'Not Really a Bad one! '
Opting to display magic wasn't a poor decision.
Kim Hyunsung and Park Deokgu undeniably possessed strength. However, distinguishing whether that strength originated from the system or their inherent physical abilities remained somewhat ambiguous.
When proposing the prospect of immediate empowerment, it was only natural that merely wielding a shield would lack allure. Magic, however, presented a different scenario.
A sphere of flames materialized from thin air. This spectacle blatantly contradicted common sense, casting uncertainty upon observers.
This approach held the potential to coax them out of seclusion. As Kim Hyunsung observed the quietly burgeoning enthusiasm among the onlookers, he quietly remarked,
"This counts as a success."
"Difficulties might still lie ahead. Those averse to combat will likely nurse apprehensions... Some might even attempt to compensate excessively, driven by the belief that new powers await them."
"But it's still preferable to the alternative of them lagging behind and succumbing to famine, Hyung-nim."
"Indeed. That's a valid point."
Park Hyaeyoung ascended the podium, greeted by congratulatory words at every stride.
"If Hyaeyoung-ssi and Hayan-ssi manage a successful return, the status quo might shift more rapidly than anticipated," Kim Hyunsung pondered, emphasizing the expedition's significance. Doubts lingered regarding our ability to conquer the dungeon, yet Kim Hyunsung's assertion was valid: he alone couldn't shoulder the responsibility.
Primarily, he only held a slight edge over Park Deokgu in terms of prowess. His mana exhibited strength, but it fell short of handling a horde of monsters simultaneously. Though his inclination drove him to take charge, safeguarding the shelter rested on the shoulders of its inhabitants. 'An unnecessary encumbrance,' I thought. Without his predisposition, Kim Hyunsung could have ascended even higher.
Amidst my reverie, Park Hyaeyoung approached, shaking hands with each of us.
"Pleasure to meet you."
"Likewise," we responded. Her adept social skills were undeniable. Observing her professional smile, I sensed Park Hyaeyoung's subtle touch on my hand, a signal. However, Jung Hayan remained the focal point.
When I shifted my gaze, Jung Hayan fixed her quiet gaze upon me.
'What is it?' An unspoken nuance colored her expression, something distinct from before. Her tranquil eyes upon Park Hyaeyoung sent shivers down my spine.
'Curse it.' Goosebumps prickled my skin. 'What was that just now?'
"Hyung-nim, something the matter? You're perspiring," my companion inquired.
"Feeling a bit off, that's all."
"Considering tomorrow's expedition, rest up. No need to spend every day buried in studies here."
"Understood."
"Tsk. Who said he isn't a bookworm? Not eating enough lately? I-It's not like I'm concerned, but... Well, my share isn't much, but it's better than nothing."
Park Deokgu's mutterings held little interest. I swiftly turned to steal another glimpse of Jung Hayan. Her appearance remained unchanged, seemingly as always.
I pondered if my eyes were merely toying with my perception, yet my conviction dismissed this notion. She had her gaze fixed upon me, a grin playing across her features.
'What is it?' I inquired, sensing an unsettling undercurrent.
A gnawing unease clung to me, its source eluding my grasp.
"Let's review this once again. Deokgu-ssi, you'll take the lead, followed by Hyunsung-ssi and Hyaeyoung-ssi. Hayan-ssi and I will secure the rear. Our strategy is straightforward: a shield to fend them off at the front, and we'll repel any threats from behind. The vicinity of the shelter appears to hold only a small number of them, so we'll venture a bit farther for our hunt. Any inquiries?"
"Not at all! "
"Absolutely none."
"No questions."
"Alright, then..."
We revisited the same briefing multiple times.
This diverged from the initial outing when Park Deokgu, Kim Hyunsung, and I embarked together.
Evidently, Kim Hyunsung attached paramount importance to this expedition.
The purpose extended beyond integrating two fresh recruits.
The triumph of this endeavor would indelibly shape the trajectory of our group within the shelter.
The return of all participants, unharmed, would nurture a burgeoning confidence among the shelter's residents. Consequently, intricate tactics for defense and reaction to incidents could be formulated.
Simultaneously, the latent goal of augmenting the group's membership would be set into motion.
"You aspire to level the playing field." Kim Hyunsung's objective resonated closely with mine. Our common aim was to win the affection of Jung Hayan. Yet, it wasn't a pursuit fixated solely on her, but rather, a strategy to cultivate enduring alliances with those destined for greatness.
Jung Hayan remained at the center of our thoughts. Ultimately, we had two focal points: ensuring the group's secure return and drawing nearer to a sorceress of extraordinary potential. Thus, challenging the current strategy or yielding to impulsive actions appeared unwarranted.
"The situation warrants our vigilance." The intensity in Jung Hayan's gaze stirred my unease. While I wished it was merely a misinterpretation on my part, the urge to maintain separation and keep a watchful eye on her persisted.
"Wouldn't positioning she be at the forefront be more prudent? Sharing the same vantage as Hyung-nim would be most—"
"No, the arrangement stays unchanged. It's the optimal positioning for her."
"Well, if that's your judgment, then..."
"Hyunsung-ssi possesses greater strength than perceived. Engaging the enemy head-on aligns with our objectives. With Hayanie situated at the rear, Hyunsung-ssi's shield will safeguard her. So long as we avert encirclement, this approach remains the most efficacious."
"Indeed, that's accurate."
Kim Hyunsung concurred with a nod, as though in accord with my assessment. Whether he held differing sentiments mattered little to me. His expression tightened as he glanced at Jung Hayan, his words a hushed murmur.
"No excessive concern is requisite."
"Pardon? Ah, understood."
"Shall I then accompany Miyoung-ssi?"
"Hyaeyoung-ssi, extend your support to Miyoung-ssi. A spear seems tailored to your skills."
"Understood."
"Let's embark, then. As previously articulated—"
"W-where to..."
"I shall furnish the details."
Mental schematics of our surroundings were already at my disposal. A look of gratitude from Park Deokgu followed my directive. Whether born of disinterest in his environment or an overreliance on me, he seemed disinclined to engage his intellect. His sturdy presence, gripping a substantial wooden shield, radiated an air of dependability.
In terms of appearance, Park Deokgu would receive higher marks than Kim Hyunsung. His gear consisted solely of the haphazardly assembled leather armor and the shield I had collected at the starting point, yet he managed to maintain a decent appearance. "Shall we begin?" I initiated.
"Let's give it our best shot," everyone responded with a slight nod.
Both Park Hyaeyoung and Jung Hayan appeared slightly apprehensive. Given their previous encounter with the monsters at the starting point, it was natural for them to be wary. I offered reassuring words to Park Hyaeyoung, who stood beside me.
"Try not to worry too much."
"Is it that obvious?" she inquired.
"They won't overwhelm us like they did at the starting point. We've already cleared out this area to some extent. Just stay composed, follow Deokgu's lead, and spear the monsters he blocks. It might be intimidating, but we can make it through."
"You're kinder than I thought."
Naturally, I had to be. 'If she panics, it could lead to my demise.' In the midst of battle, anything could occur. She might inadvertently stab me while wildly attacking with her spear. Glancing back, I noticed Kim Hyunsung conversing with Jung Hayan.
As anticipated, he seemed to be inquiring about various matters, but Jung Hayan appeared disinterested. Her responses were brief and her head remained lowered as if struggling to communicate.
It reminded me of the effort I had exerted to get closer to Jung Hayan. A smile broke out as our eyes met, and Jung Hayan reciprocated the gesture, exuding a sense of contentment. It offered some solace, as I considered myself to have the upper hand in our relationship.
"Are you losing your sight? I'm not your partner."
"I'm just checking the rear formation momentarily. Also, let's keep chatter to a minimum while on the move." "Agreed. I understand."
At that instant, a voice came from behind. "There's one approaching."
"Hmm, got it." Kim Hyunsung's voice resounded from the rear, and Park Deokgu responded from the front. Park Deokgu's body exhibited tension.
"Deokgu will hold it off while Hyaeyoung-ssi deals with it. Kee Miyoung, be prepared for any contingencies."
We all acknowledged. Despite Park Hyaeyoung's outward calmness, traces of anxiety were evident. She would be the one finishing off the creature.
It was natural for her to feel apprehensive considering the circumstances. Only one voice reached us from the left.
"Deokgu-yah, it's coming from the left."
"Understood, Hyung-nim."
Without delay, Park Deokgu maneuvered around the corner and used his shield to push the creature back. A resounding thud indicated that the creature was trapped between the shield and the corridor's dead-end.
Park Hyaeyoung followed, looking flustered. "Geeeeeeeeeeeek!" "This face is as repulsive as ever."
"What are you doing?" Her arms quivered, and her legs shook. The situation was apparent at a glance. Even a dog incapable of barking would have been more useful.
"Wh-what do I do?"
"Stab it."
"Hurry, it's difficult to maintain this."
"Ah…."
The composed demeanor she had exhibited earlier was nowhere to be found. Her eyes exhibited alertness, yet her body failed to respond. In such a circumstance, anyone would struggle to act, even if they acknowledged their inaction. 'Fool... you were only pretending to be strong.' I gently grasped her arm from behind. As I steadied Park Hyaeyoung's trembling hand that gripped the spear, the tremors gradually subsided.
In this context, a quiet message held more weight than a shout. So, I whispered in her ear.
"If you freeze like this again, we won't survive. Understand?"
"Yes."
"Firm up your grip."
"...." I tightened my hold on her hand…
The spear inched forward toward the creature that Park Deokgu was restraining, with Park Hyaeyoung's arm following suit. While I was the one pulling it, the sensation would've transferred to her hands. A squelching sound accompanied the creature's fluids gushing out.
Repelled, Park Hyaeyoung attempted to release the spear, yet I clutched her arm once more. "It's not dead. Don't let your guard down." "Geeeeeeeeeeeek!"
The creature continued to resist in pain or fury, attempting to scratch Park Deokgu as he fended it off. Gripping Park Hyaeyoung's hand, I thrust the spear from above.
As expected, the sensation was unsettling. "Think of it as carving meat."
"Yes." Squelch! Thud! The spear struck repeatedly.
Though the creature had long ceased its movements, Park Hyaeyoung continued to plunge the spear into it. Whether it was an attempt to combat her fear or another reason, her lips were pursed, and her knuckles whitened around the spear's shaft.
'I understand.'
The concept of ending a life was foreign. Regardless of rationalizing the opponent as a monster, it failed to ease the discomfort. After a series of gruesome sounds, an exhausted sigh followed.
It was only natural for a myriad of thoughts to occupy her mind.
Approaching the collapsed Park Hyaeyoung, I spoke with care. "You did well."
However, No reply came.
"Ufffff"