“Team Leader Choi?!” “How could you……?” Not only In Yoo-shin, but even Gong Tae-seong groaned as if taken aback. Though his hairstyle was slightly different, the man standing before him was unmistakably Choi Jin-hyuk. Even the man, who usually wore casual attire, was now wearing a suit. The suit felt like a modernized version of a durumagi (traditional Korean overcoat). The man tilted his face. "My name is Choi Jin-hyuk, but…… how did you know?" Hyeon Gyu-ha whispered in In Yoo-shin's ear, who was so shocked that he couldn't even speak properly and was just licking his lips. "Just as there was a Choi Jin-hyuk in our world, there could be a Choi Jin-hyuk in this world too." "Uh, uh-uh....... T-that's right." Choi Jin-hyuk also seemed to realize the situation belatedly, saying, “Aha.” "They say there's a similar world beyond the gate, so it seems there's someone like me in that world. Anyway, greetings again. This is Choi Jin-hyuk of Heptagon." "Haa." Gong Tae-seong sighed and covered his face. He looked utterly confused. In Yoo-shin understood. Having only known Choi Jin-hyeok for a few months, he was already completely out of his mind, so Gong Tae-seong, with their deep connection, must have been even more so. "That kid is using formal language with me, it's so disgusting I feel like my stomach is turning." .......I guess I was confused in another way. Hyeon Gyu-ha, who was the only one who had not lost his composure, spoke calmly. "How did you know we were here?" "Stoyan isn't omnipotent, but he's somewhat omniscient. How about you go?" “Are you forcing me?” "That's not true, but if you don't come with me, you'll have a hard time in the future because there are so many ignorant people here." Before answering, Hyeon Gyu-ha first bowed his head to In Yoo-shin and asked quietly. “What should I do?” "Hmm, Team Leader Choi, I think what he said is right. We don't know anything." "I agree. Even if I have to walk all the way to Romania later, I'll have to extract as much information as possible." After a brief exchange of opinions, Hyeon Gyu-ha nodded. “Please guide me.” Even the few minutes it took to walk to the parking lot left In Yoo-shin astonished. The road to Mount Obong was filled with lush green rice paddies, but here, it was a barren wasteland. He couldn't help but wonder if farming was impossible, and if so, how they could produce food. His surprise grew even greater when he saw the car Choi Jin-hyuk had driven. Its shape was similar to what he knew. It had four wheels, and above them was a space for passengers and luggage. However, the hood, where the engine or other powertrain should have been located, was narrow. "How does a car move?" "It's just that it's moved by magic, but?" "Magic, but……” In Yoo-shin, feeling a bit nervous, was the first to get in when Choi Jin-hyeok opened the back door. Then Hyeon Gyu-ha and Gong Tae-seong followed suit. The car was spacious, so even with all three of them riding, it didn't feel cramped. Hyeon Gyu-ha, caught in the middle, held the cage suspended in midair, a centimeter above his knees. 6-se was still sleeping soundly, even snoring in his sleep, being groomed by 8-se. In Yoo-shin watched with excitement as Choi Jin-hyuk started the engine. Choi Jin-hyuk placed his hand on the frame, imprinted with complex mana circuits. As he injected mana, the mana circuits glowed brightly and the car body vibrated slightly. With that, Choi Jin-hyuk set the car into motion. "Can someone without mana use it?" "If you don't have one, you'll have to charge it separately. I guess it's different in that world?" "Because it uses oil." "It's inefficient. It'll cause a lot of pollution." "That's true. But Team Leader Choi, Ah, I'm sorry. It's so familiar. Choi Jin-hyuk responded nonchalantly, still holding the steering wheel. "Here too, you are the team leader." “Really?” Choi Jin-hyuk gave a brief profile. He possessed a unique ability to manipulate poison. He worked for Heptagon, a government agency. His family, including his younger sibling, died in childhood, and he was still single. His profile was somewhat similar to the Choi Jin-hyuk that In Yoo-shin knew. Hyeon Gyu-ha didn't care what kind of life Choi Jin-hyeok had lived before his eyes, but Gong Tae-seong had a very complex and subtle expression on his face. In Yoo-shin also recognized that Choi Jin-hyeok was a separate entity. But even thinking that way, he felt a slight uneasiness. In Yoo-shin observed her expression and then subtly prodded her. "Team Leader, can't you just talk comfortably?" “Sure.” Choi Jin-hyuk spoke immediately, as if he had been waiting. It was both welcome and a bit eerie to hear someone with the same voice and tone speak. "I'm afraid it might be confusing, so I'll call our team leader Choi Jin-hyeok 1. It's a rude title, but I guess it's okay if I think about it on my own, right?" Only after In Yoo-shin had satisfied his curiosity did Hyeon Gyu-ha open his mouth. "What kind of being is Stoyan here?" "It's a fact known only to a very small number of people, but should we say that he is the one who holds up this damned world from completely collapsing? I think the gods call him the king of the world." "Hmm…… Have you met him?" "I met, so I recognized you right away." In Yoo-shin, who had been listening intently, nodded. Indeed, he must have looked remarkably similar to Hyeon Gyu-ha. *Because he resembles his aunt, Stoya……” He stared quietly at Hyeon Gyu-ha's profile. It felt unrealistic to think that someone so strikingly similar to him was about to sacrifice his own child. "Team Leader, so are we going to Romania?" "Romania? Do you have any business in Romania? Not many people live there, right?" "Huh? Isn't Stoyan in Romania?" "He’s in Hanyang," "Hanyang? Hanyang?" In Yoo-shin's eyes widened, and Gong Tae-seong couldn't hide his surprise. Only Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had seen many of his mother's records about parallel worlds, simply wore a calm expression, saying, "I see." "Then this isn't Korea?" “It’s Joseon?” "Democratic People's Republic of Korea?" "No, just Joseon. Which country's name is that long?" In Yoo-shin breathed a sigh of relief. "Regarding my reincarnation in North Korea, despite living in a unified Korea. Fortunately, the same situation didn't occur.” After hearing more about the story, it turned out that the capital of Joseon, a constitutional monarchy, was Gaeseong, and that Stoyan had been living in Hanyang for 30 years. "It's surprising that Kaesong remains the capital of Joseon." "Oh, sorry. I can't explain that part. I'm not good at history." Gong Tae-seong's face turned in shock. In Yoo-shin understood. For an apology to come out of Choi Jin-hyuk's mouth and be directed at Gong Tae-seong of all people... "That guy definitely didn't have a liberal arts brain..." he muttered, so it seems this is also a common trait between the two Choi Jin-hyuks. In any case, upon hearing the definitive confirmation that Jun's shrine was also in Hanyang, Gong Tae-seong's expression shifted to one that didn't care whether it was in Joseon or North Korea. And Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had initially maintained a disinterested expression, began gathering practical information. First, the terms displayed in system messages, such as those for dungeons, bosses, and artifacts, were identical. In Yoo-shin speculated that, just as the text in the status window appears in the language considered native, the terminology might be established in the language most commonly used in the world where the gate opens. There were differences, too. Because it was a world where one could directly interact with the divine, the concepts of systems and awakening were markedly different. Because the Awakening in Iad was the will of the gods, the system, which was considered a form of oracle, was called an Oracle. Among the Awakened, those with exceptional abilities were referred to as Servants, servants who carried out the will of the gods, and Hunters, who hunted for offerings to the gods. Recently, the term "Hunter" has become almost universally used. While the term "Hunter" was used in the Iron Age, its meaning was quite different. "So, Team Leader, do you also have an attribution artifact? Oh. I apologize if this is an impolite question." "It doesn't really matter since you're not a monster. It's an attribution artifact related to Eric XIV." Eric XIV was the King of Sweden, deposed and poisoned due to madness. It was different from the attribution artifact to Choi Jin-hyeok1, which seemed to be related to the Borgia family. I had a feeling that the artifact symbol on the neck wasn't there, so I thought, "So this is the difference?" Then Gong Tae-seong spoke. "It seems like I don't exist here or have no interaction with Choi Jin-hyuk." "Why?" "Because I was the one who gave that kid the artifact he was supposed to possess." “Aha……” The polite In Yoo-shin swallowed the question that was rising in his throat and held it back, but Hyeon Gyu-ha did not hold it back. "I gave Choi Jin-hyuk a useful artifact, so why is yours like that?" *** Support on Kofi: 151-160 ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

Stoya's face, which had always been lively, darkened. "I'm sorry. I don't know much about what happened on the ground. But if Sora died after arriving at Iad, I would know, but I haven't detected it yet." "Well, then either she didn't come or she's alive, one of the two." “Gyu-ha.” Stoya looked up at Hyeon Gyu-ha, calling his name in a pronunciation that was unfamiliar to her. "Do you resent Sora?" "I don't know." "I hope you don't hate Sora. Sora probably......." Stoya, who seemed about to say something, eventually swallowed her words and muttered. "I have so much to tell you, but I don't have time. If you linger too long underground, Stoyan will become suspicious. "It's been five minutes, so hurry up and get up. I'll contact you later when I get a chance." 8-se who had been among the pitiful children suddenly returned. In Yoo-shin stroked the small body of 8-se who had climbed onto his shoulder. "This is your hometown, and you have many friends, right? If you want to stay, you can stay here." “Chiwoowoo!” 8-se, startled, almost jumped, asking, "What are you talking about?" and grabbed the collar of In Yoo-shin's T-shirt. In Yoo-shin simply laughed in vain at his determined determination to stick with him even if it meant leaving him behind. Before sending the group to the surface, Stoya twitched her lips. Since the language she'd acquired was limited to spoken conversations, In Yoo-shin and Gong Tae-seong couldn't decipher the words she was trying to convey. Don't trust Stoyan. Hyeon Gyu-ha just chuckled and shrugged. I wasn't the kind of fool to trust a father who would sacrifice his own child. *** The ground they'd climbed upon resembled the Mount Obong they'd seen just minutes before. However, despite being midsummer, the sun's heat was noticeably milder, and the dense forest had given way to a sparse canopy. In Yoo-shin looked down. Perhaps it was his mood, but even the sand seemed to be crumbling. Gong Tae-seong muttered softly. "Is this a world where vitality is fading away and the world is slowly approaching its end?" "I think it's still worth living in." Where Hyeon Gyu-ha's gaze landed, a flock of birds was flying low in the sky. He decided to wait for Somnoros to return. [Time remaining: 00 minutes 00 seconds] An hour passed, but the passage remained unclosed. It was a few more minutes before Somnoros appeared. I don't know if this description is accurate for a whale, but its eyes were swollen and bloodshot. 『Prince. Thank you so much for bringing me here. Everyone was worried and waiting for this idiot, who was not only swept away by the great flood, but also fell into the cracks of the world.….. Hyeon Gyu-ha once again cut off Somnoros's excitement in a calm manner. "So, what about Anna's medicine?" Before Somnoros could transmit his telepathy, Inyushin subtly pointed out. “You can communicate here without using dialect?” “Ah, that’s right!” Somnoros, startled, let out a cry and circled around In Yoo-shin, flapping his fins. "As expected, Prince’s lover is incredibly smart!" Even after returning to Iad, Somnoros, who had been praising In Yoo-shin by using his survival instinct, spoke to Gong Tae-seong, who had an anxious expression on his face. "Yarilo (god of vegetation and spring) told me that Anna's blood contains Jun’s energy." "Jun?" Not only In Yoo-shin, but even Hyeon Gyu-ha was hearing of this unfamiliar god for the first time. Only Gong Tae-seong, who had researched all sorts of religions and deities to cure his daughter's divine power addiction, was silent and covered his forehead. ".......It was around the 8th century, I think. He was the sun god worshipped by the Zunbil Dynasty in southern Afghanistan. He was such a minor god that no matter how hard I searched, I couldn't find a clue." "There was a world where Jun's faith flourished, but humans became so corrupt that he passed judgment. I think the Erosion Gate was there." "Can the cure be made?" "Jun left Iad long ago, but he left his powers to the priests. If you go to the big city, there's a temple that still serves him, so you should go there." The cure he'd desperately searched for years finally came into view. Gong Tae-seong's legs suddenly gave out, and he stumbled. In Yoo-shin, who was standing beside him, instinctively tried to support him.….. but was snatched away by Hyeon Gyu-ha. When Hyeon Gyu-ha grabbed his arm, Gong Tae-seong frowned. “What are you doing?” Hyeon Gyu-ha's impression was also quite rotten. "It's better to get my hands dirty than to get Yoo-shin-ssi's hands dirty." “Let go.” Hyeon Gyu-ha immediately withdrew his hand, shaking it with a displeased expression. Gong Tae-seong also shook the arm he'd been holding. In Yoo-shin wondered if Gong Tae-seong, nine years older than Hyeon Gyu-ha, wasn't the one who couldn't live up to his age. After all, Hyeon Gyu-ha was in his twenties! "I'll stay here and keep guarding the door, so get me some medicine quickly." With Somnoros's escort, the three descended the mountain path. Descending a mountain is far more dangerous than ascending. Thanks to this, the descent, tucked into Hyeon Gyu-ha's side, was comfortable. "Gyu-ha-ssi, your father is in Romania?" "Or maybe in Serbia? I don't know if Serbia and Romania have united in this world either." "How do we get to Romania?" "Walking there.....?" In Yoo-shin looked up at Hyeon Gyu-ha, who rubbed the back of his neck with a slightly embarrassed expression. "I didn't bring a bike because I might not be able to get gas here. Or.... maybe train a wild horse that passes by? Iad is a mysterious world, so wouldn't there be something like a Pegasus?" “……” "This is extreme survival." The trip to a remote place was just an excuse that I told Park Seung-ki, but maybe I‘m having a similar experience like that right now. Having been away from Iad for so long, Somnoroth didn't know exactly which city to visit to find Jun's temple. He said he'd never even paid attention to the Korean Peninsula in the first place. 8-se, who lived underground, was equally unaware. "Even after coming to my world, he's still useless..." "But you did give us a clue to how to cure Anna." "That's right. That alone is enough to do my part. I'm proud of you." Gong Tae-seong stared intently at Hyeon Gyu-ha, who changed his stance faster than turning over his hand at In Yoo-shin's single word. “Why? what?” "No... I just thought, maybe this is fate made in heaven." In Yoo-shin, who had the same thoughts after seeing Gong Tae-seong and Min Geut-nyeo, felt a pang of needless pity. "Anyway, let's get back to what we were talking about earlier. I don't know exactly what Iad's history or civilization is like now, but judging by my mother's words and the dungeon's visions, it seems like it was similar to our world at least until the modern era. And most importantly, seeing as the status window is called a servant tablet in English, I guess the US and UK are doing pretty well here too." "Then, is there a shrine in Seoul?" "Even if it's not Seoul, the basic conditions for developing into a large city are similar anywhere in the world." "Aha." That's true. It's along a river, a fertile plain, or a coastal area. I have a general understanding of the Korean Peninsula's topography, so I should be able to find it. Surely I wouldn't have to go all the way to Afghanistan. Listening to Hyeon Gyu-ha's story, I was amazed at how things that had felt so daunting were now clearly organized. Perhaps it was because of his confident words and actions. Gong Tae-seong, who had been listening quietly, turned his gaze away, brushing back his somewhat disheveled hair. "You don't have to go all the way there. I'll just tear you apart when we get down. This is my job." Will it be like that again.….. To judge objectively, Gong Tae-seong's words are correct, but.….. In Yoo-shin looked up furtively, worried about what Hyeon Gyu-ha would say. A thin wrinkle appeared between Hyun Gyu-ha's eyebrows. "Why are you arguing about my schedule? I have to walk to Romania anyway, so it doesn't make much difference whether I stop by Seoul or just go." It's a tough story, but isn't he saying he'll help him find a way to cure Min Anna? As expected, Hyeon Gyu-ha was a good person. In Yoo-shin was pleased, and Gong Tae-seong slightly bowed his head, his expression quite complex. By the way, is it certain that we'll walk all the way to Romania……? Will it be like that again.….. To judge objectively, Gong Tae-seong's words are correct, but.….. In Yoo-shin looked up furtively, worried about what Hyeon Gyu-ha would say. A thin wrinkle appeared between Hyeon Gyu-ha's eyebrows. "Why are you arguing about my schedule? I have to walk to Romania anyway, so it doesn't make much difference whether I stop by Seoul or just go." It's a tough story, but isn't he saying he'll help me find a way to cure Min Anna? As expected, Hyeon Gyu-ha was a good person. In Yoo-shin was pleased, and Gong Tae-seong slightly bowed his head, his expression quite complex. By the way, is it certain that we'll walk all the way to Romania.…..? "Is there any train besides the Pegasus? Even if there was, how would I pay for a ticket? Should I get a part-time job? What should I do without ID? Are there any part-timers here who will hand out cash? How do I cross the border?" While countless questions were floating around in In Yoo-shin's head, the group finally descended to the foot of Mt. Obong. To cut to the chase, I didn't have to walk all the way to Romania. Someone came out to greet them, as if they'd been waiting for the,. "Are you from beyond the gate?" It was a voice so familiar, yet so unexpected that In Yoo-shin's eyes widened at the sound. ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

*** According to what I heard from Hyeon Gyu-ha before, even if you move to a parallel world, your location will not change. So, naturally, Iad should have come to Mount Obong, but what In Yoo-shin saw wasn't a forested mountain and the vast sky beyond, but a dim ray of light and a sand-colored sky. No, rather than a sky.….. "It feels like I've entered the underground." Hyeon Gyu-ha's words gave him chills, and he snuggled closer to him. The humidity was so thick it felt like a basement. Gong Tae-seong slowly pulled out his sword. The Japanese sword he used before had disappeared, but it was a different weapon. "Even the whale is gone." “That guy has a separate body, so he must have gone straight to the divine realm.” He looked at 6-se's condition while clinging closely to Hyeon Gyu-ha. [Name: Henri Raymond Charles François VI] [Current status: Comfortable. Sleeping.] He was sleeping soundly, regardless of whether he crossed the world or not. Thank goodness. "8-seya. Are you okay?" “Squeak.” 8-se knocked on the cage, as if begging for it to be opened. While In Yoo-shin took off the cover and opened the cage, it scurried into the palm of his hand. The way he looked around and scrunched his nose was a familiar sight. "You said you lived underground too? Is that where you used to live?" Before 8-se could even answer that question. A loud voice was heard. In Yoo-shin quickly hid behind Hyeon Gyu-ha, peeking out with his face. He saw small people barely reaching his knees. They swarmed over, chattering, but I couldn't understand a single word. But at least I didn't sense any malice. The low, smiling face seemed to welcome them. Gong Tae-seong put away his sword, and Hyeon Gyu-ha rubbed his chin without completely letting his guard down. "It's Romanian. They're saying something like, 'It's nice to meet you.'" "Gyu-ha-ssi, can you speak Romanian too?" “I taught myself. Serbian too.” “Wow.” When In Yoo-shin was impressed, he tilted his head with a cold expression. "Don't you praise me as a genius pet mouse?" "Gyu-ha-ssi is the greatest language genius in the universe!" “Your face is also a genius.” "Of course!" "His love for Master is also genius." "Haa." He pretended not to hear Gong Tae-seong sighing behind them. "You two, can't you please act your age? It's not like you're elementary school students dating." "I think it's better than doing something that will get you beaten by your ex-wife at that age." “…….” As we talked, the tension eased. I was worried that we might not be able to communicate even after we got back to the surface. Suddenly, the direction the dwarves had come from became confusing. He turned his head and saw a girl running towards him. In Yoo-shin's eyes widened at the sight of the girl, who appeared to be around ten years old. The color combination of her hair and eyes was identical to Hyeon Gyu-ha's. "Драго ми је да смо се упознали! Моје име је....... (Nice to meet you! My name is.......)" It was a different situation from when she had been communicating directly with her brain. The girl, who had been chattering excitedly, suddenly looked as if she had been taken aback when In Yoo-shin didn't seem to understand. Then, she reached out and grabbed In Yoo-shin, Hyeon Gyu-ha, and Gong Tae-seong's hands, one after the other. As In Yoo-shin flinched reflexively, Hyeon Gyu-ha spoke quietly. "I think it's to help you learn the language. So, Gong Tae-seong, you too, let go of your mental barrier." As she said, a warm feeling seeped into his hand as he held hers, and then a concept took hold in his head. The girl smiled brightly and repeated. Amazingly, this time, I understood everything she said. "Nice to meet you! My name is Stoya. You are Gyu-ha, Yoo-shin, and.….. Uh, who are you?" Stoya, who had accurately identified In Yoo-shin even upon first seeing him, tilted her head at the sight of Gong Tae-seong. She looked somehow similar to Hyeon Gyu-ha. "You don't have to worry about it. It's just an unnecessary extra that comes with the two plus one." "Aha, I see!" I thought that she was indeed Hyeon Gyu-ha's aunt, as she accepted those words without thinking them strangely. "It's really nice to meet you." "That, Stoya-nim?" “Call me Stoya.” "Is this underground?" The underground is also where Stoya is buried. He asked cautiously, and she nodded readily. "Unn! The world below the ground also means the world of the dead. I'd really like to talk about so much, but I don't have much time. Would you like to eat this first?" What Stoya held out was a pomegranate fruit. Food in the world of the dead.….. isn't this a bit dangerous? He glanced back and saw that Hyeon Gyu-ha also looked uneasy. He didn't beat around the bush or anything, but asked directly. "If I eat this, won't I be trapped in the underworld and never be able to return to the surface?" Stoya looked surprised. "No! This pomegranate is not a real fruit that grows in the underworld. It's a fake I created to deceive 'Providence.' The effects of eating it will end in five minutes." "What is providence?" "Don't you have it in your world too? Like this, letters appearing in the air." It seemed like she was talking about a system. Watching In Yoo-shin struggle to decide whether to eat or not, Hyeon Gyu-ha quietly collected his thoughts. I knew nothing about Stoya beyond superficial facts, nor had I heard anything. However, she seemed to have been planning something to deceive Stoyan for quite some time. If that's the case, then it's understandable why he wouldn't be willing to go along. "I'll try it first." Hyeon Gyu-ha picked a few pomegranates and ate them without hesitation. [Henri Raymond Charles François VII ate the 'pomegranate of the underworld'.] “Um, I don’t really feel like I’ve become a ghost caught in the underworld.” “Then I‘ll also…...” In Yoo-shin also took a bite of the fruit. If Stoya had tricked us, I could have just lived underground with Hyeon Gyu-ha. Stoya, who had been watching anxiously, unable to force him to eat the pomegranate, opened her eyes and sparkled. "Thank you for trusting me! Next, could you please show me the Servant Tablet?" "What is that?" "Uh, do the humans call you something different there?" “It’s a status window.” Gong Tae-seong, who had been watching silently with his arms crossed, explained. "The whale said that in his world, humans call the status window a servant tablet." "Aha." In Yoo-shin, who had summoned the status window, was a little surprised, as it was not difficult to open. The previously broken text was now clearly visible. Along with the newly added attributes.….. [Hidden attributes] - Krsnik he glanced at Hyeon Gyu-ha's status window and it was the same. [Hidden characteristics] - Vampire Traits - and Iad's hybrid - Dhampir - The king's illegitimate son 'The Age of Iron has become longer. Perhaps the letters are broken and written in their original Greek form? In Yoo-shin recalled the story he'd heard from Hyeon Gyu-ha before coming to Iad. He'd said he was a vampire hunter, inheriting his attributes from generation to generation. Seeing it reflected in my status window felt strangely strange. Meanwhile, Stoya stretched out her arm as soon as the two people's status screens appeared. As if she were looking at someone else's status screen, her hand reached out and touched the string of letters floating in the air. Stoya rubbed her hands as if erasing with an eraser. Krsnik disappeared from Hidden attributes. [Hidden attributes] Hyeon Gyu-ha's status window was the same. [Hidden attributes] — vampire traits A hybrid of _______________________ and Iad - The king's illegitimate son Hyeon Gyu-ha's eyes narrowed. "You were a being that could even erase attributes?" "Hey, if that's possible, then I'm a god, not a mere king. I just tricked Providence, temporarily made them residents of the Underworld, and then hid their special traits so they wouldn't be seen. I can't touch the human servant tablets, but I can for the residents of the Underworld. Just as Stoyan can do all sorts of things on the surface, I can do most things underground." “Squeak!” At some point, 8-se, who was chatting with the dwarfs and pitiches on the other side, also responded as if he agreed with what was said. "Callicantzaros, huh? You must have had a hard time in this unfamiliar place. It's all thanks to you that these children arrived safely. You're truly a blessing." “It’s so pretty!” Hyeon Gyu-ha bent down and whispered in In Yoo-shin's ear. "Yoo-shin-ssi, your hidden attributes are also hidden?" "Yes. It's better if you can't see it, right?" "That's right. I guess that bastard was trying to hide his attributes from his father." It was an unexpected achievement. At least it prevented Stoyan from attempting to kill In Yoo-shin after he discovered he was Krsnik. And it's clear that Stoya is putting a lot of effort into this.….. 'You probably don't have a good relationship with your father or are in conflict? Either way was fine. Even if she was just trying to use me, I was willing to be used as long as their goals aligned. There was one thing I needed to know before that. "My mother came here, right?" ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

『You are a child who inherited the name given by God.』 It feels strange to hear someone call me a child, a voice that sounded much younger than my own. But even if it didn't work out, I had to do it. In Yoo-shin slowly took a deep breath and opened the pendant. Inside, with Stoya's blood sloshing around, he began to draw the magic circle she had injected into his mind on the ground. The mana-infused blood slithered across the ground, writhing like a snake. Despite his nerves being tense to avoid mistakes, once he started drawing, it flowed smoothly. He even felt a strange sense of mastery, a magical quality that was becoming second nature. The magic circle was finally completed. It was a seven-pointed star, a seven-pointed star. It was detailed, though. He carefully compared it with the magic circle in his head, and there was nothing wrong. Then, he placed Stoya's heart in the center of the magic circle. "Gyu-ha-ssi, starting from this horn and ending with the horn on the other side, inject your mana into it as if you were drawing a single stroke." "All right." As Hyeon Gyu-ha directed, he used his mana. The magic circle glowed blood red, and a swirling light formed. The swirling light gradually seeped into his heart, and a new notification window appeared. [Henri Raymond Charles François VII owns the 'True Heart of Stoya'.] "Are you saying that everything I've had until now was salty? Where is the saltiness and sweetness in my one and only heart?" Even while grumbling, Hyeon Gyu-ha used his heart as before. [Uses the 'True Heart of Stoya' owned by Henri Raymond Charles François VII.] [The passage to Iad has been connected.] [Time remaining: 60 minutes 00 seconds] There was plenty of time. "It can't even compare to salty." "It seems easier than before to hold on to myself so I don't close!" Somnoros kept wagging his tail. He wanted to jump in first, but it seemed like he was waiting for Hyeon Gyu-ha to go first. Jang Beom, who had been watching the series of events with eyes that were filled with disbelief, stuck out his tongue. "I don't know what it is, but it's really amazing…… so you're saying I should just wait forever in front of this gate with its weird, butcher-shop lighting?" That was definitely a problem. You never know who might come. "It's your problem to figure out." "Hey, Gyu-ha-ya. I'm a delicate man who doesn't have thick skin like you." Fortunately, the problem was solved thanks to an item Gong Tae-seong had prepared in advance. It was a barrier that required matching mana patterns to be disguised, and it was an item often used in the gates Hyeon Gyu-ha also possessed. “Phew. I don’t know why you’re going, but I hope Papa, Yoo-shin, and Gyu-ha all don’t get hurt and have a safe trip.” “I’ll be back.” In Yoo-shin bowed to the only person who knew the situation and saw him off, then took Hyeon Gyu-ha's hand. ".....are you okay?" "Of course it's okay since I’m going with Gyuha-ssi!" In Yoo-shin, speaking with a forceful voice, smiled back at Hyeon Gyu-ha, who was gently arching his eyes. Hyeon Gyu-ha, finally relaxing his expression, whispered in his ear. "Then shall we go? To the world sustained by the human sacrifice of the siblings Stoyan and Stoya." And then, holding hands, they stepped across the passage. 15. The creator god Doomnezeul and the evil god Necuratul worked together to create the first human, Cuffkni. It was a half-success, half-failure. Cuffkni was greedy and cruel. Next, Doomnesuel created the giant Uriah and the dwarf Pitić. Finally, he breathed divine life into them, creating the present-day human race. They lived together in harmony, but at some point, Uriah became even more violent than Cuffkni. The humans, tainted by this, also became likewise affected. Dumnezeul punished Uriah for his cruelty with a great flood and sent the pure Pitić to the underworld to live in peace. Now, only "humans" remain on earth. Those who were imbued with Uriah were destroyed in the great flood, while only the righteous remained. Necuratul thought, "Maybe I can create a new human too." However, no matter how much he molded human forms from clay, Necuratul could not breathe the breath of life into them like Doomnezeul could. So, Necuratul decided to extract the "breath of life" from the humans Doomnezeul had created. It was the birth of a vampire who sucks the blood of humans and lives off of them. Vampires, lacking "life," neither age nor die, but cannot multiply through any means other than sucking blood. Sexual intercourse between vampires does not produce children. For vampires to produce biological offspring, they need humans. Jinjo, the first vampire created by Necuratul, also had a child with a human woman. It's unclear whether they were truly in love, or whether Jinjo had blinded her reason and deluded her into pretending to be in love. Especially for the son born from their marriage, the only thing that mattered was the fact that his father was a vampire, created by an evil spirit and coveting the Creator's possessions. The young man could not fit into either vampire or human society. Vampires scorned half-breeds, and humans despised the demonic offspring born with corrupted blood. The young man had only his mother. Mother, mother, my mother. The only person his mother, whose health had suffered greatly while giving birth to him, could rely on was the young man. "As long as she needs me, I will never break," the young man swore. Only that love sustained him. And the young man saw. It was greedily tearing out the heart from the corpse of its dead mother and sucking her blood. The black beast. That beast was his father. Jinjo greeted his son, whom he hadn't seen in a long time, for the first time. The young man howled and attacked him. The pain was excruciating. In return, the young man only managed to wound Jinjo's arm. Under the cold ridicule, the young man's heart slowly stopped beating. And so, in despair, he died. How much time has passed? When the broken young man's heart began to beat again, there was a boy shining white in front of him. The boy's world was shattered by vampires. He lost his family, and his village was decimated. His father and mother died to save their children, and his older sister and older brother died to save his youngest sibling. Everyone died. Only the boy survived the corpse-pile. In a collapsing world, the boy cried out desperately. The god of summer sun and fire responded to the boy's plea, who had cut open his own chest and offered his heart on the altar. Taking pity on the young boy's fate, the god personally imparted his power in the form of magic and even bestowed upon him his own name. Now, the boy was a white beast hunting a black beast. With even his original name erased, he existed only as a tool for hunting vampires. That's how the boy and the young man met. "I've tied your fate to mine. You won't die unless I die." It was a long time, a very long time. Listing their journey is a redundant process. No one but each other knew the pain they had overcome, the suffering they endured. The young man and the boy were the only pair in the world. At the end of their journey, the youth and the boy reached Jinjo. The boy had fulfilled his long-held revenge, and the youth had to shoulder the burden of murdering his father. It was the will of a boy whose heart had been pierced by Jinjo's hand. Leaving his father's crumbling body behind, and cradling the boy's corpse, the young man pondered. What meaning does freedom have for me, no longer a hunter, for me, left alone? The young man, who had spent seven days and seven nights carrying the boy's body, told the gods about this and then took his own life. Doomnezuel took their fate. Thus, the fate and names of the youth and boy who were each other's partners were passed down from generation to generation, and those who hunted vampires were born. The young man was called Dhampir, meaning son of a vampire, and the boy, named after the god of the summer sun and fire, was called Krsnik. After the long story, Necuratul spoke in a cold voice. 【So, dead king, why are you telling me something everyone already knows? Are you saying I'm responsible for Stoyan?】 【So what do you want to ask of me?】 The young girl held her small back straight, even in the face of the oppressive presence of the evil god, who stood shoulder to shoulder with the Creator. Although tormented by deep guilt, the girl spoke in a steady, clear voice. ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

"Gyu-ha-ssi is an exception!" Hyeon Gyu-ha's face, which had been bowed down with a gloomy expression, slowly rose. "I didn't hear you right, just say it one more time……" "So, Gyu-ha-ssi is an exception." “……” "Because Gyu-ha-ssi is Gyu-ha-ssi, because there is only Gyu-ha-ssi, that, that......." As he moved his lips, In Yoo-shin realized what he was saying and blushed brightly. But he didn't stop. "Because it's Gyu-ha-ssi, I…… like it……" “……” At this point, Hyeon Gyu-ha, who should have been spouting some nonsense or making a sex joke, remained silent. Perhaps I was speaking too quietly for her to hear? In Yoo-shin glanced up, flinching. Even under the dim streetlight, Hyeon Gyu-ha's face was clearly visible, a deep crimson hue. It was incomparable to In Yoo-shin's blush. “Gyu-ha-ssi?” “……” “Gyu-ha-ssi.” ".....Y-yes?!" He simply tugged at the sleeve of his riding jacket, and called out, but Hyeon Gyu-ha jumped as if he'd been kicked in the back of his foot. Watching his hands flailing in the air, In Yoo-shin felt a sense of unease. His panic only served to calm the person who confessed. 'There's no place to roll around here if you stumble……’ Still, just in case, he grabbed his arm, and Hyeon Gyu-ha groaned and collapsed. In Yoo-shin crouched down in front of him, who had collapsed face down on the floor. “Are you okay?” "It’s just that my legs felt so weak……" Watching him mumbling, unable to even look at me, my heart ached for no reason. The weight of my liking him and his liking me were clearly different. Knowing that, he didn't twist it, but accepted it as it was. I felt grateful and sorry for him. In Yoo-shin hesitated for a moment and then carefully opened his lips. “......Gyu-ha Hyung.” “……” That day, In Yoo-shin learned that even when something too good happens to a person, he can still die. After a period of urgent time has passed. "Master, let us make one promise......." “Which one?” "Please try not to say anything like 'Hyung'....... There are so many things I haven't done with you, Master, and I can't die already." “……yep.” In Yu-shin agreed with Hyun Gyu-ha's hazy voice. He hadn't realized the destructive power of a single word, "Hyung." *** He looked around the dimly lit attic. Everything was cleaned up, and there seemed to be nothing left to take care of. Even after returning from Dalgasa, the two had been busy. They explored a tteokbokki restaurant they hadn't been to before, and even met up with Lee Hye-yeon and Kwon Seong-gil outside for a double date. He also had a meal with Min Geut-nyeo. The more I met her, the more I liked her. I'd heard from Hyeon Gyu-ha that she was a scary person, but she still helped them a lot after Kang Seok-woo's death. I was truly grateful. I hope to meet Min Anna again next time when she is healthy. He asked Park Seung-gi to occasionally check in on him while he was away. Hyeon Gyu-ha's stuffed animals escorted him from their storage box. "Aren't you going to take that monster?" Hyeon Gyu-ha asked, but he left them there to guard the house. I hoped that one day I would return with Hyeon Gyu-ha, dust off the storage box, and take out the stuffed animals. In Yoo-shin, who had finally taken in the room, turned his back without hesitation. "It's not too late even now." "It's a little late. I think the guild leader is here." Even though he knew what he meant, Hyeon Gyu-ha didn't say anything else and just placed a soft kiss on the top of his head. In that way, In Yoo-shin came down from the attic together with Hyeon Gyu-ha. "Yoo-shin-ah, Gyu-ha-ya. Hello?" "Hello." Unlike Hyeon Gyu-ha, who consistently ignored him, In Yoo-shin bowed to Jang Beom. On long-distance drives, you have to look good to the driver. “Get on quickly.” Gong Tae-seong, in the passenger seat, nodded. As they entered the back seat, Jang Beom looked at him with a curious expression. “What is that cage that Gyu-ha is holding? Is it a hamster?” "It’s one that I had tamed. She's old, so I can't leave her to anyone else." 6-se slept soundly in a covered cage, while 8-se looked after him. The inventory was filled with 6-se's food and supplies. 8-se would be able to eat human food, so preparations were thorough. The car driven by Jang Beom took off. In Yoo-shin didn't look back, but instead squeezed Hyeon Gyu-ha's hand tightly. As if in response, Hyeon Gyu-ha slowly stroked the back of his hand. As we entered the highway, Jang Beom opened his mouth. "Papa, we've come this far, isn't it time you started talking? Why are we going to Hoeryong, and why do I have to wait there forever?" "I'm on my way to get Anna's medicine. The guys sitting behind me have other business." "Young lady’s medicine?! Are you sure?" "Maybe." Even Hyeon Gyu-ha, who was close to Min Geut-nyeo, didn't know about Min Anna's illness, but Jang Beom seemed to know. He was as delighted as if he had cured his own child. "That's great. Maybe you could smuggle yourself from Hoeryong to northern China? Is there any medicine you can get there?" "I can't explain in detail since I'm not the only one involved, but you can think of it as them artificially opening the gate to procure the medicine." "What are you talking about?" Jang Beom grumbled a complaint, but didn't pursue it further. He stopped at a rest stop, grabbed a snack, and even got Hyeon Gyu-ha to massage his aching back, and before he knew it, he was in Hoeryong. When we reached the entrance of Mt. Obong, Somnoros appeared. "Oh my gosh, you startled me. I thought I was going to lose the baby." 『You're a man and you're having a baby?』 "It's just a saying. But wait, that fish can use telepathy too?" 『Because I'm scared of Prince……』 Jang Beom, unfamiliar with Somnoros, instinctively took out the Gandiva and put it away. 『I'll guide you! I can feel the energy, so I guess it's still open.』 Although it had emerged in broad daylight, perhaps due to the excitement of finally being able to return home, Somnoros showed no signs of sleep. Watching its massive tail fin flick excitedly, the group ascended the mountain path. In Yoo-shin stared at 6-se sleeping in a cage, floating with psychokinesis. It must be comfortable and effortless to climb a mountain if you're in there. How envious…… “I don’t know why I have to come all the way here to climb a mountain.” "Please do your best for the happiness of your beloved pet rat." "I'm the one doing the hiking, so why is Gyu-ha-ssi doing it?" "What will happen to your stomach if you go hiking?" "Are your abs as thick as a fingernail……?" "Who would be happy if they licked that?" “……?” In Yoo-shin, panting and crawling, was startled by those words, but fortunately, Gong Tae-seong and Jang Beom, who were ahead of him, were too busy talking to hear. Jang Beom aside, Gong Tae-seong, wearing a suit, was so good at hiking the mountain path, wasn't that unfair? "So, does that mean that if Papa goes this time, we don't know when you'll be back?" "If I’m unlucky, I might not be able to come back." "Oh, shit. So that's why you made Seohee the temporary guild leader? I thought you were taking another sabbatical. You should definitely think about coming back!" "If it's Park Seo-hee, she'll lead the guild well." "Sir! I told you to think about coming back!" Jang Beom, who was about to grab Gong Tae-seong by the collar and urge him to hurry, sighed deeply. "Haaa…… I've become a person who can't be satisfied without Papa when I use my abilities. Are you just going to train me and then abandon me? You bad Papa......" “It feels so good to know that I won’t have to listen to your dirty talk anymore.” In Yoo-shin, unintentionally overhearing the conversation, wondered who would win if Hyeon Gyu-ha and Jang Beom engaged in a battle of wits. 'Of course Gyu-ha-ssi wins! Gyuha-ssi's mouth is the best!' In Yoo-shin, who had taken a bold step forward with a proud heart, suddenly lost all strength in his back and hung onto Hyeon Gyu-ha's side, who had quickly supported him. Having been tucked into his side so often, he now felt as comfortable as being carried. "I can't say for sure when it will be, but if you wait in front of the door, there will be a vial or something similar. Take it and give it to the girl." "Vice President, do you know that I might not be able to come?" “I didn’t say anything.” "I see……” With those words, Jang Beom also fell silent, and the group continued up the mountain path in silence. After climbing along the rugged terrain for quite some time, near the peak, and then turning onto a beast of burden instead of a hiking trail, Somnoros finally looked back with sparkling eyes. 『Here!』 "Hmm. I don't have the skill to measure mana, so I'm not sure if that's correct." 『That's right! Why would I lie on my way home?』 In Yoo-shin, groaning at Hyeon Gyu-ha's side, examined him, but still couldn't figure it out. Anyway, if it was true, he had to prepare to open the door. In Yoo-shin, who had slowly descended from his side, received the pendant and heart from Hyeon Gyu-ha. ......I can even feel the warmth, so it's a bit scary because it feels like a heart that was just taken out of the body?! I tried to shake off the chills, recalling the method Stoya had taught me. No matter how much I thought about it, it felt a bit like magic. After the first gate opened, all sorts of abilities emerged, but none had been reported as truly magical. "I only have one chance. Will I be able to use this magic thing properly?" Stoya whispered to the worried In Yoo-shin in a voice that sounded very apologetic. ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

“What is it?” Hyeon Gyu-ha moved his lips as if he was reciting an encyclopedia. "Dalgasa Temple. Completed in 1392. Founded with the support of the Jeong clan, it is famous for the crazy remarks of the first chief priest, who named the temple after Jeong Mong-ju less than two months after the Seonjuk Bridge Incident." It was the origin of the temple that even In Yoo-shin, who had lived there for over 10 years, often forgot. "But why is that a pity?" "If the world had been one where religion had such a huge influence, Buddhism might have also joined the fray at the end of the Goryeo Dynasty. Then, Joseon might have done the opposite, suppressing Buddhism and driving temples into the mountains." "Oh, so that means I might have grown up in the mountains? It must have been incredibly difficult going back and forth from the mountains to school……" "Walking on mountain trails is great exercise. Running around like a flying squirrel through the mountains like that, Yoo-shin-ssi might have naturally built up some muscle. It's nice to still be chubby, but sometimes I'd like to lick Yoo-shin-ssi's abs…,.." In Yoo-shin quickly covered his mouth with his palm to prevent inappropriate remarks from spilling out on public transportation in broad daylight. "Because of Gyu-ha-ssi, I'm always stuck at the gym, so I'm not that flabby anymore……!" "Then will you let me lick it?" "Why is the conversation going back to that!" As he listened to the remarkably irreverent words of a Buddhist monk on the way to a temple, a familiar sight suddenly appeared. A young novice monk was waiting in front of Dalgasa Temple, situated in a scenic location overlooking the Yesong River. “Yoo-shin-ah!” “Woo-ju Hyung!” Seong Woo-joo, who grew up in an orphanage like In Yoo-shin and then became a monk, happily welcomed his younger sibling. Although he was given a Buddhist name, he was still more familiar with his secular name. After exchanging greetings, he also put his hands together to pray to Hyeon Gyu-ha. "You're Hunter Hyeon-nim, right? I've heard a lot from Yoo-shin." "Even if you cursed at me, whatever Yoo-shin-ssi said was true." "I didn't curse you or anything!" Seong Woo-joo smiled at In Yoo-shin's startled reaction and guided him to the temple. The temple's signature sandalwood scent mingled with the scent of the plants and trees planted throughout the temple grounds. Hyeon Gyu-ha found the scent, steeped in In Yoo-shin's childhood, sweet. Inside, people were waiting, including the head monk and the monks who mainly looked after the orphanage. In Yoo-shin, sitting next to Hyeon Gyu-ha, felt as if he were being interviewed. He sipped his first cup of flower tea, which he hadn't had in a long time. He had once tried to cover the azaleas in his backyard with petals, only to fail miserably. In Yoo-shin carefully engraved the memories that filled his eyes everywhere he looked. The monks welcomed Hyeon Gyu-ha with open arms. He was just as courteous as when he spoke to In-jeon, who had mistakenly thought In Yoo-shin had attempted suicide. After a warm conversation, Joo Ji-seung started to talk. "Yoo-shin-ah, does Hunter Hyeon know the story of before you came to our temple?" “Yes. Everything.” “I see.” He smiled broadly with a relieved expression. "Our Yoo-shin has suffered many wounds since he was young. I am truly fortunate to have formed a precious relationship with such a dependable person as Hunter Hyeon-nim to him." "You think so? I think the opposite." Hyeon Gyu-ha lowered his eyes and smiled faintly. "I don't know if you know, but I don't have parents. That's why I had a rough time during puberty. In fact, it's still ongoing…… Every time that happens, Yoo-shin-ssi helps me live as a human being. If I hadn't met Yoo-shin-ssi before, there might have been a crazy murderer here instead of Hunter Hyeon Gyu-ha." The monks seemed to think it was a cruel joke, but In Yoo-shin held his breath as he remembered him from 14 years ago. Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had stopped laughing, bowed his head politely. "Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to meet you again, Yoo-shin-ssi." As they stepped outside, the children from the orphanage, who had just heard the story, were milling about. Even as they greeted In Yoo-shin, the children, who had been unfamiliar with him, widened their eyes when Hyeon Gyu-ha took out the toys and snacks he'd brought. Then, as their bodies floated in the air, they swayed with excitement. He's the type of person who doesn't seem to be very friendly with children, but I was happy to see him secretly playing well with Min Anna and others. While the children were running wild and exhausted, I took the opportunity to tour the orphanage. Part of my goal was to capture the scenery I'd grown up in before I left for Iad, but more than anything, I wanted to show Hyeon Gyu-ha photos from my childhood. In Yoo-shin, who brought the album that the monks had periodically developed and stored away, felt a little embarrassed. It felt similar to exposing hidden shameful details, or revealing a naked face. "You shouldn't laugh at me and say I have a strange face." "You have to hold onto them so I don't steal your album, even though you have a cute face, right?" "It's really weird......." After his hair grew thicker, he gently slid his finger through an old album he'd barely seen before. Opening the old album, Hyeon Gyu-ha found In Yoo-shin. A child, stuffed with the sorrow of his parents' death and abandoned amidst his grandmother's sobs. In silence, Hyeon Gyu-ha slowly flipped through the album. The shadowy, wounded face of the child, once reluctant to even take a single picture, slowly, over a long period of time, broke into a bright smile, transforming into the In Yoo-shin he now knew. He closed the album with his high school graduation photo as the last, covered his face, and took a deep breath as if he was letting out something he had been holding in for a very long time. "I've often thought that. If only I could have recognized the young Yoo-shin-ssi 14 years ago, when the flames hadn't roared so violently and my vision hadn't blurred…… If only I had known that child was alone and could have brought him back." “……” "But after looking at old photos of Yoo-shin-ssi, I realized I was wrong. I was young back then, and I wasn't a proper human being, so maybe it wasn't good for us to be together. I'm so glad Yoo-shin-ssi was able to grow up in Dalgasa." Hearing his words, In Yoo-shin also imagined the moment when 14-year-old Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had lost those he had relied on, was reunited with his 8-year-old self. As Hyeon Gyu-ha said, I may not have been able to heal his wounds, but I would have spent more time with him instead. I thought that life wouldn't have been so bad. Hyeon Gyu-ha smiled and gently brushed In Yoo-shin's disheveled hair back with his fingertips. "Unlike 14 years ago, I'm currently a person who is trying to be in the good group, right?" Hearing that Hyeon Gyu-ha was a good person would make him jump out of his sleep, but In Yoo-shin nodded enthusiastically. To him, Hyeon Gyu-ha was always a good person. "It's a bit of a shame that young Yoo-shin-ssi missed the chance to call me 'Hyung-ah.'" Hearing that, something suddenly came to mind. "If I had grown up with Gyu-ha-ssi since long ago, would I have become close with the Vice President and called her 'Noona'?" "That must have been the case. If it was Geut-nyeo Noona, she would have definitely pushed Yoo-shin-ssi hard." "In that case, I might have become close with the guild leader, who dated the vice president for a long time and married them and would have had a Hyung & Dongsaeng relationship." “……” Hyeon Gyu-ha's expression hardened. He sighed heavily and pressed his palm to his forehead. "Wait. Wait a minute…… No, how is this a choice......" Watching him contemplate so seriously, In Yoo-shin thought to himself that it would have been nice if he had grown up with him since he was little. Not listening to the word "Hyung-ah" VS the young Yoo-shin who calls him "Hyung-ah". However, Gong Tae-seong ends up being called "Hyung-ah" by him too. What is your choice in this case? It was while eating dinner together and walking around the temple under the streetlights that Hyeon Gyu-ha found the answer to the world's most difficult problem. “It won’t work either.” “What is it?” "I can't put the cute Yoo-shin-ssi, who calls me Hyung-ah', in Gong Tae-seong's eyes. That's something only I can see." “……” Are you saying you were still pondering that? Even while In Yoo-shin was secretly sweating, Hyeon Gyu-ha continued to lay out the conclusions of his long deliberation. "First of all, Gong Tae-seong is much older than me. That person's first digit will change to 4 in just a few years. Yoo-shin-ssi, you like older men, so you absolutely can't be near him." "I've never really liked older men." "Huh? You said you liked older men last time!" “When did I?” "You definitely said you were!" After hearing Hyeon Gyu-ha's urgent explanation, In Yoo-shin finally recalled his memories. It was the day he was first introduced to Choi Jin-hyeok and Song Chan-young. Listening to it, I think we had that kind of conversation. "It's true that older men are good…… but doesn't that just mean they're good as humans?" "......You don't like older men?" "I don't like men either." A gloomy shadow appeared on Hyeon Gyu-ha's face. "......Will you like me if I become a woman?" "Wh-what's going on?" "You said you don't like men…… It's sad that I couldn't use it on you properly, Master, but I'm sorry for your……” "If it's to be loved, that little lump of flesh......." Before the forbidden words could leave his mouth, In Yoo-shin shouted urgently. ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

- The headquarters of the largest criminal guild in Northern China, the Chongjitau, located in Tianjin, was mysteriously destroyed overnight…… The strategic materials Chongjitau had been holding were lost, and the Northern China government…… While watching the news on his phone, In Yoo-shin suddenly remembered a conversation he had with Hyeon Gyu-ha a while ago. It was a light walk, as if he was going to the market next door to buy weapons…… Could it be that he had turned into a criminal guild? In Yoo-shin checked Hyeon Gyu-ha's condition while sweating profusely. [Name: Henri Raymond Charles François VII] [Current Status: Affection. Separation anxiety. Refreshing. Insufficient.] I guess it’s refreshing that he has worked out after a long time, and it doesn't mean that he's still lacking in weapons, right……? Despite his anxious mind, news of the destruction of the biggest and worst criminal guilds in Russia, Japan, the United States, and Mexico continued to pour in, and In Yoo-shin decided to pay no attention. He was busy simply chatting with Hyeon Gyu-ha, who regularly called and texted him, even though the time difference meant he was busy. It's a journey where I don't know when I'll return, and maybe I won't. While organizing my surroundings, he contacted Park Seung-gi and met him. "You're going on a trip with Hyung-nim?" "Uh. I'm going to be going a bit far away, so I don't think I'll be able to contact you for a while. I'll ask you to take care of the succulents." "I have my own, so it's no trouble to look after yours too. But where are you going that you won't have service? Are there still places without cell phone reception these days?" "It's a trip to a remote place." I was planning to cancel my cell phone soon, so I thought about going on a trip to a remote area as an excuse to go somewhere out of reach. Park Seung-gi agreed without hesitation. "Well, if you're going with Hyung-nim, wouldn't it be as comfortable as a five-star hotel?" Seeing my friend, who seemed unsuspecting, made me feel bad about lying. But revealing the details was already a tedious process, and I was also worried that Park Seung-gi, concerned about me, would try to dissuade me. I hope I can get back safely and can tell him the truth. The setting was a stylish cafe, famous as a hot spot on social media. In Yoo-shin took out his phone. "Hey. It's been a while since we took a picture together." “What the hell is wrong with you? Why are you being so creepy? 'Long time no see?' We've never even taken a picture together before." "If I go somewhere, I might forget your face." "Why would do you forget a face you've seen for over 10 years?" "I think that if I just look at the handsome face of Gyu-ha-ssi in this remote area where there are few people, I'll forget about other people." He forced himself into a seat next to Park Seung-gi, who was glaring at him, as if to say, "So, am I a squid?" He snapped a photo. Though his face still looked displeased, In Yoo-shin was satisfied. Even with Park Seung-gi, he liked this kind of thing. A few days later, Hyeon Gyu-ha also returned to the country. "I really wanted to see you, I thought I was going to die!" As soon as he met him at the airport, where he had gone to pick him up, he clung to him, rubbing his back as he recharged. I was so happy to see his broad chest, his unwaveringly pleasant scent, and the comfort of his embrace. I don't know if he raided other places besides the criminal guild, but Hyeon Gyu-ha looked quite satisfied. "Yoo-shin-ssi, I bought a new sleeping bag while traveling abroad, and I also bought a gift for you, so can't we sleep together today?" “It’s okay.” “I haven't been with you for a few days, so I'm lacking the master's energy…… Unn?” “It’s possible.” Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had assumed he would initially reject the offer and had prepared a sophistry to push through, opened his mouth narrowly. Then, covering his forehead, he examined In Yoo-shin with a serious expression. "What? You are my master…… But let me ask a question just to confirm. Do you know what size I am? Something other than three?" "If you keep acting like that, I'm going to kick you out." "Okay, okay." Hyeon Gyu-ha smiled brightly and quickly wrapped his arms around In Yoo-shin's shoulders. It was a new feeling, but it was a truly beautiful smile. [Current status: Affection. Murder. Happiness.] It was a wonderful feeling to share the same happiness in the little things of everyday life. *** He picked up a flyer on the street, cut it in half, drew on one side, and on the other. Then he placed dried broccoli, 6-se's favorite, on each side. Coincidentally, 6-se’s cheek pockets were already bulging. It was great. In Yoo-shin gently took 6-se, who had been staying up late for a rare moment, out of the cage, placed him on the palm of his hand, and looked him in the eye. His shiny black eyes sparkled as he gazed at him. "6-seya, I'm going to be going away for a while. It's a long journey. I don't know when I'll be back, and I might never see you again." “Squeak!” "I can't leave you behind, you're old and need my care, but it's a dangerous road with no end in sight. I'm worried you might get hurt." “Squeak.” "If I leave you behind, I plan to ask the monks at the temple where I grew up. They're good people, so I'm sure they'll take good care of you. What do you want to do? If you eat this, I'll understand that you'll come with me, and if you eat that, I'll understand that you'll stay here." In Yoo-shin pointed to the 'O' and 'X' he had drawn on the leaflet. The 'O' meant that they were going together. As he carefully set it down on the floor, 6-se looked around and scrunched up his nose. Then, he started moving his feet without hesitation. He was heading for the leaflet with the 'O' drawn on it. “6-seya……!” In Yoo-shin felt a surge of emotion as he watched 6-se effortlessly stuff the broccoli into Omnomnom's cheek pouch. Tears welled up in his eyes as he watched 6-se's precious heart, unwilling to leave his master's side no matter how dangerous the path. "Yes, no matter what danger I face, I will protect you!" And 6-se, who had quickly stuffed the broccoli, soon crawled to the other side of the flyer and ate the rest of the broccoli. “……” It was just a pig hamster that ate well. In Yoo-shin sighed deeply, watching the satisfied 6-se. Even if I could communicate to her some degree, it was difficult to make her understand such a complex and lengthy subject. She was healthy, so it was fine. While he was filming 6-se being moved to a cage and groomed, Hyeon Gyu-ha rang the doorbell outside. He quickly went to open the door and the first thing that hit me was the thick scent of flowers. A smile spread across In Yoo-shin's face as he held a bouquet as large as his torso. In the past, I had wondered what use a bouquet of flowers could be if they weren't even edible, but every time I received one from him, my heart swelled with joy. A bouquet of flowers was truly a precious and meaningful gift. "There are white flowers today." "It's a perfect match for Henri Raymond Charles Françoise VI Noona. A gift for her has arrived just in time." What Hyeon Gyu-ha pulled out of the inventory was a five-story maze room for hamsters, its interior lined with small styrofoam pieces. In Yoo-shin's eyes sparkled. It was a toy he'd seen on YouTube before, but couldn't find anywhere in Korea, and above all, it was so expensive that he'd never dared buy it. When placed on the top floor, 6-se looked around, initially unfamiliar, but soon became curious. Hyeon Gyu-ha filmed 6-se as he navigated the maze, slicing through the Styrofoam, descending floor by floor, while In Yoo-shin and 8-se cheered him on enthusiastically. "Over there, over there! You can do it!" “Squueak! Squeak!” "Go for it." With the encouragement of his owner and siblings, 6-se successfully completed the remarkable task of making it through the first floor maze and out. Then, without a trace of pride, he calmly returned to his cage and fell asleep. In Yoo-shin's shoulders were tense. "6-se is a real genius, right?" "Such dignity, just like Noona. The house is a bit small, so I'll put the toys in my inventory for now. Next time, let's try assembling them a different way." After having breakfast and lunch together, the two left the attic, escorted by their eight-year-old. Today was the day they planned to visit Dalgasa. They'd gone shopping at the supermarket the day before, stocking up on toys and snacks. The bus to Gaeseong was familiar, as I always took it, but the mere presence of Hyeon Gyu-ha next to me felt strangely unfamiliar. I didn't mean it in a negative way. I felt both embarrassed and excited at the thought of guiding him to a place filled with memories from my childhood. He looked up quietly and his eyes met Hyeon Gyu-ha's. The affectionate, deep gaze he always directed at him gently curved. "I couldn't sleep at all last night because I was so excited. I thought I might not be able to go to Dalgasa with Yoo-shin." In Yoo-shin, who had been reluctant to suggest going to the orphanage together to say hello, smiled sheepishly. Hyeon Gyu-ha whispered, kissing his forehead. "I did some research to understand the anxious feelings of a son-in-law meeting his father-in-law, and I found something disappointing." ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

“What are my attributes?” Hyeon Gyu-ha continued speaking as if comforting In Yoo-shin, who was startled by those words, while rubbing his shoulder. "That's, um....... Simply put, it's the arch-rival of the vampires, which is my father's current form. It's an attribute that originated from someone who learned magic directly from God in order to hunt immortal vampires." "Vampires don't die when a stake is driven through their heart or when exposed to sunlight…….?" "Those who die like that are either young or light-blooded vampires. On the other hand, my father is practically a true ancestor(眞祖), so he probably won't die by normal means." "Then…… is the characteristic of Gyu-ha-ssi, who you said was a set, the same?" Hyeon Gyu-ha's expression softened and he gave a faint smile, then realized that Inyushin wouldn't be able to see him in the dark, so he kissed her forehead again. "The fate of those who first possessed our traits was not taken away by the gods, but passed on through generations. That's why we are tied together as a set…… Well, I'm just a half-vampire and half-human. Compared to Yoo-shin-ssi, I'm nothing special." “……” "I really don't know how Yoo-shin-ssi was born with that trait in this world where there are no vampires or gods." The fate of those who first manifested their traits was dismissed as a trivial matter. Fortunately, Inyushin, surprised by the revelation, paid no attention to the matter. After being lost in thought for a while, he finally made up his mind and opened his mouth. "Gyu-ha-ssi, can your father see everyone's status windows?" Hyeon Gyu-ha's expression hardened in the darkness, where his face couldn't be seen clearly. I hoped his thoughts hadn't reached that far, but he was indeed a smart man. Should I lie? If I hadn't considered it, it would have been a lie. But I couldn't even lie to him about this. "Just as a god cannot see everything about a person's destiny or abilities, my father is likely similar. However, he likely possesses the ability to explore the essence of humanity." "It means you can't be sure." “......That’s right.” "I will keep my attributes well hidden and not tell anyone." In Yoo-shin quietly raised his hand and caressed Hyeon Gyu-ha's cheek. Though shrouded in darkness, his fingertips could sense his expression. "I know what you're worried about, Gyu-ha-ssi. But it's purely selfish of me to want to go with you. I'm truly sorry……" Hyeon Gyu-ha sighed deeply and took In Yoo-shin's hand in his own. The trace of his lips touching his grasping palm spread like a hot flame. Feeling the fear and trembling in that heat, In Yoo-shin bit his lip. This man, who fears nothing in the world, becomes absurdly weak in front of him. In Yoo-shin is acutely aware that his weakness is anything but romantic. It could become a stumbling block. It could become a burden to him, and he might regret it. Yet, this feeling that prevents me from deciding to remain here alone is an utterly vicious selfishness. A selfishness that wants to stay by his side no matter what the risk. And the selfishness of hoping that the hand of someone named Hyeon Gyu-ha could hold me. The selfishness of hoping that at the moment of death, I, who had valued myself, could embrace something that would take precedence over all other values. I'm not sure if this change, born gradually from Hyeon Gyu-ha's sincerity, is necessarily the right thing to do. But seeing him cherish and give meaning to himself more than anything else in the world, I feel compelled to change, to stop stagnating and become stagnant. Because that would be a small reward for him who held himself, so ordinary and insignificant that he could not leave any trace in the world, at the center of his true heart. "But can I go with you?" If he had finally refused, there would have been no choice, but Hyeon Gyu-ha looked down in silence, his lips moving thinly. As his lips moved, the palms that covered his mouth and cheeks tingled. "Is that your true feelings, Yoo-shin-ssi?" A low whisper, tickling his skin, mixed with his light breathing, made In Yoo-shin lift his heels. Then, he pressed his lips to the ones he had just held in his hand. The sensation was slightly cracked and rough. For a moment, Hyeon Gyu-ha seemed to have forgotten how to breathe. He froze, unable to even respond. As In Yoo-shin's lips parted slightly, his feet slightly struggling to lift, he roughly hugged his waist. The overlapping flesh pushed his lips apart even wider, burrowing inward. Every inch it touched felt scorching hot. The flesh, pressing against the roof of her mouth, scraped and rubbed violently, stealing In Yoo-shin's breath impatiently. As if clinging to it. His hot breath mixed with his saliva, making breathing difficult. But instead of patting his shoulder and pushing him away, In Yoo-shin held him tighter. A familiar scent drifted through his gasping airway. A large hand wrapped around his neck, pressing down on his shoulder and entangling him. The pressure, so tight that he couldn't move, was actually pleasant. The tingling sensation seemed to penetrate not just his oppressed skin, but his entire body. The tongue, which had been thrust deep into his throat as if it were going to take over, fell regretfully, leaving behind a clear sound of water. “Huah……” Only then did In Yoo-shin gasp for air, his breath still choked. His lips, once again seemingly overlapping, held a bitter smile, and instead of pressing deeply, he dropped a light kiss, like a bird pecking. In Yoo-shin leaned listlessly against his shoulder, unable to even think of wiping his swollen, red lips. Only after the cool summer night's sea breeze had cooled his flushed skin a little did she realize his lower abdomen was aching from the swell of heat. His cheeks flushed again. Hyeon Gyu-ha must have noticed, since he was pressed so tightly against his thigh. He leaned back slightly, and Hyeon Gyu-ha gave a small smile and nibbled on his earlobe. "You said it wasn't attached." "Uh, th- 8,8-se, is in my pocket……" "It's heavier than the arm." "6-se too......" "I held back because it wasn't rubbing against my left thigh." In Yoo-shin's face flushed red and then turned white repeatedly as he remembered what was stored in his left thigh. He couldn't tell if it was a blessing or a curse. Hyeon Gyu-ha grabbed In Yoo-shin by the waist and lifted him lightly, placing him on the fence. It was the first time he'd seen him, and it was a shame that his face couldn't be seen clearly in the darkness of the night. Hyeon Gyu-ha whispered softly while looking up at In Yoo-shin. "But promise me one thing. You will never do anything dangerous." "Once I get there, I'll do whatever Gyu-ha-ssi tells me to do. Even if you lock me in a secret room and tell me not to wander around, I'll stay quiet and not try to escape." "I would feel a little more secure if I could have a cage made just the right size for me and have my owner carry me around." “…….” He thought it should be the other way around, but In Yoo-shin nodded vigorously and responded anyway. Hyeon Gyu-ha's gaze, blinking his eyelashes, seemed to be asking for something, so he hesitated and lowered his head. A breath mingled with his soft lips. Perhaps it was the right answer. In Yoo-shin secretly made a promise as he gently pushed his tongue between his lips, which had become smoother than before due to the rough kiss. 'Next time, when it's bright, I should ask to sit higher than Gyu-ha-ssi.' As if answering him, Hyeon Gyu-ha clicked his tongue. *** In Yoo-shin, who returned to Seoul after a fulfilling summer vacation, submitted his leave of absence first. He was uneasy about whether it would be okay to submit his own, given that it had only been a few days since Hyeon Gyu-ha submitted his, but Manager Kim didn't say much. "Team Leader Hyeon is on leave, so there's no way Yoo-shin-ssi would come to work alone." It stung. Still, it was a little easier because everyone around me recognized me as a group of people who were all just like that, and everyone accepted me without having to make excuses. "It's strange that Gyu-ha stays stuck at one job for so long. Let's recharge together." "I hope that you can educate the incompetent person to become a self-reliant person before he is reinstated." "Have a good rest with Hyeon Hunter!" I decided to take it as a bit of encouragement. Before taking a leave of absence, In Yoo-shin was busy, organizing work and organizing his surroundings. Hyeon Gyu-ha was away for a while. His whereabouts were reported in the news. ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

"The guild leader can do it, but why can't I?" "Are you and Gong Tae-seong the same?" “What’s different?” "It doesn't matter to me whether Gong Tae-seong lives or not, but that's not the case with Yoo-shin-ssi." “Can’t you have a lover’s fight without me?” Gong Tae-seong, who had returned in a circle, was finally able to go to Iad as originally planned, and leaned comfortably on the sofa. In Yoo-shin's words grew stronger. "The whale knows where the rift is anyway. Even if Gyu-ha says no, I'll go with the whale." 『That's right! His lover isn't a child, and he's making his own decisions. Why would the prince object? The prince is a bad person who doesn't even respect the opinions of those precious to him!』 "Look. Even a whale would find it strange." Just a few days ago, Somnoros, who had said he wouldn't want to put someone precious in danger, suddenly shifted his stance and clung to In Yoo-shin. It was a swift act of survival instinct. "There are many ways to put Yoo-shin-ssi to sleep and sneak away." "If you don't take me, I won't tell you what I heard from your aunt." "Squk! Squeak!" The seemingly endless, childish, and exhausting argument was interrupted by the irritable whining of 6-se, annoyed by the noise. Inyushin bowed and apologized, taking out a snack and offering it to him. Hyeon Gyu-ha wiped his forehead with a look of embarrassment. "Yoo-shin-ssi, you have Henri Raymond Charles Françoise VI Noona to take care of. You're going to leave Noona alone, she's so old. But you can't take her with you, right?" "That’s......" He was speechless. It was hard to imagine leaving 6-se, who was already so dependent on myself, alone and entrusting him to someone else. It was even harder for a hamster who tried to hide his injuries. "Besides, the fact that the world is on the verge of destruction means there's no telling what dangers lie ahead. It could even be an apocalypse or a harsh dystopian world. And you want me to take Yoo-shin-ssi to that place? In that case, I'd rather not go." “……” What should I do? Seeing him even talk about giving up on the path he had dreamed of his entire life, I felt like no amount of persuasion would work. I didn't want to send him away alone, nor did I want him to give up what he wanted because of me. While In Yoo-shin was at a loss as to what to do, 8-se, perched on the hamster cage, licking the candy he'd stolen from Gong Taeseong's pocket, shouted. “Squk! Squeak!” Somnoros blinked his large eyes. 『Right now, ®AC isn't as affluent as this place, so it's a bit tough, but it's still a decent place to live. The peninsula where this country is located is said to be in particularly good shape.』 Gong Tae-seong, who was watching Min Anna's video on his phone, ignoring the argument, also added a word. "That makes sense. Being depleted of vitality means at least that disaster didn't strike overnight, right? It must have been difficult, but I'm sure they found a way to adapt somehow." “Squeak.” 『There are small animals like you. He says that because he knew what kind of animal a hamster was, he was able to change and adapt before meeting Prince’s lover.』 In Yoo-shin stared intently at Hyeon Gyu-ha, and he roughly rubbed his face with a sigh for the umpteenth time. "No, that doesn't mean..." As soon as the conversation, excluding the issue of accompanying people, was over, Gong Tae-seong got up from his seat. “I don't think we can narrow our differences right away, so let's try to resolve that issue through dialogue. But before that, Hyeon Gyu-ha, there's something I'd like to ask you." "What." "Why the hamster... No, that's enough." He wondered why he always call his hamsters "Noona," and he came up with the answer, "Because it's Hyeon Gyu-ha," and was convinced. As Gong Tae-seong, who had reclaimed Somnoros's contract, departed, a sudden silence descended upon the villa. In that eerie silence, only the noise of two hamsters could be heard, Hyeon Gyu-ha stroked In Yoo-shin's hair. "I think Yoo-shin and I need to cool our heads a bit. You must be tired today, so let's rest for now." He somewhat agreed with Hyeon Gyu-ha's suggestion that he needed to cool his head, but even lying in bed, sleep didn't come easily. Liberating some of the attribute artifacts consumed mana, a resource he rarely used, and despite being exhausted, his eyes remained wide awake. Hyeon Gyu-ha said he had no intention of returning from Iad because he had no attachment to this world. Then what about me? In Yoo-shin stared up at the dark ceiling, lost in thought. My parents are gone, but I've placed them in a place where I can visit them anytime. I have close friends and family members who cherish them. I managed to make ends meet, however meager, and get by day by day. And if I follow Hyeon Gyu-ha to Iad. Since there was no definite answer as to when or how I would return, it was easier to assume that everything I had accumulated here would never be reclaimed. In Yoo-shin assumed that he had let it all go. Leaving everything behind, only Hyeon Gyu-ha. In Yoo-shin jumped up from his seat. This wasn't a problem that needed to be weighed. As Min Geut-nyeo said, she, too, received a new world from Hyeon Gyu-ha. She connected with people and gained experiences she never could have imagined without him. She no longer thinks that all of this was a shallow connection born from forced taming. How far can the string of Hyeon Gyu-ha hold himself back? In Yoo-shin wanted to know that. He quietly stepped out of the bedroom. The living room was still quiet, the only sound being the sound of 6-se running on his wheel. He looked around, relying on the small mood light next to the cage. A dark figure appeared on the terrace in the distance. As he approached, Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had been leaning against the fence, gently turned his head. "You're still not asleep?" “What about you, Gyu-ha-ssi?” “I’m going to sleep soon.” As they stepped outside, the salty smell of the sea grew stronger. In Yoo-shin stood beside him, gazing up at the night sky. The moonlight was blue. "®ÀÇ also has one moon, right?" "If the moon were to split, it would almost certainly be on the verge of destruction." "I'll have to go and check it out myself." “……” Hyeon Gyu-ha smiled bitterly when he heard again that he would not bend his opinion. "......Yoo-shin-ssi. For me, there was a word that resonated in my head even before I understood language. Even now, sometimes, when I'm really agitated, I hear it." “What do you mean?” "It is the voice of the Father, telling me to come to him." This was something I didn't want to tell In Yoo-shin. How could I possibly tell him, abandoned by his biological parents and bereaved by his adoptive parents, that the source of the murderous intent that dominated my entire life was my biological father? But if he could convince him by revealing his true face, Hyeon Gyu-ha had to do it. Nothing could take priority over In Yoo-shin's safety. "My father is a monster who has lived since before Christ. Despite his age, I am his only child. Why would he have me when the world is nearing its end?" In Yoo-shin couldn't open his mouth easily because a chilling thought flashed through his mind. And then, Hyeon Gyu-ha calmly laid out a conjecture even more brutal than his own. "Father, like he once did, wants to offer me up as a living sacrifice. He wants to make me a cornerstone to support the world once again. I don't know if it's because even my immortal father is about to die, or if the world is rushing toward destruction and he can no longer endure." Hyeon Gyu-ha touched In Yoo-shin's cheek, whose expression was pale and as if on the verge of tears. A gentle warmth enveloped him, contrasting with his self-deprecating tone. "It was my duty, imposed on me before I was even born, and I intend to negotiate with my father to refuse it. And before that, I will find my mother." ".....If I don't go at all, what will happen?" “Well, I don’t know, but wouldn’t it be a bit difficult because of the headache?” It's a lie. From the moment I started feeling a terrible sense of boredom in the process of finding the key, I had a vague certainty. If I were to let go of everything, drowning in that boredom, my father's voice, ringing like a curse, would eventually kill me…… There were times when I thought it wouldn't matter if I died like that. He bent down and pressed his lips to his pale forehead. Only then did In Yoo-shin, who had been shaking, take a deep breath and grab his jacket. "The process of negotiating with Father won't be smooth. Even if ®ÀÇ is a relatively habitable world, I'm not sure we can keep Yoo-shin-ssi safe during the process." “……” "And also, Yoo-shin-ssi's hidden attributes." Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had been slowly unraveling the story he'd been holding in his heart, hesitated for the first time. He seemed to hesitate for a moment, choosing his words, but eventually opened his lips. "If Father finds out, it's really dangerous. If he finds out about Yoo-shin-ssi's attributes, there's a pretty good chance he'll try to kill you." ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!

*** “Um?” The young man, who had been leaning back on a long chair as if asleep, opened his languid eyes. A strange light flickered across his pale amber eyes. "The door closed again as soon as it opened? What happened?" The young man raised an opaque window into the air. The name of the area where the door had briefly opened was Ganghwa Island, an island known in this land. But there was no change. He tapped his chin rhythmically with a long, elegant finger, as if puzzled. "If that child had crossed over, I would have sensed it right away. Something must have happened.... There's nothing I can do. Connecting worlds isn't easy. Should I try sending Cufflinks again? Are there any Cufflinks left? Sora, what do you think?" He lowered his gaze and asked, but the woman, whose eyelids closed and slept peacefully, didn't respond. The young man smiled and moved his hand in the air, as if stroking her forehead. "No matter what happens, I'll definitely bring my son back. So you don't have to worry about him." *** After a terrifyingly heavy silence, Hyeon Gyu-ha groaned and pressed his head against his chest. A terrible headache, something he hadn't felt since the third Ursitoare he'd met at age nine, suddenly surged forward. 'Come to me, to our world, my son.' With that curse-like sound. The eerie sound of teeth clinking together echoed through Hyeon Gyu-ha's teeth. The ring's inability to wear was ultimately overlooked because In Yoo-shin was safe. But, but this... The murderous intent he'd harbored for most of his life suddenly boiled over, but that rat belonged to In Yoo-shin. The disparity made Hyeon Gyu-ha unable to take any action, and the veins on his hardened jaw stood on end. In Yoo-shin also didn't blindly protect 8-se. He was so shocked that he urged 8-se on. "8-seya! Do you have any idea what you've done? What are you going to do?" “Squk!” 8-se, shaking his head, crawled up his master's body. Quickly reaching his right shoulder, he extended a short forepaw and tapped In Yoo-shin's earlobe. It was right where the symbol of the artifact was engraved. "Artifact? Are you telling me to use the artifact now?" “Sqieak!” "No, right now there's a problem with the artifact......." "Squeek! Squk!" Somnoros, who had been frozen with his mouth wide open, finally stammered out a word. 『Uh, uh. He is saying that you'll know why once you try it... Ah. He says you just have to release some of it.』 It wasn't a refreshing explanation, but 8-se's eyes were serious, and with no other option at the moment, In Yoo-shin cast the binding artifact with a perplexed heart. [Partially releases the bound artifact 'The World Beyond the Seven Gates'.] A vision of Inanna descending into the underworld flashed through his mind, and a young girl's voice echoed in In Yoo-shin's head. It was a voice transmitted through his will. 『We finally meet! I'm so glad we succeeded! Honestly, it was almost like gambling, so I was almost giving up. Ah, Doomnezeul. Thank you.』 “W-who are you?” As In Yoo-shin opened his mouth as if talking to someone, Hyeon Gyu-ha and Gong Tae-seong also came to their senses and looked at him. The sudden voice startled In Yoo-shin, but he felt a sense of foreboding. He had clearly heard it before. Not so long ago, and just moments ago. "Well, whenever I met Gyu-ha-ssi and the elderly women, I heard some voices asking for help.” 『As expected, unlike Gy-uha, you can hear the voice I planted in the key! There's a different voice in Gyu-ha's head.』 The owner of the voice chattered in a very excited tone. 『I'd love to talk at length, but there's no time. My name is Stoya. You could say I'm Gy-uha's aunt. How much do you know?』 "That, you were buried underground...?" 『Yeah, that's right. Was it Kallikantzaros who prevented me from using my heart?』 "Yes. I got a message saying it was damaged." 『I'm sorry to startle you. But I shouldn't have come straight to Iad. Stoayn would have detected Gyu-ha as soon as he had arrived at lad, and I really wanted to meet you before that...』 "Can you open the door again?" 『I can't tell you the exact timing, but it is possible. Sometime a rift will open in your world, and there, you must use my heart and bloodline.』 Stoya's voice brightened as she quickly explained how to use it. I couldn't actually see her face, but I could feel her smile in her voice. 『I don't know for sure, but you're with Gyu-ha right now, right?』 "If you have anything to say, may you tell me?" 『No. I'll tell you when we meet in person. But more importantly, what's your name?』 "My name is In Yoo-shin. My last name is In and my first name is Yoo-shin." 『Yes, Yoo-shin. Thank you so much for meeting Gyu-ha. Thank you so much for being by Gyu-ha’s side.』 With those words, Stoya's voice vanished, seemingly lost in the darkness. He tried using the artifact again, but the voice never returned. Hyeon Gyu-ha, who had been keeping his mouth shut the whole time, asked quietly. "......Did you meet my aunt?" In Yooshin, who was taken aback by the sudden change in circumstances, stammered and answered. "Uh-uh, I guess so. More importantly, I heard you can go to ®AÇ through the rift between the worlds......." All three people's gazes turned to one place simultaneously. Somnoros, who had been absentmindedly listening to In Yoo-shin, blinked, realizing belatedly that all eyes were on him. "Unn?" Once inside the villa, 6-se, who woke up and started to get active, was eating his food. The conversation resumed in the living room. “Squeeak!” 『I guess you had to connect with ®AÇ once to use that power to speak to his lover, even if only briefly. Apparently, 8-se came to this world for that very purpose. I don't know the details myself, but it was the dead king's plan.』 "Really? I almost killed him when I received 8-se as a gift……” “Squek.” 『Even so, I couldn't force them to follow through with the plan, so there was nothing I could do. And the dead king had already made various arrangements for this matter, even within his reach.』 Somnoros, who had been interpreting 8-se's words, furrowed his eyebrows. 『What's wrong with ®AÇ? Are the two kings are at odds?』 “Squuueak.” 『Don't you know that? What do you know?』 “Squeak!” 『Of course you know better than me! I haven't even heard anything from home in a while!』 Hyeon Gyu-ha looked at In Yoo-shin, leaving the two who had started arguing for some reason behind. "Anyway, did my aunt tell you how to get to ®AÇ, right?" Hyeon Gyu-ha let out a low sigh as he watched In Yoo-shin nod his head. "I'm really annoyed that she took advantage of Yoo-shin-ssi.” "Could it be because of my hidden attributes?" “Damnit." For some reason, when he brought up the topic of hidden attributes, Hyeon Gyu-ha looked even more irritated. He gently rubbed the back of his hand, as if to cheer him up, and his expression softened, intertwining our fingers. Feeling the warmth enveloping his hand, In Yoo-shin recalled his conversation with Stoya. Though she hadn't said a word of coercion, she seemed to subtly wish In Yoo-shin would accompany him to Iad. And that’s the same wish as In Yoo-shin. "That, that rift in the world." Somnoros, who was bickering with a hamster smaller than my pupil, turned his eyes. "Can multiple people pass through the rifts in the world?" 『Unn. Sometimes, monsters wander off and pop out. I crossed through that rift when I came to the Iron Age, but I don't know if they're still around.』 Hyeon Gyu-ha sighed again. "I saw a monster coming out of a rift a while ago, so there must be some left." "Gyu-ha-ssi, I…” “You can’t.” Before he could even begin to speak, Hyeon Gyu-ha cut In Yoo-shin off like a knife. His firmness was a far cry from the usual laxity he'd shown with In Yoo-shin. "I want to go with Gyu-ha-ssi too." "As I said last time, it's a world on the verge of destruction. You can't even eat Korean beef or chicken there." "It's okay to just take protein supplements three times a day." “Last time, you ran away because you didn’t want to take protein supplements.” “The bigger problem back then was health!” "No way. Absolutely not." It was an attitude that seemed like it wouldn't even work. In Yoo-shin frowned, trying to find a way to persuade him, but Gong Tae-seong intervened. "If it's okay for several people to come along, I'd like to go and find Anna's cure myself." “Do whatever you want.” Unlike when he spoke to In Yoo-shin, Hyeon Gyu-ha gave Gong Tae-seong a cool, no-nonsense approval and even returned the blood sample. In Yoo-shin was dumbfounded. ------ Credits: Translator: Hoshi Miya Editor/Proofreader: Hello, we are looking for Editors and Proofreaders for this series, please feel free to directly contact me if you would like to participate it this. If you wanna become a translator, editor or proofreader, please use the discord link given below and follow the instructions in the recruit channel. We made a discord server! please join us!