Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Soft lofi filled the cafe, intermingling with the savor of freshly baked pastries and the aroma of coffee beans. Light filtered through the glass windows, making the white interior glow with a softness that was unknown to most. Plants made the air smell fresh, flowers and the clocks on the wall made the atmosphere feel like another dimension. However, what stood out the most was the barista behind the white bar.

"Halmeoni, you're usual?" The elderly woman nodded, a smile on her face as she handed the young man her card. Black painted nails took the red debit card from the shaking fingers and swiped it on the iPad, giving the grandmother a discount.

"Why do you always pick black, Yuki?" She croaked the question, no judgment in her tone for she was honestly curious. Yuki smiled from behind the countertop, thin fingers delicately moving across the various ingredients in front of him.

"Hmm, it goes well with everything I suppose," He chuckled. Grabbing two earl grey tea bags, he placed them in the white mug and poured the hot water in. Allowing the tea to steep, he rushed over to the pastries and grabbed a pastry pinwheel, and placed it on a porcelain plate and popped it in the microwave.

"You should do a red next." The grandmother commented. Yuki raised an eyebrow, a quirky smile on his lips as he strolled back to the steeping tea. Grabbing the vanilla syrup, he expertly poured it so a leisurely amount escaped the bottle.

"Why red?" He then grabbed the honey and stirred in two spoonfuls. The grandmother smiled, "Because it'll match your eyes." Yuki laughed, placing the teacup on a tray along with the now warm strawberry pinwheel pastry.

"Here you go, Halmeoni." He passed her the tray so she could take it to her usual spot which was right underneath the flourishing pothos. The grandmother thanked him and took her tray. Chuckling, he walked back to the register to continue setting up.

"Mornin' Boss!"

"Good morning Baram-ssi," He greeted his coworker. Her large smile on her face despite it being 6 am, and a hop in her step. Yuki normally wouldn't judge because he has been here since 4:30, but he didn't have classes after, or before, work. Unlike all of his employees.

"How did your midterm go?" The brunette growled as she tied the apron around her waist, her brows furrowed and a snarl on her face. Yuki smiled reassuringly, "Don't worry, there's always the next one." Baram shrieked quietly, stomping her foot on the ground and puffing her cheeks.

"Yuki-oppa, that professor is so evil!" She screeched, reaching under the sink to grab the glass cleaner and rag.

"One of the students had to go to the nurse's office during the exam, so obviously we should get more time right?" Yuki nodded, reaching into one of the drawers to take out the teacup sets.

"Well, that professor just said 'too bad,' and made us turn it in!" She ferociously scrubbed the glass, venting all her anger on the poor surface. Yuki chuckled, "What a guy."

"An evil guy!" Yuki laughed, as did the grandmother in the corner of the cafe, making Baram even huffier.

"Yuki-oppa! It isn't funny! That class is already hard, 'm not sure I'll pass," The college student pouted. Yuki gave the girl a smile, "Don't say that Baram-ssi, I'm sure you did fine."

"But it's English!"

"I told you can practice with me if you want." Baram groaned when Yuki spoke the language, irritated that her boss was fluent in the language. Huffing, she moved to the other display case, "I already get enough of it with that devil teacher. I don't want to hear the language anymore." Chuckling, Yuki nodded, "Okay, okay."

The bell rang again, and in walked his other worker.

"Good morning, Chunghee-ssi." The dyed blonde male yawned, waving at his boss as he trudged in the cafe, "Good morning, Yuki-hyungnim." He dragged his feet to the employee room, and everyone could hear him shove his backpack into his locker.

"Looks like he stayed up late," Baram noted. Yuki handed the barely awake boy a green mug, "Have some coffee and wake up. We open in 20 minutes." The blonde nodded, and graciously took the coffee mug.

"Hyungnim ish sho nice," He slurred as he walked to the coffee machine, and stared at the machine in a daze. Yuki shook his head, "Okay. Baram-ssi, when you're done cleaning please write today's special."

"Will do!"

"Chunghee, once your coffee is done go grab the strawberries and make strawberry milk, please. We only have 13 glass jars, so only make enough accordingly." The blonde gave a salute, sipping his coffee and sighing in bliss.

"Yuki, I'll be heading out. I'll send Gumhee over to drop off the fruit," the grandmother announced, dropping off the tray at the collection bin. Yuki nodded and waved as the grandmother exited the cafe.

"What fruit are we getting today?" Chunghee asked, grabbing the box of strawberries and a cutting board.

"We are getting peaches, lemons, apricots, and more strawberries," Yuki informed, walking over to pick up the collection bin to take the tray, cup, and plate.

"Are you going to make those peach pastries?" Baram asked. Yuki hummed, "I was going to make a new kind of cheesecake I saw on Youtube a few weeks ago." The girl's eyes sparkled at the mention of 'new.'

"Oh~ does that mean we get a taste test?"

"Nope~"

"Oppa!" Baram cried in misery. Yuki laughed at the girl and began to grind some coffee beans. The morning rush will soon be here, and because it was the first day of the month some regulars will be buying freshly ground coffee. The aroma wafted through the small space, and mixed with the music. Everyone relaxed for the remaining time. Baram and Chunghee quickly refilled their coffee mugs while Yuki did a quick sweep of the place.

'I have a bad feeling...' Yuki thought as his mind drifted. His lips pursed and his eyebrows furrowed in as he tried to recall what today was.

'This is hard! Why didn't they give a stupid date!' Yuki mentally screamed, trying to recall the manhwa he read. Well, not he, but in his past life, he read it.

Solo Leveling.

'It's been 26 years, and I'm still not over the fact that I have been reincarnated into this shithole of a reality.' Reading about magical dungeons and hunters was fun, back when the possibility of it happening was the chance of zero. However, now that he had to live a life where every day could be the last, was stressful. He's seen enough Dungeon Bursts to realize that every day could be his final.

'What a bliss it must be to be unaware of what happens in the dungeons,' Yuki sighed and took a sip of his own coffee. Another thing that was hard about this 'new' life was that in the past, Yuki was a girl. The horror of being reincarnated as the opposite gender haunted him for the majority of his childhood. Once he got used to it, puberty happened.

"Okay! Time to open~" Yuki cheered as he moved to flip the sign and turn on the rest of the cafe lights. Koffee Krew lit up in a soft yellow light, the cursive adding a more aesthetic effect. Before he even got 5 feet from the entrance, a regular walked in.

"Good morning, Mr. Jung," Yuki greeted, a pleasant smile on his face as he walked behind the counter.

"Good morning Koffee Krew," The businessman greeted, his aging face sporting a smile and the bags under his eyes showing another long night. Baram smiled brightly, "Will it be your usual today, Mr. Jung?" He nodded, "May I have a bag of ground coffee beans too, please? The usual."

"Of course." Baram took the man's card and swiped it. Chunghee already had Mr. Kim's cafe au lait ready along with the bag of freshly ground coffee beans. Yuki on the other hand was bagging the strawberry cheese danish.

"Here you are sir, freshly ground coffee, your large drink, and your pastry." Chunghee handed the man his order on the other end of the counter as Baram continued to take more orders. Smiling, Yuki began to focus on his own tasks. Such as starting the baking process.

Yuki didn't like micromanaging, and he made it clear to his employees that they each had their own role to fill. If one or more were interested in learning something specific, then Yuki had no qualms with teaching them or letting them help out. However, Baram was working to pay for college and Chunghee was working to gain better people skills. The only thing they both were not allowed to do was bake. The reason for that is simple. 

Both of them can't bake.

Yuki found out one morning when he tasked the two of them to make half a dozen muffins. They burnt the pan and the muffins didn't even bake.

'I should have Gunho help make the cookies,' Yuki thought as he began mixing the ingredients for the dacquoise. The oven was already preheating, and he had the trays prepped and ready for the batch. 'But seriously! This feeling is really bad.' His chest was heavy, and every breath felt labored. His fingers couldn't stop shaking, a nervous tick he has never been able to overcome, and it made this precarious task even more difficult. This anxiety wasn't even for him! 

"Yuki, is everything okay?" 'Speak of the devil and he will appear.' In front of the glass was Yuki's childhood friend, Sung Jinwoo. He was still a Level E Hunter, meaning his body was still scrawny and still covered in bandages. Jinwoo had a cup of water in his hands, and Yuki frowned.

"Ya' know, you could get coffee for free Jinwoo. I won't charge you," Yuki pouted. Jinwoo chuckled, "It's okay. I don't want to waste your coffee beans." If the glass wasn't between them, Yuki would have smacked him.

"It wouldn't be wasting Jinwoo. If I thought it was I wouldn't have offered." Jinwoo gave an awkward smile, shrugging, and taking a sip of his drink. Yuki huffed, shaking his head and focusing back on the pastries.

"Do you have a dungeon today?"

"Yeah, it's a D-Rank today." Yuki pursed his lip, his eyebrows furrowing and his face screwing together. Jinwoo eyed his friend, noting the scrunched nose and downcast eyes. Before he could say anything though, a smile decorated the albino's face. Kind red eyes soft and his lips quirked, "When you get out, stop by here and I'll let you have a try at a new cake recipe." Jinwoo nodded, a large smile on his face as he thought of the new dessert his friend will make.

"Have fun!" Yuki called out as Jinwoo rushed out of the cafe, most likely heading to the dungeon site. The white-haired male bit his lips in worry, but quickly shook his head to clear such thoughts. The beeping of the oven let him know that his dacquoise cookies were ready to be stuffed. 'It's okay, what are the chances that it's today?'

___

'I fucking jinxed it.' When Yuki received a call from Jinah, his little sister figure sobbing on the phone of how they found her brother, he felt like punching himself in the face. 'Of course, I fucking jinx it!' He rushed over to the hospital, leaving the closing up to one of his employees, Gunho. Rushing over, when he made it into the lobby, thin arms wrapped around him and a face buried itself in his chest.

"Yuki-Oppa~" Jinah sobbed. Yuki wrapped his own arms around her, allowing the teen to cry on him.

'Jinwoo you-' Yuki gained control of his thoughts and instead focused on consoling the distraught teen. The poor girl was bawling into his chest, and her body wouldn't stop shaking. He patted her back and leaned his cheek on top of her head.

"Are you Min Yuki?" Red eyes glared at the dark brown orbs. 'Can't you see I'm consoling a teen?'

"Yes, I am." Yuki recognized this man from past memories. He could see the orange aura surround him, and the feeling he gave off was one that almost commanded respect. 'Crap, I forgot about this guy.'

"I am Woo Jinchul, from the Hunter's Association Monitor Division." 'Oh shit,' Yuki thought as he made eye contact with the man. He's, even more, intimidating in person than in the manhwa. Yuki continued to make eye contact, refusing to back down despite the enormous amount of magic rolling off of this man. Sighing, Yuki gently guided Jinah back to the seat and gave her his jacket. She wrapped it around her shoulders and allowed herself to continue crying into her hands. Yuki gave her one last despairing look before returning to the patiently waiting Woo Jinchul.

"How can I help you, Woo Jinchul-ssi?" Yuki asked with a small smile on his face. It was a business smile, one he gave to his customers and strangers. Jinchul informed Yuki of what the dungeon was, and what they found. Jinwoo's bloody and broken body was all they found in that second dungeon, despite all the reports of their being giant statues. Yuki narrowed his eyes at the man, "Woo Jinchul-ssi, it sounds like you are being suspicious."

"I apologize if I'm offending you." 'Yeah right,' Yuki smiled politely.

"No, you're not offending me. It's just odd," Yuki assured. This wouldn't be the first time Jinchul has saved Jinwoo, however this will be the last. Everything is falling into place, just as the Manhwa predicted.

"However, I am quite curious. How does all of this pertain to me?" Yuki was the second guardian of Jinah, and an emergency contact for Jinwoo and second emergency contact for Mrs. Sung. This meant that if Jinwoo was unable to make a decision like right now, it was all on Yuki. That also meant all the information, speculation, and treatments had to be told to him as well.

"You are the one in charge of his medical bills at the moment, as well as his emergency contact. With your permission, I would like to be the first one to see him when he wakes." 'Ohh, so that's what it was.' Yuki made it look like he was thinking about the offer. In truth, he was going to suggest it. Ya' know, to help the story flow.

"Sure." Jinchul wasn't expecting that answer. He was expecting more questions, some hesitance, and even anger. Not 'sure.'

"If that's all, then I will leave you to it. I have a crying teen I need to console and a few bills I have to take care of." Yuki waved as he returned to hiccuping Jinah. He smiled politely at the nurse he had brought some papers over, and with one hand he rubbed Jinah's back and with the other he signed.

'How peculiar,' Jinchul thought as further observed the white-haired male. No one else seemed to have sensed it, but Jinchul was a high A Ranker for a reason. The soft white energy that rolled off the man was an interesting sight and feeling. It was hard to believe this kid wasn't a Hunter.

"What a waste." 

I do not own characters besides my own, and the cover is not my original work. 

Chapter Text

Yuki made sure to keep himself busy during the week. At least, physically. Mentally, he was everywhere. This was where the timelines started. This was when everything went to shit, and Yuki couldn’t do anything about it. He wanted to protect his best friend and the family that raised him. That’s it. He had enough funds saved to help if anything unforeseen happens, however from how everything is playing out, it really seems like this will be the last time that Jinwoo will go to the hospital if the timeline stays true. 

“Yuki- oppa,” Jin Ah called for the man that was in some ways her second older brother. The albino male snapped his head towards her, red eyes large and waiting in case she needed more emotional support. 

“Jinah, is everything okay? Did you need help with your homework?” Jin Ah shook her head. Instead, she sat down next to him at the kitchen table. Yuki refused to let her stay in the apartment alone, so instead, she was staying with him until Jin Woo was okay to leave. It wasn’t the first time she’s stayed over, but it was the first time she let something like this affect her so much. 

“Why does he keep doing this?” She whimpered. Her large eyes narrowed in misery and her shoulders caved in. Yuki bit his lip and encircled an arm of her shoulders. It hurt to watch the person, who he considered his little sister, cry and break down in a way that made Yuki feel like he couldn't put her back together. Back when Yuki was a she, she couldn’t relate to having a younger sister because she was the youngest. It was different watching an older sibling cry, compared to a younger sibling. 

For some reason, Yuki felt responsible. 

“It’ll be okay,Jin Ah. You know how that idiot is, he’ll bounce back.” Jin Ah gave a wet giggle, and Yuki sighed in relief. He couldn’t tell her the reason was that it was to pay for her education and the medical bills, that would make her even more distraught. 

“In the meantime, how about I cook us some fried chicken.” Yuki laughed when Jin Ah nodded enthusiastically, her eyes still red from the tears and her smile wobbly, but as long as she was smiling. Then there was the patter of feet that alerted the two of them of the incoming company. 

“How about you get some fresh air, and take Cujo on a walk please.” Cujo, the 9-year-old st. Bernard rested his large head on Jin Ah’s lap, his tail wagging and tongue lolling out. Yuki also had a 2-year-old cat named Pip, who was currently sprawled out on the couch. Jin Ah nodded excitedly, rushing to grab the harness and leash. St. Bernards weren’t common in the big city, so whenever they went walking, everyone wanted pictures and children wanted to touch. It wasn’t terrible, and Cujo was a patient dog that didn’t mind pets. 

When Jin Ah returned with the matching red harness and leash, Cujo proceeded to slump on the floor, making the girl laugh. Yuki walked towards the kitchen, tying the baby blue apron around his waist. It was a gift from Jin Ah when she took Home Economics. They had to make an article of clothing, and Jin Ah decided to make an apron for the always cooking Yuki. She even stitched her name, her brother’s name, and Yuki’s on the edge of the clothing article. 

When he peered back over his shoulder, he couldn’t help but chuckle. Jin Ah was baiting the elderly dog with treats. Jin Ah managed to put the harness and leash on, but Cujo remained slumped on the floor, gazing at Jin Ah with a ‘really’ look. 

“C’mon Cujo, it’ll only be like a 20-minute walk~” Jin Ah cooed. Cujo huffed, his shoulders sagging and his body seemed to meld with the floor. 

“Please~ I’ll start crying again if we don’t go on a walk,” Jin Ah tried again. Cujo’s eyebrows raised in worry, eyes shifting between the cooing Jin Ah and the busy Yuki. With another sigh, the large dog heaved himself up and trudged over to the girl. Jin Ah cheered and tossed him a treat. 

“We’ll be back, Yuki-oppa!” 

“Stay safe,” Yuki called back. Once the door closed, he rested his hand in his hands and took a deep breath. He knew this was coming. He knew one day, Jin Woo would end up in the hospital and change. That didn’t mean it wasn’t scary. The Jin Woo he grew up with would be long gone, and in his place would be a stranger. A Monarch. 

The albino took a deep breath, steeling his nerves, and focusing back on making the meal. He barely registered the tears. His best friend, sweet, shy Jin Woo, was going to be replaced. Yuki kept cursing, rubbing at his eyes and trying to stop his tears. 

‘Fuck, I no longer have hormones to blame this on either,” Yuki thought as he placed the floured chicken into the oil. The sizzling and crackling of oil brought him back to the present, the apron protecting him from the oil splatters. Sighing, he decided to push his thoughts to the side and instead focus on making a dinner that will let Jin Ah forget her worries. 

“Let’s do this.” 

++++

It was the call Yuki has been waiting for. The call from the hospital alerting him that Sung Jin Woo is awake. He was quick to call Jin Ah and alert her of the news. Because she was at school, she was able to be there quicker than he would be, but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t rush. 

When he entered the hospital, he was greeted by Jin Chul. Yuki smiled politely, “ Woo Jin Chul-ssi.” The brunette nodded, “Min Yuki-ssi.” 

“So, did you get the answers you were looking for?” Yuki asked politely, tilting his head to add confusion. He knows he didn’t, but rubbing it in wasn’t a problem. 

“I did. Thank you for allowing me to have the first visit.” Yuki hummed, “Thank you for checking on him.” The white-haired male walked past him, red eyes still connected with brown, before turning their attention to the hospital hallway again. ‘I know you think Jin Woo is trash,’ Yuki thought as he continued to make his way to the room. 

‘Just wait, he’ll show you.’ Yuki decided to wait until Jinah came out, allowing the siblings to have their alone time. Outside with him was another girl, and she appeared to be the same age as Jin Ah. When she noticed Yuki, she flinched and her eyes averted to the ground. It wasn’t an unusual reaction, after all, red eyes weren’t normal. 

“Are you friends with Jin Ah?” Didn’t stop Yuki from having a conversation though. The girl nodded, which made Yuki hum, “How's she doing in school this week?” The girl eyed him suspiciously, her lips pursed and eyes untrusting. She looked him up and down, not being secretive of that either, “Why’d you like to know, ahjussi?” ‘Ahjussi? I’m not even that old.’ Yuki kept up his happy face, “I’m a childhood friend of the idiot in here. Jin Ah stayed with me this week,” He explained. 

She continued to squint. 

“A face at home can be different from the face in public,” Yuki continued, his friendly smile turning solemn. Jin Ah is going through a lot, and despite that, she is still maintaining her grades. However, that doesn’t mean she is happy. It could just mean she is better at pushing her emotions aside. ‘How familiar,’ Yuki thought with a bitter smile. 

“Yuki-oppa!” Jin Ah exited the room, a large smile on her face. Yuki took a deep sigh of relief, seeing the tension leaving Jin Ah was a refreshing sight. Jin Ah gave the boy a bear hug, her face buried in his chest, and a large smile still on her face. 

“He woke up,” She cried happy tears and had on a wobbly smile. Yuki patted her back, letting her cry on his shirt. 

“I told you he would bounce back,” He chuckled, which earned a laugh from Jin Ah. Patting her head one last time, he ushered her off with her friend. Yuki waited for a few seconds before entering the room and was greeted by a puzzled looking Jin Woo. 

“How are you feeling?” Yuku sat on the chair beside the now reawakened Hunter. The bitter feeling is still in his chest, but until Jinwoo completely changes, he’ll try and enjoy this Jin Woo. This sweet, somewhat naive, cute Jin Woo. 

“I feel great,” Jinwoo’s grin was infectious. 

“That’s good to hear. We were really worried about you,” Yuki commented, a stern look in his eyes. At least Jin Woo had the decency to look ashamed. The albino male laughed, gently patting Jin Woo’s shoulder, “We’re just happy to see you all good and healthy, Jin Woo.” Jin Woo smiled, his grey eyes warm and thin body relaxed. 

“Thanks, Yuki.” The albino male cherished that smile one last time. This is it. This is when Jin Woo begins to change. Yuki looked down, disappointed in himself for thinking negative thoughts at a time like this. Who knows, maybe this will be a great thing for everyone. Maybe Jin Woo doesn’t change as much as the Manhwa depicted. 

“Yuki?” Red eyes shot back up. Jin Woo was gazing at him with uneasy eyes, grey eyes clouded with worry, and the smile gone. Yuki pushed his uncertainty away and gave a large grin. 

“You still have to try that new cake recipe I’m working on.” Yuki quickly shifted the attention off of him, and instead on a dessert. Jin Woo’s eyes sparkled with anticipation and a large, goofy smile decorated his face. Just like that, the air lightened once more and the two men continued to converse. The conversation jumped around in a way only long time friends could do, the fluidity not once fluctuating even as topics changed from just one sentence. 

“Excuse me, visiting hours are closing.” A nurse alerted the two of them of their limited time. Yuki stood from his seat and gave Jin Woo one more smile. 

“Come by the cafe or apartment when you’re healed, and I’ll have a piece ready for you.” Yuki waved as he exited the room, his smile wiped off his face and once warm red eyes, now cold. Would that be the last conversation he had with that Jin Woo? His thoughts began to become depressed once more, but Yuki was quick to shake his head. No, he was thinking too much. Jin Woo will always be Jin Woo, no matter how much he changed. 

No matter how much he changed. 

Yuki’s heart felt heavy. He kept repeating the mantra, Jin Woo will still be Jin Woo, but that only seemed to make his mood worse. Every time he said it, the taste would make his nose scrunch and a sour aftertaste on his tongue. Although Yuki himself hasn’t seen it, his previous life did. She witnessed the progression from the shy, awkward, small bean Jin Woo, transform into an aloof, intimidating, and even cold Jin Woo. Granted, she only saw it from the access of her phone and Jinwoo was the character. It was pure fiction. 

However, this was Yuki’s reality. Not to mention, it was hard to witness someone, you grew up with, change their personality almost completely in the span of a few weeks. Yuki bit his lip, continuing his walk to his cafe and trying to accommodate the growing feeling of unease and dread. 

“I feel like my life is going to get even more difficult.” 

“Why’s that, Yuki-hyungnim?” The albino male didn’t even realize that he walked into his cafe until the voice of Gun Ho responding to him. Gun Ho was another college student that worked at Koffee Krew, who worked the afternoon until closing with Yuki. He was training to become a baker, and what better practice than at a cafe with an owner that was renowned for the pastries and cakes. 

“Oh you know, a friend is a Hunter and all that drama.” Yuki kept his description short, not wanting to give too much away. He waved at some of his regulars and rushed to get back behind the counter to help Gun Ho prepare for closing. They had about half an hour left, but that didn’t mean pastries couldn’t be packaged and storage double-checked. Not to mention, Yuki was big on employees leaving the moment their shift is done. He knows they have lives and school after work, therefore he tries to make it so they don’t have to stay later than they need too. 

“Ouch. My girlfriend’s brother is a Hunter, and she is constantly worrying about him.” Yuki grimaced, it would seem like everyone is trying to become a Hunter. The majority of the time it was to get out of military service, very few actually cared about the Dungeons themselves. Most Hunters, especially lower grade Hunters, work for two years and retire. Even though the pay was nice, was money really worth your life? 

For some people it was, and some it wasn’t. 

“I wish people would be Hunters because they actually want to be, not to escape from responsibility,” Gun Ho continued, mixing the chocolate for a cafe mocha. Yuki hummed, grabbing another set of mugs for the Matcha latte. 

“Like, military service isn’t terrible. It’s not great, but it’s not bad either. Just get it out of the way,” Gun Ho grunted. He set the mug down and rang the pager, grumbling as he walked away to the cash register. Yuki wouldn’t know. He was exempt because of a hole in his right lung, but he’ll take Gun Ho’s word for it. 

“Have a latte,” Yuki passed the steam Matcha latte to the fuming college student, gently pushing him aside and taking over as the cashier. An irritated Gun Ho was a terrible customer service Gun Ho. The regulars may be used to it, however, there were also new customers every day that weren’t. The college student didn’t even wait for the steam to stop rolling off the freshly made latte, taking large gulps of the drink and wincing when the hot milk scorched his throat. 

Shaking his head, Yuki resumed cleaning and double-checking their inventory. Gun Ho helped with getting the ingredients ready for tomorrow. Bruttiboni was on the menu, and Yuki has been practicing for the past two weeks to make the perfect batch. 

“Ah, Gunho-ssi, did you make the macaroons?” The student nodded, an accomplished smile on his face and he had his hands on his hips, “Yep! And they look better than the last batch too!” Yuki snorted, shaking his head and putting away some of the utensils. 

“Well, you should head out before you’re late for your classes,” Yuki reminded the now panicking student. Gun Ho ran around the cafe, collecting his bags, clocking out, and grabbing the mug, he began his usual run to class. Yuki followed him to the door to lock up, until a familiar face appeared in front of the door. 

“Ah, my apologies. It would appear that you are closing.” Yuki chuckled awkwardly, glancing around the sidewalk. When he saw no one, he smiled politely and proceeded to open the door further, “For you, I guess I could give you something to eat and drink, Min Byung Gyu-ssi.” The goofy smile was contagious. 

“Here’s your large cappuccino, and a slice of german chocolate cake.” Yuki handed him the matching plate and coffee set. Byung Gyu smiled cheesily, going to his usual spot and starting a conversation with the young cafe owner. 

“So how have you been lately, Yuki-ssi?” The albino walked around the cafe, putting the chairs up and disinfecting the tables. He smiled warmly at the ex- S class Healer. 

“I’m doing well. It’s been a hectic week, but nevertheless I’ve been good. How about yourself? Have you been studying for your tests?” Yuki was aware of the teaching certificate Byung Gyu was studying for. There were countless nights when Byung Gyu would stay hours after closing to study while Yuki created a new cake recipe. Byung Gyu enjoyed ‘the atmosphere’ of the cafe, while Yuki never minded the company. 

“I’m doing great! I have to go to Japan in a few weeks, but other than that, the tests look like they’ll be good.” Byung Gyu took a bite of the cake and hummed in ecstasy, “This is delicious! How do you make it so good every time?” Yuki smiled shyly, a blush blooming on his cheeks, giving his pale skin a healthy glow. 

“You’re just too kind, Min Byung Gyu-ssi.” 

“I keep telling you to call me Hyung! We’ve known each other for how long now?” ‘Too many years,’ Yuki thought absentmindedly, pulling down the blinds and locking the front door. 

“Yes, yes, I remember.” Byung Gyu huffed, “Then you should do it!” He whined. Yuki’s laugh caused Byung Gyu to laugh, unable to stop himself as the contagious noise echoed throughout the cafe. Yuki walked to the ex-Hunter’s table, coffee pot in hand. 

“Mmm, and you should be studying and preparing for your trip.” He poured fresh coffee in the almost empty cappuccino cup, filling it to the brim. Byung Gyu scratched the back of his head and an awkward chuckle escaped him, “Hyung-nim is already reminding me, and now so is Yuki-ssi.” 

“Well, your Hyung-nim seems to be a caring person as he is still worrying for you.” Yuki already knew who this ‘Hyung-nim’ was, thanks to his past memories. Byung Gyu never explicitly said who they were, and Yuki never asked. To be frank, ever since he met Byung Gyu, Yuki has been mentally bracing himself to meet the legendary White Tiger, Baek Yoon Hoo. He’s seen clips on the News and internet, but every now and then Byung Gyu walks in with his soft green aura intermingled with the ice blue aura that belonged to the Guild Leader. 

“He worries in his own way,” Byung Gyu chuckled. Yuki giggled, taking the now empty plate and heading back behind the bar. The cafe was now filled with the chatter of the News on the t.v, and the occasional flipping of papers. 

It was nights like these that assured Yuki, that everything was okay. Even if it felt like it won’t be. 

++++

“Isn’t it a bit early for you to be discharged?” Jin Woo gave his childhood friend a peculiar look. He had been discharged that day, and went straight to Koffee Krew. His sister was still in school and he didn’t feel like going home, so to Yuki’s cafe he went. 

“No, I feel perfectly fine.” Yuki’s eyebrow raised in suspicion, dull red eyes staring at grey. Jin Woo felt a shiver go down his spine at the look. It wasn’t so much the color, it was the look. When they were younger, Jin Woo had found the red eyes and white hair to be amazing, constantly complimenting the other and smiling victoriously whenever Yuki would blush. 

“Well, if you feel fine.” Yuki shrugged, handing Jin Woo another plate of cheesecake. It was a new recipe, one that Yuki had been dying to try. He’s gotten into attempting no-bake cheesecakes, and so far they have been fairly successful. He rarely could ask Jin Woo or Jin Ah their opinions because both siblings said the same thing every time. 

“Yuki’s cakes are always the best!” Jin Woo cheered before digging into the strawberry cheesecake. The top half was the gelatin and strawberries, creating a glass-like figure in the shape of a cake, while the bottom half was regular cheesecake. There was a layer between the gelatin and the cheesecake, a thin one that barely took any space, and it was a strawberry puree. 

“Anyways, what are you going to do now?” Yuki asked, his chin resting on his palm and he gazed at Jin Woo. His white hair was pulled back into a small half ponytail, and his bangs framed his androgynous face. 

“I’m going back into a dungeon.” With new sharper eyes, Jin Woo witnessed a flicker of pain cross his friend’s face. It was the subtle twitch of the lower part of the eyes, and the was Yuki’s jaw clenched that had Jin Woo pausing in mid-bite. It was then that Jin Woo got a proper look at his friend. Red eyes glistened with something akin to pain, and his smile wobbled. 

Yuki looked ready to cry and it made something twinge in Jin Woo’s chest. It didn’t feel right to see an expression on Yuki’s face. 

“Yuki-hyung, are you okay? Does your lung hurt?” Jin Woo inquired, his own grey eyes fogging with concern. He set down the fork and leaned forward to get a closer look. Yuki chuckled, waving him off and motioning back towards the cake. 

“I’m okay, just worried.” Jin Woo looked down in guilt, his fingers clenching the silver fork and his teeth gritting. He wanted to tell Yuki. To tell him about the system, tell him about the mock dungeon he cleared in the subway, tell him how he was getting stronger and stronger every day. How Yuki would no longer need to worry because Jin Woo was finally capable. Finally dependable. 

He shoveled another bite of cake down his throat, washing it away with the taste of the coffee. Maybe burning his throat will take his mind off of it. 

“Jin Woo! The fork!” Grey eyes widened in shock as he gazed at the bent in half silverware. Yuki’s eyes were wide in shock and he had his hand outstretched to stop any further damage from happening. 

“S-sorry!” Jin Woo flushed, handing the bent fork over to its original owner. Yuki chuckled as he took the silverware away from his friend, staring at the metal in awe. He got up to get Jin Woo another one, and that is when Jin Woo took the chance to check his stats. ‘Maybe I should tone down the strength? Wait, am I really going to choose to lose strength because of a fork?’ 

“Have you always been able to do that?” Yuki asked, coming back with a new fork and handing it to Jin Woo. Jin Woo shrugged, trying to feign innocence as he continued eating. Red eyes narrowed. Swallowing the cheesecake became all the more difficult under Yuki’s stare, which resorted to him chugging more coffee.

“So, um, do you have any plans for the weekend?” Jin Woo asked, knowing that Yuki’s weekends were Sunday, considering the cafe was open from Mondays to Saturdays. Yuki smiled cheekily, “For you, Jin Woo? I can always cancel plans.” Jin Woo chuckled, taking another bite of the cheesecake. 

“Wanna go to… the park?” After Jin Woo mentioned the location, he mentally cursed himself out. ‘The park?! Of all places, the park?!’ Yuki giggled, leaning his cheek back on his palm as he gazed at Jin Woo softly. 

“Sure. You can stop by my place since it’s closer, and say hi to Cujo. We can bring him if you want.” Jin Woo adored Cujo. He also loved Pip, but when it came to the St. Bernard, Jin Woo would rob a pet store for the lazy dog. 

“Yes!” Yuki cackled, his shoulders shaking with the laughter and his pale cheeks bloomed like roses. 

“Okay, just text me.” Yuki motioned to his watch, indicating that it was time for him to get back to work. Jin Woo nodded in understanding, wishing him good luck as he continued to sip his coffee. Yuki patted Jin Woo’s shoulder before heading behind the bar to help his employees during the lunch rush. Jin Woo watched the man work alongside his coworkers, baking new treats and helping when the kids seemed overwhelmed. His white hair was pulled into a small half ponytail, the rest touching the back of his neck and the bangs continuing to frame his face. It was a look not many could pull off, and so far Yuki was the only person Jin Woo knew that could. Maybe it was the fact that Yuki’s face was androgynous that helped, however even that had a limit. 

‘It’s just the power of Yuki,’ Jin Woo concluded, returning his attention to the blue holographic pop-ups in front of him. 

Chapter Text

Yuki sighed heavily when he received the text from Jin Woo, stating that he was going into a dungeon. 

‘This is it,’ Yuki thought bitterly, making a London Fog for the young couple. ‘This is when everything changes.’ The oven beeped, alerting the customers and workers that the raspberry almond scones were done. 

‘He’s going to be a murderer after today.’ The thought sent shivers down Yuki’s spine, making his limbs shake and heart to beat erratically. Could he do it? Could he be friends with someone who’s murd- 

Yuki shook his head, gritting his teeth and scrunching his nose in distaste for himself. How could he think that? It was either Jin Woo’s life or theirs, and quite frankly, Yuki wanted Jin Woo alive. Not to mention, it must have been hard for Jin Woo to take those lives. It was different from monsters because monsters don’t speak their language. Plus, they don’t look like humans either.

 It’s much easier to kill something that doesn’t speak or look like you. 

But humans, people look exactly like one another. They can speak, can cry, can scream, can change the world just like everyone else. 

Yuki smiled brightly at the customer, despite his dark thoughts. He’ll be there for Jin Woo, even if the other didn’t need him to be. 

“Here you are, one strawberry milk tea, and a strawberry puff pastry.” Yuki smiled politely at the mother holding her child, looking exhausted as the child tugged on her arm. 

“Thank you,” She sighed, handing the child their strawberry milk tea, and taking the puff pastry for herself. Yuki felt a little bad for the woman. She was a regular, rarely coming in without the child, however, she was always quick to leave when they got their order. The mother could never look him in the eyes, and Yuki didn’t blame her. Red eyes weren’t the norm, nor was white hair. 

It still didn’t mean that it didn’t hurt. 

“I wish customers would at least look you in the eye when they thank you,” Baram murmured, her large brown eyes narrowed at some of the patrons. She was one of the few that looked him in the eye when they first met, as a barista and a customer. It was a bright star for Yukiand even helped Baram land her job in the cafe. 

“Not everyone is like you, Baram-ssi.” Yuki appreciated her comment, despite it being targeted at a customer. The girl huffed, returning her attention to the coffee grinder. 

“It’s called human decency, Yuki-oppa.” The man laughed, the sound almost spellbinding and causing others to smile or chuckle with him. Baram’s scrunched face relaxed, and instead, a goofy smile broke out on her young face, uneven dimples making their home on her cheeks. 

“I appreciate that Baram-ssi,” Yuki beamed at the college student, his cheeks flushing from happiness. This in return made Baram blush, her cheeks aflame and her eyes wide as she took in the male. It wasn’t fair. The sun glowed behind him, creating an almost halo effect. It reflected off his white hair and pale skin, making the man almost glow in bright daylight. It was like looking at an Angel. 

Baram wasn’t the only one gawking at him. Gun Ho was staring at their boss with equally wide eyes, and some of the regulars paused in their drinking and eating. 

“You… you shouldn’t do that.” 

“Do what?” The smile turned to a questioning pout.

‘What kind of main character power is this?!’ Baram screeched. 

“That.” 

“Baram-ssi, that’s not very helpful.” Baram chose to take her break, leaving Yuki puzzled. He glanced at Gun Ho, who shrugged and looked the other way. Yuki was left standing there in front of the freshly baked puff pastries, glancing around in hopes that someone would tell him what just happened. 

“May I have two cups of coffee, please?” Yuki snapped his head in Gun Ho’s direction, who was at the cashier position, and smiled pleasantly when he saw a somewhat familiar face. 

“Woo Jin Chul-ssi, how are you?” Yuki greeted the stern-looking man. He grabbed two large paper cups, placing a coffee sleeve on each of the white cups. 

“I am well. How about yourself?” The orange-haired male followed Yuki in the process of making the two cups. He noted how Yuki moved fluidly amongst the complicated looking machines, and with well-practiced knowledge, he filled one cup without needing to look at it. 

“I am doing good. Could be better, could be worse,” Yuki hummed, filling the other cup with a dark roast. 

“How could things be better?” ‘A lot of things could be better,’ Yuki thought absentmindedly. However, he smiled and capped the two coffees, “Oh, you know, less stress would make things a lot better.” Jin Chul released a breath that Yuki was hesitant to call a laugh. 

“That would be splendid, actually.” Yuki handed the man the two cups, noting the slight narrowness of his eyes when he saw the size. 

“On the house, you guys must be working hard at the Association.” Yuki’s winsome smile killed whatever protest Jin Chul was going to voice. Instead, he nodded and thanked Yuki. 

“Have a nice day,” Yuki called out before the man could completely leave the cafe. Gun Ho scrunched his nose, “What a terrifying aura that man has.” The college student glanced at Yuki, “I don’t know how you do it.” Yuki chuckled, shrugging as he continued moving within his small baking space, “You get used to it.” 

Yuki was going to have to get used to it now that a soon to be S-Class was going to be in his presence. Every. Day. It was a good thing that Yuki was already somewhat prepared, but reading was different from experience. He’s hoping that he will be okay. After all, in the Manhwa, Jin Ah was okay. Then again, they are the children of the infamous Sung Il Hwan. 

‘But I also spent a lot of time with Sung Il Hwan when I was a kid. Would that mean I am okay too?’ When Yuki was a child, his family was neighbors with the Sung’s. Yuki spent nights at their place, and due to certain circumstances, Yuki lived with the family until he was 18. 

Sung Il Hwan was always kind to him, treating him as his own son and doting on him just as much. Yuki owed a lot to the former Fireman. If it weren’t for him, Yuki wasn’t sure if he would even be alive. As dramatic as that sounded, Yuki owed that family. It was another reason he remains close to the siblings, that way he can try and help watch over them just as Sung Il Hwan and Park Kyung He did for him. 

‘I need to stop thinking about this, I am just making more stress for myself,’ Yuki thought miserably. He could feel his neck tightening and his shoulder muscles aching. Maybe he could schedule a massage later. 

++++

Later that day, Yuki waited impatiently for the text from Jin Woo. Yuki was grateful that the Association allowed their Hunter’s web page to be available to the public because as soon as Yuki closed the cafe, he rushed over to the location. It required two buses and a 15-minute walk, but he made it. In his hands was a cup carrier, with a steaming large cup of chamomile tea and a small cup of lavender tea. 

Yuki sat on one of the metal beam stacks, nervously cracking his fingers and taking periodic sips of the lavender tea. 

Jin Woo is going to come out as a new person. 

Yuki’s chest tightened uncomfortably, and for a second Yuki thought he was going to have to reach for his inhaler. Before he could do so, the gate began glowing and two silhouettes emerged. 

“Yuki hyung,” Jin Woo stated in shock. There was still blood on his jacket, and on his face and neck were the remnants of the fluid. It looked like someone tried to wipe it off, but did so blindly.

Yuki didn’t question it. Instead, he set his cup down and approached Jin Woo with careful steps. His legs felt like freshly cooked pasta noodles, and at any moment they would collapse on him. Gulping, he took out the baby blue handkerchief with daisies embroidered on the corners and gently patted Jin Woo’s face. 

He wanted to cry. His Jin Woo had murdered. 

“You didn’t have to come here. I would have picked you up,” Jin Woo stated, accepting the offered chamomile tea. Yuki huffed, “Please. If you were to pick me up the cops would have been called. Walking around with blood on you…” Yuki didn’t finish, focused on just making sure that when Jin Woo gets home he won’t give Jin Ah a heart attack. 

Jin Woo smiled, noting the taste of tea and how Yuki’s brows furrowed in concentration. When they were younger and  WHen Jin Woo would scratch his knees, Yuki was always there with the same expression. Scrunched eyebrows, lips pulled into a pout, and eyes narrowed in concentration. 

“Thank you.” Jin Woo appreciated Yuki’s effort to keep him in one piece. Not once failing to be there even if Jin Woo himself didn’t know that he’d need him. 

An awkward cough alerted the two of their audience. Yuki smiled brightly at the younger man, taking note of how young he looked. 

“Hello, I am Min Yuki.” 

“Y-Yoo Jin Ho!” Jin Woo and Yuki blinked in confusion as the boy shouted his name, his eyes wide and his smile looked jittery.

“It’s nice to meet you, Yoo Jin Ho-ssi.” Jin Ho forgot how to breathe for a second, finding it hard to believe that there was someone like this that existed. His world has become impossibly larger today. First, the issue of being a Hunter. Second, Jin Woo was a complete monster and a false ranker. Lastly, that so-called monster knew someone that looked like an Angel. 

‘Please! Angel-ssi, do you know the man behind you is a false ranker!’ 

“Nice to meet you too, Min Yuki-ssi.” Yuki chuckled at how open Jin Ho was, the loopy smile and expressive eyes. Yuki doubted he’d make it in his Father’s business world. Jin Ho was too readable. 

“Anyways, you should report to the Association that the Gate has been cleared,” Yuki steered from the topic of the dead bodies or the fact that he knew what Jin Woo did. Although, from the way Jin Woo’s eyes narrowed, he had noticed something. Jin Ho nodded, taking out his phone and called the association to report that the dungeon was cleared and there were fatalities. 

“If Hyung-nim and Yuki wish to leave first you can. I can deal with the Association,” Jin Ho assured, sending the two older men on their way with a wave and smile. Jin Woo narrowed his eyes but Yuki was quick to wave, “Thank you Jin Ho-ssi, take care.” 

Yuki picked up his own cup and waved once more at Jin Ho. 

“Are you not going to ask?” Jin Woo asked, eyeing the man next to him. Yuki took another sip of his tea, fighting the urge to pop his knuckles and chew his lip. 

“It is not my business.” 

“Do you even know what happened?” 

“I have a good idea,” Yuki mumbled. Jin Woo shoved his hands in his pockets, keeping close to the other male as they took the back roads to Jin Woo’s place. 

“They were cutting off the lizards tail.” Yuki has been around enough Hunters to know what that meant, and his past memories allowed for him to understand the situation Jin Woo and Jin Ho were in. He himself couldn’t begin to fathom being in that type of situation, therefore Yuki tried to not judge Jin Woo too harshly for his decision. It made it easier to blame it on the System, rather than Jin Woo. 

‘Yeah, the System made him do it.’ 

“Your life or theirs,” Yuki affirmed, glancing at Jin Woo from the corner of his eye. He contemplated saying the next line, unsure if it would do anything. After heavy mental debate, Yuki chose to just say it and deal with the consequences later. 

“Hwang Dong Suk is Hwang Dong Si’s brother.” Jin Woo glanced at Yuki, a small falter in his step. 

“What does that have to do with me?” 

‘So much for all those stats in intelligence,’ Yuki thought irritably. 

“You’re alive and Hwang Dong Suk isn’t. Do you think someone like Hwang Dong Si is going to let that go?” Yuki HATED Hwang Dong Si. Not even in his memories, but someone like that who decided to follow money and abandoned the people that needed him really stirred up murderous thoughts in Yuki. However, it was because he had this knowledge about Hwang Dong Si, that Yuki felt like he needed to share it with Jin Woo. At least warn him. 

Jin Woo stopped walking, his eyes wide and body stiff as he took in the situation he was in. If the S-Ranker Hwang Dong Si were to come now, Jin Woo would die. The man had a feeling that it wouldn’t just stop at him either. Jin Ah would be in danger, his mother would be in danger, and Yuki would be in danger. Everyone that Jin Woo wanted to protect, wanted to get stronger for, would be killed. 

‘Shit.’ The System really put him in a difficult situation with this one. However, because everyone’s lives were now on the line, he had to get stronger. He had to get stronger faster. This was even more motivation. 

But… 

What if he couldn’t get strong enough in time? What if he was too late? What if the System didn’t allow him to get past a certain limit? Would that limit surpass Hwang Dong Si? What-

“Jin Woo.” A warm hand grasped Jin Woo’s. Frazzled eyes gazed unsteadily in Yuki’s, the warm red swirling in kindness as he gazed at Jin Woo. 

“It’ll be okay.” All it was were three words. Barely five syllables in total. And yet, it calmed everything. The once erratically beating heart steadied, and the surrounding area that had previously been hazy, cleared. Yuki smiled reassuringly at Jin Woo, the warm evening sun casting an orange glow that seemed to radiate off of Yuki. 

It never failed to amaze Jin Woo of how calming Yuki could be. From the way he spoke, to even his everyday life. The atmosphere that surrounded him was almost always tranquil, except for the few times Yuki has lost his temper. The ability to soothe even the most frazzled souls is what drew people to him. 

Jin Woo took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly, “Yeah, I’ll be stronger by the time he poses a threat.” Yuki smiled giddily, removing his hand from Jin Woo’s and proceeding to walk in the direction of the apartment. Jin Woo followed, his breathing now calm and his mind able to think clearer. Instead of seeing this situation as dire, he chose to see it as motivation. 

‘All the more reason to get stronger.’ 

++++

Yuki sighed exhaustedly when he made his way into his apartment. He smelled of jajangmyeon and in his hands was a container of the meal. Pip greeted him by rushing to his legs and Cujo huffed a welcome back. Yuki chuckled at the two, patting both of them on their heads before placing his food in the small fridge. 

His apartment remained dark. The light of the city providing enough light for Yuki to walk through his place with ease. Floor to ceiling windows allowed for an exquisite view of the city, and it also allowed for the most remarkable sunsets to be viewed. 

Yuki trudged his way to his balcony, the plants he had out there swayed with the breeze and he could hear the faint sound of the honking of car horns. The height he was out allowed for him to see the faint blue glows of gates throughout the city, some on the roads and some in neighborhoods. 

Placing a strawberry flavored cigarette between his lips, he lit the cancer stick and took a deep breath. It wasn’t a habit Yuki was proud of, and for having a hole in one lung was really pushing it. However, it was something that Yuki picked up and found hard to quit. It used to be worse, smoking half a box a day. However, Jin Ah and Jin Woo got on his case, so he instead chose to do it occasionally. Whenever he was stressed, he’d pull one out. 

Like right now. 

Taking another inhale, he relished in the burn of the ashes at the back of his throat and in his lungs, grounding him. His mind kept thinking of the series of events that happened today and undoubtedly will happen again. It made Yuki fret for the oncoming future. Things will change simply because Yuki exists, but the scary part was not knowing what. 

Many things could change, things that Yuki would never be able to foresee. However, if there is one thing that Yuki does want to change, it would be the fate of Byung Gyu. Yuki took a shaking breath, inhaling once more, and releasing the smoke. He’s grown to really enjoy the ex-Hunter, the weirdo always popping into his cafe at closing time and sharing his day. 

Yuki didn’t want him to die. 

And because he knew what was going to happen, he could change it. That itself will cause problems, however, this wasn’t the original Solo Leveling. If it was, then Yuki wouldn’t be here. Besides, Byung Gyu was worth changing fate over. 

Snubbing out the cigarette, Yuki placed the bud in the trash and walked back into his apartment. The shower was calling his name, and he could hear his bed echoing it. Walking into the small room, Yuki turned on the shower before stripping. The mirror reflecting a skinny body, with little muscle volume and pale skin. 

When the water was hot enough, Yuki hopped in and began scrubbing the day away. His body wash smelled of mint and eucalyptus, while his shampoo and conditioner was of lavender. It never bothered him that some would find his choice in scent more feminine, enjoying subtle herbal smells. He’s sure it’s because his past life loved these smells. He can vaguely recall the subtle scents of candles, and which essential oil would always be put in the diffuser. 

Yuki would have vague memories, sometimes appearing in dreams or doing a simple task and they’ll appear. The only clear memory was about Solo Leveling, and that was the only one. Everything else can be compared to looking through textured glass. He’ll see the larger shape of the memory clearly, but the minuscule details are disoriented and lost. Certain things attract memories, for example, smell, taste, sometimes he’ll hum a tune that doesn’t exist in that world but it did in his previous life. 

He can recall the names of certain songs, while others are forever lost. When he was little, he had a difficult time differentiating what was reality now, and what was a reality in the past. 

Yuki stepped out of the shower, his body flushed from the heat and he no longer smelled of the cafe or of jajangmyeon. He completed his nightly skin routine and put on his navy pajama set, the first few buttons undone and allowing for the cool air of the apartment to cool his skin. 

“Cujo, Pip, bedtime.” The pitter-patter of feet alerted him that his companions were on their way, and he decided to crawl into bed first. His room was clean and lacked decorations. There were only a few plants, some gold geometric figurines, and a black bookshelf that was filled with books. There were a few framed photos on the desk, the majority of them were of the Sung’s and him, with a few pictures of the cafe. 

His bed was pushed in the small nook that was in the corner of his room, the foot and the other side surrounded by windows that allowed for a beautiful view of the city. The comforters were white and showed obvious signs of use, and the fur that was on it showed that more than one living being slept on the full bed. 

As if they heard him, Pip jumped onto the comforter, finding his place near amongst the vast amount of pillows. While Cujo chose to lay at the foot of the bed, his massive body reflected in the window. Yuki chuckled at the heave the dog made when he was finally comfortable, and climbed into bed himself. The comforter smelled fresh linen, something that had Yuki deeply inhaling before setting his alarm. 

Yuki admired the view of the city before the weight of the day settled in. His body ached from stress and his eyes burned. Taking a deep breath once more, Yuki closed his eyes and had no problem keeping them shut.  

On the other side of the city, in the Hunter’s Association building, sat two men. One was older than the other, sporting man scars and proof of age, while the other was Woo Jin Chul. 

“Chairman Go Gun Hee, I think now would be a great time for a break,” Jin Chul advised, taking in the amount of paper’s the S-Rank man has done. 

Go Gun Hee sighed tiredly, his eyes weary and the need for coffee was evident. Speaking of coffee, the one he had earlier today was still fresh on his mind. When Jin Chul said that he was going to get coffee, Go Gun Hee expected it to be the usual, from the cafe across the street. Instead, Jin Chul brought a different cup with a different logo and different tasting coffee. A better tasting coffee.

Go Gun Hee was also aware of the fact as to why Jin Chul went there. A few weeks back, Jin Chul came in explaining how he ran into a potentially high ranking individual. They weren’t a Hunter yet, however, the power rolled off of them proved that they would be a valuable one. That was until Jin Chul looked them up. 

Min Yuki had a hole in his lung, one that had exempted him from the military and would prove to be a hindrance if he did become a Hunter. Not to mention, he was a somewhat successful owner of Koffee Krew, building it from the ground up. The cafe was popular in the area it was located in, but still had some hesitance of expanding. 

“Jin Chul,” Go Gun Hee called for the man’s attention, which he got undividedly. 

“Do you mind grabbing the same coffee from today for tomorrow please?” Jin Chul nodded, “Of course, Chairman,” Go Gun Hee smiled, his mind continuing to drift back to the name. 

‘It’s good to see he is doing well.’ 

Chapter Text

“You’re meeting up with Yoo Jin Ho-ssi?” Yuki handed Jin Woo a cup of coffee, taking in the information that Jin Woo provided. Jin Woo nodded, taking a sip of the coffee and sighing in bliss. 

“And… you’re going like that?” Yuki’s judgemental gaze made Jin Woo look down at his outfit. 

“What’s wrong with it?” 

“You look like you’re going to rob a bank or something.” Jin Woo snorted, taking another sip and chuckled as Yuki scrunched his nose. Yuki pinched the hem of Jin Woo’s brown hoodie between his thumb and forefinger. The fabric was stretched to its utmost limit, trying to accommodate Jin Woo’s unexpected growth spurt and muscle gain. 

“I haven’t gone shopping in a while, so everything looks small on me,” Jin Woo explained, and Yuki chuckled. 

“I know, you’ve gotten taller. I’m starting to feel short around you.” Yuki was of average height, 5’9. He and Jin Woo used to be around the same height a build, however now that Jin Woo was continuously growing stronger Jin Woo’s body was changing to accommodate for it. Instead of 5’9, Jin Woo was now around 5’11 or 6’0 feet and his shoulders have broadened by a mile. 

Jin Woo laughed, his shoulders shaking and his coffee almost spilling. Yuki pouted at that, and lightly hit Jin Woo’s shoulder. 

“Tiny Hyung,” Jin Woo snorted out and Yuki squawked. Yuki proceeded to hit Jin Woo’s shoulder, making the man laugh harder. 

“Hurry up and go meet Yoo Jin Ho-ssi!” Yuki kicked Jin Woo out, and Jin Woo waved goodbye. Yuki huffed before returning his attention to the cafe, which had a chuckling Chunghee and Baram behind the bar. Both workers were trying very hard to stifle they’re giggling, but Chunghee’s loud laugh was hard to quiet even with a hand in front of his mouth. 

“Oh, and what’s so funny?” Baram snorted and Chung Hee had to turn the other way. 

“N-nothing.” 

“Tiny Oppa,” Baram giggled out, making Chunghee snort and bite his finger to stop himself from making the situation worse. Yuki huffed before smiling sinisterly, “Okay then, Baram-ssi you can clean the espresso machine.” 

“Wait, Oppa!” Baram tried to reason but Yuki ignored her, “Now, please get to work. We have customers.” 

“Oppa!” 

Yuki ignored her cries and began setting to work on making cream horns. They were one of the first pastries he’s ever made, and to this day are one of his favorites. The outside was the flaky crust, twirled around a mold that was similar to a conical shell. As for the filling, Yuki experimented with many flavors and found that the strawberry and chocolate were the favorites. He also had Specials that would only come out for the Holidays. 

In all honesty, cream horns were one of his specialties, along with cakes and chocolates. Macaroons were slowly making their way up there, however, it was apparent that Gun Ho had a better knack for the sweets than Yuki did. Cream horns though. Yuki could make those for ages and never get tired of them. They were such a fun shape in his opinion, and options for fillings were endless. 

He could faintly hear the sound of the television, the News was nothing more than a buzz and the music that played throughout the cafe had a jubilant tone. Yuki hummed along with it, finding the happy song to lift his spirits a bit. In truth, he still wasn’t all that over Jin Woo killing. It bothered him. Not so much the murder aspect, but more of the fact that he knew this was going to happen, he knew Jin Woo’s life was on the line, he knew the System made him do it, and yet, he couldn’t get over it. 

It irritated Yuki to the core. 

                                                          
Muttering curses, he rolled out one of the sheets of dough, covering the backside in flour to ensure it wouldn’t stick to the counter. He rolled it so it was 12’ inches in length and 9’ wide. There, he grabbed a knife and allowed muscle memory to cut 12’ long and 1’ wide strips. Delicate fingers gently picked up one strip at a time and twirled it around a cone-shaped instrument making sure to have the dough overlap a little. 

“Oppa,” Baram called out for the man. She had a semi concerned look on her face as she gestured with her eyes towards the familiar auburn haired male. 

“He’s asking for you,” She whispered, her posture tense and her eyes wide in with uneasiness. Yuki couldn’t blame the girl, after all, Woo Jin Chul was a pretty intense man, to begin with. His face screamed ‘screw off,’ and his posture looked ready to handle anyone who crossed him. It didn’t help that he is a high A-Rank Hunter either, offsetting anyone who was more sensitive than magic aura. 

“Relax, Baram-ssi,” Yuki assured, his pale hand landing on her shoulder reassuringly. He strolled over to the waiting male, a smile on his face as he nodded in greeting. 

“Woo Jin Chul-ssi, it’s a pleasure seeing you again. How are you?” Yuki tried to strike up a casual conversation with the seemingly cold male. 

“I am well, how about yourself?” 

“I’m doing good, could be better, could be worse.” Jin Chul nodded at the statement, agreeing with it. 

“How can I help you today?” 

“2 large coffees please,” Jin Chul asked politely, to which Yuki nodded. He inserted the price and motioned for Jin Chul to insert his card. 

“I came here on other business as well,” Jin Chul stated, taking his car out when the bell-like alarm rang from the machine, alerting both of them that the transaction was made. Yuki hummed to show he was listening, grabbing the two large cups of coffee and making his way towards the machine. 

“Is this business something that can be said openly, or needs to be private?” Yuki had a feeling of what kind of business that Jin Chul wanted to talk about, but it was always good to double-check, just in case. 

“It is up to you.” ‘Woo Jin Chul, that’s not very helpful,’ Yuki whined pitifully. Taking a deep breath, Yuki glanced around, Baram was over by the espresso machine and Chung Hee took over the cash register. There were no other patrons by them, and if Jin Chul spoke quietly then it shouldn’t be a problem. 

“Okay, I don’t want your coffees to get cold, so you could just tell me now.” Yuki slipped the sleeves over the white cups and placed them on the counter that separated the two men. 

“Are you aware of who Hwang Dong Su is?” Yuki blinked slowly, processing the question. 

“Woo Jin Chul-ssi, everybody knows who he is.” He tried to not sound sarcastic because Woo Jin Chul does not look like someone who would appreciate it. 

“Well, it would appear that Sung Jin Woo may have gotten in some trouble with him.” ‘Act confuse, act confuse,’ Yuki repeated the mantra, trying to match his facial expression with one of said emotion. He also tried to question it, as any normal person would do. Instead, what came out of his mouth was, “Haha.” It was a mocking chuckle, one that had Woo Jin Chul reeling in shock and Yuki cursing himself out. 

“Sorry,” Yuki apologized, coughing into his fist. Woo Jin Chul just blinked at him, normally half-lidded eyes wide in shock and uncertainty if this albino barista understood what was just spoken. 

“Anyways, that is a bit of a problem,” Yuki tried to continue as nothing happened, desperately trying to resume the conversation. 

Woo Jin Chul nodded, reaching for the two coffees, “He’s not the most docile S-Rank, and therefore I wanted to warn you. He may come after you for being tied to Sung Jin Woo.” That was a problem. 

“Hmm, that is concerning,” Yuki hummed thoughtfully, not enjoying this newly added stress. Woo Jin Chul looked somewhat apologetic, “The laws rarely bind S- Ranks because of how rare they are.” Yuki nodded to show that he understood. 

“However, because you are a regular South Korean citizen, the Hunter’s Association is going to protect you.” There was a hint of ‘try’ before ‘protect,’ but Yuki appreciated the thought. Many laws protected regular people from Hunters, however as Woo Jin Chul has stated, S-Ranks were above the law due to rarity. 

“Thank you, I appreciate it.” Yuki had a feeling that he would be fine, however, the warning was greatly appreciated. Woo Jin Chul nodded, bidding the barista a good day before leaving. Yuki waved as the man exited the cafe, taking a deep breath before heading back to the cream horns. 

‘I need a smoke.’ 

++++

Dark heavy clouds swirled in the sky, promising rain and unneeded humidity. Yuki sat in his cafe, long after closing with a hot cup of french hot chocolate. His crooked fingers were wrapped delicately around the porcelain mug, the heat making his pale skin flush red. 

Min Byung Gyu sat across from, his teaching papers were spread hazardously across the table, various pen markings and highlighted notes were strewn across the pages. He also had a large cup of french hot chocolate, although he was more empty than Yuki’s. Min Byung Gyu openly stared at the albino male across from him, noting the look of indifference across the barista’s normally expressive face. 

“You never sit down with me, is everything okay?” Min Byung Gyu joked, taking a bite of the German Chocolate cake. Yuki chuckled, taking a long sip from his hot chocolate, “Mmm, just stressed.” The Ex-S Hunter’s face morphed to concern, “Is the cafe not doing well?” 

“No, the cafe is doing fine. I’m just worried about a friend,” Yuki mumbled. Min Byung Gyu hummed, “Is it your childhood friend? The E-Ranker?” Yuki nodded, ‘Although, I don’t know if we can still call him an E-Ranker.’ He took another sip, allowing for the hot liquid to warm his throat and his chest. The current events and future events were weighing heavily on his shoulders, making a prominent slouch in his posture and for his face to look tired. 

‘Hwang Dong Su will be here in two weeks, that means it’s two weeks for Jin Woo to get stronger and develop his Necromancy power.’ Yuki thought, biting his lip in thought. 

‘But, what if he doesn’t get stronger in time? What if this is one of those things that changes because I am here? What if Jin Woo doesn’t become as strong as he needs to be by then? What am I-’ 

“Yuki-ssi.” A large hand placed itself on his wrists, the warmth sent goosebumps up Yuki’s arms and alerted him of his thoughts. Min Byung Gyu was sitting there smiling at him, “Whenever you go into ‘thought overdrive’ your hands shake.” The Ex Hunter explained, making Yuki chuckle at the term ‘thought overdrive.’ When the soon to be a teacher was positive that Yuki was calm and the shaking subsided, he released the thin wrist and instead replaced the warmth of Yuki’s hand with the hot chocolate mug. 

“Sorry, I didn’t even realize,” Yuki fumbled when he brought the mug to his lips. Min Byung Gyu shrugged, “I don’t know what’s going on with your friend, but I do know this. You are only able to control the things that happen in your life. Even then, that’s not a lot.” Min Byung Gyu glanced at the crooked pale fingers that held the white mug, “However, you can 100% control your reactions to the situations life puts you through. Don’t stress about the consequences of what hasn’t happened yet, only prepare for it.” 

Yuki blinked at the Healer, his red eyes wide in astonishment and his mouth agape. It took a bit of time before any sound escaped him, and it was a chuckle. 

“You’re going to be a great teacher, Min Byung Gyu-ssi.” ‘I’m going to make sure you get there too.’ 

For another hour, the two of them sat in the cafe, drinking hot chocolate, and having small bickerments. Then, it was time for the two of them to leave, Min Byung Gyu waiting until the last minute before exiting the cafe with Yuki. It was around 9:00, the night air crisp with the promise of winter and the stars replaced by the twinkling of the city. 

The heavy breath Yuki released looked like the clouds one would see during the day, and his thin shoulders hunched as a draft passed by him. His hair moved with the breeze, and his eyes were drawn to almost empty streets. The walk from his cafe to the apartment wasn’t fair, but at night with a cold breeze like this, Yuki wished he lived closer. 

“Haah~ I’m going to have to start wearing a scarf,” Yuki whined, trying to nestle more in the collar of his jacket as another breeze passed by him. His thin body wasn’t meant for this! Why did South Korea have to get so cold?!

“Min Yuki-ssi.” 

“Ahhh!” Yuki jumped nearly 6 feet in the air and he felt his soul leave his body for a second. Whipping around he came face to face with Woo Jin Chul, who was also sporting a startled expression. 

“Oh my God, Woo Jin Chul-ssi, it’s just you,” Yuki sighed in relief. A pale hand resting on his chest to steady his heart. The other male made his expression neutral before strolling over towards the shivering male. 

“I apologize, I didn’t mean to startle you,” Woo Jin Chul apologized, to which Yuki shook his head. 

“It’s okay, it’s just you Hunters don’t really make much noise,” Yuki chuckled sheepishly, before staring at the male inquisitively. 

“What brings you here, Woo Jin Chul-ssi?” The man motioned the sleek black car, “As the Hunter’ Association promised, we will do our best to protect Min Yuki-ssi.” Yuki blinked. 

“We got word that Hwang Dong Si will arrive in two weeks, however, there’s no telling if he will use other means to prove a point before he gets here,” Woo Jin Chul explained. Yuki nodded in understanding, “Due to that present… possibility, it is my job to ensure you reach home safely.” Yuki understood the underlying meaning of the word ‘possibility.’ It was just a kinder word to say rather than ‘threat.’ 

“Woo Jin Chul-ssi, I appreciate your’s and the Association’s thoughts, but I’m sure that you have more pressing matters to attend to other than guiding a cafe owner to their home.” Since when did the Association ‘watch’ people? Not to mention, sending Woo Jin Chul of all people to be a babysitter seemed a little overboard. 

“I assure you Min Yuki-ssi, this is all in the job description.” Yuki huffed, a smile on his lips and cheeks flushed from the cold. 

“I guess I’ll take the offer.” He and Woo Jin Chul walked to the car, Woo Jin Chul opening one of the passenger’s doors and allowing the male in the expensive car. 

“Wow,” Yuki openly gaped, feeling the smooth texture of leather on his fingertips, and the heated seats that chased away the cold from his body. 

“Luxury,” He whistled. Woo Jin Chul got in the driver's seat and took off down the stretch of road. Yuki scanned the area before coming to the realization, “Ah, do you need my address?” 

“No, your address is in Hunter Sung Jin Woo’s emergency contacts.” Yuki nodded in understanding, “Thank you for the ride by the way.” Woo Jin Chul nodded, “It is the Association’s duty to protect the citizens of South Korea from a Hunter.” He glanced at Yuki through the rearview mirror, pulling up next to the apartment building. 

“Something like this is no problem.” Yuki swore he saw a smile but wasn’t sure if it was because of the lights or because of how tired he was feeling, but he wrote it off. Getting out of the nice car, he bid Woo Jin Chul a farewell, and the next two cups of coffee would be on the house. Woo Jin Chul waited until Yuki’s form disappeared into the building before taking off, his destination was the Association building. 

Yuki slouched when he got to the elevator and exhaled heavily as he lazily pushed the floor button. He decided to check his phone and notifications. There wasn’t much, which Yuki liked, and in truth, he didn’t mind that his phone apps were almost nonexistent. The only entertainment he got off his phone was Youtube, Pinterest, and the internet. Very rarely texting, and even rarer callings. 

When Yuki entered his apartment, he was greeted with the sight of Jin Woo and Jin Ah eating his (Yuki’s) dinner. Both siblings paused in mid-bite, the noodles of the Shrimp Scampi sliding off the forks. 

“W...Welcome home~” Jin Ah greeted, awkwardly waving at the frozen Albino. Jin Woo picked up the fallen noodles, not breaking eye contact with Yuki, and slurped the noodles. Yuki took a deep breath, inhaling through his nose and releasing it through his mouth. 

“Really?”  

Chapter Text

“This sucks.” Yuki roamed the convenience store, looking for a cheap pair of sunglasses. He and Jin Woo were taking a walk in the park when someone bumped into him and knocked his original sunglasses off. It wouldn’t have been bad if only Jin Woo didn’t step on them. 

“I’m really sorry, Yuki.” Jin Woo scratched the back of his head in misery, feeling terrible about being the one to break the accessory. He continued to watch as the other browsed the sunglasses, trying to see which one fits his face. Yuki shrugged, “They were cheap.” He placed the pair back on the rack and reached for another one. 

“That’s probably why they broke so easily.” 

“Or, because you’re now gigantic self stepped on them,” Yuki countered, sticking his tongue out at the other. Jin Woo huffed, a smile on his face as he picked up a pair and gently placed them over Yuki’s eyes. 

“These look good,” He commented, admiring how the shape of the glasses highlighted Yuki’s features. Yuki looked in the mirror, adjusting and fiddling with them until he concluded that they did in fact look good. With a satisfied smile, he proceeded to the cashier, holding the flimsy pair in between his fingers. 

“Woah~ Are those your real eye color or are you wearing contacts?” Jin Woo sneered at the boy who looked no older than 19. Yuki smiled awkwardly, glancing sideways as he took out his wallet. 

“They’re real.” The boy didn’t get the hint and instead leaned closer. Yuki instinctively leaned away, a frown now on his face and bottom lip between his teeth. Jin Woo stepped between them, a glare in his eyes and a scowl on his face. The cashier looked ready to retort until he noticed the look he was being given. 

“He’s not a show animal. Hurry and check us out.” Yuki observed how the cashier’s tanned face became almost a bluish-grey in fear. Shaky hands scanned the sunglasses, and almost dropped them in the process of handing them back. Jin Woo scanned his card and snatched the accessory before any more questions or comments could be raised. 

“You didn’t have to pay for them.” Jin Woo’s now larger hand rested on the small of Yuki’s back to guide the other out. The sunglasses rested delicately on Yuki’s nose bridge, protecting his eyes from the Autumn sun. A cold breeze blew through them and Yuki nuzzled into his thick scarf, remembering to wear it. 

“It was cheap.” Jin Woo’s tone left no room for arguments, and Yuki briefly wondered when the shy smol bean that used to be Jin Woo became this giant beanstalk Jin Woo. Confidence oozed off of him, rolling out in waves of growing power and maturity. It took Yuki longer than he thought to accept this new Jin Woo. A more powerful and somewhat colder Jin Woo, but with that came to the confidence that the old Jin Woo lacked. He was standing taller, chin higher, and gaze forward instead of down. 

“What’s wrong?” Yuki’s been smiling at Jin Woo for a bit, making the taller one raise an eyebrow. Even though Yuki had sunglasses on, Jin Woo could feel the warm gaze, warmer than the cup of coffee they both had in their hands. He could imagine clearly how Yuki’s eyes looked underneath the shades. Upturned eyes that were framed with surprisingly thick white eyelashes, would be scrunched due to his smile. The slightly purple bruising underneath his eyes from the lack of sleep would almost disappear from the delicate tissue creasing with the smile. In the middle of those eyes would be the warmest shade of red, sometimes pink when in the sunlight, and they would be shining as he stared at whatever was making him happy. Which was Jin Woo right now. 

Instead of answering, thin crooked fingers reached up and ran through the healthy locks on Jin Woo’s head. The strands tickled the skin between his fingers, and with every movement released the smell of mint from Jin Woo’s shampoo. What was a normal action for the two of them caused some people to stare or pause in what they were doing. Taking in what would have been a perfect picture, and gawking at the two attractive males in the middle of the sidewalk. 

“You should cut your hair. It’s getting really long,” Yuki mumbled, removing his fingers and continuing their walk. Jin Woo huffed, a smile on his lips as easily caught up. His now longer legs were able to keep the same pace as Yuki without breaking a sweat. 

“Ah yes. Someone who can put their hair in a half ponytail is telling me my hair is too long.” Yuki laughed, almost spilling his coffee as he did so. 

“But my hair is iconic now.” Yuki motioned to his white locks. Jin Woo chuckled, nodding with the statement and continuing their walk. 

Until his phone buzzed. Taking out the device, he stared at the Hunter’s notification for a second before opening and confirming his attendance.

“Yuki, I have to go. There’s a dungeon nearby and they put me on it.” If Yuki was bothered, he didn’t show it. Instead, his face broke out into a smile, and nodded in understanding. Jin Woo was hesitant to leave the other standing in front of the bookstore, but Yuki urged him on. 

“You can’t be late.” Yuki gently pushed Jin Woo in the direction the other was about to head into. He waved as the Jin Woo glanced back one more time, before pulling his hood over his head and proceeding to the meeting sight. Yuki sighed once more, taking a long sip of his coffee before throwing it away. 

It was Sunday, his cafe was closed so there was a need for him to be anywhere. His only plan for today was to hang out with Jin Woo. Nothing else. 

‘I am such a boring person,’ Yuki thought as he gazed at the bookstore behind him. Next to a cafe, Yuki always wanted to own a small bookstore. Cafes and bookstores always seemed to complement one another so well, Yuki couldn’t help feel the need to open one. 

“It’s not like I need one,” He mumbled, walking away to stop himself from impulse buying a book that he wasn’t going to touch for a while. Instead, he opted to keep walking. With no place in mind, he wandered aimlessly. There was something therapeutic about getting lost without actually getting lost. Taking streets he never really walked on or seeing where new buildings were going up. It’s been a while since Yuki was able to do this. 

Even in his old life, he never could get lost. Too busy trying to meet everyone’s expectations, there was no time to just wander. 

In this world, there were only his. 

He wrapped the scarf tighter around his neck, sighing happily when his neck became warmer as another cold breeze rushed past him. 

++++

Jin Woo didn’t think he was particularly strong. He was stronger than what he used to be, but not strong enough. That much was obvious as he was barely holding on to the fight with Kang Tae Shik. That man’s stupid camouflage skill was being a nuisance. The tendon in his ankle was cut, and he was almost positive that it was actually severed. 

For a split second, doubt crossed his mind. It was that unnecessary voice in the back of his head. It whispered all his insecurities and brought them to the surface of his mind. They were insecurities that couldn’t be washed away with simple power-ups or anything. Always there. Always reminding him that he was human. 

That voice would whisper,’ What if you can’t beat him? How can you protect the ones you love, when you can’t even protect yourself?’ It was a grating voice. One that Jin Woo couldn’t place, but knows he’s heard it before. 

If he couldn’t beat this guy, how would he beat Hwang Dong Si? How would he protect Jin Ah? His mother? Yuki? 

‘Jin Woo, it’ll be okay.’ 

Klang

His blade collided with Kang Tae Shik’s, effectively stopping the assault. Kang Tae Shik landed a few feet away, watching how Jin Woo’s wounds healed and how his eyes got sharper. More dangerous. 

“Even anger is a waste on someone like you.” Kang Tae Shik charged, only to be deflected and put on the defensive. They continued to exchange blows, Jin Woo evolving further throughout the fight. Kang Tae Shik was no longer most dangerous within this dungeon. A dagger in his stomach certified that. 

Jin Woo gazed down at the man with cold eyes, unmoving and uncaring of his fate. 

It was almost scary how unmoved he was by ending another’s life. Even the first time, there was next to nothing.

He remembers that day. The day he proved to himself and the System that he was a Hunter. Eight people died from his hands, and Jin Woo couldn’t bring himself to care about their deaths. Didn’t care how Jin Ho saw him, because Jin Ho’s opinion didn’t matter. 

But Yuki’s did. The moment he saw the smaller male waiting for him outside the Gate, holding two cups of what had to be tea, Jin Woo would never forget. Yuki looked ready to cry. Despite how he carefully wiped the blood off Jin Woo’s face, making sure to avoid looking at the red and purple-stained jacket, Yuki looked like he was in pain the whole time. 

‘Your life or theirs.’ Is what Yuki had said. Yet, it looked like Yuki was trying to confirm that fact with himself rather than Jin Woo. How Yuki knew what was happening, Jin Woo had no idea. Yuki’s always been good about being there when things go South. When Jin Woo’s mother went into Eternal Sleep, Yuki was there without needing to be told. When Jin Woo struggled to pay the bills, Yuki was there to shove a blank check in Jin Woo’s direction, gladly paying for the expenses that didn’t concern him. When Jin Ah’s school uniform was raised in price, Yuki bought her it as a Congratulations gift and so Jin Woo could put food on the table. Whenever Jin Woo felt like he wasn’t enough, Yuki was there to remind him that he was. 

Always there when they needed him. Whether they realized it or not. 

It was a power that Jin Woo was positive that Yuki possessed. A sixth sense they called it. Yuki probably would know about this as well. However, Jin Woo wouldn’t say anything. Not unless Yuki brings this up first, Jin Woo will keep his mouth shut. 

He harshly grabbed the back of the still alive prisoner. Jin Woo knew a lot of people that were trash. However, there were only a few that Jin Woo would consider worse than that. This guy was one of them. That is why he felt nothing as he watched those Goblins shred him. Either by their hands, teeth, or weapons, Jin Woo didn’t care. 

As long as the trash disappeared. 

Ping

Jin Woo stared at the Quest in front of him. The telltale blue of the holographic message glowed in the dark tunnel of the Dungeon. Around him were the bodies of the goblins in the Boss Area. Among them was the body of one of the prisoners, torn apart and mixed with the bodies of other goblins. 

None of that mattered. The Quest did though. 

[ Quest: The Will to Grow ] 

        [ Feelings for an individual have encouraged you to grow rapidly ] 

What the hell. 

      [ Growth of these feelings will result in a decrease amount of time to level up ] 

Award for Quest Completion: 

[ When feelings reach 100%, stats increase by 10% ] 

[ When feelings are reciprocated, stats increase by 30% ] 

Time Limit: None 

‘Feelings?’ Jin Woo pursed his lips as he made his way to the exit. His eyebrows almost meeting in the middle of his forehead as he tried to figure out what the System meant by feelings. Like, love? He vaguely recalls Yuki talking about the different types of love there was in the world. 

‘What kind of love then? Does it mean family?’ Jin Woo shook his head. If it were family he would have gotten it at the beginning of this whole mess. 

“Jin Woo!” He looked up and smiled at oragenette woman. Her smile was large and her eyes grateful. He quickly crossed Lee Ju Hee off. No offense to the woman, he had a crush on her in the beginning. However, now he only saw her as a good friend. 

‘Who do I have feelings for?’ Soft and familiar red eyes appeared in his mind for a split second. The System’s notification made a ting, and numbers appeared in front of him. 

[ Quest: The Will to Grow ]

Quest Completion : 5% 

‘Wait a minute.’ Jin Woo stared blankly at the notification. It took him longer than he would like to admit to realize what the 5% meant. 

‘WAIT A MINUTE!!’ His cheeks became red and his heartbeat quickened. 

Quest Completion: 6% 

‘STOP THAT!’ Jin Woo mentally screeched, his cheeks pink as he realized what the system implied. Lee Ju Hee smiled patiently, holding the pink magic stone in her fingers. 

“Can I repay you now?” Jin Woo nodded eagerly, trying to find an excuse to get these thoughts away. There was absolutely no way it could be Yuki. After all, he and Yuki grew up together. Best friends since the moment Yuki’s family moved into the apartment next to theirs. 

Since when did Jin Woo develop a crush on the other? 

“Jin Woo,” Lee Ju Hee called for his attention. The other has been spaced out for a bit, admiring the falling leaves with a far off expression on his face. She’s seen that look before. It’s been on a lot of her friend’s faces, and now and then Jin Woo himself would have it. It was a look hard to miss by those around them, but the person wearing it never noticed. 

“So, who’s the lucky person that has caught your attention?” Jin Woo’s blank expression morphed to one of terror. His face and ears lit up and his eyes grew wide. 

“N-n-no one! W-w-why would you th-think that?!” Lee Ju Hee laughed at the man’s lie. 

“Is it Yuki-ssi?” Jin Woo’s face became even redder and Lee Ju Hee couldn’t help but laugh more. She knew it. The moment she met the white-haired male, she could see it. The way Jin Woo stared at the barista, and how Yuki was always looking out for the then weak Jin Woo. 

She figured Jin Woo wouldn’t notice these feelings. He was always too stressed, too preoccupied thinking about other things. However, it would seem that now he is strong enough to not worry about surviving in certain Dungeons, his thoughts were able to roam. Finally able to catch up on his feelings and interests. 

‘Yuki-ssi, I expected you of all people to notice though.’ The albino male was always smart, both people and business-wise. It’s a shame he never noticed either. 

“Men,” Lee Ju Hee groaned. 

++++

Yuki grew used to seeing the Sung siblings appearing in his home out of the blue. Both of them had keys to his place, just like he had a spare to their place. Sometimes, Yuki would be taking a rare nap on his couch, and when he wakes up either Jin Woo would be watching the tv or Jin Ah would be doing homework on his counter. It was never a rare sight for the albino male. 

Like right now. He was fresh out of a hot shower, still in his robe, when he caught sight of the tall male laying down on his couch. Jin Woo had now reached a height where his ankles had to hang off the arm of the sofa, and the other rested between the back of his head and neck.

 It didn’t look comfortable.  

“Jin Woo?” What was a rare sight was a far off looking Jin Woo. Rarely ever did the other have time to doze, constantly stressing about Jin Ah’s education, the bills that seemed to never take a break, and the job of being a Hunter. For Jin Woo, daydreaming was a luxury he could rarely afford. 

“Is everything okay?” And because it was a luxury, whenever Jin Woo would daydream it would mean that something emotionally taxing had happened. Knobby fingers tapped Jin Woo’s forehead, trying to gain the other’s attention. Dull grey eyes shifted. 

“Keep furrowing brows like that and you’ll get wrinkles.” Jin Woo’s once tense face broke out into a smile, which soon led to a small laugh. 

“Everything is fine, just thinking.” Yuki hummed at the comment, knowing it was a lie but didn’t want to call the other out on it. Jin Woo would tell him when he’s ready. Those fingers moved from the tan forehead to dark locks, nails scraping at the scalp and curling around the hair. Jin Woo’s eyes closed and his smile remained present. 

It was a rare moment for the two of them. Stillness surrounded them and the only sound that could be heard was that of the cars honking far below. Yuki himself was the very epitome of calm. The smell of lavender and roses rolled off of the skin, filling the surrounding area with a much-needed spring feel. Jin Woo made the mistake of opening his eyes as Yuki’s robe slid off his shoulder. 

The water from Yuki’s still wet hair rolled down his neck, creating a path over his collarbone and down his thin chest to-

Quest Completion: 10% 

Slap

“Jin Woo!” Yuki startled, his hand leaving Jin Woo’s hair and moving to rest on Jin Woo’s now red cheek. 

“Wh-why would you hit yourself like that?” Fretful eyes glared at Jin Woo, the surprise and mild irritation. Jin Woo stared blankly, not sure how to handle this situation. Gulping, Jin Woo could only think of one response, “Fly. I thought there was a fly on me.” Yuki raised an eyebrow, a disbelieving smile on his lips. The pads of his fingers cool against Jin Woo’s now flaming cheek. 

“You didn’t have to hit yourself that hard,” Yuki mumbled. He removed his hands and made his way towards the kitchen. With Yuki was out of sight, Jin Woo allowed himself to deflate as his whole face became beet red and steam rolled off of his cheeks due to the heat radiating off of him. 

“Oh my God,” Jin Woo whispered. This Quest was going to be the death of him. He could feel it deep in his bones. 

He could hear Yuki move throughout the kitchen, the clinking of cups and rustling through the cabinets. After a few minutes, Yuki returned with two steaming cups, and a plate of pizzelles. Jin Woo’s designated mug was set in front of him, a ceramic dark blue mug that had a poorly painted pink flower on it (courtesy of Jin Ah), and in it was steamed milk with traces of honey and cinnamon. 

Yuki’s signature comfort drink. 

‘Ah, so maybe he does know.’ Jin Woo thought as he watched Yuki settle himself in the armchair. His own ceramic cup, an off-white mug with another poorly painted red flower on, was settled between his hands and adding a healthy flush to the pale skin. The tall man sat himself up, swinging his long legs around so he could face Yuki. Pip made a mad dash for the now empty sofa space, his bell jingling as he jumped onto the furniture. 

Jin Woo took a sip of the drink, his eyes closing in bliss as the sweet mixture entered his mouth. He couldn’t feel the burn of the drink, thanks to the Effects, however, that didn’t mean he couldn’t feel how warm the drink was. 

“Jin Ah tried making this,” Jin Woo recalled at his sister’s failed attempt at the drink.

“She put too much cinnamon.” Yuki cackled, already imagining the siblings' reactions to taking the first sip. He leaned back into the comfortable chair, allowing for the texture to swallow him up. 

“I can always show you two, it’s not hard.” 

“Even if we were to copy your recipe perfectly, it still wouldn’t taste as good as this.” Yuki shook his head, “How do you know? I think it’ll taste even better.” Jin Woo shook his head, “The only reason you think that is because you have too much faith in us.” The Sung siblings weren’t terrible cooks, but that’s because Yuki was there to teach them. The downside to that was Yuki’s cooking was exceptionally better, which oftentimes resulted in disappointment for the siblings whenever their food didn’t turn out like Yuki’s food. 

“Well if I didn’t, who would?” Jin Woo slapped Yuki’s knee as gently as possible, aware that he could cause a lot of harm to the other if he wasn’t careful. Yuki couldn’t stop himself from laughing, almost spilling his drink as the force of his laugh moved his body. Jin Woo himself couldn’t stop himself from laughing either, his shoulders shaking and his smile large. He ignored the alerts, focusing on Yuki who looked ready to pass out from not being able to breathe. 

Chapter Text

 Yuki bit his lip as he glared at the ceramic mugs on the screen in front of him. His current mugs were doing great, however, he was finding that a lot of cafes were using the generic white ceramic mug. It wasn’t a bad thing, it was a safe business choice because of how inexpensive they were, and you can’t go wrong with white. However, now that Yuki’s cafe had become a landmark and a norm amongst the community, he thought it was time to do something more. 

Such as representing local artists and craft makers. 

“Gah! I don’t know!” Yuki wanted to pull his hair out. He was looking at new ceramic mugs, all varying in size, color, and design. There were some with animals on them, some with plants, gold flecks, and even just multi-colored mugs. He already had flower pots made by local Zetsy artists, and people were loving them. He even had their Zetsy account on the pots and near the cash register. 

“Hey, Yuki.” 

“Jin Woo! Thank goodness, I need your help!” Yuki didn’t register the other person with Jin Woo, too focused on the mugs in front of him. It wasn’t like Jin Woo was going to introduce the other either, so he behind the counter and peered over Yuki’s shoulder. The smell of lavender and fresh linen wafted off of Yuki. A calming scent that made Jin Woo take a deep breath in. 

Quest Completion: 11%

‘Ahhhh!’ Jin Woo mentally screeched, but his face remained impassive. He gazed at the screen blankly. 

“What is it?” Yuki huffed offended, his cheeks puffing in a pout as he glared at Jin Woo, “They’re mugs. But I don’t know which ones to get!” Jin Woo smiled fondly at the face Yuki made, before gazing at the screen again. 

To An Sang Min, it felt like he was imposing. When he said he wanted to talk to Jin Woo earlier today, and Jin Woo said that he knew a place they could go to, An Sang Min didn’t think it would be this cafe. Yet, after seeing how casual Jin Woo was with the Barista, it would sense. This was a space that he was comfortable in. A place that Jin Woo was mentally and physically relaxed in. 

‘This means he won’t panic when given an offer or decision,’ An Sang Min thought bitterly. 

“The marbled mugs look good.” Yuki scrunched his nose before nodding, “I think those would be good. I’ll have to look into them- Oh. I’m sorry, I didn’t notice you.” Yuki cut himself off when he noticed a customer standing in front of him. He looked vaguely familiar, but Yuki couldn’t say for certain. 

“It’s okay. I’m here with Sung Jin Woo-ssi.” Yuki raised an eyebrow at said person. 

“Can I borrow one of the booths?” Jin Woo asked, even though he knew Yuki would say yes. Yuki nodded, puzzlement still on his face as he motioned to an open booth. 

“Go for it. Would you guys like coffee too?” 

“Sure.” Yuki watched the two of them disappear into a booth, furthest from all the customers. His hands started moving before he could realize what he was doing. His muscle memory getting the best of him as he made the two cups of coffee while his mind was lost in thought. He made Jin Woo’s cup the way he knew the other would like, while he left An Sang Min’s plain. Grabbing a pack of creamer and sugar, he walked over to the booth. 

“How much is the White Tiger Guild’s building for you to make an offer like this?” ‘Ah, I vaguely remember this part,’ Yuki thought as he tapped the booth with the toe of his shoe. 

“Excuse me, your coffee.” Jin Woo took his mug with a small smile, while An Sang Min reigned in from the shock. 

“Ah, thank you.” Yuki bowed and handed him the creamer and sugar. It wasn’t his conversation to listen in to, even though he really, really, REALLY wanted to. Instead, he went back to the counter and focused on the screen. Marbled glazed mugs stared back at him. 

“THIRTY BILLION?!” Yuki ignored the outburst. He clicked on the account for the mugs and sent a message to the creator. A pleased smile on his lips as he did so. 

“Min Yuki-ssi.” Yuki looked up from the screen and smiled when he saw who it was. The local plant nursery owner, Lee Sangha, was peeking in from the door. In her small hands was the large monstera plant he had bought a few days ago. 

“Lee Sangah-ssi!” He rushed over to assist the struggling owner, holding the door open with his body and grabbing the other side of the pot. 

“You should have called, I would have rushed over.” Lee Sangha and Yuki shuffled to one of the empty corners of the cafe. It was by the bookshelf and window, an empty space that Yuki had been wanting to fill for months. 

“It’s okay! I’ve been working out lately and I wanted to see my progress!” Lee Sangha chirped, a large smile on her face despite the sweat that was built on her forehead. Yuki handed her a handkerchief, which she took gratefully. Despite the cold weather, her face was blotched with red and the sweat seemed to continue trailing down her face. 

“Here, I’ll make you a drink so you can cool off.” 

“Oh, that’s okay! I don’t need it,” She assured, however it fell on deaf ears. Yuki was already making an iced green tea lemonade. 

“I insist. Think of it as a thank you for lugging that monster over here.” They both eyed the said monster. The monstera was about 6 feet high, with board leaves that could obscure one’s vision if they weren’t careful. Lee Sangah’s nursery was about two blocks away, and Yuki couldn’t help but commend the girl for her perseverance. He passed her the large drink, which she took gratefully. 

“Thank you for the hanky,” She smiled. Yuki nodded, smiling like always, and waved as she exited the cafe. Shortly after she left, Jin Woo appeared in the kitchen. 

“G-God, Jin Woo! Don’t do that,” Yuki hissed, slapping the other’s shoulder. Jin Woo had the decency to look apologetic. Huffing, Yuki passed the tall male a puff pastry before heading back out to the counter. 

“Hello,” An Sang Min greeted, looking a little frazzled as he did so. Yuki winced at the sight of his disheveled he looked. 

“Hi, how can I help you?” Yuki asked politely. An Sang Min began to take out his wallet, his hands shaky and his breath looking labored. 

“I’m here to pay for the coffee.” Yuki waved his hands frantically, “No no, that’s okay. It’s on the house.” An Sang Min paused, his eyes wide and mouth agape. 

“Are you sure? I can pay, the coffee was too good to be free,” He tried again, but Yuki shook his head. With a soft smile, Yuki assured the other that it was okay. The other looked hesitant, but with a weary nod, he left. Despite his appearance, his shoulders straightened and a determined smile took his face. 

‘He looks excited,’ Yuki thought as he watched the man leave. Turning back around, he raised an eyebrow at Jin Woo who was emerging from the kitchen, phone next to his ear and a smile on his lips. Yuki shook his head, picking up the rag and heading towards the booth the two of them were at. He could faintly hear Jin Woo follow him. His steps quieter than ever, but Yuki knew if Jin Woo wanted to he could easily silence himself. 

“I hope you were kind to him and didn’t do anything rash,” Yuki reproached, one of his eyebrows raised and a small frown on his lips. He doesn’t remember this scene very well, but he remembers the broad strokes of it. When Jin Woo didn’t answer, Yuki sighed heavily and handed him the mug An Sang Min was using. 

“Was it worth it at least?” Yuki wiped down the table with the sterile rag, shaking his head as he did so. 

“Yeah, it was worth it.” The confidence in Jin Woo’s voice assured Yuki enough for him to smile. Taking the mug from Jin Woo’s hands, he headed for the kitchen where the dishwasher was, keeping an ear out for the bell on the door. 

“Where is Baram-ssi, Gunho-ssi, and Chunghee-ssi?” Jin Woo asked, noting the lack of staff. Yuki hummed, “It’s Midterm week for them, so I gave them the week off.” Jin Woo whistled, “What a generous boss.” The other stuck his tongue out, making the two of them laugh. 

“Do you want help?” Jin Woo offered, and Yuki shook his head. He walked over to the counter and looked at the almost empty cafe. Most of Yuki’s clients were college students or professors, the minority being the elderly, and some families. Since this week was midterms, a lot of them would be either at home preparing or with friends in a study group. Sometimes those study groups come here, however very rarely did they order anything other than one drink and few snacks. 

“It’s okay, it isn’t very busy anyway.” Jin Woo shrugged, leaning against the counter with Yuki. He dwarfed the other, more than he thought would be possible. Now that he was gaining more muscle and his body was adapting to the ever-increasing stats, his shoulders could be compared to the Atlantic while Yuki’s would be the Arctic. He never thought that there would be a day when he would need to bend his neck to talk or look at Yuki. Not that Yuki was ever really taller than Jin Woo, but for most of their lives they were oftentimes the same height and body frame. 

It was a sight that Jin Woo found he could get used to. 

“I’ll be gone for the rest of the day. I have some errands I need to do,” Jin Woo stated, glancing at the clock on his wrist. Yuki nodded, “Okay, do you know how long it’ll be?” 

“Shouldn’t be more than a day.” Yuki nodded, “Well, remember you have Jin Ah’s parent-teacher meeting tomorrow.” Jin Ah has been talking about that for a few weeks now, and with everything going on Yuki was positive that Jin Woo would forget. Seeing the look on the other’s face simply confirmed it. 

“I’ll be done by then.” 

“Okay.” Yuki shrugged, waving goodbye as Jin Woo exited the shop. 

“He’s going to forget.” 

++++

“Yuki Oppa,” Jin Ah’s voice over the phone sounded nervous. Yuki was at the cafe, taking a small break after the lunch rush. Jin Woo texted him yesterday saying that he would be out 

“Jin Woo Oppa isn’t at your place, right?”  

“No, he wasn’t there when I woke up.” Yuki placed a tray of macaroons in the oven, and moved to the other one to take out the cheesecake. He could hear Jin Ah panic over the phone, and he couldn’t help but to chuckle. 

“Jin Ah, don’t stress. Give him another call in an hour. He could still be sleeping,” Yuki advised. 

“Aish! That stupid Oppa of mine!” Jin Ah whined and Yuki could already see the pout on her lips. Chuckling, he shook his head even though Jin Ah couldn’t see it. 

“Just call him in an hour. If anything, I could go over to your place and see if he’s there.” 

“Yuki Oppa!” Jin Ah cried, making Yuki laugh. He ended the call on that note, focusing on the drinks and pastries that he was working on. His phone rang again, and when he checked the caller ID, he couldn’t stop the surprise from reaching his face. 

“Woo Jin Chul-ssi, what a surprise.” 

“Min Yuki-ssi,” Woo Jin Chul sounded like he always did, with little emotion. Yuki was in the midst of making a latte for one of his regulars while on the phone with the high A Ranker. 

“Hwang Dong Su is on his way to South Korea.” ‘Ah shit.’ Yuki wanted to scream, cry, and throw a tantrum.

“Is that so,” Was all he could get out. He handed the latte to the student with an apologetic smile. The bags under the kid’s eyes spoke volumes of the stress he was under. Not to mention four espresso shots he wanted with the already primarily coffee latte. 

“As I will be the one primarily escorting him, another agent of the Association will be guiding you home.”  ‘I don’t think any other agent will be able to protect me,’ Yuki wanted to say. 

“That’s okay. There’s no need to bother anyone else. Seeing that you will be with him, I don’t think there’s a need to worry,” Yuki tried to reason. He could hear the hesitation in Woo Jin Chul’s voice, already able to picture the face the man has on. 

“Min Yuki-ssi,” The sigh was heavy and Yuki could already feel the exasperation. 

“It’s fine, there’s no need to worry,” Yuki assured, a small laugh at the end of the sentence to assure the other. He could still feel the apprehension through the phone, and it only made the other chuckle more. 

“As I said, I trust that Hunter Woo Jin Chul-ssi will protect me even if you aren’t by my side to do so. There’s no need to worry,” Yuki tried again. There was another heavy sigh, the sound of shuffling and mumbling until Woo Jin Chul answered, “ Very well. I’ll ask the President what he thinks and we’ll go from there.”  

“Thank you, Woo Jin Chul-ssi.” Yuki hung up and had to stop himself from throwing his phone into the tile. ‘Fucking Hwang Dong Su!’ Yuki mentally screamed, trying to compose himself as his hands and arms twitched to break something. A tantrum is what he wanted to throw, but he was in the middle of business hours with various amounts of people inside his cafe. It wouldn’t be professional. 

‘Why?! Why can’t that man just disappear?!’ Yuki continued to scream as he got started on making coffee bread. God, he was pissed. Of course, that idiot arrives when things are going well. Why. Why was it now? Not that this isn’t new, because whether Yuki was here or not he would have come anyway. Still though!

Yuki had to stop himself from banging his head into the countertop, instead choosing to focus his attention on kneading. All his frustration and irritation was being taken out on the barely forming dough. 

“M-Min Yuki-ssi.” Yuki’s gaze snapped up in shock and standing in front of him was Min Byung Gyu, eyes trailing from Yuki’s face to the dough. It took the Albino male a few seconds to realize who it was, before stuttering an apology. 

“Is everything okay?” Min Byung Gyu asked, still eyeing the dough. Yuki hummed, abandoning the dough and instead opting to make a drink for the regular. Grunting a bit, he shrugged, “Everything is fine. Just a little stressed.” Min Byung Gyu hummed, “You seemed a lot more stressed lately.” 

“Yeah.” ‘That’s because everything is happening NOW! Like can’t it wait a few more months or something?’ Yuki wanted to shout, but Min Byung Gyu wouldn’t understand. None of them would. 

“Is there anything I can do to help?” Yuki handed Min Byung Gyu his drink and a slice of German Chocolate Cake. The white-haired male smiled, appreciating the thought, “Just you being you is enough, Min Byung Gyu-ssi.” He missed the pink blush on the other’s cheeks, but the smile was worth a thousand more compliments. 

“Anyways, you’re here rather early aren’t you? You normally come by around closing,” Yuki tried to change the subject. Min Byung Gyu chuckled, choosing to sit at the table closest to the bar so that they could continue to talk. 

“Yeah, the class I was in the professor called in sick. So there was no need to go,” Min Byung Gyu explained. Yuki whistled, setting the dough into a glass bowl to let it rise. 

“I didn’t know college professors did that.” Min Byung Gyu gave Yuki an odd look before nodding, “Right. I forgot that Min Yuki-ssi didn’t go to college.” It was a fact that shocked many. Yuki’s highest level of formal education was a High School diploma, however, his knowledge and comprehension were those above his age. 

“Min Yuki-ssi so successful, I sometimes forget,” Min Byung Gyu laughed, sipping his drink and digging into his cake slice. Yuki smiled bashfully, shaking his head and disagreeing, “All of my success is because of all the people that gave this cafe a chance and continued to come back.” 

“Nonsense! Min Yuki-ssi is brilliant with baking and drinks, not to mention the atmosphere of the cafe is addicting,” Min Byung Gyu rebutted, trying to assure Yuki that it was in fact Yuki’s talent that made the business boom. He wasn’t far from the truth either. Yuki’s baking ability was one of a kind, and as Min Byung Gyu stated, the cafe was always a calm place to relax. 

The cafe itself felt like you were entering a different dimension. A calm dimension. One where everyone could forget their troubles if they allowed themselves to. The music that played was always soft, and the windows allowed for natural light. Warm was a proper word to describe it, followed by serene. Plants and accessories allowed for the palace to be aesthetic without it feeling cluttered. Not to mention the local small businesses he supported by displaying their works and items. 

It was a cafe made around pure intentions. 

“Be careful with how loud you say that,” Yuki chuckled, “Some parents want their children to go to college.” Both he and Min Byung Gyu laughed at that, their laughter filling the cafe and making some other patrons laugh with them. 

“Ah, excuse me.” Yuki motioned to his ringing phone, which Min Byung Gyu nodded at. Looking at the Caller ID, Yuki raised an eyebrow. 

“Jin Woo, is everything alright?” 

“What stores do I go to for nicer clothing?” 

“Well, that depends on what kind of clothes you want.” 

“Nice.” 

“Jin Woo, that isn’t very helpful.” 

“Nice enough that I don’t embarrass Jin Ah when I talk to her teacher.” Yuki thought for a second, “Go to Shinsega and pick up some 87NN and Kindness brands.” 

“Are those the brands you get?” 

“Haha, of course not. You’re a Hunter though, so you have money to spend.” 

“Happy to know you think I’m rich.” Yuki laughed at the statement, “Not rich. Wealthy. You’re wealthy.” 

“That’s what rich people say.” 

“Well, good thing you’re the rich person then.” Yuki glanced at the clock and smiled, “When you guys are done, why don’t you stop by the cafe? I’ll have the coffee buns done by then and Jin Ah said she wanted to try out the new tea I got.” 

“Sure, we’ll drop by.” 

“Great, see you then.” 

“Bye.” Yuki hung up and shook his head. Since today was the teacher’s conference thing, that meant Jin Woo was now a Shadow Lord, which means he has Igris! Yuki beamed at the information. Between all the Shadows Jin Woo will possess, Igris was his favorite. The Knight will always have a special place in his heart. 

‘Ah, that also means he’ll meet Baek Yoon Ho soon too.’ And with Baek Yoon Ho meant Hwang Dong Su. Yuki resisted the urge to groan and smack his head in the counter again. God that damn S Ranker was going to be the end of him. 

“Sorry about that Min Byung Gyu-ssi,” Yuki apologized as he exited the kitchen. Min Byung Gyu shook his head and placed the dirty dishes in the tray above the trash can. 

“That’s okay. My Hyung called so I have to go anyway.” They both waved to one another, and Yuki took the tray that had the dirty dishes to the back. Sucking in a breath of air to stop himself from sighing, Yuki glanced out at the cafe, noting the few patrons, and quickly scampered back in the kitchen to grab his new tea set. He grabbed one cup, tray included and scurried to the bar.

The set came in had 5 teacups and trays, along with its own pot. It was an English tea set, with baby blue glazed on the outside and lavenders painted on the inside. It was a beautiful set that Yuki got as a gift from one of the grandmothers that frequent the cafe often. 

He put in some black tea in the diffuser and cut a slice of the strawberry cheesecake. After steeping, he took a deep whiff of the floral scent and sighed in bliss. Thin lips rested on the lip of the teacup, the tea barely grazing the soft flesh and the heat sent shivers down his spine. Taking a tentative sip, his cheeks flushed from the taste and his lips formed a large smile. 

“Yuki Oppa!” Jin Ah greeted, running behind the bar to hug the other. Jin Woo approached the counter with leisure, a smile on his face and hands in his pockets. 

“Wow, you clean up nicely.” Jin Ah snorted and Jin Woo glared at Yuki, who was smiling cheekily. It was true though. With a new hairstyle and new wardrobe (thank God), Yuki was positive that women will be breaking down Jin Woo’s door for a chance to date. 

“Yuki Oppa, where are the coffee buns?” Hearts were in Jin Ah’s eyes as scoured the countertop for the dessert. Yuki shook his head, “Still in the oven.” Jin Ah jutted out her lower lip, eyes watering and his shoulders sagged, “They’ll be ready in a few minutes. How about I make you two a drink while we wait?” 

“Yes please!” Jin Ah cheered. Jin Woo grabbed the cleaning supplies from underneath the counter and motioned towards the clock, indicating that it was time to close. Yuki sent a thankful smile in his direction while Yuki listened to Jin Ah ramble about school, how Jin Woo was almost late to the meeting, and how he was now the talk of the school. He started the coffee machine, already knowing how the siblings liked their coffee. For Jin Woo it was straight black, while Jin Ah like coffee with her cream and a hint of chocolate powder. 

“Then he shows up in designer clothes! I didn’t even know Oppa knew what those were!” Yuki chuckled at the statement, picturing the glare Jin Woo is undoubtedly sending in Jin Ah’s direction. The beeping of the oven alerted them that the coffee buns were ready, and Yuki had the privilege to witness Jin Ah run to the kitchen to take the tray out. 

“Everyone’s out and the tables are clean,” Jin Woo informed, returning the cleaning materials back to their proper place under the counter. Yuki passed him the mug of steaming coffee, a tired smile on his lips. 

“Thank you.” Jin Woo nodded, taking a sip of the rich drink and sighing in bliss as the bitter taste flooded his tastebuds and warmed his body. 

“You know, I meant it when I said you clean up nicely. You look really handsome/” Yuki set Jin Ah’s mug down on the counter as he grabbed his teacup, ignoring the way his cheeks flushed as he gave the compliment. Because he wasn’t looking, he missed the way Jin Woo’s own cheeks became red. He hurriedly started drinking his coffee when he heard Jin Ah rush out, a basket filled with the freshly baked coffee buns.  

“They smell so good, Yuki Oppa!” She rushed over to a table and set the basket down while Jin Woo grabbed three plates for them. Yuki took his own cup and plate of cheesecake over to the table where the Sung siblings were waiting. 

“Yuki, An Sang Min hasn’t been bothering you, right?” Jin Ah looked up from her coffee bun, confusion across her eyebrows at what the two were talking about. Yuki paused in the nibbling of his cheesecake, wide red eyes gaped at the taller male. 

“Of course not. I haven’t seen him since you guys met.” ‘Where was this coming from?’ Yuki pondered. It was true though, he hasn’t seen the man since their first meeting a few days ago. 

“Oh, does Yuki Oppa have a secret admirer?” Jin Ah smirked, her gaze suggestive as she stared at Yuki. Jin Woo shook his head, “It’s not a secret if we know his name.” Jin Ah huffed, “Be quiet!” Yuki laughed, shaking his head as he took a sip of tea. The Sung siblings continued to argue across the table, Jin Ah being the one that was arguing while Jin Woo would just calmly refute. 

“You two should hurry up and eat, then we can order fried chicken,” Yuki suggested. Jin Ah perked up at the sound of fried chicken, her eyes sparkling even more and she hugged Yuki. 

“Ahh, Yuki Oppa is the best!” Jin Woo just shook his head and continued eating the coffee buns. 

Chapter Text

“Yuki,” The barista addressed himself, “we need to have a serious conversation about self-preservation.” In front of him was the scene of Baek Yoon Ho and Hwang Dong Su lunging at each other’s throats in front of the Red Gate. 

Yuki made eye contact with Woo Jin Chul, who looked less shocked and more annoyed at the situation. Gulping, Yuki held up a cup of coffee mouthing, ‘Sorry, truce?’ He visibly watched the A Ranker age in front of him. 

How he got here was a mystery to even himself. However, looking back on it, it is his fault for thinking it’ll be okay. 

3 hours earlier. 

“Hmm? A Raid?” Yuki clarified, getting to work on the blended cafe mocha for Han Song I. Jin Woo and she were apparently on their way to a Gare, and Jin Woo decided to stop by the cafe and grab a drink. 

“It shouldn’t be too long. I have the car so if you want you can meet me there and I can drive you home,” Jin Woo offered, holding up the car keys on his pointer finger. Yuki smiled, capping the drink and handing it to the high schooler, “Here you go Hang Song I-ssi.” 

“Thank you, Yuki-ssi,” She mumbled, taking the straw and bringing it to her lips. Yuki returned his attention to Jin Woo, passing him a cup of tea. He really shouldn’t. Hwang Dong Su will be there, and if Woo Jin Chul is right, then Yuki is on his hit list. 

Maybe if he shows up really really late, then there wouldn’t be a chance of meeting that Ogre. Yeah! 

“Okay, sounds good,” Yuki agreed. He ignored the feeling of making a mistake, in favor of waving the two off. It was almost time to lock up, so he’ll just wait until 12 ish, and then go. 

“Everything will be fine.” 

End of Flashback 

“Everything is not fine,” He grumbled, taking a large sip of his coffee and watching Baek Yoon Ho and Hwang Dong Su argue. He stood next to Woo Jin Chul, using him as a shield in case Hwang Dong Su got too close. 

“Min Yuki-ssi, what are you doing here?” Woo Chin Jul asked, and Yuki applauded him for hiding his irritation. Yuki doesn’t blame him. He’s irritated too! Yuki was mentally trying to contact the author of Solo Leveling and tell them to label certain events with time. It is 12 o’clock. Why is this Ogre still here? 

“Jin Woo was supposed to pick me up, but he never came. So, I just… walked over,” Yuki explained. Both he and Woo Jin Chul released heavy sighs, observing the shitstorm that is beginning to brew because of the two S Ranks. 

“He’s here for Jin Woo, right?” Yuki asked cautiously, and when Woo Jin CHul didn’t give an answer, Yuki sighed. 

“He doesn’t know your face because you are not a Hunter, therefore he doesn’t have access to your information. He only knows your name,” Woo Jin Chul informed, and Yuki felt time stop. 

He doesn’t know your face.... He doesn’t know your face...He doesn’t…

“IF HE DOESN’T KNOW MY FACE THEN WHAT WAS WITH THE WHOLE YOUR LIFE IS IN DANGER CRAP?!” Yuki whispered/yelled. He could feel his anxiety die and all his fear wash away. The only thing left was anger. 

Woo Jin Chul clearly didn’t expect the whispered outburst. His focused gaze became one of shock and he turned his attention to the fuming albino. All words died on his tongue as he was met with a glare from burning red eyes. Yes, Yuki was pissed. These past weeks full of anxiety, being escorted home, and basically almost having to put his life on pause because he was under the impression that this giant oaf in front of him knew his damn face. Only for it to NOT be true. Only a name. He only knew Yuki’s name and there were so many Min Yuki’s in South Korea! Wait, does he even know that Yuki is friends with Jin Woo? Did this pea brain of an S Ranker look that far?! 

If Yuki could be described as any kitchenware right now, it would be a steaming pot of water, about to spill over. 

“Hmm? What are you two whispering about over there?” ‘Great. Great! Now he has the attention of the said peabrain oaf!’ If Yuki was calmer and more rational he would have started walking away or being quiet. Yuki was not calm. Therefore he was not rational. 

“Don’t you know it’s rude to eavesdrop?” The world seemed to stop. Even Baek Yoon Ho, another formidable S Rank was stunned at the words. ‘Why is a civilian here?’ He couldn’t help but question this man’s sanity. First, being in this part of town. Second, being at a Red Gate and not leaving. Lastly, talking back to Hwang Dong Su. Everyone knew of this particular S Rank, especially his bad temperament. 

“Hah? So the freak has a mouth on him, huh?” Hwang Dong Su stalked closer, and to others it looked like a bear walking in on a rabbit. 

“Go back to the zoo you damn gorilla.” ‘Yuki stop it!’ The sensible side of Yuki bawled. He was going to die! 

“Hah?!” A large hand grabbed Yuki's collar, and nearly hoisted him in the air. If it weren’t for both Woo Jin Chul’s and Baek Yoon Ho grabbing the rest. 

“Hwang Dong Su, as a part of the Hunter’s Association I cannot allow you to harm a civilian.” Woo Jin Chul’s voice was frosty. 

“As a South Korean S Rank, I will not allow you to harm a South Korean civilian,” Baek Yoon Ho stated. Yuki could feel the S Rank power rolling off this man, an icy blue aura that sent shivers down his spine. Not like he cares. Right now all his attention was focused on this stupid gorilla in front of him.

“Tch, it's no fun killing the weak.’ ‘Yet here you are going after a declared E Rank.’ Thankfully Yuki had regained himself to not say that outloud. Self preservation kicking in and keeping his mouth shut. Hwang Dong Su made his way back to the car, followed by Woo Jin Chul. They all waited for the car to leave and for the lights to disappear before a collective sigh was released amongst the group. 

Well, almost everyone did. 

“Min Yuki-ssi, are you okay?” An Sang Min asked fretfully, his large eyes casted in worry. For someone as thin as Yuki to be grabbed like that, by a brute nonetheless, An Sang Min couldn’t blame the man when his shoulders began trembling. He also wanted to cry when Hwang Dong Su picked him up like that too. 

“It’s okay if you’re–” 

“AGH THAT OVERSIZED PIECE OF TRASH!!” Yuki screeched, and everyone took a step back. Baek Yoon Ho could feel the beast inside him falter for a second. The rage that rolled off of the other had everyone sweating. 

“What the actual hell? First the anxiety, now this, GAH! Woo Jin Chul, mark my words, we’re talking about this,” Yuki grumbled, hurriedly taking sips of his coffee. When the caffeine wasn’t helping, he reached for his pants pocket and pulled out a box of cigarettes. 

“Does anyone mind if I smoke?” If anyone did, no one would say it. Yuki made it sound more like a threat than an actual question. An Sang Min had half the mind to ask him if he wanted it lit for him. 

“Mind if I have one?” Baek Yoon Ho asked, already feeling the pains of a migraine forming. Yuki looked like he wanted to say no, but after giving the S Rank a glance, he held out the open box. Large fingers pulled one out and patiently waited for Yuki to light it. 

“It's black cherry,” Yuki stated, holding up the lit lighter so Baek Yoon Ho could lean over and ignite his. 

“Never had it before.” 

“Well you’re having it now,” Yuki snarked, lighting his own and taking a deep inhale. The smoke itself still tasted like tar, but at least the wrap had flavour. They smoke in silence, watching the gate continue to glow red and swirl. 

“Thanks for stopping him by the way,” Yuki mumbled around the cancer stick, taking a few deep puffs and exhaling it. Baek Yoon Ho raised an eyebrow, “No problem. I’m surprised you even said anything. Most people try not to confront S Rankers.” ‘You were being stupid and almost died,’ is what Yuki interpreted. 

“Anger and anxiety got the best of me, and quite frankly he had a large part to deal with it.” Yuki ignored Baek Yoon Ho’s look of interest, huffing the end of the cancer stick. ‘Stupid stupid stupid, all of this was completely stupid.’ Yuki ground his teeth together, ignoring how he was crushing his cigarette and instead simply focusing on the fact that he was LIED too. 

“If you don’t mind me asking, why are you here?” Baek Yoon Ho decided to try and take a chance. He heard a small hum come from Yuki, followed by a deep inhale and exhale. 

“A friend of mine is in there. He said they would drive me home after the Gate was closed… but that clearly won’t be happening.” 

“If you need a ride, I can have An Sang Min drive you home.” Curious red eyes looked up at him, and it was only then Baek Yoon Ho really took in the guy’s appearance. Pale skin that would have any Korean woman jealous, snow white hair that reflected the Red Gate, and bright red eyes framed by thick white lashes. Baek Yoon Ho also took into account how he was dressed rather androgynously, and if it weren’t for his keen eyesight, he wouldn’t be sure how to address the fellow next to him. 

His features were soft, not harshly angled like other men Baek Yoon Ho’s seen. Not to mention, Yuki’s hair was somewhat long, being pulled back in a half ponytail with long bangs in the front framing his voice quite nicely. Yuki’s voice wasn’t even deep! 

“Thanks, but I don’t mind waiting.” Even his laugh was hard to decipher between male and female! Baek Yoon Ho was stumped at how someone could be this androgynous. There has to be some kind of otherworldly law that was being broken here. 

As stated before, if it weren’t for Baek Yoon Ho’s sharp eyes locating the Adam's apple, then he would have no idea what gender this person was. 

“I didn’t think the Chairman of the White Tiger’s Guild would come all the way out to a Red Gate.” Yuki broke Baek Yoon Ho’s thoughts. Piano fingers were holding the cigarette delicately while smoke exited thin lips that were tinted from chapstick. 

“It is because I am the Chairman that I am here,” Baek Yoon Ho replied smoothly and effortlessly. Yuki chuckled, “Hmm, your Guild Members must feel honored to have such a kind Guild Leader.” ‘Not that I would know, the manhwa doesn’t focus on that,’ Yuki thought absentmindedly. 

“I didn’t say I was kind,” Baek Yoon Ho huffed. 

“No, I suppose you didn’t. I guess ‘caring’ would be a better term to use.” Baek Yoon Ho chose not to say anything about that, instead he chose to just continue smoking. Yuki chuckled at the man’s silence. 

“That’s okay, I won’t say anything,” Yuki assured, feeling his mood lighten and his chest ache less. Baek Yoon Ho really was a soft character. His need to protect Min Byung Gyu, his need to protect his Guild, all of it Yuki found rather cute. ‘Must be the tiger in him,’ He concluded, snubbing out his cigarette and putting the bud back in the pack. 

“Huah~ Good thing I dressed warm, it’s chilly.” Yuki burrowed his nose in his thick scarf, his cheeks blotchy from the cold. His hands were quickly shoved in the pockets of his coat. He took note of Baek Yoon Ho’s attire. An expensive suit. 

‘Tch, rich people.’ Yuki bit back the click of his tongue. 

“Is Baek Yoon Ho-ssi not cold?” Baek Yoon Ho was a renowned S Ranker, therefore it didn’t strike him odd that Yuki would know his name. 

“No, the cold doesn’t really bother me.” 

‘Tch, S Rankers.’ Yuki shrugged, continuing to bite back the click of his tongue. 

++++

“Oh, the Gate,” Yuki mumbled, drawing everyone’s attention back to the Gate. It’s been about 3 hours since Yuki arrived, and they have been rather fast. The first 2 he was talking to Baek Yoon Ho and An Sang Min, and the last hour he’s uploaded some pictures of new drinks and recipes on the Koffee Krew social media page, and made some orders to stalk up on some necessities.

They all watched as the Gate sparked and began to swirl blue in the middle. 

“The Gate! It’s opening!” ‘Yes, thank you An Sang Min-ssi, we couldn’t see that before.’ Yuki watched how happy all of them got, and he had to hide his smirk when he saw Baek Yoon Ho’s excited face. ‘Sorry, but Kim Chul won’t be coming out.’ True to his word, everyone but the A and B Rankers exited. Tears in their eyes and happy cries. 

“Jin Woo,” Yuki called the man. He could see the irritation in his eyes and posture, and Yuki couldn’t help but snort. Looks like the both of them had an irritating night. 

“Yuki-ssi!” Hang Song I cried. Tears pricking the corner of her eyes while a large grin was on her face. He ignored Baek Yoon Ho’s questioning gaze, opting to remain focused on the two people he originally came here for. 

Jin Woo smiled at Yuki, making his way over to the male that must have been waiting for a while. Guilt creeped in his chest at the thought of Yuki waiting in the cold for as long as he did. He did promise that he would drive him home, and instead Yuki ended up waiting hours for that ride. 

“Sorry, it took longer than I thought it would.” Yuki chuckled at the male, “That’s okay. It’s not like we can control when a Gate goes red.” Jin Woo’s posture relaxed, but only to stiffen when he took in the sight of Yuki’s disheveled looking clothes. He raised an eyebrow, about to open his mouth and say something but the sight of Hang Song I yawning had him shutting up. 

“Here, I’ll drive you home,” He offered the high school girl. The three of them were about to make their way to the car, only for a large hand to stop Jin Woo. ‘Oh, I forgot about this part.’ Yuki looked at Baek Yoon Ho, feigning confusion. 

“Hold it, let’s talk for a bit.” Gold eyes peered down on Jin Woo, who began to look irritated again. 

“I’m currently tired. If you have questions, go ask your Guild members.” Jin Woo slapped Baek Yoon Ho’s hand off of him, and Yuki really wanted to say something about Jin Woo’s behaviour. But that would be hypocritical of him considering what he did earlier that night. 

The air around the two grew tense. Electricity would have been able to form if it would have continued. Yuki could feel the power roll off of the Baek Yoon Ho like the storm he was creating. Those tawny eyes turned to gold as he grabbed Jin Woo’s shoulder again. Although this time with more force. 

“We lost nine Guild members from this incident. As the master, shouldn’t I be allowed to ask some questions?” ‘Uwah, how scary,’ Yuki thought as shuffled a little closer to Jin Woo. The animosity rolling off of Baek Yoon Ho was intense and it had Yuki and Hang Song I sweating despite the cold. 

‘He’s right though,’ Yuki thought as he took in the members that managed to come back alive. All of them being showered with warm blankets and hot drinks, as well as questions. 

“So what?” Jin Woo glared at Baek Yoon Ho, eyes glowing a light blue and the power coming off of him had Yuki sweating more. 

“I saved the remaining three people. As the Master, shouldn’t you thank me first?” ‘Jin Woo! You’re being just as scary!’ Yuki cried. 

The two continued their stare off, while red eyes shifted between the two. Yuki knew who was going to give in first, but that didn’t mean the air around the two was easier to breathe. He watched as Baek Yoon Ho took a deep sigh, and honestly, Yuki really admired the man for this. Even in his past life, he knew that this man was smart. Baek Yoon Ho had more to lose in this situation if things went sour. It wouldn’t be just an arm, but reputation. If someone really thought about it, if Baek Yoon Ho were to attack Jin Woo, who was to say that it wouldn’t be leaked to the press. Jin Woo is still technically an E Rank, and an S Rank attacking an E Rank was already low. But an S Rank losing an arm, or a fight, against an E Rank. 

It would be over for Baek Yoon Ho. 

“You’re right, I was being too difficult.” Yuki mentally clapped for the Guild Master. 

“I apologize.” ‘Ooh, and apology too.’ Jin Woo didn’t say anything. Instead, he herded Yuki and Hang Song I back to the van. A large hand resting on Yuki’s back, acting like a shield for the pale man. Yuki glanced back at the Guild Master real quick, mouthing a ‘bye and thank you.’ 

Once Jin Woo dropped off Hang Song I, he started driving towards Yuki’s place. The white haired male next to him was humming the song on the radio while the windows blew cold air into the van. 

“What happened while I was in the Gate?” Jin Woo asked, glancing at Yuki. The albino male pursed his lips together for a quick second before sighing. 

“Hwang Dong Su was there, and I just happened to walk in on him and Baek Yoon Ho-ssi almost got at it.” The way Yuki said would make it seem as if he witnessed a casual meeting in the park. Not two S Ranks going at it. 

“Did he hurt you?” 

“No, what made you think that?” Jin Woo motioned towards Yuki’s somewhat disheveled appearance, noting that the jacket had wrinkles near the collar and his scarf was a little torn. Yuki gritted his teeth at the sight of tear. 

“It’s fine. Woo Jin Chul-ssi and Baek Yoon Ho-ssi stopped him before he could reach me,” Yuki assured. Jin Woo narrowed his eyes, teeth clenching together and jaw tight. ‘So he got to him.’ Silent rage filled Jin Woo’s chest. Burning his organs and skin, and affecting sight so he was only seeing red. His grip on the handle wheel tightened, and his could feel his back molars almost crack from the pressure he was setting them on. 

“Jin Woo.” Yuki’s soft voice called him back to the present. Warm red eyes stared at him softly, “It’s okay. I’m okay, I wasn’t hurt.” 

“Still…” 

“Besides, what could have you done? You were in a Red Gate.” The truth hurt, but it was something Jin Woo needed to be reminded of. In that situation, there was nothing that he could have done. 

“Hey, why don’t you stay the night?” Jin Woo almost crashed the van. His cheeks red as he stared at Yuki with embarrassment, “What?”  The other gave him a lopsided smile, confusion on his face at Jin Woo’s reaction. 

“Why don’t you stay the night? It’s already late and you have to get up somewhat early tomorrow right?” Jin Woo took a deep sigh, relief flooding his system. 

“It’s not like you haven’t before,” Yuki noted. Jin Woo looked like he was contemplating it, before nodding. 

“Okay.”

Chapter Text

Jin Woo and Yuki grew up together. At one point, Yuki was even living with them and sharing a room and bed with Jin Woo. They’ve had baths together, changed in front of one another, and have even worn one another’s clothing. The act of sharing a living space with one another was not foreign. Therefore Yuki couldn’t understand why Jin Woo was acting like this. 

“I shouldn’t use your shower.” 

“Well, it’s the only shower I have. It’s not like you haven’t used it before.” 

“I shouldn’t use your clothes.” 

“Well, you only have spare boxers over here and my shorts or elastic so they’ll fit you.” 

“We shouldn’t sleep in the same bed!” 

“We’ve done it before and the couch is too small for you.” 

.

.

.

‘What is going on?’ Yuki laid wide awake in his bed, Jin Woo a healthy distance away and just as much awake as he was. All evening, Jin Woo was being weird and flushed and Yuki wasn’t sure what was going with his composed friend. The normally stoic Jin Woo was trying desperately to not use or touch anything that was remotely Yuki’s, and it had the Albino male confused. 

‘Is he sick?’ Yuki glanced over at his friend. A sharp nose bridge and narrowed eyes lost in thought had Yuki’s lips pursing, his red eyes taking in the now larger, taller, and mature body of Jin Woo. 

“Is everything okay?” Jin Woo asked, noting the stare Yuki was giving him. Red eyes looked like they were glowing in the dark as he gazed at him. Long white lashes framing those large eyes, and his hair reflected the city lights like a blank canvas. The way Yuki would stare at Jin Woo, or space, would have the other reeling and trying to contain his blush. It was a lot harder than Jin Woo wanted to admit, but the stupid System wasn’t making this any easier either! 

Jin Woo for a good portion of the time was convinced that it was playing tricks on him. When Yuki came out of the shower smelling like he usually does, the System dinged. When he made them drinks it dinged. When he put on his pajamas, it dinged. Ding, ding, ding, and ding! That’s all it did and it was driving Jin Woo up the wall! 

How can the simplest things be raising that stupid meter thing?! 

“Jin Woo, are you okay?” Jin Woo raised an eyebrow, not liking that the question was thrown back at him. 

“Yeah, why wouldn’t I be?” Those red eyes dulled a little, his lips pursed, and he shifted a bit. Rolling on his side that he was facing Jin Woo, the white comforter pulled up to his shoulders and the pillow cradling his cheek and head. 

“You just seem kinda off.” Jin Woo also shifted, now facing Yuki and propping his cheek on the palm of his hand. He was listening with earnest, wanting to find out what Yuki thought of him now. The other male bit his lip, thin eyebrows furrowing and nose scrunching in either distaste or maybe annoyance. 

“It’s like, you’re closing yourself off.” ‘Again.’ There was one time in their young lives that Jin Woo’s and Yuki’s friendship almost shattered. It’s a sensitive topic that isn’t brought up often, and even Jin Ah, straight to the point Jin Ah, dances around the topic. Avoids it like it’s a cockroach. 

It was when everything was crumbling around Jin Woo. His father gone, his mother in Eternal Slumber, his need to finish High School, and somehow support Jin Ah through her troubles and desires. Everything was breaking around him, and as a result, he shut himself off.

Yuki wasn’t spared from the cold shoulder either. Texts ignored, calls declined, and even in-person visits were full of cold gazes and harsh words. Jin Woo refused any help, even shutting down Yuki’s attempts to assist financially. Small jabs turned into snide remarks, which turned into insults, and Yuki’s temper snapped. Harsh words exchanged on both sides, hackles raised and teeth bared. The end result was Yuki leaving, smoking a cigarette on his way out the door, and Jin Woo alone in the living room with only beer cans for company. 

It took a solid hit on the head from Jin Ah, and a few Raids as an E Ranker for Jin Woo to work up the courage and visit Yuki’s cafe. Let alone talk to the barista. 

“I’m sorry,” Jin Woo apologized, reaching over a brushing one of Yuki’s long bangs out of his face. Warm fingers dancing across pale skin and even paler strands, sending goosebumps through both of their bodies. Yuki’s pursed lips formed a smile, although a bittersweet one. 

“Things have been crazy lately, and I’m trying to figure it out,” Jin Woo explained, ignoring how the stupid Quest is now at 25%. Yuki wrapped his hands around Jin Woo’s, his average-sized hands now dwarfed in Jin Woo’s. Pale skin contrasted heavily against the warm tan, however now that it was night, the difference was even greater. 

When the moonlight struck their skin, Yuki’s seemed to illuminate. The surrounding bed sheets and objects paled in comparison to Yuki. While the moonlight made Jin Woo’s skin lighter, Yuki’s was like a halo. 

“You don’t have to bear it all alone,” Yuki mumbled. Red eyes flickering back up to meet grey. 

“I won’t be able to understand it all because I’m not a Hunter, but I can always lend an ear or a shoulder.” Jin Woo’s eyes widened, and his grip on Yuki’s hands strengthening. He didn’t want to push Yuki away, but he also knew of Yuki’s feelings towards Hunters. The last thing he wanted is to put Yuki in a position that will make him uncomfortable or resentful. 

“Jin Woo,” Yuki called. 

“I won’t be mad at you for sharing your Hunter worries. I can discern the past and the present, and your Hunter issues are different than the ones I’ve dealt with before.” Yuki hoped that the certainty in his voice would assure Jin Woo that he okay. He is okay with being there for Jin Woo. 

“Thank you,” Jin Woo smiled, bringing the comforter closer to Yuki’s face and allowing the other to shut his eyes. He counted the seconds before Yuki was asleep, his chest rising and falling and Jin Woo could feel his heartbeat through Yuki’s palms that were still in his own hand. It was a regular heartbeat, one that Jin Woo has heard and felt many times. 

Yet, because it was Yuki’s, Jin Woo found himself falling asleep easier than he has in a while. 

++++

Red eyes stared into gold. The towering form of Baek Yoon Ho, the frail form of Yuki, and the average Min Byung Gyu standing between them with a pleasant smile on his face. Unaware that the two people he wanted to meet each other have already met. 

“Hyung, this Min Yuki, the cafe owner I’ve been telling you about.” Min Byung Gyu introduced the Albino male, who was standing there with a tense smile. ‘What are the chances.” 

‘That we’d meet like this.’ Baek Yoon Ho bowed in greeting, not sure how Yuki wanted to go about this. 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Yuki bowed back with a kind smile on his face, and all traces of recognition gone. He was not going to ruin Min Byung Gyu’s happy mood by stating that he and his Hyung have already met. 

“Baek Yoon Ho, it’s nice to meet you.” ‘Although, I already know you.’ Baek Yoon Ho kept his thoughts to himself, observing how Min Byung Gyu casually strolled in and sat at a table. 

“What would you like to drink and eat?” Yuki asked, already handing Min Byung Gyu his cake and drink. Baek Yoon Ho glanced at the menu, and then the food that was still out. ‘This is definitely Byung Gyu’s type of place.’ 

“I’ll have coffee, and whatever dessert you have left out.” Yuki nodded, a smile on his face as he took out a large piece of strawberry cheesecake, and handed it to S Rank with a fork. 

“That coffee will be out for you in a few seconds,” Yuki affirmed, already grabbing a ceramic mug and starting the coffee machine. Despite his appearance, Yuki believed that Baek Yoon Ho was NOT a black coffee kind of guy. More like little cream and a shit ton of sugar type of guy, but who was Yuki to judge. Instead of making the cup to what Yuki thought Baek Yoon Ho would like, he opted to just set the cream and sugar down on the table along with the coffee. 

“Do you always come in when he’s about to close?” Baek Yoon Ho asked, reaching for the creamer. Min Byung Gyu smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his flushed neck, “Not all the time.” 

“No, all the time.” Yuki ignored Min Byung Gyu’s hurt face, choosing to instead go back to the kitchen to proceed in cleaning. Baek Yoon Ho continued to observe Yuki, noting how he ignored them and carried on with whatever he was doing in the kitchen. Min Byung Gyu noted the gaze and smiled. 

“He’s a good guy.” Baek Yoon Ho snapped his eyes towards the beaming Min Byung Gyu, flowers floating behind the Healer. 

“Very gentle.” The Guild Master furrowed his brow in confusion, going back to the night they first met. 

“Go back to the zoo you damn gorilla.”

‘Yeah right.’ Baek Yoon Ho took a sip of his coffee, ‘Not a mentally sane person would say that to an S Rank, let alone Hwang Dong Su.’ He kept his thoughts to himself, opting to take a bite of the cake. Once the cheesecake touched his tastebuds, Baek Yoon Ho was shot to another universe. 

One that was filled with perfectly tart cheesecake, and sweet strawberries floating around him. The crust was perfect, not too stiff or crumbly, and everything about this cheesecake was damn delicious! Holy crap why didn’t he come here sooner?! 

“Haha, Yuki-ssi is really good at making cakes.” Min Byung Gyu watched as his Hyungnim continued to eat his slice of cake, controlling his expressions by taking a sip of coffee. 

“How did you find this place?” Min Byung Gyu took a bite of his cake as tried to recall how he came here. It was such a long time ago, and Min Byung Gyu was too embarrassed to say he didn’t really remember. 

“Byung Gyu-ssi and I met at a local bookstore,” Yuki chimed from the kitchen, in his hands was a small bowl of batter. The light went back in Min Byung Gyu’s eyes, “Yes! It was like 5 years ago, and I was browsing through a bookstore. There, I met Yuki-ssi who was talking to Halmeoni about substitutes for common baking foods.” 

“He asked if it was a hobby, and when I said it was a profession he stalked me to my cafe.” 

“I did not stalk you, I followed you.” Yuki and Baek Yoon Ho stared blankly as the Healer tried to explain himself. Red eyes flickered to gold, unimpressed and exasperated. 

“Byung Gyu-ssi, no matter how you look at it, that’s called stalking.” Yuki walked towards the beeping oven, setting down the bowl and reaching for the oven mitts. 

“But you knew!” 

“Min Byung Gyu, just eat,” Baek Yoon Ho sighed, shaking his head and closing his eyes. Who knew his friend had such a hobby. He could hear chuckling from the kitchen and took a whiff of the air. The smell of a freshly baked pastry had the tiger drooling, and his eyes zeroing in on the dish that Yuki was now setting on one of the tables in the kitchen. 

It looked like Yuki was used to working alone. Multi-tasking has never looked so graceful before. Baek Yoon Ho didn’t know whether to ogle at the deft hands that were dancing gracefully and purposefully amongst all the ingredients or at the calm and serene face of Yuki who didn’t look overwhelmed in the slightest. 

White hair that reminded him of snow. Gentle looking and refracting light, making anyone who sees it want to touch. The strands were pulled back in a half bun, exposing his forehead that didn’t have crease or blemish on it, and a few stray strands falling and framing his features. Eyes could be compared to cherries. Bright red cherries with a glaze poured over them and that shined whenever the light touched. 

Like right now. 

Baek Yoon Ho snapped his head back to the cheesecake and coffee, ignoring the inquisitive look he was getting from Yuki. He listened to Min Byung Gyu talk about going to Japan in a few days, and how he had to take time off school because of it. 

“It’s a Hunter Association business, but they still want me to go.” 

“It’s because you’re a healer and therefore can’t do any damage by going.” Min Byung Gyu pouted, not appreciating that he was still being dragged around the Hunter Community even though he was retired. 

“Byung Gyu-ssi, if you keep frowning like that you’ll get wrinkles,” Yuki chimed, setting down a small plate between them. On it was a beautifully decorated peach tart. The sides perfectly cut and even, whipped cream decorations evenly spaced, and the halved peach scoops were fit perfectly around the peach filling. It was enough for the both of them, and when Yuki took the empty plates out from them and left the forks, Baek Yoon Ho mentally and spiritually thanked these two men. 

“But I don’t want to go.” 

“I’m pretty sure President Go Gun Hee is giving you an option.” Baek Yoon Ho took a piece from the tart, peach filling and all shoved in his mouth, and he had to stop himself from moaning. 

‘This amount of skill should be illegal!’ 

“He did, but because he asked me personally I feel like I need to go,” Min Byung Gyu took a bite and didn’t bother hiding the noises. Yuki smiled, refilling both mugs with coffee (decaf) and passing the Guild Master another pack of creamer. 

“You should go. You might find something interesting.” Baek Yoon Ho narrowed his eyes at Yuki. The way Yuki said it had his instincts flaring. It was said in a way that made Baek Yoon Ho feel like Yuki knew something. Something that he wasn’t going to share, and therefore wanted Min Byung Gyu to find. 

“Hmmm, like what?” Yuki shrugged a coy smile on his lips, “I don’t know. That’s why I’m saying you should go. You might miss out on something exciting.” ‘Although, I don’t know if finding out that the ants can now fly is exciting,’ Yuki thought as he poured himself some coffee as well. 

“Yuki, aren’t you half-Japanese?” 

“I am.” Where was he going with this? Yuki gave Min Byung Gyu a curious look, sipping the coffee and relishing in the taste. 

“Do you know Japanese?” 

“I do,” Yuki answered Baek Yoon Ho truthfully. 

“Yuki knows a lot of languages, it’s kinda unfair. He could easily work as a translator,” Min Byung Gyu complimented, taking another bite of the tart. 

“Why didn’t you?” Baek Yoon Ho asked, genuinely curious. Yuki smiled pleasantly, “Because, I’ve always wanted to open a cafe.” In his past life, Yuki followed the path that would please the parents. Going to college, picking a suitable major, and then trying to keep grades up not out of interest but because out-of-state tuition in America is a biatch. It wasn’t a terrible life, and it was a lot of fun. Yet, Yuki knows his previous life, the person he was before dying and becoming Yuki, didn’t live freely out of fear. 

With those feelings attached to him since he was little, Yuki swore he would do what he wanted to do. No matter the cost! The cafe business earns enough. Enough that Yuki could live comfortably while supporting two animals, and helping Jin Woo and Jin Ah when needed. However, it wouldn’t be able to afford him his apartment, or his ‘safety net’ in case anything happened. Having his previous memories, and a sense of matureness and understanding that continued to grow throughout his life, Yuki had found one of the easiest but riskiest ways to make money. 

The Stock Market. 

Common sense from his past life and knowledge of the future allowed Yuki to invest in things that would make him the most money. And it did. 

He hated to admit it, but the stupid Scavengers Guild was one of his best investments so far. Followed by BotCoins that worked similarly to BitCoins from his previous life. 

‘Not to mention the assistance I received when I was younger.’ When Yuki was still living with the Sungs, all the money he received from a particular donator went into his savings. A place Yuki didn’t touch until he was 18 when the donations stopped. By then, Yuki had enough money to buy his own little store, renovate, and market appropriately. Without making a huge dent either. 

This rich son of a biatch 

So yes. Yuki made this cafe because he wanted to, even if he didn’t have to. 

++++

“Be safe,” Yuki handed Jin Woo a bento box. He and Jin Ah were waving Jin Woo off for his camping trip . Jin Woo nodded, accepting the lunch and waving goodbye. 

“Do you think he has a girlfriend?” Jin Ah asked once the door was closed, looking at Yuki to see if he knew anything. The albino male shrugged, “I’d feel bad for her if he did have one.” 

“Why?” 

“It’s your brother.” Silence surrounded the two of them, and Jin Ah sighed in defeat, “Yeah. I’d feel bad for her too.” Yuki nodded, stretching as he did so.

“You’re also going out today too right?” Jin Ah nodded, “Yes. I’m going to a group study.” Yuki nodded, “Well, I made an extra bento for you if you want to take it. Remember, my house is always open if you want to stay for the week since Jin Woo won’t be home.” 

“Having Yuki-oppa’s food every meal, how could I possibly say no,” Jin Ah beamed, flowers and rays of the sun behind her. Yuki had to cover his eyes for a second. 

“Sounds good. You know where the key is.” Yuki waved as he exited the apartment, wrapping the scarf around his neck and sunglasses over his eyes. He didn’t have a particular destination today. His cafe is closed today, and he really wanted to have some fresh air on one of the few days it was sunny. 

He was bundled in warm clothes, and somehow he was still cold. Yuki cursed his physique, biting his lips as another cold breeze made shivers go down his legs. His top half was warm, thanks to the layers upon layers, and the thick faux shearling jacket. Then there was the scarf. 

His legs however! He only had black pants and boots on, and the breeze was becoming too much for him! 

‘Screw it! I’m going inside!’ Yuki darted to the nearest bookstore that had a cafe in it. Ordering a hot chocolate and choosing to sit in a smoking area, Yuki took off his glasses, cracked open the window, and pulled out a cigarette. He felt around his pockets for a lighter and cursed when he couldn’t find it. 

“Allow me.” An expensive lighter was placed at the end of his cigarette and lit it with only the flick of the top coming off. 

“Ah, thank you.” Yuki looked up and almost dropped his cigarette. Amused Fuschia eyes protected by black-framed glasses stared down at him. 

‘This guy,’ Yuki thought, taking a large drag. 

“No problem.” 

‘Is Choi Jong In!’ Heads were turning in Yuki’s and Choi Jong In’s direction, everyone talking about how an S Rank is in the building. The red-head chose the seat next to Yuki, and the albino male said goodbye to his peaceful afternoon. 

‘I’m just a side character… so what kind of main character power is this?!’

Chapter Text

Yuki debated crawling out of the place. A quick, loud exclamation that the Choi Jong In was here, in this small, hole-in-the-wall bookstore/cafe would have everyone running towards them. A quick snap and post on social media would have this side of town flocking towards them. Then Yuki could just crawl away. Disappear in the sea of people and hope to never run across this man again. 

Now, don’t get Yuki wrong. He didn’t hate Choi Jong In. In fact, the man had Yuki’s respect for how young he was and how much he has accomplished. However, it was because of that, Yuki didn’t want to be near him. This man reeked of main-character energy, and it was one thing to have the main character as a close friend. Yuki didn’t want more people of that same energy around him. 

It was exhausting. 

‘Maybe if I just don’t talk, then I will be okay.’ It was Yuki’s go-to plan, one that had him smirking and nodding agreement with himself. Yes, that is what he will do. 

“Very deceiving weather we are having.” ‘Wtf.’ 

“It looks warm, but in actuality, it is very cold. Isn’t it?” Yuki smiled tightly, “Indeed. It's good that people are prepared for that though. I’d feel bad if someone were wearing shorts thinking it was going to be warm.” The smile Choi Jong In sent his way made the albino want to whimper. 

“It sounds like you have experience.” 

“Not me personally, but I know a friend who was unfortunate enough to fall for it.” He still remembers Jin Woo running back in after spending 2 minutes outside. Choi Jong In also seemed to find this funny, because he let out a small chuckle. 

“Poor them.” 

“Yeah, they got over it.” Silence enveloped them again. Only the smell of their cigarettes burning and drinks surrounding them. ‘I should just walk away,’ Yuki thought, taking another sip of his drink and another drag from the cigarette. However, to do that he would have to snub the cancer stick and either chug his drink or not finish it. He hated all options. 

However, he hated being next to Choi Jong In even more. Opting to chug his drink and take another deep inhale, Yuki smiled bitterly at the loss of a cigarette and drink. 

“Thank you for the light, but I must be on my way.” Yuki smiled pleasantly, trying to seem grateful for everything that Choi Jong In has done. The man smiled, “So soon? It seems like you only just lit the cigarette.” 

“Yes, however, I forgot that I have an appointment that I must go to.” 

“Are you running late?” 

“Not yet.” Choi Jong In grinned, “How about I give you a ride?” No. Yuki smiled tightly, already knowing that this asshole can easily sense his unease, “Thank you. But that is unnecessary” 

“Must not be an important appointment if you deny a free car ride.” ‘Okay, you know what?!’ Yuki a needlepoint’s width of hitting the oh-so-great Choi Jong In. So close. Would he be charged with assault? Maybe he’d be hated by the rest of South Korea for hitting such a precious person. 

“It was great seeing you,” Yuki gritted out with clenched teeth and a faux smile. Choi Jong In gave him an insincere one, “You too, Min Yuki. Or would Matsuno be a better last name?” 

“Goodbye.” ‘Stupid S-Rank Hunters and their privileges.’ Yuki grunted, pointedly ignoring the bait, and instead scurried out of the store and back into the cold. ‘Damn it! It’s still cold!’ Yuki momentarily paused in his tracks, muscles tightening from the cold and his face burying into his scarf. 

‘Goddamnit!’ A rabbit does better in the cold than Yuki was doing currently, shivering and pale skin becoming rosy. The cold air hurt his lungs with each inhale, sending what felt like ice crystals down his throat and into the sensitive tissue walls of his already handicapped lungs. From the extreme heat of the cigarette to now to freezing air outside, Yuki was shocked that his lungs haven’t given out. 

Therefore, when a heat source appeared next to him and was keeping pace, he couldn’t help but shuffle closer. The heat easing his cramping muscles and the warm air surrounding them helped dethaw his lungs and body. Yuki closed his eyes in bliss and a small smile adorned his lips. ‘This is the perfect temperature.’ 

“As I thought, I really should escort you to your appointment.” Yuki’s eyes shot open and his mouth dropped into a frown. Taking a deep breath, he willed himself to look up and had to stop his body from hitting this person. Amused fuschia eyes behind glasses observed him with mirth and that stupid smirk on his lips had Yuki wanting to hit him and run. A blood vessel appeared on Yuki’s neck, the strain of holding himself back becoming apparent. 

“Please, leave me alone.” 

Ignored. 

“Hey. I know you’re not this nice in real life.” 

Silence. 

“Dude. Go away.” 

“So where is your appointment?” 

“At the police station if you keep this up.” 

“That’s pretty harsh considering you are clinging to me for heat.” 

“I’d be fine even if you weren’t here.” 

“Is that so? You looked ready to keel over when you stepped out of the shop.” Yuki scrunched his nose, “You were seeing things.” Choi Jong In smirked, “Is that so?” 

“What were you doing in that type of place?” Yuki changed the subject, walking in whatever direction. He was about half a foot away from Choi Jong In, trying to create distance without being too far from the heat. 

“Hmm, just checking out some hole-in-the-wall places.” Yuki huffed, “Is that so?” Choi Jong In smiled, “No. Not really.” They walked in silence for a bit, walking aimlessly and ignoring the stares that people were giving them. 

“In truth, I wanted to meet the mysterious barista that had two S Ranks at his cafe.” Yuki pulled out his phone, ignoring the pointed look that Choi Jong In was giving him. 

“So you followed me?” ‘Is it like Min Byung Gyu all over again?’

“No, I just happened to see you on the street and had my driver pull over.” Yuki squinted and his mouth and nose scrunched. Choi Jong In chuckled, “It’s true. I was going to stop by your cafe, but then I saw you were closed on Sundays.” 

“Of course I am. I’m not a corporation, I want my one day off,” Yuki mumbled. This, however, was not how he wanted to spend his day off. As if he could sense his thoughts, Choi Jong In sent him an annoying and fake smile. 

‘GO AWAY!’ 

++++

Yuki collapsed on his bed. His body was stripped down to only his boxers and his pale skin reflecting the setting sun. The red and orange bathing his white skin like oil paint on a blank canvas. Water droplets from his freshly washed hair reflected the cityscape in its tiny form. Reminding Yuki just how small the world can be. 

For the whole city to fit in this tiny droplet, no bigger than the tip of his finger. Yet, his windows showcased how large it was as well. Not all of the city is able to be shown in its vast glory. It had the young man reeling. If all of Seoul looked liked this, then what did Yuki look like in the grand scheme of things? 

“Yuki.” His name floated through the air, causing the white-haired male to whip his head around. There was nothing. Rubbing the back of his neck, Yuki returned his attention back onto the windows. 

“Yuki.” Again, Yuki looked around him. Nothing. Grunting, Yuki reached over to the speaker he had on his bedside table, opting to ignore rather than investigate. He knew how those horror movies went, and he had no intention of becoming the main character for one. 

“Ellowyn.” Yuki shot out of bed. His chest felt like it was set on fire and he couldn’t stop the ragged gasps that left his lips. The coughing only spurred the heat, making it blistering and eliciting a pained gasp. Cujo barked at Yuki stumbled out of bed, staggering to the bathroom. 

He was hunched over in pain, coughing and gasping for breath as his lungs were set ablaze. It felt like someone was taking a rod, white from the intense heat, and stabbing it in his lungs. Forcing him to breathe and with every breath, shoving it deeper into him. Yuki could feel the enter and exit points, making him wonder if something really was stabbing him. Swaying into the bathroom, Yuki gripped the counter of his sink and stopped himself from heaving. 

Taking a deep breath, he willed himself to look into the mirror. To see if there was a mark on him from whatever the hell this is. 

Instead of a mark, Yuki saw something else that had him reeling. 

Red eyes were replaced with glowing white. 

++++

Jin Woo sat on top of Vulcan, admiring the damage and his newly acquired strength. With his Shadows cleaning up, it allowed him some time to think. Lately, his thoughts have been solely on getting stronger. Strong enough to protect the people he cared about. That seemed to be his only thought process as of late. 

How in the world was he going to protect those he loved? By getting stronger. That was the only way. He briefly wondered how Yuki was doing. Jin Ah would be staying with him, that was for sure. There was no way the girl would pass up Yuki’s home cooking, and if she stayed with him she’d also be getting a lunch made from him as well.

‘Lucky girl.’ 

Jin Woo rarely thought about it, but sometimes he couldn’t stop the ‘what ifs.’ What if Yuki wasn’t born? Would he and Jin Ah still be okay? Would Jin Woo still be Jin Woo? He couldn’t fathom a world without Yuki’s cakes or drinks, let alone the male himself. That was why when he found out Yuki picked up smoking, he had been livid. It was both him and Jin Ah teaming up against Yuki, who stayed silent and observed them through red eyes. Eyes that reminded Jin Woo of the fact that one day Yuki could be spewing blood. His lung finally shutting down, or the hole increasing in size. There was nothing they could do about it. Doctors have tried, they’ve tried, but nothing worked. 

Jin Woo understood that the possibility of Yuki dying young was huge. The doctors all said he wouldn’t make it past the age of 40. Not with the hole increasing in size and his body being as weak as it is. 

It was a possibility that Jin Woo was forced to recognize but blissfully ignored. Well, he tried to anyway. With his mom in the hospital, it has become harder to ignore the fact that the human life is short and fragile. 

And Yuki was toeing on the line of it. Willingly toeing it. Jin Woo reached into the inventory and pulled out the bento Yuki made for him. It was a three-tier bento box, wrapped in a dark blue cloth that had a little note on it. 

‘Have Fun!’ 

Jin Woo chuckled at the neat handwriting that belonged to Yuki, and opened the bento. The first layer was tonkatsu, 2 of them, and three cheesy hamburgs, cradled with lettuce. The second layer was bibimbap and fried shrimp, decorated with roe some dumplings, and more greens. Lastly, was rice decorated with seasoning and pickled plums. 

Jin Woo took a deep breath and smiled. He took a bite of the tonkatsu and clenched his chopsticks, ‘God this is so good!’ Ignoring the dinging from the Quest, Jin Woo continued to eat the homemade lunch, and further wished that he could finish this dungeon quickly. 

++++

“Yuki-ssi, are you okay?” Woo Jin Chul asked cautiously. The barista had dark circles under his normally bright, but for today they were dull eyes. He was still smiling the same smile, although Woo Jin Chul’s eyes could see the strain. 

“Of course. I just had difficulty sleeping for the past few days,” Yuki chirped, handing the agent two cups of coffee and a box of cream puffs. Woo Jin Chul nodded slowly, taking in the aura that normally surrounded the male. That usually soft white glow was, comparable to a cloud, was now a little more jagged. Fluxing and swirling like the dark cumulonimbus clouds during a storm. Still the soft white glow, so Woo Jin Chul took it as a sign that Yuki was still somewhat okay. 

“I see.” Yuki beamed at Woo Jin Chul, happy that the other dropped it. He already had Jin Ah breathing down his neck about it, he didn’t want Jin Chul to do it either. 

“I heard that Choi Jong In visited you.” That smile dropped and Yuki clicked his tongue. Disgust washed across his face and his nose scrunched like the thought of the S Rank was like thinking of the garbage. Woo Jin Chul wasn’t expecting it, but he’s learned that anything is possible with Yuki. 

“I can assume it didn’t go well.” 

“He’s annoying, like a stupid mosquito.” ‘A mosquito?’ That was a term Woo Jin Chul hadn’t heard to describe the S Rank, but he was sure the Baek Yoon Ho would have loved to hear it and agree with it. 

“Stupidly ridiculous to get rid of, too.” 

“... Is that so.” Yuki clicked his tongue again. Woo Jin Chul stared at Yuki for a bit longer before nodding in farewell. He knew that the Chairman was going to ask how their interaction went, and Woo Jin Chul didn’t want to admit that he was somewhat excited to tell him what Yuki compared Choi Jong In too. 

When Woo Jin Chull exited, Yuki took a deep sigh. The weight of everything had his shoulders sagging and the need to sleep made his mind foggy. For the past two days, sleep has been nearly impossible. When he slept, his dreams were assaulted by memories that were neither his or nor his past life’s. Memories of being stabbed had woken him countless times. He could feel where he was stabbed and how it always sucked the air out of him. Boogle said it was phantom pain, but Yuki has never been stabbed before. 

“Ellowyn.” Not to mention, the constant whispers of a name he’s never had. At first, he thought it was just him going crazy. Thought he was the only one until Cujo and Pip started responding to the whispers. Both animals would cock their ears, trying to locate the source, only to lie down again when they couldn’t. 

However, what scared him the most were his reflections. Sometimes, his eyes would be white, almost blind looking, but he could still see. They would glow, looking like they had halos surrounding them, but whenever Yuki tried to touch said halo, his fingers would go right through it. Like it was never there. Other times, in the reflection he would be bleeding. Bleeding everywhere His nose, eyes, mouth, ears, head, and the most prevalent spot would be his chest. Right where he would be stabbed in his dreams and where the pain would start. 

That had Yuki screaming. 

The barista sighed heavily and tiredly. Min Byung Gyu was in Japan too! So he couldn’t rely on his friend to cheer him up and he still had a few more days before Jin Woo came back. Yuki gritted his teeth and took a deep breath. 

“It is fine. I can do this.” He repeated. 

“I can do this.”

Chapter Text

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When Jin Woo had finally returned home, Yuki and Jin Ah were waiting for him with large smiles and bowls of fried chicken. They decided to celebrate at the Sung’s, filling the apartment with laughter and recounting the week’s past events. Jin Woo smiled when Jin Ah complained about how hard school was getting, from the tests to the notes she had to take. 

“If it weren’t for Oppa’s cooking this week, I would have died!” Jin Ah threw herself on Yuki’s lap, making the man chuckle at his little sister’s funny display. The white-haired man have her a fond look, motioning for her to eat more chicken. Jin Woo motioned to Yuki, “How was your week?” For a split second, Yuki’s shoulders sagged. Not the usual ‘this week was so tiring’ sag but the ‘dear lord I don’t know how I am going to survive another week no matter how much rest I take’ kind of sag. 

“It’s been okay. A mosquito was following me for a bit, but the problem was solved. As for that, nothing besides the usual.” ‘A mosquito?’ Jin Woo raised an eyebrow, unsure how to react to that. Mosquitos typically stayed away from Yuki, because Yuki’s go-to body soap smelt of lavender which is a natural mosquito repellent. Jin Woo can count on one hand how many times Yuki has been bit, and often times it has only been once. So, forgive him for being perplexed as to why a mosquito was following Yuki around. 

Their dinner continued on. Jin Woo made up fake stories for his ‘camping trip’ or would quickly divert the attention away from him. Around 10 o’clock is when Jin Ah decided to head to bed, saying something along the lines of having an early study group session. She gave Jin Woo one last hug, telling him how much she missed him, and then gave Yuki a hug goodnight. The two adults were left in the living room, drinking soju and sitting in silence. Yuki had moved to the couch, sharing it with Jin Woo. His toes tucked beneath Jin Woo thighs, and a blanket was thrown over the both of them. 

“How’s your mom?” Yuki asked, his voice carrying concern and sympathy. Jin Woo smiled. Leave it to Yuki to recognize the smell of a hospital. 

“She’s good. Nothing has changed.” Yuki’s lower lip was caught between his teeth and his fingers tapped the can. Jin Woo reached over and cupped Yuki’s cheek. Red eyes flashed over to his. Confusion twinkling amongst the red and causing a small wrinkle from his eyebrow being furrowed. Jin Woo squinted his sharp eyes, his thumb running over the bags underneath Yuki’s eyes. He didn’t have to say anything, because it would appear the Yuki already knew what he was thinking, “It’s not the nightmares if that’s what you are worried about.” 

It wasn’t a secret in the Sung family of Yuki’s nightmares. Although the correct terminology would be memories, Yuki liked to think that by calling them a nightmare then that is all they would remain. Sometimes it worked. Other times it didn’t. 

“Then what is it?” Yuki began to sweat. ‘How do you tell someone you’re hearing voices and seeing things without sounding crazy?’ He couldn’t decide if whether or not to tell Jin Woo about what he was experiencing, because truthfully, every time he said it out loud… he sounded batshit crazy. If Yuki sounded crazy to himself and he was the one experiencing it , then he couldn’t imagine what others would think. Jin Woo would probably give him that blank stare then says ‘Is that so?’ Like, what kind of answer is that?! 

‘Ugh! I can totally see it!’ Yuki grit his teeth as he pictured how Jin Woo would react. Pushing the thoughts away, Yuki set the can of soju down on the coffee table and hugged his knees with his arms. Consequently, this brought him a little closer to Jin Woo who still had his large hand on Yuki’s cheek. Yuki could feel the callouses, scars, and thick skin that marked and made Jin Woo’s palms one of a kind. They were the hands of a hard worker. Of someone who fought tooth and nail to be alive. It was of someone who worked hard for their life, and for others. 

‘Since when were his hands this big?’ 

“Just some bad sleeping habits. I got this new book and I’ve been reading it nonstop!” It’s not, technically, a lie. Yuki did find a new book. A book he was very excited to read. He just reads it to not fall asleep. 

Jin Woo snorted, taking his hand away and watching Yuki with a soft smile as the grown man fanboyed about the book. Yuki’s eyes were alit with a new flame of admiration and love for a character that didn’t exist. His crooked fingers moving to further express his excitement, because talking about it simply wasn’t enough. His cheeks became rosy when he explained who the love interests were, and Jin Woo observed how the blotchy blush would even out when Yuki stayed flush for more than 23 seconds. Those uncolored locks, free from the usual half updo, bangs cascading down his face like white rivers. Flowing and bending with each crevice on Yuki’s face. His hair, like silk, flowed down his neck and tickled his shoulders. Catching the lights and allowing strands to be free, Jin Woo wondered if Yuki’s hair had ever looked this white before. 

Quest Completion: 39% 

“I knew it would show up.” 

“What would show up?” Jin Woo jolted when he realized he had said it out loud, and now he had a confused Yuki looking at him. His head tilted slightly, causing those white strands to move with him. Red eyes peering into him with curiosity and the slight furrow of an eyebrow. Jin ignored the ding, and instead smiled, “There was a bug that was in the car with me. It’s here in the house too.” ‘LIE!’ 

Yuki bought it though. He huffed and continued explaining his week, filled with pastries and customer service. Soju was exchanged for tea, and the couch in favor of the bed. Yuki resting on Jin Woo’s arm, and gazing up at him through snow-white lashes. The red looked like they were carmine fireflies dancing amongst the grass strands that were now white lashes. Jin Woo peered down at him, noticing how much detail he could now take in due to his leveling up. Moonlight highlighting the small bump on Yuki’s nose, indicating that it’s been broken. Not to mention the way the light blends seamlessly with Yuki’s shadow like it was meant to be there. Like it was meant to shine on the rigid skin texture created from years of poor skincare routine and stress. Despite that, Yuki’s skin was still luminous. Just how the moon shined despite her craters and rough terrain visible to human eyes. 

Yuki’s shadow merges with Jin Woo’s, who was in the contour of his wall. Hidden from the light like how a shadow was supposed to be. Only Yuki was bathed in the moonlight, with Jin Woo’s arm as a pillow. Like every moon, there has to be a shadow. Smooth and without any signs of having a shape. Morphing to the thing creating the shadow. Jin Woo held Yuki’s sleeping body close to his frame. His body mirroring Yuki’s just how shadows mirror lights. 

The Moon and his Shadow, sleeping on an earth-bound pillow. Ignoring the world surrounding them to get lost in their dreams, dancing amongst the stars. 

++++

Cream cheese cookie choux was a new treat for Yuki. He found it on the internet and was very excited to try making it. These cookies were like oversized cream puffs, in his opinion. Just crunchier and the ingredients were a little bit different. Overall though, they seemed to be almost identical. 

He was alone in his cafe, listening to lofi while the spring storm continues to pound on the glass of his shop. All the lights in the dining area were off, besides the lights that illuminated the name of the cafe and the kitchen lights. Everything that would tell someone that the shop was closed. Yet someone was still knocking on the door. Yuki wanted to ignore it. Maybe make a show of looking and ignoring them. 

Sighing as the knocks continued, he decided to take a glance. The dough was in the oven, and the cream cheese filling was chilling in the fridge. He could spare a glare glance. Only to drop his jaw when he did. Grabbing the keys to the door and rushing over, nearly clipping his hip on the counter, he smiled brightly as he quickly unlocked the doors to his cafe. 

“President Go Gun Hee, Woo Jin Chul, come on in!” Woo Jin Chul couldn’t help but blink dumbfoundedly. When President Go Gun Hee had first told him he was going for a drink and wanted him to join, he was thinking beer. Not the cafe where he gets their coffee.  What really shocked him was how the President and Yuki were conversing. He didn’t want to use the term ‘old friends’ because it wasn’t like that. Although, it wasn’t strangers either. 

Yuki stared at Go Gun Hee like the man he had opened the doors to a wondrous world. A world that Yuki was looking at from the other side of the door, and Go Gun Hee broke it for him. While the President looked at Yuki with a mixture of pride and satisfaction. 

“Just in time, the cream cheese cookie choux is almost ready. By the time I’m done filling them the coffee should be done too.” Yuki motioned to a table in the middle of the cafe as he headed back to the kitchen at the sound of the oven going off. The coffee machine whirring to life, grumbling at having to make coffee after it’s been cleaned and shut off. Similar to how a child grumbles from being woken up in the middle of the night.

Woo Jin Chul took down the chairs, observing how the President looked around the cafe. Taking in everything that small space had to offer. His smile never fading. They could hear Yuki running around in the kitchen, the sound of baked dough being lifted off the parchment paper and soft music coming from the kitchen were the only signs that Yuki was there.

Go Gun Hee decided to sit once his inspection of the place was done. His body relaxed and the smile was still on his face. The sigh he released was one full of contentment and a hint of regret. Woo Jin Chul raised an eyebrow but didn’t ask. It wasn’t his place. 

“You’ve done well with this place, Yuki.” Go Gun Hee’s voice resonated with the tone of a grandfather commenting on their grandchild’s work. Full of pride and astonishment. Yuki’s lips stretched to their limit, his nose scrunched from the size and Woo Jin Chul noted a small scar on the thin lips. Running vertical and at the very corner, barely visible until the skin stretched. In his hands was a stack of the cookie choux he was talking about. 

“Thank you. It’s been a process.” Yuki set the silver tray down and went back behind the bar. Clinking and clanking echoed in the small space, but never enough to be an annoyance. The music could still be heard and the smell of these pastries was making Woo Jin Chul’s stomach grumble. 

“Have some, there’s no need to wait.” Yuki placed a porcelain cup in front of both Go Gun Hee and Woo Jin Chul. It looked almost like a teacup, only it was more slender and slightly thicker. Go Gun Hee chuckled, “You still have these?” Yuki huffed, setting down the creamer and sugar, before grabbing his own cup and chair. His cheeks puffed in a pout and thin eyebrows narrowed at the President, “Of course. You did give me these.” 

Go Gun Hee wasn’t shy in his greed for the pastries, taking the one on top and nearly swallowing it whole. Woo Jin Chul was a bit more hesitant, but at the encouraging smile Yuki sent him, he found himself reaching for one and taking smaller bites. 

“When you first held them you nearly dropped them.” 

“May I remind you that I was 8 and a bit weaker than I should have been.” 

“A bit?” Yuki didn’t respond to the jab. Only huffing again and shaking his head at the chuckling man. He took one of his own creations and tore a small part off, “You guys smell like the hospital. Should I be concerned?” It would be Go Gun Hee’s style to visit people he hasn’t seen in years to say goodbye. Although, Yuki had an idea of why he was at the hospital. The old man grabbed another cookie, “We met with your good friend, Sung Jin Woo.” 

Yuki’s smile was different when it came to Sung Jin Woo, Woo Jun Chul noticed. He had. The number of times he’s seen them together or has mentioned Sung Jin Woo. Yuki’s smile was different when it came to the now S-Rank Hunter. It was gentler, softer than his normal smiles. The albino man took a sip of the coffee, “Is that so? President Go Gun Hee visiting someone unprompted must mean only one thing.” 

“Don’t say anything, Yuki. Not until the so-called reevaluation,” The President warned, which only warranted him a laugh. Woo Jin Chul couldn’t help but stare at the two men in front of him. He’s known Yuki for a few months now, and he’s followed President Go Gun Hee for years. He prided himself on his observation skills. However, no amount of observations could have prepared him for this.

He really wanted to ask. He really really wanted to ask. 

“President Go Gun Hee was my childhood savior.” It would appear Yuki was just as observant. His smile never dropping, and his eyes not showing more emotion than needed. Woo Jin Chul stared expectantly at the smaller male, hoping that he would add more to the statement. Yuki chuckled, “He also helped me with funding.” 

“No, I gave you the funds, which you put away. All of this is with your own hard work.” ‘And the stock market and investments,’ They both thought but didn’t say it out loud. Nothing more was said, instead they continued to devour the cookie choux and talk about whatever came to mind. The topics drifted from cafe business, stocks, government, and then finally Sung Jin Woo. Woo Jin Chul was waiting for this topic to come up because he didn’t even flinch at the mentioning of Sung Jin Woo being an S-Rank Hunter. 

Yuki, instead, took another bite and sip his coffee. Unperturbed by the fact that his friend had a double awakening, something was literally supposed to be a legend, and was now an S-Rank Hunter. Go Gun Hee sent Yuki a strained smile, “You knew.” The white-haired man shrugged, “I had a feeling. But, I didn’t expect it to be like that.” ‘Forgive me for lying Go Gun Hee,’ Yuki mentally cried. He didn’t like lying, to begin with, however lying to someone like Go Gun Hee always left a bad taste in his mouth. Almost like anchovies fresh out of the can, that he swallow whenever he told something other than the truth to the man he respected. 

Go Gun Hee chuckled, setting down his cup of coffee and motioning to the door. Woo Jin Chul understood the message, taking one final bite before standing up. 

“We have kept you long enough, Yuki. Thank you for having us.” 

“Thank you for stopping by. It’s always wonderful to see you Go Gun Hee, Woo Jin Chul.” The older man gave Yuki a beaming smile before leaving with Woo Jin Chul in tow. Yuki following them to the door and making sure they got in the car. 

“Also, how about you get coffee for yourself some time instead of making poor Woo Jin Chul get it for you.” Go Gun Hee gave a belly-deep laugh, his shoulders shaking from the force as he got in the car. Woo Jin Chul wasn’t able to say anything, too stunned that Min Yuki would say something like that. However, before he could retaliate on behalf of the President, Yuki shut the door and made a show of locking it. Woo Jin Chul couldn’t but stare at the door unabashedly. Min Yuki just did that. 

He got in the driver’s seat, questions ringing inside his mind and no answers popping up. Glancing back at the President, who was smiling serenely out the window. Taking a deep breath, stilling his beating heart, he voices his question, “Excuse me for being rude, but who is Min Yuki?” Go Gun Hee didn’t seem perturbed, instead his smile became one of pride and regret? 

“Min Matsuno Yuki, brought over from Japan when he was an infant by his single mother, who then married a South Korean man. The Sung family gained custody over him when he was 11.”  ‘So that’s how he and Hunter Sung know each other.’ Woo Jin Chul confirmed. ‘But, how does the President know him?’ As if he heard his question, Go Gun Hee answered, “I met him when he was 8, after his parents were called in for a domestic disturbance. Naturally, we take the child out of the environment for an inspection. That is how I met Min Matsuno Yuki.” 

“You were a social worker?” 

“I was. Min Matsuno Yuki was the last kid assigned to me.” ‘Because that is when the Dungeons began to appear.’  It was unfortunate, of Yuki’s case wasn’t uncommon, nor would this be the first case attached to the boy. A tragedy that happened amongst immigrant parents, scared of the law and of racial injustice. Choosing to have their child suffer with them, instead of choosing to end the suffering. Although, Go Gun Hee wasn’t an immigrant and therefore he couldn’t relate to the mother’s or other parent’s decisions and fears. 

“He was a scrawny child, and very very weak.” Go Gun Hee chuckled at the memory of a tiny Yuki holding onto his suit pants. Those tiny hands, bandaged from his so-called clumsiness, barely leaving a wrinkle on his ironed pants. It always looked like he struggled to hold the cup of water that he was given, arms shaking like window shutters in a hurricane. 

Min Matsuno Yuki was Go Gun Hee’s greatest pride and deepest regret. The man was proof that anyone can make it out of a bad situation. However, it was a situation that shouldn’t have become as bad as it did. It wouldn’t be far from the truth to say Yuki was the reason Go Gun Hee continued to stay in a position where he could help people. In a position of power, where if he needed to, he can throw his title at someone and get what he needed to be done. That way, another case that would haunt him as Yuki’s case did, wouldn’t appear again. 

Chapter Text

Go Gun Hee can recall the first time he met Min Matsuno Yuki. A small boy, hair in disarrayed, red eyes that looked bored with everything, and wearing clothes that were too big for him. His face, arms, and legs had no signs of obvious bruising and the slight malnourishment could be chalked to the fact that his family’s financial situation was too low to afford anything other than rice and kimchi. 

All according to Min Baek Hyun. The patriarch of the household, who had rules that were to not be crossed. After talking to the neighbor’s, school, and whoever has had contact with the family would all say the same thing, “Min Baek Hyun was an asshole pretending to be a good guy.” Go Gun Hee knew he was trash the moment they first talked. In fact, it was Go Gun Hee who requested that Yuki be removed for a few days so they could monitor him and the family. 

After their first encounter, the two would spend more time together. As more calls came in about Yuki’s parental figures either being absent or too loud, Go Gun Hee had the opportunity to see and really get to know this small boy who grew more and more every time he saw him. Yuki barely talked to him on their first outing. Opting to sit quietly and drink the warm milk that was presented in a porcelain coffee cup with a saucer. Go Gun Hee can still remember how the boy’s arms would shake and the look of concentration whenever he brought the cup to his chapped lips. 

It wasn’t until their fourth outing that Yuki asked, “What kind of cups are these?”  Go Gun Hee smiled and explained, “These are Royal Albert’s coffee cups.” Yuki scrunched his nose, “But I’m not drinking coffee.” The older man stared at him for a few minutes, before breaking into a deep belly laugh. He had to set his coffee cup down so he wouldn’t spill, and even then him slapping the table had almost made everything capsize. 

“No, you’re not. But still, holding a nice coffee cup in comparison to a mug can do wonders on someone’s self-esteem. What do you think?” Yuki stared at the milk within his cup, the white color almost matching his hair, “I feel… like I am supposed to be drinking with royalty.” Go Gun Hee smiled broadly, “Indeed. And isn’t that enough of a confidence boost?” The smile he received will forever be remembered. It was the first smile Yuki ever gave him.

“Mm!” 

Go Gun Hee smiled at the memory of tiny Yuki, learning and asking him all about teacups and coffee cups. It got to the point that Go Gun Hee was doing extra research on them so he could be knowledgeable whenever little Yuki decided to ask a question. However, now it could be Go Gun Hee asking him a question about the two. Yuki, who was always too smart for it to be normal, had memorized all the teacups and coffee cups. On Christmas, he would send Go Gun Hee and his wife a teacup and coffee cup pair. Mrs. Go loved tea to the point it was nearly as bad as Go Gun Hee’s coffee addiction. 

In return, Go Gun Hee would send him money. At first, it was as an apology. An apology for not being able to do more. Then it became a grandparent thing. The more he and Yuki lost contact due to busy lives and different priorities, the more frequent checks became. It was Go Gun Hee’s way of saying, ‘I remember you.’ Yuki would then send a recipe, either for a meal or for a pastry. Sort of as a way to say, ‘I’m doing fine. Here’s proof of that.’ 

It had Go Gun Hee smiling every time he saw one of those coffee cups or a pastry that he recognized from the recipes. Like right now. Munching on a sugar cookie from Yuki’s shop and sipping on coffee. He was looking over Sung Jin Woo’s files and trying to deduce if the man meant what he said that night. Was he a hunter that liked hunting, or just another person that was in it for the money? 

He had nothing against Sung Jin Woo, and was quite grateful to him and his family. He was able to give Yuki something Go Gun Hee couldn’t. Everything Go Gun Hee wasn’t allowed to. However, as someone who saw Yuki as a son, the old man wanted to get a ‘feel’ for this man. After all, he was now an S-Rank Hunter that was hanging around a civilian. Which, even before being officially declared an S-Rank, has drawn the attention of other S-Ranks. So forgive him for maybe grilling the guy. 

“You seem very invested Sung Jin Woo-ssi, President-nim.” Woo Jin Chul observed as his president huffed, setting the pieces of paper down and taking a sip of the coffee cup. Yuki had been kind enough to send a bag of freshly ground coffee beans with Woo Jin Chul when the two of them left the cafe. Telling him in case Go Gun Hee wanted more and there wouldn’t be time to run by the cafe and grab more coffee. 

“He is a reawakened hunter. Am I not allowed to be curious?” Woo Jin Chul almost fumbled, “No! You’re allowed to be, it’s just… odd.” Go Gun Hee laughed, “You would be right, that I am more invested in this than normal. I am just curious.” ‘Curious of what type of man you are, Sung Jin Woo.’ Which, the old man was allowed to be. Not everyone can reawaken, let alone go from an E-Rank to an S-Rank. It was practically unheard of. Some even though reawakening was a legend. 

The profile picture of Jin Woo made Go Gun Hee chuckle to himself, ‘We need to update it.’ Jin Woo has changed from a boy to a man, appearance-wise at least. Hardly anyone would recognize him. 

“Um, President-nim.” Aged eyes flickered to Woo Jin Chul, smiling at him to continue. 

“You said to give you an update in regards to Min Yuki-ssi, and he’s currently sleeping at the Sung’s place.” Yes. A boy to a man. Appearance-wise. For the love of GOD! Only appearance-wise. Go Gun Hee could barely restrain himself when he met the boy earlier, and he could barely hold back the need to question Yuki about it an hour ago. Go Gun Hee was an aged man who has seen his fair share of life. Who has fallen in love and is still in love with his wonderful wife. He has seen many other people do it as well. 

So he knew what that smile on Yuki’s face and that damn smile Sung Jin Woo had on was not just because they were friends! Or at least didn’t think of the other as one! 

“What will you do if Yuki gets in harm’s way?” Sung Jin Woo’s glare was enough to have Go Gun Hee’s heart stutter for a second. His back straightened and a chill went down his spine. 

“It won’t happen.” 

“How are you so sure?”  Jin Woo’s ice-like glare melted to a sugary smile, and his eyes became glazed as if he was picturing the white-haired male as they spoke, “Because I’d never let anything happen to those important to me.” 

‘‘Important to me,’ he says.’ Go Gun Hee snorted at the very memory of Sung Jin Woo’s face morphing from terrifying to charming. To think a mere baker could make an S-Rank Hunter smile like that. Especially one of Sung Jin Woo’s caliber. Although the thought of Sung Jin Woo and Min Matsuno Yuki possibly being an item brought him rage he was sure only a father would feel, but also this warmness in his chest at the thought of Yuki not being alone. He did worry about how the public would view it. Living in a day and age where anything could go wrong at any second has loosened a lot of people’s views on certain things. There are always those select views. Especially from the civilian sectors. 

Hunters typically lived like each day was the last. You never knew when you were going to die, but you knew your chances of dying were higher than normal. That thought alone had loosened the hold of same-sex couples and partners as a taboo topic. Especially amongst the younger hunters. Go Gun Hee had the pleasure of learning that many Hunters didn’t care, and in fact encouraged ‘exploring.’ 

‘You never know what day will be your last, so you might as well do it while you have the chance,’ Baek Yoon Ho had once explained to him. While it was okay in the Hunter community, there was still the civilian community that had their opinions and views. While, once again the younger generation was more accepting than the older, it didn’t change the fact that Yuki was part of that civilian sector. Yuki could still be a victim of those views. 

“I’d never let anything happen to those important to me.”

‘I’m going to hold you to that, Sung Jin Woo-ssi.’ 

+++++

“The mining team?” Yuki questioned, handing Jin Woo a cup of coffee and two egg benedict bagel sandwiches. He was having a plain bagel with cream cheese spread generously all over the dough. Red eyes were narrowed in confusion about the sudden change in profession. 

Jin Woo nodded, sighing happily as the caffeine entered his system and the smell of egg, melted cheese, sauteed spinach, and mushrooms filled his senses. This morning, he had the luxury of seeing Yuki wearing one of his, Sung Jin Woo’s, shirts as he made them breakfast. Jin Ah has long gone for a study session with her friends and the cafe was closed today. Thus, allowing Yuki to sleep in a bit. This also resulted in Jin Woo not leaving the bed because Yuki was sleeping on his bicep and curled in his, Jin Woo’s, side. It had the man’s face heating up when he awoke this morning. Ignoring the pins and needles that prickled his arm, all in favor of watching Yuki. The morning sun, light pink and soft orange crept through the window and landed on Yuki. His hair shining in the gentle morning light, and his skin illuminated the soft pink. Giving him what looked like a soft blush. 

The System rewarded him for that observation. 

Anyways, but yes! Jin Woo had taken a shower and was making his way to the kitchen at the promise of food when he stopped dead in his tracks. Yuki, small framed Yuki, was wearing one of his, large framed Jin Woo’s, shirts. The deep navy heavily contrasted with the pale skin, and the collar exposed some of Yuki’s clavicles and looked to be barely hanging onto his shoulders. He was wearing pants, but that’s not what Jin Woo focused on. He was focused on the fact that his crush was wearing his shirt and cooking breakfast. 

Red eyes turned to his direction, framed by thick white lashes and the heat from the stove made his cheeks red. White hair pulled back in a ponytail with a few strands framing his oval face and exposing his long thin neck that melded into dainty shoulders. 

“Jin Woo! Your nose!” Startled out of his thoughts, Jin Woo brought a hand to his face and sure enough, there was blood. Holy crap. Yuki gave him a nose bleed. Ignoring the messages from the System, Jin Woo rushed over to grab a tissue from the counter. 

“Are you okay? What happened?” Yuki fretted over the man, supplying him with more tissues and helping him wash his hands. 

‘I can’t believe he gave me a nose bleed. What kind of cliche moment is this?’ Jin Woo gritted his teeth and plugged his nose with a tissue. 

“I’m okay. My nose might just be a bit dry.” 

“I mean that’s possible. Still, that was weird Jin Woo. Are you sure you’re okay?” Jin Woo nodded, “Yep. I’m good.” Yuki’s eyes said that he didn’t believe him, but there was nothing he could do to stop Jin Woo. He served him his coffee and motioned for Jin Woo to sit at the table and wait for breakfast to be done. 

That’s how they got here. Talking about Jin Woo’s plans for the day, which was to respond to the Hunter’s guild request for a miner for their mining team. It would be a bit unusual, seeing that Jin Woo normally did raid missions instead of menial labor. However, this was the chance to see what was in an A-Rank Gate. His chance to experience the Gates he will be taking soon enough. 

‘I can’t wait!’ 

‘He seems excited.’ Yuki continued to sip on his coffee, watching Jin Woo wag his tail and eat the egg benedict sandwich. He couldn’t help but smile at how excited Jin Woo looks. Eyes sparkling as he took large bites of the sandwich, not minding that some of the sauce escaped and made its home on his cheek. Warmth filled Yuki’s chest, much how hot chocolate does on a cold day. Warming the frozen fingertips and leaving a sweet aftertaste in the mouth, reminding the person of the warmth and the saccharine taste. His cheek resting on one of his knuckles, lips curling in a sweet smile, and eyes shining. 

“Is something on my face?” 

“The sauce.” Both faces lit up, blushing for two different reasons. 

“I-I-I should get going!” Jin Woo stammered out, fumbling to shove the last sandwich in his mouth a drown in his coffee. Yuki nodded, not bothering to say anything as the Hunter buzzed around like a busy bee. Yuki’s eyes remained on the table, hoping that the wood would swallow him up so that Jin Woo wouldn’t see his face. 

“Let me know when you finish,” He mumbles, hearing Jin Woo open the door. An ‘I will,’ was given in his response just before the door shut. Leaving Yuki alone. With his thoughts. 

‘Dear God! What am I doing?!’ 

“I’m stealing a man from Cha Hae In-ssi, that’s what I am doing.” Ears red and cheeks hiding behind pale hands, Yuki hoped that Jin Woo didn’t notice anything. ‘How cliche, Yuki. Falling for the protagonist.’ 

“Falling for a childhood friend…” ‘How stu-’ 

“Yuki.” A sharp pain rattled Yuki’s chest, cutting off all his thoughts and making him hunch over the table. His airflow cut off for a second. He wasn’t sure if that’s from the pain or the fact his lung I decided to act up now. Of all times. Yuki became faintly aware that his chest was spasming. Heat forming in one specific spot on his chest, as if someone was pouring a boiling pot of coffee on that one specific spot. Then another. And another. And another. Not caring if the skin blistered, and simply adding more heat to the same spot. Over and over again. Then it became freezing. Uncomfortable freezing. Someone was now placing ice on that specific spot. Cold, frozen ice directly on what felt like exposed muscles and nerves. 

Yuki’s mouth opened, but nothing came out. Saliva escaping past his lips and teeth, and tears falling on the table. 

“Ellowyn.” 

Drip

Drip 

“Huh?” Yuki’s vision may have been impaired due to the pain, but he could recognize that red anywhere. It stained clothes, had an iron smell, and generally never meant something good. Bringing a hand to his face, pale fingers touched where the uncomfortably warm and too runny to be snot. His vision became even more bleary at the sight of red on his fingertips. 

“ELLOWYN!” The loud scream of a name had Yuki’s eyes rolling back in his head from nausea and the feeling of something trying to make its way out of his throat. Standing on shaky legs, and somehow navigating to the bathroom despite the crossed vision and immense pain in his chest. Stumbling over the sink, he barely made it as liquid crawled out of his throat and into the white sink. 

Blood. 

He was bleeding. He was bleeding somewhere from the inside. The pain in his chest dulling only a little bit, now instead of in one specific spot, it was all across his chest. Taking a deep breath, Yuki willed himself to look in the mirror. 

His eyes were glowing white. 

He spat out as much blood as he could, trying to even his breathing as he stumbled back to the kitchen where his phone was. It was a journey that should have taken less than a minute, but for some reason felt like an eternity. 

Shaky hands opened his phone, and he could barely make out the name as his vision started to become nonexistent. The phone ringing felt like the longest four rings in the world, and Yuki only allowed himself to react when the person answered. 

“Yuki-ya?” 

“Hy-hyung.” 

++++

“Yuki-ya, what on Earth have you been doing?” Min Yujin, a doctor for the past 9 years who graduated at the top of his class, wouldn’t consider himself a doting cousin. He and Yuki never connected until the younger was in middle school, and that was only because his cousin’s living situation was up for debate. Although they weren’t blood-related, by law, they were family. Yujin’s uncle adopting Yuki and giving him the Min's last name meant that they also had the option of taking him in. At the prospect of possibly living together, Yuji decided to try and bond with his baby cousin. 

He would never say that it was because of Yuki, but his baby cousin was the reason why he became a pulmonologist. Wanting to help people in a way the doctors couldn’t help Yuki. 

“Hyung, I haven’t been doing anything! I don’t know why this is happening.” 

“Have you been smoking?” 

“...Besides that.” 

“Stress?” 

“I’m a business owner, that’s normal.” Yujin loved Yuki, but his cousin was the worst patient. Taking a deep sigh, Yujin resisted the urge to hit his patient. He could feel a headache forming and the sudden need to take a shot was making his throat burn. Eyeing the man, Yujin pursed his lips and scrunched his nose, “You need to relax. The tests show that everything is normal, thankfully, but that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook.” 

Yuki scrunched his nose. How could nothing be wrong? His nose was bleeding and he coughed up blood. What kind of BS was that? 

“Yuki-ya, the hole is getting bigger.” 

“I know.” It was the same thing every time he came here. It was the main reason he avoided the hospital. As much as he loved Yujin, his cousin was a reminder that Yuki couldn’t be fixed. Yujin held up the X-rays, “Good news is, you’re not bleeding from the inside. I don’t know where the blood came from, but it’s not in your lungs.” 

Yuki rubbed his eyes, “That’s not possible. I spit up blood, Hyung! I spit up a lot!” Yuji grimaced, remembering picking up the man before his shift at the hospital, walking in on Yuki cleaning the sink of the viscous fluid. 

“I know, which is why I don’t understand why it’s not showing up.” Both males bit their lips, unsure of what to do. Yuki was the first to speak, “I’ll just go home, and call you if it happens again.” 

“I’d prefer it if you stayed here for the night.” 

“Home it is.” Yujin wasn’t going to win an argument against the male, and it was something he knew well. Technically, because no records indicated that anything was seriously life-threatening and that warranted a stay, he couldn’t keep him. Yeah, Yuki was coughing blood, but nothing was showing up on the X-rays and some would call it a fluke. Yujin grumbled as he walked his cousin out, conscious of how tired he looked, “I’ll stop by later tonight to check on you. I’ll also call Jin Woo and Go Gun Hee-ssi.” 

“Why Jin Woo?” 

“He’s your emergency contact.” ‘Right, I forgot about that,’ Yuki thought as he waved his cousin goodbye. The walk home was quiet and uneventful. Yuki was too lost in thought to properly respond to anything, and all he wanted to do was take a hot bath and then a nap. Maybe snuggled with Cujo and Pip. 

He held himself together until he reached the safety and privacy of his apartment. Shutting the door and collapsing in the foyer. Hiccups escaping his lips and large tears blurring his vision. The feeling of dread and hopelessness making his shoulders sag and chest heavy. 

Yuki didn’t know what to do anymore. 

Chapter Text

Jin Woo had rushed over to Yuki’s apartment once he exited out of the Dungeon and got cell service. Yuki’s hyung, Yujin-ssi, had called him and explained what had happened at their place. How Yuki had difficulty breathing, the blood, and the fact that they couldn’t find anything besides the simple observation of the hole in the lung getting bigger. 

Jin Woo wasn’t happy. Panic coursing through him as he raced to Yuki’s place. When he arrived, he had nearly broken the door off its hinges as he barged in. Scared Yuki half to death at the sound of the his door lock breaking and a tall figure dressed in black walked in. Cujo, the lazy dog, didn’t do crap. Only huff and continue to nap. 

Yuki, whose scleras were red from crying, and his pale face flushed smiled at him. In his hands was a cup of tea and on the table were muffins that were still steaming. Jin Woo marched over, nearly making a footprint in the wood from the force of his steps and brought Yuki into a hug. The other had nearly dropped his teacup, but quick reflexes from Jin Woo and it was safely on the countertop. 

Large arms, warm from either Jin Woo’s body heat or from racing over here, wrapped around Yuki’s small shoulders and waist. Hugging him against Jin Woo’s chest and curling over him. Yuki’s eyes barely peaked over Jin Woo’s shoulder and his nose was pressed against bare skin. Jin Woo smelt of musk, woody undertones overlaid by hints of fresh leather. There was also the smell of pine, which Yuki recognized as the bar of soap he recommended Jin Woo to get on their last shopping trip together. Yuki had sniffed it and said that he could see Jin Woo wearing it. 

He didn’t think the other would actually get it. 

“Jin Woo?” The arms around him tightened, and Yuki felt Jin Woo’s face pressed into his hair. Yuki had to fight back the tears, not wanting to cry again, as he returned Jin Woo’s hug. Burying his face in Jin Woo’s collar and inhaling the smell. When was the last time he was hugged like this? 

They stood there for a few more minutes. Jin Woo made sure Yuki was still alive, and the other took advantage of the warmth. 

Jin Woo had brought a hand to the back of Yuki’s head, playing with silky locks and trying to bring comfort to himself. Yuki was here. Safe and maybe not healthy, but alive. He was alive. Alive and currently in his arms. 

“You should be at the hospital,” He murmured in Yuki’s hair. Yuki huffed, a smile on his lips and his nose scrunched, “You know I hate that place.” 

“I know. But what if happens again tonight?” Yuki hummed, pressing further into Jin Woo and ignoring the question. He didn’t have an answer, nor did he want one. 

Neither one pulled away, not wanting to break away from one another. In fact, Jin Woo seemed to hug only tighter, and Yuki’s grip on his shirt increased. Turning his face so his voice wouldn’t be muffled, Yuki inquired about Jin Woo’s day, “How was being a miner for a day?” Jin Woo smiled, somehow still managing to keep his head buried in Yuki’s hair despite the odd tilt of his own head now, “It was interesting. We got done a few hours early thanks to everyone’s hard work.” 

“Don’t be modest, we both know it’s because of you.” 

“How would you know?” Yuki laughed, Jin Woo feeling the shaking of shoulders and the warm breath against his exposed skin, “A lucky guess. Plus, I’m biased towards you.” Jin Woo pulled his face away from the white locks to look at Yuki, and he nearly shoved his face back in. Yuki was an almost full head shorter than him now, and a lot smaller. When they were this close, Yuki now had to look up a lot to see make eye contact with Jin Woo. Yuki had his cheek resting on Jin Woo’s tan skin, squishing it a bit and making the smile a little cuter. His red eyes peering through those white lashes and bangs, looking like glazed cherries amongst whipped cream. 

Jin Woo took a deep inhale and exhale. He could feel Yuki’s chest pressed against his, or how his hip bone now able to jut into Yuki’s soft waist. Their knees almost touching and feet are notably different sizes. Yuki looked so tiny in Jin Woo’s arms, and he knew that Yuki was the size of the average Korean male. 

‘God give me strength.’ 

Quest Completion: 62% 

‘SINCE WHEN WAS IT SO HIGH?!’ 

“Jin Woo.” 

“Hmm?” 

“You should shower, you stink.” Jin Woo shoved (gently) Yuki away as the man laughed. The barista was cackling as Jin Woo marched towards Yuki’s room to grab his spare clothes. 

“I’m going to lay on your bed.” 

“No! You’ll get it dirty!” 

“Here I go.” 

“NO!” 

Yuki huffed as Jin Woo showered, sipping his cold tea and munching on a muffin. Go Gun Hee had called and asked if he was okay, which Yuki had trouble assuring him that he was. He told him that Jin Woo was over and he heard something splinter on the other side of the phone. 

“Eh? What was that?” 

“Hahaha! Everything is okay! I dropped something on accident.” 

“O-okay. Anyways, everything is fine. I’ll call if something happens, okay?” 

“ Okay. Please take care, Yuki. I’ll have Woo Jin Chul check on you tomorrow. Will you go to work?” 

“Of course.” 

“I’d prefer it if you didn’t, but you can make your own decisions.” 

“Thank you, I appreciate it.” Their call ended, and Yuki was left wondering just what the noise was. He left it as a thought when Jin Woo exited the bathroom in his loungewear, and his hair was still wet. Yuki huffed at him, “Sit on the sofa. I’ll dry your hair.” 

Across the city

“Pr-President-nim! Th-th-the desk!” 

+++++

“I really think I shouldn’t go.” 

“I think you should.” It was 5:30 am and Yuki was trying to get his cafe in order. He had the coffee machines warming up, the oven currently making some pastries, and an ornery Jin Woo leaning against teh counter watching him. Yuki insisted that Jin Woo sleeps in, but the man had all but latched onto him like a leech and followed him to his cafe. 

Last night, Jin Woo had told Yuki about the dungeon he was in, all the things he saw, what he did as a miner. Yuki listened with a smile, drying Jin Woo’s hair with the fluffy towel. Yuki had then asked if he was going again today, and Jin Woo said he was planning on it. However, now that Yuki’s health wasn’t doing so good, he opted not too. 

That sparked a rant from Yuki, defensive arguments from Jin Woo. Which have carried over to the morning. 

“Yuki, what if it happens again today? And I’m not here to help?” Jin Woo set his mug down, concerned eyes watching the owner flutter around the kitchen. Now that he looked at him, Jin Woo could see the dark circles Yuki’s eyes. How the healthy skin had a sick hue to it and he was undeniable skinnier. Yuki was already a thin person, to begin with, but the hug from last night imprinted on Jin Woo. There were sharp joints that Jin Woo is positive were not there last time. Yuki’s thin wrist, snappable with simple pressure, carried the large coffee pot over to Jin Woo and refilled his mug. 

Red eyes didn’t look up, “It’ll be fine. I have workers I can rely on, and customers in here all day.” Jin Woo grabbed Yuki’s rest, minding the strength and cooling his frustration, “Yuki.” 

“It’ll be fine. Besides, the job pays well, doesn’t it? And you get to see the insides of another A-Rank dungeon, Jin Woo not a lot of people can say that.” Yuki smiled at Jin Woo, not minding that Jin Woo’s hand can completely wrap around his wrist. 

“Plus! They said they like you right? If you’re an E-Rank this is a great job!” Jin Woo had yet to tell Yuki about his Reawakening. Slipping his mind constantly and every time he saw Yuki, he didn’t want to bring it up. He didn’t want to see Yuki’s face at the mention of him being an S-Rank. 

Jin Woo pulled Yuki forward, setting down the coffee pot so he could hug Yuki closer. He nuzzled his nose in Yuki’s hair, not minding that it was brought back in a ponytail and therefore not as fluffy as it was last night. He took a deep breath, “I… Yuki, do you know how scary it was to get that phone call?” 

Yuki remained silent. 

“To know that I missed the first 5 because I was inside a Dungeon terrified me, Yuki.” Jin Woo recalled the dread he felt, seeing that it was Yujin calling. Yujin, who never called him because they weren’t close and some form of grudge against Jin Woo. Yujin, who is also Yuki’s primary doctor. 

“Thinking that it might happen again and I won’t be here is even more terrifying.” Yuki hummed against Jin Woo’s chest, showing he was listening and understanding. 

“You already said you’d go.” 

“I can call out.” Yuki huffed, “Jin Woo, I’ll be fine. If you’re that worried, just work harder so you can finish early. Then come back.” Jin Woo laughed, “Yeah, let me just call upon my army to take over the job.” Yuki chuckled with him, looking up and meeting grey eyes. He could still see the concern in them, coloring the eyes dark similar to the thunderclouds. For someone who looked so cold, Jin Woo had the most expressionist* eyes. 

Little did Yuki know, Jin Woo was genuinely planning on doing that. 

“I promise, I’ll be fine. If you want, I can send a message every hour.” Jin Woo’s nose scrunched, “I won’t get your messages in a dungeon.” 

“No, but when you get out you’ll know I’m fine for those hours.” 

“That makes no sense.” 

“Don’t talk to me about making sense when you grew like a foot wide and foot tall at your age.” Jin Woo chuckled, “I did not grow a foot tall.” 

“Maybe not, but you still grew. What kind of person does that?” Yuki scrunched his nose and glared at Jin Woo, who only laughed at him. They were still in each other’s arms. Yuki’s arms wrapped loosely around Jin Woo’s waist and Jin Woo’s arms held tightly to Yuki’s shirt. Jin Woo steeled his nerves, pressing his forehead against Yuki’s. Warm contrasting with cold, sending goosebumps down both of their spines. Yuki’s eyes were wide and a blush bloomed on his cheeks. He could feel his ears burn and his stomach twist in knots. 

Jin Woo sighed heavily, fanning Yuki’s already warm cheeks with a breath that smelt of mint and coffee. His eyes met Yuki’s, and the man briefly wondered if Jin Woo’s eyes have always been this grey. Not so much of a rainy day grey, but the grey you’d find on a perfectly polished knife. A steel grey. A dangerous grey. 

Their noses almost touched, and from an outside perspective, they could have been kissing. Jin Woo’s large frame shields Yuki’s, him bending down and Yuki having to look up. Their bangs, black and white, mingle with one another to look like the keys of a piano. Jin Woo’s short black strands next to Yuki’s long white ones. Tanned skin pressed against pale. 

“I still think I shouldn’t go.” Almond-shaped red eyes stared into his own. Yuki’s lips in a soft smile and his face relaxed. 

Jin Woo isn’t sure if Yuki was aware or not, but Yuki’s smile had always been lopsided. One side was always higher than the other whenever he gave smiles like this. Sometimes it looked like a smirk, other times awkward. However, for Jin Woo who has known Yuki for nearly his entire life, he knew that the smile was just Yuki. Soft, kind, and beautifully imperfect. 

“If you don’t go, I will kick you out.” 

“Pray tell, how will you kick me out. According to you, I am a foot taller and a foot wider.” Yuki’s nose scrunched, that lopsided smile turning to a small pout. 

“Fine, then I just won’t cook for you.” 

“Wait–” 

“Promise you’ll go and I’ll make breakfast.” 

“Yu–” 

“Promise.” 

“....I promise.” Yuki’s smile beamed and he drew away from Jin Woo at the sound of the oven beeping. Reluctantly pulling his arms away and leaving for the kitchen. Jin Woo was left standing there, a goofy smile on his lips and a blush on his cheeks. 

Quest Completion: 70% 

“Yeah, shut up.” 

True to his promise, Jin Woo went to the Raid site when it was time. He left grudgingly, a lunch packed for him by Yuki and only a wave to send him off. His hand was on his phone the entire time and as if to mock him Yuki sent text 5 minutes after he left. 

‘Still okay!’ 

Jin Woo wasn’t sure whether to laugh or be irritated. Arriving at the site, he was surprised to be greeted with smiling faces and warm welcomes.. 

“Oh! Mr. Sung, you’re here!” The Mining Team Leader greeted him with a large smile. Park Young Soo* smiled at him, his glasses reflecting the sun, “Let’s do our best today!” Jin Woo stared at them in surprise, for an instance his mind flashing to his time doing Raids when he was an E-Rank. The Team Leader grinned, “You should eat lunch with us this time!” 

“Yeah, it doesn’t look like you have already eaten it.” Nostalgia filled his chest as everyone greeted him, clapping his shoulders or sending him warm smiles. ‘Maybe, this isn’t so bad.’ 

The work wasn’t hard. They had finished two hours early again and were all sitting around and enjoying some coffee. Jin Woo took a sip and had to stop himself from scrunching his nose. Yuki’s coffee tastes better. 

Speaking of Yuki, Jin Woo grabbed his phone and smiled at the 4 text messages from Yuki. All saying he was fine and retelling what has happened so far. Apparently, Baram got her hands on the blender but forgot to close the lid completely. 

“Does no one want to go?” ‘Crap, I missed like, all of that.’ Jin Woo snapped his head to where everyone was huddled. In the middle was a man dressed in High Ranking armor. Jin Woo raised his hand without thinking, unaware of what exactly it was he was signing up for. It shouldn’t take too long. Whatever it was, he could help them get done within an hour. That is, assuming the time in there would match the time out here. Which was rare. 

“I’ll go.” What ensued afterward could only be described as chaos. 

Chaos. Absolute undeniable chaos. Not only were they attacked by domesticated Dungeon Jackals, then High Orcs, but now they were trapped. Trapped in a stupid dungeon with stupid Orcs. Jin Woo glared at the ground. The absence of his phone in his pocket made the pit in his stomach grow darker. Angrier. 

His shadows shivered, and Jin Woo could feel them get angry along with him. He could feel his jaw clench and unclench, his teeth grinding together the longer this giant of an Orc talked. The more he stalled. The longer he had to be in here and away from his phone. His only contact was that Yuki was okay. That Yuki was safe. 

The final straw was when the High Orc started thrashing Ki Hoon around. Using whatever power he had to torment all of them. Like the annoying thing he was. Jin Woo glared at the proud Orc, catching Ki Hoon and staring at him in a way that had the injured man twitching. Momentarily wondering which one was scarier? The High Orc or Jin Woo? 

“This Dungeon is Hunter Guild’s property, therefore legally, I cannot interfere. With your permission, can I take over?” Yuki would be livid with him if he was rude. Already able to feel the glare the barista would give him. 

Ki Hoon stared at Jin Woo in a mixture of relief and fear. He wasn’t sure which one would be more appropriate for this setting. Naturally, Ki Hoon should have been terrified of the High Orc that had unapologetically tossed him around like a chew toy. Yet, the way Jin Woo was staring at him. Anger simmering in the back of those eyes that were glowing an ominous blue. Anger for not them, Ki Hoon gathered that much. 

Who was Jin Woo angry for? 

“Please… save us.” The smirk that formed on Jin Woo’s face was anything but human. Ki Hoon felt soft hands replace the cold and rough palms that belonged to Jin Woo. He witnessed how Jin Woo, their E-Rank porter for the day, stood tall and with a grin on his face. Staring at one of the most dangerous Dungeon creatures Ki Hoon, and maybe the entirety of the Hunter’s Guild, had yet to face.

Jin Woo’s smile broadened the more he let that pit in his stomach expand. Filling his belly, his chest, his arms, his legs, his everything with whatever feeling it was. Making him stronger. Making him angrier. 

“This is a terrible match-up for you, you know that right?” Jin Woo glared at the nameless High Orc. His shadows emerged, swarming around him like the army they were. Igris to his left, Iron to his right, and Tank at his back. He was focused only on the High Orc. The faster he killed this thing, the faster he can make it a shadow, and then respond to Yuki. 

To see if Yuki was still okay. If Yuki was okay. Is Yuki okay? The absence of his phone burned his thigh. Reminding him of its absence in his pocket. 

Is Yuki okay? 

Igris cut down two of the Generals while Tank and Iron handled the third and fourth. He could feel his mana draining the more he let those smaller shadows walk around. 

“Arise.” Those High Orcs that had caused him to feel such irritation were now a part of his army. Facing off against their own kind. Slaughtering their own. Jin Woo noted how some High Orcs trembled, staring at him and their brethren with shaken resolve that Jin Woo reveled in. 

Jin Woo felt the power of something being cast on him. Something malevolent. Opposite of Yuki’s caring words and actions. 

“I told you,” Jin Woo smirked, wiping off imaginary dust from his shoulders, “I’m a bad matchup for you.” The System cleared all the spells off of him and Jin Woo couldn’t help but continue smiling. It only further proved to irk the powerful High Orc. Which Jin Woo couldn’t bring himself to care about. 

“I thought you were going to kill me?” 

“GRRAAAAUUUUUAAUUGH!” ‘Is that a sore spot?’ Jin Woo smirked, watching as they got bigger, resembling a certain statue. 

“Hey, I have bad memories with large things. You’re touching a sore spot.” 

“DO I, KARGALAN, LOOK INFERIOR TO YOU?!” Fire spewed out of Kargalan’s mouth, and Jin Woo smiled in victory. Jumping up, his dagger in hand, he grinned at the giant as they made eye contact, “Yup.” Gone was the large eye, having the same red iris as Yuki, but at the same time, it looked nothing like Yuki’s. 

Yuki’s eyes were the red of cherries. Soaked in sugar and overall sweet. Seeing something with imposter-like red eyes made Jin Woo want to gouge them out. Maybe that is why he instinctively went for that one eye. 

“Once a magician loses their guards, they are done for.” Kargalan kneeled on the ground, his cheek swelling and eye bleeding as he stared at Jin Woo, and his four guards behind him. Staring at him like he wasn’t anything. Which was wrong. He was Kargalan. Powerful Karagalan. Ruler of the High Orcs, Karagalan. 

He was important. 

He was powerful. 

Karglan was– 

Sqwelp

Shnk 

Shluk 

Dead. Killed by his own guards. No. They weren’t his guards. The moment they died and rose again, they were not his. They belonged to the Shadows underneath this human’s feet. Forever to be used not as a soldier, but as a pawn. Someone expendable. Kargalan prayed that he wouldn’t fall into that fate either. 

To finally succumb to sleep. 

“Arise.”

++++

Jin Woo stared at the ceiling above him, taking into account everything that has happened today. Jin Ah had texted them that she was over and who was Jin Woo to not go? Jin Ah took over Yuki’s bed, sleeping with Cujo and Pip, while the two of them took over the couches. Jin Woo got the largest couch, which still didn’t accommodate his body, and the largest blanket that still exposed his feet. 

He glanced over at Yuki, who was sleeping away. Unaware that Jin Woo had entered the apartment and made himself at home. 

It was late when Jin Woo came over. Well past 1 am, thanks to Tusk and his dinner with Jin Ho, and both Jin Ah and Yuki were fast asleep. Jin Woo was grateful that he stopped home to shower and change before heading over. He’d feel bad if he woke either of them up because he needed to shower or go in Yuki’s room to get a spare change of clothes. Speaking of clothes, he needed to find an outfit for tomorrow. 

Cujo, the great guard dog he was, appeared in the hallway at the sound of an intruder, but then huffed and walked away when it was Jin Woo. It had the man chuckling as he followed the large dog to check on Jin Ah, who was happily snoring away in the large bed. Undisturbed. He smiled at his little sister and then walked back out to the living room where he saw a lump on the couch when he walked in. 

Peering over the back of the couch, his smile softened even more. Yuki was curled on his side, knees to his chest and face buried somewhat in the pillow. The blanket swallowed him up in all of its fuzziness. 

Long fingers brisked over Yuki’s cheek, disturbing some of the strands that rested on the skin. Yuki himself remained still. Soft snores exited his slightly open mouth and overall his face remained relaxed. Jin Woo released a breath of air and made his way to the larger couch. Which is where he found himself currently, staring at the tall white ceilings.

Jin Woo had time to ponder the Raid. Everything that had happened in it. What exactly caused him to act that way. 

Grey eyes flickered to the sleeping body. A deep exhale, and Jin Woo was staring back at the ceiling. Ever since he acknowledged his feelings, Jin Woo has noticed a change in him. It was more than the butterflies in his stomach or the warm feeling he got whenever he was around Yuki. This feeling went deeper than that. A strange mixture that Jin Woo wasn’t sure where they came from. 

They were darker. Heavier. A smoothie of sorrow, anger, regret, and protective? Jin Woo wasn’t confident that ‘protective’ is the right word to describe that last feeling. He knows what protective feels like. How it sits his wrists, making him want to lash out when something poses a threat to his loved ones. How it stews in his core at the thought of one of them getting hurt. 

Jin Woo knew what being and feeling protective was. This last feeling wasn’t that. It was close but greater than it. Darker than it. The worst part of it was that it was all just for Yuki. 

All of it. Just for one person. 

Jin Woo released another heavy sigh and closed his eyes. Forcing himself to sleep. Pretending he didn’t hear those feelings form words in his mind.

*- I think I'm using that adjective right 

*- I don't know this guys name, but he's in both Manhwa chapters 66 and 68. The guys with glasses 

Chapter Text

Yuki liked to think that there was a common misconception about Jin Woo and what people thought of him. Some would describe him as cold, narcissistic, aloof, or something along those lines. Especially now that he has matured more and his face is more… menacing, so to speak. People who didn’t know Jin Woo would often shy away from him when he was in the cafe, or gawk when they walked down the street together. A tall man who glared at everything next to an average height man that would be talking and laughing. 

Jin Woo was not menacing. If anything, he was just shy (yeah right). However, Yuki knew that Jin Woo had a so-called reputation or whatever to keep, which was why he didn’t like to smile when there were more than four people in a room. Private with his emotions and liking to keep his opinions and thoughts close, Jin Woo was definitely someone that was hard to crack. 

Which was why Yuki was having a field day when the new S-Rank Hunter’s face appeared on the tv screen in his cafe. Live. Yuki had been quick enough to catch a photo before doubling over in loud laughter. The sound echoing in the now stunned-quiet cafe, and tear pricking his red eyes. 

“O-O-O-Oppa-nim!” Baram stuttered, pointing at the tv screen that had Jin Woo’s stupid face frozen on it. Yuki took one look at it and had to excuse himself. His cackling could be heard even though he was in the back room, sitting at the table trying to calm himself. He couldn’t do it. 

Reaching for his phone, he dialed the most used number and tried to contain his laughter for at least 15 seconds. 

“Hello?” 

“Pfft! Hahahahahaha! Wha-What’s with your face?! Hahaha!” He could hear Jin Woo splutter on the other end of the phone call. No doubt cheeks are red and most likely glaring at the floor. Yuki couldn’t stop himself from laughing even though he knew it might be driving the other up the wall. Taking an audible deep breath, Yuki tried calming himself. 

“Okay. Okay, I’m good.” 

“Really?” 

“Haha! No!” Yuki snorted, burning the inside of his nose and making him pinch the cartilage in hopes of easing it. He heard someone speaking in the background of the phone call, and Jin Woo’s curt ‘no.’ 

“You’re not being rude are you?” 

“No, someone was just asking a question.” Yuki listened closer, picking up a certain voice that had him smiling, “That sounds like Baek Yoon Ho-ssi! Say hi to him for me please.” 

On the other end of the line, Baek Yoon Ho shivered at the glare Jin Woo sent him. 

“Yuki says hi…. He says hi back.” Yuki beamed, “Well, stop by shop before you head out somewhere. I’ll make you a S-Rank inspired dessert.” 

“What’s that?” 

“You gotta come by and find out.” Like that, their phone call ended. Yuki now having a semeblence of control over his giggles and Choi Jong In happy that he managed to escape Jin Woo’s glare.  

Yuki’s ‘S-Rank inspired dessert’ was just an extra large cream puff. With a coffee brewed by Yuki. The newly declared S-Rank stared unimpressed at Yuki. 

“You only gave me 15-minutes, I hope you weren’t expecting something grand.” Jin Woo, with all the care and gentleness in the world and the universe, nudged Yuki’s shin, making the other laugh. Jin Woo rolled his eyes, taking a large bite and a sip. 

“So, how does it feel? Mr. S Rank?” Jin Woo shrugged, “Feels the same.” 

“Wow. Good thing the tabloids aren’t here, they’d be harping at you.” At the reminder of the stunt pulled earlier, Jin Woo’s face fixed itself back in a scowl as Yuki started laughing again. He took out his phone, “Look! I have it as my screensaver.” 

Any other time, Jin Woo would have been thrilled to be Yuki’s screensaver. They have tons of selfies together, and just random photos. Jin Woo had Jin Ah and Yuki as his home screen, both of them oggling the large cotton candy they had gotten when they went to the amusement park. Yuki had the three of them on his home screen, smiling at the camera and celebrating Jin Woo’s birthday. So, just a photo of him alone on Yuki’s screensaver would have been the day Jin Woo transcended heaven. 

If only it was a decent godforsaken photo. His face on the lock screen reminded him of the hectic past hour, and how the paparazzi surprised him. Seeing that comedic face, and quite honestly maybe embarrassing face for an S Rank, as Yuki’s lock screen had him snatching the phone. 

“H-Hey!” Yuki reached for the phone, a pout on his lips and eyebrows furrowed. Jin Woo, that jerk, held it just out of his reach. Watching him with amused grey eyes as Yuki stretched with all his body to try and get his cellular device, without leaving his chair. 

“You’re gonna have to try a little harder than that to get the phone.” Yuki rolled his eyes, scrunching his nose at the mischief in Jin Woo’s eyes, “Oh hush. Don’t change my background.” 

“Take a better photo then.” Yuki huffed, stood up and marched over to Jin Woo. 

“Fine. Say cheese.” Yuki wasn’t daft. He knew he was photogenic. Take a photo from any angle and it would look good. Jin Woo, no offense to his before-glow-up self, was now photogenic. Model worthy and should be on the cover of Vogue as long as someone else picked his outfit. So, naturally, the photo should have been a blessing from the Gods. Basked in heaven’s warm light and only those pure in mind and spirit should be able to see it. 

Yuki stared at the photo in hand. Ignoring the fuming Jin Woo who looked ready to collapse in a flaming puddle. 

“Jin Woo, what the hell is this?” He motioned to the photo, which actively made Jin Woo collapse onto the floor. In Jin Woo’s defense, it was a surprise photo. Still! Jin Woo was hot! So why would he be so shocked?! 

In the photo, Yuki had his cheek pressed against Jin Woo’s, pale skin contrasting with tanned. Red eyes focused on the camera and a warm smile on his face. He looked good. Beautiful even, depending on who was looking at it. Jin Woo, on the other hand, had his narrowed and slanted eyes wide open. Like someone had done something so shocking, it warranted his jaw to be slack and eyeballs ready to pop out of his skull. What made it even funnier, was that Jin Woo’s face was beet red. Barely a sign of tanned skin in the photo or on his face. 

Yuki didn’t know whether to laugh or continue judging his friend. Jin Woo recollected himself, taking deep breaths and stilling his beating heart. 

“Warn me next time.” 

“Why? Candid photos are the best.” 

“There is nothing candid about that photo!” 

“You mean you purposely made this face? A face, which no offense, makes a tomato look pink in comparison.” Jin Woo released a sound akin to someone dying and tried grabbing the phone, which Yuki maneuvered out of his reach. A grin on his face, “You said to take a better photo, and this is great!” 

“Yuki, delete it.” The barista stuck his tongue out and pocketed the device. Jin Woo glared at him, “Yuki.” 

“Welp! Time for me to go back to work!” 

“Yuki!” 

++++

Yuki stared at his shadow in contemplation. He swore he saw slanted blue eyes staring at him, but then again… he could be wrong. Afterall, Jin Woo wouldn’t just give Igris to anyone, right? 

Right? 

“Ne~ You’re Igirs right?” His shadow shivered. Yuki began hyperventilating. ‘Oh my God! Oh my God! It’s Igris! Igris is in my house and he’s in my shadow and oh my God!’ 

Pip flicked his ear and Cujo huffed. Not bothered that a sentient being was in his godforsaken shadow! Cue more deep breaths and fanning the face to cool it down. 

“Do… do you want to see a funny photo of Jin Woo?” Was he really talking to his shadow? Yes. Did he think Igris would answer? No. Did Igris, the Blood-Red Commander Igris, respond? Yes. 

Red eyes widened as his shadow morphed, encasing a tall being with a tattered cloak and a sword. Dwarfing his small frame and making him also break his neck to look up. Yuki wasn’t the only one startled. Pip had woken from his nap, and promptly hissed at the Commander, while Cujo growled. A ferocious sound from deep in his barrel chest, had Yuki shivering. In all his years of having Cujo, not once had the dog growled like that. 

“Cu-Cujo, it’s okay! He’s… friendly?” Friendly was probably not the right word to describe Igris, because someone as menacing and carrying a sword taller than Yuki could really ever be considered friendly. But! He hasn’t cleaved his dog, or cat (who was batting at the swaying cape like the damn animal had no common sense!), yet so Yuki will take it as he will. 

Slanted pale blue eyes stared into his red ones. The red ornament hanging from his helmet swaying in the non-existent wind and added more emphasis on just how tall Igris was. Covered in armor and staring at Yuki with curiosity that he could feel. His skin prickled at the unwavering gaze. 

“S-so, those photos.” 

. 

.

.

“That’s how Jin Woo got his finger stuck in the bottle,” Yuki laughed after the story. His shoulders shaking and he brought his knees closer to his chest. He and Igris had moved from Yuki’s bedroom to the bathroom. Yuki still talked and told stories about when Jin Woo was younger, and allowed Igris to sit while he made the tub hot. 

Now he’s spent about 20-minutes in the tub and had felt he had said enough about Jin Woo. Igris had his back to him, minding his manners and letting Yuki soak in peace. It was quite funny actually. Yuki could have sworn he saw Igris blush before the large shadow about-faced. 

Red eyes stared into the now warm water. Watched how small waves formed whenever his muscles twitched. His eyes caught sight of the whirlpools that formed. Watched as they spiraled into nothing. 

“Igris, do you perhaps, believe in reincarnation?” Was he really doing this? 

He caught sight of Igri’s head-turning and his shoulders tensed. 

‘Well, it’s not like Igris can talk.’ Yuki sunk further into the water, “The universe is just a giant circle. Maybe even a spiral.” He brought his hand out of the water and watched how the water droplets rolled across his arm and dripped back into the tub. Returning back to the giant picture. 

“Everything follows the same pattern. Repeating over and over and over again.” Life and death. Dispersing and gathering. Forever in the same loop. 

“Our galaxy will follow the same pattern. In about 4.5 billion years, the Andromeda and the Milky Way are supposed to collide.” Yuki’s eyes watched as one stray droplet raced over the back of his hand. 

“Then, afterward it’ll create a giant explosion, separating all of our atoms. Only for a few billion years later, we’ll combine again and create a new galaxy. Our atoms will create a new star.” Red eyes looked up and met slanted glowing eyes. Yuki smiled, “Who’s to say that soul can’t be thrown in the circle as well?” 

Yuki wasn’t meant to be here. That was a fact. Yuki was meant to die in his old world, and then get reborn back into that world. Losing all his memories and making a new one. Not in this world with memories from his past life. Plaguing him and haunting him wherever he went. Where he knew the tragedy that will befall on these people and the burden Jin Woo will carry. 

All because Jin Woo had caught Ashborn’s attention. 

This world itself has been caught in the circle too. Being destroyed and put back together. Destroyed and put back together. Destroyed and put back together. Almost a neverending cycle until Jin Woo uses it for the last time. Ending that cycle, but moving the world along in the bigger cycle. 

“Ellowyn.” 

“Perhaps, my soul is just a fragment of a bigger soul.” What else could explain it? In his previous life, Yuki had never heard of the name Ellowyn. Has never had the pain in his chest the way he does now. His eyes have never glowed orange as they do now. If Jin Woo had the heart of Ashborn, who’s to say that Yuki didn’t have the soul of another being? 

But then, who would it be? What if Ellowyn was Ashborn’s nemesis or something. Would that mean Jin Woo and Yuki were destined to be enemies? If it was that, would Jin Woo hate Yuki? 

Sighing heavily, Yuki pressed his forehead into his forearms. Not wanting to think about the possibility. His chest ached at the thought of Jin Woo hating him. At the thought of Jin Woo leaving him behind, Yuki couldn’t stop the tears bubbling at the corner of his eyes. 

‘If Jin Woo does end up with Cha Hae In, what will I do?’ The crack in his heart and his throat closing had Yuki panicking. Sitting up straight and staring at himself in the reflection of the water. 

‘Why does that matter?’ 

“Why do I care. We’re friends.” Just friends. Just friends. Just friends. Yuki will be happy if Jin Woo goes to Cha Hae In. Because Cha Hae In can make Jin Woo happy. As long as Jin Woo was happy, then Yuki can be happy. 

‘But what if I don’t make it that long?’ The thought of seeing Jin Woo with Cha Hae In before Yuki dies had his chest aching. A different ache in comparison to his lung. An ache from an invisible force. 

Plip 

“Ah.” His reflection wavered. The water rippling and distorting his reflection the longer he looked at it.  

Plip 

Plip 

“Oh God.” Tears raced down Yuki’s cheeks and his mouth formed a horrible grimace. He cupped his mouth to stifle the sobs and his shoulders shook. His heart aching and he could feel his soul quivering. 

At 10:59 PM, Yuki had a realization. Sitting in the bathtub and diving deeper into his meaning of exsitstence and feelings. It is when he discovered it. 

Min Matsuno Yuki had fallen for his best friend. The Protagonist of this world. The Shadow Monarch. Ashborn’s chosen human. 

Min Matsuno Yuki was fucked. 

Chapter Text

Jin Woo stared at the pop-up in front of him. Glowing gold for the too dark of a room. He had just finished implementing the new neighborhood patrol and was just about to go to sleep for the night when the System dinged. 

[ Quest: The Will to Grow ] 

[Feelings are reciprocated!] 

[Stats increase by 30%] 

‘Feelings are reciprocated.’ 

‘Feelings are reciprocated.’ 

‘Reciprocated.’ 

‘Recipro-’ Jin Woo was out of the room and into the night. Racing towards a familiar complex. He didn’t bother going through the front and instead raced up the side of the building towards the balcony. Slamming the balcony door open and ignoring how Cujo barked at him. Racing towards the kitchen where he could see Yuki making tea. His eyes rimmed red and his white fluffy robe hugged his frame. 

“Ji-Jin Woo! Are-are you ok-okay?” Those red eyes stared at him with something more than just worry. Now that the System said it. Acknowledged it. Jin Woo no longer felt like he was crazy. Like he was hallucinating or overthinking everything. 

Yuki likes him. 

Likes him. Likes him!   Him of all people. Yuki liked Jin Woo. That was all the taller man could think about as Yuki panicked over him. Staring at him and looking him up and down, trying to find an injury or source of stress that would make Jin Woo race over and scale a building. Something he has never done before. 

“Jin Woo?” Gray eyes met red, and dear God Jin Woo was in love. Those red eyes, glowing in the night and looking like the only source of color on a blank white canvas, stared at him. Kindly. Worriedly. 

“You like me.” He watched how Yuki’s eyes widened and those pale cheeks flushed crimson. Matching his eyes. Grey watched how the eyes became worried, flashing with fear and denial as he shook his head. 

“N-no! Wh-where the hell did that co-come from? Jin Woo, are you okay?” Yuki was a terrible liar. An absolutely atrocious liar. Jin Woo gripped Yuki’s biceps and brought him close. Enveloping Yuki’s body with his own and staring into embarrassed red eyes. He watched how Yuki’s mouth opened and closed in shock. Trying to weasel something out as Jin Woo continued to stare at him. 

“You like me.” 

“I-I-I do n-no–” 

“I like you.” Yuki’s eyes widened. Eyebrows shot towards his hairline and his body froze. Jin Woo held him closer, “I like you. I like you so much it’s driving me crazy.” He leaned down, pressing his forehead into Yuki’s. Just how they usually do. Only this time, there was more meaning behind it. More emotions. More feelings. Mutual feelings. 

Determined grey stared into bashful red. Jin Woo sighed, moving one of his hands to cup Yuki’s cheek, “I like you so much, Yuki. I don’t know what  to do when you aren’t next to me.” ‘I can’t feel anything without you next to me,’ Jin Woo thought. It was weird. A feeling he was growing accustomed to every second of the day. 

Yuki was his proof that he was still human. Able to still feel emotions. Even though the System tried taking them, Yuki always brought them back. Cupping his heart with warm hands and reminding him that Jin Woo was still Jin Woo. He was still human. Even if the System and others said otherwise. 

Yuki’s opinion was all that mattered. 

Yuki was all that mattered. 

Ellowyn was all that mat– Jin Woo paused on that thought. For a brief moment, it wasn’t Yuki’s face in front of him. Those red eyes were replaced by orange, and his hair was longer. Flowing around them like rivers of freshly melted snow. They weren’t Yuki, but at the same time, they were. Yuki’s face came back, showcasing concern and astonishment. Jin Woo doesn’t know what there was to be astonished about, nevertheless, it was on Yuki’s face. 

“What are you talking about?” Yuki mumbled, cheeks still blazing and eyes looking shyly away. He had relaxed in Jin Woo’s grip, pressing his forehead into Jin Woo’s. Their noses almost touching and breaths mingling. 

“I’m saying, I’ve been liking you for a while.” Yuki’s eyes widened. 

“To finally see you like me back, I feel like I’m going crazy. So insane, and you are the only reason I can think right.” Jin Woo cupped Yuki’s cheek, running a thumb over Yuki’s cheek. Large hands, callused from years of wielding a weapon and putting his life on the line, nearly fully encased Yuki’s cheeks. Smooth skin, pale from genetics, contrasting heavily with the rough tanned skin of Jin Woo.

Jin Woo couldn’t help but smile. Finally. Finally, after so long, Yuki likes him back. One of the people he wants to get stronger for is reciprocating his feelings. Is choosing him. 

“If you say it like that, you’ll sound crazy.” Jin Woo huffed a laugh, pressing the tip of his nose against Yuki’s. An Eskimo kiss. He was going crazy. Unable to deny it, and was ready to accept the feeling he got whenever he was away from Yuki. His eyes focused only on Yuki. 

“I told you. I am going crazy for you.” Their lips crashed against one another. Long overdue and needed. A strange feeling of completeness surged through them. The last piece of the puzzle fitting perfectly in the only space left. 

Yuki wondered just how long he has liked Jin Woo to kiss him like he hasn’t seen him in forever. Like this kiss was way overdue. The way lovers do after one comes back from a war. Frantic. Emotional. He only just acknowledged his feelings, so how long was he pushing them away? Pushing them down and drowning them in the excuse of work and that Jin Woo was the main character. The protagonist. Things wouldn’t change that much just because of Yuki. So far, almost everything has happened the same. 

At least, that is what Yuki believes. He doesn’t go in the Dungeons, so he doesn’t know how those are playing out. 

Yuki pulled away first, needing the air and Jin Woo rested his forehead back against the other’s. Ignoring how his cheeks were hotter than the Demon Tower, and focused on how red Yuki’s cheeks were. A blotchy blush, darker in some areas than others, but still looking beautiful. Looking so much like Yuki. He could feel Yuki’s slender hands gripping his shirt, crinkling the fabric, and holding on as if Jin Woo would drop him. As if this was a dream, and he didn’t want to let go of it. 

The smaller man buried his face in Jin Woo’s chest. Taking in the fresh scent of mint, and how the cotton fabric felt soft against his cheeks. He could feel every intake of breath Jin Woo made. The muscular pecs rise and fall under the fabric and Yuki’s head follows the same rhythm. Not wanting to part from the heat source. Jin Woo’s strong arms wrapped around him, caging him against his body and not letting go. Refusing to let Yuki go. Not that Yuki would go anywhere. There wasn’t anywhere for him to go where he would feel safer than here. Nowhere he would feel more complete than right here. In the arms of his childhood friend. The protagonist of Solo Leveling. The Hero of this world. 

In Yuki’s past life, from what he remembers, there were a few ‘almost relationships.’ Back when he was a she. Feelings were there and later returned. Dates were taken and smiles and innocent kisses were shared. However, never further than that before she would back away. Something would always be missing. Something would always be wrong. 

She broke a lot of hearts in the past life. Had her own heart broken multiple times. This time, though. This time it felt right. Yuki, for the first time in his life, both the past and current, felt complete. He felt that if the world was to end right now, he wouldn’t care. He finally felt whole. Like someone had placed a missing piece back on his body, into his soul, and he could now face the world without the fear of crumbling. Without breaking from a small breeze, he was finally complete. All his pieces are there. Holding him stable against the forces of nature. 

Yuki chuckled into Jin Woo’s chest. Who would have thought? 

Jin Ah will be having a field day once she finds out. 

++++

Call Jin Woo a creep and he’ll deny it. Call him a creep for Yuki, and Jin Woo would pause at that. When they were growing up together, he was often times called Yuki’s shadow. Always there, right behind him. Wherever Yuki was, Jin Woo would be close behind. Il Hwah, Jin Woo’s father and a father-figure to Yuki, would often laugh and call his son out on it. It was funny really. Jin Woo continued to follow Yuki. Primary School, Middle School, even High School. Wherever Yuki was, Jin Woo wasn’t far behind. 

Like a shadow. 

Gray eyes watched the sleeping form of Yuki. The smaller male resting on his chest, head where his heart was and mouth slightly agape. His thin lips bruised and swollen from their kiss, and the multiple kisses afterward. His long eyelashes rested gently on his cheeks and his hair sprawled everywhere. 

Now that Jin Woo was more aware of the magic coursing through him and everything, he could also sense Yuki’s now. It was alarming at first when he first saw Yuki after that Double Dungeon. The light orange and white intermingling together around him, soft to the touch and a sight for sore eyes. While orange was a color that Jin Woo would have never thought would look good with Yuki, this shade did. It reminded Jin Woo of the orange in sherbert ice cream. A soft orange that had pink and yellow undertones, making it incredibly soft. 

The power nestled around Yuki. It wasn’t armor, but more similar to clothes. Hugging close to the body and wanting to seem a part of his being. It didn’t come off as abrasive as someone who was a Tank would, nor was it entirely meek like a Healer. The magic itself didn’t fit in a category. 

‘Similar to mine.’ Jin Woo knew his own magic was like that. What Hunter can possess Assassin skills while also being a Mage? Then there were the other qualities, such as a Tank, and due to the potions the System gave him maybe even a Healer. Depending on how closely you wanted to look at what makes a Healer a Healer. 

Yuki’s, similar to Jin Woo’s, was an abundance of possibilities. However, unlike Jin Woo, Yuki remains to be unawakened, and his magic was different. It wasn’t sharp and jaded like Jin Woo knew his was. It wasn’t dark, haunting, and intimidating like his. It was the umbra of a shadow. The promise of death and the one thing that people see when they die. Black. 

No, Yuki’s was warm. Soft and comforting. It would be the second thing someone saw after dying. Light. 

If Jin Woo’s magic was the waves of the ocean during a storm, large and dangerous, then Yuki’s was the waves on a gentle day at the beach. Soft and lulling. When you close your eyes and let the water rush at your ankles, feeling brush past you and back, the feeling of it taking you with it. Wishing for you to come with it. 

While Jin Woo’s forcefully grabs you and drags you. 

They were different. From the person to their magic. Yet, Jin Woo couldn’t deny that they were similar as well. Closely similar that it felt like it was fate. Like they were the same being. It shouldn’t be impossible. If the waves were a pt of the same ocean, then wouldn’t that mean that their magic could have originated from the same source as well? Different from everybody elses. Only them. Only they could have the same source of magic. 

Jin Woo won’t lie. He felt closer to Yuki when he thought like that. How it was only them, in a vast world with a number of Hunters, and only they shared the same source of power. 

If Yuki ever Awakened, if he ever chose to be a Hunter, Jin Woo would love to see just what type of magic he would have. Jin Woo could see him being a Healer, but he was quickly reminded of Yuki’s hidden temper. ‘Maybe, a Healer for a group that will actually listen to Healer.’ 

Good luck finding that. Just in case, Jin Woo sent a small prayer to whatever unfortunate souls got Yuki as their Healer. 

Then again, that was all assuming Yuki would become a Hunter. 

Jin Woo brushed a strand of white hair off of Yuki’s face. Eying the small scar in the hairline, and scrunching his nose. A scar that wasn’t from Yuki’s father, or from when they would run around at the playground. It was a scar that reminded both of them, Jin Woo and Yuki, just how much stronger Hunters were. Barely human. 

Jin Woo clenched his teeth at the memory. Angry at himself for not being there, and upset with Yuki for not leaving sooner. A traumatizing event, no doubt scarring everyone who was there. 

The chances of Yuki becoming a Hunter even after Awakening were slim. Slimmer than a needle’s point. Even if he did, he most likely wouldn’t go into a Dungeon. Working at the Hunter’s Association would no doubt be the move Yuki made. Even then, all of that would be assuming he did chose to be a Hunter. That was also assuming Yuki would Awaken. 

Looking at the Magic right now, watching it swirl and hum around Yuki, it reminded Jin Woo of those drinks with the edible glitter. Or whatever Jin Ah keeps showing her and asking Yuki to make. Swirling in an invisible container, and making intricate designs against an invisible wall. 

‘Would the Holy Water work on Yuki?’ His thumb followed Yuki’s cheek, to the pierced ears, and to the back of his head. Scraping and massaging the loose strands, and relaxing the tension that had to be there from stress. 

He couldn’t imagine it not working. It would fix Yuki’s lung issue, and then Yuki would finally be able to do all the things he wants to do. Not held back by the fact that if he overexerts himself, he could pass out, or now possibly di– 

‘He won’t die.’ Grey eyes reopened, unaware he closed them and he stared back at the sleeping face. Unaware of all of Jin Woo’s thoughts. Of his dilemmas as he continued to sleep peacefully on. Jin Woo leaned forward, pressing his forehead against Yuki’s, and inhaled. 

‘He won’t die.’ 

‘He won’t die.’ 

“I won’t let you die.” Jin Woo ignored how his heart thumped, heavy, and ready to upkeep that promise. Ignoring the flash of rage that passed through him. Ignoring how when he closed his eyes, for a split second it was that person again. The same person who momentarily overtook Yuki when he and Jin Woo kissed. Giving him Yuki’s smile, with Yuki’s face, and orange eyes. 

They looked like Yuki, but they weren’t. He looked at them, just how they looked at him. Like he looked like someone, but they knew he wasn’t them. They faded away. Leaving Jin Woo alone in his dreams, with his company of only Yuki. His Yuki. 

++++

Yuki looked the other way as Jin Ah continued to stare at him. Large brown eyes narrowed and tried to find what she was searching for. Her nose scrunched, and she bit aggressively into the piece of toast. 

“There’s something different about you.” 

“I used a new bath soap.” 

“That wouldn’t make you look different!” Jin Ah hollered, causing Yuki to chuckle a slide an egg benedict on her plate. Her fourth one.

Jin Woo had left for a ‘camping trip,’ and this meant Jin Ah was staying over. Granted, Jin Woo couldn’t leave without kissing Yuki multiple times and it was until Yuki squawked at him to leave that he did. Yuki wasn’t sure how to bring up his and Jin Woo’s new… relationship? Feeling realization? Whatever they were, up to Jin Ah. 

Yuki wasn’t scared of Jin Ah being mad. She was modern, up to date with a lot of things and because her brother and father are Hunters, she had a Hunter’s view on things. Including relationships. 

It’s just… how do you tell someone who you see as a younger sibling that you are no longer ‘just friends’ with their older sibling? 

“Here’s your lunch.” ‘Yeah, I’m just going to leave that to Jin Woo.’ 

“Your lips are bruised.” Yuki stubbed his toe. 

“Oppa was over last night.” ‘Kill me.’ He watched how all the emotions flashed through her giant brown eyes. The confusion, the realization, the happiness, then the excitement. 

“ARE YOU AND OPPA–” 

“Oh wow! Look at the time! You need to go to school!” 

“Yuki-oppa!! Oh my God, that is so exciting!” 

“Jin Ah, school.” 

“When’s the wedding?” 

“Not funny! And go!” He shut the door in Jin Ah’s face. Listening as she continued to talk to herself about how ‘she called it.’ 

‘That little brat.’ Leave it to the Sung siblings to get his blood pressure high. Red eyes flashed to the balcony doors that Jin Woo jumped in from last night. Scaring the crap out of him, and his poor animals. 

He thanked all the Gods that Jin Ah can’t scale walls. He then cursed God for making Jin Ah so observant. For making her so stupidly smart. Even as a child, Yuki knew Jin Ah would be going somewhere. Excelling in all her classes, and well-loved by everyone. Completely different from Jin Woo. Different from him. 

Yuki smiled down at the half eaten egg benedicts. Observing how Cujo pawed at the balcony door and how Pip continued to sleep on the couch. This peace will soon be broken. The announcement of the Jeju island will soon appear, and holy a shit storm will follow afterwards. 

Taking a deep breath, Yuki readied himself for the day. Red eyes watching the sun rays peak through the glass and shine in his apartment. Creating an illusion of momentary peace. 

‘If only it would all stay like this.’ 

Chapter Text

Yuki stared at Min Byung Gyu with unhidden fear and anxiety. It was 6:30 pm, and they have been sitting at the same spot since the cafe closed. Slices of cake half-eaten and coffee cold, Yuki bit his lip as he continued to stare deeply into his friend’s eyes. It was happening. The raid on Jeju island was happening, and Min Byung Gyu was going. He had just told Yuki his plans and the barista had no idea how to react to it. 

“Byung Gyu-ssi, are you sure?” 

“Yes, I already confirmed that I will be going.” Yuki’s lips trembled, images of his friend’s death flashing in his mind. Only, those images were from a manhwa online that had no voice. Min Byung Gyu was a character that was briefly introduced and then killed. Brutally. Yuki knew his voice now. Knew his laugh, his quirks, and his personality beyond the few panels he was in when he was just a character in Solo Leveling. 

Yuki burrowed his face in his hands. A migraine forming and the horrific images plaguing his mind. 

“You can’t even look at an ant. How are you going to fight larger ones?” Min Byung Gyu flinched at the accusation but didn’t deny it. It was true. He still struggled to look at insects and the sound of his Hyung’s screams echoed in his nightmares. However, to hear Yuki say it out loud made the wound a little bit sorer. A little bit more painful.

“I won’t be fighting, I’ll just be heal–” 

“You will be on an island that is literally infested with them. The chances of you having to fight are high.” 

“I’ll be protected.” Yuki clenched his jaw. ‘No you won’t be. The ant there is gonna eat you!’ Taking a deep inhale, Yuki tried to calm himself. It would do no good to get riled up and say more than what needed to be known. 

“Hyung-nim will protect me.” ‘Correction, Baek Yoon Ho will try and protect you.’ Yuki huffed, “If the healer is so well protected, then why do they need to send you in? Why not another Healer?” Byung Gyu smiled, “Yuki-ssi, what other S Rank Healer does South Korea have?” 

‘Jin Woo’s potions.’ Yuki glanced down and eyed his half-eaten cheesecake. It was a new recipe, one that celebrated the incoming of spring with the use of pink and sakura petals. He was so excited to eat it. Now, it just tasted like ash and mud in his mouth. The texture like a soggy sponger, and each bite sent the taste of ash further around his mouth. Coating his teeth, tongue, and cheeks the disgusting flavor and sponge-like texture. The coffee, which was supposed to be his saving grace, tasted like disappointment and bitterness that had momentarily startled Yuki after the first sip. 

“You look upset.” Red eyes looked up from the piece of cake and met concerned brown eyes. Min Byung Gyu didn’t deserve to die. Such a kind soul, and here he was fated to leave this world in less than a month. In a gruesome way nonetheless. In a way that he didn’t deserve. He won’t go in his sleep. Or in a hospital bed, surrounded by family and friends. He’ll go with a hand through his chest, and his head being bitten clean off in a dangerous tunnel, surrounded by the corpses by ants. Oozing purple blood and no doubt the smell of death beginning to form in the air. While friends stare in shock. Baek Yoon Ho will cry in rage and pain. His eyes will make him see every blood drop, every microexpression, and his ears will hear the squelching of flesh tearing to make room for the hand. Bones splintering and blood rushing. 

Min Byung Gyu will die a terrible death, with his Hyung-nim being forced to remember it all. 

Yuki buried his face in his hands. For hell’s sake, the man was going to be a teacher. Helping kids and helping the future of the world find their passions. It was a job meant for the ex-Hunter. Something Yuki knew he would excel in. Something was passionate about. 

“It’s okay. I’ll come back! Hyung-nim said he wants to come back here too, but he doesn’t want to come back alone.” Yuki bit his lip. His eyes stinging and his sinuses felt like they were pressing against his skin. God, why did he have to be an S Rank Healer? Why not an E Ranker? 

Sighing, Yuki lifted his face from his hands. Seeing a smiling Byung Gyu, and knowing that it would be the face that haunts his dreams. A smile that is all teeth, crow feet appearing at the edges of his eyes from the force of said smile, and the way his eyes nearly shut. It’s a face that will haunt his dreams if he dies. One that will be a constant reappearance. 

“We leave in a little over a week from today. So, I don’t know if I’ll see you before.” Min Byung Gyu stared at his friend with eyes that didn’t look like they were confident he was coming back. Worry cutting deep into brown, like a farmer tilling the ground and exposing new soil to the surface. Exposing new emotions in those brown eyes that Yuki no longer wanted to look at. 

“I just wanted to say good–” 

“Do not say it.” Min Byung Gyu’s jaw clicked from the force he used to shut his mouth. Eyes wide as he took in Yuki’s conflicted appearance. Shoulder’s tense and nose scrunched, those red eyes of his ablaze with emotion that wasn’t happiness. Min Byung Gyu didn’t know that Yuki’s eyes could look like anything other than a fruit. Strawberries whenever the sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow on his eyes and looking sweet from how vibrant they were. Cherries whenever it was late in the evening and the cover of night and city light illuminate the red, making them look darker and richer in color. 

Min Byung Gyu wasn’t sure how to describe the color this time. Was there even a fruit that looked this red? Promising a blaze of heat if bitten into while also looking so terribly sad. Shiny with unshed tears, but the heat from words better left unsaid. 

“Do not say it.” Min Byung Gyu smiled sadly, “That’s a cliche thing for you to say, Yuki-ssi.” Yuki has never believed that whole, ‘saying good-bye means it’s the last time’ or whatever spiel that is. He’s never had an issue with it. Never cared how a person wished farewell, but that might be because he knew that they would come back. 

If his good friend Yuki didn’t want to hear it, then Min Byung Gyu won’t say it. Instead, he’ll just say, “Then, I’ll see you next time, Yuki-ssi.” 

“...See you.” The words were heavy on his tongue as he watched Min Byung Gyu exit his cafe with a wave and a smile on his face. Steps light, as if he wasn’t walking towards his funeral. Yuki locked the front door and made his way back to the table. Staring at the half-eaten cheesecake slices on both sides of the table, and the barely touched cups of coffee. He had all but collapsed on the chair, exhaustion weighing heavy on his shoulders and his limbs feeling like they were weighed heavy with lead. 

Reaching into his pockets, Yuki fished out his cigarettes and lighter. Filling the space between his lips with the cancer stick, and the heat of smoke left his chest warm. Something that had been absent since his and Min Byung Gyu’s conversation. Sighing even heavier, Yuki continued to take deeper inhales and longer exhales. Wanting to be relaxed, but the nicotine is taking too slow to act. 

Yuki turned his attention back out the cafe windows. Watching the orange sunset and how people continued on with their daily lives. Unaware of their futures. Some could be aspiring doctors, teachers, electricians, Hunters, or just clueless about what they want to do. Red eyes watched how some adorned smiles on their faces, chatting with whoever it was on the phone or friends, some staring blankly ahead, and others looking pissed at the world. His eyes landed on a couple and watched how the girl leaned into the man’s shoulder. Smiling and laughed as he finally gave her the attention she wanted. 

Yuki smiled, leaning into his knuckles and inhaling once more. His cheeks red as he remembered the kiss last night. The slightly chapped lips against his, and the tongue slipping past his lips. 

‘He tasted like mint.’ 

++++

Orange eyes stared into the memory of grey eyes. Pretending to meet each other, but they knew that it wasn’t their eyes he was looking at. They recognized the underlying glint of blue, slowly becoming purple. The sharpness of the eyes and the piercing feeling of the pupil. 

Jin Woo looked nothing like Ashborn, but at the same time, looked everything like him. From how they both stood, chest up and shoulder’s back, to the way they both gently stared at those who had their hearts. Like nothing in the world existed, apart from people who they cared about. Orange eyes, framed by thick white lashes, closed at the memory and pushed it away. No longer wanting to see those eyes. 

Alone in a vacant space, Ellowyn played a song that they have heard before. A song that Yuki loved, or maybe it was Lillian who loved it? Possibly Jared, or even Esther. Maybe it was– 

Ellowyn shook their head, washing away the names and memories, focusing only on the song. The sound of the violin echoing off the vacant walls, filling the empty space with beautiful music that Ellowyn wished was present when they were still alive. Still a soul in their own body, and not an old soul in a reincarnated body. A body that wasn’t theirs as much as it was. Both belonging and yet both so foreign. 

Standing up, they danced to every pitch and dip the violin made. Twirling and bending in ways that they have seen others do. Their wings followed behind them like a cape, filling the room with blinding white as they danced. Wishing that someone was dancing with them. 

Their ears picked up on the sound of faint humming, no doubt Yuki humming the song. Wondering why it appeared so randomly in his head, but loving the tune. Ellowyn smiled, continuing to dance and replay the beautiful melody over and over again. 

“Not tryna be Indie, not tryna be cool.” Ellowyn will admit, that their reincarnation has a nice voice. Not as beautiful as some other reincarnates, or even some of their friends that they once knew. However, it was still pretty in its own right. Able to carry a tune and feel like the shade on a hot day. 

“And I wanna feel you too.”  Ellowyn’s wings flapped, wanting to fly once more and feel the rush of air past the white feathers. To finally have a body that was their own, and not just be a fragment of a soul. Continuosly being reincarnated and watching through the eyes of their newest body as they live out their lives. Unable to feel what they felt, besides emotions, and just sit and watch. Waiting patiently for their lover to show. 

Who would have thought it would be in this Universe that they would meet again? In this timeline, where Ellowyn finally got to see the making of Ashborn once more. Got to feel the body they reside in, develop and feel the same emotions they felt. Got to watch Jin Woo/Ashborn, fall in love with Yuki/Ellowyn. It made Elloywn feel alive once more. Feel like Ashborn, could see them. 

A sharp pain in their chest had the music stopping and them cradling the area. They could feel Yuki do the same. Keeling over and gasping, a hand over his chest as that girl (Jin Ah?), rushed over and placed warm hands on his back. Ellowyn missed feeling the warmth of touch on their bare skin. The feeling of fingers sifting through the feathers and helping them preen. 

Ellowyn missed being a living body, and they couldn’t help but blame Ashborn for cursing them to be like this. Never whole. Always a fragment. 

‘Still,’ Orange eyes peered into what Yuki was seeing, ‘I hope this body lives.’ None of the others have lived past 30. A cruel destiny that made Ellowyn weep every time. Feeling that it was their fault their lives are cut short. Shorter than what they may have been if their souls weren’t intertwined. Cursed to forever have a hole in the lung. To be weak. 

Cursed to die before they could ever truly experience the meaning of life. Yuki was the second oldest so far. Hanging on by a fraying rope and trying desperately to pull himself up. Not as desperately as others have, and not as accepting as others. This body just wanted to live long enough to see something.

Ellowyn themself was exhausted. Seeing hundreds live their life, they all start looking the same. They wanted to close their eyes a sleep. Feel the few minutes of rest that happens after a reincarnate dies. Feeling peace. 

Nonetheless, Ellowyn will continue holding on. If this body has yet to want to leave, then Ellowyn will also want to stay. Watching the fate of this world with the knowledge of what will happen. Knowing her past comrades will come here. 

Knowing that Ashborn will emerge once more.

Chapter Text

“You’ll listen to mommy, right?” Feeble hands gently cradled a 6-year-old Yuki’s cheek. Her fingers barely touching his skin, skimming over his smooth cheeks with cracked fingertips and bitten nails. Her pale skin looked tan next to his paper-white skin, reminding her just how different her little boy was. Large red eyes stared up at her with a vacancy that shouldn’t be in any child’s eyes. Looking at her like he was an adult who has witnessed the harshest things in life, and she was just some stranger. 

He nodded his tiny head. His face was impassive and showed no expression even though she smiled. Matsuno Sayuri was once a beautiful woman. Her hair was once a dark brown that shined in the sun and danced in the wing gracefully, and her face was beautifully proportioned with almond eyes that looked sultry even without makeup. Some of that still held true at this point in time, only her hair was thinner and dull and her skin now had a greyish hue. 

Sighing heavily, Sayuri bit her chapped and already chewed lips, disbelieving that she was going to say this to her child, “You need to tell them that you are happy. That your dad does not hit you or me, and that life is good even though we have so little.” 

“So, lie.” Sayuri’s jaw clenched, and her hands trembled against her child’s skin. Yuki stared at her with little emotion, and the emotion that was there was disappointment. Her fingers gripped his skin harshly, no longer gentle and she squeezed. Her teeth gritted together and her eyes flashed dangerously, “You said you would listen to mommy.” 

Sayuri always had conflicting emotions with her son. She loved him at the oddest times and hated him the majority of times. She knew that Yuki knew about it, and she wasn’t sure if the child even loved her. He didn’t hold her hand, didn’t smile at her, didn’t seem to enjoy her company, and didn’t look at her the way other kids looked at their parents. Yuki stared through her whenever those bloody red eyes landed on her, and at one point, Sayuri had to talk herself down from gouging those eyes out. 

It was karma. It had to be. Why else would she bare a child with eyes as red as blood and with white hair that matched the shirt she wore that day. Yuki was a child that reminded her of her sins. A reminder of what she had done. 

“You will tell that inspector that. If your dad gets thrown in jail, I will be deported. Mommy will go back to Japan, and you will be thrown into the foster system. Do you think they care about a little Japanese boy like you?!” Her voice shrill and fear radiated off her form at the thought of being forced to go back to her country. The country she fled. 

Red eyes blinked slowly, like a cat that was tired of everyone’s crap affecting their nap time. A smile quirked on his lips, “Go Gun Hee-nim said he’d make sure that wouldn’t happen.” Sayuri’s teeth cracked from the pressure, and she threw Yuki to the floor. 

“You ungrateful brat!” Before she could say, or do more, the sound of a heavy fist landing on their rusting door made her pause. Silence filled the small area as the weight of those knocks sat heavily on Sayuri’s thin frame. Yuki, her son who wasn’t really her son because he had to be her karma in the form of a kid, stared at her with no emotion. 

“I hate you,” Yuki whispered. He sat back up, grabbed his bag, and walked towards the door. He opened the metal slab, wide enough so the state of their apartment could be seen and to let light filter in. Garbage bags, filled to bursting, lined the walls, and flies from the takeout that has never been thrown away buzzed to life. There were stains on the floor, some from food, some from drinks, and some from the body. 

Go Gun Hee’s tall frame stood in the doorway, his eyes hard and face harsh as he stared at the hunched-over woman, whose eyes were peaking through her greasy hair. Yuki’s tiny frame stood in front of the tall man, his bag in one hand and he only turned around when Go Gun Hee held his large hand out. A small smile on his small face, “See you Monday, mother.” 

Yuki stared at the clean countertops of his kitchen, wondering just when he allowed his mind to wander so much. The shop was closed today, which was rare because it was a Wednesday, and the cafe rarely ever closed on weekdays, but this day, in particular, has always been the day he closes on. Not out of respect, but more so for the culture that he was born into. He didn’t do it one year, and he swears to this day he was cursed for a few days for it. 

So, maybe not culture but fear. 

He will only take a day off. Only that. There will be no flowers, no moment of silence, and certainly no tears. Sayuri Min, otherwise known as Sayuri Matsuno, didn’t deserve them. Stretching his neck, Yuki waited for the oven to beep and signal that the cake was done. Shouldn’t be too long, but then again, his day so far has felt slow. 

Bzzt Bzzt 

Red eyes snapped to his phone, a smile blooming on his face at the sight of the Caller ID. It was just in time too, because the oven just beeped. 

“Good morning, Go Gun Hee-nim.” The old man chuckled, “Good morning Yuki. I hope your day has been good so far?” Yuki hummed, eyeing the cake that had stopped rising and was now browning, “I’ve been good. Just baking a cheesecake, hoping it turns out okay.” He could hear the old man laughing on the other side of the line, “ Yuki sounding uncertain a cake of his good? I must be dreaming.”  

Yuki chuckled, stopping the oven just before the beep and grabbing an oven mitt. He sandwiched the phone between his cheek and shoulder, grabbing the hot pan and moving it to the counter where a cake stand was waiting. 

“Would you want me to bring you some? I made too much.” Go Gun Hee hummed, “Sure. I’m at the Hunter’s Organization Building if you’re still okay stopping by.” Yuki paused, pursing his lips and scrunching his nose in distaste. 

“That works. I’ll be there in about an hour.” 

“I’ll let the receptionist know. See you then, Yuki-ssi.” The phone hung up and Yuki gently tossed the device to the couch. He sighed heavily as he pulled the oven mitts off and made his way to his bedroom, allowing time for the cheesecake to cool before removing it from the pan. He grabbed a cream, crew neck sweater and threw it over his blue-collar shirt, and switched his sweats for jeans. 

Throwing his hair into a claw clip and clipping it to his scalp, a few strands framing his face, he put in his silver studs and grabbed his sunglasses. Sighing, he looked at himself once more in the mirror and winced. He had bags. The dark discoloration vibrant against his pale skin and it made him look like he got hit. 

“Dear god.” Yuki once debated about getting concealer. Back when he was still a young business, he had a lot of sleepless nights that led to many dark circles. However on there was no shade for his skin. He’s too pale, which was weird considering here in South Korea they wanted paler skin but just not albino-pale. 

Yuki groaned, rubbing his face and massaging his temples. It’ll be fine. He’ll be fine. 

.

.

.

‘As if.’

“Go Gun Hee-nim is currently in a meeting. He told me to tell you to wait for him in Room 2.” Yuki blinked at the receptionist, “Huh? He told me he wasn’t busy.” She smiled, kindly and patiently, “There is an urgent matter taking place right now that is requiring his attention.” Yuki nodded, “Okay. Thank you.” 

Today will be normal. Absolutely, undeniably normal. 

He ignored the way his skin crawled at the feeling of being around all these Hunters. His limbs tense and walk stiff, he wanted out of this building. He knows, internally he knows, no one will hurt him. Not here at least. Yes, they were all Hunters, but they were different. 

‘Breathe Yuki, breathe.’ He repeated this mantra as he walked to Room 3, his gaze fixed solely on the wall in front of him. His attention briefly diverted as a tall man walked down the hallway. Yuki had to hold his breath, keep his gaze forward, and fingers clenching the plastic cover that protected the cheesecake to keep himself from running. He wanted to leave. 

The man was walking closer, wearing an ugly Hawaiian shirt and sandals. Behind him was a small woman, her gaze focused in front of her, just as Yuki’s was. Or, would have been, if he didn’t briefly look up and meeting red. Yuki’s eyes widened at seeing another with red eyes, but nevertheless, he returned his attention back to the hallway. 

‘Keep walking. Ignore him. Ignore. Him.’ Yuki recited and continued walking. He ignored the way the man’s power rolled off of him and tried to cling to Yuki’s skin. He ignored the way his stomach turned and flipped. It was somersaulting like a gymnast and his heart beating as if he ran a marathon. 

“Yuki-ssi, no need to go to Room 3. My office is available.” Yuki breathed a sigh of relief at Go Gun Hee’s words, unsure if he could handle this stupidly long walk to Room 3. He ignored the heavy gaze of the other Hunter because there was no way that man was NOT a Hunter and he all but ran after Go Gun Hee. 

The older man smiled kindly at him and placed a large hand on his thin shoulder. Aged eyes followed the bags under his eyes, and said nothing, only sighed and motioned for Yuki to follow him. Which he did with no complaint. His thin legs took long strides to keep up with the older man. 

“It is great to see you, Go Gun Hee-nim.” The older man chuckled, “Likewise, Yuki-ssi. I’m sorry if you had to wait.” To which the younger man shook his head, “I didn’t really wait. I was only walking to the Room before you called out.” Go Gun Hee nodded, opening the door to his office and letting Yuki walk in first. 

It smelled of cigarettes and coffee. 

Yuki raised an eyebrow and set the cheesecake down on the desk, finding a vacant spot on the oak wood. The furniture piece looked new if Yuki was being honest, and it still had that freshly finished wood smell to it. 

“Is this new?” 

“It is. The old desk broke, so I had to get a new one.” Yuki hummed at the reply, “How did you break a desk?” Go Gun Hee coughed into his closed fist and motioned for the young man to sit in one of the chairs. Yuki chuckled, letting the man have his secrets, and continued to look around thee office. It wasn’t his first time in this office, but it has been awhile. When he was a teenager, he would stop by regularly to check on Go Gun Hee and let the older man know he was doing alright. 

He hasn’t stepped foot in the Hunter’s Organization Building since he was 18. There were only a select few Hunters that Yuki could stand being near, and only two of them worked here. For a good minute, Yuki was terrified of Go Gun Hee and that is where the gift exchange came from. Unable to meet in person, but he would always let the man who saved him know he was thinking of him. 

“How have you been, Yuki-ssi?” The barista smiled, “I’ve been well. Nothing new really.” They both know what today is, and that it doesn’t affect Yuki all that much. He’s more superstitious than anything else. 

Go Gun Hee chuckled at a memory of Yuki calling him at 1:00 PM, frantically explaining all the things that had happened that day and how to reverse bad karma. Yuki, sensing the memory, scrunched his nose and pouted, “I still stand that that woman cursed me that day.” Go Gun Hee barked out a loud laugh, “Knowing her, she probably did. I’m shocked she hasn’t cursed you more by talking bad about her.” 

Yuki shrugged, “She always knew she was terrible. I think she’d be more upset if I tried to talk kindly about her.” Min Sayuri, formerly known as Matsuno Min Sayuri,  died on this day 12 years ago. Yuki had already been staying with Sungs, but because he was her son the hospital called to let him know what happened. 

She was drunk driving and crashed her car into a canal. They never told him if she died on impact or drowned, but Yuki wasn’t curious. He never was. His attitude towards it had the Sungs worried, but after a few weeks of Yuki acting fine, they dropped it. 

Go Gun Hee didn’t. 

“Anyways, that Hunter, he didn’t bother you did he?” Yuki blinked confusedly, “No?” Go Gun Hee sighed in relief, “Good.” Yuki raised an eyebrow and gave a confused smile. 

‘That Hunter must have been an asshole.’ 

++++ 

Yuki stared at the polaroids. 

‘National Grade S Rank Hunter: Thomas Andre, Leaving South Korea Hunter Organization Building.’ There he was, tall and broad smirking at the cameras. His eyes hidden behind sunglasses and poofy blonde hair hung around his shoulders. He was wearing an ugly Hawaiian shirt and sandals. 

‘Oh shit.’ Yuki made eye contact with a National Grade Hunter. He made eye contact and didn’t gasp, faint, or look surprised. 

‘What kind of luck is this to be meeting every damn S Rank?!’ 

Chapter Text

Jin Woo grasped the Holy Water of Life in his hands, careful to not break it. He stared at the intricate;y designed glass jar that held a small amount of thick, red liquid. It sloshed around with every movement, staining the sides of the glass a pink before it dribbled down and joined the rest of the body of water. It didn’t look like water in all honesty. Jin Woo has seen enough blood to be able to spot it at first glance, and this Holy Water of Life was not in fact blood, although the color could almost be the same. 

‘This… this could help Mom and possibly Yuki.’ Jin Woo clenched the jar, imagining his mother awake and a healthy Yuki. Almost all of them together once more. No fear of anyone dying now due to Jin Woo being stronger, Yuki healthy, his mother awake and also healthy, and there should be no reason for Jin Ah to ever be in danger again thanks to the soldier he has watching her. 

It was an almost perfect image. The only one missing was his dad. 

Riding on the back of Kaisel, his newly acquired Wyvern, Jin Woo reminisced of old memories. Memories involving all five of them, laughing in the small apartment and trying to crack jokes at one another. His dad was always the life of the party, followed by a small Jin Ah who would make her own jokes and laugh at everything their old man said. Yuki would be smiling, laughing lightly, and helping his mother with either cooking or cleaning as Jin Woo lingered near the two. Helping when necessary and laughing at his dad and Jin Ah.   

After his dad disappeared, those times quickly came to an end. His mother fell ill, Yuki was injured, and then started the cafe business, Jin Ah focused on school, and Jin Woo focused on not dying. 

“I’m sorry Yuki, but it’s the only way to pay the bills.” 

“As I said, I can help.” Jin Woo clenched his jaw, glaring at Yuki, “I don’t want your help! I can do this!” He was an E Rank, the weakest of the Hunters, but he was still stronger than a regular human. The ratty and old table, abused by years of homework, cooking, bills, and life had broken when he kicked the leg of it. The wood, plates, and cups crashed onto the floor and shattered everywhere. Hibiscus tea spilled everywhere and made the floor red. 

“I can do this. I can support Jin Ah on my own. I don’t need your sympathy.” Jin Woo looked up with a glare that quickly melted once he saw the look on Yuki’s face. His breath lodged in his throat as the terrified red eyes snapped to him and looked at him in fear. He gulped, “I- Yuki… I’m…I’m sorry.” Red eyes watched him like a hawk, keeping track of his movements and ensuring there was distance between them. 

“I-I should go.” 

“Yuki, please–” 

“Goodbye, Jin Woo.” 

Jin Woo landed in the hospital room his was mother staying in. Her face thin and grey, she almost looked like a corpse. He pushed that thought away, choosing to focus on the fact that he now had the item to heal her. To hopefully wake her up.

Hopefully. 

If this worked, Yuki would be next. He will give Yuki this, and finally, they will all be healthy once more. His mother is awake and smiling, Yuki will no longer be in pain, Jin Ah could once again smile with everything in her, and Jin Woo will feel more complete. Never fully complete, but close enough. 

“Jin Woo?” Never fully complete, but close enough.  

“You’ve been working so hard, haven’t you? I’m sorry that I left the burdens on you.” Warm hands, callused from years of hard work but gentle on his skin, encased his larger hands. 

“I’m so proud of you.” Tears raced down his cheeks as he hugged his mother, who was awake and hugging him back. Her heartbeat loud in her chest and feeble arms, that were once bone now full of healthy fat and muscles, hugged him back. 

“Mom.” He buried his face in her neck, crying like a six-year-old in his mother’s arms, as she rubbed his back and nuzzled her cheek on the top of his head, “My Jin Woo, you’ve grown so much.” Jin Woo nodded, “It’s been so long, Mom.” She hummed, “It feels like it.” 

He continued to hug her until a Nurse came in and almost screamed. For a person to awaken from Eternal Sleep has never been heard of until now, and for it to be an S Rank’s parent meant the hospital’s name was about to reach new popularity heights. Jin Woo held her hand as they did tests, stupified about how healthy and alive she was.

When Jin Ah came running in is when Jin Woo let go of his mother’s hand to let Jin Ah hug the woman. Her sobs loud and tears heavy as she cried into her mother’s arms. Kyung Hye, with all the care she had to offer, held her sobbing daughter and tried her best to console her now much older daughter. 

Jin Woo stayed with them, taking in the moment and choosing to be with his family. 

Yuki on the other hand was having a less wonderful time. 

He stared at the blood in the sink, freshly brushed teeth now red and he could feel warmth dribbling from his nose. It trailed down his cupid’s bow and onto his lips, staining them red and proceeding to drip down his chin. The ache in lungs no longer bothered him, and he could feel as though his ribs were collapsing in on his lungs and organs. 

Red eyes moving to the mirror, where a different face was staring back at him. Eyes glowing orange, there was no distant pupil, sclera, or iris. The whole eyes was orange, and their face marble white. Although they had a nose, a mouth, and cheeks they didn’t look human. Their face too smooth, to perfect, like a drawing. It wasn’t his face, Yuki knew that for a fact. 

Unless he grew horns, which he clearly did not. In the reflection, they rested on top of his head, and were conjoined making a half-halo shape above his head. A single horn that, had two different starting points that were also the ending points. The points on this horn, were symmetrical on both sides until the middle where there was one large point, making the whole thing seem like a backward crown. 

Those eyes, although they were one solid color, Yuki could feel them staring at him. Watching his every move. He hated to say it, but they looked somewhat sad. 

“Who are you?” He could hear Cujo, that lazy dog, growling from the doorway. Mouth frothing and eyes zeroed in on the reflection. Pip was probably off hiding somewhere. 

There was no answer, and Yuki tilted his head. Watching in slight horror as the face stayed the same. He could feel his heart racing and his chest aching as the organ pounded against his ribs. 

“Are… are you Ellowyn?” They blinked. They fucking blinked. Yuki took a deep breath, ignoring the pain in his lungs, and released it slowly. Gulping he stared once more in the mirror, unsure how to go about this. They didn’t look like him. They didn’t look like what he did in his past life either. A marble statue is literally what Ellowyn looked like. 

“Why is this happening to me?” His eyes becoming wet as the thought that he could die young, once again, crossed his mind. Yuki isn’t stupid. He knows his body is crumbling, is falling apart from the inside out and there’s little to nothing he can do about it.

He stared down at the red-stained porcelain sink, the blood flowing into the facet and leaving behind transparent red liquid. His nose long stopped bleeding, the blood on his face turning cold and he could feel some of it beginning to crust. 

“Why?” He peered through his bangs, and Ellowyn was still there. Staring at him with saddened eyes and a guilty expression despite their face not moving an inch. 

‘We are connected.’ Their voice, because it wasn’t Yuki’, sounded ethereal. It sounded as if it wasn’t meant to be heard by humans. It wasn’t meant to be heard by him. 

‘You are me, as I am you.’ Yuki groaned, “What does that even mean?” Orange eyes stared at him, and he could see that they were about to say something else until his reflection shifted and he was staring at himself. Red eyes were bloodshot, white hair a mess and everywhere, and his nose crusted with blood. He felt his shadow shiver, which was a weird sensation all on its own, and he quickly turned the tap on and washed the blood from the sink and his face. 

Igris stood behind him, tall and having to bend down because of the ceilings. Yuki smiled at him, exhaustion on his face, “Hello, Igris.” The knight gave a small bow, and even though he had no facial features other than his eyes, Yuki could see the slight concern behind the blue glow. 

“I am okay. Just tired.” Those all-knowing eyes squinted, and Yuki felt as though he was being chastised. Smiling, Yuki turned to fully face the shadow, “Honest. Now, I’m heading to bed. Sorry for worrying you.” Yuki sidestepped the shadow, feeling exactly when he slipped back into the umbra and walked his way to his bed. Patting Cujo on the head, “Good boy.” Foregoing the bed, he stood in front of his windows. Watching the night traffic pass by as Seoul remained lit with luminescent lights. 

Sighing heavily once more, he rubbed his chest in thought as the world continued to spin. Forever in motion, he felt as though he was stuck in time. Forever in this one spot, continuously watching others live their lives. In his past life, from what he could remember, he died at 26. He was a she and her life had been going well. A single, independent woman who had just gotten a promotion at her job, and had a life in front of her. Then she started coughing, and couldn’t stop. Worried bypassers trying ti help her breathe, and calling the ambulance once the cough became wet and blood began leaving her body with each and every cough. 

It was the clearest memory he had, aside from Solo Leveling which was beginning to get foggy, and he had remembered it in the form of a nightmare. This memory was not the only memory that he was beginning to see in clarity, like someone had ripped the film away of particular memories to force him to remember a life he had before this. In his past life, she had a nephew. A cute, adorable nephew who was only two years old and was the light of his life. She had a cat named Pip, the exact same cat he has, and she wanted a dog to name Cujo. A St. Bernard, just like his. 

Lillian wanted to be an artist. She wanted to draw, paint, and create pictures and paintings that everyone could enjoy. Lillian chose to be a data analyst instead, and drew on the side. 

Yuki at first wasn’t able to recall why his desire to follow his want to be a barista was almost crippling. Making him furious every time someone told him to go down a different path. Now that that memory, those feelings, that desire to do what he wanted to do were clear in his mind he could understand it. 

Lillian’s disappointment became Yuki’s drive. 

With the price of that memory, Yuki couldn’t seem to remember parts of Solo Leveling as he used to. What exactly happened after the Double Dungeon? Did Jin Woo gain Igris first and then kill Hwang Dongsu’s brother, or was it Hwang Dongsu’s brother and then Igris? Did he meet a demon this time in that Dungeon he claimed was a camping trip, or was that the first time he went in? Did he kill a Monarch or just another monster? 

“Why can’t I remember?” He whimpered. Hastily running to his desk, he grabbed a piece of paper and pen and began hastily writing things down that he could remember. Not in order, but by what he could remember most. 

1. Ant Raid 
2. Min Byung Gyu dies 
3. Kang Taeshik dies Already Happened 
4. Ogre at School 
5. Nephew is born Lilian Memory 
6. A Betrayal < Who betrays who? 
7. Jin Woo Dad Alive? 
8. Go Gun Hee Dies. Dies. DIes. DIes. DIESDIESDIESDIES 
9. I die. Lilian memory 
10. Large Gate Japan, or China, or Thailand one of those countries 
11. Other Large Gate, trap, people die 

Yuki’s head began pounding the more he tried remembering, and soon enough his vision began to black out. Dark spots creeping at the edges and he threw the pen across the room in a fit of irritation, and carefully stumbled to his bed. He crawled under the covers, accidentally disturbing Pip, who now looked more like Lillian’s Pip than he did his own. 

‘Go to sleep Yuki. It’ll be better in the morning. It’ll be better in the morning.’ 

‘Sleep Lillian, tomorrow will be better.’ Lillian thought to herself as she nestled under the thick covers of her comforter. Pip sleeping right next to her face, snores leaving the fat cat as he remained unaware of his guardian’s turmoil. Her chest aching and the cough not going away despite the inhaler. 

‘It’ll be bet ter in the morning.’ Yuki thought as he drifted off into sleep. His mind clearing and the marble arms and thin fingers welcoming him in their embrace. 

++++ 

Baram has been working for Yuki for two years now. Starting off as a freshman in college and in need of a job, she decided to apply to the cafe she always went to to study. She wasn’t close with the owner, so when she applied it was a little awkward. She didn’t know how to make strawberry creme, cream puffs, or even cheesecakes. Baram barely knew how to cook. 

Despite that, Yuki welcomed her with a smile and patient words. Guiding her through the process of making chocolate chip cookies and the best hot chocolate. Yuki was always patient with her. Understanding that she was a student, that she had tests, she had homework, and she had a life outside of work. 

Yuki is the boss who helped her she would rather go into marketing than IT. He helped her break the news to her parents, he helped her with having her in charge of their social media accounts, and he would always talk about her to people he knew ran a business. Bragging about her skills of marketing and advertising, showcasing the amazing photos and videos she did. 

Baram dared to say she liked him at one point. White hair that put the foam from the lattes to shame, red eyes that reminded her of red velvet macaroons she would try to make, and a smile that charmed everyone. He had his nails painted on some weeks, and others they weren’t, his piercings changed depending on the weather and holidays, and he was fashionable. 

Yuki was a whopping 10/10 in Baram’s eyes, and other’s too. She wasn’t stupid. In fact, despite her ditziness sometimes, she is quite observant of her surroundings and peers. She’s a 20-year-old woman surrounded by lovesick puppies in her class and at work. It wasn’t rare for a customer to be on a date. Baram could see the signs, the cues, the subtle hints. 

She could see the love Jin Woo held for Yuki and vice versa. The way the now S Rank Hunter (which she was still trying to wrap her mind around), would shadow the other around the cafe. His eyes rarely leave his form, and the glare he would send others whenever they tried their shot. It was how Yuki always (ALWAYS) made Jin Woo’s drink. Treating it with extra care and giving Jin Woo a smile only he had access too. 

Baram could also see that Yuki wasn’t doing well. The bags under his eyes were dark and his skin was losing its radiance. She can hear him coughing in the back, and she waits patiently outside until they subside. From how Yuki played them off, he must not want them to know. Jin Woo had asked her once how Yuki was doing. 

Baram was scared, don’t get her wrong. The man could be stern when needed to be, and she’s seen him lose his temper only once. However, no offense to him, she was more terrified of Jin Woo. The way he stared up at her, sharp eyes in a glare basically daring her to lie. 

She went home and prayed to whatever deity for forgiveness for making them upset to have such a thing happen to her. 

In other words, she was honest. She told him about the coughing, the fatigue, and sometimes Yuki just didn’t look all the way there. 

“Baram-ssi, are you okay?” Yuki gazed at her with concern, the Open sign in his hands as he was about to flip it. His hair, now long enough to be held in a claw clip, looked duller than normal and the bags under his eyes darker. 

“Man, it’s finals ya know! So I’m tired from all the studying.” He smiled kindly at her, flipping the sign and patting her back, “Take some cake home after your shift. Maybe the sugar will make you focus better. Oh, make sure to rest too, okay.” 

‘You too,’ Baram thought as she watched Yuki greet their first morning customer, throwing on a smile and pretending like he was okay. 

Chapter Text

Japan’s S Rank Hunters on South Korean soil had everyone talking. There was no longer any secrecy about the planned Jeju Island raid, and people were either all for it or not. Yuki has heard many conversations about this said Raid, and he could only bite his lip every time. Min Byung Gyu has yet to stop by, and Yuki couldn’t help but feel his heartbreaking every time. 

Jin Woo hasn’t brought it up, everyone is caught up in the fact that Park Kyung Hye was awake and alive. 

“Yuki-a, is that you?” Red eyes stared at her in awe. Taking in the fact that she was awake and moving around. Her body not showing any sign of atrophy as she walked around the small apartment. Jin Ah had called him over, saying there was a surprise, and he should have expected this. 

“Kyung Hye-ssi,” He whispered, welcoming the hug the woman gave him. Her arms wrapping around his shoulders and squeezing. Yuki could feel tears threatening to spill as he hugged her back, long black hair feeling like silk against her skin and he wasn’t sure if he wanted to laugh or cry. Somewhere in his mind, in his fading memories of the future, he had known this would happen. He just couldn’t remember until he saw her walking around. 

“You’ve gotten so big, I almost didn’t recognize you.” Yuki nodded, hugging her tighter as he realized how much he had missed the feeling of being hugged by a mother figure. Somewhere, deep in his subconscious that wasn’t Yuki, he can recall another woman that was neither Park Kyung Hye nor Sayuri, hugging him back. She was shorter, had shorter hair, and had cherry red lipstick. 

Lillian loved hugging her mother. 

Yuki loved Park Kyung Hye’s hugs. They are always warm and inviting, and when he was a child littered with bruises and starving, she would hug him gently. Barely adding pressure in fear of hurting him. As he got older and healthier, those soft hugs became more secure. 

“I missed you too, Kyung Hye-ssi.” 

He made a cake specifically for her. She loved cherry, and so cherry cobbler it was. It was the best one to date and decided to sell it at his cafe for the day. A sort of celebration that his customers didn’t know they were taking part in. 

Forcing a smile on his face, he handed a latte to one of his regulars and wished them a great day. Everyone was talking about it. They were talking about who they believed was going to go, and how this will either be the final Raid or only as a deathtrap. Yuki knew that there is going to be a betrayal of some sort. 

Even if he did remember it all, how would he tell Go Gun Hee, or even Jin Woo. 

‘Hey! So I just had a feeling that these Japanese S Rank Hunters are going to betray you and you need to be careful~’ 

“As if that would work.” Smiling at another person, he handed them their iced matcha latte and wished them a great day. 

However, if he doesn’t do something, Min Byung Gyu will die. The S Rank Healer, the one who is almost finished with his certifications to teach, is going to die if he doesn’t do anything. Min Byung Gyu is going to die horrifically, and it’ll be Yuki’s fault. 

All his fault. 

Sighing, Yuki rubbed his forehead with his fingers, trying to massage the headache away. This sucked. This actually sucked. This whole situation sucked. Who thought to give a 26-year-old depressed woman a second chance in a weak body that is fated to die, that isn’t even the original gender and is somehow connected to some other deity, and given the blessed gift *sarcasm* of remembering everything? Not to mention that with every memory he is recovering from his  past life, his memory of future events in this life fades. 

WHO?!

‘You’re losing it Yuki, just focus on lattes for now and self-reflect at home.’ He made a beautiful swan with the foam and gave it to an equally depressed-looking student. Bags under her eyes and a tight smile, Yuki felt as though he was staring at his twin. 

The day passed slowly and although it isn’s the first time he wished he could be anywhere else, it is a rarity. Closing the cafe couldn’t come soon enough, and Yuki did so with the largest smiles he’s had on the entire day. The cafe was cleared out, dishes clean, the espresso machine clean, the floors clean, and everything was clean and ready to be left alone. 

“Yuki.” 

“Ahhhh!” Yuki threw the keys and they only bounced off Jin Woo’s chest. Both men stare at the fallen keys and then back to each other. Yuki was staring at him in shock, his heart beating erratically and he thought he’d faint. Jin Woo had the audacity to look offended, pouting at Yuki’s reaction. 

“Jin Woo, you can’t keep doing that.” Yuki wagged his finger at the taller man, trying to sound stern which was impossible when Jin Woo was making a pleased expression. Sighing in defeat, he smiled patiently, gazing at Jin Woo with loving eyes, “Coffee machines are shut down, and all the desserts have been stored away. I can’t give you anything.” 

“I have these.” He held out two cups of coffee from Starbucks. 

“They’re not as good as your’s though.” Yuki laughed, taking a cup and moving to pull down the last blind to the window. The cafe now only lit by the fairy lights Baram and Jin Ah set up a few weeks back, and the faint glow from the kitchen lights. 

Jin Woo wrapped an arm around Yuki’s body, and pulled him so they were chest to chest. Jin Woo resting his forehead on Yuki’s, his cool skin warming against Yuki’s flushed forehead. The individual lights from the fairy lights reflect in Yuki’s eyes looking like individual stars swimming amongst a red-dyed sky. 

“I missed you.” Yuki snorted, “We saw each other yesterday.” Jin Woo’s nose scrunched, “That was too long ago.” 

“Mm, sounds like someone is being dramatic,” Yuki hummed, a smile on his lips as he took a sip from the hot cup of coffee. A cigarette would make the moment even better, but now that he knew the problem was from his lungs, he had decided to put that particular stress relief away for the moment. 

Jin Woo was quick to catch those lips, now tasting like coffee, with his own. They are soft and Jin Woo could feel the heat of Yuki’s skin through the kiss. He wonders if Yuki could feel how hot his own skin is. Kissing Yuki could be compared to tasting the sweet rush of caffeine after giving it up for 30 days. Or tasting the extreme richness of a cheesecake after a diet. 

For Jin Woo, it was the feeling of a sip of hot chocolate on a snowy day. Comforting and warm in the chest, sweet in the mouth, and hot in the hands. 

Kissing Yuki feels like a forbidden act. No one should be able to have the experience of past sins and stained hands wash away the moment soft hands took hold of his own. The feeling of all is forgiven when soft lips kiss his own, and when eyes showing only affection land on him. His hands stained red, darkness clinging to his skin tighter than clothes he wore, illuminated by the light that is Yuki. A star, a glow so faint it looked soft to the touch, yet bright enough to light up the inky black shadow of the sky. If Jin Woo were to be a galaxy, Yuki would be his only star. 

Breaking away, he leaned his kissed Yuki’s forehead. Yuki smiled, gently leaning into the kiss and waiting for Jin Woo’s lips to leave his skin. 

“What did you do today?” He sat down at the booth below the fairy lights, sipping his cup of coffee as he did so. Jin Woo sat next to him, thighs and shoulders touching, “I was called into the Hunter’s Organization.” Yuki stopped sipping, “Did you get in trouble?” 

“Why would you think I’m in trouble?” All of Jin Woo’s past interactions with media, other S Rank Hunters, and how he ignored others came to Yuki’s mind. He smiled, “Mmm.” Jin Woo stared blankly at him, “They want me to go on this next Raid.” 

“You will, right?” Yuki leaned into Jin Woo’s shoulder, his jaw clenched and a prayer on his lips. 

“No.” Yuki flinched, catching Jin Woo’s attention slightly. He carried on, “They don’t need my help.” ‘They do though. They do.’ Yuki took a sip of his coffee, “If I asked you to, would you?” 

Jin Woo stared at Yuki, his gaze not meeting his own and he was fiddling with the lid of the coffee cup. His eyes narrowed, “You’ve never asked me to go before. Why the change of heart?” Yuki has always been against Jin Woo going into Dungeons. Always stressed and always worried about him, sometimes begging Jin Woo to not go. 

“Wouldn’t that make my request even more of a reason to go?” Yuki peered through white lashes, and he looked worried sick. Jin Woo took in the bags under his eyes and how Yuki looked worse for wear. 

“Why?”

“My friend, Min Byung Gyu is going.” Jin Woo rolled the name in his mind for a minute, connecting the name with teh face and rank, “That’s the S Rank Healer.” Yuki nodded, “He’s… I just have a bad feeling.” 

‘He’s going to die,’ is what Yuki wanted to say but couldn’t. Some part of it is that if he spoke it, it would be speaking it into existence. Not to mention, how would he tell Jin Woo that he knows Min Byung Gyu is going to die without outing himself as either: A. a psychic, or B. someone who isn’t quite sure what their existence is even more but knows that this will happen because they read it a manhwa in their past life.

“I’m sure everyone has a bad feeling about this.” Yuki gulped, “Jin Woo please. I… I never ask you to go to Raids, but please go on this one.” Jin Woo stared at Yuki, plans already going through his mind as he thought of all the ways he could skip out on this Raid, as well as all the reasons why Yuki wanted to protect Min Byung Gyu. 

“I’ve seen who’s going, they have Goto Ryuji with them. They’ll be fi–” 

“Jin Woo please!” Tears escaped Yuki’s eyes, and Jin Woo became fumbling. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a handkerchief and gently wiped the tears while also frantically backtracking. Trying to think of a way to get Yuki to stop crying. 

“Please! Please do something.” ‘Please save Min Byung Gyu.’ Jin Woo hugged Yuki. He held him close, burying Yuki’s face in his neck as he rocked the both of them. Coffee cups are now on the table and Yuki is in his lap. Jin Woo hugged him close, and something dark in him brewed. 

Why is Min Byung Gyu getting Yuki’s tears? What was so special about him that Yuki would be crying and begging Jin Woo to go on a Raid? An S Rank Dungeon to be exact. 

Did Yuki cry for him like this? 

Some wicked part of him, a part that was no longer human, briefly played with the thought of letting Min Byung Gyu die. If he was going to die, why not let him? 

A darker part thought it would be better to ensure that Min Byung Gyu does die. 

“Jin Woo please.” Grey eyes stared at him with hurt. Hurting because Yuki is crying, shedding crystal-like tears that Jin Woo couldn’t wipe away. 

“I’ll see what I can do.” It wasn’t a definitive yes. Yuki wanted to hit him. Sometimes, Yuki missed the old Jin Woo. Jin Woo would agree to everything and try his hardest to make others happy. Jin Woo didn’t stare at people like they were insignificant. 

Then again, that Jin Woo wasn’t perfect either. 

Being so nice made it easy for people to trample over him. Agreeing to everything had put Jin Woo in dangerous situations. They have gotten him hurt and almost killed. The old Jin Woo didn’t stare at people like they were worth nothing, because the mindset was that he was worth nothing. 

Yuki wonders if that old Jin Woo is gone completely. If he’s been completely erased, and this new Jin Woo is the only one there. 

Sometimes, when Jin Woo is asleep and Yuki is awake, he can’t help but feel like Jin Woo is a void. Swallowing everything that comes into contact with him and reminding everyone who was the greatest power. What was the greatest weapon to a void? A neverending void that is constantly deepening and broadening. Forever growing. 

Jin Woo feels cold on some nights as if he was no longer alive. Like he wasn’t human, and it always had Yuki checking his pulse. There were times when Jin Woo liked the shadows Yuki knew he possessed. His eyes devoid of life staring at something that he considered insignificant, and the black clothes made him appear like a modern-day grim reaper. 

Yuki feared that one day, in the future, Jin Woo will stare at him like that. Stare at him the way his mother did, the way his step-father did, the way Yuki stares at himself sometimes. 

It was the way those Hunters stared at him that one time. Back when Dungeon and magic were new, there were so many Dungeon Breaks. Not enough Hunters to cover all the Dungeons, not enough information, not enough of anything. Yuki was part of one of the first dew Dungeon Breaks that had happened in Seoul. Specifically in the Dong District had experienced the most Dungeons and Dungeon Breaks. 

The way a mere E Rank Dungeon had killed people, and the Hunters that looked at them in disgust. For being mere humans that weren’t meant to fight against beasts. Yuki held a dead body in his arms, a woman who was once bragging about how she was going to get married and watched as one Hunter impaled a monster and a civilian. 

Yuki decided it was time to pull off the rose-tinted shades and see the divide for what it was. Hunters and Humans. After a few more instances of the divide being shown in everyday life, he could no longer see Hunters the same. Hunters were like humans, outcasting those that are different and ‘protecting’ the weak begrudgingly but throwing them to the wolves when their own life was on the line. 

The only difference was that a Hunter can kill you in 100 ways per 1 way a human can. Not to mention, the law barely restrained them. Some are not even being touched by rules. 

Yuki really disliked Hunters. When he took off his shades a saw the society that revered S Ranks, letting them get away with anything and everything, Yuki felt nauseous being around Go Gun Hee for a while. A revered S Rank in South Korea and across the world, who has always been kind to him. Who helped raise him. He was someone Yuki loved with everything and still does, but now there was newfound fear when around him. A cautionary fear. Reminding Yuki that if he wanted to, not that he would, but if he did. Go Gun Hee could snap his thin neck with only his forefinger and thumb and get away with it. He will still be loved because he was an S Rank. 

When Jin Woo was declared an E Rank, Yuki threw up. 

Yuki hated this society where one’s worth no longer stopped at you being a human, but instead whether or not you were a Hunter or Human. Then there were categories that declared your worth in those fields too. 

Yuki wondered, not for the first time if Jin Woo really was different. 

“It’s okay Yuki, I’ll see what I can do.” Yuki prayed that he was. 

++++

The cafe was closed today. Instead, Yuki was watching the Raid from his condo. He had a glass of wine, soju, and just in case, Hennesy. Pip was napping on the other sofa, and Cujo was watching the TV with him. Yuki hasn’t eaten anything the past two days, and the only reason he showered was because Jin Woo was over last night. Yuki asked again, and all Jin Woo said was, ‘I dealt with it.’ 

“‘Dealt with it’ my ass.” Yuki sipped on the large glass of wine, not caring it was only 10 AM and socially unacceptable for him to be drinking this early. Does he care? Not really. 

From the moment they were dropped into the volcano, Yuki watched with rapt attention. His eyes not once leaving Min Byung Gyu’s form. He ignored how the other Hunters slaughtered and maimed the ants. Hunter Cha became a beam of light as she weaved through each monstrous-sized ant, Choi Jong In lighting each and every one of them up, Baek Yoon Ho became the monster he believed himself to be, Master Ma turning into a gigantic size and battling one-on-one, and Lim Tae Gyu shooting arrows that never missed. 

His red eyes remained on Min Byung Gyu. Refusing to witness people, Baek Yoon Ho who had become a regular and Choi Jong In who was still a pain in his side but now tolerable, turn into the Hunters Yuki had always feared. He didn’t want the image he had of them to be changed. Forever stained in this image of what they could do if they choose to hurt someone. 

Yuki watched how the guards were disposed of. He started crying when the Queen Ant released her final scream. Calling for something that none of them other than Yuki knew. The 

Ant was huge. Even on the screen, Yuki knew that it was meant to kill. Long limbs and torso, small head, and pinchers stained in blood to show that it had been eating something. Something that was human. 

He didn’t wince at the scream, and he didn’t wince as Cha Hae In was slammed to the side of the cave. Arm broken and insides crushed. He didn’t turn away when Master Ma’s arms were torn off his body. He didn’t flinch when Choi Jong In and Baek Yoon Ho were wounded. 

He started worrying when the Ant swung Master Ma like he was nothing. Hitting everything and the sides of the. He sucked in a breath when he could see, from his position now standing in front of the TV, the red eyes of the Ant narrow at something no one could see. 

All of a sudden, the Ant was gone and Min Byung Gyu’s body reappeared on the screen. The sound of something breaking through bones, flesh, and organs filled the living room from the TV. A gnarly disgusting hand was piercing through Min Byung Gyu’s chest, as blood escaped his mouth. He opened it to say something, but the screen went dead. 

The Television network had cut off the connection. 

Yuki remained frozen in front of the now black screen. His red eyes were wide and replaying what exactly he just saw. The events, live in action, overlap with the scenes he read so many years ago in another life. 

The sound, the crunch, the gasp, and all the red were different. There was no sound when reading. No personal connection, no memories, nothing but a brief introduction, and then death. 

Death. 

Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. D ea t h. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. Death. 

Min Byung Gyu was dead. 

“AHHHHHHHHHHHH!” 

Chapter Text

Min Byung Gyu is not dead. One of his soldiers managed to stop the Ant from taking off his head, and by doing so, alerting Jin Woo of the danger. With the ant retreating, it gave Jin Woo enough time to slip Min Byung Gyu a potion, quickly healing the man and tossing him to Baek Yoon Ho. 

“To think he was right,” Jin Woo mumbled, staring down at a gasping Min Byung Gyu. The Ant giving a loud cry, deafening almost everyone and making Jin Woo click his tongue in irritation. The thing was taller than him, but definitely not something he couldn’t take on. 

“Hunter Jin Woo!” Baek Yoon Ho called out, aiding Min Byung Gyu in catching his breath. Choi Jong In flinched when his barrier in the volcano broke, and he quickly alerted everyone of the incoming stampede. Jin Woo continued to stare at the S Rank Healer, drawing forth his shadows and calling for the army he was confident in. 

“Min Byung Gyu,” Baek Yoon Ho, now in human form helped him stand. The man, still weak in the knees turned to thank Jin Woo only to freeze at the stare he was receiving. Flinching ever so slightly as Jin Woo ignored the incoming ants in favor of eyeing him. 

“Th-thank you, Hunter Jin Woo.” 

“Don’t thank me.” Jin Woo’s voice clipped, unable to find it in himself to be mad. He turned towards the horde and called forth his daggers. His stats rang in front of him. 

[Will to Grow ]

[ Question Completion: 61%] 

[Warning: Feelings are Dropping. Stats decreases by 15%] 

“Yuki asked me too.” Min Byung Gyu’s eyes widened, an image of a smiling Yuki filling his mind and a soft smile broke out on his face. ‘Of course.’ Yuki did always have a way of pulling strings. String no one really even knew were there until pulled or snipped. 

“By the way, did that soldier come out of Min Byung Gyu’s shadow?” Master Ma commented. Min Byung Gyu now choosing the opportune time to heal everyone as some ants began to break through. 

“Yeah.” 

“When did you attach a shadow to me?” 

“When you were sleeping.” 

. 

. 

. 

“Hold up.” Jin Woo charged into the horde, slicing and cutting all forms. Blade clashing with a familiar hand. He met slanted red eyes and grimaced. 

They look nothing like Yuki’s. Not even the fact that it was an ant eye, but the color was off. Yuki’s was more strawberry, this was more blood. 

[Will to Grow] 

[Quest Completion: 78%] 

[Feelings Returned. Stats Will Resume to 30% Increase] 

‘Guess they turned the camera back on.’ He smiled at the sight of the 78%, happy that Yuki’s feelings for him grew. Sighing, he and the Ant faced each other. Jin Woo had a large smirk on his face even though he’s a good head shorter. 

The Ant glared at him, matching magical output and causing wind and power to circulate around them. He raised an eyebrow as the Ant’s mouth began moving, “Yo-ou Ki-ing?” 

“It talks?” 

“How cute. A bug is talking.” ‘That’s Japan’s S Rank Healer’s voice isn’t it?’ Jin Woo narrowed his eyes as possible reasoning for this Dungeon Monster to be talking came into his mind. He’s heard enough of Yuki’s summaries of stories to come to a conclusion. 

“How many heads did you eat to gain that skill?” 

“EUUUUUAAARRUUGGHHHH!” The screech was deafening and meant to strike fear into everyone. It’s rather unfortunate, for the Ant, that Jin Woo wasn’t the typical everyone. He grinned at it, eyes glowing blue, “Now you sound like a bug.” 

He waited for the punch, seeing the Ant reel it’s arm back and swing. Jin Woo faced it head-on, refusing to move as it connected with his cheek. All the power going into his foot to not move, shattering the earth and the surrounding walls. The cave shook from the force of power and magic, and Jin Woo remained standing. 

Spitting out only a small amount of blood, he activated Dominator’s Touch and made the insect kneel. The force of said action making the Ant grunt and break the earth under its knees and hands. 

“Wha-” Jin Woo drew his arm back and swung with everything in him. The boost of 30% aiding in the power and makes the Ant fly. It was barely seen, only a blur to the naked eye as it shot in the opposite direction of them. Colliding and killing a few other ants on the way. 

It only stopped when it collided with a solid wall. Creating a crater. 

“SCReEEEEE!” Rage filled it’s eyes as it charged forward, and Jin Woo couldn’t stop the sinister smile, “The exoskeleton is getting in the way.” 

‘This is going to be a great experience.’ 

+++++

Yuki stared at the TV screen in front of him. Tears still streamed down his face as he watched Jin Woo beat the Ant into near dust. In the background, Min Byung Gyu was healing everyone and walking around like there was nothing wrong. 

Red eyes tried to keep track of Jin Woo’s fight, but everything was a blur. Then there was fire, a lot of it and Yuki could feel the heat from the screen. 

As he watched this, a particular scene of Jin Woo staring at the Ant with the Fire in the back causing his clothes to sway and hair to become wild, eyes a glowing blue as he stared at the Ant. 

‘That’s hot.’ Yuki’s face flushed red at the intrusive thought, and he couldn’t help but slap himself. 

“No. No Yuki. We are mad at him and Min Byung Gyu. Pissed in fact.” In the five minutes the screen was dead, Yuki had screamed, cried, and given Jin Woo a piece of his mind over text. Then the screen came back on with a very much alive Min Byung Gyu and a serious Jin Woo, and Yuki sent another text out. 

He watched from the safety of his sofa as Jin Woo fought and pulverized the Ant. Feeling an odd sense of longing, seeing Jin Woo fight. It made him crave an experience he himself has never had. Lillian never had it either. Which means– 

“Ellowyn, you miss fighting next to Ashborn?” He looked crazy. Addressing something that wasn’t there, but he would get an answer. Yuki always did. 

‘We do.’ 

“Were… were you a good fighter?” Yuki watched as the Ant tried to flee but couldn’t. Jin Woo catching up to it in no time, and soon enough he was the one leading the chase. Forcing the Ant to go wherever he wanted them too. 

‘No. We were more support than actual fighting.’ Yuki hummed, ignoring the ‘we’ part of that short conversation. After his little meet-and-greet with Ellowyn, the other being chose to make themselves more known. Appearing in reflections and now using his conscious to converse with him. 

Yuki didn’t like it. 

‘Why? Your thoughts are my thoughts, as my thoughts are your thoughts.’ Yuki stared at the being in the reflection of water, his bath ruined. Ellowyn, apparently, is shit at explaining things which must mean something because Lillian was shit at explaining and so is Yuki. Both of them preferring to write instructions down rather than say it. 

Now though, after a few days with this being now in his mind, he’s gotten somewhat used to them. They were quiet to begin with, not saying anything unless addressed, and overall Yuki forgot they were even there. 

Until he started coughing and Ellowyn would try their best to ease the pain. 

“I’m calling him when this is all over.” Intentional or not, Yuki was going to give both Hunters a piece of his mind. For the past five minutes of emotional turmoil, ranging from depression, frustration, rage, to now calm, Yuki was about to give them hell. So. Much. Hell. 

He hoped neither of them were prepared for it. 

++++

And they weren’t. 

On the helicopter, still recovering from the shit they just saw, Min Byung Gyu was handed his phone with an incoming call from a good friend. A smile on his face and Baek Yoon Ho huffing when he saw the Caller ID. 

“He must be worried.” 

“Extremely so.” Baek Yoon Ho nudged him, “Don’t leave the poor man waiting. He can’t reach Sung Jin Woo-ssi, so he’s probably reaching you.” The man opted to be left on the island to clean up the mess, now that the Ant was dead and there were still some stragglers. Goto Ryuuji and some of his squad appeared to already be off the damn island, and if that didn’t raise questions than no one really knew what would. 

Sighing, Min Byung Gyu answer the call with a smile on his face, “Hello, Yu–” 

‘You piece of shit!’ Everyone turned their heads to the phone, and Min Byung Gyu looked most shocked. 

“Eh?” 

‘Don’t ‘eh’ me! You asshole! Jerk! Fucker! Cunt!’ 

“M-Min Yuki-ssi?” Choi Jong In stuttered the name that was screaming at their S Rank Healer. Min Byung Gyu didn’t look to be doing so well either. His face pale and mouth agape as he held the phone away from his ear. Even Baek Yoon Ho looked scared. 

‘The fuck man! You! You! You jerk.” There was hiccup at the end of the line and Min Byung Gyu pieced it together. 

“Ah, Yu-Yuki-ssi, I’m okay. I promise. Hunter Jin Woo-ssi saved me.” ‘Saved us really,’ Baek Yoon Ho thought, looking away from the call. 

‘Min Byung Gyu-ssi when you get back everything is double the price for you!! For the next two years! Everything doubled!’ The Healer couldn’t find it in him to be mad. He nodded, “I understand. I must have put you through a lot, after talking big too.” 

‘Damn fucking right you asshole.’ There was silence, everyone holding their breath to hear what else the man had to say. After a few deep breaths, they could hear him clearing his throat and his voice now taking on a gentler tone, ‘But, when you do get back, I’ll have desserts ready. For all of you.’ 

“Heeh! Even me!” Choi Jong In jested, and Yuki chuckled, ‘Everyone. As a ‘welcome back’ for all of you.’ Baek Yoon Ho imagined the cheesecake slice he ate the last time he was there. 

‘After that, Min Byung Gyu-ssi you are paying double.’ The man nodded, a smile on his face, “I understand, Yuki-ssi.” 

‘Good. Stop by whenever, all of you, and your free desserts will be waiting for you.’ He hung up after that, leaving the helicopter in silence. 

“Are we not addressing that?” Lim Tae Gyu asked, mouth still wide open in shock. Master Ma began to laugh, “What a funny friend you have Min Byung Gyu-ssi!” The Healer chuckled, “Yeah, he’s not normally that… aggressive.” 

Baek Yoon Ho recalls the first time meeting the barista/baker ‘ You giant gorilla!’ Shaking his head, Baek Yoon Ho sighed, “You just haven’t seen him mad. He called Hwang Dong Su a gorilla to his face.” 

. 

. 

. 

“What?!” 

On the Island 

‘You jerk!’ 

‘Asshole!’ 

‘I fucking hate you!’ 

‘You said you dealt with it! Dealt with it my ass!’ 

‘Sung Jin Woo when you get back here you are fucking dead! Got it?! DEAD!!!!’ 

‘...sorry.’ 

‘When you get back home, I’ll make you some Jajangmyeon.’ 

‘Take care, stay safe.’ 

‘And thank you.’ 

Jin Woo smiled at the text messages. For a minute, he felt his heart drop when he read the first few text messages. Scared for the new and still budding relationship, but that all washed away when he saw the other text messages. He sent a small text back, ‘Np.’ 

“That’s good.” Putting his phone away, he looked at the corpses of ants and shadows. He finally reached Lv. 100. Finally reaching that milestone number, and he was feeling giddy. His new Summon, Beru, was turning out to be exceptional in clearing out the rest of the Ants, and the sword in his hands was proving to be all the more fun to swing around. 

He can already taste the Jajangmyeon, and it became motivation for him to get this done quicker. Yuki was waiting for him. 

Chapter Text

“Please take it.” 

“Bold of you to assume I am in the mood to accept anything you have to offer other than an apology.” Yuki sat across from Jin Woo, cheek resting on his hand as he stared blankly at the man. They have two hours before the funeral and were waiting at Yuki’s place. A plate of pork belly, rice, kimchi, and other delicious meals in front of them. 

He eyed the red potion with uncertainty. Jin Woo pushed it closer, “Please.” Yuki bit his lips. He knew what this potion could do, and he knew it was meant for someone else. It was for another person, but Yuki just can’t remember who. 

“It’ll heal you.” 

“There’s nothing wron–” 

“The hole in your lung is getting bigger.” Jin Woo’s sharp sentence left no room for denial because it was true. Yuki didn’t flinch at the coldness of the tone, but his hands did clench. Red eyes met grey, “You’re coughing is getting worse and the amount of blood is increasing. You need to take it.” 

Yuki rolled his eyes, “I do not need to take it.” Jin Woo‘s jaw clenched and Yuki could see the way his muscles tightened to stop himself from acting out. 

“Just… save it. For an emergency or something.” Jin Woo took a deep breath and sighed, “This is an emergency.” Yuki rolled his eyes, “No it’s not. I’m not on the floor dying, am I?” 

“If you take it then that will no longer be a fear.” Yuki stared at Jin Woo with barely held irritation. That potion was for someone else. He can’t remember who, but he knows they need it. They will need it more than him. He rubbed his forehead, cursing himself out for forgetting. Unable to recall the future like he used to. 

Jin Woo watched as Yuki appeared to be having an argument with himself. He couldn’t understand why he was making this to be a harder decision than it was. All Yuki had to do was drink it and he would feel better. No more coughing, no more blood, no more wheezing, no more of anything. Yuki would finally be able to do the things he wanted to do. 

Things he couldn’t do. 

Like the amusement park or something that requires a good pair of lungs to enjoy. Jin Woo remembers all the times throughout school when Yuki stayed behind. Had to because of his medical condition. The time everyone went camping, and Yuki had to stay behind because the high altitude would mess with his breathing. The Senior Year amusement park Yuki couldn’t go on, and he stayed behind with a Junior Year Jin Woo. 

Everything Yuki wanted to do but couldn’t. 

Jin Woo can’t understand why Yuki was being difficult about this. Why was he thinking of someone other than himself? His situation is an emergency. No doctor can help him. There is no medicine for him. There is nothing. Absolutely nothing and this potion can be the only thing that cures it. 

That can save Yuki. 

Jin Woo took a deep breath and looked at the ceiling. He debated just shoving the liquid down Yuki’s throat. Do that thing they do in movies, where the love interest holds it in their mouth and kisses the other, making them drink whatever it is they needed to drink. 

While the kissing part sounds nice, it would be the only enjoyable thing out of that experience. Yuki would murder him for ‘backwashing in my mouth. Nasty!’ Yuki criticized the action when they saw it in a movie once, and Jin Woo never thought to try it until now. 

Where it is literally appearing to be the only fucking option. 

“Why?” Yuki looked up and met Jin Woo’s cold gaze, and it took everything in him to not cave. Yuki clenched his jaw, “Because… we don’t know what the cause of it is.” 

“It’s hereditary.”

“It’s not.” Yuki fiddled with his fingers, lips pinched together and a complicated expression on his face, “It’s not. Yujin-hyung ran tests, a lot of them.” Jin Woo narrowed his eyes, “And? Seeing that you are saying it’s not hereditary means you know what it is.” 

“Not really. The tests, for giggles Yujin-hyung ran a test to see if there was any residual magic.” Residual magic was a finicky thing when being dealt with outside of a Dungeon. They were injuries that were dealt with something either enchanted or by a mage-type monster. As the name suggests, sometimes these injuries continue to have magic or residue of magic on them that could either continue causing pain, or keep the injury from healing, or if it is Curse magic it can keep the Curse active until it either wears off or a Healer is brought in. 

“What else can it be right? Holes in the lungs can heal, and this one isn’t. All the surgeries, medications, everything, and nothing worked.” Jin Woo nodded, eyeing Yuki and waiting, “There is residue.” The room stilled and Jin Woo stared at him. His fists clenched, and his teeth grinding as he tried to think of where it could have happened. It wasn’t recent, the lung problems started when Yuki turned 10. There weren’t Dungeons around at that time, so where could it have come from? 

“Jin Woo,” Yuki called out to him, red eyes showing concern and Jin Woo could barely stop the scoff. The other should be concerned about himself. Not about whether or not Jin Woo feels bad. The way he looks at Jin Woo as if the man is about to break, and Jin Woo found himself wishing that Yuki would look at himself that way. 

“Eternal Sleep is caused by magic exposure. If this can help my mother wake up, it may be able to help you.” Yuki sighed and smiled at Jin Woo exhaustedly. He was tired of this argument. Tired of trying to make excuses to not take the potion. 

“Only a little bit.” Jin Woo smiled, “You have to drink the whole thing.” Yuki made a face, to which Jin Woo smiled, “I have enough left. Losing one is no big deal.” 

‘Uh no, because don’t you only have like four of these?’ Yuki gave him a tired smile and reached for the bottle which was heavier than it looked. Must have been all the decorations on it. Sloshing the red liquid in the bottle, he eyed it with hesitancy. 

Sighing, Yuki made a face as he brought the open bottle to his lips. There was no odor, no scent, nothing other than a red liquid swirling around in a glass bottle. When the first drop touched his tongue, he was expecting to gag. He was expecting the rich taste of iron, due to how much it looked like blood, and yet it only tasted like its name said it was. Water. 

It was quick and painless, something Yuki found himself a bit shocked about. Yuki and Jin Woo waited patiently for the results. Or, some sign that it worked and at the moment there was none. 

“...Am I supposed to feel differently?” ‘Don’t tell me this shit didn’t work.’ Yuki met Jin Woo’s frantic eyes, and he started panicking. ‘Why is it not working?’ Surely, surely it would work. Yes, what was wrong with him was magically induced (from what he has an idea but doesn’t quite want to open that can of worms just yet), but surely something as powerful as Holy Flipping Water should be enough to cure it. Right?! 

‘It’s not.’ 

‘Thank you, Ellowyn for the input!’ Yuki buried his head in his hands, maybe he was overthinking this. Yeah! Maybe he just needed to go to sleep, and maybe it would work. 

‘It won’t.’ 

‘Positive manifestations here, Ellowyn. Positive manifestations.’ Jin Woo, on the other hand, was reading a Pop Up with barely concealed anger. 

[Holy Water of Life Cannot Heal a Cursed Wound.] 

[Holy Water of Life can only Cure Diseases.] 

‘Who the fuck cursed him?’ Jin Woo is contemplating murder. The look on his face was murderous, and it had his shadows quivering. Who the hell cursed his Yuki without him knowing? 

Are they still alive? 

“Jin Woo, I… I’m sorry.” Jin Woo snapped out of his murderous thoughts and refocused on Yuki, who was looking down at the ground with pinched eyebrows and tight lips. His red eyes dark with guilt and Jin Woo could see his teeth biting and gnawing on his lips.  Standing up, he walked over to where Yuki was sitting and sat on the chair next to him. Grabbing Yuki’s chair, and gently pulling it close so he could hug the smaller man. Pressing his head into his neck and nuzzling the top of his head, Jin Woo smiled, “We’ll figure it out. I promise.” 

Yuki hugged him back, filed nails digging into the fabric of the black suit and he hugged Jin Woo as tightly as he could. Frustration and anger building, only this time it was towards himself. 

‘Why can’t I be normal?’ A thought that regularly plagued Yuki and kept him up late at night, he wondered just what God had he pissed off to curse him like this. Why him? Some part of him felt wrong for wishing this on somebody else, but then he thought about Hwang Dong Su and wished that guy was cursed and not him. 

All he wanted was a normal second life. That’s it. Like his first life. A normal, boring, life. Instead, he got a crazy mother, an abusive step-father, childhood best friends now a relationship with the protagonist, somehow met the majority of powerful people in South Korea and America, and now he was sick! Sick with something that according to Ellowyn, which is now added to the list of abnormal things in his life, isn’t cured from this ‘all healing Holy Water’ whatever liquid it was! 

“Yuki, Yuki please don’t cry. I’ll fix it.” ‘Shit!’ 

“I’m sorry Jin Woo, I’m just…just frustrated.” Yuki, now aware of the hot tears that were spilling down his cheeks, removed his face from Jin Woo’s jacket to not stain it right before a funeral. Jin Woo wiped away the tears, and gently pecked the bridge of Yuki’s nose. His grey eyes stared at him with understanding and sorrow, “I know. I wish there was more I could do.” 

Yuki shook his head, “You’re doing enough. Just being here is good for me.” He held one of Jin Woo’s larger hands in his own two, and he marveled at how large it was. Callused and scarred, he placed his cheek in the scarred palm and gently nuzzled it. 

“These hands have helped me, and others, in more ways than you receive credit for. Don’t feel guilty just because you can’t fix this one thing.” It was like holding the moon in the palm of his hand. Soft skin and white hair contrasting heavily against his tanned skin, Jin Woo felt as though he was looking at the human incarnate of Dalnim, the Goddess of the Moon. 

If Yuki was Dalnim, then would that mean he is Yeomna? The God of the Underworld, passing judgment and naming dead spirits based on their deeds while they were living. Or were they like those Greek Warriors? Achilles and Patroclus? One fated to die despite the other’s immeasurable strength. 

Jin Woo dared to say he was stronger than Achilles, and yet here he was watching his lover (they’ve kissed and all that, he’s sure they’re there) fade away in front of him. Unable to do anything other than watch. 

Anger burned in his chest momentarily. He wondered if Yuki could feel its heat from his palm as he still nuzzled into the rough skin. 

‘Fuck fate. I’ll change it. I’ll rewrite it if I have to.’ Jin Woo cupped Yuki’s other cheek with his other hand, bringing the man for a kiss. A sweet peck, tasting like the Apple Strudles they ate before, before going back for more. 

The taste of cinnamon-coated apples coated Yuki’s tongue and the powdered sugar lingered on his lips. He wondered if Yuki could taste the same thing he could. 

‘If your fate is to die,’ Yuki pulled away with a smile, gazing at Jin Woo like he was the one who lit the sun ablaze. Providing life for a planet and giving them the chance to meet under its blaze. Yuki stared at Jin Woo as if Yuki was a saint looking up at a statue of the Deity that had saved him. With complete devotion, unwavering love, and unbreakable trust. 

‘Then I will kill that fate. I will rewrite it so we can grow old together.’ Jin Woo smiled back at him, squishing Yuki’s cheek and making his lips pucker comedically. Yuki’s nose scrunching and his eyebrows furrowing, and those red eyes promising revenge. 

‘So when death does come, it takes us both.’ 

++++

Yuki stood next to Jin Woo and Min Byung Gyu amidst the crowd wearing black. Jin Woo had stated they would be quick. Get in, get out, and be done. This funeral, although public, is meant for the people who have lost someone. 

Yuki hugged Min Byung Gyu when he saw him. Whispering curses and trying desperately to not cry again. Baek Yoon Ho welcomed Jin Woo with a nod, and Min Byung Gyu welcomed him with a solemn grin. South Korea, in a form of goodwill, has also decided to mourn the Japanese Hunters that have also passed. Seeing that they did help, Go Gun Hee deemed it appropriate for all Hunters, South Korean or not, to be mourned and remembered. 

It is why when Yuki didn’t see that famed Goto Ryuuji’s picture frame he somewhat panicked. 

‘Don’t tell me, that man is alive?’ Which, like good for Japan, but if Yuki is remembering correctly, didn’t he want to kill Jin Woo? 

‘No. No, Goto isn’t stupid like that.’ Yuki glanced at Jin Woo, who was looking ahead at all the photos of the dead Hunters. His face is complicated, and it is only because Yuki has been with him for so long that he could tell Jin Woo was feeling guilty. He reached out, subtly grasping Jin Woo’s hand in his own and giving it a comforting squeeze. Which Jin Woo returned. 

Yuki could feel another set of eyes on him, heavy with curiosity and when he turned around he met the inquiring gaze of Cha Hae In. Her eyes on him, flickering to his and Jin Woo’s joined hands and back to him. Her eyes met his, and he could only offer a polite smile. 

She blushed at being caught, and her gaze returned to the front. ‘Ah, how cute.’ 

Jin Woo glanced at Yuki, curious to what made the smile. Yuki shook his head and returned his attention to the front, where Go Gun Hee gave a short, heartfelt speech about the sacrifices the Hunters have made in the line of duty. Thanking them, and telling their mourning families to be proud to have heroes as children. 

Soon, it was time for people to drop off their white chrysanthemums, going by families, friends, to strangers. 

Yuki went before Jin Woo and he looked at each picture before setting the flower down. 

‘Min Byung Gyu’s face could have been up here.’ It was a chilling thought and it had Yuki swallowing a lump. Walking back, he passed by Jin Woo who motioned he was leaving after this. Yuki waved goodbye to Min Byung Gyu, Baek Yoon Ho, and a solemn-looking Choi Jong In. The mage user gave him a brief nod, and Yuki tilted his head in acknowledgment. Apparently, out of all the casualties, the Hunters Guild got hit the hardest. In deaths and injuries, mainly due to their proximity to the volcano which is where the ant’s nest was. 

“Go Gun Hee-nim, you look older today than I have ever seen.” Some of the Hunters around Go Gun Hee stiffened at the insult, and Woo Jin Chul even looked miffed. Yuki sent the A Rank Hunter an apologetic smile. Go Gun Hee on the other hand smiled, albeit with exhaustion on his features and sorrow in his eyes, “Grief does that to an old man, Yuki-ssi. It ages you.” 

Yuki knows about that. Choosing to stand next to the President of the Hunter’s Organization, he could observe how the reporters and tabloids snapped numerous photos of the S Ranks paying their respects. He couldn’t help but scrunch his nose at the lack of respect they were showing for those who have passed, “It’s disgusting.” 

“It’s their job,” Go Gun Hee soothed, to which Yuki huffed, “They could at least pretend to be upset about the lives lost. Just because no S Ranks on our side were taken out doesn’t mean the lives of the other Hunter’s lives are something to be disrespectful about.” He looked like a puffed kitten in Go Gun Hee’s eyes, small and clearly upset. 

The old man smiled, patting Yuki’s head soothingly. 

“I know. It is the world we live in though.” Jin Woo walked up to them, nodding at Woo Jin Chul and at Go Gun Hee. 

“President-nim, I would like to discuss something with you if now is a good time.” Yuki raised an eyebrow, and Go Gun Hee nodded. Yuki looked between the two and figured it was a conversation he shouldn’t be a part of. 

“I’ll be heading back first then. Take care, Gun Hee-nim, Jin Chul-ssi.” Both men waved goodbye to him, and Jin Woo nodded, signaling he will be over later. Walking away from the two, he looked around and debated what would be the best course of action. Jin Woo drove him here, and his condo is across town. There’s actually no way he was walking that. 

‘It’s been a while since I last rode a bus.’ His trek to the bus station didn’t even start when a dainty hand landed on his shoulder. Turning around, he met the hesitant eyes of Hunter Cha Hae In. 

‘Well, the tabloids are gonna be all over this.’ Yuki thought dully as he witness multiple reporters almost breaking their necks to take photos of this encounter. 

“Hunter Cha Hai In-ssi, how can I help you?” Her cheeks lit aflame and she eyed their surroundings hesitantly. Looking at the reporters, Yuki smiled, “Do you want to go somewhere private?” 

“Yes. The question I want to ask may not be taken kindly by civillians.” ‘OH SHIT!’ Yuki smiled, motioning her to follow him but she shook her head. 

“I apologize, but they will follow us if we go your speed. Please excuse me.” ‘My speed? What is she talk- “OH MY GOD!” She picked him up. Cha Hae In actually picked him up, bridal style, and was now running. Yuki can already see tomorrow’s tabloids ‘Hunter Cha Hae In Sweeps Innocent Bystander Off His Feet. Literally!’ 

“Sorry, we’re almost there.” 

“Where’s there?!” There was on a roof. A fucking roof. ‘Holy shit, she’s actually going to kill me.’ Yuki didn’t bother looking over the edge, but judging that he could see over almost the vast majority of buildings, he could already tell how high tehy were. 

Cha Hae In didn’t even look fazed. Her blonde hair only somewhat frazzled, but her clothes and everything were still in impeccable shape. 

“We are on the roof of the Hunter’s Guild’s building.” Yuki chose to remain close the center of the roof. Not wanting to risk the chances of tripping, falling, or in some manhwa cases, pushed. His phone started ringing, and when he saw the Caller ID his soul almost left his body. 

“Ji-Ji-Jin Woo! I-I-I’m okay!” 

‘Where are you.’ ‘Jesus, at least make it sound like a question.’ 

“I am okay. I am with Hunter Cha Hae In-ssi, and she is keeping me safe.” 

‘Why would you even be in danger?’ 

“I’ll talk to you later.” 

‘Yu–’ The man hung up on him. Gulping as he did so and feeling the disappointed stare from his shadow, and from his conscious. He already see Igirs’s and Ellowyn’s faces and he was not appreciating it. 

“Okay! Okay, Hunter Cha Hae In-ssi, what can I help you with?” 

“Please call me Hae In, Yuki-ssi.” Yuki nodded, “Got it! Hae In-ssi, what can I help you with?” Her face became rosy once more, and Yuki marveled at how a composed woman could become so quickly flustered. She began fiddling with her hands and her eyes darting everywhere. 

He watched how she gathered her courage and he watched her pick one of questions, eyes locking on him and Yuki could feel himself start to sweat. 

“Are, are you and Hunter Sung Jin Woo… Are you… are you… guys… dating?” Her voice got softer and Yuki could barely hear the last word. He marveled at her bluntness, wishing he had that personality trait instead of sugarcoating everything. Not to mention, her awareness of public view. If she were to ask this in front of all those reporters, a riot would definitely break out. Not even in the sense that Jin Woo was taken, but that he liked men. Yuki, because Jin Woo is untouchable, would be under fire. It’s also not like his appearance is easy to push on someone else, saying that it wasn’t him in the pictures. 

‘Ah, are we going to have to keep this a secret?’ Blushing a bit, he rubbed the back of his neck, “I think so.” If anything, the only thing that has changed in the relationship is the added kissing and extra hugging. 

That thought made him halt. 

‘Oh my God, that’s all that’s changed. Oh my God! We were basically dating from the get-go!’ 

“I see.” Yuki never liked breaking hearts (intentionally). They always left a sour taste in his mouth and he couldn’t help but feel for them. His own heart was broken numerous times throughout his own life, and Lillians’s. He felt guilty whenever he saw the way those eyes lost their hopeful shine and the bitter smiles that took over their faces. 

Hae In had a kicked-puppy look on her face. Different from Jin Woo’s, and yet still the same. 

“In that case–” ‘Please don’t throw me off the edge.’ “– I want to apologize and thank you.” 

“...Huh?” Yuki gawked at her. Her eyes were wide and she looked guilty. 

“I want to thank you first. During the Raid, Jin Woo-ssi mentioned that it was you who sent him to help us.” Yuki nodded dumbly, already receiving that ‘thank you’ from Min Byung Gyu and Baek Yoon Ho. He shook his head, “No no, I’m happy he made it in time.” 

He was more curious about the apology. 

“As for the apology… I am sorry for thinking about some inappropriate things about your boyfriend.” Hearing the word ‘boyfriend’ come from another’s mouth already had Yuki spluttering, add on to the fact Hae In basically confessed she had a crush on Jin Woo and was thinking about him inappropriately.

“Wh-what?” 

“Like, thinking he is cute and everything. I am sorry.” ‘Oh, okay. Okay! Like that.’ Yuki’s face, still red and hot, smiled at her. Props to her for her bravery, “Maa, Hae In-ssi thank you for the apology but it is unnecessary.” She lifted an eyebrow and Yuki chuckled, ‘God she’s really like a puppy.’

“Thinking he’s cute isn’t bad, and it doesn’t bother me.” Yuki is fully aware that Jin Woo is cute. By Korean standards, Jin Woo is hot. Extremely hot. 

‘I’m not sharing him.’

Cha Hae In, in all her S Rank glory, looked like a high school girl who’s been told that she and her best friend can remain friends even though she thought her friend’s favorite place to eat was only mediocre when she sighed in relief. Yuki chuckled, “My offer still stands about the free pastry and drink.” Her eyes flickered up, “You and Master Ma are the only ones who have yet to come to get their free pasty and drink, so when the cafe is open, please stop by. I’d love to talk to you more.” 

Cha Hae In nodded, her expression serious, “I’ll visit you as soon as it opens.” Yuki chuckled, “I can’t wait to see you there.” 

“Ah, by any chance, did you really call Hwang Dong Su a gorilla?” 

“... Please forget you ever heard that story, alright?” 

++++

“Are you okay?” Yuki ran a hand through dark locks, fluffing the hair and cradling Jin Woo’s face. They were on Yuki’s bed, and Jin Woo resting his head on Yuki’s chest. His large body sandwiching Yuki’s smaller-sized body to the comfortable bed and basically acting as a blanket. He came in not too long ago from a Dungeon, that had turned into a Red Gate, and this show-off cleared it within the hour, and he looked conflicted. 

“I met a woman today who said she could help me reach my full potential.” Yuki nodded, scratching his scalp and the nape of Jin Woo’s neck, “Must not have gone well considering you look like a kicked puppy.” Grey eyes peered up at him through thick lashes, and it felt as though Yuki was staring at a storm cloud through dark tree branches. A storm promising rain, thunder, and lightning. 

“I made her scream. The way she looked at me Yuki… it was like she was looking at a monster.”

“Hmmm, well she’s not fair off- owowowow! Okay! Joking!” Yuki pouted and rubbed his side that was pinched by Jin Woo. Glaring at him, he stuck his tongue out and he could feel Jin Woo chuckle. His broad chest hitting Yuki’s stomach as he inhaled and exhaled. 

“But seriously, you probably just startled her. Don’t stress too much.” Yuko received a dull look, Jin Woo now the one pouting, “I’m not.” 

“I literally see a stress line on your forehead.” 

“You are hallucinating.” 

“You su– ow!! Yep!! I am hallucinating”

Chapter Text

When Jin Woo first saw Yuki, he was only nine years old. Their new neighbors had just moved in, and the Sungs took it upon themselves to greet them to the complex. His father, tall and strong, knocked on the door with his mother next to him and Jin Ah and Jin Woo right besides them. 

The door opened slowly, creaking open and exposing a dark entry way. It is only because Jin Woo was at his eye level that he saw him. His father, having to look around for a minute before his sharp eyes looked down and saw the small body peaking through the crack. 

“Ah, hello. We are the Sungs, you’re neighbors. Who might you be?” The door opened further, and Jin Woo’s young eyes met red. Large and dull, taking them all in before looking up to meet his father’s. Jin Woo has never seen skin more pale and hair as white as his. 

“Min Matsuno Yuki, it’s nice to meet you.” His voice soft like Jin Woo’s blanket, and Jin Woo had momentarily wondered if they were a girl. 

“Ah, Yuki-a, is there an adult we can–” 

“Yuki, what are you doing?” A woman, thin and haggard looking stumbled into the doorway. Her skin reeking of cigarettes, and it was only because Jin Woo had good manners that he didn’t cover his nose. Her eyes, wide and frantic, took in their family and with clenched teeth she grabbed Yuki’s thin arm and yanked. 

“I’m so sorry! I hope he hasn’t offended you in anyway!” Her bow was at the hips and one of her hands was pushing Yuki’s head down in a low bow as well. Jin Woo’s mother waved her hands, “No no, we were just introducing ourselves. We are your neighbors.” The woman, looking up from between greasy strands of hair released Yuki, and slowly straightened herself. Her lips chapped and eyes still unfocused, “Ah, I-I am sorry. My-my son ca-can be quite reckless, so I wa-was worried he offended you.” 

Jin Woo met red eyes again. 

“No, he just opened the door.” 

He’s seen those eyes on the old dog he passes by everyday to school. 

“I-I see.” 

Eyes that looked exhausted with life. They looked exhausted about living. 

“Do you want to play?” The adults stopped talking. All eyes were on the two boys. Jin Woo’s were only focused on Yuki’s. Watching and waiting for some form of light. 

“I have a new game, but it’s not fun when I’m the only player and Jin Ah doesn’t know how to play–” 

“Hey!” 

“–so do you want to play with me?” Jin Woo waited patiently for his answer. He watched how those red eyes flickered to his mother, and then back to him. Cutting the woman off when she opened her mouth, “Yes please.” Jin Woo couldn’t stop the smile from blooming on his face. 

Jin Woo’s mind focused back to the present, leaving him wondering when his mind wandered. He’s sitting in the large bath tub, Yuki’s to be specific, and the other had on only his underwear as he stood in front of the mirror. Taking out his earrings and cleaning his piercings with salt water. His hair now out of it’s updo touching his shoulders, looking like silk spider threads. Catching and illuminating the bathroom light. 

“Ara, back to the present?” Red eyes met his in the mirror, and Jin Woo could only see amusement. Yuki had on a pleased smile, “You looked like you were trying to think of a way to end world hunger for a minute.” Jin Woo chuckled, removing an arm from the hot water and leaning his cheek on his knuckles. His elbow resting against the lip of the tub. 

“And if I was?” Yuki smiled, quirking an eyebrow, “Care to share?” Jin Woo beckoned him over, to which Yuki answered. The other man, who was mostly legs and had clear skin besides a few scars here an there, stood next to Jin Woo. He was staring down at Jin Woo with a smile that had Jin Woo wanting to seer the image into his mind forever. 

The hand was resting his cheek on grabbed Yuki’s hand and brought it to his lips. Kissing each knuckle and the pads of his fingertips. He chuckled when Yuki’s face became crimson. Steam escaping his ears and the blush creeping to his chest. 

Jin Woo pulled on the arm and Yuki went tumbling into the bathtub with Jin Woo. The S Rank taking care to not hurt Yuki, and to ensure he didn’t bump his head when he fell in. Yuki’s sudden splash had some water escaping the tub, and the face he made had Jin Woo laughing. 

“Agh! Jin Woo!” The S Rank continued to laugh, admiring how the wet hair clung to Yuki’s face and neck, sild spider threads now looking like woven silk fabric. Red eyes, bright like maraschino cherries, stared at him with no anger or irritation. Only bafflement and some giddiness. 

“I just wanted you to join me.” Yuki splashed him, “Then say that. Use your words Jin Woo, you’re not three.” Yet, Jin Woo pouted at him like he was. Yuki clicked his tongue, “Geez, Jin Woo my underwear is soaked now.” 

“Who bathes in their underwear?” 

“Well maybe if you asked, I would have taken it off!” Jin Woo wasn’t ashamed to say he watched Yuki throw the now soaking fabric on the ground outside the tub, and he wasn’t ashamed to say he may have made it so that Yuki had to lean on him for them to sit comfortably in that tub. The both of them being more leg that upper body, but Jin Woo had a larger frame and broader shoulders. With Yuki’s back pressed to his chest, Jin Woo really did look like a blanket. His larger shoulders huddling over Yuki’s smaller frame, acting as a shield from the world. 

Jin Woo buried his nose in the nape of Yuki’s neck, nipping the pale flesh with his teeth and effectively shutting up Yuki. His hand still holding Yuki’s interlaced their fingers, and his larger hand almost swallowing Yuki’s. 

Yuki’s other hand emerged from the water to reach around and scratch the back of Jin Woo’s neck. Playing with freshly cut hair and intertwining the longer locks between thin fingers. Similar to what Jin Woo had done, Yuki brought Jin Woo’s hand to his lips and kissed the tanned and callused skin. He kissed each knuckle, knowing they have punched monsters, walls, and people. He kissed the fingers that have held dangerous weapons and have also held Jin Ah’s gentle hands. 

Jin Woo bit down a bit harder and Yuki kissed longer. A beast and a beauty. A monster and a saint. 

A hunter and a human. 

“Go Gun Hee said you are planning to open you’re own Guild.” Jin Woo licked the spot he just bit, his teeth leaving indents in the already purpling skin. He nuzzled once more into Yuki, arms wrapping around him and bringin him close. 

“I am.” Yuki smiled, his free hands now gripping the muscular arms and holding him. He leaned his cheek into those arms, feeling the heat that raidated off of Jin Woo warm his his skin as the water began to cool. 

“You’re going to be a great Guild Master.” Jin Woo chuckled, “Is that so?” Yuki nodded, eyes focused on drops of water that fell from the faucet, “Yeah. You’ll be the best, no doubt about it.” Jin Woo’s face lit aflame and he turned his face to the ceiling, trying to hide the blush. 

It wasn’t like Yuki could see it. His own thoughts getting lost as he continued to watch the water drip into the tub. 

‘Then, something happens. Something crucial. Something with Jin Ho, and Il Wan.’ Yuki just can’t remember what. His memory was fading, and it was fading fast. Details were being erased and large events were becoming hazy dreams. The more he remembers Lillian’s life, the less he can remember of this life’s future. 

Biting back a sigh, he returns his attention to the man holding him. Jin Woo was also staring at nothing, but Yuki could see the man’s thoughts running a thousand miles a minute. He wondered briefly what had Jin Woo’s face so dangerous like that. 

“Jin Woo.” Snapping him out his thoughts, Yuki smiled when grey eyes landed on him again. 

“Can you wash my back?” 

++++

Yuki has faced many disappointments in his life. They ranged from people, to grades, to even himself. He’s tasted the bitterness that disappointment can leave on the tongue, and the weird dull pang in the chest whenever it decides to come creeping up. Sometimes, disappointment was laced with ither emotions like anger, sadness, furstration, or even pain. 

Red eyes stared at the shattered windows of his shop, the inside completely recked and spray painted. Disgusting words, threats, and things that should not be on walls for the public to see sprayed and dripping from his no longer clean walls. All the machinery was broken, and they didn’t even bother taking the cash register. They didn’t steal shit. They just came in to break it. 

“Yuki-ssi, I… I’m sorry.” Baram rested her hand on her boss shoulder, and tears were racing down her cheeks. The morning air, cold and biting, making their cheeks flush and this situation all the more worse. She was in shock from what she is witnessing. How could someone, or people, do this to such a staple within the community? The cafe was a hotspot for Hunters, college students, the elderly, and hell parents sometimes left their kids here to do errands because it was just that type of place. It was a safe space, a place with no judgement, and just  “How can someone do this?” 

Yuki should be crying. He knew that if it were anybody else, seeing their hard work be shattered like this, would be in tears. Sobbing and cursing the people for such a thing. The glass shards on the ground were momentarily replaced with ceramic shards from a thrown plate. For a second, and only a second because any more time and he would be struggling to come back, Yuki was back in a broken home. 

He wanted to scream. He should scream. Yuki has every right to feel angry and upset and sad, and God he just wanted to hit someone right now.

“Is it true?” Baram’s head snapped to the voice when all Yuki could so was move his eyes. Standing only a few feet away was Yeon Ha-halmoni. A regular patron for years and a kind soul. Her cane held tightly in aged hands as she stared at Yuki with beady eyes. 

“That I am Japanese? Yes, it is true.” Yuki knows thats not what she is asking, but he wants her to say it. Yeon Ha’s mouth pursed and the wrinkles now looking like canyons on her skin. 

“No, that you, that you and…” She couldn’t even say it. The years of shared smiles and shared cups of tea and coffee now being washed away from a simple thing. A small thing really. He could see the way those old eyes no longer stared at him like the grandson she had always wanted. How years of gossip, laughs, and smiles have been forgotten. Swept under the sofa to be forgotten like that one sock. 

Yuki felt disappointed. 

“Yeon Ha-ssi, I have work that needs to be done. Unfortunately I do not have time to talk today.” He walked away, not wanting to see that expression crumble anymore. 

“Baram-ssi, if you want, you can take today off.” It’d be best if she doesn’y get associated with things like this. God knows how past mistakes can haunt your future. 

“What are you talking about? Of course I’m going to help, I love this place.” Granted, it wasn’t like Baram was the type to care either. Yuki gave her an exhausted smile, one that showed his disappointment in the situation. The man looked exhausted. 

Baram followed after her boss, being carefully where she stepped because of the glass and paint that littered the floor. Tables were broken and chairs smashes, the glass case that would have been holding today’s pastries and cakes was shattered. The TV broken, not even stolen, and the counters had what looked like red paint dripping it off of it. It wasn’t until Yuki turned on the light, which thankfully still worked, that Baram had to hold back a scream. Both hands covering her mouth and her large brown eyes focusing solely on what was on the counter. 

Blood. A lot of it. The dark color staining the white counters and dripping onto the floor. It was smeared all over the counters, dumped on the machines, and on the plates that held the food. 

Yuki could already see the price going up. 

Turning his attention to the wall that held all the photos of his friends, family, regular customers, and worker, spray painted on all those photos with large bold letters, “Demonic Fag!” and other deragatory terms. Terms that attacked his ethnicity, his sexuality, his appearance, almost everything they could critique there it was. All of it written on the walls. His insecurities out in the open for the world to see. 

“Isn’t thay the man who was photoed with Sung Jin Woo?” 

“And the other Hunters.” 

“What a whore.” 

“I never liked him.”

“I always thought he was creepy.” 

“It makes sense, he’s a Jap. No wonder he’s like that.” Naturally, there’s a crowd. A fucking crowd outside his fucking shop because no one can seem to mind their own fucking business. As if they all haven’t been fucking regulars here. 

‘You must calm down.’ Ellowyn’s voice did nothing to soothe the rage he felt on his chest. Long gone was the feeling of disappointment, and instead it had morphed into something else. Something hotter. 

“Yuki-nim?” Red eyes met worried brown, and Yuki had to remind himself that right now, he was a boss. He was a role model for his younger worker, and he has to keep it together. Set a good example. Cry in the bathroom later. 

“Tell the others not to come in. Tell them what happened, and then go home Baram. This mess is too big for us.” Baram bit her lip, staring at the crowd forming and how they had their phones out. Like the heartless monsters they are, because how can you video someone breaking over their loss of their life’s work? 

“Yu-Yuki-nim.” 

“Baram-ssi, you must go.” ‘Do not get caught up in this.’ Yuki had gently pushed her, and Baram began her slow walk back home. Pulling the hood over her face as she hid from the phones and continuously looked back at her boss who turned and faced the crowd. 

Yuki fished out his phone, and did something he felt should have been his first step, he called for the police. He ignored the stares on his back, and the not so quiet whispers as he explained what had happened. 

‘Will the police judge him?’ His shadow shivered, and Yuki had wondered not for the first time, if Igris could feel his terror. Can the shadow feel how nervous Yuki was, and was he responding to it. Red eyes looked down at the shadow beneath his feet, getting darker as the morning sun rose higher. 

Blue eyes blinked back. 

Yuki could feel a burn in his eyes, and he wanted to cuss himself out. He’s been crying too much lately, and he’s tired of it. Tired of spilling tears over the smallest things. 

‘But this isn’t small, Yuki. This was your life.’ And he wants to strangle Ellowyn. He actually, honest to God, wanted to strangle them. Even if that means he gets cursed, it already felt like he was so what would the difference be. 

Ellowyn said nothing to that train of thought. 

“God… I’m tired.” It felt weird admitting it out loud. Letting the confession float and dance in the open air as he stood in front of his shop. He knew today would be a piece of work the moment he woke up to Jin Ah sending him an article with him and Jin Woo in it. Jin Woo had his arm around his waist as they huddled close to a window where kittens were napping in the sun. 

He didn’t read the comments. He didn’t want to. 

Hunters may accept it, because Hunters lived by the whole ‘live today die tomorrow’ kind of spiel. Civilians though, did not. Then there were those weird people who got obsessed with someone, saying and doing everything in their power to ruin it for others. Only caring about themselves. 

No one will say anything to Jin Woo, because no one was that stupid. Yuki however, was a civilian. A weak one too. One that was already, physically and ethnically, different. 

‘When you are ready, just call.’ He didn’t want to call, because Yuki knew what that meant. The moment he did, he will no longer be a regular person. Yuki will become exactly what he was terrified of. 

But Dear Lord, he just felt exhausted. Yuki wanted to crawl into bed, and just sleep. He wanted to sleep forever and be awoken only when Jin Woo needed/wanted him to be. 

“I’m so tired.” The words echoes throughout his mind all day. They echoed in his mind when talking to the police, who looked at him with disgust in their eyes and Yuki knew they would be of little to no help. They echoed in his mind when he started talking to insurance, a long process that had him repeating the story over and over again. Solidifying it in his mind that it actually happened to him. Something like this, it was something you would see online. 

Yuki had hoped to think in this day and age, even a country as conservative as South Korea, would be a bit more open to homosexuality. For fucks sake there are literal Dungeons and monsters. 

‘Guess it was just wishful thinking.’ If he were a Hunter, it wouldn’t be a problem but because he wasn’t all of sudden he was exempt from that. Yuki was sitting the bathtub again. It was only midday but Yuki had enough of it. He just wants today to end. 

Cujo sat next to him, minding the water but wanting to be there. Yuki couldn’t bring himself to smile. 

Staring down at his reflection, his face was replaced with Ellowyn’s. Wise eyes showing their sadness for him as they said nothing. Yuki slapped the water, distorting the reflection and Ellowyn’s face melted back to his own. Red eyes meeting diluted red. The anger on his face, the sadness, the pain, all of it staring back at him. 

He grabbed white locks, long and now able to be put up in a claw clip. Lillian’s hair was about as long as his when she died. 

Wavy dark brown hair momentarily replaced the straight white strands and Yuki almost screamed. Those strands then got replaced with longer white hair, still wavy, only now those strands reached the bottom of the bathtub from how long it was. 

Yuki had almost slipped when he rushed out of the bathtub, not bothering to dry himself off as he rummnaged through his drawers. Smiling when he finally found the silver scissors. They were the scissors he used to trim Jin Ah’s hair, Jin Woo’s hair, and now his. 

Only, he wasn’t trimming it. 

Grabbing a fistful of hair, he brought the open scissors to the strands and snipped. White strands fell into the sink and floor as he kept cutting his hair, and his reflection proceeded to get blurrier the more he cut off the strands. 

When he was done, he threw the silver scissors into the sink, where the majority of his hair laid. The strands blending in with the white porcelain sink and Yuki stared down at his shaking hands. No longer able to feel the strands on touching his back or shoulders, his bangs the only piece of hair he didn’t touch with the scissors. 

Yuki closed his eyes, not wanting to see himself anymore and the strength in his legs giving out. The tile cold against his still wet skin and the frigid air in the bathroom promised a trip to the hospital if he starts coughing. If it wasn’t himself walking there, it would be Jin Woo carrying him and Jin Ah helping him. 

Burying his head into his knees, Yuki took deep breaths to ease the burn in his chest. Cujo, the beloved dog he is, sat next to him. Offering companionable silence as Yuki tried to regain some form of control he felt he had. Lately, he’s been feeling as he is a losing a lot of control of his life. It no longer feels like a second chance he once thought it was. 

It felt like this wasn’t really even his own to life anymore either. No longer he is just living and doing things for himself, but the past hauntings of Lillian’s life have added a new perspective to his actions and desires. Is he just doing this because he couldn’t in the past? Like a child getting piercing after their parents have continuously told the no. 

Ellowyn is a new factor to consider too. Yuki’s soul is not even his soul anymore. 

“What am I?” Cujo’s wet nose nuzzled his cheek, and Yuki wrapped his arms around his dog. The dog he got when he was 18 with his won money. His first ever pet. 

“Good boy.” 

Chapter Text

Someone is going to die today. Maybe, even a group of people. Jin Woo stood on the opposite roof of where Yuki’s cafe, and it was taking all of it within him not to crumble the building beneath his feet. Beru standing behind him, like the good soldier he was, and shivering at the anger Jin Woo omitting. 

“If someone is strong–” Beru straightened up “–wouldn’t people just leave them and their loved ones alone?” The ant gulped and he lowered his head, “My Liege, maybe they are mocking you.” Jin Woo clenched his jaw and some of the building cracked. The aura he was omitting had some of those bystanders sweating and looking around to find the danger. 

“It sure seems like it, doesn’t it.” He glanced at his phone, and read the messages from Go Gun Hee. The older man, Min Byung Gyu, and Jin Ah are unable to get ahold of Yuki and Jin Woo would be panicking if it weren’t for Igiris in the other’s shadow. He would know if Yuki’s life was in danger, even if that danger is himself. 

Go Gun Hee, the powerful and well loved S Rank, has pulled some strings. Using old contacts, he had gotten the video tapes from the security cameras around the area. Jin Woo isn’t sure what the old man is planning by giving Jin Woo access to these videos, but he wasn’t going to look a gifted horse in the mouth. 

Looking back at the cafe, Jin Woo narrowed his eyes once more. He’ll visit Yuki right after this. He needs to. 

As he was about to leave, his phone started ringing. It wasn’t an unfamiliar number, but definitely not a usual caller, “Hello?” 

‘Mr. Sung, is it true?’ Baek Yoon Ho, for how intimidating the man can be, cared a lot about those close to him. Jin Woo is trying to think of the times he and Yuki have gotten close enough for the S Rank to call Jin Woo to check if a rumor is true. His response allowing for multiple situations to take place depending on the tiger’s answer, “Which one?” 

‘The cafe. Is it true its been vandalized?’ It’s been more than vandalized, but sure. Jin Woo will answer that, “Yeah. Everything inside will most likely need to be replaced.” 

‘Jesus.’ The Son of God isn’t going to be enough to save the fuckers who did this. He already had somewhat of a plan for the people who did this, and it involved some ants. If the tapes don’t show enough of their face, it’s a good thing Tank has a good sense of smell. 

‘I’ll tell the others then, just to confirm it for you so you don’t get spammed.’ Jin Woo wondered just when they got that close that the tiger would do that for him. Once again, he’s not going to look a gifted horse in the mouth. 

“I appreciate it.” Pocketing the device, he gave the crowd and the cafe one last glance. A smiling man caught his eye, and Jin Woo didn’t hesitate to put a soldier in the man’s shoulder. Even if he wasn’t the one to do this, laughing at Yuki’s pain is punishable. 

Jin Woo will make sure everyone remembers that. 

Using Shadow Exchange, he walked into Yuki’s bedroom. Despite it being only around 2 pm, the room was dark and all hints of light have been snubbed. The curtains were drawn on all windows, and the little hallway light pulled out of the outlet. Clothes were thrown haphazardly on the ground, and the smell of cigarettes filled his nose. Glancing at the bed, Jin Woo took note of the soju bottle and the full ashtray. 

Walking over to the bed, where an obvious lump in the covers was, Jin Woo rested his hand where he thought Yuki’s shoulder was. Sitting on the edge of the mattress, Jin Woo rubbed Yuki’s shoulder and back. The silence was the only thing he could offer the other right now, and until he got the perpetrators' heads, he still wouldn’t show Yuki. All he could offer the other would be the simple phrase, “It’s been dealt with.” Until then, this was all he could do. 

“...Go away.” The words muffled, and the lumb under his hand moved, shifting and rustling as he moved under the comforter. Jin Woo didn’t move his hand, “Yuki.” The comforter shifted, and red eyes peeked out of the little cave he had made. Jin Woo clenched his jaw, taking in the sight of Yuki’s pained eyes and the bitten lips. His eyes widened when he took note of Yuki’s hair, a large hand cradling the back of Yuki’s head where the once-long strands were now short. Barely touching his neck and cut with frantic hands. 

Jin Woo’s face must have shown something because Yuki, grabbed his wrist and moved it away from the nape of his neck to his cheek where Yuki could nuzzle the palm. 

“It was getting too long.” Jin Woo decided to leave it at that. He leaned down and kissed Yuki’s cheek, “I’m sorry Yuki.” Yuki’s beautiful face contorted to one of pain-fueled anger. His eyebrows furrowing and nose scrunching, Yuki’s lips grimaced as the memory of his cafe filled his mind. Out of habit, Yuki bit his bottom lip, making the soft flesh bruise even more. He curled tighter into a ball, trying to make himself smaller. Jin Woo rubbed circles on Yuki’s cheek, trying to help soothe the other. 

“It’s not fair.” Jin Woo looked up and felt his blood boil at the even more pained expression decorating Yuki’s face. Red eyes shining from unshed tears and the scrunch of his nose meeting the furrow of his brows getting deeper as he tried to control his emotions. Trying to desperately put them into words, but these feelings and pain went beyond words. 

“How could they do that to my treasure?” Because that is what it was. That cafe, with cream-colored walls that held photos, supported local artists' works, and had been the background in many people’s photos, now holding spray-painted slurs and threats. The floor was tiled in a fun design that had many kids trying to play a game, stepping only on the colored tiles and not the white ones, was now stained with blood and shattered glass. Machines worth thousands are now unable to be used. Plates and cups smashed into oblivion. 

A dream, once a reality, is now ripped into shreds. 

Yuki had invested so much into that place. He invested his time, his soul, and money in a place that could be a safe space for everyone. Hunters loved the discrete discounts, because not everyone was proud to be a Hunter, and civilians loved the illusion of safety it had. Everyone loved the food, the drinks, and the place. Even when they were little, and the cafe was only a dream, Yuki had always made it known that everyone would be welcomed through those doors. 

Everyone would a have slice of Yuki’s treasure because Yuki has always been gracious. He’s always been someone who was okay with sharing what was important to him. Yuki has always been selfless. 

It is why Jin Woo had learned how to be selfish. He would be selfish for both of them. What is his, is Yuki’s and only Yuki’s. 

What is Yuki’s treasure, is also his. Someone had robbed Yuki of his most precious thing, which means they robbed him. Like the idiots they are. Jin Woo is selfish enough for both of them and possessive enough to inflict his own form of punishment. Not only for stealing but for being the reason Yuki is now failing to fight back the tears and making such a painful expression on his ethereal face. 

When the tears finally escaped, Jin Woo did nothing to try and stop them. He didn’t beg Yuki to stop crying, and he didn’t wipe them away either. He watched as those tears reflected what little light there was like diamonds, and how they left trails on Yuki’s cheek. Each tear will be a limb he tears off. 

“Why me?” Jin Woo kissed a tear away, still cupping Yuki’s cheek as he pressed their foreheads together. He wanted to take the pain away. All of it. Even the pain that is not from the cafe, Jin Woo wished he could just steal it all. All so Yuki could smile. 

Jin Woo will not tell Yuki what he plans to do. He will not tell anyone, besides his soldiers, what he plans to do. 

He crawled into the bed with Yuki, the other allowing him some room under the covers as he pressed himself into Jin Woo’s body. Strong arms wrapping around the man in a secure hold, promising to protect him. 

“Min Byung Gyu and everyone expressed their worry for you,” He whispered. Yuki buried his face into Jin Woo’s chest, mumbling, “I still need to give some of them their pastry.” Jin Woo hummed, “They understand. Just know, the people that matter are on your side, Yuki.” 

“...I know.” Still, just because you had an army behind you didn’t mean the attacks hurt less. Jin Woo would know all about that. 

Jin Woo kissed the top of Yuki’s head. He eyed the layers, and how Yuki missed some longer strands but it wasn’t anything that couldn’t be corrected with a simple trim. As much as he liked Yuki’s long hair, he didn’t mind this new change. Yuki had always looked good in whatever hairstyle he chose, but he did wish that this decision was done out of want rather than out of emotional necessity. 

Yuki’s hair was always the first thing to change whenever something extremely stressful something happens. When he was removed from his home, Yuki had dyed his hair brown for a solid two months. When his stepfather had been arrested, Yuki had it cut. All throughout his life, whenever something happened that was out of his control and caused him stress, it was always those healthy strands that paid the price first. 

‘Well,’ Jin Woo eyed the now sleeping male. Exhaustion is clear on his face as he slept the minutes away. 

‘There are worse things to do with scissors.’ 

++++ 

Min Byung Gyu stood in front of the cafe with a heartbroken expression. When he first read the article about Sung Jin Woo and Yuki, he was ecstatic that those two were together. ‘Finally’ he thought, seeing the photo of Sung Jin Woo leaning down to peck Yuki’s cheek. It was clearly meant to be a private act, which got caught. Not like it was a big deal, a lot of Hunters had families and were involved in relationships. 

That happiness vanished the moment he read another article. A news article about a local cafe being vandalized. He stared at the photos in shock, and soon he was dialing for Yuki faster than he ever had. When his friend didn’t pick up, he tried texting. When that didn’t work, he tried again. And again. And again. 

“Hyung he’s not picking up!” 

‘Min Byung Gyu relax, Sung Jin Woo is going to check it out.’ 

“His shop just got destroyed over something as small as sexuality and you want me to relax?!” The line was silent for a minute. He can’t see it, but Baek Yoon Ho is staring at his phone with some concern and a hint of fear. 

‘Mi-Min Byung Gyu?’ The Healer took a deep breath, recalling his apology afterward and trying to remind himself that Baek Yoon Ho was not at fault. He’s just stressed and upset for his friend. 

If Sung Jin Woo says he’s handling it, then he is handling it. 

Min Byung Gyu made eye contact with the giant Ice Bear that was sniffing around the broken shop. Almost blending in completely with the darkness, if it weren’t for the blue glow of his eyes and the blue fire? It reminded him of the inside of that ant nest for a brief moment. 

Gulping, he nodded to the giant bear, who returned to sniffing the carnage. 

‘Sung Jin Woo is handling it.’ He watched the bear continue to nose around. Being careful of the already messed up shop and the overturned tables. When the bear caught a scent, he disappeared, undoubtedly going to go get Sung Jin Woo. Min Byung Gyu looked towards the table he and Yuki always sat at. The top of it was scratched and cut up, and the chairs had their legs broken. 

Walking into the shop, now that the giant bear was gone, Min Byung Gyu walked to the wall where the photos were. Some old and some new, some funny and some posed, some destroyed and some intact. 

His and Baek Yoon Ho’s was still intact. Only the corner was touched by the paint, and somehow it still remained almost in perfect condition. There was one of him and Yuki, taken by Baram, and Yuki’s face had been singed. A burn mark took out his face and leaving only Min Byung Gyu’s. 

“Whoever did this is stupid.” High-profile Hunters were regularxs. All the photos suggested that. There were Hunters from White Tiger, Hunters, Fiend, Fame, hell even people from the Hunter’s Association. If Sung Jin Woo didn’t do something, no doubt a lot of other Hunters will. 

Shaking his head, Min Byung Gyu walked back out of the desolate cafe and felt a shiver run down his spine for a quick moment. He’s felt it before, back when Sung Jin Woo was fighting the ant. That stupid ant. It wasn’t rage, or fear. It wasn’t irritation or magic. Recalling the smile that S Rank had on his face, Min Byung Gyu could imagine it again. 

‘Sung Jin Woo is out for blood.’ 

‘Sung Jin Woo is out for blood.’ Choi Jong In mused as he watched that giant dragon, or whatever it was, fly through the air with a silhouette on the back. Choi Jong In watched as it disappeared along the horizon, flying at a record speed that he was sure not even Baek Yoon Ho could keep up with. 

Sighing, he leaned back in his chair and glanced over the papers. Applications for joining the Hunter’s Guild, which he found to be pretty amusing seeing that when it is revealed Sung Jin Woo is creating a Guild, the majority of these will go there. That’s assuming that he even accepts them. 

No offense to the man, but he doesn’t seem like the type to just let others in. Let alone join what will essentially be a business, or in Baek Yoon Ho’s case, family. Choi Jong In lit a cigarette, and inhaled deeply. 

‘Too bad this didn’t cause him to awaken.’ When Choi Jong In first came across Yuki, it was a pure accident. The other had walked by him, without even glancing at him, and Jong In could feel it. Similar to how you can feel the faintest brush of a cherry blossom when it falls and touches the skin. Catching the attention only briefly, and it isn’t until you look up that you notice the mass amount of cherry blossoms right above you. Swarming the trees and making the branches almost impossible to see. 

Yuki’s magical output was that cherry blossom against the nape of Choi Jong In’s neck, and when he turned to look, he saw it. The source of where that little brush of magic came from, and he had wondered why no one else was reacting to what he was feeling. The mass amount of magic that surrounded Yuki looked suffocating. 

For a second, Choi Jong In thought he was looking at another Hunter. It wasn’t until he offered to light Yuki’s cigarette that he noted the ‘shell.’’ When someone is unawakened, but holds enough magic to be emitting from their skin like sweat, it is contained in what many call a ‘shell.’ It can be compared to an egg really. They can see it, and feel it, but it is not yet tangible for the outside world. Flowing within and around the person, trapped close to their body and never reaching beyond whatever length the ‘shell’ gives them. 

Until they do awaken. Then that ‘shell’ is gone, and it is when power runs and rolls off others in waves. Now tangible for everyone to see and feel. Now moldable for the person. 

Yuki’s shell was just bigger because the amount of power he had was large. 

Mage types, and healers, are more sensitive to magical output due to their use constant use of mana. When you use something so often, you tend to get good at feeling and searching for it. The higher the rank you are, the more sensitive you are to it. The more powerful attacks created by magic left a mage’s body more accepting to outside mana sources that can be converted to magic. 

Choi Jong In was calling it early, if Min Matsuno Yuki were to ever awaken, he would undoubtedly be at least a high A Rank. At least. He also noted, through many annoying jokes and jabs, that Yuki had this tight control over this magic. Whether it was consciously or unconsciously, the man had that magic in his grip and was not letting go. It rarely wavered, even when he was annoyed, and it only circulated around him. It didn’t try breaking out of the shell like many others try to do. Instead, it laid content just revolving around Yuki. 

Pink eyes opened, and he stared at the cherry-flavored cigarettes he bought after that encounter. 

“Hmph, if this didn’t cause him to awaken, I wonder what will?” Sometimes, when magical output is as prominent as Yuki’s, stress could cause the ‘shell’ to break. Yuki has always looked stressed whenever Choi Jong In visited. 

His phone ringing tore his attention away from his thoughts. Glancing at the Caller ID, he couldn’t help but chuckle. 

“President-nim, how can I help you?” 

‘Have you seen Sung Jin Woo-ssi?’ Choi Jong In smiled, “I did. He looked like a man on a mission.” There was an audible sigh on the other end, and Choi Jong In would have been concerned if he didn’t already know what was going on. 

‘Is that right?’ However, if Go Gun Hee does not bring it up, then neither will Choi Jong In. As annoying as he can be, he respects the older gentleman. 

“Have a good night, President-nim.” 

‘You too.’ It amazes him at how far people are willing to go for their loved ones. Sung Jin Woo willing to turn the public into an enemy, and Go Gun Hee is willing to help. Choi Jong In, or anybody outside that circle, really knows Go Gun Hee’s and Yuki’s history. He knows that they have known each other for a long time and that Go Gun Hee was there for his high school graduation. 

He also knows, that for a period of time, Go Gun Hee was signing checks off to someone who might now be Yuki. Choi Jong In was curious, but not enough to ask. He’s seen the way Go Gun Hee has glared at some workers who have commented on Yuki. Nice comments too. They were compliments really, but the look Go Gun Hee gave them made it look like they were saying something disgusting about him. 

‘I wonder what kind of face President-nim made.’ 

++++ 

Jin Woo has a plan. A not so well thought out plan, but who needs one when you are this powerful and basically untouchable? He’s got one guy cornered. Only one, out of a group of four. He’s tracked down all of them, and has placed soldiers in their shadows so when the time comes, he can be there. 

However, as of right now, he only has one. One is all he wants in fact. 

“I-I-I’m sorry.” Jin Woo didn't even look at him. Jin Ah sent a photo of her doing Yuki’s makeup and holy shit. Yuki with red eyeliner is deadly. 

“Shut up! Don’t talk to My Liege.” Beru, whose appearance didn’t match his voice because it was Japan’s S Rank Healer’s voice, growled. It got some getting used to, to be honest. Igris stood beside him,  eyes narrowed and it is only because Jin Woo has known this shadow for so long that he could see the rage beneath those blue eyes. Igris is a knight. One who values protecting and fighting for their charge. While Jin Woo may be his leader, Yuki is the one he is to look after. 

Jin Woo hummed, turning his attention back to the sniveling man that was on his knees and head pressed into the ground. Beru’s clawed hand digging into his scalp and cheeks. 

“I don’t really care why you did it.” The man flinched. Jin Woo walked closer, scuffing his feet so the man can hear him walking around him. Like a predator surrounding wounded prey. 

“I don’t care how you got roped into it.” He stopped behind him, making the man gulp. Sung Jin Woo came out of nowhere. Absolutely nowhere! One minute he is walking back home, slurring his words and stumbling, the next his shadow is grabbing him and pulling him into an alley where a giant ant, knight, and S Rank Hunter are waiting. 

They said they wouldn’t get caught! That there would be no repercussions because once people found out who that cafe owner was, no one would care! No one! So why is he the one being punished? He was only following along! That’s it! All he did was wreck some windows, is that worth being hurt over? 

He’s not the one who spilled the pig blood over the counter or wrote those words on the walls. He wasn’t the one who wrecked the machinery or lit some photos on fire. All he did was smash some glass and throw some chairs. So why is he the only one being punished?! 

“You're probably thinking why are you the one getting in trouble.” The man jolted. Jin Woo smiled, “You’re not. You’re just the first.” 

Crack 

The scream the man released had Beru shoving his head into the concrete to shut him up as his body withered in agony. Beneath Jin Woo’s foot was a shattered ankle. Bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons are crushed from under his foot. 

“One.” 

Crack

“Two.” 

Snap 

“Three.” 

Crunch

“Four.” Both ankles and knees were crushed, and the man had blacked out. Jin Woo clicked his tongue, and with a flick of his gaze, Beru was smashing the man’s head into the ground again. Bringing him back to consciousness. 

Tears and snot raced down his face as he cried out. Begging for mercy, apologizing, and overall sounding hysterical. Jin Woo walked in front of him and looked down at the man. 

“I’m not the one you should be apologizing to.” Ants. There were ants all over the alley, from the walls to the ground. The man’s breath began to pick up even more as he stared into the eyes of a Hunter. 

“Live a better life next time, okay?” 

Chapter Text

Igris is loyal to Sung Jin Woo, his Master. The one who gave him a second chance and gifted him more powers than he could ever wish for. He’s given him a name, a sword, a reason to continue fighting. 

Can the Shadow Army be annoying? Absolutely. Oftentimes, Igris found himself breaking up fights and ensuring Tank and Iron don’t do stupid shit. It was amazing how one was once a human, supposedly an intelligent creature, and yet he and an animal share the same brain cell. Granted, his intelligence when a human must not have been that high considering he tried to fight Sung Jin Woo. 

Beru was now added to his list of idiots he needs to look after, because even though the ant was smart, it was so stupid when it came to their Master. 

Igris could feel a headache forming just thinking about the times Beru, Tank, Tusk, Iron, and all those other shadows have nearly stormed out of the shadow because of a minor inconvenience. He didn’t even know he could have headaches until he met this group. 

When Jin Woo had placed him, his most powerful soldier at that moment, in the other’s shadow he knew what his job would be. He knew and understood just how important this person was. A feeble person really. Always moving around, never really resting, and always making his Master smile. The moment he and this person made eye contact, red eyes meeting glowing blue, and they smiled, Igris knew what type of person he was dealing with. 

He knew what type of person he is to be protecting. 

They only smiled at him. After being screamed at, cowered at, and even running away from this whole smiling at him was a new one. 

“Ne~ You’re Igris, right?” From there, it had been story after story of his Master. The other shared everything he can as he talked to him. Treating him like a human rather than a shadow. He didn’t get scared whenever Igris blinked at him, and he didn’t fret when one-time Igris emerged with a giant sword. 

Yuki, because that is how he introduced himself, talked to Igris about everything. From the standard stories to full-blown theories that Igris wasn’t too sure if he actually kept with at all. Sometimes he talked to him in the kitchen, sometimes when he was resting on the couch, sometimes when he was grooming one of those animals, and sometimes in the bath. Yuki talked to him how a friend talks to another friend. 

Igris has also wished Jin Woo chose another Soldier to reside in Yuki’s shadow. 

“I’m fine Igris, it’s nothing big.” Yuki looked at him through the mirror, skin sweating and blood staining his teeth as he had just spat the red substance out into the sink. Igris doesn’t miss the way Yuki’s reflection sometimes flickers, or how sometimes it is not Yuki he is seeing but someone else. 

Seeing the man cry and be weak reminded Igris that humans are fragile. He’s seen how his Master has held the fragile human, strong arms able to kill giants wrapped around small shoulders in a gentle embrace. Eyes that have sent monsters shivering in fear, gazing softly into those red trenches of endless love and care. 

His Master, a Hunter who dominates on the battlefield, is nothing more than just a regular human when he is with Yuki. He is not treated as a King, which took Beru some time to get used to, but is treated how Igris can imagine some Kings wish to be treated by their loved ones. Like they are normal. A regular human with the only difference being a title. 

Yuki is treated like the rare moonflower Beru has told him about. A flower that is as white as the snow and blooms only at night, where the harsh rays of the sun cannot burn its delicate petals. Protected on all sides, with Igris as his guard, and only meant for the eyes of royalty. He is treated kindly, and watched over as if the slightest change in temperature will kill him. 

Igris knows how to be gentle. He is a knight. Beru is an Ant. Gentle and Beru go together like water and socks. Unpleasant for those involved in it. 

“I do think you need two.” Igris listened in as his Master and Yuki conversed over a cup of coffee at the then-closed cafe. Back when the walls were clean and the floors freshly swept. 

“I quite like Igris, and he does a great job.” He could see those eyes narrow dangerously, “When have you ever needed Igris to know he exists?” Yuki stared back at him with amusement on his face, not caring that the knight was sweating bullets in his shadow, “Don’t be rude. You do know the shadows shiver when you feel strong emotions, right.” 

“...They do?” Yuki raised an eyebrow, “Besides, isn’t better that I know my knight?” His Master made a peculiar face as the pros and cons were weighed. Sighing, his Master took a sip and continued to give Yuki and pointed look, “What about two? I have another strong shadow that would be of help.”  

“Don’t insult Igris like that.” The knight huffed, not minding that his Master is referring to Beru but also appreciating Yuki for trying to defend him. His Master grimaced, “I’m not. I’m just saying, I have another shadow that I think will ease my mind if he’s with you and Igris.” 

“If it’s the ant, no thank you.” Beru looked somewhat insulted, but Igris calmed the insect down. He couldn’t bring himself to not like Yuki for struggling to accept Beru. After all, when he was alive, Beru did almost kill his friend. 

Nevertheless, Igris and the rest of the Shadow Army understood that Yuki and their Master’s family are to be protected. When Yuki cried because of the loss of that place where he makes those treats and drinks, Igris could do nothing but watch. He could only watch and listen as the kind human, who always smiled and talked to him, broke down and sobbed on the bathroom floor. 

It is why if Igris had a visible mouth, he would be smiling as he watches those ants tear apart one of the humans that touched such a sacred place. His Master’s face showed what he could not. 

Vengeance in all of their eyes as they watched the man turn into a puddle. 

++++ 

It wasn’t like Yuki hated Beru. He really didn’t. It’s just, even as a kid Yuki hated ants. He didn’t like how they got into the food, or how they made a neat filed line whenever they were heading somewhere. He hated the smell of the chemical used to kill them and he hated how the bodies looked when dead. 

Not to mention, for Min Byung Gyu, there was still some bitterness. Even though Beru’s voice was now girly because he didn’t eat Min Byung Gyu and instead was using the other healer’s voice, and had a less-than-hostile tone, it was the hisses and the way it sent shivers down Yuki’s spine every time they talked. 

“Then you pour the sugar in.” Yet, somehow despite all of that, he, Igris, and Beru are in his kitchen making Mascarpone cream Strawberry Cake. Beru was wearing a fucking apron, because they insisted, and Igris was standing to the side watching them. 

It was awkward, Beru’s large hands wrapped around the small whisk. A different type of concentration in those eyes as he focused on stirring the puree. The cake currently in the oven and baking away while Yuki helped Beru mix the rest of the ingredients. None of them really know how they got into this position. It did start when Yuki picked up the knife– 

A large hand grabbed his wrist and Yuki whirled around to see Igris staring at him with narrowed eyes. Behind him was the Ant. 

“No! No knife!” 

“...I’m sorry?” 

“These are dangerous!” The Ant was scolding him. The Ant was actually scolding him in his own damn kitchen. 

“I’m making a cake.” He motioned to the flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and strawberries. Strawberries that still needed to be cut. 

“No knife!” Yuki felt Igris remove the tool from his grip, “Now wait a minute!” 

“I will use it for you.” Igris and Yuki stared at Beru with a mixture of shock and amazement. The handle of the knife looked awkward in Beru’s three fingers and thumb, with nails that could easily pluck one of Yuki’s eyes out. 

That’s how he is here, helping Beru not only cut the strawberries but also mixing the strawberry puree that will go on top of the soon-to-be-finished cake. It was a struggle at first. 

“Just slice it like this!” 

“My cutting board!” 

But after a few pointed glares from Igris and a harsh scolding from Yuki, Beru understood that if he wanted to help he had to do it by Yuki’s rules (Per his King’s orders). 

Yuki, although still depressed about his shop, smiled at Beru’s antics. Everyone has been trying their best for the past 24 hours, and Yuki felt bad for ignoring their calls and texts for the first 12 hours. He’s still not over what happened, and in truth, he doesn’t think he’ll ever be over it. 

But life doesn’t stop moving. The plot does not stop moving. 

He can grieve at night when the sky is dark and he is under the covers. Right now though, he needs to pull himself together. Piece by piece. 

When Beru had placed the strawberry on the cake, the last one, he looked at Yuki expectantly. Those large insect eyes looked closer to a puppy’s at that moment. Even though he was taller than him, and a lot stronger than him, Beru was looking at him like all that mattered was his opinion. 

“Go-good job!” ‘Can ants eat cake?’ Yuki gave a nervous smile as Beru looked back at the cake, taking in the sugary cylinder that had fruit on top and strawberry puree. 

“Do you want a slice?” Beru shook his head, “This was for My Liege. I will wait until he has a slice.” 

“That’s cute, you call Jin Woo that.” Beru puffed his chest, “Because My Liege is powerful, strong, and intelligent. Fit for all thrones, whether for Kings or Gods. He should be addressed as such.” Yuki glanced at Igris who had his face buried in his hand. The poor knight looked ready to quit. He looked like that one teacher who’s now in it for the retirement money and sick of everyone’s shit. 

Yuki also has so many stories that could counteract ALL of those statements. Especially intelligence. He’s debating whether or not he wants to argue with the Ant when his eyes caught sight of his poor bamboo cutting board. Thicker than a regular cutting board and heavier, it was a board meant to take a beating. 

It is now in three large pieces, cut cleanly and with little resistance. 

‘My poor cutting board.’ Turning back to Beru, who was still looking at the cake in happiness, Yuki huffed. 

“Well, I’m going to sit on the couch, if you want you can do whatever just please don’t break anything.” Cujo, that cowardly dog was sitting in the smallest space between the sofa and the wall, hiding. Pip was probably in Yuki’s room, not going to lie. 

Sitting on the sofa and turning the tv on, Yuki opened his laptop to check his emails. 

“ The body has been identified as Moon Taehyun. Barely recognizable and it is only because of DNA tests that the investigators are even able to put a name to this grizzly case.” Beru and Igris looked at one another, and then at Yuki, who wasn’t even looking at the tv. 

“What are those numbers?” Beru asked, peering over Yuki’s shoulder. Yuki hummed, “It’s my bank account.” A noise of confusion escaped Beru, and the man smiled up at the Ant, “Well, I’m trying to see how much money I have so I can figure out what kind of loan I can get.” 

“Loan?” 

“Yeah, like borrow money from the people who have all the money.” Beru nodded, “Why?” Yuki smiled bitterly, “Well, I want to rebuild my cafe. Only, I want in a different area.” It was a decision he had weighed the pros and cons with. Writing out a list and comparing them side by side. With a bitter smile, he chose to do a new place. Closer to the Guilds and Hunter Association. 

‘If the public wants to spit in my face, then I’ll gear my goods to those who don’t care.’ The Hunters. 

“We have just been notified that another body has been found, in almost the exact same condition–” 

“Beru, Igris, what are you two doing?” All heads snapped to the entryway where Jin Woo stood, and in his arms was a bouquet. Igris and Beru bowed, while Yuki all but threw his laptop off of him. Rushing over and hugging the man. Slender arms wrapped around Jin Woo’s neck as one of Jin Woo’s larger arms hugged him close. Yuki smiled up at him and pecked his lips, to which Jin Woo deepened. A sharp glance at Igris and Beru had the message crossing. Both of them disappearing and leaving only Yuki and Jin Woo (and Cujo and Pip but they are still hiding).

Resting his forehead against Yuki’s, Jin Woo showed Yuki the bouquet, and just like he predicted, the other gasped. Yuki took the bouquet with gentle hands, staring at the white carnations and red roses. The man smiled at him, “What’s the occasion?” 

“Does there have to be one?” Yuki chuckled, “How romantic. We made you something too.” He took Jin Woo’s hands a guided him towards the kitchen, where the cake was waiting. 

“We?” Yuki let go to search for a vase, “Beru, Igris, and I.” Jin Woo nodded, walking behind Yuki to grab the vase for him and fill it up with water. Yuki pouted at him but placed the bouquet in the vase. Once his hands were free, Jin Woo grabbed his hands once more and twirled Yuki so that he was once more facing his chest. The other giggled, “What has gotten into you? You are so happy.” 

If Yuki had looked at Jin Woo’s shoes, he would have noted the dried blood on the sole of Jin Woo’s toe. There would have been a moment when Beru and Igris had gone still before returning to their tasks. The News anchor had announced another body, but all he cared about was Jin Woo. Eyes focused solely on the other as Jin Woo returned the attention. 

Jin Woo has two out of the five known perpetrators. This time, the Ice Bears had their fun instead of the ants. 

He couldn’t tell Yuki that though. 

Yuki’s hair, now short and cleaned up more thanks to Jin Ah, had made his face look longer and his cheeks more prominent. Jin Woo loved the long hair, he missed how those long strands swayed and followed Yuki around like a veil. However, he was finding that these shorter locks worked just as well. 

If anything it just allowed for easier access to more pale skin. 

“Jin Woo.” He nuzzled into Yuki’s neck, feeling the heartbeat through the artery. It’s a reminder that Yuki was alive. Jin Woo, from the moment he heard about the cafe, started to imagine the worse. What if Yuki was in there when they broke in? Would they have hurt Yuki? Granted, Igris and Beru wouldn’t have allowed that, and it would have made it simpler to kill them all in one spot but Yuki would traumatized. 

Will they go after Yuki? His grip tightened. Yuki leaned into him more, hugging him tightly as Jin Woo continued to rest in his arms. 

“My Yuki.” The man giggled, moving so he could rest his forehead against Jin Woo’s. The News switched off and instead went to music. Jin Woo glanced at the direction and saw Beru giving him a thumbs up, and Jin Woo isn’t sure what type of face he was making but it had the Ant racing back into the shadows. 

He could feel Yuki chuckling, and he looked at the other with a pout. Yuki smiled up at him and began swaying with the music. Jin Woo following his lead. 

‘I used to hear a simple song, 

That is until you came along .’ 

“Is this how it was for you?” Yuki opened his eyes, unaware of when he closed them and looked up at Jin Woo. Their bodies still swaying to the music and still in one another’s arms. Yuki continued listening to the music, “You mean was my life easy before realizing I liked you? I have no idea.” 

‘It feels like it though.’ Once he finally accepted that he was in love with Jin Woo, it felt as though the world was finally in color. That missing piece was finally given to him to complete the puzzle. 

‘With simple songs, I wanted more, 

Perfection is so quick to bore.’ 

“For me,” Jin Woo started, finding the words lost in his thoughts and tongue as he reviewed just how he started liking Yuki. Before the System even pointed it out. Yuki gazed up at him expectantly, curiosity brewing in those red eyes. 

“I can’t describe it. I think, there were things you did that I have always liked, and it wasn’t until recently that I realized all those things you did that I liked, could only be done by you.” Yuki gave Jin Woo some kudos, because heaven knows the man struggles with expressing himself. Emotions, for Jin Woo, were better expressed through actions rather than words. 

Yuki wanted to tease him but refrained from doing so. Jin Woo was trying. Plus, Jin Woo had on a glare saying, ‘Tease me right at this moment and find out what happens later.’ 

‘You took my broken melody, 

And now I hear a symphony.’ 

“Then, when you started liking me back, it just felt… right.” Yuki smiled, “Same.” They say loving someone takes work, but with Yuki, it feels like a way of life. There is no work to put into it because it comes naturally. 

When he is in Jin Woo’s arms, the world fades away and it is just them. When he kissed Jin Woo, it is just them. They are the only two in the universe at that point in time and sometimes, as much as he loves Jin Ah and his mother, he wishes it would stay like that. Just them in their own world. Some part of him, a darker and inhumane part, contemplates making the world just like that. No one but them walks on the soil and drinks the water. 

“Jin Woo?” Yet, when he stares into those eyes that have seen him at his worst and chooses to still love him, Jin Woo just can’t bring himself to entertain those thoughts. They were swept away by the thoughts of only making Yuki happy. 

Just so he could see that smile one more time. 

‘And now I hear a symphony.’ 

Chapter Text

Jin Woo watched from the hallway as Yuki swayed to soft music as he made them breakfast. Unaware that Jin Woo is awake, Yuki has already downed one cup of coffee and dancing to the songs he has playing on the laptop a few feet away. Bobby pins holding his bangs out of his face, and the shirt he wore was Jin Woo’s. The article of clothing dwarfed him and hung off his body the way it hung off the hanger. 

His coffee machine now making more cups of coffee as he fried the bacon and waited for the blueberry muffins to cook. The back of his neck, just below the neckline, sporting purple and blue bruises, and Jin Woo winced at the sight of a nasty bite he had given him last night. In his defense, the skin was right in front of his face and Yuki smelt like cherries and almonds. 

Was he not supposed to take a bite? 

The beeping of the oven had Yuki reaching for the oven mitts, and as soon as he had placed the hot muffin tray on the countertop to cool, he cracked two eggs in the bacon grease. He moved around the kitchen with practiced ease, dancing on the tips of his toes as cooked more food. 

Smiling, Jin Woo wanted to keep watching, if it weren’t for Pip’s claws sinking into his sweatpants legs. 

“Ah!” Yuki’s head whipped around, and he started laughing at the angry glare on Jin Woo’s face and Pip’s smug face. The man raised a brow at Jin Woo, who angrily huffed and shuffled over. Due to Yuki stealing Jin Woo’s shirt, this meant Jin Woo had no shirt when he got dressed this morning. Which means currently, he is shirtless with the light of the sunrise falling on his muscular torso. 

“Where’s your shirt?” Jin Woo hugged him from behind, resting his chin on those feeble shoulders, “You’re wearing it.” 

“You have extras here.” Yuki placed the two cooked eggs on a paper towel and then cracked two more. Jin Woo took a deep inhale, and sure enough his stomach began rumbling, “But the one you’re wearing is my favorite.” He could hear Yuki’s eyes roll, and he couldn’t stop himself from smiling. 

[Quest: Will to Grow] 

[Completion: 82%] 

‘It’s been a while since I’ve last seen that.’ He hugged Yuki tighter, bringing him closer to him. ‘Is it even accurate?’ It didn’t feel like it. How can the feelings and emotions he is currently feeling right now just be 82%? 

‘Maybe it’s broken.’ How much more love could he feel for Yuki that doesn’t involve keeping him locked in here? So he could be safe from the world and never have to lift a finger again. He doesn’t doubt he could, and is, falling deeper in love with Yuki, but by 18%? 

“Jin Woo?” He turned his attention to his lover, and Yuki sent him a worried glance, “You good? You got really quite.” Jin Woo huffed, hugging him tighter, “Yeah. I was wondering if you wanted to head to the Guild with me.” 

Yuki blinked at him, “You’re Guild.” Jin Woo nodded, “We have the place and Jin Ho will be there in an hour.” He could see the hesitance on his face, and Jin Woo was quick to peck his cheek, “It’ll be good. Get some fresh air.” Yuki pouted, removing the eggs and placing them on a paper towel to soak the grease, “Excuse you. But I opened the window yesterday.” 

The laugh Jin Woo released had Yuki laughing alongside him. Jin Woo smiled down at him, unwrapping his arms to take the plates from nimble fingers. Yuki moved to grab two cups of coffee, filling them each to teh brim and walking over. 

Some part of him broke a little at the thought of Jin Woo being the only one he gets to serve coffee too. He woke up this morning at 4 out of habit, and he cried in the bathroom when he remembered just what happened to his treasure. His safe haven next to his home. He didn’t mean to wake Jin Woo either, but the man came in and guided him back to bed. 

He set the mug down in front of Jin Woo, and sat down next to him. The oaf already loading his plate with the muffins, eggs, and bacon looking expectantly at Yuki to start piling his own plate. Their morning continued like in peace. Soft music filling the background as they danced around another, doing simple chores and getting ready for the day. Soft touches and love-filled kisses exchanged between the two even as they left the apartment. Or, more like Jin Woo hugging Yuki and shadow exchanging there. 

It would have been a nice walk. Today was supposed to reach a nice temperature, not a cloud in sight, and the morning air was fresh. Yuki had the balcony door open to let in the morning air, and the sound of people waking up and getting ready for work filled the apartment. 

It would have been a beautiful walk, one that Yuki would have enjoyed. The morning sun would shine on his skin and it wouldn’t be bright enough yet for Yuki to need sunglasses for his sensitive eyes. The soft oranges and yellows from the sun would have made his hair illuminate and eyelashes shine, making those ruby eyes shine even more. 

It would have been a wonderful walk, if Yuki wasn’t terrified of going out. 

Under the protection of the midnight sky with darkness bathing the both of them in its cool embrace, in Jin Woo’s arms Yuki whispered the small fear. Trembling as he did so and burying face in Jin Woo’s chest. Awkward laughter spilled from his lips after he said it, feeling like acid on Jin Woo’s skin as he assured Yuki that the feeling was valid. His fear was valid. The other didn’t have to downplay it because it was traumatic. 

“If they can do that to my shop, what’s stopping them from doing that to me?” Jin Woo clenched his jaw, “They won’t get to you.” 

“I know. I know you’ll protect me Jin Woo, but still. I… I just can’t help but to be scared of that thought.” 

Physically, Jin Woo can protect him. He can protect him from the physical threats that may arise, whether from monsters or human. However, he cannot protect him from the threats that don’t leave a physical mark. He cannot stop people from typing their thoughts, from whispering theur opinions, or from physically showing them on their faces. 

‘I could just kill them.’ It’s a thought that Jin Woo has played with. He toyed with it, weighed the pros and cons, and at this point in time the cons slightly outweighed the pros. Right now, he’s venting his anger on those that destroyed the shop. Only a few more to go, and Jin Woo could already feel the feeling of satisfaction crawl its way into his chest. 

It would have been a beautiful walk, filled with laughter and memories, if only those fucks understood where they belonged. So for now, it is Shadow Exchange with Yuki. It is something he warned Go Gun Hee about, just in case Yuki felt like seeing the older gentleman and Jin Woo would feel awful he gave the poor man a heart attack. Although, to be fair Woo Jin Chul was more likely to have a heart attack then that old fart. 

“Wow, its an office building.” Yuki walked around the small space, and took in the small amounts of decoration and the fancy computer. 

“Poor Jin Ho-ssi, you’re making him do all the hard work aren’t you?” Jin Woo is a grown man and he did not pout, “I’m the one going in the dungeons.” Yuki chuckled, “As if they are hard for you.” Which, fair but still. 

Jin Woo is not pouting, not even as he sits on the couch and watches Yuki continue to explore the place. He noted that Yuki was staying away from the windows, and he made mental note to look for an office that is higher off the ground. 

“Don’t even think about it.” Jin Woo blinked in surprise, and Yuki was looking at some of the binders that held legal papers. 

“I wasn’t–” 

“Liar, it’s all over your face.” Jin Woo gave an awkward smile, which Yuki chuckled at, “I’ll get over it soon. I’m still trying to processing it.” 

“You shouldn’t have to get over anything. It should have never happened.” ‘That person who took those photos, I should add them to the list.’ They’ve clearly been watching them for a while, and from the angle of the photos, they have been trying their damned hardest to get Yuki’s face. 

Yuki gave him a sorrowful smile, “Well it did. There’s nothing I can do about it besides start over.” Jin Woo winced at that, and Yuki watched how Jin Woo’s eyebrows furrowed and a contemplative look took over his face. Grey eyes focusing on a spot on the small coffee table in front of the sofa. He set the binder down and walked over to sit next to him, looking at him with curious eyes, “What’s wrong?” 

Jin Woo hesitated. Jin Woo never hesitates, and it was because of that Yuki could feel his heart starting to beat rapidly. He took one of Jin Woo’s hands, and Jin Woo looked ready to accept the outcome of what he has been thinking. 

“About that, I’m not sure if you should start another one.” 

“...Excuse me?” 

[System Warning: You are in Danger ] 

‘At least its not the ‘Feelings Dropping’ one.’ Jin Woo stared blankly at the notification, “Hear me out–” 

“I’m listening.” Jin Woo gulped and he found it real hard to meet Yuki’s gaze. It’s been a while since he and Yuki fought, and he prayed that this wouldn’t be one of those times. 

“Jin Woo.” Right, he was in danger and the danger was Yuki. Taking a deep sigh, he grabbed the hand that was holding his, and he looked into those swirling red eyes. There was no fire like Choi Jong In’s, or coldness like Woo Jin Chul’s, it was a swirling red that looked like melted sugar and promised a devastating burn. Those bright red eyes now glaring at him, and for a moment, Jin Woo wondered if drowning in those red pools would be as sweet as they looked. Sugary syrup trapping him, and even though the threat of death from drowning would be ringing around him, he would still remain out of curiosity. 

He met them with cool grey eyes, and he hoped that whatever he was feeling would be able to translate into his gaze, “It’s just… I’m worried you’ll be stressing more about it.” Yuki blinked, the glare momentarily losing it’s heat and Jin Woo took the chance to continue. 

“I’m happy you want to continue doing it, I really really am. I will support you through it all.” Because he will, Yuki’s happiness is his top priority outside of his life as a Hunter. However, “Right now though, I don’t think it’s a good idea.” 

“What do you mean?” 

“You know what I mean Yuki. Your health is–” 

“Of course it’s my health.” 

“It is. Yuki, your coughs are getting worse, its no longer just coughing but now there’s blood. Even nosebleeds now.” Yuki closed his eyes, and Jin Woo could see his frustration. Nimble fingers pinched the bridge of his nose, and Jin Woo continued to press, “Plus, we both remember how stressful it was for you to get that first place. You collapsed for fucks sakes, and that is when you were healtheir.” 

Yuki clicked his tongue and stood up, “I am fi–” 

“You’re not! Yuki you were dying last night.” 

“I was not dying!” 

“You couldn’t catch a breath! All that blood should not have been coming out of you! The only reason we didn’t go to the hospital is because if that potion couldn’t do anything, then the hospital sure as hell can’t either.” It was terrifying. It was Jin Woo’s first time catching a coughing fit, and it made him wonder how many times Yuki was alone when these happened. The sight of Yuki, already thin and pale, hunched over the sink and gasping for breath between coughs as blood left his mouth and nose. Hands clutching his chest as pain felt only by Yuki brought him to his knees, and the only thing Jin Woo could do was hold him. 

He was ready to leave. He was ready to rush Yuki to the hospital to get on a respirator, or something to help Yuki catch a breath. As soon as he wrapped his arm under Yuki’s knees, the coughing stopped and Yuki was left swallowing air to try and soothe the burn in his lungs from the lack of air. Tears escaping those tired eyes as oxygen filled his body and the pain slowly left. 

Yuki’s nose scrunched, and Jin Woo pressed, “I’m not trying to stop you from doing it, I’m just asking you wait.” 

“For what?” 

“Till we figure it out.” Yuki clicked his tongue, “And if it never gets solved?” Silence reigned over them and Yuki could feel the weight on his shoulders. It wasn’t a fair question, because he knows that this issue will never be solved. Instinctually, he knows that there is no cure for this besides one thing. 

It wasn’t even a cure either. Only a temporary solution. 

++++

“Can you believe he said that to me?” Go Gun Hee raised an eyebrow and took a sip of coffee, the sister cup in Yuki’s fingers as he ranted about Jin Woo. The S Rank had graciously dropped him off in Go Gun Hee’s office, who waited patiently until the older man was back from his meeting with two Royal Albert coffee cups in his hands filled with freshly brewed coffee. 

He watched in amusement as Yuki complained, reading a piece of paper as he did so. 

“Seems like he’s looking out for you.” The pout he got had him laughing, almost spilling his coffee in the process. He stared at the young man with amusement, remembering a time when the man across from was nothing more than a boy ranting about math class and how stupid everyone was. 

“You’re supposed to be on my side, Go Gun Hee-nim.” 

“Since when have I ever chosen sides?” Yuki clicked his tongue, and if Go Gun Hee didn’t know him longer, he would have thought that Yuki was actually upset with him. Go Gun Hee set his mug down, and folded his hands, “Now, why are you here Yuki-a? Must be important considering you’re here willingly.” Aged eyes watched those red eyes turned worrisome, conflict in those orbs as went through his thoughts. 

Yuki bit his lips, “Would you take me seriously if I said I have a bad feeling?” Go Gun Hee blinked in surprise. His gaze becoming less intense, “About what?” 

“Sung Jin Ah’s school. I feel like something is going to happen. Something terrible.” Yuki cursed himself for not being able to remember something like this. It was an important part, he knows that, but he just cannot remember what happens. 

“Unfortunately, without any evidence, we can’t do much.” Yuki took a deep sigh, “I figured. It’s just a really bad feeling, you know.” Go Gun Hee’s eyes narrowed, focusing on the magic that circled aroun Yuki. 

‘The shell, it’s breaking.’ 

“Just be ready.” Go Gun Hee focused back on Yuki, and he flinched at the sight. Yuki’s form melting into the couch and his eyes looking exhausted. His shoulders weighing heavily and he looked like a man returning from war. 

“Its a really awful feeling.” 

Chapter Text

‘How ominous.’ Yuki eyed the dark clouds swirling in the air above the high school. In his hands were Jin Ah’s papers, forgotten at his place as she rushed out of his home this morning. ‘That girl,’ Yuki tried to smile as he entered the gates, looking up and seeing Jin Ah waving at him from the window. 

He hoped his smile looked passable, because right now, his stomach was churning. He knows something is going to happen. He can feel the memories trying to burst through that mental block he has going on, but the wall is not budging. Holding up her papers, so Jin Ah can see them, he chuckled when she started clapping. 

“Just go in, get out.” Gulping, he stepped through the front doors and smiled at the teacher waiting for him. 

“Hello, you must be Min Yuki-ssi.” He nodded, “Correct. You are Jin Ah’s home room teacher?” The older woman smiled, nodding and welcoming him in. She looks kind, with smile lines on her face and eyes that show she’s seen enough to know what she is talking about. Smiling, and hiding the fact he is shaking, he follows her. 

“Jin Ah talks a lot about you and Mr. Sung Jin Woo-ssi, so I was hoping to take the chance to talk to you.” Yuki nodded, “Only if you have the time.” ‘Please say no. Please say no. Please say no!’ 

“Of course I do! It’s almost lunch for them, so Jin Ah will still by the office to pick up her papers.” ‘FUCK!’ Yuki continued to smile, following the teacher and ignoring some of the passing students. 

‘Hey isn’t that-’ 

‘It is. Did you see what they did to the cafe?’ 

‘How terrible! I loved that place.’ 

‘Not to mention if rumors are true, they are messing with S Rank Sung Jin–’ 

“Here we are. Would you like some coffee?” Yuki’s attention focused back on the woman, and she had on a sympathetic smile. He wondered if he looked as pathetic as he felt. He held the papers in trembling fingers, “Thank you, but no. I already had a cup on the way here.” The teacher smiled, motioning for the two of them to sit on the sofa. 

The teacher did not mention the whispers, or the rumors. Instead she took the papers from Yuki’s hands, and quickly scanned over them. Her smile turning soft as she flicked through the pages, “Jin Ah is such a bright student. I’m happy to see she has such a supportive family behind her.” Yuki blinked, then chuckled, “Jin Ah has always been smart. Its been fun watching her expand her knowledge.” 

The woman chuckled, “Are you aware of what Jin Ah’s dream job is?” Yuki nodded, how could he not know? Everyone knew it, because she would go around screaming it at the top of her lungs when they were little. All the games they played, and her forcibly making him be the patient. 

“She wants to be a doctor.” The woman nodded, “She does have the smarts for it. Not to mention that studious attitude.” Warm brown met his, and Yuki wondered if this woman was a mother. If she could look at a stranger like that, he wonders what type of gaze she gives her kids. 

“She has told me that you are the reason for her wanting to be a doctor.” 

. 

. 

. 

“Me?!” The woman laughed and Yuki could feel his cheeks heating up, “Yes. She’s quite adamant about it to.” Yuki buried his face in his hands, “Jin Ah~” He whined, ignoring how the woman continued to laugh and how loud the bell was. 

“That’s the lunch bell, Jin Ah will be coming so–” 

“AAAAAHHHH!” Yuki and the teacher stood up, as did the rest of the teachers. Yuki’s heart began racing and he could feel his stomach turning even more. ‘Its happening.’ Whatever ‘it’ is, it had him struggling for breath as the teachers left to investigate. There was a horrid sound of something being cut and another thing being crunched, the unmistakable sound of liquid splashing on a surface. 

When his line of vision landed to the hallway, he felt his throat close up and his chest begin to ache. Red eyes meeting another pair of red eyes. The orc, dripping saliva and sporting an evil grin as it stepped on a body. A child’s body. 

“Oh my God.” One of the students, a girl looking no older than fifteen had her arm severed off her body and her head smashed in. A boy split in half, the spray of blood decorating and dripping off the ceiling. Another boy, still in the orc’s hand, staring fearfully at Yuki. 

“Please… help m–” Blood splattered, running off those green fingers like a river does from the mountain and into the sea of a growing blood puddle. The body twitched for only a second. 

“Run!” One of the teachers had grabbed the collar of his shirt, and Yuki was quick to grab the arm of another student as they raced down the hallway. 

“Quick! Out of the building!” 

“Someone needs to tell the students upstairs!” 

“Run!” 

“They’re chasing us!” 

“I don’t want to die !” The cries of students, teachers, and the sound of more bodies dropping had Yuki fighting desperately to not cover his ears. His eyes wide in fear, and he could feel his limbs and body shake. 

‘Jin Ah.’ Yuki took an abrupt turn, into the stairwell. 

“Min Yuki-ssi!” 

“Someone needs to tell the students! Call the teachers on the top floor from the outside! Let them know whats going on!” He’s out of breath by the end of that spiel, and he could already feel his chest aching. The burn scorching his insides and each breath felt like he was swallowing blood. 

Once he reached the second floor, he could already hear the sound of orcs slashing away at bodies. 

“Ahhhhh!” 

“Please help me!”
 

“M yungyu!!!” 

“Yeonah!!” He grabbed a kid shoved them into a classroom, where others were huddled. He couldn’t feel any source of rage at the sight of them doing nothing, because they are children. Children! Actual children being forced through this, having to listen as your friends, classmates, hell even siblings get slaughtered and know they are powerless to stop it. 

“Ah-ahjussi.” One of the girls cried, and Yuki took a deep breath, “Go out the window.” 

“Thats a two story drop!” 

“What’s better?! A broken leg or your life! Choose!” He ran out, not checking to see if they did what they are told, but from the sound of a window opening and a short scream, he had some hope.

‘Jin Ah.’ He grabbed another student, rushing them to another classroom as the orcs closed in. Their body heavy in his arms, “Use your feet!” 

“Please, leave me.” 

“Hah?!” 

“My girlfriend, she’s dead. She’s actually dead. They sliced her in half like she was nothing… and I could do nothing.” Yuki grit his teeth, “Then shouldn’t you be trying to live for her?!” The boy’s body weight remained to be heavy, and Yuki had the strangest feeling that if he continued to try and move this boy, he will also be dying. 

His lungs officially hurting and he was gasping for breath. Sweat sticking to his skin and Yuki cursed his body for being weak. Why was this so difficult?! Would another person be struggling as much as he was? Why is moving a maybe fifteen-year-old kid so difficult?! 

“Ahjussi!” Yuki looked up to where a student was pointing behind him and for the second time, red eyes met red. Its ax raised and Yuki could see his reflection on the stone. If he doesn’t do something right now, he’ll die. He’s actually going to die! 

A small part of him wondered why he was freaking out. He’s died before. Lillian died from a lack of oxygen when her lung collapsed, and surely an ax cutting him in half wouldn’t hurt as much as that did, right? 

‘ You ungrateful brat!’ 

‘I wish you were never born.’ 

‘Wanna play a game?’ 

‘Yuki-ssi, how are you feeling today?’ 

‘Yuki, you’ll lie for mommy, right?’ 

‘Yuki, when I’m doctor you’re going to be my first patient okay!’ 

‘Yuki, be safe okay.’ 

‘I’m sorry Min Yuki-ssi.’

‘Yuki, I missed you.’ 

‘Yuki, please don’t do that.’ 

‘Yuki, you and Oppa are going to stay together right?’ 

‘My Yuki.’ 

Tears pricked his eyes as he saw the ax swing down, ‘Ah. I don’t want to die.’ 

‘Call.’  

“Ellowyn.” Yuki isn’t to sure himself about what had just happened, but he knows there was a change. A change in the air, a change around him, and a change in him. That burning sensation, feeling like the many caramel burns he’s received playing around in the kitchen, no longer felt like burns but instead like warm current rushing through his body. Relieving his body of stress, weight, and pain. 

The tightness in his chest soothing as whatever it was spread out throughput his body and into the hair, creating a wall. A translucent, glowing, orange wall that had both the orc and him confused. The feeling of fear, washing away with that warm current as information flooded his mind. Information he’s never had. 

In the midst of all that, a familiar shadow appeared. Red painting Yuki’s vision and a black cape as well as giant sword. 

“Igris.” He reached out a hand, fingers no longer trembling, and touched the knights shoulders, muttering a spell under his breath. The knight glowed orange momentarily before giving Yuki a nod. ‘A buff, I gave him a buff.’ Yuki stared blankly at his hands, ‘I know how to create enchantments.’ 

“Ahjussi.” The girl who had warned him, was now staring at him in awe, tears still streaming down her face, and Yuki remembered why he ran up those stairs. ‘Jin Ah!’ Taking a deep breath, Yuki closed his eyes and focused and could feel the power coursing through him. It itched and it soothed, feeling no longer warm but blistering hot and then icy, then back to warm. He could feel it swimming around him, as if he was submerged in the water and the current flowed around him.

For the first time in his life, Yuki felt light. If he were to jump out the window, he wouldn’t fall but float. Gone was the heavy weight on his shoulders, and the heavy on his chest, and the heavy weight on his legs that made going through life difficult. Yuki felt free, and he had the world at his fingertips. A world that no one really knew of besides he and Ellowyn. A world of possibilities, just waiting to be created. 

‘I can see why people find this addicting.’ Opening his eyes, now glowing orange, he focused the magic and spread it throughout the school building. Even though he could not see the third and fourth floors, he could feel the barriers take place at the doors of each room. If an orc was in the middle of walking in, the barrier cut through them. If they were in the room, the barrier forced them out. 

He could feel it. The struggle the orcs put in trying to tear them down, hitting those glowing orange rectangles with everything in them, and all it did was ricochet the power. Yuki watched as the barrier in front of him crumbled, leaving only Igris as a wall between him and now three orcs. 

Fishing out his phone, he quickly texted Jin Ah, ‘Look out your window.’ Along with barriers, Yuki had another fun idea for this sturdy rectangles. 

“There’s a slide out the window!” 

“Quick!” 

“Ahjussi.” Yuki smiled at her, and he was now able to pick the boy up and hand him to waiting classmates, “Go. I’ll be fine.” They were children. Children who had no business seeing what Igris will do. 

‘Alright, Ellowyn what else do you have?’ He could not see their face, but he knew they were smiling. More information crowded his mind, and he could feel the start of a nosebleed, “Got it.” Tired eyes, filled with nothing as he stared into those glowing red eyes. Igris was still standing in front of him like the wonderful knight he is. An exhausted smile decorated his lips, “I’ll deal with the one on the third, fourth, and first floor. Save you the trouble.” 

Igris gave him a nod, and charge. The buff Yuki had given him amplifying his speed, his strength, and the devastation to that giant sword of his. Huffing, Yuki stared at the ceiling, feeling the magic gather before he could even utter the words, “Armory.” 

++++ 

Jin Woo was rushing over to the school. The moment he felt Igris activate was the moment he was out of that stupid Dungeon, leaving behind Beru to handle it. From Kaisel’s back, he could see the rush of cars headed to one direction. It was the direction he was going in. 

“Hello?!” 

‘O-Oppa!’ 

“Jin Ah?!” The girl was crying over the phone and Jin Woo could already see her biting her nails. 

‘Yu-Yuki-oppa, he hasn’t come out yet!’ Jin Woo had to stop himself from crushing the phone as he willed Kaisel to fly faster. 

“I’m on my way, Yuki will be fine,” He tried to console, but Jin Ah just cried even more. ‘It’s all my fault! I asked him to bring my homework and now- now this happened!’ Jin Woo felt his chest clench at the sound of his baby sister sobbing, “Jin Ah, there is no way you could have predicted this. I am almost there, Yuki. Will. Be. Fine.” He’s not to sure who he trying to comfort. His heart was beating fast and a memory, one that is not his, flashed across his mind for only a second but it felt like eternity. 

A dead body, wings cut off and blood making a pool under the body. Their chest stained in red, soaking the white cloth and making the strands of hair red.

‘What the hell?’ Jin Woo snapped out of the memory only because of the feeling of a powerful magic source hitting him. 

A familiar magic source. 

‘He awakened?’ Outside the windows of the school were large translucent panels shaped like slide. At the bottom were waiting Hunters, helping the students. Jin Woo crashed landed into a window on the fourth floor, and the magic that permeated the air welcomed him like a lover. Softly touching his skin and welcoming him further into the domain. 

When he walked out the room, he was met with the dead body of an orc. A sword, heavily enchanted and glowing, impaled through it’s chest. ‘That sword looks familiar.’ He reached out and picked it up, the magic surrounding the sword crackling only a little bit before welcoming his touch. 

Familiar magic interlaced within the threads decorating the handle, same to the magic in the air. 

Choosing to look at it later, Jin Woo pocketed the sword into his inventory, and raced down to where he could feel Igirs and Yuki. The sprint wasn’t long at all, but it felt like forever. Once he got to where Yuki and Igris were, he sucked in a deep breath at the sight Yuki’s nose bleeding, Igris taking on seven orcs, and one of them who must be the Leader reaching for Yuki. 

Summoning his blade, Jin Woo through the dagger, severing the arm and then kicking it in the gut. Ignoring how blood sprayed out of it’s mouth, and how Igirs returned to Yuki’s side. Jin Woo’s eyes, glowing blue and anger radiating off of him at the sight of the blood leaking out of Yuki’s nose. 

“I’m okay. I’m okay.” Yuki nuzzled into those palms, tears now leaking out of his eyes as the situation crashed on him. His breathing getting labored, and the magic surrounding him slowly waning. Coming close to the body and acting like a shield, “I-I-I’m okay. Is-is-is Jin–” 

“She’s outside, waiting for you.” Relief washed over Yuki’s features and Jin Woo held him tight. Nuzzling into white hair, and fixating his glare on the now moving Leader. Promising vengeance. 

He signaled to Igris, who gently pried Yuki off of Jin Woo, and began guiding the other out. Red eyes not leaving him until they disappeared down the stairwell. It was then that Jin Woo gave the remaining orcs his full attention. 

“Now, how many times are fuckers like you going to continue to ruin my mood?” 

Chapter Text

He isn’t the most aware of his surroundings at the moment. Even with Igris walking with him, they still had to walk through the hallway on the first floor, and Yuki gazed at the bodies of young kids. The walls stained and in some cases cracked, and doors sporting almost the same amount of blood that was on the floor.

‘This could have been Jin Ah.’ Imagining her body mangled, twisted, severed, and mutilated had him gagging. ‘Maybe, if I stopped holding off the awakening… I could have stopped this.’ The thought had his chest aching and his shoulders feeling heavy once more. It is his fault. It’s his fault that some parents will be without their child, or even children. His eyes locking on two students, clearly related and in each other’s arms. The taller teen hugging the smaller one, and from the wound in the back, it looked as if they were trying to protect the smaller teen.

It’s his fault. He shoes, no longer clean and stained in red to the point even his socks felt wet, left bloody footprints. Igris, ever the great knight, helped guide him in dissociative state to avoid severed limbs and larger blood puddles. When rain started hitting him, he looked out and saw a sea of people. Medics, police officers, Hunter Association members, students, teachers, and parents waiting and crawling over one another.

“Yuki-oppa!” Dull red eyes scanned the crowd and saw and sobbing, unharmed Jin Ah. A breath he didn’t know he was holding escaped his lips at the sight of her still pristine uniform and unbruised face. He could see the tears, and how wide her eyes got when she took in his form. His nose bleeding and being diluted from the rain, and he doesn’t doubt that there is blood on his clothes.

Walking over to her, Yuki tried to smile, “I’m happy you’re safe, Jin Ah.” The hug she gave him was crushing, and Yuki had to force his arms around her. Cradling her head and holding her tight. He almost lost Jin Ah. He and Jin Woo almost lost Jin Ah.

The rain, or maybe they were tears, raced down his cheeks as he hugged her tighter. She was crying into his chest, “Yuki-oppa, I’m sorry! I’m so sorry.” Confusion crossed his features, “Why? Jin Ah you did nothing wrong.” ‘If anything, I’m sorry for not allowing myself to awaken sooner.’

“If only I didn’t ask you to come, then you wouldn’t have been involved in this!” Yuki rubbed her back, “Jin Ah, you had no control over this. It is not your fault.” She stared at him with glassy eyes, tears racing down her face and Yuki could feel his heartbreak, ‘Jin Ah’s tears are the worst.’ He hated seeing his little sister figure cry. He always has.

“Min Yuki-ssi.” Looking away from Jin Ah, he met Woo Jin Chul’s worried face face. Even though his eyes were hiding behind shades, Yuki’s been around the A Rank enough to be able to see through his stone-cold facade.

“Woo Jin Chul-ssi,” He greeted. Yuki’s voice sounding foreign even to himself, and when he stared longer at Woo Jin Chul, he could see it. The magic rolling off of the A Ranker.

‘That’s… intense.’ Woo Jin Chul nodded at Jin Ah, and then returned his attention to Yuki, “If you would please follow me. President Go Gun Hee-nim would like a word with you.” Normally, the thought of talking to Go Gun Hee had Yuki smiling and excited. Talking to the older man is always a pleasure and Yuki wished he did it more.

Right now though, Yuki wanted to bury himself in a hole. He didn’t want to face Go Gun Hee and tell him that he’s had the option to awaken for so long. He just never did because he’s a coward. Yuki didn’t want to be a Hunter, because deep down he is still terrified of them. It may be different with Jin Woo and Go Gun Hee, but other Hunters he can still feel the pin pricks of fear.

“Got it. Wait here, Jin Ah. Jin Woo will be out shortly.” He wiped the tears off her face, turning around and walking over to Woo Jin Chul. He noted the man flinching, if only slightly, and Yuki bit his lip. The slides, created by his magic dissolved when the last student stepped off, and Yuki took a deep inhale as the magic flowed back around him. No longer feeling light like he first did when he called upon it, but now feeling like multiple chains and shackles. Piercing his body and keeping him tethered to the ground.

“Min Yuki-ssi, are you okay?” Woo Jin Chul’s attention to Yuki’s chest, where thin fingers were massaging the area. Yuki’s face contorting to one of discomfort.

“Yes. Lets… lets just get this over with.” The A Rank Hunter observed how exhausted Yuki now looked, and he noted that the ‘shell’ was broken. No longer swirling around Yuki in a contained manner, but now leaking off of him and into the air. Filling the air around him with magic, leaving others stumbling and or in some cases gasping. ‘He is easily, at least, an A Rank.’ Woo Jin Chul is not stupid, but he does not want to get his hopes up in case the measurements come back with something else. Yuki would not be the first A Rank to have the crushing weight of an S Rank.

Go Gun Hee waited outside the car, away from everybody and surrounded by all sorts of guard. When Yuki came into his line of sight, he couldn’t help but to gaze sorrowfully at the man he sees as a son. The other drenched in rain, and his pant legs and shoes soaked in blood, and his eyes looking exhausted. Even from the distance, Go Gu Hee could feel the power radiating off of Yuki. He extended a hand, and rested it on the back Yuki’s neck, “Yuki-a.” It was the only solace he could give the other, as Yuki’s eyes shined with unshed tears.

“I’m sorry.” Go Gun Hee’s face became even more concerned, “About what?” Red eyes too afraid to meet his own, and the way Yuki’s shoulders began to close in had Go Gun Hee worried, “I… The kids… It’s my fault.” Go Gun Hee’s eyebrows shot up as he stared at Yuki, “If only… if only I didn’t hold off… all those kids could have been saved. It’s because I refused to awaken sooner that so many are dead.” The confession had Go Gun Hee pausing. Staring at Yuki as the man continued to shrink in on himself.

‘Survivor’s guilt.’ Go Gun Hee took a deep breath, both hands now holding Yuki’s shoulders and trying to keep the other grounded. He stared at Yuki’s face, and he spotted it instantly. The blame festering across Yuki’s features like an ugly scar, and the resentment for himself making its way into his mind.

“Yuki, nothing today is your fault. If anything, you saved so many of those children with those barriers and slides.” Yuki shook his head, “I could have saved more if–”

“If nothing. Yuki, you did what you could in that moment.” Red eyes finally met aged grey, and Go Gun Hee knows his words may not reach all the way, but hopefully they make an indent. Just a little one.

When Sung Jin Woo emerged, covered in blue blood and eyes still murderous, he hugged his sister. Strong arms encasing her as she cried, and Jin Woo tried to soothe her worries. His eyes scanning around and looking for another person, who he spotted next to Go Gun Hee. With his sister next to him, he walked over to where the Hunter Association President was. Aged eyes meeting his, and then flickering to Jin Ah.

Jin Woo wrapped both Yuki and Jin Ah in a hug once more, holding them tightly as he thought over what just happened. He almost lost both of them today.

“Hunter Sung Jin Woo-ssi, may we talk to you?” He wanted to say no. He wanted to tell them all to fuck off for just a single moment and let him relish in the fact that his most important people are safe. That Yuki in now awakened. That Jin Ah can breathe for another day.

But a hand on his chest and stern eyes prevented him from doing so. He took a deep inhale and exhale, “It’ll be quick.” He promised, pulling away and walking with President Go Gun Hee and the others only a few feet away. They want his opinions and observations. Questioning him about what he found, if he knows Yuki’s skill, an estimated amount of bodies.

All of it that could be done at a later date.

Yuki, on the other hand, was having an issue. His body felt hot. Unbearably hot. Like someone was scorching him from the inside and there was no way to release the heat. His chest no longer aching but instead in actual pain. He found it hard to breathe as the pain grew intense and the heat began to feel like it was scorching him. Blistering his organs and making the blood boil.

“Yuki-oppa?” He didn’t want Jin Ah to see this. He didn’t want anyone to see this. Its bad enough Jin Woo saw him having a fit, but for Go Gun Hee, Woo Jin Chul, and now Jin Ah to see it would have Yuki actually burying himself in a hole.

“Jin Ah, look away,” He wheezed out. The blood escaping his nose not stopping and he could feel it coming out of his throat. His breathing getting shallower as he tried desperately to catch his breath, and his hands flying to cover his mouth.

“Yuki-oppa!” The sound of blood escaping his mouth, dripping through his fingers, and landing on the pavement had heads turning. His form hunched over from the force, and he could already tell that the amount of blood escaping him was not good. Not good at all. His hands cupped over his mouth filled to the brim, like a small pool of red, and the liquid was seeping through the cracks.

His eye sight getting blurry and he was feeling to his legs. He couldn’t feel Jin Ah’s arms around him anymore and all that he could feel was the scorching heat of the magic within him. He met terrified grey eyes, and Yuki stared at him in confusion.

“Jin Woo?” His vision turned dark and the last thing he could hear was his name being called.

++++

“Good morning.” Yuki blinked at the deity standing above him. Their face familiar and the power similar to his own.

“...Did I die?” They laughed. They don’t have a mouth but they still managed to laugh.

“No, it’s too soon for that.” ‘Excuse me?’ Yuki sat up, and he noted how light his chest was. No longer feeling heavy or in pain, in fact he felt almost normal. He opened and closed his fingers, “So this is what being healthy is like.” The deity chuckled, “Quite a weird concept, is it not?”

Yuki hummed and proceeded to force himself to stand. He noted the room they were in, a circular platform surrounded by large archways that lead to dark corridors flooded with water. The only light from above, where a giant fragmented glass sculpture was. Underneath it was a small bird bath looking podium, also filled with water. After looking around, he decided to look at the deity. They were tall, their horns forming a reversed crown-like shape, with two spikes on each side before one large spike in the middle. It was a continuous horn, no end break as they joined together underneath that large spike. Their clothes were robe like almost, hanging off their figure and allowing for there to be no shape. What caught his attention however, were the wings. Six large wings, spanning behind them and glowing white.

“You sure I’m not dead?” The only reason he knows the deity is smiling is because of the glowing orange eyes.

“Positive. If we were dead, we would not be facing each other.”

“We?” Their head tilted, “Yes, we. I am you, and you are me.” Yuki sucked in a deep breath, “Ellowyn?” They nodded, “It’s nice to meet you in person, Min Matsuno Yuki.”

Yuki was openly staring at the large being, now named Ellowyn, and he couldn’t help but to feel that he is in fact dead. There’s no other reasoning.

“Waitwaitwait. What do you mean by the whole ‘you are me and I am you’ thing?” Ellowyn beckoned him to follow, and Yuki found himself having to jog to keep up with their stride. It wasn’t until they were under the glass shard and in front of the podium that he realized what exactly was hanging above him.

‘Crystals?’ In the shape of a willow tree, only without the trunk. It was floating in the air and the crystals, some small and some large, were glowing, some brightly and some dimly. He looked down in the podium, and flinched. His face and hair, glowing white and his red eyes really being the only source of color. He brought a hand to his cheek, and he could the magic thrumming his fingertips.

He looked almost exactly like Ellowyn, only he had facial features and red eyes.

“What the hell is this?” Ellowyn sighed, “Exactly as it looks. Its answers.”

“I haven’t asked any questions though.” They shrugged, “Doesn’t matter. They are written all over your face.” Yuki pouted and Ellowyn chuckled, their large shoulders shaking.

“Welcome to your Soul, Yuki. Not many incarnates have been able to step foot in here while still breathing.” Yuki stared blankly at them.

“....What?” Ellowyn made a pose like they were thinking, “One of the incarnates called it Nirvana.”

“Hold up, ‘one of the incarnates?’” Ellowyn nodded, “Of course. You didn’t think your were the only one born with my soul, did you?”

.

.

.

“I have your soul?”

“Yes.”

“Can you take it back?”

“Not without you dying.” ‘Shit.’ Yuki clicked his tongue and then it hit him, “Wait! You said I wasn’t the only one. That means there have been others.” Ellowyn nodded, “Yes. What do you think these crystals are?”

Yuki’s eyes widened and his head snapped back to the structure. All those crystals, easily over a thousand, were once people. They were people with Ellowyn’s soul. Oh God, “I’m going to be a crystal when I die?!”

“... I had a different plan for you, but possibly.” Yuki wanted to cry. He actually wanted to cry and drown in those tears. Gulping, he turned his attention to Ellowyn, “What are we then?” Ellowyn’s gaze became solemn, and in the action he also does, rubbed their chest. Long fingers massaging the same area Yuki massages.

“We are the product of dying by a Cursed Weapon.” ‘Yeah didn’t see that coming.’ Yuki stared blankly, running through the possibilities of this being a joke, a terrible prank, or even a test by God to see if he goes to heaven or hell.

“I’m assuming you were the one who died by it then?” And he going to make God hesitate with him. Ellowyn didn’t look bothered, if anything they seemed amused, “I was, yes. Quite the irony too, seeing that it was the weapon I gave my Most Trusted Partner.”

“You’re lover killed you?”

“Lover?” Yuki nodded, “Yeah. You know, the person you spend time with, kiss, see a future with.” Ellowyn stared blankly at him, “Is that what you and that Ashborn’s Chosen King are?”

“A-Anyway! SO, your Most Truster Partner killed you.” Ellowyn shook their head, an offended look on their face, “No, Ashborn would never. It's the weapon I gifted him they killed me with.”

“You gifted the Shadow Monarch a Cursed Weapon?” Judgement clear in his voice and the look Yuki was giving Ellowyn had being sweating. Waving their hands and shaking their head, “No! He wasn’t the Shadow Monarch yet. He was just, Ashborn. A Ruler.” Yuki nodded, “Why a Cursed Weapon?” Ellowyn titled their head once more, and Yuki didn’t need to see their facial expressions to know that Ellowyn had on loving smile. A smile Yuki had given Jin Woo.

“Because, Cursed Weapons are the strongest weapons we made. Not even the Absolute Being had one.” ‘Favoritism.’ Yuki rolled the thought in his head, before landing on word.

“‘Made.’ You made those weapons?” Ellowyn nodded, “Yes. We are known as the Moldable Fragment of Brilliant Light. We are Ellowyn the Originator of Weapons and Enchantments.”

.

.

.

“You made those things?!”

“What part of Originator was not understood?” Ellowyn gave him a judgmental look and Yuki felt as if those looks should be reversed. He blinked a few times, “You made those weapons?” Ellowyn rolled their eyes and Yuki wanted to throw his shoe at them.

“We made them. Those weapons your Lover Jin Woo uses, where do you think they came from?” Yuki’s face burned at how Ellowyn said ‘lover’ but he pressed on, “The Architect of the System.”

“And where does that stupid Architect get them?” Yuki sat in silence for a minute, gawking as the thought crossed his mind never left. ‘I… I never thought of that.’ Ellowyn looked pleased, “Who do you think made those books those mages use to cast enchantments and buffs?”

“They found those in Dungeons, right?” Ellowyn narrowed their eyes, “Yes, but someone had to think of them. Someone had to write them. Then those jerks spread my precious hard work to anyone and everyone just to get the upper hand!” ‘Ah, I can see it now.’ He and Ellowyn do the same, bottle everything up and when you release it it is an explosion.

Ellowyn took a few deep breaths, “So! We are the Originator, or simpler terms, the Creator of those weapons and enchantments those humans and monsters use.” Yuki winced, “We have weapon-smiths who make those weapons outside of the Dungeons though.” Ellowyn nodded, “Yes, but they had to find blueprints to those, right? How else would they know how to get those crystals to mold that way without breaking them? Why do you think no regular Hunter’s knife is a simple looking kitchen knife?”

“Oh shit.” Ellowyn nodded. Yuki gasped, “They’re plagiarizing your work!”

“I know!” Ellowyn sat down, and despite that they still stood a good three heads taller than Yuki. Their face resting on their hand and what looked like a pout was on their face. Yuki chose to sit down with them. As a baker, he could understand the frustration of your work getting used by others without permission. Let alone guidance. It’s one thing to make the creation, its another to do it wrongly.

“So, back to us being a product of a Cursed Weapon.” Ellowyn sighed, “What more is there to know? Our soul is cursed because we were killed with that weapon.”

“Cursed how?”

“As in that Curse is festering in the soul, effecting all those born with it to suffer and eventually die from the wound that killed the original soul, and it only wears off with time.” Yuki stared blankly ahead. Processing the sentence, looking back at crystals, then back to the front.

“Is it at least half way?” Ellowyn held out a hand, and Yuki watched as magic circled in the center of their palm. It created a sphere, one that glowed dimly, and in the sphere was exactly what Yuki imagined a curse would look like. It was darker than black, like the umbra of a shadow, and swirled maliciously.

“That little sliver is how much it’s healed.” Yuki had to squint to see it. 

“It took that many lives to just get that one part?!” Ellowyn closed their palm and the orb disappeared. They sighed, “I told you, it was a Cursed Weapon. The strongest one we made. It was meant to be used on Antares.” Yuki winced, “How did that weapon end up getting used on us then?”

Ellowyn’s expression became dark, and the room they were in shuddered. The crystals clinking against one another and the water rippling.

“Those Rulers stole it, and killed me with it.” 

Chapter Text

Jin Woo thought he knew fear. He’s been in Dungeons, looked monsters in the eyes, had that near-death experience in the double dungeon, and has been in situations where his life could have ended at the wrong move. Jin Woo has felt its vice grip on his heart and has felt the way it weighed down his shoulders and immobilized his legs. He knows on an intimate level the feeling of the fear that is ice in the veins and freezing you at that spot. 

When he saw Yuki’s body collapse, his mouth and nose bleeding and looking like a red fountain, staining his neck and clothes in red he felt a new type of fear. An amplified feeling of fear that made him rush over here. 

He felt the fear that makes you move. The fear that makes you sprint against time and hope that you can get to your destination before the final strike. It is the fear that blurs the surroundings, deafening cries and calls for an ambulance for ‘Hunter Sung you must calm down,’ and making the heartbeat in a way that makes you question if it’ll explode. \

In his arms, bleeding and no longer conscious, is Yuki. His pale face and white hair soaked from the rain, and yet the water did nothing to dilute the heavy stain in his shirt. His hands are stained red and his pale neck sports a red river. For the first time in years, Jin Woo couldn’t help but to think how awful the color red is when it is on Yuki’s skin. When it is dark and looks almost black with only the edges to confirm that it is red, that is when the color looks terrifying on Yuki. 

Jin Woo isn’t sure when or even how he got to the hospital, but he knows he is yelling for Min Yujin. He can do that because he’s an S Rank. He can drag Yujin away from any patient he is seeing because Sung Jin Woo, the nation's 10th S Rank and probably strongest, is here yelling his name with Yujin’s baby cousin bleeding and passed out in his arms. 

And Min Yujin will always answer if it involves his cousin. Rushing into the lobby he spotted a much taller and frantic look Sung Jin Woo and a bleeding and passed-out cousin. Sucking in a deep breath, he orders some nurses to grab a gurney and set up a room. It is only because Jin Woo sees him that he releases Yuki. 

His arms, hoodie, and all, are soaked. Some part of him hopes it is rain, but a nurse hands him a towel to dry his hands, and diluted blood stains the white cotton. There is some blue blood, from those orcs that gave him no answers, but he is only focused on the red. He rubbed the stain, watching how it spread to individual cotton strands and spread even more. 

“Oppa.” A gentle hand touches his arm, and it is that form of contact that brings him back. Pulled from a dream, his surroundings clear and he can hear the crying from students brought in from the Dungeon Break, the crying of parents, children, the elderly, and the general noise of a hospital lobby. Jin Ah looks distraught and is undoubtedly traumatized. He looks at her face, her teeth clenched and eyes trying to focus only on him and not her classmates around them. 

Wrapping an arm around her, he guided her towards a more secluded area, asking a nurse if they can wait in the hallway of Yuki’s room. Who is a normal civilian to deny an S Rank a request. 

It wasn’t just them, Go Gun Hee and Woo Jin Chul arriving behind them and following afterwards. The four of them drawing attention, and Jin Woo does not doubt that a picture will show up tomorrow about Yuki in his arms.

“Oppa, I’m so scared for him.” He hugged her close, too afraid to admit that he is also afraid, because that would be admitting he is afraid that Yuki will not make it. He’s afraid that he will speak it into existence and then will be lost on what to do when it happens. 

Go Gun Hee does not look any better. He is sitting on one of the benches, hands folded and headed between. His aged face looking exhausted and worry danced acrossed his expression. Using Go Gun Hee as an example, Jin Woo helped Jin Ah sit. His own body to tightly strung to even stay still. 

‘How could this happen?’ Jin Woo glared at the floor. He jaw clenching as he tried to understand these past few events, ‘He’s awakened. So, his wounds should have healed.’ He recalled when he had his re-awakening and how his body felt like new. Hell, his leg had grown back. 

So why isn’t Yuki doing bet- ‘ [Holy Water Cannot Cure a Cursed Wound].’ Jin Woo’s eyes widened and he had barely controlled himself enough to not hit the wall. ‘The Cursed Wound! Does awakening make it worse?’ 

“Sung Jin Woo-ssi, if you put a dent in that wall I am billing you.” Everyone’s heads snapped up, and Min Yujin is casually walking out of the room. They could still hear some nurses scrambling in there, but Yujin had shut the door, “Relax. They are only cleaning the blood off of him.” 

“What happened?” Go Gun Hee’s voice left no room for small talk, which is fine. Min Yujin also hates small talk. He glanced at the sheet, “Well, in simple terms, his body is too weak for that amount of Magic to burst off and become active like that.” Jin Woo narrowed his eyes, “No one else has had that problem, that we know of.” Usually, when someone awakens the magic cures any injury and in some cases diseases. It is almost like the magic wants the body to be alive and in perfect health. 

“Actually, Yuki-ya is the fifth person to react like this.” 

“Fifth?” 

“Who are the others?” Yujin thought for a second, “I know one was a child in Hungary, another a cancer patient in Laos, and… damn. Well, from what I can remember the other were also sick and had an awakening.” Jin Woo could feel his heart racing, trying to crawl out of his throat and into the air. It wanted everyone to see how scared he is. 

“While unfortunately not all of them made it, Yuki outside of his lung is healthy so just give him time to rest. His body needs to acclimate.” 

“How could his body not have been ready for that amount of magic though?” Jin Ah asked, and Yujin shrugged, “Just because you have a lot of money, doesn’t mean you’re ready to spend it. The same can happen with magic. Just because you have it doesn’t mean you’re ready to use it.” 

“Excuse me,” Woo Jin Chul cleared his throat, “It might not be my right to know, but if Min Yuki-ssi has always had problems with his lung, why has it not been removed?” The million dollar question. It is a question everyone had pondered, but never asked because Yuki hates the topic. He either shut it down or avoided it. 

Jin Woo would often tell him that if he were to keep smoking, then maybe the lung they take out would be the one with the hole. Yuki always clicked his tongue and told him to bring him another pack if he’s that hopeful. 

He met tired dark blue eyes, and the way they stared at him was almost like they were dissecting him. Taking him a part and trying to see who or what he is. Yujin and Jin Woo never truly got along. They did not hate each other, but more like Yujin thought Jin Woo was a terrible influence on Yuki. Jin Woo knows Yuki told Yujin their relationship, because he got a text that next morning, ‘Hurt him and I kill you.’ 

Jin Woo wondered if Yujin is blaming him for this. 

The man huffed, “While that is a great suggestion, and believe me I’ve tried, we can’t really do anything without Yuki’s consent. As fearless as he can be Yuki hates–” 

“Hospitals,” Everyone chimed, already knowing the answer to that. Two people cursed at him in their minds, while two others couldn’t help but to wonder how Yuki has made it this long. No one knows where this fear came from, seeing that Yuki hasn’t ever had terrible experiences with doctors. When asked, Yuki just gave an awkward chuckle, “Being surrounded by so many people who are hurt and need help, it kinda makes me wanna swallow a lemon ya know.” No. No one knew, but no one shoved Yuki to do it either. 

Maybe if they did, they wouldn’t be in this situation. 

“Plus, this is just a theory.” Yujin drew their attention once more. He looked uncomfortable with sharing, but decided to bite the bullet, “The hole has magical residue in it, typically ones we see with curse-type magic.” 

Everyone but Jin Woo looked shocked, and Jin Woo could only feel his anger rising. How dare someone do that. More importantly, who?  

“Isn’t that more of a reason to remove it?” Yujin shook his head, “Like I said, it is just a theory, but I think that hole is acting as a focal point for the magic.” 

“What?” Jin Ah choked out, confusion across her face and Yujin’s expression softened, “Cursed magic is notorious for it’s ability to spread quickly and in vast amounts, and yet despite having it for years, the furthest that heavy concentration of magical residue goes is just encasing that one lung. Think of it this way: The hole is a hive and the curse are hornets.” Everyone nodded, visualizing a nest and angry hornets, “As long as the hive is there, the hornets won’t wander far. Some will still go out further than others, but the general population sticks around the hive. 

“Now, if we remove that hive, those hornets that were wandering are now forever wandering and multiplying because there is no hive to go back to.” Silence reigned in the hallway for a minute, before Woo Jin Chul decided to break it, “So even though the lung is the problem, keeping it in stops a bigger problem from forming.” Yujin nodded. 

“I have no idea how his awakening is going to affect it, so we’ll just have to wait and see. He’ll be awake in a few days, we just need to be patient.” ‘Give him the chance to recover.’ Yujin ripped off a piece of paper and handed it to Jin Ah, “As for you. You went through something traumatic and I cannot HIGHLY recommend enough to go to therapy and talk about it.”

Jin Ah took the paper that had a number, name, and email written on it. She glanced back up at Yujin, who met her inquisitive eyes, “What happened was traumatic, and seeing someone who specializes in that type of trauma is healthy. Dr. Lee is our best trauma expert in ‘that’ field. Give her a call, and tell her I sent you.” Jin Ah nodded, still staring at the piece of paper with her fingers trembling and eyes watering. 

“Now, visiting hours are closed… But I can’t really stop you so just, please let him rest.” Yujin opened the doors, and two nurses scurried out, their arms holding bloody rags and their expressions of apathy. 

Jin Woo stepped in first. 

++++ 

“I feel like that’s a lot to unpack.” Yuki wasn’t sure whether to pat Ellowyn or not. The being, tall and hunched over with their giant wings wrapping around them like a shield, looked upset and hurt at the fact that it was fellow Rulers who killed them. 

“Can I ask why?” Ellowyn glanced at him, “Because, we were a liability.” Yuki’s face must have said his thoughts because Ellowyn chuckled, “Because we are the Originator of Weapons and Enchantments, it means we also have access to Athena’s Armory. Unlike others who need the key we can just–” A yellow portal, scribbled in a language Yuki didn’t know, appeared and the handle of a dagger appeared. The blade was white, glowing almost, and had a large blue jewel where the handle met the blade. 

“They just appear.” Ellowyn nodded, “A well-loved child will never forget their parent. Besides Ashborn, I have poured my magic, heart, and soul into each weapon.” Ellowyn held the dagger gently in their hands, thing fingers running along the edge and admiring it’s beauty. Like a parent admiring a baby.

“I can also give these to others, making me the Ruler’s main source of weaponry and armor.” Yuki nodded, showing he was listening, “But, they didn’t know whose side I’d be on when they faced Ashborn. So to ensure he would be at his weakest… they stole the key to the Armory, stole Ashborn’s weapon, and killed me.” 

The heavy silence filled the air and it had Yuki looking at Ellowyn. The pain and betrayal clear across their face and he wondered just how long Ellowyn had to sit and remember all of this. He rested his smaller hand on theirs, “Do you hate them?” The being shook their head, “I used too. I used to be so mad, at what they did. They didn’t even give me an option. However, after some years, I grew tired of that constant fire in my chest. I do not hate them, but I don’t necessarily like them either.” 

‘Wow, that’s very mature.’ Yuki hummed, looking ahead once more and seeing nothing but darkness. Sighing, he dipped his feet into the water, shoes, and socks are taken off long ago.

“Earlier in our conversation, you said something about having a different plan for me.” Ellowyn took a deep breath, stood back, and up walked towards the podium. Yuki followed. The crystals shined and hummed, like children welcoming a parent. Yuki’s eyes spotted a crystal near the end of what would have been a branch of this willow-shaped structure had branches. 

Something about it being oddly familiar even though he has never seen it before. The crystal glowed dimly, beckoning him over which he did so cautiously. Ellowyn was watching, but saying nothing as they watched Yuki gently touch the crystal. 

‘Lils! You funny girl get over here.’ 

‘I wanna be an artist when I’m older!’ 

‘Mm, how about something safer? Do art on the side.’ 

‘Lillian, are you okay?’ 

‘Your asthma is atrocious Lils!’ 

‘Lillian, breathe!’ 

‘Call an ambulance!’ 

‘Lillian!’ Yuki gasped, tears racing down his cheeks and his knees almost giving out from under him. His memories and now those memories mixing and making the perfect concoction of what and who Lillian was. 

She was a girl, who despite having loving parents always seemed to fall short of their expectations. She was a child who used fiction to escape, listening to music, reading, writing, drawing, and anything to escape the present. Lillian was a girl who knew she didn’t have a lot of time, and despite that still lived in the lines her parents drew. 

Lillian was a woman ready to die. 

A large hand wrapped around his shoulders and grounded him, drawing his attention to Ellowyn who was staring down at him with sadness, “Just because you’re past incarnate was ready to go, does not mean you are.” They touched the crystal, “Sometimes they get a little lonely, so when they do listening is the best way to assure them they are heard.” 

“Why do I have her memories?” Ellowyn shrugged, “I do not know. You are not the first incarnate to have a past one’s memories, but it is still rare.” Yuki furrowed his brows, “Lillian didn’t have powers.” 

“Of course not, why would she?” 

“Then why do I?” Ellowyn guided him back to the podium and encouraged him to look in the reflection. His face is back to being pale and his hair still white, only now his red eyes are taking a more orange hue. Ellowyn also looked, “You are the first incarnate that is closest to the original.” Yuki looked up, “We look nothing alike!” 

“It’s more than just looking alike!” Ellowyn huffed, and Yuki is positive they are pouting, “A few incarnates have only had a sliver of this power, and that was in worlds where magic was high.” Yuki hummed, nodding and looking around at all the crystals. He wondered if the crystals that were shining the brightest were the incarnates that got some of Ellowyn’s power. 

“You have the highest compatibility to this power.” Yuki eyed the being. The thing with Yuki is that he grew up with liars. Truth omitters and people who you would do better asking a rock the full unfiltered story than them. He knows when someone isn’t saying everything. 

“What else?” Whether he calls them out or not depends on the being. If it was Jin Woo, he’d let it go. Hunter business is not his business. However, this is affecting him and his life. He stared up at Ellowyn, red meeting orange. Ellowyn sighed, looking at the crystals and to the podium, “It is a signal for Ashborn.” Jin Woo’s face appeared from Yuki’s memory and onto the water, a vivid memory from only a few days ago. 

The morning sun cast a warm glow on his skin and the smile on his face was softer than satin. He gazed at Yuki with a loving gaze, Yuki able to read his emotions even though he was only a reflection. Yuki fell for Jin Woo all over again. He reached into the water, distilling the image only slightly, and rested his palm on Jin Woo’s cheek. 

“Along with this power, there’s another element.” Yuki looked up, and Ellowyn sighed, “Because of the war, Athena’s Armoury is almost all dried up. Not to mention that stupid Architect, but anyway–” Yuki stared at them blankly, “–I will unlock something else. Something no incarnates has had access to before. 

“The knowledge to create these weapons.” Yuki blinked, and scrunched his nose, “Why?”

“What do you mean why? Isn’t it cool? The knowledge combined with the ability to just make a sword, it’s what made us valuable.” 

“Didn’t you like, ya know, fire and hammer the weapons?” Yuki has never seen someone look as offended as Ellowyn did, “How barbaric. Why waste energy and time when you can just–” They pulled a magic crystal from within their robe, and in less than a millisecond, Yuki got watch that palm-sized crystal, turn into a small dagger. Elegantly designed with a lethal edge.

“That’s not even the best part!” Ellowyn grasped the handle, and Yuki gasped as enchantments and buff we cast on the weapon. No longer just a dagger, but now it had the ability to paralyze and poison. They handed the dagger to him, and Yuki could feel the magic coursing through it. Ellowyn put their hands on their hips, “And those are only the basic enchantments and model of a dagger. I’ll unlock it all for you: enchantments, buffs, barriers, weapon designs, even armor.” 

Yuki hummed, eyeing the blade that reflected the light and his eyes. Red meeting red. He wondered if Jin Woo would like a dagger like this. Probably not. It’s not as strong as his other ones and plus, Yuki just could not see Jin Woo wielding a dagger as elegant looking as this one. 

“Why else are you doing this?” Ellowyn tilted their head, but Yuki didn’t bother looking at them. Instead, he continued staring at his reflection in the knife, “Why are you going so far? I know you said it’s for Ashborn, but if you have Lillian’s memories then you know Ashborn does not come back. He and Jin Woo merge into one.” Yuki didn’t like that now, of all times, when he can remember future events but when he is awake he cannot. He knows that when he goes back, he will not remember. 

It is a cruel thing, but for the time, he can humor himself in planning for the future. Maybe, if he is lucky, he can remember these plans and put them into action. ‘I guess the cafe really is going to have to wait.’ 

Ellowyn sighed and looked up at the center of the crystal structure. Their shoulders sagging and their wings look like they are being weighed down. Turning their attention back to Yuki, the man couldn’t help but flinch at the exhaustion that showed in those orange eyes. 

“I am tired, Yuki. I have seen incarnations come and go, and all those lives have made me exhausted.” Yuki’s grip on the dagger tightened. 

“It is selfish of me, but there is no point in me staying if Ashborn is no longer here.” 

“You want me to replace you when I die.” Ellowyn nodded, “Yes.” 

Chapter Text

Jin Woo held Yuki’s hand as the man continued to sleep. It’s been a week since the school incident, and Yuki showed no signs of waking up. The dark circles under his eyes finally lightened as he got the much-needed rest, but even that didn’t stop Jin Woo from worrying. The past week has been agonizing, and Jin Woo could feel his temper shortening. He took out another one of the people who destroyed Yuki’s cafe. It was the person who spilled blood all over the countertops and broke the photos. 

“Pigs blood! It was pig's blood!” Jin Woo stood above the quivering man, glaring down at him and having his foot on the man’s hand. It’s already been crushed, but the way Jin Woo could feel each individual bone give out from under the sole of his shoe made him continue adding pressure. 

“Pl-please! I-I didn’t know he was with you. I-I was on-only there for the ride man!” He sobbed, and Jin Woo clenched his jaw. 

“Cause that’s better. Tearing up someone’s treasure just because others are doing it.” The amount of pressure Jin Woo applied to his foot broke the concrete under the hand and had the man squealing. The S Rank chuckled, “You sound just like the animal whose blood now covers those counters and machines.” 

Summoning his orcs, he got off of the man and motioned with his head for the orcs to get started. 

“N-no, please! Please! I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” High Orcs weren’t known for their kind way of killing. There was no mercy in their form of righteous violence. Jin Woo watched as one orc took their club to the man’s leg. 

High Orcs weren’t the most violent way to go, the first guys were torn apart by ants, but these orcs who can feel their Master’s anger, were afraid of having this punishment be over before their Master said it could be. 

Jin Woo doesn’t enjoy killing other humans. It's not his favorite thing in the world, and if he could he’d rather not do it. However, when it comes to the people he needs to protect, Jin Woo is more than happy to annihilate anyone that poses a threat. Sometimes, the only way to get through to people is by simply getting rid of them. Was it a good mindset? No. Will Yuki have his head if he finds out? Absolutely. However, that is also why Yuki will not find out. It is why his mother and sister will not find out what he does to protect his family. 

He brought the hand to his lips, kissing the knuckles and then leaning over to press a soft kiss against Yuki’s forehead. Some part of him wished that the other would stir, like sleeping beauty, and awaken with true love’s kiss. That was fantasy and this is reality. 

Taking his leave, he ran into Yujin on his way out. The doctor raised an eyebrow at him, “Shouldn’t you be out doing what Hunters do?” Jin Woo snorted, “I already did. Just saying good night.” Yujin hummed, watching Jin Woo as he left before walking into Yuki’s room. The curtains open and cast an orange glow over his sleeping body. He looked over his cousin, trying to spot any marks before checking his vitals. 

The good news is that Yuki is completely normal. Nothing was showing up that would be causing concern, it just that he is asleep. If their predictions about Yuki’s rank are correct, then it makes sense as to why he needs a few days to recover. 

Yujin glanced at the shadow underneath the bed and gulped when he saw narrowed blue eyes staring back at him. It stared at him as if he was the threat. 

Yujin tucked his cousin in once more and exited the room, taking a deep breath as he did so. Contrary to popular belief, Yujin didn’t hate Sung Jin Woo. In fact, he didn’t even dislike the man. In terms of a Hunter, Yujin recognizes and applauds every sacrifice and accomplishment Jin Woo has done. In terms of a human, Yujin recognizes that he is a man with good intentions and has the drive to complete his goals. Sung Jin Woo is applaudable and has Yujin’s respect as a doctor. 

As Yuki’s confirmed Lover, Yujin recognizes that Sung Jin Woo is possessive. It’s not entirely visible, because Jin Woo does not hog Yuki. He doesn’t control him, doesn’t try and stop him from doing what he wants, and he helps monitor Yuki’s health. Jin Woo is a good and seemingly healthy partner. However, the Min family has a history of terrible spouse choices. Yujin knows a possessive person when he sees one, and that is because he grew up with one as a parent. 

When you look at them, it is like a dragon protecting its treasure hoard– killing anything and everything that comes too close. A king keeping tabs on their favorite servant without trying to be obvious. If Jin Woo were still a normal human or even an E Rank, Yujin would not worry as much. He wouldn’t check for bruises from being grabbed too roughly, because sometimes S Ranks forget. He wouldn’t ask every time they talk if Jin Woo is treating Yuki okay because sometimes the person just doesn’t know they are being possessive. 

It is the subtle grabs at Yuki’s wrists that turn into hand-holding. The drawing of attention by calling his name. The glares others receive when they continue to either stare or talk to Yuki past Jin Woo’s timer. It is how Jin Woo clings to Yuki like a shadow, too afraid to be without the body because then they would be nothing. 

It’s the way those men have been brutally murdered for destroying Yuki’s cafe. Yujin didn’t believe it at first. He found it hard because it is Jin Woo. The man who would do anything to insure that Yuki is happy with him. However, as a medical professional who has dealt with injuries involving monsters, and autopsies of people murdered by monsters, Yujin recognizes an Ice Bear mauling when he sees one. He recognizes someone torn apart by ants when he sees one. 

He recognizes the sight of dried blood on expensive shoes. Yujin wondered which one was killed today. 

Yujin does not doubt that Sung Jin Woo loves Yuki. He does not doubt that Sung Jin Woo would stop the world for Yuki. He does not doubt that Sung Jin Woo would rid the world of the human race if it meant Yuki could smile for one more day. However, Yujin knows that Yuki would not want that. The kind and forgiving Yuki would sacrifice himself for the people, and Jin Woo would sacrifice the people for Yuki. 

Yujin knows, whether Yuki wants it or not, Jin Woo will try and keep him alive. Yujin knows that as an S Rank, Jin Woo can do whatever the hell he wants and get away with it.  

Yujin, not for the first time, feels powerless in protecting his cousin. 

++++

Jin Woo lay on top of Yuki’s bed, examining the key in his hand and watching the time count down. The Key to the Temple of Kartenon, was a detailed-looking black key that had Jin Woo’s sharp eyes tracing each swirl and dip. Pip slept next to him, the white cat curled against his black shirt and without a doubt, will be leaving the white fur on the fabric. 

His mind trailed back to Yuki, and his power. It’s more than barriers, he knows that much because when he passed by Igris in that bloody hallway, he could feel the added power radiating off of the knight. A power that Igris did not have before. Another thing was, the familiarity of the magic radiating off of Yuki and Igris. Like a familiar smell, he just can’t place where he’s felt it. It was soft, constantly moving, and changing shape yet it held an unshakeable air around it. 

‘It’s a lot like Yuki,’ He mused, unable to stop himself from making the comparison. Now that Yuki is awakened, he has to make a choice. Jin Woo scrunched his nose at the options that will be given to Yuki, and it worried him that he genuinely didn’t know which one Yuki will pick. If Yuki joins a Guild, it will undoubtedly be Ahjin. If he joins the Association, because of his proximity to Go Gun Hee, and not to mention how confident everyone is that he will be an S Rank, he would be considered next in line for the Chairman position. If he chooses the Cafe, then Yuki would most likely be harassed online for choosing a civilian job rather than being a Hunter. 

Jin Woo was once confident in his ability to know which one Yuki would choose, but lately, he is unsure. Not that Yuki is getting harder to understand, but the lines between the options are getting blurrier. Jin Woo wants Yuki to join Ahjin so that he can keep a closer eye on the other. He wants Yuki to be beside him, so he never strays too far and so if anything happens, Jin Woo can be right there. 

There will be no ‘Cafe Incident’ again. No one is stupid enough to attack a Guild, let alone Ahjin. Yuki wouldn’t even have to go on Raids. If what Jin Woo noticed is correct, then there is no need for Yuki to go because he’s just got to get a buff before he goes. Not like he needs one, but if Yuki offers, Jin Woo is not going to say no. 

Or, if Yuki wants to still be a cafe owner, just put that cafe on the first floor of the building. 

The Hunter’s Association is also a good option. It’s a safe option, and for Yuki, it would be wonderful to be next to Go Gun Hee and Woo Jin Chul. The two Hunters Jin Woo trusted to look out for him, and they could always use a strong Hunter amongst them. The Hunter’s Association is filled with rejected Hunters and few who actually applied there, which might be a problem if Yuki doesn’t get over his fear of Hunters. Plus, in the worst-case scenario, he has to go into a Dungeon. 

Jin Woo felt a small tick of irritation at the thought of Yuki being in a Dungeon, forced to clear it because he is an S Rank. Not that Go Gun Hee would do such a thing, but it would be Yuki’s duty to do that. 

‘Then again, Igris could just do it for him. If he’s a support type, he’d need to go with someone capable of fighting.’ Support Hunters are treated like Healers, and similar to them were revered for their ability to aid the Raid Team. While Healer can treat wounds, a Support Hunter can decrease the chances of those wounds happening. It’s one thing to have high-grade armor and weapon, and it’s another to have both of those and some form of buff, enchantment, or barrier cast on them as well. 

Double the protection, and double the effectiveness. 

Jin Woo rolled over on his side– making Pip wake up and glare at him– and stared at the side of the bed that Yuki would occupy. He never realized how big the bed was until he shared it with someone. If he closes his eyes, he could see Yuki laying there, sleeping peacefully with his mouth slightly agape and oblivious to the world around them. 

He wondered just how much longer Yuki is going to sleep. According to Yujin, Yuki will make it so there’s no need to worry, but it’s just his body taking the time to rest and adjust. Jin Woo knows Yuki needs sleep, and that for a while Yuki hasn’t been sleeping well. The bag under his eyes was always noticeable and when Jin Woo started sleeping over, he could tell that Yuki rarely fell into REM sleep. 

So, the rest was good and greatly needed. However, Jin Woo is selfish and he wants Yuki awake. He misses Yuki’s voice, that soft gaze, the smiles, and his food, Jin Woo misses everything and it’s only been three days. His body itched to just take Yuki from the Hospital bed and transfer him over to his own bed. It would do nothing but cause stress for Yujin and Yuki still most likely would not wake, but at least they could share the bed. 

Jin Woo sighed, putting the key back into his inventory and closing his eyes. In his dreams, he and Yuki are laying side by side, instead of just being alone in this cold bed. 

++++ 

“So does time just stop when you’re in here?” Ellowyn looked confused, cocking their head to the side. Yuki does not know how long he has been in this dreary place, but now the once beautifully lit area surrounded by water that looked straight out of a fantasy movie is starting to become depressing. 

He has been sitting underneath the crystal willow for what feels like hours, and he’s had it. Ellowyn huffed, “There is no time here. How can there be time in a Soul Room?” Yuki shrugged, “So, how many hours has been it outside of here then?” 

“It’s been a few days.” Yuki paused, replaying that line, and then panicking. He shot up, anxiety creeping into his chest, “What do you mean days?!” Ellowyn shrugged, “What are you worried about? Your body is safe.” Yuki shook his head, “No! What do you mean days?! I need to wake up!” 

Ellowyn’s expression turned serious, “Right now, you’re body is acclimating to the amount of power I have given you. Unfortunately, you’re body was ready for all that magic to become active.” Yuki stared at Ellowyn, “So? Wake me up!” 

“Even if you do wake up, the magic would be prohibiting you from moving. You need to rest.” Yuki’s actually going to throw a tantrum. He wants to throw himself on the floor and cry. He knows it won’t get anything done, however, the thought of just sitting here doing nothing is making his skin prick with the need to do something. 

Ellowyn chuckled, their wings fluffing in amusement at seeing their incarnate pace. Orange eyes watched in mirth at how their incarnate was desperate to get back. Undoubtedly they were wanting to see their Lover again, and Ellowyn couldn’t even blame them. They remember being antsy to see Ashborn when they were still alive. 

‘They really are like us.’ Ellowyn can already see Ashborn’s host, maybe incarnate now that he and Ashborn are combining, pacing, and fretting over Yuki’s sleeping body. Just how they know Yuki would do the same if it was Jin Woo sleeping for so long. 

Ellowyn returned their attention to the podium, staring into the depths and confirming their resolve. They know, that once they do this, time will be limited. Their time specifically. Magic was like a life force, especially for Rulers and Monarchs. Once Yuki is given all of Ellowyn’s magic, Ellowyn will finally be able to sleep. This body that has stood alone in this room for more than a millennium, will finally dissolve and become a part of the crystals. Although their soul will live on, constantly reincarnating and trying to heal itself, their consciousness will finally end. It’ll be a death of the body and the mind. 

“Yuki, please come here.” They beckoned the fussing man over. Yuki stared at them with curiosity swirling in those red orbs, and Ellowyn would have smiled if they had a mouth. A long finger pointed to the podium, and Yuki followed the direction to stare into the depths. He squinted, peering closer to see what exactly it was Ellowyn wanted to see. 

He did not expect to feel a giant hand literally submerge his head in the fucking water. 

Instinctually he held his breath, but after realizing that he inhaled and no water entered his nose, did he take the chance to take another breath. Then another. And another. 

‘Oh, I can breathe.’ Yuki could no longer feel the hand on his head, but he also couldn’t feel the rest of his body. There is no podium pressing against his chest or his feet touching the ground, Yuki feels nothing besides the water against his face. 

Opening his eyes, slowly because just in case, Yuki was met white hall. The arches are tall and intricately designed, the floor a reflective marble, and the light from outside makes the area glow. 

Looking around, Yuki took in the designs on the columns and wondered just who had the time to create these. They were bathed in magic and when he reached a hand out, the limb went right through it. ‘What kind of Harry Potter-level shit is this?’ Yuki walked forward, curious as to why Ellowyn is showing him this. 

He heard the sound of metal clashing and something breaking. Against his better judgment, Yuki dragged his feet to the area. The closer he got, the more he could feel the magic in the air despite his not having a physical body. It was suffocating and wrapping its hand around everything to choke it. Yuki fought through the feeling and proceeded forward. 

It wasn’t until he rounded a corner, that his red eyes widened. 

“Wh-why?” There were four beings, all of them winged having some form of horn structure, standing above an impaled and kneeling body. A familiar body. Six wings ripped from their body, and spikes impaled their arms and body to keep them immobile, a large dagger in their back that Yuki knew was what the Cursed Weapon was talking about. The blade was blacker than the umbra of a shadow, and he could basically see the curse oozing off the weapon like slime. Coating Ellwoyn’s impaled lungs in its sludge-like consistency and squeezing the air out of the organ.

Looking at the spikes that glowed a vicious red, Yuki knew what they were. The information he didn’t have before, flooded his mind the longer he stared at the weapons surrounding the area. Swords and spears summoned by Ellowyn from Athena’s Armory laid impaled into the ground and one of the Rulers had an arm missing while another had their helmet completely shattered. He knew the names of each weapon, their enchantments, their abilities, how they were made, and why. 

He knows those spikes, designed and created by Ellowyn per one of the Ruler’s requests, were designed to halt and drain magic. Originally for the Monarch of the Beginning, King of the Giants, Ellowyn in this period never thought they would be used on them. 

“Wh-what is this?” Yuki’s heart lurched at the sound of Ellowyn’s voice. Their smooth and calm voice, now choking on emotions and sounding pained. One of the Rulers, The Sharpest Fragment of the Brilliant Light, otherwise known as Gudbrand drew out a sword. A beautiful claymore that had the sharpest edge and enchantment and buff that only furthers its cutting prowess, with a hilt that had magical cores embedded in them and gold. It was a sword fitting of the Ruler named for being the Brilliant Light’s Sword. 

“Gu…dbrand?” Ellowyn watched how that claymore was raised, and they could feel the cry of the weapon as the intentions of the wielder became known. The Ruler stared at Ellowyn with pity, their shoulders weighed down by the armor Ellowyn has gifted all of them, and the sword heavier in their hands. 

“For a better ‘morrow.” Ellowyn’s eyes widened as the blade descended and Yuki watched how it cut through a Ruler’s neck like air. There was no resistance, barely a sound as it slices through flesh and bone. The only sound was Ellowyn’s head falling and body slumping. 

Before Yuki could call out to the fallen Ruler, the air was forcefully pushed through his lungs, and the feeling of his body returning full force. He gagged and coughed, hands rushing to his chest as he felt the pain of the Cursed Weapon piercing through him momentarily. 

“All done!” Yuki glared at the Being. For a moment, the image he saw replaced this Ellowyn, and he had to look away. Ellowyn, uncaring of Yuki’s turmoil strolled towards him, wings grazing the ground and steps barely audible. 

“So sorry you had to see that but guess what! Now you have all the information I have on how to make those weapons and enchantments~” Yuki is actually going to punch this thing. He glared at them, “Was that memory necessary?!” 

“I had to see if it worked.” 

“Hah?!” Ellowyn shrugged, “Since you are so impatient, I basically had to shove my knowledge into your head. That memory is the only memory I can think of that had most of my weapons, armor, and enchantments in it at one time.” 

“That was a test?!” Ellowyn nodded, “You can think of it like that. It was a good distraction, right? After all, shoving magic-induced memory like that into a mind is painful when the other is aware of it.”  

Yuki is actually going to kill this thing. 

Chapter Text

Jin Woo wondered what Yuki would say if he knew what Jin Woo is planning to do. He wondered if the other would beg him to not go. To not go back to the Dungeon that almost killed him. He wondered if the other would give him that soft smile, filled with brittle faith and fear. Would he hand him a cup of coffee, made with thoughts and prayers? Would he kiss him like it would be their last? 

The S Rank stared at his hands, large and callused and he imagined smaller and softer hands fitting perfectly within his grip. He knows that if Yuki were here, he would be kissing Yuki like it would be their last. After seeing him collapse, blood gushing out of his mouth and now this sleep that feels as though it has been years, Jin Woo knows each kiss, touch, and whisper will be important. It will be the type of treasure that only a select few know about. The type only a select few can touch, and even then, they couldn’t touch him long. 

Yuki is Jin Woo’s most precious treasure, and Jin Woo wondered if the other knows this. Has he said it enough times? Has he shown it enough? He hopes he has because the very thought of Yuki not knowing had Jin Woo clenching his jaw and gripping the key tighter. Jin Woo hopes Yuki knows just how important to him he is. He hopes Yuki knows how much of a grip he has on Jin Woo’s soul and mind. His thoughts constantly orbit around Yuki, similar to planets orbiting the sun. His heart nestled snuggly within those crooked pale fingers. 

Jin Woo wonders, not for the first time if it would be better to just keep Yuki here. To keep him safe and protected, away from stressful things and away from danger. He’s got a balcony, a kitchen, a bed, and a bath. For some people, that is enough. It is enough to be content with life. However, Jin Woo knows that doing that would only make Yuki more stressed. Similar to a bird, Jin Woo wanted to keep Yuki in a gilded golden cage, intricately designed to look beautiful and protect the being inside. He wanted Yuki to only need him. 

But Yuki was a free soul. One that would snarl and bare his teeth at Jin Woo if he ever tried. It is through this simple act, of letting Yuki do Yuki, that Jin Woo can show how much he loves him. Putting Yuki’s desires above his own, and only stepping in when he had to. 

“Yuki, wake up soon.” He is so in love with the other, Jin Woo can feel himself start to go crazy. The very thought of Yuki dying has his heart racing and anger burning deep within his chest and he feels the need to lash out. The thought of Yuki no longer being in this world had Jin Woo contemplating how to end it. 

“I’m going crazy.” Jin Woo released his grip on the key and took a deep breath. Calming his thoughts and nerves as he prepared himself. 

Jin Woo watched the time clock count down as readied his shoes. The minutes turned into seconds, and the feeling of curiosity turned to dread as memories of his last time in there resurfaced. 

‘No, I am stronger now.’ A tragedy like last time will not happen. His mother is now awake and he doesn’t want to add to her burden. With one child already going to therapy for one trauma, he doesn’t want to add another child going to the hospital. Especially since Yuki was already in there and causing her worry. 

Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes and stilled his beating heart. By going in there, he may also find something for Yuki. He might be able to help with whatever the hell is going on with Yuki. Looking forward, he clenched his jaw and threw on his hood. He’s ready. Jin Woo has to be because the timer ends now. The notification glowed brightly in front of him, alerting him that the Temple was ready for him. 

Reminding him that he is ready for the Temple. The place where this all started. 

The place where it all started. 

The place where it all started. 

Where it all started. 

Where it all started. 

Where it started. 

It started. 

It. Started. 

Red eyes opened. Yuki had to blink a few times to adjust to the light, but he was up. He’s actually awake. He took a deep breath, scrunching his nose at the smell of rubbing alcohol and sterilized tools and rooms. His body aches and the crushing feeling of only one lung working regularly made him want to curse at the world. 

Yuki knows where he is. He knows that he and Ellowyn met. He knows that right now, at this point in time, something is either happening or about to happen that caused him to wake up. 

Looking out the window and seeing the sun high in the sky with little cloud cover, Yuki knows he is missing something. Staring at the palm of his hand, he willed some magic into his palm and there it was. A small cube made of glowing orange panels. ‘Right,’ he stared numbly as though panels changed into a model of a very familiar dagger. 

“Why ‘Knight Killer?’” Yuki stared at the model of the infamous dagger. Ellowyn smiled, “Ashborn named this one.” Yuki winced, “His naming sense is awful.” ‘Jin Woo’s is pretty bad too.’ Ellowyn chuckled, canceling the magic. 

“Unlike weapons, these objects are created purely from our magic. Similar to enchantments, they can be used to protect someone, trap someone, or aid us. They are our greatest skill.” Yuki followed Ellowyn’s example, creating a small panel as they did. Ellowyn nodded, “They also help with designing the weapons. Instead of wasting a good magic core, and our magic, we can just see how the design will look first by manipulating these.” 

Yuki watched in fascination as that single panel in Ellowyn’s palm became a smaller version of a long sword, then a chest plate, and then a potion bottle. Ellowyn huffed, “Remember Yuki, in our souls, we are creators. The need to bring new things to life runs deep in our core. This ability, to manipulate and solidify our magic may seem useless in comparison to others, but they have saved our lives and comrades' lives in more ways than just blocking a weapon.” 

Yuki stared at the model of Knight Killer that rested in his palms. His magic hummed in the air around him as he called to it, and it responded eagerly. Similar to a puppy waiting eagerly for their human to come home. It coursed through his body, like a second nervous system, and filled the air around him. 

Knight Killer changed into a sphere, losing its sharp edge and becoming round. Yuki sighed, “Who needs to sketch when there’s now a 3D model?” 

“Did you have a good rest, Yuki-a?” Yuki smiled, canceling the magic and turning his attention to the S Rank who just walk into his room. 

“Go Gun Hee-nim.” The older man smiled fondly at the bedridden man, the dark circles that once plagued his face now gone and his sickly complexion now looking healthy. Yuki looks like he’s finally gotten the rest he deserved. Go Gun Hee sat on the chair next to Yuki’s bed, and grabbed Yuki’s smaller hand within his own. He smiled at how instinctively, most likely muscle memory, Yuki wrapped his hand around his palm. 

“I remember when these hands first grabbed mine.” Yuki’s hands used to be so small, barely able to even reach both sides of Go Gun Hee’s palms. They were also bandaged in too-old gauze and bandaids that were put on by tiny fingers. Those small and brittle fingernails that were always bitten till the skin bled, lightly scratching Go Gun Hee’s palm as Yuki slid his tiny hand into Go Gun Hee’s larger palm. 

“I wonder, when will I stop looking at you like a child and instead as an adult?” Yuki didn’t know what to say to that. Go Gun Hee has been one of the few adult figures in his life that have stayed. Let alone a good adult figure. If Yuki had it his way, Go Gun Hee would never leave. He would remain in his life forever. 

“I’m sorry I made you worry.” Yuki meant every word because the last thing he wanted was to be the reason Go Gun Hee, has an early heart attack. The old man smiled, patting his other hand on top of the one he was holding. Yuki watched how that grateful smile became a sad smile, and aged eyes looked impossibly older. 

He wonders just when Go Gun Hee aged so much? That despondent gaze resting so heavily and looking so unfamiliar, Yuki couldn’t help but smile awkwardly. The grip on his hand tightened only a bit, and the patting stopped in favor of just holding. 

Yuki could sense Woo Jin Chul just outside that door. The man waiting patiently for Go Gun Hee’s signal to come in. 

Sighing, Yuki gripped Go Gun Hee hand, “I know. I’m not mad.” Go Gun Hee removed his hands and ran one of them down his face, sighing and hunching his shoulders as the weight of his promises and responsibilities weighed in. Yuki sat up, slowly and sluggishly, and he couldn’t stop his own shoulders from hunching forward. 

“I promised that you would have little to do with Hunter’s.” Go Gun Hee can still remember the day Yuki called him, panicking and on the verge of tears as he retold his story. The story of a Dungeon break that got dealt with by Hunters. Hunters who laughed and sneered at all the unawakened people that were dying at the jaws of goblins. 

How a Hunter watched how one of those wretched creatures cut his forehead and didn’t step in until Yuki started crying. 

“Well, unfortunately, the moment Jin Woo became one it would have been a hard life to escape from.” Simple because wherever Yuki is, Jin Woo will follow, and vice versa. Constantly circling around one another. The moment Jin Woo reawakened as an S Rank, Yuki knew his involvement would skyrocket. People will be curious. Other Hunters would be curious and they would go for someone weak that knows Jin Woo but isn’t family. 

That meant Yuki. 

Try as he might, Go Gun Hee was a public figure and could only do so much despite being an S Rank. Yuki could never be mad at him for trying. 

Go Gun Hee smiled solemnly, eyes showing just how apologetic he is and how little he enjoys this situation. Yuki smiled back, unable to do anything else as the inevitable happens. Woo Jin Chul, through some magical mind-reading ability, opened the door at that point in time, and in his hands was the Magic Power Detector. 

“It is good to see you are awake, Min Yuki-ssi.” The patient smiled at the stiff A Rank, “It is good to see you as well, Woo Jin Chul-ssi. I apologize for the stress I might have caused.” The man’s shoulders sagged and his expression looked exhausted for only a second before returning to his neutral facade. 

“This is a Magic Power Detector, if you just place your hand on the mana crystal we can get a reading of your Rank.” They don’t need this. They genuinely do not need to do this, because anyone who is a high enough rank can see without the use of the machine just what type of Hunter Min Yuki is. All this is for record-keeping, visible proof. 

Woo Jin Chul set the device on the bed, close to Yuki’s hand and he held the reading device for both him and Go Gun Hee to see. Taking a deep sigh, Yuki glanced at the machine and closed his eyes. Placing his hand on the crystal, he could feel the magic it emitted surrounding his hand and trying and mesh with his own magic. 

Tried. 

The mana crystal cracked down the middle and the beeping of the reading device had everyone closing their eyes in acceptance. Woo Jin Chul glanced at Go Gun Hee, waiting to see if the man will say it. The Chairman took a deep sigh, and smiled, “Congratulations, Min Matsuno Yuki. You are South Korea’s 11th S Rank Hunter.” 

If it were anybody else, they would all be celebrating. The only thing Yuki could do was sigh and turn his attention toward the window. 

“If it helps, I know what my powers are. Do you want me to wait for the assessment or show you now?” Go Gun Hee hummed, “Can you describe it?” Yuki is in here because his magic was too much for his body. He didn’t want to be the reason Yuki goes to sleep for another week. 

Yuki turned his attention back to Go Gun Hee, red eyes glowing orange and a smile on his lips, “In the simplest terms, I can manipulate magic to take a physical shape.” He held his hand out, and in his palm was a Royal Albert coffee cup. The one he drank out of when he first met Go Gun Hee. It glowed orange because although Yuki can create shapes he cannot manipulate color. A soft clementine color that was somewhat transparent, and Go Gun Hee can see the outline of the floral design on the rim of the mug, the lines brightly etched into the now physical magic. 

He handed the cup to Go Gun Hee, who cradled it in his large and scarred palms. He could feel the magic thrumming against his skin. Out of curiosity, he gripped it harshly and squeezed. His strength, known to crush desks, chairs, bones, and monsters didn’t put a dent in this small cup. Not even a crack. 

“A Support Type then?” Yuki shrugged, “If that’s what you want to call it.” Go Gun Hee narrowed his eyes, “Yuki-a, this isn’t all you can do, is it?” Leave it to him to know when Yuki is withholding information. The other has never been a great liar, and although he is not lying, Yuki isn’t being completely honest. 

Go Gun Hee knows the signs better than anybody else. After all, it was he who called out a smaller Yuki whenever he tried telling him home life was okay. 

Yuki clicked his tongue and pouted, “How can you call me out like that? In front of Woo Jin Chul-ssi too.” Go Gun Hee laughed, attempting to hand the Royal Alberts cup back to Yuki but the other only shook his head. Sighing, Yuki ran his fingertip along the rim of the cup, pouring a different type of magic into the cup. 

Woo Jin Chul took a breath, “That was…”

“An enchantment.” Yuki smiled, “It’s stronger if I had the help of a magic core, but yes. Enchantments, buffs, all that fun stuff mages need items for, I can do.” Yuki does not need a book to know how to circulate his magic to create a buff, because Yuki is Ellowyn. Yuki has Ellowyn’s knowledge of how to do these spells. Yuki has Ellowyn’s knowledge on how to create enchantments and buffs that haven’t even been discovered yet. 

Yuki does not need a book to create an enchantment because Yuki is Ellowyn, the creator and author of those books. 

“Where’s Jin Woo?” 

++++

Jin Woo is fighting for his life. 

The Architect cackled as Jin Woo sucked a deep breath in and exhaled. Blood clouded the vision of his left eye and he could feel his side ache from where he was hit. It’s been a while since a physical blow like that hurt. 

If only he had his shadows. 

Shaking the thought away, Jin Woo clenched his teeth with a dagger in hand and charged. The Architect smiled, swinging around the weapons and not answering any of Jin Woo’s questions.

“How were you able to plan this, and why me?” He summoned his trusted dagger and glared at the smiling statue. Half of their face shining brightly and the other looks like it has been decaying for a while. It grinned widely, “I didn’t choose you. I am simply the designer.” 

They both charged at one another, and Jin Woo could feel it. He could feel how his senses are growing sharper and his ability to process the incoming attacks are growing quicker. An opening, and he had cut off the arm holding the axe. He can see the frustration growing on the statue's face, and it wouldn’t be the first time a monster has looked at him in disbelief. 

“You’re just a mere human! How dare you!” He’s heard that line before too. Jin Woo doesn’t feel human. He doesn’t feel how fragile humans are, and he surely can’t feel the fear and anxiousness humans are known to fear in life-or-death situations. Which he is in now. Sharp eyes watched how the statues he’s previously taken out began to rise once more, and the large statue slowly began to stand. 

The timer in front ticking down. 

‘I need to end this.’ Taking in a deep breath, Jin Woo charged. Dodging and slicing through whatever stone got in his way. Shattering the ground and demolishing stone weapons and limbs. He wants to end this. Jin Woo wants answers. Why him? Why was he chosen? 

“I lost.” The Architect grinned, and Jin Woo had this insane urge to just kill him. The statue pointed at him, “The answers you want are inside of you. Do you want them?” The screen in front of him flashed and Jin Woo was too curious to not deny it. 

He needs to know who he is. He wants to know why sometimes when he sees Yuki, it is not Yuki at all. 

Jin Woo needs to know what he is, and how that affects those around him. 

“Yes.” He didn’t expect the world to take on a purple hue, or for the thousands of Monsters to be at his feet. He didn’t expect the war that took place between the Silver Soldiers and the Monsters. Jin Woo didn’t expect to see his power being used by someone other than him. 

Riding a monster that took the form of a horse was the original Shadow Monarch. Outfitted in armor that had clear enchantments and buffs on it, as well as the gigantic sword. Next to him, with six black wings and a familiar face, Jin Woo’s eyes widened. They raised a delicate hand in the air, and portals began opening. Smaller portals that glowed a light purple, and Jin Woo watched how the hilt of swords, daggers, polearms, everything began emerging out of those portals. 

‘An inventory?’ Those weapons that were once only floating, shot towards the Silver Soldiers impaling some, and the weapons that missed disappeared back into a small purple portal. 

A name rang out in Jin Woo’s mind as he saw the being with six wings create a familiar barrier, only no longer orange, and surround itself as those Silver Soldiers charged at them. He can feel the rage of someone deep within his chest at the sight of such a thing. 

A name he has heard Yuki mumble in his sleep. One that seemed to haunt him whenever he closed his red eyes or looked at his reflection. 

“Ellowyn?” 

Chapter Text

“Sung Jin Woo is in the hospital.” Yuki was out the bed and his feet on the ground before Yujin could even finish. Unfortunately, one of the side effects of sleeping for a week is that your muscles are weak and joints are stiff. If it weren’t for Go Gun Hee catching him before he fell his knees would have been bruised. 

“Yuki-a!” Yujin rushed over, clipboard forgotten and hands reaching out to help his baby cousin that was clutching onto Go Gun Hee’s arm. Blue met frantic red, and Yujin had to take a deep breath to calm his own nerves, “It’s just exhaustion. He’s not hurt, he’s not dying, he’s just sleeping.” 

His breath came back to him, and following that was coughing. A series of coughs that rattled his ribs and made his chest ache. But hey! No blood! 

“Yuki-a.” Go Gun Hee’s stern voice was one that held little room for argument, and Yuki knew what they were asking of him. He knew that what they were asking for was reasonable. 

Patience. They are asking for patience. Yuki has been patient his whole life. He’s lived knowing that his time is borrowed, therefore he did not want to rush it. Patience and Yuki are the best of friends and have been together their entire life. 

Yuki did not want to be patient right now. 

“How did he end up in the hospital?” Yujin made a face, “Exhaustion, Yuki-a. That’s it.” Yuki scrunched his nose, “I get that. But what made him exhausted?!” ‘Was it a dungeon? Wait… the Double Dungeon!’ The cold gaze from Yujin had a heat building in Yuki’s chest. He could see his older cousin purse his lips and contemplate the next thing he says. 

He seemed to give up, “It is literally just exhaustion, Yuki-a. He’s probably been working himself too hard.” Yujin is withholding something and Yuki knows it. Yujin knows that Yuki knows it. But, what can he do? Patient confidentiality and Yuki wasn’t about to throw his S Rank status in Yujin’s face to get what he wants. 

Yuki’s not even sure if he could call himself a Hunter. The word tasted sour on his tongue and seared his mind. Similar to a brand that will follow him everywhere. No matter how hard he scrubs in the bathtub, or even if he gets a tattoo to cover it up, it will forever be there. Reminding him of his new position in society and within the Hunter Community. 

Yuki’s hands tightened around the sleeve of Go Gun Hee’s suit, and he nodded. Biting his lips and scrunching his nose as he did so. Yujin, seeming to take pity on his baby cousin, mumbled, “I can show you his room though. It’s not far from this one.” With the help of Go Gun Hee, he put on the hospital-issued slippers and slowly walked to the room next door. He gave Yujin a blank look and the doctor shrugged, “I said it wasn’t far.” 

‘Plus, I have a feeling that if Sung Jin Woo wakes up and you’re not close by, this hospital is disappearing.’ 

Yuki opened the door and sighed in relief at the sight of a sleeping Jin Woo. No wires or machines, just a man simply sleeping. 

“Yuki-oppa!” Then there is Jin Ah and Kyung He. The older woman looked as distraught as her daughter but also relieved at the sight of Yuki up and walking. Jin Ah was crying into his chest, her arms wrapped around him and Kyung He stood on his other side. Yuki was too focused on consoling Jin Ah he missed the nod and smile the woman gave Go Gun Hee, a fond smile on both their faces as they watched Yuki try to calm down a frantic Jin Ah. 

Large brown eyes looked up at him, tears still streaming down her face and snot leaving her nose. Yuki smiled, “Jin Ah, I’m so happy you’re okay.” Cue more crying. 

It took a solid 10 minutes for Jin Ah to let go of him, and another 10 for her sniffles to go away. Kyung He raised her eyebrow at her daughter and then hugged Yuki, happy he was awake and okay. It would have been the perfect reunion if only someone was awake. 

“So Dr. Lee said I have PTSD.” Yuki nodded, sipping on the coffee Yujin had given him as they sat next to Jin Woo’s bed. Jin Ah finished her recollection of therapy and how it went, as well as some of the helpful tips that Dr. Lee has given her. Kyung He, the kind and supportive mother she is, pat Jin Ah’s back in comfort, and Go Gun Hee offered the teen a small smile. 

“Speaking of PTSD, Yuki-a, how are you doing?” While he appreciated Kyung He’s worry, he didn’t appreciate the attention on him. How was he doing? In truth, he hasn’t been able to give himself much time to process it. With Ellowyn going on, this new power, being declared an S Rank, and now Jin Woo, Yuki hasn’t really had the time to go think it through. 

He knows, that in that moment, he had been terrified. He had been terrified for himself and for the students. He also knows that at that moment, he blamed himself for not being able to save them. Some part of him still does. Some part of him hates himself for waiting until children were literally dying in front of him. Some part of him hates himself for becoming a Hunter, 

Some part of him hates himself for being the reincarnation of a Ruler. 

Yuki is aware that if he says that right now, four people are going to jump on him and force him to therapy and there is too much in his head for a shrink to sort through and give him advice on. How do you tell someone not only do you remember your past life, but also now you know you are the reincarnation of a Being that made the weapons and enchantments Hunters use? 

Without getting sent to an asylum. 

“To be honest, I think after catching some rest I am able to think more clearly about it.” That’s it. That is all he wants to say, but by the glares Yujin and Go Gun Hee are giving him, he knows he has to say more. 

‘Ah, didn’t I say it was my fault to Go Gun Hee?’ His glare felt even more intense and Yuki began sweating. He smiled at Jin Ah, “What happened is a tragedy, and no one had any control over it.” Yuki looked down at his fingers that were playing with the hem of the hospital shirt, “I am coming to terms with the fact that even if I wanted to change the outcome, I am unable to now.” It does no good thinking of what if’s. All that it does is create scenarios that may have never happened and only make you more depressed. 

‘Was that enough?’ He could still feel Go Gun Hee’s glare, but it was less intense this time. Releasing a breath of relief, Yuki smiled at Jin Ah, “So, I guess to answer your question, I’m doing better than I was on that day.” The young girl nodded, “Maybe you should also see Dr. Lee.” 

. 

. 

. 

“No.” 

++++ 

Yuki collapsed back onto his own bed, in his own apartment, with his two pets. Cujo all but slobbered on him and Pip had a little hissy fit. The little shit knocking stuff over in a fit of rage at the man not being here for the past week. 

He didn’t bother eating and all he wanted to do was shower and go back to sleep. Red eyes stared at his hands, and in them formed a small orange sphere. It glowed on his pale skin, looking almost like a sunset. Sighing, Yuki watched how that sphere turned into a glowing orange macaroon, then a teacup, a book, a knife, a sword, and back to a sphere. 

Ellowyn, for the number of weapons and enchantments they made, had kept such graphic details on how to form each one. Manipulating the magic itself to make shape was easy. Like another limb, anything Yuki thought of it could come to life in the palm of his hand. Due to him being an S Rank and one of the Fragments, he has almost an unlimited amount of magic at his beck and call. Waiting to be used. 

When it comes to making an actual weapon from a magic core, it is different. Apparently, in the world the Rulers and Monarchs lived in, there were multiple types of magic cores. Some were more aligned with different types of affinities, some not liking magic at all, and some were just plain awful to work with. Depending on the core, either a weapon could be made, or it would be a core used to store and boost an enchantment. Some cores loved being decorative cores, and some liked being used. 

Ellowyn had kept track of each and every core they ever used and what they were used for. The cores used here, in this world, found in the Dungeons, were the most basic and moldable cores. They did not care what they turned into, they did not reject magic, and they did not care how they were used. Unfortunately, those magic cores had a price. One that the Rulers know about but humans do not. 

Well, Yuki now does but can he even be considered human anymore? 

Those magic cores are also what fueled the magic in the air and around the world. It clung to Hunters, fueling their magic, fueling the air with magic, and sucking the life out of those unawakened. Eternal sleep is more than just a side effect of being exposed to magic, it is a disease caused by the parasitic magic from those cores. The magic from those magic cores that cling to Hunters cannot feed off the magic Hunters exude because magic from Hunters tends to be abrasive and unkind to foreign things. It is why Hunters have such a strong instinct to fight and kill Monsters. 

Regular humans, however, not so much. The core’s magic feeds off of the unawakened people, fueling the core’s magic even more and therefore increasing its output into the air. When a core’s magic takes too much, two things can happen: either that unawakened person Awakens to stop the parasitic magic, or Eternal Sleep. 

Ellowyn hated that type of core, but Yuki could see why the Rulers chose it. By placing a parasitic magic core and making them the only core, it basically is forcing humans to become Hunters or die. Then the fact that the core naturally emits magic into the air which then causes more Dungeons to form, which is more Monsters, more Hunters, more magic cores, and the cycle continues. 

However, for Ellowyn when the need for mass weapons, armor, or objects to hold enchantments, those cores were the best option. The cores allowed magic to flow freely through them and allowed Ellowyn to form and shape them into whatever they wanted. They held enchantments how paper cup holds hot water, not the best container but as long as it works it’s fine. 

Naturally, that lack of pickiness from the core however means they break stupidly easily. Depending on the amount of magic in them can also affect how they handle abuse. The lower amount of magic the easier it was to break. 

Ellowyn fumed about that, their wings puffing in irritation and Yuki could see steam coming from their ears. 

“Like! If you’re going to use my designs at least make them durable! It is not my design that is faulty it is your lack of knowledge you stupid, unknowing, uneducated Goblin!!”  

Apparently being called a Goblin was a high insult among Rulers. Not because they were Monsters, but because of the general stereotype of Goblins being dumb. In a group they are fine because of crowd mentality, but when on their own they are surprisingly dumb. It is why they live in colonies and not on their own. 

Anyways, having Ellowyn’s knowledge in his head was a plus. Despite the searing headache he got afterward, Ellowyn had given him everything. Even the knowledge on how to make a Cursed Weapon. 

Yuki closed his eyes as the formula undid itself in his mind. It was like a forbidden recipe, and he was the only one with access to it. If it were to be written down, it would be on a clean note 2x4 note card, unwrinkled and lacking any signs of being touched other than ink etched on it’s page. The handwriting in cursive, loopy ‘l’s and exaggerated ‘y’s, in black ink that was showing just how many recipes it has written. The steps listed with a dash, and underlined were key ingredients. 

It would have no label. No name. It would be kept near the bottom, not exactly the last card because that was easy to pick, but near the middle end of the stack. It would be in that last section the person either found what they were looking for or they gave up. 

A small, unnoticeable, and easily glassed-over notecard. 

Yuki hated that he knew it. He hated that he could now make something that had left him, and all his other past selves, with only one functional lung. He hated that he knows should the time call for it, he would make that exact weapon again for Jin Woo. 

He would be the creator of a weapon that has no right to be created. A weapon that shouldn’t exist. A weapon, stronger than any other weapon Ellowyn has ever made, that would be used against another living creature. If Antares were to get impaled by it, the Curse would follow him and incarnates until the soul heals. 

Until the Curse eats itself. 

The giant, crystallized willow tree showcasing all the lives that have been affected and lost because of such a weapon flashed in his mind. The small sliver of a healed soul, after years of living and dying, and Ellowyn’s sad face as they stared at the willow. 

Yuki made a Taiyaki. The fish-looking pastry floating in the palm of his hand, looking lonely. 

Another one appeared. 

“Huh?” Yuki sat up, his attention now on the two glowing orange Taiyakis floating in the palm of his hand. 

‘No way.’ He called for his magic and made a third. Then a fourth. A fifth. A sixth. Pip, the comedic cat he was, was staring at the multiplying orange fish with wide eyes and what looked like a shocked expression. 

Yuki’s memory recalled the high school incident when he made multiple barriers and slides. 

Gulping, Yuki changed the shape of the Taiyaki to daggers. Different designs of daggers, their actual sizes, glowing orange and floating in front of him. ‘What are the chances,’ He willed one to move, like an arm throwing a baseball, the dagger shot across the room and impaled the wall. 

“Oh my God.” Athena’s Armory, he called forth the portal, and out escaped the same dagger he had thrown, only in its final shape and an actual dagged made from cores and laced with enchantments.

What made Ellowyn’s magic unique wasn’t the fact that they could manipulate it to take multiple physical shapes. It wasn’t their near god-tier level of control of their magic either. No other Ruler was able to control their magic enough to force another magical object, such as a magic core, to forget its original shape and take a new form. 

No. What made Ellowyn’s magic unique was that it was more corrosive than others. Ellowyn’s magic, when forced through an object, left noticeable tunnels where the magic had networked throughout the object to force it to bend to their will. Almost like an ant tunnel, with complex and connecting tunnels. 

Those tunnels, also meant it made it easier for other magic to course through the weapon. If Choi Jong In had the ability to wield a weapon, and Yuki had given him a weapon, the magic that would emit from Choi Jong In would permeate the weapon as well. Depending on the type of core, it could either mesh well with that magic and make the attacks more devastating, or weaken it. 

It’s a small thing, one that is barely noticed. However, magic never forgets its user. Just as a well-loved child will never forget their parents. The magical residue that is left behind when Ellowyn’s magic does this is never washed away or overlapped with another magic because Ellowyn’s magic is the only one that can completely fit in those small tunnels. Filling every groove left behind, and therefore retaking control over the object. 

Magic is like another limb. So when Yuki’s magic encased the dagger, wrapping it under his complete control, Yuki did the same thing he did with the magic-made dagger. He threw it, using his magic to launch it, and it impaled the wall next to the other one. 

He called them both back, and just like eager followers of a religious cult, they rushed back to their Creator. 

“Oh God.” Yuki put the dagger back into Athena’s Armory, and canceled out his magic so that the daggers disappeared. It was only him and Pip again. Both of them stared at the two slits in the wall from where both daggers were impaled.

“Those things can cut.” His magic when can become sharp. His magic can be a sword, and then when he no longer needs it, he can just dispel it. He doesn’t need to make weapons from magic cores, he can just create them like that. 

‘So then, why did Ellowyn make them from Magic Cores?’ War. Yuki’s eyes widened when he remembered that distinction fact. They were always at war, and Ellowyn was basically the armory for them. They needed thousands of weapons and thousands of armor and enchantments, it would have been too much magic even more Ellowyn to have their magic spread out like that, and still hold its physical shape. Cores were needed so Ellowyn didn’t run themself ragged. 

There was always the chance that Ellowyn would die as well. No Ruler had a guaranteed life, and even though Ellowyn did not fight, it wasn’t a hidden fact that they were the main supplier of the Silver Knights. In case Ellowyn did die, they needed to continue the fight. 

That is why Athena’s Armory was created. A last resort. A just in case. 

Yuki chuckled as the memories from Ellowyn flooded his mind. A space, basically a pocket dimension that could only be accessed by them or by someone who had the key, that had thousands, if not millions of weapons. Helmets and chest plates, wing armor, and armor for those with horns. Shields, enchantment items, books, swords, arrows, crossbows, polearms, all of it flooding the Armory. All of them ready to be used, sitting there patiently for their Creator to give them to someone deserving. 

Only for the Armory to have been robbed by the very Beings it was made for. For their Creator to be killed by the ones they were made for. 

Yuki was linked to the Armory, because it was Ellowyn’s and he is now Ellowyn. He could feel, see, and call any weapon that is left within that Armory. He chuckled a bitter sound that filled him with rage. The millions of items, millions of hours, and the hard work Ellowyn had spent crafting each item with care, were gone. 

Only a few things remained. 

“Sucks for them.” Yuki stared at the ceiling, feeling and remembering the pain on Ellowyn’s face. Rulers they thought of as friends, cornering and murdering them without giving them a chance. 

Stealing from Ellowyn even after death. 

“They’re not getting another damn weapon from me.” His mind flashed back to his vandalized cafe. The smashed windows, the broken chairs, the overturned tables, the blood on the counters. His treasure was ripped from him by the people he made those pastries for. 

Ellowyn loved Athena’s Armory as much as Yuki’s loved his cafe. Ellowyn loved their creations as much as Yuki loved his.