Turning
chapter-736

Kishiar's expression shifted slightly as he examined the outer surface of the cylinder.

"Is this a report from headquarters? I should look into this right away."

Typically, Kishiar would first read reports alone, then decide whether to share them with others. However, this time, he beckoned Yuder closer before breaking the seal.

"Can I read it with you?"

"If it's from the Cavalry, we both need to see it. It's more efficient to read it together than separately."

After saying this, he leaned in closer, lowering his voice as if sharing a secret.

"...And using this as an excuse to be closer is my little scheme."

Suddenly, Yuder became acutely aware of their touching arms and hands. The man, smiling mischievously like a playful boy, embraced Yuder's shoulder, drawing him closer. Their temples lightly touched.

"It might be impolite to behave this way in our unkempt state... but there's no time to clean up, so we must make do. Please overlook it."

Though Kishiar spoke as if he alone was disheveled, Yuder, who had been rolling in the dirt, was actually dirtier. Yet, Kishiar seemed unconcerned, true to his character.

Yuder felt a mix of relief and amusement, realizing that Kishiar harbored similar desires, albeit managing to satisfy both his whims and duties.

Held in the embrace, Yuder gazed down at their clasped hands, slowly relaxing.

"There's no need to be polite. I'm not exactly pristine myself."

A brief conversation and close contact were all it took for Yuder to feel a release of tension he'd been holding in his body, ready to react at any moment.

Kishiar, seemingly more aware of this than Yuder, unfolded the report with a melting smile.

"Let's see what the dust-covered pair of us have been sent. I hope it's not bad news."

The report from the Cavalry headquarters was penned by Ever. She had written about recent events and progress in a forceful hand, including a concise greeting.

The report included details about the pursuit of those who fled after an explosion in the capital, caused by Nahan and the Sage. It also mentioned Kanna overseeing the interrogation of captured Awakeners and the opening of the Cavalry's first interrogation facility for Awakeners.

'I wonder if Nahan headed south. It's uncertain whether he'll return to the southern base or go elsewhere... but somehow, I have a feeling he might come back here. I should prepare for that.'

However, the subsequent news in the report was surprising.

‘The Emperor has surmised that Baron Renbow might encounter the hidden Sage in Fourth Wall District? So, he told them to investigate and then they selected personnel skilled in disguise and tracking, but given the characteristics of Fourth Wall District... Wait. Why does this name appear here?'

Yuder momentarily doubted his eyesight when an unexpected name suddenly popped up. Even after blinking several times and re-reading, the name written there was definitely that of the fool Yuder knew.

"I never expected to see the name Kiolle da Diarca here," Yuder remarked, a sentiment echoed by Kishiar who stood beside him, chuckling in mild disbelief.

"Having a capable assistant, unexpected help sometimes comes from the most unexpected places. Of all the news I heard today, this is the most interesting."

Yuder remained silent, opting instead to reread the section he had hastily skimmed over.

It began thus:

We learned that the Fourth Wall District, Baron Renbow's destination, is frequented by nobles on excursions. We believed he would likely choose either a secluded forest or lake for clandestine meetings, and indeed, he headed towards the lake. However, we didn't anticipate the presence of a certain unexpected figure there...

Ever, since arriving in the capital, felt a thrill at heading to an unexplored destination, discreetly observing her companions. There were seven in total on this mission, including her as the leader.

The team consisted of Hinn Eldore, Finn Eldore, Gakane Bolunwald, Pruelle Van Tain and his brother Nipollen Van Tain (who was now more than a temporary member), and lastly, Revlin Shand Apeto. Nipollen, transformed into a cat and nestled in a small bag, made them appear as only six.

They were en route to the Tain family's private property in the Fourth Wall District, provided by Pruelle for disguise purposes.

"We're here," announced Pruelle as they disembarked the carriage near a beautiful, traditionally styled building. A statue bearing the distinct mark of the Tain family stood imposingly, welcoming guests.

"Thanks to Priscilla's arrangements, the place should be empty now. Please, enter at your leisure."

Ever and Gakane felt a sense of responsibility, while Hinn and Finn crossed the threshold with the excitement of children discovering new toys. Revlin Shand Apeto entered nonchalantly, accustomed to such opulence.

"Oh, look! You can see the entire lake from here!"

"Where? It's true!"

Hinn and Finn exclaimed, mesmerized by the view upon entering the villa. Pruelle laughed, relaxed and at ease.

"Yes. That's why I chose this location. There aren't many safe spots where you can see the entire lake."

Ever had immediately thought of Pruelle for advice upon hearing about Baron Renbow's journey to the Fourth Wall District.

Pruelle, the eldest son of a major noble family, could have been the heir if he wished. Yet, he was remarkably humble and kind. He never once behaved in a way that made others uncomfortable due to his background during his time adapting to the Cavalry, nor did he ever complain about the communal living that must have been uncomfortable for someone of his upbringing.

Even Revlin, who had struggled to shed the refined lifestyle ingrained since childhood, found Pruelle's adaptability remarkable.

Pruelle, who had previously been on a mission with Ever in the West, seemed to feel a particular closeness to her, often coming to her with questions when curious. Thanks to this, Ever became quite familiar with talking to him, to the point where she didn't feel burdened to seek his help when needed.

"Need information for tracking nobility in Fourth Wall District? Hmm... not many commoners visit there without a reason. Perhaps, we could disguise ourselves as if visiting a place I know? Including Revlin, who shares my status, would arouse no suspicion," Pruelle suggested.

Initially hesitant, upon arriving at the villa, they realized Pruelle's suggestion was apt. The location couldn't be more suitable.

"But... is the lake always this deserted?" asked Gakane, somewhat strained, as he gazed into the distance, unsure whether being hassled on each arm by Hinn and Finn was a torment or a sign of affection. Revlin was the first to respond.

"Uh... no. The lake is as popular as the forest. It's not like there are no people to the extent that it's noticeable... but really, there's no one?"

"Is the noble we're pursuing powerful enough to clear out everyone around the lake?" Hinn Eldore inquired, but no one could answer. They knew that wasn't the case, but the emptiness was indeed peculiar.

Pruelle, looking gravely at the deserted lakeside, gently set down the kitten and spoke up.

"I'll go out and investigate."

"Alone? Are you sure that's safe?"

"I'll use my abilities. It won't take long. Please wait."

Closing his eyes, Pruelle's form blurred like a mirage, then transformed into an unfamiliar young noble. Those witnessing his shapeshifting for the first time watched in awe. He flashed a smile and bid them farewell.

"I've borrowed the appearance of one of my relatives for a moment. I'll be back soon."

True to his word, Pruelle returned shortly with the information they needed.

"Knights are blocking access to the area around the lake. They were from the Diarca family."

[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.'

[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."

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