Park Hyun Woo gradually opened his eyes, an invigorating sensation of vitality coursing through his body. It felt as though every cell had been rejuvenated, leaving him enveloped in an unprecedented sense of clarity and strength. Rising from the bed with practiced fluidity, he began stretching, rolling his shoulders and neck before performing a series of light bends to test his newfound vigor.
Park Hyun Woo (to himself): "The 'Complete Recovery' option… astonishing. It feels like I could train intensively all day without even a hint of exhaustion."
Extending his hands, he summoned the familiar System window. The projection materialized instantly, its contours sharp and luminescent, exuding an almost tangible clarity. With deliberate precision, he reached out, his fingers lightly brushing the interface. The System responded effortlessly, unfolding into a sophisticated yet intuitive menu.
Navigating the options with practiced ease, Park Hyun Woo opened the "Skills" tab. His eyes scanned the descriptions, and the interface promptly magnified the relevant sections, presenting the details in a clear and organized format.
Park Hyun Woo (to himself): "'Analysis' and 'Immunity'… intriguing. Let's see. 'Immunity' — a passive mechanism that functions autonomously. Efficient and hassle-free. But 'Analysis'… its potential for providing detailed insights is fascinating. Testing it in a controlled environment is a must."
His fingers moved deftly across the interface as he mulled over strategies to integrate these new skills into practical scenarios. Time seemed to blur, and nearly forty minutes passed before the sound of a knock at the door snapped him out of his deep focus.
Nurse (from outside the door): "Patient Park Hyun Woo, Dr. Park Yong Jun is requesting your presence in his office."
Redirecting his attention away from the projection, Park Hyun Woo watched as the interface dissolved seamlessly, fading into the air as though it had never existed.
As Park Hyun Woo stepped out of the hospital room, his attention was immediately drawn to the nurse standing just outside. She greeted him with a professional smile, her slight bow reflecting both politeness and discipline.
Hyun Woo's glance barely brushed her before the familiar glow of the System interface burst into view. His eyes widened as a vivid luminescent outline encircled the nurse's figure, and streams of information began populating the display:
• Object: Kim So Yeon
• Age: 27 years
• Position: Nurse, Medical Wing, Hunter Association
• Residential Address: [Hidden by the System for Privacy]
• Health Status: Excellent
• Remarks: No Threat Detected.
He froze mid-step, his mind scrambling to process this sudden influx of data. Blinking rapidly, he attempted to rationalize what he was seeing.
Park Hyun Woo (internally): "What is this? Some sort of malfunction?"
Instinctively, he rubbed his eyes, hoping the projection would vanish. However, when he glanced back, the System window remained perfectly intact. Its precision and clarity were unsettling, the glowing contour sharp against reality.
Nurse (with a trace of concern): "Patient Park, are you feeling alright? Is something wrong?"
Startled out of his thoughts, Hyun Woo realized his hesitation and wide-eyed stare must seem peculiar.
Park Hyun Woo (awkwardly): "Yes… yes, I'm fine."
After a moment's pause, he hastily added:
Park Hyun Woo (after a moment): "Sorry, I got distracted for a second. Let's continue."
The nurse studied him briefly, her expression mildly skeptical, but said nothing further. She turned and began walking down the corridor with steady, professional strides. Hyun Woo followed, though his thoughts were in disarray.
Park Hyun Woo (to himself): "System, is this how you're supposed to operate? Or did something go wrong? Why am I suddenly receiving detailed information about people?"
His gaze flickered toward the nurse again, but he quickly averted his eyes, afraid of triggering another stream of data. The System's precision felt invasive, as though it was peeling back layers of privacy with each glance.
As they moved through the corridor, Hyun Woo wrestled with his confusion, his thoughts spiraling into theories and questions.
Park Hyun Woo (internally): "This has to be the 'Analysis' skill. But why is it activating on its own? I didn't trigger it… or did I?"
Before he could delve further into his spiraling thoughts, a smaller System window materialized in his field of vision:
System: "Active skill 'Analysis' is triggered automatically when deemed necessary by the situation."
Hyun Woo stopped abruptly, narrowing his eyes at the text.
Park Hyun Woo (internally): "Necessary? What situation? She's just a nurse. Or is there something I'm not seeing?"
He inhaled deeply, forcing himself to remain calm. With a quick swipe of his finger, he minimized the window and steadied his thoughts.
Park Hyun Woo (to himself): "I'll figure this out later. For now, I need to stay composed. No more acting like a fool."
Noticing his pause, the nurse turned back, her expression tinged with mild concern.
Nurse (cautiously): "Are you sure you're alright? If you're feeling unwell, I can.."
Hyun Woo raised a hand, cutting her off gently but firmly.
Park Hyun Woo (with a faint, uneasy smile): "No, no, I'm fine. Really. Just lost in thought again. Let's keep moving."
The nurse regarded him for a moment longer, her skepticism evident, but ultimately she nodded and resumed her pace. Hyun Woo followed in silence, his mind churning with questions. The implications of the System's new functionality were daunting, and he couldn't help but wonder how this sudden shift would affect his future interactions.
The nurse escorted Park Hyun Woo to a door marked with a polished plaque reading "Dr. Park Yong Jun." She paused briefly, knocked softly, and addressed the occupant in a composed and professional tone:
Nurse: "Doctor, patient Park Hyun Woo has arrived. May we enter?"
From within, a calm yet authoritative voice responded:
Dr. Park: "Come in."
The nurse opened the door, stepping aside to allow Hyun Woo to enter. She offered a polite bow before leaving silently.
Hyun Woo stepped into the room, his gaze sweeping across the neatly organized space. The large, sturdy desk commanded attention, while shelves filled with medical records framed the walls. A computer displayed intricate data visualizations, hinting at the meticulous nature of its occupant. Rising from his seat, Dr. Park gestured for Hyun Woo to sit.
Park Hyun Woo (politely): "Good afternoon, Doctor. You called for me?"
Dr. Park nodded slightly, motioning toward the chair opposite him.
Dr. Park (calmly): "Please, have a seat, Park Hyun Woo. There's something important we need to discuss."
Hyun Woo settled into the chair, folding his hands neatly in his lap. His eyes reflected quiet attentiveness as he awaited the explanation.
Dr. Park: "Effective immediately, you are cleared to leave the Medical Wing. All the tests and evaluations we conducted have yielded consistent results: no injuries, no abnormalities. Your body is in optimal condition."
He paused briefly, giving Hyun Woo a moment to absorb the information.
Dr. Park (continuing): "The Association's leadership, which has overseen your case, has also authorized your discharge. You are free to begin packing your belongings whenever you're ready."
Park Hyun Woo (mildly surprised): "Discharge? So soon?"
Dr. Park nodded, his tone reassuring.
Dr. Park: "Yes. Additionally, the Association has covered all your medical expenses in full. You won't need to worry about any financial obligations."
Hyun Woo sat in thoughtful silence, processing the announcement. After a moment, he lifted his gaze, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
Park Hyun Woo (hesitantly): "Doctor, what if something changes? What if my condition takes a turn for the worse?"
Dr. Park (confidently): "If that happens, you are welcome to return at any time. Your case remains under special observation, and immediate care will be available if needed. But as I've emphasized, there is currently no reason for concern."
Park Hyun Woo (puzzled): "And now? Just go home and pretend none of this happened?"
Dr. Park offered a faint, understanding smile, recognizing the trace of unease in Hyun Woo's expression.
Dr. Park: "You are not obligated to return home immediately. If you prefer, you can stay in the city, find temporary accommodation, or use this time to rest and reflect. Your health has been fully restored, and the decision on what to do next is entirely yours."
Hyun Woo paused, his brow furrowing slightly as he considered his next steps.
Park Hyun Woo (inquiring): "What about my sister? Has she been informed about my discharge?"
Dr. Park: "We've already notified her. She's waiting for your decision. If you'd like, you can meet her as early as today."
Exhaling softly, Hyun Woo felt a subtle tension release from his chest, a burden he hadn't realized was weighing on him.
Park Hyun Woo (decisively): "Understood. In that case, I'll start preparing to leave."
Dr. Park: "Good. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out. Best of luck, Park Hyun Woo."
Rising from his chair, Hyun Woo offered a polite bow, gratitude evident in his posture.
Park Hyun Woo (sincerely): "Thank you for everything, Doctor. I'll be in touch if I need anything."
Dr. Park (with a reassuring smile): "Take care of yourself, Hyun Woo. Remember, the Medical Wing is always here for you if you ever need it."
As Hyun Woo stepped into the quiet corridor, the soft echo of his footsteps reverberated against the walls. Dr. Park's words lingered in his thoughts, but more than anything, his mind turned to his sister.
Park Hyun Woo (to himself): "She must be waiting for me already. I've spent enough time here. It's time to go home."
Resolved, he quickened his pace toward his room. Once inside, he packed swiftly, selecting only the essentials: a change of clothes, his tablet, and a few personal items.
Park Hyun Woo (to himself): "It's just a short trip — twenty minutes at most. If I don't delay, I'll be home by lunchtime."
He paused briefly, his gaze sweeping over the now-empty room where he had spent so many days. A faint smile crossed his lips as he closed the door behind him, signaling the end of this chapter.
Approaching the nurses' station, Hyun Woo slowed his pace. A cluster of nurses in pristine white uniforms were quietly conversing, their voices low and professional. Noticing him, they paused and turned their attention toward him.
Park Hyun Woo (with a gentle smile): "Thank you for taking such good care of me."
Among them, Kim So Yeon — the nurse who had escorted him earlier — bowed her head respectfully.
Kim So Yeon (warmly): "Take care of yourself, Mr. Park. And don't forget about us."
Hyun Woo nodded, his gratitude unspoken but evident, before continuing toward the exit. Stepping through the main doors of the Medical Wing, he paused to draw in a deep breath, the fresh air filling his lungs and invigorating his spirit.
Park Hyun Woo (to himself): "Home. Finally."
His steps were lighter, his thoughts focused. Reuniting with his sister and stepping into a new phase of his life felt like the perfect opportunity to redefine his path. For Hyun Woo, this was more than just a journey home — it was the start of something entirely new.