#damn it rok soo

[idontknowmyownmind]

RokCale brother AU:

KRS reincarnated as Cale's younger brother and because his first life is more fucked up than canon, he become unhinged in an obsessive way toward Cale, codependency and attachment issue at best

Cale is older by 5 years than Roksu and he basically Roksu's primary caretaker since their mother's death

Roksu is a sly and manipulative kid, always monopolize his hyung's time and attention

He doesn't like to share and want to keep his brother for himself, even from their family

Roksu resent Deruth who 'hurt' Cale, although not openly show it

He harbor ill feeling toward Basen and Violan who made Cale 'sacrifice' himself

But Roksu never trully hurt them, just make their life a 'little bit' difficult because he doesn't want to make his hyung sad or upset for seeing them 'hurt'

Ron is the only one who is aware of Roksu's darker side because he always with the brothers

Let's say that Roksu 'threatened' him to keep quiet

Roksu never let people get to close with Cale nor he let his hyung attached to someone other than him

It's subtle but Roksu always isolating Cale from other people whose not him

People know Roksu as a silent but good and obedient kid while they see Cale as the unruly brother

In a way, Roksu also adding fuel to rumor regarding Cale so no one ever approach him to take him away

[murasaki-cha]

You know it's small scenes like this that really stick out after reading and rereading the novel.

Why is Cale so calm? Why is he talking as if he's been in the battlefield if he's just a transmigrator from South Korea? Why?

This scene should have aroused suspicions or at least raised a few small flags, but the beauty of the TCF writing is it's narration. It's so flowing and sweeps you in, while at times throws these little crumbs of lore, but you're so focused on the current event and Cale's way of explaining makes it look so natural and normal during the narration that you don't even notice. And those crumbs keep accumulating with time until the big reveal. And when you go back to reread you finally start to notice them.

Now we know that Kim Rok Soo has indeed experienced a battlefield. He knows about the bloodshed and the horrific sights he's witnessing. Because after the apocalypse he's seen them countless times. At the beginning of the apocalypse, at the shelter when it got destroyed and with his first team. He knows about it.

One other example I can give is about his Record ability. Cale stated it since chapter 4 of the novel "I can remember everything anyway" yet no one stopped to think about it, like what do you mean you remember everything? And it wasn't until HUNDREDS of chapters later that it was shown that he has an ability that makes him record everything in his mind making him unable to forget. And every time someone rereads, myself included, we get so shocked by that sentence in chapter 4. The answers were there since the begining we just didn't notice.

Like I'm certain manhwa onlys are not even going to notice this scene or raise any questions on why Cale is so calm. PAN4 does a great job, in my opinion, of portraying that flow in the narration of TCF that gets you so enchanted to it that you don't even notice the little lore pieces

[xx3bvvx]

05:

Cale always said that if you are facing a stronger enemy, run away and come back to hit them hard from behind. I realized that it came from his past trauma when he fought against the second-unranked monster. Back then, Rok Soo had told Lee Soo Hyuk that if they fought that monster, they would all die. However, in the end, they still fought against the monster, and unfortunately, all of them died. From Cale's point of view, running away and then attacking from behind was the right thing to do when they fought the monster..... Damn, I am sobbing, author-nim likes to make us cry.

[calethescammer]

Tcf brain rot time :)

Ok so Cale as Krs never had any parental figures, and neither did Og Cale. So what if, some random day, Cale and his family go for an outing, just a small walk around the shops.

And somewhere in between, Cale stops in his tracks. His gaze lingers on the mother-son duo walking alongside a sweet shop, smiling and giggling all the while. His family watches Cale's blank gaze, with a hint of longing and sadness in it.

Cale continues walking like nothing happened. Ron thinks of the young child who had faced grief at an age of laughter and happiness, and Choi Han thought of Rok Soo's past, with just his abusive uncle as his guardian.

Raon, On and Hong shifted closer to the redhead, trying to comfort him even if they didn't know what was wrong.

And now just imagine the angst. Like maybe Alberu or Eruhaben notice it too, how he sometimes smiles sadly seeing kids run around with their parents, or how his gaze turns empty as he tries to numb down his emotions.

And so, to comfort the redhead as far as they can, they decide to shower him with love. While Deruth increased the number of head pats, Violan frequently had tea with Cale, asking about his interests, hobbies and giving him small unnoticeable compliments in between, which Cale very well noticed.

Ron served him sweet tea more often, Eruhaben and Rosalyn helped him talk out his concerns, majorly of ongoing wars and safety reasons, and Choi Han was the best suited to talk about his previous life, which Cale was very reluctant to share.

Alberu, being the Alberu he was, did what he felt would be best for Cale:

Cale and Alberu stared at each other, the latter smiling more brightly than ever.

"Your Highness."

"Hyung."

"Yes, hyung-nim. Can you tell me what this is?"

Cale pointed towards the table.

Alberu smiled more brightly and Cale almost heard him giggle softly, before covering it up with a cough.

"This, my dear dongsaeng, is a golden plaque."

Cale stared at him with the most deadpan expression.

"What do you want me to do now?"

Alberu just sat speechless, his face crumbling and smiling all together.

Eventually, he managed to convince Cale, telling him that a King needed to be benevolent, and that Cale had done more than enough to be rewarded a golden plaque. Not that Cale believed any of that bullshit, but well, free money should not be refused.

Aside from that, the kids brought him various flowers and Rosalyn helped in decorating Cale's hair with them.

'Why is everyone acting so weird?'

Cale thought, trying to ignore the warm feeling in his chest and his slight smile at the flower crown the kids had made.

[slackerlifewhere]

TCF is all about healing

- This is a review about the novel.

There's possible SPOILERS for readers who haven't finished reading the first volume.

___

When I first picked up the novel, I didn't have high expectations. After reading a lot of stories that end up disappointing me because of how the author eventually adds romance or harems into the story because their main character apparently needs a romantic relationship to feel good about themselves, I thought that Trash of the Count's Family will be the same thing further down the line.

But damn, did the author prove me wrong.

In the first few chapters, the novel's entire vibe was almost unnoticeable. Sure, there were some small details like him not being used to extravagant clothes or finding a simple meal delicious, but it wasn't obvious. It made me raise my eyebrow but I simply thought that he's a simple salaryman or something.

The first lines about him not having anyone who would miss him if he's gone in his previous world can be excused as him having no lingering attachments. And honestly, some transmigration/isekai stories do have their main characters having no attachments in their previous world. So it makes sense and it didn't alert me of what could've possibly happened to Cale, former Kim Rok Soo, for him to be so aloof and calm at the forced transmigration.

And then...he thought about poverty and pity when interacting with On and Hong. That was the first sign that he may have left a few lines out of his introduction.

It steadily got worse when he was talking to Choi Han about him being used to the cruelty of people like Venion. And then, at the first meeting with Raon, he appeared as if he understood the hopelessness of a child under an abusive adult's hand.

That's when I finally thought that TCF is a story about healing. And I was pleasantly surprised.

Sure, there's action, drama, and comedy, but TCF is mainly about moving on or healing from past hurts. There are moments when it can be called "cliche" but TCF is unique in the way it portrays Cale and his relationships. There's the found family trope that I love but what I love the most about the story is how these characters who have lost something or were about to lose something if OG Cale didn't make the deal with God of Death to have KRS replace him, is slowly understanding that they're not alone and that they can improve as a person if given the chance.

It's heart-warming and completely unexpected. I didn't read the first chapter expecting this fantasy-themed action novel to be about this.

OG Cale, Choi Han, Raon, On and Hong, Lock, Taylor and Cage, Alberu, the Dark Elves, Mary, and so many characters paved the way for me to completely fall in love with this novel.

If I sound like I'm exaggerating, then I don't care because this novel is just beautiful.

What completely blew my mind is the final reveal of Cale's past as Kim Rok Soo.

Listen, I have a love-hate relationship with KR survival novels involving monsters and dungeons and the freaking apocalypse. I love some of them and I can't stand the others. But I did not expect that Kim Rok Soo was in a world trying to survive from the effects of the apocalypse.

My first reaction was "What the actual fuck" because I 100% did not expect for the story to go that way. And my second thought was "So that's why!" Because it finally explains why he hates "papercuts"! This guy is so good at making big things about himself sound so small that it left me stunned when the big reveal happened!

I wanna slap him and hug him at the same time.

It explains why he's so good at being a commander. It explains why he's used to getting hurt or why he hates the thought of his friends and family dying with him as the survivor (I believe he has a survivor's guilt?). It explains everything.

He may be in a new world but he's still stuck in his past no matter how much he says about not thinking about what-ifs and his past. The time he spends in this new world is him slowly realizing that he's not alone and he doesn't have to be so scared.

And when I finally thought that I'm done being surprised, OG Cale appears and flips everything I knew about the character. They talk about how content they are with their new identities. They smile. They're happy. And that proves why this novel is about healing and not the simple transmigration novel full of action and comedy. Instead of getting angry at Kim Rok Soo, former Cale Henituse, for the deal with God of Death, he's just happy for the man and for himself. I just love how the author doesn't forget about Kim Rok Soo's sacrifices and rewards him with a happy life with his mother.

It's so hard not to finish the novel within weeks because of how good it is. It can be fast in some parts for the action, which makes sense since everything is happening at once. But there are also slow emotional moments that keep reminding me why I love this novel.

So yeah, this is my review about TCF. It's not a perfect novel but it's a good novel about healing and family. And I'm waiting for the second volume to be done so I can finally read the rest.

[samberrybay]

This part in 32 chp always felt kind of odd to me and this is the reason why:

The coward wolf boy, Lock. Until Choi Han found him, Lock had been hiding as the chief had told him. The Lock at that point is very much a coward, a weakling, and kind of slow. In simple terms, Lock easily took the position of the character that readers found to be extremely frustrating.

This has bothered me since I first read the novel, and to this day, even after several rereads, it still haunts me.

Cale simply isn't the type of a person to actually call a kid, no matter how they behave, to be "frustrating".

(When the text said "readers" it's damn well obvious of Cale being the one to think so.)

Pondering for some time I can roughly guess why the wording was so unexpected for his character.

At the time of the assassination/kindaping in the village, Lock was only thirteen years old. He also hasn't had his first berserk transformation yet. Therefore it is not surprising that Lock's uncle hid him and told not to go out, saying that everything was fine and he should continue to hide.

Now let's look at the situation realistically.

Lock (in tcf) jumps out of his hiding to protect his younger siblings. The adrenaline and inner Blue Wolf Tribe's instincts to protect turned on his berserk transportation one year beforehand, however if not Rosalyn and Choi Han, who came earlier than in the actual novel, i don't think it would help much.

Lock would possibly be able to kill a few people or at least seriously injure them, but CMON. They killed an ENTIRE village full of berserk Blue Wolf's and with almost-Wolf King (Lock's uncle). Do you really believe that a thirteen years old boy jumping into his first berserk transformation would be able to fight properly against strong organization that had holy water or some sort of holy artefact on their hands?

Again, if not for Choi Han's and Rosalyn's arrival... it would have definitely ended pretty bad.

In TBOAH Lock for some reason didn't jump out. Different circumstances, wrong wroted part in the novel, idk, but the fact is stated: Lock stayed hidden. He also most likely survived only because of Choi Han's help. Just with much worse scenario where he was left alone from the whole village.

And it wasn't Lock's fault yet again. He was a child. No matter if a Beastman one or not, the boy was just an innocent, naive and weak child.

So why would Cale, Kim Rok Soo at the time, find him frustrating? Extremely so even!

The answer is much easier if you think about it.

Because it wasn't Kim Rok Soo blaming a kid for being weak and cowardly in a fearful situation, it was a man who saw his own past that he hated so much.

A coward, a weakling and kind of slow.

For Rok Soo, who blamed himself for half of his life for the deaths of team one members, Lock was like a salt for still open, but ignored wounds.

KRS greatly disliked and maybe even envied Lock for a bit. The boy got a new family, he got friends and some sort of guidance from them even after facing so much despair.

While he was all alone, trying to understand what to do on his own.

It sure is irritating for Rok Soo.

Yet Team Leader Kim Rok Soo was probably unable to fully hate Lock for his weakness, because while the latter was still a kid, the same forgiveness can't be used on him. At least in his own head.

So with conflicting feelings Cale settled on "Extremely frustrating" description.

[teriri-sayes]

Reactions to Crazier Bastard's Chapter 300 + Author's Note

Brief summary: Game tries to eliminate Cale. Tutorial boss saves Cale. System AI makes a deal with Cale.

==========

Cale entering the game world was confusing to his ancient powers who were unfamiliar with it. Cale and DA then discuss the possibility that the saint and GoC were related to the game world. But Cale made a mistake here. He should have kept his conversation with DA to himself and not spoken it aloud. 😂

Cale: I think there's a high possibility that they (GoC) are at the center of it. Game: Would you like to use the nickname "I think there's a high possibility that they are at the center of it"? Cale: Damn it. Game: Would you like to use the nickname "Damn it"? #%f@%fd Cale: Huh? Game: $#&*#%System^%error^%^#occurs$%$^ Cale: ???

The game then classified Cale as an unauthorized user and proceeded to eliminate him. Cale thought he was just going to be kicked out, but his meeting with an NPC made him realize that something dangerous might happen if he did not escape here.

The NPC was a demon dressed in aristocratic attire and described as a masculine, "decadent", and handsome man. In Korea, having a "decadent appearance" could mean several things:

Black theme - black hair, black clothes, dark atmosphere

Mature look - sensual or captivating eyes

Gloomy air or drowsy look - dark circles on eyes, uses goth or emo makeup

Some are described to be yandere or have mental health problems

This new NPC fit the black theme definition because he was the Count of Darkness, Lupe II. Cale thought Lupe II had come to attack him, so he tried to defend himself. But Cale and the APs were shocked when he couldn't use any of his powers!

Why? Because Cale was inside a game and was in the process of creating a new account. He still did not have a level or any skills. So he couldn't use any of his "outside" powers inside the game.

Fortunately, Count Lupe II was not an enemy. In fact, he was urgently trying to save Cale from the game which wanted to eliminate Cale. But something seemed to be hindering him from approaching Cale, so Cale had to run just to grab Lupe's hand. 🤣🤣🤣

Game: *tries to eliminate Cale* Cale: Ah, seriously! *runs to reach the demon's hand* Cale: (If I want to survive and not get destroyed, I have to catch that demon's hand!) DA: *scared* Hey, hey! Catch it! Cale, catch it! Shield AP: You should have exercised. Narrator: Cale somehow ran. Yes, his Kim Rok Soo self that contained all of his long years of life experience did. And he believed in the physical talent of Cale Henituse contained within him, in the power hidden within his muscles. Cale: *finally grabs the demon's hand*

Glutton priestess, what? 🤣🤣🤣 Why did you have to bring up Cale's lack of physical exercise? 😂😂😂 And the narration wasn't helping. 🤣🤣🤣 DA though. I noticed this in the past chapters... but wasn't he actually a coward who liked to bluff? DA was always portrayed as someone who loved to dominate people, but in the recent chapters (their encounter with the gods, and now this game), DA kept getting scared easily. 😂 A coward who liked to bluff? Wasn't that CJG? So was DA really CJG? 🤔

Back to the topic, the game's elimination mode was turning everything around them red and having alarms sounding off all the time. The red sky split, and a red hand with vein-like red tubes filled with black liquid descended, trying to grab Cale.

But Lupe II managed to escape with Cale from the red hand, teleporting to his dungeon, Hell of Darkness. It turned out that Lupe II was the tutorial NPC final boss. Befitting his Count of Darkness title, his room was full of dark/black furniture fit for a noble. And despite his dark theme, he was an emotional man who easily cried.

More surprises appeared. Lupe II was an NPC who was aware that he was an NPC and in a game. He knew about the hunters and the world outside the game. It all started when the game's System AI, the one in charge of managing NPCs and giving quests, began acting strange. This led to Lupe II becoming self-aware and gaining outside knowledge. And Lupe II was frustrated because no one knew about the System AI acting strange, even the game developers.

Lupe II was hostile to the hunters, so he almost cried in relief when Cale said he "hunted" hunters. And as if the System AI was watching them, a system window appeared in front of Cale, giving him 2 quests.

[Quest 1. Find the hero with Count Lupe and stop the terrifying @#%&^* god who is trying to destroy this world!] [Quest 2. Please find my 'oppa' with Count Lupe]

In the end, Cale figured out that there were two AI involved here. One was the AI that Ahn Roh Man (ARM) considered as his "hyung", the AI his parents secretly hid in the game and mentioned in previous chapters. The other was the System AI mentioned today, who called ARM's hyung as her oppa because she was an AI created after the first one.

Ooooh... Since Alberu was the "hero", then the System AI was making Cale the "hero's companion" together with Count Lupe. Would Cale meet Alberu soon in the game world? But what happened to her oppa? Did something happen to ARM's hyung?

Cale told the System AI that he would tell her information about her oppa. In exchange, he wanted her to create a user account for him without the knowledge of the hunters. Of course, this wouldn't be TCF if there wasn't comedy... 😂

System AI said she couldn't do that, but because there was a huge update patch coming soon to the game, she sneaked in Cale by making him a half-demon and giving him the account of a... Tutorial Hidden Final Boss NPC. 🤣🤣🤣

Meanwhile, Cale's second group arrived at Exion's place. It had been 6 hours since Cale fainted, according to Raon's timer. Ron was gently smiling while cleaning Cale's bloodstained clothes, and Eruhaben was staring at Cale as if he was a cute grandchild.

Ending Remarks

Why does this chapter feel like an info dump? But I never expected Cale to become an NPC, a hidden final boss at that. 😂 I'm excited to see Alberu's reaction when he meets NPC boss Cale. 🤣🤣🤣

Oh yeah, the author posted an Author's Note, celebrating the 300th chapter of Part 2:

Author's Note Greetings, this is Yoo Ryeo Han who doesn't know when Part 2 will end. To celebrate the 300th chapter of Part 2, I bring you this author's note. It seems like only yesterday that I left a note for chapter 200, but it's already chapter 300... Every time I leave a note like this, it feels new and I am grateful. Maybe I'll give my greetings at chapter 400 soon, right? Hahaha! Thank you always for being with us. I will continue to work hard to write this series so that it can be a small joy in everyday life. Thank you. -Yoo Ryeo Han

[sadlynotthevoid]

Okey, but, I feel like og!Cale is the type of person that, if someone tried to make fun of him for a crush, he would be like "ah, yeah, that's true" and openly admit it.

So, og AlbeCale AU where whenever someone tries to mock Cale about liking Alberu or asks him about it, he downright says the truth. Regardless of who is hearing him.

As in, maybe once someone asks if Rok Soo and Cale are dating because they seem close (in part because they're kind of close, and in part because Cale keeps knowing what he is thinking, but they don't know that's just a Cale thing). And Rok Soo is like:

Rok Soo: Nah. This guy's type are baker princes.

Cale: You got it wrong. I don't like any princes who bake, I like Alberu only.

And Alberu, who was drinking tea on the background, suddenly chokes on his cup. Which they notice, of course.

"Oh. Hey, Al. Are you okay?"

—Totally unfazed for having Alberu heard the whole conversation.

He's so shameless about it and it's completely unintentional.

He has no idea of how people treat their crushes normally nor is interested on doing the same. He knows that some people tend to get shy, but a decade purposefully acting as trash killed most of his shame— Well, at least when it is about others' opinions of him—. If he wants to do something, being laughed at is not what's going to stop him.

And what he wants is to say how adorable he thinks Alberu is, so that's what he does.

Rejection? He isn't proposing anything. He doesn't plan on dating or wooing Alberu either. It's not that he wouldn't like it, it's just that it hasn't occurred to him that that's even an option. For him, who had spent years hearing everyone say the worst of him, the idea of someone wanting him by their side is so far away that it has yet to form.

So he keeps making casual comments about how cute Alberu is when he's confused, or "his hair looks so soft, I bet it feels that way too", or "he looks so handsome when he's tricking people. I like it more when he doesn't have to, tho", while everyone else feels embarrased for it. Except Rosalyn, she thinks it's hilarious.

Of course, he's pretty much respectful about it, never crossing the line to sexual harassment. And he would stop if Alberu told him too, but he doesn't. He kinda didn't realize that was an option at the beginning and, at this point, he got used and actually enjoys it a bit (a lot).

Cale: oh, sweets! They're my fifth favorite thing in this cruel world.

Rosalyn, fully knowing what she's doing: what are the other four?

Cale, carefully choicing which cake eat first: Well— *rising a finger per item* my family, animals, Alberu and wine. In that order.

Alberu: *frowns* I'm only third?

Cale, picking a chocolate tart: Mm? I loved animals since before meeting you and, at this point, is a part of myself. The other day I saw a dog and spent two hours squatting at her side without realize. It was not a conscious decision, it was... a soul impulse, let's say.

Alberu, looking at his thighs because damn, that's a lot of time to stay in that position: Oh. Wait, you've also loved wine since before meeting me.

Cale: Yes, but drinking wine is a choice. I can live happily without it. You would be... more difficult to leave.

Alberu: *processing* (that means— can't be happy without me aksjdjsj) "blushes hard*

Rosalyn, looking at Alberu's silly fuming face: (don't laugh don't laugh) Pff—

Cale: cherry pie? *Holds a mini pie in front of Alberu*

The turn tables when Alberu realizes that Cale doesn't have resistaince against genuine compliments. He never takes fake glibbery words seriously, but if someone says the slightliest good thing about him and they mean it, he'll become a mess. He just— doesn't know how to react when someone believes anything good about him.

So, Alberu starts complimenting him seriously— as reprisal, of course ("that's just flirting, nephew. You two are flirting, stop calling it vengeance"). Small but real things, details most people doesn't notice, deeper things that he deserves to hear (because, honestly, someone should tell him how sweet he is. How considerate he is. How much he should be appreciated because he's precious. And it seems Alberu is that someone). It works everytime.

Alberu calls his smile cute once and Cale stops talking. Face red and eyes avoiding everything, he can't pronounce a single word.

He calls him kind after Cale subtly helped a strange for no reason (he's obviously doing it in a way others wouldn't notice unless they knew what to look for. Alberu wonders if this is other "Cale thing"). Cale trips and almost gets discovered. When Alberu looks at his face, he's pouting.

Curiously, he doesn't have the same reaction when he gets called smart. He just smiles a bit and sometimes puffs his chest. Huh. Still adorable, tho.

[weirdsht]

Die With A Smile - Cale/Reader

a/n: yes it's from the new lady gaga and bruno mars song. I noticed how reader always seems to be on the dying side in my fics so...

oh and I cried to the point of dehydration when I wrote this lol

tags: reader gender not specified, angst, tragedy, injuries, possibility of death, open ending

English isn’t my first language so there will be grammatical errors

Pls don't repost my work anywhere without my permission

Constructive criticisms and any kind of interaction are more than welcome

Requests are currently closed but my ask are still open (read pinned)

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Cale Henituse is such a selfish person. 

He continues to make unreasonable demands even when in this crucial moment.

Can’t he see the tears streaming down your face? Can’t he feel the sadness and grief overtaking your entire being?

Can’t he tell that his the reason why you’re in this state?

He probably could. His Cale Henituse after all, the ever so intelligent commander. The young master that can ensure everyone’s survival even in the direst situations.

Everyone but his.

And that’s why his so so selfish.

“Are you really telling me what to do after you’re gone?”

You cried as you felt his weak hand caress your cheeks. His hands are soft, pampered. Unlike his hands when he was Kim Rok Soo; rough and calloused. Not that it mattered much.

As long as it was him, the man you loved, it didn’t matter what his hand felt on your skin.

Cale Henituse chuckled lightly as if nothing was wrong. As if it was just a normal day in the underground villa where the two of you are lazing around.

It made you wish that Raon was here to smack some sense into him.

But alas he wasn’t. In fact, no one was around. It was just the two of you. No Raon, no Choi Han, no Eruhaben, no Rosalyn.

No way out of this damned cave.

“Stop laughing! I’m not joking!”

You couldn’t help but shout at him. You’re hands working hard to wipe every blood that comes out of his mouth, his eyes, his ears, his… 

His…

You can’t tell where the blood is coming from anymore. 

His blood-soaked hand continued to caress your cheek. Blood smearing everywhere, but you didn’t care. You can’t when you can feel his hand growing colder with each stroke.

Your lover was so selfish.

Oh so so so selfish.

“We’re both injured you dipship.”

“You have a higher chance of survival than me. I made sure of it.”

Despite everything, he still thought of you. Yet he failed to think of what you would be if he were gone. Never considered how grey your world would become without his unprompted snarky remarks.

“Is this your payback for me dying back on Earth?”

You laid down beside him. The ground was hard as you already sacrificed every piece of clothing you both had to make Cale comfortable. Everything was quiet and peaceful. If it weren’t for the fact that both of you were injured you would have relished in it.

“Maybe… perhaps I wanted you to know how I felt that day– Agh! Fuck it hurts!”

Cale tried to joke but was cut off because his entire body shook with pain once more.

Trying to ease his pain, you held his hand. Squeezing it as you felt your own injuries hurt and throb. Both of you found solace in each other in this dark cave.

“How are your injuries? Especially the one on your side?”

The redhead inquired as he felt your hold tightened. He was probably in so much more pain than you are. But still… still, he insists on prioritizing you.

“Better than your plate could ever be.”

You omitted the part where your side is still profusely bleeding. He didn’t need another stressor when he was already one foot on death’s door.

Turning over to your side hurt, especially since you’re now crushing your wound. But you did it, just so you could stare at his face for probably the last time in this life.

“I know that it’s bleeding. I’m not dumb, lie on your back.”

Silence lingered in the cave as you said nothing. It was enough to tell Cale that you’re not gonna follow.

For what felt like hours, the two of you simply held each other’s hand. Racing to see who will give in the their injuries first.

Cale rested his forehead on yours. It felt magnetic, or maybe that was just the sticky blood. You aren’t so sure, but it felt comforting.

That was until he opened his mouth once more.

“Hey what if I pass over my ancient powers—”

“Don't you fucking dare.”

Both of you could barely speak, yet here you are still arguing.

It reminded you of all the times the two of you bickered over the smallest things.

Then it reminded you of how this was probably the last time you would be able to do so.

Cale seems to have a similar line of thoughts as he shuts up once more. A faint smile was visible on his face, probably remembering the times you spent together.

You squeezed his arm as black spots began dancing around your vision. They looked tempting, they looked like they could relieve the pain you were feeling.

But you resisted, if Cale was fighting then you’re fighting too.

“Hey…”

Cale Henituse started again after a few minutes.

“I don’t like this pain anymore…”

“You never liked pain…”

The love of your life chuckled because it was true. His chuckle was weak, almost lifeless. You tried to laugh too but couldn’t for you know the implication of those words.

Cale Henituse is reaching his limits.

And honestly, you were reaching yours too.

But you didn’t like that. You want for the both of you to live, to get out of this hellish place together.

“...I don’t like this pain anymore too.”

“See… I told you haha…”

You had no choice but to admit it. You don’t know what will happen after this. Cale said he ensured for you to have a higher chance of survival but it’s been hours. It’s a miracle none of you have dropped dead yet.

Removing your forehead from Cale’s you lifted yourself a little. It was so that you could kiss him.

Again, for possibly the last time in this lifetime.

You used the strength you didn’t have to land that one last kiss. Both of you are weak, but passion dominates the kiss. As if each of you were trying to put in the last of your vitality in this kiss. Trying to give it to the other person so they can live longer.

“I love you.”

“You’re my everything.”

Cale and you simultaneously muttered as the kiss broke. You laid back down once more to try and ease the pain that flared up over your little stunt.

Everything hurts, there’s a puddle of blood underneath the two of you, Cale was slowly losing consciousness.

But the two of you had smiles on your faces.

Because the two of you got to experience your last moments in each other's arms.

That was better than dying alone in this cold and dark cave that held you hostage.

However, tears fell from your eyes as you witnessed Cale desperately blinking to stay awake. It was finally sinking in that at least one of you might die here.

Both of you might die here.

There were still so many things the two of you didn’t do. Both of you had promised to take the children on another shopping spree next week. You promised Lock and the other wolf children that you would teach them some martial arts you learned back on Earth. Cale promised Choi Han that they would replenish the flowers in the cemetery in Harris Village.

Though that last one might turn into Choi Han having to lower flowers for both of you.

“My love… my dearest…”

You were so weak that you couldn’t continue your words. But Cale didn’t need words for he could understand you from your breath alone, and you from his.

“Don’t… cry…”

How dare he have the nerve to say that when there are tears streaming down his face too?

Cale used the very last of his strength to bring your joined hands towards his lips. It was his last act of comfort. His last act of love.

“I love… y ou… I’ll… al way s  will…”

With that Cale Henituse’s eyes closed. His hand still holding onto yours. Still pressed against his almost blue lips.

“I… I lo ve… you too…”

Then you followed suit.

As you closed your eyes you think you could hear desperate screams break the silence in the cave. Desperate and anxious screams that oddly sounded like Eruhaben. Then mixed in it are tensed orders from someone who sounded similar to Alberu.

But you didn’t have any strength left to check if you were hallucinating. So you closed you eyes and gave into the abyss waiting to comfortably embrace you.

“...CALE!”

You shouted the moment you woke up. You think you sat up but you weren’t sure. Too disoriented from your injuries and painkillers. 

You think you could feel hands trying to make you lie back down again but you weren’t sure. Even if you were, you didn’t care.

Ignoring the hands trying to subdue you, you tried to feel around for Cale. There were bandages covering your eyes, you realise just now. It seemed like you’re lying down on a bed as it felt soft.

But those weren’t the things you were looking for.

“Cale!? Where’s Cale!?”

You shouted, despair and anguish evident in your voice. There’s a bunch of textures you can feel. Lots of scents you could smell. Tons of voices you could hear.

However, none of them were Cale’s.

Not a single one of them felt like your lover’s.

[we-stan-cale]

I meant to post something about when Cale received the letter from the God of Death, but that whole bit is just too damn good. I basically focused on reading it and didn't really think of writing about it.

This is where we truly start to learn about Kim Rok Soo's past. There were a lot of teasers before - learning that his Korea has monsters, that he was a Team Leader, that his company dealt with monsters and corrupt guilds. That he had an ability like Record.

There were some flashbacks, especially to some of his interactions with Choi Jung Soo (who we learned died before him back when Cale had that memory after fighting the golems) and Lee Soo Hyuk...

And then we got the letter from the God of Death, and Kim Rok Soo had a truly traumatic flashback to when they all died.

I think this is the first time we truly saw him shaken? The guy with the perfect memory, the guy who could record and playback everything, experienced something so traumatic that his records were broken.

We see that Kim Rok Soo was an analyst. A very good one. One able to predict a terrible monster (and thus felt guilty that his entire team died fighting said monster -though he seems to have worked through that. Some. Mostly.

We see how he interacted with his friends, really his family. And in a subordinate role, unlike most of what we've seen.

There's this bit where he'd overused his ability and had a bloody nose, and Lee Soo Hyuk tells him

‘Kim Rok Soo, wipe your nosebleed. You should get some rest if you have overloaded.’

Which contrasts with after their deaths, when he's briefing the reinforcements and notes

The reinforcements all focused on his explanation, but nobody said anything about wiping his bloody nose.

So much desolation from such a small thing.

And the request to retrieve their bodies! Over and over again, we've seen how much Cale cares about retrieving bodies and showing respect for the dead. Insisting on improving the graves at Harris Village, recovering all the remains from the Path of No Return, protecting the dead in the fight against Adin...

While that didn't solely come from this incident (the losses in his monster torn Korea played a role, this is why he truly understands how important that is for the ones left behind.

And we also see how he didn't want his team to fight that monster. He knew, with all his analytical skills, that it was too powerful. That it was likely that they'd all die. Even though even more people would die if they didn't (since the guild in that area had run away).

He straight up says how it made him feel.

The reinforcements had been too late. Boom. Boom. Cale’s heart suddenly ran wild. The sense of responsibility, anger, and sorrow that had made Kim Rok Soo’s heart boil had risen. 

A responsibility to stay alive (even if he doesn't really want to), to carry on in Lee Soo Hyuk's place ('I leave it to you').

We learn why he despises the concept of heroic sacrifice so much, why he works so hard to come up with plans that ensure nobody has to. That nobody is ever in the position where they feel compelled to do so (though if it does come to that, he'd rather be the one to do so... Than be the one left behind. Again.)

And there's this, that he thinks after Raon and Alberu break his flashback (such good friends and family) and he finishes the letter.

Cale knew that he was selfish and bad and that he cherished people who were important to him the most.

Selfish - because he wishes his team had run away and survived? Bad - because he knows that if they had, many more would have suffered instead?

He cares, he cares so damn much. And he also seems to hate himself quite a bit, though I say that not just because of this. Also his hypocrisy towards scars, where it's fine in Mary and Hannah and a sign of survival, but disgusting and something to hide in himself. That, and numerous other things that don't seem obvious at first because damn is he good at masking it and seeming normal, but yeah...

This whole scene is just so well done, means so much, answers so many of our questions, and once you know about it you can see how it affected everything.

Addendum: we also see a contrast between what Cale recalls here, and what Choi Han experiences with Choi Jung Soo's memories. Especially how he saw Kim Rok Soo use a metal board as a shield to defend him, and shortly after broke an arm.

Cale didn't mention that at all, didn't explain why he couldn't move when you he reinforcements came.

[unnoticed-poison]

⌞✰ᴅᴀʀᴋ! ʏᴀɴᴅᴇʀᴇ! ᴍᴀɴʜᴡᴀ/ᴍᴀɴʜᴜᴀ ᴠᴀʀɪᴏᴜꜱ x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ✰⌝ 【 𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝟏𝟎 】

【 𝕿𝖗𝖆𝖎𝖑𝖊𝖗 𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕 】

【 𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝟏 】

【 𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖕𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝟐 】

Chapter 3 to 9 are posted on AO3, Wattpad and Quotev :3

Damn this semester was craaaazy man but thankfully I passed the year 🥳

Also to those reading this before other chaps, no mc is NOT pregnant

Anyways sorry in advance if there's any grammatical error I missed and hope you enjoy the chapter 🌻🌻🌻

Gazing intently at the shimmering ruby ring on his finger, the man's brows creased with thought at his current predicament.

It has been two days since Kim Rok Soo, now known as Cale, arrived in this new world. He was currently at the tea shop called [The Fragrance of Tea with Poetry] to clear his mind. When he decided to visit the shop early in the morning, the owner, Billos, walked over to him and warmly greeted him with a bright smile upon seeing him walk through the door, talking to him as if they were longtime acquaintances.

"Welcome Cale!"

Cale blinked, then replied. " Hello."

Billos glanced at the ring he was wearing and decided to ask. "So, what did she think about the ring?"

Ah yes, that.

The red-head faked a found smile as he lifted his hand to admire the ring. "She loved it." He did his best to sound sincere. "Thank you again; I appreciate it."

"It was no problem! Anything for my dearest client."

....sure.

"Anyways, I want-"

Before he could say another word, the blonde beat him to it.

"Ah yes, the third floor is empty as usual. You go sit yourself down while I prepare the sweet tea and bring the novel you requested last time."

Oh, so Cale was a regular here, noted.

Cale nodded silently, placing a golden coin in the man's chubby hand. "Consider the rest as your tip."

That coin was worth one million gallons. He was aware that the guy was wealthier than him, but he didn't give a damn. After all, since he was the son of a filthy rich Count now, he was finally able to do what he always wanted to try but couldn't due to his lack of money.

Billos smiled. "Ah, generous as always."

.......

(･ω･)つ⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⊂(･ω･)

And so here he was, surveying the city gates from the window, with a steaming cup of tea in his hand. Waiting for the hero to arrive, he took a sip and hummed in satisfaction. The sweet flavor was a nice change from the bitter tea the creepy old assassin kept serving him.

When he first transmigrated here and found himself in the body of Cale Henituse, the minor antagonist that got beaten to a bloody pulp by the protagonist, he looked at himself in the mirror for a while before slapping himself multiple times, trying to wake himself up from this silly dream, but alas, it was unfortunately real.

Adjusting to the new environment has been a bit challenging due to it being different than what he expected. The lack of fear or annoyance from those around him made him feel lost, but he got over his shock pretty quick and began looking for answers.

Fortunately, he managed to catch a maid who was alone last night and drag her to somewhere secluded without anyone noticing.

Young master? Is something the matter?"

Ignoring her bewildered look, Cale crossed his arms. "Please tell me everything that went down the past month and don't leave out any details, understood?"

The maid was confused, and rightfully so.

"Huh..?"

What kind of request was that?

Cale pulled out something from his pocket and tossed it to her.

?

She opened the pouch, and her eyes widened.

!?

The pouch was full of gold coins!

"Oh god..."

"Now, tell me everything."

"O-ok!"

She spilled out everything, how the madam fell down the stairs after revealing what 'he' actually did and lost her memory, how the Count threatened to disown him if he didn't make things right, and how he managed to fix his reputation after the truth was out and win the woman's affection, then proposed again on their anniversary during the festival.

The maid sighed blissfully as she recalled the event.

"It was so romantic, and then you two went back to the mansion early and...." She trailed off and coughed, a blush covering her cheeks from the memory. She happened to pass by the room late at night, and oh god, the things she heard the madam say...

Cale groaned, of course. He didn't want to hear THAT kind of detail! "Is that all?"

"Yes, young master."

"..Hm, thank you then."

He handed her another small pouch. " This is for your silence, tonight never happened ok?"

.....

"Who am I and what is this place?"

Cale chuckled at her words, Good.

Money really is the best.

(･ω･)つ⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⊂(･ω･)

It was all weird. but he'll have to get used to it. Besides, this wasn't so bad; at least he doesn't have to pretend to be trash or anything of the sort; that was a plus.

He won't miss his past life that's for sure. With him being an orphan with no money or loved ones to speak of, his life had no purpose or meaning.

That was not living; that was just...not dying.

He shook his head, sighing deeply.

The man absolutely hated pain and death, so for now, he has to make sure he avoids triggering Choi Han's rage. After that, he can enjoy his family riches to his heart's content and live his dream life of being a slacker without fear of any harm coming his way.

After all, his life motto was pretty simple.

"Living long without pain. Enjoying the small joys of life. Living a peaceful life..."

Yup, that would be perfect for him.

As for his wife...

Cale covered his face with both his hands as he recalls the 'joyous' news; the word 'father' still caused him to have the chills.

Well...that can wait. He will cross that bridge when he gets there.

He looked out the window again. Today was the 31st day of the 3rd month in the 781st year of the Feliz calendar. The Harris Village, where the hero considered it his home after leaving the forest of darkness, is most likely burned down with no survivors by now.

Choi Han was going to arrive any day now, and he has to be prepared. As much as he wanted to stay in his room and not interact with the man at all, he can't avoid him since he needs to run into Ron and his son so they can follow the hero on his long journey, so he needs to make a good first impression.

Tsk, this was troublesome.

Cale decided to relax first and enjoy the sweet tea while reading the book the original owner requested, it was a transmigration novel...huh, interesting.

After a while, he exited the cozy shop and found himself greeted by a small kitten. Its vibrant red fur and golden eyes caught his attention almost immediately. It sat there, seeming to be waiting for someone; its ears perked up and its tail wiggled with excitement once it saw him. He had to admit it was quite adorable.

"Meow!"

Cale frowned and tried to shoo it away. " I don't have food for you, go away."

The feline didn't seem to be phased by his words, simply blinking at him and mewing again as it rubbed itself against his leg, making the man sigh before setting his sights on a bakery nearby and making his way over there. He thought the kitten would be hot on his heels mewing for food, and planned to buy it some meat while he was at it, but it sat there, watching him for a while before running off as soon as he brought loads of bread.

Oh well, he shrugged as he walked off, leaving behind a very very happy baker who was closing his shop for the day. He made 2,2 million gallons! That's far more than he can make in a month!! This would allow him to pamper his beloved wife with a lavish gift and treat her to a nice dinner!

Hmm~ he couldn't wait.

(･ω･)つ⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⊂(･ω･)

"I-It's a man-eating tree! It will kill you!"

Ugh...those brats won't shut up; he was aware of

the dangers thank you very much.

He was currently at the hill that looked over the city, there he found a small spot that was fenced off from all directions except for the empty space that previously had an old wooden door that he was easily able to break.

The tree that was inside looked to be hundreds of years old, it was given a special name by the people here.

The man-eating tree, those who decided to end their lives and hang themselves there became mummies overnight and were beyond recognition.

Placing the heavy bag on the ground, he looked at the tree with a faint smile. That's the one he's been looking for, and those punks trying to warn him confirmed it.

A long time ago, during ancient times, there was a priestess who got kicked out of the temple she worked at, the reason being that her gluttony was far too much to handle.

The woman died soon after from starvation as a result and a tree grew on top of her body. Her grudges and power resided in this tree, a power he wanted to obtain for himself.

[The indestructible shield]

That shield is the left-over of that woman's power, and he was going to get it.

He began emptying the bag and feeding the hole that was large enough to fit an adult's head. When the bag was half empty he was interrupted again by the little girl tapping his back.

"It's dangerous!"

.....

Cale rubbed his temples for a bit before he took out two breads from the bag. "I won't die." He mumbled, tossing the little bags to her. "Here, now get lost."

The little boy grabbed his sister's hand. "Noona, let's go."

"...ok." She looked at him again, her eyes held some concern. "Be careful sir.." She warned him one last time and backed off, handing one of the breads to her brother, who happily tore off the wrapping and began eating it.

Finally, now he can work in peace.

He began feeding the tree again, once the bag was completely empty he smiled in satisfaction upon seeing the darkness that was formed by the grudge became fainter than before.

"M..more.."

Creepy...

"I'll bring more tomorrow." This would probably need about seven more large bags or so.

"MORE..!"

Geez, gluttony was such a scary thing.

He stood up, dusted himself off and stepped out of the fenced area. He spotted the two children sitting near the entrance, happily munching on the bread and scoffed.

"Listen here, if you want more food tomorrow, don't utter a word of this to anyone understood?"

!

More food!?

They nodded eagerly, which was not surprising; after all, the children of the slums treasured food above everything else, they did not fear anything, not even death.

Cale left after that, the children paused and watched him silently. Once he was out of sight, the silver-haired girl ran to the other side of the fence, where a woman was waiting there with a bag.

"He's gone now miss!" She exclaimed, Hong stayed where he was as his sister pulled on the woman's hand. 

Who was this woman?

Why of course, who else could it be other than you?

(･ω･)つ⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⊂(･ω･)

Standing by the ancient tree, a heartwarming smile spread across your face as you ruffled the boy's hair. "Good job Hong, you did amazing!"

Beaming with pride, the boy grinned at the praise and scratched his nose bashfully. "It was no trouble for me!"

Placing the sack on the ground and opening it, you said. "Well then there you go, a deal's a deal." You handed them a bag full of bread and some pastries.

Delighted beyond words, the two could hardly contain their excitement as the girl swiftly grabbed the bag, expressing her gratitude with a bow. "Thank you!"

With that, they left and waited outside the fence for you as usual while devouring the food, leaving you to do your task in peace.

You received no new task, so as a way to pass time you spent most of the day either in your room reading novels and being a lazy bum or shopping with Lily. She was such fun company!

Recently you decided to do this, feed the creepy tree and at the same time get closer with the kids. Their cuteness was almost too much for you that you were resisting the urge to just up and adopt them instead of Cale every time you came by.

That damn baker you buy the food from better keep his mouth shut, you thought. As you bent down and threw the food inside, you heard Xian speak in a cheerful tone.

[Speeding up the process for the protagonist! Good job host!]

.....sure.

....

[...You weren't planning on taking the holy shield for yourself, right host?]

.....

[Host..?]

You snickered, amused at how he was so easy to fool. 'Of course not you dummy, why would I do something like that?'

[ Don't scare me like that! .⁠·⁠´⁠¯⁠`⁠(⁠>⁠▂⁠<⁠)⁠´⁠¯⁠`⁠·⁠. ]

'What's with those emojis?'

[ They're cute no? I wanted to try something new :3 ]

Well, it was kind of cute. 'Sure sure, whatever makes you happy.'

[ Oh by the way I forgot to mention, would you like to see what the other hosts think of your performance so far??? ]

....the fuck.

You abruptly stopped what you were doing. ' What do you mean by that?'

[ Every host's actions is recorded by their system for future reference and security reasons, I posted the recording of you online and let's just say you've gained quiet a few admirers! ]

....

Did you hear that right?

'You.What?'

[Where did you think those points came from? 70% where given by the main system while the rest was gifted by the hosts who liked what they saw.]

Did he also show the....

"Hmm.."

'The kids aren't here right now so why don't you come out~?' you thought in a sickly sweet tone.

[ No, you're gonna break my screen if I do. ]

OBVIOUSLY-

[ I didn't post footage of you having sex with the minor antagonist if that's what you're worrying about! ] Though he was tempted to do that as payback for the stress you put him through.

Oh. Well then.

You sighed in relief, at least you got points from it. 'Just don't do it without asking me next time k?'

He rolled his eyes, like when you asked him when you made such a reckless plan? [ Of course host! ]

[ Anyways, I have the comments left by the other players and the comments left by the readers from the real world reading the novel from Kim Rok Soo's pov; which one would you like to see first? ]

'Wait, the real world? My world?'

[ Yup! We actually aren't allowed to see those, only the main system can. ]

'Then how did you-'

[ My friend hacked into it for me just this once :D ]

'.....Never mind, that's none of my business, I want to see the comments left by the readers please.'

[ Alright! Just a moment please, those comments are a mix from the Manhwa and the novel. ]

A screen hovered before you.

Hm, nice!

[ There's still many more! Would you like to see view them as well :D? ]

'Later, I'm done now.' you answered as you threw the last pastry in. The darkness didn't fade, not a tiny bit, which was understandable since the bag was not even half the size Cale brought.

[As you wish host.]

Walking out of the fenced area, you turned to the kids. "Thank you two for keeping watch. I'll bring you some cake tomorrow. Do you have any flavours in mind?" You needed to bring some fruit and meat as well; eating sweets everyday was unhealthy.

"Carrot-cake please!" 

"Chocolate!" The boy beamed.

"Chocolate again? You sure don't want anything else?"

Hong shook his head, jumping up and down. "Chocolate!!"

"Alright alright." You laughed softly at his enthusiasm before turning to leave. "Again, don't mention me at all alright? Especially to my husband."

"Yes miss!" They exclaimed in unison.

"Alright then, take care." 

"Bye!"

(･ω･)つ⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⊂(･ω･)

That's how it went for the next few days. On or Hong would keep an eye out for Cale while you fed the tree, just not enough to make the darkness grow fainter, least Cale gets suspicious.

It became a routine. That is, until the kids decided to put their little plan into motion.

Watching you throw the last piece of pastry into the hole, On made eye contact with her brother, silently nodding to each other as they stood up and headed over to you.

"Finally."

It's going to take about 1 or 2 more trips for the darkness to completely fade. You decided to leave the rest of the work to Cale since you grew bored of doing this.

You felt something pull on your dress.

Hm?

You looked down and paused, taken aback by the big, puppy-dog eyes Hong had while On was eating a cookie as he spoke with hesitation.

"M..mom..?"

.......

So..so..SOO CUTE, AHHHHHHh!!

[ Dont fall for it host! ]

'Too late.'

[ Host! (⁠˘⁠･���_⁠･⁠˘⁠) ]

Resisting the urge to hug the boy and squeeze him to death, you bent down and pinched his cheek. "You sly, sly brat, you think I'll fall for that?"

They flinched, looking down in shame. They failed...

"No! That wasn't my intention! I-I..-"

"Because you're right."

"..Huh?"

You reached out and ruffled their hair, your expression softening. "I'm taking you two home."

What!?

They looked up; their eyes widened in surprise. "Really..?"

"Of course!" You replied with a grin. "Don't try to trick me again though." Your words were firm, but your expression was still gentle.

[ Shouldn't the protagonist be the one to take them in..? ಠ⁠_⁠ಠ ]

'Oh come on it's not that big of an event; besides, they're warming up to him anyway so whoever brings them home doesn't matter, just let this one slide k?'

[....I give up! (⁠ノ⁠｀⁠Д⁠´⁠)⁠ノ⁠彡⁠┻⁠━⁠┻! ]

A little while later, you could be seen shopping around the city with two happy, adorable kittens in your arms while the servants followed you, holding the items you brought. You made it a habit the past month to shop around the city the whole day when Xian reported spotting Ron spying on you once to report to the Count on your actions. After about a week of doing that Ron stopped seeing that you weren't doing anything suspicious.

"Bring this." You pointed to some shoes that caught your eye. "This as well, and that one, in fact bring me the whole shelf."

"Yes madam!"

While Cale gets three gold coins as an allowance, you get five, which was more than enough to buy whatever you wanted.

While you tried on the heels, the two kittens stayed near you, cheering on the inside. They still couldn't believe their luck; the plan worked! They finally have a home now.

There was still a small problem they forgot to mention to you..

They glanced at each other again and shrugged. That's a problem for future them, they just hoped you won't get too angry.

"Who wants some fish?"

"MEOW!!"

(･ω･)つ⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⊂(･ω･)

Back at the mansion, Cale silently observed the kittens in your arms. "I see you decided to have pets now."

You gave an enthusiastic nod. "Aren't they adorable?" You cooed, your fingers gently caressing On's silver fur, making her purr in contentment while Hong tapped your hand with his paw with a pout, wanting to be caressed as well. " This one-"

Cale cut you off; his tone cool and measured. "Is a girl while the red one is her younger brother."

He figured that out long ago, he'd be an idiot not to.

"What I would like to know is what my beloved wife was doing out in the slums holding such heavy bags while pregnant."

......

!?

How did he-?!

Cale's expression shifted to one of amusement upon seeing you tense, not stroking the cat's fur anymore. "You really thought I wouldn't find out?" He asked with a hint of playfulness in his voice.

....

You glared at the siblings as they avoided eye contact. You snitches! Those gifts were wasted on you!

Cale chuckled, getting those punks to talk was surprisingly easy. Once he noticed the hole appeared to be slightly lighter than when he saw it last time and the chocolate smudge on the boy's face he knew someone else must be aware of the power the tree held and want to claim it for themselves.

When he asked the kids...

"I can't tell!"

"If you two tell me who's been feeding the tree as well, I might take you two in, in your cat form course." They'll be useful.

!?

They exchanged glances, unsure of whether to speak up or not.

Was he serious..?

They'll be able to stay with the nice lady in a fancy house?

......

Seeing them not willing to talk, the man began walking off. "Ho? Well then, I guess I have no choice but to go to every bakery and ask them; I'm sure they'll talk once I pay them enough."

"W-wait!"

The man stopped and looked over his shoulder at them, raising his eyebrow impatiently. "Hm?"

The girl hesitated, looking down at the ground. Her brother took a step forward and answered in her place.

"It was..."

He didn't lie, he was planning to take them in after Choi Hans arrives, but you beat him to it.

.....

"I can explain-"

Your dumbass didn't think of an excuse in case he found out.

Fortunately for you, the maid came right at that moment to escort you two for dinner, Cale rose from his seat with a fleeting smile. "We'll talk later."

Before he left the room, he turned to you. "Won't you come with me?"

"N..no I'm not hungry at the moment, you go ahead."

"Suit yourself." He said with a shrug before walking off as you glared at the snitches one more time before handing them off to the maid to be bathed and fed, leaving you alone in the room as Xian appeared beside you.

"How are you planning to explain that host?"

"Shut up and let me think please."

[ (⁠￣⁠ヘ⁠￣⁠;⁠) ]

Ok ok, what would be a believable explanation...think think you stupid bitch.

With your mind racing, you suddenly recalled the fortune teller you met at the festival, and a light bulb went off in your head.

That's it!

You turned to Xian with a grin. " I found an excuse."

Rather than looking relieved, the little screen looked nervous, confusing you.

"Ah..host.."

Aye, you didn't like that tone. "...what?"

"Remember Harris Village?"

"Yeah..? Aren't they supposed to be dead by now?"

After they confirmed the pregnancy, you told the Count you wanted to visit your family and tell them the happy news yourself, and at the same time see the place you were born and grew up in in hopes of getting more of your memories back.

Obviously, the man approved, as long as you take at least 20 guards with you for protection.

You couldn't believe how easy it was to fool those people, but you didn't complain.

You were planning to prepare the gifts you were gonna take with you and wait eagerly for the day you'll finally leave, then when the original protagonist, Choi Han, arrives and informs them of the massacre you'll have a mental breakdown and miscarry in the process.

Simple, but effective. The doctor thing is going to be tricky though.

You suspected the virus thingy played a part on the previous one.

"That's the issue." He laughed nervously. "They aren't dead; the main system just informed me."

"......"

"They were supposed to be dead on the 28th last month, but the assassins haven't come yet for some reason."

Obviously it's because of the virus dumdum.

With a furrowed brow, you spoke. "And why did they wait until now to inform you of this?"

"Some events are okay to take a little while to occur from their original time, with a maximum delay of one or two weeks, it's already been about 6 days now and since this is a key event they're growing concerned, I'm worried they'll have you a dangerous task of some kind because of that."

Hm...that won't do.

Maybe...

"If they end up not showing up..maybe I can..." You spoke softly, trailing off, unsure of whether you should vocalize your thoughts or not.

....

"Host, you're not suggesting..."

Just at that moment, a screen popped out.

Ah..well shit.

Village gotta go hehe

A new novel got mentioooooned in this chapter!

For the readers comments, I was planning to only add hosts comments but I made a mistake and with me being too lazy I just decided to have Wang Yi hack into the damn system just once just not to redo those texts.

I got the blue screen thingy from Pinterest, the background behind the screen from the Manhwa itself and all the pfp I used are from Pinterest, I might actually use one of them as my new pfp they're so cute!

Drew this last year during summer :3

Anyhow hope you all have a wonderful summer!

[idontknowmyownmind]

Just got an idea of another twin AU

With Cale resemble Jour more than Roksu

More feminime Cale? Or female Cale? Hmm

Deruth avoidance and Roksu unconsciously does the same

Not sure how to proceed from here but

At some point when they already 18

Cale need to go somewhere only to come back home during a storm

Unconscious and bloody, just like Jour

Deruth and Roksu got a violence flashback and Cale's image overlap with Jour

For a week straight, not once Cale open his eyes and keep coughing blood occasionally in his sleep

Then wake up eerily blank and still for a moment before falling asleep again

Roksu never leave Cale's side

Cale wake up after a month

But after that accident, he will so suddenly cough up blood and faint

Even if it's not requent, it's still worrying with the amount of blood and duration of his fainting

It's like a time-ticking bomb until Cale might never open his eyes again

They got trauma that triggered by the sound of Cale coughing

Roksu is tempted to just lock Cale up and chained him so he doesn't go out or will be in danger

[Maybe, to torturing Roksu more I will make WS kidnapped Cale rather than imitate Deruth..]

[murasaki-cha]

SOOO.... You know how I told you I put a part in chapter 29 you'd hate?? it's been moved to chapter 30 so... when you read 29 you can't get too angry yeah?? Because Cale isn't hurting too much this chapter!! :)

This chapter was really chill and hilarious at moments surprisingly!

Cale and Ron's interactions cracked me up🤣

Man now I just now the next one is gonna be so so bad I'm just laughing in desperation hahaha...

[brucewaynehater101]

There's this fic I read a long time ago while I was obsessed with tcf's fics, where OG!Cale's personality is suspiciously a lot friendly but it turns out that he actually died a while ago and Deruth trapped his soul in there or something. OG!Cale reaches out to Rok Soo, begging on his knees (HE CALLS OUT FOR RON!!), but then his body rebooted and he was back to his sus pleasant personality.

SO IT GOT ME THINKING. CRAVING. PLOTTING.

Wouldn't it be so nice if we used that manipulation technology that Bruce used on Jason? But combine it with some time-travel and Bruce uses it on Jason earlier before he debuts as Red Hood?

I want Tim, the person Jason was going to use as a lesson towards Bruce, to find Jason this way. He gets a few days of happiness, being with Jason. But fanon stalker instincts tell Tim that there is a whole lot that wasn't right with the past few days as well.

Although I also want some angst caused by Dick's denial, I think he would instantly believe Tim if he explained that Jason feels off. And that's why, I think Bruce never tells Dick about Jason coming back to life (like he never told Dick about when Jason died) conveniently also still off on some mission.

Tim, who had been (self appointedly) in charge of making Bruce's support group, makes the decision to crush it. By solely starting with Alfred.

He needs verbal confirmation on whether the old man is truly on his side or not.

So he tells him.

And Alfred, sweet old Alfred. The one who gave Tim the Robin suit in the first place. The one who enabled not only Bruce's bad habits but also Tim's own. The one who is either on Bruce's side or none at all.

Alfred weeps. And admits that he's known all this time.

And that's what's horrible.

"Jason admired you," Tim would tell him. "He loved you and followed your advice to heart.

"And you just. Let it all happen? He's probably waiting for you to notice! Because other than Bruce, you're the second person who's been there for him the whole time he stayed here!"

Tim looks at him in disgust.

"How could you?"

Without waiting for a reply, he leaves.

He takes Jason with him.

And then, he goes for the second person part of Bruce's support group who can very much ruin Bruce's life just as easily.

He takes Jason to Babs.

Oof! Time travel angst with the brain altering would be fantastic. Though, is Bruce the one who time travels, then? He, after already deciding to do that to Jason once, goes back in time and writes off the kid (especially if this is before Red Hood debuted and thus Jason would be max 18 years old). No talking to Jason, no effort, just Bruce going to the extreme.

Damn. Let's just keep building this fuckery up, shall we?

So, the symbolism of Tim taking Babs' support from Bruce away is fantastic. Before Tim got involved, Bruce was practically by himself. Babs had her own independence away from Bruce as Oracle and Dick was still fighting with Bruce (for good reasons).

After Tim finds out that Bruce did such fucked up shit? He pulls that man's support from him so fast. Also, Tim, who made his entire Robin career based on needing to pull Bruce from becoming a monster, does he end up feeling like a failure? Does he blame himself? Does he still tediously try to stop and fix Bruce?

Since it's probably before his 16th birthday, I think he wouldn't have the understanding of how cruel Bruce can be. This reveal is such a shock and hurts way more because Tim never thought Bruce could pull that shit against his children.

Despite his complicated feelings, Tim works to reverse the shit Bruce did to Jason's head.

This leads to Jason reverting back to his previous mental state. The man is traumatized by what Bruce did and begrudgingly thankful for Tim's assistant, but he still hates Tim's guts. He despises him.

After the days, weeks, whatever it took for them to reverse it, this is not the reaction Tim was expecting. Jason had been constantly scared, but he was also kind and affectionate to Tim. Seeing Jason become better yet hateful of Tim, especially after Tim had betrayed his mentor to do it? Damn.

Extra angst to be added on would be Bruce, after he realizes that Tim had betrayed him, goes to pick up Damian early. He needs a Robin, afterall, and he can't trust Tim.

This would make Damian max 8 at this age and thus the youngest Robin to hit the streets (I think) (Bruce is a horrible person in this AU, ig. Fuck that guy).

[xx3bvvx]

Congrats to me, I remembered the idea. it's not an idea, but anyway

Ex: prepare your tissues, people, you've been warned.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

"Ha... ha... ha..."

Lee Soo Hyuk panted, wiping the blood from his head. A deep gash from fighting the monster had slowed him down. He wiped the blood from his eyes and surveyed the scene before him. Corpses littered the ground—his team members, who had perished fighting the monster that Kim Rok Soo had predicted would appear. The monster looked terrifying, even to him, but as the team leader, he maintained the facade of a strong and reliable leader.

He glanced at the bodies, many of which were mangled beyond recognition. Some were in better shape if missing limbs and deep cuts could be considered "better." The faces of the remaining team members were etched with despair, sorrow, and fear. Clutching the handle of his sword, he charged toward the monster and attacked with a powerful <slash>, but it barely left a mark. Frustration and guilt welled up within him. If only he were stronger, his team might still be alive. Grinding his teeth, he launched another attack, but the monster ignored him and moved in a different direction.

"What the hell...?"

His eyes followed the monster until he realized where it was headed. His pupils dilated in horror. Without thinking, he sprinted toward Kim Rok Soo, desperately trying to communicate through the broken walkie-talkie.

"Damn it! Fuck! KIM ROK SOO! WATCH OUT!" he cursed and yelled, his voice rising in pitch. But Kim Rok Soo didn’t notice until it was too late. Lee Soo Hyuk charged forward, throwing himself in front of Rok Soo and pushing him out of the way.

"Cough... ah."

Lee Soo Hyuk looked down at the claws, piercing his stomach and the blood covering his hands. He lifted his head to meet Rok Soo's eyes and managed a contented smile, thinking, "Ah... at least this punk is alive. I'm glad."

Kim Rok Soo's eyes welled up as he looked at Lee Soo Hyuk, who lay before him, struggling for breath. Lee Soo Hyuk's face was pale, yet his eyes burned with determination.

Lee Soo Hyuk saw Rok Soo's expression—full of fear and sorrow, his hands trembling as he held him. He called out to him, his voice weak but insistent

"Kim Rok Soo, I... I." He called with a firm voice, or that was what he wanted, but it was low, weak whispered.

"Will you shut your trap?" Kim Rok Soo snapped, his voice shaking as he tried to hold back tears.

Lee Soo Hyuk chuckled softly, a sound that quickly turned into a wet cough. "Shut my what? Well, looks like I’ll be shutting up for all eternity in a moment," Lee Soo Hyuk replied with a faint, bitter smile.

"...Please don’t speak nonsense either," Kim Rok Soo pleaded, his heart aching.

"I’ll say what I want to say. Kim Rok Soo, hey Rok Soo."

"... What is it?" Kim Rok Soo's voice was barely a whisper, his eyes locked onto his friend's hyung.

"I leave it to you. Got it?" Lee Soo Hyuk's eyes bore into Kim Rok Soo's with a mixture of trust and desperation.

"...I thought you told me to be a slacker?" Kim Rok Soo's voice cracked, trying to lighten the moment.

"Hey, have you ever seen anything in the world go the way you want it to go? You, cough!" Lee Soo Hyuk's body convulsed as he coughed, blood staining his lips. "Anyway...I, I leave it to you, Rok Soo. Hey Rok Soo. Take care of things for me."

As darkness edged into his vision, Lee Soo Hyuk's last thought was of hope. He trusted Kim Rok Soo completely. He had to believe that his dongsaeng would carry on, that he would honour this final request. With one last faint smile, Lee Soo Hyuk let go, his mind filled with the image of a better future that Kim Rok Soo would help create. His eyes closed, and he found peace in that belief as his world went dark.

[lunasaysmoneyisbest]

Horror Architect au

Where Kim Rok Soo moves into a house

and Cale guides him threw the way the house and neighborhood was built hinting of them being built by peoples bodies

A scene I imagine is Kim Rok Soo going asleep waking up in the middle of the night and

walking to get water

and Alberu Raon Choi Han Cale all of them bodies are shown inbetween the wallpaper and walls and the floor has faces of the dead as well

and then wakes up.

Slowly but surely he realizes Cale and All his Neighbors are ghost of the people who were used as construction of this house

and KRS is the Architect reincarnated or he is in hell forever damned????