Dew for the Damned. (Part 4)

In early light of winter morn, with silver frost on ruins the world is reborn. The morning air is so crisp with each breathe there would be a mist. The sun peeks through the icy forest while the water tides slumber in peace.

"Kaka! That sure smell nice."

To my left, Gangyi nestle at a furniture pile as she seem eager for the breakfast. Yoo-Ah who sits across us keeps cooking by burning the uncooked parts with the staff back when we arrived while spinning the whole kebabs at the bonfire and keeping the juices from falling.

(So that's what her staff is used for... Cooking with a magic staff... I may not be a mage or maybe I am now but I feel like that's just a waste).

"Hum! Hum! You're excited aren't you!? I know a face of a hungry customer when I see one!"

"You understand her, Yoo-Ah Ssi?"

Seyong who sits to my right asks Yoo-Ah with curiosity but is replied with a huge grin shouting:

"Nope!"

"???"

It is now early in the morning and my party founded us and gather at Gangyi's nest. Around the bonfire's warming glow, we form a circle to where fellowships are born... Well, not exactly since Seyong doesn't seem to view Gangyi with a positive light even after introducing her and explaining how she acts. Compared to Yoo-Ah, she gets much amicable with Gangyi despite not understanding what language they say to other.

(I guess since they're both from a bird family that they get along well? But Gangyi seems to hate the roosters though... I wonder what do the bird-kin roosters look like though? Are they harpies like Gangyi but can't fly like she said?)

With a multiple stakes Yoo-Ah cooks for me, Seyong, and Gangyi while the other Hunters seems to be cooking for their own. At the corner with the party of 4, I look at our pitiable companions who seem like a folk stranded in a isolated island. Hugging their knees, biting their thumb, and sleeping with their coat ss their blankets. They cook their own breakfast and showing off who's cooking is better while trying to make some distance from Gangyi.

The moment I acquainted her to them, they quickly kowtow like how Yuria did when she met Sis Yuwei, introducing themselves with vigour which seems to please Gangyi. It was at that moment I started to remember how important people from Rucina City. I look at Gangyi who seem to finish interacting with Yoo-Ah and start our morning conversation with,

"So, Gangyi, can you transform?"

"Puki?"

Gangyi seems surprised by my question and looks at me bewildered before I then continue saying:

"I heard from someone that all the great families can transform. Just like how Moriz can transform to a were-tiger."

(Or now that I think about it, Yoo-Gisa did technically tranform when he become that golden angel-like being... Since they're related, can Yoo-Ah transform as well like that?)

My eyes wonders between both her and Yoo-Ah until Ganyi composes herself and squish my cheeks again and force me to look her in the eyes replying:

"Kakaka! I guess you really are a boy. That's an interesting start for the morning. But yeah, I can transform! Learned it from Big mean Sis and I called it, Pandemonium Shift."

She spreads her wing as she proclaims her technique's name and I tilt my head questioning:

"Pandemonium Shift? Where did that come from?"

"Kaka! It's inspired by the same Pandemonium Riders of the Horse Sectors. I get to change into a heavy aircraft and dish out natural disasters! Since I'm still not strong enough, I can only maintain the form for around 30 minutes compared to Scary Green who can use it indefinitely like the other 2 Supernova."

Clenching my hands and pumping then in, I start to imagine myself doing some tranformation as well and revel at the thought.

"That would definitely be so cool! I wonder if I can transform as well? I thought getting your soul weapon and armour is tough but to think you can transform as well..."

"Kakaka! I truly will never understand you boys with your weird obsession for tranformation and fusion combination. Then again... I can't blame when we girls are obssess with cosmetics and appearance too."

"Huh? The way you phrase it sounds like all boys seem to be interested."

"Of course, just ask that loser to your right."

Ganyi points with her wing at Seyong who's been focused by the simmering breakfast he isn't aware of our conversation.

"H-Huh? The hell you're pointing at!?"

Only a moment later that he notice Gangyi's gesture and then bark at her with clear hostility. But I try to pull his attention away by tugging at his shirt which works. When he face me, I look back at him with determination as I then asks:

"Seyong, do you like transformation too?"

"Huh?"

Speaking in Hwansea Seyong looks confused and ask:

"T-Tranformation?"

"Yea, like tranforming into your second form to power up and the like."

"Hoh, you meant the "change" forms like Masked Rangers or Power Rider series huh?"

Seyong scratches his reddened cheeks and continue saying:

"Yeah I guess, I always has inspiration like that since I was a kid, charging into danger and proclaiming yourself as a hero of justice. You'll be surprised by how popular those mask toys was among our peers and how many kids yell to power up their magic."

Hearing Seyong tell his childhood moment I rest my head on my knees to relax saying:

"Oh~ you seem to have quite the fun childhood. I quite envy you."

(Since most of my childhood is spent on the move and I barely had any time to enjoy any of those kid shows since there's barely any owlian tech when we get thrown from Wilderngrad... But I suppose not all my journey are bad).

My lips seems to curve upward reminiscing about my travels and imagine Seyong's younger years and how much it differs from mine. Seyong seem to welcome that and continue saying:

"I even woke up early alongside the boys just to watch the newest episode at the nearest gem communication store. Who doesn't want to wear awesome and cool costumes like that?"

"Mm! Mm!"

I nod in agreement with how much I like my own platinum phoenix armour. Seyong seem to realize something and stops his tale to ask:

"Wait, this doesn't involve some sort of joke or making fun of me right?"

"Of course not! I like transformations too! So I'm glad we both have a matching interest, I hope you can tell me more about those ranger and rider series, hehe!"

*Thump*

Seyong seems to freeze a bit before he then turns away shouting:

"Argh, fuck!"

Seyong wears his mask and hides his head under his arms.

"(What sins did I do in my past life to deserve this!?)"

"Kakaka! You sure know how to charm men. So, I'm right aren't I?"

As I wonder what's going on with Seyong, Gangyi nudge me asking about our conversation. I nod replying:

"Mm, I suppose it's great to know more about what boys like."

"You talk as if you're a girl or something."

"I'm not! Besides, I've said this many times but I lived my whole life knowing only girl products. So I'm always curious to know what guys like and probably be like them!"

"Eee~ That would be terrible, I like my partner to be cute than hot~! Honestly, I thought I only heard that kind of stuff in the Matriarch's forbidden palaces."

"Forbidden palace? That sounds cool. Is it like a dungeon of some kind?"

"Kaka! I suppose you can call it that... I think?"

In the midst of our conversation, a heavenly smell permeate across and male us turn out heads. Yoo-Ah raises both her arms at our reaction shouting:

"It's finished! Alright, everyone grab one and enjoy! Be grateful that I'm only cooking extra since Sova's asking! Hum! Hum!"

Yoo-Ah folds her arms with a proudful glee as we all grab a piece saying:

"Thank you for the meal, let's eat."

"Thank you, Yoo-Ah. Let's eat."

Gangyi said her thanks in Runician and I help convey her thanks in Hwansea.

*Munch*

"Ho? I'm surprised you can make something so intricate and smell so wonderful with our limited supplies. I'm pretty sure I only saw you use salt?"

"Hum! Hum! Ingredients doesn't mean it need to be separated and applied all the time! As you can see, all the meat and vegetables in that stake already provides us with all the natural flavours! The Yellow Wan Fish's meat at the top, when you burn it will excrete a special oil from their skin sacks, and when mix with the Kawa fruit below it will trigger a reaction that produce a wonderful smell when burned! Then those two will then secrete another juice that will go down and repeat the process until the bottom!

And then when it's done, you just have to control the final sauce and rub it all even! With the right combination and arrangements, even wild game can become fine cuisine! To be a great chef is to understand your ingredients! Learn from them! And then be eternally greatful for them!"

" "OoOoh~!" "

Both Seyong and I are amaze by her ingenuity as we eat and hear her explain her cooking process. Gangyi too chimes in saying:

"Kaka! She seem proud, I too will be if I can cook this good. I would even rub it all over my other friends and even Big mean Sis if possible. Yum! Yum!"

Seyong who finishes his breakfast still with his mask on suckle on the remainig sauce at the stake saying:

"Mm... I suppose the title of being one of the successor of a 8 Star Chef is not for ruse. This Kingdom is not doomed in its cultural side at least."

*Munch*

I finish my breakfast as well and throw the stake at the bonfire saying:

"Yea! I'm sure you'll become someone very amazing, Yoo-Ah."

"Hum~ Hehe~! Shut it all of you! Don't think just because you're prasing me you will get you a second serving! Besides, I'm also out of game! Munch!"

Yoo-Ah finally take her side of the meal and start eating when Seyong throws his stake at the fire saying:

"Alright, I think that's enough small talk. Let's get to the serious business. You four, get over here!"

Hearing that, the sisters who's shoving the perfectly cooked skewer at the boys with their burned skewer hastily finish their meal and rush over as I wonder if Seyong have them on a leash now with how they acted. Seyong looks around and after satisfied that everyone have gathered, he starts saying:

"With everyone gathered, let's begin. Firstly, I need to say sorry, Sova."

"Huh? For what?"

Curious about what he did last night, Seyong cough once before saying:

"Ahem, at last night's meeting, I was able to convince the head of the Hunter's guild to follow our plans I told you about before only when using your name."

"Huh? Really? Does that mean, we won't be fighting with small numbers at the canyon right!?"

Hearing such good news I can't help but try to confirm what he said and Seyong nods in approval replying:

"Yes, we decided to leave the Kingdom's navy and him at the port while the bird lady and all of us will station ourselves at the canyon. And with some negotiations as well, we convince him to fully cooperate with us on an even terms with the kingdom with a special caviat."

"Um, I don't know what that means but it should be good right? I suppose I'm happy we're all going to help each other."

"Yes, that Yungmin guy seems to be really lenient whenever your name comes up."

"Really? Well, if it means we're all cooperating, I'm happy my name can help. But does that mean we'll be following on what we discuss at your home?"

Seyong nods firmly and clench his hand saying:

"That's right! So let me make this short and recap what happened during last night's meeting, Yungmin and this Kingdom's navy will be station at the port to blast away any incoming monsters with their massive cannons and wide range spells. That bird lady and us will be at the canyon to finish off the remaining stragglers and remnants that's going to be washed ashore. Simple as. The more detailed arrangments will be briefed when we arrive at the shores and set up the extra defenses and formations. We'll all be moving at peak hour, so pack up or rest for now and we'll be moving following the Hunter's guild master."

"Um, what's peak hour here?"

I raise hand asking and Seyong acknowledge with a flat face replying:

"It's half an hour from now at 9."

"Okay, thanks!"

(Hehe, I suppose being able to communicate honestly is a good thing).

"So, any questions before I relay one last thing and we leave?"

At Seyong's discreetion, Ei raise her hand asking:

"Um, Lord Ganyi Nim is suppose to be the one leading from what you guys decided last night right? Are you sure she can lead when she doesn't seem to speak our language? You both seem to leave many things when you discuss this."

Everyone turns to Ei as she asks and Gangyi leans her head to me asking:

"Kaka, what's she asking? I heard my name there."

"Oh, she's just wondering wether how you're suppose to command. When you don't speak their language."

"Kaka! Stupid question, that's why gestures exist! Also, I have you, my Hubby as my translator! Also, I'm leading someone?"

Gangyi ponders as she answers and Seyong who hears Gangyi stop speaking answer Ei back saying:

"Yes, I don't know what she's saying... Sova?"

"Oh, she's just saying while we may not understand each other we can still gesture at each other like how Yoo-Ah and her communicate."

"Hum! Hum!"

Yoo-Ah nods in agreement and Seyong seem crossed with how Yoo-Ah's getting close with Gangyi but doesn't wish continued conversation with Gangyi nods along saying:

"Alright, now this is actually the most important information I want to relay. As most of us can see and hear, we can't really speak Runician or the language of Heaven."

Seyong stand up and hand me a device saying:

"In compromise for following my requests, Lord Yungmin decided the one to lead the canyon defense would be someone who seem to be the most favoured here and can communicate with everyone, that would be you, Sova."

"Eeeeh!?"

"Huuum!?"

" "Whaaat!?" "

"Kaka! What is it!? What is it!?"

Seyong forcefully grab my hand and shove the device at my palm, forcefully wrapping my hand firmly, making sure I didn't let go saying:

"This should be your chance to shine, Sova. Let's show them what we can do! We'll all be here to help you out!"

"EEeEeeEhH!?"

At the midst of this confusion Seyong leaves me with the device and stand saying:

"Well then, I'm gonna have to go check on my ship. Good luck."

Seeing Seyong leave, I can't help but feel like I forgot something important about the upcoming defense.

***********************************

Above the clouds where the sky's truly know no limit, the world below fades like a distant dream. Cotton grey clouds, an endless islands of blue, with the mighty sun at the farthest reach, the sun's warm embrace erases the winter's touch. As I savour the view, I can't help but clutch upon the fences...

(What have I been doing to miss such beauty and wonder my whole life).

In hues of gold and white, my heart sink in this sense of freedom. A realm above the Heavens, we fly...

*Woosh*

"Woah, maybe because we're above the clouds but the wind sure is strong."

Noticing it's been a while since I had to worry about my long hair, I tighten my headband and hairband. Since I never really worry about my hair as it will all simply restore or grow back no matter what, I never actually give much thought. I look back at this mighty ship and think,

(Compared to when Gangyi flies where she cuts all the wind pressure or Seyong's ship who flew pretty slowly, I should be careful if I wanna keep my headband... But then again, I've been moving so much lately I'm surprised by how my headband's been holding on all this time, I can definitely give mom credit on her seamstress hands).

With the magic weakening field removed, we soon learned it was Yungmin's device. And with the sudden flood and natural disaster, he has graceiously let everyone without transport and stranded to board his hidden massive flying battleship. When I mean everyone, even all of our party members alongside Seyong's ship who's been docked inside.

This whole ship is twice bigger than the Kingdom's royal ship or probably half the size of that flying fortress Kokkan have at the north. With his own crew of sailors and naval officers, Yungmin pretty much have a mobile army at his disposal alongside the Adventurers and Hunters...

(This is good! This might be easier than I thought! With all of this, this should be a simple mission right!? Or is it the opposite where we need at least this much to stop the monster invasion? No! Think positively! Like what Yoo-Sui said, not only this Kingdom but the Republic will help as well. We may hate each other but at least honesty and a common foe will always bring everyone together...)

"...Ah right!"

I grab my head in disbelief by ho

"I completely forgot about the republic!? How are they faring now if everyone is defending Silla!? I should've asked Seyong about that."

*Woosh*

"Wohoo!"

"Yeah! Feel the wind!"

*Swish*

Carrying Yoo-Ah at her shoudlers, Gangyi flies around the massive battleship swiftly cutting the clouds apart...

(Seriously, when did they get that close? And didn't Gangyi said it herself not to get too attach?)

Well, I mean I'm not complaining when they're getting along so well. The pair continues to bond and grow closer, making me feel a bit lonely when,

"Ah, good morning, Sova. I do hope the ship's facility up to your liking."

"Huh? Oh, morning! This ship is simply amazing. It really reminds me of Central. With this ship I'm sure we can easily defend against the monster invasion! In fact, I feel like this ship alone is enough to defend against the monster invasion."

Yungmin with a lax gesture comes over from the bridge as he visits us. His blue hair fluttering with the strong gust, he brush my praise aside with a humble smile replying:

"Haha, your praise is too exessive. If that was the case, we wouldn't be calling for the aid of others do we?"

I shook my head remembering what the Triad so far can acomplish and try to encourage him replying:

"Don't sell yourself short. If this ship is truly yours then you truly are cut above the rest."

Yungmin eyes sharpen with that comment, as if he understood something else I can feel tension rising from his movement. His humble smile turns into a glee as then push his glasses up saying:

"Truly huh? I'm sure you have been informed of last night's meeting... I'm glad you will be the one to lead the other front, let's pray for a great cooperation."

"Yea, I'm glad to help!"

"I... See...?"

Despite the sudden promotion and responsibility, I can't help but be grateful. After all, when will another chance come by where you are given the opportunity to help smooth things out and make enemies cooperate. Honesty sure is the best policy. Yungmin seems to be in a bit of a daze as he adjust his white coat, pondering something before continuing:

"I do hope you don't mind. I'm sure you would understand to lead and form an effective front, communication is the utmost importance. That's why I choose you."

With a huge smile, I start to appreciate Yungmin shouting:

"Yea! I agree! I'm glad to help if it means we'll all be able to help each other. Leading may not be my specialty, but I'll do my upmost best!"

*Clack*

"H-Huh?"

"Hm? Careful there, is something wrong or is the wind really that strong?"

Something seems to shock him as his glasses fell off. Catching his glasses on time, I take this chance to look at this rare artifact only nobles could afford. Despite being an Owlian invention, Zerians have somehow incoperate it into both fashion and communication as I can tell each frame is a magic stone. I put it back on his face with a smile as a good gesture. Wondering if I said something wrong with how Yungmin reacts all the time, he reacts first by pushing his glasses in asking:

"N-No, It's just... You're one of us right?"

"Hehe, what are you talking about? We're all part of the Guild are we not?"

I try to be honest as it's true that I'm not part of the triad. But whatever I said to him, was never a lie to begin with either. Miscommunication is a bane so far and I have to try and clear as many of it and show my true intentions.

"This..."

Yungmin wipes his glassess before continue saying:

"Yes... Yes we are... Mhm, I suppose I'm glad to know you're very accepting of the sudden position that has been hoisted upon you."

"No problem! Like I said, I'm glad I can help. If you need something I'll help you out, and I'm willing to learn from someone who's educated and part of the Super Nova or Stars."

"..."

*Woosh*

"Hahaha, you're good. I could learn a thing about you as well. I can't wait to see your performance."

Touched by his heartfelt gratitude, I tuck my hair blown by the wind behind my ears replying:

"Really? Few ever praise me that highly, thank you!"

*Clack*

"Ch- Huh? Wha?"

"Hm? You really, are clumsy."

I catch his glasses again and look at the silent Yungmin...

"What is this sorcery?"

"Here you go?"

I place his glassess back on his face as I wonder if its handle is broken when,

"Hehehe, HeHAHAHAHA! Yes! You have to be that good to attract that birdbrain. I actually felled for that act for a second. I thought Gangyi would be the most head inducing but you're on a whole realm above that."

"E-Excuse me?"

"Hmph, that cute act won't fool me. Once again, I'll be eagerly watching your performance since I just recieve an interesting developement. Show me why Great Uncle show much interest in you. Excuse me now."

(I guess they're related with the way he acted).

Yungmin leaves with a smirk as I scratch my head for another whole reason wondering what this whole conversation is all about until I remembered something.

"W-Wait...!"

Yungmin enters the ship again before I can ask about the Republic's defenses...

"Haah... What is with those people? I feel like they keep misinterpreting my actions as something else."

(Though, since he compared me to a politician am I finally reflecting on my job as an ambassador? Sis did pick the best job for me huh?)

"Kaka! I'm back! And what's with that bloke? Did he provoke you?"

"Hum! Haaah! Perfect landing!"

Gangyi arrives resting upon the fence while Yoo-Ah performs an amazing back flip before landing on her knees and caving the floor below. Yet despite her confident smile, I can see her biting her lips and cold sweat dripping down her neck as she whispers:

"(Ow...)"

Before I approach her, I look at Gangyi replying:

"No, I say he's praising me."

"Kakaka! That's a good way to look at it!"

Remembering that she came here with Yungmin, I try to take my chance by asking:

"Say Gangyi, you wouldn't happen to know how the Republic's doing right?"

"Republic? There's a Republic in this Monarchy Sphere!?"

"I thought so."

(Right, she did say she only knows to only be there and destroy monsters. Still, sphere? How do the Confederation classify things?)

"Kaka! Oh don't worry, Hubby. Just give me the word and I'll deal with any problem. Even Yungmin can easily be dealt with by simply yeeting him off this ship. No matter how powerful he is, he won't survive such a fall, or if since we're so high up we can easily just fling him at the opposite direction and send him to sPAcE!"

I look at Gangyi'd cruel enthusiasm with dissapointment and sigh replying:

"That would be a terrible way to do things. It would be best to simply have him work and help around when they're so helpful."

Gangyi simply chuckles as she falls backwards holding on the ship's fences replying:

"Kaka! I see, you're the type to use others and suck them dry huh? You're even worse than Big mean Sis or me!"

Her blonde hair sways by the strong winds as I try to help her and pull her back inside saying:

"Please don't get any misunderstanding, I'm genuine in that regard."

Frustrated by Gangyi's rhetorics, I try to speak in honesty but Gangyi seems pleased as when she accepts my hand, she pulls herself closer and gives a wide smile saying:

"That's what I meant, Hubby~ Only Tyrants use people until their viability is... Compromised."

"W-What do you mean by that?"

Gangyi flies behind me and soar, I look up at her as she dances at the skies cheerfully saying:

"Pukakaka! You say you excel in history yet how can you be so blind to the echoes from the past? Stupid Hubby~"

Feeling how she's finally getting under my skin, I feel like I understand their frustration. Gangyi lands with barely any distance between us and lift my face with her wings. Feathers fall and blown away by the forceful gale towards the sun. With her playful smile she continue saying:

"Oh, did I finally make my Hubby angry? Kakaka! Just know that I don't hate such people, Hubby."

Gangyi descend and hold me close and whispers:

"In fact, I prefer those types of individual. It is always the Tyrants who actually get shits done, wether it be restoration or destruction."

"Sigh... You got me."

I sarcastically answer her back, pushinh Gangyi away and congratulate her endevour. Yet, I still comtinue my vision saying:

"But... I meant what I said. If I can make people people stop killing and understand each other, I'll be more than happy."

"Kakaka! Such an idealist Hubby!"

"Sova! Sova! What do you think!? Aren't I awesome!?"

(Ah right!)

Yoo-Ah approach us shouting in Hwansea, limping and I finally remembered I was gonna tend to her. Feeling how Gangyi seems to make me forget the things around me, I quickly try to help her and reply back in Hwansea with:

"It's certainly amazing but are you okay? You seem hurt when you land. You're even limping."

Yoo-Ah brush her nose with her thumb as to say she's fine and makes a thumbs up shouting:

"I'm okay! Just that I kinda landed on my wrong knee!"

"I see, and it looks like you're putting that gesture to good use."

"Hum! Hum! Yup! I think Bai-Sumi Ssi and Ae-Ri Unnie seems to follow along!"

"That's nice to hear but, let's at least bring you to the infirmary. Seeing you limp is simply not an enjoyable sight."

I carry Yoo-Ah with both arms and lift her off the ground. Yoo-Ah holds ny head in shock by my actions.

"H-Hum!? W-Wait, Sova! You don't really need to do this! I suffer from much worse injury like this and I will stop limping in half an hour!"

"That may be true but isn't it better to just heal it immediately before that? We want to be at our best when we arrived."

Yoo-Ah tighten her embrace at my neck. Her lips open and close but nothing's coming out of her mouth before finally she says:

"T-That's... I know but, can you not carry me like this? It's very embarrassing..."

Seeing the rare meek Yoo-Ah with such a soft voice, I try to comfort her by reminding her,

"Didn't I carry you like this before when we meet Elder Kim-Yoo? You even jumped on my arms."

Yoo-Ah pushes me back and looks at me with a reddened expression and shaking eyes shouting:

"T-That's completely different okay! I mean it was before I know you had... A thing down there!"

Hearing the weird way she phrase it makes me look deep at her brown eyes and firmly say,

"You know you can just say I'm a man right?"

Yoo-Ah grabs my head and carress my hair roughly shouting:

"No man acts like you, Sova! Heck you're even more feminine than most of my work friends! You can even audition and work as a female idol and no one will suspect you at all! The whole world has been tricked!"

Hearing such comment repeatedly has make me acustom to their retorts but I can't help but smile happily since,

"I heard that statement a lot. But at least I'm happy to know that someone finally acknowledge the real me."

"T-That's not fair!"

Yoo-Ah's grip on my head weaken as she say that. As if she's trying to hide her face away, she slowly looks away but I hold her tighter saying:

"Either way, I'm taking you inside."

I start moving and head inside as Yoo-Ah weakly retaliate saying:

"N-Not like this... Huuum!"

Despite ber weak response, she hides her her face in my shoulders as she embrace me tightly. That's when I notice Gangyi stating down at me with puffed cheeks and a sharp glare.

"Hubby..."

"Y-Yea?"

Gangyi speaks in Runician with such a dread in her voice I can't help but stutter with my response. She tugs on my cloak with her talons, frowning and saying:

"You playboy... I wanna get princess carried too."

"Uh, sure, after I bring her to the infirmary. I'll carry you as well if that's what you want."

*Screech*

Gangyi strides with both her feet and wings around me scrathing the floor with the tip of her talons replying:

"You really are clueless huh?"

"Um, I'm sorry but I don't know what I'm doing wrong."

Genuinely clueless at my wrongdoings, I can only apoligize but Gangyi's anger seem to inflate more alongside her pout.

"The world's lucky you're not a hunk else you'll be such a heartbreaker like the Dragon of Dawn."

Ignoring the grandiose title Gangyi mentions, I shake my head and reafirm my answer saying:

"I'm doing this because she's a precious friend."

"No friends flirt and do such an conspicuous act, Hubby~! You're acting just like that one guy their girlfriend said not to worry about~"

Despite such a cheerful response, I can feel the anger seething behind her voice. Knowing when to back down and wishing to see her cheerful demeanor, I bow my head down replying:

"I'm sorry, I didn't know much about that since I don't have many friends. I'll try to do better..."

Gangyi seems taken aback by my sincere apology and look even more irritated but simply,

*Shiing*

Let it go by scratching her talons at the floor, leaving such a deep mark I can actually see the floor below the deck.

*Gulp*

"Fuuuh..."

Gangyi who seems to finally let off some steam with her long cold breathe as she fumes her anger and flaps her wings satified saying:

"Fine, consider yourself the luckiest man in the world to have such an understanding, fiance."

Still not understanding any of the flow of this conversation I nod along saying:

"T-Thank you, I suppose I can always ask you about this stuff."

Gangyi gives a mischievous grin as she flies forward and openign the door inside replying:

"Mm~ Mm~ Just know you're probably the only men in the world who can convince his fiance he's not cheating while flirting and embracing so passionately with another woman right at her face."

"I know you're trying to be sarcastic but that's still a bit rude to say. But I'll try my best to learn more about relationships."

(Though I can't deny her, I never get to explore much what a boyfriend do with May).

"Kaka~ I'm a very understanding woman, Hubby~ You're not in this position because you want it either. So, since I started this, I'll be such a wonderful wife you'll never even bat an eye to another woman, so just watch."

(Right, I should find the right time to tell her I'm already in a relationship... This is bad, I've been so distant with May I almsot forgot about that, especially when we've not even dated for even a month. Even worse, what will I say to her?

"May, I'm sorry but I've been engaged with another woman because I needed her favour at that moment. I hope you can understand."

I'm such a terrible partner! Aunt Palka have always taught us to be faithful and I'm trampling on her teachings! And I feel like such a terrible man if I just swallow my words and walk away after using her!)

Having such terible guilt weighing upon me, I try to bury it deep within and push it aside as...

"What's taking you so long~?"

"Fuuh, it seems I need to arrange my life properly."

I speak in my mother tongue as to get things together and start walking faster when Yoo-Ah asks:

"Hm? What language is that, Sova!?"

"It's Owlian."

"Oh! You did say, you can speak many languages. Hum! Hum! Maybe I should ask you for some lessons?"

"Sure thing."

***********************************

"Hm? The Republic? What about it?"

*Swing* *Clang*

Meeting Seyong and accepting his challenge for a spar in a private room, I decided to initiate a conversation as he slows down his attack. Seyong uses his specialize Tonfas while I wield a training spear provided by the ship. Seyong seems eager in this battle as his strikes seems to be more earnest... With some tangent of anger as well since he keeps aiming for my wider gaps instead of my weaker joints. Luckily, none of his strikes connect for I have been parrying his blows. Unlike the first spar, Seyong didn't use any hand to hand techniques, and continues to use his weapons instead.

*Bang*

With that last strike, we separate and take our distance before I answer back,

"Yea, I forgot about them since nobody said nothing about it."

"Hahaha! Then that's just their fate! Hraaagh!"

*Bash*

Seyong strikes again, combining his tonfas into a staff, he swings down with huge force which I can parry. His strike causes sparks and pushes me back as I can't help but think,

"Haah, I feel like he seems much nicer before."

(And isn't forgetting the Republic bad? Especially when monsters are going to get inside the peninsula?)

"Don't get distracted!"

Seyong shouts to grab my attention and push forward. I sigh wondering why he is acting like this and uses his own power to redirect the blow to the ground by simply tilting my spear.

*Crash*

With a defeaning collision, I try to stop his attack by stepping on his staff and try to finish him off with a wide swing. But it seems Seyong anticipated that as he smirks and detacthes his tonfa, making me lose my footing. He bumps the dull shaft with his left shoulder, and takes a few steps forward. He turned the situation around with a few move and now there's barely any distance between us. Caught in a panic, I ready myself for CQC and pull my weapon back as Seyong continues to swing his tonfa to my right.

*Smack*

I dash backward a little to evade and lift my spear in time to block his strike, but Seyong smiles again as it seems I have fallen to another of his plans. He drags his baton up and swat at my right fingers.

"Ugh!"

"Haah!"

Losing my dominant grip over my weapon and with my spear out of his range, he shoulder tackles me down and pin me by the neck. He disarm me by bending my left arm and achieve complete victory shouting:

"Hah, I WON! Now we know the winner from our first spar."

Seyong shouts valiantly with so much passion I wonder if it stems from the eagerness to fight for his country? His last attack seem so personal as I can definitely feel the impact and the power of his strike snaps the band to my hair. With my long hair spread across the ground, tugging and caught between the floors, I try to move but Seyong's doesn't seem to let me. Despite being already a few seconds past, he still holds on me tight and I tap on his arm saying:

"Uh, can you let me go now?"

"Sorry, Sova but no."

"Huh? Why?"

"Let me savour this moment..."

Seyong tighten his hold as if he's embracing me but despite such affectionate gesture I can't help but realize his intention and say,

"Uuuh... You're so mean now."

"Buh? Guh! Y-You're a man, deal with it!"

"Really? That's so harsh."

"Aaargh! Dammit! Get up, you!"

Seyong pull me up by my collar before dragging me close by the shoulder shouting:

"Listen here, if you really are a man then start acting like one!"

Hearing such fury and wanton anger suddenly when it was so peaceful in the morning caught me off guard. I look up at Seyong as he glares at me with his sharp purple eyes asking:

"Are you actually mad at me for knowing I'm a guy?"

"Am I mad? Of course I'm mad! I'm absolutely livid! I said it back at the ship! I wasted millions of Wu on you and do you know the social execution I suffered!? Worst of all is my mind! I can't think straight because of you!"

I hold his hands as to plead to him to be gentle saying:

"I'm sorry. I really didn't mean to trick you. I also tried my best to clear the misunderstanding but I never get the chance. So..."

"So...?"

I look away in shame of my actions and answer:

"So, when I see how much accepting you are after I told you the truth that night, I was really happy. You didn't appear to be that affected, and you even look like you accepted me. But it seems I am wrong."

Being bellitled twice in a short period about my appearance and actions has dimnished my comfidence. I know misunderstanding may happen but I'll never get used to feeling the concequenses despite having no intentions. Maybe he has understand my words as the grip on my collar loosen, I look back at him seeing his face twist with a mix of anger and confusion. I try to mend our relation and continue saying:

"Um, so... I tried to learn how to be a man but it seems no matter how much I tried to act like them, I guess I will still be misunderstood."

"That's simply because whoever you learned it from is just not good enough! Haaah..."

Seyong finally lets me go and turn his back on me. He hangs his head and sigh, covering his face with shame that it feels he has lost an entire country. Then he taps his feet, pondering something and that makes me realize,

"Not good enough? Then, are you a good man? Do all the lady chase after you?"

"H-Huh? Of course! I'm the most desired bechelor before the civil war mind you! Engagements and ladies flock to the Royal Castle to see me. Unlike what those dull elders say, I'm not such a dumb brick to their advances."

Seyong nods his head to my question and that's from him before cause as of now,

"Really? You're much more like a bully and a jerk."

"What did you say!?"

"N-Nothing!"

Blundering badly that my thoughts leaks our of my lips, I try to curb his anger by saying:

"But... If that's really true-"

"It is true, you fool! I mean, what do you know? We barely ever met outside of work. Have you seen me before that?"

(That's true...?)

Hearing such a vain confidence coming out of his mouth, I walk closer to him with a request in mind. Seyong seems to notice and quickly turning around asking:

"W-What?"

He backs away, trying to put some distance between us saying:

"You can stay where you are."

Confused by his sudden hesitance, I use this chance and try to put a confident front asking:

"Then, then will you teach me?"

"Huh?"

Seyong tilt his head confused and bewildered with cold sweat at his neck. Not knowing why he's so hesitant despite being so agressive just moments ago. I walk to him, despite his effort our distance shorten close enough that I can feel his breathe before looking up pleading:

"Then will you..."

I hold his extended hands and bring it close with my own sincerity before continue asking:

"Will you teach me all about men?"

Seyong starts panting as his twisted face burns red and,

"Fuuuck! Get away from me!"

Hiding his face behind a mask again, Seyong runs away. Leaving his weapons and items behind, he dash with loud steps and no caution bumping over the few furnitures, and even slamming the door open as if he's running out of a burning building.

"Aaaaargh! Damn it AAAAAAAAALLLLL...!!!"

"Seyong, w-wait!"

He ignores my call as I'm left alone in the training room...

"You still haven't tell me about the Republic..."

"Kakaka! What's this? I'm only away for a short while to get snacks and this happened. Pukikiki, nothing seems dull with you~"

"Hum! Hum! He's acting more weird now!"

Gangyi and Yoo-Ah arrives with a sarcastic glee. Poking her head in the room she brings with her a wingful of buckets filled with both food and drinks.

"Here ya go~ Fish and chips for you."

"T-Thank you."

Accepting the meal Gangyi brought, I can only wonder what's going on today? Am I finally getting what they call a reality check? If so, I'm now more worried about myself