, being the Main Vocalist and Lead Dancer of the group.
Kim Jun-seo (25) - Debuted at 19, it's a great rapper and even a good vocalist and dancer, has incredible talent in music production, producing music even to other groups and companies. Besides his behind the scenes work and collabs, he doesn't have many solo works as an idol, and he doesn't care much for it. He's the Sub Vocalist and Main Rapper.
Han Ye-joon (25) - Also debuted at 19, comes from a very poor family and poured everything he had into debuting. He's the most hardworking and is beloved as the group's bunny by the fans. He's the Sub Rapper and Sub Vocalist.
Kim Ha-kyun (23) - Debuted at 17, is an only child and is known for his rap and dancing abilities, also had the longest time as a trainee, being a trainee since the age of 9 (my babygirl worked so hard). It's the Lead Rapper and Main Dancer.
And finally:
Yoon Yong-sun (22) - Debuted at 16, is the Visual and Lead Vocalist, he's the most famous member of TEMPEST, being mostly known as an Archangel by his colleagues and fans. Has a good relationship with most whom he works with, and has the most solo work and solo fans. He had the least time as a trainee, being one for only 6 months before debuting.
I hope everyone supports Yong-sun in his new journey and stream TEMPEST's new music: EYE OF THE HURRICANE! It was released 1 week before Yong-sun's kidnapping, so show some support!
Likes: 12,544 Dislikes: 2,478 Shares: 20,774
Comments:
Anonymous1: You forgot to say that Yong-sun is a dirty homo.
↳ Stormie23: And you forgot your brain in your mother's womb.
Anonymous2: I'm so scared for our angel ㅠㅠ.
Anonymous3: The moment he clinged to that man I stopped stanning, I'm so disappointed.
↳ Stormie23: We don't need you in the fandom then.
Anonymous4: Disgusting homo.
↳ Stormie23: Disgusting troll.
Anonymous5: You can do it Yong-sun! We love you!
Anonymous6: I'm just sad they cancelled the tour because of everything, OT4 is the best.
↳ Stormie: Oh, fake fan allert.
HoonsWife: By everything we've seen so far, he's stronger than most, I'm sure he'll survive, let's all welcome him back after he ends Floor 10.
↳ Stormie23: ㅇㅇ
✴
Fuck, its the first thing Youngsun thinks when he finds himself at the plaza of an unfamiliar city, he's lucky its dark and the streets are empty, he's pretty sure Rowan saw him in his true form, so his whole being is filled with anxiety as he escapes the open streets to hide in a dark alleyway. What if he hates me now? He wonders, but his own worries are silly and hiding won't help erase what the other saw.
A warm hand touches his shoulder, startling the man, usually by instinct he would punch the person, but he doesn't, sure, he moves his hands to do so, but he's unable to as a blue force field stops his hand, just like his mental skills, his physical ones also don't seem to be able to affect Rowan.
''Why are you hiding?'' The man asks, his clear eyes startle Yongsun, there's no feeling of disgust or disappointment. Why? Why isn't Rowan repulsed by him? He doesn't even look human. Rowan's eyes look mysterious under the moonlight, and the strong stench of the blood soaking their clothes is the only thing both of them can smell at the moment. Rowan sighs, his hand still on Yongsun's shoulder. ''Look, we need to rest, and I don't feel very good right now…'', he trails off, looking around. ''And most of all, I need a bath''.
Yongsun can feel his body calming down slowly through Rowan's touch, as if he's a tranquilizer pill for his inner demon, and maybe that's the true effect of the Soul Link, to stop the Demon King from being blinded by his own powers. Is it safe to rely on something of such importance in someone that isn't even sure if he's able to save himself?
Such worries of the both young men are silenced by the system that bombards them with information as soon as they take a breather.
Welcome to [NEUTRAL ZONE] Latri City, located at the Saari Kingdom in Earth from Dimension LII.
You're one of the 1,000,001,000 that survived the 5 first floors of the Tower of Life and managed to qualify to partake in the challenges of Floor 6 up to 10!
Floor 6 will start in 02:13:45:35
Rest and keep your head while you await the next challenge!
This still feels like a game, Rowan thinks, even with all the death and shocks, I don't think I completely accepted this new reality, and what? Now I'm on a different Earth from a different dimension? How big is the proportion of this game?
Latri City
The Capital of the Saari Kingdom
Formed by small islands, the Saari Kingdom is mainly focused in fishing and handcrafts with products from their beaches. Known as a nation of peace and welcoming people, depending on the Hai Empire for protection, its King is a descendant of a local royal and a former Prince from the Hai Empire, but since their alliance was formed 400 years ago, their blood is mostly Saarian. Their culture is characteristic and they worship the goddess of Oceans. They're extremely hostile to outsiders until a prophecy comes from their goddess: ''When the lights descend from the heavens, outsiders will overflow the streets and bring the answer to the challenges you must put them through! They're the trainees of the gods and must be taken care of as such''.
'Players' in Earth from Dimension LII: 250,000,250
Current 'Players' in Latri City of the Saari Kingdom: 600,000
Current 'Players' in Razba City of the Hai Empire: 100,250,250
Current 'Players' in Thn City of the Civa Kingdom: 49,150,000
Current 'Players' in Lotus City of the Regis Kingdom: 600,000
Current 'Players' in Vins City of the Eil Empire: 99,400,000
So not everyone ended up in the same place, Rowan observes, carefully reading the window. He doesn't know exactly what every city means, and not even what it might influence in the future floors, all he wants right now is to rest and shower.
Shop Unlocked!
Use your 'Water' and 'Fire' coins to buy food, equipment and even build up your skills! The possibilities are endless!
Well, that's useless for me, Rowan thinks with a sigh, not that he's even considering changing his choice, streaming will be a burden, and he doesn't want to read malicious comments about himself.
He gazes at Yongsun, who's also reading his own system windows, his expression is neutral, but his appearance is truly outstanding. Anyone can tell he's a demon hybrid, and a powerful one at that. I want to touch his horns, the man thinks, diverting his gaze back towards his other system notifications.
Gold
Gold earned through trials can be used in Neutral Zones to buy anything, how you manage your assets is your own responsibility. You can earn gold by working in Neutral Zones.
So even if I don't have the streaming coins I still can buy food, good. After he finishes checking his other rewards for completing Floor 5 and assigning his bonus stats he stares at his system window for a moment.
Stats:
STR: 13 (+25) INT: 6 (+26) DEX: 11 (+20) LUCK: 12 (+26) CHA: 3 (+26) CON: 22 (+48) MANA: 20 (+38)
His stats are relatively decent compared to how he started, most of it is due to his new equipment given to him by Yongsun. Besides the boost from the Link Ring, the Earrings of Blessings and the Brilliance Necklace they won after floor 2, he's also wearing 3 other pieces of equipment they won after floor 3 and Yongsun got after floor 4.
Endurance Gloves [UNIQUE]
+10 CON and +5 STR when equipped
Half-wit Ring [RARE]
+3 INT when equipped
Bracelet of Tears [UNIQUE]
+6 CHA and +6 LUCK when equipped
I'm really grateful for this boost from him, he thinks, closing his system window and turning to look at the hybrid man again, but while he wasn't looking, Yongsun went back to his previous appearance. Part of Rowan finds it a shame, however he's also aware they can't go anywhere with the man boasting a demonic appearance, especially since they don't know anything about the nature of the residents of this Earth.
''How much gold do you have?'' Rowan asks, as they leave the dark alleyway and start slowly walking around the city square. There aren't many people around and mostly of those who seem to be Players like them, some they can understand while others they can't. Can we even communicate with the locals? He wonders, but the system seems to have just the answers.
The Gods bless the Players!
Players will be able to understand the universal language of Dimension LII's Earth, however they still will suffer from the language barrier between themselves, after all it's their own humans fault for not unifying their world beforehand.
Ha, Rowan snorts, as if unifying more than 7 thousand languages was an easy feat, not even considering the cultural erasure it would happen with it. As if recalling the language lessons he had from his mother, Rowan starts wondering how even this Earth managed to have just one single language, he can't even think of a possible way to do so. Well, he isn't all that smart to begin with, so all this wondering only makes his head hurt.
He glances at his wrist where Spirit Core is, there is a faint tone of green and white in it now, probably as a way to show him that his spirits are inside it. It all feels absurdly unreal, will he wake up back at his small apartment once they finally go to sleep?
Or will he wake up to continue this nightmare?
Sure, he is surprisingly composed in the face of slaughter, guts and blood, but that is courtesy of his upbringing, it doesn't mean that it doesn't take a mental toll, though.
''1050'', Yongsun answers, his voice is hoarse and he can't look Rowan in the eyes.
''I have only 570, well, let's hope it's enough to get us the 2 nights at some inn'', Rowan sighs, noticing the evasion the man is making, but he doesn't attempt to ask why, he can take a guess, after all, he seemed quite shocked when Rowan went after him in the alleyway.
At first he didn't want to, it was his chance of leaving Yongsun and going on his own. But what can he do alone? Without Yongsun he wouldn't have survived until now. It's too late to run away and not only that, but it's clear the system favors Yongsun, meaning his survival rate will be higher if he keeps standing next to him.
Regardless of the price, if it is for my survival, I must let go of my own pride, not that Rowan has much pride to begin with, after all, he's an anti-social, weak-minded, anxious, bottom-feeding person. And he's aware of his own position.
After walking in silence for a couple minutes, they manage to find an inn which already has a significant line in front of it. A broad compilation of nationalities and languages, all shouting at each other for a chance of a night's rest and a shower. ''It seems this place is full'', Rowan whispers, looking around, trying to find another place they can go at, but the only other place is a more luxurious inn, clearly meant for nobility. We can't waste our gold all just for a bed, he thinks, but when he turns to speak with Yongsun, the man is already walking towards the other inn. Fuck, he thinks, running after the man. ''Yongsun, we can't waste all our money! We don't know when we will get a new opportunity to-''
''Rowan, asking how much per night should be enough for now'', Yongsun says, cutting Rowan as he enters the inn.
The place is clearly luxurious, a huge crystal candelabra hanging in the middle of the lobby, the stairs and floor had a shiny tone to it, not even considering the red rug Rowan only saw in mansions and old castles. Not only that but those there were wearing clean and fancy clothes, a clear contrast from their ragged blood soaked ones. Yongsun approaches the reception as if he always belonged there, maybe he's a secret rich heir Rowan isn't aware of.
''Hello, how much for 2 rooms?'' Yongsun asks, but Rowan, a step behind him, speaks over.
''A double room only'', he says, too low for the receptionist to hear, but Yongsun hears him clearly.
''What do you mean? Are you sure?'' He can't hide the excitement in his tone, yet he's still hesitant.
''Yes'', Rowan nods, somewhat hiding behind Yongsun, he's not very good at dealing with fancy people, although he's not usually shy. He might not be an extrovert, but he can speak with strangers in certain situations, however in some situations he can't help but feel intimidated, wondering if the people there are looking at him with contempt.
''For a double room is 40 gold a night, 70 for the suite with breakfast included'', the receptionist answers, he's clearly speaking a language Rowan doesn't know, yet just like he can understand Yongsun, he's able to understand the receptionist. It's not as if the system were translating their words, but simply making Rowan understand them.
It's too expensive, even if we have the money, we can't spend it like this, Rowan thinks, what if we need it in the future when the Tower provides us with less? We should find other options…
''We'll take the suite for two nights'', Yongsun says before Rowwan can stop him, placing the gold coins at the desk and making their registration. The receptionist gives them 2 keys and provides the information about the location of their room.
''What if we need the money later?'' Rowan asks once they're walking up the stairs of the fancy inn.
''And if we don't? Should we sleep on the streets just because we might need it in the future?'' Yongsun asks, stopping and turning to finally look at Rowan. ''You don't need to worry much, we will be ok, I'll make sure of it'', his words are serious and do indeed make Rowan feel somewhat safe, yet worrying is a second nature to him, so he isn't sure he'll be able to indeed not worry.
Their suite is big, the beige walls and dim light bring a cozy atmosphere, the bed is enough to fit four of them, the carpet covering the floor is soft and attached to the room there is a bathroom. For a place that looks medieval, they still have bathrooms, thank god, Rowan thinks as he attempts to turn on the sink faucet, to no avail.
Tip
Appliances in Dimension LII's Earth are powered by mana stones, although they're reserved mostly for nobility, anyone with mana can use them. Those without mana need to use other accessories to power them up, most keep a small card key near the appliances for easy use.
Oh, Rowan thinks, trying to apply a bit of his mana into the faucet, finally succeeding in turning it on, he never thought he would be so happy to see running water in his life. It's been two days, however in his opinion it's way too long. He pops out of the bathroom, to find Yongsun crouched near the fireplace, attempting to turn it on.
''Do you mind if I shower first?'' He asks, the other just nods. ''Oh… But we need new clothes'' Rowan stops on his tracks once he realizes he has nothing to wear if he throws his clothes away. And it's not like he can keep using it, not only are his clothes drenched in blood, but they're also mostly torn.
''The shop has some clothes'', Yongsun states, staring at the shop, he isn't able to properly look at Rowan yet, he's too scared of the other's feelings, even if the ring shows him that all the other is feeling is anxiety and worry. He scrolls through the shop, he got a lot of coins from streaming, he hasn't checked the chat with the gods, after all, this situation is because of them, he doesn't want to give them the satisfaction, although he still has the coins they gave him.
''I don't have coins'', Rowan says, but Yongsun shakes his head.
''I do'', he continues to browse the shop, finding a decent armor that changes appearance with the user's will, it costs 60 water coins and 10 fire coins, making it impossible to buy if you don't have enough of both. Luckily for Yongsun, he has enough to buy a set for him and one for Rowan. ''Here'', he gives it to the man, a feeling of shame washing over him, an artificial feeling that must belong to the man in the receiving end. He didn't want to shame him or embarrass him in any way. It's just that in Yongsun's mind, everything that is his, naturally belongs to his soulmate as well. ''I'm giving it to you because we're soulmates'', Yongsun says, ''And you're not the only one benefiting from our relationship''.
That is true, as strong as Yongsun is, his mind can't handle the corruption of his demonic side, the only way to diminish his Corruption Gauge is engaging in physical contact with Rowan, at least this was what he concluded once his Gauge went from 100% to 45% after Rowan touched his arm for a few moments.
Even if I want to refuse, can I? I can't be prideful in these situations, Rowan thinks, finally accepting the gift.
Armor of the Thief God [UNIQUE]
This armor was crafted by a master of disguises, the malleable material might not have the best defense, but its mixture with mana stones made it durable, impermeable and also able to change appearances due to the user's will.
When equipped: +10 DEF, +15 CHA and +10 DEX
The armor is as good as the price paid for it, not that Rowan knows its price. It doesn't take long for him to shower, but he scrubbed his skin so hard that his slightly tanned skin is now completely red, it does feel quite refreshing, though. Putting the armor on, the fabric feels soft on the skin and it almost feels as if he's wearing nothing. Ok, how does this work? He wonders as the information about it didn't say how to change its shape, should he apply mana to it? Or perhaps just think about it? After a few minutes pondering, he finally attempts simply thinking about the shape and fabric of the pajama he usually uses at home, a buttoned long-sleeved shirt and pants with a simple dark green hue. He moves in front of the mirror, seeing how the armor changed everything, even the feeling on his skin is similar to the real thing.
Afterwards he moves to the bed and Yongsun goes to the bathroom, he looks at the fireplace, the sound of the firewood burning and the shower running is all he can hear, the room has no windows so he can't really go look outside. This reminds me of my grandparent's place, Rowan thinks, the cozy atmosphere, the sound of fire burning and even the scent of fire. Weirdly, now that he isn't sure if he'll ever see his father and grandparents again, he misses their place even more, he wishes he wasn't so detached like his mother and visited them more.
I wonder if they know I'm here…
''I'm sorry'', his thoughts are interrupted by Yongsun leaving the bathroom, the man is also wearing the armor, but differently from the full pajamas set Rowan chose, the man is simply wearing pajama pants of the same color as Rowan, completely shirtless. Now that he can see the man's naked body he notices just how ripped he is, it doesn't even look natural, is it from his demonic blood?
''What are you sorry about?'' Rowan asks, now that they're alone, without any threat or monsters, it's awkward, they've met just two days ago but Yongsun already saved his life more than Rowan can ever repay.
''For…'' Yongsun sighs, leaning against the door frame, staring at Rowan, who stares back as he leans on his side. ''Not being what you expected your soulmate to be''. Again with the soulmates thing, while Yongsun is set that they belong inside this label, Rowan isn't so sure, all he knows is that they're bound by the system.
If he never talks about it, they'll never fix this, they'll never be able to feel at ease or even move on. Rowan knows it's not the time to overthink things, he already did enough previously, ever since they met, all he thinks about is a circle of thoughts of being around Yongsun for his safety or not, and even wondering if it is ethical to put a leash on someone just for their own safety. Besides, if the man wants it, does it still make it wrong?
At the end of the day, Rowan wants to communicate, to fix things, but he never learned how to be honest or even how to display his own feelings. Although he's always in an internal turmoil, it never shows in his face, except when he's caught by surprise, not because he's controlling his feelings, but because he doesn't know how to externalize them.
''I don't think we're soulmates, I don't believe in it to begin with'', he says, calmly.
Yongsun stares at him for a moment before speaking, and Rowan can feel his anxiety through the ring. ''I know I was hasty with the whole dating and soulmates thing. I do believe we're soulmates, not only because I don't think the system lies, but also because when I'm around you I feel like my heart is at home''. That's probably because of the Soul Link skill affecting your demonic blood, Rowan observes but doesn't speak. ''Do you want me to leave? Do you want to be apart? I don't want to, but if that's what you want…''
Rowan sighs, his brain working overtime to think about what to say. ''Yongsun, I would be dead if it weren't for you. I struggled a lot on the first floor alone, and even killing that 1 orc almost drained my whole constitution, so no, I don't want to be apart'', he can feel the man becoming excited. ''While I do not believe in soulmates and the whole idea of fated partners, I believe in you when you say you like me, or at least think you like me''. Rowan sighs again, his head hurting. ''The whole premise of this skill is that we must become intimate with each other, the ring, the description, everything. And although I do not have any previous experience nor know how to navigate one…'' He's stalling, he doesn't even know what he's speaking of. ''What I'm trying to say is… We can date if that's what you wish for from our relationship, it's just that I'm not particularly good at it, nor will I be able to give you the love you seek''.
It's incredibly surprising that Rowan was able to say all that, considering his head is overheating and he didn't hear a single word he muttered while speaking.
''I don't want to date you if you don't want to, Rowan'', Yongsun says, his tone is low and his voice is still hoarse from before, Rowan can feel that the man is sad and anxious, it almost makes his heart hurt.
''It's not that I don't want it per se'', Rowan says, scratching his head, sure he sometimes wonders about relationships and when he was a child he wanted one just as much as the next guy, even more so, he is mostly attracted to other men and he does have desires most men do. Yongsun is a very attractive man, his features are striking and his attitude is gentle and sweet, even when he's overcome by his emotions, he still doesn't do anything to Rowan. His demonic form even more so, did spark a flame of desire in Rowan, but a relationship? He doesn't have any good qualities a good boyfriend should, nor does he know how to be a proper one. ''I just never had one, and I'm sure you have better choices''.
''My only choice is you, because you're the only one I want'', Yongsun says, his tone is serious.
Rowan's heart skips a beat with the bold statement.
''But I don't want to date you against your will''.
''It isn't against my will, but feelings wise, I really prefer it if we take it slow''. Rowan says, his gaze going to the ceiling as he lays flat on the bed.
''I'm fine with that… So… Boyfriends?'' Yongsun asks, the sadness that he was feeling replaced by anticipation.
''Yeah'', Rowan answers simply, his heart pounding so loudly it resonates inside his brain.
Yongsun smiles. ''Thank you, Rowan'', he whispers, sitting down on the edge of the bed.
''I didn't do anything''.
''Thank you for being real, that's all'', Yongsun says, laying on the edge of the bed, his gaze on the same spot as Rowan's. ''I always dreamed about meeting my other half, wondering how they would be, or even if they existed at all. Even if we became just friends, I would be happy knowing you're real''.
''That's sad'', Rowan comments, making Yongsun laugh.
''I guess it is somewhat sad''.
They stay there in silence for a while, their hearts beating fast, the feelings of anxiety, anticipation and melancholy being shared by both.
The one to break the silence is Yongsun. ''I'm an idol''.
''What?'' Rowan asks, raising his head to look at the man, ''In what sense?''
''In the K-pop scene, sense'', Yongsun says with a faint smile. ''That was my dream since I was a kid, well, that and meeting my fated partner, I'm incredibly lucky for being able to fulfill both before even turning 23''.
''Oh, I think I saw something about this in the city's bus advertisements'', Rowan says, wrecking his brain trying to remember where he saw that, but as someone that rarely uses digital media and prefers Tv to internet videos, he's not exactly well-versed in those things, especially when all he hears about it is media influencers becoming celebs and the overwhelming amount of anger people spew there. Sure he uses some social media, but it's usually twice a month just to sane his curiosity.
Especially considering how against digital media his mother was, always making sure Rowan was tuned in the ''now''.
''Yeah, we basically are like those boybands the west has as well'', Yongsun says, tapping his finger a bit anxiously on his chest.
''I see, do you like it?'' Rowan asks.
''Yes, it is quite fun, but I don't get along well with my teammates, they hate me because I'm extremely privileged'', he says, ''I come from something we call chaebol in Korea, it means I come from extreme health, and that my family has a huge powerful conglomerate, think about the spinning wheel of money, I was born in the 1% of the 1%''.
''Oh, that's…'' Rowan isn't sure what to say, he does come from a privileged family as well, but in the sense of average wealth, still well-off but still not in the 1%. He can't even think about what Yongsun means. ''Like the British Royal Family?'' Rowan ends up asking, it's the closest he can picture it.
Yongsun laughs. ''I guess so'', he pauses. ''I was able to live a really good life because of my family, they allowed me to do whatever I wanted, and I was raised to be kind and strong''.
''That sounds almost impossible in a rich family'', Rowan says, honestly.
''I know, that's why so many people try to hate me or bully me'', Yongsun says with a nod. ''It's unfair if I'm rich, privileged, am able to be whoever I want and still am kind on top of everything''.
''You're so self-aware is scary''.
He laughs again. ''I just don't see how lying to myself would fix anything'', he turns to look at Rowan. ''I'm going to retire when we go back to our Earth''.
''Why? If you love it so much…''
''Because idols can't have relationships, it's kind of taboo…'' Yongsun sighs. ''By now fans probably already burned their albums and my pictures, making evil declarations as if I've deceived them''.
''What's so wrong about dating? I mean… We're in a delicate situation since we're both men, but still, simply dating isn't that bad''.
Yongsun shakes his head. ''In this industry it's just as bad as any other controversy, perhaps not as bad as drugs, but even so''.
''That sounds too extreme'', Rowan says, sitting up. ''You could deny our relationship, I don't want you to sacrifice so much just for me''.
Especially considering there's no real love here, and we never know when one of us might die.
''It's my choice, Rowan, even if I went back and continued my career, being inside this game is already enough change for me to consider retirement.''
''If you say so, I just don't want you to regret it later'', Rowan says, earning a soft smile from Yongsun. Even his smile shines with kindness.
''I won't, don't worry''.
Another silence befalls between them.
''Someone mentioned my mom before'', Rowan isn't even sure why he's sharing this, maybe because the other just shared something. ''She is a famous anthropologist, sort of a legend in her field, and I accompanied her everywhere since I was young… I don't even know where I belong in the world or what I want to do in life.'' Rowan sighs. ''And I honestly think I'm not worthy half of what I get from others… So… That's why I don't like when people bring up my mother, she's this big figure while I'm nothing, you know?''
''You're incredible on your own Rowan, we mustn't wish to be shadows of our parents'', Yongsun says, ''We're still young, we'll find our paths eventually''.
''I guess you're right'', Rowan whispers, his face burning with embarrassment. He feels embarrassed by the weirdest of things, Yongsun thinks. ''Oh, we should establish a few rules between us, since we're most likely to continue being paired in all floors from now on'', he says, changing the uncomfortable subject.
''What do you suggest?''
''First, we shouldn't keep secrets, especially if it affects the other'', Rowan says, ''Second, we should share our skills and rewards, so that we know at what point we are''. Yongsun nods along with his words. ''Third, we must always prioritize each other even when in a group with more people, we shouldn't share information we know with others easily''.
''I want to add that we should be loyal to each other as well'', Yongsun states.
''Sure, that'll be our fourth rule!'' Rowan says with a nod. ''So… should we share our system windows with each other?''
''Can we do that?''
''Probably, lets check'', Rowan says, opening his system window, searching for a bit before being able to find the option to show others. So they do, showcasing their skills bare for each other.
Shit, no wonder he's strong as fuck, that is Rowan's first thought the moment he sees Yongsun's class, and then when he moves to his stats he can't help but feel completely and utterly defeated. Shame washing over him as he notices their difference.
''Your class is cool'', Yongsun says, breaking the silence.
''Yours too'', Rowan says, with a faint sigh.
''I'm ashamed of my class'', Yongsun says, ''I'm supposed to be a good person, how can I keep being good when my whole being changed to one that caters to their own desires? My emotions are all over the place and if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't even be able to turn back into my human form''.
And surely enough, Rowan can feel Yongsun's shame through the ring's power; he can't say he understands the struggle, though.
''Don't be, you're a hot demon'', he says, well, that's the only thing he's able to think to say.
''I guess it's not all bad then'', Yongsun says with a soft laugh.
Should I show him the spirits? He thinks, touching his wrist, calling his spirits out. Can I show you guys to others? He asks. Cello is fluttering his wings as it flies around the room, while all Nevi does is stare at him as if saying why it was summoned for something so irrelevant? Yes, if you wish to, we can be visible to those who you wish to show us to, Nevi answers, its tone is annoyed, climbing over Rowan's lap, resting on it. Master, do you want us to appear for him? Cello asks, after it explores the whole room. I told you, he's too dangerous, it continues to say, finally resting on Rowan's head. But if the Master wishes to trust him, then what can we do? You stupid wind brain. Nevi retorts, sounding even more annoyed than before. Yes, please show yourselves to him. Rowan says at last.
''Yongsun, I want to introduce you to my spirits'', Rowan says, his cheeks turning a faint tone of pink, feeling weirdly embarrassed. ''This is a snow fox and a spirit of ice, Nevi'', he points to the fox resting on his lap, and then to the bird on his head. ''And this is Cello, a hummingbird and a spirit of wind''.
''They suit you'', Yongsun says. ''Nice to meet both of you''.
Sure, human, Nevi says.
''Wow, their voice is sent directly into my brain'', Yongsun points out and Rowan nods.
Can we go back to the core? I'm tired, Nevi looks at Rowan, who simply agrees, both spirits returning to the core on his wrist.
''They're cute'', Yongsun comments, feeling somewhat upset that they're allowed to touch Rowan so freely.
''Yes, somewhat'', Rowan sighs. ''We should sleep'', he says, tired from talking, and considering they haven't slept once since entering the Tower, he needs a good night of rest.
''Sure, I'll kill the fire and the lights'', Yongsun says getting up while Rowan gets under the covers, his mind can't stop thinking about the several things that happened in the span of those two days. After turning off the lights, Yongsun lays next to him in the bed, his warmth slowly warming him up.
Oh, we had a promise, just then it occurs to Rowan, he wants to ignore the thought and go to sleep, if Yongsun didn't mention it, perhaps he can get away with ignoring it. However, he can't, it wouldn't be right, considering a promise is a promise.
He turns to look at the other, who's also staring at him, his calm obsidian eyes blending perfectly with the darkness of the room. ''You can cash in the promise now if you'd like'', he says, being evasive on purpose, but Yongsun knows what he's speaking about, of course he's also thinking about it. ''What do you want?''
''Can I really ask for anything?'' Yongsun is apprehensive, it's obvious why, by now Rowan can already somehow tell what the overall personality of the other is like.
''Yes, anything'', he's not going to go back on his word, already expecting the worst.
''Then I want to hug you while we sleep'', ha. His request is even more innocent than what Rowan expected, especially considering the context in which the promise was made, the hardon they both had was enough for his mind to go wild, so why make such a simple request?
''Are you sure this is what you want?'' Rowan asks, a bit suspicious.
''Our relationship can progress as slowly as our emotions'', Yongsun answers, ''I don't want to touch you unless it's a situation where we both want it''.
It is unbelievably sweet, and although Rowan deep down does want to progress quickly in the physical aspects of their relationship, now he can't bring himself to say it.
''Ok, you can hug me'', Rowan says, getting closer to Yongsun, his head touching the man's chest as he's the first one to wrap his arms around his waist, soon being followed, the moment Yongsun's arms envelop him, he feels immense peace, as if he's completely safe from any harm.
A warm embrace, the faint scent of soap and the rhythmic sound of Yongsun's heart all lull Rowan's to his first sleep in two days.
☆
YONGSUN'S STATUS WINDOW
Name: Yoon Yong-sun
Age: 22 years 0 months 6 days
Race: Hybrid (Human/Demon)
Class: Demon King (Lvl. Max)
Familiar: Not yet acquired
Titles: The First Half-Human Demon King; Young Master of the Yoon Family; Visual of TEMPEST.
Affiliation: TEMPEST; Hell.
Soul Link: Rowan Emrys Lewis
Water coins: 954
Fire coins: 100
Gold: 910
Corruption Gauge: 17%
Stats:
STR: 126 (+20) INT: 20 (+20) DEX: 76 (+20) LUCK: 38 (+20) CHA: 116 (+20) CON: 82 (+20) MANA: 226 (+20)
Skills:
Transformation (Lvl. 3 / 0%)
Demon King (Lvl. Max / 100%)
Soul Link (Lvl. 2 / 20%)
Dark Manipulation (Lvl. 3 / 0%)
Master of the Masks (Lvl. 0 / 0%)
Stage Presence (Lvl. Max / 100%)
Equipment:
Link Ring [UNIQUE]
Armor of the Thief God [UNIQUE]
Inventory:
Broken Mic [LOCKED]
Smartphone [LOCKED]
18 lukewarm water bottles [NORMAL]
1 pack of jerky [NORMAL]
17 boiled eggs [NORMAL]
10 packs of ramen [NORMAL]
7 pristine apples [NORMAL]