The same question, different outcome
Her sorrowful voice echoed in my ears. I closed my eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. Outwardly, it might have seemed like I was collecting my thoughts, but it was all just an act. After a brief pause, I began to speak with a solemn tone.
“I’ve experienced the loss of loved ones.”
I had debated whether or not to say this, but ultimately decided to go through with it. The chances of her connecting this to Ji-yeon, the user, were slim. It was my turn to answer her question, and judging by the flow of the
“The feeling back then was indescribably sad and despairing. After that experience, and since entering this damned Hall Plain, I’ve been pushing myself to grow stronger and adapt, fueled by those memories.”
”…”
“The reason I wanted to gain strength, even knowing it could harm me, was simply because I wanted to live. My ultimate goals are twofold: survival and return. I haven’t given up hope of surviving in this Hall Plain world and returning to Earth. But… going back alone would be meaningless.”
I paused and turned to look at the kids. I saw the faces of Ahn Hyun, Ahn Sol, and Lee Yoo-jung. They were all focused on my words, breathing heavily. Of course, the ones truly dear to my heart weren’t them.
This was just a kind of ambiguous jest, a mix of words and sincerity. I turned my gaze back and continued speaking.
“I want to protect those dear to me and not let them die. I want us all to return to Earth alive, without a single death. Even if it means I have to sacrifice myself, I can accept that if it means saving those precious to me.”
“Hyung…”
“Oppa…”
“Brother…”
The light of the
Despite my true feelings, the group around me mistook the kids for those precious people. Especially the ones who met my gaze, their faces were a mix of awe and daze. I’m sorry, kids. But I’ll make sure you never regret following me.
Jung Ha-yeon, Shin Sang-yong, and Vivian were also looking at me with admiration. The
“Ha-yeon, let’s stop here.”
“What? But…”
“You’ve asked enough questions. Let’s leave it at that. And leader…”
Shin Sang-yong suddenly stopped speaking, adjusted his posture, and before I could stop him, he bowed deeply, his forehead hitting the ground with a thud.
“Leader, I’m sorry. I doubted you, even if just for a moment. That’s why I didn’t stop Ha-yeon from using the
“I’m glad the misunderstanding is cleared up.”
“You saved my life and granted my request. Yet, I couldn’t erase the doubt in my heart. I’m truly sorry.”
“I expect to be compensated for this talk once we return to Mule. And please, get up. It’s uncomfortable to see you like that.”
I spoke in a somber tone, and Shin Sang-yong struggled to his feet, his face full of regret. Turning my gaze, I saw Jung Ha-yeon watching us with a complex expression. She glanced at each of us, her eyes lingering on Vivian for a moment. I caught a glimmer in her eyes.
“Su…!”
“Kids.”
I quickly turned to the kids, speaking in a gentle voice. Jung Ha-yeon, who was about to ask another question, swallowed hard. She had said her last question was the final one, and it wasn’t the right atmosphere to press further. Even the usually kind Shin Sang-yong had told her to stop. If she spoke again, it would surely anger the entire group.
The kids were mumbling, unsure of what to say. I spoke with a calm face I hadn’t shown Jung Ha-yeon.
“If there’s anything you’re curious about, ask now. We still have a little time left.”
Ahn Hyun and Yoo-jung shook their heads immediately. No, if you don’t ask questions, time will run out. But they couldn’t hear my silent plea, and they spoke in shy tones.
“Hyung, all my questions are answered. I never doubted you in the first place. I’m sorry and thank you, hyung.”
“Me too, me too. See, I knew it. Our oppa wouldn’t deceive us… Poor oppa…”
Watching Yoo-jung pout, I sighed. If worse came to worst, there was still Shin Sang-yong and Vivian, so I turned to Ahn Sol. She had been staring at me with a dreamy look.
Sensing danger, I was about to turn to Vivian when Sol spoke up.
“Brother…”
“Uh, yes?”
“I have something I want to ask you…”
Don’t. Please don’t. I wanted to say, but she would burst into tears if I did. Besides, the others seemed curious about Sol’s question, so I couldn’t think of a reason to refuse. Sol took my silence as consent and, twisting her body, finally spoke.
“What do you think of me, brother?”
“Ah-choo!”
Ahn Hyun, who had been listening quietly, let out a loud cough. I bit my lip, thinking this was inevitable. Haha. What do I think? I think you’re a naive kid who makes me want to tease and make you cry… But I couldn’t say that out loud.
”…”
Sol was blushing, her hands clenched tightly. Just as I was about to give a vague answer, unexpected support came.
“What do you think? She’s always causing trouble with her childish antics and crying at the drop of a hat. Why are you asking such a question to put oppa in a tough spot?”
“Yeah, Su-hyun looks really troubled. You should ask such questions in private or not at all. You need to know the time and place.”
Yoo-jung and Vivian chimed in, targeting Sol with their words. I nodded internally, agreeing with them, but their tone was sharper than necessary. Sol pouted at their rebuke.
“I wasn’t asking you, sisters.”
“You little brat, where do you get off…”
“Enough.”
I gently pushed Yoo-jung back into her seat as she started to rise. Things could have gone awry, but thanks to their timely intervention, the crisis was averted. With everyone’s attention on me, I spoke calmly.
“Sol is a kind and pure child. Sometimes, she surprises me with how much. But… she’s not well-suited for the Hall Plain world. That’s a fact.”
“Heh…”
“But Sol is a priest. I see her not as a burden but as someone with potential.”
“But… as the sisters said, I’m not much help… I just cause trouble and cry…”
She knows herself well. But I shook my head slowly, not showing my thoughts.
“The priest class and Sol’s personality are a great match. I always believed Sol has the potential to become the best priest. If she keeps her heart as it is now, she will surely become the best priest.”
Yes, you’ll become a Brilliance Priest someday. You’ll be very useful then, so for now, I’ll nurture and guide you. I smiled as I raised the
Hearing my assurance, Sol’s face brightened noticeably, and Ahn Hyun straightened up with excitement. At that moment, I checked the
“Ah…”
I turned my head at the sound of surprise. Jung Ha-yeon was staring at the
Crack. Crackle. Shatter…
The cracks spread rapidly, and the crystal crumbled into a handful of dust, falling to the ground. Jung Ha-yeon watched the falling crystal dust in a daze. Once all the dust had settled, she looked up at me with complicated eyes.
Having narrowly passed a critical moment, I let out a deep sigh. I changed my expression from the one I had for the kids and spoke to her in a detached tone.
“So… have all your questions been answered?”
”…Yes.”
Though it took a moment longer than expected, I finally got the answer I was looking for: “Yes.” It was tricky to respond while holding the “Crystal of Truth,” but now that its effect had worn off, I had plenty of excuses ready. Plus, there was a convenient excuse everyone already knew about.
Wrapping up such an important task left me feeling incredibly relieved. On top of that, dealing with that troublesome Belphegor made today truly one of the best days ever. But there was still one more thing to look forward to.
“From this moment on, I’ll resume my role as the leader of the caravan.”
“Of course.”
With Shin Sang-yong’s clear response, I nodded and stood up.
“I’ve rested longer than I planned, so it’s time to get moving again. Everyone, up on your feet.”
At my command, the group rose from their seats. Jung Ha-yeon let out a sigh of resignation and stood up cautiously. I approached her and whispered softly.
“We’ll settle today’s matters once we return to Mule. Until then…”
”…Understood. And I’m sorry.”
Hearing her confirmation, I turned away. Yoo-jung, with a brighter smile than ever, bounded over to me.
“Oppa, are we heading back to Mule now? If we leave now, we’ll get there the day after tomorrow, right?”
“No, including today, it’ll take about three days to get back.”
“Huh? Why?”
“It’s a bit late now, and we might spend another night at the lab. Just keep that in mind.”
My words drew puzzled looks from the group. I pointed towards the door and continued.
“When I was fighting Belphegor earlier, I found a secret passage.”
“A secret passage?”
“Yeah. When I found him on the first floor, he was scratching the ground like crazy. There seems to be a door leading underground somewhere. We have plenty already, but who knows? There might be even greater treasures hidden there.”
The group looked intrigued, except for one person—An Sol. She approached me, clutching my collar with both hands.
“Brother… can’t we just go back to Mule? I’m really worried about you… please?”
I gently stroked Sol’s cheek. Her soft, still chubby cheeks felt tender under my hand.
“It’d be a shame to leave now. Don’t worry. Once we get back to Mule, I plan to rest for a while.”
”…Really?”
“Yes. So let’s go for now. It’s not like it’s hard to get there. We’ve already cleared the way. Okay?”
“Okay.”
After patting Sol’s head, I turned to leave. The group had already formed up, ready to move. I checked everyone’s faces and confidently stepped out the door, a broad smile on my lips.
---------------------------= Author’s Note ---------------------------=
Hello, this is Ro Yujin.
Just when you get to know someone, farewells come.
And when you understand farewells, new people arrive.
Hmm. But you know, dear readers, they say farewells are beautiful, but they aren’t always pleasant.
I’m sorry for rambling.
『 Reader Comments 』
KIN뿅: Congratulations on being first! I’m glad you enjoyed it. :)
유운처럼: Long time no see. Haha. Who was first, I wonder?
라구아: Of course, it will appear. It’s just not the right time yet.
쿤라이: Haha. Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind for future introductions.
블라미: Reader opinions are quite divided, and I’m also pondering. I have some ideas, but nothing is set in stone yet.
風月主人: I’ve made the corrections. Thank you. Yes, you could say everything is calculated to lead to this outcome.
아르테쿠스: Uh-oh. That’s dangerous. Ahem. Please don’t do that. :(
초라한: If I glossed over the current situation, I’m sure readers would have questions later. Haha. I believe it’s better to address things clearly now, so I’m proceeding steadily.
휘을: Haha. You’re partly right. If you think back to the Vivian arc, you’ll get closer to the answer.
너초우너: Your first comment! Haha. Nice to meet you. Thank you for your kind words.
Your recommendations and comments are the driving force behind continuous updates. (This is the truth.)
I always read all the comments repeatedly.
Please don’t feel too disappointed if you’re not mentioned in the comments section.
If you have any pressing questions, feel free to message me, and I’ll respond!
For now, I’ll take my leave.
I hope you always read my work with a relaxed mind.
Recommendations, comments, critiques, and questions are always welcome.