Turning
chapter-699

"Upon examining the body, it was indeed the Second Prince. And on his body were... peculiar wounds that couldn’t have been made by either a sword or magic."

Wounds that couldn't have been inflicted by sword or magic.

Everyone grasped what that implied.

The knights were certain that these wounds were inflicted by the abilities of an Awakener. Combining this with the location where the body was found and the fact that the Second Prince had intended to visit the Cavalry the previous day, the conclusion seemed obvious.

“Therefore, we seek permission to search this area for traces of the Second Prince and the perpetrator,” they declared, their faces leaving no room for refusal.

Yuder observed the knight's rigid expression and pondered.

'Rejecting their request in such circumstances would indirectly admit the Cavalry's involvement. We must agree, but still…'

The thoughts that had just passed through Yuder's mind were voiced aloud by Kishiar.

“First, allow me to express my condolences for the unfortunate fate that has befallen the Second Prince of Herne. The Cavalry will naturally cooperate in seeking justice for him. However, before requesting a search, isn't there something obvious that should be done first?”

A sly smile spread across Kishiar's face as he gazed at the knight.

“As the Commander of the Cavalry is present, it would be proper to meet with us first and hear our side of the story from last night, before making any search requests. Do you already have evidence that the Second Prince definitely set foot here, and I’m the only one unaware of it? Or did you decide my words are unnecessary for your search? Either way, this is quite disappointing.”

Indeed, this was what had irked Yuder.

If the Second Prince was found dead on his way to the Cavalry, it was only logical to first question Kishiar and the other members before requesting a search. Skipping this step and proceeding directly to an internal search was nothing short of disrespecting the Cavalry.

The knight's face betrayed his awkward realization upon hearing Kishiar's words, acknowledging their hasty approach.

"This was not our intention, Duke Peletta," he hastily clarified.

"I am standing here as the Commander of the Cavalry. Please address me accordingly."

"...Understood, Cavalry Commander. We hastily assumed that the Prince visited here last night, based on the testimony of his servants. However..."

The knight hesitated before continuing.

"We were anxious because the servants and horses that accompanied the Prince have yet to be found. We thought their traces might still be here. If they are still alive, we must act quickly. But indeed, I admit my haste was inappropriate and I apologize."

Confronted with a Kishiar different from the one known through rumors, the knight seemed to finally grasp the rising influence of the Cavalry. While the apology wasn't entirely satisfactory, Kishiar decided to accept it, considering the knight’s reasoning. If the servants and horses were still missing, prioritizing a search over an investigation was not unreasonable.

Kishiar nodded in agreement.

"Very well. I accept your apology. Let us then assist in the search together."

Knights with stern faces entered and began inspecting various areas of the headquarters. The members of the Cavalry, the Imperial Army, and volunteers, who were busy with their duties, initially looked on in wonder but soon disregarded the intrusion, recognizing Kishiar and Yuder standing firm behind them. Their adaptability was impressively swift.

However, as Sir Radel traversed the stables, storehouse, annex, and other old buildings without finding any unfamiliar people or horses, his expression gradually darkened.

"Hmm. I had thought perhaps someone might have entered the headquarters without our knowledge, but... it appears there are no significant traces to be found," mused Kishiar, shrugging as he gazed at the empty backyard.

"Are you truly saying the Second Prince did not visit here?"

"That's right. Since we closed the gates last evening, not a soul, not even a mouse, has come through. Why would I lie about such a matter? If you're skeptical, I might as well tell you everything we did last night. First..."

Kishiar effortlessly recounted their activities to Radel. After closing the gates and ceasing to receive official visitors, Kishiar had dinner, checked on accumulated work, spent time with Yuder, observed the interrogation of those caught in the underground fighting ring, took a bath, and then went to sleep.

"All these activities were witnessed by others, so I can bring forth as many witnesses as you wish. Oh, and of course, you might want to investigate the schedules of others too. Who are you curious about? My adjutant? My assistant? The head of the southern branch? Or maybe the guards at the gate?"

"No, that’s not..."

"Let me start with my assistant, Yuder Aile, who is a genius with both outstanding abilities and beauty and who spends the most time with me..."

Radel, delayed in his response, found himself swiftly inundated with detailed accounts of not only Yuder and Nathan Zuckerman, but also Kurga and every other member present.

Radel must have felt a mix of awe and discomfort, but not as much as the nearby members who overheard everything.

"Wait... how did you know I sneaked down to the dining hall last night and stole three loaves of bread?! I was sure no one saw me..."

"Hold on, Commander! Why would you mention in front of Yuder that I pretended to go to the bathroom to escape the evening training...!"

"Please, no more...!"

"...That's enough! Now I understand that you and the others did not see the Second Prince yesterday."

"Really? Just hearing it is enough?"

"Yes! That’s sufficient. If I need more, I will verify it myself!"

Radel exclaimed hastily. While Kishiar nonchalantly offered to reveal more if desired, Yuder noticed several knights approaching The First Princess Myra.

Each bore the crest of Herne on their chest.

"Princess Myra, why were you here, really? Did your activities and destinations yesterday, which you kept secret, have anything to do with this place?"

Their voices sounded concerned, suggesting they were knights loyal to Myra.

"I told you, I came here because of an idiot relative."

"That's a relief, but with what happened to the Second Prince, people will start misinterpreting your intentions."

"Did you happen to cross paths with the Second Prince?"

"Not only did I not meet him, but since arriving in Charloin, we haven't even spoken. You know we stayed in different lodgings, don't you?"

"Indeed, that's the case..."

Yuder had already heard this information. It was one of the details Princess Myra had shared with them while descending to this place, upon hearing of the Second Prince's death.

According to her, as soon as she and the Second Prince learned that the Nukijo fighting arena had been destroyed and a young relative of their house had been captured, they had both hurried to Charloin, choosing separate residences. Though staying separately, they had a rough idea of each other’s intentions through their informants.

'I came to the Cavalry under the pretext of finding a way to rescue Melvin, keeping it a secret from others. The Second Prince surely knew what I was actually planning to do. I too had heard shortly after he said he would visit the Cavalry. That's why I was worried while meeting Duke Peletta yesterday.'

Thus, Myra had naturally assumed the Second Prince would have met Kishiar secretly under the cover of night and then returned to his lodging.

“I didn’t hear about Ashrav returning to his lodging... But I didn't think it strange, as I don’t receive reports about such details.”

“That’s how it was. But the Second Prince did not come to us yesterday.”

Kishiar succinctly stated their position. Myra could doubt as much as she wanted, but she chose to believe their words.

"The timing is just too unfortunate. Why would such an incident happen now of all times..."

One of the knights, casting a glance at Radel, sighed heavily.

The knights' somber faces seemed to confirm their belief that this incident would negatively impact Myra as well.

'If the Second Prince is dead, isn’t Myra the only remaining heir? Why such a reaction?'

Despite sensing their gloomy demeanor, Myra was not intimidated. With a furrowed brow, she straightened her back and spoke clearly.

"The most important thing now is to clearly determine why and how Ashrav died. I don’t want to act considering whether this event could be advantageous or disadvantageous to me. So, I understand the suspicions Sir Radel has shown towards me, and I will fully cooperate with the forthcoming investigation."

"First Princess..."

The knights' expressions darkened and then solidified with resolve. Yuder, having inadvertently overheard their conversation, sensed the deep respect Myra commanded among her people.

"Then, it seems there is nothing more to be found here. How about this? We proceed to where the Second Prince’s body was found and assist in the investigation?"

At that moment, Kishiar made a proposal to Radel.

[BL] Bermuda

Leonardo Blaine, the true war hero of the Raina Logia Empire and the commander of the Armsilver 11th Squad, is dishonorably discharged for disobeying orders during the final battle that could have led the Empire to victory in the territorial war. People criticize and point fingers at him, and after being released on parole from prison, he disappears without a trace.

Three years later, his name has been forgotten by the world. The Council has been persistently pursuing him, but he has proven difficult to capture. Frustrated by this, Hugo Agrizendro, the commander of the Council's army, decides to personally apprehend him.

"Since when have you been watching me?"

Leonardo was calculative and astute, so it wouldn't be surprising if he had been observing Hugo for some time now. However, Leonardo's answer was something that even Hugo had not anticipated.

"From the very beginning."

[BL] The Mist (Same author as Turning)

In the autumn of his 18th year, after winning the high school kendo championship finals, an unexpected accident occurred.

Due to that incident, Kang Mu-heon lost one of his legs, his closest friend, and his promising future. He closed off his heart and shut himself away alone.

A few years later, the world's first real virtual reality game <THE MIST> was announced, where even those with physical disabilities could play in healthy bodies.

By chance, Kang Mu-heon encountered it and began a new life as the mage Kapros, facing unexpected meetings, reunions, and days of change....

***

"Why was someone like you born into this world to make me so miserable? Do you understand when I say it like this?! You were born with talent for the sword, a bright personality, everything - you must have been laughing at me always lagging behind! Did you even know how pathetic I felt because of your stupid hypocrisy? A genius? What does any of that matter!"

Seung-jo's cries stabbed at his heart, wailing as if he were crying even though he wasn't, but there was no time to think further. He quickly clutched my stomach, got up, and ran towards him.

He looked surprised for a moment, but he was desperate.

Just as the car was about to reach us, he shoved Seung-jo hard. Right after Seung-jo fell and rolled away with wide, startled eyes—

Screech!

Bang! With an impact that felt like his whole body was being shattered, he flew through the air.

And in that brief yet long moment of floating in space, he remembered his reflection in Seung-jo's eyes for the last time.......

***

[ Then in THE MIST, may you become the master of infinite possibilities. ]

Whoosh!

When his vision returned after everything went white, he was standing in the middle of a bustling town. Amidst the clamor, countless people were busily going about their business here and there.

He looked down at himself, standing dazed and wearing clothes of unknown origin. When he touched the sleeve, he felt the texture of fabric as real as reality. His hair felt the same, and even when he touched the wall of a nearby house, he could clearly feel the solid, cold surface.

Is this... VT?

It seemed like a joke. It truly felt as if he had come to another world and was touching everything.

As he stood there unable to think due to the shock, he suddenly remembered the biggest reason he had decided to play this game, and snapped back to attention. His two legs were still as they had been when he first stood.

'Can I really walk?'

He first stepped out with his left foot, then very slowly put strength into his heavy right foot. It felt like cold sweat was running down his spine.

And then,

He lifted it,

Moved it,

And took another step to touch the ground again.

So easily. As if there had never been any problem with this leg from the beginning.

"Ah..."

At that moment, something that was neither joy nor emotion shot up his spine. Suddenly feeling a lump in his throat, he lowered his head and leaned against the wall. His right foot, bearing his weight, was doing its job perfectly.

"..."

Holding back the tightness in his throat, he took another step.

It didn't hurt. It wasn't heavy. His leg was no longer a useless piece of wood that ached.

Damn it, to be able to walk so easily like this.

To be able to run so easily like this.

He had wished even in his dreams for the day to come when he could walk and run like this again.

And so he walked again, kept walking, slowly getting faster, until finally he started running like a madman through the entire town.

***

"Kap. ...There seems to be a misunderstanding. That's not what I meant."

Just as he was thinking he should throw a punch, Yu-wan sighed with a troubled look and said.

A misunderstanding? How could it be a misunderstanding when he said with his own mouth that he didn't think of me as a friend?

"I didn't expect to receive such a question suddenly, so my explanation was probably too brief. Let me rephrase."

Yu-wan reached out his hand, his face completely changed from before - intense yet resolute - as he stared at him. As he didn't reject the hand suddenly approaching his face and kept his gaze fixed, his cool large hand touched his cheek completely.

A shiver ran down his spine at that moment.

"I'm sorry to say this to you, but I don't see you only as a friend. ...This is the complete answer."

Check out the new project 2:

[BL] Cloudless Sky

Jin Soram, the top-ranked hunter representing South Korea's Rift Phenomenon Management Headquarters, is stronger than anyone else and lazier than anyone else. As soon as he arrives at the office, he buries himself under a blanket and falls asleep. When he goes out on a mission, he causes accidents and returns to the office, often shirking his duties.

"Do you know how it feels to play a game that's already messed up? ...Anyway, the next round will come, so this time, I'm just going to play it recklessly."

In fact, his true identity is someone who has regressed through three lives, trying to save the world from the Great Rift but failing each time. After repeating a life where he couldn't sleep peacefully even for a day, he became completely exhausted before this life even began.

"I know. You worked hard, Jin Soram."

And then there's Han Tae-un, the man who saved Soram and died in all three previous lives. As he did in every life, he comes to Soram's side once again. The Great Rift is approaching soon. It's impossible to resolve it in this life without any preparation. Soram vows to save Tae-un in this life and die himself. At least, he won't let Tae-un save a failure like himself again.

"For now, until then, let's sleep..."

As Soram sluggishly lives his life waiting for that moment, a gradual change occurs in his heart.

'I thought this was a messed-up round... but I want to live a little longer here.'