Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

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The next day, Klein stayed within Paradise, watching the crowd and the milling guards. It was because of this that he saw Yoo Junghyuk and Yoo Sangah arriving in Paradise through the gates.

Yoo Junghyuk looks as grumpy and serious as usual… Yoo Sangah also looks concerned and urgent, however…

The companions of carriage 3707 gathered around the two, asking questions, while Jung Heewon hovered at a slight distance, holding the hilt of her sword nervously. Klein simply drank some juice in the market, but nonchalantly shifted tables to sit closer and listen in. Both Yoo Junghyuk and Yoo Sangah brushed off the questions and curiosities.

“Where is Kim Dokja?” Yoo Junghyuk asked.

It's immediately about Kim Dokja…

“He's not here,” Lee Hyungsung answered miserably. “He left earlier.”

“What?”

“He left us because we were useless,” Lee Gilyoung said cryingly.

So he really was here before. Did he go to Dark Castle’s first floor after leaving them here, or was it before… 

“Shut up, that's not it!” the small Shin Yoosung said, but she bit her lips anxiously.

“Then, where is he?” Yoo Sangah asked, eyebrows drawn. “We need to find him, quickly…”

Jung Heewon crept forward, as if she couldn't help it. “... Why? What happened?”

“I heard a prophecy from Olympus,” said Sangah-ssi. “It is not the kind that tells the future; it is a ‘Fate’ that once spoken will be made true. The prophecy says, ‘Incarnation Kim Dokja will be killed by the person he loves most’. That's why we need to find him.”

Klein’s hand stilled briefly while drinking the juice. What… This is really…

Some other eyes in the market had turned to watch the group, but overall the pace of life was civilian and sedate. Most people here had come here to escape the scenarios, after all.

“Ahjussi will die?” Lee Jihye blurted out.

“By the person he loves most?” Lee Gilyoung asked loudly.

After a pause, Lee Jihye pointed out, “Ahjussi will just revive again after dying. Isn’t it fine?”

Yoo Sangah said seriously, “It is a good thing, but I don’t know how many times he can resurrect… It is a prophecy of Olympus and it isn’t that easy to avoid.”

“Then who is the person Dokja-ssi loves most? Is it…” Jung Heewon trailed off.

There was a silence.

“Who?” Lee Hyungsung asked, looking around, frowning.

“Ahjussi, are you this dense…” Lee Jihye said in an incredible tone. “It was definitely Klein. I thought it was Master at first, but then… that kiss…!”

“But Klein is dead,” Jung Heewon said firmly. Then, a little more uncertainly, “There's no chance, right? That he, like Dokja-ssi… No, I mean, could there be another person he also cares for?”

Everyone then looked at Yoo Junghyuk.

“It can be a friendship type of love,” Jung Heewon then said. “Didn't Dokja-ssi also call you his companion?”

He looks constipated… Klein commented.

“... Maybe,” Yoo Junghyuk said shortly. “We must find Kim Dokja.”

“But… where?” 

The group looked at each other in silence.

Uh… This is a real logistical difficulty. Only I and Kim Dokja could find others easily. If Yoo Junghyuk and Yoo Sangah who are the most mysterious also came here accidentally, they also don't have tracking abilities… Kim Dokja’s prophecy is very worriesome…

What about Shin Yoosung? Dokja is her sponsor, after all. But even so, that doesn't mean she can find him, like a reverse search…

Lee Hyungsung finally raised his hand. “He went to find dungeons.”

Klein calmly finished his juice, and slipped away into the shadows of a stall.

“Then we'll search all the dungeons,” he heard Yoo Junghyuk say stoicly.

“I'll… I'll come too, since it's Kim Dokja,” Jung Heewon’s voice piped up. Klein knew she felt hesitant to leave Paradise. “Huh? Where did that Eun Sunghoon go? Dokja-ssi asked me to keep an eye on him before he left… Wasn't he around earlier?”

“Eun Sunghoon?” asked the depressed Lee Gilyoung.

“Nevermind. It's not that important.”

The party finally left Paradise, with Yoo Junghyuk naturally leading, and Klein as Eun Sunghoon followed behind in the shadows.

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He darted through the High Forest familiarly, jumping from one tree’s shadow from another. Since Yoo Junghyuk had his special golden eye ability, and the regressor was generally very sharp, Klein made sure to stay almost a kilometer away while tailing the group. 

In some sense, with Uncanny Intuition, there was no chance of him losing them, but it was better to stay close enough to intervene.

‘The one who Kim Dokja loves the most will kill him…’

This situation isn't good. It is good that they care, but in fact, isn't it the most dangerous if the people closest to Kim Dokja all approach him at once now? A prophecy like this makes me a little nervous. It can always be an accident, or a misinterpretation then…

I need to keep an eye on it.

What if Yoo Junghyuk kills him? Kim Dokja always talks about him. And Yoo Junghyuk is definitely somewhat psychotic… It's not impossible…

Yoo Junghyuk and I are likely the biggest risk factors, but I definitely won't kill Dokja… However, my instability and hallucinations can introduce certain risks… There's also Kim Dokja’s mother, the King of Wanderers… Could he really love her the most?

There were too many unknown variables for Klein to simply try to stop the group. Klein also knew from fiction that trying to forcefully stop a prophecy from fulfilling would usually cause it to happen in only a more unexpected way. Attempting to eliminate a child prophesized to kill a villain might only cause it to backfire and kill the villain much earlier, for example.

It's actually much better to work with the prophecy, and make it appear true but with more favorable results…

Klein grew to have some ideas. After standing still to think through many of them, he made his decision. He approached Yoo Junghyuk’s party at the edge of the High Forest stealthily.

Maybe I could shoot him to draw his attention…

At that moment, Yoo Junghyuk held his sword tightly, turning around. “Who is there?”

How scary… Klein hid behind the tree trunk more tightly, though now he slipped Illusion to only half-obscure him. He really can find me that easily. 

He is also one of the few people that can instantly identify me and read my status window, according to Kim Dokja… I should act too underwhelming to check…

Klein rapidly leapt away from the trunk. However, a hand caught the back of his coat. Because of the immense strength of the regressor, Klein was left hanging in the air from his coat.

The image probably looked a little funny. Yoo Junghyuk was clearly grabbing something, but the person was invisible, only looking like a dark distortion on the horizon. Everyone crowded around.

“Show yourself,” said Yoo Junghyuk lowly.

Danger!

Klein immediately released Illusion, appearing like Eun Sunghoon, and swept his hands out helplessly, chuckling.

“Weren't you planning on doing something interesting? I thought I'd follow you and see~ I promise, I wasn't doing anything unusual.”

[Some constellations that like violence are disappointed in you.]

[Other constellations enjoy seeing your suffering.]

[1 coin has been sponsored.]

Jung Heewon’s expression flashed with consternation and confusion. “Eun Sunghoon? What are you doing here?”

Yoo Junghyuk’s dark eyes looked at him for a long time. Klein tensed. A spark of gold had flashed in the regressor’s eye. Fuck! Is it—

Yoo Junghyuk abruptly dropped him.

Klein rolled on the ground, catching himself, and pointed his pistol at Yoo Junghyuk. Everyone else immediately drew their weapons, surrounding him.

“What, isn't it fun?” Klein said sardonically to Yoo Junghyuk. “To bully the person below you? What do you have to say for yourself, Supreme King~?”

Klein’s main thought in the tense situation was:

Deny everything!

“If you speak again, I will kill you.” Yoo Junghyuk's sword hand subtly shook. His grip on the sword was very tight.

Klein smiled silently.

The psychotic regressor then exhaled.

“You have a tracking skill. Where is Kim Dokja?”

“Why would I know?”

“You…”

Yoo Junghyuk gritted his teeth together, then looked at Jung Heewon.

“Who is he?”

“Uh, he's someone named Eun Sunghoon. He appeared in Paradise recently. Dokja-ssi actually asked me to look out for him, since he looked suspicious…”

“That's enough. Why shouldn't I kill you?”

This time he asked Klein directly.

He's really angry. ‘Why shouldn't I kill you…’

Did that paranoid guy see it? Did he check my status window? Why did he check? He knows I have a tracking skill now, so the golden eye ability must be how he checks status windows. Sigh, I was too careless this time…

In any case, he decided not to expose me immediately.

His thoughts now finally had time to catch up after his heart had been beating very fast.

Klein pocketed the pistol, and held up his hands disarmingly. He immediately changed his strategy. “Well, if you kill me, how can you find someone? Aren't you looking for the Immortal King? I'm also very curious about your reasons.”

When Yoo Junghyuk’s expression became angrier and angrier, Klein genuinely became terrified for his life.

Stop… it's just acting! Anyway, wasn't I supposed to be stronger than you, according to the Star Stream? As expected, it's all a farce… I'm only a support class fighter that can act and occasionally multiclass as a frontal fighter! I really am harmless, not cut out for front-line realtime action like this! Don't kill me… Anyway, I really can help you find Dokja.

He tried to portray his sincerity with his eyes.

Yoo Junghyuk finally grunted, “Fine.”

The kids began whispering.

Lee Jihye said, “Huh, Master, is this a good idea?”

Yoo Sangah looked grim and tired, as if a long journey had worn her down. “It can be good. We can find Dokja-ssi more quickly.”

Lee Hyungsung didn't seem to know what to think. He only looked around impatiently.

Jung Heewon came over and patted ‘Eun Sunghoon’ on the shoulder. She sighed. “You really are a wild dog. Behave, behave. Anyway, thank you for the help. Dokja-ssi is someone important to us.”

I'm not a wild dog… Heewon-ssi, were you always like this? The treatment is really too different.

“Sure,” Klein responded easily and liltingly. “I'd love to help if it's you, Heewon-ssi.”

She laughed dryly.

“Don't let him escape,” Yoo Junghyuk ordered.

Klein restrained his changes in expression, keeping the wide smile of Eun Sunghoon.

Klein pretended to study the ground for hints and clues, routing them back to Paradise’s entrance to “trace” Kim Dokja’s footsteps. This was all an act to disguise the similarity of abilities to Klein Moretti’s. When he saw Yoo Junghyuk look impatient, he would finally use Uncanny Intuition and point out the right direction, guiding the companions of carriage 3707.

They crossed the hills, forests, and river of the Abyssal Plains in this way.

“How far?” Yoo Junghyuk asked sharply.

Klein had been able to roughly triangulate the location, but he was actually afraid the regressor would really kill him if he gave all the information away too early. Toying with the weapons in his pocket, Klein said, “Not much further.”

This was true. To be exact, it was roughly only a kilometer now. While Kim Dokja’s movements had been erratic and oddly fast, they had almost narrowed in on him.

“Hmm, maybe in this direction? The tracks are now fresh~”

This time, he pointed in a direction that was slightly off. However, there were now two distinct track marks leading in that direction—like that of car tires digging up turf. Kim Dokja had probably actually followed this path, but his route later became curved, and he was actively moving. So it was actually more efficient for Klein to cut the curve and locate him directly.

Yoo Junghyuk looked down at the clear tracks they had finally stumbled onto, eyebrows furrowing intently.

“Let's go.”

Yoo Junghyuk walked forward in a rush, steps determined. The image of Eun Sunghoon followed him, as well as the other members of carriage 3707, who had picked up their step. Meanwhile, the real Klein stood still, stepping back quietly and slowly into the forest.

Let's now first confirm the situation before they arrive…

With this in mind, Klein cut through the trees and took the more efficient path.

Eventually, he heard the sound of a rumble, and a car moving.

It was Kim Dokja driving a red Ferrangini car, with Han Sooyoung by his side. She was wearing sunglasses.

Kim Dokja was driving the Ferrangini.

Relief and joy immediately bit at his heart.

Don't you look cheery… he immediately lampooned. What are you doing? We were all worried for you, and you are out playing?

However, he heard Kim Dokja talking with her about his Fate. The details were unclear due to the sound of the car, and Klein had to move around and run a lot while staying hidden.

“... Fate…”

“... Three possibilites…” Han Sooyoung’s voice murmurred over the loud engine.

“... Incarnation is first…”

“... Other interpretations of ‘person’…”

“... Meanings of death… forget you… stupid, dead people can't remember…”

“... Paradise?” Kim Dokja stopped the car, suddenly alarmed. Klein could now hear the words more clearly, drawn with some shock and worry. Their faces were also clear.

It really is Kim Dokja…

Kim Dokja was safe and looking vibrant. His expression was calm and confident as usual. He had a way of drawing people in just by looking at him.

“Hey, if you're worried, then why don't you use that ability that lets you peek in on people?” he heard Han Sooyoung say distantly.

“... You are aware of it?” Kim Dokja asked.

“I didn't know until now.”

“Then I’ll go. Please wait.”

“How much are you going to give me?”

“Why do you want coins every time? You should give a bit of free service for once.”

Is everyone surrounding Dokja this way… Klein lampooned. His lips curled slightly at the edges, and his eyes creased. So you really do have this kind of ability… 

“…Then do it quickly. I can’t deal with some enemies alone.”

“If something happens then just wake me up.”

Kim Dokja seemed to nod off and fall asleep.

What… You can fall asleep now without being drugged? Klein criticized familiarly. Then why did you keep asking me before? Is it a new ability? ‘Insomnia Cure, Lv. 10’?

Did you also use that peeking ability to identify me then? No, the treatment is a little different than if he directly knew it was me for sure, and he didn't fall asleep on the spot back then… Eh, unless he's snubbing me? No, it's not likely, Kim Dokja isn't this type of person… Or actually, maybe he is…?

No, he definitely is sending messages to a dead person, this is called the opposite of snubbing…

Maybe it was due to tiredness, but Klein's thoughts became temporarily distracted.

Immediately however, Dokja woke up. His gaze then wildly looked around, then back down the path the car had come from. His mouth opened and closed.

“What?” Han Sooyoung asked, a little eagerly.

“They're already here?” Kim Dokja said in a shocked tone. “They're following us.”

“What?”

“Yoo Junghyuk is following us.”

“Shit, let's drive!”

Kim Dokja hit the pedal to the Ferrangini again.

The car blasted forward.

“Why isn't he still in Paaaaradiseeee—” Han Sooyoung’s venting voice trailed off at a distance.

Klein watched all of this a little speechlessly.

You… 

No, the point is, why is he running from Yoo Junghyuk? Earlier, didn't they sound concerned for everyone in Paradise? Now it's the opposite?

Do they just have an escape mentality?

Well, it's the same for me. I'm also scared of the regressor… He's just too unstable and unpredictable, even if he's other times reliable…

As long as they didn't ditch the car, Yoo Junghyuk would be able to find them eventually, however. Klein held back a sigh, feeling how Kim Dokja's path was curving again, as if to shake someone off.

Klein’s movement speed wasn't as fast as a Ferrangini. He also tried to follow, but on a more direct path, crouching through the trees.

This feels silly…

[The ‘Monarch of the Small Fries’ is excited by this hunt!]

[The ‘Nail-Eating rat’ says this is it! Crush him! Hehhehehehee.]

[Constellations that like violence are ready to see his jugular get ripped.]

[30 coins have been sponsored.]

It's these two constellations again… 

When Klein caught up the next time, he saw that Han Sooyoung had taken the wheel. Dokja was apparently dozing off every now and then.

… He's checking in on Yoo Junghyuk's location? He's this paranoid?

Klein had the feeling of watching an absurd car chase on TV, except the chasers were actually invisible and doing their stunts many kilometers away from the scene of the actual chase.

However, the third time this happened, weapons suddenly struck the car from the side.

The two were under attack.

“Fuck, Kim Dokja, wake up!”

Han Sooyoung tried to shake him awake, but he didn't respond quickly enough.

“Damn it…” She slammed the pedal of the Ferrangini, then quickly leapt out of the car to block the attackers.

[Some constellations that like conflict grow excited at the sudden development.]

[Some constellations that like mysterious characters wonder what you are planning.]

[150 coins have been sponsored.]

What ensued was a desperate battle where Han Sooyoung defended the car and Kim Dokja, while many invisible attackers suddenly came out of the woodworks, throwing blades and weapons at the sleeping Kim Dokja.

… What? Did you get stuck looking at Yoo Junghyuk's face? Klein felt it was a little absurd.

Klein also threw one of his precious real daggers from his pocket to block the path of an aimed arrow that would have stabbed Kim Dokja. The dagger narrowly landed in the soft cushioning of the Ferrangini, slitting closely next to Dokja’s neck. The arrow bounced away harmlessly.

[The ‘Nail-Eating Rat’ bites his nails in excitement!]

[The ‘Nail-Eating Rat’ cries out about how it was only one inch off!]

[The ‘Monarch of the Small Fries’ laughs and kicks his knees.]

[Other constellations are excited for your assassination of the ‘Immortal King’.]

[Some constellations are disappointed in you.]

[Some constellations feel curious about your motivations.]

[2930 coins have been sponsored.]

Klein felt a little stupefied.

So many coins this time… In any case, it's a success. My acting has been very good? 

As he watched then, two blows simultaneously came at the sleeping Kim Dokja. One was to his lower area between his legs, and the other was to his heart.

Han Sooyoung immediately snapped out her blade. With only a moment of hesitation, she blocked the one aiming towards his heart.

Kim Dokja suddenly awoke with a cry of pain.

He looked down at his bloody sensitive area, then up at Han Sooyoung accusatorially, before blocking another weapon coming his way in a panic.

“It was either your Black Flame Dragon, or your life,” Han Sooyoung said defensively. “You wanted me to protect your life, didn’t you?

“Hey, wake up faster next time! Damn it!”

Klein watched this silently. 

I’m sorry for your dignity, Kim Dokja… He mentally apologized in his heart, and averted his eyes.

Uh, I'm really sorry… This entire sequence of events has been…

A sense of dissonance and absurdity had grown on him, making everything not feel quite real. As per usual with Kim Dokja, everything had happened too fast.

Klein calmed his heart down, and then moved.

Phew, phew, the attacks have calmed down. Kim Dokja also just woke up, and can defend himself. Let's instead find the source…

He moved through the woods to find the attackers. This was a problem that could only be cut off from the source.

Eventually, he found a woman in a trench coat and a half-mask, watching from the above cliffside with her arms crossed.

Eh, it's my old boss? The King of Wanderers? Why is she the one attacking Kim Dokja?

Is it because Kim Dokja loves her the most? No, this isn't right… She was also missing during the entire last scenario, the 8th scenario… Was she planning something?

Klein was bewildered momentarily by the situation. Then, thinking of the relationship between her and Kim Dokja, he slowly and soundlessly walked out while holding his pistol.

[Some constellations are wondering what you are now doing.]

[Some constellations wonder if you are trying to go on a serial murder spree, and will kill anyone in sight.]

[Wiser constellations say to keep watching.]

[Some constellations that like thinking question your tactics.]

He pointed the dark pistol at her back, and said,

“Are you trying to kill the ‘Immortal King’?”

The King of Wanderer's head abruptly turned to face him. Her expression was indiscernible under the mask. For a long moment, she was silent.

“No.”

“That's a pity. What are you doing then? Are you related to the attackers there?”

“Yes, I ordered them.”

Klein restrained his lips from twitching.

Ma’am, you aren't providing a convincing reason for me to lower this pistol… If this is actually true, I might really shoot…

Klein suddenly laughed. He flipped the pistol in the air, then caught it.

“How interesting and contradictory. Aren't you also a King? Is it some sort of competition? 

“Can I help you then, Madam King? My services can be very cheap.”

He said this with the intention of gaining more information before deciding, since he was in a conflicted state, but she ignored his words.

“So it's you. You survived?”

Klein paused.

His experience in getting caught was low, but suddenly rising at a rapid rate, so he asked,

“How did you know?” 

“Your fortune.”

My fortune was one of the exceptions that she could not read. With the combination of me following Kim Dokja, it's not impossible to guess, and I just confirmed it… I understand. This is my mistake!

The King of Wanderers has always been rather perceptive. She doesn't appear to be influenced by an external party like Nirvana’s Thought Infection, and her eyes behind the mask seem very calm…

Klein nodded internally. This isn't a bad thing. In fact, it can be ideal if allies secretly know my identity, as long as this doesn't leave traces for the enemy to find me… Dokja's mother's competence can be trusted. However, her intentions and actions are still strange, and may still conflict with mine.

“Then,” Klein said, loosely twirling the pistol, “What are you planning? Why attack the Immortal King?”

“There was a prophecy,” she said simply. “It was delivered by Olympus. ‘The one Kim Dokja loves the most will kill him’. I also heard something else interesting recently.”

Klein deliberately smiled.

“I also heard something similar. To be honest, I am also very interested in this prophecy.

“Well, do you think it's me? Could it be love on first sight? I heard he acted strangely to me after meeting me just once in the Dark Castle~”

Klein gestured in a ‘I know I am very handsome way’. To do this cringe-worthy level of acting, he only had to copy Leonard.

[Some constellations that like mystery find this conversation weirdly confusing and intriguing.]

[Some constellations say angrily they don't like sexual tension in their murder stories.]

[Some constellations say, bring it on! it’s hot!]

[2000 coins have been sponsored.]

Uh…

The King of Wanderers—Kim Dokja’s mother—looked evaluatingly at Klein for a long time. Her eyes through the holes of the mask were piercing. Klein felt nervous.

“It’s different,” she said finally. “How long have you known him? This is still very short. However, with that guy, he has been talking about him for over a decade without end. It’s different.”

Klein relaxed.

She’s not planning on killing me. That’s good…

So it really is that way, from his mother’s perspective. Well, I was already aware of this... He always shows a strong attention to Yoo Junghyuk, and somehow sees light and hope from his example... He even mentioned him several times on our date.... 

Klein hinted as if guessing, “So you believe I'm not destined to kill him? It's that other guy, the one who wants to find him?” 

“Yes. The goal of killing Kim Dokja now is to prevent that guy from meeting him. He will resurrect again soon anyway, until the final solution can be made.”

“Then, should I stop them from meeting?” Klein said wonderingly. “As I said, my services are very cheap. Perhaps, 1000 coins… No, five thousand coins?”

The King of Wanderers was silent for a moment.

“You are a bit different than I expected. But you know, I think you may be a good match. He may have his own problems, but please treat him well.”

[Some constellations laugh.]

[Some constellations also think it's a good battle match.]

[Other constellations wiggle their eyebrows.]

[Some constellations scoff and say to get away from their murder story.]

Miss, are you someone who should be saying this… Klein felt a little heated, but in the end, said, “What are you planning on doing? Will you still kill the Immortal King?”

“I will kill Yoo Junghyuk. You can take care of the rest. If I see Yoo Junghyuk here again, then I will kill the Immortal King.”

That's too extreme… But no, what would Eun Sunghoon say to this? Eyes are always watching, and our conversation already gave too many hints…

Klein laughed, and then said, “Then that's your business.”

They completed the transaction of coins.

He quickly turned, not wanting to give away more clues. He hoped his message of disapproval at least was conveyed. When the King of Wanderers didn't answer, he swiftly strode away.

I at least now have a good reason to prevent Yoo Junghyuk and Kim Dokja from meeting, and to interfere… To be honest, she is probably right. It feels complicated to admit it, but this is a case of reason and rationality. A mother also knows best…

‘For me, reality is also like a novel…’

Is avoidance really the best solution?

Klein thought deeply as he moved.

[The ‘Nail-Eating Rat’ is upset.]

[The ‘Nail-Eating Rat’ says he will only keep watching if you eat someone's nails.]

[Some constellations find this new fated-to-die love triangle development interesting.]

[Some constellations are warning you.]

[300 coins have been sponsored.]

[Some constellations laugh.]

[20 coins have been sponsored.]

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“Did you kill him?”

Yoo Junghyuk suddenly appeared in the forest like a jumpscare. Klein darted back, narrowly avoiding being caught by the coat again. 

Of course, this is still an act.. I lured Yoo Junghyuk here, and he also knows it…

“Why would I?” Klein replied, after gathering himself. “The Immortal King is very interesting. I always heard his name even before entering the scenarios, you know. Won't he always create the most interesting stories?”

He invented an excuse for his overly-bloodthirsty watchers.

“Drop the pretenses.”

Klein was silent.

What is the point of a secret identity if everyone already seems to know it… he thought. First, it's Dokja, then Yoo Junghyuk, then the King of Wanderers… Do I really have some sort of suspicious alarm bell on me? No, the only one that can't yet be explained is Dokja.

Finally, he replied,

“It isn't your business, Supreme King. Unless, you are the one ‘he loves the most’? Shouldn't you be more worried about the danger you yourself bring?”

“That is nonsense.”

“Is it? Even those outside Seoul know it. The Immortal King is always following the Supreme King.”

“He is in a relationship.”

Klein felt like laughing. Based on his current persona, he didn't need to hold himself back.

“Are you stupid? What do you really think is love? Ha ha ha, Yoo Junghyuk, should I just kill you now?”

He abruptly pulled out the Doom Pistol again, and shot the ground by Yoo Junghyuk’s feet.

Yoo Junghyuk jumped to the side with his sword, immediately retaliating.

He cut the air. The vision of Eun Sunghoon split in half like smoke.

The bullet hole in the ground also disappeared.

Eun Sunghoon’s voice seemed to come from everywhere.

“Supreme King, Supreme King, Supreme King…”

“Here.”

A real bullet whistled past Yoo Junghyuk’s hair, right behind his ear. He turned around sharply, to see Eun Sunghoon calmly blowing his pistol head and smiling.

“But to be honest,” Eun Sunghoon continued, “I also don't think it's true. Should I say, the Immortal King seems very dispassionate towards others? Maybe it is not really a ‘person’, but ‘something’.”

“You…” Yoo Junghyuk growled, before taking in a deep breath. “Then what is it?”

“Maybe the Star Stream?”

Yoo Junghyuk's expression changed, and Klein quickly said, “I'm just joking. What I mean is, aren't you the most dangerous ones? Out of everyone in this world, aren't the ones who have been closest to him after the scenario begins the most dangerous?

“Do you think you being here will help the situation? It is actually because you came that the Wanderer King also attacked.

“Why don't you go back to Paradise? I think, there is something you will also have to do over there. Isn't it… hmm, a little too perfect?

“Oh, I can also come with you. You know, Han Sooyoung is with Kim Dokja, and she's definitely not the one he loves most.”

Yoo Junghyuk watched him for a very long time.

“Guarantee,” he said then shortly.

Guarantee? Oh, right. This is really how a protagonist talks in some stories… One word, monosyllobic, and commanding…

Klein raised his hands disarmingly, but the pistol still hung in his fingers. “What can I do? Are there some magic binding contracts that I'll stay? Are you really so worried your crush fell for me first?”

This is called courting death!

Klein had to dodge another sudden sword strike, and had to promise to himself not to provoke the psychopath just to act.

“Well, I am curious,” Klein finally added, after things settled down, brushing his dusted officeman’s coat. “I really wonder what he said about me? Am I really that suspicious-looking? To tell the truth, I think your group has bullied me unfairly.”

Yoo Junghyuk's look turned incredulous.

“What I mean is,” Klein emphasized, “we can make a contract, but afterwards, stop bothering me.”

Can it be clearer? Yoo Junghyuk, you are not stupid. You have already kept my secret so nicely, for unknown reasons. Did you even read the part about ‘Hidden Disaster’? Maybe you are planning on killing me later. But you are also hesitant to do it now.

For sentimental reasons?

You were very reliable in the 8th scenario…

I am actually sorry it came to this kind of situation.

“I understand.”

Yoo Junghyuk reached into the air, and then tapped on an invisible screen. A moment later, a glowing scroll appeared. Yoo Junghyuk looked at it with a deep expression, then nodded after making some adjustments.

The dokkeabi store… Klein's lips barely refrained from twitching.

Yoo Junghyuk handed him the scroll.

+

[Behind the Scenes Contract]

The “gap” referred to is the incarnation Yoo Junghyuk. The “eul” is the one referred to as ‘Eun Sunghoon’.

1. For the duration of Kim Dokja’s fate or until the end of the 10th scenario, both the gap and eul must be findable to one another. The location can't be purposefully hidden.
2. For the duration mentioned in point 1, both parties cannot attempt to kill Kim Dokja. They cannot participate in any schemes that would also intentionally lead to Kim Dokja’s death. This point is rendered void if Kim Dokja shows the intent to kill, torture, or enslave either the gap or eul.
3. For the duration mentioned in point 1, both parties also cannot lie to each other about the status or location of Kim Dokja.
4. The consequence of breaking this contract is death.

+

[Some constellations are surprised!]

[Some constellations question the contract’s meaning.]

[Some constellations that like intrigue enjoy the drama of a contract.]

[500 coins are sponsored.]

Uh, what is this clause on ‘kill, torture, or enslave’... You really don't trust anyone do you, even the man you are trying to save? This is some extreme trauma… Well, it is good to be cautious. I wouldn't have thought of this point so clearly…

Klein reread over it carefully. It was fair in a sense, but also too tight. And most importantly…

“What do I get out of this?” Klein asked, lips curled. “Isn't this only restrictive to me? In fact, it seems designed to allow you to kill me at any time. After all, you are definitely more powerful than me.”

Yoo Junghyuk looked silently at the bullet hole left in a tree.

“It is an ordinary bullet,” Klein said. “Can't you block bullets? Your constitution modifier must be very high. You are a King. Anyway, I don't want to take your life in the first place.”

Klein dropped the contact, and shrugged. “Anyway, there is nothing beneficial to me in here. Why would I want to sign something so stifling? Sweeten the deal.”

For Eun Sunghoon’s identity, there was definitely no benefit for signing such a contract. This type of contract’s limitations were far beyond the worth of the 5000 coins the King of Wanderers had given him.

Yoo Junghyuk looked frustrated.

“You are the one who wanted to go back to Paradise.”

“And?” Klein smiled.

Yoo Junghyuk’s eyebrows furrowed tightly, and he looked at the trees. Finally, he said, teeth gritted,

“I will also keep your secret for this duration. Is that satisfactory?”

Nice… Klein gave him a mental thumbs up.

“5000 coins,” Klein then said.

“What?”

“Also, give me 5000 coins.”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“You…” Yoo Junghyuk finally bit out, “Fine.”

It really worked… Heh heh, this is how Kim Dokja sometimes talks. Are you really weak to it, Yoo Junghyuk? No, that's a bit wrong… Yes, anyone can get scammed like this. It's called the ‘foot in the door’ sales tactic…

By the way, I'm really glad you accepted.

And also, one more thing...

Klein picked up the contract again, and wrote on it, also making some adjustments.

+

[Behind the Scenes Contract]

The “gap” referred to is the incarnation Yoo Junghyuk. The “eul” is the one referred to as ‘Eun Sunghoon’.

1. For the duration of Kim Dokja’s fate or until the end of the 10th scenario, both the gap and eul must be findable to one another. The location can't be purposefully hidden. This point is rendered void if either the gap or eul shows the intent to kill, torture, or enslave the eul or gap.
2. For the duration mentioned in point 1, both parties cannot attempt to kill Kim Dokja permanently. They cannot participate in any schemes that would also intentionally lead to Kim Dokja’s permanent death. This point is rendered void if Kim Dokja shows the intent to kill, torture, or enslave either the gap or eul.
3. For the duration mentioned in point 1, both parties also cannot lie to each other about the status or location of Kim Dokja.
4. For the duration mentioned in point 1, the gap will not reveal any secrets discovered by seeing the eul’s status window.
5. The consequence of breaking this contract is death.

+

"Permanent death?" Yoo Junghyuk said, running over the contract. His eyes then sharply landed on Klein. "What are you planning?"

“Well, after we sign it, I had a more exciting idea.”

“... Explain it.”

Klein’s lips stretched widely.

“Isn't the danger actually an opportunity? If you truly want to save him, rather than avoiding the problem, isn't it better to kill him directly? After all, the most likely pieces are already here. I think this would be a more interesting outcome.”

If it weren't for acting as Eun Sunghoon, Klein might not have had this radical idea. But actually, it did feel like the best idea to him. If a problem couldn't be avoided, it was better to cause the dominoes to fall in a controlled manner instead of letting them be triggered randomly.

“I understand.”

Yoo Junghyuk gave this inscrutable response.

After Yoo Junghyuk also reviewed it again, hesitated, they both signed. Yoo Junghyuk then passed over the 5000 coins.

[Some constellations feel extremely curious about this contract.]

[Some constellations wonder about your identity.]

[Some constellations laugh at your sense of greed.]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ enters.]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ asks what is happening.]

[700 coins have been sponsored.]

Did drawing more attention backfire? Did I act too poorly? Klein waited tensely, but there were no remarks or extra sense of danger. The amount of coins donated was also still low. It's likely just a trivial curiosity… Why did that friendly constellation have to join now? I will have to watch my personal habits even more carefully…

“Everything you said earlier about Kim Dokja’s status and those defending him is true,” Yoo Junghyuk said, looking at him expectantly.

You're very cautious… You want to test my words against the contract?

“Of course,” Klein said.

[‘Lie Detection’ has confirmed that this statement is true.]

“Then,” Yoo Junghyuk said shortly. “Follow me.”

Klein nodded.

In the end, he had actually still put a lot of trust into Yoo Junghyuk, and also, Kim Dokja's evaluation of the regressor as ‘straightforward’. If Yoo Junghyuk did kill him, Klein did not know if he would resurrect again or not. In fact, the contract still allowed an opportunity for either the gap or eul to ambush each other.

As someone who valued his own life, this was also terrifying.

.

.

.

Adriane’s golden thread had been attached to his arm by Yoo Sangah. This was part of fulfilling the first point of the contract. 

It was an invisible thread either of them could follow at any time, unless it was cut.

While Yoo Sangah hadn't received any explanations, she still performed the task with a cool expression, only looking at Yoo Junghyuk once and asking if it was necessary.

“Yes,” Yoo Junghyuk had said. He then looked at Klein, who had paused as if rooted. “Are you coming?”

“Not yet,” Klein answered, fiddling with the pistol. “You can find me anyway now, can't you? Well, are you afraid? I might shoot you in the dark. I can also find you just as easily.”

“Don't mess around.”

Yoo Junghyuk turned his lips downward and left.

Afterwards, Klein invisibly watched the companions of carriage 3707 chat together, when Yoo Junghyuk and Yoo Sangah returned.

They had created a separate campfire.

After Yoo Junghyuk had stated Kim Dokja was alive and secure, but refused to explain further, the attitude had somehow become cheerier.

“By the way, where is Eun Sunghoon?” Jung Heewon asked him, concerned. “Did you find him?”

“We will meet him again soon,” Yoo Junghyuk's voice answered. 

“Huh? So you know him now? Actually, how did you know about his tracking ability? It was a big help.”

“... He is an annoyance.”

… Yoo Junghyuk, you are really… Is this a provocation? You actually even know I'm still here… Klein lampooned, but his heart didn't ease. Somehow, the invisible barrier between him and the chatter affected him too much.

“He will appear again,” Yoo Sangah said confidently. 

Of course, there were initially some complaints when Yoo Junghyuk announced that they were going back to Paradise. After coming all this way with such urgency, it was difficult to believe their job was already done just like that, and that Kim Dokja was now somehow safe.

So you decided it this way… Klein felt a little frustrated. No, my plan is better. However, it is also risky…

“What, there isn't a time limit? How do you know?” asked Lee Jihye.

Yoo Junghyuk said steadfastly, “We are the ones most dangerous to Kim Dokja right now. He is already with someone.”

“Who?” Jung Heewon asked.

“Han Sooyoung.”

“What? The plagiarist?"

“He definitely does not love her the most,” Yoo Junghyuk said staidly.

“Ohhh.”

Lee Jihye retracted, and then nodded thoughtfully.

“By the way, who do you think it is? The one Kim Dokja loves the most? So is it one of us?”

“Isn't it obvious?” Jung Heewon said.

The kids bobbed their ducked heads. Lee Hyungsung looked around cluelessly.

“But he is dead,” Yoo Sangah said quietly.

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ has caught up.]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ sighs sadly.]

“Then it might be someone else?” Lee Jihye proposed. “For example, what if it's me?”

Everyone stared at her, including Klein.

Lee Jihye, you really… you really are a teenager… he lampooned.

Jung Heewon asked, “What? Did Dokja-ssi do something?” She sounded confused.

“No, that’s not it…”

“Then?”

“I just thought about it using common sense. I am a high school girl. Then he should like me…”

This logic… is really… Klein was speechless.

“Well,” Jung Heewon started, “Kim Dokja is gay.”

“Can't it be both?” Lee Jihye said. “You can like both guys and girls… What if it's something like this?”

Jung Heewon’s expression grew a little difficult.

“Actually, before I knew, I had guessed that Dokja-ssi’s most loved person is Yoo Sangah-ssi.”

“Huh?” Yoo Sangah was surprised. “Why me…?”

“It should be like this. In fact, Yoo Sangah-ssi’s beauty… well, I don’t need to mention it.”

Everyone nodded, and Yoo Sangah’s face flushed. She looked livelier, less calm.

Jung Heewon continued, “You are running around everywhere to save Dokja-ssi… I honestly think it would be strange if Dokja-ssi doesn’t like Yoo Sangah-ssi. So isn't it still possible?”

“Huh? I’m just a work colleague and received help from Dokja-ssi…”

Then Yoo Sanagh said,

“Actually, before Klein, I thought it was Heewon-ssi.”

“Uh…yes? Me?”

“Yes, I think that Dokja-ssi respected Heewon-ssi. This… Dokja-ssi is really kind to Heewon-ssi. He gave you equipment first, and brought you to missions… Heewon-ssi seemed to smile very well when talking to Dokja-ssi, and also consoled and supported him…”

Klein felt astounded. Today, I discovered, almost everyone actually has a secret crush on my boyfriend… Or is it ex…

“Huh? No, wait a minute. That…” Jung Heewon's face was also red. “No, I mean, wasn't I actually talking with Klein more? All the good men are either taken or gay… No, wait…”

Klein’s feelings switched to a sense of horror, amusement, and embarrassment.

Why am I now involved? Jung Heewon-ssi, then that time we talked on the wall… Uh, your leading question was actually…

“But couldn't it also be a friendship type of love?” Lee Hyungsung pointed out. 

“U-um. Yes, it doesn't have to be romantic,” Jung Heewon agreed.

“Then, it's me!” Lee Gilyoung finally said, looking relieved. “Dokja loves me the most, right? It can also be a family love. I am his child.”

“Huh? That’s right. His child?”

Shin Yoosung raised her hand. “Excuse me…”

“Y-yes, Yoosung?”

“Do you know anything?”

“Why don’t you just ask Ahjussi?” the child said.

“What? Dokja-ssi? How?”

“Ahjussi is listening to our conversation.”

Shin Yoosung then pointed towards the thin air.

Eh? Klein looked over. Is it the peeking ability? Dokja was listening in again. Ah, so he was actively living his own social death… Luckily, I didn't say anything or reveal myself…

After that, there was a brief hubbub as everyone stood up.

Jung Heewon and Yoo Sangah were particularly upset, and scolded the thin air a lot.

“Say you were wrong!”

“Yeah, how dare you listen in when we're all worried about you!”

[The constellation who doesn’t yet have a name is wrong.]

Kim Dokja seemed to be able to respond like this now in the manner of a constellation.

“Again.”

[The constellation who doesn’t yet have a name is wrong.]

“One more time.”

[The constellation who doesn’t yet have a name says he was really wrong.]

He really achieved the five fables? He is now a constellation? Klein’s lips twitched at seeing this bullying. He shifted against a rock, unable to both get a good view and be comfortable. The responses are so simple… The communication means are limited or restricted?

Finally, when it was over, Jung Heewon asked seriously,

“Are you really safe, Dokja-ssi? We don't need to come to you, and can go back to Paradise?”

[The constellation who doesn’t yet have a name says yes.]

One certain part of you isn't safe… Klein instinctively retorted, but held back his expressions.

“Then… who is the person Dokja-ssi loves most?” Jung Heewon asked seriously.

There was a long pause.

[The constellation who doesn’t yet have a name says he doesn’t love anyone.]

Everyone grew silent.

This fellow…

It felt especially frustrating for Klein.

“Well, maybe there is still something…?” Jung Heewon asked. “Someone who is the most important to you still?”

[The constellation who doesn’t yet have a name doesn’t know his heart.]

“Dokja-ssi really…”

[Some constellations who watch too many movies say new love will melt a grieving heart.]

[Some constellations who like drama say that a corpse might come to kill the constellation without a name.]

[Some constellations declare there is no one better than ‘Yoo Sangah’.]

[A few constellations point out that ‘Eun Sunghoon’ is very handsome in a twisted way.]

[Other constellations say that ‘Yoo Junghyuk’ is definitely more handsome.]

[Some constellations encourage the constellation without a name to focus on family and friendship, and his child incarnation.]

[Some constellations who love true friends support the incarnation ‘Lee Hyunsung.’]

… Only the constellations mentioning friendship are any good… Aren't they too insensitive? 

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ has a good idea.]

After this message, a strange semicircular meter then appeared on the ground next to the campfire.

+

[Item Information]

Name: Affection Reader

Rating: SS

Description: An item that lets you know what the other person thinks about you. After pressing the button and thinking about the name and appearance of the other person, the affection number will automatically appear in the air.

+

“Um, is this alright?” Jung Heewon said.

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’ says to try and use it.]

Unfortunately, as Klein watched in horror, each of the members of carriage 3707 passed this device around, and began having fun with this game. They each even knew that Kim Dokja was now watching.

“Well, it can be good so we know who Kim Dokja is in most danger from,” Jung Heewon said unconvincingly. “After all, an archangel gifted it.”

[The constellation ‘Demon-like Judge of Fire’  agrees, smiling wisely and gently.]

[The affection score of the constellation ‘Kim Dokja’ towards the incarnation ‘Jung Heewon’ is 48 points.]

[The affection score of the constellation ‘Kim Dokja’ towards the incarnation ‘Lee Jihye’ is 6 points.]

[The affection score of the constellation ‘Kim Dokja’ towards the incarnation ‘Lee Gilyoung’ is 51 points.]

[The affection score of the constellation ‘Kim Dokja’ towards the incarnation ‘Lee Hyungsung’ is 50 points.]

[The affection score of the constellation ‘Kim Dokja’ towards the incarnation ‘Shin Yoosung’ is 57 points.]

“Kim Dokja is trash…” Lee Jihye muttered sullenly.

The variation is very low, except for Lee Jihye… Klein noted finally, expelling a quiet breath. He even briefly wondered about his own score, but of course it was impossible to step out of the woods now and announce his presence. The entire system also seems a little awkward… Can this really be helpful? What is the ‘affection’ meter measuring by?

Yoo Junghyuk at least left as soon as they looked at him. Shin Yoosung was the only one that now seemed excited, and immediately bragged to Lee Gilyoung about having more points than him.

Another new constellation even pitched in when it was Yoo Sangah’s turn.

[The constellation ‘Queen of the Darkest Spring’ presents a special item to incarnation ‘Yoo Sangah.’]

Clothes fell from the air, and Yoo Sangah was suddenly instead wearing a black Chinese dress with a black garter belt. She looked beautiful in them. She stuttered,

 “T-This is…”

Jung Heewon nodded. “A constellation event? Sangah noona, come forward.”

[The affection score of the constellation ‘Kim Dokja’ towards the incarnation ‘Yoo Sangah’ is 481 points.]

What are you doing… Klein wondered with a blank face. Well, this is his colleague from the past, after all… Why am I still here…

Let's crawl back into the grave…

“4-481 points? Doesn’t this confirm it?”

“Dokja-ssi’s favourite person is really… Maybe, before…”

Lee Jihye then said, “No wait… Sangah unnie. Can you lend me those clothes?”

“Uh, yes.”

Lee Jihye went behind a thicket of trees to change clothes before pressing the button of the reader.

[The affection score of the constellation ‘Kim Dokja’ towards the incarnation ‘Lee Jihye’ is 481 points.]

Holy fuck… Kim Dokja…

It's the garter belt…?

Klein felt oddly transfixed and horrified by watching the events that transpired. It was like he couldn't move. If he had a watermelon nearby him, it would be the perfect drama. There was only one big problem. Actually, there were many problems.

“It isn’t a person he loves most…” Yoo Sangah said in a daze. 

“What if, that guy had also worn this…” Lee Jihye said, looking down at herself. “Would it also be the same number, or more?”

Klein was shocked out of his drama-watching haze.

You better not imagine it! This is Kim Dokja’s social death, not mine! Why don't you have more respect for the dead?

“Ahjussi left,” Shin Yoosung said then suddenly.

Everyone looked at each other guiltily.

“H-He shouldn't have been watching to begin with…” Yoo Sangah said, clearing her throat. The cool expression previously had entirely vanished.

Yes, Yoo Sangah was originally like this… Klein remembered.

“Was it too much?” Jung Heewon said, rubbing her nose. She looked embarrassed. “Sorry, Dokja-ssi… Well, he isn't here anymore.”

“It was too much,” Lee Hyungsung said finally. “Dokja-ssi also has his pride. Shouldn't we be taking this more seriously? The one who he loves the most is also the one who will kill him.”

Will the garter belt really kill him… Klein lampooned.

“That's true… It isn't a good thing.”

“Y-yes,” agreed Yoo Sangah, bowing to the air. “I'll also apologize when I see him again.”

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ has mixed feelings.]

As they talked, Lee Jihye went away, and changed back to her normal clothes. The garter belt had disappeared entirely. She then held up the affection meter curiously.

“What if Klein had tried the affection meter?” Lee Jihye said suddenly.

Hey, what do you know? You’re just a teenager… Klein mumbled. Ehm. This is not something that should be measured in that way. In any case, it’s clear that the affection meter’s rating is a bit different. ‘Love’ is definitely different from ‘affection’, and this type of affection is a little…

He looked at the garter belt that had been discarded on the ground.

So it likely won’t fulfill the conditions of the prophecy, or give any useful indications…

He apologized in his heart for Kim Dokja’s social death. In fact, Kim Dokja had actually experienced many social deaths today.

“What?” Lee Hyungsung said simply, confused. “Didn't you also mention this before? Why was it always Klein to everyone first?”

“Did you miss the kiss?” Lee Jihye asked incredulously again.

“They were in a relationship,” Jung Heewon said. “Lee Jihye, this isn't something to joke about.”

“But don’t you also want to know? What the number would be?” Lee Jihye crooned, a little disappointedly. It was like a child wanting to prolong the fun.

Well, this game must have been a relief, when everything else is already so heavy… Klein felt a little conflicted. He wanted to say some words, but was held back. In fact, he probably shouldn't have also been watching this invisibly for so long. His only excuse was he thought the affection meter might have actually been useful at first, since a big and friendly constellation had gifted it. Maybe Kim Dokja's excuse was the same.

Jung Heewon turned her head slightly and looked angry. However, she didn’t say anything.

Lee Jihye’s expression slowly died.

“Sorry, unnie.”

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ sends comfort to her incarnation.]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ also apologizes.]

The afterglow of the fun had finally died down.

Jung Heewon looked truly upset.

Yes, this is what it means to have died…

Klein’s expression twisted in the dark. Finally, holding his left chest, he was able to calm himself. He briefly closed his eyes, and breathed.

However, he lingered for a little longer.

The chatter continued. Eventually, Yoo Junghyuk came back. He had cleaned up some monster corpses nearby, and set up some traps.

Beside him quite naturally, Eun Sunghoon also stepped out from the shadows and emerged.

“What? Can't I also try to convince them?” Klein said. “You know it should be more effective if we all try it together. Or will you really run to Paradise?”

“... You can try it.”

The sobering campfire became more alert as they noticed Yoo Junghyuk and Eun Sungoon together.

Klein immediately stretched out his hands provocatively.

"Hello~ I had an idea. Why don't we try something together?"

Klein let a smile stretch across his lips.

"Let's all kill Kim Dokja together. Won't this solve your current prophecy problem? Oh, I don't mean permanently kill him. After all, the Immortal King is immortal."

Jung Heewon stared at him, and then blurted out, "You're crazy."

Then, “What are you doing here?”

Klein leaned in and explained the idea more fully. To his surprise, the 3707 members also listened more seriously as well, though the gazes were clearly distrustful.

“The goal is essentially to fulfill that prophecy, but in our own special way. If we kill him all together, as the candidates for who he might love the most, even if he resurrects afterwards, shouldn't it fulfill the criterion?

"However, it should be a very big battle when we kill him,” he added. “Otherwise, it won't be very impressive."

Klein was actually speaking the truth here. He felt that if there were little drama involved, then the Star Stream would be less likely to accept it as fulfillment of the prophecy. 

"So why are you involved?" Jung Heewon asked skeptically. 

Yoo Sangah was also looking at him strangely.

"It's because I suit the Immortal Kings preferences the most. It was love on first sight when he saw me~ I could even see it in his eyes."

Klein repeated this cringe-worthy line to a new group. When there was a character anomaly, it was better to lean into the oddness rather than to try to avoid it. This was a form of misdirection.

Lee Jihye was skeptical, so she passed the affection meter to Klein.

What the... You still have this? Does it still work even if Kim Dokja isn't looking at us right now? 

"What is this?" Klein asked aloud, turning the semicircular meter around fiddlingly.

Lee Jihye answered, "It can tell us if it really is love on first sight."

"That's not fun at all." Klein smiled, and dropped the device deliberately. Lee Jihye lunged forward like an acrobat before it could fall to the ground.

"It's actually because I'm very curious," Klein then continued to the group, gesticulating widely. "Can the Immortal King really be killed? What will his expression look like when it is his companions that kill him? I also want to participate."

Klein embodied the spirit of the obsessive psychopath that he had seen many times in movies. 

Well, if it wasn't really that realistic, it wasn't a problem, because this was the Star Stream. After all, this was a place where even coin farms existed, and unimaginable cruelties and twisted mentalities were not only not punished, but instead often rewarded. Of course, there were also those constellations that enjoyed seeing the fall of those with twisted mentalities.

After more discussion, which Eun Sunghoon was initially ousted from, the merry party all decided to go back to Kim Dokja to kill him.

Yoo Junghyuk's dark gaze laid heavily on Klein the entire time.

.

.

.

Klein rallied one more important member to the party: in the cliffside woods again, but further in, he found the figure wearing a brown trench coat and mask. There was a brief, silent standoff.

"Why are you back here?" The King of Wanderers asked. 

"Well, you see, I had a better idea. Why don't you look at this?"

Klein threw the contract copy at her.

"Doesn't this actually satisfy your condition? That Supreme King won't be an issue."

He then also explained his plan, and asked if the King of Wanderers would join in. 

However, rather than answering directly, she still looked at the contract. She then asked, 

"Why is it a behind the scenes contract?"

"Yes?" Is there something special about this? 

"No. Never mind. It is a good idea. Let's try it."

So quickly… You really are cold. This is your son we're talking about here... Isn't this over-pragmatism? Klein sighed in his heart. Aloud, liltingly, he said,

“Then, let's kill the Immortal King!”

[Some constellations are looking forward to the battle.]

[‘Monarch of Small Fries’ sneers at this elaborate plan.]

[‘Nail-Eating Rat’ is hopeful for death! death! death]

[200 coins have been sponsored.]

Kim Dokja's main skills are his copied abilities, battle prediction, and special item combinations or scenario-specific effects. Of those copied abilities, he mostly relies on that wind ability to fly or route and Kyrgios' Electrification the most... Usually, he only uses one copied ability at a time…

Taken by surprise, he usually hesitates or doesn't use abilities until he makes a plan. We can't only ambush and kill him, or the Star Stream might not count it. We should escalate it slowly…

We should be able to do it with this. Adding any more people will create too many variables…

Finally, after reuniting the party, he used Uncanny Intuition to locate Kim Dokja.

.

.

.

Kim Dokja was still driving around in the Ferrari with Han Sooyoung, but this time they all caught up to him.

This was because Eun Sunghoon had thrown a dagger to make a flat tire.

The Ferrari spun on the dirt with a mushy skid.

Both Kim Dokja and Han Sooyoung looked over at the approaching group. Han Sooyoung lowered her shades briefly, then muttered, elbowing Dokja,

“Guess they caught us.”

“Hahaha… He isn't going to kill me, right?”

The group arrived, at first with only three of them—Yoo Junghyuk, Jung Heewon, and Lee Jihye.

"Kim Dokja," said Yoo Junghyuk, holding his sword. "I’m going to kill you."

Han Sooyoung and Kim Dokja immediately jumped out of the red Ferrari. Close to the left were the thick cliffside woods, where they had deliberately crashed the Ferrari. The rest of the scenery were ashen-green hilly plains. 

“Whaaaaaat?” Han Sooyoung said, holding out her Four Yin Demonic Blade in defense. “Did they all go crazy? Kim Dokja, do they all secretly hate you or something? How rude! We were just worrying about all of them! People are all nasty deep down, huh?”

Kim Dokja's dark eyes flickered over the group, briefly landing on Eun Sunghoon.

“Uh, what now?” Jung Heewon asked awkwardly, also holding out her sword. “Do we just kill him?”

Heewon-ssi… Klein didn't have the words at the awkward atmosphere.

“Yes.” Yoo Junghyuk spoke shortly, then lunged forward with his black blade.

Kim Dokja immediately brought up Unbroken Faith, whose blade glowed white with energy.

The two clashed in a slashing of steel.

“You bastard,” Kim Dokja gritted out. “Is it because of the prophecy?”

Lee Jihye immediately enthusiastically joined the fight against Han Sooyoung, and then Jung Heewon followed.

“The fuck? Why are you both attacking me?”

“Just think of it as training, Unnie!” Lee Jihye said cheerfully. “We only want to kill ahjussi, after all!”

“Well, just kill him and leave me out of it!”

“Maybe if you join us…” Jung Heewon said ominously. Her strikes seemed more determined against Han Sooyoung.

The kids then appeared from the distance, with wolves, beetles, and different animals. Lee Hyungsung looked dizzy as he was carried around on a demonic wolf into battle.

“Baaaaaah! Hyuuuung!” Lee Gilyoung cried as he lifted up his arms and commanded a swarm of bugs to surround Kim Dokja. “I'm sorrrrry, Hyung!!”

“Die quickly!” Shin Yoosung said with a brave face. “Evil villain! You, uh, you should have agreed to be my father!”

Lee Hyungsung held out his shield dramatically on the hill, and stammered, “I-I’ll defend everyone from him! Don't worry!”

What is with this acting…

Klein wanted to cover his face. Even with him planting Projected explosives around, the stageplay was too awkward. Adding more special effects would do nothing when the core actors were so bad.

I should have coached them more… Forget it. Everyone recognizes me too easily. Maybe I'm not a good actor either… he lampooned himself. Yoo Sangah, come and save us. Take this seriously…

"Wait, this is interesting?" Han Sooyoung said. She was murmuring under her breath while shoving Lee Jihye away, but Klein listened carefully. "Who wrote this plotline? This could actually work?”

Unfortunately, when Yoo Sangah also joined the fray, throwing daggers and dangerous strings, the situation didn't much improve.

When the King of Wanderers appeared, she simply watched from afar.

[Some constellations are laughing at this comedy.]

[Some constellations are tearful at this awful scene.]

[Some constellations squint suspiciously at incarnation ‘Eun Sunghoon’.]

Should I set off the explosives now… Is it already too late… Maybe we should just ask Kim Dokja to lie down and we'll stab him all at once… Klein thought helplessly. At that moment, he heard Han Sooyoung's voice again.

"However, aren't there some missing elements? Isn't it too manufactured?"

Han Sooyoung yelped and dodged to the side.

“Why are all the blows at Kim Dokja half-hearted, but at me…” she murmurred resentfully.

Han Sooyoung yells to the sky,

"Hey! Abyssal Flame Dragon! Do something for me! I'll use it, I'll use that thing!”

[The ‘Abyssal Black Flame Dragon’ says it will be fun.]

Han Sooyoung then waved around desperately, and said, "I can do it. I can do it, but for 30 silver coins. Didn't I always want to kill that bastard too? Damn it, let's do it! Let's kill Kim Dokja! Give me some cookies, I'll join the dark side!”

I can fulfill your wish… Klein dug into his pocket rapidly, and pulled out a projected set of thirty silver soli. He dropped them invisibly.

Han Sooyoung then looked at her hand, which now held 30 soli, and blinked. "Huh. Okay. Now how many of us are there... One, two, three, four... That's seven. Good enough.

“Haha, I'm the Judas! Die, Kim Dokja!”

She briefly flagellated her sword in Kim Dokja’s direction. Kim Dokja was too busy against Yoo Junghyuk, Yoo Sangah, and Jung Heewon, now miniaturized and briefly flying about in the sky with electric zaps. He was clearly struggling, and had accumulated small cuts on his arms, returning to full size occasionally in giant gusts of wind.

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ holds her breath.]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ tears up at this scene, and asks for assistance.]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ points out to <Eden> that incarnation ‘Kim Dokja’ has already been using their story ‘Messiah’ against the evil demons!]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ pleads for ‘Kim Dokja’s’ innate sense of love and goodness!]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ says their nebula should support their messiah’s sacrifice against such conniving comrades!]

Nice job, special customer… Klein applauded the Constellation’s tear-jearking appeal. He had a guess for what special effects the two were aiming for.

“Fuck, I hate this…”

Han Sooyoung clapped her hands in a dramatic fashion, then kneeled. She began muttering in a dark tone,

"I, the master of the Black Flame, Han Sooyoung, shall awake the Dragon of the ancient seal! Oh, the constellation darker than darkness itself, oh, the abyss deeper than the flowing night… Here in this place, reveal yourself! … Oh, the noble and majestic master of the dark clouds, Black Flame Dragon … The darkest dark, the most legendary tale, greatest Dragon among them all, the blessing of the Black Flame Dragon shall accompany this body …”

[Nebula <Olympus> mocks this show.]

[The ‘Abyssal Black Flame Dragon’ is greatly pleased.]

[The ‘Abyssal Black Flame Dragon’ cackles.]

[The ‘Abyssal Black Flame Dragon’ is unleashing his inner power!]

A crazy black aura began to emerge from Han Sooyoung, blanketing the sky.

An ephemeral roar was heard, as well as the velvet blanket of black wings, and a gleaming set of red eyes from the sky. As soon as this image appeared, looming above, it suddenly shrunk back, zooming into Han Sooyoung, and then covering each member of carriage 3707.

A crazy black aura from Abyssal Black Flame Dragon began to surround each member of carriage 3707, who had been attacking Kim Dokja.

Draconic demons then also appeared from the surrounding woods. They seemed to ignore the demonic-imbued teammates, instead striking and leaping at Kim Dokja with hisses and tails raised. He swung his white blade all around quickly, but was obviously struggling.

“Han Sooyoung, are you really trying to kill me?” Kim Dokja asked, incredulously but calmly.

“Isn't this normal for the p-p-protagonist?” Han Sooyoung yelled back. “You should thank me!”

Kim Dokja briefly had an odd expression, and then from the air, shouted deeply, “I'll never thank the devil. Han Sooyoung… will you really sell me out?”

“Yes, of course! Die, you damn bastard! I sold my soul to Sata—uh, I mean, the coolest, most awesome, Abyssal Black Flame Dragon! The evilist of evil!”

Han Sooyoung, aren't you a writer…

“So be it,” Kim Dokja’s voice echoed.

Kim Dokja made the sign of a cross very piously.

As a result, Blade of Faith in his hand shone more brightly, and he was able to reflect the demonic-imbued attacks effortlessly. 

[The constellations of <Eden> grudgingly agree to participate.]

[Some constellations question the plausibility used for a subscenario!]

[Some constellations feel that this is too staged!]

[The ‘Queen of the Darkest Spring’ laughs and says it is just incarnations fighting.]

[The nebula <Olympus> is protesting!]

[The constellations of <Eden> are fighting a war against evil!]

「 The age-old fable of ‘The War of Good and Evil’ is beginning its storytelling! 」

[The constellations of <Eden> say it is just a minor and ordinary conflict.]

+

[Subscenario — Betrayal of the Apostles]

Type: Sub

Difficulty: A

Clear Conditions: Kill Kim Dokja! You have betrayed your former leader.

Rewards: 30 silver coins, 10,000 coins

Failure: —

+

「 Stage Transformation 」

The surroundings flickered, becoming dark and full of light like twilight, before they returned to the normal scenery of the Abyssal Plains, but cast into an odd and deeper light.

"Ha ha heh heh ha hahaha," Han Sooyoung laughed crazily. "Let the betrayal begin... This crazy bastard… He really deserves it…”

This is some deep method acting… Klein was both shocked and moved. He glanced at the dark aura rising from his own skin, and felt itchy.

The explosives all set off, adding to the dramatic and unreal scenery in the air. Dirt tore upwards along with flickers of dark flame.

Let's all kill Kim Dokja together, so he can resurrect again… Klein stepped forward quietly, still hiding in the shadows of the forest.

At that moment, however, the ground beneath their feet began to change again.

「 Stage Transformation 」

Ordinary dirt turned to stone.

The darkness and mist around them shifted into a radiant light. Shafts of light and a mix of darkness seemed to paint an unceasingly incomprehensible sky, full of abstract and undulating symbols.

The stone floor expanded, distorting, as illusory white and red growths sprung up from its surface. The white was stiff, matted, and rod-like, and the red was glistening and soft. Many meters away, in a rectangular fashion, the stone surface suddenly fell away, as if creating an impossible cliff face leading to darkness. Past the edges of the stone, looming arch-like stone relics then grew from the darkness.

Below them, the scene that was not entirely in theme began to grow twisted, giant white plates illusorily under their feet. 

What is this…

Klein suddenly understood the bizarre image. They were on a gigantic stone dinner table. But the dishes were composed of intestines, a heart, and giant eyeballs, and a illusory gigantic body seemed to merge with the stone table.

A war against good and evil? Is this like the painted scene of the 12 Apostles in Christianity? But this isn't right, and the original scene didn't yet include a betrayal… 

His gaze traveled to Kim Dokja, and everything became less clear.

"What the..." Han Sooyoung, who was now wreathed in the most demonic aura and wore black draconic horns, blurted out. “Is it supposed to be this way?”

[The constellations of <Eden> are affronted by this grotesque depiction!]

[The constellations of <Eden> gaze at a certain constellation!]

[The 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' shrugs and says it wasn't him.]

[The 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' likes this depiction.]

Ahead, Kim Dokja had suddenly grown golden holy wings and a halo. Klein who was also covered by the black demonic aura almost misstepped, before jumping over a giant plate filled with a wriggling red mass. His shadowy figure was now revealed by the scene change, though the details were still unclear.

Kim Dokja also looked around, his eyebrows furrowed, before jumping back at Jung Heewon's sudden attack.

Jung Heewon’s dark and demented aura around her had suddenly spiked, and her movements became more erratic.

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ is upset!]

[The ‘Demonic-like Judge of Fire’ is asking what happened to her incarnation.]

The demons didn't relent in this changed scene, piling in towards Dokja like an army, while others leapt upon the exposed flesh on various plates.

Meanwhile, there was a change in the behavior of the members of carriage 3707.

The next moments were extremely unclear.

Everyone's attacks grew more desperate and greedy, like their depravity had been unleashed. Lee Jihye lunged forward, using the dark liquid in giant goblet cups to summon ships and send canons randomly flying around the battlefield. She also targeted Kim Dokja's glowing Blade of Faith tenaciously, as if wanted to steal it.

[The ‘Maritime War God’ is confused.]

Lee Gilyoung's insect swarm clustered and suddenly sunk towards Kim Dokja's skin as if wanting to burrow into him. Only a sharp gust of wind from Kim Dokja deterred them away.

Yoo Junghyuk's blows became more sharp, angry, and calculated, piercing through the gaps with a clear killing intent.

The King of Wanderers stood blankly on the table, and held some scissors. With the scissors, she somehow seemed to write words in the air that were releasing like flies everywhere. They would then fly to Kim Dokja, and buzz in his ear.

Yoo Sangah danced around, laughing like a freed impish child, and was throwing pepper randomly onto the ground. Then she would occasionally startle, and throw sharp webs in the air at Kim Dokja, and smile at him.

Klein also heard whispers. My children.... Rise and listen... Love, love… Hate, hate… Betrayal! Fakes! The world…

It alternated between a sharp hiss of madness and a cold love. He fought to hold onto his internal balance and anchors of identity.

Crazy… Kind… Salvation… Freed…

The figure of Eun Sunghoon momentarily clutched his head, then laughed.

He ran forward wildly into the foray, sending daggers flying in. The daggers struck Kim Dokja's arms, who was dealing with the sudden mad onslaught, black eyes flickering to look at the new arrival.

After regaining clarity, Klein then immediately retreated to leap behind a giant chair backing, holding on to the stone throne shoulder by one hand, and thought,

Holy fuck, what is going on... Did we all get demented by this environment? I also acted rashly, forgetting the plan... What was it… 

Rationality was more difficult to maintain, as there was a strong instinct to somehow converge to Kim Dokja.

Klein dropped into the seat of the four-meter wide chair, and then used the hidden layer of seats to run and agilely leap to an opposite side of the table. 

The plan, the plan, the plan… he repeated to himself. Maximize the odds, maximize the odds…

He peeked at the fight again, leaping upwards and grabbing onto the stone table ledge with two hands.

Lee Hyungsung was bashing his shield forward and screaming about defying authority.

Lee Jihye was suddenly crying and also reaching her hands forward as if to choke an invisible someone, and then her arms moved over to her own throat.

Shin Yoosung was hugging Kim Dokja's leg, crying desperately, while a giant wolf held the other leg with its teeth.

Lee Gilyoung was crying. “Dad… Dad… Dad…”

The insect swarm came and merged in black back and forth waves, constantly battling with the tumultuous winds, stray demons, and cannonballs flying around the gigantic bloody stone table.

Jung Heewon was yelling, "Evil! Evil! Fuck you, fuck you!" But Judgment Time wasn't activating on her sword, but she relentlessly ran forward and back, as if desperate to stab Kim Dokja.

Han Sooyoung was hiding behind Kim Dokja, and was weakly deflecting some blows from the others or blocking the wave of demons from one side. The Judas had decided to join her original guide, the deep black aura contrasting Kim Dokja’s holy white aura. 

Yoo Junghyuk was still fighting Kim Dokja openly, and creating the most pressure. However, Kim Dokja continued using a changing mix of abilities quickly, barely managing to keep everything back, despite slowly becoming more damaged and pinned. Dokja did not strike anyone, focused on defending. But Yoo Junghyuk had no decisive advantage either, despite all the blows.

Holy, no, this is unholy...

Klein's thoughts were scattered and felt immense pressure like a violent, twisting headache. After breathing in deeply, he painstakingly adjusted and retraced the plan in his mind. Maxmize the odds, create a decisive advantage…

He flipped back onto the table, behind a plate crowded by demons who ignored him, too busy in their feasting.

The figure of Eun Sunghoon appeared out of the shadows, darting back into the fight. He ran directly to Kim Dokja, who had just rammed his sword against Lee Hyungsung's shield.

He finally noticed Kim Dokja was oddly smiling, and complex.

The expression was—

"You are so cute!" blurted Klein madly.

His dagger plunged forward again, bypassing Yoo Junghyuk and briefly bumping shoulders.

Kim Dokja's sword blocked it. Their faces were very close.

"Ha ha ha ha," Klein laughed. "Ha ha ha ha ha..."

“...where…where…where…where…”

“...again….again…again…where…”

“...F#$*...$&_#....&$_$#...__$$...”

Maddening whispers bloomed in his brain, familiar and distant.

He darted backwards.

He made a great effort to focus his thoughts again, rooted in place for precious instants, hands and body shaking. Meanwhile, Yoo Junghyuk deflected the attention again wordlessly and intently, as if with absolute focus, stepping to make room.

Klein suddenly used the knife to slice his own skin on his arm in a grandiose motion.

He looked at the blood pouring, and then smiled.

The pain created a gap for him to act freely again.

He looked back up at Kim Dokja.

The plan, the plan... Maximize the odds, maximize the odds... A decisive advantage, a decisive advantage, make a decisive advantage...

For a moment, he stood utterly still, before shifting again like a puppet on strings, motions jagged and sharp.

As a wooden actor in a play, surrounded by tumultuous winds, flying and battering insects, the buzz of written words, and errant cannonballs tumbling around in the air, Klein said slowly to Kim Dokja who was fighting,

"I also saw it, while I was watching before. Wasn't I so happy when I could enter during the 7th scenario? I can now greet you like this." 

Klein pulled an item from his pocket. It was a mask. 

The mask was a distorted image of Klein Moretti. He placed it on his own face, and laughed.

In the moment that Kim Dokja then hesitated, black eyes darting forward, Klein then sprung forward narrowly like a snake. He was only inches away from Dokja, who had lowered his guard. He struck a blow to the nose with a knife’s metal pommel to stun, and then followed up with the Doom Pistol in the other hand to shoot the heart.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Klein glanced at Yoo Junghyuk on the left, but Yoo Junghyuk was again already moving to leap forward with his sword.

As Kim Dokja staggered back, Yoo Junghyuk's blade firmly pierced his heart. 

Shin Yoosung’s wolf again snatched at Kim Dokja's feet bloodily, causing him to fall and be pinned.

There was a terrible look on Yoo Junghyuk's face, as his arms drove downwards with great momentum.

Dokja staggered backwards onto the grandiose feast stone table. A dinner plate rang loudly.

His arms hit the plate, then bounced back. His white coat was stained red in the center, and now had a big hole nearby his gut. His sword Unbroken Faith had flown out from his hands.

His expression was still calm, but slightly smiling. His eyes were also wet.

A low sound was heard then from Dokja, like a murmur, or a whisper. It strangely resonated.

"This story..."

His voice stopped, and his mouth became unmoving.

Each person on the gigantic stone table immediately stopped what they were doing in unison. They all converged to Kim Dokja. The King of Wanderers with her scissors still spewing ugly words stepped forward. Lee Jihye sprung forward with light steps while twirling her sword. Shin Yoosung clambered up from underneath her wolf. The sobbing Lee Gilyoung staggered forward. Jung Heewon and Lee Hyungsung slowly walked forward. Yoo Sangah, still clutching the pepper bottle tightly, had used a string to launch herself above the scene. Klein found himself inching forward as well. They all gazed down at Kim Dokja on the dinner plate.

「 The fable ‘Feast of Betrayal’ is playing. 」

Eun Sunghoon’s figure bent down, and reached a hand towards the exposed bloody hole in his stomach—

"Stop."

Yoo Junghyuk's voice rang out, and he grabbed Klein's wrist. Klein, realizing, froze in motion. His pupils shook, and his eyes widened.

Han Sooyoung blurted, "What the fuck, what the fuck... I'll kill you all!"

Multiple Han Sooyoungs sprouted around her.

Everyone then glanced around suddenly.

[Stage Transformation has ended!]

The setting returned to the foggy forest of the Abyssal plains. Klein's thoughts returned to rationality. The whispers and murmuring of both depravity and cold love disappeared. The demonic auras faded away from everyone.

All the companions that had also caused wounds and Kim Dokja's bleeding arms and face, also staggered back. They were in horror and shock. They then glanced at Eun Sunghoon, who was still half-kneeling and staring at the ground with an unclear expression.

No one spoke for a long time. 

[The subscenario is complete.]

[Rewards have been distributed.]

[30 silver coins and 10,000 coins have been rewarded.]

It was over. The coins felt heavy in their pockets.

The King of Wanderers finally stepped forward. She pushed Klein aside, who stumbled towards Yoo Junghyuk’s grip, then watched the body.

"He's dead," she announced. 

"D-did we do it?" asked the child Lee Gilyoung looking in horror at his own hands. “I-is h-h-hyung…”

"Ahjussi is dead..." Shin Yoosong said faintly, also in confirmation. After all, Shin Yoosung was also Kim Dokja's incarnation.

Klein had to prevent himself from vomiting.

Klein was deeply scared of what had happened. He felt he had lost control over his own mentality.

In the moment after, he was still numbly shocked, but then the reality hit all at once.

Fuck…

After inhaling and exhaling rapidly four times, covering his face with his left hand, he was finally able to regain his calm. 

“Ha, ha…” The weird smile abruptly died.

This disaster reflex is…

Yoo Junghyuk finally released the tight grip on Klein's other arm.

Klein's gaze then immediately traveled to Han Sooyoung, who still looked freaked out and was holding her blade at them all, muttering that they were psychopaths. Klein then slowly looked back at the children who looked like they had lost their soul, and the shaking Jung Heewon, the disordered Yoo Sangah, and the self-defeated Lee Hyungsung who was kneeling on the ground.

He looked around again. No one was injured, except for the dead Kim Dokja. The demons were all killed, or running away into the forest.

No one else was injured…

Kim Dokja didn’t injure anyone…

I also wasn't harmed…

The notifications… Klein's gaze lifted upwards.

['Nail-Eating Rat' is laughing like crazy.]

['Nail-Eating Rat' is eating his nails.]

['Monarch of the Small Fries' says everyone was better like this.]

[Many constellations enjoy the battle scene.]

[Some constellations like violence are stunned.]

[Some constellations like tragedy are stunned.]

[Some constellations like drama are stunned.]

[Some constellations say that this was madness.]

[Many constellations are confused.]

[Many constellations ask what 'story' was used.]

[Many constellations are suspicious of the plausibility used.]

[The nebula <Olympus> is mad.]

[The nebula <Eden> says it was not their story!]

[The 'Abyssal Black Flame Dragon' laughs.]

[The nebula <Olympus> says a copyright claim must be ensued on <Eden>’s behalf!]

[The 'Queen of the Darkest Spring' laughs.]

[Many constellations are looking for the source of the distorted story.]

[Many constellations are looking at incarnations 'Eun Sunghoon' and 'Han Sooyoung'.]

[Many constellations are also wondering about the status of the 'constellation without a name'.]

[7600 coins have been sponsored.]

It was Han Sooyoung... Klein thought in a shock. But she also doesn't know? Her sponsor also doesn't know?

So it's a truly unusual event?

But I was also the one who started this plan…

Did… did it work? Will we get a notification that the fate is removed? Where is it?

They all then waited around the slightly smiling body of Kim Dokja silently, which didn't move or give any signs. The halo and wings had also disappeared. He was only a limp, broken human lying on the ground, like a motionless ragdoll. He looked exactly like those anonymous bodies that had died of the scenarios due to various causes, left alone on the ground. He didn't look like someone that would come to life at any moment again.

A cry and a hiccup broke the atmosphere. Then another.

Lee Jihye was crying, even though she was pretending not to. Her hands shook, and she kept touching her throat with one hand. Lee Hyungsung began to mutter apologies to the ground one after another, head bowed.

Klein had the feeling of not knowing what was up versus down.

I'm sorry... thought Klein. From the beginning, it was a very cruel solution. However, it was the only reasonable way I could think of to maximize the odds... I'm also sorry, Kim Dokja. Even if it works, I definitely gave you a new trauma. We will all need psychological counseling… What was that [Stage Transformation]? No one seems to know, even the constellations… Will he really resurrect…

I… 

"It will take three days," the King of Wanderers then said, stiffly. Her masked gaze roved over the entire party, lingering on Klein for only a second longer. For once, her voice also sounded rattled, and slightly higher-pitched. "We... We have done what we can to destroy this fate. We will know the result then."

She turned away and walked briskly, a hurry in her step.

The companions of carriage 3707 all turned their gazes after her in a daze.

Three days...

It would take three days to know if it was worth it.

Klein suddenly laughed.

“Ha ha, ha ha, ha ha ha…”

His body bent over, and there were tears in his eyes. Different visions flashed in his mind—of a sewer, of a head popping off, of a fear and trauma shaking his body. He again remembered the Captain, and then he remembered Kim Dokja on the dinner plate.

Even when the others looked at him, it was like he couldn't stop.

.

.

.