P. O. V: Leonard
After the brief disorienting change in the environment. Leonard looked around the unfamiliar place. The sun was blocked by a layer of ominous gray clouds. He seemed to be in a korean town of sorts. Judging by the shop labels and street signs.
"hello?" He called out, and received no answer in turn. ' is this place abandoned? Or could it be that the scenario didn't feel a need to fill an entire town of people?' He thought.
" First. I need to find information on this spirit. There must be something. " He scanned his surroundings, the street signs, and the paved roads. Hoping to find anything that can guide him.
' My best bet is a police station. There I can search for any records on the deceased. Spirits commonly form from people who died feeling negative emotions. Such as Injustice and vengeance they left behind. '
Judging by the scenarios, he suspected it to be of the same level as an evil spirit. Meaning it should have a territory it resides in. The question is finding that territory and knowing the spirits abilities.
He sighed with regret, he should have asked Kim Dokja or Lee Jiyhe about the movie. They probably could have spoiled it and told him about the spirit instead.
Would have made his job a lot easier. Instead of standing in the street with regret, he decided to do what he does best: Investigate.
He ran into a nearby building and leaned against the wall, closing his eyes in the process. Going into a nightmare state, his spirit body flew across the town until he spotted the police station. He opened his eyes and immediately ran towards the direction of the station.
Upon reaching the station. He politely knocked on the front door, half expecting someone to come and open it. When none came, he turned the handle.
Kiik.
'locked.' Upset, he looked around and saw a window that was slightly ajar. He smiled mischievously to himself before forcing the window open more and crawling inside.
Since it was the lobby there wasn't much to be seen. A counter where the clerk would have sat, a couple chairs, some decorations like a fake plant in the corner, blinds for the windows. The walls were of a pale beige and had posters hung on them.
He walked down a hallway and opened a door to the back.
He was greeted by a couple rows of computer desks. File holders on the walls, metallic cabinets, a printer. Most of the desks were covered in paper.
He noticed that one computer was on and quickly examined it. He looked at what was on the screen and frowned. It seemed to have been on a document but it was right between the pages, so he couldn't read it all.
What he could read was a "list of documented missing persons list." feeling like that's the best lead he got he thought to bring it down so he could see.
"How do people work this thing?" Leonard clicked his tongue.
Not knowing how to use a computer he looked down at the desk. He remembered back in Geumho station, Klein had mentioned a 'mouse'. He isn't seeing a mouse… or at least not a mouse that he thinks he is looking for.
' if it's supposed to be connected to the computer. There must be something in the back that's connecting them.' He thought as he leaned over and saw a singular cord.
The cord leads to a metal box below. Which had a lot of cords connected to the back that he could barely see.
"Which one is it?" He murmured.
He pulled out the box so he could see the cards properly from behind. He didn't expect the cords to be short though. As when he did so the computer monitor jolted back and slammed into another monitor. The cord connecting it to the computer unplugged. Turning the screen off, showing a failed connection.
".... Fuck." he face gracefully fell into his hands. He sighed deeply. After what felt like a couple minutes. he groaned, " I hate computers.. "
He dragged his hands across his face and got the resolve to stand back up. He decided to look at the pages on the desk. Since they seemed related to what was on the screen.
He picked up a paper that had a picture of a blue car broken and abandoned in the forest. Its front window was broken as if something smashed into it. Behind the car seemed to be a wired fence. He pulled the picture out and read the document behind it.
' The vehicle was found abandoned outside a cave near Mt. Jang. Where the body of Ms. Yoon Minji was found dead.
Vehicle is damaged, the front window shattered with blood on it. As if the vehicle had hit something prior to abandonment. Pictures adorned the interior of the vehicle.
Car brand : Blue Sonata
License plate: 42G8202
—'
'Yoon Minji.. ' Leonard took note of that name as he put the document down and looked at others that were on the desk. Seeing nothing else related, he stepped away and surveyed the building. Hoping to find a file room.
It didn't take him long to find the room and enter it. Rows of filing cabinets towered over him in a narrow space. Not bothering with the lights, he walked into the darkness. He read each organized cabinet before noticing a desk in the center of the room.
A lamp shining down on scattered paper. A box full of notebooks to the side. Leonard chuckled as he found this to be suspicious. It felt like the story of the movie was leading him to that desk.
He cautiously motioned towards the desk and touched the pages with his hand. He tilted it sideways and saw a familiar name: ' Yoon Minji' . He slid around and sat down in the chair. Pulling himself closer to the desk, he grabbed the page and looked at it.
It was a document on the lady, a picture of her corpse clipped to the page. He examined the picture and frowned. It didn't look normal, it looked more like one caused by supernatural forces.
Blue veins crept up like branches along her face, bloodshot eyes, pale expressions covered in grime. Blood had erupted from her ear canals. In her mouth was left over residue of foam.
Leonard knew her death was caused by the spirit. He took a quick glance at the other pages. ' all missing persons cases.. Each folder mentions the victim claiming to have heard someone they knew in passing calling out to them. Does this spirit mimic the dead?' Leonard gulped at the thought.
If he was correct, he already knew what was in store for him. To say the least, he was not prepared. He clenched his fist and brought it to his forehead, his body trembled. Maybe he should have asked Klein to come with him…
Feeling genuine fear, he gripped the charms that stayed in his pocket. He calmed himself, it couldn't be worse than that Phantom Prison. He looked back at the files and scanned through them again.
He noticed they were all mentioning a cave of some sort near a mountain; Mt Jang. He flipped through a page and saw an old photo of a father and his daughter standing beside him. The girl was wearing a red linen dress and the man wore a white blouse.
He leaned back in the chair and tapped his finger on the desk. " I can assume this spirit's territory must be that cave. The spirit specializes in mimicry.. " he brought his fingers to his chin in thought. " why do I feel like that's not all there is.. "
' There's just no way they would make a movie about a spirit that just mimics people's voices.. There has to be more to it. Is there possibly a temple? A shrine maybe?' he pondered, the wind blowing his hair into his face. Making him huff to part them again.
'.... Wind?' Leonard's entire body froze like stone. He looked around the archive and realized one thing. There were no windows. The door began rattling and cabinet doors began opening and closing.
Leonard quickly stood up and activated his spirit vision and looked around for any abnormalities. The door flew open and to his surprise, some all too familiar spirits flew in and circled him, moaning and howling. The door slams shut once they are inside.
His eyes widened as he recognized one of them instantly. " Banshee?!" he called out. The spirit stopped and appeared right in front of him.
A spirit with a gorgeous face and flowing hair, the rest of her pale body was shredded and rotting, a white torn up dress covered parts of her mangled body as a pair of huge eagle wings sprouted from the depths of her back.
She smiled at him and spoke with a voice that sounded scratchy and worn out. ' We found you.'
Leonard smiled, it was the Terror Banshee he had sealed away inside him! his spirits were back! But how?
" Where were you this entire time?" He asked with a stern tone of voice.
The Terror Banshee looked at him hesitantly. Confused if it was a command or not. Believing it to be a command, she answered.
" we don't know… we woke up in a wide expanse. Similar to the spirit world, but different…. We tried finding you, but couldn't. We found a strange train…
The train had someone on it. We asked. He said to stay… we stayed. Then we felt your presence and flew to this planet. Now we're here."
After Leonard finished listening to the spirit's explanation, he had so many questions. He tried to sort out which one we're the most important. But when he realized something he frowned.
" Why.. Why didn't you guys run away?" He asked. If the spirits were free from their seal. they should have been able to run away. But yet, they came to find him instead.
The spirit stayed quiet, the Terror Banshee twiddled her thumbs with nails as sharp as claws digging into her skin. " We… were lost.. Lonely.. We had no way home. So we searched for you instead."
This made Leonard's heart clench. He believed that when his spirits were free they would take the chance to flee. But instead they came to search for him. Why was this so heartwarming? Leonard felt like he wanted to cry.
" okay.. Thank you… what did the person on that train say?"
" something about not being in his dream…"
" and their appearance?"
" uhm…." The Terror Banshee seemed to ponder the question. Her expression became strained as she shook her head. " male.. Wore a white long jacket.. I'm sorry, something is strange with my memory. " she expressed her disappointment. Leonard shook his head, " its okay. Don't worry about it. I'm glad that person helped you get here."
Leonard opened his hand and resealed the spirits, all except the Terror Banshee. He checked himself over to make sure he truly did have his spirits back. He smiled with relief. He was going to be a lot more useful now.
The Terror Banshee leaned over him and glanced at the papers. "What's this?"
He hummed and answered her with a grin. " documents to find you a spirit friend. "
She stared at him with disinterest before shaking her head. He opened his palm and sealed her away. Deciding to finally search elsewhere, he got up and walked to the door.
He opened the door and was greeted with a loud voice. " Boo!" The shout made him jump and lose his balance.
He fell back and landed on the ground with a thud. He groaned as the person above him laughed. " That's not very funny-" he looked up and saw a face he didn't wish to see.
" Nice to see you again. " The boy from the station smiled down at him. Seemingly relieved he wasn't alone. ' fuck.. Fuck.. FUCK! ' Leonard wanted to run.
P. O. V: Klein
It didn't take the group long to reach the 4th floor. Before they could even see the poster, a spotlight landed on them. Jung Heewon clasped both her hands together and prayed. " please don't be a ghost film… "
Kim Dokja glanced at Jung Heewon, who in return smiled and said her excuse. " A sword can't kill a ghost. "
"I think that ghost movie has already been taken. '' he commented.
"Ah right, Leonard took it."
[The screening has started!]
The background changed and when they opened their eyes, a sea breeze blew on the prow of a ship.
Lee Jiyhe; whos attire seemed to have changed, immediately went up to the railing and began to hack up whatever was inside her stomach. Not wanting to spectate "that" view. Klein looked back at the ship.
Violin music was heard inside the cruise ship, as well as the sound of people enjoying their night. A romantic atmosphere.. It was too harmonious, it was suspicious..
He turned his head to the front of the ship and saw an iceberg in the distance. He now knew what movie they were in.
"isn't this the movie where the ship sinks?" He heard a groggily Lee Jiyhe ask.
" looks like it. "
"then.. unni.. Are you perhaps Kate Winslet?" Lee Jiyhe asked. Looking at Jung Heewon with envy. This made Jung Heewon look down at herself and saw the gorgeous dress she was wearing.
"Then is he… DiCaprio? Uweeeek!"
Klein wanted to laugh as he watched Kim Dokjas express his clear irritation when Lee Jiyhe immediately turned around to throw up.
Klein then looked down at himself. He was dressed in formal wear. ' white blouse, black jacket, suspenders.. Why did this look familiar?'
It wasn't until he and Jung Heewon glanced at each other that they noticed. They were the main characters who fell in love.
Upon learning about this, Jung Heewon made an expression like she wanted to join Lee Jiyhe on the railing.
"...."
' is it really that bad?!' Klein pinched the bridge of his nose, irritated. He could almost hear Kim Dokja laughing at him. He shook his head, ' it's just a damn movie. No need for such disdain… '
He turned away to think. The movie didn't have a villain. The movie had the ship sink and the male lead dies. Judging by the last movie. They could change it up a bit to make it more interesting.. But how?
"Jack Dawson!"
He heard a man cry out. He turned his head and saw someone run towards him. ' These movies have npcs?' He looked back at his group.
They all seemed to be thinking the same thing. He thought before he very quickly played the role of Jack Dawson.
He walked up to the man with the attitude of a wild youth. A smile on his face, like he was reuniting with an old friend. " Fabri my friend! It's been a moment. Say, have you possibly seen Mr. Hockley anywhere? "
The man looked at him with concern. " Please don't get into trouble with him again."
Klein waved his hand absently. " more like I want to know so I can avoid him."
The two 'friends' proceeded to talk for a while.
The group all but looked at him weirdly. Seeing klein/Gehrman Sparrow act like that was just abnormal. Kim Dokja didn't react because he knew he was acting. When they got the location of the main antagonist, they knew where they were going.
The man hit the ground with a thud. Hands tied with expertise and a rag in his mouth as a gag. His expensive tuxedo became crumpled with the fall.
The group looked down at Caledon Hockley. Since he was the closest to a villain the movie has, they kidnapped him. But at this point, no one knew what to do with him until Lee Jiyhe said, "Let's kill him."
She pulled out her sword and pointed it at the struggling man.
"what…?" Kim Dokja exclaimed.
"isn't the Theater master a Psychopath? So isn't it better to just kill him now? There's no point in dragging this on." She explained.
June Heewon gazed at the man in horror and unexpectedly said, " But he looks so real.. "
Kim Dokja looked at Jung Heewon. " Hunh..?"
" this is.. Supposed to be a movie. But he looks like a real person. "
Klein looked down at the man. Seeing the very genuine fear. ' she was right.. This feels a little too real. Seems familiar.. '
Lee Jiyhe asked, " Unni, this isn't the time to be sentimental."
"No. That isn't-"
" It's either him or us. We're definitely alive, but he's just a character. And a villain at that!"
Klein looked at Kim Dokja who had a bemused expression. ' seems like the reader is getting a reality check from his characters.. '
" Even if he is a ' real person' , what other choice do we have?"
"…Do you think so?" Jung Heewon glanced at Kim Dokja as if asking for his opinion.
Kim Dokja had no idea what to say in this situation. The moment he opened his mouth to speak, Lee Jiyhe hurriedly drew her sword.
The blade was thrusted downwards and pierced the man's chest. Blood spurted and the man choked on his own blood. Then a system message was heard.
[The theater owner is satisfied with the changed ending of the movie.]
[The stern of the ship will lead to the next floor.]
Lee Jiyhe turned to everyone. " See! What did I say? There's no time to waste while master is possibly dying. "
[The second 'Ending Credit' has been reached.]
[Performers: Kim Dokja, Jung Heewon, Lee Jihye, Lee Gilyoung, Klein Moretti.]
[You have obtained 500 coins as compensation.]
She gave Kim Dokja a thumbs up, " that was nice and quick."
As the spotlight shone upon them once more. Kim Dokja looked down with an absent expression. ' characters… real person… '
Without getting any rewards from the Titanic. The group set off to the next floor. After climbing the escalator, they stopped at a room full of artifacts.
[You have entered the 5th floor, the reward room.]
"Hunh? A Reward room? There must not be a movie here?"
"This is an exhibition hall. It was a place they used to show original movie props."
Kim Dokja continued to act ignorant.
In the room, various movie props appeared in glass exhibit casing. Equipment and costumes used by the main characters of various movies, stage accessories…
The funny thing was that they were no longer props .
[ You are limited to 2 reward items per person. ]
Jung Heewon approached a glass case and shouted.
"Oh my god, look at this!"
[Mikazuki Munechika – Replica] ' A-grade sword.'
Jung Heewon's eyes sparkled with excitement as she looked at the glass case.
"You've finally obtained a proper sword, Heewon-ssi. Congratulations." Kim Dokja commented.
"Whoa…" she examined it and gave it a few swings. " This is amazing. The blade is sharp and very light!" she exclaimed.
" While you're at it, go find some stuff for Yoo Sangah and Lee Hyunsung."
"alright. "
While the others were looking for their own items to take with them. Klein was looking for something that may be of good use. Either a defensive item for Audrey or, hopefully; an Amon deterrent.
After not finding anything he decided to give up and ask Kim Dokja. He walked over to him and patted his shoulder, gaining his attention.
" What is it?" Kim Dokja asked.
" Do you happen to remember any items here? One that won't kill and acts more like a defensive item. One that's also pleasing to the eye and easy to carry. "
"... I'm assuming shields and armor are out of the question?"
"out of the question." Klein repeated.
Kim Dokja pondered and looked across the room. He motioned for Klein to follow. They swept past countless other cases and came to one with a small silver gun. He grabbed it and handed it to Klein.
Klein looked at the pathetic little thing with a perplexed frown. "What is this?"
Kim Dokja just smiled at him, " noisy cricket. Why don't you give it a try?"
' The way he said that is suspicious… ' he glared at Kim Dokja with an accusatory gaze. He clamped the gun in one hand and aimed it at an empty part of the room. He fired, the area he aimed for exploded in a loud clatter and he immediately felt the recoil.
Luckily this was one of the side effects he suspected. So when he was blown back, he twisted his body and landed on his feet with precision.
He then glared at Kim Dokja. Who had a look of disappointment on his face. ' was this guy trying to embarrass him?' not wanting to deal with him anymore he looked back at the gun.
' I don't know which movie this gun came from. But it's actually good.' He glanced over to where he fired. All the glass cases full of items from other films were shattered.
' strong enough to shatter glass and cause an explosion, knocking someone back. Could cause someone who had skills to be knocked unconscious or out of commission for a while. But due to its power it has a strong recoil.
I didn't expect it. But for someone who expects it and grip it properly. I suppose Audrey could use it in dire needs.' He looked at Kim Dokja and put the 'tiny not so pathetic' gun into his pocket.
" Thank you. This shall be very useful." He then walked off, leaving Kim Dokja dumbfounded.
He found Lee Jiyhe trying to pick up some sort of hammer. " what are you doing?" He asked.
"grr. Trying to lift this! Why can't I hold this?" her grip struggled and shifted as she groaned with frustration. When Klein took another look at it he then remembered what movie it came from.
" Isn't that for special people?" Kim Dokja chimed in with amusement.
"I'm special too damnit!"
Stopping himself from laughing, he thought up what the criteria were for Mjolnir. ' wasn't it a pure heart and noble mind? ' He glanced at Lee Jiyhe with a perplexed look. ' this lady doesn't even fit either.. ' He looked down and saw Lee Gilyoung walk over.
He took a glance at Mjolnir and came up behind Lee Jiyhe, reaching for the hammer.
" Hey Kid! This is mine." Lee Jiyhe snapped.
The kid grabbed it with two hands and lifted it like it was made of feathers. He swung it a few times and looked up at Kim Dokja.
" Hyung, can I have this?"
"Yeah, it looks good on you. "
"..." Lee Jiyhe looked stunned. " why me.. This is so unfair."
Everyone ignored her. Kim Dokja had found some armor for himself and Klein found a dark green embroidered long cape that increases one's Magic Power by 4 as well as increases one's awareness.
He didn't really care for the increase in magic power. But he felt like Audrey would enjoy it. There were alot of other equipment he believed would fit the noble. But, they were all black and black is not a color that suits her. Thus we went with the one that looked like it came out of a fairytale.
Since he didn't have an inventory like the other people of this world had. Klein walked into an area away from everyone and briefly sacrificed the cape to the castle. Better safe there than anywhere really.
" Are we good to go?" He heard Kim Dokja call out to everyone.
"yep." they responded, Klein walked over to them in silence. ' now.. Time to go see where that damn regressor went.'
Chapter Text
P. O. V: Leonard
Leonard wanted to go home… after nearly having his heart collapse from suddenly meeting with the boy again. But the fact Leonard is 95% sure this boy is Amon taking over someone's body is downright horrifying.
How? Because the boy's appearance was changed subtly.
For example the boys once straight hair was slightly curled causing a wave, and his facial features changed to be more older. Though he hadn't seen Amon's avatar himself, thanks to the old man's descriptions. It seems like he was changing his appearance purposefully.
Perhaps to gouge a reaction out of Leonard. He felt like the boy that was once at the station was dead now and Amon was in full control. Changing 'his' body to resemble the avatar more. As if trying to slowly replace the body with 'his' avatar.
And the fact 'he' was doing this means 'he' knows he's a beyonder. Leonard felt everything added up now.
When they first met, 'he' must have recognized Klein. How? He couldn't say for sure. But that recognition set off 'his' curiosity. 'He's' probably been spying on them and after faking 'his' death, 'he's' made his appearance in front of Leonard specifically.
The fact he came into this film prior to Leonard, means 'he' must have known he'd come here himself in search of a spirit. Which states 'he' knows Leonard is a Red Glove or atleast someone of the Darkness pathway.
'He' also must have known that Leonard would go alone, in hopes of proving himself. He can't leave the film either unless it ends so he can't run away. In summary: unless Leonard can disappear into thin air. He's screwed.
Now here he is. Walking a " safe " 10 feet distance behind the boy down the isolated streets, glaring daggers at the back of his head.
Amon hasn't made a move. Infact, it seems like he was testing the water, a simple observer. Which unsettled Leonard, since he can't possibly predict this man's actions.
" Why are you walking so far away? And what's with that glare? You act like I just murdered your entire family." Amon said with false nervousness.
Ignoring his antics, Leonard looked everywhere else but him. Refusing to make eye contact with him.
He heard a disappointed whimper come from the man. " And now I'm being ignored. You're so rude. " Amon pursed his lips into a pout.
'he' is not even hiding the fact 'he' is Amon anymore at this rate.. ' This knowledge seems to unsettle him even more. 'Just what is 'he' planning.'
"speaking of-" Amon asked with a bit of curiosity in his tone.
"- where are we going?"
"...You've been here longer than me. Don't you know where to go?"
" would you believe me if I said I didn't look around. But instead went straight into a nearby house and took a nap in a very comfortable bed?"
"...."
When Amon didn't get a response back from the Spirit Warlock. He glanced over his shoulder and gave him a smug look. He continued walking in a direction with determined steps.
' Well he seems to know where he's going.' Leonard pondered and sighed with defeat. The two walked in awkward silence for a couple minutes before Amon started getting bored.
Leonard could hear Amon mumbling random words to himself. Before watching him stop in his tracks.
Confused, Leonard looked him up and down. ' What's up with 'him' now? ' Amon looked around before looking back at Leonard again and asked. " Did you say something?"
"uh.. No?"
"hmm.." Amon hummed in understanding and continued walking.
"... "
' and 'he's' not even going to elaborate.' After what seemed like another long couple of minutes. Leonard was looking around their current surroundings. They had gotten to the outskirts of the city, closer to the mountain range. The road turned from pavement to gravel and in the distance they could see a long driveway with a large house and a small building to the side.
" leo… nard " Leonard stopped and looked around confused. ' Who just said his name? '
" hearing things too?" Amon asked from right beside him. Making the poor Red Gloves jump and scramble away clutching his chest. ' When did 'he' get beside me?!'
" What do you mean?" He narrowed his eyes at Amon. Who in return, just smiled.
" I've been hearing the voice of my father for a while. Oh look, an old lady!" Amon skipped off towards the house. Leonard's gaze meticulously followed his figure before it landed on the lady walking towards them from the house.
'She is using a wooden cane in an odd manner. Is she perhaps blind?' Leonard thought as she watched the lady move the stick side to side while taking short but quick steps.
Amon walked up with a cheerful attitude and asked. " afternoon old lady. Do you know anything about this place?" Instead of getting an answer, the lady just walked right past him as if he didn't exist.
" Why am I being ignored again?"
She scrambled up to Leonard who briefly took a step forward in concern. The lady then gripped his arms with tremendous strength, her expression was fuelled by fear and worry. With a trembling voice. she said, " it's dangerous.. "
"hunh?" he looked into the lady's dulled gray eyes that resembled a dead fish. She brought her lips closer to his ear and whispered. " The cave has opened.. I can hear the voices again. "
' voices.. ' Leonard then held the lady's hand, as if to sooth her worry. Trying not to startle her, he whispered back. " I'm a- exorcist. The spirit in the cave. I can help get rid of it. But I need information.." He then pushed her back gently, creating a comfortable distance.
" could you help me?" He asked with a conciliatory tone. The lady's trembling didn't cease as her expression turned despondent. Giving the lady time to think, Leonard stayed quiet.
At a distance away from them, Amon was kicking rocks with boredom.
After some time, the lady's expression changed as she let Leonard go. " come." she said with newfound determination. In her hand, she held her cane and a wreath made of branches as she started walking closer to the house.
As asked, he followed her as she began to explain about the spirit's origin.
" It's called the Mt. Jang Tiger. It's a local folktale ghost. It mimics the human voice and bewitches people. There were a few shamans here who served the Tiger… That Shaman also served it when he moved here. "
Leonard glanced towards her. ' Why is she mentioning a shaman? Is this an important detail? Is this possibly a script from the movie?' Leonard briefly pondered over the implications before asking. " The shaman?"
"He was nobody before, but it all changed once he started serving it. He was chosen by the Tiger… The shaman had a daughter who had a great aura.
She endured her father's abuse, and waited for her mom to come back. "
When he heard that, Leonard was beyond shocked. Who in their right minds abuses their own daughter? Leonard never got to know his parents when he was a kid, before they left him behind to stay with the goddess in her kingdom.
He knew there are people like that out there. But he just couldn't wrap his head around it.
" The tiger slowly began to take over the shaman's soul. But it wasn't satisfied. It wanted a purer and stronger energy."
Leonard could already tell what the shaman did. ' his daughter… ' His fists clenched at his side, anger bubbling. The fact the lady was talking about the shaman, must mean the shaman is alive. He very well could be the antagonist. 'good. I can get a spirit and bring about justice for a child.'
"The two of them disappeared. They probably became servants of the tiger. That's when people started disappearing. They were most likely sacrificed to the tiger. "
At this point. The 2 people (+ a possessed boy) had reached the very modern house. They were a quick 5 meters away from the house. To their left was a shed that had dogs barking.
They stopped and the lady turned her head towards Leonard.
"The girl had stronger energy. When she breaks the seal, the shaman will appear. If you see the girl, you'll see the shaman soon." she then grabbed onto his wrists and looked off to the side. Which coincidentally, was towards the house and the mountain.
" don't trust her, ever. They'll use everything at their disposal. Guilt, anger, and even longing. They'll exploit your vulnerabilities… How are your eyes?"
Surprised at the sudden question Leonard stumbled over himself to answer. " uh.. Fine I guess?" she seemed to understand. " As your chi weakens, you'll have trouble seeing. Stay away from mirrors if possible. "
The wind picked, she seemed to sense something as she turned her head away. " stay strong… stay strong.. '' she repeated herself multiple times as she stumbled away back down the driveway.
The two watched her leave in silence.
".. Well that was something hunh?" Amon said with a derisive look. This made Leonard roll his eyes and make his way to the house. Leaving 'him' behind.
Amon pouted before looking towards the house and Leonard. He then took a quick glance at the mountain and smiled. Instead of following Leonard, he turned towards the shed that had some dogs barking inside.
Leonard cautiously pulled open the front door and looked inside. The house was as large as it was on the outside. Though dark, as there were no lights on. Aside from the lights in the bathroom, which was to the right of the door.
The door was slightly ajar, letting the flickering light illuminate the blood stain in the doorway. It looked like something was dragged across the floor. When he kneeled down he could see dirt and grim mixed in with the blood.
He frowned and looked into the bathroom. Without going in, he looked at the big mirror and saw bloodied handprints stamped across the reflection. 'Something crawled out of the mirror.'
He pulled off his glove and dipped his fingers in the blood. He rubbed it between his index and thumb. ' The blood is clotted, but fresh. It hasn't been long since this happened.'
He followed the trail inside the bathroom. He took this chance to use the sink and cleaned the blood off. He looked up and regarded his appearance. One thing he hadn't realized until recently. How dirty he looked. It was reasonable since the beyonders hadn't been able to change clothes nor even shower for the past countless days.
He looked towards the shower, feeling a sudden sense of selfishness. It took the ripple of the mirror for him to look away. "help.. Me." a familiar voice came from the mirror.
Without hesitation, Leonard pulled out his gun and shot the mirror. Shattering it entirely. If he wasn't already aware of his surroundings, he would have missed the low growl as well as a high pitched scream coming from another room in the two story house.
He summoned one of his spirits to go take a look in his stead. He looked back at the shattered mirror. ' so the tiger can be either weakened or delayed by shattering the mirrors. ' After about a minute, the spirit came back and gestured for him to follow.
Guided by his spirit, he warily walked upstairs and stopped in front of a door. Fingers firmly pressed on the revolvers trigger with caution. He turned the handle slowly, so as to not make a sound and pushed the door open with a slight creak.
He walked inside and scanned the room. It looks fairly empty aside from a few boxes full of necessities and a wardrobe.
His spirit hovered in front of the wardrobe and pointed at it. He sealed the spirit away and stood in front of the wardrobe apprehensively.
He pulled open the wardrobe with caution. What greeted him were hanging clothes and two little girls curled up inside.
One was trembling and crying, while the other girl hugged her tightly. This made Leonard's heart falter. He put his gun away and held out his hand. A reassuring smile graced his lips.
" I'm Officer Mitchell. I'm sorry if I scared you two. But you're okay now. " His tone was low and soft so as not to scare the kids further.
The little girls looked him over before nodding. The one curled up held his hand first and he helped her out of the wardrobe. He did the same to the other girl.
He crouched down and checked them over for any injuries. Luckily they weren't hurt. Before he could talk, the trembling one looked at him anxiously before asking. " Is the bad guy gone?"
Leonard took a moment to wonder who the bad guy was. He quickly drew to the conclusion of the Shaman. " He ran away. But I'll track him down soon to arrest him. Right now, you two need to get in a safe location. "
The girl nodded slowly. Leonard took a moment to glance at the other girl. Who seemed scared but yet a lot calmer than a normal kid should be in this situation.
" May I ask for your names?" he asked.
" I'm Joonhee. " one girl said, the other girl who was calm replied as well. " Joonhee."
'Joonhee? Is it really a coincidence that they have the same name? ' he took one more look at the girl's facial features and noticed something.
The girl off to the side, though looking much cleaner and was wearing different clothes. Looked exactly like the girl in the old picture back in the police office.
He didn't know what to do with this knowledge. If he was correct and that picture was of the shaman and his daughter. Then this girl was the abused kid forced into being the Tiger spirit's servant. How was he supposed to feel about this? Should he feel sorry? Should he kill the girl now and save him one more obstacle? Should he find a way to save her?
An idea struck him. ' If I take control of the Tiger spirit. I can force it to free Joonhee from its claws. I don't need to kill her. I can just use her to guide me to the spirits territory.' His heart that was rapidly beating without his notice, calmed slowly.
He made up his mind and looked at Joonhee. " First let's get you guys to a safer location. Is there a room in the house without mirrors?"
She looked at him and nodded. " My room."
" good. Can you go into your room and lock it? Close the windows and hide." she gripped onto him.
" What about Joonhee?" she asked. The two looked at 'Joonhee'. The girl looked back at them with trepidation.
"There's something I need Joonhee to do for me. " he said, while looking at the girl. 'Joonhee' looked away guiltily, as if she was caught. She almost looked pitiful.
" I'll keep her safe. Don't worry about us. But you need to go hide. And no matter what voice you hear, rather it's me, your mom, joonhee, anyone. Do not open the door. Got it?" His tone became stern, his eyes with a soft yet ensuring gaze. One that made Joonhee nod. "ok. "
Leonard smiled and patted her on the head. " good girl. " Joonhee looked back at 'Joonhee' who just smiled at her and nodded. With the affirmation, Joonhee ran off. A couple rooms down they could hear a door shut and a lock click.
Leonard's gaze then drifted to the now present 'joonhee'. She refused to look him in the eyes as she shrank back a bit. The words of the lady rang in his mind. ' Don't trust her, ever. They'll use everything at their disposal. Guilt, anger, and even longing. They'll exploit your vulnerabilities… '
Though he believed this little girl was innocent. He has had enough experiences to know even innocence can be deadly. ' luckily I only need her to show me to the cave. If push comes to shove. I'll give her to Amon to babysit.' he thought bitterly.
He moved closer to the girl and tilted his head to the side. " Joonhee. I need your help. " he asked.
The girl looked at him with big eyes. Without her interrupting, he continued. " I'm hunting that Tiger Spirit down. But I need your help. You're the girl in the red dress right? You don't have to confront him or anything-"
The girl seemed relieved when he said that. She looked like she didn't want to ever go back there. " but I need you to guide me to the cave."
Her face dropped. Imminent fear revealed itself, she held herself tightly. Though he shouldn't, Leonard couldn't help but to feel bad for her. He leaned forward a little to make himself look smaller. " please?"
'Joonhee' shifted in her spot for a moment before nodding. " I will take you." Leonard sighed with relief. He stood up and held out his hand. " Thank you in advance. " In turn 'Joonhee' held his hand tightly.
The two make their way downstairs and are greeted by the sight of Amon lounging on the living room couch. Noticing their presence Amon looked up and waved at them.
" hello~ who's the kid?" he asked. Just like Leonard, 'Joonhee' seemed unnerved by him. She adjusted herself to hide behind Leonard's leg.
" My guide to the end of the movie." Leonard said before he rounded the corner. What he saw on the couch beside Amon made him freeze. Laying on the couch with its tongue lolled out and it's tail wagging. Was a cute Rough Collie wearing a very familiar crystal monocle on its canine head.
' ahh.. So this is where I die.' Leonard lampooned.
( Author: he's learning from the best. )
Amon seemed to read his thoughts as he began smiling. The dog as well.
"...." with that Leonard smiled back before ushering the little girl out the back door quickly.
" hey! Don't leave me behind!" he could hear Amon cry out while getting off the couch quickly. The dog barked as well, quickly jumping off the couch and bolting to the front of them.
Amon came up behind with that odd smile. " See, isn't it cute?"
'No it is not!' Leonard wanted to scream.
" cute." 'Joonhee' said with a smile as she petted the dog." see? The girl has good taste."
"....." Leonard now wanted to cry…
They walked to the back of the house and passed a chair in the back lawn. The two adults and dog followed 'Joonhee' through the forest. One thing for certain was that 'Joonhee' never let go of Leonard's hand.
Some time during the walk there, Leonard started rubbing his eyes. Feeling a sense of discomfort. When he looked around he noticed his vision wasn't as good as it was before.
He knew it was bound to happen, seeing how he's entering the spirits territory. But still, he didn't think it would happen so soon.
After what seemed like minutes of walking, they finally reached the cave. They bypassed a wired fence. The exterior of the cave was partially covered by brick, as if someone tried to seal it up. There was an abandoned small building to the right and an old sign to the left. Ripped pages on sigils were left on the ground.
He crawled through the hole first and held his hand out to 'Joonhee'. Who took his hand without hesitation and stepped in. There wasn't much space in the entrance, as the ceiling was low. Just enough for him to stand in. He opened a door that went straight to a stairwell that led deep down.
He sighed. " alright. 'Joonhee' you can leave now. I'll go down mysel-" before he could finish his sentence, he felt a foot push his lower back. A scream rang out from 'Joonhee'. As he fell he quickly turned his body to see what happened. He felt a smaller body crash into his chest.
Everything seemed to slow down as he wrapped his arms around the child and looked up. He suddenly remembered who the hell they were with now. 'damnit! Amon that parasite bastard!' How could he have forgotten?
At the top of the stairs, his body didn't reflect light. But a single shine of glass on his right eye said enough. He grit his teeth. " AMON!!!" He yelled out as he saw a smirk grace the man's lips.
The door and entrance suddenly disappeared.
P. O. V: Amon
'Did he just call me a parasite bastard?' He couldn't help but shake his head in amusement. He adjusted the crystal monocle on his right eye and looked down at the dog who bore a similar monocle.
" well. I've confirmed he's Zoroast's host." he smacked his lips together making a reverse popping sound. He pouted, " what a shame. It seemed like Zoroast isn't here."
The dog returned an uncanny smile and asked." What are you going to do next?"
Amon seemed to ponder for a moment as they walked back down the path through the forest. " Now that I've confirmed what I want to confirm and learned that Mr. Fool is here himself. There's one more human that's intriguing. "
The dog tilted his head a little in curiosity. His monocle turned crooked. " What was his name? Kim Dokja?" His smile widened into a grin.
" Everyone follows him like a dog, even Mr. Fool himself. Not only that but he also knows the Protagonist. Isn't that interesting?" he leaned towards the dog who instead of talking, started barking with excitement.
" Anyways, keep an eye on the entrance. Tell me when he gets out. " he waved his hand farewell before bringing up the Movie Theater Dungeons Scenario panel.
He messed around a bit with the scenarios function. Under what could be seen as a spotlight, shining through the clouds. He disappeared from the film.
P. O. V: Klein
Unfortunately, Yoo Junghyuk wasn't on the sixth floor. Luckily the movies on that floor were easy. The movie they had just come out of was a thriller directed by Bryan Singer. Klein didn't know this movie, but Kim Dokja did. So they breezed through.
[The theater owner is satisfied with the changed ending of the movie.]
[You have obtained 500 coins as compensation.]
Lee Jihye asked in a dumbfounded manner. "…He was really the culprit?"
"Don't spoil it. There may be people who haven't seen the movie." Kim Dokja responded with a stern look.
[The constellation 'Secretive Plotter' hates spoilers.]
Klein mentally nodded along. He would have been upset at knowing who the killer was. But unfortunately, it's not like he'd get to watch the film anyway.
The group ascended to the 7th floor. It was similar to the previous floors. Most posters were torn. Kim Dokja's face contorted with concern and disbelief as they ran along the hall.
Jung Heewon looked at every poster they passed and frowned. " all the posters here are torn too."
Klein kept his eye on Kim Dokja. ' seeing Kim Dokja's reaction. This most likely isn't a good situation to be in. ' taking Kim Dokja's unannounced concern to heart. He prepared himself for any situation.
' let's just hope we don't run into another intact poster-' as if on queue, a spotlight shone on the group, making them stop.
"damnit." He heard Kim Dokja curse.
[The screening will begin.]
As the scenery changed around them once more. Klein was hit with a very familiar scent. A salty tang, gun powder. The sounds of artillery being fired and waves crashing around them. They were at sea during a battle, no.. Maybe a war zone.
They were on a ship again. Though it wasn't a cruise ship. It was a warship.
He felt his intuition sound an alarm and cried out, " get down!" Everyone followed his orders and dropped to the ground. Gunfire bombarded them from their front. A few soldiers collapsed while bleeding.
"protect the ship!" he heard a soldier cry out a command to the others.
When the firing ceased, Klein was the first to get up. As if in his element, he leaped towards the crows nest. Climbing the sails and ropes to reach to top with precision. He gripped the wooden railing and surveyed his surroundings.
The ship they were on was in the center of a large whirlpool. Which is wearing the ship down from underneath. The ship won't last long. In front of them were numerous enemy ships. Best he could estimate were hundreds.
He looked back and noticed their side didn't have any more ships. Though there were at least 20 or more enemy ships that had sunk around them. The situation really was dire. ' Did that bastard leave us the hardest film?' He felt like strangling that regressor. He pulled out a coin and began flipping the coin between his fingers as he looked ahead in thought.
Meanwhile, Kim Dokja was panicking. Even though he didn't show it, he noticed they had no ships on their side. While there were 300 warships on the other side.
" can.. We really fight this?" he heard Jung Heewon ask with terror. He ignored her and ran to a collapsed soldier and grabbed him by the collar. " Where is the Admiral?!"
The soldier looked up at him confused, " Admiral?"
" Admiral Yi Sunsin!" seeing how the soldier was still confused, Kim Dokja thought of something else. ' No way.. Did the theater master change the plot? This is just ridiculous. How are we supposed to win the battle of Myeongnyang without the help of the Duke of Loyalty and Warfare?'
He thought for a moment before he exclaimed and turned to Lee Jiyhe.
" Lee jiyhe!" he called out. He got up and immediately searched for her. 'Speaking of, where's Klein?' he frowned. Their powerhouse had disappeared. God knows where.
He spotted Lee Jiyhe curled up and was vomiting in the corner of the ship. " Lee Jihye, hey, are you alright?" he grabbed her shoulder. He could see a concerned screen of a god pop up.
[ The constellation 'maritime warfare god' pitied Lee Jiyhe.]
She turned around and looked at Kim Dokja with tears staining her face. " i-i can't. I won't do it, never!"
[The constellation 'Maritime War God' is encouraging Lee Jihye. ]
'oh I see. She isn't talking to me.' Kim Dokja frowned.
It was then that he heard Klein/Gehrman speak up from behind him. " what's going on?"
Kim Dokja looked back at Klein. " The film has changed because of Lee Jiyhe's presence. She's supposed to be the Admiral. Without her we can't win the war. "
Klein raised a brow. ' can't win the war you say? I don't know. I have a very useful item I can use that would do wonders. In this situation.' instead of voicing his thoughts, he instead asked with a condescending yet curious look.
" Then what's the problem?"
"well.. " Kim Dokja looked back and Lee Jiyhe who was currently puking her guts out again.
' ah right. She has sea sickness.' he looked closer at her face and narrowed his gaze. ' is it actually seasickness though?' he pondered.
Kim Dokja looked at Klein and asked. " kl- Gehrman. Can you do anything for the moment? Distract them.. Anything. At least while I help Lee Jiyhe?" he asked in desperation.
He looked back and noticed the ship's were dangerously close. Close enough to board the ship. He sighed mentally. " I'll reduce the numbers."
'reduce the numbers?' Kim Dokja was confused. No matter how much of a power house Klein was. There's no way he can take on that many ships. Nonetheless, he decided to believe in him and nodded. " got it. "
Klein turned around and started walking towards the bow of the ship. He pulled out a rectangular charm from his pocket and opened his palm.
The charm changed and it formed into a short white scepter, imbedded with tiny blue gems. In truth. He could have brought it out from Sefirah Castle. But that would create a huge weak spot even for a second. Thus he used the next best method to use it.
To avoid any setbacks, he immediately used it to fly towards the enemy ships. With a swipe of his hand, he used the strong currents to push the ships back several meters.
He wondered what Lee Jiyhe had that made Kim Dokja believe they needed her to win this film. He assumed it had something to do with her sponsor.
Either way, it saved Klein the trouble of needing to go all out and expose himself. For the time being, he supposed he can just be a disturbance for the amount of time he can use it for.
He raised the scepter up above his head and lightning struck countless ships. Some waves threw ships off course and slammed into each other. He even shifted the whirlpool from underneath his group's ship towards the enemy.
Kim Dokja watched in awe and curiosity. ' , where did this crazy bastard get a weapon that controls water and summons lightning?' he shook his head. He'll Interrogate him later, in the meantime. He needs to help Lee Jiyhe.
For more reasons than one.
He looked down at a bounty screen.
[Bounty Scenario – Those who seek death shall live. Those who seek life will die]
Category: Sub
Difficulty: B+
Clear Conditions: The 'Maritime War God' is asking you for help. Encourage Lee Jihye, incarnation of Duke of Loyalty and Warfare and win the Battle of Myeongnyang.
Time Limit: 2 hours
Compensation: A stigma from the Duke of Loyalty and Warfare.
Failure: ―
He doubted his eyes for a second. The bounty scenarios were rarely requested by the constellations alone. He was wary of it until he noticed the rewards.
' The stigma of the Duke of Loyalty and Warfare. If I complete the scenario. I would be able to use one of the Duke of Loyalty and Warfare's stigmas without signing a contract.'
Without a second thought he shook Lee Jiyhe and spoke with a harsh tone. " Lee Jiyhe. Get up. Now."
"No! Uhhhg.. You 4 can handle it. uhhhrrgg… "
" can't you endure it for a bit?"
" endure it? You have no clue mister."
' You have no clue? Right.. You always say that. But now isn't the time for winning.' He thought and clenched her shoulder tighter.
" actually. I do know. I know you're not like this because you're seasick." confused, Lee Jiyhe looked back at him. ".. what?"
" It's because your dead friends loved this movie." Kim dokja stated without hesitation.
Lee Jiyhe trembled. Like she got smacked in the face. Memories of the first scenario squirmed into her head. The first scenario task.. She had to strangle her own friend with her bare hands to survive.
"th-that… how did you.."
"Don't ask how I know. There is no time to explain."
Lee Jihye looked up at him with vacant eyes.
"You killed your friend with your own hands only to die like this?"
His words didn't seem to get through to her, so he continued. "If you wake up now, at least you can save a couple lives."
He saw Lee Jiyhe raise her head and look around. They weren't in any danger. No signs of being attacked. She was so out of it, she didn't notice one person was missing. " what do you mean… "
"gehrman-ssi is ahead distracting them." he pointed towards the front of the ship. There a couple of meters away, they could see Klein hovering in the air with a scepter. Watching as lightning roared and ships crashed into each other and sank.
" he's using up so much power, it shouldn't be long before he can't continue any longer. When that happens we're going to get boarded." Naturally, Kim Dokja didn't believe Klein was going to be tired. Even so, Klein was doing a lot just to give him the chance to talk with ease.
His words seemed to his Lee Jiyhe as she looked away from Gehrman Sparrow and looked down. "i-i'm disgusting.. I don't deserve to live." her voice was quiet and mournful.
' So am I, for using you like this.' Kim Dokja thought. ' I'm no different from Lee Jiyhe who killed her friend to survive. When I'm using my knowledge of these characters to stay alive.'
Naturally he took the beyonders out of the equation. Yes, he was using them as well. But from their previous conversation, it was more transactional. A fair deal.
" The right to live isn't something you're given. You must earn it while you're still alive. It doesn't matter if you atone for your past…. Or keep living a despicable life. What matters is that you survive. " he hesitated for a moment before looking back down at Lee Jiyhe.
" or.. Do you really want to die here?"
[Your understanding of the character 'Lee Jihye' has increased.]
All sorts of emotions swirled around the crying Lee Jiyhe. Resentment, disillusions, self-contempt, nevertheless. There was a straightforward emotion hiding behind these dark emotions. ' I don't want to die.'
With a newfound determination, she whipped her face and rose up from her position. She sniffed and looked out at the army ahead of them.
She picked up her sword and made her way to the bow of the ship. Confused, everyone watched her.
[The constellation 'Maritime War God' has responded to the will of 'Lee Jihye'.]
A red light burst from around Lee Jihye as she turned her sword towards the earth.
[The character 'Lee Jihye' has received a new stigma.]
"I.. Still have 12 ships left."
A radiant beam emerged from the end of her sword.
[The character 'Lee Jihye' has activated the stigma 'Ghost Fleet Lv. 1!]
The water around them turned into strong whirlpools as 12 ships rose up from below the ocean. 12 semi-transparent ships appeared.
" I would happily die where I stand.. If I could have my vengeance."
Finally, the ghost fleet moved through the raging strait. In the distance, Klein saw the ghost fleet and was amazed.
" So this is what that girl had up her sleeve the whole time."
An impenetrable fleet that would do damage but yet receive none in return. This ability would have indeed been enough to turn the tides. Which means Klein didn't have to go much farther.
He looked down at the wrecked ships. At best out of 300 ships he had sunk about 37 of them. Luckily since he was only doing some minor work. Like striking down gunpowder to cause an explosion and causing countless major collisions. He didn't feel all that drained yet. He could probably do a couple more.
" Hey Old man!"
"..?" Klein looked back confused for a moment. ' was someone calling him an old man?' low and behold, Lee Jiyhe was looking at him from a distance. She yelled out towards him.
" leave the rest of these bastards to me!" she had a newfound determined look in her eyes.
' ahh. To think this kid was sobbing hysterically not too long ago.' he shook his head before he paused. ' wait.. Who is this kid calling an old man? I'm only 24 dammit!'
He pinched his brow in irritation and groaned. He's lucky he's far enough for them to not notice anything abnormal in his behavior.
The ghost ships finally reached his location and started barraging the enemy ships with artillery. A young high school girl led the battlefield. While an experienced hunter hovered above, crashing ships together and sinking them.
The warships were completely overwhelmed by the duo's power. The 3 left on the ship gaped at the scene in front of them.
In the fading light of the sunset, the screams of the Japanese were heard from among the smoke. The whirlpool of Myeongnyang Strait sucked in the dead bodies. It took less than an hour for the last enemy ship to collapse. In the end, klein had sunk 100 ships, while Lee Jiyhe fleet defeated the other 200.
[The theater owner is satisfied with the changed ending of the movie.]
[The fourth 'Ending Credit' has been reached.]
[Performers: Kim Dokja, Jung Heewon, Lee Jihye, Lee Gilyoung, Klein Moretti]
[You have obtained 500 coins as compensation.]
Lee Jiyhe was exhausted, after all using such a powerful stigma would have drained her alot.
Jung Heewon walked over to her and gave her a hand. " You did good."
" uhhhg.. I feel sick again."
Klein descended back onto the ship, as soon as he touched the ground. He let out an exasperated sigh. Even though it didn't take a lot out of him. Using the artifact continuously for almost an hour had exhausted him. Of course he didn't show it.
If he had done it above the gray fog, then it would have been a different story. He felt a poke at his leg and looked down.
Lee Gilyoung looked up at him with sparkling eyes. " You were awesome."
"..."
' How do I react to this in a Gehrman Sparrow way?' Klein took a brief moment to ponder this before he looked away from Lee Gilyoung, uninterested.
Lee Jiyhe walked up staggering and looked at the Sea gods specter, a hint of greed in her eyes. " hey.. Can I try it just once?"
In response, Klein broke the specter/charm on his knee. He then tossed it over his shoulder where it quickly disintegrated. " It's not real anyways."
"... " Lee Jiyhe glared at him like he was the biggest asshole in existence.
The scenery changed around them and they were back on The 6th floor of the movie theater. Lee Jiyhe looked at Kim Dokja.
" old man. Gehrman is being mean."
"when is he not?"
".. Damn your right."
' seriously?' Klein turned away from the group, hiding his annoyance. " I'm not an old man."
Lee Jiyhe leaned against a wall and glared at Klein. " Then how old are you, mister?"
"24." He replied like it was the weather.
The group looked at him with shock.' Klein looks more in his late 20's. Wait.. That is not his real face. He can change faces. Damnit and here I thought I wasn't the only one to be called old. ' Kim Dokja felt somewhat betrayed. Now he's back to being the old man in Lee Jihye's eyes.
"wow. I.. Didn't think you were so young. " Jung Heewon commented, scanning Klein up and down. As if trying to figure out if he's lying. Seeing all the pairs of eyes on him, he began to feel uncomfortable. Thus he began walking down the hallway to the next floor.
Seeing him leave. The rest began to get active. With Kim Dokja telling Lee Jihye to rest while the rest go and save Yoo Junghyuk. While the rest begin to catch up to Klein, he couldn't help but wonder how Leonard was doing. ' Is he doing alright? I did give him some charms to help. Even a Yesterday Once More charm. But this is his domain. Unless he runs into some trouble, then this should be a breeze.'
' wait.. Does Leonard know about the Yesterday Once More charm?'
While he was deep in thought, Kim Dokja came up behind him and poked his ribcage. Which brought a terrifying glare his way. Kim Dokja pulled his arm away like he just pissed off a cat.
Klein made an expression as if to ask, " what is it?" Kim Dokja coughed into his fist before leaning closer to Klein. Just enough so the others couldn't hear his whisper.
" What was that staff? Where did you get it? When did you get it?" He bombarded Klein's ears with meaningless questions. Nonetheless, he answered.
" it wasn't a real artifact, but a charm. "
" a charm? Like that thing that allowed us to breathe in the toxic air back in Chungmuro?" Kim Dokja tilted his head, his interest peaked.
Klein watched his reaction and began explaining a bit. " in a sense. It's a charm that allows one to borrow power from their past selves. This can include objects the person has used once before."
' I see. So it can allow someone to borrow power from their past selves…' when Kim Dokja thought this, his mind wandered to a dangerous thought. " what would happen if a regressor used one?"
Klein looked at him for a moment. He knew who Kim Dokja was talking about. But now that he thought about it. What would happen if Yoo Junghyuk was given the power he had at the end of a previous regression?
The two seem to mull over the implications before smiling at each other with fake joy. They simultaneously agreed on one thing.
' It must never happen.'
If that violent regressor got ahold of his previous regressions powers. They might as well tell the world farewell. Because no one's making it out alive.
Ignoring whatever Kim Dokja had said, they continued heading towards the 8th floor.